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I spent a week testing the HP OmniStudio X 31.5, and while it’s not the best choice for gaming, it is great for everyday computing

11:25 pm | March 24, 2025

HP OmniStudio X 31.5: One-minute review

With Apple stepping away from larger 27-inch-screen all-in-one iMacs, HP seized the opportunity with the OmniStudio X 31.5—a sleek, powerhouse Windows PC that’s far more than just a pretty display. At its heart is a 32-inch 4K IPS screen (or 27-inch FHD option), but under the hood lies serious performance muscle: an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, an Nvidia RTX 4050 GPU and a 1TB SSD.

This makes the OmniStudio X more than capable of juggling everything from dozens of Chrome tabs to high-resolution creative workflows in Photoshop and Premiere Pro.

Its setup is refreshingly straightforward, while the design is both thoughtful and practical.

Multiple ports are neatly placed along the rear panel and adjustable neck, and a cleverly integrated pop-up webcam delivers solid performance for video calls and meetings.

The overall aesthetic and functionality make it a perfect fit for offices, libraries, and creative studios alike.

One disappointing aspect of the design is the included keyboard and mouse combo. The keyboard style does a great job of matching the overall desktop but lacks a lift for better positioning beyond its flimsy feel. On the other hand, the mouse isn’t any better as it's simply not very comfortable; especially during long typing sessions.

Priced at $1,660, the OmniStudio X 31.5 offers impressive value. From its high-end audiovisual features to its streamlined yet sophisticated design, this all-in-one desktop balances everyday productivity with creative performance—making it a compelling purchase. That doesn’t mean this all-in-one isn’t without some problems.

Even though the desktop has an Nvidia RTX 4050, it’s not enough for serious gaming experiences. In the modern AAA space, the 6GB of V-RAM just isn’t enough for most games going as low as 1080p.

You can forget about playing games in native 4K, though DLSS upscaling can help at least match the display’s resolution. Add a 60Hz refresh rate limit to the display itself and it’s only so much it can do in that department.

However, if you're looking more for casual gaming sessions between writing a review like this or editing social media content, you'll likely be satisfied with what the OmniStudio X 31.5 has to offer.

For professionals and creatives seeking a capable, visually striking desktop that handles demanding tasks with ease, this all-in-one makes a strong case.

While it falls short in areas like gaming and peripheral comfort, its overall performance and design still deliver a premium experience. It’s not built to be everything, but it nails what it sets out to do—serve as a stylish, high-powered productivity hub.

For those willing to overlook its minor setbacks, the OmniStudio X 31.5 offers a solid, future-forward option in today’s all-in-one desktop market.

HP OmniStudio X 31.5: Price and availability

HP OmniStudio X 31.5 all-in-one PC on a desk in between house plants with pop-out webcam revealed — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

Where can you get it? Available now in the US, UK, and Australian territories
When can you get it? Available now
How much does it cost? $830 - $1,715 / £1,599.00 - £2,249.99 / AU$3,399 - AU$4,199

Available now in the United States, United Kingdom and Australian territories, the HP OmniStudio X 31.5 can be purchased in various customization options through HP’s online store.

Potential buyers in the United States have the most options available with choices of a 27.5-inch 1080p or flagship 4K 31.5-inch screen. On the lowest $830 tier, users can get the FHD 27.5-inch display with the Intel Core Ultra 5 processor with integrated Arc Graphics, 16GB DDR5 RAM and 256GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD.

For more money, there are options for giving the display touch capabilities alongside a more powerful CPU, RAM and SSD storage.

Even more flexibility is offered on the 31.5-inch UHD model. Our review model with the specs mentioned above comes out at the price of $1,660. There are a few options to push the storage to 2TB SSD alongside Intel Wi-Fi 7 BE200 (2x2) and Bluetooth5.4 wireless card outside of the standard Realtek Wi-Fi 6E RTL8852CE (2x2) and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless card for $1,715.

The HP OmniStudio X 31.5 only comes in one screen size featuring the Intel Core Ultra 7 with RAM, Storage and GPU options ranging between £1,599 and £2,249. Though more options will be available in the future, there is currently only one version right now in Australia for $3,399. That’ll get users the 31.5 UHD display, Intel Ultra 7, RTX 4050, 32 GB DDR5-5600 RAM and 1 TB SSD.

Value: 4 / 5

HP OmniStudio X 31.5: Specs

The HP OmniStudio X 31.5 currently comes in several configurations based around CPU, GPU, RAM and storage options.

HP OmniStudio X 31.5: Design

HP OmniStudio X 31.5 all-in-one PC's pop-out webcam — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

Set-up is a breeze
Ports are well-placed and the pop-up webcam is nice
Keyboard and mouse could use some work

Design-wise, there’s so much to love about the HP OmniStudio X 31.5. Starting with the relatively easy installation process. All users have to do is connect the base to the neck via a pre-installed screw and snap both parts into the back panel of the desktop via USB-C.

The Meteor Silver colorway blends an aluminum material for the base and neck with hard plastic on the actual all-in-one itself. For the display itself, thin bezels on the right, top and left of the display with a bigger one to showcase the HP logo provide enough screen real-estate.

The all-in-one isn’t just sleek looks but also offers serious functionality through port placement alone.

Image 1 of 2

HP OmniStudio X 31.5 all-in-one PC port selection — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

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The right side of the neck features a singular USB-C and two USB-A slots. On the rear panel is a singular USB-C, two USB-A, HDMI-in, HDMI-out, ethernet and power ports besides a 3.5 headphone/mic combo jack. On the right side of that same panel is a power button and clickable thumbstick for in-display menu options.

Popping the top of the OmniStudio X 31.5 reveals a 5MP webcam which feels good to push back in once done with it. Posability is respectable with tilt and height adjustment as well.

HP OmniStudio X 31.5 all-in-one PC bundled keyboard and mouse setup on a blue mousepad — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

As mentioned previously, the sore spot of the design is the included mouse and keyboard. The mouse tries to be something for all sorts of hand sizes and shapes but ends up being uncomfortable for my medium-sized hand. After long-typing sessions, I definitely noticed a bit of hand cramping.

The keyboard works well enough but holding that back is the lack of a level raiser. Both keyboard and mouse unfortunately also require AAA batteries to work which is a shame considering its biggest competitor in the space features rechargeable batteries.

The OmniStudio X 31.5 nails the essentials of modern all-in-one design with a clean aesthetic, intuitive assembly and thoughtful hardware placement. For users prioritizing performance and style in a streamlined package, this all-in-one desktop makes a confident impression right out of the box.

Design: 4.5 / 5

HP OmniStudio X 31.5: Performance

HP OmniStudio X 31.5 all-in-one PC Intel Core Ultra 7 sticker — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

General tasks and creative software performance is top tier
Gaming performance is a bit wonky
Audio/visual and webcam capabilities are great

Over the course of a week with the HP OmniStudio X 31.5, I put the all-in-one through a mix of hybrid work tasks, creative projects, and light gaming. The bulk of my day job involved running Google Chrome with multiple tabs open—everything from Docs, Gmail, and Sheets to Asana, Hootsuite, and Wix—without a single hiccup in performance.

Even while managing those apps, I was able to jump into Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro to create high-resolution social media graphics and short-form video content, all without any lag or slowdown. That real-world performance aligns well with its PugetBench scores of 7102 for Premiere Pro and 6085 for Photoshop, making it a solid option for content creators who need reliability and speed.

HP OmniStudio X 31.5: Benchmarks

Here's how the HP OmniStudio X 31.5 performed in our suite of benchmark tests:

Blackmagic Disk Speed Test: Write - 2455.8, Read - 2759.9
GeekBench: Single Core - 2133, Multi-Core - 12128
HandBreak: 1.8.2 - 4:50
PugetBench for Adobe CC: Premiere Pro - 7102 , Photoshop - 6085
3DMark: Fire Strike - 17292, Time Spy - 7582, Speed Way - 1827
Assassin’s Creed Mirage: 1080p - 65fps , 3840x2160 - 26
Borderlands 3: 1080p - 60.69fps , 3840x2160 - 16
Dirt 5: 1080p - 65fps , 3840x2160 - 26

One would think having the Intel Core Ultra 7 and Nvidia RTX 4050 would mean some low-to-mid-range gaming experiences. Because the mobile GPU is throttled to a total graphics power of 60 watts, it can barely handle most modern games even with the 6GB of VRAM.

This means many games released over the past five years are going to struggle on 4K settings without DLSS upscaling which doesn’t help much in this case. This is why it’s imperative for users who want to game stick to around 1080p resolution as many of our benchmarks would suggest.

For example, trying to play Ninja Gaiden Black II or Forza Motorsport at 4K even on lower settings turned the games into slide shows while other titles known for their visual prowess like Cyberpunk 2077 and Far Cry 6 wouldn’t run at all. In fact some games like Black Myth: Wukong wouldn’t run at all on low settings at 1080p because of VRAM limitations.

It’s unfortunate because the 4K display truly stands out, especially for work tasks and streaming ultra-high-definition content. The IPS panel delivers vibrant, true-to-life colors, sharp text, and solid brightness levels that make everyday use a pleasure.

HP OmniStudio X 31.5 all-in-one PC with display showcasing a white rabbit wearing yellow sunglasses — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

For creatives, the color accuracy is especially impressive, with coverage of 100% sRGB, 93% P3, and 85% Adobe RGB—ideal for design and visual work. It’s a display that thoroughly caters to both productivity and creative precision. The dual 5W speakers featuring DTS:X Ultra provide some nice audio too. Though volume levels aren’t necessarily high and even lose audio quality at their highest setting, mid-levels sound pretty great.

Sometimes while testing, I had a meeting with my therapist and nutritionist through various video conferencing software like Zoom. During those times, video quality was excellent in mid-day lighting conditions and I was told by both individuals that they could hear me just fine.

Users can also utilize the webcam as a bio-metric security for log-in but response time may differ depending on lighting conditions as well.

Performance: 4/5

Should I buy the HP OmniStudio X 31.5 ?

Buy it if…

You need an all-in-one desktop with fine performance for general and creative tasks

The HP OmniStudio X 31.5 can handle multiple Google Chrome tabs without breaking a sweat while handling large files for creative software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Photoshop.

You want a superb visual/audio experience

A lovely 4K display that’s crispy yet vivid in colors and dual 5W speakers with DTS:X Ultra capabilities sound amazing.

You require a solid design that looks great and has plenty of ports

Putting the all-in-one together is pretty easy allowing set-up to happen in seconds. There are also plenty of ports behind the display and on the side as well. Using the pop-up webcam feels good as well.

Don’t buy it if…

You need better gaming performance in your all-in-one

More serious gamers are going to be a bit disappointed despite the included mobile Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU. There are some AAA games that work well at low-to-mid settings where some are going to have issues on even the lowest graphical settings.

You want a better packed in keyboard and mouse

The keyboard is above average but lacks any lifts but the mouse isn’t the most comfortable for long sessions.

Also Consider

If our HP OmniStudio X 31.5 review has you considering other options, here are two all-in-one desktops to consider...

Apple iMac 24-inch M4 (2024)

If gaming isn’t a priority and you’re comfortable with a compact 24-inch display, the 2024 iMac delivers exceptional performance for everyday tasks and creative work.

Read our full Apple iMac 24-inch M4 (2024) review

The HP Envy 34

While the HP Envy 34 shares similar GPU limitations for gaming as the OmniStudio, it offers a larger 34-inch ultrawide display and slightly more power at its highest configuration, even with older components.

Read our full HP Envy 34 review

How I tested the HP OmniStudio X 31.5

Tested over the span of a week
Used for general computing tasks including Chrome and Zoom
Played a handful of games including Ninja Gaiden Black II, Forza Motorsport and Red Dead Redemption 2 among others

For the review of the HP OmniStudio X 31.5, we tested various features of the all-in-one desktop over the span of a week. For general computing tasks, Google Chrome served as the base to use services like Docs, YouTube, Asana, Hootsuite and Wix. Creative app capability was split between Adobe Suite software including Premiere Pro alongside Photoshop. Zoom conferencing software was also utilized to test the webcam and microphone combo.

In order to test the visuals of the UHD display, I watched several YouTube videos in 4K which also gave insight into the audio quality of the speakers. Meanwhile, to further test the speakers, I played various music on Tidal. Finally, we played various AAA games to test performance. Games included Cyberpunk 2077, Ninja Gaiden Black II, Forza Motorsport, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Grand Theft Auto V and more.

First reviewed March 2025

I tested the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink for a month, and it’s easily the best value PS5 SSD right now

4:00 pm | February 16, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: Dragon Age, Far Cry, SSD | Comments: Off

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: One-minute review

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is one of the best SSDs for PS5 in its price range. Its 4TB variant in particular is significantly cheaper than the competition, especially when it goes on sale. It also scores well in the internal PS5 benchmark, even beating pricey licensed alternatives like the WD Black SN850P and Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

If your number one priority is getting a high-capacity option with solid performance at the lowest possible cost, then the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is the clear winner. That said, there are some significant drawbacks that arise with that reduced price tag. The most important is that this is a dynamic random access memory (DRAM)-less model that uses host memory buffer (HMB) technology, something that you would expect from budget PC SSDs rather than ones made with consoles in mind.

The PS5 does not support HMB and Sony even recommends against fitting HMB drives. This is because it leads to somewhat uneven performance, which is noticeable when you’re copying particularly large files. It can also cause issues in games, though these are far from a complete dealbreaker as the vast majority of titles that I tested ran flawlessly, even the likes of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

There was some stuttering in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, however, namely in a handful of cinematic moments where scenery changed quickly. Assassin's Creed Valhalla also had the odd hitch, though nothing that rendered either title unplayable or even really spoiled the experience.

The heatsink grooves of the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink. — (Image credit: Future)

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: Price and availability

1TB is $94.99 / £74.99
2TB is $159.99 / £129.99
4TB is $269.99 / £233

Unlike the seriously overpriced Lexar Play 2280, the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink comfortably undercuts the competition at its going rates. It's available at Amazon, where the 1TB model will set you back $94.99 / £74.99 - $30 / £25 less than the WD Black SN850X.

The price of the 2TB varies depending on its stock level but is most often found at $159.99 / £129.99 which is a very fair price for what you’re getting. The best value option, however, is the 4TB version which comes in at $269.99 / £233 and has been on sale for as little as $234.95 / £229.49 in the past twelve months.

This drive seems extremely popular, however, so prices do fluctuate week to week. The 4TB model, for example, is currently only available for the absurdly high asking price of $338.92 through a third-party Amazon seller in the US - so avoid purchasing one unless you can find it for around the above figures.

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: Specs

Lexar Play 2280: Design and features

Looks and feels premium
Sold with and without a heatsink
HMB model, so lacks DRAM

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink has a plain overall design. It comes with a chunky black heatsink fitted out of the box, with some small grooves to give it some texture on the top. Despite its large size, it fits absolutely perfectly in a PS5 or PS5 Slim. Even though this is a more budget-oriented product, nothing about its look or feel seems particularly cheap either.

It comes well-packaged in a compact cardboard box and small plastic tray, which is easy to open and should provide a good level of protection on the move. On the box, you will find instructions on how to access more production information, in addition to warranty or return details, via the Lexar website.

The most notable feature of this drive is the fact it is an HMB model. As I explained above, this means that the drive does not have any DRAM - a small bit of separate memory used to store mapping information. This, in essence, tells your system where to find specific data quickly, improving performance and longevity. With HMB, the host device is meant to be responsible for this function.

This is not the case with the PS5 though, which does not support HMB drives. Sony states that such drives “may experience slower-than-expected performance because the PS5 console does not support HMB”. Even so, HMD models are generally significantly cheaper than those with DRAM and will still function when fitted to a PS5 - so make for solid budget picks.

The rear of the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink. — (Image credit: Future)

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: Performance

Impressive PS5 benchmark score
Performs well copying games
But very occasionally stutters while playing

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink delivers admirable performance on the whole, but it's far from consistent.

To give one example, copying a 67.25GB installation of Dishonored 2 to drive from the internal storage took just 22 seconds - while a smaller 59.22GB installation of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine was fully playable in 26 seconds, four seconds more. This wouldn't be noticeable in general use but does demonstrate some of the spottier moments associated with HMB drives on PS5.

The largest file I tested, 101.9GB of Far Cry 6, took just 44 seconds to copy to the SSD, while the 80.7GB Remnant 2 took 34 seconds - all good results. Smaller games also copied smoothly and quickly, with a 24.22GB copy of Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens and 12.93GB installation of Lollipop Chainsaw RePop accomplished in 13 seconds and 6 seconds respectively. A relatively tiny file like the 2.72GB Slime Rancher 2 was then copied in only 2 seconds.

Similarly, good figures were observed copying from the drive back to the internal storage, with Far Cry 6 taking 6 minutes 51 seconds and Remnant 2 5 minutes and 24 seconds. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens took just 1 minute and 42 seconds, which is broadly in line with the times for similarly sized games on the more expensive WD Black SN850P. Just bear in mind that these figures are mainly due to the PS5’s internal write speed more than the SSD itself.

The drive also scored impressively well on the PS5’s internal benchmark, clocking in at 6,526MB/s. That’s significantly higher than the WD Black SN850P, just above the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, and close to the numbers achieved by the seriously pricey Samsung 990 Pro - excellent on the whole.

That said, things aren’t entirely perfect when you dive into games stored on the drive. The vast majority of titles that I tested were completely fine, but there were two exceptions. Exploring the world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, I noticed the occasional framerate hitch which was entirely absent when playing on internal storage. Likewise, moments with lots of rapid changes in scenery in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (like the bombastic final boss fight) suffered from a few stutters - almost as though the drive was unable to load in assets quickly enough.

In the grand scheme of things, these are very minor problems and in my book are worth the cost savings represented by the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink - but it does mean that if you want a completely flawless experience across the board, you should look elsewhere.

The Lexar logo on the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink?

Buy it if...

You want a cheap high-capacity drive
If you want a decent 4TB PS5 SSD for the lowest possible price, then the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is a solid contender. It’s not perfect, but it’s hard to complain much when it costs such a relatively low amount.

You want a model with a quality built-in heatsink
I did not experience any noticeable thermal throttling throughout my testing of the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink, no matter what kind of intensive load I threw at it suggesting that its chunky heatsink is very effective.

Don't buy it if...

You want flawless performance
You won’t run into problems in most games, but some particularly demanding titles can push this HMB drive to its limits. If you want truly flawless performance, spend more for a model with DRAM.

Also consider...

If you want to weigh up the Lexar Play 2280 against some other options, here are two great alternatives.

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5
This officially licensed drive from Seagate is a great alternative if you’re shopping for a 1TB or 2TB model. It performs much more consistently, with no noticeable negative effects on your games.

For more information, check out our full Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 review

Samsung 990 Pro
The Samsung 990 Pro is the cream of the crop, a premium SSD with an effective heatsink that boasts blisteringly high speeds. It's a fantastic performer and much more consistent than the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink but doesn’t come cheap.

For more information, check out our full Samsung 990 Pro review

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink upside down on a desk. — (Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink

Tested for over a month
Tried with a wide range of games
Compared to other SSD models

I tested the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink for over a month, using it as my primary PS5 SSD at home. During that time I played a wide variety of games, including plenty of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Doom Eternal, Sniper Elite: Resistance, and much more.

Throughout the testing period, I was careful to assess the performance of the drive in each game, in addition to a variety of copy tests, and compared my experience with hands-on testing of other models like the WD Black SN850P, Lexar Play 2280, Samsung 990 Pro, and Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed February 2025

WD Black SN850P review: one to grab on sale

5:00 pm | December 28, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: Far Cry | Comments: Off

WD Black SN850P: One-minute review

As a big proponent of the WD Black SN850, I can’t deny that I’m a little disappointed with the WD Black SN850P. Although faster on paper, I found that the real-world performance of the SN850P actually lags behind that of the older SN850 - even scoring slightly lower in the PS5's internal storage benchmark. The design has taken a bit of a step back this time around too, as the SN850P ditches the cool, though admittedly slightly impractical, LED of its predecessor in favor of a much plainer, and presumably cheaper to manufacture, look.

This wouldn’t be a huge issue, but the SN850P comes in a little more expensive than not only the SN850 but also some of the best SSDs for PS5. When officially licensed alternatives like the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 can be found cheaper and will run a bit better, there’s no real reason to pick up the SN850P above the rest. That is unless you manage to find the 1TB or 2TB models on one of their fairly regular discounts, where price cuts of up to $50 / £30 make these products much more competitive.

There are also the larger capacity variants to consider. Seagate’s licensed drive doesn’t come in capacities above 2TB, so the SN850P is one of the only options if you want to keep things official at that size. The 8TB variant is also one of the few 8TB PS5 SSDs on the market right now from a major brand and is quite reasonably priced for what it is. If it’s either of these versions that you were considering, add half a star to the score above.

Otherwise, the WD Black SN850P is underwhelming on the whole. It’s a fine PS5 SSD that, thanks to its slightly overambitious price tag, fails to stand out.

The WD Black SN850P on a white surface. — (Image credit: Future)

WD Black SN850P: Price and availability

1TB is $119.99 / £107.99
2TB is $189.99 / £184.99
4TB is $319.99 / £329.99
8TB is $749.99 / £705.99

The 1TB WD Black SN850P retails for $119.99 / £107.99, though can be found hovering slightly below that price at online storefronts such as Amazon. The 2TB costs $189.99 / £184.99, though again you can expect to pay a little less if you buy online.

Outside of sales, both these models cost a bit more than the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 equivalents (the 1TB model goes for $99.99 / £99.90 while 2TB is $159.99 / £159.90) - again, a drive that performed slightly better in my testing.

The cost then increases substantially as you move towards the 4TB model, which is $319.99 / £329.99, or 8TB, which goes for a massive $749.99 / £705.99. Although the most recent arrival, the 8TB has already started receiving discounts of about $50 / £50 that put the price in line with most other 8TB PS5 compatible SSDs making it a solid option if you can afford it.

WD Black SN850P: Specs

WD Black SN850P: Design and features

Design is a step down from the SN850
Heatsink included out of the box
5-year limited warranty

The design of the WD Black SN850P is, in my opinion, a step down from the SN850. It’s got a similar overall look, with a sleek black heatsink constructed from a very robust feeling metal but lacks the little LED that was on top of the SN850. This was never a huge selling point, after all, you can’t exactly see it when it’s been inserted inside a PS5. But it still makes for an SSD that looks a bit cheaper on the whole.

Otherwise, you have the same white WD Black branding, plus a little label stating the name of the product. One noticeable departure is the introduction of a white PlayStation logo on the right-hand side, which matches everything nicely.

Although it looks very similar from a distance, the heatsink has actually been redesigned with a slightly different shape and a few more gaps for dispersing heat. Given that I never experienced any noticeable thermal throttling on the SN850, I can’t say that this seems necessary but it definitely doesn’t hurt. It also fits perfectly in the PS5 or PS5 Pro.

In the box, you get the SSD in a little clamshell package, in addition to some warranty and service information. You’re covered by a five-year limited warranty here, which does offer some peace of mind and means that this drive will likely see you through the rest of the PS5’s life if you opt to get one.

The rear of the WD Black SN850P. — (Image credit: Future)

WD Black SN850P: Performance

Performance could be better for the price
Initial benchmark score was very poor
Reasonable results in real-world tests

When I first inserted the WD Black SN850P, the PS5’s internal benchmark measured it as a shockingly low 5,966 MB/s. This is still above the recommended SSD specs for the console, but nowhere near the advertised 7,300 MB/s or really what you would reasonably expect from a drive at this price. Luckily, when I reformatted the drive and ran the test again a little later it scored a more reasonable 6,338 MB/s so I’ll chalk that first number up to chance.

This second figure was still lower than I wanted, though, as the SN850, which is actually advertised with a 7,000 MB/s read speed, achieves figures in the 6,400 MB/s range on my machine. It also puts this behind the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, which recorded 6,459 MB/s.

Thankfully, the WD Black SN850P did fairly well in a series of real-world tests. Moving to the drive from the PS5’s internal storage, a 23.24GB copy of Vampire the Masquerade: Swansong was copied in just 12.61 seconds. A 33.35GB installation of Lords of the Fallen then took 15.89 seconds, while a 45.98GB installation of The Crew Motorfest took 21.02 seconds.

Testing some larger files, 101.9GB of Far Cry 6 took 43.74 seconds to copy while a selection of multiple games totalling 226.9GB copied in 3 minutes and 14 seconds. These figures are all adequate and not more than a few seconds behind equivalent transfers on the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

Copying back to the PS5, the 21.30GB Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising was ready to play in 1 minute 27 seconds, while Stellar Blade, which is 32.41GB, took 2 minutes and 15 seconds. Finally, the 38.34GB Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands copied back in 2 minutes and 34 seconds. These figures are all perfectly adequate, and realistically more dependent on the PS5’s internal write speed than anything else.

Ultimately, you’re not going to run into any performance problems using the WD Black SN850P. Every game I tested was smooth, with decent loading times and no noticeable slowdown. Just bear in mind that, unless you buy on sale, you can get drives with more oomph for the price.

The logo on the front of the WD Black SN850P.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the WD Black SN850P?

Buy it if...

You find it on sale
The WD Black SN850P frequently goes on sale and if you manage to find it with a decent discount, it could be a much better value PS5 SSD.

You want an 8TB drive
The WD Black SN850P is one of the few PS5 compatible SSD drives available from a big brand in an 8TB capacity. It’s worth picking up if you’re in the market for the biggest possible storage upgrade.

Don't buy it if...

You want the greatest value
The 1TB and 2TB models could be cheaper. When there’s such strong competition, there are plenty of alternatives you can pick up that save a few bucks and run a bit better.

Also consider...

Wondering what to choose instead of the WD Black SN850P? Check out these alternatives. You can also see our guide to the best PS5 external hard drives for some external options.

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5
This officially licensed drive from Seagate comes in a bit cheaper than the WD Black SN850P, but performs slightly better in the real world. It’s the one to pick if you want an officially licensed drive.

For more information, check out our full Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 review

Kingston Fury Renegade SSD
This model is cheaper than the WD Black SN850P and much faster, clocking an impressive 6,500 MB/s score on the internal PS5 benchmark. Choose this for more bang for your buck.

For more information, check out our full Kingston Fury Renegade SSD review

The WD Black SN850P in the hands. — (Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5

Used as primary PS5 SSD
Tested over the course of a week
Tested with a range of titles

I tested the WD Black SN850P over the course of a week, using it as my primary PS5 SSD drive and playing a wide variety of games from it. During my time with the drive, I was careful to look for any noticeable impacts on performance compared to the console’s internal storage.

I also assessed the drive’s performance using the built-in PS5 storage benchmark and by copying a large library of games in order to measure the time taken. I compared my experience to my hands-on testing of other PS5 SSD models including the Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850, Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, and more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December 2024.

Xbox Series S 1TB review: the best option for console buyers on a budget

5:00 pm | November 8, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: Far Cry, Forza Motorsport | Comments: Off

Xbox Series S 1TB: two-minute review

If you’re currently debating whether to pick up the Xbox Series S 1TB or the original Xbox Series S model, then the choice is clear.

If you can afford that extra $50 / £50 / AU$50 for the 1TB edition, then it’s absolutely the version to go for and easily the best gaming console for the price. You get more than double the usable storage capacity (more than 800GB out of the box) for a fraction of the cost of any of the best Xbox Series X hard drives and SSDs, finally addressing what was easily the biggest shortcoming of the launch model for most buyers.

A capable current-generation machine for just $349.99 / £299.99 / AU$549 is nothing to sneeze at and, while the performance is definitely behind the fully-fledged Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5, it’s still going to be more than enough for most people. Titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator and Dead Island 2 look absolutely stunning on a 1080p or 1440p display, though those with a 4K TV are much more likely to notice the decreased resolution and lower visual settings.

The lack of a disc drive helps the console maintain such a staggeringly small size, but does restrict your access to physical releases. Still, an Xbox Game Pass subscription will help save a bit of cash if you want to sample some of the best Xbox Series X games for less. Although no additional titles are on the horizon, Xbox’s backwards compatibility efforts are still leagues above those on PlayStation, making this system a great way to experience older games.

I’ve been loving going back to some real Xbox 360 gems like Alice: Madness Returns and Far Cry 2, an experience that is still just impossible to replicate on the far more expensive PS5. Older games can be absolutely breathtaking too, with some boasting enhanced resolutions and frame rates that help them look better than ever.

Some might lament the lack of desirable exclusives, but when it comes to sheer bang for your buck value the Xbox Series S 1TB is the best of the best.

The corner and power button of the Xbox Series S 1TB. — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Xbox Series S 1TB: Price and availability

$349.99 / £299.99 / AU$549
$50 / £50 / AU£$50 more than launch model
Absolutely killer value

The Xbox Series S 1TB is fantastic value overall. For just $50 / £50 / AU£$50 more than the launch model, you’re getting more than double the usable storage space. It also works out significantly cheaper than buying the older console and upgrading the storage via a Seagate Xbox Storage Expansion Card or WD Black C50 expansion card, which comes in at roughly $80 / £85 / AU$140 for just 512GB.

This makes it by far the best option if you're shopping for an Xbox Series S as, realistically, the cheaper model will not offer enough storage for anyone bar casual players looking for a low-cost way to play one or two popular games like Fortnite, EA Sports FC 25, or Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

At its $349.99 / £299.99 / AU$549 price point, the Xbox Series S 1TB still comes in significantly cheaper than any of its major competitors at retail. If you want to get into current-generation gaming on a budget, then this is the way to go.

Xbox Series S 1TB: Specs

Xbox Series S 1TB: Design and features

Compact size is perfect for a desk
Slick black or white color options
No shortage of ports, but lacks disc drive

The Xbox Series S really needs to be seen to be believed, as photos don’t really do its compact size justice. It’s significantly smaller than the Xbox Series X and the original Xbox One, making it ideal if you’re short on space and want a console that won’t struggle to fit on your desk or media center.

The console can be oriented both horizontally and vertically, which makes it easy to incorporate into a wide range of setups too. I have quite a small workspace but still found that it could easily squeeze next to my existing monitor, or on the floor right next to a PS5.

The front of the console is rather plain, with a simple illuminated power button (in the shape of the Xbox logo), a small controller pairing button, and a USB port for any wired accessories. The Xbox Series S 1TB can be found in both black and white colorways, though the latter only became available this year and seems to have since become the dominant model. I tested the black model and really appreciated its slick all-black look, though the white model, which has a few contrasting black elements, definitely has its own charm.

In its horizontal orientation, the top of the console is dominated by a large ventilation grille. The bottom is then completely smooth, bar a small ventilation grille and some tiny text that says both “Xbox” and “hello from Seattle” - a cute reference to the location of Microsoft’s campus. On the back of the console are its main ports. This includes an ethernet port, two USB ports, a HDMI output, a storage expansion port, and a two-pronged connector for the console’s power lead.

It’s a great design overall, but the disc reader is a notable omission. This is a digital-only console, which might be a dealbreaker for some. If you have a sizable collection of physical Xbox games, perhaps Xbox One releases, then this is something to bear in mind before you upgrade.

In the box, you get the console, an HDMI cable, the power lead, and an Xbox Wireless Controller in either Carbon Black or Robot White depending on your choice of console colorway plus two AA batteries to use with it.

Even four years after its introduction, the modern Xbox Wireless Controller remains a fantastic easy-to-use gamepad, with a comfortable shape and brilliant build quality that I find often means that they last substantially longer than your average DualSense Wireless Controller for PS5.

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The Xbox Series S 1TB in a vertical orientation. — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

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The ports on the back of an Xbox Series S 1TB console. — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

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The Xbox Series S 1TB and matching controller viewed from the side. — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

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The black Xbox Series S 1TB on a colorful desk mat alongside a matching controller. — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Xbox Series S 1TB: Performance

Perfect for 1080p gaming
Unbeatable performance for the price
Easy to notice some imperfections

It’s simply impossible to fault the performance of the Xbox Series S 1TB given its more affordable price tag. Performance is the same as the base model, which means that it targets a 1440p resolution with the ability to upscale to 4K on compatible displays. Every title that I tested looked good on a 1080p display, though the differences between the Xbox Series S and the more powerful Xbox Series X do become quite apparent on a larger 4K TV. The console can also support frame rates of up to 120 frames per second (fps), though realistically most modern games are going to fall closer to the 60 fps mark.

The bright and vibrant world of Dead Island 2 maintained a solid 60 fps frame rate with no noticeable drops, even when experimenting with its impressive gore effects. It runs at 1080p, though, which did lead to a slightly blurry-looking picture on my TV. Compared to my playthrough on PS5, there were also some cutbacks when it comes to reflection and shadow quality though this was only really noticeable when comparing them side by side.

The differences were more apparent in my hours with Microsoft Flight Simulator, which still looks incredibly impressive but nowhere near as photo-realistic as on a high-power PC when you view environments up close. The frame rate was also quite unstable, sometimes dropping into the low 20s in particularly built-up cities like Tokyo.

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Microsoft Flight Simulator on an Xbox Series S. — (Image credit: Microsoft)

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Dead Island 2 on Xbox Series S. — (Image credit: PLAION)

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The quality of resolution, characters, and lighting in Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, another highly demanding game, also takes a hit and can even struggle to consistently maintain its 30 fps frame rate. It’s still perfectly playable, but did detract from the cinematic atmosphere somewhat.

Forza Motorsport offers two distinct visual modes, Performance and Quality, which target 60 fps at 1080p and 30 fps at 1440p respectively. I chose to prioritize frame rates and was pleased by the smoothness of races on my monitor, which was definitely helped by the smart use of dynamic resolution scaling. This is another case where larger displays will suffer, though, as the 1080p resolution and reduced level of overall detail will be significantly easier to spot. I would therefore recommend sticking to smaller 1440p, or even 1080p, screens for the best experience.

It’s just unfair to deduct any points for this, though, as you couldn’t achieve this kind of performance on a $300 PC. Even systems double or triple the price would struggle to replicate it without extensive settings tweaking and optimizations. If you’re shopping on a tight budget, there’s also quite a strong chance that you don't own a sizable 4K TV, which would stop you from getting the most out of the higher resolutions and greater detail of the PS5 or Xbox Series X anyway.

The roughly 800GB of usable storage will also be more than enough for the vast majority of players, particularly those not splashing out on the newest releases. With an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, I found that it was more than enough to keep a few live-service favorites such as Fortnite and Call of Duty on hand at all times while still having room for a rotating selection of games that I wanted to try.

The — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Should I buy the Xbox Series S 1TB?

Buy it if...

You’re after the best value Xbox
If you’re buying an Xbox right now, then this is the model to choose. The extra storage space is worth the added cost compared to base Xbox Series S and could even save you money compared to buying an expensive Seagate Xbox Storage Expansion Card down the line.

You’re on a budget
The Xbox Series S remains unbeatable value almost four years after its original launch. If you want to get into the world of current-gen gaming without breaking the bank, it is by far the best option out there today.

You're content to game in 1080p or 1440p
The visual cutbacks on the Xbox Series S are much less noticeable if you play on a smaller display. Many games run at 1080p or 1440p making it a good fit if you haven’t upgraded to 4K quite yet.

Don't buy it if...

You crave the greatest performance
The Xbox Series S delivers amazing performance for the price, but is still noticeably behind the more expensive Xbox Series X and PS5. Those are better choices if you want higher frame rates and a 4K resolution.

You have an extensive physical game library
The Xbox Series S is still a digital only console. If you have an extensive physical game collection, it will most likely be cheaper to splash out for an Xbox Series X rather than repurchase them all digitally.

Also consider...

If you’re not fully on board with the Xbox Series S 1TB, then consider these two strong alternatives.

Xbox Series X Digital Edition
If you’re set on picking up a digital only console but want even greater performance, then the Xbox Series X Digital Edition could be for you. This clean white console comes in a little cheaper than the full-fat model, potentially a worthwhile saving.

For more information, check out our full Xbox Series X Digital Edition review.

Xbox Series X
If you want to access your physical library of Xbox games on a current generation machine, then the original Xbox Series X is your only choice right now. It boasts better performance than the Xbox Series S with resolutions up to 4K, though does come in significantly more expensive.

For more information, check out our full Xbox Series X review.

How I reviewed the Xbox Series S 1TB

I tested the Xbox Series S 1TB over the course of two weeks, alternating between using it with a Samsung 4K TV and a Lenovo 1080p monitor. Throughout my time with the console, I relied on the included Xbox Wireless Controller, in addition to a few extra peripherals such as a Seagate Game Drive for Xbox external hard drive and the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 headset for audio.

I played a wide range of games on the console, both from my personal library and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Some of my favorites included Senua’s Saga: Hellblade, Microsoft Flight Simulator, Gears 5, Forza Motorsport, Call of Duty: Warzone, Dead Island 2, Fortnite, Cities Skylines Remastered, Forza Motorsport 7, Starfield, and Minecraft. I also tried plenty of backwards compatible games, such as Alice: Madness Returns, Mirror’s Edge, Skate 3, and Rumble Roses XX.

I constantly compared my experience to my hands-on testing of the original 512GB Xbox Series S, in addition to Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed October/November 2024.

Amazon Luna review: perfect for Prime members

7:42 pm | May 22, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: Amazon Prime, Far Cry, UK, US | Comments: Off

Two-minute review

Amazon Luna is a cloud gaming service that allows you to stream games over your internet connection. If you already have an Amazon Prime subscription, then you can access Amazon Luna at no additional cost right now. This is one of the biggest reasons to consider the service, as this basic tier offers a surprisingly well-rounded package. You get a rotating selection of a few free games, which has recently included big hitters such as Fallout New Vegas, on top of access to free-to-play titles like Fortnite and Trackmania.

If you own any Ubisoft games on PC, like Assassin’s Creed Mirage or Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, you can also link your Ubisoft and Amazon accounts together to gain immediate access to them on Luna. This isn’t just restricted to recent titles either and, while there are some omissions, I was pleasantly surprised to see that I could still jump into older favorites including Beyond Good & Evil and Far Cry 2 on the cloud.

A screenshot of the Amazon Luna web page showing Ubisoft games. — (Image credit: Amazon)

If you don’t own any Ubisoft PC games, you can buy them in Luna and have them automatically added to your Ubisoft PC library - a smart way to ease concerns about losing access to purchased games in the event that the service’s servers are taken offline. Although it’s not available right now, Amazon is also working to integrate a selection of games from the GOG storefront in a similar way which will even further expand its library.

You then have the option to upgrade your membership with Luna+, which grants access to a range of new games. It’s cheaper than the competition, which is reflected in the more limited catalog, but there’s still an impressive variety in the titles here ranging from AAA blockbusters to smaller indie adventures. Amazon Luna is also compatible with Ubisoft+, on top of offering an incredibly affordable Jackbox Games subscription which grants access to all of the Jackbox Party Pack games on the service. The multiple tiers and various services might be a little confusing for newcomers, but they bring a level of flexibility that’s simply not present in any other cloud gaming service and allow you to save cash by only paying for the parts of the library that interest you.

No matter what you’re playing on Amazon Luna though, you can expect smooth performance provided your internet meets the minimum speed requirement of 10 Mbps. I found that games ran almost flawlessly at that speed, with very little if any noticeable input latency and a clear 1080p 60 frames per second (fps) picture. That said, you can expect sudden lag and visible compression if your connection becomes unstable, so it’s definitely worth playing with an ethernet cable if possible.

A screenshot an Amazon Luna game library. — (Image credit: Amazon)

Price and availability

Basic tier included with Amazon Prime
Upgrade to Luna+ for $9.99 / £8.99 per month
Available on a range of devices in the US and UK

Basic access to Amazon Luna is included with Amazon Prime, which costs $14.99 / £8.99 per month. This base tier offers a rotating selection of games plus access to free-to-play titles and your Ubisoft PC library. If you’re already an Amazon Prime member with good internet speeds there’s really no reason not to boot up the service and give it a go.

You can also upgrade your membership with Luna+, which costs an extra $9.99 / £8.99 a month and includes just over 120 games. You can still buy Luna+ if you’re not an Amazon Prime member though, which comes with the same perks and access to your Ubisoft PC library without the need for the Prime membership. In addition to the game library, Luna+ grants priority access to servers allowing you to boot up your games a little more quickly.

There’s also a separate Jackbox Games subscription that costs $4.99 / £3.99 a month. This offers access to ten installments of the Jackbox Party Pack series, plus Drawful 2 and The Jackbox Party Starter. If you’re looking for a cheap way to dive into some top-party games with friends, this could be a worthwhile add-on.

On top of all this, Amazon Luna is also compatible with Ubisoft+. Ubisoft+ costs $17.99 / £14.99 per month and lets you play all of the Ubisoft games on the service. If you’re a Ubisoft+ subscriber, you can also use your membership on a range of other platforms including PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.

The Amazon Luna service is available as a web app that can be accessed on iOS, Android, PC, and Fire tablets, in addition to Fire TV devices and recent Samsung smart TVs in both the US and UK. Amazon Luna is not currently available in Australia, though.

Features and interface

No matter your platform, the Amazon Luna interface is simple and easy to navigate. It shares a lot in common with video streaming services, as each game is presented through a panel that you can then view a trailer or further details. When you’ve found a game that you want to try, you simply hit the prominent “Play now” button and wait a few moments for it to begin. Some titles take a little longer than others to start, but I found that I could get into most games in under twenty seconds which is an impressive result.

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A screenshot of River City Girls 2 on Amazon Luna. — (Image credit: Amazon)

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The mobile Amazon Luna interface. — (Image credit: Amazon)

When you’re in-game, you can hit a shortcut to open a basic overlay that displays the option to quit or begin live streaming via Twitch. In addition to capturing your gameplay, the Twitch streaming option supports external microphones and webcams giving you everything that you need to capture your reactions. Multiplayer games also allow you to start a Luna Couch session. This gives you a short code that you can share with your friends, allowing them to quickly jump into your game without the need for their own subscription. It’s a fantastic feature and one that I found worked surprisingly well, even while playing with friends with less reliable internet connections.

Games can be played using touch-screen controls, a compatible controller such as an Xbox Wireless Controller, or a keyboard and mouse if you’re on PC. You also have the option to use your phone as a wireless controller via the Luna Controller app in a pinch, though the lack of physical inputs and cumbersome layout make this a little more trouble than it's worth.

If you're struggling to find games to play, the Luna home screen lets you sort games by a variety of criteria, including different genres and age ratings. You can save your favorites to the ‘Playlist’ tab, making for a simple way to keep track of any longer games that you might want to dip in and out of.

The Playlist tab in Amazon Luna. — (Image credit: Amazon)

Game library

Amazon Luna’s biggest shortcoming is its relatively small game library. Luna+ offers just over 120 titles to choose from. Even when you add on another 40 coming from Ubisoft, 12 more from Jackbox, and the 12 or so titles offered to Prime members, this is still less than half the number of games that you can find on Xbox Cloud Gaming. Even so, Luna does offer a solid selection of different genres so it’s not like you’re going to find yourself without at least a few things to play.

I personally loved revisiting River City Girls and Elex 2, but also discovered a new favorite in Young Souls. The lack of any downloads makes it easy to jump in and out of games immediately, which is especially easy to appreciate with many of the larger titles like Control Ultimate Edition and Devil May Cry 5. Many Ubisoft games also offer full cross-progression and even cross-platform multiplayer, which is a perfect match for sprawling adventures like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Far Cry 6. Being able to jump right into my existing saves from my phone during my lunch break in the office is almost magical and a great way to squeeze in a little more progress.

Amazon says that 4K game streaming is in the works but, for the time being, every title is restricted to a 1080p maximum resolution. This is realistically going to be enough for most casual players, but it does mean that some more graphically demanding games lose a bit of their luster on big displays. Even at 1080p, however, the data requirements for game streaming are absolutely immense. You can expect to use about 10GB per hour of play, making this one to avoid if you have a limited internet or mobile data plan.

Some of the couch co-op games available with Amazon Luna. — (Image credit: Amazon)

Buying a game on Amazon Luna. — (Image credit: Amazon)

Should I use Amazon Luna?

Use it if…

Don’t use it if…

How I tested Amazon Luna

I tested Amazon Luna for over two months, playing around five hours of games each week. During that time I tested a large share of the games in the Amazon Luna catalog with a range of hardware. This included playing on my iPhone 15 Plus and Samsung S23 Plus with a Razer Kishi Ultra in addition to a PC and laptop. While playing on PC, I used a number of compatible peripherals including the Amazon Luna Controller, the Xbox Wireless Controller, and the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller.

I was careful to try the service using a range of internet connections and mobile data in order to assess performance at different speeds. During my time with the service, I used a combination of my personal Amazon Prime membership, personal Ubisoft PC library, and a complementary Luna+ membership that was provided by Amazon.

MSI Titan 18 HX review: a gaming colossus

8:52 pm | May 2, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Gaming Computers Gaming Laptops | Tags: Battery Life, Far Cry, LED, Tomb Raider | Comments: Off

MSI Titan 18 HX: Two minute review

The MSI Titan 18 HX returns in 2024, reclaiming its title as the best gaming laptop for those looking to splurge on the most over-the-top desktop replacement money can buy.

The Titan 18 HX, like its 2023 predecessor, the MSI GT77 Titan HX, is a $5,000 desktop PC masquerading as a gaming laptop. Clocking in at just under 8 lbs/4kg, you're going to feel this one if you ever have to actually carry it anywhere, and most backpacks out there won't even fit it. This laptop, then, will be relegated to your desk with the occasional trip to another room at most.

While it sacrifices portability, it does come with some absolutely bonkers hardware, including a 175W RTX 4090 mobile GPU, a 95W Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, up to 128GB DDR5 RAM, and up to 4TB SSD storage, with one of its three M.2 SSDs slots being a PCIe 5.0 interface for the best SSD speeds possible (though it doesn't come with a PCIe 5.0 drive, you'll have to provide that yourself). Throw in the world's first 18-inch 120Hz 4K+ mini LED display with 120Hz refresh and HDR1000 certification, and you have the most decadently specced gaming laptops I've ever tested.

And before you say it, mini LED isn't an OLED, I know, but I honestly prefer mini LED displays on gaming laptops, and this one can get you 112% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, so video editors and other creative pros might want to take note of this one as well.

Design-wise, this laptop is an improvement over its predecessor in a number of ways, not the least of which is that it does introduce some grey into the chassis to help break up the super-aggressive gamer black styling of the GT77 Titan HX (and even adds some light blue accent touches to the rear), as well as introducing a seamless trackpad and more refined curves into the keydeck.

The Titan 18 HX's mechanical keyboard, meanwhile, features Cherry MX ultra low-profile switches that are a dream to type on, and the seamless trackpad is adequate for basic use; but as with any gaming laptop, you'll probably want to use the best gaming mouse you have handy while actually gaming.

Given the laptop's size, MSI was able to pack in some powerful speakers that provide a much more immersive audio experience than you'll find on a lot of other laptops. Of course, you'll have to turn the volume up to drown out the whine of the laptop's cooling system, which can get noticeably loud under strain. You can adjust this in the MSI Center, though it will come at the cost of performance.

Speaking of performance, gaming on this laptop is an absolute joy. The very best PC games run buttery smooth at max settings, and while enabling ray tracing at the laptop's native 3840x2400p resolution on some titles will require you to use DLSS upscaling to get a playable framerate at 4K, that's the case with even the best graphics card in a desktop PC.

Still, for the amount of money this laptop will cost you, you could also be forgiven for asking if it's really worth the price. If you're the type to ask such a question, don't worry, it's an easy question to answer: this laptop isn't for you. If you want the absolute best gaming performance in a theoretically portable form factor and money isn't an object for you? Well, you are exactly the person this laptop is designed to cater to, and you won't find many, if any, better gaming laptops on the market than the MSI Titan 18 HX.

MSI Titan 18 HX: Price and availability

An MSI Titan 18 HX on a table — (Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

How much is it? Starting at $4,999.99 / £4,379.98 / AU$6,999
When is it available? It is available now.
Where can you get it? You can get it in the US, UK, and Australia

The MSI Titan 18 HX is available now in the US, UK, and Australia, starting at $4,999.99 / £4,379.98 / AU$6,999. All configurations come with an Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and 4K+ mini LED display, and the US has two configurations on sale right now. They both feature an Nvidia RTX 4090 mobile GPU and 4TB storage, with the only difference being a choice between 64GB or 128GB RAM.

In the UK, the Titan 18 HX starts with an Nvidia RTX 4080 GPU, 64GB DDR5 RAM, and 2TB PCIe 4.0 storage, and goes up as high as an RTX 4090 with 128GB RAM and 4TB storage. In Australia, the Titan 18 HX starts with an RTX 4080 GPU, 32GB RAM, and 2TB storage, and goes up to an RTX 4090, 128GB RAM, and 4TB storage.

In no universe is this a cheap gaming laptop, and it's challenging to think of another 18-inch laptop that goes quite this hard on the specs. Even the Alienware m18 R2 pulls back from a full 4K display, much less 4K+, and tops out at 64GB RAM. Even upping the m18 R2's storage to 8TB with everything else maxed out doesn't even bring you up to the MSI Titan 18 HX's starting price.

Again, I can't stress this enough, only those with the deepest pockets need consider this one.

Value: 2.5 / 5

MSI Titan 18 HX: Specs

This is easily the most obscenely configured gaming laptop I've ever laid hands on, and I wouldn't be surprised if you could still play the latest AAA games at max settings at 4K for the rest of the decade. The hardware will likely physically fail on you before this thing is rendered obsolete when it comes to gaming or high-end performance.

Specs: 5 / 5

MSI Titan 18 HX: Design

Gorgeous mini LED display
Improved chassis aesthetics
Ports galore
Low-profile mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches

The MSI Titan 18 HX introduces several improvements over last year's Titan, while generally keeping the fairly Decepticon-like aesthetic that the Titan is known for.

Starting with the sheer size of the thing, it's slightly bigger than its predecessor, a feat I didn't think possible. It also adds about 0.5 lbs to its weight, making it by far the heaviest laptop I've used in at least a decade or more.

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Opening it up, you'll find a low-profile mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches for some seriously smooth typing. The trackpad has gone seamless, as well, offering a glassy but responsive surface for your palms and fingertips to glide over. The trackpad itself is responsive, with good feedback, though a gaming mouse or controller is recommended for higher-level precision.

The Titan 18 HX comes loaded with 4x2W up-firing speakers on either side of the keyboard, as well as 2x2W subwoofers for extra bass, all of which work together to create some very rich sound, at least as far as laptop speakers go.

The IR webcam also gets an upgrade over last year's model, now at full HD as opposed to 720p, and features a physical privacy shutter, which you always love to see on a laptop.

The display though is the big feature here with a speedy 120Hz refresh rate on a 3840x2400p mini LED panel that is bright and vibrant. It also has VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification for a fantastic color contrast with deep blacks, and covers 112% of the DCI-P3 color gamut according to our tests.

In terms of ports, having a chassis this big means you can cram in a lot of ports, and the Titan 18 HX does not disappoint. You get three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, two Thunderbolt 4 ports with DP output (with one featuring PD3.1 certification for fast charging devices), one HDMI 2.1 port that can push 120Hz video at 4K, an SDCard slot, an RJ45 ethernet port, and a 3.5mm combo jack. You even get a Kensington lock slot for good measure.

Overall, this is one of the best-looking MSI gaming laptops I've seen this year, and its wealth of features, ports, and more make it a standout device before we even get to its performance.

Design: 4.5 / 5

MSI Titan 18 HX: Performance

Best-in-class performance
Able to hit 60 FPS at 2400p on most games without upscaling
Upscaling can get you 60 FPS or better in games with ray tracing turned on

This gaming laptop absolutely puts some of the best gaming PCs to shame with its performance. Its 2400p resolution understandably taxes the hardware when playing high-end games at its native resolution at max settings, but in titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage, Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and Far Cry 6, the Titan 18 HX is easily able to clear 60 FPS at 4K on its highest settings, and that's not even factoring in any graphics upscaling.

Turn upscaling on, where available, and you can push the limits of the display's refresh rate on most games. If you factor in ray tracing, though, you can get in the neighborhood of 60 FPS or higher with appropriate upscaling, and on games like Cyberpunk 2077, it's an absolute necessity if you want to max everything out and get a better-than-just-playable frame rate.

Looking at its competitors, though, among the other 18-inch gaming laptops we've tested in our labs so far this year, none can match what the MSI Titan 18 HX brings to the table in terms of performance. The fact its competitors are all limited to 1600p QHD+ displays means that if you want the absolute bleeding edge of what laptop gaming can deliver in terms of 4K visual spectacle, the Titan 18 HX is really your only option.

Performance: 5 / 5

MSI Titan 18 HX: Battery life

Terrible battery life, but it'll rarely be on battery power anyway
Charging to full will take you a couple of hours

Understandably, battery life is not this laptop's greatest strength, but to call it a weakness is a bit unfair. This is not the kind of laptop you'll use unplugged for any length of time, as you would one of the best ultrabooks or a MacBook Pro.

This is a desktop replacement, so even though its two hours and 40 minutes of battery life while surfing the web is a pretty funny data point for a $5,000 laptop, you'll never actually use the Titan 18 HX this way outside of extremely rare instances. Its bulk will make it difficult to bring it anywhere period, much less somewhere that doesn't have an available wall outlet.

Still, compared to other 18-inch gaming laptops, the Titan 18 HX's battery performance still falls about 20% below the class average of three hours and 27 minutes. That means it doesn't get a total pass from me on battery life, but it is hardly a factor anyone should realistically consider for a laptop like this.

Battery Life: 2.5 / 5

Should you buy the MSI Titan 18 HX?

Buy the MSI Titan 18 HX if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

If my MSI Titan 18 HX review has you considering other options, here are three other laptops to consider:

How I tested the MSI Titan 18 HX

I spent about a month testing the Titan 18 HX
I used our standard suite of benchmark tests
I primarily played games on the Titan 18 HX, though I also used it for general computing and content creation

I spent about a month with the MSI Titan 18 HX, using it as an everyday work machine at home while gaming at night once work was done. I also used it for content creation work with Adobe Photoshop.

This is a gaming laptop, first and foremost, so I tested it with our standard battery of gaming benchmarks and other benchmarks that check for CPU, GPU, and overall system performance.

I've been reviewing laptops for TechRadar for nearly half a decade now, and as a lifelong PC gamer, I know how games should run on given hardware, and how much that hardware should cost you to maximize the value to the consumer. I also have a Master's Degree in Computer Science, so I'm able to really dig in and analyze the nitty-gritty of the hardware in a way many other reviews can't.

First reviewed May 2024

GameSir X2s Type-C mobile controller review: retro design, modern performance

6:07 pm | April 5, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: Far Cry, Forza Horizon | Comments: Off

One-minute review

The GameSir X2s Type-C is a mobile controller that costs less than half the price of the Backbone One or the Razer Kishi V2. Despite this, it still manages to offer a comfortable gaming experience and plug-and-play compatibility with all major game streaming platforms and a wide selection of native mobile titles including Genshin Impact and Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile.

Its retro Nintendo 2DS-inspired aesthetic is charming and, while the plastic used across its construction feels cheap and hollow, the satisfying clicky buttons and Hall effect thumbsticks and triggers are excellent - and features that you'd normally expect to find on some of the best PC controllers. These controls not only feel great but also perform well no matter what kind of game you’re playing. The adjustable Type-C connector is itself a brilliant innovation, greatly reducing the frustration of trying to cram a phone into a retractable mobile controller. It simultaneously ensures compatibility with most phone cases, removing one of my biggest gripes with the Backbone One.

The lack of a headphone jack might be a deal-breaker if you intend to play with a wired pair of any of the best gaming earbuds, for example, but the GameSir X2s Type-C is otherwise an extremely compelling mobile controller that undercuts the competition with a great value price.

GameSir X2s Type-C — (Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Price and availability

$45.99 / £49 / AU$69
Cheaper than the competition
Widely available

The GameSir X2s Type-C is readily available via Amazon in the US, UK, and Australia for $45.99 / £49 / AU$69. It can also be purchased directly from the GameSir website, in addition to an official store on AliExpress. Although frequent discounts are available at AliExpress, you will have to contend with longer shipping times if you go with that option.

Even at full price, however, the GameSir X2s Type-C comes in considerably cheaper than its competition - namely, the Backbone One, which costs $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$179.99, and the Razer Kishi V2, which is $99.99 / £99.99 / AU$169.95. This positions it firmly as a budget alternative to these two controllers and, while it is lesser when it comes to overall build quality, it nevertheless offers excellent value for money.

Specs

Design and features

According to GameSir, the design of the X2s Type-C mobile controller was inspired by the appearance of the Nintendo 2DS. This is evident in the purple hue of its buttons, which are strikingly similar to buttons found on the White and Lavender Nintendo 2DS XL. Despite these surface-level similarities, however, the GameSir X2s Type-C actually shares a lot in common with most other mobile controllers.

Firstly, it features a spring-loaded back, which can be extended to accommodate a phone up to 6.6 in / 168 mm tall. While the extension mechanism operates considerably less smoothly than the one found on the Backbone One, producing quite a rough sound, the controller still fits snugly around most phones and feels very secure once everything is in place. As the name would suggest, the controller connects to your phone through a USB Type-C connector, so is only compatible with the iPhone 15 series or Android devices that feature the port.

On top of the ability to extend the controller, the GameSir X2s Type-C can accommodate an impressive range of phones thanks to the unique moveable nature of its Type-C connector. Unlike the fiddly, static connector of the Backbone One, the connector here can swivel both towards and away from the rest of the controller. This is a fantastic innovation and something that I believe should now become standard across all mobile controllers given just how much it improves the experience.

The added flexibility makes it far easier to attach or remove your phone safely, completely eliminating the risk of damaging your USB-C port or the controller itself if you pull your device away at an angle. It also means that the controller can be used in conjunction with a thin phone case, which is a welcome change. I find that having to remove my case to attach the Backbone One is inconvenient, leaving my phone exposed to potential damage.

Like the Backbone One, the rest of the GameSir X2s Type-C is effectively just two sides of a traditional controller that flanks your phone. There are asymmetrical thumbsticks, a d-pad, a set of face buttons labeled in the Xbox Wireless Controller layout, a screenshot button, a home button, two triggers, and two shoulder buttons. Rather than the conventional ‘Start’ or ‘Select’ though, each side of the controller has either a ‘G’ or ‘S’ button which performs those same functions.

A set of four thumbstick covers is also included in the box. These can be slipped onto the tips of the thumbsticks to give them a slightly larger surface area and a more tactile ribbed finish. Although I didn’t find the need to use them, it still makes for a neat little pack-in bonus.

You can then further customize the feel of the thumbsticks via the GameSir app, which allows you to tweak a range of settings. This includes thumbstick dead zones, trigger actuation depth, or even a toggle to switch to a Joy-Con controller button layout. In addition to a catalog of other GameSir products, there’s a tab containing a handy list of fully compatible mobile titles, with links to the relevant App Store, which could be a great way to source recommendations if you’re wondering what to play.

A Type-C charging port is located on the bottom of the left-hand side of the controller, allowing you to charge your phone while it’s in use. Two small LED lights are present on the right-hand side too, with one illuminating to show when it is connected to a phone and the other indicating whether your phone is charging. Despite ample space, there’s disappointingly no headphone jack to be seen anywhere.

Performance

When I took the GameSir X2s Type-C out of the box, my first impressions were mixed. There’s no avoiding the fact that the plastic used on this controller simply feels cheap in the hands, especially compared to the likes of the Backbone One or Razer Kishi V2. Sure, these are much more expensive controllers, but the hollow-feeling grips of the GameSir X2s Type-C undeniably detract from the experience. Even the rubberized pads that cover the rear of each grip feel cheap, being far too hard to offer any real cushioning. My model also sported quite a few prominent manufacturing seams that tarnish the otherwise clean purple and gray aesthetic.

Still, once you have a phone slotted into place it’s hard to fault the GameSir X2s Type-C in any other areas. Although the thumbsticks are smaller than a standard gamepad, they offer a generous level of motion and feel substantially more precise than the awkward, stubbier set found on the Backbone One. Likewise, the triggers are a very comfortable size and operate responsively. Better still, both the thumbsticks and the triggers make use of Hall effect technology, which should enable them to last considerably longer without developing dead zones or drift.

The micro switch buttons are well-spaced and pleasantly tactile, with engraved lettering like the buttons of the Nintendo 2DS. Similar micro switches are then used in the d-pad, which is a comfortable concave shape. The shoulder buttons are then large, responsive, and produce a very satisfying mechanical click. It’s an excellent set of controls, only further elevated by the fact that every single game I tested worked flawlessly with no tweaking. The native mobile version of Vampire Survivors felt just like I was playing on Nintendo Switch, while my K/D ratio in online Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile matches benefited hugely from the pinpoint accurate thumbsticks and triggers.

This strong performance carried over into game streaming. Jumping into some Far Cry 5 and a fair few matches of Fortnite on Amazon Luna, the controller was instantly recognized by the web app, and the correct controller prompts were automatically displayed. Likewise, Xbox Cloud Gaming via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate was a treat with Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Forza Horizon 5, and a handful of other titles playing wonderfully. If you’re searching for a budget-friendly mobile controller that’s perfect for cloud gaming, few perform better than this.

Should I buy the GameSir X2s Type-C?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

If you’ve got a bit more to spend on a mobile controller, here’s how the GameSir X2s Type-C stacks up against two more premium alternatives.

How I tested the GameSir X2s Type-C

Tested for over 15 hours
Tested with both native mobile titles and game streaming
Compared to other mobile controllers

I used the GameSir X2s Type-C for over 15 hours with a Samsung Galaxy S23+. During that time, I tried a selection of popular native mobile titles including Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, Vampire Survivors, Diablo Immortal, Minecraft, and Genshin Impact. I then used the controller with multiple game streaming services, including Xbox Cloud Streaming and Amazon Luna which I used to explore a wide variety of available games.

As an avid mobile gamer, I also directly compared my experience with the GameSir X2s Type-C with the Backbone One and Razer Kishi V2 in addition to other mobile controllers.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed April 2024

Acer Nitro 16 AMD review: performance on a budget

6:30 pm | January 14, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Gaming Computers Gaming Laptops | Tags: AMD, Far Cry | Comments: Off

Acer Nitro 16 AMD Two-minute review

Writing reviews on gaming laptops with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 like the Acer Nitro 16 AMD is an exercise in splitting hairs. Some are a little more expensive, some are a little cheaper. Some quality of life factors like changes in refresh rate or webcam resolution differ from laptop to laptop. The guts, however, are very similar.

The Acer Nitro 16 AMD, then, is a lot like many of the best budget gaming laptops with its surprisingly solid performance while sitting at the lower end of the gaming laptop spectrum. In its case, it does have that faster refresh rate and a good keyboard with bright RGB backlighting. However, its aesthetics are a bit more aggressively gamer-centric than many of the best gaming laptops, which have in recent times taken lessons from MacBooks and Ultrabooks.

That said, it has a lot to offer, especially for competitive gamers on a budget. You can surely go cheaper with models sporting older GPUs, but those will start to show their limitations much earlier. Because of that, the Acer Nitro 16 AMD is not a hard laptop to recommend for the right budget-conscious gamer.

Acer Nitro 16 AMD on a desk — (Image credit: Future)

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Price & availability

How much does it cost? Starting at $1,249.99 (about £988 / AU$1888)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US. Only older models currently available in UK, and Australia

Acer is no stranger to budget laptops and that’s certainly the case with the Acer Nitro 16 AMD. Whether you go for the most basic model with its $999.99 (about £788 / AU$1,471) price tag and its AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS CPU, 8GB RAM, RTX 4050 GPU, and 512 GB SSD or the max version that clocks in at $1,799.99 (about £1,418 / AU$2,647) and has an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU, 16GB RAM, RTX 4070 GPU, and 1 TB SSD, you’ll be dropping less than a lot of other gaming laptops.

Part of that is the fact that Acer generally runs cheaper than other brands and part of that is that AMD-equipped laptops are often cheaper than similarly specced Intel models. For comparison sake, the Lenovo LOQ 15 (AMD) I reviewed back in October starts at $1,189.99 / £1,080 / AU$2,199 for a model that is very similar with a slightly different CPU, the AMD Ryzen 5 7640S, and a slightly smaller 15.6 inch screen with a 144Hz refresh rate. Of course, it does come in a slightly more attractive package.

The one thing I will complain about here is the fairly different versions of this laptop across different territories. Those in the US have the widest selection while those in the UK have one AMD-equipped model available that’s essentially the review unit with a slightly weaker Ryzen 5 processor. Those in Australia have two – one just like the review configuration and one that’s almost identical but with a Ryzen 7 7840HS CPU.

Price score: 4.5 / 5

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Specs

The Acer Nitro 16 AMD, being a budget-oriented gaming laptop, comes with a fairly limited array of options despite there being up to 11 options depending on your territory.

The processors range from the AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS 3.30GHz chip to the AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS 4.0GHz one. RAM ranges from 8GB to 32GB. And, the GPU goes from the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 to the 4070.

Strangely, the weakest CPU is not in the cheapest model as that one has less RAM. And, the most expensive model with that AMD Ryzen 9 CPU doesn’t have the highest amount of RAM.

Beyond the internal components, there aren't any other variables to worry about such as colorways or displays.

Regardless of which model you get, you end up with a 16-inch 1900 x 1200p screen with a 165Hz refresh rate.

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Design

Chunkier, gamer-centric in design
Some ports on the back
16:10 1920 x 1200 screen with 165Hz refresh rate

As far as aesthetics go, the Acer Nitro 16 AMD does not pull its punches when it comes to its gamer looks. From the angled blue and reddish lines adorning the laptop lid as well as the aggressive looking N (for “Nitro”) on the lid as well as under the screen, this laptop is not going to pass as a non-gaming laptop the way a Razer laptop can.

Of course, it doesn’t help that it is pretty bulky, not only in size but in weight, especially considering that it weighs 5.95 lbs (2.70 kg). And, it certainly looks chunky. It is over an inch thick – the same as two MacBook Airs stacked on top of each other.

Since this is a budget gaming laptop, that form factor is somewhat to be expected. At least Acer made sure to put plenty of venting underneath and on the sides. Because of the side venting though, not all the ports fit on the sides as some of them, namely the power, HDMI and USB-C ones are on the back. Some people like having ports on the back for a cleaner look. I don’t as I find them to be harder to access.

Acer Nitro 16 AMD side view showing ports — (Image credit: Future)

On the bright side, Acer included a 16:10 1920 x 1200 display with a speedy 165Hz refresh rate (and 3ms response time), which is perfect for competitive gamers. Of course, it’s basically a slightly larger 1080p screen so you’re not going to step up in resolution. However, that’s never the case with budget gaming laptops. Still, it’s a good screen. Plus, it has a 125% sRGB color gamut and at least the review unit came with a Delta-E of 0.22 so you can do some photo editing here. Its DCI-P3 coverage is 89%, so it’s not as ideal for professional video editing.

As far as the keyboard and trackpad go, they’re more than competent for regular use. The keyboard is easy to type on with a nice textured feel. I didn’t find that I experienced any missed presses when gaming.

More interesting is the fact that it has full-color backlighting, though only in four zones so you won’t be able to adjust key by key.

Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Nitro 16 AMD keyboard lights — (Image credit: Future)

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Performance

Very good 1080p (well, 1200p) performance
Sound quality is decent
Webcam is disappointing

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Benchmarks

Here's how the Acer Nitro 16 AMD performed in our suite of benchmark tests:

3DMark: Port Royal: 4,682; Fire Strike: 19,390; Time Spy: 8,472
GeekBench 6.1: 2,593.7 (single-core); 10,798.3 (multi-core)
25GB File Copy: 14.1s
Handbrake 1.6: 5:25
CrossMark: Overall: 1,799 Productivity: 1,781 Creativity: 1,859 Responsiveness: 1,681
Far Cry 6 1080p (Ultra) 76 fps
Cyberpunk 2077: 1080p (Ultra) 23.44 fps
Web Surfing (Battery Informant): 9:15:40
PCMark 10 Battery Life (Gaming): 2:26

I’ve continually been impressed by all the laptops I’ve tested with a Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU. And, that continues to be true with the Acer Nitro 16 AMD. Obviously, there’s a ceiling to that performance.

For instance, this laptop can achieve a 64.7 fps on Cyberpunk 2077 on Ultra settings, but as soon as ray tracing is on, the fps drops like an anchor. Just look at the benchmark for Far Cry 6 – it also gets 76 fps on Ultra.

In more real world testing, I’ve been able to run Starfield and Hogwarts Legacy at higher than expected settings. Of course, that’s with ray tracing off and a tick or two off Ultra settings. Still, the results were very playable with just a tiny bit of screen tearing. Turning on Vsync takes care of that.

Acer Nitro 16 AMD running an app — (Image credit: Future)

It’s important to note also that the Acer Nitro 16 AMD is also running that display at a 165Hz refresh rate so getting the results is even more impressive. That means this is perfect for competitive gamers on a budget. To test, I ran Battlefield 2042 and had stable results without any issues at high settings.

As far as the sound goes, it’s not going to win any awards but it’s serviceable, just lacking some low end. The webcam is a little less impressive with its peak 720p resolution. It also gets a bit grainy.

Performance score: 4 / 5

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Battery life

Decent battery life for regular use
Not very good when gaming

The battery life of the Acer Nitro 16 AMD is about as interesting as an episode of the Great American Baking Show (yes, it does exist). Yes, we must discuss. You’re not going to be wowed with its longevity. But, it’s ok in certain instances.

When using it in a non-gaming capacity, you can get a little over nine hours of use. For a gaming laptop, that’s pretty good. Of course, you’ll want to be plugged in to actually game as it can only get just under two and a half hours when playing titles. Other than some configurations of the Asus Rog Zephyrus, most gaming laptops have not cracked the battery code.

Battery life score: 3 / 5

Should you buy the Acer Nitro 16 AMD?

Buy it if...

You’re a competitive gamer
With an RTX 4050 GPU and a screen with a 165Hz refresh rate, you’ll be able to keep up in the fastest competitive games, skill notwithstanding.

You’re on a budget
You don’t have to spend all that much relatively to get quality gaming performance. The only way to go cheaper is to go console or with an older GPU that might not keep up.

Don't buy it if...

You want a more portable gaming machine
It’s bulky and on the heavy side so the Acer Nitro 16 AMD is not an ideal grab-and-go gaming machine, not to mention that the battery life isn’t all that great either.

Acer Nitro 16 AMD: Also consider

If our Acer Nitro 16 AMD review has you considering other options, here are two laptops to consider...

How I tested the HP Victus 16

Tested for a couple weeks
Pushed it as hard as possible gaming-wise
Played with various settings

I used the Acer Nitro 16 AMD for a couple weeks, playing a number of demanding games like Starfield, Hogwarts Legacy, Battlefield 2042 and Cyberpunk 2077. While doing so, I ran the games at various settings, particularly at the highest ones with ray tracing on wherever possible, and took note of the results. I also tested each aspect of the laptop from the keyboard and trackpad to the webcam and speakers.

After spending time with the Acer Nitro 16 AMD, it’s clear that this is meant to be a budget-conscious model for those that care about competitive gaming or for those that want something affordable while still equipped with a current generation GPU.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing tech gear for gaming and otherwise, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2024

HP Victus 16: a strong 1080p gaming machine

1:30 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Gaming Computers Gaming Laptops | Tags: Far Cry | Comments: Off

HP Victus 16: Two-minute review

The newest trend in some of the best gaming laptops are ones equipped with Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 such as the HP Victus 16 reviewed here. These laptops are about as cheap as you can go while still getting one of Nvidia’s 4000 series GPUs. They still manage to offer some relatively powerful performance, especially when compared to the budget options from yesteryear equipped with 3000 series graphics cards.

In the case of the HP Victus 16, its pricing somewhat precludes it from the best budget gaming laptops, but it’s close. It’s more mid-range pricing and solid performance, as long as you don’t need max settings and Ray Tracing on in titles like Cyberpunk 2077, does make a good option for those looking at the best gaming laptops that want a nice balance between price and specs.

Now, there’s nothing that makes this particularly unique. But, that’s going to be the case for most of the competition as well. Whether you get this or a different 4050-equipped model like the Lenovo LOQ 15 (AMD) is going to come down to if you want to save a couple hundred bucks or want some slightly more powerful components. Or, maybe you prefer a certain brand or aesthetic.

HP Victus 16 gaming laptop on a desk playing a game — (Image credit: Future)

HP Victus 16: Price & availability

How much does it cost? Starting at $1,249.99 (about £988 / AU$1888)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US. Only older models currently available in UK, and Australia

Let’s get the hard part out of the way first. Residents of the UK and Australia may see language on the HP site about the all new Victus 16, but they’re unfortunately stuck with the last generation equipped with Nvidia RTX 3000 series GPUs. Hopefully that will change soon, though that’s not the case at the time of writing.

If you’re lucky enough to have access to the US store, there are two customizable configurations – one for AMD and one for Intel with the AMD being slightly cheaper, starting at $1,249.99 (about £1,000 / AU$1,900).

Maxing these configurations gives you a fairly robust laptop that’s not too expensive compared to other maxed out gaming laptops as the kitted out Intel configuration with a 13th-Gen Intel Core i7, 32GB RAM, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, and 1TB SSD, not to mention a 1440p screen with a 240Hz refresh rate will set you back $2,169.99 (about £1,715 / AU$3,280).

The configuration reviewed here, which is a standard non-customizable one under the model designation 16-r0097nr goes for $1449.99 (about £1,150 / AU$2,190). Not bad for a 13th-Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, and 1TB SSD.

Price-wise, you can find cheaper budget gaming laptops with similar specs. The MSI Katana 15 (2023) goes for $999 (about £785 / AU$1,550) without any upgrades and includes 13th-Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, and 1TB SSD. However, it sports a slightly weaker Intel Core i7 chip and slower speed RAM. The battery life on the MSI is much worse as is the webcam, though it is a bit lighter.

Price score: 4 / 5

HP Victus 16: Specs

The HP Victus comes in a few different configurations. There are a few standard configurations including the review unit, which comes with a 13th-Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, and 1TB SSD as well as a similar AMD version that comes with a Ryzen 7 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060.

However, there are customizable versions for both Intel and AMD configurations. It’s not a wide range as you’re looking at either an AMD Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7 CPU, Intel Core i5 or i7, 16 or 32GB RAM, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 4060, or 4070 GPU, and 512GB or 1TB SSD.

Beyond the internal components, you can upgrade the screen with the customizable configurations to not only a 1440p resolution, but a faster refresh rate going up to 240Hz from the standard 60Hz (there’s also an option for 144Hz).

You can also upgrade from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E as well as the battery and color. Just be aware that the standard configurations like this model, specifically referred to as 16-r0097nr, are not customizable.

HP Victus 16: Design

Slightly gaming-centric look
Plenty of venting
Good keyboard and trackpad

The HP Victus 16 has followed the recent trend of having an only slightly gaming-centric aesthetic. You’re not going to see it in all its matte-black glory and confuse it for an Ultrabook. But, it doesn’t have the aggressive lines and streaks of red that older gaming laptops had.

At a little over five pounds, it’s a little chunky but it’s portable enough if you need it to be. Of course, it does house a 16.1-inch 1080p screen with relatively thin bezels outlining, though unfortunately it only has a 60Hz refresh rate (unless you go the customization route). At least, it has 300 nits of brightness – no HDR on hand with this one.

There’s quite a bit of venting around the Victus. Not only is it on the back and sides but a large section of the plastic shell underneath is vented. Because of this, I never experienced any throttling or overheating, though some intensive gaming sessions with Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield did make the laptop warm to the touch right above the keyboard and around the back.

Underneath of the HP Victus 16 gaming laptop — (Image credit: Future)

As far as ports go, adequate is probably the best description. It comes with three USB-A ports, one USB-C, one HDMI 2.1, an ethernet port, and headphone jack. It would be nice to get a second USB-C as everything is transitioning to that standard, but that’s a very minor quibble. The port selection is about what one would expect on a current gaming laptop.

The keyboard and trackpad are solid enough. They’re not going to replace a mechanical keyboard and gaming mouse (let’s be real, you’re going to need an external mouse for any gaming anyways). But, they were comfortable enough to use while typing up this review, for example, and navigating the world wide web.

Lastly, the HP Victus comes with a 1080p webcam, which in and of itself is of a higher quality than what I usually see on budget / mid-tier gaming laptops. More impressively is the fact that HP decided to include a physical shutter for privacy.

Design score: 4 / 5

HP Victus 16 gaming laptop close up of ports — (Image credit: Future)

HP Victus 16: Performance

Very good 1080p gaming performance
Refresh rate could be limitation for some gamers
Good-for-laptop audio

HP Victus 16: Benchmarks

Here's how the HP Victus 16 performed in our suite of benchmark tests:

3DMark: Port Royal: N/A; Fire Strike: 20,526; Time Spy: 8,737
GeekBench 6.1: 2,671 (single-core); 14,161 (multi-core)
25GB File Copy: 14.9s
Handbrake 1.6: 5:34
CrossMark: Overall: 1,730 Productivity: 1,647 Creativity: 1,945 Responsiveness: 1,407
Far Cry 6 1080p (Ultra) 77 fps
Cyberpunk 2077: 1080p (Ultra) 23.65 fps
Web Surfing (Battery Informant): 7:03:33
PCMark 10 Battery Life (Gaming): 1:40

The performance on the HP Victus 16 is like many of the gaming laptops with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050. It’s an exercise in compromising on settings to get good gameplay. Since this laptop comes with 16GB RAM at its lowest configuration and only has to power a 1080p screen at a 60Hz refresh rate, that 4050 GPU is more than enough, meaning you don’t have to compromise too much.

You’ll want to skip the Ray Tracing for instance. If you take a look at our benchmarks, for example, Cyberpunk 2077 managed just 24 fps. When I run the game at Ultra but with high textures and no Ray Tracing, the fps count instantly jumps to 78. This is after the most recent updates, so that’s pretty impressive.

On a similar note, I was able to run Starfield at high settings with minimal screen tearing or lag, which went away as soon as I turned on Vsync without any perceivable loss in quality. In essence, unless you need a super fast refresh rate for competitive gaming or need the ultimate gaming experience, you’re not going to feel like you’re compromising when using this computer.

While I prefer using the Kanto Ora speakers I have set up with them, the sound quality of the speakers were decent. Whether or not Bang & Olufsen were able to sprinkle magic dust on them or not, I didn’t find there to be anything too lacking with them. Of course, there’s not much in the way of low-end as is the case with most laptops. But, it doesn’t sound hollow like a lot of laptops I’ve used.

When it comes to the webcam, it offers a decently crisp image with minimal noise and can automatically focus on my face when moving around. It is capped at 30 fps, however, so it’s not going to be the smoothest looking video if that’s important to you.

Performance score: 4.5 / 5

HP Victus 16: Battery life

Decent battery life if not gaming
Mileage may vary with some configurations

While gaming laptops not named Asus Rog Zephyrus are generally terrible when it comes to battery life. For instance, the MSI Katana 15 mentioned before lasted just 40 minutes in the PCMark 10 battery life for gaming benchmark. The HP Victus 16 lasted a more respectable hour and 40 minutes. That’s still not all that great, but gaming is a pretty demanding task and requires a lot of resources.

On the bright side, if you decide to get the HP Victus 16, you can use it for a decent amount of time unplugged if you don’t run any games on it. Specifically, in our Web Surfing Battery Informant benchmark, this laptop lasted a good seven hours. That’s not too bad if you need to use it on the road. Just be aware that some upgrades such as a screen with a higher refresh rate may negatively impact the battery life.

Battery life score: 4 / 5

Should you buy the HP Victus 16?

Buy it if...

You want good 1080p performance
With only a few compromises like skipping Ray Tracing, you can get some really good 1080p gaming on this machine.

You’re trying to get the best performance without splurging
It might be among the pricier 4050-equipped gaming laptops out there, but it’s a bit more powerful than the competition, making it ideal for those wanting as much performance as possible under $1,500.

Don't buy it if...

You want excellent performance no matter the game
While you can get great performance in some games, there are already some games, as mentioned above, that you can’t play with the settings maxed out. If you want to see a game like Starfield at its full potential, you’ll need something more powerful.

HP Victus 16: Also consider

If our HP Victus 16 review has you considering other options, here are two laptops to consider...

How I tested the HP Victus 16

Tested for a couple weeks
Pushed it as hard as possible gaming-wise
Played with various settings

I used the HP Victus 16 for a couple of weeks, playing several demanding games like Starfield, Hogwards Legacy, Control, and Cyberpunk 2077. While doing so, I ran the games at various settings, particularly at the highest ones with ray tracing on wherever possible, and took note of the results. I also tested each aspect of the laptop from the keyboard and trackpad to the webcam and speakers.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing tech gear for gaming and otherwise, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2024

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora review – pretty, average

7:41 pm | December 6, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: Far Cry, PC | Comments: Off

Review info

Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5
Release date: 7 December, 2023

If there’s one thing that Ubisoft can do better than anyone else, it’s open-world collect-’em-ups. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is, ostensibly, an open-world collect-’em-up. However, somehow, despite Ubisoft being the reigning world champion of games where you mosey around a map polishing off side-quests and hoovering up loot, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora fails to make the moseying, polishing, or hoovering particularly compelling, making the game hard to recommend.

On the surface, Frontiers of Pandora presents itself like a Far Cry game. In reality, poor combat and some slight jank make it worse than most of the titles in that franchise. This is unfortunate because with the Na’Vi protagonist being so invested in stealth, the superhuman abilities they possess, and the giant jungle for you to stalk your prey in, this actually feels more like Far Cry than many of the games that followed it in its own franchise.

As it stands, the main reason to play Frontiers of Pandora is to visit the world of the game’s title, with the moon of Pandora offering up vibrant plant life and one of the best jungles in video game history.

Sadly, the artistic brilliance of the world of Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels somewhat unfocused. It’s beautiful, but the weapons and gear you find feel much less interesting, and the UI looks average. But, from the second you first step into the trees after the game’s tutorial, you’ll fall in love, and that sense of amazement doesn’t go away.

Hard to Na'vigate

Avatar Frontiers of Pandora review

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Avatar enthusiasm isn’t enough to support the entire game. The narrative is a little too earnest for my liking, but that’s a criticism that I also level at the Avatar movies, so it does feel authentic enough, and the story does feel somewhat distinct from the many other “gather strength and wage a guerilla war” games that have come out over the last decade. You spend a lot of time with an assortment of forgettable faces early on, and I struggled to care about many of them. Mostly because the glacial pace meant that I was often being sent out into the world to find new character after new character even while I petulantly kicked my heels, desperate to be allowed to get out and kill the bad guys. I get that this is a problem with me, but it still takes Frontiers of Pandora a really long time to get started, and it makes it a tough game to get invested in.

When you do get stuck in, there’s something that feels distinctly off about the combat. In my first real engagement, an enemy mechanized suit seemed unable to notice me, looking blankly into the horizon as I plinked arrow after arrow into his suit until it exploded. Human sentries, half my size and largely ineffectual, blended into the shrubs until I found them by the pulsing red icons showing me where damage was coming from.

Best bit

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Exploring Pandora, the fictional moon where Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora takes place, is divine. Your character is fast and agile and the world is perfectly designed to have you leap between giant trees and slide around at lightning speed.

At first, you fight with Navi weapons, a bow, and a sling that can fire proximity mines. These are fine for the early fights and I whooped the first time a critical hit on a mech suit with the bow saw my arrow plow through the hardened glass and kill the human operator inside. However, as the enemies start to get more durable, few of the weapons in Frontiers of Pandora feel like they have a real impact.

Nowhere is this felt more than with the bog standard assault rifle, which plinks rounds into enemies with an unsatisfying whump, closer to Nerf gun than a lethal weapon, and in comparison, I’d rather just be smacking people with my giant alien knees.

Over time you’ll level up, explore a skill tree filled with uninspiring skills and craft, loot, or hunt down a variety of different gear and resources. The jungle, beautiful as it is, doesn’t have a whole lot to do in it, but you’ll have to plow on with it anyway because progression is gated behind certain abilities or levels.

It’s okay because the best way to amuse yourself on the way is to massacre Pandora’s local wildlife.

Far cry me to the moon

Avatar Frontiers of Pandora review

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Avatar has an incredibly strong environmental message: the Resources Development Administration (RDA) that you fight all of the time is destroying Pandora’s natural environment with their very existence: wilting the local wildlife, spewing pillars of smoke into the air and just being very naughty boys for the environment.

But honestly, I’m not sure my Na’vi is any better. The most tonally dissonant part of Avatar is how much pulling up roots, hunting animals, and running through the jungle mashing the F key to gather items goes against the ecological message at the heart of both the game and the Avatar movie series as a whole. Yes, no one doubts that hunting for food or crafting new leather gear is what the Na’vi in the universe of the film get up to, but it feels like murdering scores of native wildlife to get yourself a new pair of gloves every 30 minutes isn’t really in the spirit of things, you know? If I’m taking out an entire herd of animals so I can flog their parts for profit, am I really that different from the RDA?

Accessibility

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

A user interface menu has a highly customisable color blind mode that allows you to customise the colours while looking at a tester screen to see how it's working for you. The gameplay menu lets you make the gathering or several other areas instant instead of the usual minigame, which could suit for many people.

Frontiers of Pandora isn’t interested in these questions, only in a byzantine crafting system that triggers my fight or flight response every time I have to interact with it. The Breath of the Wild-inspired cooking system gets a pass just because it makes me laugh to make an eggy salad or mushroom-stuffed fish, though.

Unfortunately, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora ultimately feels like the movies that inspired it: a beautiful world and fascinating setting are let down by the shallow world around it. If you’re a true Avatar head, this is your dream, but if not it’s hard not to think of the many better examples of the genre I’d rather be playing instead.

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