With many free VPNs you'll encounter a lot of restrictions such as speed constraints, bandwidth caps, or a limited country network. These restrictions can add up, making the experience of using a free VPN feel pointless. That's why it's important that you choose the right free VPN service based on your own needs.
While we advise that you opt for a premium VPN, such as those in our roundup of the best VPNs, we understand that sometimes you just need quick and easy basic protection without having to pay for yet another service. Therefore we've curated a list of the best free VPNs around. We lay out any restrictions they may impose and what activities they're best used for—streaming, torrenting, browsing, etc. Following our recommendations you can read about what to look for in a free VPN and how we test.
Updated May 1, 2024: Check out our latest review of
Why you should trust us: It's in our name. PCWorld prides itself on laptop experience and expertise. We've been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review more than 70 laptops every year. All of the picks below have been personally tested and vetted by our experts, who've applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards. We're also committed to reviewing PC laptops at every price point to help you find a machine that matches your budget.
Looking for sweet discounts? Check out our regularly updated roundup of the best laptop deals available right now.
Updated May 1, 2024: We added the Acer Swift Go 14 as an alternative option to the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus (2024) in our best overall laptop category. Not only is it about $200 cheaper than our top pick, but it also offers good overall performance and long battery life. We've also updated our list of recent laptop reviews and added the new "at a glance" list below.
The best laptops at a glance
Dell Inspiron 14 Plus (2024) (Best overall),
According to Microsoft (via Bleeping Computer), "Windows devices might face VPN connection failures after installing the April 2024 security update, or KB5036893."
Microsoft has no fix at the current time, the company said. "We are working on a resolution and will provide an update in an upcoming release," the company said.
Unfortunately, the list of affected clients is rather lengthy: Windows 11 (23H2, 22H2, and 21H2) as well as Windows 10 (22H2 and 21H2). If you're a consumer and run into this issue, Microsoft advises that you first launch the Windows "Get Help" app to inform Microsoft of the problem and possibly work through a solution.
I haven't tested every one of these webcams, just most of them — and I describe how I test under my recommendations. You can also refer to my separate story on the best Windows Hello webcams for recommendations that aid videoconferencing and log you into your PC. Two recommendations from that list — a premium and budget option — appear on this list.
Take note of the FAQ at the bottom of this article, as there's a new upcoming Windows feature that may create some big ripples on the webcam industry!
Why you should trust me: PCWorld has been testing PC hardware since the 1980s, and I've been a technology journalist for 30 years, with extensive experience in reviewing PC hardware. When it comes to webcams, my recommendations are based on hands-on testing in real-world scenarios. I also tap the expertise and published reviews of my counterparts in Sweden and Germany to offer a comprehensive view of the current webcam landscape.
Updated May 1, 2024: My most recent review is of the Logitech MX Brio, a 4K webcam that is the sort-of successor to the Logitech Brio 4K. While it challenged BenQ's IdeaCam S1 Pro for the best premium webcam, I don't think it quite offers enough.
That's the basis of a presentation leaked by Chinese site BenchLife.info and spotted by VideoCardz.com. In the slides posted to the site (and marked "Nvidia Confidential — Do Not Distribute", so consider all of this unconfirmed), Nvidia lays out the difference between computers that feature "Basic AI" and "Premium AI." That difference is, in short, a dedicated and discrete graphics card, the kind that Nvidia sells.
Of course the actual presentation was a little more substantive. The slides point out that the NPUs integrated into the latest Intel and AMD processors are capable of 10-45 Tera Operations Per Second (TOPS) while a "Premium AI PC" with an RTX card can handle 100 to 1300 TOPS. And Nvidia also points out that while NPUs are still an extremely recent development, with less than a million units in consumers' hands as of the end of 2023, Nvi
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL cooks frozen foods in mere minutes and it's super easy to clean. Plus, the 6-in-1 functionality is just plain wonderful. Better yet, it can cook your grub in all different sorts of ways such as max crisp, air fry, air roast, bake, reheat, and dehydrate.
Not only is the Ninja Air Fryer Pro designed to reduce cooking times, but it requires hardly any oil to do so, which is healthier in the long run. It comes with a 6.5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, which can fit up to five pounds of French fries, according to Ninja. If you're new to cooking, you can also check out the included recipe book and cooking charts. Finally, this divine cooking machine can reach temperatures of up to 450 Fahrenheit.
This is an excellent deal, but it's also a limited time deal. Get it now before it's too late and take the headache out of making dinner.
Get the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL for $119.99 at Amazon
The Dell Inspiron 14 comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 7530U CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. That's more than enough juice for day-to-day tasks, office work, coursework, and so on. The 14-inch touch display has a resolution if 1920×1200, a productivity-friendly aspect ratio of 16:10, and a refresh rate of 60Hz. The taller aspect ratio makes it easier to scroll through web pages and whatnot. This is no gaming laptop, but that hardware combination is great for watching videos, surfing the web, and getting work done. In addition to the nice display, it also has upwards-firing speakers, a backlit keyboard, and a fingerprint reader.
This is a really good deal, but it's on clearance, which means stock is likely selling out fast. Don't miss your chance.
Get the Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 for $449.99 at Dell
Take it from me, like your mouse's DPI and polling rate, lift-off distance really does matter. If you get this setting right, you can prevent erratic movements, keep your position centered, and steady your crosshair. You'll ultimately perform better in your games too.
What is lift-off distance?
In a nutshell it's the height at which your mouse's sensor stops sending a signal to your computer when you lift it up. A high lift-off distance means the mouse will keep tracking at a high elevation above the tabletop, whereas a low lift-off distance means the mouse will cut out a little closer to the surface you're using it on.
Lift-off distance is often measured in millimeters, with increments between 1mm and 10mm (1cm). Lower lift-off distances are often considered to be 1mm and 2mm, while higher lift-off distances are anything from 3mm to 10mm. Some companion apps just give you the option of choosing between a Low, Medium, or High lift-off distance.
If you don't think you ever lift your mouse, try watching yourself play. Most gamers, and yes, even competitive gamers, lift their mice from time to time — it's very common.
High or low? What's best?
Lift-off distance is one of those really polarizing topics for gamers — like asking someone if they like the chocolate chips in chocolate chip ice cream, there's usually strong views about it one way or the other. In fact, we can mock
Amazon is selling the K70 Core, with the included wrist rest that usually demands an extra $10, for just $79.99. That's about the best deal you can find for a full-sized gaming keyboard with great switches and some interior sound dampening for satisfying typing. Naturally it includes RGB lighting and custom software compatibility, too.
Corsair's custom MLX Red (linear and speedy) switches really are the star here, but be aware that as a budget model the K70 Core doesn't let you swap them out. The fixed USB cable is also a bit of a bummer, making it harder to organize your cables quickly. That said, this really is the best deal you're going to find for a large gaming board from a major supplier.
Amazon says it's a "limited time deal," so who knows how long it'll stick around. Hop on it fast if you're interested.
Get the Corsair K70 Core keyboard with wrist rest for just $80
How Windows 10 is currently annoying us with pop-ups
Windows 10 displays full-screen adverts for the upgrade, even on Windows 10 computers that do not meet the requirements for Windows 11. The annoying upgrade notifications are even appearing on Windows 10 PCs within companies. At the same time,
But as protecting your PC became more complicated, vendors slowly morphed their offerings into full suites. Nowadays, a firewall and other safeguards like a browser extension, password manager, and VPN get dropped onto your system. You might even get a handful of utilities focused on optimizing your computer, rather than defending it.
To help you figure out what components are most important — as well as necessary for your situation — we've broken down the most common elements of today's antivirus software.
Antivirus
At the heart of every antivirus plan is the engine that detects threats to your PC. These days, modern antivirus software both anticipates and roots out the presence of viruses and other malware, including ransomware.
Blocking malware before it even hits your computer is a key defense against situations like your PC being commandeered for botnet attacks, having your data stolen, and getting locked out of your documents and folders. It also can stop creepy behavior like being spied on through your webcam or having everything you do recorded (including what you type).
An antivirus engine does this by screening the websites you visit, as well as the email and apps on your PC, for phishing links and potential malicious downloads. Phishing attempts usually try to steal your passwords, credit card details, or other personal information by pretending to be a legitimate site and then capturing whatever data you input.
Microsoft Visual Studio is loaded with tools to simplify your coding workflow. You can seamlessly build across languages and platforms in a single environment and use IntelliCode to automatically complete lines or blocks of code to save you time. Collaborating with other developers using Live Share makes it easy to stay aligned on different aspects of the project while CodeLens gives you deep insight into your code so you can know when and how changes were made over time.
Find out why Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows has earned a 4.6/5-star rating on Capterra. This week only, you can get it for just $39.97 (reg. $499).
With this exclusive club (4.2/5 stars on Trustpilot), you can get discounts and deals on long-term parking at any of The Parking Spot's 46 locations at 28 airports nationwide. When you sign up through this deal, you can get two days of parking at any location for just $9.99.
All you have to do is select your airport to get started. Then pick your dates, your preferred parking type, and any additional car care services, and reserve your spot. You can use the app to scan in and check out without speaking to anyone, and get a ride to the terminal with The Parking Spot's shuttle. The more you park, the more points you'll earn towards free parking.
Simplify airport parking. Right now, when you join
For one, there's the maker's name: The Browser Company of New York. Are we meant to imagine the browser being crafted in a converted blacksmith's forge in Brooklyn, offering farm-to-table HTML? And it was designed for the Mac. Then there was my attempt to try out the beta several weeks ago — the browser hung while I tried to make an account, and wouldn't let me through. A support request went unacknowledged.
That's not really fair, though. So when *sigh* The Browser Company of New York announced that its free Arc browser was finally ready for Windows users to try alongside Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and others, I gave it a try. And you know what? It's actually okay.
The problem I face, however, is that the Arc browser wants you to learn its ways. I don't mind quirks, but I've never liked a "you just don't get it" attitude. And there's definitely a bit of that throughout Arc.
Full disclosure: I've never spoken to The Browser Co., and I was never offered a walkthrough or a press briefing. That's fine, as it puts me in the shoes of an average user. From the get-go, the experience is familiar: You're asked to download a small installer, which downloads a more complete package.
Unfortunately, Arc is one of the new breed of browsers that requires a username and password, full stop. There's no anonymous option, at least where Arc is concerned. To use it you'll need to provide an email address, plus a username and password. For mobile, Arc is limited to iOS support — not even a true mobile browser, but rather an odd sort of sidebar. Android users are out of luck, for now.
We've tested numerous VPNs and put their servers from all over the world through countless speed tests to determine the fastest services based on their network averages. We highlight not only the fastest download speeds, but also the fastest upload speeds. Read below to see our curated list of the fastest VPNs available now.
Why you should trust us: Here at PCWorld we've been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. We're continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out our article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you'll find our favorite lightning-fast VPNs and, below those, additional information about how we test these services as well as helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a fast VPN on your own.
If you're looking for even more VPN options, check out our comprehensive roundup of the best VPNs in all categories.
A team of three modders is putting a new map in Stardew Valley inspired by last year's D&D smash hit. And yes, getting all those eye-catching companions into the farming sim as romanceable characters is a priority. So far the team for "Baldur's Village" is working on getting problematic fave Shadowheart, smooth-talking Gale, bear-in-more-ways-than-one Halsin, and everyone's favorite vampiric fop Astarion in there, though only the latter has a unique romance plot at the moment.
According to a post on Twitter spotted by Rock Paper Shotgun, the small team hopes to ha
That being said, the portable monitor market is a bit of a mess currently. The widespread availability of these displays and the ability to manufacture them cheaply has resulted in a onslaught of unknown brands on the market. Many of these brands don't have any established credibility, and quality can often be sub-par. That's where we at PCWorld come in. We've tested multiple models and can separate the best portable monitors from the rest.
Our list of our favorites below will help you find the right portable monitor for you. You can learn more about what to look for in a portable monitor at the bottom of the article.
Updated April 30, 2024: We've added a new recommendation to our list — the Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED. It's a great portable monitor for creative professionals, offering the best image quality of any portable monitor we've reviewed to date, as well as a well-built chassis and sturdy kickstand. It's perfect for someone doing creative work on-the-go.
The problem stems from the fact that Razer advertised its Zephyr mask, which had built-in RGB lights, circulation fans, and a transparent front panel to let others see the wearer's mouth, as "N95-grade." Turns out you can't just throw that N95 term around, even in the relatively loosey-goosey world of American medicine. The Federal Trade Commission investigated Razer for misrepresenting the Zephyr mask's capabilities and concluded its findings yesterday.
At issue is the fact that Razer never actually submitted the mask or its built-in, replaceable filters for testing or certification for the N95 label, which indicates that a respirator can block 95 percent of particulates. Neither the FDA nor the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health were contacted for their respective seals of approval — Razer seems to have thought that simply calling the mask "N95-grade" without doing the paperwork would be enough.
The FTC disagrees with a unanimous 3-0 ruling. While Razer quickly removed the N95 language from its advertising during its initial sales after some nega
The Samsung Odyssey features a resolution of 2560×1440, a refresh rate of 165Hz, and a response time of 1ms. Whether you're into story-driven games or intense first-person-shooters, this monitor should be capable of handling all types — this particular mix of resolution and speed is widely considered to be PC gaming's "sweet spot." It measures 27-inches, so you're getting a good amount of screen. You can even adjust the screen output to an ultrawide aspect ratio of 21:9, allowing you to discover those hard-to-see areas in your favorite titles.
This is a killer deal on a "sweet spot" gaming monitor — but it's also a limited time deal. Get it now before it's too late.
Get the Samsung Odyssey G50A for $199.99 at Amazon
Microsoft in the support document for KB5036980
But the better-sounding name doesn't change the fact that many Windows 11 users don't want to see ads in the Start menu.
How to switch off the new ads in the Start menu
get windows 11
At PCWorld, we've had to adjust to remote work just like the rest of the world. Our staff has spent countless hours testing and reviewing hardware, which means we've been lucky enough to find the best gear and accessories available. Below you'll find our favorite work-from-home essentials.
Look sharp during Zoom meetings: Logitech C920e Business Webcam
With this plan, you can monitor up to 50 channels, instantly downloading and getting summaries delivered in real-time. You can get summaries delivered in text form or as audio playback, allowing you to get the main idea of any video in a fraction of the time in a way that works with your schedule. You can even use TubeOnAI like ChatGPT, creating content to take what you've learned from videos instantly into action.
Save time and accomplish more with help from a TubeOnAi Premium Lite Plan. Right now, you can get a lifetime subscription for 6
These stories are narrated by master storytellers, including celebrity voices like Kevin Costner, Phil Jackson, and John Lithgow. Plus, you don't have to search for a story to match your location. They're automatically triggered based on your location. Stories will play as you pass through a relevant region, and you can even use it offline.
The offline mode requires you to download stories in advance. They're only 3-5 minutes long, too, so you could learn a lot in a litt
Microsoft and IBM released the updated code under the open-source MIT license earlier this month. Microsoft said it's about "the spirit of open innovation," but not everyone is thrilled with precisely how the updated version of DOS has been opened up. Michal Necasek, a software engineer and historian, has documented some of the woes on the os2museum blog. The process has left the code, in Necasek's words, "mutilated."
The biggest problem appears to be the fact that Microsoft released the source code as git files, not their original binary files. Converting the relatively ancient data into a text format more widely supported by modern code editors is perhaps a natural impulse…but it also means that the actual software and hardware tools designed for the original operating system can't handle it.
It surely doesn't help that the git files also lack timestamps, which (according to comments on the story and
Why you should trust us: It's in our name! PCWorld prides itself on laptop experience and expertise. We've been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review more than 70 laptops every year. All of the picks below have been personally tested and vetted by our experts, who've applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards. We're also committed to reviewing PC laptops at every price point to help you find a machine that matches your budget.
If you can manage to stretch your budget a little bit further, check out our best laptops roundup for even more suggestions.
Updated April 24, 2024: We added the Acer Aspire Go 15 as the Best Laptop Under $300. It's even cheaper than our top pick, for those who are on a strict budget, and has better battery life. We've also updated our list of recent laptop reviews, so be sure to check those out.
Best Buy's daily deal is a base model iPad Air, 5th generation, in the kinda-sorta-gold-ish Starlight color for $399.99. That's $200 off the standard price for this tablet, and an extremely rare discount to see for any new iPad in its latest model. Normally you'd have to go for something used or refurbished to score that kind of a deal.
The 5th-gen iPad Air boasts a 10.9-inch display, USB-C port for easy access without having to deal with any Lightning ports, and an M1 processor. That's the same chip that goes into Apple's ARM-based laptops, so this tablet is rocking a shocking amount of power, even it its tablet OS doesn't offer as many applications as a laptop. As an owner of the 4th-gen Air — which has a physically identical body — I can say it's pretty darn nice, too. I only wish it had the same face unlock powers as my laptop; the Air uses a fingerprint sensor on the power button.
This discount is only for the Starlight color, only for the 64GB model, and only available today, April 29th. Other iPad Airs (iPads Air?)
I've tested a bunch of ultrawide monitors in order to name the best picks in various categories ranging from those optimized for gaming to those best for professional use. Below you'll find a curated list of my favorites in each category. I describe my evaluation process for monitors at the bottom of this article, or for even more details, see the article on how we test monitors for PCWorld.
If you're still on the fence about whether an ultrawide is the right choice for you, see PCWorld's article on whether ultrawide monitors are worth it to have all your questions answered.
You can find even more monitor recommendations in our roundup of the best monitors.
Updated April 26, 2024: See our recent review of the BenQ PD3420Q. This ultrawide was a little too niche to make our list of r
According to a report from Igor's Lab, Intel has issued a message to motherboard manufacturers addressing the crashes on 13th- and 14th-gen Core processors, which we've seen on some of our personal machines here at PCWorld. The memo makes no bones about it: Intel is blaming 600 and 700-series chipsets with BIOS settings that "disable thermal and power delivery safeguard designed to limit processor exposure to sustained periods of high voltage and frequency".
Intel claims that features designed to protect the processor from these very issues, like Current Excursion Protection and Thermal Velocity Boost, have been turned off in motherboards in the name of higher performance.
As Igor's Lab notes, Intel isn't exactly on the sidelines of this arms race — the most powerful Raptor Lake chips can suck down over 300 watts of energy with a compatible motherboard and power profile. But the fact that motherboard makers like
It's packing some good hardware, too. The HP Omen boasts an Intel Core i7-13700HX CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. That means it's capable of flying through even graphically demanding games with ease, especially titles that support Nvidia's performance-boosting DLSS AI upscaling feature. The 1080p display, which measures 17.3-inches, has a refresh rate of 144Hz and a response time of 7ms, so images should look fluid and realistic. As for connectivity options, you're getting one Thunderbolt 3 (USB Type-C), three USB Type-A, one AC smart pin, one HDMI 2.1, one headphone/microphone combo, one mini DisplayPort, and one RJ-45.
Overall, this is a stellar deal, especially for a gaming laptop with RTX 4060 graphics. Don't miss out on your chance to score a true deal!
Example: When I'd see a fellow journalist or analyst at a trade show sporting a laptop using Qualcomm's previous Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 running Windows, it was the perfect opportunity to do some class-A trash talking.
"I guess, you're okay with Arm — because you must not do any work on your laptop."
"I'm sure you need the extra battery life Arm-provides because everything is so much slower that you need more time to finish."
Apple M1
In fact, my estimation of the expected performance of Apple's M1 pre-launch was largely based on how well Arm-based chips have run Windows over the years — which is to say, horribly.
Once the M1 actually proved to be a worthy adversary (although not as much as its fanboys claimed it was) — I commented that "Apple should sue Qualcomm for giving all Arm-based laptops such a bad name." See, I like to trash talk.
The thing is, with the hype-train leaving the station on Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite — I actually have high hopes that the Snapdragon X Elite will finally, finally, run Windows without the slowdowns, hitches, and compatibility issues that have plagued Windows on Arm since the original Microsoft Surface RT (which, by the way, I actually kinda liked except for the fact that it didn't run 99.8 percent of 2012-era Windows applications.)
For more notebook options, check out PCWorld's roundup of the best laptops available right now. We've got can't-miss picks for every use case and budget, putting our thousands of hours of hands-on testing to work for you.
Best laptop deals (at a glance)
Asus Vivobook 14, $229.99 ($200 off at Best Buy)
Lenovo IdeaPad 1, $229.99 ($190 off at Microcenter)
Speed measurement
To ensure that the SSD you purchased achieves at least the performance specifications advertised by the manufacturer in terms of transfer rates and access times, you should use an appropriate SSD benchmark. The best programs for this purpose are:
CrystalDiskMark
AS SSD Benchmark
ATTO Disk Benchmark
AmorphousDiskMark
Recently, we've offered Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows for a discounted $69.99 price (reg. $219), but this week only, we're dropping that price even lower to just $49.97. Now's the time to take advantage.
Rated 4.8/5 stars, Microsoft Office includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Teams, Publisher, and Access. These eight programs comprise an incredibly powerful office suite that will help you create documents and presentations, crunch numbers, streamline communication, and much more. It's basically everything you need to unleash your most productive and efficient working self.
Take advantage of this limited-time deal. This week only, get
A Costco Gold Star Membership gives you access to more than 500 warehouses across the US, each one with a wide selection of bulk products, groceries, home essentials, and more.
Visiting a Costco warehouse also gives you the chance to stop by a Costco Tire Center, Costco Gas Station, or access other Costco Services* like bottled water delivery, truck rentals, and even travel deals. Your next vacation could come from your Costco Gold Star Membership.
This leading mobile scanning app has an average rating of 4.2/5 stars on the Google Play Store and 4.8/5 stars on the App Store.
It utilizes your phone to scan anything, from printed documents and handwritten notes to receipts and QR codes, and it creates high-quality PDFs or JPGs in a single tap. It gives you a central dashboard to organize all of your scans, send them as email or fax, or upload to a variety of cloud services. Plus, it's an intuitive PDF tool, allowing you to annotate documents, sign documents, redact or highlight information, and much more on your scans.
Streamline how you work with scans and PDFs. Right now, you can get a lifetime subscription to SwiftScan VIP for 70% off $199 at just $59.99.
The Grade B rating on this product means that it may have some cosmetic damage, but it will still work as it should. That way, you save money while giving back to the planet.
This 2016 model runs on an Apple A9X processor with 32GB of internal storage. It offers up to ten hours of battery life on a single charge and is equipped with dual 12MP iSight/5MP FaceTime HD cameras. Plus, with this deal, you'll get a tempered glass, a snap-on case, and a Lightning cable included in the price.
Get some cool new tech while limiting waste. You can get a refurbished Apple iPad Pro 9.7? for 70% off $599 at just $170.99.
As you'd expect, there's no shortage of gaming headsets out there. No one wants to wade through the myriad options only to settle on one that ends up leaving you disappointed. That's why I've done all the heavy lifting for you, testing a ton of different headsets to find the best.
Why should you trust me? Because I'm a hardcore gamer and tech user like you, which means I'm always on the hunt for better gear to improve my own experience. More than that, I've spent many years weighing the pros and cons of the latest new-release gaming headsets, so you could say I know more than a thing or two about them.
To see the criteria I use to test each product and some helpful buying advice be sure to read my rundown of how we test gaming headsets at PCWorld.
This durable, portable flashlight uses COB technology for a steady, even light output and can light your way when you go out to look for firewood in the dark. It's rechargeable via USB Type-C or the sun thanks to the integrated solar panels, and can even be used to charge your devices thanks to its built-in 2,400mAh powerbank. For some extra ambiance, the LED screen on the side features an adjustable fireplace simulator to make your campsite a little extra cozy.
Brighten up your camping adventures this summer. Right now, you can get this Outdoor Flashlight with F
These open-ear headphones utilize directional audio technology, sitting on top of your ears so you can hear your surroundings while still delivering panoramic sound to your eardrums via air conduction. That way, you get to enjoy your music while staying safe running on a busy street. They're comfortable to wear for long periods of time, feature an ergonomic design that keeps them sturdy behind your ears, and are IPX5 water-resistant. You can listen and make calls for up to six hours on a single charge.
Enjoy a cool pair of wireless headphones without breaking the bank. Right now, you can get the Mercato Open-Ear Bluetooth Headphones for just $39.95 (reg. $69) when you use promo code GET10.
It's an intriguing, polarizing concept: By placing an "AI" button on the top of the mouse, Logitech gives users one-click access to ChatGPT to do one thing: simplify the writing and rewriting of text via an AI app called Logi Prompt Builder. It's a tiny bit like Windows running on top of DOS.
It's a novel idea, and one you might expect Microsoft to develop, given the Copilot key that's already appearing on laptop keyboards. Instead, Logitech is leading the way. What's important to note is that Logi AI Prompt Builder is basically supported by every mouse and keyboard Logitech makes, so the M750 is just the showcase for this new technology. You can probably use it, too!
The problem is that Logitech's Prompt Builder doesn't support one of the most basic functions of a mouse, and it's very annoying. And did I mention that Microsoft already does it somewhat better, already?
The Dell XPS 13 comes equipped with an Intel Core i7-1250U CPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. That's more than enough oomph for office work, school work, day-to-day tasks, and so on. The 13.4-inch display has a resolution of 1920×1200, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and a maximum brightness of 500 nits. Given those numbers, the display should produce a vibrant and sharp-looking picture. Also, according to Dell, this machine can last up to 12 hours on a single charge. That's a good result, more than a full workday, but you may see a different number depending on the brightness level.
This is a really good deal, so make sure you take advantage of it now.
The Movink is the first in a new line of monitor-tablet hybrids designed to be thin and light. And it scores on both counts, weighing in at just 420 grams (.92 pounds) and 4mm thin. Compared to Wacom's One 13 monitor-tablet with the same sized screen, it's less than half the weight. And, perhaps best of all, you can connect it to a PC or mobile device with just a USB-C cable for both data and power.
The anti-glare screen is obviously important to artists. While the resolution isn't amazing at just 1920×1080, the color accuracy is through the roof, boasting 100 percent DCI-P3 color accuracy, 95 percent on Adobe RGB, and Pantone Validation to make sure what you're seeing is what you get on the fin
Why you should trust us: It's in our name, PCWorld. We've been reviewing laptops for decades, with exacting standards applied to all facets of the user experience, from performance benchmarks to features to the rigors of daily use. Our experts know their stuff and have curated a comprehensive list of the best laptops for college students, with their particular needs in mind.
After you finish looking over our recommendations, be sure to hit our daily updated roundup of the best laptop deals to try and score your favorite laptops on sale. Or check out our roundup of the best laptops for even more recommendations. We've also got a great article about the five laptop features that matter most.
Updated April 25, 2024: We replaced the Best Ultraportable for Students pick with the Acer TravelMate P6 because it's featherlight and more affordable. We've also added the Asus Zenbook 14 OLED as the Best Laptop for Students Runner-up pick because it has a beautiful OLED touchscreen display and phenomenal battery life.
But if you're new to the crumbling, irradiated world of Fallout, you might feel a little lost when the credits roll on the last episode. (By the way, you'll be glad to hear that the TV show has been renewed for a second season.)
What's this New Vegas place hinted at in the post-credits scene? Why did the pre-war flashbacks look like Marty McFly's 1955, but have nuclear-powered robots? How did p
But there are a lot of myths floating around out there about antivirus software. Let's bust them.
Myth: You need to install antivirus on Windows
You don't have to install antivirus software on Windows because Windows already comes with antivirus software. In fact, Windows has had built-in antivirus software since Windows 8, and it's still included on Windows 10 and Windows 11 today. The built-in Microsoft Defender antivirus is part of the Windows Security suite of tools. It's as basic as it comes, but completely free and runs automatically in the background, even if you never think about or install antivirus software.
OneAir is a members-only travel app powered by AI. It's an online travel agency accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN) that uses AI to scan millions of deals daily. You can set up flight alerts from up to ten departure airports, get access to Business, First, Premium, and Economy Class flight deals to destinations all over the globe, and find private, unpublished airfares from leading airlines. You'll also be able to find deals from more than two million top-rated luxury hotels without ever having to establish any kind of loyalty status.
Find the best deals with the most transparent pricing this summer. Now through 11:59 pm PT on 4/30, you can get a lifetime subscription to a OneA
Intel's Client Computing Group, the home of its PC business, reported 30 percent growth as Intel reported a $400 million net loss on $12.7 billion of revenue during the first quarter of 2024. The bulk of Intel's revenue still comes from Intel's CCG, and the success of the business helped carry the company.
It's an odd scenario for Intel to be in. Pat Gelsinger, Intel's chief executive, said that the company is expecting Core Ultra (Meteor Lake) shipments to double in the second quarter, but that the actual revenue will be roughly the same at the end of the quarter.
"Seasonal [second-quarter] client revenue is constrained by wafer level assembly supply, which is impacting our ability to meet demand for our Core Ultra-based AI PCs," Gelsinger said.
Here's what's going on: Intel's business customers are buying Meteor Lake by the truckload, but they want more.
"We're meeting our customer commitments that we've had, but they've come back and asked for [more] on multiple occasions across different markets," Gelsinger explained. "And we are racing to catch up to those upside requests and the constraint has been on the back-end wafer level assembly, one of the new capabilities that are part of Meteor Lake and our subsequent client products. So with that we're working to catch up and build more wafer level assembly capacity to meet those."
Interestingly, it was to show off its manufacturing assembly facilities in Penang, Malaysia, that Intel invited r
This Lenovo computer is equipped with an Intel Core i5-6400T, 2.2GHz processor and 16GB of RAM, making it more powerful than your average laptop. It runs on Windows 10 Pro to support all of your multitasking needs and features 256GB of SSD for smooth performance and storage for your files.
This 2015 model has a Grade A refurbished rating, which means it arrives in near-mint condition and will work just like new.
Save some money while doing your part for the planet. Now through 11:59 pm PT on 4/30, you can get a refurbished
While paid password managers offer nice extras, a free password manager still protects you from the risks of using weak passwords (or worse, using the same one everywhere). Instead of remembering all of your passwords, you just have to remember one password to access a single, secure place where all of the rest are stored.
And because free password managers come in different flavors and styles, you should be able to find one that fits your needs. Even Google's password manager, built into Chrome and Android, can work as a no-cost option with a nifty Windows tie-in. Plus, if you find that the free versions aren't enough, down the road you can always upgrade to a paid service as your needs grow.
The PG42UQ's 41.5-inch panel has a 3840×2160 resolution, so you'll need a pretty beefy gaming PC to take full advantage of it, especially at its maximum 138Hz refresh rate (with G-Sync on top). But if your system is up to the challenge, you can see some jaw-dropping colors and perfect black levels thanks to the OLED panel, which is still hard to find at any kind of discount.
The monitor makes a pretty good addition to a combined PC-and-console space, too, thanks to no less than four HDMI ports (two 2.1, two 2.0) on top of a DisplayPort. It also acts as a basic USB hub with four extra 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one of which is on top of the case for easily plugging in a webcam. While the screen can be VESA mounted, it needs a larger TV-standard mount, so it probably won't work with most monitor arms.
This is the lowest price we've seen for a new, non-refurbished version of the ROG Swift PG42UQ, and there's no telling how long it'll stay there. It looks like you can also score a free PC code for Ghostrunner 2 to christen your new TV, or monitor, or whatever you want to call it.
Below you'll find my picks for the best home office monitors, and below that you can learn more about what specs and features matter when shopping for a home office monitor.
For even more monitor recommendations, check out our roundups of the best monitors and the best portable monitors. The latter can be especially useful if you like to be able to work from locations in and out of the home.
Updated April 25, 2024: We recently reviewed a couple monitors that each have something to offer home-office dwellers. The Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED, for its part, is a portable 4K monitor that offers excellent color performance and an array of customization options — perfect for creative professionals who demand portability or space saving, or both. The
Crack this nutshell open and you'll find the aforementioned Intel Core i7-1360P, Intel Iris Xe graphics, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage. Given the hardware, this laptop should have no problem handling spreadsheet work, Twitch streams, and so on. For ports, you're getting one HDMI 1.4, one Thunderbolt 4.0, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, one power jack, and on universal audio jack. Other cool features include a 1080p webcam, a backlit keyboard, a precision touchpad, a fingerprint reader, and an aluminum chassis.
This is an excellent deal for a laptop with a large, high resolution display and a powerful processor. Don't miss out.
According to a forum post from last week, Claw owners should install both the latest BIOS for the custom-built mobile system (based on a Core Ultra 5-135H) and the latest driver for the Intel Arc graphics. Doing so can boost performance in games from 10.3 percent (Helldivers 2) to a whopping 43.5 percent (F1 '23.).
I interviewed Kedar Kondap, the senior vice president and general manager of Compute and Gaming for Qualcomm, a few weeks ago. At the time, Qualcomm was showing off how the Snapdragon X Elite compared to Intel's latest Core Ultra chips. Kondap also gave us a sneak peek of the Snapdragon X Plus, the X Elite's younger cousin. What we didn't have then was the awkward model numbers Qualcomm is using to describe the speeds and feeds of the new chips.
Kondap also addressed the compatibility topic, after I noted that many people just want Snapdragon PCs to, well, just work. Kondap stopped short of an absolute commitment, but the future seems brighter than before. (Of course, some of the weight has to be borne by Microsoft, which architects the Windows on Arm operating system.)
"I'll tell you, Mark, I am using a Snapdragon PC right now and I am not running into any of those issues," Kondap told me. "We've definitely put in a lot of focus for th
Display server: Xorg or Wayland
Among Linux desktops, the X server Xorg still generally works as a display server. The X server is the hardware-related basis of the graphical user interface.
All the components mentioned below are clients that depend on the X server. Xorg is pre-installed on every Linux desktop and runs as standard. Only on pure server systems without an interface (e.g. the Ubuntu server) is Xorg consistently missing, as are all downstream desktop components.
Wayland is still an experimental replacement for the old Xorg in some desktop distributions, optionally in Ubuntu Gnome and already as standard in Fedora. Wayland has a significant, simplifying advantage over the old X server. It combines the functions of the display server (point 1) and the window manager (point 3), including the compositor.
AdGuard is a top-rated ad blocker that has earned 4.6/5 stars on G2 and 4.7/5 stars on Trustpilot. It can block pop-ups, video ads, and more with an advanced ad-blocking module across all of your family's devices. Not only that, but it also provides leading malware protection and data privacy protection. There are even parental controls included to ensure your kids are only accessing appropriate content.
Unlock a better internet for your whole family. Now through 11:59 pm PT on 4/30, get a lifetime subscription of an AdGuard Family Plan for just $24.97 (reg. $79).
This device is compatible with all wireless charging-capable phones and earbuds, from iPhone to Android. All you have to do is place your phone on top and it will dispense 15W of charging power, giving your phone a fast charge while protecting it from overcharging. It's a tiny pad that fits nicely on your nightstand or desk and offers three brightness levels on the built-in night light to support you whether you want to drift off to sleep or pull an all-nighter.
Add a practical touch to your nightstand. Right now, you can get this 15W Nightlight Wireless Charging Pad for 60% off $99 at just $39.99.
The problem when looking for a good free VPN, though, is that there are a large number of them available on the Google Play Store. So how do you determine which ones are worth your time? Our experts here at PCWorld have tested a slew of VPNs, both for PCs and Android devices, and have curated a list of the best free options you can feel confident in using. Check out our top picks below.
Why you should trust us: Here at PCWorld we've been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. We're continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out our article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you'll find our favorite free VPNs, and below that, helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a VPN for your Android device on your own.
And if you're looking to further upgrade your Android phone's security, which we highly recommend, be sure to look at our recommendations for the best free
From today until April 28, using coupon code MGTDR23298 at checkout saves you $27 off the 10-device plan, slicing a whopping 60 percent off the normal price of $45. You don't even need to enter the code at checkout; Newegg now appears to apply coupons automatically.
AVG Ultimate bundles together three of AVG's products: AVG Internet Security, which shields your devices from malware, network intrusions, and other threats; AVG Secure VPN, which keeps your internet activity private (and thus safe from prying and possibly shifty eyes); and AVG TuneUp, a collection of PC utilities meant to keep your PC up to date and running optimally.
When we last reviewed Internet Security, we gave it 4 out of 5 stars for its straightforward interface, top-rated antivirus protection, and affordable pricing. The latest test results from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives rank AVG among the highest performing antivirus engines, with a 100 percent block rate for AV-Test's zero-day and widespread malware benchmark. Similarly, we liked AVG Secure VPN for its ease of use, speeds, and ability to
For the record, the vast majority of PCWorld's cable tests are performed on cables I purchased retail, but occasionally, I will accept cables directly from manufacturers to expedite the review process. Our cable reviews are actually physically performed on the cables and are not regurgitated from reading other reviews or reading user-generated reviews from consumers.
Examine the marketing claims
Cables are commodities no different than salt, rice, or meat, but as we know that doesn't mean they're all the same. Unlike hardware, it's easy for a company to fluff up a product in its advertising or marketing, so we carefully examine the performance and feature claims of each cable to see if it matches reality. Respected brands tend to play it safe (but even they can stretch the truth a bit), while smaller brands often make claims that are flat out wrong. Whether that's due to a translation issue, confusion with a complicated subject, or flat-out misrepresentation isn't judged — but I call it out when I see it.
If you're tired of the harassment, or just want to get back to Windows' more streamlined built-in protections, here's how to uninstall McAfee antivirus.
Step 1: Open the Settings app
To uninstall programs, first you must head to the Apps section within the Settings app.
In Windows 10, hit the Start key on your keyboard, and then type apps. Select Apps & features.
In Windows 11, hit the Start key on your keyboard,, then type installed apps. Choose Installed Apps.
The best password managers relieve you of the burden of two of these problems—having to create and then memorize unique, complex logins on your own. Sharing your passwords is on you. Plus, these applications protect your passwords by encrypting your login info in a virtual vault—either locally or in the cloud—only allowing access with a single master password. So, if you're looking to step up your security game, a password manager is one of the best ways to do it. And sure, web browsers are starting to offer password management features, but they're not yet good enough.
All of our top picks for password mangers support a variety of operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS, Android, and iOS, as well as the major browsers. And all will let you sync your data across multiple devices, though you may have to pay extra for that privilege. Once you've found the right password manager for your needs, head over to our guide on mastering your password manager to make sure you're getting the most from your software.
This monitor uses the near-standard 34-inch, 3440×1440 resolution, and 21:9 aspect ratio, a great choice for gamers who want more screen real estate without stepping up to a GPU-punishing 4K resolution. The OLED panel with its vibrant colors and perfect blacks is the big draw, of course, but at 165Hz with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, the AW3423DWF can also handle fast-paced competitive games with aplomb.
Connections include double DisplayPort plus HDMI, so this makes a great pick if you're building a battlestation with multiple PCs or a console on the side. Though the monitor doesn't do USB-C video or rapid laptop charging it does have four USB-C ports for accessories and a pass-through headphone jack, plus a little bit of RGB bling on the rear logos. It's compatible with VESA mounts if you're looking for a clean setup. You can
That's according to motherboard manufacturers, including Asus, MSI, and now Gigabyte, quoting a report from VideoCardz.com. Asus and MSI simply said their boards will support "AMD's next-gen CPUs, but Gigabyte specifically stated "Ryzen 9000." Though the upcoming AMD "Granite Ridge" processors will be based on a new Zen5 architecture, they'll still be using the popular AM5 socket, and should therefore work with existing AM5-based motherboards as long as you make sure and update the BIOS.
If you're scratching your head about why Ryzen 9000 is following Ryzen 7000, you're not alone. There are Ryzen 8000-series desktop chips based on the Zen4 architecture, but they're primarily G-series APU designs meant to efficiently combine CPUs and GPUs with powerful integrated graphics. They aren't the chips you pick for a gaming PC or high-power media machine. Instead, Ryzen 8000 was largely a laptop series, similar to Ryzen 4000 a few generations ago.
Ryzen 9000 will be the new series you're looking for
In terms of dollars to pixels, it's probably the best deal on any OLED gaming monitor at the moment. The Odyssey OLED G9 G95SC offers a resolution of 5120×1440 (basically two 27-inch gaming monitors squished together in one panel) with a blisteringly fast refresh rate of 240Hz. Load up any recent 3D game at that resolution and you're likely to make your PC beg for mercy.
So it's a good thing the screen is compatible with both G-Sync and FreeSync, and includes HDR10 color capabilities on top of HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4. Gaming laptops aren't left out, like some other OLED monitors: it has a built-in USB-C hub with 65 watts of power delivery.
It has tons of software tricks, too, including smart TV-style app support (with game streaming services like GeForce Now), splitscreen for multiple inputs, and support for Samsung's wireless DeX from mobile devices. For a full rundown on this monstrously massive monitor, check out PCWorld's review.
There's no indication of how long this discount will last, so if you're interested, don't miss out on this screaming-hot deal.
The Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless RGB (hoochimama what a mouthful) packs most of the features you'd expect from a high-end board, including high-quality PBT doubleshot keycaps and dual-mode wireless with 2.4GHz dongle for gaming and Bluetooth for mobile devices. It also has a really satisfying aluminum case, and comes with speedy Cherry MX switches from the famous German switch maker.
RGB and sub-1ms wireless speed are a given for Corsair keyboards at this point. But for my money, the best feature is the hot-swap sockets, which allow you to pop in any MX-compatible switches that you like. That makes the K70 a great platform for customization, both for keycaps with its standard layout and for typing or gaming feel. The only real downer is that Corsair's programming software won't let you move the Fn key, which makes it tricky to get arrow keys in the top layer. You can read my full review of the keyboard here.
At the moment Amazon's deep discount is only available for the white version of the keyboard, and then only with the linear Red switches. But it's still a savings of about a hundred bucks on a design that was prohibitively expensive at launch. If you want a gaming keyboard that can customize
When we reviewed the newer, more expensive R2 configuration back in October, we awarded it 4 out of 5 stars plus an Editor's Choice Badge; it's currently the top option in our roundup of the best gaming laptops. Inside the model on sale today, you'll find an AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage. That means it's capable of blitzing through most modern games on higher graphics settings.
The spacious 16-inch 2540x1600p display should also produce buttery smooth visuals thanks to the screaming 240Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time, though you may need to drop the in-game resolution closer to 1080p for the fastest frames rates with the RTX 4060 . If you're willing to spend an extra $50, you can upgrade to a 480Hz (!!!) 1920x1200p display. That's an absurdly fast refresh rate-perfect for more competitive games in which every second matters. Additional goodies include an RGB backlit keyboard, a giant 86 watt-hour battery, and an attractive
Let's face it: Processor naming schemes have become ridiculously complex. AMD launched its with an actual decoder ring, and the names still don't make sense. But Intel began this nonsense more than five years ago, when trying to figure out what the 10th-gen Core chip names meant necessitated its own story.
Now it's Qualcomm's turn. And boy, is it a doozy. (Qualcomm also released a list of the four Snapdragon X Elite and Plus processors, complete with names and clock speeds — which it hasn't done before. Unfortunately, before we list those, we have to explain what the names and numbers mean. We apologize in advance. Take note of the similarity to the name of Elon Musk and singer Grimes' child: X Æ A-12.)
How to talk about the Snapdragon X Series to your teens
Let's face it: The Snapdragon X1E-78-100 will never be mentioned in polite society. It will not appear in a sonnet, or in a card you send to your spouse for your anniversary. If it is ever mentioned that evening, it will be in
Think of the Snapdragon X Plus as Qualcomm's version of the Intel Core i5: It's based on the same design as the Snapdragon X Elite, the Arm PC processor that Qualcomm has been talking about since last fall. But it's stripped down, with fewer cores, and without the "turbo" characteristics of its more powerful sibling. On the other hand, Qualcomm still believes that it will compete with and surpass Intel's latest processors.
Qualcomm began talking about the Snapdragon X Elite last fall, and has since made waves with a pretty open quasi-testing process where journalists have been able to monitor benchmarks Qualcomm employees have run, along with hands-on gaming opportunities. At the beginning of the month, Qualcomm began comparing the Snapdragon X Elite to the latest Core Ultra processors, and let me have a turn playing the PC games Control and Redout 2. Both games ran above 30fps at 1900×1200 resolution and Low settings.
Now the company is taking Snapdragon performance down a notch… or is it? Qualcomm is claiming that the Snapdragon X Plus will still outperform the Core Ultra 7 155H at the same power levels by a whopping 28 percent in the latest multithreaded Cinebench benchmark, Cinebench 2024. And it's 10 percent faster than the Apple M3, too.
Think of the Snapdragon X Plus as Qualcomm's version of the Intel Core i5: It's based on the same design as the Snapdragon X Elite, the Arm PC processor that Qualcomm has been talking about since last fall. But it's stripped down, with fewer cores, and without the "turbo" characteristics of its more powerful sibling. On the other hand, Qualcomm still believes that it will compete with and surpass Intel's latest processors.
Qualcomm began talking about the Snapdragon X Elite last fall, and has since made waves with a pretty open quasi-testing process where journalists have been able to monitor benchmarks Qualcomm employees have run, along with hands-on gaming opportunities. At the beginning of the month, Qualcomm began comparing the Snapdragon X Elite to the latest Core Ultra processors, and let me have a turn playing the PC games Control and Redout 2. Both games ran above 30fps at 1900×1200 resolution and Low settings.
Now the company is taking Snapdragon performance down a notch… or is it? Qualcomm is claiming that the Snapdragon X Plus will still outperform the Core Ultra 7 155H at the same power levels by a whopping 28 percent in the latest multithreaded Cinebench benchmark, Cinebench 2024. And it's 10 percent faster than the Apple M3, too.
The short answer: Microsoft appears to have a definition of an "AI PC" that it's working to define behind the scenes. But it's very possible that you own an "AI-capable PC" right now. The difference between the two may be a list of specifications and maybe even a dedicated sticker to grace your laptop.
When the industry talks about an "AI PC," it refers to a PC that can process AI tasks faster. But vendors understand that in different ways. Some, like Microsoft, appear to define it as a PC that can access "AI" like Windows Copilot, which currently lives natively in the cloud. Chip vendors like AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm feel strongly that AI should be processed locally, via its microprocessors, on your PC. And PC vendors? We'd like to think that they'll choose any approach that nets them more sales.
So which is it? All three perspectives, actually. "AI PCs" have evolved from a nebulous concept, but Microsoft has a specific definition in mind that's reminiscent of the Windows 11 hardware requirements. Let's walk through where AI PCs came from, and where they're going.
What AI is, and what it does
The simplest way to run AI is in the cloud: LLMs (AI chatbots) like Microsoft Copilot, AI art like the
Rated 4.8/5 stars by purchasers, both of these versions of Microsoft Office come with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Teams. That's everything you need to unleash your productivity and even run your own business. With the Windows edition, you'll also get Publisher and Access, giving you greater creative and database capabilities. Regardless of your preferred system, you're getting a great deal.
Take advantage of this deal while it's available through 11:59 pm PT on 4/30.
Adobe added what it calls the "Firefly Image 3 Model" to its Firefly image-generation service as well as to Photoshop — at least the beta. Firefly is a text-to-image generator, trained on Adobe stock imagery to avoid complaints that it's been trained on artists' work without permission.
It's difficult to show exactly how Firefly Image 3 differs from earlier models, but this is what Adobe has to say: "This combination delivers considerably better photographic image quality, precise controls to inform your outputs, prompt comprehension to understand complex descriptions, and generation variety to explore different results."
How I use Generative Fill
You might wonder why a journalist would use AI to alter images. It's true that I use it sparingly; one of my favorite features within the Windows' Photos app has been Spot Fill, which uses AI to get rid of any spare specks of dust that might coat a laptop or USB-C hub. That's now been replaced by Generative Erase.
On Monday, Microsoft introduced "Phi-3-mini," a 3.8-billion parameter language model that the company claims rivals the performance of the slightly older ChatGPT 3.5 and Mixtral 8x7B. The paper is titled "Phi-3 Technical Report: A Highly Capable Language Model Locally on Your Phone," which is clear evidence that Microsoft now has an LLM that can run directly on your PC.
Microsoft hasn't said that Phi-3-mini will be the next Copilot, running locally on your PC. But there's a case to be made that it is, and that we have an idea of how well it will work.
1.) Local AI matters
It's a familiar argument: if you issue a search request to Bing, Google Gemini, Claude, or Copilot, it lives in the cloud. This could be embarrassing ("is this wart bad"?) or sensitive ("can I get in trouble for stealing mail?") or something that you don't want to leak at all like a list of bank statements.
Corporations would like to ask questions of their data via AIs like Copilot, but there are no "on premises" versions of Copilot to date. A local version of Copilot is almost a necessary option at this point.
On Monday, Microsoft introduced "Phi-3-mini," a 3.8-billion parameter language model that the company claims rivals the performance of the slightly older ChatGPT 3.5 and Mixtral 8x7B. The paper is titled "Phi-3 Technical Report: A Highly Capable Language Model Locally on Your Phone," which is clear evidence that Microsoft now has an LLM that can run directly on your PC.
Microsoft hasn't said that Phi-3-mini will be the next Copilot, running locally on your PC. But there's a case to be made that it is, and that we have an idea of how well it will work.
1.) Local AI matters
It's a familiar argument: if you issue a search request to Bing, Google Gemini, Claude, or Copilot, it lives in the cloud. This could be embarrassing ("is this wart bad"?) or sensitive ("can I get in trouble for stealing mail?") or something that you don't want to leak at all like a list of bank statements.
Corporations would like to ask questions of their data via AIs like Copilot, but there are no "on premises" versions of Copilot to date. A local version of Copilot is almost a necessary option at this point.
While we feel that our favorite monitor overall is an awesome choice for most people, we also have alternative options for budget shoppers, gamers, and those seeking the best HDR performance. After all, not everyone needs the same features from a monitor. (If you're looking specifically for a 4K monitor or gaming monitor, go check out our separate roundups highlighting your best options for those particular needs, as well.) You can find out more about how we evaluate monitors and what specs matter most below our list of recommendations.
Scroll below our recommendations to learn more about our monitor review process, or see our article on how we test monitors at PCWorld for even more details.
Updated April 23, 2024: See our recent review of the Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED. This portable monitor with a useful kickstand design offers image quality and customizations that are worthy of creative professionals, making it a useful display for work on-the-go. See also our review of the
Put another way, that means that PC memory speeds will increase from DDR5-6800 to DDR5-8800, eventually. Memory makers as well as PC processor vendors will have to support the new standard, and modules will have to be manufactured and tested. But the official announcement means that the clock has started.
The new specification is officially known as JESD79-5C.
There's another wrinkle: the inclusion of Per-Row Activation Counting (PRAC), a feature of the new specification. "PRAC precisely counts DRAM activations on a wordline granularity," the release says. "When PRAC-enabled DRAM detects an excessive number of activations, it alerts the system to pause traffic and to designate time for mitigative measures."
This appears to be a security measure, designed to counteract a type of memory hack known as "Rowhammer." As the name suggests, Rowhammer attacks repeatedly access, or "hammer," a row of transistors on a memory chip. Over time, the persistent attacks could cause a transistor on a nearby row to flip. Theoretically, at least, that could lead to the otherwise protected memory leaking data. Anandtech
With its side-by-side directories, the program not only looks like the original, it can also be controlled in the same way thanks to the same key assignments and commands. Some new functions are also available in the modern version.
We're not suggesting that PC security software is fool-proof, but it does a great job of protecting your computer against harmful malware and ransomware. Most systems come with security software baked into the OS, but this is often the bare minimum you need. Choosing to purchase more robust antivirus software will provide you with features such as an advanced firewall, sandbox environments for suspicious programs, and multi-device protection, among other things.
How do you choose a good antivirus? We've tested a multitude of offerings, including all the big names, so you don't have to! When testing antivirus software, we look for products that strike a balance between excellent protection, a worthwhile selection of features, and minimal performance impact on your PC. For more information, you can read about how we test antivirus software below our picks.
Update April 23, 2024: Our latest look at McAfee Total Protection reveals strong antivirus protection, but one prominent feature weakens its appeal. You can read the full rundown in our review.
Inside you'll find an Intel Core i5-1235U CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of SSD storage. Given the hardware, that's enough power for day-to-day tasks like binge watching your favorite show on Hulu, rocking out to your carefully curated Spotify playlist, Office work, and so on. A Core i5 chip paired with an SSD provides more than enough power for standard computing chores.
The spacious, small-bezel multi-touch display measures 15.6-inches, but hides the one drawback of this laptop: A middling 1366×768 resolution. That can certainly get the job done if your budget is tight, but we'd recommend spending another $50 to upgrade to a full 1080p screen if you're able to. You have the option to customize the laptop before you buy.
Regardless of which display resolution you opt for, getting a 2-in-1 laptop with a powerful Core i5 processor inside for $500 is a solid deal. Don't miss out!
PCWorld reviewer Jon Jacobi loved the Samsung T7 Shield for its rugged, impact-absorbing body that's also rated for IP65 resistance to water and dust, to say nothing of its 10 gigabit per second speed (when you plug it into a compatible USB 3.0 or newer port). The 1TB version is normally $169.99, but today Amazon is selling it for $109.99.
You can choose between blue, black, or beige colors at that price. Need even more storage? The 2TB drive — which should be as much or more storage as most new laptops sold today — is $179.99, an even deeper discount from the $284.99 retail price. You can
Micro-ATX motherboards, on the other hand, are often cheaper and offer better compatibility with other PC components. This makes them a suitable choice for budget configurations. They are a scaled-down version of ATX motherboards that retain key features. Very reduced versions have only two RAM slots.
This essential breed ID test provides a complete breed breakdown of your dog's DNA mix and heritage. You'll also get valuable information like unique personality traits to those breeds, genetic health concerns you need to be aware of, and tips to help you bond to your specific dog. There are more than 350 breeds in the genetic DNA database so you can get truly detailed information.
All you need to do is order your test kit and register online, do a painless swab of your dog's mouth, and send it back to wait for the results. Most results arrive in about two weeks.
Find out more valuable information about your dog. Right now, you can get the DNA My Dog Essential Breed ID Test for 15% off $79 at just $67.99.
Citing increased competition and rising costs as the main reason behind the shutdown, Atlas VPN stated that the "insurmountable challenges" had become too much and it could no longer keep up in a highly competitive market.
The popular freemium VPN service was acquired by Nord Security in 2021 with promises that Atlas VPN would continue to operate independently as a business. That's all changed now though, and the entire user base of around 6 million members will migrate over to the much larger NordVPN after shutdown, continuing an unsettling trend of consolidations in the VPN market as a whole.
The VPN consolidation trend
The global VPN market is valued somewhere in the neighborhood of around $40 billion, so it's no wonder that tech companies are chomping at the bit to control as much of that fortune as they can. What used to be a diverse market made up of small, independent VPN companies has now become a homogenous security consortium.
Security conglomerates with strong financial backing have systematically bought up and folded these smaller VPNs into their own businesses. Atlas VPN is just the latest example.
Market consolidation is not inherently a bad thing, and mergers are common in the fast-moving world of tech. But these umbrella companies often intentionally obscure their own owner
Citing increased competition and rising costs as the main reason behind the shutdown, Atlas VPN stated that the "insurmountable challenges" had become too much and it could no longer keep up in a highly competitive market.
The popular freemium VPN service was acquired by Nord Security in 2021 with promises that Atlas VPN would continue to operate independently as a business. That's all changed now though, and the entire user base of around 6 million members will migrate over to the much larger NordVPN after shutdown, continuing an unsettling trend of consolidations in the VPN market as a whole.
The VPN consolidation trend
The global VPN market is valued somewhere in the neighborhood of around $40 billion, so it's no wonder that tech companies are chomping at the bit to control as much of that fortune as they can. What used to be a diverse market made up of small, independent VPN companies has now become a homogenous security consortium.
Security conglomerates with strong financial backing have systematically bought up and folded these smaller VPNs into their own businesses. Atlas VPN is just the latest example.
Market consolidation is not inherently a bad thing, and mergers are common in the fast-moving world of tech. But these umbrella companies often intentionally obscure their own owner
