Category: Computers

  • VAIO S13 and Pro PG Laptops: 13.3-inch, Intel Core 7, 5G, AI Audio

    VAIO S13 and Pro PG Laptops: 13.3-inch, Intel Core 7, 5G, AI Audio

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two Models for Different Users: VAIO launched the S13 for consumers and the Pro PG for business users, both offering strong performance and optional 5G connectivity.

    2. Powerful Performance: Both laptops feature the latest Intel Core 3/5/7 processors, with up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and varying SSD storage options (up to 512 GB for Pro PG and 1 TB for S13).

    3. High-Quality Display and Expandability: They come with a 13.3-inch anti-glare display (1,920 x 1,200) and an optional lightweight external USB-C monitor for expanded workspace.

    4. Enhanced Communication Features: Equipped with AI microphones, an HD camera, Dolby Atmos speakers, and easy call settings adjustment, these laptops are ideal for video conferencing.

    5. Portable and Durable Design: Weighing under 1.06 kg and made with aluminum, the laptops meet MIL-STD-810H standards for durability, ensuring they can withstand tough conditions.


    VAIO has introduced two new laptops: the S13 aimed at consumers and the Pro PG targeted at business users. An optional eSIM + nanoSIM module is available, offering worldwide 5G connectivity along with GPS, Glonass, BeiDou, and Galileo reception for navigation purposes.

    Powerful Performance

    Both models are driven by the newest Intel Core 3/5/7 processors and can support up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM. The Pro PG features the Intel Core 7 250U, while the S13 is equipped with the Core 7 150U, with both being 10-core CPUs. The Pro PG can be fitted with a maximum of 512 GB PCIe SSD storage, while the S13 can go up to 1 TB.

    Display and Expandability

    The laptops feature a 13.3-inch anti-glare display with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 that opens to a full 180 degrees. For business users looking to expand their workspace, there’s an optional VAIO Vision+ 14 external USB-C monitor. These additional monitors are lightweight at just 325 g (0.7 lbs) thanks to their molded carbon construction, and they can be set up next to or above the VAIO laptops using the provided stand.

    Communication Features

    Thanks to AI microphones with four adjustable noise cancellation options, users can conduct video calls from virtually anywhere. The devices are also equipped with a 920,000-pixel HD camera that supports Windows Hello face recognition, as well as Dolby Atmos speakers. There’s a 3.5 mm headphone jack for private discussions. Users can quickly adjust call settings through the VAIO Online Conversation Settings panel by pressing the special keyboard shortcut.

    The VAIO laptops are equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless wireless connectivity, in addition to a variety of ports. The USB-C ports can support external monitors with a maximum resolution of 5,120 × 2,880 pixels at 60 Hz, while the HDMI port can handle up to 4,096 × 2,160 pixels at 24 Hz or 3,840 × 2,160 pixels at 30 Hz.

    Design and Durability

    With a weight of less than 1.06 kg (2.33 lbs) and dimensions of 299.3 x 221.1 x 17.7 to 19.6 mm (11.8 x 8.7 x 0.7 to 0.8 in.), these laptops are designed for portability. The aluminum-bodied VAIOs are rated MIL-STD-810H, meaning they can withstand drops, humidity, and extreme temperatures.

    The laptops are currently available for order through VAIO in Japan, but there has been no information released about their availability in the United States or through the VAIO store on Amazon US.

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  • Compal Hybrid AIO: Tablet, Notebook, and Desktop in One Device

    Compal Hybrid AIO: Tablet, Notebook, and Desktop in One Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compal Electronics has introduced the Hybrid AIO, an all-in-one PC concept with a detachable keyboard.
    2. The Hybrid AIO aims to replace multiple devices, functioning as both a laptop and a tablet.
    3. It may offer versatile functionality, potentially acting as a secondary screen when connected to a monitor.
    4. The device could also serve as a drawing tablet, indicated by the presence of a stylus.
    5. While details are limited, the design and potential partnerships suggest a promising future for the Hybrid AIO.


    Compal Electronics has introduced the Hybrid AIO, a fresh all-in-one concept PC. Since the Taiwanese firm mainly operates as a contract manufacturer, it is doubtful that they will bring this product to market themselves. Nevertheless, there might be a chance for other companies to collaborate with Compal to evolve this idea into a tangible product.

    Multi-Device Replacement

    The Hybrid AIO is built to possibly take the place of multiple devices. As seen in the provided images, the Hybrid AIO looks like a convertible with a detachable keyboard, akin to many 2-in-1 devices on the market today, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro, which starts at roughly $880 on Amazon. By detaching the keyboard, the Hybrid AIO can switch from a laptop to a tablet seamlessly.

    Versatile Functionality

    Furthermore, the images depict the tablet being attached to a monitor. It remains uncertain if the tablet would act as a secondary screen for an existing setup in this scenario. However, it is likely that the tablet will supply the computing strength in this arrangement, with the monitor serving as an extra display. This assumption is backed by an image suggesting that the keyboard can still be utilized while in desktop mode. Additionally, the presence of a stylus in one of the photos hints that the Hybrid AIO could also function as a drawing tablet. Currently, there is no information available on specifications, but it appears that the Hybrid AIO runs on Windows and includes a number of USB ports.

    Design and Future Potential

    The Hybrid AIO’s design hints at a promising future, although the details remain sparse. With innovative features and the potential for partnerships, this concept could appeal to a wide range of users. As Compal continues to explore possibilities, we may soon see more developments regarding the specifications and availability of this intriguing all-in-one device.

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  • Maxtang SXRL-20: New Slim Mini PC with Passive Cooling Design

    Maxtang SXRL-20: New Slim Mini PC with Passive Cooling Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Maxtang mini PC features a sleek aluminum casing and a fanless cooling design, making it compact and quiet.
    2. It includes a variety of ports: two USB 3.2 Gen 2, one USB 2.0, a USB-C, two Ethernet ports, one RS232 COM port, and four HDMI outputs.
    3. Powered by an Intel Core i5 1235U processor, it can reach a turbo frequency of 4.4 GHz, suitable for moderate workloads.
    4. The integrated Xe G7 80 EU GPU allows for video playback but is not ideal for gaming, focusing instead on media consumption.
    5. It supports up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM and features two M.2 slots for up to 8 TB of storage, with pricing starting at $479.


    Maxtang has launched a new mini PC featuring a sleek aluminum casing and a fanless cooling design. Despite its small size, it offers a variety of ports, which include two USB 3.2 Gen 2, one USB 2.0, a USB-C, two Ethernet ports, one RS232 COM port, and four HDMI outputs.

    Performance Features

    Inside this mini PC is the Intel Core i5 1235U, a mid-tier processor from the Alder Lake series. Although it does not come with an active cooling system, Maxtang states that this CPU can achieve a turbo frequency of 4.4 GHz, enabling it to perform well under moderate to fairly heavy workloads.

    Graphics Capabilities

    The Intel Core i5 1235U also includes the Xe G7 80 EU integrated GPU. While this GPU isn’t as powerful as the popular Radeon 780M found in many mini PCs, it allows the Maxtang SXRL-20 to handle video playback with the AV1 codec. Therefore, while it may not be the best choice for gaming, it certainly makes this mini PC suitable for media consumption.

    Memory and Storage Options

    This fanless mini PC can support up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM. It features two M.2 2280 slots that can accommodate a total of 8 TB of storage (for reference, a 4 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD is currently priced at $249.97 on Amazon). In addition to the impressive range of connectivity ports, the Maxtang SXRL-20 includes an M.2 Key E slot for WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities. Users also have the option to install up to six additional antennas and can utilize a 4G SIM card.

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  • New Beelink SER8 Pro Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM

    New Beelink SER8 Pro Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Beelink SER8 Pro features an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS chipset and an AMD Radeon 780M iGPU.
    2. It is equipped with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM running at 6,400MHz and supports two SSDs via PCIe 4 lanes.
    3. The mini PC includes a strong cooling system to prevent thermal throttling and offers connectivity options like a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4 for 4K displays.
    4. Expandability is supported through an external GPU via USB 4, along with multiple USB ports and integrated speakers and microphone.
    5. Beelink has not yet announced the official release date or price for the SER8 Pro, while the standard SER8 model is available for purchase.


    The SER8 Pro is a recently launched mini PC by Beelink, a recognized Chinese brand in the expanding market of compact computers. The “Pro” in its title suggests that this system is equipped with an impressive chipset, specifically the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS. Alongside this chipset, it features an AMD Radeon 780M iGPU, but it’s important to note that OCuLink support is absent. Additionally, the PC is outfitted with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM that runs at a speed of 6,400MHz.

    Storage and Connectivity

    This mini PC is capable of holding two SSDs, with each being able to connect through four PCIe 4 lanes. Beelink also promotes a strong cooling system designed to avert thermal throttling. For connectivity, it offers an Ethernet port capable of 2.5Gbps, as well as HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4. These two outputs can connect to high-resolution 4K displays or TVs, supporting high refresh rates like 120Hz.

    Expandability Features

    Moreover, the SER8 Pro allows for expansion with an external GPU via USB 4, although there may be some bandwidth limitations compared to OCuLink. It also includes USB Type-C and USB 3.2 Type-A ports, offering 10Gbps speeds, along with a 3.5mm headphone jack. The mini PC is equipped with two integrated speakers and a microphone, which can be handy for using digital voice assistants. However, Beelink has yet to announce an official release date or price, while the standard SER8 (without the Pro designation) is already on sale at various prominent US retailers, including Amazon.

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  • Sapphire Edge AI Mini PC Launches with AMD Ryzen 300 and USB 4.0

    Sapphire Edge AI Mini PC Launches with AMD Ryzen 300 and USB 4.0

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sapphire has launched the Edge AI mini PC, entering the market alongside brands like Minisforum and Beelink.
    2. The device is powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series processors, with options for Ryzen AI 9, 7, and 5 models.
    3. The mini PC supports up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM for the higher models and includes a 1 TB NVMe SSD with an extra slot for more storage.
    4. Connectivity options include two USB 4.0 Type-C ports, two HDMI 2.1 ports, and various USB and audio ports, though options are limited due to its compact size.
    5. The Sapphire Edge AI will be available for purchase in April, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date.


    Over the past few weeks, many mini PCs have been released from brands like Minisforum, Beelink, and Framework. Now, Sapphire, a company well-known for its AMD Radeon graphics cards, has joined the competition with its Sapphire Edge AI (source: Computerbase). This device measures 117 x 111 x 30 mm, but Sapphire hasn’t disclosed its weight. Still, it’s compact enough to be mounted on a standard VESA mount.

    Power and Performance

    The Sapphire Edge AI is equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series processors, offering three different choices: the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, Ryzen AI 7 350, and Ryzen AI 5 340. The first two models can be paired with up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, while the Ryzen AI 5 340 is limited to 16 GB. You will find a 1 TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD included, and there’s an extra M.2 2242 slot available for more storage.

    Connectivity Options

    Due to its compact size, the Sapphire Edge AI has limited I/O options. It features two USB 4.0 Type-C ports, two HDMI 2.1 ports, one USB 3.2 Type-A port, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, and a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet jack. On the front side, there are two USB 3.2 Type-A ports along with a 3.5 mm audio jack. The Sapphire Edge AI is set to be available for purchase in April, with the company promising to announce the price as the launch date approaches.

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  • Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 Radeon 880M Performance Issues

    Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 Radeon 880M Performance Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD released the RDNA 3.5 series, with the Radeon 890M as the new flagship and the Radeon 880M as a mid-range option.
    2. The Radeon 880M can outperform the Radeon 780M by up to 25% in certain laptops, but performance varies significantly by model.
    3. Some laptops, like the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, struggle to match the performance of the Radeon 780M due to design and processor limitations.
    4. The compact design of the ThinkPad T14s and its use of a slower Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 processor contribute to its lower performance.
    5. The ThinkPad T14s is not primarily a gaming laptop, so its performance level may still be acceptable for office and light editing tasks.


    AMD surprised everyone last year when they released the RDNA 3.5 series of integrated GPUs. Instead of positioning the Radeon 880M as the top-tier option, it has now been placed as the mid-range choice, while the newly launched Radeon 890M takes the lead as the flagship model. The 880M still provides a good performance boost compared to the RDNA 3-based Radeon 780M, though some models may not perform as well as expected.

    Performance Comparison

    In our comparison chart below, we look at different laptops that feature the Radeon 880M and compare their performance to the average Radeon 780M in our records. Some systems equipped with the 880M, such as the Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7+, can deliver graphics that are up to 25 percent faster than the typical 780M. However, other laptops with the same GPU, like the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, can struggle and match the performance of an average 780M.

    Reasons for Underperformance

    There are several factors that could explain this lack of performance. To start, the ThinkPad T14s has a compact 14-inch design which likely affects the overall system performance. Additionally, this model is the first in our records to use the Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360, while all the other 880M systems we’ve tested utilize the Ryzen AI 9 365. The slower processor combined with the smaller size leads to reduced Turbo capabilities, putting the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 iGPU at a significant disadvantage across all tested scenarios.

    Target Audience

    It’s important to note that the ThinkPad T14s isn’t designed mainly for gaming, so its lower graphic performance shouldn’t turn away potential users, particularly those in office settings or light editing tasks. Still, it’s a bit disappointing to see it performing on par with an average Radeon 780M rather than surpassing it like most other Radeon 880M devices.

  • Aoostar G-Flip Mini PC: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 & eGPU Support

    Aoostar G-Flip Mini PC: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 & eGPU Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aoostar’s G-Flip mini PC features a 5-inch integrated display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and adjustable viewing angles.
    2. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 12-core processor and includes a Radeon 890M iGPU for gaming at lower settings.
    3. The device offers extensive connectivity options, including USB 4, USB 3.2, and dual Ethernet ports supporting up to 2.5Gbps.
    4. The G-Flip supports expandable storage with two M.2 SSD slots and features two RAM slots for easy memory upgrades.
    5. It includes a vapor chamber for effective cooling and has a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for quick logins.


    Aoostar has introduced a new mini PC called the G-Flip, featuring an integrated display. This 5-inch screen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and supports adjustable viewing angles thanks to its folding design. This display could come in handy for checking notifications or monitoring system status. Additionally, it includes a fingerprint sensor that enables users to log in swiftly, conveniently integrated into the power button.

    Powerful Performance

    The G-Flip is powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, a robust 12-core processor. It features the Radeon 890M iGPU, which is capable of running some games at lower settings. Users can connect an external graphics card through OCuLink. The device offers multiple connectivity options, including USB 4, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and an audio jack. There are also two Ethernet ports supporting speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, along with two USB 2.0 ports. Moreover, it is fitted with a WiFi 7 module, promising high-speed wireless internet access.

    Expandable Storage and Cooling

    This compact PC allows for two M.2 SSDs, each connected through four PCIe 4.0 lanes. The Aoostar G-Flip is also designed with two RAM slots, making memory upgrades straightforward and easy. It features a vapor chamber that helps to keep the system cool efficiently. While the manufacturer hasn’t released an official price yet, the G-Flip is anticipated to hit the market around mid-March.

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  • Massive T1000 Mobile PC: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D & RTX 5090 Support

    Massive T1000 Mobile PC: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D & RTX 5090 Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The UHPILCL T1000 is a mobile system designed as a powerful desktop alternative, lacking a built-in battery for high processing power during travel.
    2. It is available in two configurations: the standard version and the T1000 Super, which supports high-end components with a more advanced cooling system.
    3. The T1000 features a 17.3-inch 3K display with a 120Hz refresh rate and full DCI-P3 color gamut coverage.
    4. It offers connectivity options including WiFi 7, 2.5GbE, and slots for two M.2 SSDs and two SATA connectors.
    5. The system will have different motherboards to ensure compatibility with both AMD and Intel chipsets, but pricing details are not yet available.


    The UHPILCL T1000 is a fresh mobile system that is about to launch its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. This is not your typical laptop; it serves more as a powerful desktop alternative. The computer includes a display and a keyboard, but lacks a built-in battery. This might be advantageous for extended travels where a high level of processing power is necessary, and where the weight is not a major issue.

    Configurations and Specs

    The UHPILCL comes in two different setups. The T1000 Super variant stands approximately 0.27 inches taller than the standard version, while the overall dimensions remain the same at about 16.5 x 13.4 inches. The weight falls between 10.6 and 11.5 lbs. The Super model is tailored to support high-end components such as an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 and AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D, thanks to a more advanced water-cooling system. Its power supply can provide a total of 735 watts to both the GPU and CPU. Users can install both desktop graphics cards and processors.

    Display and Connectivity

    Additionally, the T1000 features a 17.3-inch screen with a 3K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and full DCI-P3 color gamut coverage. It has slots for two M.2 SSDs, as well as what seem to be two SATA connectors. The keyboard that comes with it includes RGB backlighting, and for network connectivity, it offers WiFi 7 and 2.5GbE. While a specific price has not yet been revealed, this unique computer is likely to be on the expensive side. Furthermore, it will reportedly come with different motherboards to ensure compatibility with both AMD and Intel chipsets.

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  • Apple M3 Ultra Beats Ryzen 9 9950X & Core Ultra 9 by 30% in Cinebench 2024

    Apple M3 Ultra Beats Ryzen 9 9950X & Core Ultra 9 by 30% in Cinebench 2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Mac Studio now features the M3 Ultra chip, boasting a 32-core CPU and an 80-core GPU for top-tier performance.
    2. The M3 Ultra outperforms high-end x86 processors like the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and Intel Core Ultra 9 285K in Cinebench 2024 benchmarks.
    3. Apple’s M3 Ultra excels in CPU-intensive tasks and supports up to 512 GB of unified memory for demanding workloads.
    4. Future benchmarks will clarify the M3 Ultra’s potential, but it currently leads in efficiency and multi-core performance for consumer systems.
    5. Upcoming AMD Zen 6 CPUs may challenge the M3 Ultra, but currently, the M3 Ultra stands out in the market.


    The Apple Mac Studio has been updated and is an impressive machine, to put it lightly. At its peak configuration, it can come with the M3 Ultra chip, a powerful SoC. This chip features a 32-core CPU and a gigantic 80-core GPU, delivering performance that stands out as the best a Mac can provide and ranks among the top for systems under 500 watts. There’s hardly any x86 product that can compete with the M3 Ultra, as it occupies a unique space where it easily outshines high-end consumer processors, but unsurprisingly doesn’t reach the core counts of server-grade chips.

    Comparisons with x86 Systems

    For example, a high-end x86 system priced similarly to the Mac Studio would probably have either a 16-core AMD Ryzen 9 9950X (currently listed at $544.74 on Amazon) or a 24-core Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor. Cinebench 2024 shows that the 32-core M3 Ultra dominates both of these x86 systems. With a score of 3,000, the M3 Ultra outperforms the Ryzen 9 9950X by 25% and the Core Ultra 9 285K by about 30%. This is expected, given the significantly higher core count of the M3 Ultra.

    Performance Insights

    Nevertheless, it’s clear that the Apple M3 Ultra will excel in most CPU-intensive tasks compared to any x86 consumer desktop available today. As previously mentioned, the M3 Ultra’s GPU performs somewhere in between the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 and RTX 5080, but actual performance can vary based on the specific tasks. Additionally, the ability to configure the M3 Ultra with up to 512 GB of unified memory lets it handle workloads that weren’t feasible on a consumer desktop before now.

    Future Testing and Developments

    As more benchmarks and tests come to light, the true potential of the M3 Ultra will likely become more defined. While it’s evident that it will lead in overall efficiency, actual performance will depend on how well software developers adapt their applications to leverage this impressive hardware. There are whispers that AMD’s upcoming Zen 6 CPUs will feature up to 24 performance cores, which could pose a real challenge to the M3 Ultra. But for the time being, it’s apparent that Apple’s top-tier model reigns supreme in multi-core performance for consumer systems.

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  • Another Ryzen 7 9800X3D Fails on MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi

    Another Ryzen 7 9800X3D Fails on MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi

    Key Takeaways

    1. A Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU reportedly exploded while paired with an MSI motherboard, marking a new case of malfunctioning hardware.
    2. The user shared images on Reddit showing a deformity in the CPU, while the motherboard appears undamaged.
    3. The specific motherboard involved was an MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi, suggesting potential issues with MSI boards alongside ASRock.
    4. Previous incidents with ASRock motherboards led to a BIOS update that resolved the issues, but MSI has not yet responded to the current concerns.
    5. Many Reddit users have noted that failures of the 9800X3D CPU are not limited to ASRock motherboards, highlighting potential problems with MSI Tomahawk boards.


    There’s been another report of a malfunctioning Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, but this time it doesn’t involve an ASRock motherboard. A user on Reddit posted photos of their “exploded” CPU, which was paired with an MSI motherboard. The specific cause of this incident remains uncertain, but multiple Redditors have noted that many of these failures seem to link back to MSI Tomahawk motherboards.

    Details Shared on Reddit

    The post by the user Realistic_Age_718 appeared around 15 hours ago in the r/pcmasterrace subreddit. The user did not provide extensive details, only sharing some images and indicating that their Ryzen 7 9800X3D had exploded. The pictures clearly highlight a bulging or some kind of deformity at the center of the CPU, which resulted in it ceasing to function. One photo reveals the socket, which appears to be undamaged and intact.

    Motherboard Information

    Another image displays the motherboard SKU that was allegedly used with the faulty 9800X3D. It was an MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi motherboard, which, according to the picture, had a Ryzen 5 8500G APU installed at the time. The user likely captured this photo with another CPU placed on the motherboard to access the BIOS, indicating that the motherboard itself may still be operational. Although MSI has yet to make a statement, many users on Reddit have pointed out that it’s not solely ASRock motherboards that are causing issues with 9800X3D CPUs—MSI Tomahawk boards are also implicated.

    Previous Actions by ASRock

    When similar issues were reported with ASRock motherboards, the company looked into the matter and released a BIOS update that seemed to resolve the problem. They also created a dedicated megathread on Reddit for users to share their experiences and gather further information via a web form. As mentioned, MSI has not yet responded to these concerns.

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