Tech News
-
Funky Kit Review - ASRock X870E Taichi 10th Anniversary Motherboard
Published: Thursday, September 3, 2026 | By: DennisNot to be outdone by the parent company ASUS, the little engine that could, ASRock, has released their 10th anniversary Taichi motherboard. I am pretty sure that 10 years ago the hot chipset and processor combo was Intel making their AMD X870E Taichi release a little suspect.
But, then again, they are trying to ride the anniversary wave and will do anything to get some action.
Overall, the ASRock X870E Taichi 10th Anniversary is an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a high-performance AMD system that delivers both flagship functionality and a unique, premium aesthetic.
ASRock has been a very difficult company to work with when it comes to marketing assets and reviews. They have their golden list of companies and extremely tight marketing budgets showing that they are more interested in making sure the sales channel works than adding a positive disruption to it.
You know, until the parent company says, hey we are doing an anniversary edition motherboard, you should too and it will be awesome! (or however you say that in Mandarin)
-
Fractal Design Radius 240 RGB Black All-in-One Liquid Cooler Review @ APH Networks
Published: Thursday, September 3, 2026 | By: DennisFractal Design, that company you know that makes some pretty nice computer cases has now jumped head first into the AIO cooler market with the Radius 240 RGB. As you can imagine this is an AIO watercooler with RGB and RGB fans.
The Fractal Design Radius 240 RGB Black is a desirable liquid CPU cooler that offers robust performance in a polished package.
From what I can tell, its not a bad cooler but... also not all that special either. Though, I do like the mounting hardware.
-
G.SKILL Launches Flare X5X Series DDR5 Memory with AMD EXPO Technology: Featuring Ultra Low Latency
Published: Thursday, September 3, 2026 | By: DennisG.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd., the world's leading brand of performance overclock memory, announces the launch of the new Flare X5X series DDR5 memory, with initial launch specification of DDR5-6000 CL36-36-36-76 32GB (2x16GB). Continuing G.SKILL's long-standing commitment to memory overclocking technology and high-speed memory, the Flare X5X series DDR5 is designed for users seeking high performance and a clean minimalist hardware aesthetic. Supporting the latest AMD EXPO Technology: Featuring Ultra Low Latency, also known as AMD EXPO ULL, the Flare X5X series overclocking profile leverages fine-tuned memory sub-timings for performance with supported AMD CPU, motherboard, and BIOS.
"AMD EXPO Technology: Featuring Ultra Low Latency" is the newly announced memory overclocking technology released by AMD. Compared to existing G.SKILL DDR5 memory kits that includes AMD EXPO support, the new Flare X5X series come with AMD EXPO™ ULL that includes multiple extra-tuned memory sub-timing settings in the overclocking profile, which help deliver better latency performance at the same memory speed. PC enthusiasts can experience the enhanced performance by enabling the AMD EXPO ULL memory overclock profile on a system with compatible AMD CPU, motherboard, and supported BIOS version.
Sleek Design, Minimalist Aesthetic
The Flare X5X series feature a sleek, minimalist design without RGB lighting, embracing a clean appearance that embodies the modern aesthetic of high-performance hardware. Simple lines blend with refined details to create a sophisticated visual appeal, while the design language delivers a premium and elegant style.
Specification & Availability
The initial launch specification of the Flare X5X series memory is DDR5-6000 CL36-36-36-76 32GB (16GBx2), supporting AMD EXPO™ ULL memory overclock technology. Each memory kit has undergone internal validation testing to ensure outstanding quality.
The Flare X5X Series will be available in markets worldwide in phases. For more product information and availability, please contact your local G.SKILL distributors and retail partners.
Important:
- Prior to enabling EXPO in BIOS, memory kits will boot at the SPD speed at default BIOS settings with compatible hardware.
- Features of "AMD EXPO Technology: Featuring Ultra Low Latency" requires compatible AMD-based motherboard, supported BIOS version, and correct system configuration.
- The rated EXPO specification requires overclocking/BIOS adjustments. Maximum speed and performance depend on system components, including motherboard and CPU.
-
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D 10th Anniversary @ TechPowerUp
Published: Saturday, August 22, 2026 | By: Dennis10 years?!? As it really been that long since the first launch of the AMD Ryzen processor?
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D 10th Anniversary Edition brings back the legendary CPU known for its revolutionary 3D V-Cache tech. At $340, it's a compelling option, especially if you already have an existing AM4 setup. As bonus, AMD includes a Carbice thermal pad for enhanced cooling, which we ran through 450 heat cycles to confirm performance.
I don't review to many processors but I do read some of the reviews and when I see sites going through 450 heat cycles just to confirm that a processor is doing what it's supposed to be doing you have to wonder.... Why?
Sure, they could be testing the new thermal pad, it is supposed to get better with age and needs to be heat and pressure set to start working. I got the demo of this new product during CES and while, I see the benefit I also see true enthusiasts upgrading long before the thermal pad will activate or even notice a difference.
-
GIGABYTE X870E AERO X3D DARK WOOD Review @ Vortez
Published: Saturday, August 22, 2026 | By: DennisIf the showing during Computex 2026 is any indication there is a new "trend" hitting the PC hardware market, Wood. I want to say it started with the Fractal North and has started spreading to include Antec + Noctua and even Cooler Master.
The latest Wood fan is Gigabyte and they have two color options available, Light and Dark.
At first glance, you'd be forgiven for thinking the GIGABYTE X870E AERO X3D DARK WOOD belongs in a luxury office rather than at the heart of a high-performance gaming PC. Instead of the usual sharp angles and RGB overload, GIGABYTE has opted for a sophisticated wood-inspired design complemented by metallic accents and a leather pull tab, giving the DARK WOOD a unique identity in a market where most motherboards tend to blend together.
I've always been a fan of dark wood, in fact I stained the final version of the dual subwoofer build project black and sanded it back to show just enough grain to keep things interesting. Now I just need the other items to match and I'll be a real casemodder (sic) LOL
-
ES Chiller 700 from Alphacool
Published: Saturday, August 22, 2026 | By: DennisAlphacool has a huge line of watercooling options for the enterprise allowing companies to convert their existing aircooled servers into watercooled monsters. We got to see these first hand at CES this year.
The latest addition is the new ES Chiller 700. Typically, when you watercool systems you use a pump to circulate the liquid and a series of radiators to remove heat from the loop. This is extremely efficient and the basis for cooling in the modern AI datacenter. Thing is, with watercooling using a traditional radiator you can never go below ambient and thus limits your thermal headroom.
For example, if it is 40c outside your cooling loop will always be hotter at 40c and if your system cannot be above 60c that will limit your performance. Now, if you introduce a chiller in the mix you can set the coolant temperature to whatever you want and gain a ton of thermal headroom to support more devices or even dabble with some overclocking.
-- snip --
Alphacool International GmbH from Braunschweig is a pioneer in PC liquid-cooling technology. With one of the industry’s most comprehensive product portfolios and more than 20 years of experience, Alphacool is expanding its Enterprise Solutions portfolio with the ES Chiller 700, a powerful compressor cooling system for server and workstation applications.
With a maximum cooling capacity of 700 watts, the ES Chiller 700 handles both cooling and circulation of the coolant. Its integrated pump delivers a maximum head of up to 10 m, allowing the chiller to be integrated directly into the cooling loop without the need for an additional pump.
The integrated display provides convenient access to a range of settings, including precise temperature control in increments of 0.3°C. A built-in reservoir with a capacity of 2 liters and standard G1/4" ports enable straightforward integration into existing liquid-cooling systems.
For reliable operation, the ES Chiller 700 features overvoltage protection for the compressor as well as alarm functions that warn of insufficient flow or excessive temperatures. The stationary unit also features a carrying handle for easy transportation when required.
The Alphacool ES Chiller 700 is now available in the Alphacool online shop.
-
Razer Pro Type Ergo Keyboard Review @ Madshrimps
Published: Saturday, August 22, 2026 | By: DennisIt is not every day that Razor sends out a review sample and unless you frequent the brick and mortar stores on a regular basis you may have never heard of this company. Some say they rose to power with the launch of a snake based gaming mouse that quickly got the attention of hungry gamers looking for an edge in their favorite games,
instead of, you know, gittn gud.
Madshrimps has a review of an ergo inspired Razor keyboard with RGB.
Razer brings premium keyboards meant for productivity purposes to a new level, by designing a case with a middle 10-degree slope, keeping the hands in a natural position for extended periods. The ultra-low-profile fingertip-shaped keycaps offer satisfying tactile feedback, a short distance till bottoming out, and the membranes ensure the noise is minimal. We have a lot of extra multi-functional keys, two knobs, one of which is taking duties as the Razer Command Dial, multiple connection options, a large replaceable battery but also two sets of double kickstands so we can position the keyboard with a large degree of customization
I have a hard time thinking this keyboard will be all that special and this is coming from someone who has used the Microsoft Natural since its inception. but, hey it supports AI prompting, so that is a thing that won't be replaced by STT anytime soon.
-
MachineGames and id Software celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Quake with a brand-new episode
Published: Monday, August 17, 2026 | By: DennisIn 1999 the source code to the ground breaking game, Quake, was released to the gaming community as Open Source allowing game developers to use any part of the Quake DNA to build the next generation of games. Most will tell you that any FPS (First Person Shooter) released after 1999 will have parts of Quake embedded in its code and things have only gotten better ever since.
2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Quake and was a huge part of QuakeCon 2026 and to help celebrate there is a brand new episode released and is free for anyone owning a copy of Quake on Steam.
Dawn of the Machine, available now as a free update for Quake*, features 19 all-new maps across a cohesive campaign as well as hidden secrets to uncover, a new soundtrack to accompany your journey and Deathmatch map to duke it out with friends, foes and bots alike.
As the battle-hardened Ranger, players survive a labyrinthine dimension where time folds back onto itself, creating a unique looping structure where each visit in the present reshapes the future.
Collect runes to unlock previously sealed paths brimming with new routes, encounters and secrets, plus persistent health and ammunition upgrades throughout add a new layer of progression to Quake’s classic gameplay.
When I started many of my Retro PC projects I was often reminded that one of the reasons I got into computer hardware and becoming a hardware enthusiast was to improve my gaming experience and it all started from playing Quake.
-
CORSAIR Expands Stream Deck Ecosystem with NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD
Published: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 | By: DennisMILPITAS, CA, AUGUST 10, 2026 – CORSAIR® (Nasdaq: CRSR), a leading global developer and manufacturer of high-performance gear and technology for gamers, content creators, and PC enthusiasts, announces the NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD Stream Deck Gaming Mouse is now in stock and available for purchase. The NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD is the first gaming mouse with a dedicated Stream Deck Launch Button, putting Elgato's Virtual Stream Deck on-screen with a single press and expanding CORSAIR's growing line of Stream Deck-integrated peripherals.
One press of the Stream Deck Launch Button summons a fully customizable Virtual Stream Deck overlay directly on screen. Using the Elgato Stream Deck software, players can configure shortcut panels built around any game, app, or workflow. Players can manage in-game inventory, chain ability combos, trigger OBS scenes, or mute Discord all without lifting their hand from their mouse.
"We first brought Stream Deck integration into our keyboards and the SCIMITAR ELITE Wireless SE, and the NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD is the next step forward," said Tobias Brinkmann, SVP and GM of Gaming at CORSAIR. "One button on the mouse unlocks a control platform that adapts to whatever you're playing or creating. Pair that with wireless 8,000Hz hyper-polling and optical switches, and you have a mouse that doesn't ask you to compromise between control depth and competitive performance."
Eight Programmable Buttons Expandable via Elgato Marketplace
Eight programmable buttons on the mouse are fully accessible within the Stream Deck app, giving users direct access to the Elgato Marketplace ecosystem. From there, users can download plugins for popular apps such as OBS and Discord or browse pre-built profiles from a community of control enthusiasts.
Several game profiles including Cyberpunk 2077, Pragmata, Resident Evil Requiem, ARC Raiders, Diablo IV, and Genshin Impact. Gaming profiles can be found in Elgato Marketplace under NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD profiles, with more to follow over time. Users can also build their own profiles and share them with their community.
Competitive Performance, No Trade-offs
The NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD is also built for high intensity gaming. It is capable of up to 8,000Hz hyper-polling in both wired and wireless modes, up to 8x faster than standard 1,000Hz polling. An included wireless adapter brings the dongle closer to the mouse to shorten the transmission path for a stronger, more consistent signal free of interference. The CORSAIR MARKSMAN S sensor delivers up to 33,000 DPI tracking, 99.7% resolution accuracy, 750 IPS speed, and 50G acceleration. Optical switches rated for 100 million clicks provide zero debounce delay, light-speed actuation, and durability for sustained play.
*Reaching 8,000Hz hyper-polling is dependent on CPU specifications.
Up to 170 Hours of Battery Life
The NIGHTSWORD v2 WIRELESS SD lasts up to 170 hours on a single charge. Players can also switch to Bluetooth or wired USB-C as their setup demands. The right-handed ergonomic shape includes contoured curves and a thumb rest that offers a secure, natural grip for hours of gaming and creating.
*Up to 170 hours of battery life via 2.4GHz with RGB off using 1kHz polling rate; up to 164 hours via Bluetooth® with RGB off.
Browser-Based Customization
CORSAIR Web Hub handles button mapping, macros, DPI adjustment, and Motion Sync settings without any additional software installation. Everything is browser-accessible, keeping the setup lightweight and approachable.
-
Introducing Computer Vision 2.0, Our Next-Generation AI Hardware Benchmark
Published: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 | By: DennisToday marks the launch of Computer Vision 2.0, our next-generation computer-vision benchmark built to evaluate modern artificial intelligence (AI)-capable hardware with accuracy, fairness and real-world relevance. Hardware has advanced at an unprecedented pace, with new architectures and NPUs emerging every year.Gartner expects AI PCs to become standard by 2029.
Computer Vision 2.0 introduces new models and standardized execution paths. Our realistic computer vision workload designs provide clarity and make results easier to understand. We focus on everyday workflows, from background blurs in video calls to image grouping, object detection, screenshot descriptions and accessibility enhancements.
Key features of this release include:
Modern transformer-based model suite – we’ve replaced older CNN-only architectures with cutting-edge transformer models. DETR for detection, SAM2 for segmentation, BLIP for captioning, ESRGAN for image super-resolution, and ConvNeXt for image classification. These models better represent the workloads used in modern applications.
A standardized Windows ML execution for fair comparisons – take the fatigue out of understanding which tools you need to benchmark each AI device. We provide a single, standardized score for evaluating all AI-capable Windows hardware, including NPUs. Selecting the correct precision (FP32/FP16/INT8) traditionally requires deep AI expertise. Computer Vision 2.0 removes that barrier with auto-precision selection, choosing the optimal setting per device to support consistency, fairness and ease of use.
Cross-platform support from day one – Computer Vision 2.0 launches with macOS support on day one, enabling cross-platform comparisons for organizations with mixed fleets.
Realistic workload designs and accurate thresholds for integrity – our workload performance measurements reflect real employee experiences, and this latest release now includes scenarios that mirror true multimodal use. Examples of this include the ability to classify and group images locally on photo applications, and camera tools to detect objects, annotate, and apply background effects.
The work we do on our Procyon AI benchmarks enables our customers to make more confident, data-driven procurement decisions aligned with the future of AI PCs. For more information about Computer Vision 2.0 or to discuss how it can support your hardware evaluation strategy, contact us today.
