Another month, another rival to Valve's popular Steam Deck gaming handheld. Yes, now PC gaming brand Zotac has thrown its proverbial hat into the ring, revealing its own handheld PC at Computex 2024 in Taipei, Taiwan.
The Zotac Zone (yes, I know Zotac formats it as ZONE, but I don't want to feel like I'm yelling at you!) will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has used any of the mainstream handheld PCs currently on the market. The MSI Claw, Lenovo Legion Go, and Asus's shiny new ROG Ally X all have their own strengths and weaknesses, but at the end of the day, they're broadly similar devices, and the Zone is no exception.
The physical design is immediately reminiscent of the Steam Deck, since it features a pair of small square trackpads beneath the analog sticks, something notably absent from most of the Deck's existing rivals (the Legion Go has a single pad on the right-hand side). However, the controller layout and general feel of the device is a lot closer to the ROG Ally - and having used my own Ally extensively, I can say that this could be a real competitor.
Screen queen
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The star of the show here - and the thing I noticed first about the Zone - is the 7-inch AMOLED touch display. With a resolution of 1080p, 120Hz refresh rate, and impressive maximum brightness of 800 nits (more than most other PC handhelds), it's a stand-out feature that looks absolutely bloody gorgeous.
That's truly not hyperbole: I played Horizon Zero Dawn and Street Fighter 6 on this thing, and both games looked fantastic. Colors are vibrant and shadows are deep, with no visual artifacts and excellent sharpness. It's no exaggeration to say this is one of the best displays I've seen on a gaming handheld. It's worth bearing in mind, however, that this is a MIPI panel, which means it doesn't support Variable Refresh Rate in games.
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Behind that glorious screen is an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor, which delivered solid performance during my hands-on testing. The RDNA 3 integrated graphics perform admirably - and while I wasn't able to properly test framerates, playing on the Zone felt smooth and responsive at 1080p with graphics set to Low or Medium. The Ryzen APU is supported by 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB SSD.
The 8840U is a bit different from the AMD Z1 and Z1 Extreme chips found in several other handhelds (including the Ally and Legion Go), but it has the same number of cores and the same operating frequency. It's just a slightly newer architecture: Hawk Point as opposed to the Z1's Phoenix Point. The main difference here is an improved XDNA processor for better performance with AI workloads, which may come in handy for AI-powered game features like AMD FSR.
Trigger happy
One unique feature I quite liked was the adjustable trigger system. On the back of the unit, both main triggers have a small switch that lets you swap the trigger sensitivity between two stages - basically switching between a normal full press to register input and a hair-trigger response.
It's a neat function that could come in handy for shooters, since the triggers have quite a lot of travel in regular mode, and it's good that the two switches can be toggled independently - I could see myself using the hair-trigger mode on the left trigger for quicker aim-down-sight reactions but sticking with the regular input for actually firing my weapon, so as to avoid misfires.
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Another possible first for gaming handhelds is the inclusion of what looks like a small front-facing webcam to the left of the display. Zotac didn't have any information about this on the event floor, however, and early test units of the Lenovo Legion Go also featured a camera that never made it to the final release, so don't get your hopes up.
I didn't get an exact figure for the weight, but the Zone weighs about the same as the newly-announced ROG Ally X - which is to say, heavier than the more compact Steam Deck, but lighter than the chunky Legion Go. Despite this, it's still quite large, measuring 31cm across, so this might not be the best choice for gamers with smaller hands. There's a small kickstand at the back, which is useful if you want to hook it up to a larger screen via the Thunderbolt 4 port and play using a separate controller.
AMOLED you finish, but...
Unfortunately, no fancy trigger systems nor gorgeous AMOLED screens can hide the fact that some parts of the Zotac Zone feel a little... cheap. Zotac assured me that the unit I was testing was a relatively early beta model, so there's every chance my qualms will be addressed before the product makes it to a full release, but I'd be remiss not to mention the issues here.
Firstly, the D-pad felt very flimsy, and the analog sticks were a bit loose for my liking - some people might not be bothered by the latter, but I definitely prefer the more resistive feeling of the ROG Ally's twin sticks. The additional two rear finger bumpers are also lacking in satisfaction, with a feeble click to them. On the bright side, the triggers, main bumpers, and face buttons all feel solid.
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It's also worth noting that just like every other Windows-based gaming handheld, the OS is poorly suited to this device format. Even with a touchscreen and trackpad, the small display and lack of a physical keyboard make navigating Windows 11 rather cumbersome. I can't really blame Zotac for that, though - it's a frustration of Microsoft's making, and I've already given them the solution...
The factor that may truly prove to be the Zone's downfall, though, is the price. While Zotac hasn't officially confirmed pricing, Spanish tech site Geeknetic has reported that the launch price is expected to be around $800 (about £625 / AU$1200). That's rather expensive considering the specs here; the ROG Ally X is expected to be around the same price, but packs more memory and storage, while the Steam Deck is significantly cheaper than both.
Still, I'm excited to see the Zone hit the market so I can properly test it out. Competition breeds innovation, as they say; more PC gaming handhelds can't be a bad thing. But the competition is really starting to heat up now, so Zotac will need to bring its A-game if it wants to capture a segment of this emerging market.
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, part of Asus's lineup of the best gaming laptops, is mostly another refresh of the Zephyrus G16 but with the added AMD NPU. The other models featuring the Intel Core Ultra 9 have already launched earlier this year, with this new one made to give buyers more options.
Like with most other NPU-equipped laptops and PCs, the biggest question is whether they'll hold up as the next evolution of processors. Plenty of manufacturers seem to believe so and have been investing accordingly. As they slowly trickle out, we'll see how well founded these investments are.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16: price and availability
The AMD NPU version of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 has been revealed in time for Computex 2024, though we don't have an official release date or pricing yet.
Currently, the Intel versions are available for purchase through the Asus online shop and most major retailers, starting at $2,899.99 (around £799 / AU$1,599). As you can see, the pricing of this gaming laptop is quite premium, as you're paying both for its thin and light frame and that it houses the AI processor.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16: specs
Here are the specs for the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 at a glance.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16: design
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For a gaming laptop, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 is quite lightweight and could easily be one of the best thin and light gaming laptops on the market. Though the available color is uninspired, it sports a unique design feature like much of the line's previous iterations.
In this case, it's an LED light that runs diagonally across the top case, adding some much-needed flair to an otherwise bland-looking laptop. I can't imagine how badly this aesthetic gimmick bleeds through battery power, so hopefully, there's a simple way to turn it off when one needs to conserve energy.
It features a solid port selection that includes two USB Type-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, one combo jack, one SD card reader slot, and one HDMI port. Unfortunately, it's missing an ethernet port, which is odd considering that playing PC games online requires a stable connection that can't be replicated using Wi-Fi.
The display is a 2.5K OLED and sports HDR True Black 500, meaning you'll get a gorgeously clear and sharp picture quality every time. The keyboard features nice-sized keys that are well-suited for a wide range of hand types, and the touchpad is large, so you'll have plenty of space to maneuver.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16: performance
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On paper, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 refresh has some impressive specs, like an Nvidia RTX 4000-series GPU, next-gen AMD NPU, and a display with a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time. With these components, it should be one of the fastest laptops out there, able to handle the massive AI workload that it's sure to be put through.
Of course, I wasn't able to benchmark the ROG Zephyrus G16 myself, so I can't say for sure exactly how it compares to current laptops on the market. It uses an AMD NPU instead of a Qualcomm SnapDragon chip, meaning that the battery life will most likely run as well as the average gaming laptop – Which is to say, not very long.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16: early verdict
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The AMD refresh version of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 is a solid gaming laptop with a thin and light chassis and a fun visual gimmick. Though it's clearly well-balanced and would serve most gamers well, there's nothing particularly impressive about it either. It's a mostly standard refresh except for the NPU addition.
Those needing an update should consider investing in this one, but if you have a laptop, then there's nothing you're missing out on in particular. I am curious to see how well the NPU coupled with the RTX 4000-series GPUs will perform - whether the difference between an AI processor and a normal one is that great.
There's an argument to be made for packing in as much power as possible when it comes to the best gaming laptops, and that's the space the Acer Predator Triton 17 X occupies. For the most part, it forgoes being the sleekest and smallest of its kind to go all-in on pushing boundaries for those with deep enough pockets to take the plunge.
Priced at $3,599.99 / £3,299.99 / AU$7,999, the Acer Predator Triton 17 X isn't a budget pick by any means, but that's the cost of packing in enough horsepower to give even the best gaming PCs a run for their money. While the mobile RTX 4090 doesn't exactly rival what its desktop counterpart can do, the performance margin is within an acceptable ballpark range; you can think of it as similar to an RTX 4080 desktop GPU.
Where this rig stands out from competitors is with its display. The Triton 17 X features a staggering 250Hz refresh rate with a 1600p resolution screen. That 16:10 aspect ratio means you get more real-estate for gaming, and the results are impressive. Fortunately, the components inside this Predator laptop mean you'll be able to push even the latest and most demanding games to superfast frame rates.
No corners have been cut with the quality-of-life features here, either. This laptop is armed with a six-speaker setup, an excellent keyboard, and a healthy port selection, so even when you're not gaming, you'll have a good experience. Just keep in mind that the Triton 17 X is not the most practical notebook with its 3kg / 6.6lbs heft, so it might not be your daily runner to work or school on the side.
Compounding this is the majorly disappointing battery life. The Acer Predator Triton 17 X lasts around two hours at best when enjoying media playback or browsing the web, and about an hour when getting stuck into one of the latest games. You'll want the charger nearby, but if you can overlook these issues then there's a stellar machine underneath it all.
Acer Predator Triton 17 X: Price and availability
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How much does it cost? $3,599.99 / £3,299.99 / AU$7,999
When is it available? It's out now
Where can you get it? In the US, UK and Australia
The Acer Predator Triton 17 X is one of the pricier gaming laptops on the market, coming in above the $3,000 / £3,000 mark (and at AU$8,000). Considering the hardware inside, that shouldn't come as a huge surprise, though. Acer isn't pulling any punches from the choice of CPU and GPU, through to the display, RAM, and storage. Simply put, it's far from a cheap gaming laptop, but if you want to be on the bleeding edge and have the cash to splash then it could be worthwhile.
As a frame of reference, the price of entry for the Predator Triton 17 X puts it in league with other top-end offerings such as the Origin EON 16SL when fully specced out, or the Alienware M16 and Razer Blade 16 (2023) in higher configurations. You aren't getting the best value for money on the market, nor the strongest price-to-performance ratio, but in terms of sheer raw power, the Triton 17 X has it in spades.
Price: 3 / 5
Acer Predator Triton 17 X: Design
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Stunning 250Hz mini-LED display
Packed with ports
A bit heavy at 3kg / 6.6lbs
Acer Predator Triton 17 X: Specs
Here's what's inside the Acer Predator Triton 17 X supplied to TechRadar.
CPU: Intel Core i9-13900HX GPU: Nvidia RTX 4090 RAM: 64GB LPDDR5 Storage: 2TB NVMe Gen 4.0 Display: WQXGA (2560 x 1600) 16:10 IPS 250Hz Ports: 2x USB 3.2, 2x USB-C, 2.5Gb Ethernet, 3.5mm audio jack, microSD card slot Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.1 Weight: 3kg / 6.6lbs Dimensions: 28 x 38.04 x 2.19cm (LxWxH)
The most notable thing about the Acer Predator Triton 17 X at first glance is the display which is certainly a leading model as far as gaming laptops go. This portable powerhouse packs in a 16:10 WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600 resolution) screen meaning more real-estate is available for gaming than 16:9 can offer. It's bolstered by a 250Hz refresh rate and is Nvidia G-sync compatible, so there's no screen tearing.
It's not the first laptop to feature a mini-LED display, but it is an excellent example of the panel tech in action. While not quite as vivid as OLED, it is considerably brighter, and the 1,000 local dimming zones do a solid job of standing in with similar black levels. Considering the hardware inside, an RTX 4090 mobile GPU backed up by an Intel 13th-gen Core i9 processor, you'll be able to take advantage of that high refresh rate, too.
Acer's design philosophy for this machine is "excellent in excess" and that's clearly demonstrated with the hardware packed into a portable form factor. Mind you, this rig weighs in at 3kg / 6.6lbs making it one of the heavier models on the market. With a 17-inch screen, it's fairly large as well, and while technically portable, the 17 X is unlikely to be something you'll commonly be slinging into a bag. It's more of an out-and-out desktop replacement.
While you're likely to plug in one of the best gaming keyboards and best gaming mice, the Acer Predator Triton 17 X features a solid keyboard and trackpad for casual web browsing and typing. It offers pleasant multi-zone RGB lighting which looks the part when playing in darker environments. The trackpad isn't as nice as some of the glass ones you'll find on a similarly priced Razer Blade, but it gets the job done. Again, a dedicated mouse will do the trick better.
No expense was spared on the connectivity front here, either. There are two USB-C ports, two USB 3.2 ports, 2.5Gb Ethernet, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. You'll have no shortage of options for either work or play, and it's good that the manufacturer chose function over form in this respect, as some thinner laptops can sacrifice port selection to achieve their svelte nature.
Design: 4 / 5
Acer Predator Triton 17 X: Performance
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Unparalleled 1080p and 1440p gaming performance
Silky smooth refresh rate
Gets very hot and loud
You won't be surprised to learn that a gaming laptop powered by the Intel Core i9-13900HX and Nvidia RTX 4090 with 64GB of LPDDR5 RAM absolutely mowed through our suite of benchmarks and games. The display for the laptop tops out at 250Hz, and you'll have all the horsepower necessary to achieve those kind of frame rates in 1080p, and drive very smooth gameplay at 1440p as well.
Acer Predator Triton 17 X benchmarks
Here's how the Acer Predator Triton 17 X got on in our game testing.
Total War: Three Kingdoms (1080p) - 364fps (Low); 140fps (Ultra) Total War: Three Kingdoms (1440p) - 290fps (Low) ; 92fps (Ultra) Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p) - 118fps (Low); 107fps (Ultra) Cyberpunk 2077 (1440p) - 129fps (Low); 89fps (Ultra) Cyberpunk 2077 RT Ultra - 85fps (1080p); 83fps (1440p) Red Dead Redemption 2 (1080p) - 147fps (Low) ; 128fps (Ultra) Red Dead Redemption 2 (1440p) - 108fps (Low); 86fps (Ultra) Geekbench 6:
Single - 2,720
Multi - 17,308 3DMark:
Night Raid - 72,575
Fire Strike - 31,498
Time Spy - 16,866
Port Royal - 11,261 PCMark10: 8,069 CrystalDiskMark: Read - 6,441.97; Write - 4,872.65 Cinebench R23: Single - 1,941
Multi - 25,624 TechRadar battery test: 1 hour 8 minutes
It's comparable to what the MSI Titan 18 HX can do, albeit without the 4K resolution, not that you'll necessarily need 4K in such a small display anyway. It wasn't uncommon for the demanding games tested, such as Cyberpunk 2077 or Red Dead Redemption 2, to exceed 100fps when maxed out in 1440p. Even CPU-bound titles such as Total War: Three Kingdoms were no sweat for the 13900HX, as this game could exceed a lightning-fast 300fps.
Synthetic figures are equally strong as evidenced by 3DMark's range of GPU benchmarks alongside PCMark 10. Acer hasn't skimped on the choice of Gen 4.0 NVMe SSD either, with a strong performance of 6,441MB/s for reads and 4,872MB/s for writes. All told it's a very encouraging package showcasing the prowess of the hardware, but not without a few drawbacks.
While the RTX 4090M is roughly equivalent to the desktop RTX 4080 with its 16GB GDDR6 VRAM and lower power draw, the combination of CPU and GPU here does result in excess heat and loudness. It wasn't uncommon for the rig to reach upwards of 90 degrees when under stress, with the fans drowning out the otherwise impressive six-speaker surround setup. This could be counteracted by employing the use of one of the best gaming headsets, but it's worth noting all the same.
Using the HDMI 2.1 port, you'll be able to hook up the Acer Predator Triton 17 X to one of the best gaming monitors for that big screen experience should the 17-inch display not be enough for you. You may also want to invest in a dedicated laptop riser to keep the fans of the machine elevated to aid cooling, too.
Performance: 4 / 5
Acer Predator Triton 17 X: Battery life
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Lasts around two hours when web browsing or for media playback
About an hour of gaming on battery power
What's most disappointing about the Acer Predator Triton 17 X is the battery life which just about manages two hours on a single charge with media playback or casual browsing. When gaming, you can expect about an hour or so, give or take, so you'll need to keep a charger handy if you want to have a full session of gaming for the evening.
Keeping the Acer Predator Triton 17 X plugged in at all times isn't ideal in terms of its portability factor, obviously, but as we already observed, it's a little too large and bulky for that anyway. The battery life is a shame considering there's a 99.98Wh four-cell power pack inside, but it's not too big a shock when factoring in that there's 175W of power drawn by the RTX 4090M GPU alone.
Simply put, if you're after excellent battery life for a portable machine then the Acer Predator 17 X won't be for you. Instead, we recommend considering one of the best Ultrabooks, even if you won't get anywhere near the same level of processing power.
Battery: 2 / 5
Should you buy the Acer Predator Triton 17 X?
Buy it if...
You want a no-compromise gaming experience
The Acer Predator Triton 17 X packs a punch with its RTX 4090 GPU and 13th-gen Core i9 CPU backed with a staggering 64GB of RAM. All that power translates to commonly getting over 100fps in 1440p with maxed out details.
You want an out-and-out desktop replacement
With its powerful hardware and generous port selection, you'll be able to hook up the Triton 17 X to an external monitor for a big screen gaming experience.
You're in the market for a productivity powerhouse
While the Acer Predator Triton 17 X is geared towards gamers, its 250Hz refresh rate and cutting-edge hardware make it a good choice for creatives who need all the VRAM and raw performance grunt they can get.
Don't buy it if...
You want the best value for money
There's no getting around the eye-watering MSRP of the Acer Predator Triton 17 X at $3,599.99 / £3,299.99 / AU$7,999. If you're on a tighter budget, you'll clearly want to consider a more mid-range model instead.
You want a laptop with a good battery life
Despite its 99.98Wh battery, you can expect only around an hour of gaming when not plugged in. Media playback doubles that to around two hours based on our battery test (conducted at 50% battery with half max brightness). Whatever the case, don't expect much longevity with the Triton 17 X.
The Asus ROG Ally X's existence has been well known for quite some time now, but now it's been officially revealed in its entirety. Now that the cat is completely out of the bag, we know what specs it's rocking, as well as its pricing and launch date.
But how does it measure up in terms of performance, build quality, and more? I was able to briefly get my hands on the PC gaming handheld and try it out for a bit, seeing if it truly felt like a new model worth releasing. Thankfully, there are plenty of quality-of-life changes both externally and under the hood to justify its existence.
Asus ROG Ally X: price and availability
The Asus ROG Ally X will launch on July 22, 2024, and it will be available in the US, UK, Australia, and other regions.
Currently it's available for pre-order exclusively through Best Buy in the US and Curry’s in the UK for a retail price of $799.99 / £799. In Australia, you can pre-order it from JB Hi-Fi for AU$1,599. The pricing for the ROG Ally X is a bit steeper than the original model, though the latter is still available for purchase and cheaper than ever.
Asus ROG Ally X: specs
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Here are the specs for the Asus ROG Ally X at a glance.
Asus ROG Ally X: design
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There have been several changes to the Asus ROG Ally X's design, both externally and internally, which was inspired by users who gave precious feedback and modders posting videos of them revamping the original ROG Ally for upgrades.
The chassis has been enlarged, allowing for more space for an upgraded motherboard, more memory and storage, and a larger battery, among other changes. Since the chassis is larger, it's much better fitted for those with larger hands, especially as the button layout has also been adjusted to prevent accidental presses.
The joysticks have been completely overhauled to be stiffer and with 5 million rotation cycles, and just by testing them out on a few games, I could immediately feel the difference. They're also larger and the rubber grip feels more comfortable, perfect for longer gaming sessions that leave your hands sweaty. Its D-pad is more precise and just better designed as well, making it much easier to navigate menus in and out of games.
Internally, the larger chassis means that the fans are superior - though they're smaller, they push out more hot air. As a result, the vents no longer push out extremely hot air from the top as you reach over to access the top controls. This also means that Asus was able to update the components, taking a page from all those DIY videos showing buyers modifying for the same reason. It also means you can add upgrades more easily without tearing apart the entire outer casing.
Asus ROG Ally X: performance
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Though I couldn't run any proper benchmarks to test out exactly what the Asus ROG Ally X is capable of, gameplay performance is still just as smooth and nearly as stutter-free as before. The processor hasn't been upgraded for this model, nor has the display, meaning it's more or less the same experience.
The difference, however, is how all those design improvements enhance the gameplay experience. The joysticks and D-pad make navigating through game worlds much smoother, and the adjusted button layout, coupled with the slightly larger system, takes out all the frustration of accidental presses and a too-small chassis that the original system had.
Having more RAM to work with is a boon for more intensive AAA titles that the ROG Ally previously struggled with at times, and the included storage is the perfect amount to install quite a library of the best PC games.
Another upgrade that has the potential to be game-changing is the battery life, as the capacity has been doubled to 80Wh. We'll have to test and see, but if the ROG Ally X could get six hours or more, that alone would be the best reason to invest in this system since not even the Steam Deck can do that.
It'll be interesting to see just how much the improved specs affect performance, which we'll be testing once we get our hands on the PC gaming handheld and take it for a more thorough spin ourselves.
Asus ROG Ally X: early verdict
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So far, the Asus ROG Ally X seems quite promising. Though it only serves as an in-between for the eventual ROG Ally 2, it sports tons of quality-of-life changes and enhancements that address nearly every issue buyers of the original ROG Ally had. For those looking for a new PC gaming handheld that's not the Steam Deck, this could truly be a contender for a true Steam Deck rival.
However, the only drawback that could hold it back is that the processor hasn't been updated, meaning that performance will most likely not change too much from the original. And with that model's price going down while the ROG Ally X starts off quite pricey, this could end up being a major deciding factor in its success.
HP is not only getting in on the AI action with its brand-new laptop, but the HP OmniBook X AI PC represents another massive change for the HP brand - it's consolidating and rebranding to make for an easier consumer shopping experience and to reduce brand confusion.
With this comes both the OmniBook and EliteBook lines, which include all the previous versions of HP laptops but combined within two brands: OmniBook and EliteBook. Both are outfitted with Qualcomm's Snapdragon CPUs and NPU. The latter, in particular, complements each laptop's integrated AI processes.
HP OmniBook X AI PC: price and availability
The HP OmniBook X AI PC was revealed just before Computex 2024.
The HP OmniBook X AI PC will launch in the US through HP.com and Best Buy at a starting price of $1,199.99 (around £1,020 / AU$1,960) with 1TB storage and will begin shipping on June 18, 2024.
HP OmniBook X AI PC: specs
Here are the specs for the HP OmniBook X AI PC at a glance.
HP OmniBook X AI PC: design
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One of the most striking aspects of the HP OmniBook X AI PC is its sleek and gorgeous design. It's also lightweight and thin, two features always welcome in what's supposed to be an everyday portable machine.
It comes in two colors, grey and white, with the latter much more distinctive. The 'OmniBook' label is on the back outside of the laptop, as well as under the keyboard, and opposing it is the new Helix logo representing the line (it's supposed to represent 'AI' and 'DNA').
Opening it reveals an equally gorgeous display and a keyboard filled with wide snappy keys perfect for larger or shaky hands. The touchpad is also sizable, which is a preference of mine as it makes navigation much easier.
The webcam, standard fare in terms of resolution but greatly enhanced by HP's signature lighting tools, has a much more secure physical privacy shutter. It features a poly camera pro-control setting, which automatically transfers over any camera settings to other cameras you connect to the laptop. And the Poly Studio partnership that enhances the camera also adds more audio options.
HP OmniBook X AI PC: performance
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I wasn't able to take the laptop for a true test run, due to the AI features not being available to try out during the hands-on. But, looking at the impressive specs, there's plenty of expectation for the HP OmniBook X AI PC to churn out some excellent benchmark results.
HP did give me some impressive stats that, if they turn out to be true, would put Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite on the map for the foreseeable future. This laptop promises 26-hour video battery life, 22-hour Netflix (or other streaming services) battery life, 20-hour web browsing, nine hours of Teams (or another video conferencing service), and 20 days of battery life keeping the laptop on Standby mode.
It also apparently beat out the M3 MacBook Air on the multithreaded performance benchmark, which would also mean a massive win over Apple when coupled with the battery life. And as for the NPU, I was told that it runs at 45 TOPs
There are tons of AI tools to further enhance the webcam image including spotlight, background blur for conference calls, auto-framing, filters, and camera setting transferring.
There's also the HP AI Companion, a chatbot and hub of AI tools. When used, the data is uploaded to cloud storage first, downloaded again, and then deleted from the cloud to maintain privacy. It seems to be a separate entity from Microsoft Copilot, though I couldn't test it out and see for myself how well it worked.
HP OmniBook X AI PC: early verdict
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Visually, the HP OmniBook X AI PC looks amazing, with a sleek and lovely lightweight design that's sure to appeal to many buyers investing in a productivity machine. Its display is beautiful, and the keyboard and touchpad are also well-crafted and feel responsive and snappy to use.
As for performance and AI, it's difficult to make any judgment calls as I wasn't able to properly benchmark for the former and couldn't test out the latter due to the tools not being available at this time. However, if both the specs and AI features hold up well during our proper review, then we'll have a well-balanced laptop that could easily be one of the best thin and light laptops on the market - even one of the best laptops period.
This year has seen MSI enter the QD-OLED gaming monitor space with several releases through its MPG series. Think of QD-OLED monitors as updated versions of OLED displays with four elements to create an image including an LED backlight, a layer of quantum dots, an LCD matrix, and color filter. Though they’ve already been popular in the high-end television space for a while, they’ve recently entered the gaming market.
The MSI MPG 271QRX is about as fine an example of what an entry-level QD-LED gaming monitor can offer, though its $800 price tag might make some balk at the term 'entry-level' in this case.
What you get for that money though is fantastic. The 27-inch display features a 1440p resolution with a 360Hz refresh rate in addition to an exceptionally fast 0.03ms response time, making it a killer esports display. On a surface level, these attributes are fairly standard for what someone would consider one of the best 1440p gaming monitors, but the QD-LED panel significantly increases image quality beyond the standard QHD display, alongside having both VESE certification for DisplayHDR True Black 400 and Clear 13000.
From enjoying the visual benchmarks set by games like Alan Wake II and Cyberpunk 2077 to competitive shooters such as Fortnite and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, the MPG 271QRX does a fine job of blending high-end image quality with speedy performance. Even the color accuracy matches Apple displays in terms of creative tools like Adobe Premiere Pro and Photoshop.
That doesn’t even count the loads of extras such as MSI’s OLED Care 2.0 which improves the durability of the QD-OLED screen in addition to Gaming Intelligence for enhancing the gaming experience through crosshair overlay, customizable RGB lit back panel, and KVM capabilities.
Most importantly, MSI managed to throw in a three-year burn-in warranty as well, critical for any OLED display nowadays. The accumulation of all these fine attributes makes the MSI MPG 271QRX one of the finest examples of a 27-inch 1440p gaming display available today, and well worth the price of entry.
MSI MPG 271QRX : Price & availability
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
The MSI MPG 271QRX is available now in the U.S., UK and Australia for $799.99 (£999.00, AU$1,799). Through the MSI store, there are buyer links to various online stores depending on the territory. Retailers in the U.S. include MSI’s own store, Micro Center, and NewEgg among others.
Within the 27-inch 1440p OLED gaming monitor race, the MPG 27QRX’s main competitor is the $800 Alienware AW2725DF. Outside of the price difference, there isn’t a wide difference between the two as far as image quality and performance goes.
This is where feature sets come in and this will largely depend on user preference. If both MPG 271QRX and AW2725DF are too much, the KTC 27-inch standard OLED gaming monitor for $699 might be a better bet for more budget-friendly OLED panels.
Value: 4 / 5
MSI MPG 271QRX: Design
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Various poseabilty settings
Plenty of ports
The design of the MSI MPG 271QRX is such a wonderful union of fantastic visual design and purposeful functionality in nearly every aspect. Even the setup is pretty straightforward with the base and neck design that clips into the back panel. One of the cool things about the design is that poseability is good enough to use the MPG 271QRX in a vertical position if a portrait setting is needed.
There’s a singular power port facing down near the other ports that goes straight to a plug. Meanwhile, PC gamers with multiple consoles will appreciate having a singular DisplayPort and two HDMI 2.1 ports. There’s also an additional USB-C with DisplayPort and 90w charging as well. Other ports include a USB-B for KVM capabilities with the additional two USB-A ports.
Once powered on, it's easy to notice the bright RGB logo that features customizable lighting through the in-display design. It does add a nice flair to the all-black colorway and angular back panel. Though the display is relatively thin, the center in the back panel does protrude outward for things like the head sink alongside other components.
The front of the display has thin bezels on the top and sides with the bottom displaying the MSI logo. On the bottom of the back panel is a small thumb stick that sits between the power and KVM buttons. Finally, there is the beautifully glossy QD-OLED display that also has some amazing anti-glare and anti-reflective coating. Without even turning the MPG 27QRX on, it stands out visually among even the best gaming monitors.
Design 4.5 / 5
MSI MPG 271QRX: Features
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Nice amount of screen image retention options
Game Intelligence and KVM capabilities are great
If the MSI MPG 27QRX doesn't already look jaw-droppingly gorgeous and provide silky smooth performance, its feature set is also fairly hefty.
The first is totally focused on screen image retention through a graphite film back and custom-made heatsink which eliminates the need for a fan. Then there’s MSI OLED Care 2.0 which is a system designed to reduce the OLED screen burn-in through pixel shift, panel protection through pixel refresh, and static screen detection. Carrying over from the previous OLED care system includes static multi-logo and taskbar detection. Making the deal sweeter is a three-year burn-in warranty from MSI.
Outside of standard color correction and game mode features, the MPG 27QRX has Gaming Intelligence. This includes various smart crosshair overlays alongside Optix Scope which provides a built-in aim magnifier. The most interesting one is A.I. Vision which uses deep learning to reveal more details in the dark areas of a game without messing up graphical detail. Through the same in-display menu, users can also change the color of the lit logo on the back panel.
The MPG 27QRX also offers KVM like most premium gaming monitors of the modern era. KVM allows users to use the same keyboard and mouse combo through another device connected to the display. It’s become popular for individuals who stream from one device and play on another.
For console gamers, there’s a console-specific Console mode that automatically accepts 4K signals while supporting HDR.
Features: 4 / 5
MSI MPG 271QRX: Performance
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Image quality and performance are top notch
360Hz refresh rate makes this one of the best OLED monitors for esports
For $800, the MSI MPG 27QRX most definitely makes good on its image quality and performance. Having the QD-OLED display opens up users to bold and crisp colors in addition to deep blacks. VESE certification for DisplayHDR True Black 400 and Clear 13000 enhances HDR visuals to the stratosphere.
Playing more visually arresting games like Alan Wake II, Cyberpunk 2077, Forza Motorsport (2023), and even indie games like Children of the Sun are just beautiful visually. Color accuracy is more than respectable in terms of video and photo editing. There’s no better way to create content, game, and view videos on a 27-inch 1440p display.
Having a 360Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms definitely will give players a significant competitive edge in more esports games if they have the PC hardware to support it. Games like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III not only look fantastic but give exceptionally smooth motion without latency.
Performance: 5 / 5
MSI MPG 271QRX: Specs
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Should I buy the MSI MPG 271QRX?
Buy the MSI MPG 271QRX if…
Don’t buy it if…
Also Consider
How I tested the MSI MPG 271QRX:
For the review, the MSI MPG 271QRX was tested over a period of two weeks. During the day, most of the taks revolved around using Google Chrome and Slack. This allowed the use of Google Docs, use management software Asana alongside social media management tools like Hootsuite.
Outside of that, other software mainly used was Slack to communicate with different channels. It was here where we tested general everyday use of the gaming monitor.
In order to test out overall image quality, games played included Alan Wake II, Hogwarts Legacy, and Children of the Sun. This was done to see how games looked on technical visual levels alongside art direction. To test performance and game enhancement features, games such as Helldivers 2 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III were played.
I’ve spent the past several years covering monitors alongside other PC components for Techradar. Outside of gaming, I’ve been proficient in Adobe Suite for over a decade as well.
Azulle makes specialist PCs with commercial use at the heart of the design. While this Mini PC sports Windows 11 Pro, the main focus here is on plug-and-play ease of use with a familiar operating system for video conferencing or digital signage. The majority of mini PCs are small and mighty, compact, and powerful enough to rival the abilities of many larger desktop PCs.
This device, on the other hand, features just what it needs to do the job and a design to fit. As such, unlike many of the best mini PC options, this is a more oversized Fire Stick than a PC, with an HDMI connector on one end and a LAN port on the other. These are joined by a USB 3.0 port, a Type-C port, a Kensington lock, a 3.5mm audio port, and an aerial.
The slimline case is solidly built and designed to absorb the heat from the fanless design. As such, the casing has a warning not to touch after prolonged use. This gives you the general idea that once this Mini PC is mounted, it's designed to stay in position without the need for maintenance. While the HDMI connector can be directly inserted into any HDMI port, the company has included a short link cable in the box so the machine can be mounted more discreetly.
When it comes to intended use, while this could be used in the home as a more advanced home entertainment system snugly hidden behind the TV, there are far more practical uses that this machine has been designed for. The first is video conferencing, which is a PC that can be connected to TVs or monitors, microphones, and cameras and hidden away, ready for use in a board or meeting room. Alternatively, it's the ideal size and specification for digital signage, designed to switch on at the start of the day and play video or stills to passersby.
What this machine is not is a mini PC to be used for everyday office tasks such as extensive document updates, placing orders, updating images and video, and definitely not for gaming.
As such, the price reflects this, with a focus on being perfectly tuned to a couple of very distinct uses rather than a mini PC, which can be used for a bit of everything.
Azulle Access: Price and availability
How much does it cost? From $250
When is it out? Available now
Where can you get it? Directly from Azulle
The Azulle Access Fanless Mini PC Stick is available through the Azulle website for £248 for the N100 version reviewed here or £219 for the Gemini Lake 40 Series, with the price increasing depending on the accessories you select. Both versions come with Windows 11 Pro, Linux, or no operating system installed.
Value: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Azulle Access: Specs
Azulle Access: Design
The Azulle Access fanless mini PC stick's design is very sleek. The casing aesthetics serve as part of the cooling process that enables its fanless construction. Aside from being functional, this also gives the mini PC quite a futuristic look, further enhanced by the fold-out antenna.
Like most TV sticks, there's an HDMI socket on one end that plugs directly into a computer monitor or TV. However, as the device is larger and heavier than most TV sticks at 581g, it's a little too bulky to leave suspended horizontally out of the back of the monitor. If the HDMI port is tucked inside the body of the monitor, as is more common for commercial rather than consumer units, then the small PC will sit perfectly flush against the back of the monitor. If not, the company has had the foresight to include a short extension cable that can bridge the connection, enabling you to mount the mini PC in another way.
The design has been well thought through, so the mini PC can be attached to the back of the monitor. The company also sells a range of accessories that offer other discreet mounting options.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Connecting the mini PC is easy, with the USB 3.0 or Type-C ports offering plenty of connection options for mic and camera combos. Bluetooth 5.2 enables a wireless keyboard and mouse. If you want to connect a standard headset, it can be plugged directly into the standard 3.5mm audio port.
When the machine arrives, you can select to have it with Windows 11 Pro, Linux, or nothing pre-installed. In this review, we've chosen the standard Windows 11 Pro, which also comes with Zoom ready to go. Setup couldn't be more straightforward, and within minutes, you should be ready to start using the machine for video conferencing. If you want to use the machine for digital signage, setup is just as simple.
Simply store the files you need on the machine and run them as needed, or load them onto a MicroSD card and run them from there. It really couldn't be simpler.
Design: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Azulle Access: Hardware
The Access Pro, unlike many Mini PCs, is designed to be something other than versatile. It is built with specific tasks in mind and has the physical and computing power to match. This Mini PC is tailored for video conferencing and digital signage, omitting many of the bigger headline features such as a powerful CPU and graphics. Instead, this computer is designed with simplicity at its heart, from mounting through to use.
The design features a compact and lightweight device that is akin to a TV stick, although on a slightly larger scale. It weighs 58g and measures 114.3 x 50.8 x 20.32 mm, making it incredibly portable and easy to mount behind a monitor or TV. The space-saving design helps reduce clutter, and although there will still be a power lead dropping down from the PC, everything else should be packed neatly behind the monitor it's attached to, making it an ideal solution for any office, conference room, or public display area.
Another key advantage of the Access Pro Alder Lake is its fanless design, which enables it to run completely silently. This is beneficial in quiet public locations such as libraries and museums, where displays are needed without the low hum of PC fans.
For video conferencing, the Access Pro Alder Lake enables dual monitor capabilities, supported through its USB-C port to complement the main HDMI. This feature allows you to expand the video conferencing and work displays, if needed, across multiple screens, which can often be useful in meetings. The HDMI connection supports 4K resolution to ensure high-quality playback both in calls and for playing back presentations.
When it comes to digital signage applications, the Access Pro Alder Lake's ability to output 4K at 60FPS via HDMI ensures that advertisements and informational displays are sharp and playback is smooth. One feature that will appeal to signage is the connectivity options, including AX201 WiFi 6 dual-band and Gigabit Ethernet, which help provide fast network connections if the data on the machine needs to be updated. This is especially important if it's streaming content or if real-time updates are needed for digital signage.
Despite its plastic build, the Access Pro Alder Lake is robust and durable, making it suitable for long-term use in various environments. The design and the materials used could be more flimsy. Its small size and light weight also enable easy mounting options so that it can be discreetly installed behind screens or integrated into kiosks. The flat back of the device means that industrial Velcro could be used as an easy mounting option.
The Access Pro Alder Lake N100 is an exceptionally well-designed machine for specific tasks like video conferencing and digital signage. Its compact, silent, and easy-to-install design makes it a great choice. While the features are perfect for the intended use, the features and performance will be very limited outside of video conferencing and signage.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Features: 3 / 5
Azulle Access: Performance
While the Access Pro's benchmark scores may appear low, this compact machine excels in its intended use, making it ideal for video conferencing or digital signage.
The CrystalDiskMark scores, with a read speed of 139.63MB/s and a write speed of 255.04MB/s, indicate reliable storage performance essential for holding files that can be used for playback. These speeds are low compared to today's ultra-fast SSDs; however, they are more than sufficient for the quick retrieval and storage of files necessary for smooth video conferencing and digital signage. If the storage capacity is a little low, the MicroSD card slot will enable you to expand the storage capacity at minimal cost and with minimal technical skill.
In CPU performance tests, the GeekBench scores (Single: 1188, Multi: 931) and CineBench scores (Single: 623, Multi: 1291) show that the Alder Lake N100 processor, while not the most powerful, offers adequate performance for handling basic computing tasks. This level of performance ensures that video conferencing applications such as Zoom, which comes pre-installed, run without lag. Additionally, the GeekBench Compute score of 2307 suggests that the integrated Intel UHD graphics can manage the graphical requirements of 4K video playback as well as video conferencing.
The PCMark score of 1925 and the Windows Experience Index of 5.9 further underline the Access Pro Alder Lake's capability to handle light tasks. Video calls and presentations, word processing, and some Office applications will run smoothly, but don't expect too much.
Despite the absence of scores in more demanding graphics benchmarks like Fire Strike and Time Spy, the machine's real-world performance for its intended use is fine. The Access is able to support 4K output at 30FPS and 60FPS for digital signage and video, stills, and audio, all playback without issue. However, after 24 hours of non-stop playback, the Mini PC is physically hot to the touch, as the label warns.
This is to be expected, and with the fanless construction, you also get a machine that operates silently, something that is essential in many environments. Another point to note is that the Alder Lake N100 CPU has very low power requirements, so even when on for long durations, the power draw is very low. While the device does get hot, it's not overly so, just warmer than most. Critically, the performance doesn't seem to be affected, with playback continuing smoothly.
The Access Pro may have a lower benchmark score; however, with its design targeted toward video conferencing and digital signage, it provides the power and features it needs to do the job. It also enables a compact, silent, and energy-efficient design that delivers reliable performance, making it a more practical and focused solution compared to larger, noisier mini PCs.
Performance: 3 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Azulle Access: Final verdict
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Azulle Access excels for its intended use and design: video conferencing and digital signage. If used for either, the design and features balance well, and at the price, everything is well-matched. This is a machine with a specific purpose, and Azulle specializes in making these focused machines that may not push the limits of performance but have design tweaks that make them better suited to certain situations and usage than more powerful and complex larger machines.
However, outside of its intended use, this machine will seem decidedly underpowered. While you can use the machine for day-to-day office tasks and its form factor allows it to be neatly tucked away out of sight, in reality, something with a little more power would be needed for regular office tasks. As long as the Azulle Access Fanless Mini PC Stick is utilized for its intended use, its compact design, silent operation, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for focused applications.
Should I buy the Azulle Access mini PC?
If you need a compact and silent computing solution specifically for video conferencing or digital signage, the Azulle Access Fanless Mini PC Stick is a solid choice. However, if you require a more versatile device for everyday computing tasks, you might want to consider other options.
The GMKtec K9 mini PC targets users seeking the power of a desktop computer in a compact, portable form. Despite its small size, it boasts impressive processing and graphics capabilities.
If you're looking for the best mini PCs, this one is ideal for creative tasks such as video editing, photography, intensive office applications, and gaming. With the ability to expand internal storage and RAM far beyond most competitors, it's a versatile choice for various demanding uses.
One of the standout features of the K9 is its expandability. It includes dual LAN ports and a USB4 port, which allow for supercharging with an eGPU or additional large-format storage. However, it faces competition from the GMKtec K8, a nearly identical machine featuring the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS (8 cores, 16 threads) and Radeon 780M. The K9 represents the Intel equivalent, mirroring the K8's design but powered by the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H CPU and Intel Arc Graphics.
The K9's build quality is decent, with a silver-coated plastic finish that feels slightly cheap, though the large cooling grates and button detailing add a touch of quality. The internal layout is similar to the K8, offering dual M.2 slots and dual-channel RAM for easy upgrades. The base configuration includes 1TB of storage and 32GB of RAM, but power users can upgrade to 4TB of internal SSD and 96GB of RAM.
Accessing the internal components for upgrades requires prying off the top plate and unscrewing the fan plate, a process that involves some pressure and leverage. Once inside, users can easily add or replace hardware components to enhance performance.
Thanks to the Intel Ultra 5 125H processor, the K9's performance in everyday use is impressive. Office applications run smoothly, and creative programs like Photoshop and Da Vinci Resolve benefit from the system's robust capabilities. However, like most Mini PCs, the K9 struggles slightly with gaming. While it performs well in reduced settings, it doesn't match the graphics power of dedicated desktop PCs.
When comparing the K9 with the K8, the choice boils down to the preference between Intel and AMD. The K8'sgraphics performance edges out slightly, while the K9 excels in processing speed. Both machines are highly powerful and capable, making either a solid choice depending on specific needs and brand loyalty. In summary, the GMKtec K9 is a powerful, expandable, and versatile Mini PC that holds its own in various demanding scenarios, making it a strong contender in the mini PC market.
Where can you get it? Directly from GMKtec or Amazon.com
The K9 reviewed starts at $800 with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB HD with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. Additionally, an Intel i7 13260H option with the same RAM and storage options is available for $100 less. In the UK, the Ultra 5 125H model is priced at £630, while the i7 model costs £551.
You can get it directly from the official GMKtec website by clicking here.
Value: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
GMKtec NucBox K9: Specs
GMKtec NucBox K9: Design
There's no doubting the stylish aesthetics of the K9, which are identical to the K8. However, it suffers from the same design issues highlighted in the K8 review. While the design is pleasing, for a machine of this price, a higher specification metal casing would be expected rather than the metallic-finished plastic used. Nevertheless, the overall look and feel are pleasing, albeit slightly cheaper than some competitor models. The big difference between the two machines is the switch from the AMD chipset to Intel.
Access to the inner hardware is relatively straightforward. No tools are required to pry off the top plate, revealing the small cooling fan. The fan plate itself is held in place by four small screws. A slight skirmish is needed to lift this plate away, and the mainboard connector to the fan needs to be unplugged before clear access to the internal components can be properly reached.
Inside, the layout is spacious and neat, allowing plenty of airflow through the system with the two large grilled vents on either side. On one side are the two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots and SODIMM DDR5 memory slots, which in our review sample featured two 16GB Crucial DDR5 5600 modules, giving a total of 32GB, upgradeable to 96GB—one of the largest capacities of any Mini PC. Opposite the RAM slots are the Dual M.2 slots, with one filled with a 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD, expandable to two 2TB modules. Under the RAM is the WiFi 6 (2.4GHz/5.0GHz) and Bluetooth 5.2 card, offering upgrade options for future compatibility.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The usual array of ports is on the front and back of the machine. In a slightly odd move, the USB4 port is solely on the front alongside two USB 3.2 Gen 2 and a standard 3.5mm audio port. At the back are a DP v1.4 (4K@144Hz), HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), two USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps), two RJ45 LAN (2.5Gbps), a Kensington lock, and the DC power socket.
The overall design is neat, but it does feel like the power of the chipset and potential of the machine are slightly underplayed, with only a single USB4 port on the front and a less-than-refined route into the machine for upgrades.
Design: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
GMKtec NucBox K9: Hardware
The GMKtec K9 Mini PC is designed for power users seeking a compact computing solution with future expandability both internally and through connected hardware. At its core is one of the latest Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processors, boasting 14 cores and 18 threads, capable of reaching up to 4.50 GHz.
Accompanying the CPU is the Intel Arc Graphics 112EU iGPU, built on the 10 nm process and based on the Meteor Lake GT1 graphics processor, supporting DirectX 12. This combination enables users to run demanding applications like video and image editing. Further enhancing the CPU and GPU capabilities is IIntel'sAI Boost technology, which uses both the CPU and GPU depending on the workload. This technology is compatible with OpenVINO, Windows ML, DirectML, and ONNX RT.
For power users, the K9 is equipped with 32GB of DDR5 dual-channel RAM running at 5600MHz, expandable up to 96GB using newly released 48GB RAM modules. The included 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD offers plenty of storage, with dual slot expansion allowing for a maximum of 4TB internal storage.
Connectivity is robust. The front has a USB4 port, which is Thunderbolt 4 compatible and enables a maximum transfer speed of 40 Gbps. Although the position on the front is slightly odd, it is still functional. Alongside the USB4 port, there are two more USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports on the front and another two on the back.
Networking options are plentiful, with dual 2.5Gbps LAN ports, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. The ability to connect up to three displays is a great feature, with the USB4 port offering up to 8K@60Hz, plus DisplayPort and HDMI options. Again, the positioning of the USB4 port on the front rather than the back is slightly unusual.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Features: 4 / 5
GMKtec NucBox K9: Performance
In setup, the GMKtec K9 is a neat machine that takes up a small amount of desktop space or, for the ultimate space-saving solution, can be VESA mounted. While the machine is well laid out for the most part, with plenty of space for cables and useful front-facing ports for quickly attaching drives and accessories, an additional USB4 port at the back would be a good boost to the connectivity performance.
Powering the machine on for the first time requires the usual Windows 11 Pro setup, which takes around five minutes before the full power of the machine can be explored. Starting out with the 1TB internal SSD instantly sets the pace for the machine, with CrystalDiskMark showing read speeds of 7036.31MB/s and write speeds of 6628.35MB/s. These high speeds ensure fast file transfers, especially for large video and 3D files, and also ensure the continued smooth running of the machine.
In GeekBench testing, the K9 achieves a single-core score of 10863 and a multi-core score of 2231. This high single-core performance is ideal for applications that rely on strong per-core processing power, such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop. Meanwhile, the respectable multi-core score highlights the ability to handle multi-threaded applications like Adobe Lightroom and DaVinci Resolve. When it came to video editing, a Samsung 8TB SSD was utilised to boost the storage and connected through the USB4 with great effect.
The K9 also performs well with the PCMark benchmark, scoring 6410. This score shows the machine's ability to handle multiple applications at once, allowing you to switch between digital content creation, office tasks, and some casual gaming.
CineBench results further show the strengths, with a single-core score of 1703 and a multi-core score of 12685. These scores highlight decent rendering capabilities, which are apparent when editing in DaVinci and bulk exporting from Lightroom.
The 3DMark Fire Strike and Time Spy benchmarks provide insight into the K9'sgraphic performance. The overall Fire Strike score of 6805, with specific scores of 7358 in graphics, 22141 in physics, and 2615 in combined tests, shows that while the K9 is capable of handling modern games at moderate settings, such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2. Similarly, in the Time Spy benchmark, the K9 scores 3271 overall, with 2945 in graphics and an impressive 8804 in CPU performance. These results show that the K9 can handle graphically intensive tasks and some gaming, which was certainly true in real-world tests.
The Wild Life benchmark score of 18016 supports the Mini PPC's capabilities for video editing and moderate gaming. When it comes to running Windows and associated applications, the Windows Experience Index score of 8.1 shows that this is a decent all-around machine for office and home use.
In real-world use, the K9 performs exceptionally well with a range of software. Microsoft Office applications run smoothly, enabling you to switch from one application to another with ease and no slowdown. Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom handle large files and complex edits without any significant lag, with selections and drawing tools working smoothly. Video editing in Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve is similarly impressive, with the K9 rendering timelines quickly and managing effects smoothly for 4K video. If you're looking to produce longer productions or complex edits, then boosting the internal storage and RAM would be a good idea.
Although not overly resource-intensive, 3D printing applications like Formlabs PreForm and Ultimaker Cura work exceptionally well, and laser-cutting software such as Lightburn runs smoothly. The machine connects to laser engravers with ease.
When it comes to gaming, the K9 delivers good performance with modern titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2, albeit at reduced settings. At the same time, the K9 may not compete with the graphics power of dedicated gaming desktops, but it's good enough for occasional gaming fun.
The GMKtec K9 Mini PC is designed as a powerful and expandable Mini PC for the workplace or home office and excels in productivity and creative applications. The ease of expansion also means that it is relatively future-proof and should provide you with years of use. The benchmark scores and versatile performance make it a great choice for most office and creative applications, although the high-end gaming performance is more modest.
Overall, the K9 is a great choice for a wide range of uses, from general computing to creative projects and moderate gaming. When it comes to a side-by-side comparison with the AMD K8, the two machines are closely aligned. The K9 just has the edge when it comes to gaming and Microsoft Office, while the K8 pushes forward with creative tasks such as video, photography, and 3D.
Performance: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
GMKtec NucBox K9: Final verdict
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec K9 Mini PC is a great machine with plenty of potential. It offers a versatile option if you are looking for a powerful yet compact desktop computer. The K9 features impressive processing power, extensive expandability, and a practical design that make it ideal for a range of applications, from office tasks to creative projects.
However, while this machine is powerful, its gaming performance and plastic build may only satisfy some. Although the plastic build might not feel premium, it still remains robust.
The K9 has many points going for it. At the top of the list are its power and upgradability, which are beyond the scope of much of the competition. Overall, it is a great machine, making it a tough decision between this and the AMD K8 version.
The Logitech Signature Slim K950 is billed as a keyboard that’s equally comfortable at work or at home, with sensible looks, some advanced functionality and plentiful customization options.
Typing is satisfying on the Logitech Signature Slim K950, thanks to the feel of the keys. At first touch, they feel light and tappy due to the plastic material, but the subtle dampening helps to provide more depth to presses. Logitech claims that this is a quiet keyboard, but as the clashing of the plastics generate a high-pitched sound, I would be reluctant to point this out as a highlight, even if it’s still definitely quieter than a mechanical keyboard. Similar to a laptop keyboard, the profile of the keys is low, although the spacing between them is greater – a combination I personally prefer among the many options in the best keyboards.
The default shortcuts that occupy the function keys are well chosen, too. They’re aimed at the modern worker, with hotkeys for muting a microphone or activating a dictation package, as well as for bringing up a calculator app, screenshot tool, and even an emoji menu.
These hotkeys can be modified using the Options Plus software, downloadable from Logitech’s website for free. It’s well designed and easy to use, and while it’s stable enough, I did encounter a few minor glitches and a crash on install, although this was easy to rectify.
Options Plus offers a set list of Windows and macOS system-level functions to choose from when customizing the hotkeys, which include actions such as putting your device to sleep and opening a certain app or file, to name a few. You can also create macros, which Logitech calls Smart Actions. The company provides 30 templates to choose from across a range of scenarios, which can be used as they are or edited to meet your specific requirements. Overall, many of these are well considered, although I did find that some of them failed to work as intended.
One of the new standout features in the Options Plus software is the ability to call up an AI Prompt builder, which essentially opens ChatGPT in a popup window at the press of a hotkey of your choosing. It comes with four default prompt templates for productivity purposes, but you can also create your own.
Depending on how much you use the AI chatbot in the course of your work, this is either a very useful tool or merely a gimmick to have fun with. Still, the integration works well enough, barring a few minor niggles.
There’s very little that the Logitech Signature Slim K950 doesn’t do well when it comes to being a tool for most users. The lack of rechargeable batteries, backlit keys and a few minor bugs are the only real issues with the product itself. The greater concern, though, is the cost: it’s hard to see why it’s almost double the price of its predecessor, the Logitech Signature K650, considering that the K650 offers nearly all the same functions and features, save for easy switching.
The Signature Slim K950 is available now for $79 / £79 (about AU$120). It comes in two colorways: Graphite and Off-white.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, the Signature K650 is another Logitech keyboard aimed at productivity, but has a larger form factor and includes a built-in wrist pad (although in our review, we noted this as an irrelevance). However, the K650 is currently available for $49 / £49 (about AU$75), which offers a considerable saving over the K950. It doesn’t support easy-device switching, but apart from that, it offers virtually everything else the K950 does.
Although the K950 is a pleasure to use for the most part, if you’re after a supreme typing experience, the Cherry Stream Desktop is a standout choice. Although it lacks many of the advanced features of the K950, the comfort and performance levels elevate it among our best keyboard picks.
Value score: 3 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Logitech Signature Slim K950 review: Design
Slender profile
Forgettable appearance
No rechargeable battery or USB ports
The K950 doesn’t exactly scream style: the Graphite finish I was given to test was quite austere, and the matte plastic made it look rather anonymous. A simple and small ‘logi’ logo is the only branding that adorns the K950, which at least keeps its aesthetic minimal. The slim profile helps to impart some elegance too.
The entire construction is plastic, with no metal in sight. It feels robust enough, as do the keys themselves. They’re tightly fitted with very little play, and the lettering is ever-so slightly embossed, which I could feel under my fingertips.
The fold-out feet can raise the K950 to an 8-degree incline, which isn’t as steep as other keyboards, and there are no gradients in between. For me, this wasn’t a problem, but if you’re someone who likes a steep typing angle, then this likely won’t be enough for you.
The power switch is located on the top edge of the keyboard and hidden from view, meaning I had to feel for it every time I wanted to turn the K950 on or off. There’s a small LED in the top-right corner to indicate battery level, which flicks on momentarily when you power up the K950 – otherwise, it stays off.
There’s no backlighting for the keys, which is a shame, but does at least save on battery power. The only lights available are one on Caps Lock and three on the easy switching keys, which again only light momentarily when connecting to devices, or blink rapidly when in pairing mode.
Another small gripe I had with the K950 is the lack of LED indication for the FN lock. If you have the optional Options Plus software installed, it will display an on-screen prompt, but only when the lock is toggled. This meant I had no way of knowing if I had it activated or not without having to toggle it again. This is a small point, but one that, if you plan on using this keyboard to streamline your productivity as much as possible, may become a real thorn in your side over time.
Another notable absence is the lack of a rechargeable battery and ports. Instead, the K950 runs on two AAA batteries. Some may consider this to be an advantage, as it keeps costs down. However, it does mean that you’ll need to change the batteries once flat, and you won’t be able to charge and continue typing, as you can on keyboards with inbuilt batteries.
Design score: 3.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Logitech Signature Slim K950 review: Performance
Satisfying typing experience
Nice hotkey selection
Options Plus software is great
Typing on the K950 felt great to me. The keys are clacky and light, but they are also slightly dampened when you press a little firmer, making them suitable for both soft and hard typers alike. Their profile is low, so those who prefer typing on laptops will be right at home here, although the spacing between them is generally bigger compared to most laptop keyboards in my experience – something I personally consider a positive.
Logitech claims that this is a quiet keyboard to type with, but in my experience, I don’t think it’s necessarily quieter than other keyboards in its class. The plastic keys generate a higher-pitched sound, which isn’t exactly loud, but I wouldn’t say they’re dampened enough to eliminate most of the impact; they’re just ‘quiet’ compared to the best mechanical keyboards.
The easy-switching functionality between three devices worked well in my tests, whether it was between macOS, Windows, or Chromebook laptops, or whether they were connected via Bluetooth or the included Logi Bolt USB wireless receiver. I did encounter a hiccup on one occasion, however, when after switching between macOS and Windows devices the hotkeys stopped working on the latter machine. A quick on/off restart of the keyboard fixed the problem, but it’s worth mentioning.
The hotkeys along the top row feature a good selection of productivity-enhancing shortcuts, including window switching, search, mute mic, as well as keys for opening the calculator app, screenshot tool, and a dictation package you have installed. There’s even an emoji menu shortcut – handy for workplace chats.
They can all be customized in the Options Plus software, which is free to download and provides plenty of additional features and functions for the K950. It displays the battery life as a percentage, and has a support menu where you can rate your experience with the app or inform Logitech of any connectivity issues you might be experiencing.
I did experience a few minor glitches with the software. It crashed on first launch after I installed it on Windows 11, but a relaunch fixed the problem. And every time I put my device to sleep, on both Windows and macOS machines, the application would close by itself.
Options Plus also launches in a window which isn’t full size, and it can’t be adjusted, which could be an issue for those who like to have their windows larger for the sake of clarity.
The hotkeys – which occupy the function and navigation keys – can be customized in the software, allowing you to choose what shortcuts they activate from a predefined list. These include simple actions, such as putting your device to sleep, as well as the ability to record keyboard shortcuts. These can be assigned globally or on an app-by-app basis, effectively letting you create profiles for every app you have installed on your device.
You can also record macros via Logitech’s Smart Actions, which again can be assigned to any of the hotkeys. These allow you to create a series of automated actions to perform certain tasks, including opening apps and recording keystrokes. Anyone who has used Apple's Shortcuts app will be in familiar territory here, as it looks and works very similarly.
Logitech has 30 templates to choose from to meet the needs of various users. There are those made for productivity and leisure, and those for developers and designers. There are also others specific to meetings and for using popular AI tools.
Although some of the templates worked well, others that I tested didn’t. For instance, one template is meant to use ChatGPT to reply to an email, by copying text you’ve selected, opening ChatGPT in Chrome, and asking it to draft a reply based on the copied text. The problem I found is that it failed to type in ChatGPT’s prompt box, as it wasn’t automatically selected after opening the page. Since Smart Actions are essentially macros, they can’t account for subtleties such as a dialog box not being selected in a home page, for instance.
Speaking of ChatGPT, one of the new headline features of the Options Plus software is the AI prompt builder. When assigned to a hotkey of your choice, this displays a small window that connects you to ChatGPT, with a selection of ready-made prompt templates (which Logitech calls “recipes”) to query it. These default recipes include drafting emails and rephrasing text. In order to make it work, you need a user account with OpenAI.
You can also create your own recipes, which involves writing a prompt and choosing two parameters from a possible four that modify the output. The four available are: word length, tone, complexity and style.
Your mileage may vary with this feature, depending on how much you employ the AI tool in the course of your work, but I found the integration to be responsive, and it functioned well for the most part, aside from a few small annoyances.
When submitting a prompt, you can’t go back to submit another via the recipes list without first closing and reopening the prompt builder menu (if you’d rather not use ChatGPT without going through the prompt builder window, then you can choose to open a window that takes you straight to the main ChatGPT prompt page instead). The prompt window remains on top of all other windows you have open, too, even when not selected.
Performance score: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Should you buy the Logitech Signature Slim K950?
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if...
Logitech Signature Slim K950 review: Also consider
How I tested the Logitech Signature Slim K950
I tested the Signature Slim K950 on Windows, macOS and Chromebook devices for around two weeks. I used it for work, leisure and general productivity, both in the office and at home.
I tried out all the functions and features it had to offer, including the hotkeys and the customization options in the Options Plus software, to see how well it performed on these fronts.
I've been wondering why Apple released its M4 chip in its new iPad Pro earlier this month when it hadn't even announced its M3 Ultra chip, but after attending Microsoft's Copilot+ PC Showcase and playing around with the new Microsoft Surface Pro, it makes a lot more sense.
The Surface Pro is a gorgeous device that can function as both a laptop and a tablet, easily putting it in the running as the best 2-in-1 laptop on the market, and now that it's packing a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite SoC, Microsoft might very well have a device that can take on the iPad Pro in a very real way.
Like the Microsoft Surface Laptop, the Surface Pro runs on an Arm-based processor which looks to be very similar to the Apple M-series of chips, so it's entirely possible that we'll get Apple M-series performance out of these too.
Since Windows wasn't originally built with Arm in mind, and architectural differences translated into poor performance for 'Windows on Arm' in the past, Windows on Arm devices in the past weren’t great - so could this new generation finally change that?
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After my time with the Surface Pro, these problems look like they've been dramatically improved, though it's too soon to say whether they've been properly fixed until I get one in hand for independent benchmarking.
However, with that caveat out of the way, the difference between the new Surface Pro and previous Windows on Arm devices is night and day, which puts the Surface Pro in a very competitive position vis-a-vis the newly released iPad Pro with M4 chip.
For one, the Surface Pro uses a fully-functioning Windows 11 operating system, unlike the iPad Pro, which uses iPadOS, a beefier version of Apple's mobile operating system for its iPhone, but not nearly as capable as macOS. This alone is going to make the Surface Pro a much more compelling device for those who need the robustness of a PC operating system.
The Surface Pro, which is available for preorder now, comes in two versions, one with an OLED display and one without.
There's wiggle room here to configure your RAM and Storage capacities, but just be wary that the price quickly scales up right alongside.
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There are also four colorways: Black, Platinum, Dune, and my personal favorite, Sapphire. The Surface Pro is very lightweight and is easy to manage, and it has two USB-C ports.
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The keyboard docking pins on the tablet's side also take both the new Surface Pro Flex keyboard as well as previous Surface keyboards so if you already have one, you don't necessarily need to upgrade.
There's also the new Slim Pen, which sits in a trough above the key deck, which can be a bit of a pain to dig out, but it's not insurmountable. There are also a few new accessibility features built into the new Flex Keyboard like haptics and better contrasting keycaps.
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I wasn't able to do too much performance testing with the Surface Pro, so it's too soon to assess how well Microsoft has done with improving the compatibility and performance of Windows on Arm, but all signs seem to be pointing in the right direction on this front.
I haven't tested the battery life either, but I absolutely believe the claimed battery life of 14 hours, which is very much in line with what an Arm chip is capable of, even with an OLED display, and the LCD version could very well get even longer battery life.
All of that remains to be seen once we get a production unit in hand to put it through more rigorous testing, so stay tuned.
Microsoft Surface Pro: Price & Availability
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Pre-orders for the Microsoft Surface Pro are live in the US, UK, and Australia, with deliveries starting on June 18, 2024.
The Surface Pro with LCD display, Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 256GB PCIe SSD storage. Upgrading to 512GB storage will bring that price up to $1,199.
The base OLED model of the Surface Pro will cost you $1,499.99/£1,549/AU$2,699, and has the more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite SoC, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 512GB PCIe SSD, but it can be upgraded up to 32GB RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD storage as well.
Microsoft Surface Pro: Early verdict
In the end, how well the Microsoft Surface Pro performs will be the biggest determination of whether this device is worth all of the hype around it, but from what I've seen in my limited time with it, everyone from creatives to office professionals may find a lot to love about it.
If the Qualcomm Snapdragon X chips live up to their promise and Microsoft is able to successfully translate x86 apps through its new Prism emulation layer, the versatility, compatibility, and style of the Surface Pro will absolutely give Apple iPad users a reason to be envious for a change.
