Tag: 4K gaming

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: 4K Dock Confuses Console Specs

    Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: 4K Dock Confuses Console Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Some Switch 2 development kits may not support 4K output, despite earlier mixed reports.
    2. The Switch 2 dock features a DisplayPort 1.4 to HDMI 2.1 converter and may support 4K gaming at 60Hz using DSC technology.
    3. The Realtek RTD2175N-CG chip in the dock could potentially enable 4K/120Hz output, but only when the console is docked.
    4. Software and games for the Switch 2 will need to support 4K resolutions, and upscaling may be necessary unless the console has more power than expected.
    5. Anticipation builds for the upcoming Nintendo Direct, where the hybrid nature and advancements of the console might be showcased, including a possible upgraded dock.


    Insider Gaming’s Tom Henderson has recently disclosed that some Switch 2 development kits do not feature a 4K output. This revelation has caught the attention of gamers, especially since earlier leaks contained mixed specifications. While the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd may clarify these issues, there is already some encouraging information for fans. A user on Famiboards has pointed out that the Switch 2 dock incorporates a DisplayPort 1.4 to HDMI 2.1 converter. The Realtek chip used supports 4K gaming at 60Hz, along with enhanced settings using DSC (Display Stream Compression).

    Realtek Chip Details

    The Realtek chip in question is known as RTD2175N-CG. Although specific details about this chip are not widely available, there is a similar model called RTD2173. If the newer version can at least equal its features, the Switch 2 dock could potentially support 4K/120 Hz output with DSC. This capability would only apply when the console is docked, but earlier speculations mentioned a handheld mode running at 120Hz with VRR, probably at lower resolutions. While the information regarding the Realtek chip does not confirm VRR support, it does indicate compatibility with HDR.

    Gaming Requirements

    It’s important for gamers to understand that software and games for the Switch 2 would need to offer support for 4K resolutions. Additionally, unless the console boasts more power than anticipated, upscaling would be essential to achieve this resolution. Still, the latest leak regarding the Switch 2 eases some of the concerns raised by Henderson’s insights about dev kits. If the dock is indeed utilizing the RTD2175N chip, it could mean that the development kits do not fully represent the final specifications of the Switch 2.

    Anticipation for the Future

    Considering previous reports, a dock capable of 4K output shouldn’t come as a shock. At the 2023 Gamescom, there were whispers that the Switch 2 was able to run The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild at 4K and 60 fps. Now, it seems Nintendo is gearing up to demonstrate the advancements the console has made. If the upcoming Nintendo Direct highlights the hybrid nature of the console, an upgraded dock might well take center stage.

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  • Hisense U7 Mid-Premium Mini LED TV Launching Soon

    Hisense U7 Mid-Premium Mini LED TV Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hisense U7QG Mini LED TV is part of a larger lineup of ULED TVs, including the U9QG, U8QG, and U6QF.
    2. It features 4K resolution, 165Hz native refresh rate, QLED technology, and an AGLR-Antiglare screen.
    3. The TV supports advanced features like IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Vision, Filmmaker Mode, and is gamer-friendly with a 165Hz Game Mode.
    4. It will be available in six sizes ranging from 55-inch to 116-inch, launching in the US on April 15th and in Europe by May 15th.
    5. Some sizes of the U7QG may be priced under $1,000, with additional models like the QM6K QD-Mini LED TV also available.


    The Hisense U7QG Mini LED TV has recently been announced. This model is part of a bigger lineup of ULED TVs, which includes the U9QG, U8QG, and U6QF. The company markets the U7 as a “mid-premium TV” that features MiniLED Pro technology.

    Specs and Features

    Similar to the top-end U9, the U7 boasts a 4K resolution along with a native refresh rate of 165Hz. Thanks to QLED technology, viewers can expect deep blacks and vibrant colors, while the AGLR-Antiglare screen minimizes reflections. Additional features include IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Vision, and Filmmaker Mode. For gamers, the TV offers a 165Hz Game Mode Ultra, Game Booster 288Hz, VRR, ALLM, and compatibility with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Furthermore, it supports Wi-Fi 6E and includes various ports, such as four HDMI 2.1 inputs, and comes with built-in 60W 2.1.2 channel speakers that support Dolby Atmos and are Tuned by Devialet.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Hisense ULED MiniLED U7 Series will come in six different sizes: 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch, 85-inch, 100-inch, and 116-inch. It is set to launch in the US on April 15th and will be available in Europe by May 15th. Though the company hasn’t released a complete price list yet, they indicate that some sizes might be priced under $1,000. Other models in Hisense’s 2025 TV lineup include the QM6K QD-Mini LED TV, with the 55-inch currently retailing for $598 on Amazon.

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  • AMD RX 9070 XT Price Lower than RTX 5070 Ti, Reports Say

    AMD RX 9070 XT Price Lower than RTX 5070 Ti, Reports Say

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Date and Pricing: AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are set to launch on March 6th, with expected prices between $549 and $749.

    2. Market Focus: AMD is targeting the mid-range market, not planning a high-end GPU to compete with Nvidia’s RTX 5090, while the RX 9070 XT may offer good value for 4K gaming.

    3. Competitive Pricing Insights: The RX 9070 XT could potentially retail for $699, which would make it a more attractive option compared to the RTX 5070 Ti priced at $749 or more.

    4. Upcoming Announcement: AMD is holding a YouTube event on February 28 to likely confirm pricing for the RX 9000 series, which could impact market availability.

    5. Gamer Concerns and Market Share: Gamers have raised concerns about performance without multi-frame generation, and AMD could gain more market share by ensuring sufficient RX 9000 series card distribution.


    With the expected launch date of the AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT set for March 6th, the precise pricing is still unclear. Retailer leaks suggest that the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRPs) might fall between $549 and $749, aligning closely with the Nvidia RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti. Nevertheless, AMD has recently released a slide indicating potentially more competitive pricing, especially for the RX 9070 XT. VideoCardz has shared some press materials which imply that the RDNA 4 GPU could be priced below $700.

    Key Insights from Media Slide

    The main point from the media slide is that 85% of gamers tend to buy video cards costing less than $700. At the moment, AMD does not plan to introduce a high-end GPU that would compete with the RTX 5090. Instead, the focus is on the mid-range segment, although the RX 9070 XT could provide excellent value for those interested in 4K gaming. Initial benchmarks have indicated significantly better ray-tracing performance with AMD’s latest GPUs.

    Price Expectations and Comparisons

    The promotional image supports the idea that the RX 9070 XT could retail for $699. Renowned tech leaker David Huang has also concurred with this estimate in a recent post on X. However, additional taxes may push the GPU’s price well above that figure. Plus, overclocked models might see increased prices. A $649 RX 9070 XT would also make it a more appealing choice compared to the RTX 5070 Ti, which starts at $749 or more.

    AMD has planned a YouTube event on February 28 to likely confirm the pricing for the RX 9000 series. This announcement may still come too late for customers eager to see better stock availability than what the RTX 5000 series offers.

    Gamer Opinions and Market Competition

    Gamers have also voiced their concerns about the performance enhancements of Blackwell GPUs, especially without multi-frame generation enabled. AMD has the potential to capture more of Nvidia’s market share by distributing a sufficient number of RX 9000 series cards while delivering more power for the cost.

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  • TCL Unveils 2025 Thunderbird 100 Max TV: 4K 144Hz, 512-Zone Backlighting

    TCL Unveils 2025 Thunderbird 100 Max TV: 4K 144Hz, 512-Zone Backlighting

    TCL has introduced the 2025 Thunderbird 100 Max Smart TV, which boasts an impressive 100-inch screen for a movie theater-like experience at home. This model comes equipped with a 144Hz 4K panel, making it suitable for both gaming and entertainment. With a price tag of 8,989 yuan ($1,262), it is currently available for purchase on JD.com. Let’s take a closer look at its main specifications.

    Key Features of the Thunderbird 100 Max 2025

    The Thunderbird 100 Max 2025 is outfitted with a VA display panel that has a resolution of 3840×2160, producing stunning visuals with a peak brightness of 1200 nits. It utilizes 512 local dimming zones, which results in a high dynamic contrast ratio of 12,000,000:1 and excellent color precision, covering 95% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum. The TV supports a 144Hz refresh rate along with 240Hz motion compensation (MEMC), ensuring fluid visuals that are ideal for high-speed scenes and gaming.

    Performance and Operating System

    This television is driven by a quad-core A73 processor (MT9653 chipset) along with a Mali-G52 MC1 GPU, delivering strong performance. It features 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, enabling users to run applications efficiently and store various types of content. The TV operates on Android 11 and supports functionalities like screen mirroring, video calls, and multi-screen interaction across devices like Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.

    Audio and Immersive Experience

    For sound, the TV has a 2.1 channel speaker setup that provides 60W output, with two 20W full-range speakers and a 20W subwoofer. It also supports Dolby Atmos, DTS, and Dolby Vision IQ, creating an immersive audio landscape to enhance the viewing experience. Additionally, it comes with IMAX Enhanced certification, ensuring a cinematic feel in your living room.

    Connectivity Options

    When it comes to connectivity, the TV is equipped with dual HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K at both 144Hz and 120Hz, alongside other HDMI 2.0 connections. It features VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), making it a perfect choice for gamers. USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and an Ethernet port are also included for added convenience.

    Wireless Features and User-Friendly Design

    The TV supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, providing quick and stable wireless connections. It also enables NAS storage access through various protocols (SMB, FTP, WebDAV) for direct playback of files stored on the network.

    TCL’s TV also comes with an eye-protection mode, STR fast boot (starting up in around 2 seconds), and a customizable desktop interface that accommodates multi-screen setups, making it both user-friendly and versatile for entertainment and work.

    Lastly, TCL has also unveiled the Thunderbird U9, a 27-inch 4K MiniLED gaming monitor that features a 165Hz refresh rate.


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