Category: Computers

  • Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 2025: AI Upgrades and Price Increase Ahead

    Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 2025: AI Upgrades and Price Increase Ahead

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi will launch the AI-powered RedmiBook Pro 16 and Pro 14 on February 27, featuring Intel Core Ultra 7 and Ultra 5 processors.
    2. The laptops offer significant AI performance improvements, with up to 96 TOPS of AI computing power, enhancing efficiency and smart computing.
    3. Hardware upgrades include ultra-fast LPDDR5X memory and an improved cooling system, boosting thermal efficiency by 34.4%.
    4. A price increase is expected due to factors like rising CPU prices and high-quality hardware, but Xiaomi assures it won’t be artificially inflated.
    5. The previous model started at 4,999 yuan (~$690), and the new pricing will reflect the enhanced capabilities of the laptops.

    Xiaomi is all set to leap into the world of AI-powered PCs with the new RedmiBook Pro 16 and Pro 14, which will be launched on February 27. These laptops are equipped with Intel Core Ultra 7 and Ultra 5 processors, which promise major improvements in AI capabilities that enhance performance, efficiency, and smart computing. Despite these advancements, Xiaomi’s Product Marketing Director, Ma Zhiyu, has warned that a price increase is unavoidable, though it won’t be artificially raised.

    Price Increase on the Horizon

    The core of the RedmiBook Pro 2025 includes Intel’s second-gen Core Ultra processors that offer up to 96 TOPS of AI computing power, providing over a 150% increase in AI performance. This translates to better system optimization, on-device AI processing for larger models, and intelligent search features integrated into the operating system. Xiaomi is branding it as an “AI-powered professional office laptop,” aiming to be crucial for both work and creative tasks.

    Enhancements in Hardware

    Aside from AI upgrades, Xiaomi has significantly improved the hardware to complement the new features. The laptops come with LPDDR5X 8400MT/s ultra-fast memory, and the upgraded cooling system enhances thermal efficiency by 34.4% compared to last year’s model. Early tests indicate that gaming performance is impressive too—Black Myth: Wukong runs at an average of 67 fps on the device, reaching peaks of 75 fps and hardly dropping below 59 fps. The smaller 14-inch model will also offer a Core Ultra 7 option, indicating strong performance across the entire range.

    Understanding the Price Adjustment

    With such a variety of enhancements, the anticipation of a price increase was reasonable. Ma Zhiyu points to changes in exchange rates, rising CPU prices, and high-quality hardware as contributing factors. Nevertheless, he reassures that Xiaomi will not inflate prices because of government subsidies, ensuring that consumers are getting their money’s worth for genuine improvements instead of artificial price hikes.

    The previous RedmiBook Pro 2024 series began at 4,999 yuan (~$690). While Xiaomi has yet to disclose the official pricing, a price increase is likely but should reflect the enhanced capabilities of the laptops. The full launch event is on February 27 at 7 PM (CST), when Xiaomi will showcase its first true AI PC alongside the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and SU7 Ultra.

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  • Powerful Mini PC with Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM, Triple Display

    Powerful Mini PC with Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM, Triple Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Processor: The Beelink SER8 Pro mini PC is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor, featuring 8 cores, 16 threads, and clock speeds up to 5.1GHz.

    2. Advanced Cooling System: It includes advanced cooling features like MSC2.0 heat management technology, a silent fan, and a vapor chamber heat spreader for efficient performance and low noise.

    3. AI Capabilities: The mini PC has an integrated AI chip for 16 TOPS NPU processing power, supporting AI voice recognition and enhanced audio through built-in speakers.

    4. Versatile Connectivity: Offers multiple connectivity options, including USB4, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, along with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

    5. Compact Design: The SER8 Pro is housed in a sleek metal chassis, supports triple-display output, and measures just 135mm x 135mm x 44.7mm, making it suitable for any workspace.

    Beelink has introduced the SER8 Pro mini PC in China, which is powered by the AMD R7 8845HS processor. The barebone model comes at a price of 3,299 yuan ($454), while the 1TB storage variant is priced at 3,599 yuan ($496).

    Specifications of the Beelink SER8 Pro

    The SER8 Pro mini PC is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor, which features eight cores and sixteen threads, boasting a base clock speed of 3.8GHz and a maximum boost clock of 5.1GHz. It utilizes the Radeon 780M integrated graphics based on the RDNA 3 architecture, operating at 2.7GHz, providing smooth performance for gaming, video editing, and AI tasks.

    Performance and Cooling Features

    This model comes with 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 6400MHz, which allows for rapid multitasking and strong performance. It offers two PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, allowing for storage upgrades of up to 8TB. The mini PC is designed for low noise and high efficiency, featuring an advanced cooling system with MSC2.0 heat management technology, a silent fan, a vapor chamber heat spreader, and a dedicated SSD heatsink, all while maintaining stable 65W performance and minimal noise.

    AI Capabilities and Audio

    The SER8 Pro includes AI enhancements with an integrated AI chip that offers 16 TOPS NPU processing power. It supports AI voice recognition thanks to its built-in microphone, which uses DSP processing for clear speech interaction. Additionally, it features dual built-in speakers enhanced with DSP and amplifier tuning, reducing the need for external speakers.

    Connectivity Options

    For connectivity, the SER8 Pro has a variety of ports. It includes USB4 (40Gbps) with Thunderbolt 3 and DisplayPort 1.4 support, a full-sized HDMI 2.1 port that can handle 4K at 120Hz, a DisplayPort 1.4 output, and several USB ports like USB 3.2 (10Gbps) and USB 2.0. There’s also a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for fast wired networking, along with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for smooth wireless connection.

    Display and Design

    Supporting triple-display output through HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB4, the SER8 Pro is perfect for multitasking and professional use. It also has 3.5mm audio jacks mounted both at the rear and front for easier audio management.

    This mini PC is housed in a sleek metal chassis and comes in Frost Silver and Space Grey, merging style with durability. It measures 135mm x 135mm x 44.7mm, making it a compact addition to any desk.

    In other news, GMK has recently launched the K10 mini PC, which can support 8K displays, has up to 96GB of RAM, and features an impressively compact design.

    Powerful Mini PC with Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM, Triple Display
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  • Morefine G1 eGPU Dock Delivers RTX 4090M in Mini PC Size

    Morefine G1 eGPU Dock Delivers RTX 4090M in Mini PC Size

    Key Takeaways

    1. Morefine has launched a new eGPU dock compatible with RTX 4060, 4080M, and 4090M GPUs, offering varying memory options.
    2. The pricing for the eGPU dock is $639 for the RTX 4060, $1089 for the 4080M, and $1259 for the 4090M, with the 4090M being less powerful due to its thermal design power (TDP) of 85 watts.
    3. It features multiple connectivity options, including 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C ports, allowing connection to up to four displays.
    4. The dock connects via Thunderbolt 3 or OCuLink and offers adjustable fan settings, although higher speeds may reduce performance.
    5. The Morefine G1 eGPU dock is available for shipping to the US, EU, UK, Australia, and Japan.

    Pretty much all eGPUs from brands like GPD, OneX, and Ayaneo come with an AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT. The only exception is the OneXGPU 2, which can be fitted with an RX 7800M.

    Morefine’s New eGPU Dock

    Morefine, a company mainly recognized for its various Intel and AMD mini PCs that are similar to the Intel NUC, has unveiled a new eGPU dock. This dock can be configured with an RTX 4060, 4080M, or 4090M GPU, offering 8, 12, and 16GB of GDDR6 memory, respectively.

    With a thermal design power (TDP) of 85 watts, this might not be the quickest 4090M available, and priced at $1259, it doesn’t exactly scream value. On the other hand, you can grab the 4080M for $1089 or the 4060 for $639. If you’re considering the RTX 4060, the RX 7600M, such as the OneXGPU (which you can find on Amazon), could provide superior rasterized performance for a bit less money.

    Connectivity and Performance

    No matter which model you choose, you’ll receive 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, and can connect up to four displays if you utilize one of the USB-C ports. The dock connects through Thunderbolt 3 or OCuLink and features different fan settings ranging from “silent” to “high-speed.” However, keep in mind that performance might decrease with higher fan speeds.

    Although the variety of ports is impressive, the lack of gigabit Ethernet stands out as a noticeable flaw for a device meant to sit on your desk. Nonetheless, you can still use a USB to gigabit Ethernet adapter via one of the three full-size USB-A ports.

    Availability

    The three variants of the Morfine G1 are currently available and can be shipped to the US, EU, UK, Australia, and Japan.

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    Morefine G1 eGPU Dock Delivers RTX 4090M in Mini PC Size

     

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  • PocketBeagle 2: Affordable Compact Single-Board Computer for Devs

    PocketBeagle 2: Affordable Compact Single-Board Computer for Devs

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PocketBeagle 2 is a compact single-board computer (SBC) designed for developers, priced around $28 to $70.
    2. It has small dimensions (55 x 35 mm) and offers multiple power options, including USB-C and a 5-watt header.
    3. The board includes a microSD card slot and 72 expansion pins for connecting peripherals, but lacks HDMI and wireless features.
    4. Powered by a Texas Instruments AM6232 SoC with dual ARM Cortex-A53 cores and a Cortex-M4F MCU, it is suitable for real-time applications.
    5. Its lower performance and fewer inputs/outputs make it ideal for niche projects that don’t require a full desktop operating system.

    The PocketBeagle 2 is a single-board computer (SBC) designed mainly for developers, similar to the Raspberry Pi 5, which is priced around $70 on Amazon. The PocketBeagle 2 stands out due to its smaller size and lower performance, making it a great choice for those who don’t require a full desktop operating system. It’s important to note that it has fewer external inputs and outputs, with no HDMI ports included.

    Compact Dimensions and Power Options

    With dimensions of just 55 x 35 mm (2.17 x 1.38 in), the PocketBeagle 2 offers various power options, including battery, USB-C port, or a 5-watt header located on the board. In addition to a microSD card slot, it comes equipped with 72 expansion pins that allow for the connection of peripherals like sensors and actuators. This can open up possibilities for controlling smart home devices, even though it does not support wireless features such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Currently, you can find the PocketBeagle 2 at Mouser Electronics for approximately $28, and they also provide detailed documentation to assist new users in getting started.

    Key Features and Applications

    At the heart of the PocketBeagle 2 is a Texas Instruments AM6232 SoC, which includes two ARM Cortex-A53 cores that can run at speeds up to 1 GHz, alongside a Cortex-M4F MCU clocked at 400 MHz. This setup is particularly beneficial for real-time applications, offering a good balance of performance for specific tasks. While it may not compete with larger SBCs in terms of overall capability, its unique features cater well to niche projects and development needs.

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  • Xiaomi Launches First AI PC with 99Wh Massive Battery

    Xiaomi Launches First AI PC with 99Wh Massive Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is launching its first AI PC with a 99Wh battery designed for airline carry-on limits.
    2. A new Redmi laptop, possibly named Redmi Book Pro 2025, will feature an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor.
    3. The laptop will integrate with Xiaomi HyperOS Smart Connect, enhancing interaction with other Xiaomi devices and include AI tools like Xiao AI Assistant.
    4. Performance tests show the laptop can handle gaming well, achieving a frame rate of 67 fps in Black Myth: Wukong, indicating strong cooling and GPU capabilities.
    5. Xiaomi is focusing on the Redmi laptop lineup for updates and promotions, with recent models featuring up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage.

    Xiaomi is really stepping up its game in AI-based computing. In a recent livestream that highlighted the upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra, President Lu Weibing announced that the company is set to introduce its very first AI PC. Although he didn’t disclose the official name, he did mention a key feature: it will have a 99Wh battery, specifically designed to meet the carry-on electronics limit set by airlines.

    New Redmi Laptop on the Horizon

    This announcement comes shortly after Ma Zhiyu, who is the Product Marketing Director at Xiaomi Communications Technology, released a picture of new packaging for a Redmi laptop. This device, likely named the Redmi Book Pro 2025, is expected to run on an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, although the specific model isn’t confirmed yet.

    Integration with Xiaomi HyperOS

    The forthcoming laptop is said to have strong integration with Xiaomi HyperOS Smart Connect, allowing for smooth interaction with the brand’s ecosystem, which includes smartphones, tablets, and smart home gadgets. It will also have Xiao AI Assistant and Xiaomi PC Manager pre-installed, which indicates that the software experience will be tailored for AI-enhanced productivity and automation.

    In addition to its AI capabilities, leaked specifications suggest that this laptop will also excel in gaming. Ma Zhiyu shared performance data while playing Black Myth: Wukong, a highly awaited action RPG developed in China. The laptop reportedly achieved an average frame rate of 67 fps, reaching up to 75 fps and never dropping below 59 fps. These figures imply a well-designed cooling system and a GPU capable of managing demanding tasks.

    Xiaomi’s Laptop Strategy

    Xiaomi’s approach to laptops has often been inconsistent, especially when compared to its more seasoned rivals. However, Ma Zhiyu emphasized that Xiaomi-branded laptops will eventually receive updates, though not in the near term. This indicates that the company is currently prioritizing the Redmi lineup.

    In the previous month, Xiaomi introduced the Redmi Book 14 and 16 2025 laptops, which are equipped with Intel Core 5-220H processors, up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. The 14-inch model features a 2.8K 120Hz display, while the 16-inch version sports a 2.5K 120Hz screen, both certified by TÜV Rheinland. With a 72Wh battery and 100W GaN fast charging, along with HyperOS 2 features and Xiaomi HyperOS Connect, these laptops promise long battery life and smooth device integration. They also come with a stylish metal body, various connectivity options, and high-end features like Dolby Atmos audio and a 1080p camera.

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    Xiaomi Launches First AI PC with 99Wh Massive Battery
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  • Asus Launches Innovative Mouse with Built-in Fragrance Dispenser

    Asus Launches Innovative Mouse with Built-in Fragrance Dispenser

    Key Takeaways

    1. Innovative Design: The Asus Fragrance Mouse includes a refillable vial for aromatic oils, allowing users to customize their scent experience.

    2. Comfortable Use: The mouse is designed for comfort, featuring a familiar shape and PTFE feet for smooth gliding.

    3. Customizable Tracking: It offers three adjustable DPI settings (1200, 1600, and 2400) and low-noise switches that can withstand up to 10 million clicks.

    4. Long Battery Life: Operates on a single AA battery, with a claimed lifespan of nearly a year before replacement is needed.

    5. Flexible Connectivity: Connects via Bluetooth or a 2.4 GHz USB-A dongle, which also provides access to the scented oil vial.

    Asus has a reputation for crafting high-quality gaming accessories, but their newest product focuses on a different sense: scent.

    A Unique Design

    The Asus Fragrance Mouse is an innovative accessory created to hold fragrant oils. This mouse features an internal section that contains a “refillable vial for aromatic oils and scents,” as mentioned by Asus. Users can easily remove the vial for cleaning and refilling.

    Familiar Features

    Besides the oil compartment, the Fragrance Mouse is quite typical for a computer mouse. It’s made of plastic and has a shape that fits comfortably in a user’s hand. It comes with PTFE feet for “smooth, swift glides,” according to Asus. The tracking can be adjusted to three different DPI settings: 1200, 1600, and 2400, while its switches are designed to be low-noise and can handle up to 10 million clicks.

    Battery Life and Connectivity

    This mouse operates on a single AA battery, with Asus claiming it can last nearly a year before it needs to be replaced. Users have the option to connect via Bluetooth (specific standard not yet disclosed) or a 2.4 GHz USB-A dongle that conveniently fits into the battery compartment. This is also where users can reach the scented oil vial to fill it with their favorite essential oil or other aromatic substances.

    The Fragrance Mouse is available in two colors: Iridescent White and Rose Clay (which is a shade of pink). There has been no announcement regarding its pricing or when it will be available for purchase.

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  • GMKtec K10 Mini PC Launches with 96 GB RAM Support

    GMKtec K10 Mini PC Launches with 96 GB RAM Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Processor: The GMK K10 features the Intel Core i9 13900HK, making it suitable for intensive server tasks.

    2. Advanced Cooling System: It includes a high-flow rate turbofan for consistent performance under pressure.

    3. High Memory and Storage Support: The mini server supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and has three M.2 slots for a maximum storage capacity of 12 TB.

    4. Versatile Functionality: The K10 can operate as both a mini server and a mini PC, with a high-performance mode for gaming.

    5. Extensive Connectivity Options: It offers multiple ports, supports 2.5G Ethernet and WiFi 6, and is capable of 8K video output.

    GMKtec has launched a new mini PC in China, named the K10. This device is referred to as a mini server, featuring the Intel Core i9 13900HK, a powerful processor from the Raptor Lake-H series. This high-end CPU makes the K10 suitable for handling intensive server tasks.

    Cooling and Memory Support

    The company emphasizes that this CPU is complemented by an extensive cooling system equipped with a “high-flow rate turbofan.” This is said to ensure consistent performance even when under pressure. Additionally, the mini server supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and includes three M.2 2280 slots, allowing for a maximum storage capacity of 12 TB (currently, a 4 TB Samsung 990 Evo Plus costs $267 on Amazon).

    Versatility of the K10

    While the GMK K10 is primarily designed as a mini server, GMKtec asserts that it can function as a typical mini PC as well. It features three different modes, with the “high-performance mode” intended for gaming purposes. However, it’s important to note that the integrated GPU isn’t as powerful as options like the Radeon 780M.

    Connectivity and Features

    On the server side, GMKtec points out the extensive connectivity options and network setup of the K10. It is equipped with a COM serial port, four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, one HDMI, one USB Type-C, one DisplayPort, and an additional four USB 2.0 ports. Furthermore, this mini server supports 2.5G Ethernet, WiFi 6, and includes two antenna terminals.

    In addition, the GMK K10 is capable of 8K video output and boasts a compact design. At present, the mini PC is available for pre-order in China, but there is no information about its global availability or pricing as of now.

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    GMKtec K10 Mini PC Launches with 96 GB RAM Support

     

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  • Compact GMK Mini PC: 8K Display and 96GB RAM Support

    Compact GMK Mini PC: 8K Display and 96GB RAM Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Details: GMK’s new mini PC, the GMK K10, will be available in China starting March 1, with a barebone version priced at 2,699 yuan ($372) and a fully loaded version at 3,699 yuan ($510).

    2. Powerful Specifications: The GMK K10 features an Intel Core i9-13900HK processor, supporting up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and three M.2 slots for up to 12TB of SSD storage, making it suitable for demanding tasks.

    3. Advanced Graphics Capabilities: Equipped with Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics, the K10 supports up to 8K resolution and multiple displays, catering to creative professionals.

    4. Effective Cooling and Performance Modes: The mini PC includes a high-flow turbine fan and a superconducting copper cooling system, with three selectable power modes: Silent, Balanced, and High-Performance.

    5. Comprehensive Connectivity: The GMK K10 offers extensive connectivity options, including 2.5G Ethernet, dual HDMI, USB ports, and support for WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, making it ideal for both industrial and personal use.

    GMK has launched its new mini PC called the “GMK K10” in China. Customers can choose between a barebone version or one that includes 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. Sales will commence on March 1, with the basic model priced at 2,699 yuan ($372) and the fully loaded variant costing 3,699 yuan ($510).

    Specifications of GMK K10 Mini PC

    The GMK K10 boasts the Intel Core i9-13900HK processor, a 13th-gen chip that features 14 cores and 20 threads, reaching a turbo speed of 5.4GHz. Thanks to Intel’s hybrid design, this CPU manages to balance performance and efficiency, making multitasking with demanding software smooth. Plus, the 24MB Smart Cache helps in speeding up data access, making this mini PC a great choice for professionals in data-heavy fields.

    Unmatched Performance

    But the performance doesn’t just end there. The GMK K10 is designed to support up to 96GB of DDR5-5200MHz RAM, which is perfect for heavy tasks like virtualization, 3D rendering, or industrial automation. On the storage side, it comes with three M.2 2280 slots that can handle up to 12TB of SSD space. This makes the GMK K10 an appealing option for those who work with large datasets or in content creation.

    Graphics and Display Capabilities

    Graphics are powered by Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics, which can hit a dynamic frequency of 1.50GHz. It also supports multiple displays with four independent outputs and can even handle 8K resolution through its Type-C port. These capabilities make it suitable for creative professionals who need high-resolution output, whether in video editing or CAD modeling.

    Cooling and Performance Modes

    In a compact system like the GMK K10, effective heat dissipation is vital. GMK has integrated a high-flow turbine fan along with a superconducting copper cooling system. Users can select from three power modes: Silent, Balanced, or High-Performance, allowing for adjustments based on their workload.

    Connectivity Options

    Connectivity is another highlight of the GMK K10. It has a variety of ports, including an RJ45 2.5G Ethernet, dual HDMI 2.0, a DisplayPort, and a Type-C output. Additionally, it offers eight USB-A ports (four USB 3.2 and four USB 2.0) and a COM port, making it ideal for industrial and embedded uses. On the wireless front, it supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast and stable connections.

    Compact Yet Powerful

    Measuring just 188.6 x 178 x 38.9mm, the GMK K10 is designed for stability and server-grade network performance. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack for users wanting extra audio connectivity.

    The mini PC comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, but users will need to activate it separately. GMK provides long-term technical support, including remote help and video tutorials, to ensure users have a good experience.

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  • Asus Tops New Laptop Repairability Report with Best Score

    Asus Tops New Laptop Repairability Report with Best Score

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2025 “Failing the Fix” report evaluates the repairability of popular laptops from eight major brands in the US, including Lenovo, Dell, and Apple.

    2. Asus ranked highest with a score of 8.0 (A-), while the average score across brands was 6.7; Lenovo received an F for lacking sufficient data.

    3. Acer and Dell followed closely with scores of 7.6 (B+) and 7.0 (B-), respectively, while HP and Apple scored C and C-.

    4. The report highlighted significant model variability in repairability, with Dell’s Inspiron 16 achieving a perfect disassembly score, while the MacBook Pro scored poorly.

    5. Repairability is increasingly important to consumers seeking value and durability in electronics.

    The US Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) Education Fund has published the 2025 version of Failing the Fix, which evaluates how easily the most popular laptops in the country can be repaired.

    Assessment of Major Brands

    The evaluation focused on laptops from eight leading manufacturers in the US market: Lenovo, Dell, Acer, Microsoft, Apple, Asus, HP, and Samsung. They gathered the Reparability Index scores from France for as many models as possible from each brand and factored in the impact of each company’s lobbying efforts related to the right-to-repair. For instance, being part of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) led to a reduction of half a point in their overall scores.

    Rankings and Scores

    In 2025, Asus emerged at the top with a solid score of 8.0 (equivalent to an A-), while the average score across all brands was 6.7. Acer followed closely with a B+ (7.6), and Dell, Microsoft, and Samsung each received a grade of B-. HP and Apple fell behind with C and C- scores, respectively. Lenovo received an F, as it did not provide a score at all.

    The PIRG deemed Lenovo to have failed because it could only find a Reparability Index score for a single Lenovo laptop, in stark contrast to the 9 or 10 scores available for other brands.

    Variability in Repairability

    The report highlighted significant differences in repairability between different models. For instance, the Dell Inspiron 16 6540, priced at $649.99, achieved a perfect “disassembly score” of 20/20, while the MacBook Pro 16 with an M2 Pro chip, costing $1,434.99, only scored 6.5/20.

    Additionally, the report did not consider whether the unique designs of certain laptops, like the Zenbook Duo or Aspire Spin 14, influenced their grading process.

    Ultimately, the ability to repair devices is becoming a crucial factor for consumers who want better value and durability in the electronics they purchase.

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  • Lenovo Expands ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 with New Options

    Lenovo Expands ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 with New Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. New OLED Display: The X1 Carbon Gen 13 now features a brighter 500 cd/m² OLED display with variable refresh rate (VRR), improving both visual quality and battery life.

    2. Heavier Chassis Option: Lenovo introduces a heavier aluminum chassis option, moving away from the lightweight magnesium chassis that distinguished the previous model.

    3. Expanded CPU Choices: Users can now choose from multiple CPU options, including the Intel Core Ultra 5 and various Ultra 7 models, with some configurations offering 16 GB RAM to lower base prices.

    4. Enhanced Webcam and Display Options: A new optional WUXGA IPS screen with 500 cd/m² brightness and 8 MP webcam is available, alongside a new optional 5G connectivity module.

    5. Limited Initial Offerings: The initial launch had very few configuration options, but Lenovo has now expanded choices based on user feedback and plans for future releases.

    Launched in November 2024, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 received positive feedback in our review from December 2024. However, until recently, this laptop had very limited options available to users. Essentially, the only decision was between a 1 TB or 2 TB SSD. Other features like the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V CPU with 32 GB of on-package RAM, the 400 cd/m² OLED display, and the absence of 5G connectivity were not adjustable. This seemed odd since ThinkPad models usually offer many choices, but Lenovo mentioned that this was intended as a limited launch during its announcement at IFA 2024. They indicated that more options would be introduced in “early 2025.”

    New Options Arrive

    Now that it’s early 2025, the anticipated options have finally made their debut. Lenovo has updated its PSREF database, which catalogs the most common models and specifications for their PCs, with fresh configurations of the X1 Carbon G13. Among these are some expected choices, along with a few unexpected features.

    Exciting Changes

    One of the surprises is that the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon will now come equipped with a new OLED display that boasts a higher brightness of 500 cd/m² compared to the previous model, and it also supports variable refresh rate (VRR). The OLED panel that was previously used, which we also reviewed, could only reach 400 cd/m² and lacked VRR, forcing users to select between 120 Hz and 60 Hz refresh rates. The higher refresh rate could have drained the battery quicker, but VRR should help improve battery life.

    Weighty Addition

    In less favorable news, Lenovo is introducing a new chassis option that is heavier. A significant advantage of the X1 Carbon Gen 13 over the Gen 12 was its lightweight magnesium chassis, but it seems the older, bulkier aluminum chassis will still be available as an option.

    Expected Additions

    The other updates are mostly in line with expectations: Lenovo will now offer the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 with several CPU options, including the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V, the Ultra 7 256V, the Ultra 7 266V, and the Ultra 7 268V, in addition to the already available 258V. The CPUs ending in 6 will come with 16 GB of RAM, which should significantly lower the base price of the ThinkPad X1.

    Webcam and Connectivity Improvements

    Additionally, there’s a new optional WUXGA IPS screen featuring 500 cd/m² brightness, 100 percent sRGB color range, and on-Cell touch capabilities. Interestingly, Lenovo appears to be skipping the commonly used Low Power screen option, at least for now.

    Finally, there’s a new 8 MP webcam that seems to be exclusively available with the WUXGA IPS screen for now, along with the Quectel RM520N-GL sub6 5G module. This WWAN card will be included with the device, or the X1 Carbon can be optionally upgraded to 5G. Previously, the X1 lacked any 5G/LTE options.

    The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 is already available for configuration with these new options on the Japanese Lenovo website, and a global release should be happening soon.

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