Category: Computers

April 11, 2025
AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Delivers Core i9-14900HX Power in Laptops
Key Takeaways
1. The Core i9-14900HX is a powerful mobile processor but feels outdated compared to AMD’s newer Zen 5 processors, like the Ryzen AI Max+ 395.
2. Performance between the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Core i9-14900HX is close in multi-thread tasks, despite differences in device sizes.
3. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 includes additional features like a built-in NPU and Radeon GPU, enhancing its overall value.
4. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 has high power consumption, requiring over 100 W for intensive tasks, which is almost double that of standard U-series laptops.
5. While the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 lags in single-thread performance by up to 15% compared to the Core i9-14900HX, it still competes well in CPU-intensive tasks for thinner devices.
The Core i9-14900HX is among the most powerful mobile processors from Intel, typically seen in large gaming laptops such as the 18-inch Asus ROG Strix Scar and the 18-inch MSI Titan. However, it’s starting to feel a bit outdated due to AMD’s newer Zen 5 processors. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is a prime example of this, as it provides significant improvements across various aspects.
Performance Comparison
Our charts below illustrate how the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, found in smaller devices like the 13-inch Asus ROG Flow Z13 and the 14-inch HP ZBook Ultra G1a 14, compares to the much larger laptops equipped with the Core i9-14900HX. Despite the stark difference in screen sizes, the raw multi-thread performance between the AMD and Intel chips is remarkably close, differing only by a few percentage points on average. As of now, there are no 14-inch laptops available that feature the Core i9-14900HX processor.
Additional Features
The AMD CPU comes with extra features that the Intel chip lacks, enhancing its value. It includes a built-in 50 TOPS NPU and a Radeon RX 8060S, making it ready for CoPilot and gaming, respectively. In contrast, laptops powered by the Core i9-14900HX are typically paired with a discrete Nvidia GPU to compensate for its less capable integrated GPU and absence of an integrated NPU.
Power Consumption and Performance
While the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 offers impressive performance, it can be quite power-intensive. It requires just over 100 W when running Prime95 on our ZBook Ultra G1a 14, which is nearly double the energy consumption of most U-series 14-inch laptops. Its single-thread performance lags behind, falling short by up to 15 percent in comparison to the Core i9-14900HX. Nonetheless, its capacity to compete with larger 18-inch gaming laptops from 2024 in CPU-intensive tasks is impressive for those seeking thin-and-light alternatives.
Tags: AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, Gaming Laptops, Intel Core i9-14900HX
April 11, 2025
NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon: High-Performance Mini-PC for AI Tasks
Key Takeaways
1. Simply NUC has launched the NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon, available in Tall (54 mm) and Slim (37 mm) chassis models.
2. The mini-PC offers various processor options, with the highest being the Intel Core Ultra 7 265H, featuring impressive CPU and AI performance.
3. The NUC systems support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and include one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2242 SSD slot.
4. All models come with Wi-Fi 7, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and two HDMI 2.1 outputs for connectivity.
5. The starting price for the NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon is $789, with expected shipping in the second quarter of the year.
Simply NUC, a company we’ve talked about before, has just added a new member to its compact PC family: the NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon. This device will come in a few different versions, including two types of chassis: the Tall and Slim models. The Tall model stands at 54 mm (2.13 in) high, while the Slim version is shorter at 37 mm (1.46 in). Both models share the same base size of 117 x 112 mm (4.61 x 4.41 in). Users can choose from various processors for their mini-PC systems. The highest-end version boasts an Intel Core Ultra 7 265H, which not only delivers impressive CPU performance but also includes an NPU that can achieve up to 99 TOPS in AI performance. This feature allows users to train AI models directly on the device, enhancing data security. Other processor choices include the Intel Core Ultra 5 225H, Ultra 5 235H, and Ultra 7 255H, along with the non-Ultra Intel Core 7 240H, Core 5 210H, and Core 3 100U.
Memory and Storage Options
The NUC systems come equipped with two DDR5 memory slots, allowing for up to 96 GB of RAM. They can also support one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2242 SSD. For models featuring an Ultra processor, the primary SSD connects through four PCIe 5.0 lanes. Additionally, all versions have Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet to ensure solid network connectivity. The NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports and two HDMI 2.1 outputs, making it easy to connect multiple monitors. The starting price for these devices is $789, and they are expected to ship in the second quarter of this year.
Source:
Link
Tags: compact PC, Intel Core Ultra, NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon
April 11, 2025
Toggle Unique Flexible RAM Features of AMD Ryzen AI Max Series
Key Takeaways
1. The Ryzen AI Max features a faster Radeon 8060S GPU and supports up to 128 GB of soldered LPDDR5x RAM.
2. Users can allocate RAM for the GPU and system through BIOS settings, enhancing flexibility for different needs.
3. Accessing the BIOS involves pressing ‘Esc’ at boot, navigating to ‘BIOS Setup’, and adjusting ‘Video memory size’ under the ‘Advanced’ tab.
4. Users can choose video memory from 512 MB up to 96 GB, impacting GPU performance and system RAM availability.
5. The adaptable RAM/VRAM feature caters to different user needs, but a more accessible toggle could improve usability.
Unlike the standard Ryzen AI 9 series, the Ryzen AI Max features a much faster Radeon 8060S GPU that demands more power and comes with soldered LPDDR5x RAM, which can reach up to 128 GB. This is particularly noteworthy because it enables compact models, like the HP ZBook Ultra G1a 14, to have an impressive amount of RAM for such a small 14-inch screen. Due to this large capacity, AMD allows users to specify how much RAM is allocated for the GPU and how much is reserved for the system through the BIOS settings.
Accessing the BIOS
To utilize this interesting feature, we can take the HP ZBook as our test unit. By pressing ‘Esc’ when the device boots up, you can open the ‘Startup Menu’ as depicted in the image below. Users then need to navigate to ‘BIOS Setup’, go to the ‘Advanced’ tab, and select ‘Video memory size’. The default setting is 64 GB, but users have the flexibility to choose from 512 MB up to 96 GB.
Adjusting Video Memory
After adjusting the settings, if you check GPU-Z, you’ll see the updated RAM pool available for the Radeon GPU. In this instance, we changed the video memory to 96 GB or 98304 MB, as indicated in GPU-Z, leaving 32 GB for the system to use.
User Flexibility
This adaptable RAM/VRAM feature can be quite useful based on what the user needs or who the target audience is. Those heavy-duty workstation users might want to allocate as much VRAM as they can, whereas gaming setups that also utilize the Ryzen AI Max processor will likely be satisfied with the 24 GB configuration. However, since this setting is somewhat hidden under multiple submenus, having a more obvious toggle could make it easier for more users to find and use this feature.
Tags: HP ZBook Ultra G1a, Radeon 8060S, Ryzen AI Max
April 10, 2025
GMKtec NucBox K10 Mini PC: Core i9, 64GB RAM Launch Discount
Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec’s NucBox K10 mini PC starts at $419 for the barebone version and offers higher configurations up to $589.
2. It features an Intel Core i9-13900HK processor with 14 cores, providing strong performance for demanding tasks.
3. The mini PC supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and can achieve clock speeds of 5,200MHz.
4. Connectivity options include WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, a 2.5Gbit/s Ethernet port, and multiple ports for SSDs and peripherals.
5. The NucBox K10 lacks a dedicated graphics card and an OCuLink port for external GPUs.
GMKtec has launched the NucBox K10 mini PC in the US. You can buy it directly from the company’s official online store, with prices starting at $419 for the barebone version, which does not include memory, an SSD, or an operating system. The version with 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD is priced at $519 and is also available on Amazon. For those wanting the highest specs, the model with 64GB RAM is offered at $589.
Performance Specs
This mini PC is powered by an Intel Core i9-13900HK, which is an Alder Lake chipset from 2023, featuring 14 cores that should provide strong performance even for demanding tasks. One thing to note is that the NucBox K10 lacks a dedicated graphics card and does not have an OCuLink port for external GPUs. On the upside, it supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and can reach clock speeds of 5,200MHz.
Connectivity Features
The NucBox K10 comes with easily noticeable external WiFi antennas linked to an AX201 module that also offers Bluetooth 5.2 support. It includes an Ethernet port with a speed of 2.5Gbit/s. Additionally, this mini PC can accommodate three M.2 2280 SSDs, allowing for significant local data storage. Other connectivity options found on the NucBox K10 are USB Type-C, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and four USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 ports each.
GMKtec’s new product is sure to appeal to users looking for compact computing power.
Source:
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Tags: GMKtec, Intel Core i9 13900HK, NucBox K10
April 10, 2025
Lucky Walmart Shoppers Find RTX 50 Series GPUs Under MSRP
Key Takeaways
1. Walmart shoppers have found significant discounts on RTX 50 series GPUs, often below MSRP.
2. Successful purchases have been reported on Reddit, with users buying RTX 5080 and RTX 5070 at prices much lower than retail.
3. Returned GPUs at Walmart can be restocked at discounted prices, even if they are still sealed.
4. The strategy of buying online and returning to store for restock discounts is gaining popularity among shoppers.
5. Similar discount tactics are also being observed at other retailers, like Micro Center.
Walmart shoppers have discovered a way to save money on RTX 50 series GPUs, which are usually sold at prices much higher than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) at many retailers. Some lucky individuals have shared their experiences on Reddit, revealing that they managed to buy an RTX 5080 and an RTX 5070 for prices significantly below MSRP by checking their local Walmart stores, despite these cards typically being available only online.
Important Considerations
Before you head out to your local Walmart, keep in mind that these reports are about a week old and Walmart might have updated its policies since then.
Success Stories
Around eight days ago, a Reddit user, CPrizzy, shared on the r/nvidia subreddit that they snagged a PNY RTX 5080 GPU for $896 (not including tax) at their nearby Walmart, while the MSRP for this item was $1,280 at checkout. After speaking to a store employee, the user discovered that the GPU had been returned just a day before and was placed back on the shelf with a lower price. The user even posted photos of the pristine RTX 5080, along with some technical details and performance benchmarks.
More Deals Found
Just two days later, another Redditor from Tampa, Florida, visited their local Walmart and purchased a PNY RTX 5070 for $515. This GPU was still in its sealed packaging but was also discounted and available on the shelf. At checkout, they learned that because these GPUs are meant to be sold online, any returns made in-store are restocked at a lower price, regardless of whether the packaging has been opened or not.
A Popular Strategy
Many commenters pointed out that shoppers are taking advantage of this situation to get GPUs at lower prices. They buy the items online, return them to the store, and then wait for them to be restocked at discounted rates so they can buy them again. This tactic is not limited to Walmart; Micro Center is also seeing similar activities.
Source:
Link
Tags: RTX 5070, RTX 5080, Walmart Deals
April 10, 2025
PC Shipments Rise 4.9% in Q1 Amid China Tariff Supply Risks
Key Takeaways
1. Global PC shipments reached 63.2 million units in Q1 2025, up 4.9% from the previous year, mainly due to companies stockpiling Chinese components before tariffs.
2. New U.S. tariffs on Chinese parts could reach 104%, leading major companies like Lenovo, HP, and Dell to pause shipments to assess impacts on pricing and logistics.
3. Lenovo led the market with 15.2 million units shipped, while Apple saw a 14.1% increase in shipments due to demand for AI-enhanced Macs.
4. Analysts warn that tariffs may result in higher consumer prices and worsen inflation, with three scenarios for the industry: relocating manufacturing, absorbing costs, or passing costs to consumers.
5. Supply chain disruptions and price hikes are expected to challenge the market from Q2 to Q4 of 2025, with economic uncertainty overshadowing positive trends like Windows 10 upgrades and AI adoption.
As reported by IDC, global shipments of PCs hit 63.2 million units in the first quarter of 2025, marking an increase of 4.9% compared to the previous year. This growth was mainly due to companies stockpiling Chinese components before tariffs were imposed. However, new tariffs from the U.S., which could be as high as 104% on Chinese parts, pose a significant threat to these gains. Major players in the industry, including Lenovo, HP, Dell, Acer, and ASUS, have paused all shipments of notebooks and components to the U.S. for a minimum of two weeks to assess the effects on pricing and logistics.
Performance Highlights for Q1
Lenovo took the lead in the market, shipping 15.2 million units, which is a 10.8% increase from last year, and achieving a market share of 24.1%. Apple experienced a notable increase of 14.1% in shipments, which was driven by a growing demand for its AI-enhanced Macs. Meanwhile, HP and Dell reported small increases, with shipments of 12.8 million units (+3.2%) and 9.6 million units (+2.4%), respectively.
Risks and Industry Reactions
Analysts at IDC are cautioning that the tariffs will likely lead to higher prices for consumers, which could worsen inflation. The industry is faced with three probable scenarios: relocating manufacturing outside of China to bypass tariffs, absorbing the increased costs to protect profit margins, or shifting those costs to consumers, which could lead to a drop in sales. Mid-range PCs are particularly at risk when it comes to price sensitivity, while higher-end brands like Apple may be more capable of managing the impacts of tariffs.
Future Market Challenges
Disruptions in the supply chain and anticipated price hikes are likely to affect the market from Q2 to Q4 of 2025, increasing the risks of a recession. Analysts Ryan Reith and Jean Philippe Bouchard from IDC attribute the growth seen in Q1 to stockpiling before the tariffs came into effect, often referred to as a “pull-in” effect. They highlight that current policy changes and economic uncertainty overshadow other positive influences such as upgrades to Windows 10 and the adoption of AI technologies.
Source:
Link
Tags: Lenovo, PC Shipments, U.S. Tariffs
April 10, 2025
Get Asus Accessories Delivered in Under 10 Minutes with Swiggy Instamart
Key Takeaways
1. Asus India partners with Swiggy Instamart for quick delivery of accessories.
2. Fast delivery service promises accessories within 10 minutes in major Indian cities.
3. Available accessories include chargers, keyboards, and various types of mice.
4. The collaboration aims to reduce waiting time for essential tech accessories.
5. Customers can access Asus products quickly for urgent needs, like work or gaming.
In January, Asus India made it known that they were teaming up with Zepto, a platform for quick delivery e-commerce, to bring its accessories, such as keyboards and mice, to major cities like Mumbai, NCR, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Recently, the Taiwanese technology company has revealed a new collaboration with Swiggy Instamart, another well-known quick-commerce service, to distribute its accessories.
Quick Access to Asus Accessories
The new partnership means that Asus will provide fast delivery—within just 10 minutes—for select popular accessories through Swiggy Instamart in major Indian cities, including Pune, Gurgaon, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad. The available accessories include:
Chargers:
– ASUS 65W Type-C Universal Adapter (Black)
– ASUS 65W Type-C GaN Universal Adapter (White)
Keyboards:
– ASUS KW100 Marshmallow Keyboard – Oat Milk (Beige)
– ASUS KW100 Marshmallow Keyboard – Green Tea Latte (Green)
– ASUS CW100 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo (with Silent Mouse, 1600 DPI, Black)
Mice:
– ASUS MD102 Silent Ergo Mouse (Multi-device Connectivity, 1600 DPI, Dark Grey)
– ASUS MW103 Wireless Silent Mouse (1000 DPI, Black)
– ASUS MD100 Marshmallow Multi-device Wireless Mouse (1600 DPI, Quiet Blue & Solar Blue)
– ASUS MW203 Ergonomic Multi-device Wireless Silent Mouse (2400 DPI, Black)
– ASUS MD200 Smart O Wireless Mouse (4200 DPI, 6 Programmable Buttons, Multi-device, Black)
– ASUS MD200 Smart O Wireless Silent Mouse (4200 DPI, 6 Programmable Buttons, Multi-device, Green)
Making Accessories Easily Available
Utilizing Swiggy Instamart’s quick delivery service, Asus aims to reduce the waiting time for important accessories, ensuring they are accessible exactly when customers need them. Whether requiring a last-minute charger for an important work call or a new mouse for late-night gaming, Asus accessories are now available in just a few minutes.
Tags: ASUS, ASUS 65W Type-C Universal Adapter, Swiggy Instamart
April 10, 2025
Xiaomi Launches 10-in-1 USB-C Dock with 100W Fast Charging
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi has launched a 10-in-1 USB-C Docking Station in China, currently crowdfunding at CNY 179 (approximately $25).
2. The dock features a durable aluminum alloy design with a built-in USB-C cable for enhanced portability.
3. It includes a USB Type-C port that supports PD 100 W fast charging, providing up to 90 W power to connected laptops.
4. The dock offers fast data transfer speeds over 400 MB/s and can transfer a 1 GB file in about 3 seconds, with a Gigabit Ethernet port for variable speed adjustments.
5. It is compatible with major operating systems, features hot-swappable functionality, and offers hardware protections, though there is no information on global availability yet.
Xiaomi has launched a fresh USB-C dock in China. Named the 10-in-1 Docking Station, it’s currently available for crowdfunding at a price of CNY 179, roughly equivalent to $25. The design includes an aluminum alloy body and a cleverly hidden slot for the built-in USB-C cable, enhancing its portability.
Port Features
The new Xiaomi dock comes with a variety of ports, which are listed below:
Among these ports, there is a special USB Type-C port meant for charging that supports PD 100 W fast charging (the 150 W Anker GaNPrime charger is priced at $99.99 on Amazon). Xiaomi mentions that it can provide up to 90 W power to the connected laptop. The company also emphasizes that both the USB 3.0 Type-C and Type-A ports can achieve transfer speeds exceeding 400 MB/s, enabling quick file transfers.
Speed and Connectivity
To be more precise, Xiaomi asserts that the 10-in-1 dock can transfer a 1 GB file in approximately 3 seconds. The dock’s Ethernet port is reportedly backed by a Gigabit network card that adjusts to various speeds. For instance, it can seamlessly switch between 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and 1,000 Mbps.
Additional Features
Other notable features of the new Xiaomi 10-in-1 Docking Station include compatibility with major operating systems, hot-swappable functionality, and various hardware protections. There hasn’t been any information released regarding its global availability yet. However, since the company offers its 5-in-1 USB-C hub internationally, it’s possible that this new docking station will also make its way to the global market soon.
Source:
Link
Tags: 10-in-1 Docking Station, USB-C Dock, Xiaomi
April 10, 2025
Framework Laptop 12 Priced at $549 Now Available for Pre-Order
Key Takeaways
1. Pre-orders for the Framework Laptop 12 in the US start at 9 AM PT on April 10, with prices beginning at $549 for the DIY edition.
2. The Laptop 12 features a 12.2-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 and a 360-degree hinge for versatility.
3. It will be available in two models: a basic Intel Core i3-1315U version and a performance Intel Core i5-1334U variant, both with upgradeable RAM and storage options.
4. The device includes features like Wi-Fi 6E, a 1080p camera, and four user-selectable expansion cards, along with a 50Wh battery and 60W GaN USB-C charger.
5. Color options for the Laptop 12 include Black, Bubblegum, Gray, Lavender, and Sage.
Framework has revealed that pre-orders for the Laptop 12, its inaugural 2-in-1 laptop featuring a touchscreen, are now open. Initially announced on April 9 for regions like Canada, Europe, and the UK, the US market was left out. However, a new update has provided pre-order information for customers in the US.
Pre-Order Details
In the United States, pre-orders for the Framework Laptop 12 will commence at 9 AM PT on April 10, with the DIY edition starting at a price of $549. For comparison, the pricing in Europe begins at €569, while in Canada, it’s CA$719, and in the UK, it stands at £499. Similar to other regions, the first shipments are expected to be sent out in June.
Specifications and Design
The Framework Laptop 12 is described as an entry-level device featuring a 12.2-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, supporting MPP 2.0 and USI 2.0 styluses. It boasts a 360-degree hinge, enabling it to be folded back entirely for use as a tablet or set up in tent mode. With a TPU and plastic casing along with a metal chassis, Framework claims that the Laptop 12 adheres to MIL-STD-810 durability standards.
Performance Options
Framework will provide the Laptop 12 in a basic model equipped with an Intel Core i3-1315U processor, and a performance variant featuring an Intel Core i5-1334U. The base model comes pre-built with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, while the performance version offers double the RAM but maintains the same storage capacity. Both pre-built configurations will include Windows 11 Home, whereas the DIY edition will not come with an operating system.
The memory can be upgraded to as much as 48GB, and storage can be expanded up to 2TB (M2. 2230 NVME SSD). Additionally, the Framework Laptop 12 will include 4 user-selectable expansion cards. Other notable features include Wi-Fi 6E, stereo 2W speakers, a 3.5mm combo jack, a 2MP 1080p OmniVision camera with a privacy switch, and a 50Wh battery accompanied by a 60W GaN USB-C charger in the package.
Color Options
The Framework Laptop 12 will be offered in various colors, including Black, Bubblegum, Gray, Lavender, and Sage.
Source:
Link
Tags: 2-in-1 touchscreen, Framework Laptop 12, Pre-order
April 10, 2025
Ugreen Introduces Thunderbolt 5 SSD Enclosure with Active Cooling
Key Takeaways
– Ugreen has launched a new SSD enclosure utilizing Thunderbolt 5 technology, compatible with Thunderbolt 4 but with slower speeds.
– The maximum theoretical bandwidth of Thunderbolt 5 is 80Gbps, achievable only with Thunderbolt 5 devices.
– The enclosure can reach sequential read and write speeds over 6,000MB/s when used with fast SSDs like the Samsung 990 Pro.
– It supports M.2 2280 SSDs with a PCIe connection but does not support SATA SSDs.
– The enclosure features silicon padding for drop protection, an aluminum casing, and a built-in fan for heat management, priced at $229 (enclosure only).
There are many ways to increase the storage capacity of a laptop or computer, but only a few external options provide high-speed data transfer through the latest ports like USB4 or Thunderbolt 5. Ugreen has just launched a new SSD enclosure that utilizes Thunderbolt 5 technology, while also being compatible with Thunderbolt 4, but with slower transfer rates.
Maximum Bandwidth
It’s important to mention that the maximum theoretical bandwidth of 80Gbps is achievable only on devices that have Thunderbolt 5. Ugreen claims that this new enclosure can reach sequential read and write speeds exceeding 6,000MB/s when paired with a fast SSD. The Chinese company has shared benchmarks using various M.2 storage options, and drives like the Samsung 990 Pro show impressive performance.
Compatibility and Design
However, this enclosure is limited to supporting M.2 2280 SSDs with a PCIe connection, and it does not support SATA SSDs. In addition, the enclosure features silicon padding designed to provide protection against drops, while the outer casing is made of aluminum. A built-in fan helps manage the heat during operation. The new Ugreen 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure is now listed for $229 on Amazon, but keep in mind that this price is for the enclosure alone and does not include a solid-state drive.
Source:
Link
Tags: Samsung 990 Pro, Thunderbolt 5, UGREEN