Assembling a PC from scratch is a familiar task for many tech enthusiasts, but the concept of building your own PC case might be novel to some. The PowerColor Qube 500 Flatpack, a new entrant in the compact PC case market, brings a unique DIY aspect to PC building.
Following in the footsteps of the In Win Airforce, the Qube 500 aims to elevate the build-your-own-case concept with an appealing design, versatility, and value, while offering easy to follow instructions via PowerColor's YouTube channel. No matter where you are in your PC building journey, if you've got a motherboard and one of the best graphics cards that will fit in this one, you should definitely give it a look as it earns an unqualified place on our best PC case list.
The Qube 500 arrives flatpacked, which is going to be easily recognizable for anyone who's put together an Ikea table. The review unit I assembled, the Macaron edition, is a sleek and modern white base with different colored panels to further personalize your build. But, the case is also available in a pure white or pure black versions.
The design integrates removable faces with dust covers and a handy top-mounted handle on either side, making carrying the case a breeze. The front I/O includes a USB Type-C port, two USB Type-A ports, a power button with an LED indicator, and a headphone/microphone combo jack, so you'll get all the basics covered with this case.
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
The back panel hosts a power plug, seven-slot expansion-card bracket suitable for vertical graphics card mounting, with a maximum length of 365mm for a GPU.
There is also a pre-installed 120mm exhaust fan, and while PowerColor says that fitting a 140mm fan is possible, I honestly don't see (and unfortunately, I didn't have a 140mm fan handy to test that claim with). The rest of the case supports up to two 140mm fans on each of the top, bottom, front, and side panels, offering considerable cooling options, especially since the sides themselves are reasonably open, allowing for considerable airflow throughout.
The Qube 500's interior is very well designed, accommodating a 3.5-inch drive on vibration-damping grommets and an additional mounts for both 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drives. The layout ensures very efficient space utilization, ideal for a compact case, and assembling the PC section-by-section via the YouTube tutorial helps ensure that you're able to squeeze everything you can into the case.
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
The Qube 500's assembly is straightforward, thanks to the included installation guide, cable ties, case feet, screws, standoffs, and drive mounting pins, though I can't stress enough that you follow along with the YouTube assembly guide (as well as the advanced assembly guide). The interior layout is designed for ease of component installation, supporting both full-size ATX12V power supplies. The case's compactness is noteworthy, though it poses some limitations for front fan placement and long graphics cards when using a full-ATX power supply upfront.
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
The PowerColor Qube 500 stands out for its build-it-yourself appeal and the satisfaction of creating not just the PC but its housing. This is honestly the ideal project to work with a younger sibling or cousin to help build their first PC, and it also appeals to experienced builders with its budget-friendly price and the novelty of the assembly process. While the building aspect might seem superfluous to some, the case's design, configurability, and price point make this one of the more compelling PC cases on the market despite its apparent simplicity.
The Qube 500 is a testament to PowerColor's innovative approach to PC case design, offering a unique and enjoyable building experience without compromising on functionality and performance. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or looking for a budget-friendly, compact case with good performance, the Qube 500 is an excellent choice that brings a new dimension to custom PC building.
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
PowerColor Qube 500: Price & availability
How much does it cost? $99.99 (about £80 / AU$140)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia
The PowerColor Qube 500 Flatpack comes in three color options, white or black (with an MSRP of $79.99, or £89.99 in the UK and AU$145 in Australia), or the multi-color Macaron kit (with an MSRP of $99.99, or £104.99 in the UK and AU$167.50 in Australia).
This doesn't make it the cheapest PC case around, but it's definitely not the most expensive either, and considering that there really aren't a whole lot of cases like it, this one is well worth the extra investment despite it lacking fancy features like touchscreens or wraparound glass enclosures.
PowerColor Qube 500: Specs
Should you buy the PowerColor Qube 500 Flatpack?
Buy the PowerColor Qube 500 Flatpack if...
You want a great DIY PC build project
Whether for yourself or helping someone get into PC building, this case is fun to assemble and looks fantastic, especially with the Macaron colors.
You want great ventilation
The amount of airflow in this case is fantastic thanks to the fairly open sides.
Don't buy it if...
You need a massive case If you've got a load of 140mm PC fans with huge radiators or massive CPU tower coolers, this case will likely be too small for you.
You want that ol' time PC gamer aesthetic
If you're looking for the RGB and stealth bomber aesthetic of a typical gaming PC, you might be able to get away with that with the all-black case, but otherwise, this is way too pastel for any kind of "battlestation" aesthetic.
We pride ourselves on our independence and our rigorous review-testing process, offering up long-term attention to the products we review and making sure our reviews are updated and maintained - regardless of when a device was released, if you can still buy it, it's on our radar.
When it comes to advancing the tech of OLED TVs, brightness is usually the big battleground, and Panasonic is putting forward its best fighter yet. The flagship Panasonic Z95A OLED TV for 2024 is a knockout in picture quality from my earlier experience with it, combining Panasonic's 'Master OLED Ultimate' panel with boosted micro lens array (MLA) tech and an upgraded processor to achieve next-level brightness.
The new Panasonic Z95A model was announced on January 8, and while I've seen it in action, I haven't yet been able to measure just how much brighter it is – but given that last year's flagship Panasonic MZ2000 beat out the competition (it achieved 1,480 nits in Filmmaker mode and 1,366 nits in Standard picture mode, making it brighter than the LG G3 and Samsung S95C), there's a good chance we might see a repeat of this result over the LG G4 and Samsung S95D in 2024.
Outside of the upgraded panel, Panasonic has also made some other big changes, including a partnership with Amazon to use the Fire TV software instead of Panasonic's own platform. This brings together Panasonic's elite TV tech with Amazon's slick interface, which means that you can access all of Fire TV's bevy of smart features, such as Alexa-enabled smart home control, its Ambient Experience, and its great streaming service support. There are also new gaming features, including a 144Hz refresh rate for PC gamers, but the Z95A still only comes with two HDMI 2.1 ports.
Will the Panasonic Z95A be this year's best OLED TV? It's far too early to tell without being able to do our own test of the picture quality, but I did get a look at it during CES 2024, and was bowled over by its crisp picture detail and intuitive smart home features.
Panasonic's Z95A: Likely price and availability
From left to right, the 77-inch Z93A beside the 65-inch and 55-inch Z95A in the Panasonic booth at CES 2024. (Image credit: Future)
Announced in January 2024
Likely to be released later this year
No confirmed price yet
The Panasonic Z95A OLED TV comes in two screen sizes, both 55- and 65-inches. Unlike last year's MZ2000, though, the TV maker has released the larger 77-inch size under a different model name. It's calling it the Z93A and from what we can tell, this mainly comes down to the fact that it uses a 'Master OLED Pro Cinema panel', which is essentially the same as you'll find in the Panasonic MZ1500 (i.e. no MLA), making it less bright than the Z95A (which is visible in person, but the Z93A certainly isn't dim by OLED standards).
As is usual with Panasonic TVs, these won't come to the US, but will be available in the UK, Europe and Japan. When will they be available to buy in these markets? Panasonic will likely release the TVs much later this year (the MZ200 arrived in the second half of 2023) so we don't yet know how much they will cost. But we expect to see similar prices to the MZ2000, which launched at £2,699 for the 55-inch, £3,599 for the 65-inch, and £4,499 for the 77-inch.
It would be nice if Panasonic could bring down the cost of the sets to be more in line with its rivals this year – last year's MZ2000 was priced higher than the same sized 65-inch LG G3, and 55-inch and 77-inch Samsung S95C – but it's not likely. Panasonic uses much more advanced speaker tech, which must add to the price, for example.
Panasonic's Z95A: Features
A Panasonic spokesperson demonstrates the new Fire TV features by asking Alexa to open the curtains and turn on the lights. (Image credit: Future)
Fire TV Ambient Experience and Alexa widgets
Access to Apple Home and Google Assistant
144Hz refresh rate for PC gamers
The most attention grabbing new feature with the Z95A is the Amazon Fire TV software. It replaces Panasonic's smart TV platform, my Home Screen 8.0, which was what we found to be one of the downsides in last year's MZ2000 because it was clunky and difficult to navigate. The home screen is now a curated feed of the best streaming services, allowing you to see what you're watching instantly and easily navigate between apps. You can also set up a profile so you can better curate personalized recommendations.
Access to the Fire TV Ambient Experience also means that the Z95A can be a central hub for your smart home, giving you the ability to control smart home devices with Alexa. During a demo of these features, we were able to see how you could simply command Alexa to draw the curtains or turn off the lights via the TV. Even in a busy convention center, the mics were able to pick up commands like "Alexa turn on the lights" or "Alexa open the curtains" and trigger the actions on an adorably miniature sized home model (as seen in the picture above). With access to Apple Home, AirPlay and Google Chromecast, you'll also be able to use tools like viewing a security camera's livestream. It's very much the future of home tech that puts the TV at the center of the home.
As for gamers, the Z95A is packed to the brim with gaming features, including 4K 144Hz as a new feature (compared to 4K 120Hz in the MZ2000), while VRR, ALLM, AMD FreeSync Premium, Nvidia G-Sync and Dolby Vision gaming capabilities all return from last year's MZ2000. However, there are still only two HDMI 2.1 ports, which is a bit of a shame considering the focus on improving the gaming experience as a whole.
Panasonic packed in an improved processor called the HCX Pro AI Processor Mk II, which not only enhances the picture quality but powers new gaming features, such as a new Game Mode Extreme that instantly updates the TV's settings to be more gaming optimized. To access these features, there's also the Game Control Board, which works as a dashboard for all the adjustable gaming settings.
Panasonic Z95A: Picture quality
Even though they're small dots (admittedly in bunches), the white tones in this image pop a little more on the Z95A (left) than the MZ980 (right). In real life, it's even starker. (Image credit: Future)
Master OLED Pro Cinema panel with MLA tech
Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ Adaptive and HLG support
It's the enhanced HCX Pro AI Processor Mk II that's also behind a lot of the improved picture quality in the Panasonic Z95A. In addition to Dolby Vision gaming at 144Hz, the chip powers Dolby Vision IQ Precision for added picture precision and brightness. It's also behind a new '4K Remaster Engine', which Panasonic says gives automatic noise reduction a boost when watching the best streaming services. Outside of Dolby Vision, there's also the usual support for popular formats such as HDR10+ Adaptive, HDR10 and HLG.
The combination of the new processor, boosted MLA panel and Panasonic's multi-layer heat management configuration has given the Z95A a boost in brightness and overall picture quality. When viewing the model next to the Z93A during a demo, the lack of MLA in the larger model is slightly noticeable. But what was even more of a stark contrast was when comparing the Z95A to the MZ980, which of course isn't exactly a fair comparison given that it's not the flagship model from last year, but uses a 'regular' OLED panel without MLA or Panasonic's other brightness-boosting tech.
Regardless, I could see that the whites were far starker and stood out considerably – in fact by so much that you can even slightly see the difference in the picture above for yourself (if you look at the center of the image, the whites appear more fuller and brighter on the left than they do on the right), though this is way more pronounced in person. The spectrum of colors was also another major difference between the two. The Z95A set looked to have a level richness that made it pop a lot more when compared to the MZ980.
Panasonic Z95A: Sound quality
The 55-inch and 65-inch Z95A shown off at the Panasonic conference during CES 2024. (Image credit: Future)
Dolby Atmos sound with 360 Soundscape Pro
Customizable directional speakers
The audio quality of the Z95A was another high point during the demo. Panasonic's 360 Soundscape Pro tech provides Dolby Atmos spatial audio with seven speaker channels, which means you won't need one of the best soundbars to get immersive audio.
During the demo, I also got to test out the 'Pinpoint Positioning' feature in the audio settings, which lets you manually adjust the direction of the speakers depending on your living room setup. While most households will no doubt sit directly in front of their TVs, I can see this feature being useful in more of a mismatch setting – it steers the 'sweet spot' of the sound to wherever you're sitting, including off to the side.
From a technical standpoint, the only slight difference between the 55- and 65-inch Z95A is that the larger model has a slightly higher wattage of 160W (compared to 150W). In terms of the speaker channels, there are two side-firing, two upward-firing, three forward firing, and a subwoofer.
Panasonic Z95A: Early verdict
The Z95A delivers richer colors than the MZ980 when shown side by side. (Image credit: Future)
While the Panasonic Z95A OLED TV may not look too different on the surface from last year's MZ2000 – it has the same swivel design and black bezels – there's a lot going on under the hood that shows how it has improved.
From what I've seen so far, my first impressions are that it has a lot of promise to be a knockout OLED TV in 2024 and I'll be excited to hear more about what Panasonic decides on the pricing front, and to get it in our testing labs. As ever, it's such a pity that our US readers will miss out on it.
CPU: Intel Core i9-12900H, 14-cores / 20-threads, Up to 5 GHz, 24MB cache Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 RAM: DDR5, expandable (specific capacity not provided) Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD, expandable Rear Ports: Thunderbolt 4, 6 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x 3.5mm audio, 2 x 2.5 GBE Ethernet, SD card reader Front Ports: USB Type-A, USB Type-C, audio in 3.5mm, SD Card slot Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 Size: 165mm x 180mm x 158mm Weight: 2.17kg OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro
The Acemagic Tank 03 stands out instantly as different compared with many other mini PCs, not just for its larger size striking design, but also its high-end internals such as the Intel Core i9-12900H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060, providing desktop-grade gaming performance in a compact form. Unique to this model is the front dial for performance mode switching, allowing users to toggle between energy-saving, balanced, and high-performance modes seamlessly.
In gaming tests, the Tank 03 demonstrates its power with high frame rates and stunning graphics, thanks to the GeForce RTX 3060. Its ability to support quad-screen displays enhances the gaming and multitasking experience. The cooling system, featuring three independent systems, managed heat well both for gaming and video editing, helping to keep noise levels low.
Design-wise, it is larger than many of the best mini PCs we've reviewed. However, it retains a compactness that still gives it an advantage over standard desktops, as well as making it realistically portable if needed. Its industrial aesthetic, combined with customisable RGB lighting, gives it a unique appearance. The ease of upgrading RAM and SSD through accessible panels is a welcome feature if you do look to upgrade from the standard configuration.
However, the premium pricing of the mini PC - starting at $1300 for the i7 variant - might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Its plastic exterior, while of decent quality, may not appeal to those seeking a more premium feel.
Overall, the Acemagic Tank 03 excels in delivering a high-performance gaming experience in a mini PC format, with the versatility to adapt to different performance needs. Its design and build quality, while on the larger side for a mini PC, offer a practical and attractive solution for gamers and creative professionals seeking power and portability.
Acemagic Tank 03: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
With its high-end specs and gaming-oriented features, prices start at a not inconsiderable $1300 for the i7 variant. Costs increase with the i9 CPU and other upgrades. While the price is steep compared to even the best business PCs, it offers a compact, versatile alternative to any of the best business laptops, with comparable performance. It's available on the office Acemagic website, Amazon, and other online retailers. SO, you shouldn't have any trouble tracking one down.
Score: 4/5
Acemagic Tank 03: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Acemagic Tank 03 breaks from the usual mini PC design formula and instead goes for something bold and far more in line with the styling of the latest gaming desktop PCs. The look is somewhere between industrial and futuristic, and it's a striking-looking machine.
Having a larger footprint than typical mini PCs, it does require a little more on the side of desk space, but still nothing compared with a full-sized PC. Measuring 165mm x 180mm x 158mm and weighing 2.17kg, it maintains a certain compactness, yet its size reflects the powerful components within. The exterior is primarily plastic, a choice that might not resonate with those seeking a metallic finish, but it's of a quality that feels robust and durable. Its industrial look is further enhanced by customisable RGB lighting, adding a personal touch and elevating its visual appeal, especially for gamers and tech enthusiasts.
A standout feature of the Tank 03's design is its innovative cooling, which is needed considering the hardware. It features three independent cooling systems crucial for managing the heat generated by the high-power internals. This design not only ensures everything stays relatively cool but also enables that machine to maintain lower noise levels, particularly in its high-performance modes.
One of the practical design elements here is the ease of access for upgrades with quick removal panels on each side, one for adding the best RAM and bumping up storage with the best SSD upgrades.
Design: 4/5
Acemagic Tank 03: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
SO, this mini PC packs in features that cater to a diverse range of computing needs, blending high performance with versatility, although one look at the machine instantly highlights that this is directly aimed at gamers and those who need a computer capable of those kinds of workloads - a space-saving alternative to the best video editing laptops, for example, or the best laptops photo editing. At its core is the powerful Intel Core i9-12900H processor, with 14 cores and 20 threads, capable of speeds up to 5 GHz. This formidable CPU is paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, making the TANK 03 an ideal machine for advanced gaming, professional graphic design, and video editing.
Storage options are flexible, with one M.2 2280 slot for PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe SSD and two additional M.2 slots supporting PCIe x2 NVMe/SATA, allowing for significant storage expansion. The machine also supports ultra-fast DDR5 memory, enhancing its speed and responsiveness.
The Tank 03 offers plenty of connection options, including a Thunderbolt 4 port, six USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and a DisplayPort 1.4. This selection of ports facilitates a wide range of peripheral connections and supports multi-screen setups. Additionally, dual 2.5 GBE Ethernet ports ensure high-speed, stable internet connections, which is crucial for online gaming and streaming.
The machine supports quad-screen displays with multiple video output options, including HDMI and DP. This feature is especially beneficial if you use multiple monitors for work, content creation or gaming. The Tank 03's cooling system, featuring three independent systems, effectively manages the heat generated by high-power components. A unique feature is the ability to switch between different modes—Silent, Daily Use, and Beast Mode—to optimise performance and cooling based on their current task.
In terms of design and build, the Tank 03 combines a futuristic and slightly industrial aesthetic with customisable RGB lighting, offering both functionality and visual appeal. Its sturdy build and easy access panels for SSD and RAM upgrades underscore its practicality and durability.
Rounding off its impressive feature set, the TANK 03 includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for fast and reliable wireless connections. This seamless online connectivity is combined with a range of high-performance components and versatile connectivity options.
Features: 3.5/5
Acemagic Tank 03: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 3249MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 2361MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 2281 GeekBench CPU Multi: 11201 GeekBench Compute: 119941 PC Mark: 6921 CineBench CPU Multi: 1541 CineBench CPU Single: 1646 Fire Strike Overall: 22653 Fire Strike Graphics: 25734 Fire Strike Physics: 24333 Fire Strike Combined: 11320 Time Spy Overall: 10333 Time Spy Graphics: 10198 Time Spy CPU: 11175 Wild Life: 44344 Windows Experience: 8.4
The computer's three-speed mode is an innovative feature enabling you to switch performance and power properties to adapt to various tasks, in effect enabling you to make the changes to the system that you would usually make through the OS settings but instead through a large illuminated dial on the front. In Silent Mode, it operates quietly, efficiently managing day-to-day tasks such as Microsoft Office applications and web browsing without fan noise, enabling you to focus in perfect quiet on your tasks.
Shifting to Balanced Mode, the Tank 03 enhances processing power for creative tasks like Photoshop and video editing. While the fans occasionally activate, they maintain a quiet operation, ensuring a comfortable working environment. The machine's Crystal Disk Read speed of 3249MB/s and Write speed of 2361MB/s highlight its capability for fast data processing, and while not the fastest SSDs around, although still incredibly fast, are more than capable for tasks like video editing.
Beast Mode unleashes the mini PC's full capabilities, optimising performance for gaming. Here, the Intel Core i9 and RTX 3060 deliver top-notch gaming performance, evidenced by a Fire Strike Overall score of 19399 and a Time Spy Overall score of 9516. Despite increased fan activity, the noise levels are controlled, making for an immersive gaming experience without excessive sound.
The GeekBench CPU Single score of 1591 and Multi score of 6061 reflect the TANK 03's ability to handle both single-threaded and multi-threaded applications effectively, suitable for a range of tasks from simple web browsing to more demanding applications.
CineBench scores, particularly a Multi score of 1541, showcase the TANK 03's strength in CPU-intensive tasks like rendering, which is crucial for professionals working with 3D modelling or video editing software. The Wild Life score of 41731, alongside a Windows Experience Index of 8.4, further validates the TANK 03's overall strong performance across various computing aspects, from everyday use to specialised tasks.
The Acemagic Tank 03 stands as a versatile and powerful mini PC, capable of adapting to different user needs, from quiet, efficient operation for regular tasks to a high-performance mode for intensive gaming or professional work. The inclusion of easy-to-access ports and quick-upgrade panels for RAM and SSD, combined with its benchmark performance, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a mini PC that doesn't compromise on power and versatility.
Performance: 3/5
Should you buy the Acemagic Tank 03?
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
If you're in the market for a high-performance mini PC that excels in gaming and professional creative tasks, the Acemagic Tank 03 is an excellent choice. Its powerful Intel Core i9 processor, combined with the GeForce RTX 3060, delivers outstanding performance, and the triple-mode switch adds versatility to cater to different use cases. The Tank 03 is an ideal fit for those who value power, adaptability, and compact design in their gaming setup. However, consider the premium price and larger size compared to typical mini PCs before making your decision.
CPU: Intel 12th Alder Lake N95, 4 cores, 6M cache Graphics: Intel® UHD Graphics RAM: 16GB DDR Storage: 512GB SSD Rear Ports: Dual Gigabit Ethernet, Dual 4K display ports Front Ports: 1.9" TFT LCD screen (170*320 resolution), USB ports Connectivity: WiFi 5.2, Bluetooth 5.2 Audio: Integrated audio Camera: Not included Size: 127mm x 122mm x 40mm OS installed: Microsoft Windows 11 Pro (64-bit) Accessories: Magnetic detachable casing
The Acemagic S1 nibi PC is powered by the Intel 12th Alder Lake N95 processor and positions itself as an entry-level Mini PC for home and office users. With its compact design, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD storage, it's tailored for day-to-day tasks and serves well as a file storage server or a soft router/firewall in a home network; there's also the option for a 1TB version.
A standout feature of the S1 is its 1.9" TFT LCD screen, which displays crucial information like CPU power, temperature, memory load, and fan speed. We've tested out loads of the best mini PCs and this is certainly an 'extra' feature. It not only adds a touch of the futuristic to the design but also provides functional real-time system monitoring, more for interest than anything else. You can also delve into the preinstalled app and tailor what is displayed depending on your needs and interests.
Performance-wise, the Alder Lake N95 processor ensures the S1 can handle multitasking and basic computing tasks with relative ease. Its benchmark scores reflect this capability, with a GeekBench CPU Single score of 1126 and a Multi score of 2514. These figures indicate that while it's not built for heavy computing, it's more than adequate for everyday applications such as web browsing, document editing, and file management.
In terms of graphics, the Intel UHD Graphics is sufficient for basic multimedia tasks but falls short when it comes to gaming or graphically intensive work. This is evident in the modest scores in Fire Strike and Time Spy benchmarks. However, this limitation is expected given its positioning as an entry-level mini PC.
The dual Gigabit Ethernet support is a significant advantage, particularly if you're looking to set up a reliable home network or require stable internet connectivity for streaming and online tasks. The S1's Wi-Fi 5.2 and Bluetooth 5.2 also ensure fast and stable wireless connections, catering to the modern demands of high-speed internet and wireless connectivity.
Design-wise, the S1 is compact and features a magnetic detachable casing, making it easy to add upgrades such as an additional SSD for storage. The option to place it vertically or horizontally adds to its versatility, making it suitable for various setups and space constraints.
Heat management in the S1 is handled well thanks to its copper pipes and bottom ventilation design. Even under a full load, the system maintains low noise levels, an essential factor for a device intended for quiet home environments.
While the S1 may not be a powerhouse gaming or creative PC, it offers a balance of performance, convenience, and versatility at an affordable price point. Its expandable SSD slot and dual LAN support make it a practical choice for a home network storage solution. The unique LCD feature adds a twist, setting it apart from typical entry-level mini PCs. Its strengths overshadow its limitations in gaming, and high-end graphics work as a reliable, everyday computing device.
Acemagic S1: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
With its Intel 12th Alder Lake N95 processor, the Acemagic S1 offers a value-packed entry-level computing solution. Priced at an accessible $279 for the 512GB version, it's a budget-friendly option for those seeking a compact and versatile mini PC. If you want more storage, the 1TB version is available for a slight increase in price at $299, making it an attractive option if you need additional space without a significant price jump.
If you're seeking a bit more power, the Alder Lake N97 variant starts at $509, providing a higher performance option. The Acemagic S1 is available for purchase through the official website and Amazon.
Score: 4/5
Acemagic S1: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The S1 stands out in the entry-level market as it puts some design style into the standard box-like design and matches it with decent build quality. While the use of plastic in its construction is noticeable, it doesn't detract from its overall aesthetic appeal. The addition of an LED strip and that small LCD screen helps to improve the standard mini PC look, giving it a more premium feel than its price would suggest.
One of the key design features is its easy access to internal components. The quick-access panels for RAM and SSD upgrades are a convenient addition, especially considering the device's budget-friendly nature. The RAM slot supports single-channel memory, and the storage expansion options include one M.2 NVMe slot and an additional M.2 SATA slot.
The form factor is another highlight. Designed to fit seamlessly on a desktop or a shelf, it can be placed either horizontally or vertically, catering to different space constraints. The inclusion of a magnetic base in the package enhances its stability when positioned vertically, showcasing the attention to detail in its design.
Overall, the ACEMAGIC S1 combines practicality and style in its Build. Its compact size, coupled with the expandable hardware options and visually appealing details, make it an attractive choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet stylish mini PC. This design approach positions the machine as a standout option in the entry-level segment, offering a balance of aesthetics and functionality.
Design: 4/5
Acemagic S1: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
At the heart of the S1 is the Intel 12th Alder Lake N95 processor. This CPU offers competitive performance with its 4 cores and 6M cache, providing speeds that meet multitasking needs efficiently. This makes the S1 ideal for general office tasks light creative work, and as a home file storage server.
You just can't ignore its 1.9" TFT LCD screen, with a resolution of 170x320. This small yet functional display provides real-time information on CPU power, temperature, memory load, CPU load, and fan speed. This feature adds a level of interaction and monitoring capability typically not found in mini PCs for beginners, allowing you to keep an eye on the system's performance and health. A handy feature is you are using this as a home network storage solution.
In terms of connectivity, the S1 excels with dual Gigabit Ethernet, offering reliable and fast network connections. This feature is ideal if you want to use the S1 as a soft router, firewall, or file storage server in a home network. For storage, the S1 comes with a 16GB DDR and a 512GB SSD, providing ample space for most. The device also features an expandable SSD slot, allowing for easy upgrades to increase storage capacity as needed.
The S1 supports a dual-screen 4K display, enabling you to extend your workspace if using an application such as Photoshop, where a little more real estate can be beneficial. The S1 utilises copper pipes and a bottom ventilation design to help keep things cool and ensure the machine runs at low noise, even under full load. Lastly, the S1's Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure fast wireless connectivity, making it an excellent choice for everyday internet use and streaming.
Features: 3.5/5
Acemagic S1: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 535MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 456MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 1126 GeekBench CPU Multi: 2514 GeekBench Compute: 316 PC Mark: 2836 CineBench CPU Multi: 893 CineBench CPU Single: 894 Fire Strike Overall: 967 Fire Strike Graphics: 1048 Fire Strike Physics: 5681 Fire Strike Combined: 343 Time Spy Overall: 335 Time Spy Graphics: 292 Time Spy CPU: 2035 Wild Life: 2532 Windows Experience: 6.3
The Acemagic S1 is equipped with the Intel 12th Alder Lake N95 processor, which provides a level of performance that is quite impressive for an entry-level mini PC. This PC can be used for everyday office work, as well as being a decent space-saving alternative to the best laptops for photo editing and other light creative work. You could even squeeze some gaming out of it, though with limitations due to its graphics capability.
In terms of general office work, the S1 excels. Applications within the Microsoft Office suite, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, run smoothly. This is supported by the GeekBench CPU scores of 1126 (single-core) and 2514 (multi-core), which indicate good performance for tasks that require both single and multiple processing threads. The S1's ability to handle multitasking and day-to-day office activities is further confirmed by its PC Mark score of 2836, reflecting its competency in typical productivity scenarios.
When moving to creative tasks, using the best photo editors and the best video editing software (in this case, Photoshop and Premiere Pro), performance remains respectable. The CineBench scores of 893 (multi-core) and 894 (single-core) suggest it can handle light creative workloads.
However, it may not be the best fit for complex video editing or running the best 3D modeling software, where higher processing and graphics power are needed. If it's portability you want when getting seriously creative, we'd still choose the best video editing laptops and the best laptops for graphic design over this for any demanding tasks.
Gaming on the S1 is a mixed experience. The Intel UHD Graphics limits its capability to run the latest graphics-intensive games like Red Dead Redemption II or Cyberpunk 2077. This is evident in the Fire Strike (overall score: 967) and Time Spy (overall score: 335) results, which are on the lower end for gaming. However, it can competently handle older or less graphically demanding games, offering a decent gaming experience for casual or retro gaming enthusiasts.
Where the S1 really stands out is in its role within a home network. With dual Gigabit Ethernet ports and 512GB of SSD storage (expandable via an additional M.2 slot), it serves well as a file storage server or a soft router/firewall, providing reliable and fast data management and network security within a home environment. Its WiFi 6 also enhances its appeal as a home network hub.
The inclusion of a 1.9" TFT LCD screen on the S1 adds a unique touch, allowing you to monitor CPU power, temperature, memory load, CPU load, and fan speed at a glance. This feature doesn't necessarily add to the performance of the machine, but it is interesting!
The S1 is not suitable for the latest gaming titles or intensive creative work; its strength lies in its capability as a decent machine for the home office, networking, and storage solution. Its performance in benchmark tests, combined with its practical features and affordable price, make it a great option for anyone wanting a versatile, entry-level mini PC.
Performance: 3/5
Should you buy the Acemagic S1?
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
In our experience, there's an interesting balance of price, features, and performance here. It is an excellent choice if you want a versatile mini PC for everyday tasks, a soft router or a network storage solution.
The S1 handles general office applications and light creative tasks with ease, making it a reliable choice for home or small office setups. While its Intel UHD Graphics limits its ability to handle the latest, graphics-heavy games, it performs adequately with older or less demanding titles.
The standout feature of the S1 is its suitability as a home network hub. Its dual Gigabit Ethernet capability, combined with fast Wi-Fi and expandable storage, makes it ideal for use as a file storage server or for managing home network security. The additional touch of the 1.9" TFT LCD screen for real-time system monitoring is a unique and nice addition.
Priced at $279 for the 512GB version, the S1 offers great value, especially for those who prioritise network connectivity and storage options over raw computing power.
This is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable mini PC that offers more than just basic computing capabilities. Its strengths are in home networking and storage, coupled with its OK performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Release date: December 7
Inside every player of The Finals there are three wolves of different sizes: small, medium, and large. Which you pick will severely change the way you play The Finals, a multiplayer first-person shooter developed by Stockholm-based Embark Studios.
These wolves are the three different sizes of player character: Light, Medium, and Heavy. As you might expect, the Light class is smaller, moves fast, and has a scant few hitpoints. The Heavy is sluggish and a large target, but can soak up a lot of punishment. But weight isn’t the only trait, and each class has different roles too: if you want to kill players you play as the glass-dagger Light class, if you want to support players you play as the medium and if you want to lay waste to the entire environment and shape the arena with the game’s destruction mechanics, you play as the Heavy.
Things that make you go boom
(Image credit: Embark Studios)
It’s this demolition that catches your eye first. Arenas in The Finals come apart like the buildings were designed by hungover architects, explosions blow chunks out of walls and toss detritus from place to place. Each match is in a self-contained gameshow set, all the way down to the fake sky boarded up above the arena, and the ever-present 'The Finals' branding on just about everything.
Best bit:
(Image credit: Embark Studios)
Every Cashout is a fast-paced firefight that brings in everyone in the match for a minute or so of carnage. No matter what happens, the surrounding area will be littered with statues that serve as gravestones for fallen enemies, and every manmade structure nearby will be shredded by explosives.
This gameshow aesthetic runs through every part of the game. Respawning when members of your team are alive means surviving until the counter ticks down and then hitting a key to continue, all with the sound of a coin falling through an arcade machine. I’ve taken to calling this process coining in, and it feels like a much more active way to respawn compared to many shooters. The fact that there’s no blood and contestants perish not with a death sound but in an explosion of golden coins reinforces the idea that everything is a game. So you don’t have to feel bad when you frag someone with a rocket.
The core mode is Quick Cash, which has players moving to a vault and setting it to open. After a few seconds, a box of cash comes out, and each of the three teams (four in the game’s ranked mode) will fight to get it into a Cashout device first. Two boxes are available at a time, and they’re put in flashpoints where conflict can easily rage. As you start a Cashout, you then have to defend the Cashout device against everyone as the entire game descends on one area, determined to try and steal this Cashout for their team before it’s completed.
(Big) lads on tour
(Image credit: Embark Studios)
The Heavy might offer the most unique experience. Especially if like me you’ve been playing shooters a long time and have a good sense of the game, but are feeling your reflexes start to slip a little bit. Meanwhile, the Medium offers the best of both worlds with a focus on healing and creating new pathways around the arena, particularly with the way they can slap down a jump pad or grapple hook. Light will be the class many players gravitate towards, offering a high-risk high-reward playstyle that lets you put out obscene amounts of damage and only take a scant amount yourself before you’re turned into a shower of low-denomination currency.
Combat is frenetic, although the time to kill can feel sluggish when you’re not playing as the Light character. There’s a touch of Battlefield to the tight brawls, except instead of the resource-based combat endemic to modern shooters, everything ticks down on a timer and you have unlimited ammo, provided you can carve out a few seconds to slap a new magazine into your gun.
One of the biggest changes to usual shooter conventions however is the complete lack of fall damage, something that feels exceptional as you move around the arena at top speed. While this may have the distinct hallmarks of Battlefield in the design, it actually lifts a lot of design choices straight from Overwatch. But, instead of the cutesy low-stakes blasting, playing The Finals is a sweatbox, tightly competitive play meaning that playing with a pick-up team assigned by the game’s matchmaking means you’re probably about to eat a loss.
It’s fun whether you win or lose though, and the tension of a tight steal is immense. Climbing up onto the firm yet temporary foothold of a goo grenade to steal a Cashout from below or using your bulk as a Heavy as a distraction with seconds left on the clock is something that feels as triumphant as the biggest esports moments of all time, even if it’s happening on a tiny scale in just about every match.
Part of this is smart objective placement: a Cashout box in an elevator is a multi-floored trip to the chaos dimension for example, but intelligent combat design also makes it fun and fluid to throw down with other players, even if balance at the moment feels a little bit spotty. The meta currently favours players with a cloaking device and sawn off shotgun, walking up to you for an instant kill at close range, often before you've even noticed they are there.
Looking the part
(Image credit: Embark Studios)
Tying this in a ribbon are incredibly strong customisation options. My character is currently wearing half of an Elvis costume earned from a Battle Pass reward, with bright yellow trousers and a Christmas hat topping off the ensemble. However, none of the clothes clip together, and it’s all free for you to use in just about every way you want.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Embark Studios)
The accessibility menu contains several colorblind modes (Deuteranopia, Tritanopia, Protanopia), the option to turn on subtitles, change the size of the text, and even add background opacity and motion blur settings. There’s also the ability to customize your crosshair.
These options also exist within their own menus, but putting them together in a single menu makes it easy to adjust the settings you need on the fly.
When considering all these features, The Finals is probably my favorite multiplayer shooter this year. But that doesn’t mean the game has no flaws whatsoever. I’ve seen a few things to worry me during my two weeks of playing the game so far: hackers seem to be an increasingly large part of the player base and the fact it’s impossible to be truly competitive without at least a single friend does often leave me frustrated. But, there’s a distinct feeling that The Finals has something very special to offer players, and I’m keen to see if it can grow on that promise.
Playing on PC? You might want to see how this stacks up against our best PC games. If you just want to play a lot of shooters, we’ve listed the best FPS games too.
Platform reviewed: PS5 Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android Release date: December 8, 2023
Rocket Racing is another major game to launch within Fortnite at the end of 2023, in what was a landmark period for the ongoing blockbuster title. Rocket Racing is being worked on by Psyonix, the folks behind Rocket League, and actually shares a lot with the popular car football game. The result is as slick and polished as you’d expect, but like the other two new Fortnite games to arrive alongside it, Rocket Racing lacks its own sense of identity. It’s a competent racer that simply fails to stand out against its competitors - but there is hope on the road ahead.
Psyonix has made a smart choice with Rocket Racing, taking the beloved Rocket League brands and folding it into a reasonably straightforward arcade racing experience. If you buy a skin in Rocket Racing, you can use it in Rocket League, for example, and many of the racing mechanics are just retooled versions of the moves you can pull off in Rocket League. Because of this familiarity, given you’ve played Rocket League, of course, Rocket Racing’s drift-heavy gameplay clicks almost immediately. The key to winning a race is delightfully simple: just be faster than the other players. There are no items and very few gimmicks to be found in Rocket Racing, with races primarily focusing on skill and map knowledge.
There are 26 launch tracks to race through in Rocket Racing, split into Novice, Advanced, and Expert difficulties. One of the main issues with progression is that if you want to go down the ranked route, you’ll only really play Novice tracks for the first couple of hours. These are stripped-back affairs, lacking any of the zero-g twists and turns that comprise the game’s main hook. You see, the cars in Rocket Racing can air-dodge and stick to surfaces, gravity be damned. In Expert levels, this neat mechanic is used plentifully, resulting in some very fun racing indeed. The tracks at lower difficulties? Well, they’re less engaging. Simpler tracks focus on drifting, which does get old very quickly. It all feels a bit like item-less Mario Kart. It's exciting for a select few, but not really how most people would choose to play the game.
A challenge a day
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Thankfully, you can choose tracks to jump into from the get-go, if you want to experience the Expert tracks sooner. As a complete offering, Rocket Racing’s tracks suffer from the lack of identity present in the overall game. I have played each track at least four times apiece, but I would struggle to tell you my favorites or even distinguish between most of them. The soundtrack, meanwhile, is excellent, hitting a sweet spot between the drum and bass of the 2000s and some of the more electro-heavy leanings of the Rocket League soundtrack.
Given that Rocket Racing lives within Fortnite, its vehicles can be applied to use in the Battle Royale Mode. New vehicle skins can be purchased in the Item Shop, and I must say, the prices are absolutely egregious. A whopping 4000 V-Bucks (a 5000 V-Bucks pack costs $19.99) will get you a new car and some decals. This is well out of parity with the Lego and main Fortnite offerings in the store, though perhaps this has something to do with the prices in Rocket League. Regardless, it turns an approachable racing game into something a bit more pricey, which I think misses the mark.
Best bit
(Image credit: Epic Games)
By dodging while in the air, you’ll flip your Rocket Racing car left, right, up, or down. This can be used to propel yourself onto walls and ceilings, where you can drive in zero gravity. Building on this, some of Rocket Racing’s best moments involve switching between these planes of racing.
Rocket Racing does have Daily Challenges, Quests, and even Battle Pass rewards, giving players something to work towards while racing. Unfortunately, the game does not have its own Battle Pass and instead shares its rewards as part of the main Fortnite Battle Pass. In fact, the first Rocket Racing Battle Pass unlock doesn’t arrive until level 82 out of 100, making it pretty inaccessible to most players.
Not so special
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Currently, Rocket Racing is running its Season Zero, so it has yet to launch what one assumes, or hopes is a more robust set of progression features. It’s the future where things look brightest for Rocket Racing, with user-created tracks, leaderboards, and further customization options all teased for later down the line. Hopefully, once the first major update hits, Rocket Racing will start to feel a bit more like a full game, and less like a Rocket League collaboration within Fortnite.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Rocket Racing shares Fortnite’s accessibility settings, which means they’re slightly too buried in menus. Still, there’s a sound visualizer, completely remappable controls, as well as some HUD scaling options.
While future updates will go a long way to making Rocket Racing feel like a worthwhile proposition, the game has a real problem with its sense of identity. The art style is generic, the tracks are forgettable, and the core racing hook is not exciting enough to make a splash. This will be trickier to remedy moving forward, but for now, at least, Rocket Racing is polished enough to recommend to those looking for a new arcade racer. Something is missing, however, and I suspect that feeling will persist until the community gets its hands on the upcoming creation tools. Until then, so far, so unremarkable.
We've pulled together all the best free games if you're searching for another adventure to sink hours into. However, for a more communal experience, you might want to check out all the best multiplayer PC games, too.
Platform reviewed: PC Available on: PC Release date: December 14, 2023
House Flipper 2 scratches the age-old itch of transforming a house into a home. As a renovator based in the fictional town of Pinnacove, you run a business that involves visiting or buying houses that have seen better days, and transforming them into something much more liveable.
You’ll never be short of work, either, as Pinnacove is to shoddy shacks what Powerwash Simulator’s Muckingham is to dirt and grime. Meaning there’s a nigh-on endless stream of buildings to rescue from tragic neglect. Granted, renovating houses doesn’t exactly sound like a thrilling time. But the way House Flipper 2 gamifies tasks like cleaning, painting, collecting trash and constructing walls allows for simple play that’s both accessible and delightfully moreish.
House Flipper 2 is a vastly improved version of the first game. Additions like voiced dialogue and a basic narrative help to further ground you in its world, sometimes making you feel like you’re helping piece together a whole picture as you complete tasks around town. While some fairly long load times do frustrate, there’s really very little to fault Frozen District’s latest renovation sim for.
The house that Jack built
(Image credit: Frozen District)
There are two main styles of play in House Flipper 2. At your home base upon starting the game, you’ll first be introduced to Tasks. These are accessed via your inbox, and will have you visiting houses with some preset goals to take care of. For example, a person may require you to simply clean out their garage by throwing away trash and cleaning up stubborn stains. Another might have you renovating an attic room for a family member, in which you’ll paint the walls and place down new items of furniture.
There’s a lot of variety in House Flipper 2’s tasks. And while they grow to become much more involving missions over time, when you’re starting out they act as fantastic tutorials that’ll allow you to gradually unlock new tools and perks through the game’s experience system. Basically, the more you accomplish certain tasks like cleaning, decorating and so on, you’ll earn perk points to make your job more efficient. Examples here include a wider paint roller, and larger garbage bags letting you fit in more trash before needing to dispose of it.
Best bit
(Image credit: Frozen District)
Buying an old, run down house and flipping it into a luxurious abode is equal parts involving and rewarding. Especially when you list your hard work on the auction house and make a huge profit.
Tasks act as the best possible preparation for that second style of play, which is where you’ll eventually be spending most of your time in the game, and this is the act of house flipping itself. From your home base - once you’ve earned enough cash by completing Tasks - you’re able to purchase rundown houses for the purpose of renovation.
House flipping is a much more involved endeavor, as there are no preset tasks or objectives for you to meet. Instead, you’re left entirely to your own devices to turn the house around. Here, it’s you who gets to choose what hue to paint the walls, what furniture to invest in. And later on, once you unlock the sledgehammer, how exactly you want the floor plan to be laid out.
It’s easy to spend countless hours on a single house. In the house flipping mode, I did initially find the whole process to be a little overwhelming given the amount of freedom you have. But once you’ve got a solid plan in mind, investing your time and hard-earned cash into creating something unique pays off when you hand it over to the auction house for a big profit. And if you want to try again with an entirely different approach, it’s as easy as rebuying the house via your in-game workspace.
Flippin' marvelous
(Image credit: Frozen District)
Another element where House Flipper 2 excels in comparison to the first game is with its overall presentation. The sequel looks much more vivid and colorful than the relatively drab palette of the first. This helps create a greater distinction between a neglected hovel and the finished product. The improved visual design makes it all the more common to step back, look at your handiwork, crack a smile and think: “yep, I did that.”
Your busywork is further helped by House Flipper 2’s wonderfully relaxing soundtrack and brilliant sound design. Wooden floors satisfyingly squeak as you clean them. Fresh paint rests on walls with a suitably sticky register. Little things like this make the experience feel more grounded and immersive.
Accessibility
House Flipper 2 doesn’t feature any notable accessibility options at launch. Subtitles are baked into voiced conversations. There’s no colorblind settings to speak of. You are able to adjust various elements of mouse sensitivity, such as when cleaning windows. But besides that, there isn’t anything particularly accommodating.
Fully-voiced phone calls add to this as well. House Flipper 2 features some excellent voice acting which you’ll get to listen to on a handful of missions. You’re able to respond to the person on the phone, too, with a set of dialogue choices to help guide the conversation. These can be a little irksome, admittedly, as they’ll briefly take control away from your renovating. You can choose to skip the call entirely if you’d prefer to just get on with it, but that does mean losing some of the game’s charm.
Lastly, load times do tend to be on the longer side, especially noticeable when you’re loading into a larger house that features hundreds of individual objects. This isn’t a massive issue, as during play there isn’t a hint of stuttering or additional load times. But do expect to sometimes be waiting upwards of half a minute when loading into those bigger maps, even with the game stored on an SSD.
Thankfully, these minor shortcomings have done nothing to halt my enjoyment of House Flipper 2. The superbly satisfying process of renovating properties lends the game such a strong ‘one more house’ element that often had me playing for much longer than I’d intended. If you’ve enjoyed the first House Flipper, or indeed other job sims like Powerwash Simulator, then this sequel is an absolutely essential play.
Explore more excellent PC titles by browsing our guide to the very best Steam games, as well as the best free games that won’t cost you a penny for entry.
Platform reviewed: PS5 Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android Release date: December 7, 2023
Lego Fortnite marked the pinnacle of an extremely important week for Fortnite last week; not one, not two, but three new games were released within Fortnite, with the Lego-focused entry leading the way. It’s a survival crafting game that’s more than a little bit like Minecraft, and it’s being marketed as a full game that ‘lives in Fortnite,’ a claim that does raise the eyebrow somewhat. However, this essentially holds up; Epic Games and Lego have put together a competent, approachable, and surprisingly moreish survival crafting game for no additional cost. It’s missing a few features that you’d expect from this sort of game, but it’s well worth trying out with friends.
The fact that Lego Fortnite is a fully featured game released within the biggest battle royale game around is noteworthy, and pretty much unprecedented, at least at this scale. It’s free too, and tied into Fortnite's existing experience points (XP) systems. You can hop into Lego Fortnite, and earn XP towards your main Battle Pass, before jumping into one of the other hundred or so modes. It really is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and likely just Epic Games’ first step towards crafting Fortnite into a one-stop destination for a range of gaming experiences.
Part of what makes Lego Fortnite such a compelling proposition for existing players is how seamlessly it’s been folded into Fortnite’s world. There are 1,200 Lego skins at launch, based on those already found in Fortnite. I first spent ages looking through my Outfits, checking which ones had Lego styles and which didn’t. Seeing Lego versions of iconic Fortnite characters like Peely, Fishstick, and Jonesy never really gets old, and it’s genuinely mind-blowing just how many skins Lego and Epic have managed to put together. You can also use many of your favorite emotes, and it’s a real joy to see how Lego characters move when certain ones are triggered.
Begin at the beginning
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Lego Fortnite’s opening hour walks you through the basics, leading you from punching down trees with your plastic Lego hands, to building your first shelter. Lego Fortnite is immediately striking, utilizing the very best of what Unreal Engine 5 has to offer. Strangely, this is probably the best-looking Lego game released so far, combining Fortnite’s vibrant color palette with the shiny, plastic real-life look of Lego bricks. You’ll spawn into a randomly selected spot in the world, or you can enter a seed if you have somewhere more specific in mind. Over the following hours, you’ll be well on your way to building and managing your very own Fortnite village, with an ever-changing cast of characters that’ll visit and join in the fun.
Lego games are often some of the most approachable and easy to understand, making them excellent for a younger audience. Lego Fortnite is a great example of this, with an easy-to-understand gameplay loop and control system. Unfortunately, this sense of streamlined simplicity does not extend to building, which feels overbaked in its current state. Each build has multiple stages, each stage with multiple pieces that need to be placed onto a defined grid. While this is clearly a nod to how Lego is put together in the real world, it’s completely out of place here. Large builds can take ages to complete and, due to the placement of objects being a little finicky at times, often feel frustrating.
Best bit
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Unlocking the glider completely opens Lego Fortnite up. You can use geysers to soar up into the air, allowing you to reach previously inaccessible resources. Make sure you get your plastic little mitts on it as soon as you can.
Over on the survival side of things, there’s a hunger and temperature meter and fairly easy-to-understand third-person melee combat. There’s a great-feeling dodge roll and even a way to stun enemies with a well-timed shield block. You’ll need to eat to keep your health up, but the balance is a little bit out of whack at present. It can feel overbearing at times, with constant reminders of your character’s hunger before you stand still munching berries to stave it off for 10 minutes or so. Similarly, your temperature will drop dramatically when it’s raining, meaning you’ll need to wait inside or risk losing health. This does get better as you craft charms that add heat and cold resistance, but the first few hours are rough.
Upgrades, people
(Image credit: Epic Games)
The auto-build mechanic found in other Lego games would really fit into Lego Fortnite, and help alleviate what is currently a very annoying building system. There’s no real build camera either, meaning you need to walk around a large building, looking up at certain spots in order to place individual parts. It’s a shame that Lego Fortnite misses the mark in its building, especially given how fun it is in other Lego games. Generally, crafting and resource gathering are much better, with a clear and defined loop associated with crafting tools to gather resources of escalating rarity.
As a survival crafting game, Lego Fortnite is excellent. As a Lego game, it’s a little bit lacking. You cannot move buildings and instead need to destroy them and go through the lengthy building process all over again. Villages feel messy and cramped as a result, and there’s very little room for experimentation and play, something that really doesn’t mesh with Lego’s main strengths. Another missed opportunity is the lack of split-screen co-op. This is present in some of Fortnite’s main modes, so its absence is especially puzzling here. Lego games are some of the best ways to play alongside younger family members (in particular), making Lego Fortnite a difficult game to recommend for those with children who like to play together in the same room.
Accessibility
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Lego Fortnite shares Fortnite’s Accessibility settings, which means they’re slightly too buried in menus. Still, there’s a sound visualizer, completely remappable controls, as well as some HUD scaling options.
There are many quality-of-life changes I’d like to see brought to Lego Fortnite in the future, and well, this is Fortnite, so updates are very likely. You’ll probably be surprised to know that farming animals is currently not possible in Lego Fortnite, making certain resources difficult to get ahold of. This creates bottlenecks in your plans, grinding progression to a halt for hours at a time. Generally, though, the gathering, crafting, and progression loop in Lego Fortnite is precisely what it needs to be. You’ll gather better resources to craft better tools that allow you to reach even better resources in different and more dangerous biomes. It’s incredibly moreish, and my group of friends has already had trouble logging off at the end of a long play session. Perhaps just one more expedition before bedtime.
I have no doubt that Lego Fortnite will be supported and updated in the future, and generally, there’s more than enough here to warrant its claims of being a full game. Like everything else in Fortnite’s ecosystem, Lego Fortnite is incredibly slick, solid, and extremely good value. It’s a riot in four-player co-op, though you’ll need to head online to squad up with friends. As a swing at being a Minecraft competitor, Lego Fortnite has heaps of potential. In its current state, it actually reminds me more of Valheim, with a clear and rewarding progression loop that’ll keep you coming back for hours and hours.
We've pulled together all the best free games if you're searching for another adventure to sink hours into. However, for a more communal experience, you might want to check out all the best multiplayer PC games, too.
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
(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
(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.
We've pulled together all the best single-player games if you're searching for another adventure to sink hours into. However, for a more communal experience, you might want to check out all the best multiplayer PC games, too.
CPU: Intel Core i9-11900H, 8C/16T, up to 4.9 GHz Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics for 11th Gen Intel Processors RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200 MT/s (expandable to 128GB) Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD (expandable to 2TB) Rear Ports: 4/ x USB3.2 Gen 1, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DP 1.4, 2 x RJ45 (2.5G), 1 x Kensington Lock Slot Front Ports: 2 x 6 x USB3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB-C (DP/Data), 1 x 3.5mm CTIA Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 Audio Output: 3.5mm jack Camera: Not included Size: 180mm x 175mm x 36mm OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro Accessories: Power Adapter, HDMI Cable, User Manual
The Intel NucBox M4 mini PC features an Intel 11th Gen Core i9-11900H processor, which instantly outlines the potential of this small machine. Aimed at professionals who require a machine that can handle multiple apps and screens, the M4 balances power and portability. With 8 cores and 16 threads, this mini PC boasts a top clock speed of 4.9 GHz, enough to ensure that most applications will run fast and smoothly.
When it comes to graphics, the power of the CPU isn't quite matched by the GPU, although this is a perfectly respectable Intel UHD Graphics chipset. While the GPU might not be suitable for high-end gaming, it can comfortably handle light gaming and graphic-intensive professional tasks, as well as the use of up to three monitors. The NucBox M4 excels in multitasking, thanks to its 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, ensuring ample space and speed for storing and quickly accessing large files.
Connectivity is a strong suit of the GMKtec M4, featuring six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, dual RJ45 ports for stable high-speed internet connections, and support for triple display setups – an advantage for professionals who multitask Office and web browsing across multiple screens. Additionally, its compact form factor, measuring only 180mm x 175mm x 36mm, makes it a space-saving solution for any desk.
Having tested plenty of the best mini PCs, we can say the GMKtec M4 puts in a steady performance in various benchmark tests. With Crystal Disk Read speeds of 3438MB/s and Write speeds of 2723MB/s, it highlights its capability in fast data processing, essential for tasks like video editing or handling large databases. GeekBench scores of 2227 (single-core) and 6175 (multi-core) further demonstrate its competence in handling both everyday tasks and more demanding applications.
CineBench scores, especially the multi-core score of 9923, indicate its strength in CPU-intensive tasks, making it suitable for 3D rendering and video editing. In gaming performance, the Fire Strike and Time Spy scores suggest that while they can manage light gaming, the machine might struggle with the latest, most demanding games.
The GMKtec M4 is not just a work-oriented machine; its ability to support up to three screens at high resolution adds a layer of utility for multimedia as well as that all-important office work. However, those looking for a mini PC primarily for high-end gaming will find its graphics capabilities limiting.
GMKtec NucBox M4: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec M4 is accessible for purchase through GMKtec's official website, Amazon, and various other online retailers, making it widely available.
Score: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox M4: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec M4 takes quite a different approach to the compact mini PC format compared with other mini machines on the market, including the GMKtec M3 and GMKtec NucBox G3. The M4 offers a unique blend of traditional desktop styling and compact mini PC convenience. Its slightly larger footprint offers a slimline design that feels more like a miniature version of a standard desktop PC, providing a high-quality feel and robust Build. This design choice not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to improved heat dissipation, which is crucial for maintaining performance stability in a professional environment.
Aesthetically, the GMKtec M4 takes a minimalist style, offering a sleek design that fits seamlessly into any workspace without the flashy design details that can often be featured on Mini PCs. The design is also versatile when it comes to how it can be placed on your desk, with the option to either place it flat or vertically on a desk. However, its size might make it less suitable for tucking away under a monitor.
The front panel of the GMKtec M4 is well-designed for accessibility and ease of use, featuring two USB Type-A ports, a USB Type-C port, an audio output, and a power button; all other ports are round the back. This layout ensures that essential peripherals can be connected easily.
Internal access for upgrades is straightforward, thanks to a user-friendly design that requires removing just two screws to slide off the top section. This feature allows for easy upgrades and maintenance of the main SSD and RAM, adding to the overall practicality of the device.
The cooling system of the GMKtec M4 deserves mention. It is well-equipped to handle the heat generated by the powerful Intel Core i9 processor, and when the machine is put under load, you can hear the fan start-up, but the size means that it is quieter than other powerful Mini PCs.
Design: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox M4: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GMKtec NucBox M4 Mini PC manages to distinguish itself from other Mini PCs in several ways; first and foremost, the larger design but also uses a power CPU for swift office work and a less powerful GPU, making it less suitable for gaming. The powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor, characterized by 8 cores and 16 threads, which delivers exceptional performance for various computing tasks, especially when handling large databases and files. This processor, coupled with Intel UHD Graphics, offers a balance of power for multitasking, content creation, and some moderate gaming.
A feature that will appeal to those wanting a machine for day-to-day office work is the ability to hook up to three screens, with the machine offering HDMI, DP, and Type-C outputs.
In terms of connectivity, the GMKtec M4 isn't short of options with six USB 3.2 ports, facilitating high-speed data transfer and seamless connection of multiple peripherals. The inclusion of dual RJ45 ports with 2.5G Ethernet ensures high-speed, stable internet connectivity, which is essential for online gaming streaming and has been especially useful during the review for network-connected 3D printers and laser engravers.
The M4 includes an i9 processor, which can pack a lot of power but also generate a considerable amount of heat when under load. The M4 has been design with a super cooling fan system, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. This feature is crucial, given the power of that i9 processor, as it maintains optimal operating temperatures and helps to maintain the processor speed when being worked hard.
Memory and storage options are pretty decent, with support for up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM and 2TB of M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD storage. This expandability is worth taking into consideration if your computing needs expand or the applications you use become more processor-intensive.
Features: 4/5
GMKtec NucBox M4: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 3438MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 2723MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 2227 GeekBench CPU Multi: 6175 GeekBench Compute: 6687 PC Mark: 4673 CineBench CPU Multi: 9923 CineBench CPU Single: 1571 Fire Strike Overall: 1911 Fire Strike Graphics: 2121 Fire Strike Physics: 19757 Fire Strike Combined: 617 Time Spy Overall: 659 Time Spy Graphics: 573 Time Spy CPU: 4521 Wild Life: 4556 Windows Experience: 7.7
The GMKtec M4 is powered by an 11th Gen Core i9-11900H, which, through the tests, showed impressive performance across various benchmarks, highlighting its capability as a high-performance mini PC. The Crystal Disk Read and Write speeds of 3438MB/s and 2723MB/s, respectively, highlighted its ability to handle data-intensive tasks efficiently, making it ideal for applications requiring fast data access and transfer, such as video editing or large file management.
GeekBench scores, with 2227 in single-core and 6175 in multi-core tests, confirm the M4's ability to handle a range of tasks from everyday computing to more demanding applications. This aligns with its potential for creative tasks, multitasking, and even light gaming.
CineBench scores, particularly the multi-core score of 9923, indicate the M4's strength in rendering and other CPU-intensive tasks, making it suitable for creative professionals working with the best 3D modeling software or best video editing software. Through the test, I utilised Blender and Fusion 360 to design a couple of tripod leg holders, with the modeling handled well by the power of this processor.
In gaming performance, the M4 showed capability for light to moderate gaming, and the Fire Strike and Time Spy scores evidenced this. While it may not cater to the most demanding modern games at high settings, it's certainly capable of handling less graphics-intensive titles smoothly. Through the test, I tested Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption II, and whilst both ran, the graphics meant that the gameplay was sluggish. However, less graphically intensive games were handled well.
The Windows Experience Index score of 7.7 further validates the overall solid performance of the M4, indicating it is a reliable and robust machine for a variety of uses.
The benchmark results, alongside the real-world tests using Microsoft Office, Photoshop, DaVinci Resolve, and loading a few games, showed the M4 is well-suited for professional and creative work and other processor-intensive applications like the best graphic design software.
A solid, space-saving, if unspectacular, alternative to the best video editing laptops or the best laptops for graphic design. Its ability to support triple displays is a bonus, although, in this test, I only expanded that to two. Overall, this is a great machine for processing and work.
Performance: 3/5
Should you buy the GMKtec NucBox M4?
the GMKtec M4 stands as an impressive mini PC that bridges the gap between compact design and high-performance computing. Its main selling points are its powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor and the capability to support up to three displays, making it one of the best business PCs in a small-form factor (or an alternative to the best business laptops if space is at a premium). An ideal choice for professionals engaged in multitasking and content creation. Additionally, its ample connectivity options, generous storage and RAM expandability, and effective cooling system make it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
While it may not be the go-to choice for ultra-high-end gaming or those seeking the smallest possible footprint, the NucBox M4 excels in providing robust performance in a relatively compact form. Its blend of power, functionality, and design makes it a standout option for anyone looking for a mini PC that can handle demanding tasks with ease.
Value: Exceptional performance at a competitive price. (4/5) Design: Slimline, traditional design; versatile, accessible ports. (4/5) Features: Ample connectivity, easy internal access, effective cooling. (4/5) Performance: Strong CPU, decent GPU; suits moderate gaming. (4/5) Total: A powerful, well-designed mini PC with great value. (4/5)
