Apple : The best Chromebooks |
- The best Chromebooks
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- Dell launches Dell Technologies on Demand
- The best student laptops
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| Posted: 12 Nov 2019 01:45 PM PST The best Chromebooks are a somewhat new addition to the laptop conversation but they are a wise choice for anyone looking for a new device or one solely for work. Why is that? The best chromebooks can hold a charge that will last you through the day with their excellent battery life, and are very capable of multitasking, even if it may not seem like it with the lightweight components most come with. And they’re getting more powerful every year, growing by leaps and bounds over previous generations. Why go with one of the best Chromebooks instead of another laptop? It really depends on what your computing needs are and you’ll want to spend some time learning more about what a Chromebook is to see if it's right for you. The short version, though, is that the best Chromebooks are cheaper, lighter, and are much less susceptible to malicious attacks compared to Windows 10 devices. They can handle most tasks, whether they’re productivity-, creativity- or even entertainment-related, as long as they’re not processor-heavy. This means that if you spend most of your time writing up documents and emails, bringing some streaming shows and doing some mobile gaming (think Plants vs Zombies), not to mention rudimentary photo and video editing, you’ll want to check out one of the best Chromebooks listed below. And with Black Friday deals around the corner, these affordable devices will be even lighter on your pocketbook.
The Google Pixelbook Go is the best Chromebook of 2019. Google continues its tradition of making the best Chromebooks in the world. While its older Pixelbook used to occupy the top spot in our best Chromebooks list, it's been replaced by Google's latest Chromebook: the Pixelbook Go. This is a Chromebook that proves that these devices can be just as stylish and powerful as traditional laptops, and the Pixelbook Go brings a lot of the original Pixelbook's premium features to a more affordable device. It also features a fantastic battery life and a brilliant keyboard that makes typing on a pleasure.
The Asus Chromebook Flip is the best convertible Chromebook. Before Google rolled out the Pixelbook, and showed us exactly what the best Chromebooks should be, the Asus Chromebook Flip was the Google laptop a lot of Google laptops aspired to be. With a full Intel Core processor and a full-HD display, the Asus Chromebook Flip was certainly a game-changer. These days, in the shadow of Google Pixelbook, the Asus Chromebook Flip is the best Chromebook for you if you want the Pixelbook’s key features, but cannot afford its steep price. If you're on a budget, this is one of the best Asus laptops to consider.
The Samsung Chromebook Pro is a brilliant Chromebook for productivity. When the best Chromebooks finally supported Android apps, it was only a matter of time before Samsung threw its hat into the ring. The manufacturer designed a Chromebook that’s as stunning as it is powerful. With a 12.3-inch QHD touchscreen and a 360-degree hinge, the Samsung Chromebook Pro also has a built-in stylus – the first of its kind to show up in a Chromebook. This laptop gives many of its rivals, including most Android devices, a run for their money, even if its keyboard could use a bit of tightening up.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 13 is another top convertible Chromebook. Education is one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Chromebooks. But with its Chromebook Spin 13, Acer wants its Chromebooks to also be synonymous with business. Beautifully built from aluminum with a gorgeous QHD screen, it fits perfectly in any office setting, and will draw admiring looks at a cafe. It’s more than just its attractive chassis, however: the Acer Chromebook Spin 13 is packed with full-fat Ultrabook processors, so you can get work done – whether it’s at school or in the office – in style.
The Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 is everything every Chromebook needs to be. The best Chromebooks are generally affordable devices so that they are accessible to anyone, no matter their budget. The Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 perfectly fits this bill, even if isn’t the most powerful Chromebook on the market. This device is everything every Chromebook needs to be: affordable, easy to use and durable. And, it’s rugged too. The Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 is great for doing all your web browsing, paper writing and show binging needs. Plus, it may just be one of the best laptops for kids, as it won’t break from a single drop.
Acer has made one of the best Chromebooks ever with the Chromebook Spin 11. The best Chromebooks make the most compelling student laptops, and that’s exactly where the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 excels. Whether you’re a student or a parent of one, this is a cheap, capable and durable laptop that will let you get some schoolwork done while commuting or traveling. You might not get any hardcore gaming or proper video editing done on it. However, if you only need to write up some papers and stream videos or shows in your downtime, then the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 should be at the top of your list.
The Acer Chromebook 15 makes a great impression with its battery life. With a solid build quality that rivals a MacBook, it’s easy to excuse the Acer Chromebook 15’s aversion to 2-in-1 form factors. Still, given that the best Chromebooks rolling out this year are fully convertible, thanks to the wide adoption of Android app support, the Acer Chromebook 15 had to prove itself with more than great style. Beyond its aptitude for laying flat using a 180-degree hinge, this beautiful 15-inch Chromebook also makes a great impression with its battery life, lasting nearly 17 hours in our battery test.
Acer Chromebook R11 has a 360-degree hinge. We wouldn’t be surprised to see Acer replacing the Chromebook R11 someday soon – at least, judging by the release of the Chromebook Spin 11, and owing to the fact that it isn’t the most powerful choice out there. Yet it still holds up to this day as among the best Chromebooks on the market, giving you full access to Android Apps on the Google Play store. What’s more, it does so on a touchscreen display that can be rotated around into tablet mode, fitted in an all-metal finish that you would be proud to show off.
The HP Chromebook 14 is a brilliant value Chromebook from HP. The best Chromebooks balance a bargain price and efficient use of Chrome OS – and the HP Chromebook 14 is the perfect example of that. While it’s similar to the Acer Chromebook 15 in a lot of ways, this 14-inch Chromebook is a tad more compact and looks slightly better. Complemented by a bright blue finish and a screen made to astound, the HP Chromebook 14 offers the best value of any Chromebook out there. Even if the battery life and performance are average – the HP Chromebook 14 is easily one of the best Chromebooks.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 15 is the ultimate Chromebook for multitasking. We can easily forgive the Acer Chromebook Spin 15’s shortcomings – namely, its subpar trackpad and the fact that doesn’t take full advantage of the space it has – as it more than makes up for them with enough power for formidable multitasking, a battery life that will outlast yours and a beautiful touch display that’s surprisingly premium for the price. All those certainly warrant this Chromebook a spot in our best Chromebooks list, and that’s without even factoring in its affordability. If you’re not convinced that you should jump on the Chromebook bandwagon, this one will make a convert out of you. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Posted: 12 Nov 2019 01:31 PM PST The age-old question: when you're on the market for a new television, what really is the best TV out there? With so many sets appearing every year, each building on the improvements of its predecessors, even the best TVs are always under threat by new releases – and as high-resolution screens and advanced picture processing becomes the norm, it's harder than ever to suss out which sets really do have the upper hand. That's good news for you: there are plenty of options for a high-performing television, and when you get to the very best of the best, it's hard to go wrong with choosing one over the other. But the best TV isn't just the one with the most powerful specs or flashiest design: it's whatever set is going to truly suit your needs. You're going to clock up a lot of hours – and likely spend a considerable sum – on your new screen, so you'll want to make sure it's the right one for your home. We'll help you find an awesome flatscreen without wasting hours of research comparing spec sheets – after all, we've done the research already. If you're looking for the best-of-the-best TV out there today without limits or stipulations, this is the place for you.
Samsung Q90 QLED TV. Image Credit: Samsung. Samsung clearly took criticisms of its previous-gen TVs to heart, and directly addressed them in the Q90. The newest model has a visibly superior viewing angle that holds its own against an OLED TV, and the local dimming delivers deep blacks without losing shadow detail. To that end, the new Ultra Black Elite filter is nothing short of a revelation, rejecting ambient light in a way that just staggers belief. It's not too much of a leap to say that the Samsung Q90 is the most impressive QLED we have reviewed to date, incorporating comprehensive features and cutting-edge picture innovations. As a result, this TV can deliver a performance that is capable of competing with and often surpassing even the best OLEDs.
Image Credit: LG Combining a stunning display with an immense amount of features and formats – with LG's brilliant webOS smart platform – this is undoubtedly one of the best 4K TVs ever made. There aren't huge differences with previous models, but the addition of the 2nd Gen a9 processor means the picture processing is truly top-notch. While it's not as bright as an LCD TV, those deep blacks make a huge difference to the dynamic range of the image. It’s also capable of vibrant and gorgeous colours, not to mention an astounding level of detail with native 4K content. There are more expensive LG models in the range: notable the W9 and E9 OLEDs, though you're mainly paying for the fancier form factor and bigger audio output. For an OLED TV this year – or any TV, really – that performs for the price, you should really be considering the C9.
Samsung Q900R QLED TV. Image Credit: Samsung. The 8K television we've been waiting for? With only so much 4K content out there, you'd be forgiven for thinking Samsung may have jumped the gun slightly on this one. But this is still the world's first true 8K TV, and while it's easy to be critical about the Samsung Q900R, it truly does usher in a new era of TV picture quality. The native 8K pictures are incredible, looking just like the real world – only better. But even more crucially given the dearth of true 8K content for the foreseeable future, the 85Q900R makes all today’s lower resolution sources look better than they do anywhere else, too. Whether 8K delivers the same impact on smaller screens remains to be seen, but if you have a big enough room and budget, the Q900R is a vision of the future that’s spectacularly worth buying. In the UK you can find 65, 75, and 85-inch models – but none are exactly affordable.
This TV has best-in-class upscaling to ensure all those SD and HD images look startlingly detailed on the A9G’s 4K display, and the OLED panel to draw out incredible color and contrast performance. Sony’s premium Acoustic Surface+ Audio technology also means you’re getting sound that vibrates out of the panel itself, for an immersive sound that isn’t limited to specific downward-firing drivers; there’s a two-channel audio system here, rather than the previous model’s 3.2 channel output. There are some specific flaws worth noting, including the lack of Freeview Play, the on demand service for British broadcasters. While you get premium Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos formats, there’s also no HDR10+, which may be an issue depending on which streaming services and HDR sources you use. The A9G is, however, IMAX Enhanced certified for those keen on the cinematic aspect ratio and DTS-mixed audio that affords. Coming in 55-inch, 65-inch, and 77-inch sizes, there’s a lot of screen on show too.
The Panasonic GZ2000 is rightly at the top of the 2019 Panasonic TV range, with a custom panel elevating the picture above the (already impressive) GZ1500 and GZ1000 models. Panasonic has set itself apart with dedicated HDR support, and the GZ2000 receives the same HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and HLG formats as found on the mid-range GX800 LED – meaning you're never left unable to play a certain title in its best possibly quality. The manufacturers' close links to Hollywood colorists show through too, with the GZ2000 being a mastering set of choice in production studios in North America – even if you can't buy Panasonic TVs in retail in the US. What really sets the GZ2000 apart, though, is the sound system. With 140W speakers, split between hefty upward-firing drivers and a built-in soundbar, this is possibly the closest you'll get to cinema sound without investing in the right external AV kit – or just going to a cinema.
The LG E9 OLED certainly has the design chops. Its slim glass display does without any fiddly legs or rim around the screen's edge, and the effect is startling. LG's new a9 Gen 2 processor is hard at work here too, ensuring crisp detail and smooth motion throughout – with the typically deep blacks and rich, vibrant colors expected of an OLED display. We're still sad about the absence of the E7's integrated soundbar – both the E8 and E9 opted for a thinner speaker band instead – but the 4.2 channel audio and Dolby Atmos support still make for a dynamic soundscape far beyond your average television. When all's said and done, it's hard to justify the E9 over the C9, given the similar picture processing and same outstanding smart TV platform, webOS – now with Alexa integration and an upgraded menu system for easier navigation. But if you want an OLED set with the looks to match, and a boost to audio, the E9 will be a stunning addition to your living room.
Philips OLED 803 is a beautiful OLED television, if you can get past some minor issues. The main draw here is Philips second-generation P5 processor, which manages to double the processing power of the chip seen in the 803's predecessors. The results are stunning, with a Perfect Natural Reality function that algorithmically tweaks contrast, brightness, and definition to optimize your picture on the fly. The effect of Philips' P5 engine may sometimes be subtle with real-world content, but it gives this set an edge when it comes to playing in SDR 4K or HD. You're also getting Philip's unique Ambilight technology, which throws onscreen colors onto the wall behind your television, giving a sense of real atmosphere. The 803 is technically second-in-line to Philips' OLED, after the OLED 903+, but the only real difference is the latter's integrated Bowers & Wilkins soundbar – an improvement on sound, sure, but you'll save money by going after the 803 and sticking with your current sound system instead. There's some input lag, so this isn't as well-suited a TV to gaming as some of the others on this list – and the Android TV interface isn't the most seamless. Not to mention the exclusion of the Freeview Play catch-up service, which is increasingly expected as standard for UK viewers. But the 803 is no doubt the most tempting OLED Philips has produced, and the competitive price compared to the 903+ just nabs it a place on this list.
As ever, Hisense’s contribution is a good deal cheaper than others on this list, though the budget TV maker also offers a lot for the price. The Hisense U8B ULED goes for bigscreen home entertainment, with 55- and 65-inch sizesl. The Vidaa U 3.0 smart platform is straightforward, connectivity with other devices doesn’t disappoint, and overall the picture performs well – even if poor local dimming leads to a lot of light blooming. The sound system packed into the U8B’s thin panel is also impressive. The ‘ULED’ labelling isn’t too important, and refers to a set of internal criteria for Hisense’s more premium LED TVs – much like Samsung’s QLED displays. But you’re certainly getting a TV beyond the average LED, and with a more consistent performance than the Hisense O8B OLED TV. Given its price, the U8B just manages to nab a place on this list. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Dell launches Dell Technologies on Demand Posted: 12 Nov 2019 01:29 PM PST Dell has unveiled its new consumption-based and as-a-service offering called Dell Technologies on Demand to provide its customers with more choice, flexibility and consistency in the consumption and delivery of modern IT infrastructure. The new offering delivers IT with the agility of the cloud while also providing customers with the control, performance and predictability of on-premises infrastructure. Dell has also expanded its extensive flexible consumption portfolio to support Dell EMC PowerEdge servers as well as the all new Dell EMC PowerOne autonomous infrastructure system.
Vice chairman at Dell Technologies, Jeff Clarke explained how Dell Technologies on Demand gives customers more choice over how they consume and pay for IT solutions, saying: “The multi-cloud world is here and will only grow, which means customers need on-demand and consistent infrastructure that yield predictable outcomes across all of their clouds, data centers and edge locations. Dell Technologies On Demand makes it possible for organizations to plan, deploy and manage their entire IT footprint. They can choose how they consume and pay for IT solutions that meet their needs with the freedom and flexibility to evolve as their needs change over time.” Dell Technologies on DemandWith Dell Technologies on Demand, organizations can choose between several flexible consumption options including global support, deployment and managed services. By helping customers reduce the management of their on-premises IT, Dell is enabling them to focus more on what really matters, their business. The new offering also features flexible payment options for an extensive range of technologies across the company's full infrastructure stack which includes compute, storage, networking and virtualization. Customers will even be able to match spending with usage through Pay As You Grow, Flex on Demand or Data Center Utility. These three flexible consumption solutions also scale while providing transparency on total cost of ownership throughout the technology lifecycle. Dell also revealed that it is expanding its PC-as-a-service offering to include small businesses who can now pay a set price each month for dell hardware, software and services.
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| Posted: 12 Nov 2019 01:04 PM PST What makes the best laptops for students different than the best laptops for most other people? Computers can skyrocket in price when looking at upgrades and features and the best laptops for students are those that are able to walk that tightrope between performance and price. They should be able to handle any coursework a student has without bankrupting them. College students are already trying to save as much money as possible, whether it’s for college loans or housing, as evidenced by their constant consumption of instant ramen. And while there are some great budget laptop options out there, performance is important as well. The best laptops for students need to be able to pull double duty. They can’t just be for schoolwork and important projects, but must also function as decent media devices, whether that’s some video streaming or a little gaming. You might not find cutting edge graphics cards and processors in all our choices for the best laptops for students. Value, after all, is what’s most important, so we’ve included a few choice budget options. But the budget options are still able to handle most workloads and any light entertainment that gets your mind off that next big project. While there are some great Windows 10 laptops on here, you don’t have to stick to that OS. The best Chromebooks now offer better performance than ever before, and due to the lightweight OS, at a better price than most other offerings. School can be hard, overwhelming and stressful. Don’t let your family’s cast-off laptop add to that stress. Instead, check out our picks for the 10 best laptops for students. There are options for you regardless of budget that will help you get your work done. We’ve included links for a more in depth look at all the options so you can pick what works best for you.
The Huawei Matebook 13 strike a balance between price and performance. We’re massive fans of laptops that can skillfully strike a balance between price and performance with hardly any compromises, and the Huawei MateBook 13 comes closer to than anything else in 2019 so far. It’s light and compact, perfect for carrying in your backpack while you hurry from class to class; but it’s fast and affordable as well. This stunning 13-inch Ultrabook will make sure you’ll get all your work done in style, without burning a hole in your pocket. Sure, you might need to keep that charger on hand if you want it to last you the whole day, as the battery life is underwhelming. However, there’s still no doubt that the Huawei Matebook 13 deserves its lofty spot on the best laptops for students list.
The Dell XPS 13 is affordable enough for college students once again. Dell’s flagship laptop has always been rated as one of the best laptops for students, not to mention among the most ideal devices for professionals and casual, everyday users. The Dell XPS 13 2019 line welcomes back the entry-level model, making it affordable enough for college students once again. Dell also addressed our biggest frustration with the XPS lineup – the webcam. It has finally been moved back above the display where it belongs. This means that your family and friends won’t have to stare up into your nostrils when you’re video chatting ever again.
The Google Pixelbook Go has earned our coveted "Editor's Choice" award in the Chromebook category. Have you been waiting for the day you can finally afford the premium price of Google Pixelbook? Well, with Google releasing Pixelbook Go, your wait is finally over. Granted, it isn’t quite the actual luxury device you’ve been dreaming of. However, rest assured, you will love this Chromebook, just as we have during our time with it. We love it so much, in fact, that it earned our coveted “Editor's Choice” award in the Chromebook category. It boasts incredible battery life, an even more impressive keyboard and a 1080p webcam, which you don’t see often in the more budget-friendly laptops even in 2019.
The Surface Laptop 2 has considerably improved on its predecessor. While the Surface Laptop was arguably one of the best laptops for students, it was still held back by its below average performance, a lack of ports and Windows 10 in S Mode. Luckily, the Surface Laptop 2 has considerably improved on its predecessor – with the exception of the ports. It’s now packed with 8th-generation Intel Kaby Lake Refresh processors, full-fat Windows 10 Home and a black color option. We only wish it included even a single USB-C port. Still, you will get all your tasks done in style with this laptop with little to no effort, making it deserving of a high spot on this list.
The Microsoft Surface Go is one of the most beautiful devices on the market. Even if you’re only in the market for a laptop for school that strikes a balance between cost and performance, it can’t hurt to factor in a splash of style. The Microsoft Surface Go isn’t just one of the best Windows tablets, but it’s also one of the most beautiful devices on the market. Better yet, it also gets our vote as among the best laptops for students, especially from a value perspective. Don’t be duped by the low-power components: Microsoft engineered this tablet to take on all your general schoolwork and more without breaking a sweat.
The HP Envy x360 13 (2019) has premium build, delivers up to 9 hours of video playback. There are so many compelling reasons why the HP Envy x360 (2019) belongs to our best laptops for students like, and its slim, sleek design is the least of them. This 13-inch 2-in-1 has premium build, delivers up to 9 hours of video playback and a performance that will get you through most of your schoolwork and project, all without burning a hole in your pocket.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 boasts a beautiful display, excellent performance and an impressive battery life. The Microsoft Surface lineup has made a name for itself for being among the best Windows devices on the market, with beautiful touch displays, excellent performance and a battery life that lasts a long time. The Surface Pro 6 continues that tradition, even if it doesn’t improve much on its predecessor. You’re getting a fast Windows tablet that can effortlessly turn into a laptop with the addition of the Surface Type Cover. What does that mean for you? Simply that you can get your work done then effortlessly transition into Netflix time, making it one of the best laptops for students.
The Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 is the best laptop for students on a very limited budget. Most schoolwork that’s not specialized (i.e. engineering) can be done on a Chromebook. So if you aren’t anticipating to do a lot of projects that require the use of processor-hungry apps, getting a Chromebook can save you hundreds of dollars. If you’re a student on the market for one of the best laptops for students to help you with all your research, type up papers and not much else, the Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 might fit the bill. The Dell Chromebook 11 2-in-1 won’t be able to handle much heavy lifting, but at this price, it doesn’t need to. This is the best laptop for students on a very limited budget.
The Apple MacBook Air has been refreshed for 2019. Apple took the MacBook Air (2018) and gave it a bit of refresh, adding True Tone technology to its display and an even more reliable keyboard. Unfortunately, it didn't upgrade the specs, but seeing as the 2018 version already made our list of the best laptops for students, this improved version is just as deserving because of the improved hardware. But the best part is yet to come: this refresh is even cheaper, so you’re definitely getting more value for less.
The MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019) is juiced-up. Apple’s most powerful MacBook in existence got juiced-up, which means that the 15-inch Cupertino powerhouse is faster than ever. Whether you’re doing school projects, photo editing or light gaming, this will blow you away as one of the best laptops for students. What’s behind this refresh? To start, an improved keyboard, as well as some of the latest and most powerful processors from Intel. Now, you not only have the option to take one home with an 8-core Intel Core i9, but also configure one to rock a Radeon Pro Vega 16 or Pro Vega 20 GPU to give you a boost in graphics.
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| The all-new Facebook Portal is on sale with a massive $110 price cut Posted: 12 Nov 2019 12:54 PM PST Facebook just recently announced its line of video chat devices, which includes the highly anticipated Portal. The Alexa-enabled Portal is a smart home display that allows you to make video calls and much more completely hands-free, and just ahead of Black Friday, the social network is offering a fantastic discount. Starting now through November 12, you can apply the coupon code PORTAL110 at checkout to save a whopping $110 on the Portal device. The Alexa-enabled display also allows you to play music, make calls, and check the weather completely hands-free and display photos from Facebook, Instagram, and your phone. Facebook knows that privacy is a big concern so it's enabled controls that allow you to easily disable the camera and microphone, and video calls are always encrypted. You can learn about Facebook's other device with our hands-on Facebook Portal TV review. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Posted: 12 Nov 2019 12:47 PM PST Having the best smartphone that isn't just great to look at, but also great to work on is an absolute essential for many workers these days. With phone makers offering ideal for employees of all levels, we’ve updated this guide to give you the very latest buying advice to help you choose the best smartphones for business use. Although some of these selections may overlap with the best phones for casual use, we've identified how these picks will help your business too.
Apple's latest release may be the best business device it's ever made. Along with the headline-grabbing top-end camera and snazzy colour schemes, there's a lot to recommend it to everyday workers as well. This includes Apple's best performing battery to date, which will last a full day's working, as well as a slimmer and more portable build that means it slips into a pocket or bag easily.
Google's Pixel line has become a key focus for the company in recent years, and the new Pixel 4 is the latest iteration in its flagship device family. Featuring a top-class camera and all-new design, the Pixel 4 is great to look at and use, but also comes with a number of benefits for business users. Top of this is access to all the vital everyday Android tools on the go, as well as the latest updates and security protection directly from Google. Battery life isn't quite as good as some of its bigger rivals, but for the cost, the Pixel 4 is one of the most appealing devices around today.
The Galaxy Note 10 Plus is the company's largest and most powerful device to date, but does this make it a great business smartphone? It certainly features an expansive screen that will allow you to scan through all the documents, spreadsheets, social media feeds and more - and the additional S Pen gives a whole new dimension for working on the move. Pair that with a huge 4300mAh battery, Snapdragon 855 processor and 12GB of RAM, and you have an absolute powerhouse - albeit one that with its 6.8in display might need to be carried in a jacket, rather than a trouser pocket.
You'll be in good hands if you opt to give your employees the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus. It improves on almost every aspect of the phones that have come before it, with supremely powerful components, a dazzling 6.4-inch QHD Super AMOLED display and a top notch camera - but it's not all fun. The battery has also been given a huge boost to 4,100mAh, which means you can comfortably use it all day without worrying about recharging it. While it doesn't quite have the business focus of the Galaxy Note 10, it's still one hell of a great handset from Samsung.
OnePlus has been quietly growing its market share and popularity over the years, and the OnePlus 7 is the company's latest big-name release, and probably its best business device too. Available for far less than some of its other rivals, the OnePlus 7 matches a pocket-friendly price tag with a huge 3700mAh battery and either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, meaning it should be more than capable of handling whatever you throw at it.
If you want the a great business smartphone, no matter what the cost, then the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is the one to go for. It's got a spec list to die for, including a huge screen, bags of RAM, a huge 4,000mAh battery and up to 1TB of storage. It's also got a microSD slot and a headphone jack – something that many modern smartphones lack. It's also got some great business-specific features, such as an improved Bluetooth stylus (known as the S Pen), and if you plug it into a USB-C dock or USB-C to HDMI, it can be used in DeX mode, replicating a desktop-environment that can replace your desktop PC. Seriously impressive.
Huawei has been steadily releasing some excellent smartphones that offer specs and features that rival its more established (and expensive) Western rivals. The Huawei Mate 20 Pro is one of the firm's best releases yet, and it's one of our picks for the best business smartphone you can buy in 2019. It comes with a huge 6.39-inch display with a QHD resolution and HDR10 support, plus a large battery that lasted a day and a half in our tests. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The best beginner mirrorless cameras Posted: 12 Nov 2019 12:34 PM PST If you're casual about your photography, then smartphones and compact cameras more than do the job. Generally though, they are limited by small sensors and fixed lenses that don't offer the kind of next-level control that you need when taking your photography that little bit further. With that in mind, an interchangeable lens camera is the perfect upgrade. In this guide, we've picked out the best entry-level mirrorless cameras that should fit your budget, aren't too bulky and hopefully won't be too perplexing as you learn how to use them. Many of the mirrorless cameras in this group have APS-C sensors, but some of our favourites have slightly smaller Micro Four Thirds sensors. Both offer such a big improvement over smartphones and compacts that really there’s little to choose between them. Mirrorless cameras also offer interchangeable lenses. They will often come with a general-purpose 3x ‘kit’ zoom lens which are great to get you started with. Once you get a little bit more into it, you might find it worth investing in telephotos, macro lenses, super-wide-angles and more. It’s worth checking the lens ranges on offer, particularly if you might want to upgrade to a better camera in the range later on.
The retro-tastic E-M10 Mark III is styled like a DSLR, with a viewfinder mounted on the top, but this camera is so small it scarcely takes up more space than mirrorless cameras with no viewfinder at all. It has a Micro Four Thirds sensor a little smaller than the APS-C sensors used by rival makers, and 16 megapixels rather than the usual 24, but the smaller sensor means smaller, faster-focusing lenses, and you’re not likely to notice the difference in megapixels in real-world shooting. What you will notice is this camera’s great build quality and finish, its responsiveness, its excellent built in Art Filters and the rather clever shooting options in its Advanced Photo mode. Olympus offers a good range of lenses, too - as it shares the Micro Four Thirds mount with Panasonic, you can also swap lenses between manufacturers.
While the absence of an X Trans sensor is a little disappointing (Fujifilm's premium sensor), the reality is that this has allowed Fujifilm to price the camera a little more aggressively. It's also fair to say that for most photographers the difference will be negligible, with the X-T100 delivering some of the best results you'll see from an entry-level mirrorless camera. 4K video capture capped at 15fps is also a bit of a let down for those who do a lot of video recording, though, while focusing speeds can be a little bit slow on occasion. Otherwise, Fujifilm's entry-level mirrorless camera doesn't generally disappoint. Lovely to look at and use, the X-T100 is a great choice if you're looking for your first mirrorless camera.
The Lumix GX9 from Panasonic represents excellent value for money. Its small size and weight not only make it ideal for those new to an interchangeable lens camera, but it's also well-suited for travel photography, too. The great feature set includes a built-in viewfinder, plus 5-axis dual image stabilisation. One of our favourite features of all Panasonic cameras is the 4K Video and 4K Photo Modes. You can use the latter to extract stills from a movie to in order to freeze the perfect moment. As standard, the GX9 comes with a 12-32mm lens, which is a good optic to get you started with. Further good news is that there are dozens of different lenses available in the Micro Four Thirds mount, so this is a camera you can truly grow with.
Sony's A6000 was one of the most popular mirrorless models of the past few years, and while you can still buy it, the brand has refreshed it in the shape of the A6100. That brings a whole set of new features to Sony's entry-level offering, including improved video features which now include 4K. You also now get a touch-sensitive screen and advanced autofocus options which include the very well-performing Eye AF (for both humans and animals). An extensive range of different lenses are available for Sony's mount, so it's also a system you can be confident when investing in. As it stands, the A6100 is one of the most expensive models on this list - but the good news is that if you're happy with older tech, the A6000 is still very much available, and right now is a veritable bargain.
This great little all-rounder is the only budget-friendly EOS M series camera with an integrated viewfinder. Otherwise, you're doing your composing via the screen - not such a big deal if you're coming up from a smartphone, but viewfinders are great when bright light makes the screen a bit awkward to use. Plus there's the fact that shooting through a viewfinder just feels a bit more "authentic". Other tempting features include 4K video (just note that it's cropped), great autofocusing and an easy-to-use interface.
Olympus is not the only company to make Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras. They’re also made by Panasonic and, in fact, the lenses are interchangeable. Where Olympus cameras are all about style and creativity, Panasonic cameras are at least as technically capable but a little more down to earth. And they don’t come much more down to earth than the Lumix GX800 (known as the GX850 in the US), which combines small size with powerful features and exceptional value. You don’t get a viewfinder, but you do get 4K video and Panasonic’s 4K Photo modes, a 180-degree selfie screen, touch control and a terrific little 12-32mm retracting kit lens.
Fujifilm has made its reputation with its high-end X-mount mirrorless cameras, but it also makes a series of simpler X-A cameras for novices. The X-A5 sports a retracting 15-45mm kit lens which makes the camera far easier to cram into a bag. There’s no viewfinder, but the touch-screen display works very well and flips through 180 degrees for selfies. The image quality is terrific, even though its regular CMOS sensor rather than Fujifilm’s special X-Trans sensor, though the 4K video mode only works at 15fps, which is a let-down.
Launched in the same year as the A6000, the A5100 is also a highly competent camera whose price has dropped to bargain basement prices thanks to its age. Of course there's always a trade-off to be made for saving cash. Here the compromises are the lack of an electronic viewfinder, while the external controls are a lot more basic. Sony has done a great job to make a camera this small but it does leave it feeling slightly dwarfed by the 16-50mm kit lens. On the plus side, the A5100 does, however, have a 180-degree selfie screen. Now that we've seen some new APS-C mirrorless models - and lenses - from the company, we can also feel pretty confident that Sony is keen to keep investing in this format, too.
Canon’s cheapest EOS M model is very competitively priced and offers an easy introduction to interchangeable lens cameras for smartphone or compact camera upgraders. But to make it ‘simple’, Canon has taken away a lot of the external controls, which means you spend more time in the menus and touchscreen interface. The plain rectangular body is also a little awkward to hold and shoot with. It doesn’t always capture sharp shots in low light, either, when rival cameras manage this perfectly well. The EOS M100 is small, simple and affordable nonetheless.
The Olympus PEN series is aimed squarely at beginners and smartphone upgraders, catering specifically for fashion-conscious bloggers and Instagramers. It does this with a blend of style, responsiveness and image quality that’s instantly endearing. Olympus’s ‘EZ’ pancake lens is a must-have companion for this camera, offering a 3x zoom range in a super-slim retracting design that means the PEN takes up little space in your bag. The latest of these is the E-PL9, which brings 4K video and better image stabilisation over the older model. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Michael Dell: Advancing humanity by unlocking the power of data Posted: 12 Nov 2019 12:08 PM PST Dell has laid out its goal of becoming one of the most environmentally-conscious firms in the technology industry by the end of the next decade. During his keynote address at the Dell Technology Summit, CEO Michael Dell took the stage to announce that the company had achieved many of the ambitious goals from its 2020 Legacy of Good plan while also outlining the company’s plan for the next decade. Dell revealed the company’s new 2030 Progress Made Real plan which aims to usher in a new decade of responsibility and innovation with moonshot goals intended to propel the company's social impact worldwide. The plan itself will focus on advancing sustainability, cultivating inclusion, transforming lives and upholding ethics and data privacy. Leveraging data for the advancement of humanity is a key component to the success of the plan according to Dell, who explained just how pivotal this will be, saying: “Unlocking the power of data will advance humanity more than any other force over the next decade. We are committed to making that power broadly available to communities around the world, so we can all move forward together.”
Progress Made RealIn terms of sustainability, Dell wants to recycle an equivalent product for every new device a customer purchases. The company is already working to achieve this ambitious goal by extracting gold from recycled printed circuit boards and reusing it when producing new ones. Packaging is another area where Dell plans to use more recycled materials and by 2030, it will use 100 percent recycled or renewable materials in all of its packaging. Cultivating inclusion is another aspect of the company's Progress Made Real plan and it is currently working to hire, develop and retain more female employees so that they account for 50 percent of its global workforce by 2030. Dell will also utilize its technology and scale to advance healthcare, education and economic opportunity initiatives to deliver enduring results for 1bn people by 2030. This will be done by connecting with partners, advancing healthcare through the power of data, enabling STEM learning with greater digital access and expanding horizons with more opportunities for people worldwide. Finally, the company aims to fully automate its data control processes by 2030 to make it easier for customers to control their personal data. Chief customer officer at Dell Technologies, Karen Quintos provided further insight on the ambitious goals of its Progress Made Real plan, saying: “We have a great responsibility to apply the full power of Dell Technologies to transform lives and society. By combining our technology portfolio, global scale, team member talent and customer partnerships, we can drive significant positive impact. Our 2030 agenda is comprehensive and deeply embedded across the business. The moonshot goals stretch us to go far beyond incremental change. In some cases, we’re still working to uncover how we’ll get there – but we know that significant change and innovation starts with deep commitment.”
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| GTA 6 publisher teases more sequels – what could they be? Posted: 12 Nov 2019 11:11 AM PST GTA publisher Take-Two Interactive has revealed it has it has some juicy projects in the works, which includes making a return to some of its more popular game franchises. In the company's latest financial statement it states that Take-Two Interactive has its "strongest development pipeline in its history, including sequels from our biggest franchises as well as exciting new IP". But what game series could the publisher be revisiting?
What could it be?
Take-Two interactive owns a multitude of developers including GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2 developer Rockstar Games. While we're hoping this statement is teasing GTA 6, it's more likely that its hinting at the rumored new BioShock game. In early 2018, Kotaku reported that a top secret studio had started working on a new addition to the BioShock series. Within the article on the current goings on at Mafia 3 development studio, Hangar 13, Kotaku reported that there’s a studio located right next door housing a team at work on the early stages of the next BioShock game, codenamed Parkside. BioShock is part of the Take-Two family, and considered one of the publisher's biggest franchises (though dormant since the release of the second episode of the BioShock Infinite spinoff, Burial At Sea, in 2014), so it wouldn't be surprising if the sequel teased ends up being BioShock 3. However, the publisher may be referring to the - also leaked - Mafia 4. However, a new BioShock game seems the most likely as only a few days ago a 2K job listing for an End Game Design Lead was found online, suggesting that the rumored next BioShock game will be a live service title. We're hoping Take-Two Interactive will officially announce what it's working on soon (though we already kind of know what to expect). We may even get a surprise GTA 6 announcement, who knows?
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| A silly Star Wars edit has created a new Greedo meme: 'Maclunkey!' Posted: 12 Nov 2019 10:37 AM PST The original Star Wars trilogy has arrived on Disney Plus, freshly remastered in a 4K resolution format, and somehow the infamously edited Han/Greedo scene has been mangled yet again.
Luckily, the result is more hilarious than offensive. Remember your life before this next clip, because a new, made-up word will enter your vocabulary that you'll never be able to unhear. Yeah, Greedo says "Maclunkey!" now, shortly before his demise. As the Star Wars Visual Comparisons thread notes above, a new explosion has also been added after the shootout occurs, covering the shot of Greedo slamming into the table. Han and Greedo also now shoot each other at the same time, with the previous 1997 edit controversially making Greedo shoot first. According to an article by Vanity Fair, "Maclunkey" is actually the work of George Lucas, with this change made before Lucasfilm was sold to Disney back in 2012. No one seems to know why this edit has been made. But does it matter? We live in a world with 'Maclunkey' now. A better world. Maclunkey belongs to the internet nowCredit to comedian Eric Fell, the first to seize the comedic opportunity of this moment. "Maclunkey!" cannot be put back in the box now. It has a hashtag, and Stephen King has even tweeted about it, guaranteeing that this word is now officially property of the internet. There's no stopping Maclunkey now. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Verizon is offering one year of Disney Plus for free to Unlimited customers Posted: 12 Nov 2019 10:00 AM PST The highly anticipated Disney Plus streaming service is officially live and available in the United States. If you're looking to save on the all-new streaming service, Verizon is offering an enticing Disney Plus offer that would be hard to pass up. If you're an existing Verizon Unlimited customer, then all you'll need to do is add Disney Plus to your account, and you can start streaming your favorite Disney classics. If you're a Verizon customer on a different plan, you can switch to Unlimited and add Disney Plus to your account. New customers can sign up with a Verizon Unlimited plan or switch to Fios or 5G home internet and enjoy Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and more.
What will be on Disney Plus?What won't!? If you're thinking that Disney Plus is just about the children and a select tribe of avid fans, think again. Apart from showing a host of Disney content, it will also air other shows and movies from the likes of Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and more. Not to mention Disney's recent Fox acquisition, which means you can also expect to see shows like The Simpsons and other Fox content on the service, too. That's a whole range of binge-watching for a starting price of only $6.99 per month and a 7-day free trial. So if you already have Verizon or are in the market for a new phone plan but unsure which carrier to choose, this new offer may just swing you Verizon's way. Read more on this:
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| Best mobile workstations 2019: the most powerful laptops for businesses Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:34 AM PST If you're looking for the best mobile workstations of 2019, then you've come to the right place. In this article, we've picked the best, most powerful, business laptops in the world. Before we begin, though, what is a mobile workstation? Basically, the best mobile workstations combine the portability of a laptop with the raw power of a desktop PC. These aren't just the best business laptops, however, as they are capable of handling intensive tasks, such as video editing and rendering, while away from the office. Modern technology has allowed laptops to become ever more powerful, while keeping the same thin and portable designs. In fact, many of the best mobile workstations of 2019 are thinner and lighter than many standard laptops. This level of performance in a mobile workstation does come at a cost, however, as the parts they use, build quality and the level of after-sales services mean that these are an investment that can be expensive. That's why it's so important to choose the best mobile workstation for your needs. You need to have something that's not only a solid and dependable workhorse today, but something that's futureproof and can help you with your work for years to come. Thanks to our price comparison tool, we can help take the sting out of the price tag by helping you find the very best prices for these excellent mobile workstations. So, read on for our list of the best mobile workstations money can buy in 2019.
If you'd prefer a Best Desktop Workstation roundup or, if you're interested in a business laptop that isn't necessarily a workstation, we've got you covered. Because mobile workstations are so specialist - and come with such a high price tag - finding one that suits your business needs is important, and we're here to help with this list of the best mobile workstations in 2018. Best mobile workstations at a glance:
You can configure the MacBook Pro 2018 to match your needs and budget. Apple's most powerful laptop ever is also the best workstation laptop in 2018. It comes with the innovative Touch Bar that makes certain tasks much easier, but it's the powerful innards that really impress us with this mobile workstation. It features up to 32GB of RAM and a super-fast solid state hard drive, and comes with Intel's latest and most powerful processors. You can configure the MacBook Pro 2018 to match your needs and budget, and it all comes in Apple's trademark gorgeous design. If you're looking for the best mobile workstation that combines design and power, then this is a brilliant choice. As long as you have the budget. Read the full review: MacBook Pro (15-inch, mid-2018) review
Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition was designed with photographers, video editors and even game designers in mind. While the regular Razer Blade laptop is famously a gaming laptop – one of the best, in fact, Razer has taken its sheer power and turned the whole thing into one of the best mobile workstations for creatives. There’s zero doubt that this laptop was designed with photographers, video editors and even game designers in mind, as it rocks powerful graphics cards and a gorgeous, factory-calibrated 4K display. Not unlike its gaming counterpart, you’ll be paying a pretty penny, especially for its souped up configuration with the Quadro RTX 5000 graphics card. However, if a fast and seamless workflow is of utmost importance in your day to day, this laptop certainly pays for itself. Read the full review: Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition
HP ZBook 17 G3 is still very much a best-in-class. HP's mobile workstation Ultrabook has already reached its third generation but the last one is still very much a best-in-class especially when it comes to sheer value for money. It is one of the cheapest workstations on the market to offer a professional dedicated graphics card, and the most affordable business laptop to come with a whopping half-decade warranty. HP opted for a 14-inch diagonal which may well hit a sweet spot for some. Read the full review: HP ZBook 14 G2
HP ZBook Studio G3 is the perfect combination of brains and beauty. HP calls it the perfect combination of brains and beauty and it is kind of hard to disagree. The G3 is essentially a mobile workstation that has been squeezed in an Ultrabook form factor. A 4K monitor adorns it and there's plenty of oomph under the hood. It is actually the only device known to us that comes with a Xeon CPU. Add in extensive ISV certification, a super-long warranty and MLD-STD 810G certification and you have a very attractive candidate. Read the full review: HP ZBook Studio G3
The HP Spectre Pro 13 G1 is a formidable mobile workstation. Despite being just over 10mm thick and weighing just over 1.16Kg, the HP Spectre Pro 13 G1 manages to pack a proper Core i7 CPU with a full HD 13.3-inch display, a massive 4-cell 38Whr battery and three USB Type C connectors. This makes it a formidable mobile workstation that offers plenty of power for even the most demanding of tasks. If you want a laptop that offers similar performance to your work desktop PC, then this brilliant machine is definitely worth considering. Its 3 Year Next Business Day onsite warranty also means if something goes wrong with the device, you can quickly get it fixed without missing out on work.
Lenovo ThinkPad P40 Yoga set the standard when it comes to convertible or 2-in-1 designs. Lenovo hails this model as the world's first multi-mode workstation, one that manages to combine power and creativity thanks to a 360-degree hinge that has, to some extent, set the standard when it comes to convertible or 2-in-1 designs. What's more, it is one of the very rare laptops to come with built-in Wacom Active ES pen technology, capable of delivering 2048 levels of pen pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition.
Dell Precision 7720 is brilliant for photo and video editing. As with most of Dell's laptops you can configure the Precision 7720 to meet your needs, which makes it one of the best workstation laptops in the world. By boosting the processor, screen and GPU of this laptop (compared to its base model) you'll get an excellent laptop for heavy-duty work. The 17-inch screen (which can be upgraded to 4K), is brilliant for photo and video editing, but it does mean that it's a bit larger and heavier than other machines in this list. It's also pricey, especially if you configure it with the latest components, but it remains a brilliant
Lenovo ThinkPad T460s is a great choice if you're looking for an accomplished and affordable workstation laptop. The ThinkPad T-series is a no-nonsense design with a focus on robustness over style. Even so, the T460s' 18.8mm thickness is within 1mm of the MacBook, and it's actually lighter at 1.4kg. It's not as powerful as some of the workstation laptops in this list, but it's not as expensive either, which makes it a great choice if you're looking for an accomplished workstation laptop for less hardcore workloads, while also keeping to a budget. Read the full review: Lenovo ThinkPad T460s
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| Breath of the Wild 2 release date, news and trailers for the next Zelda game Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:30 AM PST Dust off your climbing boots and paraglider, gamers: Nintendo has confirmed that a The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild sequel is in development, with a breathtaking trailer pointing to a darker turn for the next mainline Zelda game. But what will Breath of the Wild 2 do differently from the first game, and when will we finally get our hands on it? Nintendo dropped the bombshell at the end of its E3 2019 presentation – via an online-only keynote, given Nintendo doesn't host its own presentation in person anymore – confirming our suspicions after the Japanese publisher appeared to be hiring for a 3D level designer last year. Breath of the Wild was a masterclass in open-world game design, breathing a huge gust of fresh air into the Zelda franchise while somehow retaining everything that made the series special. Widely considered one of the best games of 2017 – if not all time – it's no surprise Nintendo is working on a direct sequel. And it may release sooner than expected, with a leak suggesting we may see Breath of the Wild 2 as soon as 2020. It's still early days, but here's everything we know – and want to know – about Breath of the Wild 2 for Nintendo Switch. [UPDATE: Breath of the Wild 2 could release as early as 2020. Read on to find out more.] Cut to the chase
Breath of the Wild 2 release dateNintendo hasn't shared much information other than the trailer and a few sparse comments – run through below – but the trailer did close off with a line stating the Breath of the Wild sequel was "in development". We certainly won't see the game being released in the coming months. However, according to leaker Sabi (via wccftech), Breath of the Wild 2 is due for release in 2020. But, as Sabi points out, "Zelda release dates are historically delayed, internally or publicly". Check out the tweet below: While it's always worth taking rumors with a big pinch of salt, Sabi is a pretty reliable leaker. The Twitter user leaked most of the big announcements from E3 2019 before they happened – reportedly even earning himself a cease and desist order from Nintendo. Breath of the Wild 2 trailersWe got our first glimpse of BOTW 2 at E3 2019, with this spooky trailer that shows Zelda and Link exploring an underground chamber – with some mysterious runes, glowing hands, and a brand-new haircut that has set the internet on fire. Suffice to say: we're excited. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2 trailer is just 82 seconds long and there's no dialogue whatsoever – but there are some clues to be gathered from it. It features a torch-carrying Link and Zelda traversing a dark dungeon beneath Hyrule (no big surprise there). Spirit-like tendrils creep around the musty tomb they're exploring, with the pair riding a large elephant-like beast. Something shocks the pair, and then we cut to what appears to be the resurrection of some long-dead (and creepy looking) warrior. Could this be the return of Ganondorf? The video then cuts to a long shot of Hyrule Field, with Hyrule Castle in the distance. There's a tremor, the castle is smothered with dust... and that's the end. The clip finishes with a message that reads: "The sequel to Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is in development." We wouldn't usually expect so much animation to be done so early in development, but it probably helps that Nintendo already has the in-game engine from Breath of the Wild. Breath of the Wild 2 news and rumors
Could Zelda have a bigger role this time around? (Image Credit: Nintendo) A 2020 release date? More hiring calls The latest hint comes from a Nintendo Japan tweet regarding some job listings for a “scenario planner” and a “level designer” for the game. The fact that such core roles are still being filled suggests that the game is still in the fairly early stages of development and isn’t likely to be a 2020 release. We can’t know for certain, of course, until Nintendo confirms an exact release date but we’re inclined to say later rather than sooner. All the DLC that never was "Initially we were thinking of just DLC ideas," says Anouma. "But then we had a lot of ideas and we said, 'This is too many ideas, let’s just make one new game and start from scratch.'" A darker turn for the series We've heard from Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma that the game is going to have a darker tone than Breath of the Wild, and will even be "a little bit darker" than Majora's Mask (via IGN). The trailer certainly supports this, with what looks like Ganondorf's corpse being resurrected by a disembodied hand, and seemingly imagery from 2006's Twilight Princess, which saw Hyrule turned into a bleak shadow realm – largely in response to the far cheerier and cartoonish The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker.
A Gerudo corpse, possibly Ganon, is grabbed by a mysterious force (Image Credit: Nintendo) The Twilight realm We know that BOTW's dev team originally toyed with the idea of an alien invasion, and seeing shadow creatures teleport out of the sky could well have been what they have planned this time around. A clue in the audio u/ReroFunk also suggests we could see the demon king Demise return for the next Zelda game. Demise was the final boss in Skyward Sword, and revealed to be the original form of Ganondorf. The below still from the Zelda trailer also looks a lot like Demise when you think about it.
Ganon, Demise, or something else entirely? (Image Credit: Nintendo) Lots of dungeons (and an extended map) Zelda's turn in the spotlight? Zelda's devs have seemed pretty dismissive of the idea of a female Link in the past – sadly – but we may in this game see sections playing as Zelda, or at least with her playing a more active role in the story. Breath of the Wild 2: what we want to seeThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is widely considered one of the best games in the series, and there'll be a lot of pressure to deliver a game not only as good – but also good in its own way. Here's what we're hoping Nintendo will be able to bring to the sequel when it lands. Some new environments
Soaring over Hyrule gave us some of BOTW's best moments (Image Credit: Nintendo) Save data carrying over Allowing for certain DLC items to carry over, and making reference to your individual decisions in the previous game – such as certain quests you did or didn't complete, or how many Divine Beasts you recruited before facing Ganon – would really help to make the sequel feel like a meaningful extension of the previous game. Some larger-scale dungeons No more Korok seeds Everything BOTW did so well
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| These new Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus deals make the world's best smartphone more affordable Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:24 AM PST Holding the accolade of the 'world's best smartphone' is no easy feat but if any phone deserves it right now, it's the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus. Of course however, like many other handsets on its level, this handsome handset suffers from one major drawback - its price. Luckily, as part of its Black Friday sales, Affordable Mobiles has helped ease that issue a little bit, releasing a Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus deal that just became arguably the best offer you can get on this phone. So what does the best deal on the best smartphone look like? Well with a massive 120GB of data on offer, nothing to pay upfront and monthly bills of £45, it looks pretty impressive! But of course, it wouldn't be Black Friday without some heavy competition. If the deal above feels both a little bit too expensive and lacking in the speeds that EE can offer, then you're in luck. In direct competition, a Black Friday phone deal from Fonehouse can get you the S10 Plus for £43 a month (£2 less than the above offer) and just so happens to be on EE - the UK's fastest 4G network. However, with half of the data of the above offer, it still feels like a second place deal to us.
These big data Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus deals in full:What makes the Samsung S10 Plus so great?Samsung's greatest 2019 handset, the S10 Plus is about as good as phones come right now - it's gone straight to the top of our best smartphone chart. The S10 Plus has a beautiful infinity-O display, in-screen fingerprint scanner, strong battery life and a powerful processor. But obviously with all of these features comes a big price, which is where these affordable offers come into play. Read our review on the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus Or if you still can't quite bring yourself to pay the prices of an S10 Plus, then Samsung Galaxy S10e deals could be a great alternative. Rocking many of the same features at a lower price, the S10e might be better for those on a budget.
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| Best Intel processors 2019: the best CPUs from Team Blue Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:23 AM PST The best Intel processor is a fine way to get a sweet new gaming PC up and running if you're looking to choose among the best processors to buy. And, while the debate between AMD and Intel is always raging, we went ahead and gathered up the best Intel processors, tested them and created this list. For years, Intel processors have been some of the best for gaming thanks to their high IPC (instructions per clock) performance, paired with high clock speeds. And, while that’s still true, you’ll find Intel processors in more than just a gaming rig. Intel Basin Falls Refresh processors rule the HEDT (high-end desktop) space, with high-performance processors (at an equally high cost) that are perfect for serious creatives and professionals. And, even if you’re on a budget, something like the Intel Pentium G4560 is perfect for making a bang-for-your-buck build. So, no matter what kind of CPU you’re looking for, Intel has you covered. And, we went ahead and gathered up all the best Intel processors right here, along with our exclusive price comparison tools, so you can spend less time shopping, and more time building. Best Intel processors of 2019 at a glance:
Intel Core i7-9700K is focused on delivering high clock speeds. (Image Credit: Intel) Intel Core i7 processors have always been the go-to for anyone looking for the best Intel processors. They traditionally deliver excellent performance, without breaking into the high prices of HEDT chips. The Intel Core i7-9700K continues in this tradition, but without the hyper-threading that defined earlier generations. Instead, the focus is on delivering high clock speeds – the 9700K boosts up to 4.9GHz right out of the box. This makes the Intel Core i7-9700K the best Intel processor for most people, as most everyday tasks won’t require more than eight threads. Read our hands-on review: Intel Core i7-9700K
Intel Core i5-9600K makes for such a great processor for gaming. (Image Credit: Intel) While there are certainly plenty of games that take advantage of multi-threaded processors these days (looking at you, Battlefield V), PC gaming is still mostly a single-threaded world. And, that’s why something like the Intel Core i5-9600K makes for such a great processor for gaming. Single-threaded performance is out of this world, which should help make high frame rate gaming feasible. The best part? This Intel processor is affordable, so you can spend more money on one of the best graphics cards.
Intel Pentium G4560 has integrated graphics, so you don't need to shell out for a new graphics card. (Image Credit: Intel) If you’re building a home theater PC, shelling out for a beefy Intel Core processor doesn’t make much sense – playing HD video doesn’t take a lot of horsepower. But, that’s where the Intel Pentium G4560 shines. For less than a hundred bucks, you can get decent performance that, while not the best for gaming or productivity work, is more than enough to watch some movies. Plus, the Intel Pentium G4560 has integrated graphics, so you don’t need to shell out for a new graphics card.
Intel Core i9-9900K is the best Intel processor when you need raw horsepower. (Image Credit: Intel) Like the Intel Core i9-9900K before it, the Intel Core i9-9900KS packs an impressive single-core performance that earns it the best Intel processor for high-performance all on its own. While it does have very big shoes to fill, especially with its predecessor retaking the multi-core crown from AMD, the Intel Core i9-9900KS holds its own with a faster base clock and the fact that all its eight cores can accelerate up to 5.0GHz out of the box, without the need for overclocking. Indeed, it’s marginally faster than the Intel Core i9-9900K, especially in multi-core workloads, and it beats AMD’s Ryzen 9 3900X when it comes to gaming performance. Read the full review: Intel Core i9-9900KS
You'll be hard-pressed to find a better Intel processor than the Intel Core i9-9980XE. (Image Credit: Intel) If you looked at that price and felt your jaw drop, there’s a reason why: the Intel Core i9-9980XE is an extremely expensive processor. However, for that price you’re getting 18 cores and 36 threads that can power through virtually any creative or professional workload without breaking a sweat. At the end of the day, the Intel Core i9-9980XE is one of those products where if you need to ask the price, it’s probably not for you. But, if it is for you, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better Intel processor. Read our full review: Intel Core i9-9980XE
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| Best processors 2019: the best CPUs for your PC Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:18 AM PST Are you looking for the best processor 2019 has on offer with which to build your new computer? Lucky for you, the CPU market is teeming with powerful silicon and growing. Thanks to the fiery competition between Intel and AMD, now is a great time to invest in a new processor. AMD has been slowly dominating the market, especially now with its Ryzen 3rd generation processors to compete with the likes of Intel Core i9-9900K and Intel Core i9-9920X. Intel, on the other hand, has its 9th-generation Coffee Lake Refresh chips with the Intel Core i9-9900K leading series, and they are still ever popular. Plus, not to be outdone by AMD, Intel has been rolling out Ice Lakechips, and we should start seeing them in computers by the end of 2019. The market is completely packed with a number of impressive chips, from budget big shots, like the AMD Ryzen 3 2200G, to HEDT heroes, like Intel’s Basin Falls Refresh lineup. There are also many mid-range megastars to round out this best processors list, like our current favorite, the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X. In fact, you can hardly throw a stone without hitting an impressive processor that does the job and more. This just means that finding the most ideal one for your rig is key. Lucky for you, even if the latest and greatest silicon is out of your wallet’s reach, there are many excellent Coffee Lake and Ryzen Gen 1 chips on the market. Get ready to experience incredible PC performance – as well as great deals thanks to our included our price comparison tool. These are the best processors on the market in 2019. Best processors of 2019 at a glance:
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is currently the king of all mainstream processors. The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X isn’t just AMD’s best mainstream processor right now; it’s also currently the king of all mainstream processors. With multi-threaded performance that destroys everything in its path to start, you won’t find a processor more impressive without stepping up to the HEDT market. Sure, there are some workloads where the Intel Core i9-9900K will still come out better, like with old games that are completely single threaded. However, thanks to this chip, the gap is definitely starting to narrow. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
All of Intel Core i9-9900KS' eight cores can accelerate to 5.0GHz without the need for overclocking. Inheriting the best high-end CPU spot from your predecessor isn’t always a good thing, especially when you’ve got big shoes to fill. Luckily for the Intel Core i9-9900KS, it manages to deliver impressive performance that earns it this spot in its own right. Not only does it offer a faster base clock than the Intel Core i9-9900K, but all its eight cores can accelerate to 5.0GHz without the need for overclocking. Though all that comes with a higher TDP and requires a very efficient cooling system, it’s still a pretty impressive upgrade. We only wish that Intel didn’t give it a price jump, as the Intel Core i9-9900K was already pricey enough. Read the full review: Intel Core i9-9900KS
With the AMD Ryzen 5 2600X, you're getting a much better performance than the pricier Intel Core i5-8600K. Looking to purchase one of the best processors for content creation on a tight budget? The AMD Ryzen 5 2600X might just be an ideal choice for you. With 6 cores, 12 threads and a base clock of 3.6GHz, you’re getting a much better performance than the pricier Intel Core i5-8600K. As a bonus, you get a gorgeous RGB CPU cooler included. Yes, the gaming performance over the blue team is marginal at best, but when you start multi-tasking – and who doesn’t always end up with 100 chrome tabs open by lunchtime – that value starts to manifest. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 5 2600X
AMD Ryzen 3 2200G might just be your best investment yet. If you’re putting together a gaming PC while on the tightest budget, the AMD Ryzen 3 2200G might just be your best investment yet. It doesn’t inherit the hyperthreading capability of its predecessor, the Ryzen 3 1200. However, the introduction of integrated graphics makes this APU one of the most affordable ways to experience casual PC gaming, a good enough reason to give this a spot in our best processors list. Impressively, we were even able to play Overwatch at 4K Ultra-HD resolution at ‘Epic’ settings. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 3 2200G
AMD Ryzen 5 3600X takes that budget-minded stage of performance to a new level. With more threads than the Intel Core i5-9600K, this mid-range graphics card delivers impressive multi-threading performance. However, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600X doesn’t just stop there: it takes that budget-minded stage of performance to a new level, with its increased IPC (instructions per clock) performance and a higher clock speed while staying at the same price point. It also stays competitive in even the most intense single-threaded applications. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 5 3600X
AMD Ryzen 7 1800X is better suited for VR workloads. Initially the Intel Core i7-7700K’s biggest competition, the AMD Ryzen 7 1800X still holds its own today, despite having been succeeded by the Ryzen 7 2800X. Its high core count, when compared to its Intel rival, means that it's better suited for VR workloads. Now that it’s dropped considerably in price, it’s more affordable than ever. If you’re building a VR rig, do yourself a favor: save some cash without sacrificing too much on performance with the Ryzen 7 1800X. It’s undoubtedly one of the best processors for VR gaming. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 7 1800X
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X is a beast when it comes to multi-threaded workloads. The single-threaded performance of the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X admittedly still falls behind Intel, but what matters most in video editing and rendering is how a chip does with multi-threaded workloads. If you’re building a computer that can handle your video editing demands, this chip is an absolute beast and our top pick for video editing. That’s not all: this AMD chip offers impressive performance and a Wraith Spire cooler at a very affordable price. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
Intel Core i9-9980XE absolutely destroys all its competitors. Are you the kind of user that demands world-class performance, and money is no object? The Intel Core i9-9980XE is among the best processors for you. With 18-cores and 36-threads, it absolutely destroys all its competitors on the market right now, if just barely. Multi-threaded applications and workstation-class projects are going to breeze by with this chip. However, if that steep price tag makes you do a double take, then you might want to look somewhere else. Read the full review: Intel Core i9-9980XE
Intel Pentium G4560 shows us what low-end CPUs have been missing for a long time. If you choose the Intel Pentium G4560 over a Core i3 chip, you might not even notice the slight loss of performance, as you’ll be too busy counting all the money you saved. As the first Pentium chip in a long time to boast hyper-threading, the G4560 shows us what low-end CPUs have been missing for a long time. In benchmarks, it proves that it’s easily adjacent to the pricier Intel Core i3-7100.
AMD Ryzen 5 2400G changed everything for mainstream PC users. One of the only things that was missing in AMD’s Ryzen processors when they blew up was the integrated graphics support. But then, the Ryzen 5 2400G hit the streets and changed everything for mainstream PC users. With excellent AMD Vega graphics, it’s a fantastic APU most ideal for anyone looking to build a home theater PC. In addition, now that AMD has slashed the price, you can get your 4K action for cheaper than ever. Read the full review: AMD Ryzen 5 2400G Michelle Rae Uy also contributed to this article. Welcome to TechRadar's PC Gaming Week 2019. We're celebrating the most powerful gaming platform on Earth with in-depth articles, exclusive interviews and essential buying guides that showcase everything PC gaming has to offer. Visit our PC Gaming Week 2019 page to see all our coverage in one place. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best 32-inch TVs 2019: the best small TVs for any budget Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:14 AM PST If you're after a small TV, and can't bear the scale – or the price tag – of the massive screens being touted by today's TV makers, there's still an impressive collection of the best 32-inch TVs that more than compensate for their size. It's the bigger screens that tend to get the most attention, as well as the latest and greatest features, and you may feel the pressure to opt for a television that simply won't fit that comfortably into your home – especially with Black Friday and Cyber Monday coming up, and no doubt a huge number of cut-price Black Friday TV deals on massive screens. Thankfully, today's crop of 32-inch TVs are still able to pack in modern smart platforms and picture resolutions, or simplify their offering to help drive down end prices – making these small televisions every bit as worth considering as their larger counterparts. It's worth pointing out that you’re unlikely to find the best of the best TV features in a small 32-inch TV. For example, OLED panels are off the table, and there's little point in 4K resolutions at such a small display size.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t grab yourself a bargain with an excellent 32-inch TV set with a Full HD 1080p resolution, crystal-clear image quality and connected smart platform catch-up features. In fact, some 32-inch sets even offer newer features, like HDR. Luckily, our TV experts have tested and researched the best options, whether you're in the US or UK. The best bit is that small TVs cost just a fraction of the price of a giant OLED TV like the LG C9 OLED. Read on for our pick of the best 32-inch TV bunch of 2019 – starting with US models, with UK models below them – and be sure to check back to see what newer sets are added throughout the year. Best 32-inch small TVs at a glance
Best 32-inch small TVs
Image Credit: Vizio VIZIO pretty much rules the roost when it comes to high-quality value TVs in the United States, with the 2018 D32-D1 being the best of them all. While the name might not exactly jump out at you, VIZIO's small screen has a lot going for it – including a full 1080p resolution and an app tray full of the most popular streaming services (including Netflix, YouTube and Hulu). We'd recommend plugging in some speakers if you can, as the integrated ones aren't great. That being said, if you're looking for something smart, small and affordable at a 32-inch size, you can't beat VIZIO's small screen wonder in our opinion.
Image Credit: Samsung Samsung has been a leader in the 32-inch TV space for years, and at the moment its top of the line model is is the UN32M5300. Why? It offers full 1080p images and its Tizen operating system for a price that most folks can afford. This grants access to loads of apps, and the TV's built-in Wi-Fi stops you from having to plug it into your router. Sure, the UN32M5300 doesn't have the most connection ports in the world, with just two HDMI slots to pick from. But hey, the small compromises are absolutely worth it.
Image Credit: TCL Back in 2017, the TCL 32S305 was one of the best-selling 32-inch TVs. It was affordable, offered built-in Roku TV and decent picture quality considering the fact that it was limited to 720p. Since then, a number of better-looking TV have come along (cough Samsung M5300) but, if price is your main criteria, then you can't go wrong with 2017's best.
Image Credit: Sony The Sony KDL32WE613 is proof a 32-inch TV doesn't have to miss out on newer tech. It supports HDR, usually only seen in much larger, more expensive TVs. HDR isn't equal across sets as it relies on a screen's contrast and brightness, but it will let you squeeze more out of a top-end Netflix or Amazon Video subscription, or your favorite console games. The TV also offers recording over USB, Wi-Fi and access to BBC iPlayer, YouTube and a fistful of other apps. The stinger is this 32-inch TV set is only 720p, not Full HD. If you're going to watch close-up, the benefits of higher resolution may outweigh HDR.
Image Credit: Toshiba If you have shelves full of DVDs or a habit of popping the latest bargain bucket DVD title in with your weekly shopping, this new Toshiba 32-inch model is one to consider, with its built-in DVD drive. It's not going to rival some of the other models here on all-round picture quality, and it isn't Full HD either. But it still looks attractive despite its combi design, and supports the Freeview Play smart system in the UK, which adds up to a lot of features for its £229 price. You also get three HDMI ports, one more than several other 32-inch TV sets in this round-up. If the set is too small for you, though, you can check out the 43-inch Toshiba UL5A for 4K resolution and an Alexa voice control upgrade.
Image Credit: Sunbrite If you came here looking for an outdoor TV in the 32-inch bracket, we wouldn't feel right sending you off without mentioning SunBrite's series of full-outdoor TVs. The SunBrite SB3211 in particular offers a super-bright screen that can compete with the sun in any setting. Not only does it pack in 1,000 nits of brightness, but it carries a 1080p resolution and a weatherproof speaker bar. The only drawback is that it's crazy expensive – around $3,300 if you buy directly from SunBrite. That said, if you want the best 32-inch TV set you can keep outdoors to make your rental home (or real home) even better, this is it. Which TVs does TechRadar recommend?We know that shopping for a new TV can be a massive hassle, more so when you’re not sure what you’re looking for. But, don't worry, the experts here at TechRadar are veterans at compiling lists that help you find out what features to check for when you're looking for the best 32-inch TV for you. With 32-inch TVs, one of the most important features to look for is 'smart TV' capabilities. When it comes to a TV for a second or third room, smart features can drastically improve the value and utility of TVs for the simple reason that it prevents you from having to purchase another set-top box or streaming stick. Instead, all of the functionality of those devices is built right in, saving you time and money. If you’re looking for a TV to fill a bedroom or study, a set with Wi-Fi capability that supports video streaming and file sharing should be at the top of your list. If you can, we recommend avoiding TVs with resolutions lower than 1080p. Sure, a 720p image will look fine on a smaller screen, but if you want all the details in the images, a 1080p TV is the way to go. Keep in mind that some retailers and manufacturers will try to mislead customers by labeling most 32-inch TVs as 'HD Ready', signifying that it features an HD resolution; however, even though the lower 1,366 x 768 resolution technically qualifies as 'HD Ready', it's going to deliver an image that is muddier and less clear than TVs with a full HD 1,920 x 1,080 display. One last thing to consider before you decide which 32-inch TV you want, is whether or not it has all the ports you need. Devices like the PS4, the Nintendo Switch and DVD/Blu-ray players will need HDMI inputs; the Nintendo Wii or other legacy game consoles will need a component or even composite video input; PCs, if they don’t use HDMI, will likely use a DVI or VGA input; and Sky or cable set top boxes will need an additional HDMI. When you have a lot of different devices to connect, it will really make your life easier getting a 32-inch TV that has enough ports to support everything you want to do with it. Keep these tips in mind, and you should have no problem finding the small screen of your dreams.
Original reporting in this article was by John Archer. Hopefully by now you've realized that you shouldn’t take buying a 32-inch TV lightly, even if it's intended for a second room. An 'impulse' second room TV purchase – especially one based on just trying to get the cheapest model you can find – can often easily end in tears and a sense of money wasted, if a set doesn’t give you the features and performance traits your set up needs. But what, exactly, should you be searching for beyond a 1080p resolution, a bevy of ports and smart functionality? Here are five more things to look out for. Get connectedWhile not often considered for TVs, Bluetooth support might also be handy – especially if you want to quickly stream music from your smart devices to the TV's speakers. However, such support isn’t common in the 32-inch TV market, and so a TV not having it likely shouldn't be seen as a deal breaker. When it comes to built-in video streaming services, your 32-inch TV will ideally carry apps for Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and the catch up services of the UK's four main broadcasters: BBC iPlayer, the ITV Hub, All4 and My5. Now TV may be a handy extra bonus too, if you can find it.
Best 32-inch TV sets Finding all of these services – or even a good percentage of them – on a single 32-inch TV can be quite a challenge, though, if you try to save money and look beyond the main LG/Samsung/Sony/Panasonic brands (these all combine relatively strong app support with far more advanced and friendly interfaces than you tend to get with 'b-list' brands). As the icing on the cake, you could also consider a 32-inch TV that carries either Freeview Play or YouView. These apps present the UK's catch-up TV services in a convenient 'wrapper' that includes an electronic program guide you can scroll back through time as well as forwards, making it easier to hunt down shows you've missed. At the time of writing, though, we believe only Panasonic offers this sort of functionality (in the form of Freeview Play) on its 32-inch TVs. Go beyond resolutionLike we mentioned earlier, resolution is important. However, resolution is only one part of a TV's overall picture performance, so it is possible for a 720p TV with superior motion processing, color management and backlighting to produce better pictures than a low quality 1080p set. Try and consider a screen's picture claims and features as a whole, rather than focussing on a single specification.
Best 32-inch TV sets IPS vs VA panelsThere are essentially two types of LCD panel technology out there for 32-inch TVs: IPS and VA. IPS panels offer slightly wider viewing angles, while VA panels support much better contrast. With big screen 'main' TVs likely to be used for watching films, sometimes with the lights dimmed, the lack of contrast with IPS screens can become a big issue, causing dark scenes to look washed out. So if you're looking for a 32-inch TV to go into a relatively dark environment, a VA panel is a must. IPS panel contrast issues are less problematic in bright rooms such as conservatories and kitchens, though, and the (slight) IPS viewing angle advantage can also be handy in such large environments where viewers may be using the TV while walking around the room. It can be hard to find out for sure what sort of panel a particular 32-inch TV uses, but it’s definitely worth pursuing if you're a movie fan or gamer looking to use a TV in a dark room. To get you started, all LG TVs use IPS panels, and pretty much all Samsung TVs use VA panels. Other brands tend to use a mixture of IPS and VA panels across different parts of their ranges. Gaming modeThe 32-inch screen size is understandably popular with gamers, but some 32-inch TV sets handle gaming much better than others. Motion issues are particularly critical to gaming, so if you’re able to see a few sets running, look out for the motion-related issues mentioned in the previous section. How quickly a 32-inch TV renders image data received at its inputs – something known as input lag – is also a critical issue for gaming. Unfortunately, though, this is seldom a specification that's quoted by manufacturers, and while it's something we cover in our TV tests, getting 32-inch TVs to test is proving next to impossible these days. At the very least, though, any 32-inch TV a gamer buys ought to at least carry a Game picture preset. This shows that a brand has at least thought about gaming by providing a mode optimized for it – and usually one of the key features of such game modes is keeping input lag to a minimum.
Best 32-inch TV sets Don't get hung up on designOne strange thing about the second-room TV market dominated by 32-inch models is that people seem much more likely to get obsessed by specific design requirements than they do with the main living room TV – and that's especially true when it comes to the set's color (white, for instance, is in especially high demand for kitchens and conservatories). Presumably some consumers think that with second-room TVs the usual picture quality concerns become relatively unimportant, as the TV will only be used casually. Our advice would be, though, that you try not to let design conditions limit your TV choice since experience shows that actually, smart features and some aspects of picture quality – especially brightness and (with gamers) motion clarity – are even more important to the effectiveness of second room TVs than they are to main living room TVs. Sound qualityFar too many 32-inch TVs treat sound as an afterthought, even though it's a key part of any viewing experience. It can be tricky to judge a TV's likely audio performance, though, without hearing it for yourself. All you can do is look for rated speaker output specifications (even though these are notoriously unreliable) and clues in a TV's design: forward firing speakers, built-in bass woofers, enough space on the rear to allow air to move around, and so on. To DVD, or not to DVDFinally, if you want to limit secondary kit clutter around a 32-inch TV in a second room, there are still a small number of 32-inch TVs out there that carry built-in DVD players. The 32-inch Toshiba 32D3753DB, the Bush DLED32265HDDVDW and the Cello C32227FT2, for instance. However, none of the 'big four' TV brands support this feature any more, leaving you having to consider second tier manufacturers – with potential negative impact on picture quality and smart features – if you're still a DVD user. 32-inch TV sets with built-in Blu-ray players are not available at the time of writing, by the way, so don't forget that when you're using a built-in DVD player you're having to watch a standard definition picture being upscaled – often by rather average processing – to the TV screen's HD resolution.
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| Breath of the Wild 2 could release as early as 2020 Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:13 AM PST The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was a huge hit when it released in 2017, so it's no surprise that Nintendo has a sequel in the works. However, it looks like Breath of the Wild 2 could be arriving earlier than we thought. According to leaker Sabi (via wccftech), Breath of the Wild 2 is due for release in 2020. But, as Sabi points out, "Zelda release dates are historically delayed, internally or publicly". Check out the tweet below:
All aboard the hype train
While it's always worth taking rumors with a big pinch of salt, Sabi is a pretty reliable leaker. The Twitter user leaked most of the big announcements from E3 2019 before they happened – reportedly even earning himself a cease and desist order from Nintendo. We already knew Breath of the Wild 2 was on the way, as it was announced by Nintendo at E3 2019, but we didn't really have an idea when – until now. Nintendo hasn't shared much information other than the trailer and a few sparse comments, but the trailer revealed at E3 did close with a line stating that the Breath of the Wild sequel was "in development". A 2020 release date is sooner than we thought but, as Sabi points out, it's likely we'll see delays – so late 2020 may be a more precise estimate.
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| The best free screen recorder 2019: record everything happening on your desktop Posted: 12 Nov 2019 09:07 AM PST A free screen recorder is just what you need if you're looking to make a video of what's happening on your desktop. Like an advanced version of a screenshot, screen recording enables you to create demonstration videos, record gaming achievements for posterity, and create videos than can be shared online on the likes of YouTube. It is important to choose the right free screen recorder depending on what you intend to do with the footage you capture. Different recorders offer a range of differing features, can save captures in varying formats, or capture footage from external sources such as a webcam – and some even give you the opportunity to upload to the internet directly from within the program. Some run nicely on average hardware, while others are more demanding. The point is that there is plenty of choice. No matter what you're hoping to do with footage captured from your computer, you need the right tool for the job. And this is where our look at the best free screen recorders can help – take a look and see which one is best for you. The best free screen recorders at a glance
If you’re a keen gamer, OBS Studio is easily the best screen recorder for you. Unlike the hugely popular FRAPS (which only lets you record for 30 seconds at a stretch unless you’ve bought a license, and applies a watermark to the resulting footage), OBS Studio is open source, and completely free to use without restrictions. OBS Studio supports both streaming and recording in high definition, with no restrictions on the number or length of your creations. You can stream live to Twitch or YouTube gaming, save projects and come back to them later, or encode your footage in FLV format and save it locally. Because OBS Studio can record directly from your graphics card, it’s able to capture games running in full-screen mode (many other screen recorders can only record if the game is windowed), with customizable hotkeys to control the recording. OBS Studio can also make full use of multi-core CPUs for improved performance, and can record at 60FPS (or even higher). It might take a little while to set it up exactly how you want, but OBS Studio is by far the best and most powerful screen recorder for gamers. Read our full review: OBS Studio
OBS Studio is our top choice for recording from a desktop or webcam, but Flashback Express comes an extremely close second. Despite being a free version of a paid program, FlashBack Express won't put ugly watermarks over your recordings or impose time limits, and it's packed with features and tools that rival many premium programs. Its interface is less intimidating than OBS Studio, so if you've never used a screen recorder before, it's an excellent choice. You can record from your whole screen, a window, a selected area, or a webcam. Once you’ve finished, your recording will appear in a simple editor, where you can crop and trim it to suit your needs, then export it to YouTube, an FTP server, or your PC. That’s all fairly standard fare for a free screen recorder, but take a minute to dive into Flashback’s advanced options and you’ll find a wealth of thoughtfully designed settings that will make your desktop recordings look truly professional. The recorder can automatically obscure passwords entered on screen, replace your silly wallpaper with a plain one, hide messy desktop icons, and highlight your mouse pointer to make it easier to follow. There's also a dedicated gaming mode that lets you define the number of frames recorded per second. There’s no limit on the length of your recordings unless you choose to set one, which can be useful if there’s a chance you might accidentally leave the recorder running. You can also choose to break long recordings up into chunks – a brilliant touch that helps you avoid creating huge, unwieldy files. Your recordings won’t be watermarked, either. Following a recent update, Flashback Express can export in WMV, AVI and MP4 formats, eliminating the need for a separate video converter, and it no longer requires a free license key for activation – just install the software and you're ready to start recording. Developer Blueberry Software has also released a free screen recorder designed specifically for games – FBX. This recorder captures HD in-game footage, with hardware acceleration for AMD and Nvidia cards, and Intel CPUs. If you're thinking about upgrading to FlashBack Pro, Blueberry software is offering TechRadar readers an exclusive 25% discount. Read our full review: Flashback Express
If you want to record a presentation, software demonstration or tutorial, give Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder a try. It's a browser-based tool, which means it's not suitable for games, but for any other tasks it's ideal. The first time you use Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder, you'll be prompted to download a small launcher application. You'll then be provided with a control bar packed with more options than you'll find in most desktop screen recording software. You can capture footage from your desktop or a webcam, and record audio from your PC, microphone, both or neither. You can record the whole screen, select an area manually or choose one of the preset resolutions – ideal if you’re recording a clip for YouTube, for example, and don’t want to use a separate video editor to resize it later. Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder also offers customizable keyboard shortcuts for speed and convenience. You can choose whether or not to include the cursor in the recording and take your pick from a range of output formats including MP4, WMV, AVI, MOV and many more. You can even add annotations during the recording. Once you’re done, you can save the recording as a video file or GIF, upload it directly to YouTube or Vimeo, or send it to Google Drive or Dropbox. You can also edit the clip. Selecting this option will download an additional component – Apowersoft Video Editor – which lets you make simple adjustments before exporting your video in your preferred format. A truly exceptional tool. Note that the 'Download desktop version' button links to a program called Apowersoft Screen Recorder Pro. This is a trial version of a premium application, and is more limited than Online Screen Recorder. Read our full review: Apowersoft Free Online Screen Recorder
Debut Video Capture is a new addition to our roundup of free screen recorders, and although its slightly dated design does it few favors, it's an extremely powerful program that can do much more than just capture what's happening on your PC monitor. In addition to basic screen recording (with no time limits or watermarks), Debut Video Capture can also record footage from external devices, including webcams and security cameras. It can even record on a regular schedule, which means it can become the main hub of a home security system. Not too shabby for a program that's totally free for personal use. There are no post-production editing tools, but you can apply filters and add your own captions and watermarks before you begin recording. There's no option for exporting videos directly to YouTube or Facebook, but they can be saved in all the main formats, including MP4, MOV and AVI (to name just three). Debut Video Capture is currently in public beta, so we look forward to seeing the final release version with a lick of extra polish soon. Read our full review: Debut Video Capture
ShareX is an open source app for capturing still screen grabs and recording videos. There are no watermarks or time limits to worry about, but the interface isn't the most intuitive in the world so you’ll be best off using keyboard shortcuts. For quick reference, you can start a recording by tapping Shift + Print Screen, and stop it again using Ctrl + Shift + Print Screen. You can also use this free screen recorder to save your capture as a GIF rather than a video file, which can be extremely useful for sharing on forums and social media. Not only is ShareX a brilliant free screen recorder, it can also capture an entire scrolling webpage, capture and identify text via OCR, and even capture your screen according to a schedule. Another of its best features is the ability to send your captured grabs and videos straight to a file-sharing or social media site. There’s a vast array of options, which you can check out on the project’s site. Unfortunately, ShareX doesn’t support taking screen grabs or recordings from games running in full-screen mode. Other than that, it’s a superb screen recorder that will serve you extremely well. Watch our rundown of our favourite free video editors:
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