Category: Computers

  • Samsung Galaxy Book6 Pro: Intel Panther Lake & 32GB RAM Benchmarks

    Samsung Galaxy Book6 Pro: Intel Panther Lake & 32GB RAM Benchmarks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Book6 Pro is expected to be unveiled in January 2026 at CES in Las Vegas.
    2. It will feature Intel’s Core Ultra 5 338H processor, promising better efficiency and battery life compared to previous models.
    3. Both 14-inch and 16-inch versions of the Galaxy Book6 Pro will be released, along with a new Ultra-branded Galaxy Book model.
    4. The Core Ultra 5 338H is anticipated to outperform the Core Ultra 9 288V in benchmarks, indicating significant performance improvements.
    5. Enhanced GPU performance is expected due to Intel’s Xe3 integrated graphics, complementing the CPU upgrades.


    The Galaxy Book6 Pro has been spotted on Geekbench ahead of an expected update for the entire lineup. Samsung is likely to unveil the Galaxy Book6 laptops in January during CES 2026 in Las Vegas. In the meantime, some leaked battery details suggest that both 14-inch and 16-inch versions of the Galaxy Book6 Pro will be released, alongside a comeback of the Ultra-branded Galaxy Book model.

    Processor Details

    Geekbench has revealed that at least one version of the Galaxy Book6 Pro will come with Intel’s Core Ultra 5 338H processor from the Panther Lake series. This processor features twelve cores, divided evenly among performance, efficiency, and low-power clusters. The Core Ultra 5 338H is said to have better efficiency compared to its Lunar Lake counterparts, like the Core Ultra 5 238V. Because of this, the Galaxy Book6 Pro is expected to provide better battery life than models from the Galaxy Book5 series, such as the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 (current price: $1,358 on Amazon).

    Performance Expectations

    These advancements in architecture and manufacturing are anticipated to enhance performance, especially since Lunar Lake struggles outside of tasks that are GPU-intensive. The Core Ultra 5 338H is reported to outperform even the Core Ultra 9 288V in the Geekbench AI 1.4.0 benchmark, supported by the inclusion of 32 GB of RAM. Recent leaks suggest that the anticipated upgrade in CPU performance will be complemented by improvements in GPU performance, thanks to Intel’s Xe3 integrated graphics.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Sapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUs

    Sapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sapphire is expanding into the compact system market with its new Edge AI range of mini PCs, featuring updated specifications and an elegant design.
    2. The mini PCs have a stylish chassis with dimensions of 117 x 111 x 30 mm, and include a magnetic top cover for easy access to RAM and SSD.
    3. Three performance variants are available, each equipped with a 50 TOPS dedicated NPU for AI tasks, showing significant performance advantages over Intel’s processors in benchmarks.
    4. The mini PCs come in barebone configurations, allowing users to install up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs, with various connectivity options including USB4 and HDMI 2.1.
    5. No pricing or availability details are currently provided on the product page.


    Sapphire has made a name for itself with its top-notch GPU cards, backed by over 20 years in the industry. Back in March, the company hinted at some tech specifications for a new Edge AI range of mini PCs, indicating its plans to venture into the compact system market. Recently, Sapphire refreshed its website with a product page for the Edge AI lineup, showcasing the design of the case and a variety of new specifications.

    Elegant Design and Dimensions

    The newest images of the products show a stylish chassis with black panels and golden highlights. The dimensions are 117 x 111 x 30 mm. To make it simpler to access the RAM and SSD, the case is equipped with a magnetic top cover. Sapphire has also ensured there’s ample space at the bottom for airflow, along with numerous hot air exhausts on three sides, which helps maintain optimal cooling.

    Performance Variants

    There are three versions available, each featuring a 50 TOPS dedicated NPU for handling AI tasks:

    Sapphire’s internal comparisons of AMD APUs against Intel’s Lunar Lake models found in Asus’s Zenbook S16 / S14 laptops show a significant advantage for Team Red’s processors. In the Cinebench R24 benchmark, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 reportedly outperforms the Core Ultra 9 288V by 90%, while the Ryzen AI 7 350 is as much as 54% faster than the Core Ultra 7 258V in Cinebench, Handbrake, and Blender. The difference is smaller for the Ryzen AI 5 340, which is only about 16% quicker than an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V in tests such as Handbrake, Puget Photoshop, and Blender Classroom.

    Expandable Options and Connectivity

    All three versions come in barebone configurations without RAM and SSD storage. Users can install up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM through two SO-DIMM slots and there is compatibility for two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots.

    The port options include 2x USB4 (with PD 3.0), 3x USB-A 10 Gbps, 1x USB 2.0, 2x HDMI 2.1 video outputs, an audio jack, and a 2.5 GbE jack. Each model is supplied with a 120 W external power supply. For wireless connectivity, a Wi-Fi 6E + BT 5.2 card is included.

    There is currently no information on pricing or availability listed on the product page.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Intel Core Ultra X7 358H Slower than 255H, iGPU Impresses

    Intel Core Ultra X7 358H Slower than 255H, iGPU Impresses

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has not yet revealed detailed specifications or performance for their Panther Lake CPUs, introduced in mid-October.
    2. The Core Ultra X7 358H performs around 20,000 points in Cinebench R23, but is 8.3% slower than the Core Ultra 7 255H under the same power conditions.
    3. The older Arrow Lake chip scores an average of 17,812 points, suggesting Panther Lake may be slightly more powerful or less so pending further evaluations.
    4. The Core Ultra X7 358H features four performance cores and twelve efficiency cores, with no significant improvements in CPU performance noted.
    5. Intel’s Panther Lake laptops are expected to launch at CES in January 2026, with more performance insights anticipated by then.


    Intel has previously introduced Panther Lake in mid-October, however, they haven’t provided specifics on the CPUs or their performance yet. Following a positive early Geekbench leak for the integrated graphics, the recent benchmark results from Laptop Review reveal how the Core Ultra X7 358H is performing.

    Performance Metrics

    The high-speed chipset achieves approximately 20,000 points in Cinebench R23 while consuming 65 watts of power. Laptop Review indicates that this makes the chip 8.3% slower than the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H under the same power conditions. Interestingly, our benchmark records show that the older Arrow Lake chip has an average score of only 17,812 points. More comprehensive evaluations will determine if Panther Lake is slightly more powerful or less so.

    Benchmark Insights

    Current benchmarks reveal that the Core Ultra X7 358H, which has four performance cores and twelve efficiency cores, does not exhibit significant advancements in CPU performance. The highlight of Intel’s upcoming laptop processors is the Xe3 iGPU featuring twelve compute units, achieving a score of 6,830 in 3DMark Time Spy. This represents a remarkable 72% improvement over the iGPU in the Core Ultra 7 255H.

    Future Launches

    The initial laptops powered by Intel’s Panther Lake are expected to debut at CES in January 2026, and by then, we anticipate more insights regarding the performance and efficiency of Intel’s next-generation laptop processors.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • GTBox T1: New HomePod Lookalike with Radeon 780M and eGPU Support

    GTBox T1: New HomePod Lookalike with Radeon 780M and eGPU Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GTBox T1 mini-PC resembles an Apple HomePod and is marketed under names like Soayan EXR1 and Chatreey EX1.
    2. It features a Ryzen 7 8745HS APU with 8 Zen 4 cores, operating at 4.9 GHz, and has a thermal design power (TDP) of 35 W.
    3. The device includes built-in stereo speakers, making it suitable for video conferences, and is equipped with AMD’s Radeon 780M iGPU for gaming at 1080p.
    4. It offers connectivity options like USB 4, Ethernet, DisplayPort 2.0, and HDMI 2.1, with multiple USB Type-A ports.
    5. The GTBox T1 comes with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM and 1 TB of storage for $549.99, with a warning that disassembly is destructive.


    Last week, information surfaced about a new mini-PC that resembles an Apple HomePod (currently priced at $339 on Amazon) more than a typical mini-PC. As we previously mentioned, this device is marketed under different names on AliExpress, such as Soayan EXR1 or Chatreey EX1. Now, GTBox has joined the ranks as a global distributor, introducing the GTBox T1.

    Similarities with Other Models

    Available through MiniXPC or directly from GTBox, the GTBox T1 seems to be a direct replica of the Soayan EXR1 or the Chatreey EX1. This means that the GTBox T1 comes equipped with built-in stereo speakers, ideal for video conferences. Moreover, the mini-PC is powered by a Ryzen 7 8745HS APU from AMD’s Hawk Point series. It is manufactured on a 4 nm process and boasts 8 Zen 4 cores operating at a speed of 4.9 GHz. The Ryzen 7 8745HS also has a thermal design power (TDP) of 35 W, similar to the more powerful Ryzen 7 8845HS we reviewed in the Geekom A8 Max mini-PC and several laptops.

    Graphics Capabilities

    Due to this, the GTBox T1 is equipped with AMD’s Radeon 780M iGPU, which should be capable of running many AAA games at 1080p with low graphics settings. Alternatively, users can enhance their graphics performance by connecting an eGPU through its USB 4 port. As depicted in the image below, the GTBox T1 is fitted with Ethernet, DisplayPort 2.0, HDMI 2.1, and several USB Type-A ports located on the back panel of the device.

    Memory and Storage Details

    Additionally, this mini-PC comes with SODIMM DDR5 RAM and an M.2 SSD. Unfortunately, GTBox has cautioned that taking apart its mini-PC, which measures 167 x 112 mm, is a destructive endeavor. Presently, the GTBox T1 can be found on GTBox’s website with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage for $549.99, which includes a $50 introductory discount. Alternatively, Minixpc is offering the same configuration for $599.99.

    GTBox & MiniXPC

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Intel Enhances Laptop Battery Life with 1 Hz Displays and SmartPower HDR

    Intel Enhances Laptop Battery Life with 1 Hz Displays and SmartPower HDR

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel and BOE are collaborating to develop new display technologies to reduce power usage and extend laptop battery life.
    2. Innovative frame rate adjustments will allow laptop screens to drop to 1 Hz when displaying static images or text.
    3. Multi-Frequency Display (MFD) technology will enable dynamic frame rate adjustments based on content, reducing power consumption.
    4. Gaming laptops can benefit from MFD by capping the display rate to 60 Hz when not in active use.
    5. SmartPower HDR technology will decrease power consumption for HDR content at lower brightness, but is currently only compatible with OLED screens.


    Intel is set to team up with the Chinese display maker BOE to create new display technologies aimed at slashing power usage and extending the battery life of laptops. While these energy-efficient strategies aren’t completely original, two of them are already in use in devices like the Apple iPhone 17.

    Innovative Frame Rate Adjustments

    One of the key goals for Intel and BOE is to cut the frame rate of laptop screens down to a mere 1 Hz when showing static images or text. This initiative was first announced over a year ago, and now the release date is approaching, with the initial laptops equipped with OLED and IPS displays expected to be available as soon as 2026.

    Dynamic Display Technology

    Typically, laptop screens run at a constant frame rate, often at 60 Hz or 120 Hz. However, Intel has developed a technology called Multi-Frequency Display (MFD) that adjusts the frame rate based on the content being shown. For instance, if a film is playing at 24 frames per second, the display can lower its rate to 24 Hz, which helps prevent image tearing and cuts down on power usage. This tech could also mean that a gaming laptop’s screen could automatically cap at 60 Hz when not actively playing games.

    SmartPower HDR Technology

    Additionally, Intel has introduced a new technology named SmartPower HDR that aims to greatly decrease power consumption, particularly when watching HDR content at lower brightness levels. This is achieved by smartly modifying the display’s power supply voltage. However, it’s worth noting that this feature is currently only compatible with OLED screens.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Orico’s Laptop Offers Superior Port Selection for 13-14 Inch Models

    Orico’s Laptop Offers Superior Port Selection for 13-14 Inch Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Orico is hinting at a major product announcement, potentially a Windows 11 mini-PC similar to the Mac mini.
    2. The new mini-PC could be priced competitively, as the current Mac mini is listed at $549 on Amazon.
    3. Orico is also planning to launch its first complete laptop, expanding beyond laptop accessories.
    4. The laptop design features a sleek, thin chassis and includes various ports like Ethernet and USB Type-A.
    5. Specific details about the laptop’s features, including a possible Windows Hello IR camera area, are still unclear.


    In the past few days, Orico has been hinting at a big ‘product announcement’ coming soon. At first, it looked like they were going to reveal a device similar to the Mac Pro. However, they later suggested a Windows 11 mini-PC that could be easily confused with the newest Mac mini, which is currently priced at $549 on Amazon.

    More Surprises on the Way

    It appears that Orico has even more exciting plans. While they are mostly known for their laptop accessories lately, the company has hinted that they are ready to launch a complete laptop of their own. As always, Orico is keeping the specifics a bit of a mystery. Yet, we can gather a few insights from the image that was shared below.

    Design and Features

    For example, the laptop features a sleek chassis that makes it look thinner than it really is. On the right side, Orico has included a variety of ports, such as Ethernet, a microSD card reader, and two full-sized USB Type-A ports. Additionally, it seems like the laptop has a small area where Lenovo usually places Windows Hello IR cameras. Sadly, more detailed information about Orico’s first laptop is still unavailable for now.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Corsair EX400U Survivor: 4TB Rugged USB 4 SSD at 4000MB/s

    Corsair EX400U Survivor: 4TB Rugged USB 4 SSD at 4000MB/s

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Corsair EX400U Survivor SSD offers storage options of 1, 2, and 4 terabytes, with prices starting at $145 for the 1 TB model and $410 for the 4 TB version.
    2. It connects via USB 4, achieving data transfer speeds up to 40 GBit/s, with maximum read speeds of 4,000 MByte/s and write speeds of 3,600 MByte/s under ideal conditions.
    3. The SSD is designed to be durable, weighing 149 grams and able to withstand vibrations and physical impacts within certain limits.
    4. It operates effectively in temperatures between 0 to 70 °C and meets IP55 standards for water and dust resistance, although it is not fully waterproof.
    5. The EX400U Survivor comes with a strap for easy attachment to a backpack, enhancing its portability.


    The Corsair EX400U Survivor is a newly released SSD that aims to provide a level of durability. It is currently available in shops, offering storage options of one, two, and four terabytes. The price starts at $145 for the 1 TB model, while the 4 TB version is priced at $410.

    Performance Specifications

    No matter which model you pick, they all promise impressive data transfer rates. The device connects through USB 4, reaching speeds of up to 40 GBit/s. It boasts a maximum read speed of 4,000 MByte/s and a maximum write speed of 3,600 MByte/s. However, it’s important to note that these speeds can only be achieved in ideal conditions, particularly with sequential data transfers. Moreover, the entire data transfer process needs to support such high speeds. For instance, when transferring data from a hard drive, this can quickly become a limiting factor.

    Robust Design

    The EX400U is noted to weigh 149 grams and is marketed as somewhat sturdy. It’s built to endure vibrations and physical impact within certain limits and operates effectively in temperatures ranging from 0 to 70 °C. Corsair claims that the EX400U meets IP55 standards, offering some level of protection against water and dust damage, though it can still suffer serious harm if fully submerged, as IP55 only guarantees defense against water jets. Additionally, the EX400U Survivor can be conveniently attached to a backpack with the included strap.

    Corsair’s

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Intel Launches Five Pop-Up Experience Stores Featuring Top Laptops

    Intel Launches Five Pop-Up Experience Stores Featuring Top Laptops

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel opened its first “Intel Experience Store” in Munich on October 30, 2025, showcasing Windows laptops powered by Intel processors.
    2. The store allows customers to interact with and purchase high-end laptops from various brands, including HP, Lenovo, Dell, and more.
    3. Intel partnered with German retailers to provide on-site assistance for customers to help them choose the best laptop for their needs.
    4. A gaming zone featuring powerful gaming PCs and laptops aims to attract a younger audience, allowing customers to play games like Rocket League.
    5. Intel plans to open more stores globally, with additional locations in Seoul, New York, London, and Paris, following the Munich store’s limited run until December 6.


    Running a store can be quite costly, making it hard for many tech companies to manage, though Apple showcases how effective a network of retail outlets can be. In contrast, major PC makers often lack such a presence. Hence, Intel, which remains the top processor maker in the Windows market in terms of sales, decided to take action itself.

    The Opening of Intel’s First Store

    On October 30, 2025, Intel launched its first “Intel Experience Store” in Munich. Located at Viktualienmarkt in the Bavarian city, this store allows customers to interact with the latest Windows laptops powered by Intel processors. Featured are high-end models from top brands like HP, Lenovo, Dell, Asus, and Acer, along with offerings from MSI, LG, and Samsung, including the HP Omnibook X (available on Amazon). Notebookcheck had the opportunity to preview the store during a press event.

    Shopping and Support for Consumers

    Not only can visitors touch the laptops, but they can also purchase them right there in the store. Intel runs this outlet in partnership with German retailers such as Mediamarkt, Notebooksbilliger, and Cyberport. According to Intel, on-site assistance will be provided to help customers choose the best model for their needs.

    To draw in a younger audience, Intel has created a gaming zone filled with powerful gaming PCs and laptops from Dell Alienware and Lenovo Legion, where customers can enjoy playing games like Rocket League.

    AI Demos and Focus on Consumers

    The store also includes engaging AI demonstrations aimed at showcasing the benefits of Intel’s AI PCs. While Chromebooks are featured, business-oriented PCs like Lenovo ThinkPads or HP EliteBooks will not be displayed, as the emphasis is clearly on the B2C (business to consumer) segment.

    The Intel Experience Store at Viktualienmarkt 6 operates Monday through Saturday from 12 PM to 8 PM. However, if you plan to visit, act fast! It will only be available until St. Nicholas Day on December 6. Fortunately, this isn’t just a one-time pop-up; Intel has plans to open more stores in the near future. In total, there will be five locations, with the other four set to debut in Seoul, New York, London, and Paris.

    Transparency note: Intel invited Notebookcheck to the opening of the Intel Experience Store in Munich, covering the author’s travel and accommodation costs. Notebookcheck is not obligated to publish this information.

     


     

  • Durabook Launches Rugged R10 2-in-1 Laptop with Intel Core Ultra 7

    Durabook Launches Rugged R10 2-in-1 Laptop with Intel Core Ultra 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Durability: The R10 2-in-1 laptop is designed to withstand six-foot drops, water jets, dust, and extreme temperatures (-29°C to 63°C), meeting military standards (MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G).

    2. Advanced Processing Power: It features Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 processors with onboard AI capabilities, offering configurations up to 32 GB RAM and 2 TB SSD storage.

    3. High-Quality Display: The laptop includes a 10.1-inch TFT LCD touchscreen with a brightness of 1,000 nits, supporting Microsoft Pen Protocol for stylus input.

    4. Comprehensive Connectivity: Equipped with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, multiple USB ports, Ethernet, dual SIM support, and options for a barcode reader, ensuring versatile connectivity.

    5. Lightweight and Portable: Weighing only 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) with compact dimensions (265 x 189.5 x 21.2 mm), the R10 is easy to transport for various rugged environments.


    Durabook has unveiled the R10 2-in-1 laptop, which features a detachable keyboard ideal for rough conditions.

    Built to Withstand Tough Conditions

    The R10 is engineered to endure six-foot drops, exposure to water jets and dust, and extreme temperatures ranging from -29°C to 63°C (-20°F to 145°F). It meets several military standards, including MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G, C1D2 ANSI, and has an IP66 rating, making it suitable for hazardous settings.

    Advanced Technology Inside

    This Microsoft Copilot+ laptop is equipped with Intel Core Ultra 5 or Core Ultra 7 processors, which come with powerful NPUs capable of operating onboard AI chatbots and various services. Users can opt for configurations that include an Ultra 7 268V CPU, 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a 2 TB NVMe PCIe SSD. A standard feature is the 1,000-nit 10.1-inch TFT LCD WUXGA (1920 x 1200) touchscreen that supports Microsoft Pen Protocol active pens.

    Connectivity and Features

    Every unit is outfitted with 10/100/1000 Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4. It also includes a 5 MP front IR camera and an 11 MP rear AF camera with flash, a speaker, and dual microphones for video conferencing. For connectivity, it has a USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 port, a USB-A 3.2 Gen2 port, an audio input/output jack, a microSD card slot, a 20-pin docking connector, and dual SIM support (Nano SIM & eSIM). Additional features like a barcode reader can be added as options.

    The Durabook R10 dimensions are 265 x 189.5 x 21.2 mm (10.4 x 7.5 x 0.8 in.) and it weighs 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs.). Pricing is available for businesses upon request, with rugged tablets usually ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 based on the chosen configuration.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • HP Omen 17 with AMD Zen 5 Offers Minor Speed Boost Over Zen 4

    HP Omen 17 with AMD Zen 5 Offers Minor Speed Boost Over Zen 4

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2025 HP Omen 17 features new AMD Zen 5 CPUs and Nvidia Blackwell options, replacing previous models.
    2. Performance improvements are minimal, with only a 10% boost from Ryzen AI 7 350 compared to Ryzen 7 8845HS.
    3. The integrated NPU in the new processors has limited gaming applications.
    4. Power consumption increased by 10% in the 2025 model, with no improvement in performance-per-watt.
    5. Users seeking significant upgrades should focus on GPU differences between the 2024 and 2025 Omen 17 models.


    The 2025 HP Omen 17 has been released and is now up for grabs with the new AMD Zen 5 and Nvidia Blackwell options, replacing the previous year’s Zen 4 and Ada Lovelace selections. The available CPUs include the Ryzen AI 5 340, Ryzen AI 7 350, and Ryzen AI 9 365. Sadly, these new processors don’t provide much improvement over the Ryzen 7 8845HS found in the 2024 Omen 17.

    Performance Comparison

    As illustrated by the graphs below, the Ryzen AI 7 350 in the 2025 Omen 17 shows only a 10 percent performance boost on average compared to the Ryzen 7 8845HS from the 2024 model, particularly in standard CPU tasks. While its integrated NPU could be useful in certain scenarios, its gaming application is limited. If one chooses to upgrade to the Ryzen AI 9 365 or downgrade to the Ryzen AI 5 340, the effect on multi-thread performance would be approximately 15 percent.

    Power Consumption Insights

    However, this 10 percent annual performance increase does not come without a cost. During our testing with Prime95 on the 2025 Omen 17 unit, we noticed that it used around 10 percent more power than the 2024 Omen 17 under similar conditions. This means that performance-per-watt remains unchanged between these two generations of Zen 4 and Zen 5 processors when handling standard CPU tasks.

    GPU Differences Matter

    For users looking for more substantial changes between the two versions, examining their GPU differences is essential. Additional details and comparisons can be found in our review of the 2025 Omen 17.

    Source:
    N/A)