Category: Computers

March 16, 2025
Western Digital Launches 26TB Red Pro SATA NAS HDD for Storage
Key Takeaways
1. Western Digital has launched a 26 TB WD Red Pro hard drive specifically designed for network-attached storage (NAS) devices, priced at $569.99.
2. Hard drives remain more affordable than solid-state drives for large data storage, but they can face mechanical failures over time.
3. The WD Red Pro operates at 7200 rpm, has an MTBF rating of 2.5 million hours, and can handle 550 TB of data transfers annually with notable internal transfer rates.
4. It features anti-vibration technology for RAID environments and uses conventional magnetic recording (CMR) for better data update speed.
5. This release is part of Western Digital’s effort to enhance NAS storage solutions for creative professionals and improve workflow productivity.
Western Digital has introduced the 26 TB 3.5-inch WD Red Pro hard drive (model WD260KFGX), which is specifically made for network-attached storage devices, like the Synology 4-bay DiskStation NAS available on Amazon. The suggested retail price for this drive is $569.99, and you can find it on Amazon right now.
Affordability of Hard Drives
Hard drives are still more affordable than solid-state drives when it comes to storing large quantities of data, such as 8K RAW videos from cameras, backups of 4K Ultra HD Blu-Ray discs, and countless adorable puppy photos. While hard drives can experience mechanical failures over time, multi-layer SSDs may face data loss sooner due to natural electron migration, particularly in high storage temperature conditions.
Performance Features
The 7200 rpm Red Pro is made for heavy-duty, always-on NAS tasks, boasting a mean time between failure (MTBF) rating of 2.5 million hours and a capability for 550 TB of data transfers per year. It offers a maximum internal transfer rate of 287 MB/s and a peak SATA interface transfer rate of 272 MB/s, thanks to the enhancements provided by OptiNAND technology.
RAID Optimization and Reliability
Designed to work effectively in a RAID environment, this SATA drive helps mitigate the risk of catastrophic data loss from a single drive failure. It incorporates anti-vibration technology that uses information from internal rotation vibration (RV) sensors to combat disruptive vibrations that could damage data.
This drive operates at a standard 7,200 rpm speed, features a 512 MB cache, and utilizes conventional magnetic recording (CMR) instead of shingled magnetic recording (SMR), which is slower when it comes to updating data changes.
You can purchase the WD 26 TB 3.5-inch WD Red Pro hard drive on Amazon.
Western Digital’s Commitment
Western Digital has expanded its storage solutions for NAS, catering to creative professionals and content makers with its 26TB high-capacity CMR HDDs. This expansion is part of their WD Red® Pro and G-DRIVE®/G-RAID® Professional product lines, aimed at enhancing data storage capabilities and improving workflow productivity.
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Tags: 26 TB HDD, NAS storage, WD Red Pro
March 16, 2025
Intel Core i7-240H Benchmarks Show Similarity to i7-12800H
Key Takeaways
1. Core 7 240H laptops are becoming the popular choice for midrange multimedia and gaming devices, potentially replacing the Core i7-12800H and i7-13700H models.
2. The performance of the Core 7 240H is very similar to the Core i7-12800H and i7-13700H, with only a 5% difference in benchmarks.
3. The Core 7 240H is built on the older Raptor Lake-H architecture, making it comparable in age to the i7-12800H.
4. Power consumption for the Core 7 240H is inconsistent, showing throttling issues during stress testing, despite having the same performance cores as the i7-12800H.
5. The Core 7 240H lacks integrated AI features found in the newer Core Ultra series, making upgrades less appealing for current users.
Laptops featuring the Core 7 240H are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for midrange multimedia and gaming devices. It is anticipated that this processor will gradually take the place of models utilizing the Core i7-12800H or Core i7-13700H. However, those looking for a significant performance upgrade may find themselves let down based on our experience with the latest Asus V16.
Performance Comparison
Our benchmarks indicate that the Core 7 240H operates within a 5 percent range of the average Core i7-12800H or Core i7-13700H laptop in our records, even though the i7-12800H has been around for over three years. This newer Core 7 240H is still built on the older Raptor Lake-H architecture, which is just as dated as the i7-12800H.
Power Consumption Insights
When it comes to power usage, the answer is less clear-cut. Our initial retail sample of the Core 7 240H demonstrated throttling issues during Prime95 stress testing, leading to inconsistent consumption levels, as depicted in the graph below. The processor maintains the same number of performance cores as the i7-12800H but has only half the efficiency cores (4 compared to 8), while delivering roughly equivalent performance. Therefore, the differences in load performance should be negligible, although the Core 7 240H may offer slightly better efficiency for less demanding applications. While it’s distinct enough to not merely be a rebranding, the Core 7 240H still feels too much like its immediate Core i7 predecessors, making it hard for many current users to justify an upgrade, especially since it misses the integrated AI features found in the Core Ultra series.
Tags: ASUS V16, Core 7 240H, Core i7-12800H
March 15, 2025
Exclusive Lenovo ThinkPad Interview: Future of Repairable Laptops
Key Takeaways
1. The ThinkPad brand, originally under IBM, was handed over to Lenovo in 2005, and it continues to evolve with new leadership and product innovations.
2. The recent introduction of the ThinkPad X9, which lacks a TrackPoint, aims to attract new users while still offering models with the TrackPoint for long-time fans.
3. Future laptop input may include more voice recognition features, but traditional keyboard and touchpad designs will remain central to ThinkPad’s approach.
4. Lenovo emphasizes brand clarity with distinct naming conventions for ThinkPad series while maintaining strong brand recognition among consumers.
5. Sustainability is a priority for Lenovo, focusing on durable products, repairability, and eco-friendly packaging to achieve carbon neutrality.
On the market since 1992, the ThinkPad laptops have a rich history that began under IBM’s guidance. In 2005, IBM handed over the brand to Lenovo, a newcomer at the time, who has since continued to develop this line of enterprise laptops.
Leadership Changes
Recently, the ThinkPad team was still guided by veterans from IBM until the spring of 2024, when Tom Butler became the new Executive Director of Commercial Portfolio and Product Management. Tom joined Lenovo in 2005, shortly after the brand transitioned from IBM, and he started as a product manager for the Lenovo ThinkPad R60. Now, he is in charge of the whole ThinkPad lineup. During Lenovo’s MWC 2025 showcase, Notebookcheck’s Benjamin Herzig had a unique conversation with Tom.
Thoughts on TrackPoint and Touchpad
Notebookcheck: Lenovo has made headlines with the new premium ThinkPad X9, which does not have a TrackPoint. Are you more of a TrackPoint or touchpad user?
Tom Butler: Let’s talk about the ThinkPad X9 first. We understand that some people were shocked by the absence of a TrackPoint. However, we want to reassure our users that we still have a range of ThinkPads featuring the TrackPoint. The X9 (available at Amazon) is meant to attract those who have not used a ThinkPad before.
As for your question: I am a long-time TrackPoint user, but I also know that a good touchpad experience is essential for those who are not familiar with ThinkPads. I particularly find touchpad gestures helpful. So, to sum it up: Both!
Future of Laptop Input
Notebookcheck: The typical laptop input devices seem pretty established: touchpad plus keyboard. Do you foresee any major changes in this area?
Tom Butler: I liken laptops to an upright piano—the display is like sheet music and the input, which in ThinkPad’s case includes the keyboard, touchpad, and TrackPoint, is at the front. As we approach the 33rd anniversary of the ThinkPad brand, our fundamental approach remains the same. The keyboard is crucial for how we interact with our PCs, and we invest significant effort in refining it. On a piano, you have the keyboard leading to music; on a laptop, it’s the keyboard interfacing with the screen.
Regarding the future of laptop input, we must consider the possibilities of AI. This includes natural language processing. We expect more voice input, though it will likely be limited to private settings—people won’t be chatting with their laptops on planes or trains! (laughs) This is why we’re experimenting with prototypes to figure out how to incorporate these features into our designs.
Branding in the Laptop Industry
Notebookcheck: Branding is a hot topic right now. One competitor has eliminated their laptop brand names. Are brand names becoming less significant, replaced by simple “good, better, best” labels?
Tom Butler: We take a traditional and straightforward approach. Each ThinkPad series, like T, L, or E, has a specific name along with screen sizes for clarity—T14, T16, and so forth. We also add a generational label for logical tracking. Currently, we are not planning any changes. Lenovo has strong brand equity, and our sub-brands like ThinkPad, ThinkBook, and Lenovo Yoga are well recognized by consumers.
Commitment to Sustainability
Notebookcheck: You’ve made strides in sustainability with recycled materials and plastic-free packaging, and improved repairability in models like the ThinkPad T series. Could selling replacement parts become a new business model?
Tom Butler: Sustainability is a key focus for us in our journey toward carbon neutrality—Lenovo’s overarching goal. To achieve that, we aim for more sustainable products and avoid forcing a replacement cycle. Part of this involves developing durable systems that last longer and offer repairability to extend their lifecycle. If our customers are satisfied, they will return for more, even if it takes a bit longer.
We are leading in repairability, offering replaceable keyboards and batteries, along with easy-to-remove screws. At trade shows like MWC, we showcase our open products to highlight their repairable features. This leadership extends to our packaging, as we’ve eliminated plastic, even down to stickers and ties, which is incredibly important.
The Future of Thin Laptops
Notebookcheck: Thinner laptops were a major trend in the 2010s. Do customers still want that, or is it a thing of the past?
Tom Butler: When we ask customers, they prioritize high battery life, performance, lightweight, and a slim design. However, these demands often compete with one another—a larger battery and better cooling lead to a heavier and thicker device. We strive for the right balance.
Regarding the Z height, we’ve reached a point where the current thickness is generally acceptable. This is partly due to features like the HDMI port, which is standard on our newer models. Although some devices like the ThinkPad Z series or ThinkPad X1 Nano utilize USB-C only, we’ve received substantial feedback indicating the need for HDMI. Since many conference rooms globally have HDMI connectors, a certain thickness is necessary for that feature, which means we won’t be going significantly thinner for now. However, we still aim to provide more value, focusing on reducing weight with products like the new ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 and ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition.
Personal Favorite ThinkPad
Notebookcheck: Lastly, do you have a favorite ThinkPad?
Tom Butler: Oh man! That’s a tough choice. Reflecting on the ThinkPad history, the ThinkPad X300 marked a significant shift for us. It was like a proto-Ultrabook back in its day, and it’s definitely among my favorites. I also have a fondness for our ultraportables, particularly the 12-inch devices from the X200 series. That form factor was ideal for frequent travelers, fitting well in small regional jets. A standout example for me is the ThinkPad X240s, a Japan-exclusive model I had, which was extremely lightweight. The modern equivalent would be the ThinkPad X13, though I also love the X1 Carbon, naturally.
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Tags: Lenovo X9, Sustainability, ThinkPad
March 15, 2025
M4 MacBook Air Teardown by iFixIt: Complete Repair Guide
Key Takeaways
1. The M4 MacBook Air closely resembles its predecessors, the M3 and M2 models, in design.
2. iFixIt awarded the M4 MacBook Air a repairability score of 5 out of 10, indicating moderate ease of repair.
3. Key repair-friendly features include an accessible battery and replaceable ports, but the fused keyboard poses a challenge.
4. The System Configuration tool is necessary for proper display functionality, limiting repairs to certified technicians or Apple’s Self Service Repair.
5. While the laptop is generally easy to repair for common issues, Apple’s replacement part policies complicate right-to-repair efforts.
The M4 MacBook Air has undergone a teardown, revealing it closely resembles its predecessors.
A recent teardown video and report from iFixIt illustrates that Apple has not deviated from its usual design choices with the latest model. The M4 MacBook Air, currently priced at $999 on Amazon, was fully taken apart by iFixIt and appears nearly identical to the M3 MacBook Air, which itself mirrored the M2 MacBook Air’s design.
Repairability Score
iFixIt awarded the laptop a repairability score of 5 out of 10. Notable features include the presence of a repair manual, a battery that is easy to access (along with its connector), and ports that can be disconnected and replaced without much hassle. On the downside, the M4 Air has a keyboard that is fused, making it tough, if not impossible, to change. The Touch ID sensor is also a pain to reach, and there’s a major issue affecting screen replacements.
System Configuration Tool
The main obstacle is Apple’s System Configuration tool, which is required for the laptop to recognize a new display and activate its full features. In short, if a display is not installed by an Apple Certified Repair Technician or through Apple’s Self Service Repair program, the laptop will turn off some display capabilities like True Tone.
Overall, the MacBook Air is relatively easy to repair, especially concerning components that typically wear out over time, such as the battery and ports. Nevertheless, it remains a challenge for right-to-repair advocates due to Apple’s policies on replacement parts.
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Tags: iFixit, M4 MacBook Air, Repairability
March 14, 2025
42-Core Intel CPU Architecture Makes a Comeback for Desktops
Key Takeaways
1. Intel has a history of canceling CPU designs, including the Royal Core project and Arrow Lake-S refresh.
2. New information suggests that the Intel Arrow Lake Refresh for both desktops and mobile devices has been revived.
3. The Arrow Lake-S Refresh will use the same interface as current Core Ultra 200 processors, allowing existing LGA 1851 motherboard users to upgrade without new hardware.
4. Leaks indicate that the Arrow Lake-S Refresh could feature up to 42 cores, potentially improving multi-core performance by 30-50%.
5. Readers should be cautious about the validity of the leaked information, as it is over 1.5 years old.
Intel has a history of canceling CPU designs, as suggested by various leaks. Just last year, many reports indicated that the company had scrapped Jim Keller’s Royal Core project and the upcoming Arrow Lake-S refresh. With the supposed cancellation of the Arrow Lake Refresh, it seemed like Intel wouldn’t have a counter to AMD’s Zen 5X3D and possibly even Zen 6 until the arrival of Nova Lake.
Intel’s Arrow Lake Refresh Resurfaces
However, new information suggests that the Intel Arrow Lake Refresh is back in action. According to a post by Golden Pig Upgrade Pack on Weibo, both the Intel Arrow Lake-S Refresh for desktops and the Arrow Lake-HX Refresh for mobile devices have supposedly been revived. The ARL-S Refresh will maintain the same interface as the current Core Ultra 200 desktop processors. This means that users with an LGA 1851 motherboard won’t have to invest in a new one.
Moreover, the leaker has mentioned that AI PCs “are getting bigger and stronger.” Since this is a machine translation, we may be missing some context, but it appears that both Arrow Lake S and Arrow Lake HX Refresh will feature more powerful NPUs and possibly additional cores.
Speculations on Performance
Unfortunately, there is a lack of current information regarding the specifications of the Arrow Lake-S Refresh and Arrow Lake-HX Refresh processors. Nonetheless, some hardware details were revealed in a leak from Moore’s Law Is Dead in 2023. According to MLID, the Arrow Lake-S Refresh could include up to 42 cores, combining 8 Lion Cove P-cores, 32 Symont E-cores, and 2 LP E-cores. As the ARL-R is expected to launch without hyperthreading, this top SKU will be restricted to 42 threads.
This high core count is likely to lead to a significant improvement in multi-core performance, with MLID estimating a 30-50% boost. However, the increase in single-core performance is projected to be only a modest single-digit percentage.
Caution on Information Validity
That being said, it’s uncertain how much of this leak remains valid, as it is over 1.5 years old. Therefore, readers should consider this information with a large grain of salt.
In conclusion, the revival of Arrow Lake-S Refresh and Arrow Lake-HX Refresh brings good news for Intel enthusiasts who have been waiting for something to cheer about in recent months. AMD has been leading the desktop CPU market without significant competition from Intel. Team Red has just introduced its latest Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 9 9900X3D, which are designed for productivity while also delivering top-tier gaming performance.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen 9, Arrow Lake Refresh, Intel
March 14, 2025
Intel Arc 140V Laptops: 50% Less Power, Similar Gaming Performance
Key Takeaways
1. The Lunar Lake architecture enhances efficiency, resulting in superior battery life and reduced power usage compared to earlier models.
2. Intel’s integrated Arc 140V GPU is its most competitive offering in recent years, showcasing improved performance.
3. In performance comparisons, the Intel HP EliteBook X G1a delivers similar gaming capabilities to the AMD Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon while using significantly less power.
4. The performance-per-watt advantage of Intel laptops results in longer battery life, quieter operation, and lighter/thinner designs for consumers.
5. The difference in power consumption between the Arc 140V and Radeon 890M is influenced by their processor pairings, with Intel’s slower Core Ultra 7 V-series still performing well in gaming scenarios.
The Lunar Lake architecture has been crafted with a focus on efficiency, and this is quite evident. Battery life is consistently superior when compared to earlier models, and power usage is also significantly reduced under specific conditions. The integrated Arc 140V stands out as Intel’s most competitive integrated GPU in recent years.
Performance Comparison
To illustrate this, the charts below display a comparison between the HP EliteBook X G1a 14 AI and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13, which is equipped with the Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 375 and Core Ultra 7 258V, respectively. Both devices show similar performance metrics in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, Final Fantasy XV, and Baldur’s Gate 3, with a slight advantage for the AMD system overall. However, the Intel device impressively consumes only around ~35 W, while the AMD counterpart uses about ~77 W when playing the same game. This performance-per-watt ratio heavily favors Intel, even when accounting for variations in screen size or display types like IPS or OLED.
Benefits for Users
For consumers, the increased performance-per-watt means that Intel laptops can deliver almost equivalent gaming capabilities as their AMD counterparts, but with the added benefits of longer battery life, quieter operation, and designs that are lighter or thinner.
A significant factor contributing to the substantial difference in power consumption between the Arc 140V and Radeon 890M is the processor pairing. The Arc 140V is linked to the slower Core Ultra 7 V-series, while the Radeon 890M is exclusively available with Ryzen AI HX CPUs at this time. Additionally, the Radeon 880M is only found in Ryzen AI 7 or Ryzen AI 9 systems, which are already more powerful and demanding than the Core Ultra 7 V-series. In gaming scenarios where the GPU tends to be the limiting factor rather than the CPU, the slower Intel processor has little impact on performance in most games, as demonstrated by our testing results.
Tags: HP EliteBook X G1a, Intel Arc 140V, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13
March 14, 2025
PicoCalc: Handheld Raspberry Pi Sports Keyboard with Battery
Key Takeaways
1. The PicoCalc is designed for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts, resembling a classic calculator with a standard US keyboard layout.
2. It features a 4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 320 x 320 pixels, requiring users to install the chipset compatible with Raspberry Pi Pico.
3. The device is energy-efficient, operates on 18650 batteries, and includes built-in speakers with a tempered glass display for protection.
4. The PicoCalc Kit is priced at $75 and comes with a 32GB SD card preloaded with firmware and a Raspberry Pi Pico 1 H.
5. Customization is encouraged, as 3D files are provided for users to personalize their handheld device.
We’ve talked about the company Clockwork multiple times before since they create a range of mobile gadgets, especially for the Raspberry Pi. Their products are usually aimed at hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts rather than everyday users, and the new PicoCalc fits right in with this trend.
Design and Features
As the name suggests, this gadget looks like a classic calculator. It has a keyboard featuring a standard US layout, which might not be ideal for international users. However, the keyboard also includes a directional pad and function keys. All the keys are backlit, and some keys have secondary functions, adding to its versatility.
Technical Specifications
This portable device boasts a 4-inch display with a resolution of 320 x 320 pixels, utilizing an IPS panel that connects through SPI. Users will need to install the chipset themselves since the system is compatible with both the first and second generation Raspberry Pi Pico. Consequently, its performance doesn’t compare to that of regular laptops or gaming devices. On the bright side, the PicoCalc is energy-efficient and can operate on 18650 batteries. It also comes with built-in speakers, and the display is safeguarded by tempered glass.
Pricing and Availability
The PicoCalc Kit is priced at $75, which includes a 32GB SD card preloaded with optimized firmware. A Raspberry Pi Pico 1 H is also part of this kit. Additionally, 3D files are provided, making it easy to customize this unique handheld device.
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Tags: handheld device, PicoCalc, Raspberry Pi Pico
March 13, 2025
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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Tags: 5G connectivity, VAIO Pro PG, VAIO S13
March 13, 2025
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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Tags: Compal Electronics, Hybrid AIO, Microsoft Surface Pro
March 13, 2025
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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Tags: Intel Core i5 1235U, Maxtang SXRL-20, Mini-PC