When upgrading or building a PC, we often overlook the CPU socket, despite its importance. How important is this component, you ask? It's where you insert the processor. Unlike other components on the motherboard, the CPU socket plays a vital role in your PC's performance. Without it, the processor would be a useless piece of hardware.

The motherboard is the absolute central backbone of the computer — think of it as the nervous system that connects and coordinates all the major hardware. Here's a breakdown of how the motherboard functions and its essential role.

Installing Windows 11 via a USB Thumb drive is a reliable method for building a new system or upgrading from an older version of Windows. This method is beneficial as DVD drives are becoming less common. I have prepared a detailed guide that explains the process step-by-step. The guide walks you through the necessary steps, starting from prepping your USB drive to booting into the installer. Following this guide will ensure a smooth installation experience.

I find it hard to believe that the critically acclaimed Sony WH-1000XM4 has been on the market for almost 8 years. These headphones remain popular, renowned for their industry-leading noise cancellation and refined sound quality. They have set the standard with their innovative features and overall performance. Surprisingly, the flagship headphones have hit their lowest price ever, retailing at just $198. This significant price drop at outlets like Amazon makes them more accessible than ever.

If you're in the process of building a home studio, launching a podcast (who isn't these days), or simply upgrading for Zoom conference calls, a quality microphone makes a significant difference in a high-quality audio setup. Here's the thing: You don't need to spend an excessive amount of money to put together a well-suited audio setup that includes a microphone. Speaking of which, I've listed three standout budget microphones that should be connected to your computer — each offering impressive audio, ease of use, and, importantly, a reasonable price point for under $100.

In this third installment of Hardware Breakdown 2025, we take an in-depth look at the Silicon beast that is the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9980X — a workstation-level CPU that pushes the boundaries of optimal performance. With this particular processor from AMD, the consumer target is creators, engineers, and data scientists seeking ultra-multitasking capabilities. The 9980X is AMD's flagship processor, which is unapologetically overkill.

I'm going to show you how to dramatically speed up your Windows PC in under five minutes using proven steps I've outlined in this post. Each step is precise, effective, and backed by me, of course.

Biwin, a Chinese manufacturer, is about to launch an impressive Mini SSD. This SSD is the smallest in the world, measuring just 15mm x 17mm x 1.4mm, roughly the size of a Nano SIM card. Despite its small size, it boasts performance and features comparable to those of larger SSDs. This innovation showcases advancements in technology, enabling robust storage solutions in compact sizes.

When chaos lurks behind your desk or inside every server rack, the one tool needed for cable management is the ever-so-reliable tie wrap. Also known as zip ties, these small plastic fasteners have become essential for organizing, securing, and streamlining cables in environments ranging from home office to gaming and home theater setups.

Last week, ASUS officially launched the ROG Strix OLED XG32U series, a cutting-edge 32-inch gaming monitor explicitly designed to push the boundaries of visual clarity and speed. With a 4K WOLED panel, it has a refresh rate of up to 480Hz in dual mode, and a near-instantaneous response time of 0.03ms. The monitor is well-suited for competitive gaming. Let's outline some of the monitor's standout features.

Remember the annoying screech of AOL dial-up when logging on to the internet. As of September 30, 2025, the once-reliable source of internet connectivity will officially be discontinued after 34 years of service.

If you're planning on building an efficient, high-performing PC while staying on an organized budget, you're going to need to read this post. The Gigabyte Radeon RX 7600 XT Gaming OC is a compelling deal on Amazon for several reasons that align with performance and future-proofing.

The cybersecurity community is on high alert due to a newly discovered vulnerability in Dell laptops. I understand that this flaw, known as ReVault, reveals deeply embedded firmware issues that can compromise the integrity of trusted hardware. The vulnerability affects over 100 variants of Dell laptops. The root of this issue lies in the ControlVault 3 (CV) firmware, which is designed to secure biometric data, passwords, and security codes. This situation underlines the critical need for heightened security measures in hardware systems.

For a long time, we have praised OLED TVs for their stunning image quality, which includes deeply rich blacks and vibrant colors. Behind the glossy screens is an ongoing myth that OLED panels don't last long. Is this concern grounded in reality, or a relic of early tech anxieties? Let’s see if we can debunk the myth.

When choosing a quality HDMI cable, less emphasis should be put on flashy branding and more on matching the cable's capabilities to the user's setup needs. I've outlined several key factors to look for. Here's the breakdown.

It's quite possible to build a powerful PC on a tight budget without compromising on graphical performance. Whether you're gaming at 1080p, editing videos, or building compact, modular systems, these budget graphics cards I've listed will deliver surprising value for the price point, all while maintaining stable thermals and efficient performance.

Google Assistant has been a prominent figure in the AI landscape since its launch in 2016. Despite its continued relevance, the technology itself is experiencing significant changes. The evolution of AI technology has implications for the future of voice assistants. While Google Assistant remains a topic of discussion, its role is increasingly being challenged. These shifts indicate that Google Assistant may be on a path toward obsolescence.

Properly cleaned cooling fans can boost air circulation and enhance the PC's performance. It also extends the life of components and minimizes noise levels. Dust buildup can cause your components to overheat and work intensively. With that said, I've created a step-by-step guide to achieve the best results. Following this guide will ensure your PC runs efficiently and quietly.

The TP-Link Archer BE6500 is currently the most compelling Wi-Fi 7 router on Amazon — and not because of its impressive specs and features, but because of its limited-time pricing and future-proof features. The TP-Link Archer BE6500 is an exceptional value router, currently priced at $139.99. That's 22% off its regular price, and the lowest price ever recorded for the particular model.

Apple’s iOS is gaining attention, primarily due to the new Liquid Glass interface. This interface features a translucent, layered appearance, giving iOS a more futuristic vibe reminiscent of visionOS. Reviews have been mixed, with some praising the design while others criticize certain features of the mobile OS. The feedback highlights a blend of excitement and apprehension regarding Apple’s upcoming iOS 26. Overall, the buzz indicates a significant shift in the visual experience of iOS.