Tech News

• Fractal Design Epoch Black TG RGB Light Tint Computer Case Review @ APH Networks

  Published: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | By: Eddie

  APH Networks reviewed the Fractal Design Epoch Black TG RGB Light Tint and praised it as a compact yet well-built mid-tower chassis that carries forward Fractal Design’s reputation for quality cases. The review highlighted the installation process as very straightforward, with ample space for components, effective cable routing options, and thoughtful design features like Velcro straps and rubber grommets. The inclusion of three daisy-chained Momentum 12 RGB fans was noted as a strong value point, offering both attractive ARGB lighting and solid airflow performance while remaining quiet under operation. The case also impressed with its clean design, tempered glass side panel, and flexible support for storage drives, making it suitable for both gamers and enthusiasts who want a stylish, functional build.
  
  

  

  The Fractal Design Epoch Black TG RGB Light Tint is a quality compact mid-tower case that gets all the essentials right.

  
  In conclusion, APH Networks pointed out a few areas for improvement, such as the lack of proper air filters, the partial coverage of the tempered glass panel, and the absence of a rear exhaust fan. However, these drawbacks were balanced against the strong feature set and overall value, particularly considering the fans alone account for a significant portion of the $130 retail price. With its combination of sleek design, easy installation, and strong airflow, the Fractal Design Epoch Black TG RGB Light Tint was considered an excellent choice for users seeking a versatile and cost-effective mid-tower case.

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• Best Affordable Mechanical Gaming Keyboards Under $100 on Amazon

  Published: Friday, August 15, 2025 | By: Eddie

  Even as gaming keyboards evolve with premium features, mechanical models remain the gold standard for gamers and typists alike. They deliver precise actuation, satisfying tactile or linear feedback, and long-term durability that membrane keyboards simply cannot match. These benefits go beyond gaming; for heavy typists, students, or professionals, mechanical switches can improve typing accuracy, reduce fatigue, and offer a more enjoyable overall experience.

  What makes the current market exciting is that you no longer need to spend a fortune to get these benefits. Thanks to competitive brands and refined manufacturing processes, high-quality mechanical keyboards under $100 now offer features such as hot-swappable switches, wireless connectivity, compact form factors, and customizable RGB lighting that were once reserved for premium products. This makes them an appealing choice not only for gamers but also for anyone looking for a stylish, high-performing keyboard at an affordable price.

  In this guide, we have selected five of the best-value mechanical gaming keyboards currently available on Amazon US, each from a different brand to ensure variety. They were chosen for their cost-to-performance ratio, popularity among users, and real-world reliability. Whether you are upgrading your gaming station or simply want a better everyday keyboard, these picks deliver a noticeable improvement without stretching your budget.
  
  Top Picks from Five Unique Brands
  
  

  1. Redragon K552 TKL Mechanical Keyboard

  

  Click to buy on Amazon - $34.99

  Results Provided by Amazon

  Key Specs:

  • Tenkeyless layout
  • Red linear switches
  • Sturdy metal frame
  • Anti-ghosting support

  
  Why Pick This:
  The Redragon K552 offers an excellent entry into the world of mechanical keyboards without sacrificing durability or typing feel. Its tenkeyless design frees up valuable desk space, making it a perfect companion for gaming setups where mouse movement is key. The sturdy metal frame provides reassuring rigidity, and the smooth red switches deliver consistent performance for both gaming and extended typing sessions. For its price, the K552’s build quality and reliability are hard to beat.

  
  2. AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

  

  Click to buy on Amazon - $68.65

  Results Provided by Amazon

  Key Specs:

  • 75% compact layout
  • Hot-swappable Reaper mechanical switches
  • Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz, USB-C wired)
  • RGB backlighting and volume knob

  
  Why Pick This:
  The AULA F75 Pro excels in versatility, offering three connectivity modes that make it ideal for users who switch between multiple devices such as a gaming PC, laptop, and tablet. The hot-swappable switches allow for personal customization, while the tactile volume knob ensures quick adjustments mid-game or during media playback. Its compact form factor maintains a professional aesthetic, yet still packs enough functionality for competitive gaming.

  
  3. EPOMAKER G84 80% Mechanical Keyboard

  

  Click to buy on Amazon - $62.99

  Results Provided by Amazon

  Key Specs:

  • 80% layout (compact)
  • Gasket-mounted construction for cushioned typing
  • Tri-mode wireless (wired, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth)
  • Custom RGB, hot-swappable keys, QMK/VIA programmability

  
  Why Pick This:
  The EPOMAKER G84 stands out for delivering premium build features in a budget-friendly package. Its gasket-mounted design reduces keystroke harshness, providing a smoother, more comfortable typing experience. Enthusiasts will appreciate QMK/VIA programmability, which allows for complete layout customization and advanced macros. Whether for gaming or productivity, the G84’s combination of build quality, flexibility, and aesthetics makes it a smart investment under $100.

  
  4. Hyekit x MCHOSE Jet 75

  

  Click to buy on Amazon - $44.72

  Results Provided by Amazon

  Key Specs:

  • 75% compact layout
  • Magnetic Kailh switches for fast response
  • Wired USB-C connection
  • Compact, solid build

  
  Why Pick This:
  Designed for speed and precision, the Hyekit x MCHOSE Jet 75 uses magnetic switches that register keystrokes with minimal actuation time. This is particularly beneficial for competitive gamers who need every millisecond of advantage. Its sturdy frame and compact layout make it a reliable choice for smaller desk setups, while still delivering a premium typing experience. The Jet 75’s focus on responsiveness and build quality ensures it performs well under intense gaming conditions.

  
  5. MageGee MK-BOX 68-Key Compact Mechanical Keyboard

  

  Click to buy on Amazon - $29.99

  Results Provided by Amazon

  Key Specs:

  • 60% ultra-compact (68 keys)
  • Linear red switches
  • Single-color backlighting
  • Detachable USB-C cable

  
  Why Pick This:
  For those who value portability and a minimalist design, the MageGee MK-BOX is a strong contender. Its 60% layout keeps only the essential keys, making it lightweight and easy to carry. The detachable USB-C cable adds convenience for travel, and the linear red switches provide a smooth keystroke ideal for both gaming and work. It is a simple, effective choice for those who want mechanical performance in the smallest possible footprint.
  
  Conclusion

  Mechanical gaming keyboards under $100 have matured to a point where they can rival the performance, comfort, and features of more expensive models. The five keyboards highlighted here were carefully chosen not just for their popularity but also for their ability to deliver exceptional performance per dollar. From the space-efficient Redragon K552 and versatile AULA F75 Pro, to the premium-feel EPOMAKER G84, speed-focused Hyekit x MCHOSE Jet 75, and ultra-portable MageGee MK-BOX, each pick caters to a specific type of gamer or user.

  These keyboards prove that affordability does not mean compromise. Features like hot-swappable switches, multiple connectivity modes, and durable builds are now accessible to more buyers, helping users elevate both gaming sessions and everyday typing tasks. Choosing the right model comes down to understanding your needs—whether that is portability, customization, or rapid response for competitive play.

  With the variety and value available in today’s sub-$100 market, there has never been a better time to upgrade your typing and gaming experience without overspending. All five options here are in stock on Amazon US and deliver the perfect balance of cost, performance, and build quality.

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• Acer FA200 Gen4 Solid State Drive Review @ ThinkComputers

  Published: Thursday, August 14, 2025 | By: Eddie

  ThinkComputers reviewed the Acer FA200 Gen4 Solid State Drive and found it to be a strong performer in the QLC-based SSD category. In testing, the drive reached 7109.54 MB/s read and 6137.26 MB/s write speeds in CrystalDiskMark, with similar results across other benchmarks. This performance, combined with low operating temperatures and a single-sided design, makes it well-suited for laptops and PlayStation 5 consoles. Available in capacities up to 4TB, the FA200 shows how much QLC drives have improved, becoming a viable choice for general PC users and gamers. However, for longer write workloads or content creation, a TLC-based drive may still be preferable.
  
  

  

  "Did you know Acer makes solid state drives? Well, actually they don't. While the drive we are taking a look at today says Acer on the sticker, the drive itself is actually manufactured by BIWIN. We actually covered BIWIN at Computex this year and they are actually the OEM for many brands like Acer and will be releasing products under their own name in the US later this year. The Acer FA200 will give us a good idea of how a BIWIN-made product will perform. This drive makes use of the Maxiotek MAP1602A controller teamed with YMTC 232-layer QLC NAND flash and offers speeds of up to 7200 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write. Let's take a look and see what this drive is all about."

  
  The review also highlighted the FA200’s excellent value, particularly with the 4TB version priced at $219.99 at the time of testing. The single-sided layout offers compatibility benefits, and the drive’s consistent performance strengthens its appeal. Overall, ThinkComputers awarded the Acer FA200 Gen4 SSD a 9 out of 10, recognizing it as a reliable, high-capacity option for mainstream users seeking both speed and affordability without sacrificing compatibility.

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• XPG Launches the Industry-leading RGB Gen4 SSD – SPECTRIX S65G

  Published: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 | By: Eddie

  Extreme Gaming Power, Built on Unshakable Faith
  
  
  

  Taipei, Taiwan – August 12, 2025 – ADATA Technology, a global leader in memory modules and flash storage products, has announced a groundbreaking release from its high-performance gaming brand, XPG. Designed for esports elites, tech enthusiasts, and overclockers alike, the new SPECTRIX S65G RGB Gen4 Solid State Drive (SSD) brings a new level of performance and aesthetics to the global gaming market.
  
  

  
  
  

  According to research firms, demand for RGB-enabled gaming equipment in the consumer PC market has seen steady growth in recent years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 10% from 2019 to 2024. Over the next five years, RGB accessory shipments are projected to maintain a CAGR of 8–10%, reflecting continued momentum in personalized and visually immersive gaming setups. In response, XPG has launched the SPECTRIX S65G, combining brilliant RGB illumination with blazing-fast 6,000/5,000MB/s read/write speeds, creating the fastest RGB gaming SSD on the market. With its signature “X” design and brand spirit, it embodies the pursuit of performance and passion — ensuring your gaming rig never lacks a final, finishing touch.

   

  Speed to Win, RGB to Inspire

  The SPECTRIX S65G features an uncovered RGB light strip, with a rigid X-patterned light guide cutting across its body. The slow-moving lighting effects resemble charging energy ready to be unleashed. Compatible with major motherboard vendors' lighting control software, users can easily customize RGB modes for a truly personal touch.

  Equipped with a PCIe Gen4x4 interface and compliant with the NVMe 1.4 standard, the S65G delivers impressive 6,000MB/s sequential read and 5,000MB/s write speeds, ensuring smooth performance during game loading and real-time scene transitions. It also supports SLC caching and Host Memory Buffer (HMB) technologies and is fully compatible with the latest Intel and AMD desktop builder platforms. Whether you're a competitive gamer, a DIY, or an RGB enthusiast, the S65G is built to dominate the battlefield.

   

  PS5 Compatible, Enhanced with Robust Protection

  Beyond desktop PCs, the SPECTRIX S65G also serves as a powerful upgrade for PlayStation 5, offering capacities up to 2000GB to solve the console's limited onboard storage. Gamers on PS5 can now enjoy smoother gameplay and faster loading of AAA titles. To ensure stability and longevity, the S65G integrates LDPC (Low Density Parity Check Code) error correction and Pyrite advanced encryption, enhancing data protection and transfer reliability. Rigorously tested for durability and performance, the drive comes backed by a 5-year limited warranty, offering peace of mind and a steady commitment to the gaming community. 

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• Fractal Design Refine Gaming Chair Review @ TechPowerUp

  Published: Tuesday, August 12, 2025 | By: Eddie

  TechPowerUp’s review of the Fractal Design Refine Fabric gaming chair highlights its unique hybrid approach, blending elements from gaming, office, and ergonomic designs. Priced at $599 in the U.S. and €479 in Europe, it competes in the premium segment, facing rivals like the Arozzi Vernazza SuperSoft, Secretlab TITAN Evo, Hbada E3 Air, and Razer Iskur V2. While many competitors offer features like deeper reclines or higher load capacities, the Refine stands out for its balanced comfort, stylish appearance, and solid build quality. The mix of fabric upholstery, memory foam padding, and reinforced frame materials delivers a premium feel, while assembly is quick and straightforward. Ventilation is effective, ensuring comfort even during long sessions.
  
  

  

  Looking for a stylish, functional chair that combines high-quality materials with a unique design? The Fractal Design Refine might be the perfect choice—offering all that plus a generous warranty, for added peace of mind.

  
  The review notes some drawbacks, including armrests that feel undersized, slightly wobbly, and less contoured than ideal, as well as a headrest cushion better suited for relaxation than focused work. With a load capacity of 275 lbs (125 kg), it may not suit larger users, and the adjustment range, while adequate, is not class-leading. Still, for those seeking a chair that blends ergonomic support with a refined, versatile design, the Refine offers a compelling mix of comfort, durability, and style, provided its minor shortcomings are acceptable.

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• AMD Threadripper 9980X and 9970X @ LanOC Reviews

  Published: Monday, August 11, 2025 | By: Eddie

  LanOC reviewed AMD’s new Zen 5 Threadripper 9000 Series, specifically the 9980X and 9970X, which are set to launch imminently. The 9980X leads the lineup as the non-Pro flagship, offering 64 cores and 128 threads, a base clock of 3.2 GHz, a boosted single-core clock of up to 5.4 GHz, quad-channel DDR5-6400 support, and a significant increase in PCIe 5.0 lane count from 48 to 90. The 9970X follows as a 32-core, 64-thread variant with similar memory and lane support but a higher base clock, also reaching 5.4 GHz maximum boost. MSRP positions the 9980X at $4,999 and the 9970X at $2,499, making them more accessible compared to the costlier Threadripper PRO offerings possible in the same platform.
  
  

  

  AMD’s high-end Ryzen CPUs on the AM5 platform have been dominating with CPUs like the Ryzen 9 9950X and 9950X3D both being monsters. That said, it isn’t actually the top of AMD's product lineup, they do still have their Threadripper lineup. They launched their Threadripper and Threadripper Pro 7000 Series of CPUs in late 2023, including a new sTR5 socket and TRX50 and WRX90 chipsets, and they are back at it again with their new 9000 Series of Threadripper CPUs that hit stores tomorrow. Ahead of that launch, I have had the top two CPUs in the office on the bench, the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X and 9970X, and today we can check out how they performed.

  
  In benchmarks and evaluation, LanOC highlighted that these CPUs significantly elevate performance in heavy multi-threaded tasks like rendering, simulation, and parallel workflows where Threadripper traditionally excels. While the 9980X delivers unsurpassed core density and multi-thread throughput, the 9970X balances performance and efficiency, with its higher base clock and single-core responsiveness making it a compelling option for creators who do not require the maximum core count. Overall, LanOC positions the Threadripper 9000 Series as a formidable HEDT platform for power users who need massive performance without stepping into the even more expensive PRO tier.

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• Epomaker x AULA F65 Pro Mechanical Keyboard Review @ APH Networks

  Published: Sunday, August 10, 2025 | By: Eddie

  APH Networks found the Epomaker x AULA F65 Pro to be a standout option in the budget 65 percent keyboard space. It sports a plastic build, available in two colors, with solid craftsmanship and handy shortcut controls for functions like switching connection modes and adjusting backlight settings. The keyboard shines with its vibrant RGB lighting, thanks to south-facing shine-through keycaps and translucent switches. Out of the box, it comes equipped with factory-lubed LEOBOG Icesoul switches, a gasket-mounted plate with foam and silicone dampening, and a satisfying tactile bounce that enhances typing feel and sound.
  
  
  

  

  The Epomaker x AULA F65 Pro is a great budget mechanical keyboard that offers a great performing gasket design at an excellent price.

  
  While the typing experience emphasizes clarity and responsiveness, disassembling the F65 Pro proved difficult and requires specific tools, making it less ideal for extensive modifications. A simple upgrade to a braided cable would improve durability over time. Offering wireless connectivity, satisfying feedback, and a pleasing typing profile for around 66 dollars, the F65 Pro earned a solid recommendation. APH Networks rated it 7.1 out of 10, remarking that it delivers excellent value for its price and serves as an ideal starting point for users seeking a feature-rich, compact wireless keyboard.

   

   

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• Lenovo Legion Go S Review @ ThinkComputers

  Published: Saturday, August 9, 2025 | By: Eddie

  ThinkComputers reviewed the Lenovo Legion Go S and found it to be an impressive entry in the handheld gaming market. The device offers the ability to run AAA PC games on the go with solid performance for its size, even if it cannot match a desktop system. The reviewer noted that most games could be played smoothly by adjusting settings and resolution, and that game controls were well-placed and highly responsive. The 8-inch 1920×1200 IPS display delivered sharp visuals and ample brightness at 70% settings, while Lenovo’s Legion Space app provided an organized hub for game management and device settings.
  
  

  
   

  Gaming handhelds have become extremely popular over the past couple of years. It seems pretty much every major brand has a gaming handheld. The popularity of these devices makes sense as so many people prefer gaming on the go while they are travelling, on their commute, and if you are purely gaming these devices are far less expensive than a gaming PC.

  
  Battery life averaged around two hours in Performance mode when playing demanding titles, but fast charging up to 65W and Type-C support made recharging convenient, even via portable power banks. On the downside, the reviewer mentioned the lack of an included travel case, the resource-heavy nature of Windows 11 on handheld hardware, and noticeable fan noise during gaming sessions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Legion Go S earned an 8 out of 10 score for its strong performance, comfortable design, and portable AAA gaming experience.

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• SAMA Expands CPU Cooling Lineup with A60 and A40 Series Air Coolers for Gaming and Creator PCs

  Published: Friday, August 8, 2025 | By: Dennis

  New high-performance coolers combine dual- and single-tower thermal engineering with ARGB, zero-RAM interference, and support for the latest Intel®, AMD® platforms

  RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif., Aug. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SAMA, a global leader in performance PC hardware, today announced the launch of its latest A60 and A40 series CPU air coolers, offering optimized thermal solutions for gamers, content creators, PC builders, and enthusiasts. With dual-tower (A60) coolers available in Black, White, Essential, and ARGB editions, and the single-tower (A40) models available in Black, Essential, and ARGB editions. The new series delivers quiet performance, wide socket compatibility, as well as the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra and AMD Ryzen™ 8000 series CPUs. From compact gaming rigs to fully loaded creator workstations, SAMA's A60 and A40 series coolers bring affordable, premium-grade thermal control to today's most demanding PC builds.

  "SAMA's A60 and A40 series combine refined thermal design with user-friendly installation and broad socket support," said Frank Wang, VP of SAMA. "They're purpose-built for users upgrading to newer CPUs who want quiet, stable performance without compromise—and without overspending."

  SAMA A60 Series – Dual-Tower Air Cooling, Maximum Efficiency
  Available in Black (A60B), White (A60W), Essential (A60E), and ARGB (A60L) editions.

  Key Features:

  • Dual-tower heat sink with 6 copper heat pipes for high thermal capacity
  • Micro-convex copper base for improved CPU contact
  • Equipped with dual 120mm guide ring fans, the enhanced blade design minimizes vibration and noise, delivering smoother and quieter cooling performance
  • Full RAM clearance
  • ARGB models feature dual lighting strips and 5V sync capability
  • TDP support: up to 265W
  • Socket compatibility: Intel LGA 115X/1200/1700/1851, AMD AM4/AM5

  Product Pages:

  • A60B: https://www.samagears.com/a60b/
  • A60W: https://www.samagears.com/a60w/
  • A60E: https://www.samagears.com/a60e/
  • A60L: https://www.samagears.com/a60l/

  SAMA A40 Series – Single-Tower Cooling, Compact Power
  Available in Black (A40), Essential (A40E), and ARGB (A40L) editions.

  Key Features:

  • Single-tower layout with 4 direct-contact heat pipes
  • 120mm guide ring fan with low-noise cooling and optimized airflow
  • Advanced hybrid fin design combines folded and interlocked fins to improve thermal dissipation and reinforce structural rigidity.
  • Compact 152mm height profile fits most mid-tower and mini-tower builds, with zero interference on memory modules
  • ARGB edition supports 5V motherboard sync for lighting control
  • TDP support: up to 240W – Reliable cooling for gaming and creative systems
  • Socket compatibility: Intel LGA 115X/1200/1700/1851, AMD AM4/AM5

  Official Product Pages :

  • A40 : https://www.samagears.com/a40/
  • A40E: https://www.samagears.com/a40e
  • A40L: https://www.samagears.com/a40l/

  Availability

  The SAMA A60 and A40 series CPU coolers are now available:

  • A60B: click here
  • A60E: click here
  • A60L: click here
  • A40: click here

  About SAMA

  Founded in 2003, SAMA is a trusted global manufacturer of PC cases, cooling solutions, and power supplies for gaming, creative, and performance computing markets. With a reputation for reliability, thermal innovation, and industry-first support for emerging standards, SAMA products are used by gamers, system builders, and integrators in more than 50 countries worldwide.

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• Kingston NV3 2TB NVMe M.2 2230 PCIe 4.0 SSD Review @ Funky Kit

  Published: Friday, August 8, 2025 | By: Eddie

  FunkyKit examines the Kingston NV3 as a compact and cost-effective storage option tailored for ultra-compact systems like small laptops, handheld gaming consoles, and mini-PCs. Available in both 2230 and 2280 form factors, this Gen4 NVMe SSD achieves up to 6,000 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds. The 2 TB version scored well in categories such as quality, warranty, price, and overall performance. The card’s compact design and high capacity are standout features, especially for space-constrained devices. Key positives include strong performance in such a tiny form factor, good build quality, and the inclusion of free Acronis cloning software. On the downside, FunkyKit noted that operating temperatures under load could become quite high, and the use of QLC NAND imposes durability limitations.
  
  
  

  

  
  ... Kingston NV3 is a well-balanced tiny storage that should easily convince all kinds of users who want to expand the mobile device storage. The NV3 is perfect for laptops or handheld gaming consoles and is not hard to recommend, considering low price and high availability.     
  
  

  
  In their verdict, FunkyKit rated the NV3 at 8.0 out of 10, highlighting its balance of compact size, impressive speed, and affordability as major selling points. The reviewer emphasized that the NV3 is a practical choice for users needing high-speed storage in tightly packed systems, offering excellent value, while advising caution in overheating and endurance considerations when used in sustained heavy workloads.

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