Category: Computers

  • Samsung Boosts DDR4 RAM Production Amid Ongoing Price Shortage

    Samsung Boosts DDR4 RAM Production Amid Ongoing Price Shortage

    Key Takeaways

    1. DDR5 RAM prices are high, leading buyers to consider older DDR4 options despite their increased costs.
    2. Samsung plans to continue DDR4 RAM production until 2026 but does not expect price reductions or improved supply.
    3. Samsung’s strategy focuses on enterprise clients, with NCNR agreements ensuring stable pricing and supply for DDR4.
    4. Competitor SK Hynix will also produce DDR4 RAM, but prices are expected to remain high; outdated gaming PCs may benefit.
    5. Industry experts believe the memory shortage may not last long, with potential price stabilization in about six months.

    With the prices of DDR5 RAM skyrocketing, many buyers have turned back to older memory options for some relief. Although these older components are also pricier, some PC builders are ready to make compromises regarding performance. As reported by DigiTimes, Samsung has decided to keep producing DDR4 RAM until 2026. Unfortunately, this new plan is not expected to result in lower prices or a better supply for customers.

    Sales Trends and Production Adjustments

    The Taiwanese site notes that demand for older memory components remains robust. This has led Samsung to adjust its strategies to maximize profits. However, similar to its specialized DDR5 chips, the focus remains on enterprise clients and server setups. It is said that the company has already entered into a Non-Cancellable, Non-Returnable (NCNR) agreement with a specific customer.

    This contract guarantees a consistent supply of DDR4 RAM at a predetermined price, protecting Samsung from fluctuations in the market. This arrangement helps alleviate worries that demand from AI data centers might decrease. Regrettably, Samsung does not plan to ease the memory shortage by increasing its production output.

    Competitors and Market Dynamics

    Another key player in the market, SK Hynix, will also continue to produce DDR4 RAM in their factories. However, buyers in urgent need should expect prices to stay at historic highs. On a brighter note, gaming PCs that are somewhat outdated might find a chance for revival.

    One upside is that Intel’s 12th-14th generation CPUs can work with motherboards compatible with older memory types. Some gamers might be exploring online marketplaces for second-hand components. Meanwhile, companies are reacting to the situation by launching new products. ASRock has recently introduced its H610M Combo micro-ATX motherboard, which accommodates both DDR4 and DDR5 memory.

    Market Outlook and Gamer Resilience

    Not every source in the industry sees the memory shortage as a long-term concern. Edward Crisler, a public relations manager at Sapphire, advised gamers against panic-buying. During an episode of The Hardware Unboxed Podcast, he suggested that prices could stabilize within six months. Crisler also praised gamers for their ingenuity, noting how they have historically adapted by making the best use of older hardware during tough times.

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  • DIY DDR5 RAM: Modders Tackle Global Memory Shortage

    DIY DDR5 RAM: Modders Tackle Global Memory Shortage

    Key Takeaways

    1. The global DRAM and NAND crisis may persist until 2027, worsening the memory shortage.
    2. Manufacturers are focusing on DDR4 RAM and may increase profits by using older technologies.
    3. Modders are exploring DIY RAM creation as a potential cost-saving strategy.
    4. DIY RAM involves sourcing a PCB and memory ICs, with Chinese vendors offering DDR5 PCBs.
    5. Current DIY RAM costs are similar to market prices, but potential future savings could be significant.

    There has been much discussion about the continuing global DRAM and NAND crisis, and recent reports indicate that things may become even worse. According to IDC, the latest market analysis shows that the memory shortage might “last well into 2027.”

    Manufacturers and Profit

    While there is a renewed focus on DDR4 RAM, manufacturers may exploit the situation to boost their profits, even if it means relying on outdated memory technology. On the other hand, modders are considering a different strategy to cut RAM costs in their systems.

    The DIY RAM Concept

    They are now proposing the idea of creating their own RAM sticks. Essentially, this is akin to upgrading GPUs by adding extra VRAM onto the board. However, making your own memory sticks involves sourcing a PCB board with a traced layout and memory ICs.

    As noted by Pro Hi-Tech, these essential components are not hard to find. Chinese vendors are already providing DDR5 PCBs that are ready for soldering. Nonetheless, this DIY method might not lead to significant savings for users, at least not right now. Pro Hi-Tech and Viktor “Vik-On” estimate that a 16 GB stick would cost approximately 12,000 rubles, which is about $151.

    Cost Comparison

    In comparison to the current market prices, this estimated cost is not drastically lower than what typical 16 GB DDR5 sticks are selling for (like the Transcend 16GB DDR5 5600 MHz priced at $169.99 on Amazon). However, considering how unstable the memory market is, this DIY method could eventually result in more substantial savings in the near future.

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  • Ubiquiti UniFi Travel Router: Simplify Hotel WiFi Logins

    Ubiquiti UniFi Travel Router: Simplify Hotel WiFi Logins

    Key Takeaways

    1. The UniFi Travel Router connects to a user’s UniFi network, providing a familiar WiFi experience while traveling.
    2. It requires an external power source via USB Type-C and can connect to a network through Ethernet or WiFi.
    3. The router can share hotel WiFi across multiple devices, simplifying the login process for users.
    4. It uses 802.11ac WiFi (WiFi 5) on both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, which is efficient for travel but lacks the capabilities of advanced access points.
    5. The UniFi Travel Router will launch on December 29, priced at $79.

    Just before the year wraps up, Ubiquiti has unveiled yet another product. The UniFi Travel Router aims to function like a typical router and links to a user’s UniFi network, offering a familiar WiFi experience while on the go. No matter where you are, Ubiquiti strives to maintain a consistent networking atmosphere. Users can take along other devices that typically connect to the UniFi network while traveling.

    Power and Connectivity

    However, this new gadget isn’t a complete travel router. It needs an external power source through USB Type-C along with a network link, which can be achieved via an Ethernet cable or WiFi. You can also connect a 5G modem using USB (multi uplink) if needed.

    Additionally, a small status screen conveniently shows specific information. Users can set up the UniFi Travel Router using a smartphone via Bluetooth. Thus, this travel router mainly targets individuals who already have a UniFi network. For different needs, a standard 5G router with a battery might be a more suitable option.

    Hotel WiFi Sharing

    One interesting aspect is its ability to share hotel WiFi across multiple devices. This feature eliminates the need to register each device individually. Usually, hotel WiFi redirects users to a captive portal, which sometimes only requires a T&C agreement. Regardless, the Ubiquiti travel router is designed to take care of this pesky login process itself, allowing guests and all their devices to connect right away.

    For more complicated captive portals, users will have to pull out their smartphone. The captive portal will then be redirected so it can be manually solved. Ubiquiti notes that WPA Enterprise and Passpoint are not supported, but hotels generally don’t use such networks for their guests.

    Technical Specifications

    Internally, the router links devices using 802.11ac WiFi (WiFi 5, 2×2) on both the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. While this isn’t the most recent standard, it should help in lowering power use and is likely enough for travel. Nonetheless, the UniFi Travel Router doesn’t match the technical capabilities of real access points, but it only needs up to 5 watts of power.

    The UniFi Travel Router is set to launch on December 29 with a price tag of $79 at Ubiquiti’s official online store.

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  • Intel x Nvidia Serpent Lake Leaks: Strix Halo Rival with RTX iGPU

    Intel x Nvidia Serpent Lake Leaks: Strix Halo Rival with RTX iGPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel and Nvidia are collaborating on Hammer Lake APUs, combining Intel’s CPU chiplets with Nvidia’s RTX GPU chiplets for enhanced iGPU performance.
    2. Hammer Lake may be Intel’s first architecture to feature a “Unified Core” design, aiming for high performance metrics.
    3. Nvidia RTX iGPUs are not expected for Hammer Lake; those will debut with Intel’s Serpent Lake, which targets AMD’s Strix Halo APUs.
    4. Serpent Lake will use Titan Lake architecture and could support 16X LPDDR6 memory, with Nvidia’s RTX Rubin GPU architecture for integrated graphics.
    5. Intel’s partnership with Nvidia generates excitement for future products, including Intel Panther Lake chips and potential advancements in lightweight laptops and gaming consoles.

    In September 2025, it was noted that Intel and Nvidia seemed to be collaborating on Hammer Lake APUs for both desktops and laptops. These APUs are projected to incorporate Intel’s CPU chiplets alongside Nvidia’s RTX GPU chiplets, aiming for exceptional iGPU performance. A recent leak from RedGamingTech indicates that Hammer Lake might be the inaugural Intel CPU architecture to host a “Unified Core” design, which sets ambitious performance targets.

    Lack of Nvidia RTX iGPUs

    However, RGT does not mention any potential Nvidia RTX iGPUs for the Intel Hammer Lake. Instead, powerful RTX iGPUs are said to be launched with Intel’s Serpent Lake. This new series is described as Intel’s counter to AMD’s Strix Halo and Zen 6 Medusa Halo APUs, suggesting that Serpent Lake chips will include a robust CPU along with an even better Nvidia RTX GPU chiplet.

    CPU and GPU Details

    For the CPU, Intel is reportedly going to utilize the Titan Lake architecture, improved with Griffin Cove P-cores and Golden Eagle E-cores. The SoC tile, which contains the LP E-cores, might also rely on technologies from Intel Titan Lake.

    As for the GPU chiplet, Intel is said to be teaming up with Nvidia to implement the RTX Rubin GPU architecture, or something very similar, for the integrated graphics. The iGPU may be constructed on the TSMC N3P process node, which is anticipated.

    Memory and Future Expectations

    Furthermore, the leaker points out that the Serpent Lake APUs could also support 16X LPDDR6 memory.

    Lastly, RGT mentions that the collaboration between Intel and Nvidia on Serpent Lake appears to resemble the previously rumored Nova Lake-AX. Although there’s been little news on Nova Lake-AX for some time, it was considered Intel’s solution to AMD Strix Halo, featuring 8 P-cores, 16 E-cores, and a substantial 384 EU Xe3P iGPU. Thus, Intel might replicate this configuration in Serpent Lake, substituting the Nova Lake P/E-cores with Titan Lake ones and the Intel Arc iGPU with an Nvidia RTX variant.

    No matter the outcome, the partnership between Intel and Nvidia has us quite thrilled. We can only hope that Intel doesn’t abandon the Arc iGPUs. The latest versions of Arc iGPUs, such as the Arc 140V, are strong contenders and fare well against AMD’s offerings. With the forthcoming launch of Intel Panther Lake chips, featuring the next-gen Arc iGPUs, we are looking forward to exciting developments in upcoming Intel-based lightweight laptops and handheld gaming consoles.

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  • Asus Teases ProArt PX13 Laptop Inspired by GoPro Design Before CES 2026

    Asus Teases ProArt PX13 Laptop Inspired by GoPro Design Before CES 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus will showcase new gadgets at CES 2026, focusing on innovations for gamers.
    2. The new Zenbook Duo features a completely redesigned model compared to the 2025 version.
    3. Asus is introducing the ProArt PX13, which includes a unique ‘GoPro’ shortcut button in collaboration with GoPro.
    4. The ProArt PX13 has a design reflecting the latest GoPro action camera styles.
    5. Further details about the ProArt PX13’s features compared to the current model are still pending, with potential upgrades hinted at.

    Asus has announced multiple times in recent weeks that it will be present at CES 2026 next month with a variety of new gadgets. The company first hinted that its “latest innovations for gamers” would be featured at the trade show in Las Vegas next year.

    Exciting New Products

    Not long after that, Asus revealed a new Zenbook Duo that boasts a completely new design compared to the 2025 model. Now, they have teased another laptop that will be added to the lineup alongside the Zenbook Duo 2026 during the Las Vegas event.

    A Closer Look at ProArt PX13

    Asus has unveiled a glimpse of a new ProArt PX13. However, the upcoming model is not simply a traditional upgrade from Asus’ existing version (currently priced at $1,899.99 on Amazon). The company confirmed that the next ProArt PX13 features a special ‘GoPro’ shortcut button, thanks to its collaboration with GoPro.

    The GoPro logo appears on the laptop, along with a series of vertical lines designed to reflect the latest GoPro action camera styles. Sadly, Asus hasn’t provided more information about how the ProArt PX13 2026 GoPro Edition sets itself apart from its AMD Strix Point-based version. There’s a possibility that a Gorgon Point refresh might be in the works, especially with the recent leaks about the Ryzen AI 9 HX 470.

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  • Beelink Launches Compact NAS with Future AMD and ARM Upgrades

    Beelink Launches Compact NAS with Future AMD and ARM Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beelink introduced the ME Pro NAS solution, replacing the older ME mini model.
    2. The ME Pro features Intel’s energy-efficient Processor N95 for the Chinese launch and Processor N150 for global availability.
    3. Customers can choose between 12 GB or 16 GB RAM with storage options of 128 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB.
    4. The ME Pro has three M.2 2280 slots and two 3.5-inch drive slots, allowing for a total storage capacity of 72 TB.
    5. Pricing starts at $369 for the basic model and goes up to $559 for the higher-end variant, with pre-orders expected to ship by January 2026.

    Beelink has introduced its newest network-attached storage (NAS) solution to customers around the world. This new model, the ME Pro, takes the place of the older ME mini, which currently costs $359 on Amazon. The ME Pro was first launched in China late last week, featuring the energy-efficient Processor N95 from Intel’s Alder Lake-N lineup.

    Global Availability

    For its global rollout, Beelink has opted to offer the ME Pro with the slightly less powerful but more recent Processor N150. Additionally, customers can choose between 12 GB or 16 GB RAM configurations, which can be paired with storage options of 128 GB, 512 GB, or even 1 TB. No matter the storage configuration chosen, the ME Pro comes equipped with several ports.

    Storage Features

    It appears that the included storage utilizes one of the ME Pro’s three M.2 2280 slots. Keep in mind that both Alder Lake-N and Twin Lake restrict SSD bandwidths to PCIe 3.0 x2 for one drive and PCIe 3.0 x1 for the other two slots. Furthermore, the ME Pro is designed with two 3.5-inch drive slots as well, allowing for a total storage capacity of 72 TB in a compact body measuring just 166 x 121 x 112 mm.

    Beelink also notes that the ME Pro is capable of accommodating ARM and AMD-based boards. However, they have not provided further details on this yet, and at this moment, they are only taking orders for Intel-based versions. The ME Pro is currently priced starting at $369 for the model with Processor N95, 12 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage, and can go up to $559 for the variant featuring 16 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage, and the Processor N150. Beelink expects to begin shipping pre-orders by the end of January 2026.

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  • Intel Nova Lake Specs Leak: 52 Cores, 15% IPC Uplift, High Price

    Intel Nova Lake Specs Leak: 52 Cores, 15% IPC Uplift, High Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel’s Nova Lake CPUs may feature dual bLLC (Last-Level Cache), offering significant cache improvements beyond initial expectations.
    2. The Coyote Cove P-cores in Nova Lake are expected to provide a 15% IPC performance boost over Arrow Lake’s P-cores.
    3. High-end Nova Lake CPUs with dual-bLLC could be priced at $1,200 or more, significantly higher than the previous Arrow Lake flagship.
    4. The price increase is justified by Nova Lake’s higher core count (52 vs. 24) and larger cache (288 MB bLLC) compared to competitors.
    5. Pricing details for Nova Lake CPUs should be viewed with caution, as market conditions can change rapidly.

    It’s become widely known that Intel’s upcoming desktop architecture, Nova Lake, will include a significant Last-Level Cache, also known as bLLC. Earlier reports indicated that this impressive 144 MB bLLC might only appear in one SKU, with slim chances for dual-bLLC options.

    Dual-bLLC Possibilities

    However, the latest from RedGamingTech suggests that Intel may actually launch Nova Lake CPUs featuring dual-bLLC, which would provide an extraordinary quantity of L3 cache. Additionally, it seems that more Nova Lake SKUs could come equipped with the bLLC than was initially anticipated, based on insights shared by Haze2K1 on X.

    Intel’s Nova Lake CPUs

    The new Intel Nova Lake CPUs with bLLC are said to be as follows:

    Within a recent video discussing Razer Lake, Titan Lake, and other topics, RedGamingTech stated that Nova Lake’s Coyote Cove P-cores are expected to deliver a 15% IPC performance boost compared to Arrow Lake’s Lion Cove P-cores. The leaker hinted that the Arctic Wolf E-cores on Nova Lake also perform well, although no specific IPC figures were provided.

    Pricing Insights

    On the downside, the anticipated pricing for the flagship or high-end Nova Lake-S desktop CPUs featuring dual-bLLC may be quite steep. Reports from RGT indicate that the dual-chiplet 52-core and 42-core Nova Lake-S CPUs, equipped with 288 MB of bLLC, could potentially be priced at $1,200 or more.

    To put this in context, the Arrow Lake flagship Core Ultra 9 285K launched with an MSRP of $589 in 2024. Therefore, the Core Ultra 9 400 Nova Lake-S SKU, featuring 288 MB of bLLC, could be priced over twice that amount.

    Justifying the Price Increase

    This price increase seems reasonable, considering the NVL-S flagship appears to have more than double the cores (52 vs 24) and 288 MB of bLLC, which is likely to be quite costly. For comparison, AMD’s latest Ryzen 7 9800X3D only offers 64 MB of 3D V-Cache. Even Intel’s lower-end Core Ultra 5 400K CPUs, featuring 144 MB of bLLC, reportedly provide 225% more last-level cache.

    As is often seen with CPU and GPU pricing, fluctuations can occur rapidly. Thus, as RGT also points out, the proposed pricing for Nova Lake should be regarded as mere speculation and not something to rely on entirely.

    We’ll have to observe how much impact such a vast cache buffer will have on the Nova Lake chips and their pricing. Until more information is available, it’s wise to treat the details shared here with a healthy dose of skepticism.

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  • Intel Raptor Lake, Titan Lake, and Hammer Lake Leak IPC Gains

    Intel Raptor Lake, Titan Lake, and Hammer Lake Leak IPC Gains

    Key Takeaways

    1. Major CPU Updates in 2026: AMD and Intel are preparing to launch their next-generation CPU architectures, Zen 6 and Nova Lake, in late 2026.

    2. Future CPU Designs Revealed: Leaks indicate new designs beyond Zen 6 and Nova Lake, including Intel’s Razer Lake, Titan Lake, and Hammer Lake, as well as AMD’s Zen 8 and Zen 9.

    3. Razer Lake Expectations: Intel’s Razer Lake CPUs, expected in 2027, will build on Nova Lake’s core setup but with new P-core and E-core designs that may significantly improve performance.

    4. Unified Core Strategy: Intel is shifting towards a “Unified Core” approach with Hammer Lake, moving away from separate P and E-core designs to streamline architecture, influenced by AMD’s core organization.

    5. Titan Lake for Laptops: Intel’s Titan Lake architecture will focus on laptops, refining the core framework of Razer Lake and introducing a new XE3P Refresh iGPU for enhanced graphics performance.

    2026 is predicted to be a significant year for desktop CPU updates. Both AMD and Intel are said to be preparing their next-generation Zen 6 and Nova Lake desktop CPUs for a late 2026 launch. However, leaks are hinting at even more future Intel and AMD CPU designs beyond just Zen 6 and Nova Lake.

    New CPU Architectures

    A recent leak from Moore’s Law Is Dead has revealed the Zen 8 and Zen 9 core designs, while RedGamingTech has shared an extensive report about Intel’s upcoming Razer Lake, Titan Lake, and Hammer Lake desktop and mobile CPU architectures. They also mention intriguing information about Intel’s Serpent Lake, which is reportedly being developed in collaboration with Nvidia. We have explored the Intel Serpent Lake architecture in a separate piece.

    Razer Lake Expectations

    Previously, it was mentioned that Intel’s Razer Lake desktop CPUs will succeed the Nova Lake-S chips in 2027. The Razer Lake processors are expected to maintain the same core setup as their Nova Lake counterparts, featuring a maximum of 16 P-cores, 32 E-cores, and possibly 4x LP E-cores. Nonetheless, the P and E-core designs will be new, incorporating the Griffin Cove P-cores and Golden Eagle E-cores.

    RGT claims that the Griffin Cove P-cores might offer a “healthy double-digit IPC increase” compared to the Nova Lake versions. Interestingly, Intel is reportedly putting more emphasis on the Golden Eagle E-cores, which are expected to deliver even greater IPC gains than the Griffin Cove P-cores.

    Unified Core Approach

    So, why is Intel concentrating more on E-cores in the Razer Lake design? According to RGT, this is due to the “Unified Core” strategy that might be introduced with Intel’s Hammer Lake in mid-2029 or beyond.

    RGT posits that Intel is shifting away from separate P and E-core designs with Hammer Lake. This new “Unified Core” approach would resemble the way AMD currently organizes its large and small cores, such as Zen 5 and Zen 5c. The Hammer Lake architecture is reportedly being developed by teams focused on E-cores, which connects Intel’s focus on Golden Eagle E-cores in Razer Lake to the future Unified Core architecture.

    Unfortunately, RGT does not provide any hardware specifications or performance metrics for the Hammer Lake CPUs. Previous insights from Moore’s Law Is Dead suggest that Hammer Lake could be the first product of Intel and Nvidia’s collaboration and could feature a significant Nvidia iGPU.

    Titan Lake Insights

    Set to launch as a laptop-exclusive architecture, Intel Titan Lake is rumored to retain the same core framework as Razer Lake. Thus, Titan Lake mobile CPUs are expected to utilize Griffin Cove P-cores and Golden Eagle E-cores as well. However, this architecture is said to be more refined compared to Razer Lake, featuring “tweaks across the overall platform”.

    RGT draws an analogy between Titan Lake processors and the 11th-gen Intel Tiger Lake CPUs, stating that the latter were simply evolutions of the previous 10th-gen chips without major changes.

    That being said, Intel Titan Lake CPUs are expected to introduce a new XE3P Refresh iGPU with over 12 Xe cores in high-end configurations, potentially offering impressive graphics performance.

    In conclusion, Intel’s future CPU architectures, as detailed by RGT, seem quite ambitious. If Team Blue can successfully launch Nova Lake in late 2026, they may finally start to close the gap with AMD in the consumer desktop arena.

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  • Dynabook XD5: First Laptop with Snapdragon X Plus Processor

    Dynabook XD5: First Laptop with Snapdragon X Plus Processor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Processor and Performance: The Dynabook XD5 runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 processor, with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD.

    2. Display and Design: It features a 14-inch TFT LCD anti-glare display with a resolution of 1920 × 1200, a 180° hinge, and a comfortable keyboard design.

    3. Battery Life: The laptop offers up to 16 hours of video playback and 28 hours of standby time, with a user-replaceable Lithium Polymer battery.

    4. Connectivity Options: Includes multiple ports such as USB 3.2, USB 4, HDMI, a microSD card slot, and supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

    5. Pricing and Software: Priced at JPY 219,780 (about $1,395), it runs on Windows 11 Home and includes a local AI assistant.

    Japanese laptop maker Dynabook has unveiled its inaugural laptop that runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Plus processor. This Windows-on-ARM device is named the Dynabook XD5 and comes in a stylish blue color.

    Display and Design Features

    The Dynabook XD5 features a 14-inch screen with a TFT LCD anti-glare display, boasting a resolution of 1920 × 1200 and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The laptop is designed with a 180° hinge, allowing users to lay the screen flat. Its keyboard offers a 2.0mm keystroke depth and has a 0.2mm dip on each keycap for comfort while typing.

    Performance Specifications

    At the heart of the XD5 is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 processor, complemented by 16GB of soldered LPDDR5X RAM and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD. Additionally, users get 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage included.

    Connectivity and Additional Features

    In terms of connectivity, the notebook features a microSD card slot, a combo jack for microphone and headphones, two USB 3.2 (Gen 1) Type-A ports, two USB 4 Type-C ports that support Power Delivery, an HDMI port, and an RJ45 port for wired internet. It also includes Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7, stereo speakers, dual microphones, and a 2MP webcam equipped with Windows Hello face recognition. The webcam even comes with a shutter for privacy.

    Dynabook claims that the XD5’s Lithium Polymer battery can deliver up to 16 hours of video playback on a single charge and remain in standby for 28 hours. Similar to the battery in the Dynabook Portege Z40-LN, this battery is user-replaceable. The laptop supports 65W charging and includes an AC adapter in the package.

    Software and Pricing

    Out of the box, the Dynabook XD5 runs on Windows 11 Home and features a Copilot key located next to the left arrow key. It also includes Dynabook’s proprietary AI assistant, which operates locally without needing an internet connection.

    The Dynabook XD5 is currently available for purchase at a price of JPY 219,780 (approximately $1,395/€1,191).

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  • GMK NucBox K15: Affordable Mini PC with 24TB Storage Support

    GMK NucBox K15: Affordable Mini PC with 24TB Storage Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The NucBox K15 is priced starting at $359.99 and supports external GPUs via an OCuLink port and USB4 port.
    2. It features an Intel Core Ultra 5 125U processor with a 4-core integrated GPU, suitable for general use but not optimal for gaming at 1080p.
    3. The mini PC supports up to 24 TB of NVMe storage and 96 GB of DDR5 RAM through expandable slots.
    4. It includes features like WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and a dual-fan cooling system.
    5. The base model is barebones, with additional configurations available for users seeking more options.

    The NucBox K15 was first unveiled in December 2025 in China, and it has now launched worldwide. Priced starting at $359.99, this mini PC offers significant capabilities, including support for external GPUs.

    eGPU Compatibility

    Specifically, the GMK K15 includes an OCuLink port, allowing users to connect a high-performance external GPU to enhance its graphical capabilities. Additionally, it comes equipped with a USB4 port, which broadens its compatibility with various external GPU options.

    Performance Specifications

    Inside, the NucBox K15 is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 5 125U, a mid-range processor from the Meteor Lake series. It features a 4-core integrated GPU, which we found to struggle with delivering a satisfactory gaming experience at 1080p resolution; however, the CPU performance remains acceptable.

    Users can expand storage options with this Meteor Lake chip, supporting up to 24 TB of NVMe storage via three PCIe 3.0 slots (currently, a 2 TB Samsung SSD 9100 Pro is priced at $254.99 on Amazon). The device also has two SO-DIMM slots capable of accommodating up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM. The port options are good, with the inclusion of the OCuLink and USB4 ports, along with the following:

    Additional Features

    Some standout features of this budget-friendly mini PC include WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and a dual-fan cooling system. It’s important to note that the starting price is for the GMK K15 in its barebones form. There are also two more configurations available:

    GMKtec

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