Tech News
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Best Budget Air Purifiers Under $300 on Amazon
Published: Sunday, October 12, 2025 | By: EddieClean indoor air matters for everyone, but it is especially noticeable for two groups: gamers and people who work from home. Gaming rigs move a lot of air, which kicks up dust that can aggravate allergies and clog case filters. Long sessions also mean you are breathing the same room air for hours. A solid mid-size purifier reduces particulate buildup on gear and keeps dander, smoke, and fine dust out of the air you breathe, all while staying quiet enough that you can still hear subtle audio cues and team comms without raising the volume.
For remote workers, air quality ties directly to comfort and focus. True HEPA filtration paired with a strong CADR in the 300 to 400 square foot class cuts down on pollen, dust, and pet hair that trigger irritation during long video calls. Models with Auto mode ramp airflow during cooking or cleaning spikes, while Sleep or low-dBA modes keep noise in check during meetings or when the purifier sits in a bedroom office. Keep doors open between rooms and one of these mid-size units can maintain a steady baseline of clean air across a small home or apartment.
This guide stays practical. The four picks below sit under $300, live in the same coverage class, and come from different brands with easy-to-find replacement filters. Match the purifier’s CADR and recommended room size to your space, give it clear intake and exhaust, and you will notice a real improvement in a few days.
Hardware Asylum’s Top 4 picks
1) Honeywell HPA200 True HEPAResults Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: A straightforward workhorse for medium to large rooms that prioritizes airflow, reliability, and simple operation.
Key specs:- Recommended room size about 310 sq ft for frequent air changes
- True HEPA filtration plus pre-filter for odors and VOCs
- Multiple fan speeds plus Turbo mode
- Filter and pre-filter change indicators
Why this pick: If you want no-fuss performance in the 300 sq ft class, HPA200 is a safe bet. It moves air effectively, uses widely available filters, and is easy to live with for day-to-day dust and allergy control.
2) Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty
Results Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: An enthusiast favorite that combines strong particle removal with smart Auto and Eco behavior in a compact chassis.
Key specs:- Designed for rooms up to roughly 361 sq ft
- Four-stage filtration: pre-filter, deodorization carbon, True HEPA, optional ion feature
- Particle sensor with air-quality indicator and Auto mode
- Eco mode and timers to reduce energy use
Why this pick: The Mighty ramps up when pollutants spike and idles down when the air is clean, which keeps noise and energy use low without sacrificing results. It remains one of the most balanced medium-room purifiers under $300.
3) LEVOIT Core 400S-P Smart True HEPA
Results Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: A smart, app-connected purifier that delivers excellent CADR for the money along with voice-assistant support.
Key specs:- Strong CADR for smoke, dust, and pollen in the 400 sq ft class
- Air-quality sensor with responsive Auto mode
- Wi-Fi app control for schedules, status, and filter checks
- Quiet Sleep mode for bedrooms and home offices
Why this pick: If you want modern controls without overspending, the Core 400S-P is hard to beat. CADR per dollar is excellent, Auto mode reacts quickly to daily life, and the app makes maintenance and scheduling painless.
4) Winix 5510 True HEPA with AOC Carbon
Results Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: A value standout featuring a washable AOC carbon filter and PlasmaWave technology for everyday odors and particles.
Key specs:- Effective coverage around the 392 sq ft class
- True HEPA plus washable deodorization carbon stage
- Air-quality sensor with Auto mode and quiet Sleep mode
- PlasmaWave for additional pollutant breakdown
Why this pick: The washable carbon stage keeps ongoing filter costs down while maintaining odor control, which is a practical advantage for homes with pets or frequent cooking. Coverage and CADR line up well with the other models here.
Special pick: premium option over $300
Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 Smart Air Purifier and Fan
Results Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: A premium bladeless tower that combines whole-room circulation with a fully sealed HEPA H13 system and smart sensing. It purifies and also works as a cooling fan, wrapped in Dyson’s minimalist design with app and voice control.
Key specs:
- Fully sealed machine to HEPA H13 standard
- Air Multiplier circulation with wide, smooth oscillation
- Auto sensing and real-time air quality reporting
- App control and voice assistant compatibility
Why this pick: If you want a high-style purifier that doubles as a quiet cooling fan with robust smart features, the TP07 is a compelling upgrade. Dyson’s sealed design and responsive sensing are excellent. Note that Dyson does not publish CADR the way most brands do, so consider this best for small and medium rooms where design, quiet operation, and smart control are priorities.
Final thoughts
In this budget range, performance is mostly about matching coverage and CADR to your room and keeping filter maintenance simple. For a reliable, no-frills unit in the 300 sq ft class, Honeywell’s HPA200 is an easy recommendation. If you want adaptive, quiet behavior backed by years of positive owner feedback, Coway’s Mighty remains a standout. For smart features and strong CADR per dollar, the LEVOIT Core 400S-P is the value play. If odors and filter costs are your concern, the Winix 5510’s washable carbon stage offers a real edge. For readers willing to invest above $300 for premium design and a built-in fan, the Dyson TP07 is a polished, quiet option that fits style-focused setups.
Placement and habits matter. Give the purifier room to breathe, avoid blocking the intake or exhaust, and vacuum the pre-filter on schedule. Gamers can position the unit near PC intake paths to capture dust before it reaches case filters. Work-from-home readers can run Auto mode during the day and Sleep at night to balance clean air with low noise. Keep a spare HEPA filter on hand for peak allergy or wildfire seasons. With these four similarly sized, under-$300 models plus the premium Dyson option, you can upgrade air quality at home without adding complexity. -
Arctic Xtender VG Review @ TechPowerUp
Published: Saturday, October 11, 2025 | By: EddieTechPowerUp described the Arctic Xtender VG as a well-priced full-tower chassis that delivers outstanding value and feature depth for its €220 cost. The inclusion of five high-quality ARGB fans alone accounts for nearly half the total price, making the bundle particularly attractive. The case offers sturdy construction, extensive support for large-format cooling including 420 mm AIOs, and modern touches such as a PCIe 4.0 vertical mounting bracket and comprehensive accessory kit. Arctic’s design feels deliberate rather than repurposed, with thoughtful touches like embedded Velcro straps, ample cable management options, and easy installation.
Arctic really managed to stick the landing with the Xtender VG chassis, offering a strong contender to those looking for a larger enclosure to fit 420 mm liquid cooling into. Smartly paired with five of Arctic's own retail fans, it practically begs to be combo'd up with an Arctic AIO as well.
The review found few real weaknesses, most of which were minor trade-offs. GPU clearance becomes limited when a 420 mm side-mounted radiator is installed, the PSU lacks direct air intake, and the case can get loud at high fan speeds. However, these factors barely detract from the overall experience, as fan curves can easily balance acoustics and thermals. With its generous feature set, clean layout, and build quality that avoids unnecessary complexity, the Xtender VG stands out as a case built with a clear purpose. TechPowerUp concluded that it is a joy to assemble and one of the best options for builders seeking high airflow and 420 mm AIO compatibility at a reasonable price. -
Seasonic PRIME TX-1600 1600W Noctua Edition PSU Review @ Funky Kit
Published: Friday, October 10, 2025 | By: EddieFunkyKit highlighted the PRIME TX-1600 Noctua Edition as a top-tier power supply aimed at enthusiasts who demand silence and performance. It is fully ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 compliant, and includes native 12V-2×6 connectors for modern GPUs. The key upgrade is the inclusion of a Noctua NF-A12x25 fan and a custom grill, enabling much lower acoustics, about 24 dB(A) at 100% load versus ~34 dB(A) in the standard model. The unit also supports a semi-passive mode where the fan remains off until around 50% load, making it ideal for quiet systems.
The Seasonic TX-1600 1600W Noctua Edition PSU combines the best features of both brands, which collaborated to create this fantastic product. The PSU offers the highest quality in every aspect of design. Regardless of whether you need it for gaming or work, it will handle every task with ease. We especially recommend it for the latest, power-hungry graphics cards, whether you're considering a high-end gaming PC or an AI workstation.
In testing, the PSU delivered excellent voltage regulation, low ripple, and stable performance across loads, confirming its flagship credentials. Efficiency remained outstanding thanks to titanium-level design, and the modular cable set is thoughtfully built with aesthetics in mind. The only notable downside is the premium price tag, but FunkyKit argued the gains in silent operation, build quality, and support justify the cost. Overall, it earns high marks as a compelling choice for high-end, acoustically sensitive PC builds. -
Crucial X10 2TB Portable SSD Review @ Madshrimps
Published: Thursday, October 9, 2025 | By: EddieMadShrimps reviewed the Crucial X10 2TB portable SSD and found it impressive in terms of performance and value. It uses a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, enabling fast data transfers that match its specs. Its compact plastic chassis is easy to carry, and it’s available in capacities up to 8TB, giving users room to scale. The drive’s performance remains consistent across various tests, showing that it’s more than just hype. The X10 clearly leverages its advanced interface for real-world gains.
"The X10 2TB SSD from Crucial impresses in terms of performance, the USB-C 3.2 2×2 interface not being there just for show! It features a plastic chassis, and a small footprint so can be easily carried around for transferring large chunks of data. The drive is available with capacities of up to 8TB so you can pick one depending on your needs."
That said, the review noted some trade-offs. Because it's single-sided, it’s suited for tight spaces but may need better ambient cooling in enclosed setups. Also, endurance and thermal headroom will be limiting for heavy continuous workloads, so users doing constant large writes may want to consider more robust options. Overall, MadShrimps concluded the X10 2TB is a strong and balanced choice for most users, especially those who want fast portable storage without paying for unnecessary extras. -
Corsair MAKR 75 Mechanical Keyboard Review @ APH Networks
Published: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | By: EddieAPH Networks introduced the MAKR 75 as Corsair’s first modular 75 % keyboard, offering users control over core components like plates, switches, and even optional wireless and display modules. The lighting was praised for its excellence, especially when driven by iCUE or via the Web Hub alternative. Build quality is generally solid, though some smaller parts such as the top badge showed fragility under closer inspection. Corsair frames the keyboard using a gasket-mounted design, but in practice the internal space was too tight, making the board feel stiffer than expected.
The Corsair MAKR 75 is a custom 75% mechanical keyboard that offers great customization at a hefty price.
Despite its flexibility, the MAKR 75 has compromises. The tight internal tolerances cancel out some advantages of the gasket mount, and modules like the wireless unit and LCD display must be selected at the time of purchase, they are not offered later, limiting long-term upgrade flexibility. The price, ranging between $270 and $560 depending on configuration, is steep and will demand justification by the buyer’s appetite for customization. APH Networks rated it 6.7 out of 10. In summary, the MAKR 75 stands out for its modular design and premium appeal, but its limitations in flexibility, stiffness, and cost make it a niche choice for users who truly want hands-on customization. -
SK hynix Platinum P51 Gen5 Solid State Drive Review @ ThinkComputers
Published: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | By: EddieThinkComputers examined the Platinum P51 as SK hynix’s first fully in-house consumer PCIe 5.0 drive, built with the Alistar Gen5 controller and 238-layer TLC NAND. It offers impressive theoretical speeds of 14,700 MB/s read and 13,400 MB/s write. In tests, the drive delivered strong real-world performance closely aligned with its ratings, showcasing solid throughput, efficient power use (around 10 W), and robust thermal stability. Its single-sided design makes it suitable for laptops and consoles, while the inclusion of DRAM further enhances its efficiency in demanding workloads.
"One of my favorite Gen4 solid state drive was the SK hynix Platinum P41, it had great performance and no thermal throttling issues. Enter the new Platinum P51, SK hynix's first consumer-based Gen5 (PCI-Express 5.0) solid state drive. Just like the P41, everything on this drive is made by SK hynix. So you are going to have the SK hynix Alistar Gen5 8-channel NVMe controller teamed with SK hynix 238-layer 3D TLC NAND flash memory, as well as a SK hynix DRAM cache chip. With this combination the drive offers sequential read and write speeds of 14700 MB/s and 13400 MB/s respectively. Is this the Gen5 drive you need for your new build? Read on as we take a look!"
Despite the strong performance, the review noted a few trade-offs. The price premium felt steep compared to competitors, and the absence of a heatsink variant means adequate motherboard cooling is required in many builds. Also, random I/O performance didn’t always match top-tier rivals in every scenario. Still, ThinkComputers concluded that for users seeking a polished, in-house Gen5 SSD with excellent balance and mature engineering, the Platinum P51 is a very solid option to consider. -
Amazon Prime Day Deals - Acer NVMe Storage at 15% Off
Published: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | By: DennisAmazon Prime Day is here and as many of you know there are massive sales across the entire platform making it a great time to buy. For the computer hardware enthusiast, gamer and casual user the Prime Day sales are a great time to upgrade almost everything in your PC at a fraction of the cost.
Amazon Prime Day runs from October 7th through October 8th so, get shopping!!
Hardware Asylum Deal Highlight
Acer FA200 4TB SSD.
Results Provided by AmazonThis is a very capable Gen 4x4 M.2 NVME drive that was recently reviewed on Hardware Asylum and for those of you looking for a great drive and an amazing price, then check out the 15% discount during the Amazon Prime Day.
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Blacklyte Atlas Lite Standing Desk Review @ TechPowerUp
Published: Monday, October 6, 2025 | By: EddieThe Blacklyte Atlas Lite Standing Desk impressed reviewers with its sturdy, easy-to-use design tailored for both sitting and standing workflows. Assembly is straightforward with clear instructions, although the desk’s components are heavy and may require help. The height adjustment system works smoothly using a controller with memory presets for favorite heights, and the desk includes built-in cable management brackets to keep wires clean and out of the way. The frame supports significant weight and performs well even under load, making it suitable for full PC setups including monitors, peripherals, and accessories.
If you are looking to buy a standing desk, you really should take a look at the Blacklyte Atlas Lite. It’s a rock-solid choice in terms of quality, stability, and flexibility. But what else does it offer, and at what price?
That said, the review identified some annoyances. There is no shelf or compartment for a PC case, meaning users must place their system directly on the desktop or elsewhere. The power plug includes a bright green LED that stays on, which may be distracting in a bedroom or low-light setup—and it beeps when unplugged. The desk lacks power customization to disable these alerts. Despite these minor quirks, reviewers concluded that for its price and performance, the Atlas Lite delivers excellent value, reliability, and usability for anyone needing a solid, adjustable desk that looks good and functions well. -
Best Budget Gaming Headsets under $200 on Amazon
Published: Sunday, October 5, 2025 | By: EddieA great gaming headset is a competitive tool and a comfort essential. Beyond big bass and flashy LEDs, what really matters is accurate positional audio so you can track footsteps and reloads, a clean mic that keeps your callouts crisp, and a fit that stays comfortable during long sessions. The 2025 crop on Amazon delivers meaningful upgrades in those fundamentals, including more precise driver tuning for better imaging, refined spatial audio pipelines on PC and console, and softer, breathable pads that reduce heat build-up.
Connectivity and platform flexibility have improved too. Wireless sets now pair low-latency 2.4 GHz links with Bluetooth for mobile chat or music, while wired headsets still offer the lowest latency and universal compatibility through 3.5 mm. USB-C charging is standard on modern wireless units, mics have better noise rejection and sidetone control, and software EQ has matured with presets for competitive FPS, cinematic RPGs, and voice emphasis. If you juggle PC, PlayStation, Switch, or handhelds, today’s headsets make it simple to move across platforms without sacrificing audio quality or comfort.
For this guide, I chose five in-stock models that balance sound quality, mic clarity, build, and value. Each pick brings a distinct strength, whether that is class-leading comfort, dual-wireless versatility, or premium spatial processing on a budget. If you want a set-it-and-forget-it headset that elevates both immersion and communication, the options below are easy recommendations.
Our Top 5 picks
1) HyperX Cloud Core Wireless
Results Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: A wallet-friendly wireless option that nails comfort and battery life while delivering clear DTS Headphone:X spatial audio on PC.
Key specs:- 2.4 GHz low-latency wireless for PC and PlayStation
- Up to 80 hours of battery life
- DTS Headphone:X spatial audio on PC
- Detachable noise-canceling mic and memory-foam ear pads
Why this pick: If you want reliable wireless without premium pricing, Cloud Core Wireless is a standout. The long battery life means fewer charge breaks, and the sound profile works well for both shooters and RPGs. Comfort is classic HyperX, which is why so many streamers and tournament players stick with the brand.
2) Razer BlackShark V2 (Wired)
Results Provided by Amazon
Brief introduction: A competitive favorite with excellent imaging and a crisp, detachable mic, ready for PC and console via 3.5 mm.
Key specs:- TriForce 50 mm drivers with THX Spatial Audio support on PC
- Detachable cardioid mic tuned for voice clarity
- Lightweight build and breathable ear cushions
- 3.5 mm wired connection for PC, PlayStation, Switch, and more
Why this pick: For pure competitive value, this wired set is hard to beat. Imaging is precise for footsteps and directional cues, the mic is broadcast-clean for callouts, and the lightweight frame disappears on your head during long sessions.
3) SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless
Results Provided by Amazon
Brief introduction: A versatile wireless all-rounder with simultaneous 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth, great comfort, and a refined mic for everyday play and chat.
Key specs:- Dual wireless: 2.4 GHz for low latency plus Bluetooth for phone or chat mix
- Up to 38 hours battery and USB-C charging
- Gen2 AI noise-canceling mic and comfortable suspension band
- Multi-platform: PlayStation focus, also PC, Switch, mobile, and more
Why this pick: The Nova 7P is a do-everything wireless headset. You can game on console with 2.4 GHz while taking a Bluetooth call, then move to PC without changing headsets. Comfort and mic quality are a notch above most mid-range options.4) Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED Wireless
Results Provided by Amazon
Brief introduction: Ultralight wireless that is easy to wear for hours, with both LIGHTSPEED and Bluetooth connections at a very approachable price.
Key specs:- LIGHTSPEED 2.4 GHz wireless plus Bluetooth
- About 18 hours of battery life
- Built-in dual mics for clear comms without a boom
- Lightweight design for long sessions and younger gamers
Why this pick: If comfort and weight are your priorities, G435 is a smart pick. The dual-wireless feature set is rare at this price, and the simple, no-boom mic design keeps things streamlined for everyday use.
5) Corsair HS65 Surround (Wired)
Results Provided by AmazonBrief introduction: A wired value play with Dolby Atmos on PC and SoundID personalization, built to handle long sessions comfortably.
Key specs:- Dolby Atmos spatial audio on PC and Tempest 3D support on PS5
- Sonarworks SoundID tuning for personalized EQ on PC and Mac
- Custom-tuned 50 mm drivers and flip-to-mute mic
- 3.5 mm wired connection for wide device compatibility
Why this pick: HS65 Surround brings premium software features to an affordable wired headset. If you like fine-tuning your sound or want Atmos on PC, this is a feature-rich choice that stays comfortable over time.
Final thoughtsA good headset should disappear during play and only show up when it counts. The five models here cover the core needs of most players. HyperX Cloud Core Wireless combines comfort and marathon battery life at a sensible price. Razer’s BlackShark V2 is a wired benchmark for clean imaging and a stellar mic. SteelSeries Nova 7P is the flexible daily driver that handles gaming and calls simultaneously. Logitech’s G435 wins on featherweight comfort and dual wireless. Corsair’s HS65 Surround delivers rich software features and spatial audio without raising the price ceiling.
Match your choice to your platform and priorities. Competitive PC players often prefer wired or dedicated 2.4 GHz for the lowest latency. If you want to mix phone chat or music with gameplay, look for simultaneous Bluetooth plus 2.4 GHz. For console, check platform-specific variants and USB-C dongle support. Comfort matters as much as sound, so pay attention to clamping force, pad material, and weight, and consider replaceable pads for long-term use. On PC, take advantage of software EQ, mic noise reduction, sidetone levels, and volume limiting to protect your hearing. Finally, skim warranty and return windows, since fit and mic tone are personal. With these ASINs in hand, you can verify stock quickly and pick a headset that upgrades your audio without complicating your setup. -
be quiet! Dark Mount Gaming Keyboard Review @ ThinkComputers
Published: Saturday, October 4, 2025 | By: EddieThinkComputers described the be quiet! Dark Mount as a sturdy, feature-rich mechanical keyboard targeting gamers who value both performance and aesthetics. It uses Kaihua KX2.0 switches, which deliver smooth tactile feedback while keeping noise relatively low. The board supports full RGB lighting, double-shot PBT keycaps, hot-swappable switches, and customizable layers all without requiring onboard firmware flashing. The build quality impressed, featuring a solid aluminum top plate and minimal flex under typing.
"be quiet! is a brand we primarily known for power supplies and CPU coolers. When they announced they were coming out with keyboards it might have been a big surprise to some, but there is a story behind that. Back in 2022 be quiet's parent company Listan acquired Mountain. Mountain was a peripheral brand that definitely stood out to us as we reviewed their very popular Everest Max gaming keyboard and Makalu 67 lightweight gaming mouse. The Everest Max was a modular keyboard, which has many of its elements infused into the keyboard that we are taking a look at today. The be quiet! Dark Mount is a full-size modular keyboard that has a detachable number pad and media dock, hot-swappable silent switches, PBT double-shot keycaps, 3 layers of sound dampening, a magnetic palm rest, bushed aluminum top plate, and so much more! Let's take a look and see what this keyboard is all about!"
Despite its strengths, the review noted a few trade-offs. The layout is compact and somewhat unconventional, which may require some adjustment for users accustomed to standard spacing. While the RGB is vibrant, full customization via software is limited compared to rival models. In use, some users found the switch feel a bit light for heavy typists, especially during extended sessions. Overall, ThinkComputers deemed the Dark Mount a well-balanced keyboard that offers excellent build quality, reliability, and quiet mechanical performance, ideal for gamers who want a premium experience without excessive noise or frills.
