Category: Computers

  • GMKtec G9: Ultra Mini PC with Built-in Network Storage

    GMKtec G9: Ultra Mini PC with Built-in Network Storage

    GMKtec has a strong presence in the mini PC market, and we’ve evaluated a number of their offerings here at Notebookcheck. The company has recently introduced a new mini PC called the G9, which functions as both a traditional PC and a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device. It is powered by an Intel N150 processor, which is somewhat limited in performance. However, the G9 is not aimed at gamers or users needing high-demand multimedia capabilities. Instead, its primary focus is on network file transfers and handling data-heavy tasks. The device is equipped with 12GB of 4800MHz LPDDR5 RAM, along with 64GB of EMMC storage.

    Compact Design

    From the images, it’s evident that traditional magnetic hard drives aren’t compatible with the G9. Instead, it relies solely on flash storage, which contributes to a more compact NAS design. The use of flash memory also enables significantly faster data transfer speeds. While this might not be crucial for storing compressed media, it’s beneficial when working with uncompressed raw data, especially in video editing scenarios.

    Connectivity Options

    The G9 features two HDMI ports, two USB-C ports, and two 2.5G Ethernet ports, as shown in the pictures. However, details regarding its pricing and availability have yet to be released.

    GMKtec is growing in the mini PC space, and the G9 seems to be a versatile option for users looking for solid performance in data handling rather than gaming.

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  • Asus NUC 14 Essential Mini-PC: Launching in Various Configurations

    Asus NUC 14 Essential Mini-PC: Launching in Various Configurations

    Asus has a variety of small PC systems known as NUC. Not long ago, we did a review of the Asus NUC 14 Essential featuring an Intel Core i3-N305. With the launch of this series coming soon, the company has shared details in a press release about the different configurations. Notably, the NUC 14 Essential will offer options including an Intel N150, N250, N97, or the Core i3-N305 (the same one we reviewed). Buyers can choose to get a complete computer or a kit that comes without any memory. The system is compatible with a single stick of DDR5 RAM, supporting up to 16 GB.

    Compact Design and Functionality

    The dimensions of the mini-PC are 135 x 115 x 36 mm (5.3 x 4.5 x 1.4 in), making it suitable for various uses based on the chosen configuration. While these systems are not top-tier, the NUC 14 Essential models can be ideal for simpler tasks, like office duties or digital signage.

    Connectivity Options and Pricing

    The NUC 14 Essential is equipped with an HDMI 2.1 interface, a DisplayPort 1.4, and a rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port that can send video signals. However, the front USB-C port does not seem to have this ability. Additionally, the mini-PC includes multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports and provides both Ethernet and Wi-Fi options. In Germany, the starting prices for the Asus NUC 14 Essential are at €260 (US$268) for the Intel N250 model and €226 (US$233) for the one with Intel N97. For prices in your area, you might want to check with local retailers.

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  • Stylish M4 Mac Mini Case: Scratch and Theft Protection

    Stylish M4 Mac Mini Case: Scratch and Theft Protection

    The M4-powered Mac mini is a desktop computer, but its compact Mini PC design makes it easy to take on trips. If you’re planning to travel with it, Waterfield Designs offers a great travel case. This case, known as the Shield Case for Mac mini, not only safeguards the Mac mini from scratches and dents but also helps you locate your device if it gets misplaced.

    Quality Materials and Protection

    The Waterfield Shield Case is crafted from a combination of full-grain leather and nylon or leather and canvas, varying by color choice. It features a soft fleece-like lining that protects the Mac mini (currently priced at $569 on Amazon) from scratches, while a foam layer absorbs impacts. The outer layer is made of either ballistic nylon or waxed canvas, providing water resistance. Additionally, it comes equipped with YKK waterproof zippers for extra durability.

    Handy Storage Features

    This case also includes pockets designed for cables and other small accessories. There’s a discreet pocket for placing an AirTag or similar tracker, allowing you to easily find your Mac mini if it’s lost or stolen. This thoughtful feature ensures you can keep track of your important device.

    The Waterfield Shield Case for Mac mini is available for $99 and can be ordered now. The initial batch has already sold out, with shipping scheduled for January 17. The currently available batch will ship on January 24, so you’ll want to act fast to secure yours!

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  • CheckMag: OpenWRT Router with Tailscale, Docker, and WireGuard

    CheckMag: OpenWRT Router with Tailscale, Docker, and WireGuard

    It’s really frustrating when companies decide to stop supporting hardware that still works well. I guess it’s all about making money, and keeping old devices on the list doesn’t really help their profits. But routers are a key part of anyone’s home network. They connect many devices to the internet and protect you from online threats. If a router stops getting updates, it can become a security risk. So, what should you do when you see that dreaded “end of life” notification?

    Most people will likely just buy a new router. However, there are various custom firmware options for consumer routers that can help extend their lifespan. Some of these include FreshTomato, DD-WRT, and OpenWRT.

    Updating a router with new firmware is not as difficult as it sounds, but it really depends on which router you have. If you don’t follow the instructions precisely, you could end up with a useless device. For my R7000, there seemed to be only one developer providing DD-WRT support, and generally, DD-WRT is seen as quite disorganized. OpenWRT works, but it only allows access to the 2.4 GHz bands because of Broadcom’s closed-source drivers. FreshTomato looked like a good option, but I was worried about breaking the device and losing internet access, which made me look for alternatives.

    This led me to wonder, which router is the best for OpenWRT? I wanted a router that would still be functional, even if the manufacturer stopped supporting it, thanks to the community. I found a helpful Reddit thread with a lot of upvotes, which pointed me to this product:

    The GL-iNet MT6000, also known as Flint 2, is a Wi-Fi 6 router that allows you to flash OpenWRT using the original manufacturer’s update tool. It comes with Wi-Fi 6 radios, two 2.5 gigabit Ethernet ports that can be set up in various ways (unlike some brands that only offer 2.5 gigabit on the WAN port), four gigabit Ethernet ports, one USB 3 port, a quad-core MediaTek chip, 1 GB of DDR4 RAM, and a full 8 GB of eMMC storage.

    The hardware specs are impressive, but the real strength of the Flint 2 is its software. GL-iNet offers a modified version of OpenWRT, which supports many features that were previously only available through Docker containers on my home server. This includes AdGuard, WireGuard, OpenVPN, Tor, Tailscale, ZeroTier, a free DDNS service (that doesn’t make me verify my account monthly), parental controls, and network storage, among others.

    While the software looks much better than standard OpenWRT, it does have an older Linux kernel and some outdated packages. You can opt for the beta version that features kernel 6.6, and you can also grab the stock version of OpenWRT from their site. Of course, you can always get it straight from OpenWRT too.

    But wait, there’s more! You might be wondering what a router needs with 8 GB of built-in eMMC. This is where OpenWRT plug-ins come into play.

    The plug-ins section enables you to install nearly any compatible package for the router. This includes Docker, which allows for a ton of additional features. You can even set up Rclone to connect to a cloud storage service like Google Drive and use FreeFileSync in a container to back up or sync any SMB shares on your network or the cloud. Plus, you can use the USB 3.0 port to hook up an external drive and share files across devices. However, since there’s no redundancy, this would be best as a backup target for a NAS, which is totally doable.

    While it’s not the latest router and doesn’t include Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, lacks 10 gigabit Ethernet, and doesn’t look like a mechanical spider ready to invade your home, it’s still a fantastic option. There’s a good chance this model will be replaced by a newer version this year, but at $159 (found on Amazon), it offers great value considering its features, and the OpenWRT support should keep it relevant long after GL-iNet stops updating it.

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    CheckMag: OpenWRT Router with Tailscale, Docker, and WireGuardCheckMag: OpenWRT Router with Tailscale, Docker, and WireGuardCheckMag: OpenWRT Router with Tailscale, Docker, and WireGuardCheckMag: OpenWRT Router with Tailscale, Docker, and WireGuard
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  • ASUS and Zepto: Get Premium Peripherals Delivered Fast in India

    ASUS and Zepto: Get Premium Peripherals Delivered Fast in India

    To cater to the needs of today’s consumers in India, ASUS is tapping into the booming quick commerce sector. The company is partnering with Zepto, a well-known player in this field, to offer speedy delivery of select premium accessories and peripherals.

    ASUS and Zepto Team Up for Fast Delivery

    On January 15, 2025, the Taiwanese technology leader revealed its collaboration with Zepto, a rapid delivery service. This initiative will enable ASUS to send out accessories such as mice and keyboards within minutes to key cities including NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. With this partnership, premium peripherals will now be at your doorstep in no time.

    Available Accessories

    The selection of available products features the ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard KW100 (offered in Oat Milk and Green Tea Latte colors), ASUS Marshmallow Mouse MD100 (available in Blue and Gray), ASUS MW203 Multi Device Wireless Silent Mouse in Black, and the ASUS T300 Mouse in Black. Interestingly, over 30 percent of urban consumers in India have started using quick commerce platforms like Zepto for purchasing tech items.

    Future Plans for Expansion

    ASUS is utilizing Zepto to enhance its market presence. With metro cities being key areas for quick delivery services, having prompt access to essential accessories is beneficial for consumers. According to the official statement, this partnership marks ASUS’s entry into the world of quick commerce. In the future, the company also aims to collaborate with other popular platforms like BlinkIt and Instamart. This means that soon, you can look forward to finding ASUS products on all major quick delivery applications.

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  • Arm Plans Price Hike, Raising Concerns in Chip Industry

    Arm Plans Price Hike, Raising Concerns in Chip Industry

    Arm Holdings is making bold moves in the semiconductor sector to enhance its revenue and market power. The company plans to raise royalty rates for certain chip designs by as much as 300%, aiming to generate an extra $1 billion every year over the next ten years. This effort, called the “Picasso” project, centers on the new Armv9 architecture and targets clients that utilize off-the-shelf chip designs.

    Revenue Comparisons

    In the fiscal year 2024, Arm reported revenue of $3.23 billion, which is quite small compared to that of major clients such as Apple. In fact, Apple’s earnings from devices powered by Arm technology are more than 90 times greater. To close this gap, Arm is pondering a major transition by starting to design and produce its own chips. Should this happen, Arm would be competing directly with its biggest clients like Qualcomm and Apple.

    Potential Risks

    The idea of entering the chip manufacturing arena has sparked concerns among both customers and industry analysts. Arm’s potential chip offerings include chiplets, which are tiny components that can be combined into larger processors. However, this approach risks alienating essential customers, who might retaliate by creating their own chips and leaning less on Arm’s existing solutions. Qualcomm has already begun to lessen its dependency on Arm’s technology.

    Arm has been looking into these strategies since 2019, as revealed by internal discussions and court records. CEO Rene Haas has been quite vocal about the need for change, showing frustration with the company’s heavy reliance on major clients and advocating for more control over its technology.

    Support and Challenges

    SoftBank Group, which holds 90% of Arm, has backed these ambitious expansion plans. Nevertheless, the strategy is not without challenges. Increasing royalty rates and going head-to-head with clients could disrupt long-term relationships. Additionally, Arm is up against rival chip designers who might take advantage of any dissatisfaction among current customers.

    In a recent legal battle, Arm accused Qualcomm of violating licensing agreements, but a jury in the U.S. sided with Qualcomm. This outcome might encourage other customers to consider options outside of Arm’s technology.

    While Arm’s new plan seeks to transform the semiconductor landscape and increase revenue, its success hinges on balancing growth with the need to keep customer trust intact. The company’s daring ambitions could reshape its position within the industry, but they also involve considerable risks.

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  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Elite: Competing Devices & Launch Timeframe

    Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Elite: Competing Devices & Launch Timeframe

    The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Elite, also known as SM8735, has recently caught some eyes after being listed on Geekbench, showcasing impressive performance stats. An early listing showed its advanced CPU design includes one Cortex-X4 core running at 3.21GHz, three Cortex-A720 cores at 3.01GHz, two more Cortex-A720 cores clocked at 2.8GHz, and two energy-saving Cortex-A520 cores operating at 2.02GHz. Additionally, it comes with an Adreno 825 GPU that runs at 1100MHz. According to Geekbench, the single-core performance is around 1900 points, while the multi-core performance is close to 6000 points, suggesting that this chipset is still being fine-tuned and could see further improvements.

    Snapdragon 8s Elite Overview

    When comparing the Snapdragon 8s Elite with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, the Elite offers a notable upgrade in its CPU setup. With its powerful Cortex-X4 core clocked at 3.21GHz, it is expected to deliver superior single-thread performance. The multi-core performance also benefits from the additional high-performance cores, likely exceeding the capabilities of the 8s Gen 3. However, while the Adreno 825 GPU is newer, it may not provide a huge advancement in graphics, as the emphasis remains on CPU efficiency and overall performance.

    Comparing Snapdragon 8s Elite and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

    The differences between the Snapdragon 8s Elite and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 are more significant. The 8 Gen 3 is equipped with a stronger Cortex-X4 core, extra high-performance Cortex-A720 cores, and an Adreno 750 GPU, making it better suited for gaming and demanding visual tasks. While the 8s Elite is efficient, it falls short of the raw power and GPU capabilities of the 8 Gen 3, making it a solid mid-range choice instead of a direct rival to Qualcomm’s leading chipset.

    Snapdragon 8s Elite Compared to Snapdragon 8 Elite

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite represents a major step forward for Qualcomm, featuring custom Oryon cores that are anticipated to outperform the 8s Elite’s ARM-based cores in both single and multi-core tasks. With higher clock speeds and a more sophisticated GPU, the 8 Elite would likely surpass the 8s Elite in benchmarks and real-world applications, particularly in gaming and artificial intelligence tasks.

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  • TSMC Approved for U.S. 2nm Chip Production Amid Taiwan Tech Easing

    TSMC Approved for U.S. 2nm Chip Production Amid Taiwan Tech Easing

    Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs has removed the restrictions that previously prevented TSMC from producing 2-nanometer chips in its overseas factories. This change is a significant shift from past rules that required foreign production to lag at least two generations behind domestic advancements.

    “Those were outdated regulations. The world has evolved,” remarked Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Kuo during a press conference. “Private companies ought to make their own strategic decisions based on their technological advancements.”

    TSMC’s Expansion Plans

    This decision aligns with TSMC’s growth in Arizona, where total investments might exceed $65 billion. The company’s second fabrication plant is expected to begin producing 2nm and 3nm chips by 2028, after the first plant starts 4nm chip production in early 2025.

    Additionally, TSMC’s third facility in Arizona, which is set to be finished by the end of the decade, aims to focus on 2nm or more advanced technologies. Despite these new regulations, Minister Kuo noted that TSMC will be careful about investing the substantial $28 to $30 billion needed to establish a 2nm factory.

    Strengthening Global Partnerships

    This policy adjustment is part of Taiwan’s broader initiative to strengthen the global chip supply chain. In the coming year, the Ministry of Economic Affairs will concentrate on forming alliances with countries such as the United States, Germany, Japan, and the Philippines. They are also planning to establish an office in Fukuoka, Japan, to assist semiconductor-related businesses near TSMC’s forthcoming Kumamoto site.

    This change occurs as Taiwan updates its “Silicon Shield” strategy, which previously restricted the country’s advanced chip production to maintain a technological lead. The government recognizes the evolving semiconductor landscape, particularly with 60 percent of the world’s chip design companies being located in the U.S.

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  • China’s RISC-V Processor Project Aims for 2025 Launch with High Goals

    China’s RISC-V Processor Project Aims for 2025 Launch with High Goals

    The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) is set to introduce its XiangShan open-source processor in 2025. This development represents a significant step in China’s efforts to create more domestic chips. Bao Yungang, the deputy director at the Institute of Computing Technology, shared this timeline in a recent Weibo post, emphasizing their steady progress in high-performance computing.

    Progress on XiangShan Initiative

    The XiangShan project was initiated by CAS in 2019, and it has achieved notable advancements with its third-generation architecture, named Kunminghu. Leaders of the project claim that this new architecture can offer performance within approximately 8 percent of Arm’s Neoverse N2 CPU core. This puts it close to being suitable for applications in cloud computing, high-performance computing (HPC) systems, and machine learning tasks.

    Focus on Optimization

    In 2024, the development team concentrated on enhancing Kunminghu’s efficiency regarding area and power usage. The processor features several parallel processing units that handle integer, floating-point, and vector operations, along with out-of-order execution capabilities. Simulations indicate that it can operate at speeds reaching up to 3GHz.

    Comparison with Previous Chips

    The earlier version, known as the Nanhu chip, was manufactured using a 14nm process node and could reach clock speeds of up to 2GHz. Launched in late 2023, Nanhu represented the project’s second generation of silicon technology.

    RISC-V and Licensing

    XiangShan utilizes the RISC-V instruction set licensed under the Mulan PSL-2.0, which grants users royalty-free rights to modify and use the design. This approach contrasts with the traditional licensing models provided by major companies like Arm and could potentially reshape the future of processor design, much like how Linux transformed the industry.

    Increasing Scrutiny

    Despite the advancements, the XiangShan project is facing increased scrutiny from the United States as China continues to embrace RISC-V technology. Recently, the U.S. Commerce Department has been evaluating possible security issues. Google has even taken steps to remove RISC-V support from the Android kernel, which could pose challenges for any upcoming RISC-V-based smartphones.

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  • Lenovo Exec Suggests Slow Thunderbolt 5 Adoption in Laptops

    Lenovo Exec Suggests Slow Thunderbolt 5 Adoption in Laptops

    Intel first unveiled Thunderbolt 5 in September 2023, but the industry has been slow to adopt the new standard. Things started to change at CES 2025, where manufacturers like Asus and Sparkle showcased their first external GPU (eGPU) solutions that utilize Thunderbolt 5 technology.

    eGPU Advancements

    Asus’s new 2025 XG Mobile eGPU boasts a Thunderbolt 5 link that can deliver up to 64 Gbps of bandwidth, surpassing its predecessor and USB4, while matching the performance of OCuLink. Meanwhile, Sparkle has not disclosed the specific bandwidth for its Thunderbolt 5 port in the Studio-G Enclosure eGPU, but it is widely assumed to reach speeds of up to 120 Gbps, which is the maximum speed for the standard.

    Slow Adoption in Laptops

    Despite the promising launch of these Thunderbolt 5 products, the integration of this technology into laptops has been sluggish. A product manager from Lenovo ThinkBook expressed skepticism about rapid adoption, stating in a Weibo post that it is “still early” for Thunderbolt 5 ports to become common in systems. Currently, a 3.3 feet Cable Matters Thunderbolt 5 cable is priced at $32.99 on Amazon.

    Current Laptop Options

    The 2024 Razer Blade 18 was the first laptop to feature a Thunderbolt 5 port, making its debut in April of last year. Other significant options include the Maingear ML-17 and the Schenker KEY 17 Pro, along with the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models equipped with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. According to Lenovo’s executive, these are the primary choices available right now, and it seems that new additions to the market will be limited in the near future.

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