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.

I am most enamored with the Mac Studio, specifically the flagship M3 Ultra variant. This compact desktop powerhouse is designed for intensive workflows, such as machine learning, 3D rendering, and video editing, while operating quietly. The internal potent components of the Mac Studio make for a robust system. My excitement for Apple's flagship desktop leads me to wanting to examine in depth, each crucial element of the Mac Studio (the M3 Ultra). In this monthly installment of Hardware Breakdown, I’ll break down each critical component of Apple’s high-end desktop.

Apple's iPad Pro may be getting an upgrade to its front-facing camera. Insiders suggest that the high-end tablet may feature dual FaceTime cameras. This upgrade could enhance video calls significantly and improve content creation. Additionally, it may open new avenues for spatial computing. Such advancements would mark an exciting development for the iPad Pro line.

Currently, you can find many PCs with GPUs that have a four-figure retail price. RTX 5090 certainly comes to mind. Regardless, I believe it's entirely possible to build a high-performance PC for under $1500, which is a rewarding endeavor. In this guide, I will focus on selecting high-quality hardware for my next build that remains affordable, and these reasonably priced components will not compromise system performance. Whether I'm aiming for high frame rates in Black Myth Wukong or editing in 4K, my planned system will deliver robust performance.

Let's squeeze every ounce of performance out of the $1,500 budget.

The Insta360 X5 has quickly become the go-to camera for content creators. Its high-quality video capabilities make it a favored choice for YouTube and Instagram. The camera’s appeal lies in its combination of cutting-edge technology and practical features. These elements make capturing and sharing quality footage easy. Several additional factors contribute to the Insta360 X5's popularity.