Ever searched for a file in Windows and come up empty? Or waited way too long for results? You’re not alone. Many users find Windows Search frustrating and it really boils down to its default settings. By default, Windows only indexes certain locations like the desktop and the Documents, Pictures, and Music libraries under “My Documents.” If you organize your files differently, you might be left waiting or not finding anything at all. Another quirk of Windows is that search results can vary depending on where you start the search. Whether you’re using the Start menu, File Explorer, or the taskbar, each one can produce different results. In this guide, we’ll show you how to adjust Windows’ built-in search settings so you can quickly find what you’re actually looking for. How to perfectly configure desktop search It makes perfect sense that Windows doesn’t index the entire hard drive by default and also limits itself to certain file types. Otherwise, indexing would consume significantly more resources. The search would return all kinds of system files, too. You’d then have to painstakingly sift through those results to find the files you actually need. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what can happen if you carelessly activate the “Enhanced” option shown in the image above and overlook the “Search all” notice in the small print below. That’s why, in the following steps, we’ll show you how to adjust the default search settings appropriately. The steps outlined apply to Windows 11, but they differ only slightly in Windows 10. Here’s how it works: To customize which hard drive directories are indexed, open the Windows Settings app, click on “Privacy and security” on the left, and then click the blue “Customize search locations – Charge” link under “Classic” on the right. This opens a window where you can use the drop-down arrows at the top to select which directories Windows should include in the desktop search. Confirm your selection with “OK.” Depending on the size and content of the additional folders, reindexing may take up to several hours. During this time, you can continue using your PC as normal, but the search results may not work properly until the index is fully rebuilt. Once indexing is complete, any files or folders you add or change later will be automatically (and almost immediately) added to the search index. Desktop search also includes external and network drives, but indexing large amounts of data can take time, as Windows warns.IDG Network drives and external hard drives can also be included in Windows Search in much the same way. However, it’s important to note two things: first, the drives must remain powered on or connected until the message “Indexing has been completed” appears. Second, the search functionality for external drives only works as long as the drive letter doesn’t change. If needed, use the USB Drive Info tool to prevent issues. Additional settings are available via the “Advanced” button next to “Change.” Here, you can choose to index encrypted files, rebuilt the search index if problems arise, or change the location where the index is stored. For example, you can move it to another partition if space on the Windows partition is running out. This is because the search index takes up another ten percent of the space required by the indexed files. Using File Explorer for more reliable searches Once you’ve configured desktop search, using it should (in theory) be simple and effective. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. For one thing, Microsoft offers two different entry points: the search field in the taskbar (or in the Start menu), and the one in File Explorer. These behave quite differently. Although the taskbar or Start menu search is fast, it often doesn’t return the desired result. For example, even if the search term is part of the file name, Windows will only show it if the file’s storage location is included in the index. The categories shown in the Start menu — Apps, Documents, Settings, Folders, and Photos — are also of little help. This is because, contrary to what Microsoft claims, they don’t filter by the type of file, but by its storage location. So, if you are looking for a document saved outside the default locations, clicking on “Documents” won’t help. Ultimately, this search option often struggles to display results in a clear and structured way. While the Windows Search via the Start menu often does not lead to the target (at the top), the classic search via the file explorer usually finds the desired files quickly and reliably.IDG The search in File Explorer offers more control, which in turn yields better results. As long as the open folder has been indexed for the desktop search, Windows lists everything quickly, correctly, and completely. This also works when two or more keywords are entered. Even with hundreds of hits, you can easily narrow things down and find what you’re looking for. To do this, click either “Sort” or “Search options” in the menu bar at the top of File Explorer. It may also help to disable the “File contents” option here. Tip: Because search in the Explorer window always applies to the currently open folder and all its subfolders, make sure to select the correct level in the folder system on your hard drive before starting your search. Finding photos by subject and people Image analysis by subject and content is much more advanced than the desktop search for text-based content. To use it, download Microsoft Photos Legacy from the Microsoft Store. This older Legacy app displays and organizes your images much like the newer Windows Photo Viewer, but it can do even more. You can find a description of key features on Microsoft‘s website. The Microsoft Photos Legacy app analyzes images, automatically indexes their content and subjects, and provides a fast and convenient search function.IDG The Legacy app automatically analyses and tags your photos in the background. Without needing to manually assign tags, you can simply “search for people, places, and things” using the central search bar at the top. Overall, the automatic image analysis and search function works quite well, even if keywords tagging isn’t always accurate. In addition, the Legacy app offers face recognition and OCR recognition for text in images. The text search also finds matching recordings and screenshots with corresponding content. Best alternatives to Windows Search When it comes to alternatives to Windows Search, Everything is one of the best. This lightweight tool is easy to use, offers a convenient interface for advanced searches, and supports a wide range of search operators. Everything is also very fast: as soon as you type the first few letters into the input line, matching results appear. After installation, the Everything icon appears in the bottom right-hand corner of the taskbar. You can launch and use the search quickly from there. The “Advanced search” option (under “Search”) is especially useful. It lets you limit your search term to whole words, perform exact phrase search, use the either or logic, and exclude certain words, among other things. Important: The yellow exclamation mark indicates that the tool does not search within file contents. So Everything isn’t a full replacement for Windows Desktop Search, but rather an extremely fast and powerful supplement for finding files of all types. Tip: You can link the taskbar search field directly to Everything, replacing Windows Search for quicker file discovery. Ultrasearch Free is also fast and, like Everything, uses Windows’ existing MFT (Master File Table) data. This table contains all file information, including storage locations, file sizes, access rights, shares, write protection, archiving, file type, timestamps, and more. Ultrasearch can also search the text content of documents on request (via the “Search for file content” input line on the right), but it doesn’t use an index for this. To prevent the search from tasking too long, it’s best to limit the directories in the field below “Suggested paths” as appropriately as possible. We also recommend two other programs for file searches: DocFetcher and Search My Files. Alldup specializes in finding duplicate files, helping you free up additional storage space. Finally, Powertoys Run (part of the Microsoft’s PowerToys collection) allows you to search for applications, folders, and files. Challenges with Recall Search Recall, as a brief reminder, was supposed to be the central feature of Windows 11 24H2 on the new Copilot+ laptops launched last summer. The tool is designed to make everything you’ve edited, searched for, or opened on your PC quickly retrievable. To do this, Recall continuously takes screenshots, analyzes and indexes them. However, because Microsoft initially paid far too little attention to data protection, Recall was withdrawn before it was launched. Microsoft is working on a new AI-supported search on Copilot+ PCs, which is designed to recognise photos based on their subjects, among other things. It still only exists as a pre-release version in the Windows Insider builds.IDG In the meantime, Microsoft has improved data privacy and integrated the “new” Recall into Windows 11 via an update. In practical tests, the new version leaves a good but somewhat ambivalent impression: the search works impressively well, yet also reveals significant gaps. This is because screenshots taken at rigid 30 second intervals fail to capture what happens in between. A more dynamic analysis of activity could help capture all the important moments. Additionally, the new sematic Windows Search (which understands natural language queries) is limited to Copilot+ devices. Read...

TL;DR: Turn your iOS or Android device into a full-featured scanner with the iScanner App. Lifetime access for just $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN—new users only. In the age of smartphones, there’s no reason to wrestle with bulky scanners or rush to the office copy machine. iScanner is a top-rated document management app that transforms your phone into an all-in-one scanner—and right now, you can lock in lifetime access for just $24.99 (MSRP: $199.90) with code SCAN through September 7. Whether you’re a student, remote worker, or running a small business, iScanner makes it effortless to digitize your world. Scan everything from contracts and tax forms to math homework, receipts, and even passports—all from your iOS or Android device. Export in formats like PDF, JPG, DOC, or XLS, then edit, sign, or secure your files with PIN protection. The magic lies in its AI-powered tools: borders are auto-detected, pages are straightened, text is recognized in 20+ languages, and you can even solve math problems on the spot. With a built-in PDF editor, file manager, watermarking, and merging features, iScanner doesn’t just scan—it organizes and future-proofs your paperwork. Get lifetime access to the iScanner App while it’s just $24.99 (MSRP: $199.90) with code SCAN through September 7. iScanner App: Lifetime SubscriptionSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change. Read...

At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Voice alerts inform you which room smoke has been detected in Interconnectivity for local alarms works great, whether your Wi-Fi network is up or not Zero operational trouble problems encountered during the review Cons Doesn’t detect the presence of carbon monoxide No battery backup on the hub; any power outage means no push notifications Detectors are larger and less attractive than the ones in X-Sense’s FS31 system Our Verdict The satellite smoke alarms in this MR31 system are larger and more dated than those in X-Sense’s petite FS31 system, but the addition of voice alerts adds extra peace of mind. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: X-Sense XS0B-MR Interconnected Smart Smoke Alarm Retailer Price $99.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices X-Sense’s XS0B-MR31 Interconnected Smart Smoke Alarm is a fully interconnected smoke detection system that not only sounds all its alarms simultaneously when any one of them is triggered, but it also sends push notifications to your phone and uses local voice announcements to tell you in which rooms smoke has been detected. The kit reviewed here consists of a base station and three satellite detectors that you mount to the ceilings of the rooms you want to monitor (a 6-detector kit is also available). In that respect, it’s very similar to the X-Sense XS01-M Interconnected Smart Smoke Alarm (model FS31) I reviewed earlier in August. Specifications In fact, both packages use the same X-Sense SBS50 base station, which is powered via a USB-C cable. The base station does not have a battery backup and won’t send push notifications if it’s not powered. These X-Sense smoke detectors make voice announcements informing you as to which room smoke has been detected in. Since I’ll be comparing these two similarly named products throughout this article, I’ll refer to them by their model numbers, instead of their full names. X-Sense model FS31 is the system I reviewed earlier, and model MR31 is the model reviewed here. The key operational difference between the two systems is that the model MR31 uses XS0B-MR satellites that feature voice alerts in addition to sirens; so, instead of just a blaring klaxon, each alarm also speaks to you, telling you specifically in which room smoke has been detected. This kit came with three of X-Sense’s XS0B-MR smoke detectors. The SBS50 base station at the heart of the system can support up to 50 other X-Sense detectors, including carbon monoxide, water leak, and other types of sensors.Christopher Null/Fouindry While that’s not a major upgrade, it certainly doesn’t hurt in the event of an emergency, especially if you have a larger home. It can potentially save you precious time locating the source of the emergency, which could be doubly important if the occupant of that room is an infant or someone with mobility issues who might need help getting out. The MR31 kit’s XS0B-MR detectors are considerably larger with a more traditional industrial design, with each disc measuring about 4.25 inches in diameter. The look is more dated than the pint-sized, non-talking XS01-M satellites that come with the FS31 kit, but they are at least smaller than a traditional off-the-rack smoke alarm. I should also point out that neither of these sensors will alert you to the presence of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. As I’ve already mentioned, three XS0B-MR satellites come in this kit, but you can interconnect up to 24 of them on a single network. Each is powered by a replaceable 3V lithium cell (included) that will operate the alarm for 5 years. The alarms themselves will need to be replaced after 10 years of service. Installation and setup The setup process for both alarm systems is identical, which means scouring the X-Sense app for the correct model satellites to add. X-Sense suggests you can scan the QR code on the back of your manual as a shortcut, but—surprise—there is no such QR code anywhere on or in the manual. Instead, I had to sift through the app’s setup screen one page at a time, mainly trying to match the thumbnail photos to the appearance of the XS0B-MR satellites. You can use the X-Sense app to test each alarm, which is far more convenient than climbing a ladder to push a button.Christopher Null/Fouindry I eventually found the alarm in question, and it wasn’t under the Link+ Pro Smoke Alarms section but rather under a separate one, Link+ Pro Smoke Alarms with Voice Alerts. The bottom line is that X-Sense now has too many products for this kind of setup to be efficient, and it’s time for it to upgrade to a more automated Bluetooth-based or QR code-oriented onboarding system. Oddly, setting up the SBS50 base station does involve scanning a QR code on its underside, making for a far cleaner way to get the system communicating with your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network (5GHz networks are not supported). As with the FS31 system, the base station is the only device that communicates directly with Wi-Fi and the X-Sense app. The satellites communicate with one another over a proprietary 915MHz frequency band and have very long range: 500 meters, line of sight (walls in between the satellites and between the satellites and the base station will of course reduce that range considerably). Performance As with X-Sense’s FS31 system, the MR31’s alarms will communicate with each other whether or not its base station is online. I tested the alarm extensively with both the app’s alarm-test feature and with synthetic smoke, and I found all features worked as advertised. Just as with the FS31 system, even when I separated the satellites as far as I could around my house, they all immediately sounded off with ear-piercing sirens when any one unit was triggered—the only difference was the added delivery of voice warnings that told me which room’s alarm had been triggered initially. And much as I experienced with the FS31 system, the interconnectivity worked just as well even if the base station was unplugged. The only difference is that I did not receive any push alerts on my phone, and I couldn’t use the app to silence the alarms. Again, the base station could really use a simple battery backup system to mitigate this flaw. I would encourage buyers to invest in a small uninterruptible power supply to plug it into. The MR31’s configuration options are identical to those of the FS31: You change the volume of the base station’s alarm (but not the satellites) and choose between three different siren sounds for each satellite. Notifications can also be configured individually for each alarm, based on when the alarm is triggered, ends, silenced, tested, malfunctions, or its battery runs low. Notifications were invariably successfully sent via both push notification and email. I never encountered any trouble with the MR31 system, and I never experienced the device occasionally dropping offline the way the FS31 did. The base station will send push notifications when alarms are sounded, but the interconnected detectors will fire off locally even if the base station goes offline.Christopher Null/Fouindry As with its other alarms, X-Sense offers an optional subscription service called Protect+ Premium ($5/month or $50/year), which is operated by the third-party professional monitoring service Noonlight. The service will dispatch emergency services on your behalf if an alarm is triggered. Subscribers who experience an active alarm first get a written message and then a phone call if there’s no response to the message. If you respond that there is indeed an emergency, or if there’s no response to either of these contact attempts, your local fire department will be dispatched, reportedly within 80 seconds of the alarm being triggered. X-Sense also offers a Protect+ Basic plan ($3/month or $30/year) that requires you to request an emergency response yourself by pushing a button the app when one of the smoke alarms goes off. Both services seem overpriced, since they only offer protection from fire hazards and not police or medical emergencies, but if you don’t have a full-featured, professionally monitoring home security system, one or the other plan might make you feel more secure. We can help you decide whether to sign up for a professional monitoring service or take the DIY path? There was a time when you could have your Alexa-powered smart speaker warn you of the sound of a smoke alarm going off in your home, but Amazon charges for that service now. Should you buy an X-Sense XS0B-MR Interconnected Smart Smoke Alarm Curiously, X-Sense’s list price for the three-station MR31 system is $10 less than the three-station FS31 system ($100 vs. $110), despite the addition of the voice announcements feature. At the time of this review, however, you could buy either system at Amazon for $70. The voice alerts are an excellent feature, so I’d recommend the MR31 over the FS31 unless you prefer that system’s smaller detectors. Read...

In recent years, Mozilla Firefox has lost a good deal of market share in the web browser space. It’s hard to pin that loss on any one factor, but part of it has been its slow speed in adding several popular browser features. One such feature? Progressive web apps! Also known as PWAs, progressive web apps are basically websites that can be installed onto your device and behave like platform-specific apps. PWAs are still technically web apps, but they can be added to your desktop and work while offline, and they’re usually cross-platform as well. This feature has been available on competitor Chrome since 2018, so clearly Firefox has been slow on the uptake. However, Neowin reports that Firefox will soon support progressive web apps. Firefox began conducting tests with PWAs nearly five years ago, but the feature support was removed from beta versions in January 2021. Then, earlier this year, the feature was brought back in testing as “Taskbar Tabs,” which are slightly different since they keep the main Firefox toolbar and preserve the address bar, bookmarks, and extensions. With Taskbar Tabs, you can pin a progressive web app to your platform’s taskbar, making it seem like a native system app. When you launch it, it appears in its own window and acts like its own app, except it also has all of Firefox’s usual protections. To test this experimental feature, type about:preferences#experimental in the address bar and enable the Add sites to your taskbar option. Read...

Microsoft has released a new test version of Windows 11—version KB5064093, also known as Windows Insider Preview Build 26200.5761. Among the new features is the ability to resume apps from an Android phone directly on the PC. The first app to get support is Spotify. Here’s how the feature works: when a song or podcast is playing in Spotify on your smartphone, a notification will pop up in your PC’s taskbar. Clicking that notification will move playback to the Spotify app on Windows 11. If the Spotify app isn’t already installed, it’ll automatically be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. For all of this to work, the same Spotify account must be logged in on both phone and PC, the PC must have access to the phone via Bluetooth and mobile device settings, and the Link to Windows app must be installed on the phone and active in the background. The feature is currently being tested in both Dev and Beta channels of Windows 11, which means that the feature isn’t visible to everyone right away. It’s still unclear when the feature will be released to the stable version of Windows 11 for all users, or when more apps will implement support to do the same kind of stuff. Read...

No, you aren’t imagining things. Microsoft has indeed started showing full-screen notifications more frequently in Windows 10 since the August 2025 update, reports Windows Latest. The nagging notifications warn that support for Windows 10 is officially slated to end on October 14th, 2025, which is when Microsoft will stop delivering security updates and offering technical support. Users who are still on Windows 10 are given the option to download or schedule the installation of Windows 11… but even if you choose to “Keep Windows 10,” the reminders continue to pop up. Microsoft also includes the new features of Windows 11 with the prompt, apparently doing all it can to entice you just enough to finally pull the trigger. If you want to continue using Windows 10 beyond the official cut-off date, there’s always the option to extend support to October 2026 by signing up for extended support in Windows Update. Read...

If the Wi-Fi suddenly disappears, it’s not always the internet provider’s fault. Sometimes the culprit is a simple power outage. All it takes is a brief interruption for your router to restart or go totally offline. This is especially frustrating during important video calls or right in the middle of a critical update. The easy fix? A power bank as an emergency power source. Here’s how it works: Wi-Fi crash due to power failure? A power bank can help The Green Cell Power Bank is a powerful option with 20,000 mAh capacity, pass-through charging, and Power Delivery support.Green Cell Routers need surprisingly little power–usually only 6 to 12 watts. A standard power bank with 20,000 mAh (˜100 Wh at five volts) can keep your router alive between six and 12 hours depending on the model. That’s enough for a power failure or a mains-related restart. Important: The power bank should support Power Delivery (PD) and supply an adapter cable that passes the required nine to 12 volts to the router. DC barrel (or hollow) plugs are common. Most AVM Fritzboxes require 12 volts via round plugs, so a simple USB-C connection won’t work. A PD to DC cable with an integrated voltage converter can help. A suitable power bank with PD output is, of course, required. Recommended USB-C to DC cables available on Amazon: HUNSOOL USB C to DC cable Supports 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V Compatible with USB-C PD chargers Includes 8 connector tips Cable length, 3.9ft SinLoon PD Supports 5V, 9V, and 20V Compatible with USB-C PD chargers and power banks Features DC 5.5 x 2.1 mm barrel connector input Durable nylon braided cable Charge and power simultaneously with pass-through power banks It’s even more practical with a power bank that supports pass-through charging. These models can charge themselves while simultaneously powering a connected device (like a router). This setup is perfect for continuous operation on the shelf. In the event of an unexpected power failure, the Wi-Fi stays “alive” without any extra effort. A small investment for a big peace of mind A good power bank isn’t just practical for your smartphone, it can also save your Wi-Fi in an emergency. Even during a power cut, you can stay online if you have the right cables at home. If you work from home, need to be reachable, or require a reliable internet connection, an (inexpensive) power backup can quickly pay for itself. Bonus tip for tech enthusiasts: If you want a particularly elegant solution, install a small UPS (uninterruptible power supply) with a DC output. However, for most cases, a good power bank with at least 20,000 mAh and suitable connections is more than enough. Read...

I don’t know how your tech drawers look, but mine are filled with wires I’ll likely never use again because technology has advanced quite a bit. Thankfully, USB-C seems to be here to stay since there is no wrong way to plug these things in. It’s not just smartphones, tablets, and laptops that use these, however, but also a long list of gadgets. We’ve scoured the market for hidden gems: 11 gadgets that will make you think “Wow, I didn’t know I needed that, but it will make my life so much easier!” Let’s dive in and see what cool devices you’ll be able to use your type-C cables and ports with. Wowstick 1F+ mini electric screwdriver Wowstick If you often have to fiddle around with your computer or other gadgets, this Wowstick mini electric screwdriver may be just what you need. This pen-shaped screwdriver features three LED lights so it’s easier to see what you’re working on and rotates 200 times per minute so you can finish the job faster. The screwdriver has a stylish base so you can hold it on your desk, and a whole collection of 56 aluminum alloy bits. The screwdriver can be charged via USB-C and it can last for hours. This super fun electric screwdriver usually goes for $41. Anker Nano Power Bank Anker One thing you need to have in you bag/pocket/backpack is a power bank because you never really know when your phone will fail you and cry for a recharge. Well, the Anker Nano power bank is tiny enough to fit just about anywhere. It comes with a foldable USB-C connector and a port on the side so you can charge two devices at once if you need to. The 5,000mAh capacity is just about enough for a full phone recharge, so it will be great in a pinch. It’s also only $30, but we’ve seen it as low as $16. Endoscope camera with light Ennovor Although it’s not something you’ll use every day, this Ennover endoscope camera can definitely come in handy. You just plug it in your phone, install and app, and see everything your camera does. Our team swears by it, using it for finding whatever they dropped behind the desk, while working on the car, or looking for pipe leaks. Since it has an IP67 rating, you can even plop it in your aquarium. The camera comes with a 16.4ft semi-rigid cable and several accessories, including a hook, magnet, and a mirror. You can get this one for $23 right now. Blukar flashlight Blukar I don’t care who you are—you need a flashlight. The smaller, the better, because you get to shove it into any pocket. This model from Blukar comes with a built-in 1800mAh battery that you’ll recharge with one of those many type-C cables you have in that tech drawer we were talking about. It can work for up to 16 hours on a single charge, which is pretty decent. There are four different lightning modes to cycle through, including one that will help you signal for help. Plus, one of these is only $10, so no excuse to pass on this one. Heat It insect bite healer Anyone plagued by mosquitoes in the summer will be particularly pleased with this ingenious gadget. This tiny device, which can be easily connected to your smartphone via USB-C, can significantly reduce the itching of bites and stings with targeted heat. You simply charge the small Heat It bite healer via the app and then hold it on the bite. The heat then does the rest, breaking down the proteins in the mosquito bite that cause the area to swell, itch, and hurt. A true must-have for summer, and it costs only $20. A tiny air pump Also perfect for summer is this small air pump from Cycplus, which fits in any bag while on the go. Not only can it inflate a bicycle tire in two minutes at the touch of a button, but it’s also USB-charged. According to the manufacturer, it’s suitable for mountain bikes, road bikes, motorcycles, and even cars! In addition to being an air pump, this practical gadget can also be used as a flashlight or power bank for on-the-go use — all things that come in very handy on a bike ride. And at just $57, it’s highly recommended if you need quick help with a flat tire. USB-C mini fan These little fans are also pretty ingenious; you can easily carry them in your pocket in the summer and quickly use them whenever you need them. Anyone who’s ever sat on a crowded subway train in 30-degree heat and wished for at least a little fresh air will love this gadget. The mini fan, which costs just $20, has a USB-C port and can be easily powered by power banks, computers, laptops, or USB chargers. There are even smaller and cheaper fans available that can be connected directly to your phone, costing under $10 each. But these also provide less powerful airflow, so we recommend the standalone version. Reading light with a book clamp Anyone who enjoys reading a lot, sometimes late into the night, will appreciate this little gadget: a reading lamp that you can simply clip onto your book. It may not be groundbreaking, but with a total of three color temperatures and five different light modes, you can individually adjust how much light you need for reading. The Gritin reading lamp costs just $15 on Amazon and features a 1200 mAh battery that lasts up to 80 hours depending on usage. Afterward, you can easily recharge it via USB. You can swivel the neck of the lamp back and forth as desired, and there’s even a small charging indicator. What more could you want? External DVD Drive Amicool If your laptop is like mine and lacks a DVD drive, then this little gadget will come in handy for you. This Amicool external DVD drive uses a USB-C (or USB-A) to connect to your laptop and give yout he optical drive you sometimes need. It can read and burn DVDs and CDs with ease, allowing you to install software, copy files, back up data, play games, and so on. You won’t even need to install drives as this thing is plug and play. While this thing’s usually $29, you can often get it for around $20, which is an absolute bargain. Samsung flash drive Samsung The vast majority of flash drives have a USB-A connector, but this one from Samsung has a Type-C connector. With transfer speeds of up to 400MB/s, you’ll move files around in no time. The beauty of this thumb drive is that you can even pop it in your smartphone to record 4K vids directly on it. The Samsung Type-C flash drive comes in multiple storage options, starting at 64GB and up to 512GB and they start at $14. The 256GB version, for instance, is $27 at the time of writing. Type-C microSD card reader Ugreen Most laptops nowadays don’t come with a card reader anymore (I know mine doesn’t), so finding other ways to get data off those little buggers is a must. Whether you need to pull data off your dashcam’s card or if it’s from your camera, this tiny Ugreen USB-C microSD reader will work just fine. This reader is tiny enough that you should probably put it on a keychain of some kind. If you’d rather a slightly more versatile version, Ugreen has a model that also works with SD cards and features both USB-C and USB-A connectors. Any of these will cost you less than $10, so they’re worthwhile investments. Editor’s note: This article was originally published on May 16, but was updated to include additional devices. Read...

At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Beautiful high-refresh rate OLED display Good price for that OLED Solid performance per dollar Lots of ports Cons Doesn’t pull far ahead of RTX 5070-powered laptops NPU is too slow for Copilot+ PC AI features 12 GB VRAM is low for GPU-heavy AI models Bad speakers Our Verdict The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI feels like it was meant to be a gaming laptop and the marketing department wanted to slap “AI” on it. It’s a reasonable midrange gaming laptop with a stunning OLED display. If you want AI laptop features, though — look elsewhere. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI is a 16-inch gaming laptop with solid hardware for a reasonable price. But if you’re looking for a true “AI laptop,” this isn’t it. The neural processing unit (NPU) is too slow to handle Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC AI features nor is it ready to run the most current AI tasks. Many buyers don’t realize that modern “AI laptops” often fall short of Microsoft’s advertised standards. Like other gaming laptops rebranded as AI laptops, this machine would excel at GPU-based AI tasks, but no more than any other gaming laptop. With 12 GB of VRAM, the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti GPU here isn’t ideal for local AI models. (For example, OpenAI’s new gpt-oss-20B model is intended for GPUs with at least 16 GB of VRAM.) Moving beyond the AI branding, this is a fine laptop — if we treat it as a gaming laptop and not an AI laptop. And this OLED display at less than $2,000 is extremely impressive. So, for the rest of this review, I’ll just treat it like a gaming laptop. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Specs The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S is a 16-inch gaming laptop with a blazing-fast 24-core Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU, a current-generation Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti GPU, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. That’s the Best Buy-exclusive configuration we reviewed, and it retails for $1,899. The RAM and storage are end user-upgradable, too. All you have to do is remove the bottom cover. Model number: PHN16S-71-98RF CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX Memory: 32 GB DDR5 6400 MHz RAM Graphics/GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti 12GB NPU: Intel AI Boost (up to 13 TOPS) Display: 16-inch 2560×1600 OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate Storage: 1 TB PCIe Gen4 SSD Webcam: 1080p webcam Connectivity: 2x USB Type-C (1x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps), 3x USB Type-A (2x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1), 1x HDMI 2.1 out, 1x Ethernet, 1x microSD card reader, 1x combo audio jack, 1x DC power in Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 Biometrics: IR camera for facial recognition Battery capacity: 76 Watt-hours Dimensions: 14.06 x 10.9 x 1.01 inches Weight: 4.8 pounds MSRP: $1,899 as tested If you want a 16-inch OLED with 240Hz refresh rate for under $2,000, you should seriously consider this machine.” Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Design and build quality IDG / Chris Hoffman The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI is a 16-inch gaming laptop that lands somewhere between the thinnest gaming laptops and the chunkiest ones. At just under five pounds, it’s still plenty portable for a gaming laptop. It’s all black, aside from a reflective Predator logo on the lid and a silver logo on the keyboard tray. The good news is that there’s no “AI” logo anywhere on this machine. While Acer doesn’t specify the materials in its reviewer’s guide, the lid appears to be made of a black aluminum, with much of the rest of the machine made of a black plastic. It feels solid. The hinge also feels nice and smooth, and it’s easy to open with a single hand. While the keyboard lights up with multicolored LEDs if you want it, the rest of the machine in its “Obsidian Black” color scheme is restrained, and it could pass for more of a professional laptop than a gaming laptop. There are no light bars or other effects elsewhere on the laptop. That silver “Predator” logo below the keyboard marks it as a gaming laptop, however. It’s a solid laptop. It feels sturdy, and the plastic finish doesn’t feel cheap. At an inch thick, it’s a reasonable thickness for a gaming laptop. But it doesn’t feel quite as luxurious to the touch as an all-metal laptop chassis. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Keyboard and trackpad IDG / Chris Hoffman The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI has a full-size keyboard complete with a number pad (there’s plenty of room for it) and four zones of RGB LED backlighting. That customizable backlighting lets you set up colorful effects without the cost of including more expensive per-key RGB backlighting. With 1.5mm of key travel, this is a standard membrane-style chiclet keyboard on a gaming laptop of this size. There’s plenty of room for enough key travel to make the keyboard feel nice without any extra tricks. It feels fine — not mushy — but it doesn’t feel as unusually snappy as when manufacturers go the extra mile to include a mechanical keyboard or one with extra actuation force. The trackpad is a good size, smooth, and responsive. The surface isn’t as smooth as a glass touchpad, and there’s perhaps a little more friction than on some other trackpad finishes I’ve used recently — plus the click-down action lands with a bit more of a “thunk” than a “click” — but it’s fine. It’s a standard touchpad, but nothing that stands out against its competitors. I game with a mouse, anyway, and I’d be happy using this while I wasn’t gaming. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Display and speakers IDG / Chris Hoffman The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI has a 16-inch 2560×1600 OLED display with a 240Hz refresh rate and up to 400 nits of brightness (peaking a bit higher in HDR mode.) It supports HDR and Nvidia G-Sync, too. The display looks great — I’m a sucker for a good OLED. I’m excited to see an OLED with such a high refresh rate, too. For years, it felt like you had to pick between OLED or a high refresh rate on a gaming laptop. You can get displays that are brighter or even higher resolution on a gaming laptop, but this one looks good with the deep blacks you’ll find on an OLED. While this is very nice OLED, it’s not the best one I’ve seen. While playing Doom: The Dark Ages, the blacks on this OLED display looked nice and deep, but these aren’t the vivid colors and high brightness I normally see on an OLED-powered laptop. In a lot of ways, it reminds me more of a good IPS display. That’s not a surprise due to that 400 nits brightness. The blacks are nice and deep, but the colors aren’t as vivid as I see on brighter OLEDs. As an OLED, it’s a little glossy and prone to reflections, and that can be an issue in a bright room, more brightness usually helps overpower these reflections. I test the speakers on every laptop I review by playing Steely Dan’s Aja and Daft Punk’s Get Lucky. The Helios Neo 16S AI’s two stereo speakers delivered plenty of volume. They did a better job in Get Lucky than in Aja with its precise instrument separation. But the upper midrange was a little harsh, especially at higher volume settings — something that really comes through in sounds like the singing in Get Lucky‘s chorus. I found the upper midranges fatiguing after just a few minutes in Doom: The Dark Ages, too. I don’t like the way the speakers sound, and I would really want to use headphones while gaming. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Webcam, microphone, biometrics The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI has a 1080p webcam that looks fine for a gaming laptop. In fact, I’d say it’s on the better side for a gaming laptop, though the color and general image quality aren’t up there with business laptops optimized for video conferencing. Since Acer is pushing AI features for the webcam and microphone, it’s worth noting that the “PurifiedView” button in the PredatorSense app’s “Experience Zone” just opens Windows Studio Effects webcam settings — you’ll get these particular effects (automatic framing, eye contact, and background blur) on basically any laptop with this NPU. And you’ll get more on a Copilot+ PC that delivers extra features. The microphone setup was on the quiet side and not particularly high-quality. That’s normal for gaming laptops, but Acer markets this as a three-microphone setup for crystal-clear voice quality. You’ll probably be using an external microphone, anyway. This machine has Acer Purified Voice features you can tweak in the PredatorSense’s “Experience Zone,” and they’re an improvement over no effects. However, stronger microphone hardware would deliver a better voice input experience than these trendy AI effects do. You don’t need an “AI laptop” for background noise removal, anyway. This machine has an IR camera for facial recognition with Windows Hello, so you can sign in with your face. As usual on modern laptops, it works well. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Connectivity IDG / Chris Hoffman The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI has a good collection of ports that are positioned well. But it also has one of the big problems I tend to see on laptops like these — USB port confusion. On the left side, the machine offers an Ethernet jack, a USB Type-A port, a microSD card reader, and combo audio jack. On the right side, it’s got two more USB Type-A ports. On the back, you’ll find a DC power in jack, HDMI 2.1 out, and two USB Type-C ports (one is Thunderbolt 4 and one is USB 3.2). That’s a great location and means cables like power in and video out are coming out the back of your laptop and aren’t in the way of your mouse and other things on your desk. The annoyance is the usual USB port confusion. On the back, one of the USB Type-C ports is a Thunderbolt 4 port while the other operates at USB 3.2 speeds. You’ll need to keep an eye on which is which if you have Thunderbolt 4 devices or you’ll find them operating at reduced speeds. This laptop features Killer Wi-Fi 6E hardware and Bluetooth 5.4 support, and it thankfully has that 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for wired networking. It’s disappointing that Acer skipped Wi-Fi 7 here. It’s not a big deal, but Wi-Fi 7 support would make it more futureproof. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Performance I put the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI to the test in Doom: The Dark Ages, and it performed well — as it should with this CPU and GPU! Under load, the fans aren’t unusually loud for a gaming laptop. They blow hot air out of both the back and sides. I’d prefer if they only blew it out the back. The keyboard can also get a little toasty, especially in the middle. As always, we ran the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI through our standard benchmarks to see how it performs. IDG / Chris Hoffman First, we run PCMark 10 to get an idea of overall system performance. This is an overall system benchmark, but the CPU is a huge factor here. The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI delivered a solid score of 8,320 thanks to its speedy Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU. IDG / Chris Hoffman Next, we run Cinebench R20. This is a heavily multithreaded benchmark that focuses on overall CPU performance. It’s a quick benchmark, so cooling under extended workloads isn’t a factor. But, since it’s heavily multithreaded, CPUs with more cores have a huge advantage. With an average multithreaded Cinebench R20 score of 13,072, this laptop was a bit behind some competitors with the same CPU, possibly suggesting cooling may be a factor. IDG / Chris Hoffman We also run an encode with Handbrake. This is another heavily multithreaded benchmark, but it runs over an extended period. This demands the laptop’s cooling kick in, and many laptops will throttle and slow down under load. The Helios Neo 16S completed the encode process in an average of 562 seconds. That’s over nine minutes. Again, we see it slipping behind similar laptops that presumably have better cooling systems and need less throttling under load. If I were approaching this as an AI laptop and saying you might be looking to do CPU inference, I’d point out this is a real issue — you’d want a laptop with better cooling to run heavy CPU-crunching tasks for extended periods of time. (But, since we’ve left the idea of this being an AI workstation behind, it’s fine and likely won’t have a huge effect on gaming performance.) IDG / Chris Hoffman Next, we run a graphical benchmark. First, we run 3Dmark Time Spy, a graphical benchmark that focuses on GPU performance. The Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti GPU here produced a Time Spy score of 13,528. A benchmark like this one is all about the GPU. What’s interesting here is the RTX 5070 Ti in this machine doesn’t pull very far ahead of the RTX 5070 in the Alienware 16X Aurora. It’s ahead, but only by a little bit. Comparing on-paper GPU speeds, it should be ahead by a lot! The cause is likely the TDP. In this machine, the RTX 5070 Ti is limited to 115 W max, so it can’t take full advantage of the 5070 Ti’s theoretically higher performance in the ideal world. (The Alienware 16X Aurora also runs its 5070 at a 115 W TDP.) IDG / Chris Hoffman Then, we benchmark some games. We start with Shadow of the Tomb Raider, an older game, but a great way to compare performance across hardware. With an average FPS of 160 in our standard benchmark here, this machine is in line with other similar laptops and even ones with faster RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 GPUs. IDG / Chris Hoffman Finally, we benchmark a demanding game. We run the Extreme benchmark in Metro Exodus. With an average FPS of 56 in this benchmark, this comes in roughly where we’d expect to see it — behind RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 laptops. Again, this is only a hair faster than the RTX 5070 in the Alienware 16X Aurora. While the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S does have a faster GPU, the advantages are marginal at this TDP level. Overall, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI performed fine. But it doesn’t take full advantage of its hardware. The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX doesn’t deliver the kind of sustained performance it can on competing PCs (likely due to the cooling hardware), for example. More importantly, while the choice of a faster RTX 5070 Ti GPU looks like a big on-paper win that will deliver faster performance than an RTX 5070, the TDP here means that the GPU in this machine performs similarly to machines with RTX 5070 GPUs running at the high end of what they can manage. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Battery life The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI has a 76 Watt-hour battery, which is middle of the road for a gaming laptop. Still, it helps keep weight down and you aren’t going to game on battery power anyway. IDG / Chris Hoffman To benchmark the battery life, we play a 4K copy of Tears of Steel on repeat on Windows 11 with airplane mode enabled until the laptop suspends itself. We set the screen to 250 nits of brightness for our battery benchmarks. This is a best-case scenario for any laptop since local video playback is so efficient, and real battery life in day-to-day use is always going to be less than this. Also, since this laptop has an OLED screen that doesn’t have to use extra power to display the black bars around the video, that gives it a bit of an edge against competing laptops with IPS displays on this test. The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI lasted for an average of 371 minutes in our benchmark — that’s just over six hours. You’ll get less in the real world, so this laptop won’t make it through a workday (maybe not even have a workday) before you must plug it in. That’s standard for gaming laptops with power-hungry Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processors. Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Conclusion If you want a 16-inch OLED with 240Hz refresh rate for under $2,000, you should seriously consider this machine. Asus’s ROG Zephyrus G16 is another 16-inch laptop with an RTX 5070 Ti, a slower Intel Core Ultra 9 285H CPU, and a 240Hz refresh rate, and Asus’s online store has it at $2,799 as I’m wrapping up this review. The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI tries a few other gimmicks. The “AI” branding isn’t a reason to buy this PC over another gaming laptop. And the RTX 5070 Ti GPU — a win on paper — is held back and doesn’t deliver the theoretical high-end performance it might. If you aren’t excited by this OLED at this price, I recommend you consider other options. This display at this price is this machine’s standout feature, not AI. Read...

As the world’s leading brand in photography accessories, Ulanzi has built its name on affordable, creator-friendly photography gear. It has unveiled its latest all-in-one control and connectivity station — the D200H Deck Dock — a device packed with a 7-in-1 docking station, 14 customizable LCD keys, and AI-powered automation, which greatly streamlines creative workflows for videographers, live streamers, photographers, and video editors. Priced at 50% less than competing solutions, the D200H delivers superior functionality with an impressive 92% user satisfaction rate from beta testing. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive deep into what makes this creator hub special. Hardware-Software Synergy: A Creator’s Dream Machine ?14 Customizable LCD Keys Meet 7-in-1 Docking Ulanzi D200H Deck Dock combines tactile control with unified connectivity in a way we haven’t seen before. The 14 LCD keys offer sub-millisecond response times—critical for live production environments where every millisecond counts. Creators can assign macros for everything from OBS scene transitions to Premiere Pro timeline edits to Zoom meeting controls. For all its specs, the D200H’s biggest win is how it simplifies the desk. It replaces: A USB-C dock An SD card reader A Stream Deck A separate lighting remote ?AI-Powered Workflow Automation One of the defining features of the D200H is its built-in AI trigger system. A single key can be assigned to launch ChatGPT for live chat moderation, auto-generate meeting summaries, or apply batch presets in Adobe Lightroom. With this single-button activation, creators can: Trigger ChatGPT for live chat moderation during streams Generate meeting summaries without leaving their workflow Batch-apply Lightroom presets across hundreds of photos This isn’t just about hardware—it’s about intelligent automation that adapts to your creative process. Beyond these two standout features, the D200H takes customization further with three groundbreaking innovations tailored to specific creator needs. Let’s explore how these scenario-specific enhancements transform workflows across different scenarios. For Gaming Live Streamers: No Lag Game streamers will appreciate the low-latency scene switching that minimizes alt-tab delays—a common frustration during intense gameplay. The chat interaction suite allows for: One-touch commands like “!clip” or “!drop” Automated moderation triggers Instant emote displays For Photographers & Designers: Photoshop Efficiency The D200H includes 39 instant-access Photoshop shortcuts—a game-changer for professionals. Frequently used functions like Free Transform, Redo, or New File creation are now literally at your fingertips. No more menu diving when inspiration strikes. Beta testers reported completing color grading tasks 40% faster and layer management 35% more efficiently compared to traditional workflows. Lighting Control: Ecosystem Integration Done Right Ulanzi has created something truly unique with its lighting integration. The D200H serves as a central command hub for: Ulanzi’s lighting products (VL series, AL series, etc.) Major smart home systems (Mi Home, Haier, Midea) Professional lighting setups via Home Assistant/HomeBridge The intelligent lighting recommendations automatically adjust based on your content type—whether you’re streaming, shooting portraits, or photographing products. View Ulanzi D200H Desk Dock at Amazon Conclusion The Ulanzi D200H Deck Dock is more than a control deck, and more than a docking station — it’s a hybrid device that recognizes how messy, multi-platform, and multi-purpose modern creative work has become. By blending tactile control, AI automation, unified connectivity, and environmental integration, Ulanzi has built a product that can serve as the literal and figurative hub of a creator’s workspace. Whether its primary role is to command a live broadcast, accelerate a Photoshop session, or keep a gaming stream smooth and interactive, the D200H appears ready to meet the challenge. Its combination of price, feature set, and compatibility gives it a competitive edge, while its integration with Ulanzi’s broader ecosystem hints at how the brand plans to connect its hardware line-up in the future. For creators who have been piecing together a mix of docks, decks, and control panels, the D200H’s all-in-one approach could prove both a space saver and a workflow upgrade. And for Ulanzi, it’s a signal that the company is no longer just making accessories — it’s building creative command centers. Buy the Ulanzi D200H Desk Dock You can pick up the D200H Desk Dock direct from Ulanzi, or via Amazon. Act now to take advantage of an early-bird deal, knocking $20 off the $89.99 retail price – but hurry, it’s only available for two weeks. Get Ulanzi D200H Desk Dock for just $69.99! View Early-Bird Price Read...