Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Apple : The best Netflix series in the US (August 2019): fantastic Netflix shows

Apple : The best Netflix series in the US (August 2019): fantastic Netflix shows

The best Netflix series in the US (August 2019): fantastic Netflix shows

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 01:26 PM PDT

Best Netflix Shows: Welcome to TechRadar's guide to the best shows and TV series you can stream on Netflix in the United States. 

These days Netflix plays host to some of the best TV shows on the planet, bar none. From originals like Stranger Things and Orange is the New Black, to syndicated content like Archer, Black Mirror and Breaking Bad, if you need to unwind with a great TV show, there's only one place to go.

That means, if you're anything like us, you spend a lot of time in front of the Netflix screen. That also means you run out of shows to watch. 

To help you keep that IV bag of great TV content dripping, we've scoured the video streaming service to create a guide to the best Netflix shows in the US right now. We keep this list constantly updated with the latest television shows that you should be watching, so check back soon for more highlights.

August update: It has been an incredible season for Netflix with new episodes of Queer Eye, Stranger Things and Last Chance U all dropping within the last few months. We're excited about September's show lineup - including the second season of Matt Groening's Disenchantment - but there's no shortage of great new shows on the service.

So where should you start? Our list starts with the most recent releases - so start at the beginning with the latest options or dive straight in to the best of the best, the choice is yours. 

Why focus on Netflix? Why not hit up Hulu or tackle Vudu, Crackle or Vimeo? Well, those services are great but, in our opinion, Netflix has the most variety and probably the best shows of any of the other services. 

That being said, there’s never been a better time to binge watch, so get stuck into our gallery and let us know if your favorite show isn't on the list. 

Live in the UK, the UAE or Australia? We have guides for those, too!

Check out our Amazon Prime vs Netflix video below:

When it comes to TV and movies, the '80s is the nostalgia decade of the moment. Whether it's Jeff Nichols' Midnight Special that plays like a Steven Spielberg film, if Spielberg still made films like he did in the Eighties, or The Goldbergs and Red Oaks mining the decade for laughs, filmmakers can't get enough of the shell suits and Sony Walkmans.

Stranger Things is another brilliant homage to this era. Leaning heavily on Spielberg, John Carpenter and Stephen King the story revolves around a small town, a group of friends, a missing person and a dodgy science lab. Writing anything else would give away the myriad twists in a show that is full of brilliant creepy fun.

The third season hit earlier in the summer and it was simply fantastic.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Need a dose of feel-good TV to help cope with today's rocky political landscape? Check out Queer Eye, a show about being the best you with help from five of the coolest dudes on the planet. The show just entered its fourth season in three years and we're still loving the premise of taking people stuck in a rut and hoisting them to the self-respecting, self-loving person we all want to be. 

Seasons on Netflix: 4  

ESPN might've had the world of sports documentaries well in hand with its 30 for 30 series. But that was before Netflix got the crazy idea to make one of its own. Inspired by an article in GQ magazine, Last Chance U follows student athletes who are one step away from never playing football again. On top of the pressures on the field, students face problems in the classroom where class absences and the fear failing hit harder than a defensive lineman. It's gritty, heart-wrenching and exactly the kind of series that gives you something to root for all while biting your nails.

Just in time for football season, the fourth season of the show – which continues following the team in Independence, Kansas – is now available.

Seasons on Netflix: 4

Starting in June you can catch three new episodes of Charlie Brooker's spiritual successor to The Twilight Zone. We won't spoil the episodes' details here but, with Miley Cyrus playing a frighteningly good lead character in this batch, there's good reason to be excited about the show's return.

Before Black Mirror, Charlie Brooker was best known for his snarky looky at the news in Weekly Wipe and his fantastic, caustic look at meeja types in London’s Shoreditch. Now the show has given him superstar status. For good reason, it’s fantastic TV with each episode taking on a different dystopia topic, mostly framed around technology going very long. The third season was commissioned by Netflix and is in 4K, with most of the episodes being feature length.

Seasons on Netflix: 5 + Bandersnatch special 

If you like your cultural analysis with a dose of humor, Dear White People is the show for you. Starring Logan Browning at the conflicted Sam White, Dear White People navigates the tricky grounds of race relations in America in the post-Obama-but-yet-not-post-racism era. The first few episodes back away from hitting on anything too heavy but come episodes five and six, you get a biting sense of why this show is so needed at this point in our history. Funny, clever and dripping in wit, Dear White People isn't so much an attack on American ideals as it is a series about exploring, explaining, defending and deliberating the issues facing people of color in the US.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

My Next Guest Needs No Introduction has a simple but fantastic premise: What if, instead of having David Letterman host a late night talk show, he sits down with some of the most prominent people in entertainment and politics and just talks to them, person-to-person. There's no big band to play him off, no goofy segments to fill time, and no commercial breaks. It's just Letterman and his guests for 50 minutes at a time. The inaugural episode stars former US President Barrack Obama, which in and of itself makes it worth watching.

Season 2, which just went up at the end of May, stars rapper/media mogul Kanye West, Ellen DeGeneres, Tiffany Haddish,  Lewis Hamilton and philanthropist Melinda Gates in poignant, pointed conversation with the former king of late night. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

If you're looking for a scintillating time-travelling romance, check out Outlander, arriving on the service on May 27. The plot follows Claire Randall as she's taken back in time to Scotland where she... uh, befriends the locals.

It's basically Who Do You Think You Are meets your grandma's romance novels.   

Seasons on Netflix: 2

We've got some bad news, true believers: Netflix will no longer play host to Marvel TV shows. The companies announced their separation in late 2018, and sealed the deal in February of this year with the cancellation of Jessica Jones and The Punisher. 

That said, for the foreseeable future, you'll still be able to watch episodes of all the existing Marvel shows, which now include Daredevil, Iron Fist, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and the one-time crossover event, The Defenders.

But don't dawdle, there's no telling what tomorrow will bring for the heroes (and villains) of Hell's Kitchen. 

Seasons on Netflix: 3

While we were disheartened to hear that Netflix would end its long-running partnership with Marvel Studios on shows including Daredevil, Iron Fist, Luke Cage and Jessica Jones, we were treated in February to The Umbrella Academy - a comic series written and developed by former My Chemical Romance frontman Gerald Way. The comic series, which is currently in its third run, has attracted a huge cult following (not unlike My Chemical Romance) and Netflix scooped up the rights to the series.

That said, the show isn't as great as its Marvel forerunners - but it scratches the itch for super-powered TV shows without relying on iconic (and expensive) IPs.    

Seasons on Netflix: 1

The long-awaited reboot of everyone's favorite teenage witch is finally here, and it's easily one of the best new shows on Netflix. 

The first season arrived just in time for Halloween - offering 10 episodes of
supernatural high school drama. In the show's second season, which debuted in April, we got our chance to see how Sabrina is taking to her new life as a witch, and her struggles with both her inner and outer demons. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Orange Is The New Black's Natasha Lyonne stars in this dark comedy as Nadia, who keeps dying and reliving her 36th birthday party in a surreal time loop – much like Groundhog Day. 

With it's cynical and witty examination of living and dying, Russian Doll switches rapidly between laugh-out-loud hilarity and devastating sadness – it's a must-watch. In June 2019, Netflix announced it would be renewing Russian Doll for a second season - more details to come soon.

Seasons on Netflix: 1 

Created by Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett, Big Mouth is a fictionalization of Kroll and Goldberg's teenage years in Westchester County, New York. 

The series is all about puberty, with Nick's raging hormones personified by Maurice the Hormone Monster, who wreaks havoc on his anxiety-ridden teenage life. 

Season 2 has just hit Netflix, and it's still as graphic as ever in its frank portrayal of the ups and downs of being a teenager and dealing with a changing body (don't watch this one with your parents).

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Critically acclaimed comedy The Good Place is back for a new season, continuing to follow the afterlife of a recently deceased woman who is sent to heaven by mistake.

The last season ended on something of a cliff hanger, so fans will be pleased to know that there will be a new episode every week. A great cast, clever writing and an original concept make this a must-watch.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Starring Emma Stone and Jonah Hill, Maniac is a dark comedy miniseries, which follows two strangers as they embark on a pharmaceutical trial for a drug that claims to solve the users problems, permanently.

In the first day of its release, the show has been met with widely positive reviews, and the entire first season is available to stream on Netflix.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Bojack Horseman is back for a brand new season, following glowing reviews for the previous four. 

Following the life of  washed up actor Bojack as he struggles with alcoholism, toxic relationships, and family issues, the series is just as heartwarming as it can be heartbreaking. For those who are worried it may be too dark for them, fear not - there's loads of slapstick humor, word play, and stunning animation to keep everything balanced.

Seasons on Netflix: 5

Coming of age show Atypical is back for a new season, with Keir Gilchrist reprising his role as Sam Gardner, an 18-year-old with autism. Season two follows Sam as he starts thinking about colleges, and his family as they struggle to come to terms with a betrayal. 

Sam may be the show's protagonist, but it's his little sister Casey who steals the limelight in the new season, as she tries to balance school, her running career, friendship, and love. 

Even if you left education a long time ago, it's difficult to shake that feeling of 'back to school' at the beginning of September - with that in mind, why not try out a few high school themed shows on Netflix?

A good place to start is American Vandal, a mockumentary that examines the aftermath of a school prank that sees teachers' cars vandalized. The light-hearted ribbing of serious true crime documentaries like Making A Murderer and The Staircase has received great reviews, and the second season is set to arrive on Netflix on September 14. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Before the new season drops on October 10, you can still catch up with the first two seasons of Riverdale, the teen drama based on the infamous Archie comic book series. 

If you were a fan of Archie comics as a kid, this interpretation of the beloved characters is far darker and more mysterious than you'll remember, revolving around the murder of a local boy while the characters attempt to navigate high school, relationships, and family.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Orange Is The New Black is back for its sixth season and is a show that consistently one of the best to watch, with its superb tale of life in a women's prison. It's so popular that its makers have announced that the show will be running until at least season seven.

That being said, the show is dark. Tensions and issues with the US prison system brought to the forefront and while the comedy from the first few seasons is still there, it's slathered with a fair bit of drama. 

Seasons on Netflix: 6

Before we continue on with recommendation, Shameless comes with a warning: this show, a dramedy about a poor family in Chicago, really is shameless. Frank, played by William H. Macy will scheme his way to his next drink ... even if that means taking his own kids' lunch money. If you have ethical problems watching less-than-admirable people doing whatever it takes to make ends meet, Shameless isn't for you.

All that said, those that don't mind a bit more ... unscrupulous cast of characters will seriously enjoy Shameless's grittier, sex- and money-driven take on the Modern Family comedy.

Seasons on Netflix: 8

13 Reasons Why tackles tough subject matter in a way that's both heartfelt and shocking in equal measure. The show is a high school drama that revolves around a student, Clay Jensen, and his friend Hannah Baker. Hannah commits suicide, and the first season covered the 13 reasons why that happened. 

As you'd expect, a lot of the topics and themes in 13 Reasons Why might be distressing for some viewers. So really bear that in mind if you're planning on watching it soon - and consider who you're planning on watching it with, too. 

That said, if you can stomach the source material, 13 Reasons Why offers a well-wrought candid look at the societal pressures put on teens in the technological age.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Netflix has had a rocky road with sci-fi adaptations - the Wachowski's Sense8 had grand ambitions but didn't quite hit the sweet spot for everyone. Altered Carbon is hoping to change that, with its unique blend of dystopian science fiction. Based on the book of the same name by Richard Morgan, the show has sparks of brilliance ( Joel Kinnaman is great) but is also occasionally ridiculous in its outset (James Purefoy hams it up throughout). It strives to be more than it actually is but we admire what it's trying to do. Oh, and it looks fantastic in 4K.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

If you feel like you've been getting too good of sleep recently, American Horror Story is all-too-happy to fix that for you. You'll find seven seasons of the show on Netflix, each of which centers around a different plot line and unique set of fears. Not sure if clowns are all that scary? Watch American Horror Story. Think porous materials are harmless? Again, watch American Horror Story. Anything you love can and will be used to scare you silly.

[Update: American Horror Story: Apocalypse, the eight season in the anthology series is out now on FX. We're not sure when it will be available to stream on Netflix, but we will update this article as soon as it lands.]

Seasons on Netflix: 7 

If it wasn't for Netflix, Arrested Development would have stayed as a three-season wonder. The streaming giant decided to take a gamble and fund a fourth season of Mitchell Hurwitz's brilliant family comedy and we are glad it did. While splitting the family up for most of the season meant some of the spark had disappeared - this was done to fit in with the actors' busy schedules - the fourth season proved that there was still a lot to like about the dysfunctional Bluth family. 

Filled with season-long in-jokes, perfect site gags and spot-on wordplay, Arrested Development is a comedy that needs to be watched on repeat - and even then you will find something new to laugh at.

Seasons on Netflix: 5

Freddie Highmore was one of the sweetest child actors around in his younger years, playing cherubic children in the likes of Finding Neverland and the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Now he's a fully fledged adult he's taken a much darker turn as future Psycho psycho Norman Bates in the show Bate Motel. A prequel of sorts to the Psycho movies, Bates Motel is a fantastic spin on the horror tale, ramping up the relationship Bates has with his mother - a cold and calculating Vera Farmiga - and sprinkling breadcrumbs along the way that point to how he became who he became. 

Seasons on Netflix: 5

Better Call Saul is better than Breaking Bad. That’s a sentence we never thought we would write, but it’s now three seasons and it is flawless TV. It doesn’t have the menace or fear that propelled Walter White in Breaking Bad, instead it takes its time to paint a picture of Saul Goodman, someone that was in Bad mainly for comic relief. 

In his own show, though, creators Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould have created a well-rounded, means well character whose descent into criminality is a slow burn. Although some characters have started to appear from Breaking Bad, the show doesn’t beg for the appearance of Walter White or Jesse - it’s now it’s own thing entirely.

Seasons on Netflix: 4

More addictive than the meth pushed by Walt and Jessie, Breaking Bad is brilliant binge-watching television. The initial plot is simple: a straight-laced teacher is told he has cancer and to make sure he leaves his family with the best possible life, he turns to drug making and dealing. There's method to his madness as he ends up being pretty good at it. Creator Vince Gilligan has created such a good group of characters, he is currently mining the same world again with Better Call Saul. But that has some way to go reach the highest highs that Breaking Bad offers.

Seasons on Netflix: 5

The words 'food porn' get thrown around a lot these days, and typically are preceded by a hashtag and proceeded by us viciously rolling our eyes. But Chef's Table is the real deal – 4K footage of some of the best chefs in the world making their signature dishes and doling out morsels of philosophy to keep your mind just as engaged as your stomach. 

Parts of the show come off as a bit too heady for the source material and are prone to veering a bit off course (there's multiple scenes where a particular chef talks about polygamy for some odd reason) but overall most of the chefs come off as genuinely eccentric masters of their craft. 

Seasons on Netflix: 6

Wish your fairy tales were a bit ... darker?  Dark is a German-language supernatural thriller in which the disappearance of two children in a small town brings the fractured relationships and dark pasts of the people living there to the surface. 

Adding a touch of Scandinavian crime thriller to American drama, Dark is an example of foreign-made TV from Netflix that translates into every territory.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Created by Netflix and Vox Media, this handy and smart series takes a look at some of the most popular ideas and tech around today and explains them in a way that's poignant in its presentation without feeling overwhelming to take in. 

From the racial wealth gap, cryptocurrency amd why diets rarely work through to K-Pop and the stock market, it's an insightful look at the problems, ideas and trends around today and the stuff that could shape tomorrow. At the very least, it gives you enough knowledge to have a really good debate down at the pub. 

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Co-created by and starring the ever-brilliant Brit Marling, The OA consists of eight episodes that rival Stranger Things for, well, strangeness. 

Marling is a blind woman who comes back after disappearing for many years. Her sight is restored and she has a tale to tell. Although there are eight episodes they vary wildly in length - from 70 minutes to 30 minutes. The whole thing has been made to make you feel uneasy and it does a great job of that.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

The long-awaited second season of the female wrestling comedy GLOW is finally here. The Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling have returned and this time they’ve been commissioned for a full series of their trashy, hot-pink, hairspray-fuelled wrestling show led by their coked-up director (played by Marc Maron). Early reviews suggest the second season could potentially even outshine the first for its refreshing female-fronted cast and writers and its brilliant balance between empowerment and exploitation. It’s a must-watch.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Based on the life of comedian Bill Burr, F is for Family is a funny and endearing cartoon set in 1970's American suburbia, and centers around Burr's father Frank Murphy. 

A little like an even more adult version of The Simpsons, the series is all about 70's nostalgia, with musical, costume, and cultural throwbacks interspersed with Frank's profane rants at his misbehaving children and long suffering wife Sue.

Full to the brim with laugh-out-loud moments, the series is just as heartwarming as it is hilarious. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Calling The IT Crowd the British version of The Big Bang Theory is an insult to one of the greatest 'nerd' comedies of all-time. Even though the show ran for a scant four seasons, it remains one of the best parodies of modern geekdom. If you need a break from all the murder mysteries and crime fighting shows on the streaming service, the IT Crowd is a harmless, hilarious take on life in the world of IT and thoroughly deserves its cult status. 

Seasons available on Netflix: 4

 And there was us thinking that Daredevil's subject matter was dark. Jessica Jones is another tale set in Hell's Kitchen that may be under the Marvel banned but is about as far removed from the bromance of Thor and Iron Man that you are likely to see. 

Breaking Bad's Krysten Ritter is superb as the titular Jones, a private detective with superpowers and super issues. This is nocturnal noir that moves in the same circles as Daredevil - figuratively and literally as both characters will eventually team up in the Defenders. It may not have the bone-crunching violence that Daredevil is famed for, but there's enough booze, sex and black humor on the screen to make this a cracking comic-book caper that's strictly adults only. 

Seasons on Netflix: 3

This awkward rom-com has been penned by Judd Apatow and it's yet again another hit for Netflix Originals. It's a similar bedfellow to Master of None, but it improves on the themes of dating, love and city life with characters that are more rounded and a touch more believable as they fail, give up and start over again in rapid succession. Community's Gillian Jacobs is great as the prim Mickey, while Paul Rust is effortless as slacker Gus. The show stealer, though, is Apatow's uber talented daughter Iris who plays a frankly horrible child star.

The 'will they, won't they?' shenanigans continue in the second season - those expecting a plot-heavy season will be disappointed, though, as Love meanders through its storylines - which is no bad thing (and more realistic) if you ask us.

Love's third and final season, the third, is also ready to watch. You can finally lay this rocky relationship to rest. Phew. 

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Luke Cage is back for a second season and this time he's brought some of the other TV superheroes along for the ride. This season sees Cage teaming up with the Iron First for what is an other assured stab at the Luke Cage mythos. 

After making his debut in the first series of Jessica Jones, Luke Cage is now firmly rooted in Hell's Kitchen and over two seasons (and two shows), the character has matured into something of a powerhouse. The second season still suffers from the same slump the first did, but after the mediocre The Defenders and the plain bad Iron Fist, this is a breath of fresh air. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Mad Men is more addictive than the cigarettes Don Draper is trying to market us. If you've never watched it, essentially Mad Men is a show about everything we now consider taboo in glaringly harsh light. Set in 1960s America, inter-office intercourse is par for the course, along with ashtrays overflowing with cigarettes, sexism at the highest levels and a complete disregard for morals so long as it serves the characters on their climb to the top of the corporate ladder. Don Draper (Jon Hamm) and his assistant Peggy Olson (Elisabeth Moss) shock and entertain us by showing the lifestyles of the advertising executives who got the public to buy cigarettes long after they knew the health risks.

Seasons on Netflix: 7

True crime stories are so hot right now, evidenced by the immense popularity of the podcast Serial and HBO's The Jinx. Netflix's original series Making a Murderer however, is probably the hottest of them all, documenting and recounting the trials of Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey, two working-class Americans accused of the murder of 23-year-old photographer Teresa Halbach. Over its 10 episodes, the show exposes the failings of the Wisconsin justice system in blood-boiling detail. Having spent 18 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, Steven Avery is exonerated based on new DNA evidence.

 However, shortly after his release, he becomes the prime suspect in Halbach's murder, and Avery is put through the ringer once again by law enforcement figures that seem to have it out for him. What follows is an anger-inducing sequence of events that involve forced confessions, unconvincing (and possibly planted) evidence, dodgy lawyers and a complete presumption of guilt from almost everyone involved. Compelling, infuriating and tragic, we guarantee you won't be able to stop watching Making a Murderer once you've started.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Master of None takes Ansari out of Amy Poehler's shadow and brings him into his own, showing audiences a side of the comedian that anyone in their mid-20s or early 30s can relate to. Like Louie, Master of None covers the oddities of everyday life, incorporating all the heartfelt moments and awkward situations that come with the territory. 

If you haven't watched it, now's a good time – the second season just arrived.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

David Fincher is no stranger to Netflix, he's heavily involved in House of Cards as producer and directed the first episode, but Mindhunter is Fincher going ... well, full Fincher. It's based on John Douglas' book of the same name and charts the life of an FBI profiler whose job it is to track serial killers. It's set in the '70s and all 10 episodes of the show ooze appeal. It's a sinister mashup of Silence of the Lambs and Mad Men and stars the superb Anna Torv - of Fringe fame. 

Fincher directs four episodes and the whole thing has been written by Joe Penhall who wrote the screenplay for The Road. 

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Narcos is that wonderful thing: a TV show that doesn't scrimp on controversy. Based on the exploits of Columbian drug lord Pablo Escobar, the show examines the criminal's rise to the top of one of the biggest drug rings the world has seen, while constantly trying to avoid the clutches of the DEA.

Uncompromising, uncomfortable but completely unforgettable, Narcos is exactly the sort of thing that Netflix should be commissioning. It's also the sort of thing that HBO would have snapped up just a few years ago - which is very telling as to where television is today. 

Seasons on Netflix: 4

Based on the manga of the same name by Hajime Isayama, Attack on Titan is an action -packed anime that's set in a world where humans live in cities protected by enormous walls to protect them from gigantic humanoid monsters called Titans who devour them at any opportunity. 

When a Titan breaks through the wall of protagonist Eren Yeager's hometown, he vows to get revenge by joining a group of soldiers who battle them. Although the show has a dedicated fan following, the second and third seasons are yet to be released on Netflix.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Zooey Deschanel is adorkable - a word that we hate to use but describes her character of Jess perfectly. The plot lines are thin here but the comedy is sheer gold as Jess lives with a gaggle of guys who just can't seem to get their lives together. Now going into its last season, Jess has a man-crush and while we don't want to ruin the surprise here, the long journey from single life to nearly married is one well worth taking.

Seasons on Netflix: 6

We always knew Amy Poehler was funny. Sketch after sketch on Saturday Night Live proved she had the comedic timing of a professional stand-up mixed with the creative capacity of an executive producer. Each episode of Parks and Rec is a chance to see Poehler do what she does best, with an excellent supporting cast of Nick Offerman, Chris Pratt, Aubrey Plaza and Rashida Jones behind her every step of the way. While we were sad to see the show come to a heart-wrenching conclusion this year, the finale in February was the perfect excuse to go back and binge-watch the entire series from start to finish.

Seasons on Netflix: 7

Santa Clarita Diet is sort of like if the show Dexter met Modern Family. It stars Drew Barrymore as the stereotypical TV mom, with one simple, but quite interesting difference: she likes eating people. 

This brand-new show on Netflix is a great send up of the family sitcom, taking all the tropes that make Modern Family and the like so successful, then turning them on their head, and then eating their head. And be warned: when things are eaten it's all very grizzly – so much so that it could give The Walking Dead a run for its money. That said, it's probably best to put the kids to bed first.

The second season of Santa Clarita Diet came to Netflix in March 2018, and proves this high-concept show isn't a one-season blow-out. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

It shouldn't work but it really really does. This modern retelling of the Sherlock Holmes stories is as good as it gets. Benedict Cumberbatch is everything you want in a Holmes - someone that wallows in wit, weirdness and warmth. While Martin Freeman plays Dr Watson as he plays all his characters - he's the everyman that has to learn how to deal with his extraordinary colleague. Episodes are scarce but each one is feature length, which gives them time to breath. Let's just hope these two superstars can find time in their busy schedules to keep doing the show.

Seasons on Netflix: 4

Is The Crown Netflix's crowning glory? Not quite, but it is a sumptuous look at one of the world's most famous families: the Royal family. 

Charting the early years of the relationship between the Queen (Claire Foy) and Prince Philip  (former Doctor Who Matt Smith), the show was written by Peter Morgan and, at £100 million, is one of the most expensive TV series ever made. Which means there's enough pomp and ceremony to keep those pining for a Downton Abbey replacement happy.

The second season continues to chart the queen's life, tracing major events from 1957 to 1963. We're ready for season 3, in which Olivia Colman takes over the lead role.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

If The Great British Bake Off or Zumbo's Just Desserts makes you feel inadequate, you should try Nailed It!, the baking show for people who suck at baking. The series sees three contestants per episode take on two impossible baking challenges, with the "winner" receiving $10,000. (Winner is a term we use loosely, of course.) 

Hosted by the infectiously upbeat Nicole Byer and suave French pastry chef Jaques Torres, this show is guaranteed to make you smile.

[Update: The Christmas edition, Nailed It: Holiday is out now...perfect watching for a cosy night in.]

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Adapted from the comic book of the same name (mins the ***), The End Of The F***ing World is f***ing brilliant. It tells the tale of two teenagers on a journey; both are loners on the run but one of them just happens to be a bit of a psychopath. It's funny, but brutal TV. It's British and co-funded by Channel 4 and there's a fantastic edge to everything in it - and it's perfectly bite-sized, too at just under 20 minutes an episode. It's so good, it's destined to get a second season. The first ends so perfectly, though, it's actually a real shame that this will happen.

Seasons on Netflix: 1 (and it needs to stay that way)

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Humans are listening to some of your Skype calls and Cortana interactions

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 01:12 PM PDT

Some of our worst assumptions about smart speakers, digital assistants and internet phone services are coming true, as Microsoft has admitted that both Microsoft employees and contractors may listen to your Skype calls and voice interactions with its Cortana digital assistant.

The confirmation comes a week after Vice's Motherboard discovered that Microsoft has hired contractors to listen to the calls and voice interactions of Skype and Cortana users, respectively. The details gathered, according to Motherboard, include "sensitive and personal conversations of Microsoft customers."

"We realized, based on questions raised recently, that we could do a better job specifying that humans sometimes review this content," a Microsoft spokesperson told Motherboard.

Prior to this change, Microsoft's privacy policies did not make this distinction clear. Now, the policies states that this practice is in place to improve its services. "Our processing of personal data for these purposes includes both automated and manual (human) methods of processing," the policy now reads specifically.

The odd one out

Don't think that Microsoft is unique in this practice. At one time, Apple, Google and Facebook used human labor to monitor and improve their digital assistant products. However, all three of those companies have since dropped these practices.

Not so with Microsoft, as the company seems to be standing its ground on using human employees or contractors to improve its services.

"We’ve updated our privacy statement and product FAQs to add greater clarity and will continue to examine further steps we might be able to take," the spokesperson added for Motherboard.

Whether Microsoft will buckle under the peer pressure put on by its biggest rivals in the online services space is unknown. In the meantime, Microsoft does offer a tool to delete audio recordings stored of your voice on its servers.

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The best back to school sales 2019: deals on laptops, backpacks, tablets, and more

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 12:40 PM PDT

School is officially back in session, and if you're still in need of school supplies, then you've come to the right place. We've listed the best back to school sales that include discounts on laptops, backpacks, tablets, headphones and more. You can find excellent deals from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy on top brands such as Dell, Apple, Samsung, and more.

Whether you're a heading to college and looking for dorm room essentials or a student in need of a new laptop or backpack, we've listed the must-have school supplies at the best online price. Our top picks include the Samsung Chromebook 3 on sale for $159, Sony Noise Canceling Headphones on sale for $126.90, and the Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker on sale for $55.99.

We've listed the best back to school deals that are currently available below and we'll be updating this page as new sales pop up. Like we've mentioned above, this is an excellent time to find great deals on tech and appliances, so even if you're not a prospective student, you can still take advantage of the stellar sales that are happening now.

The best back to school sales:

Back to school deals: 

See our roundup of the best laptops under $500: the best budget laptops around and our 10 tips for buying a Back to School laptop.

You can also see the best iPad for Students and the best laptops for kids.

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Best movies on Netflix (August 2019): 20 films you need to watch right now

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 12:07 PM PDT

Best Movies on Netflix: TechRadar's round-up of the best films on Netflix's massive US catalog.

If you're anything like us, you can spend hours searching for the best movies on Netflix only to come up empty handed two hours later. It's a whole bunch of wasted time and - if you lead a busy life - it's a huge time suck.

Thankfully, we've done all the searching so you don't have to. 

In an effort to determine the best movies and films on Netflix, we've put together a list of the greatest possible films you can watch – curated by TechRadar editors and backed up with ratings from IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes. 

To that end, you can find four pages of Netflix's best films. The films aren't ranked in any particular order - and will change out over time - but this is a good starting point when you can't find something to watch. 

We'll try to keep this list as updated as possible each month with the latest must-binge movies - but, if you see something that's left the service or you have a film that you think is worthy of inclusion on this list, drop us a line.

1. Roma

Image Credit: Netflix

Genre: Period drama/Foreign film

Who's it for? Cinema buffs and anyone looking to get a jump on Awards Season

An astonishing ode to motherhood in all forms, Roma is the most personal film to date from visionary director Alfonso Cuarón (Children of Men, Gravity). On paper, Roma is not the easiest sell – a subtitled black and white film about a live-in housekeeper spoken almost entirely in Spanish and the indigenous Mixtec language, Cuarón's latest is nonetheless riveting from a cinematic standpoint. More a series of vignettes than a traditional three-act story, Roma examines the life of a Mexico City family in the early 1970s during a time of great social upheaval. Described by Cuarón as 90% autobiographical, the film provides some insight into the famous director's early life, although the story is witnessed primarily through the eyes of his caretaker, Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), who would become a loved member of the family. One of the most gorgeously photographed films of the year, Roma deserves to be seen on the largest screen possible. Shot entirely in 65mm, Roma would make for an ideal theatrical experience. However, if that isn't an option, you won't be disappointed by the Roma's breathtaking 4K Ultra HD presentation on Netflix – just make sure you keep tissues on hand, because it's very likely you'll shed a few tears during the film.

IMDB Rating: 8.5, Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

2. Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi

Image Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Genre: Sci-Fi

Who's it for? Fans of sci-fi based around people named Skywalker.

Love it or hate it, the 8th film in the Star Wars franchise is immortalized in the canon now. It stumbles in parts, slows to a crawl in others, and fails to do what you'd expect. Some might call these the markings of a failed film. But we'd say it's these traits - this break from tradition - that gave us a Star Wars film that we couldn't have ever imagined. Beyond simply defying expectations for the sake of it, The Last Jedi grapples with complex themes of morality in a new republic - with minority characters leading the charge as tried-and-true characters are laid to rest. This is jolting for a franchise that's been dominated by the same few characters for the last two decades but it's this change that pushes The Last Jedi in a new direction - one in which it can survive without its main heroes. It might not have the nostalgia of the originals or the fast, fun nature of Solo: A Star Wars Story, but sometimes we need to shed the skin tradition to create something new. (Hint: In case that's lost on you, that's the exact point that Yoda makes abundantly clear to Luke at the temple.)

IMDB Rating: 7.3, Rotten Tomatoes: 91%

3. Blackfish

Best movies on Netflix

Genre: Documentary

Who's it for? Activists and folks ready to be exposed to animal cruelty

Blackfish, the controversial nature documentary that follows a misunderstood and often violent killer whale in captivity at SeaWorld, made a huge splash when it was released in 2013. Its story has moved audiences to take action in a way that few other films have ever done, going so far as forcing lawmakers' hands to introduce legislation that will demand that SeaWorld release killer whales back into the wild. It's an emotional ride through the highs and lows of the aquatic entertainment industry, one that reveals the real consequences of keeping animals where they don't belong.

IMDB Rating: 8.1, Rotten Tomatoes: 98%

4. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Image Credit: Sony Pictures

Genre: Animated superhero film

Who's it for? Fans of the famous wall-crawler, super heroes in training

There's little doubt that Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse is the best animated Spider-Man film ever made but, in all honesty, it might even steal the title as the best Spider-Man movie ever made. A harrowing tale that takes place across universes and timelines, the original Spider-Man Peter Parker must teach a new Spider-Man how to save the world one web at a time. As more Spider-Men (and Spider-Women!) get involved in Miles' training, everyone involved soon realizes that it's not the mask that makes the hero, it's the hero that makes the mask. Inspiring, heart-warming and extremely well-written, Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse is worth the watch.

IMDB Rating: 8.5, Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

5. The Theory of Everything

A still from the movie The Theory of Everything

Genre: Romance / Drama

Who's it for? Empathetic scientists and romance fans

The Theory of Everything is the romance-heavy version of Stephen Hawking's life. The stars Eddie Redmayne in the role of Hawking who, despite the overwhelming challenge of playing a character with progressive ALS (commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease), puts on an Oscar-worthy performance as the man who solved some of the greatest mysteries around black holes and their lives. While the film glosses over most of the science behind Hawking's greatest revelations, it does an exceptional job depicting the challenge of providing care for someone whose health is progressively declining. It's based on source material from Hawking's first wife, author Jane Hawking and her book Traveling to Infinity. 

IMDB Rating: 7.7, Rotten Tomatoes: 78%

6. Always Be My Maybe

Image Credit: Netflix

Genre: Romance

Who's it for? Fans of romance fans and the one who got away

You may know Always Be My Maybe's leading lady Ali Wong from her raucous Netflix stand-up specials but it's as a successful celebrity chef that she really hits her stride. After a failed engagement Wong's character Sasha Tran heads to her hometown of San Francisco to setup a new restaurant only to run into her old bff played by Randall Park. Through the turbulence of the relationship, a sudden fling with actor Keanu Reeves and despite the differences in careers, the two try to make it work, and the journey from old friends to lovers is a joy to watch.

IMDB Rating: 6.9, Rotten Tomatoes: 91%

7. Schindler's List

Genre: Drama

Who's it for? Anyone in need of a lesson in human compassion

This is one of the most affecting movies that you will ever see. Based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a factory owner who begins to help his Jewish workers during World War II after he sees them persecuted by the Nazi Germans, the movie is a study in brevity. Steven Spielberg manages to find the human stories in the atrocity of WWII without shying away from the true horror of what happened during the conflict. Winner of several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, Schindler's List is a film you won't soon forget. 

IMDB Rating: 8.9, Rotten Tomatoes: 96%

8. Beasts of No Nation

Best movies on Netflix

Genre: War Drama

Who's it for? Joseph Conrad enthusiasts

Beasts of No Nation stars Idris Elba as a war lord, and follows the story of Agu, portrayed by child actor Abraham, who is forced to become a child soldier during the civil war of an unnamed African country. What follows is a nightmare: boys stolen from their families are forced to kill and through blood take their vengeance on the world. It's a war movie with a profound message, and is probably the closest equivalent of Apocalypse Now that we're like to see in the 21st century.

IMDB Rating: 8.0, Rotten Tomatoes: 91%

9. Fyre Festival

Genre: Documentary

Who's it for? Anyone who needs a heaping dose of schadenfreude

Billed as a luxury music experience on a private island, Fyre Festival was tirelessly promoted by social media influencers  – but ended up being a complete and utter disaster, with multiple lawsuits being brought against the promoters. This illuminating documentary explores what went wrong, with some extremely personal accounts from the people who helped create it, and it’s a must-watch.

IMDB Rating: 7.3, Rotten Tomatoes: 90%

10. The Dark Knight

Image Credit: Warner Bros.

Genre: Action/Thriller

Who's it for? Brooding comic book fans

While it's not quite the visual treat that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is, Batman The Dark Knight is the quintessential super hero film blending the sometimes silly story of the comics with the hyper-realistic tone of Christopher Nolan film. The result is a picture long-remembered for its iconic portrayal of The Joker by Heath Ledger who posthumously won the awards for Best Supporting Actor at the Academy Awards, SAG Awards, Golden Globes and BAFTAs. If you haven't seen this masterpiece of a film, now's the time to watch it.

IMDB Rating: 9.0, Rotten Tomatoes: 94%

11. The Hateful Eight

Genre: Drama/Mystery

Who's it for? Desperadoes looking for a modern masterpiece

There are few directors who have filmographies as celebrated as Quentin Tarantino, and The Hateful Eight only goes to further add to his illustrious career. Based several years after the Civil War in a cabin in Wyoming in the dead of winter, this high-intensity thriller puts a wide variety of suspicious individuals together in the same room, and it’s uncertain whether or not anyone will make it out alive. This film heavily features Tarantino’s masterful use of dialogue and cinematography to really make you feel like you’re part of the action as you suspiciously watch everyone in the room – trying to figure out who is trustworthy.

IMDB Rating: 7.8, Rotten Tomatoes: 74%

 12. Bird Box

Genre: Thriller

Who's it for? Hardworking moms who aren't afraid of suspense

Horror movies have fallen on hard times. There, I said it. Spending the past decade relying on jump shocks and excessive gore to win over new audiences, it's rare to find a film as well-made, thought-out and genuinely suspenseful as Bird Box. While the film draws some obvious comparison to 2018's The Quiet Place, Bird Box pits survivors against post-apocalyptic horrors who cause people to commit suicide when they're seen. Cue copious blindfolds to keep the monsters out of sight, but never are they out of mind for a mother tasked with ferrying two kids to safety.

IMDB Rating: 6.8, Rotten Tomatoes: 63%

13. Avengers Infinity War

Genre: Super Hero / Sci Fi

Who's it for? Marvel super fans and... nihilists, I guess? 

Infinity War is a feat of film-making. The Russo Brothers (the film's directors) were tasked with creating a unified Marvel crossover event with every character from the last 10 years. It's a big, bold vision for a universe that so innocently began with Iron Man one short decade ago, but it's woven seamlessly together via a cast of heroes and one singularly misguided villain with the power to wipe out half of all life in the universe. It's a bit heavy on action sequences but in between all the fighting lies a wonderfully wrought world that's straight from the panels of Marvel's comics.

IMDB Rating: 8.5, Rotten Tomatoes: 84% 

14. Her

Genre: Drama / Romance

Who's it for? Anyone looking for love in all the wrong places

While it's a film that's almost certainly mocking tech lovers like us, Her is a beautiful look at a lonely man who's rescued by a futuristic fictional smart assistant. At times a bit heavy-handed with its messaging, Her provides a solid foundation for why human connection is more intimate than machines, even if the latter can remove the awkward initial dating phase using a personalized algorithm. 

IMDB Rating: 8.0, Rotten Tomatoes: 94%

15. The Incredibles 2

Genre: Animated Action

Who's it for? The kids and kids-at-heart in your house

While there's no shortage of endearing animated films on Netflix (see: Coco, Moana, Spider-Man, etc...) The Incredibles does something none of the others do by building a successful sequel on a fondly remembered original film. The second Incredibles film might not hit the same star status that the original hits, but following the family through their new life as re-instated heroes is as adorable this time around as it was before thanks to Mr. Incredible's role as a stay-at-home dad. If you need something for the kids and don't want to sit through the same movie again, The Incredibles 2 shakes things up while building upon the 10-year-old franchise.

IMDB Rating: 7.7, Rotten Tomatoes: 94%

 16. The Godfather & The Godfather Part II

Genre: Drama/Crime

Who's it for? The father figure in your house

Widely regarded as one of the best films ever made, The Godfather is now streaming on Netflix. The first film charts the rise of Micheal Corleone (Al Pacino), a war hero who takes control of his family's crime dynasty following an attempt on the life of his father, Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando). Its follow-up, The Godfather Part II, simultaneously acts as a prequel and sequel, showing us how a young Vito (Robert De Niro) came into power, while also continuing Michael's story from the first film. Both films swept the Oscars in their respective years, and it's not hard to see why – The Godfather and The Godfather Part II are undisputed masterpieces, each telling grand, ambitious stories that deal with big themes on an epic canvas. You'd be hard-pressed to find two finer examples of the power of cinema. 

IMDB Rating: 9.2, Rotten Tomatoes: 98%

17. The Fundamentals of Caring

Best movies on Netflix

Genre: Drama

Who's it for? Anyone looking for both acceptance and friendship from Paul Rudd

The Fundamentals of Caring is proof that you can take actor Paul Rudd, put him in literally any movie about any subject and he automatically makes it 10 to 20 times better. With any other actor in the leading role, The Fundamentals of Caring – based on the book by Jonathan Evison – would've likely had no lasting appeal. And yet, with Rudd behind the wheel of the ship the film becomes a comical road trip movie with a compelling twist that's one part Eurotrip and two parts 50/50. The stakes here are that Rudd is taking care of an emotionally sheltered, physically handicapped teen whose bark is fiercer than his bite. The friendship the two form ultimately help the other grow out of their shells. It may come off as trite, cliché and over-wrought at times, but if you stick through the saccharine, there's a well-crafted story here that might melt your heart.

IMDB Rating: 7.3, Rotten Tomatoes: 79%

18. Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Best movies on Netflix

Genre: Documentary

Who's it for? Anyone aspiring to be better and seafood specialists

Jiro Dreams of Sushi is the uplifting documentary of one man who never gave up on his … uh, dreams. Jiro became the first three-star Michelin sushi chef in Japan and has been called a national treasure, all the while honing his mantra of being his best self. Jiro's commitment to his craft that carries the film – but it's his two sons, both famous sushi chefs like their father that make the film one of the best documentaries ever made. If you're hungry for a bit of inspiration in an evermore depressing world, pull up a seat.

IMDB Rating: 7.9, Rotten Tomatoes: 99%

19. Coco 

Genre: Animated Fantasy

Who's it for? Pixar people who want the best the studio has to offer

With Moana officially off Netflix for the time-being, Coco is the new de facto must-watch animated film on the streaming service. A gloriously colorful romp through a Dia de Los Muertos in the land of the dead, Coco teaches us about the importance of family and the power of chasing your dreams simultaneously. Though it follows all the familiar Disney beats that we've come to expect over the years, Coco is well written, wonderfully animated and terrifically acted. You may also find its many catchy songs stuck in your head for days after watching it. 

IMDB Rating: 8.4, Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

20. Dallas Buyers Club

Genre: Historical Drama

Who's it for? Anyone who needs an education on the AIDS epidemic in America

This is a movie that was close to not being made. Just as shooting began, funding was pulled and it means that star Matthew McConaughey may have had to drop out, as he needed to put all the weight on he had lost for playing Ron Woodroof, an electrician diagnosed with Aids. Money was found, though, and we're glad it was as this is a sometimes harrowing but strangely uplifting account of someone who goes to the extra mile to get their hands on an experimental Aids drug that can lessen the effects of the disease. McConaughey is fantastic as the makeshift drug runner while his partner in crime is Jared Leto as Rayon, a trans woman who helps him on his journey. Despite the budget cut, there was Oscar nominations aplenty for the film with it winning Best Makeup. Considering the makeup was done on $250 budget, this is an impress feat. 

IMDB Rating: 8.0, Rotten Tomatoes: 93%

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Liverpool vs Chelsea live stream: how to watch UEFA Super Cup 2019 football online from anywhere

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:56 AM PDT

Champions League winners against Europa League champs - the UEFA Super Cup has become the traditional curtain raiser for European competitions. This year's is a first - an all-English affair, with Liverpool taking on Chelsea. Which Premier League side will earn the bragging rights in Istanbul? You watch all the action no matter where you are in the world by following our Liverpool vs Chelsea UEFA Super Cup live stream guide below.

Tonight's match highlights something of a sea change in European football, with the balance of power perhaps slipping away from La Liga - no Spanish team will contest the Super Cup for only the second time since 2008 (Atletico Madrid are the reigning champions after beating Real in Tallinn last season).

This encounter brings together two teams from the same nation who have played each other an unusually frequent number of times on the European stage, with the Wednesday's Super Cup showdown the 11th meeting in UEFA competitions since 2005. Liverpool have notched up two wins in that time, while Chelsea edge it with three wins, the remaining five games having been stalemates.

On early season Premier League form, Liverpool go into today's clash the clear favourites with Frank Lampard's Chelsea coming into the game off the back of a demoralising 4-0 defeat against Manchester United. Liverpool meanwhile earned a convincing 4-1 win over Norwich in their opening Premier League fixture.

The 2019 UEFA Super Cup poised to be a fascinating one-off game, so make sure you follow the instructions below for how to live stream Liverpool vs Chelsea from wherever you are in the world.

Use a VPN to watch Super Cup football outside your country

If you're away from your country but are desperate to get around geo-blocking from your home broadcaster, don't sweat. Thanks to the tools provided to you by a VPN service, you can tune in no matter where you are in the world. And best of all, it's really easy to do.

Stream Liverpool vs Chelsea live in the UK 

How to watch a Liverpool vs Chelsea live stream in US for FREE

How to live stream UEFA Super Cup football in Canada for FREE

How to live stream Liverpool vs Chelsea Super Cup match in Australia

How to watch Champions League football in New Zealand

How to live stream the UEFA Champions League football in India

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Fortnite Battle Royale update news, patch notes and more

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:45 AM PDT

In such a short space of time, Fortnite Battle Royale has become certified gaming phenomenon. Pitting 100 players against each other on a single map, it melds fun, cartoonish gameplay with a fierce competitive streak, and has attracted millions of players across the globe across all ages and demographics. 

Season 10 is now officially live, and we've got details of all the latest updates. In Out of Time there are some map changes and a brand new time travel theme to contend with.

To help you keep on top of what's new and what's coming up in Fortnite, we've put together this handy page which will be updated with all the latest announcements. So to get you ready for blast off, here's everything you need to know about Fortnite.

What is Fortnite?

There's been a lot of hype surrounding Fortnite since its release in July 2017. But what exactly is it? 

Fortnite is a battle royale game which sees you thrown onto an island with no weapons or armor and it's up to you to scavenge for supplies and fight for your life to be the last man or squad standing at the end of the game – with the added pressure of a shrinking map that closes in as the match progresses, forcing players into tighter skirmishes. 

The game is available for free on PC, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android, with in-game purchases limited to purely cosmetic options.

Fortnite update news and Fortnite patch notes

  • What's new? Fortnite Season 10 is live and we're now on v10.10! Find out what it involves below.

Image Credit: Epic Games

Fortnite is now into season 10 and it's brought brand new map locations and items with it.

Rift Zones

A notable change thanks to this season's Rift Zones is that Mega Mall has reverted back to being Retail Row, bringing some serious discounts. But the area is more dangerous as a result, with dangerous discount-hungry fiends overrunning the place.

It's a risk to drop in there but once defeated, fiends may drop useful weapons, ammo or items so it could prove worth your while. 

Weapons and Items

In the Sword Fight Squads and Duos Limited Time Modes, the Infinity Blade has been unvaulted.

There has been a small changed to the new B. R. U. T. E. vehicle; now both controlling players and opponents can see a targeting laser when missiles are being loaded and fired to make it clear to all players where or who is being targeted. 

Limited Time Mode

World Run is the latest Limited Time Mode. It involves 16 players across 4 teams running through an obstacle-laden course to collect coins. The team that collects 30 coins fastest wins.

The patch notes for version 10.10 can be viewed in full on the official Epic website.

Can I play Fortnite on mobile?

Yes you can! Well, maybe. After months of waiting, Fortnite is finally on both iOS and Android, though you'll need a phone that can actually run the game.

iOS users can download straight from the App Store. As long as you're using iOS 11 on iPhone 6S/SE, iPad Mini 4, iPad Air 2, iPad 2017, iPad Pro devices or later you'll be fine. Oh, and you'll need an internet connection, naturally.

Fortnite also hit Android phones and finally came out of beta in October 2018. You can see the full list of phones – and how to find the Fortnite Installer – on our Fortnite on Android page.

Is it the full game?

It is the full Fortnite game. There are some small differences: it’s not quite as visually impressive as it is on more powerful devices, the controls are touchscreen, and a lot of audio cues have been made visual so you can play comfortably in public without the need for headphones. But you won’t be missing out on any key features.  

Fortnite update patch notes

What's the deal with cross-play?

A sweet deal is what it is. While previously Xbox One and PS4 owners couldn't play the game together, Sony's U-turn on the matter means that now everyone across Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android can all take part in the crossfire.

So if you've got friends that prefer PC, others that prefer console and you're off on holiday with your mobile, that's no reason for the fun to stop.

There's also cross-progression. So, if you're logged into your Fortnite account on mobile and you later log into your console to play there, everything you did on mobile later that day is carried over.  

Sounds great, how do I get it?

We have a guide on how to get Fortnite on mobile on TechRadar and we're constantly updating it with the latest rollout news. If your device isn't there yet, keep checking back and one day it probably will be.

What's a Fortnite Battle Pass?

The Battle Pass is a purchasable item in Fortnite that gives you access to exclusive in-game rewards. 

As players complete daily challenges and level up their rank, they earn Battle Stars which can then be used to unlock Tiers in their Battle Pass. Each new Tier you unlock will bring both Free and Premium rewards. Season 10 has also seen the introduction of missions to the battle pass. These are thematic objectives that span the island and on completing them you'll unlock additional rewards. 

Everyone that has a Battle Pass will get the Free reward they unlock, but only Premium Pass holders will get the Premium reward. Battle Pass Premium can only be purchased with in-game V bucks and not with real money.

You can purchase a Battle Pass for around £7/$10 in the Battle Pass tab of the game’s menu. 

Twitch Prime benefits

Those who use Twitch Prime and play Fortnite will be glad to know that they have access to free loot right now. Those with a Prime account can claim the Fortnite Twitch Prime Pack  and the Fortnite Twitch Prime Pack 2 which include a host of cosmetic items and are available across all platforms.

The first pack includes two exclusive gliders and outfits: the Havoc Outfit and Back Bling, plus the Sub Commander Outfit and Slipstream Glider.  The second pack contains three exclusive items for Fortnite’s Battle Royale mode including the camouflage-heavy Trailblazer Outfit, the True North Back Bling, and the Tenderizer Pickaxe. There’s also a brand new dance emote for those that like the dance floor as much as the battleground. 

The packs can only be claimed on a single platform, but they can be shared across PC/console and mobile as long as you use the same Epic account across these platforms. You can’t however, share your loot across PS4 and Xbox One even if you are using the same Epic account. 

(Image credits: Epic Games)

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Improving cybersecurity in education systems

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:37 AM PDT

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. We already know that businesses, organisations, and government entities must follow certain guidelines in order to protect sensitive information. However, the education sector equally possesses important assets of data to protect. According to the report sponsored by VMware, cyber-attacks on UK universities presents an increasing risk to national security. This clearly indicates that the education sector must begin addressing any risks posed from cyber-hacks with immediate action for overall security. 

How is the education sector under threat?

Over the recent years, the education sector has become more susceptible to cyber hacks due to the following motives:

  • Financial gain – A motive for hackers carrying out an attack on an education institution is often for financial gain. With Universities & Colleges handling a large number of student fees, they’re a prime target for cybercriminals;
  • Data theft – All institutions hold student and staff data, including sensitive details like names and addresses. This type of information can be valuable to cyber criminals who could potentially exploit the information to a third party.

Why are cyber hacks becoming so common within the education sector?

As seen above, schools have become vulnerable to hacks due to sensitive data and financial gains. However, the attacks have now become so common and often successful to the detriment  of the industry; let’s look at a few key reasons:

  • A lack of resources– potentially the lack of budget to invest in cybersecurity, be it security software or staff;
  • Cultural issues – a ‘Bring Your Own Device’ culture is common in educational institutions and can present difficulties in securing the wider network, particularly with IT staff already facing stretched resources, without a suitable MDM solution;
  • An absence of policy – setting out policies for using the network and making sure they’re adhered to can be difficult in large institutions with a dynamic user population.

How can the education sector take measures towards cybersecurity?

As mentioned, the cyber security related risks from technological devices remains a primary concern for the education sector. Therefore, we have devised a few top tips recommended to follow so that data remains secure and safe across the system: 

  • Password protection on laptops and other devices. 

People forget to secure their password safely and securely, loosely sharing information amongst peers and other staff members. Therefore, one of the first basic yet most effective cybersecurity practices is to secure and protect passwords. 

The best practices to secure passwords includes using a mix of characters, not re-using university provided passwords, changing annually, and never sharing your password.

Most data breaches are the result of human error. A strong school network security regimen holds no great significance if students and staff don’t understand how to mitigate risk. Therefore, introduce cybersecurity training for all staff and students who regularly make use of technology on school grounds. Such training may include:

  • How to identify safe and unsafe sites
  • Spotting phishing attempts or other scams
  • Using antiviruses, malware or another frontline defence

By investing time and expenses in the actual training the mitigation strategy in place will be twice as more effective; if a risk does develop it will be more likely to receive an early detection and do-little damage once addressed. 

  • Place clear policies and more importantly ensure everyone follows it

The more you know where your vulnerabilities are, the better prepared you can be to prevent against them. If you already have cybersecurity policies in place, a formal audit can help you validate whether your university is enforcing the policies that were set. 

Audits are typically performed by third-parties. If you don’t have clear cybersecurity policies in place, an assessment of your technology infrastructure, organisational policies, and user-training can give you the full picture of where your biggest risks lie.

Importance of Cybersecurity within Education

It is apparent that today no sector is immune from the threat of a cyberattack and this sadly includes schools and universities. The voluminous data these institutions hold as well as the increasing number of connected devices makes this sector a vulnerable domain for cyber-hacking. 

Given the complexity of networks today, and of the threats to their security, traditional anti-virus solutions are also no longer enough. Therefore, manually following the above best practices ensures you are covered as a vicinity from all areas. Cyber security is no longer considered just an IT issue but is holistically approached throughout the organisation and hence should be treated as a collaborative effort to mitigate.

 

Nick Walter is the Head of Commercial and Education at Acer.

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Moscow wants to be a model smart city; this is how they plan to achieve it

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:35 AM PDT

The concept of smart cities is a well trodden one and has been at the core of the expansion of some of the world’s big megalopolises. 

Moscow, however, rarely comes to mind when thinking about technology, primarily because Russia is often considered to have a significant tech presence - unlike China or the US. 

Companies like Rostec and Kaspersky are changing this and so are initiatives like Moscow’s City-as-a-service. Qualcomm for example, chose the city to launch Europe’s first 5G mmWave network in partnership with Moscow’s Department for Information Technologies of Moscow. We caught up with its head, Eduard Lysenko, to find out more about what they have been doing. 

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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare release date, trailer and news

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:29 AM PDT

Call of Duty Modern Warfare is going back to the series' roots. Forget the zombies. Forget the WWII battles. Forget the jetpacks, exo launchers and all the other future weaponry – Call of Duty is going back to one of the most beloved series within the franchise with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, a reboot of the highly-lauded 2007 first person shooter that's set in today's battlefields.

It’s all about the gritty realities of war this time out, with the ‘modern’ of the ‘Modern Warfare’ title referring to the high-tech gear of today, the cutting-edge killing machines employed in combat right now in places like the Middle East and Russia, rather than the far-flung fantasies of science fiction.

With the battle royale genre taking up many shooter fans’ spare gaming time, Call of Duty’s crown as the king of competitive shooters has slipped in the past few years. Can a return to its most-popular roots bring it back to glory? 

Read on for what we know so far. 

[Update: Infinity Ward has released 24 minutes of additional Modern Warfare multiplayer footage. Watch that for yourself below and find out more about PC optimization and the latest battle royale rumors.]

Cut to the chase

  • What is it? The sixteenth Call of Duty game
  • What can I play it on? PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC
  • When can I play it? October 25, 2019

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare release date

Announced right before E3 2019, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare leaked ahead of the event but a trailer gave us our first glimpse and a variety of details for the game.

It included the release date, which is set for October 25, 2019. You're already able to pre-order the game on the official site too.

Call of Duty Modern Warfare screenshots

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare trailers

Not had enough footage of Modern Warfare multiplayer? Check out the 24 minutes of multiplayer footage released by Infinity Ward in August 2019 below. 

The latest multiplayer trailer has been revealed for what's being claimed to be Call of Duty's most immersive multiplayer to date.

Infinity Ward has confirmed a brand new multiplayer mode for Modern Warfare called Gunfight and released five whole minutes of crisp 4K gameplay to give players a better idea of what to expect from this fast-paced, 2v2 mode. Watch it for yourself below.

The first trailer for Modern Warfare was the release trailer that debuted on May 30. 

In it, we can see series protagonist (and all-around badass) Captain Price light up, and some intense - and dare we say great-looking - nightvision sequences. 

You can watch it below:

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta

As expected, there will be a Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta held prior to the game's release. At the moment, details are sparse but there are some important dates to note down if you're interested in taking part. 

The beta will take place across two weekends, first on PS4 and then on PS4, Xbox One and PC. 

On the first PS4-only weekend, early access to the beta will run from September 12 to 14 while open access will run from September 14 to 16. 

The second weekend which will be for both PS4 and Xbox One will run in early access across September 19 and 20. The open access for this weekend will run from September 21 to 23. Specific start times will be announced closer to the time. 

Wondering how you can get in on those early access days? You'll have to pre order the game. If you don't want to pre-order, you can still get access on the open access days. 

As far as what's included in the beta, not much is known at the moment. What we do know, however, is that it'll feature PC and console crossplay while any progress or items unlocked will carry over to the full game. 

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare news

Battle royale possibilities

There have been rumors that Modern Warfare could very well be getting a battle royale mode, but that it will be launched as a free standalone option in 2020 rather than alongside the main game as a multiplayer mode. 

The rumors are unconfirmed but they do come from YouTuber LongSensation, a source with a fairly good track record. However, until Infinity Ward confirms or denies we can't be sure. 

PC optimzation

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare will be fully optimized for PC players, according to recent reports, complete with some PC-specific features as well as cross-play with consoles. 

As reported by DualShockers, the PC version of the game will have an uncapped frame rate as well as a slider for Field of View so that you can decide how much of your surroundings you want to see in your peripheral vision. 

Ultra-wide monitors will be supported with the ability to configure monitors to suit your needs. For any console players concerned about mouse and keyboard advantages in cross-play scenarios, matchmaking will be done according to peripherals so it's down to you whether or not you play with those using a mouse and keyboard. Infinity Ward is already ahead of those ultra-sneaky players who might think about changing their peripheral mid-match; you can't, it's locked in. 

Multiplayer reveal

As promised, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare's multiplayer reveal took place in August. Fans have already seen the brand new 2v2 mode, Gunfight, but now there's a bigger picture that suggests a truly reinvigorated Call of Duty multiplayer experience to look forward to. 

First up, there's cross-platform multiplayer between consoles and PC as well as a free season pass, showing Infinity Ward is taking a cue from popular multiplayer titles like Fortnite and is making efforts not to split up its playerbase.

Further to 2v2 fights in Gunfight, there are 6v6, 10v10 and 20v20 matches though the real surprise is a new mode called Ground War which will support up to 100 players, though there's no footage of that just yet. With this expansive multiplayer offering, it seems that Infinity Ward is looking to appeal to all kinds of shooter fans. Watch the multiplayer trailer for yourself below.

Killstreaks are back

Ahead of the full multiplayer reveal scheduled for August 1, Activision has confirmed that Killstreaks will make a return in Modern Warfare, making it the first game in quite a while to include the feature. 

As players rack up kills, they'll be able to unlock weapons and armor. Some of the killstreaks have been revealed on Twitter already including the intimidating Juggernaut suit from Modern Warfare 3, the light infantry assault vehicle and, most unpleasantly, the controversial White Phosphorus.

More information on the game will be revealed on August 1. 

Female multiplayer options

Infinity Ward has been drip-feeding multiplayer news ahead of the full reveal on August 1st. The latest announcement has come from a Reddit post in which communications manager, Ashton Williams, has confirmed that there will be playable female models in Modern Warfare's multiplayer. 

Multiplayer intro

In addition to that confirmation of playable female characters, Infinity Ward has also revealed some footage of what the short cinematic preceding a multiplayer match will look like to Twitter ahead of the full multiplayer reveal. Like in Call of Duty: WW2's War Mode, the cinematic will show players in a scene heading towards their drop point.

Full Multiplayer Reveal

While fans have had a first look at Gunfight, Modern Warfare’s new 2v2 multiplayer mode, a more full reveal has been announced for August 1. On a Twitch livestream, Infinity Ward is expected to show how the game’s story will continue into its online play and how progression across modes will play out.

Gunfight

Infinity Ward gave fans their first peek at multiplayer gameplay via Twitch followed by a five minute long 4K trailer. Four players streamed Modern Warfare live on the streaming platform, debuting Gunfight, the brand new 2v2 multiplayer mode that will be in the game. 

Gunfight is a mode for four players where two teams will play in “multi-round cage matches” across three small custom maps. Every two rounds, teams will swap to opposite sides of the map. All four players will have the same loadout which will typically be comprised of a primary and secondary weapon as well as a tactical Grenade and a piece of Lethal Equipment. The first team to win six rounds are the winners. 

This is going to be a mode for players that like fast rounds, with each round counting down on a 40 second timer. If one team hasn’t wiped out the other by the time the 40 seconds is up, a flag will appear on the map. The first team to control the area around the flag for more than three seconds is them the winner of the round. Each round, overall, will last for around a minute so speed is key. 

Aim Down Sight reload

Infinity Ward has confirmed in a blog post that Modern Warfare will have Aim Down Sight reload, the first time the feature has appeared in a Call of Duty game by default.

Aim Down Sight reload will mean that, while aiming down the sight of your weapon, your view won't be pulled away to watch an animation when you reload. Instead, you'll stay on target.

Animation director Mark Grigsby offered some details on the feature in the post:

“One other thing we added this year is the ADS [Aiming Down Sight] reload. In the past, if you're ADS, and you're shooting and you reload, the weapon would go off to the side, and you'd have to retrain to get to your target. This time if you reload, it stays on the target, so you can stay in the battle.”

"Ripped straight from the headlines"
We watched a behind-the-doors demo of the new Call of Duty during E3 2019 - and it wasn't for the feint-hearted. The demo (which was cut short from other press demos earlier in the week) firstly showed a cutscene of a terrorist incident at London's Piccadilly Circus before launching into gameplay from a mission called 'Hour of the Wolf'. 

This mission sees you tracking down the instigator of the terrorist attack (AKA The Wold) to a townhouse in North London. As a member of the SAS, the player creeps up a ladder and into the back of the dimly lit home where they methodically assassinate the plain-clothes terrorists occupying the residency. There's even an unsettling situation involving a woman using her baby as a shield. 

It's pretty rough but Infinity Ward claims the new Modern Warfare sees missions "ripped straight from the headlines" and investigated the "civilian collateral damage" that comes hand-in-hand with war.

What was peculiar was that our presentation was shorter than those who had attended earlier in the week. We were only shown the London townhouse mission, whereas other journalists were shown an extra - more controversial - segment which seen players taking on the role of a child soldier in an unspecified war-torn country. 

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Image Credit: Infinity Ward

Is this a reboot of the classic Modern Warfare?
Not exactly. If you want to relive that Call of Duty 4 experience you'll want to dust off your PS3 or Xbox 360, or play the recent remaster of that game.

Instead, Infinity Ward is using the Modern Warfare name here to evoke a similar feeling, and some of the same characters will return but this is an entirely new storyline set in a different timeline. 

It's totally separate to what we've seen in the previous games as here those events haven't occurred. We'll still follow Captain Price in this different timeline, and it may mean we see over returning characters throughout too.

Price features heavily in the trailer above, and he ends it by saying there's a team of his "old comrades" so it may well be that we see the return of other fan favorite characters such as Soap or Gaz.

This new timeline is also why the game isn't called Modern Warfare 4. It should mean it's a good place for new entrants to the series to pick up the game, but there's sure to be a few nods to the original series for die-hard fans.

Narrative director at Infinity Ward, Taylor Kurosaki, also noted that the game's storyline is still being tweaked but it's anywhere between five and nine hours long. 

That means it's not set to be very long, but at least this time there is a storyline. Call of Duty: Blacks Ops 4 opted to drop the storyline in favor of focusing on online play, which is something we've heard very little about so far for this game.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Image credit: Activision/Infinity Ward

No Zombie mode for Modern Warfare 

Zombie mode might be a staple of the over-the-top Black Ops entries into the Call of Duty series, but the undead horde will not be being reanimated this time around in Modern Warfare according to Campaign Gameplay Director Jacob Minkoff.

In an interview with PlayStation Lifestyle, Minkoff said that the team's goal is to create something on par with today's battlefields - which, unfortunately, don't include any undead wandering around.

"We don't have the flexibility to do something like put zombies in the game. That would compromise the feeling of playing in a world that feels realistic and authentic and relative to today's conflicts and things we face," Minkoff said.

If you want Zombies, you'll just have to wait for the next Black Ops game.  

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Image Credit: Activision / Infinity Ward

Return of the Juggernaut

While Call of Duty Modern Warfare didn't have a huge presence at E3 2019, it did pop up at an E3 Coliseum event where Activision had the first two multiplayer screenshots. One shot shows a sniper in a ghillie suit, while the other shows a juggernaut suit – one of the most powerful pieces of gear from the original game. 

A whole new engine

This title will be the first to use a whole new engine for the series, and that should allow for some drastic graphical improvements over previous titles including Black Ops 4. It's the first time the games will use a new engine in 14 years.

We've yet to learn the name of the engine, but we know that the franchise has been working on it for five years.

We expect to learn more about it in the coming months, but we can expect some more detailed environments, improved volumetric lighting and ray tracing technology too.

Expect controversy

According to ComicBook.com, the game be "heavy on troubling, realistic emotions, very much inspired by the controversial 'No Russian level" 

That mission is in Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2. It was highly controversial at the time for depicting an undercover CIA agent who takes part in a mass shooting of civilians.

The trailer suggests other terrorist attacks may feature in the story, and children also feature so it may be these elements are used to stir up controversy.

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Millennial workers more likely to use unsecured collaboration apps

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:27 AM PDT

Collaborating at work has never been easier thanks to the slew of collaboration tools that have become commonplace in organizations worldwide but new research has revealed that millennials are 1.5-times more likely to use unapproved apps when doing so.

To compile its new “Teamwork and Collaboration: Rise of Millennials and End User vs IT Discord” report, the collaboration platform management company Unify Square surveyed 600 end-users across three age groups in large organizations to better understand how IT departments are managing their collaboration apps.

The survey found a disparity between what IT departments believe users want and what the users themselves actually think. IT believes 44 percent of users are “very satisfied” with the collaboration apps used at their organization and 47 percent are just “somewhat” satisfied. However, respondents reported satisfaction levels of 51 percent and 34 percent respectively.

Collaboration apps such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google G Suite and Zoom have been adopted at many organizations but employees often choose to use their own unofficial apps in an effort to boost their productivity.

Unapproved apps

Unify Square's report found that millennial workers are more likely to use unapproved apps for collaboration in the workplace when compared to other generations. Almost a third (28%) of the millennials surveyed reported using unapproved apps two to four times per week while 71 percent said they use unapproved apps at least a few times per year.

When it came to IT's preferred collaboration platform, Microsoft Skype for Business and Microsoft Teams were the most popular at 59 percent and 48 percent respectively. However, end users disagree with only half preferring Skype for Business and 34 percent reported preferring Teams.

Chief product marketing officer at Unify Square, Scott Gode provided further insight on the report's findings, saying:

"Many of these apps don't share information, causing "islands" of communication and collaboration to form, negating much of the benefit of using apps that should be better than email at enabling users' productivity. IT needs to shift from 'command and control' to 'trust, but verify' for organizations deploying WSC platforms to realize the greatest value from their investments."

Via ZDNet

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A mysterious AMD Threadripper CPU may have appeared in leaked Geekbench result

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:16 AM PDT

We've been sitting, waiting for 3rd Generation Threadripper processors to appear, but we might have finally seen one of these HEDT Castle Lake processors appear in a leaked Geekbench result.

This leak was spotted by the folks over at TechPowerUp, and it references a mysterious 'Sharkstooth' processor. Now, previously we've heard these chips referenced as Castle Peak, but because this is a 32-core chip with a 3.6 GHz boost, it doesn't match any of the recently-announced Epyc processors. So, if this chip is actually a real thing, it would have to be Threadripper. 

As for how this alleged Threadripper 3rd Generation processor performed in this leaked benchmark, it scored a whopping 94,772 points in the GeekBench multi-core test. For comparison's sake, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX scores 82,678 points, as noted by Tom's Hardware. That makes this mysterious AMD 'Sharkstooth' processor about 13% faster in a multi-threaded workload. 

If these numbers are accurate, and this AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Gen processor is both real and this powerful, it could be a compelling option for any serious creatives out there looking for a little extra horsepower.

Still, we don't really have a clear picture of when we'll actually see AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation processors show up on the streets. However, we have seen some previous speculation that these HEDT (high-end desktop) processors would appear as soon as October 2019. 

We're sure we'll see these Threadripper processors once AMD is ready to share the information. But, if these leaked benchmarks are any indication we could be getting some extremely powerful silicon in the near future.

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Borderlands 3 isn't the game you remember - but that's OK

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:14 AM PDT

Threequels are notoriously hit-or-miss. While some series’ third instalations go beyond expectations and breath new life into a franchise, others can fall seriously short of the bar. It’s all about striking that sweet balance between fresh new content and the formula that fans originally gravitated to - and it’s a balance that Gearbox does beautifully with Borderlands 3.

It has been seven years since the release of the critically acclaimed Borderlands 2, the second core game in Gearbox Software’s Borderlands series, and fans are salivating at the prospect of sinking their boots into Pandora’s soil once more. But with that anticipation, also comes apprehension. How can the developer build on what we’ve seen before? What if it changes too much?

“It's actually really, really hard to balance that on any sequel,” Chris Brock, Borderlands 3’s multiplayer producer tells TechRadar. “The more successful the game is, the harder it is. And the longer you've been away, the harder it is.

“You don't want to change too much because you don't want it to deviate from the game they fell in love with but, at the same time it's a numbered sequel, it needs to be new enough to where there's a reason for it having come out.” 

This is a value that runs rampant through Borderlands 3’s veins. Stepping into Pandora once more feels like you’ve never been away: old friends have returned, bandits still rule the wastelands and you won’t be able to decide if you love or hate Claptrap. 

Though, while familiar, there’s no denying that things are aesthetically more pleasant and playability is generally much smoother. It’s like finally getting that pair of glasses you’ve needed for years, it’s just an extra bit of sharpness that elevates the experience to meet what you had remembered in your mind’s eye. 

Character assassination

While the chaotic heart of Borderlands remains, there are plenty of new features in Borderlands 3 that set it apart from its predecessors. For a start, we’ve got four new playable characters to get to know: FL4K the Beastmaster, Amara the Siren, Zane the Operative and Moze the Hunter. 

Perhaps our favorite character from the new roster is FL4K the Beastmaster, whose pet skills allow him to summon a companion in the form of a Jabber, Spiderant or Guard Skag. FL4K can then select an ability alongside this pet, allowing for a more dynamic playstyle that can see you combining your own combat techniques with that of your (mostly ugly) companions. For example you could harness a tank pet while taking a personally stealthy approach - almost like having a less cognizant player two. They’re also particularly useful for earning an easy second wind.

But if you’re not one for companionship then you may gravitate to the classic, assault-style of Zane, the mech-wielding tankishness of Moze or the familiarity of Amara. 

While you be be lamenting the characters of Borderlands past, don’t fret, as the likes of Zero and Axton will be making appearances in Borderlands 3 - and there is apparently a method to Gearbox’s roster-changing madness.

"Making a suite of four new characters, while that is difficult, is not necessarily difficult enough to not do it."

Chris Brock - Multiplayer Producer

“If we were to bring Zero, Axton, Maya and Salvadore into Borderlands 3 - if we were to change them - then the fans of those characters would be like 'why did you change my character',” Brock explains to TechRadar.  “If we don't change them at all, then people ask why we didn't bother. 

“We really preferred to start fresh with new vault hunters, and then we want to keep the old characters around. We keep them around in NPC capacity, but that way they're present but not taking over the while franchise.

“Making a suite of four new characters, while that is difficult, is not necessarily difficult enough to not do it. “

What’s more, these new characters actually have personalities. Rather than the occasional word here and there, your character has a voice and will engage with other characters rather than standing there smouldering with nobility. Playable characters quip as good as any comedic-action hero, but the real showcase of this is in co-op when all the characters are bouncing off each other. But it’s never done in a way that’s annoying, it’s just enough for comedic value and effect.

Not only do characters in co-op bounce off each other through voice interactions but you can now combine different characters’ combat abilities to your advantage. For example, when we played co-op as Zane, we teamed up with someone playing as Moze. Moze has an ability that allows her to spawn a big ol’ mech (a bit like Overwatch’s D.Va), and atop this mech is a turret gun. As Zane, I was able to clamber onto the turret gun and mow down bandits while Moze controlled the mechs full body. Teamwork makes the dreamwork.

It's the little things

While there are some notable big changes, the devil is in the details when it comes to Borderlands 3 and the game’s true crown and glory is its new quality-of-life features. It can be hard to notice how many small features have been implemented in Borderlands 3, as most are the kind of things you wouldn’t notice until they weren’t there. For example, you can now simply hit one button at a vending machine to refill all your ammo or you can see the item of the day without ever having to go into the store.

While some of these features were feedback-driven, Gearbox is not afraid to admit that others were a result of taking a leaf out the playbooks of other studios. 

"Sometimes someone does something, and they do it so well, that's just the way you do it."

Chris Brock - Multiplayer Producer

Perhaps the most obvious similarities have been drawn between Borderlands 3 and BioWare’s Apex Legends. It’s not particularly surprising considering Gearbox has implemented mantling and sliding in Borderlands 3, alongside a handy new ping system.

“We've been seeing the evolution of shooters over the past five years or so and player movement is a thing that's become much more robust - we start to expect it now,” Brock tells TechRadar. “I think Apex and Titanfall have kind of done that.”

“So it's funny, because with Apex, when that came out we were as surprised as anyone. By that point we already had sliding and mantling in the game but with the player ping we were like 'man that is elegant’. That's a simple elegant system that works so well. Sometimes someone does something, and they do it so well, that's just the way you do it. I think pinging was like that for us.”

Formula for funny

Borderlands 3 somehow manages to take everything that made its predecessors spectacular and amp it up. The little tweaks and additions are carefully deliberate, with every change arguing its purpose and earning its spot. 

However the lifeblood of Borderlands 3 is its tongue-in-cheek humor which majestically walks the line between dark satire and utter silliness - self deprecating jokes and burger launchers.  It’s something that could easily grow old but there’s no worry of that in the latest addition to the series - in fact, we found it funnier than ever.

“Internally the mantra is 'it's funny but it's not a joke',” Brock explains. “There are jokes but there's also that very serious thread. The tone is weird but, within the universe, it all kind of makes sense.” 

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4K TV deal: save $200 on the Vizio 65-inch TV and receive a $150 gift card at Dell

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:09 AM PDT

If you're looking for a bargain on a large screen TV, then look no further than this fantastic deal from Dell. For a limited time, you can get Vizio 65-inch 4K Smart TV on sale for $549.99. That's a $200 discount and the best price we've found for the Ultra HD TV. Dell has also sweetened the Dell by including a free $150 Dell Promo eGift card with your purchase of the TV.

The Vizio big screen TV is packed with premium features and allows you to watch movies and TV shows in brilliant 4K UHD resolution. You can launch your favorite apps directly from the home screen thanks to SmartCast OS, which also allows you to use the app to browse and control your favorite content from your phone. The Vizio E-Series TV has Google Chromecast built-in and works with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant to launch movies, turn the channel, and control other smart home devices using your voice.

Like we mentioned above, this is the best price we've found for the Vizio 65-inch TV, and you're receiving a free $150 gift card to use at Dell's online store. This offer ends on August 16, so you should snag this rare deal before it's gone.

Shop more of best cheap TV deals and sale prices that are currently going on.

You can also learn more about our top-rated TVs with our guide on the best TVs of 2019: the big-screen TVs worth buying this year.

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Shenmue 3: release date, trailers and news

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 10:58 AM PDT

For many, the upcoming release of Shenmue 3 is a dream come true. It's been 18 years since the original release of Shenmue 2 on the Sega Dreamcast, and for ages, it looked like we would never see another instalation in the action-adventure series. 

But thanks to unrelenting and passionate fans, the persistence of director Yu Suzuki, and a successful Kickstarter, we're finally seeing Shenmue 3 release on November 19, 2019 (assuming it isn't delayed...again). 

Continuing on from its predecessor, Shenmue 3 will keep following the story of teenage martial artist Ryo Hazuki as he searches for his father's murderer in 1980's China, only to get caught up in dozens of mini-games, chores and side quests along the way.

Can't wait to catch up on Ryo Hazuki's latest exploits on modern consoles? Here's everything we know about Shenmue 3 so far.

[Update: The PC trial of Shenmue 3 for some Kickstarter and Slacker backers has been confirmed to be coming soon. Read on to find out more about what to expect.]

Cut to the chase

  • What is it? The third instalment in the Shenmue action-adventure series
  • What can I play it on? PS4 and PC (first on Epic Games Store)
  • When can I play it? November 19, 2019

Shenmue 3 trailers

The PC Gaming Show 2019 trailer
The most recent trailer for Shenmue 3 revealed more information about what we can expect from playing the game. It appears that this version of the game will focus much more on martial arts combat than previous entries. Ryo seems to be studying under a new kung fu grandmaster to learn new martial arts skills at a new dojo.

You will use these arts to both defeat your enemies and save civilians in cinematic moments. This trailer also revealed that the game will launch first on PC through the Epic Games Store.

Check it out:

The Prophecy trailer
This recent Shenmue 3 trailer gave us a closer look at the game's story and finally revealed an ambitious release date of August 27, 2019. This has since been delayed a few more months to November 19, 2019.

Take a look:

Teaser trailer
The first teaser trailer for Shenmue 3 showed us small slice of an in-development build of the game, and gave us a sneak peek at the new look of the main characters, new characters, as well as the re-imagined Shenmue world. 

Check it out below:

Shenmue 3 news and features

PC trial

The PC trial for Shenmue 3 is coming to the Epic Games Store in the second half of September but it will only be accessible to Kickstarter and Slacker backers who pledged $100 or more when the game was raising funds for development. 

The demo will be around an hour long and will take place in the first area of the game, Bailu village. While it'll be possible to replay, it will eventually expire and the progress players make in the demo will not carry over to their final copy of the game.

A solid date and some finer details are yet to be nailed down but it's expected that these will be confirmed soon. 

System requirements

The Epic Games Store now has Shenmue 3 listed and along with that listing are the minimum and recommended system requirements for PC players. Better make sure you have 100GB of storage available! The download size for the PS4 version of the game is yet to be confirmed.

Minimum requirements:

  • Windows 7 64-bit or later
  • Intel core i5-4460 (3.40 GHz), Quad-core or better
  • 4GB RAM
  • Nvidia GeForce GTX 650 Ti or better
  • Direct X11
  • 100GB storage
  • Direct X9.0c compatible sound card

Recommended requirements:

  • Windows 10 64-bit
  • Intel core i7-7700 (3.60 GHz)
  • 16GB RAM
  • Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070
  • Direct X11
  • 100GB storage
  • Direct X9.0c compatible sound card

Kickstarter refunds

News that Shenmue 3 on PC would be an Epic Store exclusive for a year before making its way onto Steam brought some kickback from unhappy Kickstarter backers who felt that they were being strong-armed into playing a game from a storefront they don't wish to support. As a result, refunds were called for and it seems Epic is willing to honor, and fund, the refund requests. 

In a tweet CEO, Tim Sweeney, confirmed the policy in a show of good will towards players.

Preview
We got hands on time with Shenmue 3 during E3 2019 and, we have to say, it was a bit disappointing. While there are new features such as Ryo being able to train specific skills through balance or timing challenges, we found the game hasn't really aged well. Characters are stone-faced, combat is clunky and limited, while the game's graphics leave a lot to be desired. As fans of the original series, we were disappointed (but not all that surprised) to find Shenmue 3 is stuck in the past. 

Epic Store exclusivity
In an update to backers on Kickstarter, Ys Net has revealed that Shenmue 3 is going to be an Epic Store exclusive for awhile: 

"Development for Shenmue III has been moving forward using Unreal Engine and the support we have received from Epic has been excellent. But most importantly, in looking for the most enjoyable experience on PC, it was decided together with Deep Silver after much discussion that the Epic Games Store would be the best distribution platform option."

Sorry, Steam fans.   

Delays
Originally, we were due to get our hands on Shenmue 3 in December 2017 but, unsurprisingly, the release date was delayed into 2018. Publisher Deep Silver then announced the release window was once again being pushed back to 2019. It was finally revealed in August, 2018 that Shenmue 3 will release on August 27, 2019, and then delayed again until November 19, 2019. Better late than never, right?

Shenmue 3

Image credit: YS Net

Open-world
Speaking to GamesRadar, Suzuki said: “I decided to go all-in with making the world-building distinctive. There are a lot of open-world games out there, but I don’t believe many, if any, are quite like Shenmue.”

Mini games and QTE will return
It looks like mini games will be making a return – while new games will be added. A poll on the Shenmue 3 Kickstarter suggested the YS Net was trying to survey which were the favorites among fans. If you're a Lucky Hit fan then you'll be pleased to know that it seems to be returning – and apparently you can win special prizes from playing it and other mini games. 

In addition, Suzuki has confirmed quick time events will also be returning, so get your reflexes ready.

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Borderlands 3: release date, news and trailers for the next Borderlands game

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 10:49 AM PDT

More than six years after Borderlands 2 burst into our lives, Borderlands 3 has finally been announced and given a firm release date that we can count down to. 

After so long waiting, it hardly feels real that the release date of Borderlands 3 is so close; we've even spent some hands-on time with the game now!

With larger-than-life characters, a lively and colorful alien planet to explore, tons of absurd weapons, and a wisecracking sense of humor, Borderlands has managed to blow some fresh air into an FPS genre that often sticks to 'gritty' visuals and dull urban environments.

Here's everything we know so far about the game, and when it's finally going to be landing on PC and consoles.

[Update: We've got plenty of hours stacked up on Borderlands 3 already so we've updated our guide with plenty of new information. Read on to find out more.]

Borderlands 3

Image Credit: Gearbox

Cut to the chase

  • What is it? The third numbered game in the first-person shoot and loot franchise
  • When can I play it? September 13, 2019
  • What can I play it on? PS4, Xbox One, PC and Google Stadia

Borderlands 3 release date

Gearbox has now confirmed a release date of September 13, 2019.

Image Credit: Gearbox

Borderlands 3

Borderlands 3 trailers and preview

While we wait for the game to land, we do have a number of new trailers to pore over. The latest isn’t trying to tell you anything specific but it’s a real mood setter and you can tap your feet to The Turtles so it’s well worth a watch. 

E3 brought us an exciting amount of new footage including a new cinematic trailer and ten whole minutes of gameplay footage. You can watch both below:

Gearbox took to the stage at PAX East (March 28-30) to show off  the formal announcement trailer below. You get a good look at the new villains of the series (a brother and sister?), new shiny cities and creaking scrapyards, and series-favorite robot Claptrap doing some breakdancing.

It looks... pretty much the same as any Borderlands game before it, which is both reassuring for fans and a bit disappointing for those looking for a new spin on the series. It's too early to judge before we've seen more, though. 

What we know for sure is that there'll be a lot of guns (over one billion, and even one with little machine legs) and a whole lot of looting in expansive sandbox environments. Oh, and a saxophone solo – because why not?

There's also a separate announcement trailer for the release date, which also names the four vault hunters and the name of the villains: the Calypso Twins...

The official announcement came only days after a 'Mask of Mayhem' teaser you can see below. It's packed with little clues and hints of the game to come, including everything from a morse code to braille, and what seems to be a broken-up redeem code (C35TB - WS6ST - TXBRK - JJH6H - TTTJT) that we imagine will be usable for some sort of DLC reward or exclusive skin for eagle-eyed viewers.

What's more, we've been able to spend some time with the game thanks to a hands-on gameplay reveal event that TechRadar attended. The gameplay loop, at least, is familiar, with your job to take down enemies, look their corpses, and level up. It looks like Gearbox is putting plenty of detail and imagination into the weaponry this time around.

Borderlands 3


What's new is a focus on movement that's more fluid, and improvements to multiplayer, including the option for allies to revive each other. There's also "loot instancing", designed to level the playing field a little for groups of friends who've spend different amounts of time in the game. Borderlands 3 also gives you your very own spaceship, the Sanctuary 3.

For a full rundown of everything we saw in our time with the game, check out our hands-on preview in full.

Borderlands 3 news and rumors

How long will it take to complete?
According to Gearbox, the main story (at fastest) can be done within 20 hours but if you choose to take in side quests and other tasks then you could be looking at 50 hours plus.

Gun alternate shooting modes
Some of Borderlands 3's guns have alternative shooting modes with allow you to change up your combat style. For example, a Moloko can use either pistol mode or zeip rockets mode. 

Mantle and slide
Alongside the ping system, Borderlands 3 adds mantling and sliding (much like Apex Legends).

Level-syncing
There is no longer a level restriction on playing with friends thanks to level-syncing. Instead, everything in the game (loot, enemies etc) is relative to your own personal level. 

Four playable characters at launch
FL4K the Beastmaster, Amara the Siren, Zane the Operator and Moze the Gunner. These playable characters actually speak and engage with other characters, as well as each other. They can also combine abilities for ultimate effectiveness.

Ice-T is a fluffy pink teddy bear
That's right, the rumors were true, rapper Ice-T is in Borderlands 3.

But what badass role is the legend taking on? Perhaps a gun-toting psycho? Or a wise-cracking vault hunter? Nope, Ice-T lends his voice to a fluffy pink teddy bear called Balex (his parents couldn't decide between Barry and Alex) who is having some trouble with an ex girlfriend.

Plenty of customization options
Players have enhanced customization options for both their character and vehicles. When it comes to your character you can change your head, skins and colours among other things. While vehicles have customizable paint jobs, bodies, weapons and much more. 

Exploring the galaxy
Borderlands 3 sees you exploring beyond Pandora in a spaceship called Sactuary 3. We currently know there are three visitable planets, but Gearbox isn't saying much more than that.

Borderlands 3


Visual capabilities
In a behind the scenes interview posted to the Official PlayStation blog, Online and Social Product Owner for Borderlands 3, Scott Velasquez, has confirmed some of the visual options that players will have in the game. First of all, Borderlands 3 will support HDR and 4K but these don't come hand in hand; players will actually be able to configure them separately to get exactly what they want. 

Further to this, players will be able to choose between "favor resolution" and "favor performance" on 4K consoles. With the former, framerate will be capped at 30 but the resolution will look its absolute best. With the latter, as you'd expect, the resolution is held back slightly at 1080p while the framerate goes up to 60 frames per second.

If you're using a 4K console but your TV only supports 1080p "the game will supersample from the higher resolution using the console's hardware" so you'll get the best 1080p image you can at the very least. 

14 minutes of footage
It's not long to wait until that September release date but Gearbox is excitement for Borderlands 3 at a peak with 14 minutes of footage from the start of the game. Dropped as part of IGN First, this new footage gives a better indication of the game's story and a nice look at the controls, combat and customisation that will be available to you at launch. 

No cross-play at launch
Although it’s something Gearbox is interested in making happen, there will be no cross-play in Borderlands 3 when it launches. Randy Pitchford confirmed this news via Twitter where he also said that the team is committed to making the dream a reality in the future so keep your fingers crossed, folks.

Vault Insider Programme
Want to earn in-game loot before Borderlands 3 is even released? Then you’ll want to take a look at the Vault Insider Programme. Not only will signing up to this bring you news about the game as it’s announced, it’ll dish out points that can be spent in Borderlands 3 or Borderlands 2. 

The Vault Insider Programme is basically part of the marketing push ahead of Borderlands 3 so it probably won’t surprise you to know that points are earned after you set up a Gearbox Shift account and link it up to your various social media channels. You’ll get your points from watching the latest videos, visiting the Borderlands social media channels, essentially doing a lot of the things you might do anyway if you’re interested in the game. 

You can either spend your points on a randomised piece of loot or weaponry or save up for something specific. 

Accessibility improvements
In addition to the new ping system, Borderlands 3 includes a bunch of other features that aim to increase the game's overall accessibility including compatibility with the Xbox Adaptive Controller, re-mappable controls, a variety of subtitles and closed captioning options, and level-syncing (which will allow you to play with friends, even if you're different levels). 

There have also been improvements made to online match-making. Players will be able to search for a match in the background while continuing to play the game, and  match preferences can be more specific than previously. This means you can find players at the same point in the story as you or set the mode you want to play in.

Ping system
At a panel at Guardian Con last week (via PC Gamer), Gearbox revealed it has added a range of new features to Borderlands 3 to make multiplayer more accessible than its predecessors. The biggest addition? An Apex Legends-style ping system that allows players to communicate with each other without ever having to say a word. 

Much like in Apex Legends, Borderlands 3's multiplayer will allow players to simply cover over an enemy or chest and then press a button to 'ping' it to your fellow teammates. In other words, it lets you highlight important things like hostiles, good loot and objectives. 

This feature will allow players to communicate easily and without having to deal with the stress of a stranger screaming down your headset. Of course, that option remains available.

Check out a video of the new ping system in action below:

E3 2019
As promised, Borderlands 3 made an appearance at E3 2019 with a brand new cinematic trailer, 10 minutes of gameplay to pore over and confirmation that there's a brand new planet called Eden 6 that's inspired by the Louisiana swamps.

Oh, and those rumors about a Borderlands 2 DLC bridging the gap to the third game? Those were true. Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith and the Fight for Sanctuary offers a 10-hour story which starts right at the end of Borderlands 2.

Even better, it can be downloaded for free from now until July 9 on Xbox One, PS4 and Steam. After that it'll cost you £11.99 so if you have any interest in Borderlands 3 it's worth picking up right now.

Reports of Borderlands 2 DLC - confirmed
The rumors about a Borderlands 2 DLC bridging the gap between the second and upcoming third game were true. Commander Lilith and the Fight for Sanctuary DLC is free and available now.

Details, details, details
We managed to have a chat with Amanda Christensen, a concept artist at Gearbox and a key character designer on Borderlands 3. She told us that "the most obvious jump is in terms of our level of detail" in the upcoming game, and that there are a "bunch of cool little details" spread throughout. It's a revealing chat and you can read everything Christensen had to say about Borderlands 3 here.

DLCs: quality over quantity
The DLC future of Borderlands 3 looks bright enough, after Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford intimated on Twitter that future DLCs would focus on quality over quantity: it seems as though Borderlands 3 might focus on fleshing out the capabilities of the game's starting classes instead of asking players to start building new ones from scratch, and that's fine with us.

Epic Games Store exclusive – to start
While Borderlands 3 will launch on PS4, Xbox One and PC, the PC version will start as an Epic Games Store exclusive, before joining the Steam Store six months on.

Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford hinted at this back in December, when he voiced his support for the new marketplace. Epic has been courting various exclusives for its store, including Metro Exodus and The Division 2, so we're not overly surprised.

Cross-platform co-op could be included

A listing page for Borderlands 3 on the Microsoft store gave a hint to a very-cool potential new feature landing with the game – cross-platform multiplayer. Though the page in question has since been pulled, it showed the game's feature set to include play across consoles not limited to Microsoft's own. With the game initially an Epic Games Store exclusive, and that platform's biggest title, Fortnite, being cross-platform in many console scenarios, there's certainly the genesis of the infrastructure to support the feature if true.

A representative for the game's publisher, 2K Games, told IGN that “Cross play is something we’re looking at closely, but don’t have anything to confirm or announce at this time.”

Vault Hunter names
The release date trailer also gave us the names of the four vault hunters, which offer their own spins on the traditional four classes. We have a Gunner weapons expert (Moze), a Siren with floating fists at the ready (Amara), an android Beastmaster (Fl4x), and a suave, stealthy Operative (Zane). We also got the names of the entry's villains: the very evil-looking Calypso Twins (not identical).

Borderlands 3 confirmed – as well as a board-game
Gearbox gave us the announcement we wanted on March 28, at PAX East in Boston. The showcase was hit with technical difficulties – like a lot – and for some reason included a really long magic trick. But we got our first look at the anticipated title, as well as a tie-in board-game called Borderlands: Tiny Tina’s Robot Tea Party. 

Borderlands 3

Image Credit: Gearbox

4K remasters (for free!)
Good news for anyone with a copy of Borderlands 1, 2, or the Pre-Sequel: Gearbox is releasing enhanced 4K remasters of the previous games, and anyone who already owns them will get to download the remastered version for free. You'll need a 4K ready console or PC to make the most of it, but it's wonderful fan service for those who do.

Hints, lots of hints
At PAX West 2017, Pitchford announced during a panel that 90% of the Gearbox team is “working on the thing I think most of you guys want us to be working on.”

Pitchford also took part in an IGN Unfiltered interview around the same time, when he said that if another Borderlands game were to be made, it would be more of a true sequel as opposed to another Pre-Sequel spin-off. 

Caught in the act
And in April 2017, Pitchford took to Twitter to post a picture of himself wearing a motion capture suit with the caption “Doing a shoot... I may or may not be a psycho bandit in a video game we may or may not be working on. Also, happy Bulletstorm launch day!” 

Given that Psychos are a Borderlands enemy we’d say this tweet can be read with a fairly large nudge and wink.

The GDC presentation
Before all of this Pitchford took to the stage during Epic Games’ Unreal presentation at GDC in March 2017, where he showed off new rendering tech that “may be used in a future Gearbox game.” He explicitly said the footage shown was not from a video game but what was shown was highly reminiscent of Borderlands. 

He also revealed that this new tech is capable of simulating different physics depending on a planet’s properties. Specifically he said “there might be different physics and the sun and the moons might be in different positions than what we’re used to on Pandora.”

That seems to have been pretty prophetic – as we know Borderlands 3 will be making use of some new environments beyond what we saw on Pandora in the previous games.

Some changes
Borderlands regular Mikey Neumann won't be writing on the new game, as he was unfortunately forced to resign from the project due to health complications. The lead writer on Borderlands 2, Anthony Burch, has also since left the company. There’s been no hint with regards to who’ll be taking up the pen after their departures. 

Another change is that the voice behind Claptrap, David Eddings, has left Gearbox for Rooster Teeth so it’s unlikely he’ll be taking up the role again. 

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Windows 10 S Mode release date, news and features

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 09:54 AM PDT

Launched back in May 2017, Windows 10 S mode has found itself its own niche in the computing world, despite being lightweight and receiving its fair share of criticism in the beginning. In fact, this lightweight version of the Windows 10 operating system has been instrumental in getting the popular OS more than 825 million installs.

Especially in the education sector, Windows 10 S mode makes a lot of sense for the right kind of user and device. Windows 10 S mode offers better security than all the other versions of Windows 10. It allows a lower-powered computer to run and stay fast. And, it still benefits from Windows 10 updates – from the Windows 10 May 2019 Update, for example, Windows 10 S mode got clever features like “Light Mode,” useful storage space tools, and the possibility of playing Xbox One games natively.

Windows 10 S mode has proven so successful, in fact, that Microsoft is now allegedly working on Windows Lite to expand on the lightweight nature of the OS and contend with the best Chromebooks.

However, it must be said that Windows 10 S mode is not for every user. To find out if it’s the operating system for you, let’s dive in and discover everything this lightweight version of Windows can do.

Cut to the chase

  • What is it? Windows 10 without x86 and x64 apps
  • When is it out? Available now
  • What will it cost? Free to all schools using Windows 10 Pro

windows 10 s mode

Windows 10 S release date

Windows 10 S mode originally launched on May 2, 2017. Fast forward to 2019 and Windows 10 S is bigger than ever, with devices using it still filling the shelves and making such lower spec Windows 10 devices more versatile now than ever before. 

Eventually, there will be a UI toggle that’ll let Windows 10 users switch in and out of S Mode (this was not available at the original time of this writing). Unfortunately, switching out of the Windows 10 S Mode is currently a one-way street and permanent. Though if you need more than what this light OS can offer, you can get out of S Mode easier than you think – simply go to the Windows Store and search for “switch out of S Mode”.

Currently, to get Windows 10 S mode, it’s mandatory to have the qualifying devices that are already enabled in S mode. You can also ask your computer manufacturer to see if you can get it installed in a new device you are buying.

Windows 10 S is not for individual sale, but it is issued to IT administrators in education as well as laptops found in stores and online. It’s no coincidence that Windows 10 S is focused on the education sector, where Google’s Chromebooks are having unprecedented success and popularity.Windows 10 S mode is free for users. Microsoft subsidizes the cost of the OS to hardware manufacturers, assuming they’re not getting Windows 10 S for free. Basically, as a user, you don’t really pay for Windows 10 S Mode. Instead, you’re paying for the hardware running it. 

You can find devices running Windows 10 S Mode starting at just $189 (about £146, AU$251) and cap out around $299 (about £239, AU$396) – with the exception of premium devices like the original Surface Laptop, of course. PC makers across the board – including Dell, HP, Asus, Acer and Lenovo – all have Windows 10 S Mode-powered devices in their stables.

However, now that Windows 10 S Mode is a thing, it’s a toggle that won’t cost you extra. Both Windows 10 Home and Pro S Mode users are able to go to the Windows Store and opt out of S Mode. Though bear in mind that the conversion only works one way – out of S Mode. Currently, at least.

There might be a switch in the settings app of a future build that will let users go back and forth. So far, however, opting out of it is permanent.

windows 10 s mode

Windows 10 S price

Windows 10 S mode is free for users. Microsoft subsidizes the cost of the OS to hardware manufacturers, assuming they’re not getting Windows 10 S for free. Basically, as a user, you don’t really pay for Windows 10 S Mode. Instead, you’re paying for the hardware running it. 

You can find devices running Windows 10 S Mode starting at just $189 (about £146, AU$251) and cap out around $299 (about £239, AU$396) – with the exception of premium devices like the original Surface Laptop, of course. PC makers across the board – including Dell, HP, Asus, Acer and Lenovo – all have Windows 10 S Mode-powered devices in their stables.

However, now that Windows 10 S Mode is a thing, it’s a toggle that won’t cost you extra. Both Windows 10 Home and Pro S Mode users are able to go to the Windows Store and opt out of S Mode. Though bear in mind that the conversion only works one way – out of S Mode. Currently, at least.

There might be a switch in the settings app of a future build that will let users go back and forth. So far, however, opting out of it is permanent.

windows 10 s mode

What is Windows 10 S?

Microsoft intended Windows 10 S mode to be the lightweight yet more secure version of Windows 10 for lower-powered devices. By lightweight, that also means that in “S Mode,” Windows 10 will only support apps that are downloaded from the Windows Store.

This talk of a version of Windows that can only download Microsoft-approved apps is familiar, isn’t it? Microsoft believes it has achieved this approach since the turbulent days of Windows 8 RT and Windows 8 with Bing – both of which attempted to position Microsoft as the sole provider of apps through curation.

The great thing about this, though, is that it allows for a startup time of under 5 seconds, as opposed to Windows 10 Pro’s startup time of 30 - 40 seconds. Moreover, configuration settings (such as Wi-Fi, webcam, etc.) across an entire classroom of students is as effortless as inserting a USB stick in each of their laptops.

Windows 10 S mode competes with Google’s Chrome OS,  so Microsoft has, of course, also positioned it to be a more secure PC operating system. However, its resilience to viruses is mostly a side-effect of the inability to install apps not approved by Microsoft, since Windows viruses tend to come from untrustworthy internet downloads.

Should you find a must-have app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store in Windows 10 S, you can switch from Windows 10 S to Windows 10 Home or Pro simply by going to the Windows Store and searching for “switch out of S Mode”. Microsoft used to charge a fee for this service, but now it’s free.

Microsoft will also let users that upgrade to Windows 10 Pro to move back down to Windows 10 S. And now, Microsoft is rumored to be working on a Windows 10 Lean Mode, which will be even more lightweight and locked down.

Strangely enough, the shiny new Surface Laptop 2 now ships with Windows 10 Home, not in S Mode like the prior model.

That said, what exactly can you expect to see included in devices running Windows 10 S mode? Well, the Edge browser, OneNote and Windows Ink are all givens. The standard Movies and Groove Music apps, not to mention Maps, Mail and Calendar, are obvious choices as well. 

Of course, we won’t see x86/x64 program support on a Windows 10 cloud operating system until sometime in 2019 when Polaris is anticipated to come out and implement a ‘virtualization container’ for each of your favorite legacy applications. This means that, yes, should everything work according to plan, there will be a Windows 10 cloud OS that can emulate the .exe’s of the past.

Despite its limitations, Windows 10 S mode still offers File Explorer. And, while many of the laptops that come with the lightweight OS pre-installed may ship with smaller capacity SSDs, Microsoft’s upcoming introduction of OneDrive Files On-Demand will permit users to access files stored in the cloud and view them the same way as you would locally stored content.

We know that many still have questions concerning the practicality of Windows 10 S mode. Hopefully, we have answered some of your questions, and helped you decide whether or not it’s the right operating system for you.

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Biometric data of a million users leaked

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 09:53 AM PDT

Security researchers have discovered a huge collection of unsecured biometric credentials and personal information including the fingerprint data of over one million people.

The discovery was made by researchers Noam Rotem and Ran Locar alongside vpnMentor and in addition to fingerprint data, they also found facial recognition information, unencrypted usernames and passwords as well as other personal information from users of Suprema's Biostar 2 security platform.

As with other recent data leaks, the information was found in a publicly accessible database which contained 27.8m records spanning 23GB of data. As of now, it is still unclear as to whether any malicious actors were able to access the data while it was publicly exposed.

Organizations around the world rely on the Biostar 2 security system to secure their commercial buildings. According to vpnMentor, the system is used to control access to facilities in the US, UK, Japan, India and the UAE.

Biostar 2

If cybercriminals did manage to access the data, they could use it to either create or modify existing user credentials which would allow them to access any building secured with Biostar 2.

Employees enrolled in the security system could also be at risk as their personal information could be used to commit identity fraud and their fingerprint data could be used to gain access to other systems that are secured using their unencrypted fingerprint data.

According to The Guardian, Suprema also recently announced that its Biostar 2 platform would be integrated into another security system called AEOS which is used in 83 countries by governments, banks and even the UK's Metropolitan Police service.

The security vulnerability has now been fixed but the biometric credentials and personal information exposed in the data leak could still be leveraged by malicious actors. Businesses using the Biostar 2 platform should change the passwords they use to access the system's dashboard immediately to prevent falling victim to any potential attacks.

Tripwire's VP of product management and strategy, Tim Erlin provided further insight on the data leak and the disadvantages of using biometric data for security purposes, saying:

“As an industry, we’ve learned a lot of lessons about how to securely store authentication data over the years. In many cases, we’re still learning and re-learning those lessons. Unfortunately, companies can’t send out a reset email for fingerprints. The benefit and disadvantage of biometric data is that it can’t be changed.

“Using multiple factors for authentication helps mitigate these kinds of breaches. As long as I can’t get access to a system or building with only one factor, then the compromise of my password, key card or fingerprint doesn’t result in compromise of the whole system. Of course, if these factors are stored or alterable from a single system, then there remains a single point of failure.”  

Via The Verge

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AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation release date, news, and rumors

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 09:48 AM PDT

Now that AMD has released its first 7nm Ryzen 3rd Generation processors, what will the future look like for Threadripper 3rd Generation – its next line of HEDT processors?

The new Zen 2 architecture was revealed at CES 2019, with AMD promising dramatically improved efficiency and performance, thanks to the new 7nm manufacturing process. 

This is the architecture behind the latest Ryzen processors like the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X, and sees performance jump up dramatically, thanks to a 15% boost to IPC (instructions per clock). This is definitely exciting information if you’re looking to upgrade to a new Ryzen chip, but we’re interested in Threadripper 3rd Generation here. But, if this same jump in performance can appear in the next Threadripper processors, we could see some of the best CPUs for creative work yet. 

Still, AMD has yet to officially announce when we'll actually see these processors, much less how powerful they'll actually be. However, that doesn't mean we don't have anything to go off of – we've used our tech expertise to gather up all the Threadripper 3rd Generation rumors and speculation in one spot. So, be sure to keep this page bookmarked, and we'll keep it updated with all the latest Threadripper news. 

Cut to the chase

  • What is it? AMD’s next line of HEDT processors 
  • When is it out? Likely late 2019
  • What will it cost? TBD

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation

 Image Credit: TechRadar 

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation release date

AMD hasn’t come out and announced the release date for the next Threadripper chips, but the last two generations have had pretty consistent release dates, so we have a solid basis for speculation.

Both the original Threadripper and Threadripper 2nd Generation launched in August of 2017 and 2018, respectively. We’re fairly sure that AMD is going to follow the same general release schedule this time around, but, obviously we don’t know that for sure. 

The Zen 2 architecture launched with Ryzen 3rd Generation in July 2019, however we still don't know when we'll see this architecture enter the HEDT market. 

And, well, it looks like we may have to wait until 2020 to even see these processors. AMD’s next-gen HEDT chips have dropped off of Team Red’s roadmap entirely, so we might be waiting quite a while to get our hands on them. This isn’t the most concrete of rumors, but it’s better to be prepared for the worst. 

We’ll update this article as soon as we hear more substantial rumors about the release date.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation

 Image Credit: TechRadar 

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation price

Now, so far ahead of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation’s launch, we don’t have any official pricing information, but we can look at past generations to get an idea of what AMD’s next HEDT chips will cost. 

The original lineup of Threadripper topped out with the $999 (£999, AU$1,439) AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X, but the second generation introduced surprisingly lower priced replacements. There were also two higher specced – and higher priced – additions. We believe Threadripper 3rd Generation will follow the latter model.

The prices of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2nd Generation chips are as follows: 

  • Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX: $1,799 (£1,639, AU$2,679)
  • Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX: $1,299 (£1,159, AU$2,039)
  • Ryzen Threadripper 2950X: $899 (£809, AU$1,415)
  • Ryzen Threadripper 2920X: $649 (£583, AU$1,019)

AMD could very well surprise us and introduce an even higher-end SKU, like it did with the Ryzen 9 3900X and 3950X, but we're not sure that will actually happen. Stay tuned, and we’ll update this page as soon as we hear any Threadripper 3rd Generation price information.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation

 Image Credit: TechRadar 

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation specs

With AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3rd Generation, we expect to see a huge bump in core counts, efficiency and per-core performance with Threadripper 3rd Generation. If you need a refresher on last year’s Threadripper lineup’s specs they’re as follows:

  • Ryzen Threadripper 2920X: 12-cores, 24-threads, clocked at 3.5GHz to 4.3GHz
  • Ryzen Threadripper 2950X: 16-cores, 32-threads, clocked at 3.5GHz to 4.4GHz
  • Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX: 24-cores, 48-threads, clocked at 3.0GHz to 4.2GHz
  • Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX: 32-cores, 64-threads, clocked at 3.0GHz to 4.2GHz

With its Ryzen 3rd Generation processors, the move to 7nm has massively improved specs, not only resulting in higher core counts, but boosted clock speeds, much higher cache and lower power consumption. So, if that repeats with Threadripper Castle Peak, we're sure that performance is going to be massively improved. You can just look at the recently-announced Epyc processors, also based on Zen 2, which feature up to 64-cores.  

The AMD Ryzen 9 3950X, which will hit store shelves in September, features 16-cores, for instance, double that of the previous-generation Ryzen 7 2700X. And, when it comes to power consumption, just look at the Ryzen 7 3700X, which beats the Intel Core i9-9900K with a 65W TDP (thermal design power). 

AMD Zen 2 processors feature up to 8-core chiplets that are smaller than the IO die. This means that Threadripper 3rd Generation should have many more cores in the same amount of space. 

Right now, all the rumors are pointing to AMD Threadripper 3rd Generation processors having up to 32-cores and 64-threads. That's the same amount of cores and threads featured in the Threadripper 2990WX, but a leaked 3rd Generation Threadripper processor appeared that's 13% faster with the same amount of cores. 

If AMD is able to bring higher core counts to Castle Peak HEDT processors, we could see AMD absolutely dominate Intel’s Basin Falls Refresh – and potentially the Cascade Lake-X family that’s rumored to follow it. And, if Intel can’t answer with anything but 14nm silicon, AMD might claim the HEDT throne just as it toppled Intel’s mainstream sales. This is especially true if Intel can’t get a smaller manufacturing process out before Zen 3 comes out and refines AMD’s 7nm process, likely in 2020.

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Best computer speakers 2019: the best audio systems for your PC

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 09:40 AM PDT

While some people might say that you can only truly experience immersive audio on your PC through a headset, the best computer speakers out there will give even the best headphones a run for their money. Wearing headphones can become fatiguing and isn’t always the most comfortable which makes the best computer speakers a stellar alternative, giving your ears some breathing room.

Computer speakers, like any computer peripheral, can be a confusing mess of options and might not be easy to figure out what’s best for you. There are certain things that might be more important to you, like sound quality, type of connection, whether there’s a subwoofer, or something else. How is the sound – balanced, lots of bass, fatiguing after a few minutes?

What is your priority? Maybe it’s not sound quality. Maybe instead of hi-fi audiophile-level audio, you want something that sounds decent but saves you some cash. Or you do want that hi-fi clarity. Maybe as a gamer or cinephile, you care about surround sound or a good soundstage.

These are all crucial elements to finding the best computer speakers for you. Also, consider what your set-up is whether you’re a few inches from a 4K gaming monitor or lounging back while playing PC games like Rage 2, where you still want full immersion, including feeling those explosions deep in your spleen. Whether it’s gaming, movies, or music, there are quite a few options out there.

Regardless, whatever you want from your audio experience, one of these best computer speakers we’ve rounded up will fit the bill.

Audioengine A2+


While the Audioengine A2+ arrived on the scene four years back, they are still conceivably among the best computer speakers on the market. These slick-looking speakers will function with your PC’s USB port for uncompressed audio and amazing sound quality with its built-in DAC. The Audioengine A2+ comes sans subwoofer. However, if you really need that deep bass for extra rumble, that’s hardly a deal breaker: mostly because there is an RCA output, so it’s simple to connect an external woofer, which Audioengine also sells separately.

Logitech Z623


They may be more expensive than you’d expect to pay for Logitech’s best computer speakers, but the Logitech Z623 speakers are still pretty reasonable, considering that they’re an audio beast. The Z623 may look like a typical set of speakers, but the subwoofer produces a powerful, deep sound that can easily be adjusted up or down based on your preference. As a bonus, these speakers have an impressive soundstage – with great highs and mids – making for an extremely immersive gaming and movie audio experience.

Logitech G560


When it comes to computer accessories, Logitech is a household name. However, the G560 takes the company’s speaker prowess up a level. These are the first Logitech computer speakers created specifically for gaming, and the manufacturer’s hard work has more than paid off. The Logitech G560 speakers are, without a doubt, one of the best computer speakers for gaming. Not only do they have RGB lighting – a must for gaming peripherals in 2019 – but through Logitech’s software, the multi-colored illumination can adjust to any kind of content you consume for a more brilliant, not to mention mesmerizing, experience.

Razer Nommo Pro


The Razer Nommo Pro may have an amusing name and a uniquely funky look, but make no mistake, these are a quality set of speakers that must be taken very seriously, and not only because of its hefty price. Try to combat the urge to run in the opposite direction of that $500 price tag, the Razer Nommo Pro has a lot to offer and is definitely a sound investment. There’s the thundering down-firing subwoofer that’ll blow you away, and then there’s the Razer Chroma feature, making these speakers look just as great as they sound. There are definitely more reasonably priced computer speakers out there, but with this level of quality, the Razer Nommo Pro is worth the cost of entry.

  • This product is only available in the US as of this writing. UK and Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Audioengine A2+.  

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III


Sure, the Harmon Kardon Soundsticks III may look like a bloom of jellyfish. These translucent computer speakers look more like a modern art installation protesting rising ocean temperatures, but you’ll appreciate them once you hit that power button. These are certainly an excellent speaker system that belong on our best computer speakers list. This speaker and sub combo features booming bass, thanks to its woofer, as well as detailed highs. Finally, you get that amazing sound at a good price, making it ideal for music fans with a mid-range budget.

  • This product is only available in the US and UK at the time of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse. 

Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse


The Edifier E25 Luna Eclipse is a staggering speaker setup that not only has an enticing design, but also sounds terrific. It’s meant for folks who like a lot of rumbling and booming bass. The Luna, which comes in red, white and black colors, offers a powerful but well-controlled bass, as well as great balance with sharp mids and good stereo separation. It even includes a nifty little remote control so you don’t have to get up if you’re feeling lazy. The Luna Eclipse are some of the best computer speakers out there, especially if you like to pump up the volume with little to no distortion.

AudioEngine HD3 Wireless Speakers


Wireless speakers might not make the cut for gaming, where every millisecond counts, but that’s why you should opt for the AudioEngine HD 3. The beauty of these speakers is that it offers the best of both worlds. They’ve only got about 30ms of latency when using the wireless connection, so latency is practically negligible as far as listening to audio, watching videos and doing casual gaming. For competitive gamers, these also have USB Audio and Dual Analog Audio Inputs, not to mention subwoofer output for that extra rumble. And, since it is made by AudioEngine, you know the sound quality is top-notch.

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX


The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 speaker system offers fantastic, versatile sound. This means regardless of whether you’re listening to music, watching movies or gaming, you’re getting the best computer speaker experience. These THX-certified speakers boast a lot of power, a wide frequency range of 31Hz to 20kHz, and a detailed audio quality with strong bass, maximum clarity and great balance. When we say it’s powerful enough to replicate that home theater quality in your living room, we’re not exaggerating. The best part is that the price is very reasonable.

  • This product is only available in the US at the time of this writing. UK and Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Logitech Z623 

Dell Wireless 360 Speaker System AE715


Dell’s AE715 may not be the most powerful on this list of the best computer speakers, but it does produce a reasonable 360-degree sound that – while fairly common in portable audio – is unusual when it comes to computer speakers. The downside is that the bass is a bit lacking, and there’s some delay because of the wireless connection. The upside is that the audio quality is definitely good enough if your listening standards aren’t quite as demanding. You’re also getting its wireless functionality, the USB charging port so you can charge the device and a built-in mic for conference calls. Without a doubt, it’s a great portable and wireless solution that’s affordable to boot.

  • This product is only available in the US and UK as of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Jabra SPEAK 510.  

Mackie CR4BT


The Mackie CR4BT promises professional-grade performance. True, it has its share of drawbacks – including a weaker mid-range and bass that cut off at 70 Hz, meaning while there’s good bass presence, you might be missing that extra low stuff. However, they do sound great for a premium pair of speakers, and the pros include the acoustic foam pads to isolate the speakers from the surface below it, as well as the front auxiliary input. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill peripherals; they are the best computer speakers if you do a lot of multimedia creation and production-related work.

  • This product is only available in the US and UK as of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Logitech MX Sound.     

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Best budget gaming PC 2019: top gaming desktops for less

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 09:32 AM PDT

The best budget gaming PCs out there to prove that investing in a new gaming computer isn’t as expensive as you might think. And while the best gaming PCs may need you to take out a loan, the best budget gaming PCs can still deliver fantastic performance at more affordable price points. That should ease the pocketbooks of the more budget-conscious buyers out there.

And with all the latest internals unveiled or available on the market, like Intel Coffee Lake Refresh, AMD Ryzen 3nd Generation and AMD Navi, as well as the newly released Nvidia’s Super RTX series, this may be the best time to dive into one of the best budget gaming PCs.

We’ve compiled our selection of the best budget gaming PCs of 2019, which will leave the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X in the dust, which will have you gaming in no time and for not too much money.

Intel Hades Canyon NUC

If you’re looking for a cheap way to play your favorite PC games without having a gigantic tower taking up a ton of space in your apartment, you’re going to want to take a look at the Intel Hades Canyon NUC. Don’t assume that these onboard graphics won’t be able to handle real gaming either – these Vega graphics will see you through AAA games at 1080p no problem, with some light 1440p thrown in for good measure. The only drawback here is that you won’t have an SSD, RAM or an OS, but you should be able to make it a full system for under $1,000/£1,000, easy.

Read the full review: Intel Hades Canyon NUC 

HP Omen Desktop PC

When souped up, the HP Omen Desktop PC isn’t what many would consider cheap (and understandably so, as powerful internals do tend to cost a lot). Yet there’s an HP Omen Desktop PC for everyone – yes, even the budget-minded. At less than $1,500, you’re scoring more than enough power to get you through AAA games, albeit probably not on Ultra, what with an Intel Core i7-8700 processor, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics and 8GB RAM. Plus, it’s very upgradeable should you come into a bit of money later, meaning it’s just the best budget gaming PC for gamers who like to plan for the future.

Read the full review: HP Omen Desktop PC

MSI Trident 3

MSI has long held a reputation for being a top-tier laptop and PC component manufacturer, and with the MSI Trident 3, it has combined the two to great effect. And, while this budget gaming PC features last-generation Kaby Lake processors, you’re still going to get fantastic gaming performance – especially at 1080p. Plus, unlike many small-form factor PCs like the Corsair One, you can easily upgrade the MSI Trident 3 in the future – making this purchase one that will last you a long time. 

Read the full review: MSI Trident 3 

Dell XPS Tower Special Edition

The Dell XPS Tower Special Edition is a lesson in subtlety. This on-the-DL gaming rig looks like something you’d find in your dad’s office, rather than something powering the latest PC games. Rocking an Intel 8th generation Coffee Lake CPU and a Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti even at the lowest configuration option, you’re getting one of the best gaming PCs you can buy in 2019 with the Dell XPS Tower, and that’s without any of the off-putting ‘gamer aesthetic’. 

Read the full review: Dell XPS Tower Special Edition 

HP Omen Obelisk

The HP Omen line’s more affordable PC, the HP Omen Obelisk, is definitely well-deserving of the best budget gaming PC title, thanks to its low price of admission well under $1,000 and its decent specs at that configuration. And, if you customize before you buy, upgrading the base specs for more power, it won’t set you back a whole lot either. The best part? If you’re not into that over-the-top gaming aesthetic, this one has a classier-looking chassis so you can haul it to your office desk, and no one will be the wiser.

Read the full review: HP Omen Obelisk

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