Category: Gaming

April 25, 2025

Next-Gen Waterproof Gaming Smartphone with Active Cooling Features

Key Takeaways

1. The RedMagic 10 Pro features a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor cooled by a tiny fan spinning at 23,000 rpm, enhancing gaming performance.
2. The device lacks IP68 water resistance due to its open-vent design, making it less durable than some competitors.
3. Future competitors like the rumored RedMagic 11 Pro may offer better water protection and compete directly with brands like Oppo and OnePlus.
4. Oppo is working on a mid-range gaming phone that might rival the RedMagic 10 Pro’s pricing and refresh rate, potentially reaching 165Hz.
5. OnePlus is also expected to release an Ultimate Edition of its Ace 5 smartphone, further increasing competition in the gaming smartphone market.

RedMagic has unveiled its newest flagship, the 10 Pro, branding it as the “No Limits” gaming smartphone. This device is unique because it cools the advanced Snapdragon 8 Elite processor using a tiny fan that can spin at speeds of up to 23,000 rpm.

Limited Water Resistance

While the 10 Pro excels in performance, it does have limitations regarding durability. Its open-vent design prevents it from achieving the IP68 water resistance rating that competitors like the OnePlus 13 have.

Upcoming Competitors

According to the leaker Digital Chat Station, a future flagship smartphone may finally offer that level of water protection. The rumored “RedMagic 11 Pro” might face competition from another smartphone maker. Reports suggest that Oppo or OnePlus is preparing to enter the gaming smartphone market with similar features, including an active spinning fan.

Mid-Range Options

This new device could launch as part of the Oppo K series, potentially allowing it to compete with RedMagic’s pricing (the 10 Pro currently sells on Amazon for as low as $749). Additionally, Oppo is said to be working on a gaming display that could surpass the 144Hz refresh rate of the 10 Pro, reaching up to 165Hz and possibly featuring shoulder buttons like those on the new RedMagic 10 Air.

The details about this high-speed display smartphone are still unclear, but OnePlus is also rumored to be gearing up to release an Ultimate Edition of its Ace 5 smartphone.

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Tags: OnePlus Ace 5, RedMagic 10 Pro
April 25, 2025

Hori’s New Nintendo Switch 2 Camera Fits Perfectly on Your TV

Key Takeaways

1. Hori has released two portable camera alternatives for the Nintendo Switch 2, including a Super-Mario-themed Piranha Plant camera and a more compact option for handheld gaming.
2. The new compact camera measures 2 inches in length, weighs 30 grams, connects via USB-C, and includes a detachable pedestal for stability.
3. The compact camera is available exclusively on Amazon Japan for ¥3,981 (approximately $28), making it cheaper than Hori’s Piranha Plant camera and Nintendo’s own camera.
4. All three cameras are set to launch with the Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.
5. Hori’s cameras are more portable and affordable but have lower video quality (640×480 resolution) compared to Nintendo’s camera (1080p resolution).

Despite a foreboding notice from Nintendo about potential issues with third-party cameras, Hori, a gaming accessory manufacturer, has unveiled not just one but two portable camera alternatives for the Nintendo Switch 2. Alongside the previously announced Super-Mario-themed Piranha Plant camera, there’s now a more compact option that is perfect for handheld gaming.

Camera Specifications

Hori’s latest camera measures 2 inches (5 cm) in length and weighs merely 30 grams, which is significantly lighter than the 249 grams of the Piranha Plant version. This new camera can be directly connected to the USB-C port on the Switch 2 and can function individually or with a detachable pedestal that provides stability when placed on a table. Additionally, the pedestal isn’t just a standard base; it features a foldable wedge that allows the camera to clip onto the top of a TV, similar to a webcam setup.

Availability and Pricing

At the moment, this camera is exclusively available on the Amazon Japan website, and there is no information about it on Hori’s US site. Priced at ¥3,981 (approximately $28), it is priced significantly lower than the $60 Piranha Plant camera and is also cheaper than Nintendo’s own offering, which retails at $50. All three products are set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.

Quality Comparison

While Hori’s products win in terms of portability and affordability, they do come with a noticeable compromise in video quality. Nintendo’s camera boasts a 1080p resolution, whereas both of Hori’s alternatives only support 640×480 resolution— a marked decrease compared to Nintendo’s. Nevertheless, these cameras are compatible with GameChat and hold official Nintendo licenses, making them a safe pick for those on a budget or seeking a more playful camera experience.

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Tags: Nintendo Switch 2
April 25, 2025

Marathon PC Aim Assist Frustrates Closed Alpha Players

Key Takeaways

1. Marathon’s closed alpha started on April 23 and will run until May 4, aiming to compete in the extraction shooter genre.
2. Bungie has introduced aim-assist for keyboard and mouse users, causing frustration among many gamers, including professionals.
3. Aim Magnetism is enabled by default to help balance crossplay between PC and console players, but it feels disruptive to some users.
4. Community feedback, including from well-known gamer Shroud, indicates a strong desire for skill-based play without reliance on aim assist.
5. Users report that the aim assist feature can significantly alter gameplay, with some expressing dissatisfaction and considering not playing the game.

Marathon’s closed alpha began on April 23 and will run until May 4. This new extraction shooter from Bungie is looking to make its mark in a genre that includes popular titles like Escape from Tarkov, Hunt: Showdown, and Delta Force. However, many gamers, including professional players, are frustrated with the addition of aim-assist for keyboard and mouse users. Some have even declared they won’t play the game until this ‘feature’ is taken away.

Response from Bungie

Bungie is facing some backlash for its extraction shooter, which is set to launch on PC and consoles. To help PC gamers compete with console players who benefit from aim assist, Marathon has a feature called Aim Magnetism, which is enabled by default. This feature’s implementation feels heavy and disruptive to some players, leading them to consider abandoning the game entirely.

Community Feedback

Shroud, a well-known figure in the gaming community, also tried the game on PC and shared his disappointment with the aim assist feature (according to PCGamer). He mentioned that while Bungie is attempting to create balance for crossplay between consoles and PCs, PC players would prefer to enhance their own skills rather than depend on a system like aim assist.

On the dedicated Marathon subreddit, a thread titled “Aim Assist on Mouse and Keyboard” showcases users voicing their dissatisfaction with the mechanic. One user stated, “As a Counter-Strike player, I won’t be playing this game at launch unless they remove MnK aim assistance and make sure controller aim assistance is not excessive.”

User Experiences

Another user commented, “When I tried it out, it was even worse than I thought. It’s not just friction or slowdown; it actually pulls your crosshair while you strafe without any input. It’s rotational aim assist on mouse. What the heck. Alt F4’d.”

Even though this feature can be disabled, leaving it on would give PC players an unfair edge over those who choose not to use it, making it difficult for players relying solely on their reflexes and abilities to compete.

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Tags: Aim Assist, Bungie, Marathon
April 25, 2025

Anbernic RG34XX SP Specs Leaked: Game Boy Advance SP Lookalike

Key Takeaways

1. Anbernic has launched the RG557, its first gaming handheld for 2025, with plans for up to 10 new models by the end of the year.
2. Rumors suggest the RG34XX SP will feature a new chipset, possibly the Allwinner H700, aligning its performance with the RG35XX SP.
3. The RG34XX SP will have design similarities to the Game Boy Advance SP and will be smaller than the RG35XX SP.
4. The RG34XX SP is expected to have a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels and will emulate GBA games at 2x integer scaling.
5. Initial teasers for the RG34XX SP are expected to be released in the coming weeks, with the launch projected for next month.

Anbernic has recently launched the RG557 globally, marking its first gaming handheld for 2025. After a four-month pause between the RG34XX and RG557, the company does not plan to repeat this timeline in the future. In fact, Anbernic has hinted that the RG557 could be just the beginning, with up to 10 new models expected by the end of this year.

New Rumors About RG34XX SP

Recently, rumors have surfaced regarding the anticipated RG34XX SP. To recap, earlier reports from January indicated that this model would be more than just an RG34XX housed in a Game Boy Advance SP (GBA SP) style shell. At that time, there were claims that Anbernic was exploring the use of the RG34XX SP to highlight a new chipset. This chipset was rumored to sit between the Rockchip RK3566 and Unisoc Tiger T618 in terms of performance, with the MediaTek Helio P65 being considered as a potential option.

Updates on Performance Expectations

However, the latest information suggests a change in direction. Specifically, the Allwinner H700 is likely to be featured in the RG34XX SP, a chipset Anbernic has utilized in numerous budget retro gaming handhelds over the past year. Consequently, the performance of the RG34XX SP will align more closely with the RG35XX SP (currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon), even as Powkiddy is rumored to be rejoining the clamshell market with the V90 V2.

Size and Display Differences

From what we understand, the key differences between the RG34XX SP and the RG35XX SP will be the size and display of the former. It appears that the RG34XX SP will be more akin to the original GBA SP in dimensions compared to the RG35XX SP. Furthermore, the RG34XX SP is expected to emulate GBA games at precise 2x integer scaling, thanks to its 3.4-inch display running at a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels. At present, the RG34XX SP is projected to launch next month, with initial teasers anticipated to drop in the next couple of weeks.

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Tags: Anbernic, RG34XX SP, RG557
April 25, 2025

SEGA Golden Week Sale: Save Up to 80% on Yakuza, Persona & More

Key Takeaways

1. Sega is having a “Golden Week” sale on Steam with significant discounts on popular games.
2. Persona 5 Royal is 60% off, now priced at $23.99, marking its lowest price ever.
3. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is 50% off, currently available for $34.99.
4. Sonic Frontiers is discounted by 70%, with a sale price of $17.99.
5. Additional titles on sale include Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza, Persona 3: Reload, and Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance.

Sega is running a fresh “Golden Week” sale on Steam, offering huge discounts on beloved games from the Yakuza, Like A Dragon, Sonic series, and many others.

Persona 5: Royal

Released for PC in 2022, Persona 5 Royal is the fifth entry in the highly praised Persona JRPG series. It features an amazing soundtrack, eye-catching visuals, and a captivating narrative filled with memorable characters. The game boasts a Metacritic score of 95 and has garnered “Overwelhmingly Positive” feedback from users on Steam. Currently, it is available at a 60% discount, priced at just $23.99 (€23.99 or £19.99), marking its lowest price ever.

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth

As a follow-up to Yakuza: Like A Dragon, Infinite Wealth reunites fan-favorites Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu in an emotional narrative that intertwines key characters from the series while taking them on an exciting journey through Hawaii. The game includes all the enjoyable side missions and quirky activities fans love, along with some impressive improvements to the turn-based combat system. It’s currently 50% off, now costing $34.99 (€34.99 or £29.99).

Sonic Frontiers

In this open-world adventure, Sonic races across an ancient island searching for chaos emeralds, featuring five expansive biomes to discover. Players can defeat foes, solve puzzles, and embark on side quests, all while moving at lightning speed. The game is currently discounted by 70%, with a sale price of $17.99 (€17.99 or £14.99).

In addition to these titles, you can also pick up Goro Majima’s latest escapade, Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii for $47.99 (€47.99 or £43.99), Persona 3: Reload for $34.99 (€34.99 or £29.99), and Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance for $35.99 (€35.99 or £32.99). Don’t miss out on more deals available on Sega’s Steam page.

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Tags: Sega
April 25, 2025

Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Patch Hides DLSS Settings

Key Takeaways

1. Utilization of Upscaling Technologies: Modern games, including The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, use Nvidia DLSS and FSR to enhance frame rates and image quality.

2. Patch Issues: A recent 1.6 GB patch for Oblivion Remastered has removed advanced graphical options, leading to performance drops for players.

3. Communication Gap: Bethesda has not provided patch notes or clarified the removal of upscaling features, causing confusion among players.

4. Temporary Workarounds: Some players have found temporary fixes through in-game console commands, but a proper solution is needed.

5. High System Requirements: Despite being a remaster of a 2006 game, Oblivion Remastered demands high system specifications, making upscaling technologies essential for smooth gameplay.

Modern games are utilizing Nvidia DLSS and FSR upscaling to fully utilize the power of GPUs. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered makes use of this technology to enhance frame rates and boost image quality. Sadly, a recent patch has stripped away numerous advanced graphical options in the PC version of this action RPG. As a result, some players are seeing a significant drop in performance.

Patch Issues Observed

Discussions on Reddit about the problem started after gamers saw a new 1.6 GB patch for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. Currently, this update seems to be available only for the Xbox Game Pass PC version. However, after reports of missing DLSS and FSR options, many Steam players have turned off automatic updates for the game. It’s possible that the same troublesome patch will hit the marketplace soon.

Lack of Communication from Bethesda

Bethesda has not yet released patch notes for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. However, it seems unlikely that the developers would intentionally remove upscaling features. The issue is straightforward: the Upscaling Technique setting now doesn’t let players select DLSS or FSR. Additionally, Nvidia’s RTX 40 and 50-series GPUs provide Frame Generation to further enhance performance, but this option, along with other advanced settings, is currently unavailable.

Workarounds Discovered

Some users on Steam forums who are using the Game Pass version of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered have found a workaround. This involves entering commands in the in-game console. While this isn’t the best fix, it serves as a temporary solution until Bethesda releases a hotfix.

The recent situation highlights how reliant games have become on upscaling technologies. Even though the remaster of Oblivion is based on a game from 2006, it demands relatively high system requirements and puts a strain on many PCs. Players are finding that DLSS and FSR are crucial for maintaining smooth frame rates, especially in intricate open-world environments.

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Tags: FSR, Nvidia DLSS, Oblivion Remastered
April 25, 2025

Honor MagicBook Pro 16 with RTX 5070 and Quiet Fans Coming Soon

Key Takeaways

1. The MagicBook Pro 16 will upgrade to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU for 2025.
2. The laptop maintains a slim profile of about 0.8 inches and weighs just under 4 pounds.
3. It features an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and has a total TDP of 150 watts.
4. The display is a 3K resolution screen with 3072 x 1920 pixels, a refresh rate of 165Hz, and 500 nits brightness.
5. The cooling system is designed to be quiet, but real-world tests will confirm fan noise levels during use.

Last year, the MagicBook Pro 16 came with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU, but for 2025, it’s getting a nice boost to the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU. Honor has made this announcement through a series of teaser images. From these visuals, it looks like the design will stay pretty similar, maintaining a slim profile of about 0.8 inches and a weight just under 4 pounds.

Performance Details

Honor states that the total TDP for the gaming laptop is 150 watts. Given that the GeForce RTX 5070 only requires up to 100 watts, this total likely includes both the CPU and GPU. The MagicBook Pro 16 will feature an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, which we assume to be the Core Ultra 9 285H. Additionally, the company promotes a 3K display. The previous model had a 16-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 3072 x 1920 pixels, a refresh rate of 165Hz, and a brightness of 500 nits.

Cooling System Insights

Honor highlights that the MagicBook Pro 16 comes with an impressively quiet cooling system, despite its powerful components packed into a slender body. However, real-world tests by independent reviewers will be critical to determine how noisy the fans are during actual use. In our previous review of the 2024 MagicBook Pro 16, we found it to be relatively quiet, unless the high-performance setting was turned on. The latest Honor MagicBook Pro 16 (2025) is set for an official launch on Wednesday, April 30th.

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Tags: Intel Core Ultra 9, MagicBook Pro 16, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070
April 25, 2025

RTX 5060 Release Date Leaked, Competes with RX 9060 XT Review

Key Takeaways

1. Nvidia announced the RTX 5060 Ti (8 GB/16 GB) and the RTX 5060, with the RTX 5060 Ti available for purchase now and the RTX 5060 set to release on May 19.
2. Reviews for the RTX 5060 will be published on its release date, May 19, following an embargo shared with AIB partners.
3. AMD is reportedly launching the RX 9060 XT on May 18, creating direct competition with the RTX 5060, as both cards are expected to have similar pricing.
4. The RTX 5060 Ti’s performance has been criticized due to limited VRAM, potentially impacting Nvidia’s market position against AMD’s RX 9060 XT.
5. Despite concerns, the RTX 5060 could appeal to budget gamers if it maintains a balanced price-to-performance ratio, similar to the RTX 4060.

Nvidia has officially announced the RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB/16 GB and the RTX 5060 on April 15. Despite this, the launch of the RTX 5060 has been delayed until May, while the RTX 5060 Ti is being made available in April. Consequently, both the 8 and 16 GB versions of the RTX 5060 Ti are already available for purchase. As of now, Nvidia has yet to provide a specific release date for the RTX 5060.

Release Date Confirmed

Fortunately, VideoCardz has gotten hold of the release and review embargo information for the RTX 5060, as Nvidia has shared these updates with its AIB partners. The RTX 5060 is now set to hit the market on May 19, with GPU reviews expected to be published on the same day.

Competition Heats Up

We previously mentioned that AMD is reportedly moving up the launch of the RX 9060 XT to May 18 while delaying the RX 9070 GRE. If this information is accurate, the RX 9060 XT and the RTX 5060 will be released just one day apart. This creates a competitive situation, as both graphics cards are projected to have similar price points, with the 8 GB RX 9060 XT priced between $269-$299 and the RTX 5060 at $299.

Given these price tags and rumors suggesting that the 16 GB RX 9060 XT might be priced as low as $329, Nvidia could face significant challenges in the market.

Performance Concerns

The RTX 5060 Ti has received a lukewarm response due to its limited VRAM, which negatively affects its performance. If AMD sticks to the rumored $329 price for the RX 9060 XT and either delays or cancels the 8 GB version, Nvidia might find itself dealing with harsh criticism once again.

On a positive note, the RTX 4060 was considered a decent option regarding price versus performance. With 25% more CUDA cores and higher memory bandwidth, if Nvidia can maintain a steady supply and reasonable pricing, the RTX 5060 might attract budget-minded gamers.

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Tags: RTX 5060, RTX 5060 Ti, RX 9060 XT
April 25, 2025

Anbernic RG557: New AMOLED Gaming Handheld Faces Mixed Reviews

Key Takeaways

1. The Anbernic RG557 features improved performance with a Dimensity 8300 chipset, which is 76% faster than the previous RG556’s Unisoc T820.
2. The launch price of the RG557 is $234.99, reflecting a 33.5% increase from the RG556.
3. The RG557 may outperform the Retroid Pocket 5 in CPU and GPU-heavy applications, but GPU driver optimization is still uncertain.
4. A price increase to $249.99 is expected on April 28, 2023, making it more expensive than the Retroid Pocket 5.
5. Mixed reviews for the RG557 raise concerns for potential buyers, emphasizing the need for the device to prove itself in a competitive market.

The Anbernic RG557 has been well-known for some time now, following almost a month of teasers. For some reason, the company decided to wait until today to officially launch the device. To sum up, the RG557 comes with the following hardware:

Improved Performance

To put it simply, the RG557 is expected to be significantly more powerful than last year’s RG556 (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon), which uses a Unisoc T820 chipset. Benchmarks indicate that the Dimensity 8300 is around 76% faster than the Unisoc T820 when it comes to CPU-intensive tasks. The difference between their GPUs is even greater. Nevertheless, this performance boost comes with a downside, as Anbernic has raised the price by 33.5%, making the RG557 available for $234.99 on its launch day.

Competitive Edge

Our tests imply that the RG557 might have an advantage over the Retroid Pocket 5 in both CPU and GPU-heavy applications, although the GPU difference is minor. The performance of the Dimensity 8300 remains a bit uncertain in the gaming handheld market for the moment. Consequently, its GPU drivers may not be as thoroughly optimized as those found in the Snapdragon 865 used in the Retroid Pocket 5. On April 28, the price of the Anbernic RG557 will increase to $249.99, which will put it more than 13% higher than the Pocket 5. So far, the reviews for Anbernic’s newest gaming handheld have not been very positive, and many of these reviews we’ve included below.

Conclusion

Anbernic’s new offering, the RG557, seems to be a step up in terms of hardware, but the price hike and mixed reviews are things potential buyers should consider. The upcoming price change also adds an element of urgency for those considering a purchase. As it stands, the RG557 aims to compete in a crowded market, but it will need to prove itself against established competitors.

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Tags: Anbernic, Retroid Pocket 5, RG557
April 25, 2025

Philips Unveils 4K 240Hz QD-OLED Monitor for Gamers and Creators

Key Takeaways

1. Display Quality: The Philips Evnia 27M2N8800 features a 26.5-inch 4K QD-OLED panel with a resolution of 3840×2160, a refresh rate of 240Hz, and a GTG response time of 0.03ms.

2. Color Accuracy: The monitor covers 99% of DCI-P3, 97.6% of Adobe RGB, and 100% of sRGB, with a factory calibration achieving a Delta E <1 for high color fidelity.

3. HDR and Brightness: It is HDR True Black 400 certified, reaching peak brightness levels of 1000 nits, enhancing both bright highlights and deep shadows.

4. Ergonomic Design and Features: The monitor includes an adjustable ergonomic stand, Ambiglow ambient lighting, dual 5W speakers, and a user-friendly five-way joystick for navigation.

5. Connectivity Options: Equipped with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 2.1, USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and features like picture-in-picture mode and AI-based enhancements for improved visuals and reduced input lag.

Philips has introduced its newest flagship gaming monitor in China, named the Evnia 27M2N8800. This monitor features a 26.5-inch 4K QD-OLED panel and comes with a price tag of 6499 yuan ($892). It’s currently available for purchase on JD.com. Let’s explore its main specifications.

Key Features of the Philips Evnia 27M2N8800

The Evnia 27M2N8800 boasts a 26.5-inch display that utilizes Samsung’s third-generation QD-OLED technology. It offers a remarkable resolution of 3840×2160, a refresh rate of 240Hz, and an impressive GTG response time of just 0.03ms.

This monitor is also HDR True Black 400 certified, reaching peak brightness levels of up to 1000 nits in a 3% window. This feature enhances the monitor’s ability to show bright highlights and deep shadow details. It supports Adaptive Sync technology for smooth visuals without tearing and holds the VESA ClearMR 13000 certification, which signifies extremely low motion blur.

Color Performance and Calibration

When it comes to color accuracy, this monitor covers a wide range: 99% of the DCI-P3 color space, 97.6% of Adobe RGB, and 100% of sRGB. Factory calibration achieves a Delta E <1, ensuring high color fidelity. It features a native 10-bit panel, allowing for smoother color transitions, making it ideal for both gaming and content creation. Additionally, Philips has included an AI-driven anti-burn-in system that constantly monitors static images like HUDs and logos, supported by a 3-year burn-in warranty.

Design and Connectivity

The monitor is enhanced with Ambiglow, Philips’ unique ambient lighting technology that syncs the rear LEDs with the visuals and audio for a more immersive experience. On the design side, it features a height-adjustable, tilt-and-swivel ergonomic stand with a silver armor finish, along with a white chassis and a star-patterned back. The device includes dual 5W speakers and a five-way joystick for easy navigation.

In terms of connectivity, the monitor has two HDMI 2.1 ports (48Gbps FRL6), a DisplayPort 2.1 (80Gbps UHBR20), USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a USB upstream connection, and an audio output. It supports picture-in-picture and picture-by-picture modes, smart crosshair magnification through Smart Sniper, AI-based Stark Shadow Boost for improving dark areas, and reduced input lag with “Zero Latency Sync.”

This display also provides both hardware and software blue light reduction, flicker-free backlighting, and an Easy Read mode for better eye comfort. The weight of the monitor is 5.81 kg without the stand and 7.14 kg with it.

Tags: Gaming Monitor, QD-OLED Monitor