Some might think the hard disk drive (HDD), which is rarely found in consumer computing devices these days, is obsolete. In truth, it’s nowhere near kaput. Why? Hard drives provide capacity that SSDs can only dream of. At least at anything close to an affordable price. With the data created each year now measured in zettabytes (trillions of gigabytes), we obviously need all the room we can get. To meet that demand, WD (newly divested of solid state experts Sandisk) plans to squeeze every last drop out of the spinning platter technology using multiple techniques. Including: SMR (Shingled Magnetic Recording), aka overlapping data tracks. This can slow write performance in some circumstances, but increases capacity. eAMR (Energy-Assisted Magnetic Recording), or applying more energy to the write head for more precise alignment, and closer packing of bits (tiny, variable-orientation magnetic particles). Again, increased capacity. HAMR (Heat-Assisted Magnetic Recording), or applying a bit of heat to the surface of the disks making them more responsive to magnetic pulses, also allowing tighter packing of bits. ePMR (Energy-Assisted Perpendicular Magnetic Recording) — the same as above, but with the bits standing on their toes, i.e., perpendicular to the plane of the disk/platter. Actually, PMR has been the norm for quite a while, and responsible for the huge jump in HDD capacity over the last couple of decades. The upshot of all these technologies in the short term will be a new 40TB UltraSMR (Shingled Magnetic Recording) 3.5-inch HDD, and what WD says will be models sporting a massive 100TB within the next 10 years. The interior of a modern hard disk drive. WD WD also claims that it will double sequential transfer performance in the near term, and octuple (8X) it over the same upcoming decade. Seeing as sequential throughput currently peaks at somewhere around 300MBps, we’re talking well over 2GBps eventually. Yowser! Random access performance? No promise were made, and likely for a good reason. Given the nature of moving read-write heads about the surfaces of platters (disks), we expect it to remain far slower than SSDs. A 20 percent drop in power requirements is also touted by WD, lowering energy bill throughout the known universe — always a good thing. Of course, no press release these days would be complete without mentioning AI — in this case, the huge amount of data it requires. A requirement that WD feels can be met in large part using hard drives. They’re likely not wrong. Along with SSDs and Dynamic memory at the tip of the storage spear, of course. Keep in mind that these gains are a roadmap. Actual results may vary. Read...

When it comes to USB-C chargers, power banks, and wall plugs, Anker is one of the most reputable (and therefore one of the safest) brands to get. Today, the adorable Anker Nano 45W USB-C wall charger is on sale with a 25% discount on Amazon. That means you can now grab it for just $29.98 (was $39.99). Perfect for frequent travelers! It’s not just the sizable discount that makes this Anker Nano charger block stand out, but also the fact that it has a built-in smart display with a cute little face that tells you how fast your device is charging, how long it’ll take to fully charge, and lets you switch between charging modes. When charging an iPhone or iPad, this charger will even know which model you’re charging and display that info, too. With a maximum output of 45 watts, this plug is capable of charging your smartphone to 50% in approximately 20 minutes. There’s only one USB-C port on it, so you won’t be able to charge multiple devices at once. At night, if you switch to Care Mode, it will intelligently charge your device in a way that preserves battery longevity. Also, this miniature wall plug is perfect for travel for several reasons. For starters, it uses GaN technology which lets it go much smaller, lighter, and power efficient than traditional chargers. It also has a 180-degree prong that folds in both directions, which lets it adapt to any kind of outlet you might encounter. And with it being so tiny, it can be shoved into any pocket or bag without concerns over damage. The Anker Nano 45W USB-C wall charger is only $29.99 right nowBuy now via Amazon Read...

At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Excellent performance thanks to Ryzen 5 7640HS and Radeon 760M graphics Decent SSD transfer rates thanks to CT1000P3 from Crucial/Micron Magnetic cover enables lightning-fast hardware upgrades Quiet cooling system even under sustained load Wide range of connectivity options including USB-C and Wi-Fi 6E Cons The case surface is scratch-resistant, but attracts dust Our Verdict The PELADN WO4 is recommended for users who are looking for a powerful yet maintenance-friendly system. The mini PC stands out from the competition thanks to its magnetic cover and the use of brand-name components. Whether as a compact workstation, AI accelerator, or for casual gaming, the combination of Ryzen 5 7640HS and 32GB DDR5 RAM offers reserves for the next few years. A well-designed piece of technology without the usual compromises in terms of upgradeability. Price when reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: PELADN WO4 Retailer Price $419.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket PELADN is another mini PC manufacturer from the Far East. At the time of testing, 26 models with Intel and AMD processors were listed in its own EU shop, although not all of them are available. Some of PELADN’s minis are also available on Amazon, including the WO4 tested here with AMD Ryzen 7640HS and Radeon 760M graphics. We put this attractively priced model through its paces. Design and workmanship My first impression of the PELADN WO4 was that it’s cool and high-quality. The metal alloy casing not only looks sturdy, but also supports heat dissipation. The scratch-resistant surface feels silky and resists fingerprints surprisingly well. Compared to high-gloss models such as the Acemagic M1, this is a clear advantage in everyday use. Christoph Hoffmann There has been an exciting trend in the world of ultra-compact computers for several months now: Devices are not only becoming faster, but also easier to maintain. While competitors such as the Geekom A7 Max or the Acemagic M1 rely on a closed unibody design, which requires laboriously removing the rubber feet and loosening screws for upgrades, the PELADN WO4 takes a much more user-friendly approach. Similar to the Sapphire Edge AI 370, the cover on the top of the case can be lifted without tools, giving easy access to the slots for two RAM modules and two NVMe SSDs. Despite this flexibility, the cover sits rock-solid when closed, with nothing rattling or feeling unstable. Christoph Hoffmann With dimensions of approximately 5 × 5 × 2 inches (width × depth × height) and a weight of around 1.21 pounds, the WO4 is significantly more compact than comparable devices such as the Geekom A7 Max or the Miniforums AI X1 Pro. This allows it to be flexibly placed on a desk, in the living room, or at a home office workstation. The included VESA mount also allows for space-saving attachment directly to the back of the monitor. The cooling system of the PELADN WO4, called “FrostCool,” relies on a sophisticated two-fan concept, setting it apart from the often undersized competition. The main fan efficiently transports the waste heat from the Ryzen 5 7640HS to the outside via large copper heat pipes. An additional system fan ensures a constant air flow over the DDR5 RAM and the Crucial SSD installed in the test device. This active cooling of the memory components is a decisive advantage, as it effectively prevents the thermal throttling that is feared with NVMe SSDs during long write operations. Thanks to the solid construction of the heatsink and an intelligent fan curve, the mini PC remains virtually inaudible in office use. Under full load, it emits only a sonorous, unobtrusive hum instead of high-frequency whistling. Another plus point is its ease of maintenance: The magnetic case cover allows tool-free access to the cooling system. This makes regular cleaning of the fan blades from dust a breeze and ensures long-term system stability. Features The AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS forms the heart of a new generation of mini PCs like the PELADN WO4 that focus on efficiency and AI acceleration. The six-core processor is based on modern 4nm manufacturing and Zen 4 architecture (“Phoenix”). In terms of performance, it is on par with former high-end chips such as the Ryzen 9 5900HX or the Intel Core i5-12500H. However, it significantly outperforms them in terms of energy efficiency and single-core performance. Christoph Hoffmann Compared to the Zen 3 models (such as the Ryzen 5 5600H or 5800H) found in many cheaper mini PCs, the 7640HS benefits from double-digit IPC growth and support for AVX-512. This makes it powerful enough for modern software workloads and future-proof. Although its bigger brother, the Ryzen 7 7840HS, offers two more cores, the 7640HS is almost on par in terms of single-thread performance, which is crucial for everyday use, and often outperforms competing models in the Intel Core i5-13500H series in graphics benchmarks. A unique selling point in this price range is the integrated Ryzen AI Engine (NPU), which offers dedicated hardware acceleration for AI tasks. This feature is completely absent in older mini PC generations or the pure office CPUs of the Intel T series. A look under the cover shows that PELADN makes no compromises when it comes to components. While many manufacturers are moving towards soldering the RAM in place for space reasons — a criticism often levelled at ultra-slim models — the WO4 offers two classic SODIMM slots. It comes with 32GB of DDR5-5600 RAM installed at the factory, spread across two 16GB modules. Christoph Hoffmann No corners were cut when it came to the SSD: Thanks to its PCIe 4.0 connection, the built-in 1TB Crucial P3 delivers transfer rates that allow the system to boot in seconds — more details on this below. The variety of connections on the case makes some full-grown desktop workstations look outdated. Particularly noteworthy are Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, which ensure an extremely stable wireless connection. Christoph Hoffmann The front of the PELADN WO4 has a modern and user-friendly design. In addition to the illuminated power button, there are two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports that enable data rates of up to 10Gbit/s. This makes them ideal for quickly connecting external SSDs or high-performance USB sticks. This setup is complemented by a combined 3.5mm jack connection for headsets. This is particularly beneficial for users who have their PC on their desk and do not want to reach behind the device to connect audio accessories. Christoph Hoffmann The highlight on the front is the full-featured USB-C port. This not only supports fast data transfer, but also DisplayPort Alt Mode. Depending on the configuration, this allows a third monitor to be controlled. The result is a high degree of flexibility in everyday work, as frequently changed peripheral devices are immediately accessible. The rear of the mini PC is designed for continuous stationary operation and offers numerous connection options. An HDMI and a DisplayPort connection dominate here. Together with the USB-C port on the front, they enable a triple-monitor setup with up to 4K resolution at high refresh rates. A 2.5G Ethernet port is available for integration into the home network, offering significantly higher transfer speeds than the conventional Gigabit standard, which is also available. The two LAN ports are an advantage for users who work with a NAS or want to move large amounts of data over the network. Christoph Hoffmann There are also two additional USB-A ports on the back, which are suitable for connecting peripheral devices such as mice, keyboards, or printers. Directly below the ports are the generous air vents of the cooling system. They are positioned so that the warm air is directed away from the user. The rear panel is rounded off by the power input for the external power supply. The arrangement of the sockets has been chosen so that the plugs do not block each other, even when all ports are fully occupied. Windows 11 Pro is pre-installed The PELADN WO4 comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. With an active internet connection, the operating system is quickly activated and set up. Windows 11 is factory-set to 24H2 Build 26100 with a release date of 1 October 2024. After setup, we updated the system to the latest version using the update function. We then installed the AMD drivers for the chipset and the Radeon graphics card. Christoph Hoffmann Christoph Hoffmann Although we do not evaluate Windows 11 Pro separately, the interaction between the operating system and hardware is an important aspect of the WO4. The AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS harmonizes well with the current Windows 11 build thanks to its modern platform. The integrated AI unit creates a future-proof basis for functions that are already used selectively by Windows 11 and are likely to become even more important in the future. Computing power With the AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, the PELADN WO4 positions itself as a powerful representative of the current mini PC upper class. In benchmarks, it achieves a balanced ratio of CPU performance, graphics performance and memory throughput. The processor is based on the Zen 4 architecture of the Phoenix generation and integrates the Radeon 760M graphics unit. This puts the WO4 in the same performance range as compact high-performance systems. Compared to the newer Zen 5 platforms, such as those used in the Sapphire Edge AI 370, the WO4 is based on a mature and established architecture. The integrated Ryzen AI unit provides fundamental support for AI applications. Combined with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a fast PCIe 4.0 SSD, the result is a system that can reliably handle not only classic office and productivity tasks, but also demanding multitasking and computationally intensive workloads. In the PCMark benchmark test, we determined a desktop computing power of 7,158 points. The software processes everyday tasks one after the other, thus delivering realistic values. Christoph Hoffmann The benchmark results in the Essentials (10,063 points) and Productivity (11,906 points) sub-areas show that everyday tasks, office applications, and multitasking run smoothly on the WO4. However, the score in the Content Creation area is weaker at 8,309 points. This puts the mini PC significantly behind systems based on the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and about 2,200 points behind the Geekom IT15 with Intel Core Ultra 9. This reflects the clearly higher performance of this platform in computationally and media-intensive scenarios. In the 3DMark CPU test, the WO4 demonstrates balanced performance. With 5,949 points in the multithread run and 974 points in the single-thread test, the result is on par with a mobile Ryzen 9 8945HS. In a direct market comparison, however, the WO4 lags around 20 percent behind systems with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. At the same time, scaling across multiple threads shows that computationally intensive tasks and parallel AI workloads are performed quickly. Christoph Hoffmann With 2,778 points in the Time Spy test, this mini PC achieves impressive performance for its size and marks the current performance peak of classic integrated graphics solutions in the mini PC segment. The Radeon 760M’s 2,488 graphics points show that it outperforms conventional Intel solutions (Iris Xe) by almost 50 percent and enables smooth Full HD gaming. The 8,202 CPU points are the real highlight: They prove that the Ryzen 5 7640HS, thanks to its Zen 4 architecture, does not throttle even under continuous load and comes close to compact desktop systems. The result in the Steel Nomad Light test is revealing, as this benchmark was developed for cross-platform systems without a dedicated graphics card. With 2,249 points and an estimated gaming performance of over 30 FPS, the PELADN WO4 proves that it far exceeds the level of simple office computers. Even if 16.67fps may seem low at first glance in a pure graphics test, this value is good for an integrated solution with very high quality settings. It indicates that current game titles remain playable in Full HD with moderate adjustments to the details. This makes the WO4 an option for casual gamers. The Geekbench AI Pro values (3,822 single precision / 7,362 quantized) indicate good AI acceleration. This is useful for on-device AI applications, edge computing, and local LLM inference. In this discipline, the PELADN WO4 is around 10 percent below the Geekom IT15, which is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H and an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, as used in the Sapphire Edge AI 370, for example. Christoph Hoffmann The SSD performance in Crystal Disk Mark is good, but not above average: With 5,200MB/s read and 4,733MB/s write speeds, the SSD performs at a decent but not above-average pace. Some higher-priced competitor models achieve read speeds of 6,000 to 7,000MB/s. The SSD speed of the WO4 is significantly higher than that of the Alliwava models (GH8 and H90), which are equipped with a slow PCIe 3.0 NVMe. Christoph Hoffmann Conclusion Our impression of the PELADN WO4 is positive. In terms of performance, the Ryzen 5 7640HS makes a clear statement. Thanks to the Zen 4 architecture and powerful Radeon 760M graphics, the WO4 closes the gap between office PCs and gaming systems. It masters demanding multitasking scenarios, AI-supported workflows, and even modern gaming in 1080p with flying colors, without reaching its thermal limits. The FrostCool system works so smoothly that the computer is unlikely to be perceived as disruptive, even in quiet working environments. Its (almost) unique selling point is the clever housing concept with a magnetic cover. Easy, tool-free access to RAM and SSD is user-friendly. This not only makes the system low-maintenance, but also future-proof for later upgrades. For users looking for a powerful, quiet, and flexible companion for their desk that won’t become electronic waste after just two years, the PELADN WO4 is a smart investment. Technical specifications Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS (6 cores / 12 threads, up to 5.0 GHz) Graphics: AMD Radeon 760M (RDNA 3 architecture) Memory: 32 GB DDR5-5600 (2 × 16 GB removable) Internal storage: 1 TB NVMe SSD (Crucial P3, PCIe 4.0 x4) Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, 1 × 2.5G Ethernet, 1 × Gigabit Ethernet Connections: 1 × HDMI 2.1, 1 × DisplayPort 1 × USB-C (full feature), 4 × USB 3.2 Gen 2, 3.5 mm jack Cooling: FrostCool dual fan system Special feature: Magnetic case cover for tool-free access Operating system: Windows 11 Pro pre-installed Dimensions: 128 × 128 × 52 mm (width × depth × height) Weight: approx. 550 grams Read...

At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Quality 4K webcam images with 60Hz option Surprisingly useful remote control Powerful zoom features Solid autofocus Cons Privacy shutter must be added on Onboard mics and noise cancellation are average to poor Camera positioning is annoying Our Verdict eMeet’s affordable 4K autofocus webcam generates great-looking shots, with a handy remote that controls many of its functions at the push of a button. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: EMEET Smartcam C60E 4K Dual Webcam Retailer Price $59.99 View Deal eMeet $59.99 View Deal $69.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices eMeet continues to push the envelope with aggressively priced videoconferencing solutions, and the eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual is another example of a quality, autofocusing webcam that includes a handy remote control that quickly offers focus, zoom, and color options. At press time, the eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual costs just about $70 (or $59.99 at eMeet’s site, at press time), which is terrific for a 4K webcam, even if it doesn’t offer quite the visual quality of some of the premium options in our recommendations for the best webcams. It has a key feature shared by another eMeet camera, the eMeet Piko+ 4K: a pair of lenses that jointly create the image, depending upon what you ask of it. On either side are some programmable RGB accents. About the only thing I mildly dislike about this webcam is the construction; the camera doesn’t tilt up and down on the mount, which means that framing your face with the camera can be a little awkward. While Windows’ Studio Effects technology will crop and zoom to frame your face, the technology doesn’t always work with external webcams, and depends (right now) on whether you’re running a Windows preview or not. The eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual, meanwhile, has a manual zoom — all the way to a tight 11X. Mark Hachman / Foundry In any event, the C60E 4K Dual is a quite affordable 4K autofocus webcam, whose images look remarkably like the images generated by the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra camera of a couple years ago. On paper, the two show differences; the SmartCam C60E 4K Dual uses a 1/2.8-inch sensor that’s shared between its two wide-angle and telephoto lenses, while the Kiyo Pro Ultra uses a 1/1.2-inch sensor, which lets in far more light. In a well-lit room, however, that doesn’t make that much difference. Although eMeet supplies an AI Studio application for fine-grained controls, much of that can be achieved either through the Windows settings or with the accompanying remote, which is surprisingly handy. eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual: How well does it work? The eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual connects to your PC via a 2-meter (6.5 feet) cable, terminating in a USB-A port. The other end of the cord is connected directly to the webcam, so you can’t simply install a longer cable. That should be more than enough on most desktop setups, however. Mark Hachman / Foundry Again, the weakest part of this webcam is the mount. The eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual uses the traditional “jaws” configuration, where the webcam sits flat on the top of the laptop or display, and a “jaw” juts out at an angle to support it. Some rival webcams add a hinged “tongue” at the end of the jaw to provide a more expansive surface to rest the frame upon. Virtually all of them, however, have a gimbal or swivel upon which you can adjust the webcam. The eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual only allows you to rotate the camera, not adjust it up or down. It’s not a huge loss, but it’s especially annoying when mounted on the display of a laptop, which can of course be raised or lowered. Each time you open a laptop, you’ll need to readjust the webcam, and it simply takes a bit longer than most. Once the webcam has found your face, which happens quite quickly, the autofocus locks on and remains there. I’m also not a fan of the fact that eMeet has left the privacy shutter as a stick-on option, rather than just building it in. The RGB highlights do light up when the camera is in use, however. The webcam allows you to record video of up to 4K (2160p) at 30 frames per second. Alternatively, you can record at 1440p (30fps), 1080p (30fps or 60fps), and various lower resolutions. Remember, Windows Studio Effects basically uses the full resolution of your webcam to crop and zoom in on your face. The eMeet SmartCam does the same: At a 4K setting, you can only choose from one of two zoom settings as it only has so many pixels to work with. But at 1080p/30fps, you can zoom in all the way to 11X; at some point, you might notice a brief hesitation while it switches cameras. At the lower resolutions you can also use the zoom slider within Windows to either smoothly zoom up to 11X or step through the various gradations (2X, 3X, 4X, etc.) to ratchet the zoom level up and down. eMeet’s AI Studio software offers this AI scene planner, which feels extraneous to most users.Mark Hachman / Foundry Those gradations are found on the webcam’s remote, which is especially useful. Powered by two AAA batteries, the well-designed remote can be used for everything from toggling between fixed- to auto-focus, to adjusting the zoom controls, to dialing up and down lighting and tint controls. The remote also includes four presets, with everything from a “cool” and “vivid” setting to black and white. Supposedly the remote also controls the ability to scale up and down the resolution, but that didn’t seem to work. Thankfully, it all works out of the box, no drivers necessary. If you do lose the remote, that’s okay too. Most of its functions (the zoom, lighting, and contrast) can be controlled directly via Windows, as well as the Camera settings within Windows. Still, the remote puts it all at your fingertips, and that’s handy. eMeet also includes an optional AI Studio app that controls some of the camera’s functions in a nice on-screen UI. Emphasis on optional: Some of the installation software uses Mandarin without English translations, which can be disconcerting. One of the few things AI Studio software exclusively offers is an odd AI app that allows you to create shooting templates for various projects, using everything from ChatGPT to Grok. There’s really very little point to it. (It also provides the ability to swap the RGB lighting between red, green, and blue, too, however.) eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual: Performance Otherwise, the image captures the eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual generated were pretty solid. I felt colors were accurately represented, and that the images were crisp. Mark Hachman / Foundry I shoot images down in my office, which normally is a bit dimmer; I removed the curtains for cleaning, which allows more light inside. The webcam uses what’s called phase-detection autofocus, or PDAF. All this means is that the autofocus capabilities of this webcam are quick and not “twitchy”: Once the webcam has found your face, which happens quite quickly, the autofocus locks on and remains there. Upstairs, I happened to capture the images on a grayer day, which dims everything a bit. But I also felt that the images were lifelike, with decent color and contrast. I also threw in one using the black and white preset, just for fun. Though this webcam does offer some presets, none of them include anything like the “beauty modes” I’ve seen in native webcam apps from Samsung, for example. The eMeet webcam does have a pair of onboard mics, but this is the other shortcoming that budget webcams tend to offer: average to poor audio, with noise cancellation that barely works. I’m afraid that the eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual falls into this category. I record my voice using the webcam mics as per our normal webcam testing procedure, playing back some rock music and then some white noise via my phone, behind my head and off to the side. In this case, the background audio was clearly audible. You’ll want a quiet room for working with this webcam. Should you buy the eMeet SmartCam C60E 4K Dual? eMeet has produced another inexpensive, quality webcam that fits into a midrange niche. Normally, I’d expect this to be filled by a “2K” (1440p) or other midrange webcam. The fact that eMeet offers 4K capabilities as well as a 1080p, 60Hz option is a lovely bonus. I wouldn’t download the utility software; it’s not necessary, and additional apps clog your PC. I’d also recommend buying this if you own a desktop display to which you can attach this webcam and not have to move it again. Laptop owners may find it slightly annoying. Still, I think this webcam deserves four stars, simply because the lack of a mount swivel and lack of a privacy shutter can be dealt with. I’d just encourage eMeet to think hard about not ignoring these basics in the future. Read...

At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Good features Two 2.5 Gbit Ethernet ports, lots of USB ports Support for up to four displays (up to 8K) Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 Upgradable DDR5 RAM instead of soldered LPDDR Cons Fan spins up abruptly under load and becomes clearly audible No USB-C port on the front Second SSD only possible in M.2-2230 format No Thunderbolt (USB4 available, but without TB certification) Our Verdict The Geekom A7 Max builds on the proven concept of the A9 Max, but with a different technical focus. Instead of maximum AI acceleration, the focus is on high classic CPU performance, fast integrated graphics and an overall balanced platform. For users who do not require special AI functions, the A7 Max is a powerful mini PC for productivity, multimedia and demanding all-round tasks. Price when reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Geekom A7 Max Retailer Price $698.99 View Deal Geekom $699 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices Technical specs Dimensions: 135 × 132 × 46.9 mm (W × D × H) Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS GPU: AMD Radeon 780M Ram: 1× 16 GB Micron DDR5 5600MHz Internal storage: 1 TB from Wooposit Technology WPBSN4M8, M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 ×4 NVMe SSD SSD upgradeability: 1 × M.2 2230 PCIe 4.0 ×4 NVMe, up to 4 TB Rear ports: 1 × USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1 × USB 2.0 Type-A, 1 × USB 4.0 Type-C DP-Alt-Mode / PD-In, 1 × USB 4.0 Type-C DP-Alt-Mode, 2 × Ethernet RJ45 2.5 Gbit/s, 2 × HDMI 2.1 FRL, 1 × DC-In Front ports: 3 × USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1 × USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Always On, 1 × 3.5 mm headphone jack, 1 × SD card reader 4.0 Wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 Operating system: Microsoft Windows 11 24H2 (64-bit) Accessories: VESA mount (121.8 × 116.5 × 1.0 mm) Geekom has been pursuing a clearly recognizable product strategy for some time: instead of a single top-of-the-range model, the manufacturer is launching several mini PCs that are almost identical in appearance but have different processor platforms. The differences are not so much in the case, connections or cooling, but primarily in the CPU—and thus in the intended use. We have already tested the Geekom A9 Max, and now its technically different sibling, the A7 Max, is put to the test. With the A7 Max, Geekom is adding a model to its Max series that deliberately foregoes maximum AI performance and instead focuses on classic strengths. Geekom A7 Max: Design For the Max series, Geekom has opted for a consistent design concept with a solid metal housing and clean, functional lines. The chassis looks high-quality and also impresses with its stability. Christoph Hoffmann Although we have not carried out any explicit endurance tests, the mini PC still gives a very robust impression in everyday use. Neither pressure nor slight attempts at twisting lead to creaking noises or noticeable yielding—an indication of a torsion-resistant and durable construction. Christoph Hoffmann With its compact dimensions of 135 × 132 × 46.9 millimeters (W × D × H), the A7 Max remains pleasantly space-saving despite its powerful hardware. It takes up hardly any space on the desk and blends inconspicuously into different working environments. Alternatively, the mini PC can be mounted directly on the back of a monitor using the included VESA mount. This allows the system to disappear almost completely from view without compromising on accessibility to the ports or adequate cooling. Geekom A7 Max: Features At the heart of the Geekom A7 Max is the AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS. The powerful eight-core processor belongs to the Ryzen 7040 HS series and was originally designed for high-performance notebooks, but is now increasingly being used in compact desktop systems. It offers 8 cores and 16 threads based on the Zen 4 architecture and achieves boost clock speeds of up to 5.2 GHz. Christoph Hoffmann The integrated graphics unit is the Radeon 780M based on RDNA 3, which delivers very high graphics performance for an iGPU. In addition, the processor has an integrated NPU based on AMD’s XDNA architecture. However, at around 10 TOPS, this is significantly weaker than current Ryzen AI processors and is primarily suitable for simple AI acceleration. In our test model, the processor is supported by 16GB of DDR5 RAM with 5,600 MT/s. Geekom doesn’t provide detailed information about the memory manufacturer but a 16GB module from Micron is installed. Important: The memory is not soldered and can therefore be upgraded—a clear advantage over many competing models. The A7 Max has an NVMe SSD with 1TB capacity as its mass storage device. Depending on the batch, different manufacturers may be used here. We cannot immediately assign the model name “WPBSN4M8” displayed in Crystal Disk Info to any manufacturer. A quick search reveals that it is an OEM model from Wooposit Technology that is not sold as a retail product. As is customary in this device class, Geekom reserves the right to use equivalent SSDs from other manufacturers. Christoph Hoffmann An additional M.2-2230 slot (PCIe 4.0 × 4) is available for expansions. Due to the form factor, the selection is limited though. Typical for a mini PC, Geekom distributes the ports across the front and back, allowing for flexible orientation on the desk. The power button, which clearly marks the front, provides orientation. The manufacturer is generous when it comes to connectivity: the mini PC supports up to four high-resolution displays and provides two USB4 interfaces with DisplayPort 1.4 support and two HDMI 2.1 outputs for this purpose. Christoph Hoffmann One feature that is not a given in this device class is the two 2.5 Gbit Ethernet ports. In conjunction with a suitable router or switch and an NAS, fast network and storage solutions can be implemented. The range of connections is complemented by additional USB ports. A total of eight USB interfaces are available in various designs – from USB 2.0 to USB 3.2 Gen 2 to USB4 Type-C. This allows fast external SSDs and other peripheral devices to be connected without restrictions. Christoph Hoffmann One minor criticism is that Geekom has omitted a USB-C port on the front, meaning that corresponding devices can only be connected via the rear ports. Geekom A7 Max: Operating system The A7 Max comes with a hardware-bound licence for Windows 11. The Windows installation begins after the mini PC is booted for the first time. Updates are downloaded during setup, but Windows will offer further updates later on. Important note: After the initial installation of Windows 11, numerous drivers are required, most notably the AMD drivers for the Radeon graphics card and the chipset. This ensures that the mini PC runs under optimal conditions and that all components can deliver their full performance. Geekom A7 Max: Performance The Geekom A7 Max features an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS with eight cores and 16 threads based on the Zen 4 architecture. The processor achieves clock speeds of up to 5.2 GHz and is supported by the integrated Radeon 780M graphics unit. We determined the actual performance using the PCMark 10 benchmark test. This software gives us realistic values by working through everyday tasks one after the other. In the default setting, the system achieves a total of 6,853 points (A9 Max: 8,953 points), with 10,505 in “Essentials”, 9,620 in “Productivity” and 8,641 in “Digital Content Creation”. By comparison, the A9 Max achieves 11,559 points in “Essentials”, 10,853 points in “Productivity” and 15,527 points in “Digital Content Creation”. Christoph Hoffmann The CPU profile from 3DMark shows decent scaling across all thread levels and delivers strong multicore performance – Max. threads: 7,718, 16 threads: 7,765, 8 threads: 6,640, 4 threads: 3,883, 2 threads: 2,002 and 1 thread: 1,024. The A7 Max benefits from the eight physical cores, especially in parallelized applications. Christoph Hoffmann With 9,528 points at full capacity, the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is more than 23 percent above the determined values. The gaming graphics performance of the Geekom A7 Max is determined by 3DMark Steel Nomad Light with a result of 1,607 points. This is below average and less than half the performance of the A9 Max with 3,279 points. The Time Spy benchmark delivers 1,866 to 3,701 points. This makes the A7 Max suitable for simple games, older titles and eSports games, but not for current AAA titles with high settings. Compared to the A9 Max, the AI performance is lower. The AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS has an integrated NPU based on AMD’s XDNA architecture. However, at around 10 TOPS, this is significantly weaker than current Ryzen AI processors. In the Geekbench AI Pro benchmark, the Geekom A7 Max achieved the following results: 3,053 for “Single Precision”, 1,674 for “Half Precision” and 7,365 for “Quantized”. The performance is sufficient for simple AI applications, but specialised AI workloads benefit more from the A9 Max model. Christoph Hoffmann The M.2 NVMe SSD delivers a read performance of 6,895 MB/s and a write rate of 6,098 MB/s in Crystal Disk Mark. This is an above-average value for a PCIe 4.0 SSD. By comparison, the Lexar from the A9 Max is significantly lower at 6,242 MB/s for reading and 5,423 MB/s for writing. Christoph Hoffmann Is the Geekom A7 Max worth it? With the A7 Max, Geekom is adding a model to its Max series that deliberately foregoes maximum AI performance and instead focuses on classic strengths. The focus is clearly on high CPU performance, a very powerful integrated GPU and an overall balanced platform that proves to be extremely practical in everyday use. The A7 Max offers more than enough performance for productivity tasks, multitasking, multimedia applications and creative workloads. The Radeon 780M graphics also enable easy gaming and smooth 8K playback. Added to this are a fast PCIe 4.0 SSD, upgradeable DDR5 RAM and an unusually extensive range of connections for this class, including USB4, four display outputs and two 2.5 Gbit Ethernet ports. Mentioned in this article Geekom A9 Max Read our review Criticisms such as the fan, which is audible under load, the lack of a USB-C port on the front and the second SSD slot limited to M.2-2230 only slightly detract from the overall appeal. Also, the integrated NPU is only suitable for simple AI tasks. All in all, the Geekom A7 Max is a very powerful and versatile mini PC. Those who want to accelerate specific local AI workloads are still better off with the A9 Max, while the A7 Max plays to its strengths in classic computing power and versatile everyday and productive use. Read...

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At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Innovative concept High-quality workmanship and materials 8,000 hertz polling rate Hot-swap sockets (3- and 5-pin) Removable wrist rest Cons High price No dedicated (but switchable) numpad Requires a lot of space Wired only Our Verdict The Corsair Galleon 100 SD is a high-quality, all-in-one gaming keyboard with integrated Stream Deck features, excellent typing performance, and versatile controls, but it’s bulky, wired, and best suited for users who will actually use its many extra functions. Price when reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Corsair Galleon 100 SD Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices With the Galleon 100 SD, Corsair is trying something new: for the first time, a mechanical keyboard integrates Elgato’s Stream Deck technology. The result is a full-size gaming keyboard that replaces the number pad with 12 freely assignable LCD keys, two rotary controls, and a 5-inch display. The concept is aimed at gamers, streamers, and creative professionals alike–in other words, anyone who needs comprehensive control and information at a glance while gaming, producing, or live streaming, without taking their hands off the keyboard. Our test report clarifies whether this innovative hybrid input device lives up to those expectations and justifies its price of $349.99. Friedrich Stiemer Corsair Galleon 100 SD: Design and workmanship At first glance, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD makes a solid impression. The housing is made of milled aluminum (CNC metal) and weighs in at a considerable 3.08 pounds, ensuring that the keyboard sits firmly on the desk. Corsair uses black PBT double-shot keycaps, which promise durability and abrasion-resistant lettering–a quality feature that’s appreciated in professional environments. Visually, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD combines classic gaming elements such as per-key RGB lighting and a discreet light bar (“mood bar”) along the upper edge of the housing with the eye-catching Stream Deck module on the right-hand side. An ergonomic palm rest with memory foam padding attaches magnetically, significantly improving long-term comfort. Corsair’s layout decisions are likely to spark discussion. Where the number pad would normally be located, the Stream Deck unit now takes pride of place, meaning the number pad has been completely omitted. Standard keys such as the arrow and navigation blocks, on the other hand, remain in their usual places. For many gamers, a keyboard without a numpad is nothing unusual, but typists will have to rethink their approach. Although the 12 LCD keys can be assigned as a numeric keypad when needed, for example, for entering numbers in Excel, this remains only a limited substitute for a physical numpad. In addition, some users may find the placement of the macro keys on the right-hand side to be a potential design disadvantage. In the heat of the moment, you have to take your right hand off the mouse to reach them. Standard gaming keyboards tend to place additional macro keys on the left-hand side, where they can be accessed with the keyboard hand. Friedrich Stiemer However, Corsair argues that the Stream Deck keys are integrated “within natural reach” and were designed as part of the keyboard from the outset. In practice, this will depend heavily on the user: right-handed users who use the mouse may find reaching the display keys on the right awkward, while streamers can easily access them with their left hand during breaks. Ultimately, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD impresses with its first-class workmanship and thoughtful design, which doesn’t feel overloaded despite the many extras. Rather, the keyboard stands out as an eye-catching feature on the desk. Corsair Galleon 100 SD: Technology and features The heart of the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is undeniably its full-fledged Stream Deck integration. A total of 12 freely programmable buttons with small LCD displays allow you to trigger complex actions, launch applications, or switch entire profile sets at the touch of a button. Sitting above the 3×4 key matrix is a five-inch (12.7 cm) color display with a resolution of 720×1280 pixels. The mini screen is topped by two multifunctional rotary controls with pressure function, which can be used as volume controls, media control, or creative fine adjustments. This entire control unit is seamlessly embedded in the keyboard, making separate macro pads or external Stream Deck devices virtually redundant. Particularly elegant is the fact that each LCD button adapts in real time to the active application or game, dynamically displaying user-defined icons or text. This effectively turns the buttons into next-generation macro keys, similar to those already familiar from Corsair’s Elgato Stream Deck product lineup. Friedrich Stiemer An entire article could be devoted to the possibilities offered by the Stream Deck keyboard combination. The range of applications is enormous: in games, predefined profiles allow you to trigger special abilities, use inventory shortcuts, or start complex command chains (“multi-actions”) at the touch of a button, without having to open menus or memorize cryptic hotkeys. Ready-made profiles and icons are already available for many popular games in the Elgato Marketplace. But the Galleon module also has a lot to offer beyond gaming: it can be used to control Spotify, operate chats or messengers, and accelerate creative workflows. Meanwhile, the integrated display provides helpful real-time information. For example, system monitoring data such as CPU/GPU load and temperatures, audio levels, or even the weather. Streamers will also appreciate having chat messages, Twitch status, timers, or viewer counts directly on the keyboard in their peripheral vision, eliminating the need to constantly look at a second monitor. Overall, Corsair’s approach is to minimize context switching: all important commands and information should be where “your hands and eyes belong,” namely on the keyboard. Corsair Galleon 100 SD: High-end technology and mechanical switches Of course, all this would be of little value if the basics weren’t done right. But the manufacturer also positions the Corsair Galleon 100 SD as an uncompromising high-end gaming keyboard. Inside, the in-house Axon chip with hyper-polling up to 8,000 hertz is at work, which, according to the manufacturer, forwards inputs to the PC up to eight times faster than standard keyboards with 1,000 hertz. Professional gamers benefit from ultra-low latency and FlashTap SOCD technology, which ensures that when opposite direction keys are pressed simultaneously, the last direction pressed is always prioritized. In plain terms, this allows for more precise movement such as lightning-fast counter-straffing in shooters without inputs blocking each other. N-key rollover with 100 percent anti-ghosting is also included, ensuring that any number of simultaneous keystrokes are reliably recognized. Friedrich Stiemer Corsair uses MLX Pulse switches. These linear mechanical switches actuate after just two millimeters and require only about 45 grams of force, giving them as a smooth feel similar to Cherry MX Red switches–exciting for enthusiasts! The switches are pre-lubricated from the factor, ensuring a smooth typing experience without scratchiness. They are also designed to offer a deliberately “thocky” sound profile, i.e. a rich, duller keystroke instead of the usual high-pitched click. To further suppress annoying ping noises, the entire key matrix rests on gaskets and six layers of sound-absorbing foam. In practice, this results in an extremely high-quality typing experience: each keystroke sounds muffled and full, while the keyboard remains highly responsive. Friedrich Stiemer Those who prefer to use their own switches in the Corsair Galleon 100 SD can swap the MLX Pulse for other 3- or 5-pin switches at any time thanks to hot-swap sockets – Corsair has also thought of the DIY community here. The technical features are rounded off by a detachable, sleeved USB-C cable (1.8 meters) and a USB pass-through port in the form of an easily accessible USB-C socket on the keyboard. This allows you to conveniently connect a headset, gamepad, or USB stick to the front without having to crawl under your desk. However, the Galleon 100 SD is a purely wired gaming keyboard. Given the power-hungry displays and 8 kHz technology, Corsair has consistently opted against wireless, which we find understandable for this device concept. Friedrich Stiemer Corsair Galleon 100 SD: Software As innovative as the hardware is, the software approach of the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is equally unusual. Surprisingly, the keyboard does not support the usual Corsair iCUE software; instead, two alternative solutions are employed. Corsair has developed a new web application called “Corsair Web Hub” for all classic keyboard functions (lighting, macros, profiles, polling rate, etc.). This is a browser-based configuration tool that requires no installation and accesses the keyboard directly when needed. Changes to lighting or key assignments are set via the web interface and then stored on the Galleon’s 8-megabyte onboard memory. The advantage? No permanent background software is required after setup. Web Hub can be closed, yet the settings remain in the device and even continue to function on another PC. We were able to easily adjust the RGB color for each key in Web Hub, define effects, and deactivate the Windows key in game mode. Macro recording and special features, such as the FlashTap SOCD settings, can also be adjusted through the Hub. Corsair’s approach of conserving system resources while still allowing extensive personalization is fundamentally commendable. Friedrich Stiemer The downside is that Elgato’s Stream Deck app must be running in parallel for the Stream Deck functions to work. The LCD buttons and display are configured entirely via the established Stream Deck software, including drag-and-drop assignment of actions, installation of plug-ins from the Marketplace, and management of profile pages. In principle, Galleon owners get the same powerful range of functions here as with a separate Stream Deck. However, the separation of the software is likely to be a thorn in the side of many Corsair fans: the recently released Corsair Vanguard keyboard (which pursued a similar special concept) was already criticized for fragmenting Corsair’s ecosystem. Users note that it’s “stupid to have to install a second piece of software just for the display.” Others ask in frustration whether Corsair is giving up on iCUE, as this is now the second product to be released without iCUE support. The fact remains that lighting synchronization or central control with other Corsair devices via iCUE is not possible with the Galleon 100 SD. If you want to control your Corsair mouse, headset, or PC lighting in sync with your keyboard, separate solutions must be used for the time being. Corsair could address this shortcoming in the future by integrating the systems more closely. For example, an iCUE plug-in that displays basic information on the keyboard display, similar to what the external iCUE Nexus display offers, would be desirable. Friedrich Stiemer On a positive note, Corsair does not require a user account or cloud access thanks to Web Hub. The settings remain local and the tool is very resource-efficient. Streamers and power users will appreciate the established Stream Deck software workflow anyway, as it offers an unrivalled range of options in its category such as plug-ins for Twitch, OBS Studio, YouTube, Discord, Philips Hue, and many other apps. In everyday use, however, this means that the Corsair Galleon 100 SD requires some initial configuration effort, as two interfaces have to be used. But once you’ve set up your profiles and settings, everything runs reliably. Thanks to onboard memory, the keyboard even starts in hardware mode with a basic profile on a foreign computer, and the Stream Deck app can automatically load profiles as needed once it’s running. Overall, Corsair’s software strategy for the Galleon 100 SD is unconventional, but it reflects the company’s focus on delivering performance without unnecessary overhead and on leveraging proven software (Elgato) rather than pushing iCUE onto the new hybrid concept. Corsair Galleon 100 SD: Gaming, streaming, and productivity In everyday use, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD proves to be a real all-rounder. For gamers, it offers everything you would expect from a modern premium keyboard: precise, responsive keystrokes, no ghosting or input lag, and, thanks to its solid construction, a stable foundation even when gameplay gets intense. The new features fit surprisingly organically into the gameplay. Take MMORPGs or MOBAs, for example: instead of memorizing complex keyboard shortcuts, you can simply assign potions, skill combos, or chat messages to the LCD keys and see the corresponding icon at a glance. Ready-made profile presets for many games make it easy to get started–for instance, you can operate instrument buttons in Flight Simulator or purchase equipment kits in Counter-Strike at the touch of a button without leaving the main game. We immediately triggered healing in a battle royale game using the Stream Deck button, giving us a slight time advantage by bypassing the inventory menu. Switching between game-specific lighting profiles (such as highlighting the WASD keys) also worked flawlessly via Web Hub and was clearly indicated on the display. Friedrich Stiemer The strengths are even more evident in everyday streaming. Here, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD transforms into a full-fledged studio deck: press two or three buttons, and the intro sequence starts, the microphone goes live, and the facecam fades in. During the stream, you can use the controls to mix the sound or switch between scenes without ever moving your fingers far from WASD or the chat keyboard. The small display is especially helpful, allowing us to constantly keep an eye on our live chat and viewer numbers. This made it easy to notice new questions in the chat and respond without taking our eyes off the game. Another practical feature: system resource indicators on the keyboard informed us if GPU usage became critical while streaming. A quick glance was all it took. For streamers who frequently switch between the game and streaming tools with Alt-Tab, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD provides noticeable relief and saves time. Everything is at your fingertips, as the keyboard becomes the command center for the entire live session. But the Galleon 100 SD also shines in productive workflows. In video and image editing programs, for example, we assigned important shortcuts to the LCD keys: a single press could control tools in Photoshop or start an export process in Adobe Premiere, among other things. The rotary knobs are ideal for continuous zooming on timelines or scrolling through long documents. If you make a lot of calls from your home office, a key can be assigned to mute your microphone in Teams or Zoom, with a red status indicator on the LCD key. Friedrich Stiemer For music lovers and frequent listeners, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD offers complete media control: skip tracks, fine-tune the volume, play and pause–all without reaching for the mouse. Even classic office users benefit. A Stream Deck plug-in, for example, can be used to execute predefined macros in Excel at the touch of a button or to control presentations in PowerPoint. In short, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD can increase productivity if you’re willing to adapt your working environment a little. Of course, there are also use cases where the Galleon concept reaches its limits. For example, anyone who spends hours every day hammering away at columns of numbers in spreadsheets will miss the real number pad, as the virtual number keys are only a makeshift solution here since you first have to switch to a suitable profile. In addition, it takes a little getting used to at first to exploit the full potential of the many extra control options. However, once you have set up your personal workflow, many things are much smoother than with separate devices or pure software control. In the test run, after a short time we couldn’t work without the additional displays and buttons, because you quickly get used to the luxury of having everything under control. The typing and writing performance of the Corsair Galleon 100 SD itself is excellent. The MLX switches feel linear and very smooth; thanks to the factory lubrication, there is no scratching or jumping. The muffled typing noise is striking: a rich “thock” with every keystroke, far removed from the sharp click of a blue switch or the hollow echo of some cheaper keyboards. Colleagues in the room found typing on it to be much more pleasant than on conventional gaming keyboards. Corsair’s efforts with seals and foam have paid off here. At the same time, we also registered every keystroke precisely, even in hectic gaming situations, no matter how fast the inputs were. The extremely high polling rate of 8,000 hertz may hardly be noticeable to the average player, but in combination with the robust construction, the keyboard feels absolutely direct and responsive at all times, which is a decisive factor for e-sports players and demanding gamers. Friedrich Stiemer Corsair Galleon 100 SD: Criticisms As impressive as the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is in terms of features and performance, there are a few points of criticism that cannot be ignored. Firstly, the price: $349.99 is a hefty sum for a keyboard. Objectively speaking, you do get two devices in one, i.e. a professional keyboard plus a Stream Deck, but the investment needs to be carefully considered. In fact, for the same money, you could buy a separate high-end keyboard and a larger Stream Deck (such as the Stream Deck XL with 32 keys) and still have some money leftover. The Corsair Galleon 100 SD is therefore clearly aimed at enthusiasts who appreciate the added value of integration and are willing to dig deep into their pockets for it. For casual gamers without streaming ambitions, the price-performance ratio is rather unfavorable, as they would leave many features unused. Secondly, the software situation: as described, Corsair is currently forcing users to use a dual setup consisting of Web Hub and the Stream Deck app. This means more configuration effort and potentially two applications running in parallel. Compared to the familiar “everything under one roof” philosophy of iCUE, this is a step backwards in terms of convenience and ecosystem. Those who already own several Corsair devices in particular will miss having centralized control. Although the setup runs stably in testing, the fragmentation remains a drawback. Especially since Corsair itself initially relied on Web Hub only for the Vanguard keyboard series and only later promised iCUE support. They could have learned from past feedback here. On a positive note, however, Corsair is taking an interesting approach with its resource-saving web configurator, which may even be more attractive to purists than the iCUE software, which is often criticized for being bloated. Friedrich Stiemer Thirdly, the lack of a wireless option. While technically understandable, the absence of wireless functionality could be a drawback for some users. In an age where even many high-end keyboards offer Bluetooth, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is strictly tied to its USB cable. This may not be a problem on a desk with a stationary PC–on the contrary, the fixed connections (including the USB hub) have their advantages. But anyone hoping to position the keyboard more flexibly or switch quickly between multiple devices will always need to reconnect the cable. Fourthly, the space requirement. Despite the omission of the numpad, the Galleon 100 SD isn’t a space saver. Its width is roughly the same as a standard full-size keyboard, as the Stream Deck module occupies the space that would otherwise be freed up. The palm rest, combined with the height added by the display and controls, further contributes to the keyboard’s overall profile. In cramped setups, the keyboard could feel a bit bulky, though the palm rest can be removed if space is limited. Weighing 3.08 pounds, the keyboard doesn’t budge on the desk, but its heft makes it far from travel-friendly. LAN party goers, in particular, may hesitate to carry this battleship. Friedrich Stiemer Fifthly, the concept itself. As ingenious as the idea of an “all-in-one” input solution is, it’s aimed at a very specific target group. After all, a Stream Deck, whether separate or integrated, only makes sense if you actually use it. If you’re not interested in automating processes or optimizing your streaming or work setup with macros, you’ll be paying a lot for buttons and functions that may go unused. Not everyone will make full use of the keyboard’s expensive array of features in everyday life. That said, this risk is inherent to any specialized tool. Corsair at least provides everything you need to reap long-term benefits, including a large community of existing profiles and plug-ins. Read...

Lithium-ion batteries are used in smartphones, laptops, electric cars, and stationary energy storage systems. Although their design has hardly changed in years, one key problem remains: the gradual aging of cells. That’s why lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time. A team of researchers at the University of Maryland (via NewScientist) have discovered a new solution that could extend the service life of lithium-ion batteries, all without changing internal cell structure or existing production processes. Why do lithium-ion batteries age? Every lithium-ion battery consists of two electrodes: a negative anode and a positive cathode. Between them is a liquid electrolyte through which lithium ions migrate when charging and discharging. Over time, this electrolyte deteriorates and the byproducts are deposited as extremely thin layers on the electrodes. This byproduct effect is actually desirable on the anode, where it forms a stable layer that protects the electrode from further wear and tear, making the battery more durable. Unfortunately, not so for the cathode, which operates under highly oxidizing conditions and doesn’t form a comparable protective layer. Thus, aging and deterioration. How the new solution works The team, led by materials scientist Chunsheng Wang, investigated a new approach that doesn’t tweak the electrodes but rather the electrolyte in between. Inspired by known reactions from organic chemistry, they adjusted its properties so that ion transfers are more controlled. The effect is that the electrolyte no longer deteriorates randomly but in a controlled manner, forming a uniform and stable protective layer on the cathode, which slows down further degradation. Crucially, no exotic materials are required for this. According to the researchers, it uses chemicals and processes already used in the battery industry. Another advantage of this process is its flexibility. The composition of the protective layer on the cathode can be varied. A thicker layer increases stability and extends the battery’s service life but slows down ion transport, while a thinner layer allows for higher power and energy densities but results in faster wear. This would allow batteries to be tailored to their specific application—for example, maximum durability in stationary energy storage systems or maximum performance in electric vehicles. What does this mean for you? It remains to be seen how much this new solution will actually extend the service life of lithium-ion batteries. The technology is in an early testing phase and reliable long-term data isn’t yet available. Nevertheless, experts are optimistic about it. Energy storage expert Michel Armand from Spanish research center CIC energiGUNE described the controlled formation of a protective layer on the cathode as an important step towards longer-lasting batteries. For consumers, nothing will change in the short term. In the medium-to-long term, however, this solution could help batteries in everyday devices retain capacity and improve longevity without manufacturers having to develop completely new cell types. Further reading: Is it bad to leave your laptop always plugged in? Read...

I’m excited about Panther Lake. More specifically, I like what I see of its integrated graphics—and what it could mean for the future. Panther Lake’s incredible performance isn’t a new concept, of course. AMD was first out the gate last year with splashy, powerful graphics squeezed onto a mobile CPU die. Strix Halo and its performance was the talk of our office in 2025 on multiple occasions, having captured the attention of The Full Nerd crew and other PCWorld staffers alike. But Intel now thrusting its feet into the fire makes a low-key dream of mine feel possible. Intel’s new mobile architecture can nearly rival discrete GPUs, as my colleague Mark found during his extensive testing. I could be apprehensive about the implications for budget discrete graphics cards—and I was asked that very question during the show this week. Yes, it is a little unnerving. I don’t want integrated graphics (however good they are) to replace discrete cards. Being able to swap a video card, especially one that fails or has grown long in the tooth, should not be a privilege available only to those who can afford higher-end cards. Welcome to The Full Nerd newsletter—your weekly dose of hardware talk from the enthusiasts at PCWorld. Missed the surprising topics on our YouTube show or latest news from across the web? You’re in the right place.  Want this newsletter to come directly to your inbox? Sign up on our website!  I want brawny integrated graphics to be an additional choice for PC gamers and DIY builders. Just think of what that could do for small form-factor PCs. For example, take this this lil’ guy from r/sffpc, which does actually sport a discrete RTX 5060 in that 1.8L body. (Gorgeous work on the part of u/Bjoes92, by the way—oh, to be able to CNC aluminum in your own workshop!) Right now, mini-PCs and small form-factor building have a wall between them. But what if that hard line softened? u/Bjoes92 / Reddit In an ideal world, I’d love to see chips like Panther Lake expand beyond laptops to not just mini-PCs, but SFF builds that straddle the line between DIY and bare-bones kits. Perhaps mini-STX (or an even smaller riff on it) could firm up as a standard-option motherboard, where a Ryzen AI Max+ or Panther Lake–style chip is soldered on. Or—if AMD’s surprising hints at CES are any indication—such a mobo could support a sized-down version of socketed desktop parts. (The fact AMD dropped the idea of a mobile chip in a socketed board means I’m not the only person on the planet wondering about this. Heck, it sounds like I’m actually late to the party.)  I’d enjoy doing speed-run SFF builds with a half-DIY, half-bare-bones approach. Lots of performance, low time investment to get up and running, and I can choose my own case and cooling? Heck yeah. It would be a more DIY-friendly version of Intel’s Compute Element concept—and one with legs. (The Compute Element didn’t survive long after its debut in 2020.) Don’t get me wrong. I’m still concerned about the future of budget discrete GPUs. But realistically, consumer technology doesn’t appear poised for the same leaps and bounds in progress as we saw this past decade. So during this slowed period, I’d like to at least see innovation around efficiency—advances that will reduce the necessary size and energy consumption of everyday PC components. With such heavy emphasis in the last decade on pushing the envelope (rightly needed given the years of stagnation prior to AMD’s Ryzen launch), optimization could use some growth. When consumer hardware once again steams ahead, we home users would better benefit from a landscape paying equal attention to optimized hardware. (The cost of living won’t be getting any cheaper, especially when it comes to real estate and energy.) There will always be room at my desk for a full-powered desktop PC, but I love options. I love choice. I really love small PCs. The idea of broader flexibility and power in a mini footprint is exciting to me, too. In this episode of The Full Nerd In this episode of The Full Nerd, Adam Patrick Murray, Alaina Yee, Mark Hachman, and Will Smith dig into Mark’s testing of Intel Panther Lake (and what that means for other 18A products), Arrow Lake refresh rumors, and gaming performance on Windows 10 vs. Windows 11. Will and Mark also share tales of random wildlife. (Will’s take on weasels: “They’re like [mice], but long.”) We also once again go long with viewer Q&A (a whole 45 minutes!), which means y’all have many things to ask us. We love it. (For real.) Willis Lai / Foundry Missed our live show? Subscribe now to The Full Nerd Network YouTube channel, and activate notifications. We also answer viewer questions in real-time! Don’t miss out on our NEW shows too—you can catch episodes of Dual Boot Diaries and The Full Nerd: Extra Edition on our channel, too. PLUS! Adam just teased a new joint endeavor with Retro Gaming Corps… And if you need more hardware talk during the rest of the week, come join our Discord community—it’s full of cool, laid-back nerds. This week’s varied nerd news I found myself poking all over the internet this week for interesting tidbits—and it was surprising what turned up. Obviously, the big news was AMD’s launch of the 9850X3D, which Adam tested for us. But I had never given much deep thought to China’s own memory production before, which Gamers Nexus helped fix for me. (Thanks, Steve!) AMD’s 9850X3D is the best gaming chip you can buy. But that’s not good enough right now.Adam Patrick Murray / Foundry Adam tested the 9850X3D: As I note in my written summary of his findings, it’s…fine. Yes, it’s the best gaming CPU. But the overall landscape for DIY building complicates its appeal. I want to try this now: One determined British dude repurposed the standard telephone wiring in his home for gigabit ethernet. This is absolutely me now researching whether U.S. telephone lines are similarly capable. Sigh: The United State’s cyber defense chief uploaded sensitive information into the public version of ChatGPT. The rise of Chinese memory: This deep-dive from Gamers Nexus into China’s investment into memory manufacturing is both educational and fascinating. Our first glimpse at ChromeOS’s successor.9to5Google I’m nervous: Supposedly, the first look at Google’s new AluminumOS recently leaked—and while I’m hopeful about its eventual launch, I’m also still worried. (What will happen to ChromeOS Flex?) Oops: A five-ton Japanese satellite fell off the rocket it was attached to during flight. Somehow, this feels like a light moment, thanks to the image released by Japan’s space agency illustrating what happened. (Also, my tax dollars didn’t pay for it, so.) The sound will remain forever in my head: Microsoft just purposely broke modem support in Windows 11. The reason makes sense, but the outcome is still a bit sad. Better late than never: Having a succession plan is a wise idea for any group—so this is a smart move on the Linux community’s part. Found the problem: Small form-factor haters criticize builds for not enough airflow. This post in the r/SFFPC subreddit clearly illustrates the real issue. The real cute (yet still very problematic) issue. Catch you all next week—it should be a bit warmer at last. Also, you know how when you live in an area, certain things don’t faze you? For example, earthquakes are normal to me, but PCWorld’s east coast staffers seem mildly alarmed whenever we west coasters mention them.  Well, I had the reverse experience upon learning that you can have a heart attack while shoveling snow. Our east coast crew? They only said, “Oh yeah, that totally happens on occasion out here.”  I’m glad I live in a temperate climate. Alaina This newsletter is dedicated to the memory of Gordon Mah Ung, founder and host of The Full Nerd, and executive editor of hardware at PCWorld. Read...

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