Swiss technology company Proton has been building up a wide range of privacy-centered productivity apps over the years, from Proton Mail for email and Proton VPN for encrypted connections to Proton Pass for password management and Proton Drive for cloud storage. Now Proton is bolstering its office offerings with Proton Sheets, the newly launched online spreadsheet software that’s part of Proton Drive. This alternative to Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets has one big selling point: its built-in end-to-end encryption that prevents anyone—including Proton itself—from accessing the data in your spreadsheets. Anyone with a Proton Drive account can use Proton Sheets for free. Proton Drive offers a free plan with 5GB of storage, with paid plans for more storage capacity: 200GB Drive Plus is $4.99/month, 500GB Proton Unlimited is $12.99/month, and 2TB Proton Duo is $19.99/month. In addition to cloud storage, Proton Drive also includes Proton Docs (the encrypted word processor) and Proton Photos (the encrypted photo organizer). With Sheets, Proton is becoming a real threat for both Microsoft and Google, especially with growing privacy concerns among users who want to decouple from today’s data giants. Read...

Is your PC slow, programs start sluggishly, and current games stutter? This does not automatically mean that you need a new computer. Targeted upgrades are often enough to significantly improve performance. In this guide, you’ll find out which components are really worthwhile – from SSD and RAM, to graphics cards and processors, through to coolers, fans, and peripherals. SSD: Faster storage for everyone An SSD (Solid State Drive) is the simplest and most worthwhile upgrade of all and provides the biggest performance boost per dollar invested in everyday use. Anyone still working with an old hard disk drive (HDD) is wasting time unnecessarily. However, SSDs differ in terms of design and technology. Classic 2.5-inch models use the older SATA interface and achieve up to 550 MB/s, while modern flash memory in M.2 plug-in card format can be plugged directly into the mainboard and deliver data rates of several thousand megabytes per second via PCI Express (via the NVMe protocol). These NVMe drives are therefore significantly faster, but require a corresponding M.2 slot on the motherboard. Our article“SATA, PCIe, and M.2: The slots on your motherboard, explained” also provides clarity here. Corsair PCIe 4.0 models such as the Crucial P310 or WD Black SN7100 offer up to 7,000 MB/s, making them ideal for gaming or video editing. Even faster are PCIe 5.0 models such as the Kingston Fury Renegade G5 or Crucial T710, which achieve transfer rates almost twice as high at over 12,000 MB/s. However, these high-end models are primarily worthwhile for professional applications, large video files, or particularly demanding users, as they generate more heat and are significantly more expensive. If you have an older system that can only boast SATA connections, you will still benefit enormously: A 2.5-inch SSD (such as the Crucial BX500) for around $60 will get even old PCs up and running again. It’s important that the motherboard supports the appropriate connection, i.e. M.2 for NVMe or SATA ports for 2.5-inch SSDs. Kingston Tip: Cloning old systems saves you time as you take over Windows and programs. However, this method uses a little more storage space because old system files, temporary data and possibly faulty structures are also copied. A new installation takes longer, but ensures a tidier system with a little more free memory. Be sure to check out our list of the best SSDs for even more great upgrade options. Working memory (RAM): More room for multitasking If Chrome has 20 tabs open and Excel reacts sluggishly, more RAM is usually the easiest solution. And upgrading is also less complicated than many people think: open the housing, release the side clips on the slots, remove the old latches, and insert the new modules firmly. Then after switching your computer on, usually the system will recognize the memory automatically. G.Skill Today, 16GB is standard for office users, 32GB is worthwhile for gamers and creative types, and those who regularly work with large photos, videos, or music projects will even benefit from 64GB. Currently, 16GB DDR4 can cost less that $50; kits such as the Kingston Fury Beast or Corsair Vengeance LPX are good options. DDR5 RAM, such as the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 kit, offers higher clock rates, lower power consumption and more bandwidth. However, this requires an up-to-date motherboard and modern processors: DDR5 is supported by Intel from the 12th Core generation (Alder Lake) with chipsets such as Z690, B660, and newer, and by AMD from the Ryzen 7000 series (AM5 platform) with B650, X670, or X670E boards. DDR4 therefore remains the first choice for older systems, while DDR5 is the future-proof option for new PCs. Above all, gamers should consider which DDR5 RAM is currently the best choice. Dual-channel operation is also important: If two identical modules run in parallel, the memory controller can process twice as much data at the same time, which can increase performance by up to 15 percent depending on the application. It’s therefore worthwhile to always install RAM in pairs and make sure there are free slots for both. Swapping out smaller modules pairs can maximize performance, stability, and value for money. Graphics card (GPU): The biggest upgrade for gamers If you want to enjoy games in high quality, there’s no getting round an up-to-date graphics card (GPU). The AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT with 16GB or Nvidia Geforce RTX 5060 Ti with 16GB offer sufficient performance for Full HD resolution (1080p). If you want to play in WQHD (1440p), you should opt for a graphics card such as the Radeon RX 9070 or Nvidia Geforce RTX 5070. For 4K gaming, cards like the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT or Nvidia Geforce RTX 5070 Ti are the minimum required to deliver smooth results. Video memory (VRAM) is just as important as pure performance. Today, it should be at least 12 GB so that modern games have sufficient buffer for textures and effects. Cards with less memory are increasingly reaching their limits, especially at high resolutions. Before buying, you should check whether the power supply delivers enough power (at least 550 watts) and whether the correct connections are available: PCIe power connectors are the cables used to supply the graphics card with power in addition to the mainboard. Older power supplies often only have 6- or 8-pin connectors, while new GPUs sometimes require special 12VHPWR connectors. Also, make sure there is enough space in the case: many modern graphics cards are long and occupy up to three slots. Mifcom If you don’t game, you can save yourself the GPU upgrade. This is because the integrated graphics solutions of modern processors (such as Intel UHD or AMD Radeon Graphics) are completely sufficient for office, streaming, or everyday tasks. Processor (CPU): Computing power for those who need it A CPU upgrade is only worthwhile if the processor really slows things down – and if the new CPU is a good technical fit for the system. Compatibility with the socket and chipset as well as support for the existing RAM are important. Depending on the age of the PC, it may also make sense to change the motherboard so that you can install a modern processor. For many users, a current six-core processor such as the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is completely sufficient. If you absolutely need an Intel CPU, then the Intel Core i5-14600K is similar to the AMD CPU in terms of performance, but is typically more expensive. Nevertheless, both offer enough power for gaming, office, and multimedia, but both require motherboards with suitable sockets: Intel’s 14600K relies on an LGA1700 socket with a Z690, B660, or Z790 chipset, while the AMD Ryzen 5 7500F requires an AM5 motherboard with a B650 or X670 chipset and DDR5 RAM. More demanding users opt for eight-cores such as the Ryzen 7 7800X or Intel Core Ultra 7 265K, which deliver more performance in computing-intensive applications, but also require up-to-date platforms. Anyone coming from an older platform (e.g. Intel’s eighth Core generation or the Ryzen 1000 series) almost always has to change the motherboard and RAM as well. Although this increases the effort and costs, it also brings greater efficiency, better energy management, and future-proofing. A CPU replacement is rarely worthwhile for pure office computers. An SSD instead provides a more noticeable improvement here. If you need a lot of CPU performance, you should go straight for a modern 12- or 16-core processor such as the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X or AMD Ryzen 9 9950X. Intel currently isn’t competitive in this area, so we cannot make a recommendation here. Aorus Motherboard: A centerpiece for future upgrades A motherboard change usually goes hand in hand with a new CPU, as sockets and chipsets often change. This makes the replacement more complex than a RAM or SSD upgrade, for example, as the CPU, cooler, RAM, and cabling usually have to be completely reassembled during the upgrade. This can quickly become a challenge for beginners, as many sensitive components are affected. Anyone who dares to take this step should therefore prepare well or seek expert help. Whether the effort is worth it depends on how old the system is and which interfaces are required. As a rule of thumb, if your computer is more than five years old, a motherboard upgrade is usually worthwhile. Modern motherboards differ significantly in terms of size, connectivity, and features. The form factor determines the size of the board and therefore what the housing can be: ATX offers the most slots and expansion options, Micro-ATX is more compact and a good mid-range option, while Mini-ITX is primarily intended for small, space-saving systems. Aorus Technical features such as PCIe 5.0 slots for graphics cards and fast SSDs, several M.2 slots for additional memory, and sufficient RAM banks are important. A good power supply (VRMs) ensures stable performance, especially with powerful CPUs. Integrated functions such as Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and USB-C also increase convenience and future-proofing. A solid mid-range board typically costs around $200. Those who upgrade frequently or plan for the long term should invest a little more, as the motherboard forms the foundation of every system. CPU cooler: Targeted upgrading instead of overcooling A cooler upgrade is particularly worthwhile when new processors are installed or older systems are subjected to higher loads. Boxed coolers quickly reach their limits. Anyone switching from a Core i5 to a Ryzen 7, for example, should immediately plan for a more efficient cooler. Models such as the Arctic Freezer 36 or the Bequiet Pure Rock Pro 3 offer significantly more cooling reserve for $50 to $60 and remain whisper-quiet. For applications where CPUs get particularly hot – such as rendering or overclocking – AiO (all-in-one) water cooling systems from $100 are a good choice. However, AiO cooling is not automatically always the best choice. Phanteks However, it’s important to check whether the new cooler physically fits into the case before buying: For air coolers, the height is the most important factor, so that the cooler does not hit the side panel. For water coolers, there must be sufficient space for the radiator and the mounted fans – often at the top or front of the housing. Socket compatibility and housing size are equally important. A targeted cooler upgrade can improve stability, volume, and service life without breaking the budget. Case fans: Airflow efficiency for old and new systems Many PCs run too hot because the case ventilation is inadequate. Especially after a CPU or GPU upgrade, better airflow can be crucial. Two 120mm fans – one blowing in at the front, one blowing out at the back – significantly improve the cooling performance and cost less than $30. Models from Arctic or Noctua combine efficiency with low noise output. It’s worth cleaning or replacing the fans when upgrading. Dust filters, PWM control, and the correct air flow direction are more beneficial than additional fans alone. RGB light remains a matter of taste, the decisive factor is the temperature advantage. Bequiet Peripherals: The finishing touches An upgrade can also make sense outside the case as well. Those who work a lot will benefit from an ergonomic setup with a good monitor arm and flicker-free display. There are many good 27-inch 1440p monitors with 144 Hz that can be had for under $400 which are equally beneficial for gaming and working from home. The best mechanical keyboards with linear switches or quiet buttons offer more precision when typing or gaming. While a high-quality mouse with a low weight and precise sensor ensures control and comfort. Asus In general, the upgrades mentioned cost comparatively little, but increase productivity and well-being – the ideal finishing touch after a successful PC upgrade. Conclusion A targeted upgrade is almost always worthwhile. SSD, RAM, and graphics card deliver the greatest performance per dollar right off the bat, while CPU and motherboard upgrades can payoff in the long term. If you look after your PC regularly, keeping your components clean and upgrading wisely can keep your system running at peak performance for many years without having to buy a completely new one. Read...

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The AI boom has claimed another victim: Crucial, Micron’s consumer storage brand that the company says will wind down in 2026 to focus on its enterprise businesses. Micron said that it will close Crucial in February 2026, though it will continue to support Crucial products and provide warranty support. (The company did not say for how long, however.) If this feels familiar, it should. AI hyperscalers have sucked up the available supply of many components that also feature inside the PC; two of those are DRAM and storage, both of which Micron’s Crucial business sold to consumers. Black Friday may have been literally the last chance for deals on DRAM and SSDs, as prices in DRAM are skyrocketing and SSD prices have begun to increase as well. Some PC makers are warning that they will increase prices later in December because of rising component costs. Meanwhile, many of those same components are in high demand by enterprise AI businesses. The logic is simple: Either compete to sell those same products at the lowest margin for consumers, or sell memory and storage at whatever prices well-funded enterprise businesses are willing to pay to build out their own AI deployments. “The AI-driven growth in the data center has led to a surge in demand for memory and storage,” Sumit Sadana, executive vice president and chief business officer at Micron Technology, said in a statement. “Micron has made the difficult decision to exit the Crucial consumer business in order to improve supply and support for our larger, strategic customers in faster-growing segments. Thanks to a passionate community of consumers, the Crucial brand has become synonymous with technical leadership, quality and reliability of leading-edge memory and storage products. We would like to thank our millions of customers, hundreds of partners and all of the Micron team members who have supported the Crucial journey for the last 29 years.” “By concentrating on core enterprise and commercial segments, Micron aims to improve long-term business performance and create value for strategic customers as well as stakeholders,” Micron added, implying that there is more value in selling to businesses than consumers. Micron will continue to sell Micron-branded products to enterprises, it added. Micron’s decision means that there’s some small, faint hope that retailers might discount the company’s products to clear their own shelves and expand relationships with competitors, such as Kingston. Still, Micron’s decision reflects the reality of the business right now: Selling into consumer PCs simply won’t make as much money for component makers as relationships with hyperscalers will, and we’re all going to pay the price. Read...

One of the largest sunspot formations of the past several years is currently visible on the sun. The group, catalogued as AR 4294-4298, is so large that several of the dark regions exceed the Earth’s diameter. According to Newsweek, these are the largest sunspots in a decade. With binoculars or a telescope and an appropriate solar filter, the spots on the western side of the sun can be clearly identified. NASA’s solar probe Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) recently documented a solar flare in this region. Possible effects on Earth The sunspots are currently pointing towards Earth. The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that coronal mass ejections (CME) from the active regions have not yet hit Earth. Nevertheless, experts predict that they could turn to more favorable positions over the next week, such that activities like solar flares could also be felt on Earth. For those of us on Earth, this could mean a special visual spectacle: auroras are possible when the plasma hurled into space by the sun hits the Earth’s magnetic field. The sunspot AR 4274 already caused spectacular northern lights some time ago. After rotating around the sun’s axis, the sunspot is now back under the new designation AR 4294-4298 and it’s significantly larger than before. Historical comparison and risks SpaceWeather.com draws a comparison with the sunspot region of 1859, which triggered the so-called “Carrington Event,” which was the strongest documented solar storm to date. The current formation is around 90 percent the size of that historical one. Although the exact impact on Earth and technology is still unclear, strong solar storms can jeopardize satellites, including systems like Starlink as well as GPS-based navigation systems. According to some studies, underwater internet repeaters could be particularly vulnerable, leading to regional or even global outages. Land-based fiber optic connections are less affected, so the US is somewhat less at risk. Experts are monitoring the sunspot activity closely so that they can react in good time in the event of an emergency. Read...

One of the things that I always carry in my bag or backpack is a power bank. You never know when you’re going to have to top off your phone to get it through the day! But here’s the cool part: technology has evolved in such a way that you don’t necessarily have to buy a power bank itself — you can get a different gadget with a completely different purpose that has a built-in power bank. Win-win! From electric hand warmers to portable fans to flashlights, I found several deeply useful tech products that will be helpful in everyday situations… and extra handy when your phone’s battery starts dying on you. Charging station with removable power bank, 10,000mAh Smtcsl A desk charging station can simplify your life by allowing you to charge your smartphone, earbuds, and Apple Watch all at once. The standout feature? The magnetic wireless charger for your phone is removable, so you can easily pop it out and take it on the go. With a 10,000mAh capacity, it provides roughly two full charges for your device. This charging station has a $60 MSRP, but we’ve seen it as low as $40. Buy now at Amazon Wall charger with power bank, 15,000mAh LOVELEDI Why bother getting both a power bank and a wall charger when you can just get this Loveledi two-in-one model? The power bank features foldable pins so you can plug it directly into an outlet and you can use the built-in cables to charge your gear. When you leave, the 15,000mAh capacity will definitely be helpful. This thing has an MSRP of $29, but you can often find it available on discount. Buy now at Amazon Portable handheld fan, 9,000mAh JISULIFE When you’re out and about during hot days, you can just use this portable fan to cool yourself down. And when your phone runs out of battery, you can use it as a power bank too. Now that’s versatility! With a 9,000mAh capacity, you get a full recharge of your phone and plenty left for other gadgets or a later top-off. Need more incentive to get one? The gadget is also a flashlight, jet pan, and air pump — phew! You can often find this device for about $75. Buy now at Amazon Rorry keychain power bank, 5,000mAh Rorry One thing everyone has on their keys is a keychain. Well, this one’s a tad more special because it’s also a 5,000mAh power bank with two built-in cables and a magnetic charging pad for your Apple Watch. It’s light, it’s compact, and it’s so useful to have around. It also comes in about a million colors so you can pick your favorite. It’s only going to cost you $30 to get one, which isn’t bad at all. Buy now at Amazon Ocoopa hand warmers, 10,000mAh Ocoopa Whether you’re considering getting some hand warmers because winter is coming or just because you always have cold hands, these Ocoopa rechargeable hand warmers should definitely be on your radar. They conveniently magnetize to each other when not in use, so you don’t lose them. Each of the two is also a 5,000mAh power bank that can recharge your phone on the go if you have a USB-C cable on hand. These versatile hand warmers have a $30 MSRP, but they’re often on sale. Buy now at Amazon Loop SK05 Pro LED flashlight, 8,000mAh Loop Having a flashlight in your bag can be super helpful, especially if you often have to walk in poorly lit areas. This Loop Gear SK05 Pro LED flashlight delivers over 4K lumens, brightening up the path ahead. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s easily rechargeable, so you don’t have to waste any batteries. Oh, and it also acts as a power bank with an 8,000mAh capacity which is useful if your phone is close to dying on you. It’s a bit pricey, though, dipping just under $100 when on sale. Buy now at Amazon Mosquito repeller device, 9,000mAh PathVenture If you’re like me and unknowingly walk around as a mosquito magnet all summer long, then you could probably use one of these portable repeller devices. Whether you take this with you on walks or even in your back yard, it will come in handy, heating up the repellent mats and protecting you from bites. It also has a 9,000mAh power bank inside and acts as a flashlight in emergency situations. That’s a well-spent $30. Buy now at Amazon Vanvale tactical flashlight, 9,600mAh Vanvale Obviously, it’s easy to turn a flashlight into a powerbank, but we really couldn’t ignore this massive tactical LED flashlight from the conversation. This thing can be super useful to have in your home and to take with you while camping, featuring 5 lighting modes. There’s enough power in this thing to recharge your phone at least once completely, so if you’re ever in need you can rely on it. Buy now at Amazon Warwolf portable air compressor, 10,000mAh Warwolf One thing you need to have in your care is a portable air compressor. This Warwolf is super useful because it will easily inflate your tires to the exact target value, automatically stopping when optimal tire pressure is achieved. It can be charged via USB port and you can use those same ports to charge your phone if you’re ever in need. This one will set you back about $50 if you get it on sale. Buy now at Amazon Read...

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