TheGamer - Tech | RSS Feed

Endgame Gear XM1-RGB USB Gaming Mouse Review: Simple Enough, Good Enough

Sam Hallahan — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 18:00:13 GMT

I’ve never been someone who goes all out on PC peripherals. There are mice with varying designs, fancy ergonomic additions, or 16 different buttons for some reason. I tend to keep it quite simple as a simple mouse is all I need for a leisurely mixture of work and gaming.

Ducky One 3 Daybreak SF Keyboard Review: Some Click, Some Clack, And Virtually No Flak

Sam Hallahan — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 16:30:12 GMT

Mechanical keyboards are an enigma to me, with so much terminology for fruit-flavoured switches, fanciful colours, and a whole load of enthusiasts who swear by them. I’m still not entirely sure what fresh fruit has to do with anything, but I’m beginning to understand why these keyboards are so beloved.

Secret Lab Magnus Pro XL Review: Sitting, Standing, Thriving

Eric Switzer — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:20:16 GMT

What is a desk? A big slab of wood or metal that you put all your gamer junk on? A long table where you sit and toil away? Wrong, you fool. Admittedly, I was just as naive as you once. I considered my desk to be a utilitarian piece of furniture that you buy from Ikea, spend three hours assembling, and then cover with cables and takeout containers. The Secret Lab Magnus Pro XL changed my outlook - more than that, it changed me. This sit-to-stand desk looks simple, but it's filled with secrets, useful accessories, and thoughtful design choices that make using the desk easier, cleaner, and far more enjoyable. Secret Lab has elevated the traditional gaming desk - pun fully intended.

FlexiSpot Q8 Standing Desk Review: Taking Quality To New Heights

Sam Hallahan — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:30:12 GMT

The ability to switch between sitting and standing at a desk has become increasingly popular in recent years, be it a workspace or somewhere to relax. As such, more and more companies are introducing electronic standing desks to the market, but with so much variation in build, quality, and - most importantly - price, it can be hard to decide whether it’s worth it.

Roccat Kone XP Air Mouse Review - A Highly Customisable High End Choice

Stacey Henley — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:40:04 GMT

The first thing you notice about the Roccat Kone XP Air is how cool it looks. Gaming peripherals have a lousy habit of trying too hard to look cool and coming off very silly. The Roccat Kone XP Air finds a sweet spot between over-designed and opting for raw functionality over form alone. Available in both white and black (I reviewed the white version), the mouse's core aesthetic feature comes in the form of shell lights. In throwback frosted plastic, the top of the mouse is translucent and lights up with coloured veins that cycle through chromatic shades soothingly and peacefully. There are different settings to make it pulse at different rates if you fancy holding a rave in your palm while you're switching tabs, but personally, I'd recommend the slower settings. But like, I'm not a cop. Do what you want.

Logitech G735 Gaming Headset Review – Small, But Powerful

Joe Parlock — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 16:30:13 GMT

I’ve got an awful track record when it comes to wireless headphones. Being the picky, ogre-headed fool I am, nearly everything has either been too tight, too power-hungry, or it’s had an awful buzz caused by signal interference. As a result, I’ve tended to stay firmly wired for all my peripherals, chained to my desk like an RGB luddite.

Corsair TC200 Series Gaming Chair Review: Sturdy Comfort

Andrew King — Sat, 30 Jul 2022 20:30:13 GMT

The first thing I noticed about the Corsair TC200 is how normal it looks. While the angular, starkly contrasting black-and-white sections on my old chair pushed it into the flashy realm of Gamer Chiq, the all-black soft fabric model that Corsair sent me just looks like a chair. Aside from the pair of holes at shoulder-level (where an included pillow can attach) and the Corsair sails logo on the headrest, it could even be mistaken for an office chair. Given that I share my home office with my wife, who has no interest in looking like an esports competitor, I'm a big fan of how lowkey the aesthetic of the TC200 is. I've long wanted a gamer chair that doesn't look like a gamer chair and Corsair made it available at the mid-range price of $399.99.

Onexplayer Mini Review: A Steam Deck Alternative With Some Big Advantages

Eric Switzer — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 20:36:18 GMT

While handheld PCs aren’t exactly new, the Steam Deck has brought a lot of attention to the market, which in turn has spurred rapid innovation among would-be competitors to Valve’s flagship device.

Mavix M7 Gaming Chair + FS 360 Armrests Review: High Price, High Functionality

Sam Hallahan — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 14:00:14 GMT

The idea of being content with a workspace or somewhere to relax is pretty straightforward. You sit down to work, recline to play some games or watch some TV shows, and you don’t think much more of it. Being comfortable, however, takes a lot more to achieve, and the Mavix M7 with the new FS 360 Armrests delivers in spades.

Maidesite SC2 Pro Standing Desk Review - Sturdy And Reliable

Stacey Henley — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 09:54:05 GMT

I’ve had my Maidesite SC2 Pro standing desk for a week now, and I’m enjoying all of the new uses I’m getting out of it. I should point out the caveat that I’m not an expert in this field and this is the first standing desk I have ever owned. However, I have looked around at other desks for their strengths and weaknesses, so this is not just a long and dull personal essay about my first adventure with a standing desk. As it stands (heh) I think the Maidesite SC2 Pro makes the ideal standing desk, although it’s not without its issues.

Thrustmaster T.Flight Full Kit X Review: Is It Worth It?

Issy van der Velde — Sun, 03 Jul 2022 18:00:13 GMT

Saddle up and strap in folks, because we’re about to catch some serious Gs. When I said that to my roommates and plonked the Thrustmaster T.Flight Full Kit X down on the table, they looked at me real weird. It didn’t help that I was wearing a full flight suit, I’ll admit, but if I’m reviewing a flight stick, I want to review it right.

FlexiSpot BS10 BackSupport Office Chair Review: Function Over Style

Sam Hallahan — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 15:30:14 GMT

In any workspace, you want to make sure you’re comfortable at all times. Long use of devices at a desk with little in the way of ergonomics can cause strain, so the right equipment makes all the difference in your health and productivity. However, while you want to be comfortable in your chair at home or in the office, there are also near-limitless options for what style you want.

Elgato HD60 X Review

Meg Pelliccio — Sat, 09 Apr 2022 19:00:14 GMT

Any built-in options to record or stream gameplay from your console are usually pretty poor. When it comes to recording, most only allow a few minutes of footage, possibly longer if you opt to plug in external storage, and even then the quality can be dicey. As for streaming, options are naturally limited to the basics, and completely non-existent when it comes to the Nintendo Switch. You’re never going to get the full package when it comes to recording or streaming on your console, but fortunately, that’s where capture cards come into play.

Roccat Kone XP Review - RGB Royalty

George Foster — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 16:30:48 GMT

If you’re a seasoned PC gamer, Roccat is a name that’s going to be instantly familiar to you, thanks to its range of high-quality, pro-gamer focused, RGB-laden mice, microphones, and keyboards. The latest addition to this lineup is the Roccat Kone XP, the next evolution of the Kone line of mice that focuses on what we all love most - RGB lighting.

This Teenage Engineering Computer Case Is Truly A Thing of Marvel

Khee Hoon Chan — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 19:00:15 GMT

Here’s a confession: I’ve been in love with Teenage Engineering, a Swedish electronics company, for a while now. Its brand is synonymous with a high-end, minimalist design of portable synthesisers and speakers, including a line of ultra mini synths called Pocket Operators that are a sheer joy to play, too (one of them is Street Fighter-themed, which lets you make Street Fighting sounds). Gamers, on the other hand, may be more familiar with a console that the company has helped design: the Playdate.

FlexiSpot Comhar EG8 All-In-One Standing Desk Review

Sam Hallahan — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 14:00:12 GMT

When the folks at FlexiSpot offered for me to try out the Comhar EG8 All-in-one Standing Desk, I was excited. It was time to say goodbye to my narrow and tattered cheap IKEA desk, and dive into the world of premium ergonomics - and also time to get some blood flow back into my legs. I stood at a counter and walked around all day in my previous job, so my joints have certainly suffered a decline in the sudden switch of a career.

New WD_Black Game Drive Is An Essential PS5 Upgrade

Eric Switzer — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 02:20:32 GMT

PlayStation 5 storage is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Imagine living in a house without any closets, or driving a car without a trunk. Technically, you could do it, but you’ll be making life so much harder. A PS5 with an empty expansion slot has recently become a massive inconvenience. A year ago, you could get away with just 660GB of usable space as long as you were willing to uninstall games as soon as you were done playing them. With Horizon Forbidden West, Destiny 2: The Witch Queen, Elden Ring, and plenty more on the way, now is the time to upgrade your PS5’s storage.

Corsair's New M.2 SSD Makes Upgrading Your PS5 Less Painful

Eric Switzer — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 11:00:37 GMT

Sony has taken an interesting approach to storage upgrades on the PlayStation 5. Rather than featuring an external expansion slot, the PS5 has a standard M.2 port for connecting regular NVMe SSDs. This means that the PS5 offers a much wider range of SSD compatibility than the Xbox Series X/S - which uses a proprietary (and more expensive) card - at the cost of requiring a more complicated and risky installation. Corsair’s new M.2 SSD, the MP600 Pro LPX, makes the frustrating process as simple as possible. You’ll still need to partially disassemble your PS5 and manually move your games to the new drive, but the MP600 eliminates enough unnecessary guesswork from the shopping and installation process that it will no doubt be a go-to solution for your PS5 storage needs.

Cove Review: At Ease, Even While Playing Rocket League

Sam Watanuki — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 20:30:12 GMT

If there’s been one thing that I’ve been committed to over the past 12 months, it’s been bettering myself. Call it a New Year’s resolution that I was actually able to stick with through the year. Whether the focus was on my health, posture, fitness goals, or overall well-being, I was committed to bettering myself – not just for me, but my family as well (I still use every one of those products to this day, all on a daily basis).

Epos GTW 270 Hybrid Earbuds Review

Sam Watanuki — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:30:11 GMT

I’m almost always an early adopter of new technologies, but it admittedly took me a long time to allow earbud headphones into my ear holes. I always thought that Apple’s AirPods looked terrible and assumed that I would be one to easily lose the tiny, non-wired earbuds. That all changed after giving the Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro Earbuds a go. Those ‘lil cuties have become my primary headphone source for my everyday life, whether I’m working out, doing yard work, or cleaning up around the house.

Sony Shows Off VR Tech That Could Potentially Make Future PSVRs Far More Detailed

Sean Murray — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 15:11:20 GMT

Sony has made a breakthrough in VR technology. Showcased for Sony's Technology Day in a brand new video from the company's R&D Center is a 4K OLED lens that doubles the pixel resolution of current VR headsets like the HTC Vive and HP Reverb G2.

DXRacer Air Mesh Gaming Chair Review

Sam Watanuki — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:00:12 GMT

My time spent in the Mavix M4 has solidified my buy-in to the new open mesh-based cushioning systems that is apparently the next big thing in gaming chair design. The lightweight yet supportive open air design allows for a comfortable experience while also keeping my body cool – a component I never needed in a chair design, but one that I am especially thankful for in my studio which is one of the warmer rooms of my house.

AndaSeat T-Pro 2 Series Review

Sam Watanuki — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 20:00:12 GMT

If I were to be browsing the AndaSeat website, the T-Pro 2 Series would undoubtedly stick out to me as the top tier gaming chair available. Of course, calling the T-Pro 2 strictly a “gaming chair” may be a bit misleading, especially considering that AndaSeat’s branding states that the chair is well-suited both “For Game, [and] For Work.” I would still, however, place the T-Pro 2 more in the gaming chair camp than I would a work chair. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, especially if you’re looking for a comfortable gaming that will prevent fatigue during long gaming sessions.

ASTRO.ID Collection 2 Review: Gaming Headsets Don't Have To Be Boring Anymore

Eric Switzer — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 18:23:49 GMT

Customization is my favorite new trend in gaming. I made a custom controller immediately when Microsoft relaunched the Xbox Design Lab, and I ordered black faceplates for my PS5 before I even had a console to put them on. In a sea of plain gaming accessories with RGB accents, I’ll take any excuse to add a bit of color and personality to my devices, and thanks to the new Astro ID Customizer, there’s a great way to design a pair of Astro A40 TRs - one of the most popular gaming headsets in the world. I took the Astro ID Customizer for a spin to test out the system and made myself a slick pair of purple-and-black headphones that I’ve been using with my Switch, PS4, and Tablet for the past few weeks. If you’re looking for some style and a great gaming headset for consoles, this is a worthwhile option to consider. It’s not without its sacrifices, however, and if you’re looking for features like volume controls, USB and wireless connection, or equalizer options, you’re going to be better off with something else.

Facebook Can't Get The Username "Meta" On Its Own App

Josh Coulson — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 14:54:47 GMT

Facebook is now called Meta, but Mark Zuckerberg doesn't appear to have checked if that username was available on Instagram, a platform he owns, before making the change.

Mavix M4 Gaming Chair Review

Sam Watanuki — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 19:00:12 GMT

I haven’t sat in a corporate-style desk chair in over a year, and my back has never been happier. You know the kind of chair that I’m talking about – the generic, low-tier char that is supposedly ergonomic enough to keep you feeling energized all day, but actually ends up wearing out its support within a month, leaving you with a seating solution that is only slightly better than straight up sitting on the ground. There’s a reason why the corporate world has so many unclaimed old chairs strewn about most offices.

Apple's $19 Polishing Cloth Is Already Sold Out

Josh Coulson — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 10:55:08 GMT

The only thing worse than the news Apple is charging $19 for a polishing cloth is that said cloth is already sold out until November.

Monoprice Dark Matter Collider TKL Gaming Keyboard Review

Meg Pelliccio — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 11:49:22 GMT

I use my keyboard to the point where the keys wear off fairly quickly, so it’s only natural that I have to replace them pretty often. I love getting a new keyboard; setting it up and letting my fingers glide over the pristine keys while they still feel all shiny and new. I was recently given the opportunity to test out Monoprice’s Dark Matter Collider TKL Gaming Keyboard, a minimalistic yet sturdy design that gives you the feeling of quality at your fingertips.

Shure MV7 Podcast Kit Review

Sam Watanuki — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 18:30:11 GMT

I’ve had the condenser microphone that I use for streaming for nearly 12 years now. It’s a Heil PR40, which isn’t necessarily a major brand name within the world of streaming and gaming, but even after more than a decade, the audio quality sounds just fine – at least, fine enough to prevent me from ever thinking I needed any sort of upgrade. Boy, was I wrong though.

AndaSeat Eagle 2 Gaming Desk Review

Sam Watanuki — Sun, 10 Oct 2021 21:46:50 GMT

Gaming desks are a dime a dozen these days, but if you ask me, it can only be considered a “gaming” desk if it comes with a mat that covers the entire desktop. Otherwise, it’s just a desk, right? Throw some sort of RGB lighting component on it – literally anywhere – and you have yourself a certifiable gaming desk. The AndaSeat Eagle 2 fits the mold to a tee, providing a durable and comfortable starter gaming desk experience whether you’re streaming to the masses or playing on your own. And yes – it has RGB lighting.

Victrix Gambit Controller And Headset Review: Gotta Go Fast

Sam Watanuki — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 18:31:11 GMT

There is really only one peripheral in my gaming gear setup that I consider a “must-have” while playing or streaming: my VZR Model One headphones. Besides sounding incredible, the headphones give me a considerable advantage over the completion thanks to the analog 3D audio. I honestly never thought it could be beat, but the new Victrix Gambit Wireless Headset, along with the Victrix Gambit Dual Core Tournament Controller, might just give the Model Ones a run for their money – which is especially true given that the headphones are a fraction of what the Model Ones cost.

Nintendo Switch OLED Review - An Unlikely Improvement

Cian Maher — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 13:00:12 GMT

One of my worst and best qualities is that I hate being wrong but will reluctantly admit when I am. I’m not always particularly graceful about it - my eyes dart sideward as I apologise through gritted teeth - but I unironically believe in the cliched but valuable adage of honesty being the best policy.

Flexispot Standing Desk Pro Series E7 Review: Customisable Quality

Helen Ashcroft — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:00:11 GMT

For the last few weeks, I've been the envy of everyone in my office since being given the opportunity to try the Flexispot E7 Standing Desk Pro. This might be slightly more impressive if everyone in my office was comprised of more than just my husband and three kids, but there's still a good reason for them to be jealous. Not only is the E7 incredibly well built but it also boasts several customisation options, including different colour options for both the frame and desktop. It's converted me not only to the concept of a standing desk but also to the benefits of having a well-built workspace.

Valve Working On A Standalone VR Headset To Compete With Oculus Quest 2

Sean Murray — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:00:12 GMT

Valve might be working on a sequel to the Index, according to a new report. YouTuber Brad Lynch, who focuses mainly on virtual reality tech, has found evidence from patent applications and his own sources that Valve is working on a new standalone VR headset much like the Oculus Quest.

Unity 3D's Arabic Localisation Labelled "Unreadable"

Issy van der Velde — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 13:36:26 GMT

A new Unity 3D localisation system got released a few days ago that aims to provide tools that will support developers who wish to add various languages and regional variations to their applications. However, one Arab video game developer quickly noticed that the new system renders Arabic unreadable.

Dark Matter Hyper-K Ultralight Gaming Mouse Review - Sleek And Weightless

James Troughton — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 13:15:11 GMT

This peripheral comes in a sleek black box that flips open like a novel, revealing a cubby hole with a mesh mouse inside. Like most tech, the name is a bit of a mouthful, but I was excited to try it out all the same. It booted up with no problems and, like an electric car, the lights silently flickered on, rainbow and all.

Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Wireless Review - Designed For And Tested By Esports Pros

Eric Switzer — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:00:13 GMT

I’ve found the mouse I’m going to use until it breaks, then I’m going to buy another one. As a hardware reviewer, I often find myself rotating through different devices, always using the last mouse I reviewed until the next one comes along. But no more - The Corsair’s Sabre RGB Pro Wireless Champion Series has everything I could ever want in a wireless gaming mouse. Its ultra-lightweight frame, sub-1ms response time, and 90-hour battery put the Sabre in a league of its own. It's comfortable for multiple grip types, and it has a smoother glide than any mouse I’ve tested this year. I can’t imagine what another wireless mouse could do for me that the Sabre doesn’t. If lightweight speed is what you’re after, the Sabre RGB Pro is the mouse to beat.

Eksa Gaming Headsets Review

Sam Watanuki — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 20:30:11 GMT

Eksa Gaming might not be a brand name that immediately jumps out at you, but with the goal of providing sensational gaming experience that everyone can enjoy without hurting their wallets, Eksa is a brand that’s worth checking out if you’re in the market for a new and (more importantly) affordable gaming headset.

BuddyPhones Play+ Headset Review

Sam Watanuki — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 21:30:11 GMT

My son turned two-years-old last month, which means that he is already well-versed in the usage of tablets and mobile phones. My wife and I did our best to stave off screen time for as long as we could, but raising a toddler – especially one as high energy as ours – during a pandemic while we were both trying to work from home… well, we eventually caved. We ended up getting him an Amazon Fire Kindle Kids Edition, and though I personally hate the device in terms of sharing apps and content for the kid profile, it gets the job done while being far cheaper and a bit more durable than an iPad.

Flexispot Sit2Go 2-in-1 Fitness Chair Review

Sam Watanuki — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 20:30:11 GMT

Working out has been a bit of a slog for me since the middle of summer. To kick off Independence Day weekend, my family and I were rear-ended in a car accident, resulting in me needing to pause my weight lifting program and Peloton sessions as I got checked out by medical professionals. As someone who literally needs those 30-60 minutes of daily workout/”me” time for the sake of my mental health, this was a bit of a struggle. After all, physical therapy twice a week can only go so far.

SteelSeries Prime Line Review

Sam Watanuki — Sun, 05 Sep 2021 00:46:43 GMT

SteelSeries is more than a household name at this point. In fact, I’ve recently discovered just how far the gaming accessories and peripherals brand reaches in my own group of friends. Even those within my own circle that rarely game either use, or have at least heard of SteelSeries products. And it appears that the brand has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

ASUS ROG Flow X13 Review - A Tablet, A Work Computer, And A Ray-Tracing Powerhouse

Kirk McKeand — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 14:10:38 GMT

There are a bunch of considerations to take into account when buying a new laptop. Do you want something compact and sleek that’s suitable for work trips, do you need a powerful CPU, or do you want a beefy GPU so you can game on the go? Perhaps what you really need is a tablet? The ASUS ROG Flow X13 is all of the above.

Roccat Torch Mic Review - A Solid Streaming Mic

Stacey Henley — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 12:56:41 GMT

The Roccat Torch is a handy little microphone, compact enough to fit on a cramped desk yet big enough to feel sturdy and reliable. Setting it up is fairly simple, but there are some extra steps that may become more fiddly depending on your PC or laptop. It has a range of modes and easy to use settings, but it will probably take a little bit of toying around with to get it right.

Timbuk2 x Astro Collection Review

Sam Watanuki — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:26:05 GMT

Whenever I travel – that is to say when I used to travel more consistently – you can typically find me toting along any combination of my iPhone, Macbook Pro, gaming laptop, Nintendo Switch, Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro Earbuds, and my Razer Opus Headphones. I’ve even been known to lug around my PS4 when I have a review deadline that falls on the same date as when I’ll be out of town. You’d think at this point I would have invested in some sort of dedicated luggage solution for my gaming gear, but there just hasn’t really been anything on the market that seemed worth it to me. Laptops, Switch, and headphones in my carry-on backpack, the PS4 nestled snugly and securely between the clothes in my checked bag. This seemed to be good enough for me.

Corsair HS80 Review: The Best Value In Wireless Gaming Headphones

Eric Switzer — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 13:00:11 GMT

Once you get a reliable pair of wireless headphones, you’ll never go back. There are a lot of people that stick to wired mice and keyboards, so they don’t have to worry about charging and latency, but a pair of quality gaming headphones like the Corsair HS80 is a luxury that will transform your gaming experience overnight. The HS80 offers all of the convenience and comfort that only a wireless headset can provide without sacrificing audio quality. With Dolby Atmos, 20 hours of battery life, and a 60-foot range, these are some of the best sounding and easiest to use wireless gaming headphones I’ve ever tested.

VZR Model One Headphones Review: Setting The Bar

Sam Watanuki — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 23:04:08 GMT

One of the saddest days of my professional reviewing career was when I had to return my pre-production sample of the VZR Model One Headphones that I previewed earlier this year. My initial impressions were about as glowing as they could get, and the in-game audio experience that those headphones offered was second to none – an equally as impressive feat given the fact that the headphones I was testing out weren’t even the final product. Alas, I had to give up my auditory advantage and go crawling back to my other gaming headset while I waited on the final version of the VZR Model One.

Apple Hires 500 People To Manually Check Every App Store Submission

Joshua Henry — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 17:40:29 GMT

The recent legal battle between Apple and Epic Games has unearthed a bunch of information about how each of the companies operate behind-the-scenes. From Epic trying to get PlayStation exclusives on the Epic Games Store to Microsoft switching to an 88/12 revenue share for games sold on Xbox, the lawsuit is shining a light on how the games industry operates. The most recent revelation from this courtroom drama has shown that Apple hired 500 employees to be in charge of manually checking every App Store submission. This is a surprising fact about the company considering Apple is often depicted as moving away from the human element.

AndaSeat Jungle Series Premium Gaming Chair Review

Sam Watanuki — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 19:30:11 GMT

Let’s be honest: if you’re in the market for a “gaming chair”, you’re undoubtedly starting your search with DXRacer or Secretlab. At least, this wouldn’t be surprising given those two brands’ name recognition within the realm of gaming and livestreaming. Personally, my social timelines are chock full of sponsored ads from those two brands, specifically. There are, however, numerous other gaming chair brands featuring chairs that are more than capable of providing you style for your own streaming setup, as well as comfort for extended gaming sessions.

HyperX QuadCast S Is The All In One Mic For Streaming, Podcasting, And Zooming (Review)

Eric Switzer — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 23:12:09 GMT

Once you start using a USB microphone, you’ll never go back to a gaming headset. The audio quality that HyperX’s Quadcast S offers is just incomparable to even the most sophisticated mic on a pair of gaming headphones. You don’t need to be an audio expert to get the benefits of a USB microphone either. Simply plugging in the Quadcast with no other tuning or calibrating will instantly give you much clearer, cleaner audio. What makes the Quadcast S stand out from the pack is its customizable RGB, variable gain control, and something I’ve never seen before in any other microphone — adjustable polar patterns. The QuadCast S is actually four microphones in one, making it the total package for streaming, podcasting, web meeting, or even just playing games.

New Gigabyte SSD For PS5 Is The Most Affordable Way To Expand Storage

Raul Velasquez — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 21:41:59 GMT

As Sony continues rolling out its first software beta for the PS5, expanding storage by installing a new M.2 SSD is now possible, albeit being rather expensive. However, Gigabyte is fixing that with what is now the cheapest PS5-ready SSD out there.

Monoprice Dark Matter Headset Review: Affordable And Average

Jon Bitner — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 21:00:11 GMT

I'll be honest, I had no idea what Monoprice was until about a month ago when I was given the opportunity to review the Dark Matter headset. Founded way back in 2002, Monoprice creates thousands of affordable electronics, ranging from computer monitors and headsets to 3D printers and webcams. As far as headsets and headphones are concerned, Dark Matter is one of its cheaper offerings. Some of its high-end, non-gaming headphones run upwards of $300 – so I was curious to know if the $39.99 Dark Matter managed to perform any better than its price tag let on.

No, Gaming PCs Are Not Being Banned In Several US States

Raul Velasquez — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 14:26:09 GMT

Over the past week, several users on social media started noticing Dell was no longer shipping high-end PCs to many US states. However, anyone playing their favorite games on PC can rest easy - the government is not coming after the PC master race.

OnePlus 9 Pro 5G Review – The Mobile Gaming Champion

Jon Bitner — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 01:00:11 GMT

For the longest time, OnePlus was known as an affordable smartphone manufacturer. The 7 Pro launched for just $669.99 back in 2019, followed by the 8 Pro in 2020 for $899.99. The company is slowly shedding its reputation as affordable, and its latest release seems to have completed the transformation – this year's OnePlus 9 Pro 5G clocks in at a budget-busting $1,069.99.

Elgato Facecam Is The Easiest Way To Improve Your Stream Today

Eric Switzer — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 19:30:00 GMT

If you’re a streamer, chances are you’re either using a $40 webcam from Best Buy, or an elaborate DSLR w/ camera card setup that costs thousands. It’s only in the last year or so that major gaming brands like Razer have stepped up with high-quality webcams designed for streamers. Today, Elgato revealed its version of the webcam for streamers. The Facecam is 1080p60 camera with some pretty impressive specs. It also fits perfectly into the Elgato ecosystem if you’re already using the Stream Deck, Key Light, or Green Screen. There are certainly better camera options out there if you’re willing to invest, but at $200, the Elgato Facecam blows just about every other webcam out of the water. It’s an ideal solution for casual streamers and anyone that doesn’t have a few thousand dollars to spend on an expensive camera.

YouTuber Builds A Nuclear Powered Game Boy

Issy van der Velde — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:15:18 GMT

In a bizarre combination of engineering genius and pure foolishness, YouTuber Ian Charnas has built a nuclear-powered Game Boy knock-off that will last for 100 years. His YouTube banner states that he is "winging it", but his invention actually works, and can even be used to play Tetris. And don't worry about radiation burns - Charnas claims his device only emits as much radiation as granite, which many kitchen countertops, public benches, and sculptures are made out of.

Hands-On With Esports Custom PS5 Controllers From HexGaming

Eric Switzer — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 02:28:12 GMT

As far as I can tell, HexGaming is first to market with its custom PS5 DualSense controllers, featuring several upgrades, including swappable thumbsticks, optimizing triggers, and mappable back paddles. I became such a huge fan of back paddles throughout the PS4 generation that it’s been particularly difficult for me to adjust to the DualSense now, and neither Sony nor major controller brands like Scuf are offering any solutions yet. Luckily, HexGaming has my back, and sent over one of its modified DualSense controller for a test drive. The PS5 Rival controller has some of the most comfortable and easy to use back paddles I’ve ever seen, and the color and design options are gorgeous, but for more than four times the price of a regular DualSense controller, I’m not convinced that HexGaming has packed enough value and features into this device to justify the price.

CLX Scarab Custom Gaming PC Review: A Premium Rig At A Premium Price

Jon Bitner — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Unlike consoles, PC gaming gives you several ways to break into the hobby. Building your own rig is without a doubt the most cost-effective solution, but you can also opt for a pre-built gaming tower, pick up a portable gaming laptop, or have a third-party craft you a custom PC. That last category – having a custom PC built for you – combines the convenience of pre-built rigs with the customization of building your own, making it an increasingly attractive option.

Ebay Certified Refurbished Acer Predator XB3 Monitor Review

Sam Watanuki — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Let’s say you’re ready for (or in need of) a new monitor, but can’t quite find one that is both top-of-the-line and within your budget. Have you considered looking around for a refurbished monitor? I know, I know. We’ve all heard about the horror stories that have come with refurbished electronics. I myself have had more experience with poor-quality refurbished electronics than I’d like to admit to, ranging in everything from monitors, to phones, to even full-fledged PCs and laptops.As such, I came into my review of the Certified Refurbished Acer Predator XB3 Monitor cautiously optimistic. On one hand, I was a bit concerned about the longevity of the monitor, and even if it would work immediately out of the box – a frustrating experience that has happened to me more than once with refurbished electronics. On the other hand, eBay’s new Certified Refurbished program is pretty impressive both with its list of partnered brands, as well as its guarantees to help keep buyers protected. I’ve spent over a month with my Certified Refurbished Acer Predator XB3. If my time with this product is any indication, I have no doubt that I’ll become a repeat customer through eBay’s Certified Refurbished program for my future needs.First, let’s touch on the Acer Predator XB3 itself. The XB3 (or XB253Q Gwbmiiprzx for you gearheads) is part of Acer’s Predator suite of monitors, coming with a 24.5" display and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility. It features a full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080@240 Hz with an aspect ratio of 16:9, a response time of 1 ms, an overclock refresh rate of 280 Hz, along with having more USB 3.0 ports than you’ll know what to do with (although, I’m sure you’ll find a way). A nice little addition is its 2 x 2 W speakers, which is great for when you’re wanting desktop speakers, but lack the real estate on an already cluttered desk.Related: Roccat Syn Pro Air Wireless Gaming Headset Review: Style PointsAs for its performance, the XB3 is incredible. I’ve never really had a “nice” monitor used specifically for gaming, mostly using an LG dual-monitor setup both for work, as well as gaming and streaming. The XB3, however, is definitely designed to be your dedicated gaming monitor. I’ve run through multiple high-end games to test out its graphical capabilities – Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, WRC 10, GTA Online – and they all look higher in quality than I’ve ever seen before. Even World of Warcraft looks and feels like an improved and more immersive experience. I feel like I’ve missed out a bit on having never invested in a top-tier gaming monitor. Now, I don’t think I can ever go back.What’s even better about my entire experience is that my XB3 is... refurbished! Certified Refurbished, to be exact, I don’t think I’ve ever before encountered a refurbished product that felt like it was brand-new. I’ve always kind of been able to tell that my refurbished electronics were “like-new”, but the XB3 just feels like a mint monitor straight out of the box. Of course, as with all refurbished products, my experience may differ slightly from yours. However, eBay’s Certified Refurbished program comes with plenty of protections for you and your product, including a two-year warranty for all purchases made in the US, a money back guarantee, as well as hassle-free returns should the product not be exactly what you wanted. All refurbished products come with new accessories and manuals, along with manufacturer-sealed packaging.[EMBED_YT]https://youtu.be/DTGY1W1ngbA[/EMBED_YT]The partnered brand list is pretty impressive itself. In addition to Acer, brands like Razer, Microsoft, Samsung, HyperX, and Dell are just a few of major companies to be a part of eBay’s Certified Refurbished program, all of which offer refurbished products up to 50%-off the normal market price.The XB3 falls on the lower end of the XB3 series’ price range, coming in at a market price of $369.99. With the eBay Certified Refurbished program, however, you can snag the high-end monitor right now for $279.99 – that’s almost $100-off!The XB3 is just one of a slew of gaming monitors (and other peripherals) that are well worth checking out if you’re in the market for new gear. I’ve been pricing out new gaming desktops PCs for a few months now, and now that I know about eBay’s Certified Refurbished program, you can bet that I’m keeping my eye out for deals. I’m that confident in the program, and would be more than willing to pair a Certified Refurbished gaming PC with my Certified Refurbished Acer Predator XB3.A product sample was provided to TheGamer for this review. The Certified Refurbished Acer Predator XB3 is available now on eBay via its Certified Refurbished program.Next: Flexispot L-Shaped Office Adjustable Desk E1L Review: Standing Tall

Roccat Syn Pro Air Review

Sergio Solorzano — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 00:33:46 GMT

Turtle Beach–perhaps the biggest name in console gaming headsets–recently acquired Roccat, a German company known for esports-ready PC gear. The latest result of this union is the Syn Pro Air, a wireless PC gaming headset with a simplified design, rich sound, and tasteful RGB integration. It’s also the brand’s most expensive headset at $149.99. Does it earn that asking price? For the most part, yes, but it’s got competition.

Two Weeks With Cooler Master's Ultralight Mouse And Keyboard

Eric Switzer — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 00:15:34 GMT

Cooler Master is probably best known for its computer cases and cooling options, but Cooler Master actually offers a wide range of gaming products, including monitors, gaming chairs, and of course, mice and keyboards. In anticipation of the recently announced limited edition colorways for the MM720, I spent two weeks using the SK622 keyboard and MM720 mouse for work, gaming, and streaming. While the wide design of the MM720 initially confused me, I’ve come to appreciate the control and comfort it offers. The SK622, on the other hand, is the ultimate portable solution and one of the slickest 60% keyboards I’ve ever tested.

Don't Compromise On Storage With The FireCuda Gaming Hub

Eric Switzer — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 23:07:31 GMT

We’re at an interesting crossroads with storage devices right now. While read and write speeds continue to accelerate thanks to the wide accessibility of SSDs and, in particular, NVMe drives, the storage capacity needs of players increase in kind. SSDs have plenty of obvious benefits. They’re much faster, easier to fit in, and a lot more reliable. The migration from HDD to SSD started nearly a decade ago, and today, most serious PC gamers are likely using partial SSD setups, if they haven’t switched to solid state entirely.

Vertagear PL4500 Review: Comfortable Seating With Quirky Extras

Helen Ashcroft — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 19:00:00 GMT

As someone who has been regularly gaming and working at desks for longer than I care to admit, I’ve sat on a lot of different chairs over the years. From cheap office chairs to branded gaming chairs, I’ve owned my fair share. So, when I was asked to try the Vertagear Racing Series P-Line PL4500 I was expecting more of the same. While the chair itself may seem like a pretty standard affair, the unique RGB LED upgrade kit that Vertagear sent with it proves that if there’s a product aimed at gamers, someone has made a version with rainbow lights.

Roccat PC Hardware Impressions After A Month

Dave Aubrey — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

2021 is halfway through, and if you've been working from home for more than a year now - longer than many of us expected this to go on for - then you've probably got a good setup. A nice keyboard, smooth mouse, plenty of screen real estate for your documents and Twitter, and a headset to pump Spotify into your ears 24/7 in an effort to stave off madness until an ad starts playing. At least, that's the minimum level of comfort you should be dealing with.

Flexispot L-Shaped Office Adjustable Desk E1L Review

Sam Watanuki — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 23:00:00 GMT

Last month, I had the opportunity to check out the Flexispot Ergonomic Gaming Desk With Mouse Pad which immediately replaced my tiny, outdated IKEA workstation – a move that was long overdue. Flexispot restored my appreciation for having a decent workspace, with the gaming desk having now found a permanent position in my basement studio.

Lightning Bolt Review: Gunnar's Most Comfortable Gaming Glasses Yet

Eric Switzer — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 01:19:13 GMT

Gunnar Optiks has had a fascinating journey over the last several decades as its product line of gamer glasses continues to grow. Years ago, you might have seen a pair of Gunnars at Best Buy that looked like safety glasses. These days, Gunnar offers dozens of styles and types of glasses for a variety of needs - not just gaming - all designed to block damaging blue light and reduce digital eye strain. Its newest frame, the Lightning Bolt, is likely Gunnar’s most innovative design yet, thanks to its interchangeable temples that relieve the pressure created by gaming headsets.

Turtle Beach Recon 500 Review: You Already Know What It Is

Sergio Solorzano — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 00:26:45 GMT

Turtle Beach needs no introduction - anyone who played console shooters growing up probably got a pair or two as a gift. That niche of good quality at a small-to-medium price is what Turtle Beach is known for, and it lives in that market comfortably. Its Roccat brand targets higher end PC headsets so that Turtle Beach can stay in the console lane. And stay firmly in that lane it does with the Recon 500.

OtterBox Power Swap Controller Batteries Review: Hot-Swap Like A Boss

Sam Watanuki — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 15:00:56 GMT

Most people know the pain of playing a game where they’re in the middle of an intense firefight or boss battle, only to have their controller die due to running out of juice. Then, it’s a matter of scrambling for your charging cable or battery pack, connecting it to their controller, and clearing the screen that automatically paused the game. Of course, an added level of frustration occurs when playing an online game, since those don’t pause.

Test Driving The World's First Interactive VR Chair - Roto VR Review

Eric Switzer — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 18:59:50 GMT

My lifelong quest to find ultimate video game immersion began in 1995 on the day that I plugged a joystick into my dad’s DOS computer to play Star Wars: Rebel Assault 2. Since then, I’ve endeavoured to find every device, peripheral, or piece of hardware that can help me achieve my Ready Player One dream. Modern virtual reality headsets like the Oculus Quest 2 have closed the gap significantly, but of course, VR headsets are still quite limited in the experiences they can offer. Merely peering through the looking glass is insufficient; my quest for true immersion demands a full physical transportation into the virtual world. Last month, I was able to make a huge step forward — perhaps as monumental as the Quest 2 itself — thanks to Roto VR: the world’s first interactive VR chair. The Roto VR chair is the most complex and sophisticated motion device you can get outside of a location-based VR experience like Hologate. In fact, the wide compatibility of Roto VR actually makes it a better system for immersion-seekers when compared to Hologate and other VR arcade systems, which can only offer a small handful of games and experiences. While Roto VR certainly isn’t Ready Player One brought to life, I believe it’s the closest we’ve ever been — particularly for a home setting.

Roccat Magma Keyboard Review: Silence Is Golden

Sergio Solorzano — Sun, 06 Jun 2021 19:00:30 GMT

Roccat recently gave me the chance to review two of its new gaming keyboards. First was the Roccat Pyro, a refined version of its mechanical keyboard. The Pyro is clearly meant to be the premium of the pair, with a focus on responsive keys, long-lasting construction, and an overall emphasis on quality for its price point. The Roccat Magma is positioned more as the fun RGB keyboard with lots of lighting options. It’s also the cheaper of the two at $59.99. But honestly? The Roccat Magma is my new favorite keyboard.

NZXT Announces A New N7 Z590 Motherboard

Sergio Solorzano — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 23:26:17 GMT

Custom PC maker NZXT has another big in-house project available - an Intel-based motherboard with Wi-Fi 6E. Dubbed the N7 Z590, it is the latest in the company's attempts to fuse sleek aesthetics with top-tier performance.

Drop + THX Panda Wireless Headphones Review

Jon Bitner — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 18:02:41 GMT

At first glance, the Drop + THX Panda Wireless Headphones don’t seem that impressive. Their bland, all-black design isn’t nearly as eye-catching as the similarly priced AirPods Max. Instead, they look like a cheap knock-off product you’d find at your local flea market. Push past that boring exterior, however, and you’ll be treated to one of the best listening experiences on the market.

Roccat Pyro Keyboard Review

Sergio Solorzano — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 00:39:34 GMT

Roccat is here with another quality keyboard to improve your PC game and your remote work life. The Roccat Pyro is the latest in a line of mechanical keyboards from the German manufacturer that focuses on esports-ready hardware. It doesn’t bring anything bold to the table, but it does deliver a fantastic product for around $100.

Best Buy Will Hand Out Tickets At Stores Tomorrow For Buying Nvidia's 3080 Ti

Sean Murray — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 16:58:22 GMT

Nvidia’s new flagship graphics card arrives tomorrow at stores everywhere. This time, Nvidia has made basically no promises of ensuring enough stock for everyone, since those promises turned out to be bald-faced lies for the RTX 3080, 3070, and 3060. It’s going to be a feeding frenzy, and Best Buy is taking steps to make sure that at least nobody winds up hospitalized.

HyperX And Anta Gordon Hayward Limited Edition Sneakers And Gaming Headset Bundle Review

Sam Watanuki — Sat, 29 May 2021 13:00:22 GMT

I recently had the pleasure of unboxing the Gordon Hayward Limited Edition Sneakers and Gaming Headset Bundle, which is a collaboration between gaming solutions brand HyperX and Anta, a global leader in sports equipment.

Razer Anzu Smart Glasses Review: The Next Step For Wearable Tech

Eric Switzer — Thu, 27 May 2021 20:18:25 GMT

The Razer Anzu Smart Glasses aren’t the first Bluetooth-enabled glasses I’ve tested, but they’re certainly the most impressive. Packed in these durable plastic frames are a pair of hyper-directional speakers that can pump crystal-clear audio into your ears without disturbing those around you. What’s more, the touch-enabled controls and virtual assistant features make the Razer Anzu’s a far more capable smart device than any smartwatch or even a feature-packed wireless earbud can be. What struck me the most about the Razer Anzu compared to similar smart glasses is just how versatile it can be thanks to the easy-to-remove lenses and customization options available in the Razer Audio mobile app. Despite the fact that this isn’t my first pair, the Razer Anzu frames are the first smart glasses that made me stop asking the question “Who really needs this?” Now, I rarely take them off. The Anzu Smart Glasses have become a vital tool for convenience and productivity for me, and I think there’s a tremendous amount of utility here for just about anyone, gamers or otherwise.

Nvidia Has A New GPU Announcement Coming May 31

Sean Murray — Thu, 27 May 2021 18:26:25 GMT

"Get ready" for an announcement from Nvidia. The latest tweet seems to be teasing some new GPU news that will arrive on May 31 at 10 AM PDT (1 PM EST). That's coincidentally the same time that Nvidia will host its keynote address at Computex, Asia's biggest technology conference.

Valve Might Be Making A Handheld Console According To New Steam Code

Sean Murray — Tue, 25 May 2021 14:18:02 GMT

SteamDB owner Pavel Djundik is a saint, as far as I’m concerned. The guy tirelessly combs through every new Steam update searching for bytes that might reveal what Valve is up to, from upcoming sales to new and exciting Steam features. It’s a thankless job that often puts him in the sights of publishers that don’t understand he’s just providing a public service.

Rig 500 Pro HC Headset Review: Get What You Pay For

Sergio Solorzano — Sat, 22 May 2021 15:55:56 GMT

Nacon recently revealed a few new products aimed at budget conscious gamers who still want certain quality functions. The RIG Pro Compact Controller allows for customized buttons and Dolby Atmos surround sound. To compliment it, the new RIG 500 Pro HC headset is made with 3D audio in mind. But how does it hold up as a gaming headset otherwise? Pretty well, if you’re looking for a plug-and-play product.

Nacon Rig Pro Compact Controller Review: This Bad Boy Can Fit So Much Customization

Sergio Solorzano — Sat, 22 May 2021 15:28:03 GMT

Since Microsoft decided to keep controllers mostly the same for the Xbox One to Xbox Series X|S transition, you’ve got a lot of choices. You can use the old Xbone controllers, get new wireless controllers with a fancy share button, look for a premium Elite controller, or save some money with PowerA. A newer option comes courtesy of Nacon: the RIG Pro Compact Controller.

Anda Seat Mask 2 Computer Table Review - A Stylish and Simplistic Gamer Space

Jade King — Sat, 22 May 2021 12:00:13 GMT

I never expected to own a desk with its own dedicated cup holder - but that all changed with the Anda Seat Mask 2 Computer Table. Silly name aside, this product is a simplistic yet elegant table ideal for gaming, office work, or simply acting as a piece of furniture for your home office or bedroom. As someone who recently moved into their first flat, I was keen for a desk that would make my working environment feel more substantial, and professional instead of just being a tiny platform with two monitors and a keyboard crammed upon it. There wasn’t even room for my Genshin Impact mousepad. But now, I have the real estate required to truly take advantage of my gaming prowess.

Roccat Kone Pro And Air Review - Lighten Up

Sergio Solorzano — Fri, 21 May 2021 20:31:55 GMT

Turtle Beach’s Roccat brand is supposed to be its premium, PC-based arm. The goal is to deliver the kind of peripherals esports players want to use in every big match. Roccat has certainly caught the attention of many streamers, with Dr Disrespect naming the brand as his official keyboard and mouse. Even if you don’t look up to Doc, it says something that a person who plays competitive games daily would pick this particular name above all else. Now, Roccat has another refinement of its mouse on the market, this time in a much lighter package.

Nvidia Announces Crypto Limiter For Most Of Its New Graphics Cards

Sean Murray — Wed, 19 May 2021 16:22:36 GMT

We’ve been living in the GPU apocalypse for the past eight months. A global shortage of semiconductors brought on by logistical issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic meant that pretty much everything more complicated than a toaster is suddenly in short supply, and that includes both consoles and graphics cards.

Flexispot Ergonomic Gaming Desk With Mouse Pad Review

Sam Watanuki — Fri, 14 May 2021 13:00:44 GMT

If there’s one thing I’m a sucker for, it’s gaming mats that I can place both my keyboard and mouse on without fear of accidentally moving my mouse off of the pad. A soft, waterproof kind of liner is always preferred over a cold, hard, and slippery normal desktop surface. It’s probably related to the fact that I prefer carpet over hardwood flooring. I’ve historically purchased cheaper mats because they are easy enough to replace. Never in my life did I think that I needed a full pad that covers the entirety of the desktop, but now that I’ve had a chance to experience the Flexispot Ergonomic Gaming Desk with Mouse Pad over the past week or so, I’m not sure if I can ever go back to a typical desktop. As far as sitting desks go, the Flexispot Ergonomic Gaming Desk with Mouse Pad might be the desk I’ve been looking for my entire life.

Sony Announces New Cosmic Red And Midnight Black DualSense Controller Color Options

Sean Murray — Thu, 13 May 2021 13:36:41 GMT

Turns out those leaked DualSense color options were right on the money. Sony just revealed two new DualSense controllers that are red and black, exactly as described, but still far more breathtaking to see in all their glory.

HyperX Cloud Revolver 7.1 Review: Plug And Play For All Your Gaming Needs

Eric Switzer — Wed, 12 May 2021 11:00:59 GMT

The HyperX Cloud Revolver 7.1 is a versatile gaming headset that will appeal to anyone that wants an all-in-one headphone option for PC, console, and mobile without the need to tinker with EQ settings or Bluetooth connections. The price and performance of the headset does put it a bit more on the enthusiast side of the market, but it lacks the kinds of features and customization that one might expect from a high-end gaming audio device. Ultimately, the Cloud Revolver 7.1 fits the bill for someone that is happy to pay for quality and just wants it to work right out of the box. This is one of the most convenient 7.1 headset I’ve ever tested thanks to the detachable 3.5mm audio cable and hybrid sound card/volume controller, but if you’re looking for something you can fine-tune, this might not be the headset for you.

Razer Ring Light Review

Sam Watanuki — Wed, 12 May 2021 03:31:41 GMT

Owning a ring light always seemed like a pipe dream to me. Historically, they’ve been wildly expensive whenever I’ve been curious enough to price out the possibility of purchasing one. I’ve never necessarily needed one, though. I’ve had a good enough photography light that I’ve been using for a few years, and I somehow managed to win an Elgato Key Light on Instagram a couple of years ago. They have served me well while gaming, but I’ve struggled to get proper lighting when doing product reviews on the other part of my desk with the way my current stationary streaming setup is configured.

Give Gaming Peripheral Ecosystems The Finger With SignalRGB

Eric Switzer — Mon, 10 May 2021 11:00:47 GMT

I’ve been singing the praises of Whirlwind FX and its unique version of game-integrated lighting effects for some time. Unlike other lighting engines like Corsair’s iCUE or Razer Chroma that offer a small collection of integrations that are baked into the game files, Whirlwind FX’s SignalRGB software utilizes screen reading technology that generates game-specific integrations. This means that developers don’t need access to game files to create unique integrations, and in fact, users have the ability to create their own. SignalRGB’s library of supported games has grown rapidly over the last couple of years, and now, the service has expanded to non-Whirlwind FX devices. With over 130 supported devices, PC players are now able to get all of the amazing game integrations from SignalRGB for dozens of games. Thanks to SignalRGB, the era of branded ecosystems is about to end.

Flows Bandwidth Audio Glasses Review

Jon Bitner — Sat, 08 May 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Audio glasses aren’t typically marketed to the gaming community – and rightfully so. I don't know about you, but not many people in my circle of friends sit inside playing video games with sunglasses on. And when it comes to sound quality, most people opt for fancy headsets or booming stereo systems. Hence, the lack of audio glasses in gaming.

Upright Go 2 Review

Sam Watanuki — Mon, 03 May 2021 19:14:12 GMT

Posture-awareness has always been a “thing” for me. As a kid, I remember watching my older neighbor go on his nightly shuffle-walk around the block, supported by his walker and his wife, and hunched over at nearly a 90-degree angle. That scared the bejeezus out of me, and I vowed to never let my posture slack off. Yet, here I am - getting closer and closer to 40 - and I am constantly finding myself slouching at my desk while typing and gaming. Sometimes, I even notice myself slouching while standing. In these moments, I quickly correct my posture (many times over-correcting) and standing straight up, which often gives me back at least an inch or two of height. I work out anywhere from three to five times a week, but my lack of focus on my posture is definitely not a sustainable one. Thankfully, the Upright Go 2 is here to save the day, and, effectively, my back.

Secretlab Is Coming Out With A Chair-Compatible Metal Desk That Features A "Magnetic Ecosystem"

Sean Murray — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 17:00:20 GMT

Secretlab is normally known for making gaming chairs, but a great chair is only as good as the desk it’s paired with. So, Secretlab has decided to match their world-class chairs with its first-ever gaming desk.

Microsoft Attempting To Fix Game Performance Issues Brought On By Windows 10 Update

Rhiannon Bevan — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 09:45:53 GMT

If you’re a PC gamer and everything has felt a bit off lately, you’re not alone. The March/April Windows 10 updates have been causing gamers a myriad of issues, ranging from FPS drops, stuttering, and bluescreens. However, those affected by this can breath a sigh of relief, as Microsoft is now aware of the issue and is releasing a fix.

Retro Game Console Evercade VS Coming Later This Year

Sean Murray — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 16:12:40 GMT

Blaze Entertainment is making a name for itself in the retro gaming biz. It’s already released a handheld system that harkens back to the days of the Sega Game Gear that even uses a similar game cartridge system to load old games. And now we’re about to see a stationary home console that’ll use those same cartridges to play classic games on a modern TV.

EPOS H3 Wired Gaming Headset Review - An Affordable All-Rounder

Kirk McKeand — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 11:22:46 GMT

The new H3 headset from EPOS won’t blow your mind, but it’s an affordable, easy-to-use audio option for gaming across different systems. As much as I love my expensive wireless headsets, sometimes you just want to plug and play without the hassle of making sure your devices are charged. The H3 is perfect for that.

Nvidia And MediaTek Looking To Bring RTX To ARM Laptops

Raul Velasquez — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 06:30:45 GMT

The massive mobile wave that started in the early 2010s made ARM processors more prominent than ever, and now Nvidia wants to bring its cutting-edge ray-tracing graphics to the realm of ARM laptop architecture with partner Mediatek.

Future Nvidia RTX 3080 Graphics Cards Could Have Stricter Crypto Mining Limiters

Vaspaan Dastoor — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 14:07:41 GMT

GPU manufacturer Nvidia earlier said that it would not address the crypto mining performance of GPUs sold before the release of the RTX 3060. However, it appears that the manufacturer may just ramp up on restrictions for future purchases.

Semiconductor Shortages May Last Till 2023

Vaspaan Dastoor — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 08:41:46 GMT

It seems that news about the global semiconductor shortage gets worse every week. Hardware manufacturer TSMC has now estimated that chip shortages may go on until 2023.

Sony Reveals New Xperia Phone

Osama Shahid — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 15:22:08 GMT

Sony's highly anticipated flagship smartphone was unveiled recently in their livestream event on the 14th of April, as details were expressed on the Sony Xperia Mark 1 III - amongst other devices.

BenQ MOBIUZ EX3415R 34-inch Ultrawide Gaming Monitor Preview: Wide-Ranging Features For Enhanced Immersion

Whitney Meers — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:33:10 GMT

BenQ’s MOBIUZ brand emphasizes beautiful and immersive gaming experiences. Rather than adapting monitor specs for compatibility with highly competitive play, which frequently requires reductions in picture quality, MOBIUZ targets players who prefer enhanced visual experiences.

Epic Games' MetaHuman Creator Is Now Available For Free In Early Access

Sean Murray — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 15:24:28 GMT

A few months ago, Epic gave us our first trailer for MetaHuman Creator, a new application that works with Unreal Engine to create unbelievably realistic human avatars. Hair, skin, eyes, and mouth movements were all so real that it was hard to accept that the person talking wasn't recorded in a studio and was just… made.

SecretLab Omega AAPE Blue Camo Edition Review

Cian Maher — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 16:27:09 GMT

A little while ago, a delivery driver pulled up outside my house and knocked on my door. He looked a bit confused when I answered - “I’ve, eh, got quite a big parcel for you here.” I told him it was a chair and he asked if it was a gaming one.