Thursday, May 28, 2020

Apple : How to watch the NRL: live stream every 2020 fixture online from anywhere

Apple : How to watch the NRL: live stream every 2020 fixture online from anywhere


How to watch the NRL: live stream every 2020 fixture online from anywhere

Posted: 28 May 2020 01:12 PM PDT

It was a rough start to the 2020 NRL season in Australia, after Covid-19 saw fixtures postponed indefinitely back in March. Fast forward a grim couple of months for sports fans and the National Rugby League is back, with matches resuming on May 28. Best of all, it's easy to follow all 20 rounds of action of the regular season - and get excited about the the finals series and ultimately the NRL Grand Final. Read on as we explain how to watch the NRL live and stream every fixture online in 2020 - including for free - no matter where you are in the world.

As a quick primer, the NRL is the top-tier rugby league competition in Australia and features 15 teams for all over the continent - and one from New Zealand. For die-hard fans in Australia, knowing how to watch the NRL online is more important than every now, as stadiums will be closed to the public for the foreseeable future. But even if you can't attend in person, it's a relief to have rugby league full stop. 

This year's reigning champions - or 'premiers' - are the Sydney Roosters, and they'll definitely be putting up a fierce defence of their crown. In 2019, they made history by becoming the first team to win back-to-back NRL titles since the inception of the unified league, and it represented an 18th premiership rugby league trophy for the club overall. Can they pull of a three-peat this season? 

One of the teams likely to stand in their way are local rivals the South Sydney Rabbitohs. This Roosters vs the Rabbitohs is the fiercest rivalry in all of Aussie rugby league football, dating back to the foundation of both clubs in 1908 as part of the now defunct New South Wales Rugby Leage, or NSWRL. Over the years, the Bunnies have won a total of 21 premierships, putting them ahead of the Roosters. But in NRL, it's the Tri-Colors who lead the way with four titles compared to the Rabbitohs' single championship.

In 2019, the Rabbitohs had the upper hand over the Roosters in the regular season, but the Easts delivered when in counted in the qualifying final and beat their rivals by a dominant score of 30-6. 

At the end of the regular season, the eight highest placed sides advance to the playoff-style NRL finals series, which whittles the league's best teams down to just two. They then compete in the NRL Grand Final, which is one of the world's highest attended sporting events.

Read on to find out to watch the NRL and live stream every fixture of the Australian rugby league action from anywhere.

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How to watch the NRL: live stream in Australia for free

How to watch the NRL live from abroad

Watching the NRL in Australia is easy, but what about in other countries around the world where the excellent Kayo Sports service isn't available? 

There's no need to miss a second of the Aussie rugby league action, thanks to Watch NRL - a global subscription service that will give you access to every single NRL match this season. Available whether you're in Boston, Birmingham or Bangkok, the league's official streaming service can be had on weekly, monthly and annual deals - of which the latter represents the best value. 

Here's how Watch NRL is priced in various footy loving places around the world - or rather, various places where footy loving Aussies are likely to find themselves wanting to watch the NRL 2020 season.

  • Weekly: US$17 / £13 / €17 - GET PLAN
  • Monthly: US$33 / £25 / €33 - GET PLAN
  • Annual: US$165 / £130 / €155 - GET PLAN

Note that it's not available in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands - so let's look at some other NRL live stream options around the world. 

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How to watch the NRL in New Zealand: live stream details for the 2020 season

watch nrl live stream

How to watch the NRL in the UK: live stream Aussie rugby league footy

nrl live stream 2020

How to watch the NRL: live stream Aussie rugby league in the US

Live stream the NRL: How to watch in Canada 

How to watch the NRL live from outside your country 

Australians who subscribe to a service like Kayo but find themselves abroad for the next big NRL clash will probably find it's down to a geo-blocking restriction. When this is the case, the simplest and most reliable solution is to use a VPN service to change your IP address to a difference location. 

This will generally let you tune in to your local coverage, just as you would from home, and means you don't have to trawl the sketchier corners of the internet for an illegal stream.

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The importance of data centers during the pandemic

Posted: 28 May 2020 12:30 PM PDT

During the early days of the coronavirus outbreak many wondered if the internet would end up going down due to the dramatic increase in traffic from remote working, distance learning and people keeping themselves occupied while stuck at home. 

In fact, research from Cloudflare revealed that internet usage swelled by over 25 percent in most major cities around the world as a result of lockdown measures. Thankfully though, data center providers were able to upgrade capacity to handle this added strain on their networks.

To learn more about how data centers were able to adapt to this surge in internet usage, TechRadar Pro spoke with the President and CEO of CyrusOne, Tesh Durvasula.

Woman using laptop in front of servers

Silicon Prairie

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USB systems may have some serious security flaws - especially on Linux

Posted: 28 May 2020 11:55 AM PDT

Academics have developed a new tool that allowed them to discover 26 previously unidentified vulnerabilities in the USB driver stack used by many popular operating systems including Linux, macOS, Windows and FreeBSD.

Purdue University's Hui Peng and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne's Mathias Payer created a new tool called USBFuzz which they provided further details on in a paper titled “USBFuzz: A Framework for Fuzzing USB Drivers by Device Emulation”, that reads:

“We present USBFuzz, a portable, flexible, and modular framework for fuzz testing USB drivers. At its core, USBFuzz uses a software-emulated USB device to provide random device data to drivers (when they perform IO operations).”

The tool is used for fuzzing which involves deliberately placing or injecting garbled data into a specific application or program. If the software fails to properly handle the unexpected data, developers can then identity potential security weaknesses and address them before users are put at risk.

USBFuzz

After developing USBFuzz, the researchers tested the tool on nine recent versions of the Linux kernel (v4.14.81, v4.15,v4.16, v4.17, v4.18.19, v4.19, v4.19.1, v4.19.2, and v4.20-rc2), FreeBSD12, macOS 10.15 and both Windows 8 and 10.

Following their tests, they discovered one bug in FreeBSD, three in macOS and four in Windows 8 and Windows 10. However, of the 26 new bugs the researchers found, 18 were found in Linux. Sixteen of the bugs were high-severity memory bugs in a number of Linux subsystems (USB core, USB sound and net-work), one bug was found in the Linux USB host controller driver and the last bug was discovered in a USB camera driver.

The researchers have since reported these bugs to the Linux kernel team and they also submitted their ideas for patches to make things a bit easier for kernel developers. Of the 18 bugs USBFuzz found in Linux, 11 of them have received a patch since the researchers submitted their initial reports last year. Additional patches are expected to be released in the near future for the seven remaining issues.

The researchers are also planning to release USBFuzz on GitHub as an open source project so that others can use their tool for fuzzing.

Via ZDNet

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iOS Mail has 'critical' security flaws

Posted: 28 May 2020 10:06 AM PDT

Germany's federal cybersecurity agency has issued a warning urging all iOS users to install Apple's latest security updates which patch two zero-click security vulnerabilities that impact the company's default email app.

The vulnerabilities were first discovered by the US-based security firm ZecOps which found that they were being actively exploited in attacks targeting iOS users since at least January of 2018. Apple has acknowledged the security flaws though the company says it has found “no evidence they were used against customers”.

In its warning, BSI (Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik) stressed the importance of installing the updates immediately, saying:

“Apple has released security updates with iOS 12.4.7, iOS 13.5 and iPadOS 13.5 that fix the vulnerabilities for all affected iOS versions. Due to the criticality of the vulnerabilities, the BSI recommends that the respective security update be installed on all affected systems immediately.”

No-click vulnerabilities

Both of the security flaws affecting Apple's Mail app are no-click vulnerabilities which result from a memory consumption issue and they can be triggered after the app processes a maliciously crafted message. The first vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2020-9819, could lead to heap corruption while the second vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2020-9818, may lead to unexpected memory modification or application termination.

Fortunately Apple addressed the flaws with the release of iOS 13.5 and iPadOS 13.5 which offer improved memory handling and bounds checking. The vulnerabilities affect iPhone 6S and later, iPad Air 2 and later, iPad mini 4 and later and the iPod touch 7th generation, according to the iOS 13.5 security release notes.

In a blog post, ZecOps explained how a nation-state threat operator leveraged the vulnerabilities to attack high-profile targets, saying:

“We believe that these attacks are correlative with at least one nation-state threat operator or a nation-state that purchased the exploit from a third-party researcher in a Proof of Concept (POC) grade and used ‘as-is’ or with minor modifications (hence the 4141..41 strings). While ZecOps refrain from attributing these attacks to a specific threat actor, we are aware that at least one ‘hackers-for-hire’ organization is selling exploits using vulnerabilities that leverage email addresses as a main identifier.”

While high-profile targets are the most at risk, it is still highly recommended that all iOS users install Apple's latest security updates to avoid falling victim to any potential attacks that exploit the two vulnerabilities.

Via BleepingComputer

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The Valve Index gets checked by this HP VR headset with better specs

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:58 AM PDT

HP has just unveiled the new HP Reverb G2, the highest resolution VR headset the company has made to date with specs that rival – and surpass – the market-leading Valve Index.

The headset was made in collaboration with Microsoft and Valve, and features some major improvements in terms of optics and comfort from the original HP Reverb that was released in May 2019. 

Among those improvements, HP says, are a new flip-up visor design and lenses with a wider 'sweet spot', and extra padding on the front band to make longer sessions feel more comfortable. 

In terms of hardware specs, the Reverb G2 will have a resolution of 2160 x 2160 per eye – the highest resolution of any headset – and uses the speakers from the Valve Index to enable spatial audio support.

The one area that the Reverb G2 may not fare so well against the competition, however, is the ‘new’ controllers that look a bit like the ones that come with the Oculus Rift S. While these will likely be comfortable and easy-to-use, two areas that HP hangs its hat on, it doesn’t look as though they’ll be able to track every finger the same way Valve’s Knuckle Controllers can.

Developing a universal VR headset

The benefit of being developed by three of the leading companies in VR is that the headset really borrows the best of every ecosystem – 6DoF controllers recognized on Windows 10, support from Steam VR and, of course, features directly lifted from the Valve Index like the side speakers.

This level of universal support is great for folks who don't want to feel locked into one platform, and is definitely a major trend among VR headsets these days.

With all that said, we'll still need to test the HP Reverb G2 before we make a final decision, but on paper this VR headset looks to be a good alternative to the Valve Index, a headset that has been almost impossible to find in stock since the launch of Half-Life: Alyx back in March.

...Unfortunately, it's not coming out right away. HP says the headset won't be available until the fall (September through November). 

There's some good news to those who wait, however: the HP Reverb G2 will only cost $599 (around £500, AU$900). Though it's unclear if that price includes all the necessary peripherals, it would be a huge improvement on the Valve Index's $999 price tag.

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The Valorant beta has ended, so you don't have to watch Twitch anymore

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:41 AM PDT

Riot Games’ competitive team-based shooter, Valorant, has been in beta for almost two months, but the action has now come to an end at 9am PT/5pm BST today (May 28).

Valorant has shot to Twitch stardom due to Riot Games’ rather ingenious plan to only provide beta keys via Twitch drops for viewers. That meant a lot of people watched hours and hours of Valorant in the hopes of getting a key, but only a small minority did. 

When the game launches on June 2, all the progress from the Valorant beta will be reset, apart from any rewards that players have earned. Interestingly, if you purchased any skins in the beta, these will not carry over. Instead, you’ll be refunded the Valorant points you spent (the game’s currency) and receive an additional 20% in return. Nice.

Medal of honor

Valorant has been generally well-received by gamers during its closed beta, although it’s faced criticism as it was plagued by cheaters, who managed to disrupt the game early on, and the game suffered from spotty hit-detection, which is a game-breaking bug for a competitive shooter. 

Riot Games’ has promised that Valorant will feature new content during the game’s launch window, including a new map, game mode, character and probably loads of new skins for players to buy. 

Like any big online release, it will be interesting to see whether Valorant’s servers will be able to cope with a large influx of players at launch. Historically, developers have struggled to cope with initial demand, which always sets the game off on the wrong foot. With such a lengthy beta, though, specifically aimed at generating hype for the game, let’s hope that Riot Games has everything in place to deliver a smooth launch on June 2.

Via Forbes

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The best 17-inch laptop 2020: top large screen laptops for your money

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:33 AM PDT

The best 17-inch laptops are ideal for a desktop replacement. They have the screen real estate, the large footprint to allow for good ventilation and often that badass look complete with RGB lighting to make any gamer blush. And, they dwarf their 13-inch and 15-inch laptop cousins in a few other ways as well. 

Not only do they have that large screen and large chassis, but they also often come with more powerful components than the smaller options, such as discrete graphics like the Nvidia’s Max-Q GPUs. Unless portability tops your priority list, these laptops really are among the best options for heavy gaming or serious creative work like video editing.

Some of these computers even hold their own next to gaming PCs when it comes to handling the latest AAA games. They’re also excellent choices for photographers and for video editing. All while slimming down their dimensions over older models for more compact and mobile designs. We’ve rounded up our selection of the best 17-inch laptops for you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find something right for you.

The best 17-inch laptops at a glance:

  1. Alienware Area-51m
  2. Alienware m17 (2019)
  3. Razer Blade Pro 17
  4. HP Omen 17
  5. Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701
  6. LG Gram 17
  7. Asus TUF Gaming FX705DT
  8. HP ZBook 17 G5
  9. Lenovo ThinkPad P73
  10. System76 Serval WS

The best 17-inch laptops of 2020

Best 17-inch laptop: Alienware Area-51m

The Area-51m benefits from a great build quality and striking design.

Alienware makes some fantastic gaming machines, including the best 17-inch model on the market in our opinion. The Area-51m benefits from a great build quality and striking design, but more importantly, some supremely powerful components to drive fast frame-rates.

This laptop can pack up to an Intel Core i9-9900K processor and GeForce RTX 2080 graphics, all backed with up to 64GB of RAM. All of this helps to make the most out of the Full HD display’s 144Hz refresh rate, with G-Sync on hand to keep everything super-smooth in demanding games.

There are plenty of other smart touches with this Alienware model, including the ability to upgrade the GPU and CPU for future-proofing, a quality keyboard, and some very impressive speakers delivering both clarity and bass. Notebook speakers that don’t suck? Yes, they do exist…

The downside is the amount of damage the Area-51m will do to your bank balance, particularly for a higher-end spec. Still, if you’ve got the cash, it’s well worth the outlay.

Read the full review: Alienware Area-51m

Alienware m17 (2019)

The Alienware m17 for 2019 boasts more powerful internal components and a bold new design.

The Alienware m17 2019 boasts more powerful internal components and a bold new design that you won’t see on any of its rivals. This Alienware gaming laptop looks good inside and out, so you can have the most immersive gaming experience of your life and look good while gaming, whether you’re at home on your couch or at a cafe. It’s portable as well, with an impressively thin and light chassis that’s ideal for gaming on the go. This is the most well-rounded 17-inch laptop for gaming you’ll ever find. Just be prepared to shell out a bunch of cash.

Read the full review: Alienware m17 (2019)

Razer Blade Pro 17 2019

The Razer Blade Pro 17 2019 boasts enough power and delivers a fantastic enough performance to deserve to be called a workstation.

You’d be doing this laptop a disservice by not taking it seriously. The Razer Blade Pro 17 may be a laptop designed for gaming – and an excellent one, at that. But, it also boasts enough power and delivers a fantastic enough performance to deserve to be called a workstation, making it one of the best 17-inch laptops to consider if you work hard and play hard. That comes at a steep price, but this laptop is future-proof and somewhat upgradeable, it should last you a long while too.

Read the full review: Razer Blade Pro 17

HP Omen 17

If affordability is a priority, the HP Omen 17's definitely a shoo-in.

The recently refreshed HP Omen 17 comes with many of the most powerful specs in a gaming laptop. The only difference between this and its rivals is, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to take one home. It’s a nice surprise, especially considering that HP can and does charge a premium for many of its best laptops. The thing to really pay attention to here, however, is the display, as HP does offer a number of options that include a couple of 1080p ones with blazing fast refresh rates. If affordability is a priority, this one’s definitely a shoo-in.

Read the full review: HP Omen 17

Best 17-inch laptop: Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701

The ROG Zephyrus makes it possible to have an incredibly powerful portable that is svelte.

Who says you can’t have your gaming cake and eat it, because with laptops like this ROG Zephyrus, it’s possible to have an incredibly powerful portable which isn’t even remotely hefty, but remains very svelte and, er, portable.

It is, in short, a gaming machine for which you don’t have to employ air quotes around the word ‘portable’, being 18.7mm thick (or rather, thin) and weighing 2.7kg. Compare that to the above Alienware which is 43mm and 4.8kg…

Yet with this Asus 17-inch laptop you still get a Core i7-8750H hexa-core CPU backed by a GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q with 8GB of video RAM (there’s up to 24GB of system memory, incidentally). All this means you can ramp up the detail levels and enjoy any game you want.

The display is also a fabulous piece of work, and what’s more it’s Pantone Validated with 100% sRGB color gamut, meaning the color accuracy is spot-on out-of-the-box, and this notebook can be used for professional photo or video editing.

Bear in mind however that battery life is disappointingly short, and the price is disappointingly hefty. For those who don’t have the hefty budget to cope with this, or the aforementioned Alienware laptop’s price tag, breathe easier and check out our next entry for a more affordable gaming option.

Read the full review: Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701 

Best 17-inch laptop: LG Gram 17

The Gram 17 is extremely light for a large machine.

As you might guess from the name, LG’s focus with the Gram is on making a very lightweight and thin notebook which still manages to pack in 17-inches of screen real-estate. The Gram 17 is 17.8mm thick, appropriately, and weighs 1.34kg, making it extremely light for a large machine. Unbelievably light, in fact.

That 17-inch IPS display, incidentally, boasts a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 and is fantastic for a spot of movie watching on the go. Another major positive with the LG Gram 17 is a good level of battery longevity, which helps if you want to watch a couple of movies while on a long journey.

You also get a good selection of ports, and while the SSD may not be the fastest, this notebook still offers great performance for everyday computing thanks to an Intel Core i7-8565U processor capable of Turbo to 4.6GHz, along with 16GB of system memory.

The end result is an excellent all-rounder which can cope with everything, bar gaming – but it wasn’t designed for that. Furthermore, LG’s Gram can truly be dubbed ‘ultraportable’, which is a real achievement given the 17-inch chassis – and that’s why this LG machine snatches our accolade for best overall 17-inch laptop.

Best 17-inch laptop: Asus FX705DT

The Asus FX705DT gaming laptop packs a Ryzen 5 3550H processor with a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card.

The words ‘cheap’ and ‘gaming laptop’ don’t mix well. Simply put, if you’re on a strict budget, you won’t get a machine capable of playing the latest games at palatable frame-rates – especially if you want a 17-inch screen to boot. So that’s why the FX705DT is our ‘affordable’ pick as opposed to ‘budget’. Remember, if you want to go really bargain basement, you’ll be confined to casual gaming only.

This Asus gaming laptop, however, packs a Ryzen 5 3550H processor with a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card with 4GB of video RAM, plus there’s 8GB of system memory. The FX705DT also boasts a roomy 512GB NVMe SSD and a backlit keyboard optimized for gaming.

All of which makes it a great choice for tackling the majority of games at good detail levels while still keeping things pretty smooth – and remaining relatively wallet-friendly. At the time of writing, there are some pretty tempting deals to be had on this Asus machine, too.

Best 17-inch laptop: HP ZBook 17 G5

The HP ZBook 17 G5 is a top-performing machine particularly when fully specced-up.

If you want extreme performance from your 17-inch laptop, HP’s most recent ZBook is absolutely packed with power. We’re talking Intel Xeon processors at the top end – or up to a Core i9-8950HK – backed with heavyweight graphics in the form of up to an Nvidia Quadro P5200 (with 16GB of video RAM).

The ZBook comes with a 17.3-inch 4K IPS DreamColor screen which boasts 100% AdobeRGB coverage (or there’s an option for a more basic 1,600 x 900 panel). There are various storage options for PCIe NVMe SSDs or solid-state hybrid drives, or indeed Intel Optane Memory to accelerate that storage.

That display truly is a fabulous thing, and the HP ZBook 17 G5 is obviously a top-performing machine particularly when fully specced-up, but there’s an equally obvious downside in that it’s very (unsurprisingly) expensive. Still, if you want an incredibly powerful PC capable of crunching through heavyweight computing tasks which you can take on the move with you, well, here it is.

Best 17-inch laptop: Lenovo ThinkPad P73

The Lenovo ThinkPad P73 represents a somewhat cheaper – and indeed a slightly slimmer – alternative to the above HP machine.

This is another mobile workstation, but it represents a somewhat cheaper – and indeed a slightly slimmer – alternative to the above HP machine, with the P73 being ideally suited to content creators.

You get the choice of an Intel Xeon E-2276M processor or 9th-gen Intel Core CPU (up to an i9-9880H with vPro), with up to Nvidia Quadro RTX 5000 graphics and up to 128GB of system memory. But the display is the jewel in the crown featuring a 4K resolution, 400 nits brightness, Dolby Vision HDR and 100% coverage of the Adobe color gamut. The screen is, quite simply, ideal for serious photo or video editing.

The cutting-edge hardware support continues with Wi-Fi 6 on board, and you get a good selection of ports for wired connectivity, including a pair of Thunderbolt 3 connectors. Creative pros need look no further for something that can cater for all their needs, at a relatively reasonable asking price for the workstation market.

Best 17-inch laptop: System76 Serval WS 17

This dedicated Linux portable from System76 is a great pick if you want the Linux environment.

There aren’t many choices for your operating system if you want an alternative to Windows 10 with your 17-inch laptop – there’s no MacBook, or Chromebook at this size – but you could, of course, run with Linux. And this dedicated Linux portable from System76 is a great pick on that front (although it’s worth noting that some 17-inch workstations do have a Linux option, like the above Lenovo which can be pre-installed with Ubuntu rather than Windows 10 Pro).

With the Serval WS you can opt for either Ubuntu 18.04 LTS or Pop!_OS, and choose between a Full HD or 4K display. There’s also a choice of 9th-gen Intel processors (up to the Core i9-9900K) backed with up to an Nvidia GeForce GTX 2080 graphics card. It’s possible to load this portable with up to 64GB of system RAM, as well, and up to 8TB of storage.

So there’s a good deal of power on offer here, and you get impressive connectivity, along with quality input peripherals like a very nifty backlit keyboard. Those who want a 17-inch Linux machine can’t go wrong here.

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Best PC games 2020: the must-play titles you don’t want to miss

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:32 AM PDT

The best PC games will immerse you in new and distant worlds for hours, days and maybe even weeks. Not only are they getting bigger and sometimes more challenging, but they’re also looking more stunning than ever. With all the power that Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 2080 Ti, Super RTX and AMD’s Navi line of graphics cards give gaming PCs on the market, PC gaming has never looked better.

That’s not limited to one genre, either. If you’re not into the best MMOs or MOBAs, then you can dig into games that drip with nostalgia for the classics or trample around in gorgeous open-world games, some of which come with an extra layer of realism thanks to ray-tracing. Or maybe platformers, strategy, or even co-op PC games to take on your friends is more your speed.

Since there’s such a plethora of games to choose from, there’s something out there that will draw you in. We’ve rounded up our favorites, including the best Steam games 2020, for this list of games you should dig into. Read on if you want help guiding you down that next rabbit hole.

The best new PC game: Resident Evil 3

Resident Evil 3


Capcom followed up one Resident Evil remake with another with only a year between them. And thankfully they did. Resident Evil 3 is a master class in horror, continuing the legacy of the series with flair. It builds on the last remake as well, ratcheting up the graphics and the action for an intense trek through Racoon City.

The remake takes the original game, the first to let you out into the zombie-filled streets of Raccoon City, and brings it into 2020. You can now dodge and the puzzles have been streamlined for a little better pacing, but you still have what made the original so good, with its varied environments and character switching to solve puzzles and move the story forward.

If you’re into horror games, you probably already know (and probably love) Resident Evil. So treat yourself with the newest addition to the series. Just make sure to turn out the lights first.

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt might just be one of the best video games of all time.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is aging like fine wine. Even several years after it hit the streets, it’s still one of the most impressive open world games that’s ever existed – mixing Skyrim’s unapologetic scale with Grand Theft Auto V’s incredible depth. It’s such a jam-packed game, which is why it claims the top spot on our list of the best PC games in 2020. Staggering, beautiful and an absolute time sink – in a good way – The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt isn’t just the best PC game of 2020 or among the best open world games on PC. It might just be one of the best video games of all time.

2. Dark Souls 3

Dark Souls 3

Dark Souls 3 improves on everything you like about the Souls series by blending it with elements found in Bloodborne.

While it's arguably not as hard as earlier titles in the series, From Software's Dark Souls 3 takes everything you like about the Souls series and improves on it by blending it with elements found in Bloodborne, the developer's more recent title for PS4.

We won’t sugar coat it: you’re going to die in Dark Souls 3, perhaps more than once. It takes patience to master its complex combat system, but it also plays fair, which makes it more approachable for casual players so they too can take part in its bleak, fantastical world. And, on the bright side, it’s much more optimized for PC than the first two games. Now that you can pick up Dark Souls: Remastered, and see where the apocalyptic series began, there’s never been a better time to link the first flame.

3. Control

Control

There's nothing quite like Control on the market.

It’s not hard to see why Control has taken the gaming world by storm. The creative team at Remedy Entertainment made sure to pack this title with plenty to love, paying very close attention to the intricate details. A deeply cinematic game, this action-adventure offers its players staggering visuals, inspired environment design and brilliant performances – not to mention, a deeply satisfying combat experience.

Control places you in the capable shoes of fiery-haired Jesse Faden. You’re tasked to seek out The Oldest House, a building in New York City that’s in a constant state of architectural flux and only appears to those who desire to find it, and locate your missing brother, all while heading the Federal Bureau of Control as its director and overseeing the containment of paranatural entities.

There’s nothing quite like Control on the market, and it makes it one of the best PC games to play right now.

4. Monster Hunter World

Monster Hunter

Monster Hunter: World is the PC game of your dreams.

Monster Hunter is one of the biggest gaming franchises you’ve probably never heard of for years now. With Monster Hunter: World, the series broke into the mainstream and came to the PC (much to many gamers’ relief), and now, it’s one of the best PC games you can play to date. 

Monster Hunter: World puts you in the shoes of a monster hunter, and you’ll hunt increasingly bigger and meaner monsters, strip them for parts, and craft bigger, badder armor. It’s a deviously simple gameplay loop that ends up being one of the most compelling and rewarding PC games you can play right now. 

There’s an incessant onslaught of content in this game, and Capcom, the developers of this monster hunting hit, are committed to bringing a wealth of free DLC to the game – as well as a new frosty expansion in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne. If you’re looking for an addictive, immersive and most importantly, fun game to play on your own or with all your closest friends cooperatively, Monster Hunter: World is the PC game of your dreams. There’s no doubt it’s one of the best PC games you can buy today.

5. Red Dead Redemption 2

red dead redemption

Red Dead Redemption 2 is an engrossing western.

The newest release from Rockstar Games was an instant hit upon release. Red Dead Redemption 2 is an engrossing western following Arthur Morgan and his gang as they try to survive a fictionalized Wild West as outlaws on the run. However, the game is much more than just that.

Whether it’s getting lost in the story, following through on every side quest to its conclusion, or just bonding with your horse, RDR2 is one of those games where you can easily sink 50+ hours into and still have something to do. The gameplay is stellar, and the graphics are gorgeous. You can even run the game in 8K, if you have the hardware. Definitely give this a look if you haven’t already.

6. Sid Meier's Civilization VI

Sid Meier's Civilization VI

What Sid Meier's Civilization VI has to offer is its massive scope.

Sid Meier's Civilization VI is the most recent installment in the iconic turn-based strategy game, and it's without a doubt among the best PC games you can play to date. One of the things that make the PC the best platform for gaming on is the sheer breadth of different game genres on offer. And, what Civilization VI has to offer is its massive scope, despite the fact that it might seem slower paced next to the likes of Fortnite.

Spread your empire across the map and crush your enemies. You build up your empire from a simple settlement to a world power, and you can decide to do this through military might, technological supremacy or cultural influence. Since its launch in 2016, it has had two expansion packs that really cement this game as an epic entry in our best PC games list. Civilization VI: Rise and Fall released in February 2018, with Civilization VI: Gathering Storm following in February 2019.

7. Alien: Isolation

Alien: Isolation

Alien: Isolation is the suspense-filled game that fans have long been waiting for.

Set 15 years after the events of the first Alien film from 1979, Alien: Isolation is the suspense-filled game that fans of the franchise have long been waiting for. Playing the role of Amanda Ripley, daughter of Alien protagonist Ellen Ripley, your mission is to track down and retrieve the flight recorder of the Nostromo spacecraft from the first Alien film, which has been traced aboard the Sevastopol space station.

First and foremost a stealth game, Isolation intensifies the tension by giving you minimal weaponry. Its superb graphics shine on high-end PCs and brilliant AI helps ramp up the dread, leaving you shuddering at every corner. This and more make Alien: Isolation one of the best PC games 2020 has to offer.

8. Overwatch

Overwatch

Overwatch is also one of the best PC games, owing to the fact that it runs beautifully.

Overwatch, if nothing else, has considerably changed the landscape, moving it away from the norm of gray-ish cover shooters to the domain of competitive gaming. Its bright, vibrant colors are only made better by its endearing characters, each coming with their own compelling backstories, which, though non-existent in game, make for a collection of amazing webcomics and cinematics.

Overwatch is also one of the best PC games, owing to the fact that it runs beautifully on all kinds of different hardware. Sure, it’s a little older now. However, even in 2020, it’s the best PC game for anyone with a competitive streak. If you missed out on this game before, do yourself a favor – sign in to your Battle.net account and take Overwatch – not to mention, its colorful cast of characters – for a spin today.

9. Forza Horizon 4

Forza Horizon 4

Forza Horizon 4 brings the racing to the UK.

Microsoft's racing series is only getting better with each release, and in many ways this spin-off has exceeded the main Forza Motorsport line as the best racing games on PC at present. They're definitely more fun, adding a dash of arcade fun to the strikingly recreated cars and race tracks we've come to expect from Forza.

Forza Horizon 4 is easily one of the best PC games you can buy today, and this entry brings the racing to the UK after having explored America, France, Italy and Australia in the previous three instalments of the franchise. Now, you can rip through charming villages, seaside towns and the city of Edinburgh by way of many miles of country roads and dirt tracks in between. It's fast, frantic and a lot of fun.

You can purchase Forza Horizon 4 through the Microsoft Store. It's also available as part of the Xbox Game Pass for PC, or you can buy the Xbox One version and get a download code for PC using the Xbox Anywhere feature.

10. Thimbleweed Park

Thimbleweed Park

Thimbleweed Park merges the best of old school PC game design with modern technology.

Fans of classic point and click games such as Monkey Island and Day of the Tentacle, which are some of the best PC games ever made, should add Thimbleweed Park to their must play list. Made by Ron Gilbert and Gary Winnick, two of the people behind PC classics Monkey Island and Maniac Mansion, Thimbleweed Park plays like a love letter to classic point-and-click adventure games. 

From the splendid retro artwork, entertaining dialogue and perplexing puzzles, Thimbleweed Park deserves its place on our list of the best PC games, merging the best of old school PC game design with modern technology.

11. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is an awfully difficult game to master.

From Software is a household name when it comes to designing the best PC games. The minds behind the critically praised Dark Souls series have transported PC gamers to some of the most forsaken landscapes and through some of the most challenging yet rewarding gameplay. From Software is back at it once more, with Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.

Sekiro places you in the shoes of the Young Wolf, a shinobi tasked with rescuing his young master. The game will take you through 16th-century Japan, but things will get eerie and supernatural: this is From Software we’re talking about. 

Don’t expect an easy time of it, however. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is an awfully difficult game to master, and you’ll need quick reflexes to deflect enemy attacks, as well as to master stealth. You won’t be able to hide behind a shield all day, like you were able to in Dark Souls III.

12. Minecraft

Minecraft

Minecraft lets you construct your own worlds using resources you find in the wild.

The phrase "build it, and they will come" rings truer than ever with Minecraft, the survival-based sandbox RPG that has now been bought more than 100 million times since its release in 2009. In it, you can construct your own worlds using resources you find in the wild, or discover existing ones created by other players online. 

In Minecraft, you can either limit yourself to the numerous tools and blocks offered by the developer, Mojang, or you can install mods to truly capitalize on your investment. Moreover, sometime in 2020, you’ll be able to take part in the Super Duper Graphics Pack, an optional piece of DLC that offers more realistic lighting effects and textures to an already amazing game.

13. Doom

Doom

Doom is still proving to be among the best PC games years later.

A crudely rendered first-person shooter series, Doom was as controversial as it was adored when it first took PC gaming by storm in the 90s. That’s due in large part to its cutting-edge depictions of gore and violence that only a computer could deliver. But just because Id Software's brainchild was a phenomenon for PC gamers in the ‘90s, that doesn’t mean that its premise and gore-fille gameplay doesn’t hold up.

Parents be damned, the franchise underwent a revival in 2016 with a fresh reset, aptly titled Doom, and it’s still proving to be among the best PC games years later. Although the multiplayer might not appeal to shooter fans regardless of age, the single player campaign will pit you against demons in Hell for a lengthy mission that is bloody satisfying, pun intended.

14. Fortnite Battle Royale

Fortnite Battle Royale

Fortnite Battle Royale is actually a game mode for the Fortnite game.

It’s possibly the biggest game in the world right now, so Fortnite Battle Royale is a natural shoo-in for this list. After all, it is a global phenomenon and among the best PC games to play right now if you like super-competitive online games. This is a game people keep coming back to, and that's mostly due to its addictive gameplay and regular updates from Epic.

Fortnite Battle Royale is actually a game mode for the Fortnite game, but this mode has become so popular, many people consider it a separate game in its own right. As with other Battle Royale games, the aim of Fortnite Battle Royale is to fight your way through an ever-shrinking map until you're the last player standing. While that might sound simple enough, there's a whole lot of depth to this game once you start playing.

15. Cuphead

Cuphead

Cuphead is unlike anything you'll play on PC.

Cuphead's 1930's animation aesthetics certainly makes this one of the most beautiful looking – and sounding – PC games on our list. Incorporating run-and-gun platforming with boss rush battles, it's also an extremely challenging game. But, that only means that it's even more rewarding to play. 

With hand-drawn cell animation, watercolor backgrounds and original jazz soundtrack, Cuphead is unlike anything you'll play on PC. Just keep in mind that the steep difficulty curve may put people off. However, if you're willing to put in the work and hone your gaming skills, you'll be rewarded with one of the best PC games you’ll ever experience.

Gabe Carey and Bill Thomas have also contributed to this article

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The best Chromebooks of 2020

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:06 AM PDT

The best Chromebooks have come a long way from their humble beginnings. What started as cheap and lightweight laptop alternatives have evolved into capable portables that can hold their own against traditional laptops. In fact, the more premium Chromebooks – like the Google Chromebooks, for example – can even give the best laptops a run for their money in terms of design, multitasking performance and ease of use.

The lightweight laptops that you once knew are not just for casual use anymore. Surpassing their predecessors, the best Chromebook can do just about anything that most people would need from a laptop. These days, the best Chromebooks will change your mind if you’ve been on the fence about getting a cheaper laptop with a more lightweight operating system, as you’re getting power and flexibility on top of impressively long battery life.

The best Chromebooks are more than up to the task, whether you’re mostly just browsing online, checking emails and streaming your favorite show or you’re actually using it for work, at a much more affordable price. Take a look at the best Chromebooks of 2020, from Google Chromebooks to offerings from Asus, Acer and HP. We even included our price comparison tool, so you’re getting the best deal on your Chromebook of choice.

Google Pixelbook Go


Google continues its tradition of making the best Chromebooks in the world. While it's older Pixelbook used to occupy the top spot in our best Chromebooks list, it's been replaced by Google's latest Chromebook: the Pixelbook Go. This is a Chromebook that proves that these devices can be just as stylish and powerful as traditional laptops, and the Pixelbook Go brings a lot of the original Pixelbook's premium features to a more affordable device. It also features a fantastic battery life and a brilliant keyboard that makes typing on a pleasure.

Read the full review: Google Pixelbook Go

best Chromebook

HP Chromebook 14


The best Chromebooks balance a bargain price and efficient use of Chrome OS – and the HP Chromebook 14 is the perfect example of that. While it’s similar to the Acer Chromebook 15 in a lot of ways, this 14-inch Chromebook is a tad more compact and looks slightly better. Complemented by a bright blue finish and a screen made to astound, the HP Chromebook 14 offers the best value of any Chromebook out there. Even if the battery life and performance are average – the HP Chromebook 14 is easily one of the best Chromebooks to date.

Read the full review: HP Chromebook 14

Asus Chromebook Flip


Before Google rolled out the Pixelbook, and showed us exactly what the best Chromebooks should be, the Asus Chromebook Flip was the Google laptop a lot of Google laptops aspired to be. With a full Intel Core processor and a full-HD display, the Asus Chromebook Flip was certainly a game-changer. These days, in the shadow of Google Pixelbook, the Asus Chromebook Flip is the best Chromebook for you if you want the Pixelbook’s key features, but cannot afford its steep price. If you're on a budget, this is one of the best Asus laptops to consider.

Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip 

best Chromebook

Acer Chromebook R11


We wouldn’t be surprised to see Acer replacing the Chromebook R11 someday soon – at least, judging by the recent release of the Chromebook Spin 11, and owing to the fact that it isn’t the most powerful choice out there. Yet it still holds up to this day as among the best Chromebooks on the market, giving you full access to Android Apps on the Google Play store. What’s more, it does so on a touchscreen display that can be rotated around into tablet mode, fitted in an all-metal finish that you would be proud to show off. 

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook R11

Acer Chromebook 314


If you’re looking for a Chromebook that really gives you excellent value for money, then the Acer Chromebook 314 is the best Chromebook for you. It’s easy to use, reliable, and has a wonderful screen and battery life (up to 12 hours) combo – not to mention, a 14-inch crisp and  bright display that gives you more screen real estate for your productivity needs. It also has a keyboard that is satisfying and a joy to use, as well as a touchpad that interacts well with all your fingers' movements and commands. More importantly, it strikes a great balance between design, usability, features, battery life and performance, while being comfortable with its own limitations. 

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 314

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

best Chromebook

Acer Chromebook Spin 311


If versatility is a top priority, then look no further than the Acer Chromebook Spin 311. This all-rounder has all the makings of a great Chromebook, from its good battery life to its robust build and solid usability. However, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 takes it further with its impressive levels of versatility, thanks to its abundance of ports considering its size, 2-in-1 design, portable size and excellent touchscreen display. It also boasts a keyboard and a touchpad that are not only reliable, but also satisfying to use. That’s a rare thing in a machine at this price point. 

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 311 

best Chromebook

Asus Chromebook Flip C436F


Premium Chromebooks occupy their own space in the laptop market, bridging that gap between powerful traditional laptops and super lightweight Chromebooks. And, the Asus Chromebook Flip C436F is perhaps one of the very few examples of these out there, with its combination of superb power, terrific feature set, premium build and a price tag that’s cheaper than its rivals. If you’re looking for a lightweight OS machine that touts more power than the rest of the clan, this is one of the best Chromebooks 2020 has to offer.

Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip C436F

best Chromebook

Acer Chromebook Spin 11


The best Chromebooks make the most compelling student laptops, and that’s exactly where the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 excels. Whether you’re a student or a parent of one, this is a cheap, capable and durable laptop that will let you get some schoolwork done while commuting or traveling. You might not get any hardcore gaming or proper video editing done on it. However, if you only need to write up some papers and stream videos or shows in your downtime, then the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 should be at the top of your list.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 11 

best Chromebook

Acer Chromebook  15


With a solid build quality that rivals a MacBook, it’s easy to excuse the Acer Chromebook 15’s aversion to 2-in-1 form factors. Still, given that the best Chromebooks rolling out this year are fully convertible, thanks to the wide adoption of Android app support, the Acer Chromebook 15 had to prove itself with more than great style. Beyond its aptitude for laying flat using a 180-degree hinge, this beautiful 15-inch Chromebook also makes a great impression with its battery life, lasting nearly 17 hours in our battery test.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 15

Acer Chromebook Spin 15


We can easily forgive the Acer Chromebook Spin 15’s shortcomings – namely, its subpar trackpad and the fact that doesn’t take full advantage of the space it has – as it more than makes up for them with enough power for formidable multitasking, a battery life that will outlast yours and a beautiful touch display that’s surprisingly premium for the price. All those certainly warrant this Chromebook a spot in our best Chromebooks list, and that’s without even factoring in its affordability. If you’re not convinced that you should jump on the Chromebook bandwagon, this one will make a convert out of you.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 15

Juan Martinez, Michelle Rae Uy and Gabe Carey have also contributed to this article.

Watch the video below for the top 7 things to consider when buying a laptop:

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O2-Three merger could be back on

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:05 AM PDT

The European Court of Justice has annulled the EU’s decision to block the 2016 merger of Three and O2.

A £10.25 billion deal to combine the two companies had been agreed by parent companies CK Hutchison and Telefonica in a transaction that would have created the UK’s largest mobile operator with 40 per cent of the market.

The two parties had argued that Three and O2 would struggle to compete independently as pure-play operators. EE had been acquired by BT the previous year, while Vodafone was investing in fixed line infrastructure as both pursued converged network strategies.

Three O2 merger

However the EC blocked the deal on the grounds that it would damage competition in the UK market. It argued that in EU member states where the number of major players had been reduced from four to three, prices had risen for consumers.

There were also concerns that there would be reduced incentive to invest in infrastructure as O2 and Vodafone have a network infrastructure sharing joint-venture, as do Three and EE. Finally, the EU feared the wholesale market would suffer, reducing choice for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

It is worth pointing out that regulator Ofcom had similar concerns and that the deal would still have had to have been approved by the UK Competitions and Markets Authority (CMA). Nonetheless, Three sought an annulment of the decision in order to remove a precedent that could influence any future consolidation in another European market.

The ECJ upheld Three’s appeal stating that the evidence provided by the EC was not sufficient to demonstrate the detriment to competition or the disincentive to invest in infrastructure. It also said that Three’s share of the wholesale market wasn’t sufficient enough at the time to justify its concerns for MVNOs.

“In our appeal, we argued that the Commission’s approach to reviewing the proposed merger, and European telecoms mergers more broadly, was guided by a misconceived default view that European telecoms markets are better served by having a minimum of four Mobile Network Operators in each EU Member State,” said CK Hutchison.

“This approach ignores market realities, the clear evidence of successful market consolidation in Europe and across the world as well as the very significant efficiencies in terms of increased investment, network improvements and consumer benefits that can be achieved from mobile mergers.

“The Commission’s approach has unfortunately acted as a brake on, or in a number of cases prevented, vital industry consolidation in Europe which would have resulted in significant new investment, innovation and benefits for European consumers and industry. Following the Court’s findings, the Commission will need to fundamentally revisit its approach to merger reviews in this key sector.”

In the immediate aftermath of the failed merger, both Three and O2 pursued independent network strategies and pressed ahead with their respective 5G strategies. O2 is now merging with Virgin Media to create a UK communications giant worth £31 billion.  

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The best iPhone 6S deals and UK contracts in May 2020

Posted: 28 May 2020 09:00 AM PDT

iPhone 6S deals might now be the oldest phone from Apple you can buy but that brings one excellent feature with it - some of the cheapest prices we've seen from Apple in a long time.

It's fair to say we've had a good few models come out since iPhone 6S deals first hit the shelves. The 7's, 8'S, Apple's 10th anniversary X models and now even the iPhone 11 range. 

And with all of these new releases we've seen the iPhone 6S fall frequently below the £20 a month price point, something not just rare in phones but especially rare for Apple!

Yes, the specs aren't quite what is on offer from the more modern Apple devices but they're nothing to laugh at, especially at this price. A 1715mAh battery and Apple's A9 Bionic chip make for a suprisingly competent level of power.

And while the single lens on the back isn't quite the triple lens camera set-up we're getting used to, iPhone 6S deals offering a level of value you won't find elsewhere from Apple.

Ready to find your new contract? We've tracked down all of the best iPhone 6S contracts and listed them below in our price-comparison chart. 

It may be very similar to its predecessor, but there's no denying that the iPhone 6s makes a fantastic alternative to the more expensive Apple devices like the iPhone 8 and iPhone XR. The phone works fluidly at nearly every task and will cost you a lot less than Apple's current flagships. Low end cost with high end features 

Read TechRadar's full iPhone 6S review

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The best gaming PC 2020: top desktops for PC gamers

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:54 AM PDT

It’s never been a better time to splurge on the best gaming PCs. Games have been pushing the boundaries of what a great looking and immersive title means, and to really get the most out of the best PC games, you’ll want a beast of a machine. Even if you’re not playing competitively, if you want to turn up the graphics without severely hampering gameplay, you’ll need something with some serious muscle.

Luckily, there are quite a few battle stations on that market that come with the newest and most cutting edge components, whether it’s Nvidia’s Super RTX graphics cards or AMD’s Navi cards. They can boot up and run graphics-intensive AAA games without so much as breaking a sweat. Not all of the best gaming PCs are expensive either, so it is possible to take one home without emptying out the bank account, as some of the best processors and best graphics cards come with a surprisingly reasonable price tag.

With all the options available these days, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Let us help you decide with our selection of the best gaming PC. Whether it’s a budget option, one in a small form factor, or something with a spaceship-like design, there’s something for everyone.

Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10


With AMD’s solid campaign to win the CPU and GPU markets, it’s no surprise that many of the best PCs are switching over Team Red’s cause. Our favorite Alienware Aurora gaming desktop PC line is among them, fitting its R10 models with AMD’s powerful yet affordable Ryzen CPUs. Not only do these deliver brute strength when it comes to gaming, but they also tout affordability, giving budget gamers to partake in what those with souped up rigs experience everyday without burning a hole in their pockets. Is it a wonder why this tops our list of the best gaming PCs?

HP Omen Obelisk

This rectangular monster is definitely worthy of its moniker as it boasts lots of power.

This rectangular monster is definitely worthy of its moniker as it boasts lots of power… more than enough, in fact, for most gamers’ needs. When you’ve the funds for an upper-tier configuration, you’ll get a behemoth. Unfortunately, budget minded buyers will have to be satisfied with gameplay at medium settings, since the lower end models don’t pack the same firepower. Still, because of its high upgradability and tool-less design, such buyers are only an upgrade or two from the best gaming experience on Ultra or Max settings either. Plus, we’ve honestly seen more expensive machines for those specs.

Read the full review: HP Omen Obelisk review

It’s downright impressive how much power the MSI Trident A Plus boasts under the hood, especially considering its slim and small-ish form factor. The self-proclaimed most compact gaming desktop right now isn’t all talk, it walks the walk too with its 5.1 x 15.06 x 15.6-inch size. For superb performance, it offers 9th-generation Intel Core processors, up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 graphics card and 16GB of memory. While it’s not necessarily kitted out, it still spells sheer power. This small yet mighty gaming PC also delivers 4K gaming experience, customizable Mystic Light RGB LED design and the Silent Storm Cooling 3. 

Dell G5 Gaming Desktop

The Dell G5 boasts 9th-generation Intel chips as well as Nvidia's most powerful gaming GTX and RTX graphics cards.

A unique chassis coupled with a price to beat, Dell’s latest in its G series gaming PCs is a solid contender in budget gaming. The Dell G5 boasts 9th-generation Intel chips as well as Nvidia’s most powerful gaming GTX and RTX graphics cards, starting with an i3 processor and the GTX 1650 to handle many powerful games without burning a whole in your pocket. Of course, if you’ve got more case to spare, it’s VR ready configurations are also on hand, though even those are absolutely affordable.

Intel Ghost Canyon NUC

Intel’s NUC has come a long way from its humbler beginnings. For example, while the previous Hades Canyon didn’t come with a RAM or storage, the newer Ghost Canyon has both. In fact, not only does it have more offerings now in terms of specs, but it’s also highly configurable so you can personalize it to your liking before hitting that buy button. With 9th-generation Intel Core chips, up to 64GB of memory and up to 4TB dual storage, we’re all for it. The only catch is that it's pricier now as well. The lower configurations are still quite affordable, and a terrific option for the budget-conscious. However, you may want to stay away from the highest configurations.

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The best Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge deals in May 2020

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:54 AM PDT

We'll tell it to you straight, we like the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge A LOT. Until the Galaxy S8 came along in fact, it held the title of our very favourite phone in the world. Now a good few years on since its release, the S7 Edge remains an exceptional mobile and one of the only models we've ever awarded a perfect five stars.

But age is now taking it's toll on the quality of deals available. Some major retailers and networks are now beginning to withdraw S7 Edge deals from sale and we're guessing that the availability of the Samsung's newer devices like the Galaxy S20 and Note 10 isn't a pure coincidence.

It means that the best tariffs now come and go in short order. You have to have your wits about you to bag the very best Galaxy S7 Edge deals. For a while we've only been seeing expensive offers which for the same price could land you a Samsung Galaxy S10e deal. In other words, the S7 Edge seems to be on its last legs.

The Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge went straight to the top of the class when it was released in 2016 - we gave it 5 stars out of 5! It somehow managed to better the accomplished Galaxy S6 Edge, by adding a brilliant camera and gorgeous design tweaks.

Read TechRadar's full Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge review

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Best computer 2020: the best PCs we've tested

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:52 AM PDT

The best computer 2020 has to offer is probably one of the most vital investments you can make these days, especially considering how much of our time is spent using one. It can keep you connected to your family thousands of miles away, help you do your job, or even just dig into the newest AAA game. And, as internal components get more and more powerful, so do the computers they live in.

With the processor skirmish between Intel and AMD, and the graphics card battles between Nvidia (who have introduced real time ray tracing) and AMD both still raging, the true winner is the consumer. It’s easier than ever to get hardware that can handle just about any task or to get power without breaking that piggy bank.

Whether you want a PC with the newest PC components, like fast SSDs and more RAM, a gaming PC rocking the best graphics card, or a great all-in-one computer, there’s something for you on this list. These are our picks of the best computers for 2020.

Dell XPS Tower Special Edition


The Dell XPS Tower gets our vote for the best of the best computers 2020 has to offer for one simple fact. It boasts enough power and features without costing you a lot. This latest XPS Tower line is fitted with 9th-generation Intel Core processors and advanced VR-ready graphics, and it’s also fully configurable, which makes it future-proof. On top of all that, it’s got a good selection of configurations on hand so you can take your pick depending on your needs and budget. And, if you’re a big fan of the no-nonsense look, this tower’s simple 90s homogenous look.

Microsoft Surface Studio 2


The Surface Studio 2 isn’t going to compare well against most PCs, but that’s only because it was never designed to compete with them in the first place. This device is meant for the digital artist or other visually-focused content creators, and even with aging parts, it’s still the most robust digital drafting table on the market. It boasts a bright, vibrant display, and improved specs next to its predecessor. If you’re a digital artist or a content creator who’s visually-focused, this is the best computer for you.

Read the full review: Surface Studio 2

Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10


With AMD’s solid campaign to win the CPU and GPU markets, it’s no surprise that many of the best PCs are switching over Team Red’s cause. Our favorite Alienware Aurora gaming desktop PC line is among them, fitting its R10 models with AMD’s powerful yet affordable Ryzen CPUs. Not only do these deliver brute strength when it comes to gaming, but they also tout affordability, giving budget gamers to partake in what those with souped up rigs experience everyday without burning a hole in their pockets.

Dell G5 Gaming Desktop


A unique chassis coupled with a price to beat, Dell’s latest in its G series gaming PCs is a solid contender in budget gaming. The Dell G5 boasts 9th-generation Intel chips as well as Nvidia’s most powerful gaming GTX and RTX graphics cards, starting with an i3 processor and the GTX 1650 to handle many powerful games without burning a whole in your pocket. Of course, if you’ve got more case to spare, it’s VR ready configurations are also on hand, though even those are absolutely affordable.

Intel Ghost Canyon NUC


Intel’s NUC has come a long way from its humble beginnings. For example, while the previous Hades Canyon didn’t come with a RAM or storage, the newer Ghost Canyon has both. In fact, not only does it have more offerings now in terms of specs, but it’s also highly configurable so you can personalize it to your liking before hitting that buy button. With 9th-generation Intel Core chips, up to 64GB of memory and up to 4TB dual storage, we’re all for it. The only catch is that it's pricier now as well. The lower configurations are still quite affordable, and a terrific option for the budget-conscious. However, you may want to stay away from the highest configurations.

HP Omen Desktop PC


While the Decepticon look this gaming PC sports might only be for some, there’s definitely something for everybody as far as configurations go – whether you’re a casual gamer on a budget or a hardcore one willing to drop a lot of dough for a souped up rig. At less than $1,500 (about £1,180, AU$2,170), you’re getting more than enough power to get you through AAA games, albeit probably not on Ultra. At $2,335 (about £1,835, AU$3,235) or more, you’re getting a considerable amount of power and storage. Plus, HP Omen Desktop PC comes in a tool-less design, making it upgradeable. If you're after a high-end gaming PC that can handle the latest games with ease, this is the one to get.

Read the full review: HP Omen Desktop PC

Apple Mac mini (2018)


It’s easy to think of Apple computers as overpriced, but your bank account will be spared if you jump on the Mac mini bandwagon. The Mac mini 2018 is a small form-factor PC that looks adorable and also packed tight with high-end desktop parts. And, that’s all for a much more accessible price than any other Mac on the market, making it a great buy for anyone who already has a slew of Mac-ready peripherals or for a Mac fan who doesn’t have the budget for a Mac Pro. What’s more, unlike many of Apple’s recent products, the Mac mini is relatively upgradeable – you can boost your memory up to 64GB of RAM.

Read the full review: Apple Mac mini

Intel Compute Stick


Some people have issues with desktop PCs, as they’re often rather bulky. The Intel Core Compute Stick has made that irrelevant. Looking more like a thumb drive than an actual computer, this tiny renegade can connect to any monitor with an HDMI input. Its base starts with a lowly 1.33GHz Intel Atom processor running Linux, but can be configured up to an Intel Core m5 processor. This is one of the best PCs, but one that you can literally slip in your pocket, whether you need to get some work done during your daily commute or squeeze in some PC time while you’re traveling.

Lenovo Yoga A940


As a designer, if you don’t fall in love with Lenovo Yoga A940’s thoughtful design, then we don’t know what will. This innovative all-in-one desktop boasts a stunning 27-inch 4K UHD display with up to 25-degree tilt, pen support and a rotating hinge for stability. It’s full of impressive features as well, like the Lenovo Precision Dial that you can attach on the left or right side of the hinge, whatever feels most comfortable for you and your process. And, unlike the best Macs, it offers 100% Adobe RGB support, an LED light at the bottom of the screen and even wireless smartphone charging. If you’re a content creator or designer, and you’re looking for an AIO that allows you a truly seamless workflow, this is the best computer for you.

Read the full review: Lenovo Yoga A940

iMac Pro


Unfortunately, what does hold Lenovo Yoga A940 back are its less powerful, slightly aging internals. If you want an all-in-one powerhouse that absolutely blows you away in terms of performance, then the iMac Pro is the best computer for you. This AIO designed specifically for professionals and creatives may not be super rich in features, but it’s got a lot to offer where it truly counts. That includes its vibrant 27-inch 5K display with a P3 wide color gamut, mind-blowing Radeon Pro Vega graphics, and plenty of memory for all your exacting workloads. Just be prepared to shell out a bunch of cash, as this doesn’t come cheap.

Read the full review: iMac Pro

Raspberry Pi 4 Model B


Despite its tiny size – it’s so small, it doesn’t even have its own chassis, the Raspberry Pi boards have proven themselves to be utterly capable little machines, surprisingly capable of handling everyday productivity tasks like word processing and spreadsheets. And, with the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, we see this powerful computer getting the fantastic update it rightly deserves. Finally, the Raspberry Pi line gives you a desktop computer and a platform to experiment and create.

Read the full review: Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

Bill Thomas and Gabe Carey have also contributed to this article

Image Credits: TechRadar

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Huawei Watch GT smartwatch deals are seeing further reductions this week

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:46 AM PDT

We're seeing further price drops on Huawei Watch deals this week, with savings going the extra mile in the case of the original Watch GT. You'll find the cheap smartwatch available for just £89.99 at Amazon, the lowest price we've seen so far on this particular model. If you're after the latest version, however, you'll also find the Huawei Watch GT 2 available for £30 off in Very's own smartwatch deals as well. 

The original Huawei Watch GT brings a cheaper price tag to a sturdy fitness tracking and smartwatch experience, complete with an AMOLED display, real-time training prompts and notifications from your smartphone. Meanwhile, the more recent version also brings a 3D glass screen and 15 distinct workout modes. 

Both are built with fitness in mind, and these latest Huawei smartwatch deals offer gorgeous wrist pieces designed to last. Huawei left WatchOS behind for these models, so each feature is proprietary. While that may limit your third party app accessibility, there's so much packed into this price tag that you're still getting excellent value. 

Not in the UK? We're tracking all the latest Huawei Watch cheap smartwatch deals further down the page.

Today's best Huawei smartwatch deals

Looking for more? We're keeping tabs on all the latest smartwatch sales happening right now, and you can also find a full selection of cheap Apple Watch deals available at the moment. If you're after something particularly fitness-inspired, why not check out our range of Garmin fitness tracker deals or these excellent Fitbit sales

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

PlayStation Plus June 2020: all the free PS Plus games you can get this month

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:43 AM PDT

If you're a PlayStation Plus subscriber then you'll want to know all about the free PlayStation Plus games and discounts coming up in June 2020 – and we've got the details you need on those freebies right here, along with the PlayStation Plus games you may have missed in previous months (unlucky!).

For those of you who've just signed up and are completely new to the perks of being a PlayStation Plus subscriber, each month, you’re given a range of free games for the PS4 console (PS3 and PS Vita games have unfortunately been dropped).

This gives you a great way to try PlayStation games you might not otherwise have played, whether they're indie titles that slipped under your radar, or titles that were too expensive to buy. With the PS5 coming within the year, too, it looks like Sony is increasingly willing to drop high-quality titles from the PS4 catalogue.

Remember that PlayStation Plus games are only available for one month – so grab them while you can.

PlayStation Plus games: June 2020

Call of Duty: WW2

Call of Duty: WW2

Call of Duty: WW2 puts players on the front lines of the second world war. Land in Normandy on D-Day, battle across Europe, and enjoy a classic Call of Duty experience that brings the series back to its roots. 

Star Wars Battlefront 2

Fight it out in iconic locales from the Star Wars universe in Star Wars Battlefront 2. With 25 free game updates since launch, and all your favorite heroes and villains as playable characters, it's a love letter to a galaxy far, far away.

Call of Duty: WW2 is available to download from May 26 to July 6, and Star Wars Battlefront 2 will be available on June 2 to July 6.

PlayStation Plus games: May 2020

Cities: Skylines

Cities: Skylines

You don't need to wait for planning permission to build the mega-city of your dreams in Cities: Skylines. Your decisions will determine whether your metropolis flourishes or fails, as you manage an ever-growing populace in this top-tier city builder sim. 

Farming Simulator 19

You'll quite literally reap what you sow in Farming Simulator 19, as you toil the land to maintain a happy homestead. Tend to livestock, harvest crops and jump behind the wheel of your favorite tractor. The only thing that's missing is fresh air. 

Both of these titles will be available to download from May 5 until June 1.

PlayStation Plus games: April 2020

Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

Just a few months after Uncharted: The Nathan Drake collection hit PS Plus, Sony is offering the final chapter in the Uncharted series for free. 

Uncharted 4 sees Nathan Drake coaxed out of retirement by his estranged brother Sam for one last adventure - to uncover Henry Avery's long-lost treasure. The action-adventure rounds off the intrepid explorer's story in spectacular fashion and will keep you enthralled for hours on end. 

Dirt Rally 2.0

Codemaster's rally racing game for those who love their tracks rough and ready. Dirt Rally 2.0 utilizes real driving physics to give you an immersive – and filthy – racing experience. 

PlayStation Plus games: March 2020

Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus is a stunning game that takes you on a journey through magical lands to seek out big beasts called Colossi. The game originally released on PlayStation but has been remade for PlayStation 4 - making it one of the best PS4 games on the market.

Sonic Forces

In this Sonic game you need to build an army to take the world back from the evil Dr. Eggman. You can defeat your enemies with speed as Modern Sonic, catapult past platforms as Classic Sonic, and create your very own Custom Hero Character equipped with a variety of powerful gadgets.

PlayStation Plus games: February 2020

BioShock: The Collection

A brilliant addition, to be sure. BioShock: The Collection packs in BioShock, BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite for a journey through the entire franchise, from the underwater city of Rapture to the floating town of Columbia. Expect trippy powers, unnerving enemies, and a good dose of steampunk sci-fi.

The Sims 4

While we wait for The Sims 5 – whenever that might be – the console version of the latest Sims title should keep you busy building your dream house and filling it with tiny simulated humans, either to ensure their happiness or inflict needless romantic drama with their neighbours. The important thing is that you get to choose.

PlayStation Plus games: January 2020

Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection

Chart the journey of adventurer and explorer Nathan Drake in this collection of the first three Uncharted games: Drake's Fortune, Among Thieves, and Drake's Deception. Full of action, lively landscapes, and unimaginable treasures, this bundle of three games is a great treat to kick off the new year with.

Goat Simulator

As if the bundle enough wasn't enough to keep you busy, you can also cause a different kind of chaos with Goat Simulator – the absurd and meme-ready game about throwing a goat into objects to cause property damage. If you're done with Untitled Goose Game and looking for more animal nuisance, this may be the game for you.

PlayStation Plus games: December 2019

Titanfall 2

Respawn may be busy with Apex Legends these days, but you can thank the Titanfall franchise for the former's slick sliding, fast combat, and vertical manoeuvres. Titanfall 2 was an acclaimed sequel with a single-player campaign worth buying the game for alone, even before you get to incredible multiplayer action, with humanoid avatars massively punching above their weight against (and inside) the lumbering mechs Titanfall is known for. Not one to miss.

Monster Energy Supercross

Not quite as big a name as Titanfall, but Monster Energy Supercross offers fast and nimble action of its own in this BMX race simulator, with a track editor to craft and mould your own routes to bike around. And yes, that's Monster Energy as in the energy drink.

PlayStation Plus games: November 2019

Nioh

This samurai action game has more than a touch of Dark Souls about it, which is no bad thing – but its in-depth combat system and stunningly realised medieval setting also make it very much its own beast. A return to form for Team Ninja, and a game that we now know is getting a Nioh 2 sequel in March 2020. Perfect time then to practise your swordsman skills.

Outlast 2

'Tis the season to be scary, and Outlast 2 should help get you in the Halloween spirit. It's more a spiritual successor than a direct sequel to 2013's Outlast, but again puts you in the shoes of a journalist who gets caught up in the murders they're trying to investigate. Cue camcorder footage, terrifying chase sequences and an all-around horror experience. 

PlayStation Plus games: October 2019 

The Last of Us Remastered

It couldn't be a better time to drop The Last of Us Remastered through PS Plus, with the highly anticipated sequel to the dramatic zombie game, The Last of Us Part 2, coming in February 2020 – but with masterful storytelling and truly gripping emotional stakes, the original game is very much worth visiting alone.

The remastered version updates the PS3 game with enhanced graphics, and includes the Left Behind DLC that delves into Ellie's life before the start of main story.

MLB The Show 19

If you're keener on swinging baseball bats into actual baseballs – rather than, you know, skulls of the undead – MLB The Show 19 is the sports simulator you need. Players who try out the game in October will get some free in-game content, to boot, while legendary player Ted Williams is also being added to the game this month.

Both games are available until November 4.

PlayStation Plus games: September 2019 

Batman: Arkham Knight

It's time to suit up as the caped crusader. Rocksteady's Arkham Knight is leading this month's PS Plus offering, and it's one that you'll definitely not want to miss. 

The fourth main instalment in the Arkham game series, Arkham Knight sees you going toe-to-toe with some of DC's most infamous villains including Scarecrow, Joker and Deathstroke. It's worth picking up just for the sheer enjoyment of skidding around Arkham in the Batmobile - you know, if you're not in the 'saving the world' thing.

Darksiders 3

Another dark offering from PS Plus this month, Darksiders 3 is a hack and slash action-adventure from Gunfire Games. If you like Metroidvania games then this is definitely one for you but don't expect an easy ride.

PlayStation Plus games: August 2019 

WipEout Omega Collection

If you feel the need for insane speed, this iconic PlayStation racing franchise will have you zooming around futuristic tracks and chasing gold medals like nobody's business. WipEout Omega Collection offers WipEout 2048, WipEout HD and the HD Fury expansion in a single package, allowing you to flip between titles and compete in a variety of events with a pulse-pounding soundtrack of EDM bangers to keep you going.

Sniper Elite 4

An intense WWII shooter with a twist, Sniper Elite 4 has you guarding the Italian peninsula from Axis forces with your trusty rifle, along with a variety of traps and explosives. Explore a large open world in order to get the best shot on your enemy, and team up with a friend in the game's addictive co-operative mode. That's an order, soldier!

PlayStation Plus games: July 2019 

Detroit: Become Human

Quantum Dream has a reputation for narrative-heavy games with weighty choices, and Detroit: Become Human is no less ambitious than you'd expect. Following three separate character paths in a world with an underclass of androids, it's a game that makes big statements about power, autonomy, and the civil rights movement. 

Even if Detroit can't always carry the weight of these themes, there's a lot at work here – and, for some, getting to experience more of David Cage's work will be enough.

Horizon Chase Turbo

If you grew up on the fast-paced, 'one-more-go' arcade racers of the '80s and '90s, chances are you're going to love Horizon Chase Turbo. Modelled on classic racers like Outrun, Top Gear and Rush, Horizon Chase Turbo aims to send a nitrous burst of nostalgia right into the hearts of every kid who ever spent their afternoons pumping coins into arcade machines and an effort to chase that all-important 'high score'.

PlayStation Plus games: June 2019 

Borderlands: The Handsome Jack Collection

With Borderlands 3 right around the corner, there's no better time to jump back into the franchise with Borderalnds: The Handsome Jack Collection. It's a compilation of two games - The Presequel and Borderlands 2 - and sets the stage for the third entry in the series that's coming later this year.

On top of both base games, you'll get all the DLC released for Borderlands 2, plus exclusive skins and challenge arenas for The Presequel.

Considering it's absolutely free right now, it's a darn good deal.

Sonic Mania

For years, all gamers wanted was a basic remake of the original Sonic The Hedgehog games. They didn't want fancy graphics, or boatloads of new characters, just the game they grew up with on modern consoles. Sonic Mania is the direct result of fans' desires. 

That said, Sonic Mania is really both a compilation of original levels and a spiritual successor to the Sega Genesis games - you'll play as either Sonic, Tails or Knuckles and cruise through levels at high velocity. At the end of zones, you'll take on Dr. Robotnik in one of his mechanical monstrosities, and do your best to clear bonus stages in between missions. 

If you need a giant fix of nostalgia, Sonic Mania can dish it out in spades.

PlayStation Plus games: May 2019

Overcooked

Overcooked is undoubtedly one of the best couch co-op party games to come out in the past few years. 

One to four players control cooks in a kitchen, delegating responsibilities as they try to cook and serve increasingly complex orders in a variety of bizarre restaurants. 

It’s quintessential co-op, though as the pace and stress ratchets up, you begin to understand how Gordon Ramsey came to rely on such a profanity-filled vocabulary to get things functioning in the kitchen.

The beauty of Overcooked is that it leaves all organisation to the players; who’s frying the steaks? Who’s chopping the veg? Why is the onion soup on fire?!? Who the HELL is doing the washing up because we’ve run out of plates to serve food on? 

If you can't handle the heat then get out of the kitchen - or burn it to the ground in this case. 

What Remains of Edith Finch

It's hard to describe What Remains of Edith Finch without spoiling it. It's one of those games that needs to be experienced first-hand, and luckily Sony is letting you for free. 

The narrative driven title sees you investigating the family home of the Finch's in an effort to work out why you're the last one left and what happened to the other members of the family. It's peculiar and wonderful, and arguably one of the best games to come out in 2017.

PlayStation Plus Games: April 2019

Conan Exiles

Take a sprinkling of Schwarzenegger, a dash of Minecraft and a helping of Ark: Survival Evolved, and you'll end up with something like Conan Exiles. A persistent online multiplayer game, you'll be cast into the brutal realm of the world's most famous barbarian with no belongings (literally nothing – not even a loincloth to hide your modesty) and tasked to simply survive and thrive. It launched to a bit of a mixed response, but has since built a bit of a cult following – in no small part, no doubt, due to the fact that it's the only game with a penis size slider as part of its create-a-character set up...

The Surge

Imagine Dark Souls in space, and that's what you've got with The Surge. It's a bit of a corridor slog, squandering its initial mysterious promise, but its combat is meaty and well presented. If you can't face Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, but still want something akin to a SoulsBorne fix, The Surge will plug that gap.

PlayStation Plus games: March 2019

(Note that March 2019 was the first month that Sony stopped offering PS3 and PS Vita games in addition to PS4 titles. Boo!)

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare – Remastered (usually $35.99 / £34.99 AU$59.95)

An FPS great. With all-new textures and HDR lighting for modern consoles, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare – Remastered lets us experience the game again without suffering through horribly dated graphics. 

The Witness (usually £22.99 / AU$59.95)

The Witness is a brain-melting puzzle game that takes place in a beautiful 3D world that can be roamed around in at your own pace – just don't expect anyone to hold your hand on this journey.

PlayStation Plus games: February 2019

Hitman: The Complete First Season – PS4 – usually $46.99 / £30

In this thrilling game, you embody the world's greatest hitman Agent 47 as you travel the world to take out your targets in traditional (and untraditional) ways.

For Honor – PS4 – usually $39.99 / £24.99

Ubisoft's melee action game lets you choose your fighter: Knight, Samurai, or Viking are up for grabs as you explore the game's 18 different PvP maps. 

Divekick – PS3 – usually $4.99/  £3.99

This simple fighting game can be cross played on your PS Vita, and is apparently, the world's first ever two-button fighting game. 

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots – PS3 – usually $19.99 / £11.99

Set after the events of Metal Gear Solid 2, Solid Snake is back to infiltrate a number of locations across the globe.

Gunhouse – PS Vita – Usually $14.99 / £9.99

Gunhouse is part-puzzle, part active tower defense with infinite levels and music composed by Fez's Disasterpeace.

Rogue Aces - PS Vita – Usually $12.99 / £9.99

You can take to the air in this arcade-style game, as you join the Rogue Aces to defeat The Baron and liberate the islands. 

PlayStation Plus games: January 2019

Steep - PS4 - usually $29.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

Ubisoft's Steep sees you taking on the epic snow-capped mountains of an open-world on skis, wingsuits, snowboards, and paragliders. One for the thrill-seekers.

Portal Knights - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

If RPGs are more your thing, then Portal Knight may be for you. The action role-playing 3D sandbox sees you on a quest to become a Portal Knight and to stop the world being torn apart by the Fracture and the evil Hollow King. 

Zone of the Enders HD Collection - PS3 - usually $34.99 / £10.99 / AU$11.95

This collection includes HD editions of both the original Zone Of The Enders and its sequel, Zone Of The Enders: The 2nd Runner. 

Amplitude - PS3 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$29.95

Harmonix's Amplitude offers fast-paced, musical action as you control a beat-blasting ship making sweet music by shooting at notes. With songs from Blink-182, Slipknot and Pink, Amplitude is a bizarre rhythm game in the vein of Guitar Hero.

Fallen Legion: Flames of Rebellion - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$29.95

2D action RPG Fallen Legion: Flames of Rebellion is available as a cross-buy between PlayStation 4 and PS Vita - so you can control your empire from home or on the move. 

Super Mutant Alien Assault - PS Vita - usually $9.99 / £9.49 / AU$17.95

If you're looking for something more fun and casual while on the move, then arcade platformer shooter Super Mutant Alien Assault might be just the ticket.

PlayStation Plus games: December 2018 

SOMA

Onrush - PS4 - Get it here from December 4

An entirely new kind of off-road racing game, Onrush isn't about coming first – it's about causing as much damage on the track as possible! From the makers of MotorStorm, features all the huge stunts and crazy crashes you could ever dream of.

SOMA - PS4 - Get it here from December 4

Frictional Games hit it big with Amnesia: The Dark Descent, and its follow-up, SOMA, is another nail-biting chiller in the same vein. You wake up in a dilapidated industrial facility with a head injury, and only you can figure out why you're there and who is after you!

Steredenn - PS4 - Get it here from December 4

A fast-paced and chaotic space shooter, Steredenn takes the fight to galaxy's dastardly space pirates and features some insane boss battles and intense pixelated shmup gameplay. 

Steins;Gate - PS3 - Get it here from December 4

A visual novel with anime style art, Steins;Gate tells the story of teenage scientists who discover the ability to send messages into the past, leading to all sorts of time travel-related adventures.

Iconoclasts - PS Vita/PS4 - Get it here from December 4

This action-adventure platform game is a deeply personal work from creator Joakim Sandberg, who spent seven years making this tale of a mechanic who wants to use her wrench to fix the world around her.

Papers, Please - PS Vita - Get it here from December 4

An award-winning masterpiece, Papers, Please has you play an immigration inspector in the communist state of Arstotzka, whose job it is to approve and deny entry to people. The trick is in figuring out which people are smugglers, spies, and terrorists.

PlayStation Plus games: November 2018 

Yakuza Kiwami

Yakuza Kiwami - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

Sega's remake of the first Yakuza game sees you taking on the role of former yakuza lieutenant Kazuma Kiryu, who spent 10 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. On his release, he realizes that his city has changed massively and quickly becomes caught in the middle of a faction war. With plenty of kooky characters and action, Yakuza Kiwami is a one not to miss.

Bulletsorm: Full Clip Edition - PS4 - usually $39.99 / £34.99 / AU$54.95

In cult-classic shooter Bulletstorm, you step into the boots of exiled assassin Grayson Hunt. After a crash landing on an abandoned resort planet, Hunt must decide whether to take his opportunity for revenge or get his team off the planet alive.

Jackbox Party Pack 2- PS4 - usually $24.99 / £21.99 / AU$40.95

Definitely one for those who enjoy party games. Jackbox Party Pack 2 comes with a mixture of madcap games including Bomb Corp, Bidiots, Quiplash XL, Earwax and Fibbage. 

Arkedo Series - PS3 - usually $5.99 

The Arkedo Series includes three retro-style games which will take you back to a simpler time. 

Burly Men at Sea - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95

This folktale adventure falls somewhere between a graphic novel and a classic point-and-click game. With beautiful visuals and haunting soundtrack, Burly Men at Sea is one for those wanting to turn off for a few hours.

Roundabout - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95

If you're less inclined to relax and more about anarchy then Roundabout is for you. This indie driving game sees you driving a limousine which is constantly spinning out of control.

PlayStation Plus games: October 2018

Friday the 13th: The Game

Friday the 13th: The Game - PS4 - usually $39.99 / £30.99 / AU$55.95

Just in time for Halloween, Friday the 13th sees you playing as either Jason Voorhees (hunting down unsuspecting counsellors) or as a teen counsellor desperate to escape from his clutches alongside up to six others. If you're feeling brave enough, you might even team up to take him down.

Laser League - PS4 - usually $14.99 / £11.99 / AU$22.95

Indie multiplayer Laser League will provide you with hours of competitive fun with a premise that's pretty easy to pick up. The light-speed future sport sees you competing ,in teams of two or three, to outlast your opponents by setting up moving lasers in an arena. It sounds pretty simple but provides hours of entertainment. 

Master Reboot - PS3 - usually $6.99 / £5.79 / AU$10.45 

Haunting first person sci-fi adventure horror Master Reboot sees you exploring a range of unique environments while solving puzzles. Master Reboot is definitely one to try for sheer uniqueness alone, with an atmospheric soundtrack, distinctive art style and psychological twist. 

The Bridge - PS3/PS4/PS Vita - usually $9.99

The Bridge is a hand-drawn 2D puzzle adventure which sees you manipulating gravity to literally turn rooms upside down in order to make your way through challenging environments. 

Rocketbirds 2: Evolution - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $9.99 / £8.99 / AU$16.45

Rocketbirds 2 is a plucky side-scrolling shooter adventure which sees you stepping into the shoes of a secret agent, who just so happens to also be a chicken, determined to take down evil penguins. Yep...

2064 Read Only Memories - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $19.99 / £17.99 / AU$32.95

Cyberpunk adventure 2064 Read Only Memories is a classic adventure game where you take on the role of a struggling journalist who meets the world's first sapient machine, a ROM (Relationship and Organizational Manager) named Turing. Together they set off to uncover the city's deepest secrets.

PlayStation Plus games: September 2018

Destiny 2

Destiny 2 - PS4

Just in time for its upcoming Forsaken expansion, Destiny 2 is now free for PlayStation Plus subscribers. Get some co-op buddies together and join in the planet-hopping fight against the Cabal warlord Dominus Ghaul and the Red Legion in an effort to reclaim your home. 

God of War III: Remastered - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £29.99 / AU$47.95

The closing chapter of the original God of War trilogy, God of War III is about as epic as games come. In this PS4 remastered edition of the PS3 classic, the ex-Spartan warrior Kratos is closer than ever to exacting his vengeance against Zeus for the deaths of his wife and daughter. 

Another World - PS3 - usually $7.99 / £6.49 / AU$11.95

A beautifully remastered version of one the greatest adventure platformers of all time, Another World: 20th Anniversary Edition sees a young man transported to... you guessed it... another world, only to find himself in the middle of a slave uprising. Featuring stunning rotoscoped animation and timeless puzzles, Another World is a must-play title. 

QUBE Director’s Cut - PS3 - usually £7.99 / AU$14.95

A first person puzzle game, QUBE sees you control a pair of futuristic gloves in order to manipulate your environment and the objects therein to solve a number of physics-based brain teasers. 

Foul Play - PS Vita / PS4 - usually $7.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95

Devolver Digital's side-scrolling brawler Foul Play is set on a grand theatrical stage, where you must hunt daemons as Baron Dashforth, who performs bone-crunching takedowns in an effort to please his audience. 

Sparkle 2 - PS Vita - usually £5.79 / AU$10.45

An orb-matching game that's both addictive and fun, Sparkle 2 has you casting magical enchantments and power-ups in an effort to clear each stage.

PlayStation Plus games: August 2018

Mafia III - PS4 - usually $39.99 / £34.99 / AU$69.95

The third instalment of 2K's epic Mafia saga , Mafia III sees the gaming action moving  to 1960s New Bordeaux – a re-imagined version of New Orleans. Returning Vietnam vet Lincoln Clay finds himself building a crime empire and trying to find his place in a very different world. 

Dead by Daylight: Special Edition - PS4 - usually $29.99 / £29.99 / AU$47.95

Plenty of fun here for gore-hounds: Dead by Daylight pits horror movie icons Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, Leatherface and others against each other in an asymmetric multiplayer arena deathmatch for the ages. Choose to play as the killer, on the search for victims to sacrifice, or play as a survivor, working with others to outsmart the killer and escape. Definitely one to get your heart pounding.

Here They Lie - PS4 (PS VR required) - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

The terror just keeps coming and doesn't let up with Here They Lie, a psychological horror game for PlayStation VR that sees you travel through an otherworldly realm filled with creatures and strange environments. It's good to see VR titles getting an airing on PlayStation Plus.

Bound by Flame - PS3 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

In this solid RPG, you play a possessed mercenary who must take on the dreaded Ice Lords and their Dead-Army in an effort to reclaim your humanity. Every choice matters, so choose your abilities and skills wisely if you want to progress.

Serious Sam 3: BFE - PS3 - usually £9.99 / AU$19.45

A throwback to the glory days of first person shooters, Serious Sam 3 is all about crazy characters, silly action, and making things explode with the biggest guns you can find. Hugely enjoyable, in our book.

Draw Slasher - PS Vita - usually $5.99 / £3.99 / AU$7.55

As Hanzo the ninja, you must use your finger to slash your way through hordes of pirate monkey zombies in an attempt to get your kidnapped family back. It's a simple concept, but it works. 

Space Hulk - PS Vita - usually $19.99 / £6.99 / AU$14.95

Set in the legendary Warhammer 40,000 universe, Space Hulk is a turn-based strategy game where you command a squad of Space Marine Terminators against hordes of Genestealers. 

PlayStation Plus games: July 2018

Absolver

Heavy Rain - PS4 - usually $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$44.95

If you've been following the video game release cycle, you might've seen a game called Detroit: Become Human hit store shelves last month. Heady and complex, Detroit borrows heavily from Heavy Rain, the 2010 game designed by Quantic Dream and developer David Cage. If you like branching story path, great writing and slow-but-steady gameplay, Heavy Rain is perfect, and it was available for free on PlayStation Plus in July.

Absolver - PS4 - usually $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$44.95

Hear us out on this, Absolver is a fighting game MMO with PvE and PvP areas. The way it works is that you construct a fighter with light RPG elements and bring them online to fight against other gamer's brawlers. There's not a super deep plotline here, but if you've always wanted an open-world brawler, Absolver fits the bill.

Rayman 3 HD - PS3 - usually $9.99 / £4.99 / AU$14.95

While 2D Rayman has been racking up the accolades these past few years, the amelic hero got his first big break in the land of 3D graphics. Rayman 3 HD is a remastering of the PlayStation 2 adventure that pits the eponymous hero against André, an evil black lum, whose aim is to take over the world with his army of  "Hoodlum" soldiers. Silly puns aside, it showed up on PlayStation Plus in JUly.

Deception IV: The Nightmare Princess - PS3 - usually $49.99 / £39.99 / AU$75.95

Deception IV is one of those games you can't believe wasn't a free title earlier in its life. The basic goal here is to lure enemies into increasingly grotesque and wacky traps in an attempt to clear missions. We probably wouldn't waste the hard drive space with this one, but hey man, it's your console.

Space Overlords - PS VITA - usually $7.99 / £6.49 / AU$11.95

If you've always felt that the solar system had too many planets, Space Overlords might be the gateway to galactic destruction you've always dreamed of. Allowing you to create and destroy worlds using giant robots, Space Overlords is like a 3D, space-centric version of Rampage. 

Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma - PS VITA - usually $39.99 / £32.99 / AU$59.95

You know those really popular escape rooms that seem to be popping up all over the place? Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma brings all the fun of those into the digital world with a puzzle-solving adventure but blended with the world of SAW. So like, basically just SAW. It's pretty fan-service heavy like Deception IV so take that into account before you download it.

PlayStation Plus games: June 2018

XCOM 2

XCOM 2 - PS4 - usually £44.99/ $59.99/ AU $69.95

If you've managed to miss out on the critical hit that is XCOM 2, June was your chance to get it completely free on PlayStation Plus. With its tactical turn-based strategy gameplay set 20 years after humanity has lost a war against alien invaders, it's sure to keep you invested for a long time to come.

Trials Fusion – PS4 – usually £24.99/ $19.99/ AU $59.95

Looking for something a little more fast paced? Then try Trials Fusion, the platform racing game. You can play solo, with friends or race against other players from around the world. And when you're done with the official game courses, you can even explore the custom ones to keep things fresh. 

Zombie Driver HD – PS3 – usually £7.99/ $9.99/ AU $14.95

Cars, zombies, explosions, combat – it doesn't get much more wild or bloody than this. You can choose to play through the game's narrative campaign or simply try to survive in its appropriately named 'slaughter mode'.

Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier – PS3 – usually £7.99/ $19.99

At this point we think it's likely you know what you're getting with a Tom Clancy game. One of the more futuristic offerings in the Ghost Recon lineup, this military shooter will take you to dangerous locations all around the world. 

Atomic Ninjas – PS Vita – usually £7.99/ $9.99/ AU $14.95

This colorful action platformer is a perfect fit for the Vita (a device which PlayStation Plus no longer supports). Its multiplayer gameplay will have you take charge of one of eight ninjas and pit you against others either online or locally. 

Squares – PS Vita – usually £6.49/ $4.99/ AU $11.95

Looking for something a little slower-paced than Atomic Ninjas? Thoughtful puzzler Squares is worth looking at. With 91 levels to get through, this could be a good one for the morning commute.

PlayStation Plus games: May 2018

Rayman Legends

Beyond: Two Souls – PS4 – usually £24.99/ $29.99/ AU $39.95

May was a big month for David Cage and colon fans, with his new game Detroit: Become Human due for release on May 25 and Beyond: Two Souls on PS Plus for the entire month. Beyond: Two Souls is an emotional narrative game driven by player decisions and stars Academy Award nominees Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe. 

Rayman Legends – PS4 – usually £24.99 / $39.99 / AU $39.99

Who doesn't love a bit of Rayman? Rayman Legends will take you back to the Glade of Dreams to save it from  slew of terrifying creatures. Join forces with Rayman's friends to save their home. This game can be played solo as well as co-op with three of your friends. 

Risen 3: Titan Lords – PS3 – usually £15.99/ $14.99/ AU $24.95

In the mood for some action RPG of a piratical nature? Say ahoy to Risen 3. Explore seas and lush islands over the world in a grand adventure as you try to unite your body with its missing soul.

Eat Them! – PS3 – usually £3.29/ $9.99/ AU $5.95

Ever wanted to live you own comic book adventure? Here's your chance. Eat Them! puts you in the smeared lab coat of a mad scientist and lets you create and control your very own giant monsters. Customize your monsters with weapons and powers and rampage through the streets to wreak havoc and get your revenge.

King Oddball – PS Vita – usually £3.99/ $4.99/ AU $7.55

This is an aptly named game which stars a king swinging a boulder back and forth with his tongue. It's up to you to decide when he releases it. All you have to do is make sure you time it right to destroy as many things as possible. 

Furmins – PS Vita – usually £5.79/ $6.49/ AU $10.45

Yes Furmins are as cute as they sound and this game tasks you with leading them safely through more than 100 levels. One for fans of physics-based puzzles, Furmins is guaranteed hours of focused fun. 

PlayStation Plus games: April 2018

Mad Max - PS4 - usually £49.99/ $19.99/ AU$ 99.95

TrackMania Turbo - PS4 - usually £24.99/ $39.99/ AU $49.95

In Space We Brawl - PS3/PS4 - usually £7.39/ $8.99/ AU $13.45

99Vidas - PS3/PS Vita/PS4 - usually £7.99/ $9.99/ AU $14.95

Q*Bert Rebooted - PS3/PS4 - usually £9.49/ $9.99/ AU $16.45

Toy Home - PS3 - usually £3.99/$9.99/ AU $7.55

PlayStation Plus games: March 2018

Bloodborne - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £29.99 / AU$47.95

Ratchet & Clank - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £29.99 / AU$52.95

Legend of Kay - PS3 - usually $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$29.95

Mighty No. 9 - PS3 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

Claire: Extended Cut - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $24.99 / £13.99 / AU$25.95

Bombing Busters - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $6.99 / £5.79 / AU$10.45

PlayStation Plus games: February 2018

RiME - PS4 - usually $29.99 / £29.99 / AU$47.95

Knack - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £3.99 / AU$7.55

StarBlood Arena - PSVR - usually $19.99 / £24.99 / AU$39.95

Spelunker HD - PS3 - usually $16.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95

Mugen Souls Z - PS3 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$24.95

Exiles End - PS Vita - usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95

Grand Kingdom - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $39.99 / £11.99 / AU$24.95

PlayStation Plus games: January 2018

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided - PS4 - usually $59.99 / £49.99 / AU$99.95 

Batman: The Telltale Series - PS4 - usually $24.99 / £24.99 / AU$39.95

StarBlood Arena - PSVR - usually $19.99 / £24.99 / AU$39.95

Sacred 3 - PS3 - usually $14.99 / £15.99 / AU$17.95

Book of Unwritten Tales 2 - PS3 - usually $19.99 / £19.99 / AU$39.95

Uncanny Valley - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $12.99 / £11.59 / AU$21.95

Psycho-Pass: Mandatory Happiness - PS Vita - usually $29.99 / £34.99 / AU$54.95

PlayStation Plus games: December 2017

Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition - PS4 - usually $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$39.95

Kung Fu Panda: Showdown of the Legendary Legends - PS4 - usually $9.99 / £11.99 / AU$17.95

Xblaze Lost: Memories - PS3 - usually $39.99 / £24.99 / AU$44.95

Syberia Collection - PS3 - usually $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$44.95

Forma 8 - PS Vita/PS4 - usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95

Wanted Corp - PS Vita - usually $11.99 / £9.49 / AU$17.95

PlayStation Plus games: November 2017

Until Dawn: Rush of Blood - PSVR - usually $19.99 /  £15.99 / AU$24.95

Worms Battlegrounds - PS4 - usually $24.99 / £19.99 / AU$30.95

Bound - PS4 - usually $19.99 / £15.99 / AU$29.95

R-Type Dimensions - PS3 - usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95 

Rag Doll Kung Fu - PS3 - usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$7.75

Dungeon Punks - PS Vita - usually $14.99 / £11.99 / AU$22.95

Broken Sword 5: The Serpent’s Curse (Episodes 1 & 2) - PS Vita - usually $24.99 / £15.99 / AU$29.95

PlayStation Plus games: October 2017

Amnesia

Metal Gear Solid V: Phantom Pain – PS4 – (usually £24.99/ $19.99/ AU $39.95)

Amnesia: Collection – PS4 – (usually £23.99/ $29.99/ AU $42.95

Monster Jam Battlegrounds – PS3 – (usually £7.99/ $9.99/ AU $14.95)

Hustle Kings – PS3 and PlayStation Vita – (usually £9.99/ $9.99/ AU $19.45)

Hue – PS4 and PSVita – (usually £11.99/ $14.99/ AU $22.95)

Sky Force Anniversary – PS4 and PSVita – (usually £7.99/ $9.99/ AU $14.95

PlayStation Plus games: September 2017

inFamous Second Son

inFamous: Second Son - PS4 - (usually $19.99 / £34.99 / AU$54.99)

Strike Vector Ex - PS4 - (usually $14.99 / £11.99 / AU$22.95)

Truck Racer - PS3 - (usually $9.99 / £10.99 / AU$16.95)

Handball 2016 - PS3 - (usually $19.99 / £19.99 / AU$29.95)

We Are Doomed - PS Vita - (usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95)

Hatoful Boyfriend - PS Vita - (usually $9.99 / £7.99 / AU$14.95)

PlayStation Plus games: August 2017

Just Cause 3

PlayStation Plus games: July 2017

Tokyo Jungle

Tokyo Jungle is the best kind of weird.

PlayStation Plus games: June 2017

Life is Strange

PlayStation Plus games: May 2017

Abzu

PlayStation Plus games: April 2017

Drawn to Death

PlayStation Plus games: March 2017

Tearaway Unfolded

PlayStation Plus games: February 2017

Little Big Planet 3

PlayStation Plus games: January 2017 

This War of Mine

PlayStation Plus games: December 2016 

PlayStation Plus games: November 2016 

Everybody's Gone to the Rapture

PlayStation Plus games: October 2016 

PlayStation Plus games: September 2016 

Lords of the Fallen

PlayStation Plus games: August 2016 

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The best motherboard 2020: the top Intel and AMD motherboards we've seen

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:37 AM PDT

The best motherboards may not be as sexy as the best graphics cards or processors. However, they’re one of the most crucial PC components in building computers. They ensure that your hardware reaches its full potential by utilizing and optimizing every inch of performance. On top of that, it also helps you overclock better when you’re gaming.

This means that when you’re setting out to build the best PC you can muster with your budget, the best motherboards are the only way to go. They serve as your PC’s foundation, so if you cheap out and settle for less, you might end up having to rebuild your entire PC from scratch. 

With Asus and MSI recently unveiling their new Intel Z490 motherboards for the newly-released Intel Comet Lake-S, now’s an even better time to invest. We gathered the best motherboards 2020 has to offer, each of which has been tested and reviewed by us, so you can find the ideal one for your setup.

Coming to terms

If you’re unfamiliar with the best motherboards out there, use this list as a primer for your next build. Motherboards are available in a broad range of different form factors, the most common of which are ATX and Micro ATX. However, there are plenty of less common form factors including mini ITX and E-ATX. Don’t worry though, most of the best PC cases will support more than one form factor. 

Moreover, in our rundown of the best motherboards, we detailed the socket type that each mobo adheres to. The socket, for those not in the know, is the part on the motherboard that the CPU locks into. Typically, newer Intel processors use either LGA 1151 or 2066 while the latest AMD Ryzen architecture is designed for the AM4 chipset.

Best motherboards of 2020 at a glance

  1. Best Intel Motherboard: Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Pro Wifi
  2. Best high-end Intel motherboard: Asus ROG Maximus XI Code Z390 Gaming
  3. Best budget Intel motherboard: Gigabyte Z390 UD
  4. Best Intel Micro-ATX motherboard: MSI MPG Z390M Gaming Edge AC
  5. Best Intel Mini-ITX motherboard: Asus ROG Strix Z390-I Gaming
  6. Best AMD motherboard: Gigabyte X470 Aorus Gaming 7 Wi-Fi
  7. Best budget AMD motherboard: MSI X470 Gaming Plus
  8. Best AMD Micro ATX motherboard: ASRock B450M-HDV
  9. Best AMD Mini-ITX motherboard: ASUS ROG Strix X470-I
  10. Best Intel Core X-Series motherboard: ASRock X299 Taichi
  11. Best AMD Ryzen Threadripper motherboard: ASRock X399 Professional Gaming sTR4

Z390 Aorus Pro Wifi

When Coffee Lake Refresh CPUs hit the streets, Intel promised that they would be the best processors for gaming, and we knew that meant kitted out motherboards were on their way. Lo and behold comes the Z390 Aorus Gaming Pro Wifi – maybe one of the best motherboards from Intel right now. It’s packed with gaming-centric features like reinforced PCIe slots and enough RGB lighting to blind you. It’s hard to find a better motherboard, especially at this price point.

Asus ROG Maximus XI Code Z390

When you’re shopping for PC hardware, overwhelmed by all the different features, components and requirements, you might be tempted to throw your hands up and just get the best you can possibly afford. In times like these, you can bet on the Asus ROG Maximus XI Code Z390 Gaming. It’s packed with every feature that Intel’s new Coffee Lake Refresh processors support and then some, with an RGB-lit shroud covering every corner of circuitry on this motherboard, making it one of the best motherboards you don’t have to think twice about choosing.

Gigabyte Z390 UD

Now that Coffee Lake Refresh has been available for a while, you’ll want to maximize all the power it has to offer. However, high-end motherboards can get really expensive real fast. If you’re looking for a budget option without many compromises, the Gigabyte Z390 should be at the top of your list of best motherboards to consider. It skips many of the bells and whistles like RGB lighting and built-in Wi-Fi but it does make up for these compromises by providing excellent value. You get all the essential features that Z390 has to offer for a great price. If you want to build a budget gaming system, the Gigabyte Z390 UD is probably the best motherboard for you.

MSI MPG Z390M

If you’re looking to get an edge on the competition, but you don’t have a lot of extra space on your desk, you’re going to need a Micro-ATX motherboard – more specifically, the MSI MPG Z390M Gaming Edge AC. What you’re getting here is a Micro-ATX motherboard with all the features a full-sized ATX one offers, but at a fraction of the price. Despite its smaller size, you still get dual M.2 slots, SLI and Crossfire support, and all the fiery performance that Intel Coffee Lake Refresh has to offer. If you’re looking for a smaller motherboard, you can’t afford to pass on the MSI MPG Z390M Gaming Edge MC.

Asus ROG Strix Z390-I

If you need the smallest possible motherboard available without compromising on key features of your CPU, you should look into the Asus ROG Strix Z390-I Gaming. With this motherboard, you don’t need to compromise on features or power. You don’t even need to settle for a measly 32GB of RAM. Thanks to Asus’ double capacity memory compatibility – you can have up to 64GB of memory in the most miniscule motherboard you’ve ever seen. Unfortunately, like most Z390 boards, its price tag is not for the faint of heart, so prepare yourself to shell out some serious dough if you want the smallest of the best motherboards.

Gigabyte X470 Aorus Gaming 7

With the X470 Aorus Gaming 7 Wi-Fi, Gigabyte further illustrates its command of motherboard design. Rocking the new AMD X470 chipset, allowing full support of the new AMD Ryzen 2nd Generation processors, this may be the best motherboard if you’re looking to side with Team Red. What’s more, it supports Quad-GPU SLi and lightning fast RAM (up to 3,600 MHz) for peerless expandability, and thanks to its multi-zone RGB lighting, it looks good while kicking butt and taking names.

MSI X470 Gaming Plus

For the longest time, AMD has been the reigning champion of budget builds, and that isn’t likely to change anytime soon. Marketed exclusively to gamers, the MSI X470 Gaming Plus is loaded front to back with features like two PCIe M.2 slots and quick performance tweaking buttons to make sure you’re on the top of the leaderboard at all times. And, since it’s a gamer-focused motherboard, it comes with flashy RGB lighting that you can even easily customize from your smartphone. Best of all, it’s the best value of all the best motherboards.

ASRock B450M-HDV

These days, small form-factor PCs are all the rage and with one of the best motherboards like the ASRock B450M-HDV on offer, we think that it’s going to stay that way. Now, while this one doesn't do SLI and only supports up to 32GB of RAM– it is a B450 unit, after all – it is still compelling due to its affordable price. Outside of these omissions, you still get a slot for a NVMe SSD and four USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports around back. If you’re looking to build a solid budget gaming PC, the ASRock B450M-HDV is your best bet.

ASUS ROG Strix X470-I

Asus is out to prove that big things can and do come in small packages with the ROG Strix X470-I. Featuring the latest and greatest AMD chipset, everything in this tiny board is designed with excellent performance in mind. That extends down to the BIOS where you can find a stress test for overclocks before you even boot into Windows. This board also elevates beyond the constraints of the Mini-ITX form factor by including an M.2 Audio Combo riser, so that you can install your M.2 NVMe SSD without crowding out other components.

ASRock X299 Taichi

The X-series processors are here, and they are spectacular. But if you want to take advantage of all they have to offer, you need an X-series motherboard. This ASRock X299 is an incredible choice with support for overclocked memory speeds up to 4400MHz(!!!) and 8 different slots for memory modules. It also supports up to 128GB of RAM. Add in an X-series processor and a good graphics card or 3, and this thing will absolutely tear apart anything you could possibly throw at it. If you’re seeking one of the best motherboards money can buy, this is it.

ASRock X399 Professional Gaming sTR4

If you want absolutely every feature you can get and budget is not an issue, the AsRock X399 Professional Gaming sTR4 may be the most ideal motherboard for you. Not only does this monster of a board support 4-way SLI configurations, but you can also pack this thing with up to 128GB of DDR4 memory. It even features a ton of flashy RGB lighting, so that people will be mesmerized by your rig. And, keep in mind that this mobo is compatible with Ryzen Threadripper 2nd Generation chips, so you might need to update the BIOS first.

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The best PC gaming headsets of 2020

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:36 AM PDT

The best PC gaming headset is a vital part of any gaming PC setup. Poor audio is a fast way to ruin your gaming experience, whether you're traversing an open world game, sniping opponents in the best PC games or watching the biggest blockbusters on your PC. But, an excellent gaming headset should keep your experience great and immersive by bringing any game, move and music to life.

These best PC gaming headsets deliver superb sound quality while also bringing depth to the sound with excellent sound staging and surround sound. And while there are many excellent computer speakers out there, gaming headsets are simply far more disruptive. So, when you’re battling monsters in Doom Eternal late at night, you know you won’t wake your family or neighbors with those loud weapons. Plus, unlike cheaper quality headsets, they cater to all types of gamers in terms of comfort, so you can spend hours upon hours gaming.

With a few excellent candidates out there, we handpicked the best gaming headsets of 2020 for you. Each one has been tested and reviewed by us, so you’re making a sound investment, whichever one you choose.

HyperX Cloud Revolver S

The pure comfort and top-notch sound of the HyperX Cloud Revolver S more than make up for its high price. 

When we first sat down to review the HyperX Cloud Revolver S, we were a tad conflicted. On one hand, it boasts incredible 7.1-channel surround sound, delivered through Dolby's trademark digital signal processor. On the other, it's extremely expensive when compared to other similar headsets. Fortunately, as one of Kingston's most subdued pair of cans we've ever seen (or heard), the pure comfort and top-notch sound more than make up for its high price and weirdly placed detachable mic. And that’s why it tops our list of the best PC gaming headsets. 

Read the full review: HyperX Cloud Revolver S

SteelSeries Arctis Pro

SteelSeries Arctis Pro takes SteelSeries' impeccable audio to the next level.

SteelSeries is known for offering impeccable audio, but the SteelSeries Arctis Pro takes things to the next level. This headset doesn’t just offer up immersive surround sound for all the explosive action of your favorite games, but thanks to its included DAC (digital to audio converter), the Arctis Pro also serves you well when listening to your favorite music. One of the best PC gaming headsets to date, this one’s a little on the pricey side, but when you consider just how comfortable and exceptional sounding this headset is, well, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best gaming headsets you can buy today.

Read the full review: SteelSeries Arctis Pro 

Astro A50 Wireless

For years, the Astro A50 has been one of the best gaming headsets.

For years, the Astro A50 has been one of the best gaming headsets, known for premium comfort and audio quality. And, the 2019 model improves it on almost every level. Not only is the sound quality still there in full, but it looks better, with a full-black design, rather than the clashing colors of past models. The docking station is also smaller and less of an eyesore. Just keep in mind that this is still a pricey headset. 

Read the full review: Astro A50 Wireless

Beyerdynamic Custom Game

Beyerdynamic CUSTOM Game is one of the best PC gaming headsets we've used in some time.

While it’s more expensive than we’d like, the Beyerdynamic CUSTOM Game is one of the best PC gaming headsets we’ve used in some time. It doesn’t feature flashy surround sound or wireless functionality, unfortunately. However, this headset does excel in two of the most important categories: sound and comfort. Seriously, once you put it on and experience your games in headphones this amazing, there’s no looking back.

Read the full review: Beyerdynamic Custom Game

Corsair HS50

The Corsair HS50 Stereo Gaming Headset has sound and mic quality that rivals headsets.

Usually when you're purchasing anything, including gaming peripherals, you get what you pay for. You don't go into Walmart, pick up a $50/£50 gaming headset and expect to be blown away, at least not usually. Well, Corsair takes this rule and turns it on its head. The Corsair HS50 is, for the budget gamer, the best PC gaming headset you can get today. Retailing at $50 in the US, the HS50 has sound and mic quality that rivals headsets that are double the price. Everything, down to the build materials, radiates quality. If you don't mind forgoing some extra bells and whistles – like 7.1 surround and Bluetooth connectivity, for example – then you need to take a look at the Corsair HS50.

Read the full review: Corsair HS50 Stereo Gaming Headset 

SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless

You can get high quality lossless audio playback with the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless.

Compromises are a part of everyday life, but nobody actually enjoys making them. Luckily, you won’t have to with the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless. With it, you can get high quality lossless audio playback with a wireless headset. And, when you add the unique and ultra-convenient dual-battery charging system that lets you wear this headset in perpetuity to the mix, you have a formula for one of the best PC gaming headsets we've ever had the chance to use. If you have the money, and you absolutely need the best wireless headphones money can buy, this is your best bet.

Read the full review: SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless 

Creative Sound BlasterX H7 Tournament Edition

The Creative Sound BlasterX H7 Tournament Edition further cements Creative's legacy.

Creative has made a name for itself over the years for crafting sublime audio products – and the Creative Sound BlasterX H7 Tournament Edition further cements that legacy. Instead of just sitting back and iterating on the same winning formula of its previous products, Creative gives the Sound BlasterX H7 a full overhaul, resulting in a PC gaming headset that looks just as great as it sounds. If you’re looking for a comfortable, solid and meaty-sounding headset, the Creative Sound BlasterX H7 Tournament Edition is one of the best PC gaming headsets you can get.

Read the full review: Creative Sound BlasterX H7 Tournament Edition 

Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Aero

The Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Aero offers great sound quality coupled with its ProSpecs Glasses Relief system.

Yes, there might be a few things that hold the Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Aero back from true greatness – namely, its tight fit and not-so-appealing aesthetic. However, when it comes to what really matters, this headset delivers. With great sound quality to start, coupled with its ProSpecs Glasses Relief system to make it more comfortable for wearers with glasses, plethora of features and incredibly powerful software, this is one of the best gaming headsets we’ve ever put over our ears. And, for it, you’ll be happy to pay what would have felt like an exuberant price. 

Read our full review: Turtle Beach Elite Atlas Aero

Razer Nari Ultimate

The Razer Nari Ultimate has haptic motors in the ear cups that make your ears vibrate.

Anyone can simply just listen to their games, but with the Razer Nari Ultimate, you can feel them as well. This gaming headset has haptic motors in the ear cups that make your ears vibrate. That’s more than enough to make this at least a curious headset, but when paired with the long battery life, amazing sound quality and comfortable build, it’s clearly one of the best gaming headsets out there. Do yourself a favor and turn off the haptic feedback, even when you’re listening to music.

Read the full review: Razer Nari Ultimate

Astro A20

The Astro A20 boasts solid stereo sound performance.

If you're searching for one of the best PC gaming headsets, but the $300 price tags on those high-end cans make your stomach turn, you should take a closer look at the Astro A20. Boasting solid stereo sound performance in a wireless headset, not to mention the superb 15-hour battery life, this headset has all the necessary qualities that you might want in its price range. Sure, it doesn't come with surround sound, but it more than makes up for it with its economy and battery life.

Read the full review: Astro A20

Asus ROG Strix Fusion 700

Asus ROG Strix Fusion 700 provides fantastic sound quality without being tethered with a wire.

With its Republic of Gamers brand, Asus has built a reputation for being the name behind some of the best gaming peripherals to constantly meet consumer standards. The Asus ROG Strix Fusion 700 joins their ranks. Packed with 50mm Neodymium drivers and Bluetooth compatibility, this gaming headset provides fantastic sound quality without being tethered with a wire. It’s even compatible with other gaming platforms, so you won’t have to switch between different headsets. It’s a little pricey, but considering how good this headset sounds and how flexible it is, we’d say it’s worth it.

Read the full review: Asus ROG Strix Fusion 700 

HyperX Cloud Flight

HyperX Cloud Flight gives you two full days of gaming in between full charges.

The HyperX Cloud Flight is a long-lasting wireless gaming headset that boasts up to 30 hours of battery life. This means you can likely get two full days of gaming in between full charges. There is a catch, however – unlike the Cloud Flight’s competition, namely the Astro A20, this gaming headset only offers stereo sound, ditching any surround sound capability. You can thankfully get circumvent that by messing around with the Dolby Access app, though, and the sound profile is balanced enough to make this a non-issue, making this one of the best PC gaming headsets in 2020.

Read the full review: HyperX Cloud Flight

Corsair HS70 Wireless Gaming Headset

Corsair HS70 Wireless Gaming Headset boasts virtual surround sound capabilities.

Corsair unveiled one of the best PC gaming headsets late last year with the Corsair HS50, and now, it has taken it to the next level by making it wireless and flourishing it with virtual surround sound capabilities. These features on their own might make a great gaming headset, but when you add in the fantastic Corsair CUE software on top of it, you get a complete package that would make a great addition to your gaming setup.

Read the full review: Corsair HS70 Wireless Gaming Headset 

Corsair Void Pro RGB

The Void Pro RGB Wireless delivers great build quality, fantastic sound fidelity and RGB lighting.

It wasn't that long ago that Corsair was only known for PC components. However, over the last five years or so, it has possibly become better known for its gaming peripherals. With products like the Corsair Void RGB Wireless, it's not hard to understand why. While at first glance, some may scoff at the asking price, the Void Pro RGB Wireless delivers on that price point with great build quality, fantastic sound fidelity and – perhaps most importantly – RGB lighting. Plus, if you've already got a full arsenal of Corsair peripherals, the Void Pro RGB Wireless fits in perfectly, and can even synchronize lighting effects with other peripherals through the Corsair Utility Engine.

Read the full review: Corsair Void RGB Wireless 

Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament

Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament is extremely comfortable to wear and boasts top-notch sound.

If you're the type of gamer who likes to let the world know you're playing games, the Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament may just be the best PC gaming headset for you. Not only is it extremely comfortable to wear, but its 50mm drivers mean that sound quality is always top notch – even if it could have a bit more bass in the mix. You really do have to like the 'gamer aesthetic' however, as its plastic build and orange highlights personify the style. Still, if you can get past or embrace the looks and the price tag, there's a lot to love about the Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament.

Read the full review: Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament  

Gabe Carey has also contributed to this article

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Best wireless routers 2020: the best Wi-Fi for your home network

Posted: 28 May 2020 08:33 AM PDT

Only the best routers, especially the wireless ones, can deliver a solid connection that’s vital to your needs. These routers are a marked improvement over whatever you might be renting from your internet provider and even the best Wi-Fi extenders. And, they’re a surefire way to upgrade your home network, whether you work from home and rely on it for your business or you have a family’s worth of devices that need a stable network without dead spots.

The best wireless routers also bring in a few useful features, including boosting connectivity for certain apps, covering a larger than usual area and ensuring that there’s no disruption of service. That’s beyond giving you a reliable and consistent connection, even in the face of multiple devices utilizing it at the same time or when you’re downloading one of the best PC games.

Take a look at our selection of the best routers of 2020 that includes traditional ones and the newer mesh routers. Whether you’re just bingeing on the best Netflix shows or immersing in the latest online game without one, make the investment and experience the best home network connection you’ve ever had.

Google Nest Wifi

Google Nest Wifi takes the Google Wifi and gives it the capabilities of Google Home.

Google kicks things up a notch in its Google Wifi line with its latest installment. Don’t get us wrong; the original Google Wifi is still among the best wireless routers today. However, if you’re all about the smart home life, then you’ll appreciate the pure genius of Google Nest Wifi. This wireless router takes the Google Wifi, gives it the capabilities of Google Home and wraps it all up in an even sleeker and more appealing package. It’s a mesh router and a smart speaker in one, all with the simplicity that Google Wifi is known for.

Read the full review: Google Nest Wifi

Google Wifi

Google Wifi is proof that the mesh revolution is coming.

The days of traditional wireless routers are coming to an end; the age of the wireless mesh routers is here. Google Wi-Fi, alone, is proof that the mesh revolution is upon us, which means that you might be saying goodbye to the days when the only way to have wireless bliss was to install a number of wireless extenders. The idea of Google Wi-Fi is simple: purchase a set of points, put them in strategic places around the house and then scan a QR code. And, just like that, you’re connected anywhere you are in your home. It’s no surprise that this wireless mesh router claims the loftiest spot on our best wireless routers list of 2019, as it’s also the one that’s most effortless to set up and get going.

Read the full review: Google Wifi

Asus RT-AC86U

Asus RT-AC86U easily outclasses practically all the wireless routers on the market.

If you’re well-acquainted with Asus, especially its gaming computers, then you likely have a general idea of what the Asus RT-AC86U brings to the table. This wireless router may look like the lovechild of Doritos and Mountain Dew, if they spent a night together in a router making machine. But, inside that kitschy gaming aesthetic is a wireless router that, for its price, effortlessly outclasses almost all of its rivals on the market. Even better, you’re also not paying a premium for a gaming device, so if you’re looking for a high-speed connection with an affordable price tag, the Asus RT-AC86U should be at the top of your list.

Read the full review: Asus RT-AC86U 

Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 is supercharged for your online gaming needs.

The Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 might be pricey and lacks a broadband modem. However, this is still a router that delivers, especially on getting those pings down. Designed for homes with gamers in-house, it’s supercharged for your online gaming needs, keeping those high “ping” and latency rates down to deliver an excellent connection whether you’re playing Call of Duty or PUBG. If you’re willing to pay a pretty penny – and if you’re a serious gamer, you should be – this is one of the best wireless routers to consider.

Read the full review: Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

  • 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 Google Wifi. 

TP-Link Archer C5400 v2

TP-Link Archer C5400 v2 can bridge consumer and enterprise users by offering high-end functionality at a reasonable price point.

Are you in the market for one of the best wireless routers of 2019 and don’t mind a quirky design. If a ‘90s-inspired sci-fi design sounds like it will fit right in your home, then the TP-Link Archer C5400 v2 might be the best wireless router for you. It’s not exactly the most modern-looking mesh router out there, but it’s unique in that it can bridge consumer and enterprise users by offering high-end functionality at a reasonable price point and with a relaxed setup. It’s peculiar looking, yes; however, if you’re scouring the market for a wireless router that can cover a mid-sized home, you can’t go wrong with this.

Read the full review: TP-Link Archer C5400 v2

Netgear Orbi Pro

Netgear Orbi Pro is a modular Wi-Fi mesh router.

If you need to bring your office’s networking into the modern age with one of the best routers of 2019, then you must seriously consider getting the Netgear Orbi Pro. It’s a modular Wi-Fi mesh router that takes some design and performance inspiration from its business-grade competitors. It’s on the more expensive side. However, if you’re running a business where you cannot afford any lags due to poor Wi-Fi, then it’s absolutely worth every penny.

Read the full review: Netgear Orbi Pro

Netgear Orbi AC2200 RBK23

Netgear Orbi AC2200 RBK23 is an economical alternative for casual users.

When the Netgear Orbi hit the streets, it changed the wireless router scene. Then, in 2019, Netgear released the Netgear Orbi AC2200 RBK23, an economical alternative for casual users who don’t have a grand manor to cover. This makes it a worthy contender for the best wireless routers. Sure, it comes with fewer antennae and ethernet ports than its higher end counterpart. However, it does deliver more than enough to provide very solid network coverage. Plus, the small form factor means that it will have no issues blending in­ – not that you will feel the need to hide it.

Read the full review: Netgear Orbi AC2200 RBK23 

TP-Link Deco M9

TP-Link Deco M9 incorporates IoT smart home support, alongside industry standard speeds and coverage.

The market is now flooded with wireless mesh routers, but it’s hard to complain when the level of coverage these wireless routers brings tops anything we’ve seen before. With devices like the TP-Link Deco M9, one of the best routers of 2020, we can see how they’re only getting better and better. By incorporating IoT smart home support, alongside industry standard speeds and coverage, the TP-Link Deco M9 is, without question, an excellent choice for a smart home supporter. Fair warning though, this router is a tad expensive. However, you’re also getting all these features and an outstanding performance in exchange.

Read the full review: TP-Link Deco M9

D-Link Covr-C1203

D-Link Covr C1203 is one of the best wireless routers if you want to upgrade and save at the same time.

Ready to jump on the mesh wireless router bandwagon, but without breaking open that piggy bank? You’re in luck with the affordable D-Link Covr C1203. It’s one of the best wireless routers, if you want to upgrade and save at the same time. It offers comparable coverage to that of the Google Wi-Fi while also being affordable, and it also looks futuristic in a great way. It’s somewhat slower than Google’s legendary router, but it will still be fast enough for the typical user. It’s no surprise that the D-Link Covr C1203 gets our vote as one of the best wireless routers of 2020.

Read the full review: D-Link Covr-C1203 

Eero Home Wi-Fi System

Eero Home Wi-Fi System gives users total control over their network while touting a secure connection through AI.

If you’re in the market for a wireless mesh router that gives you a lot of control over your network, then the Eero Home Wi-Fi system might just be the answer. It has a price more premium than that of your standard router, but it also gives users total control over their network while touting a secure connection through AI. Even better, the Eero Home Wi-Fi System comes with subscriptions to 1Password, MalwareBytes and Encrypt.me VPN, which should keep everyone linked to your network safe and secure. 

Read the full review: Eero Home Wi-Fi System 

Joe Osborne, Bill Thomas, Gabe Carey and Michelle Uy have also contributed to this article

Images Credit: TechRadar

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