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| PC World - 24 May (PC World)There are great monitors, and then there’s the Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd gen. Even though it’s only been a few months since this ginormous mini-LED monitor was released, we’re already seeing a jaw-dropping 40 percent discount, its biggest deal so far. Instead of spending $2999.99 on it, you can get it for just $1799.99. That’s still a good chunk of change, but not when you consider everything this model has to offer.
The Odyssey Ark is just one of the insane deals going on as part of Samsung’s huge “Discover Samsung Sale” this week, which has staggering discounts on highly rated Samsung devices like Galaxy Book4 laptops and Galaxy laptops, as well as SSDs, TVs, and more.
The Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd gen is a massive 55-inch behemoth with a 1000R curved display. Whether you’re playing some World of Warcraft with your guildies or shooting up zombies, you’ll be sucked right into that world thanks to the stunning 4K visuals. They’re made even more luscious thanks to the inclusion of quantum mini-LED backlighting, an OLED alternative, and the HDR10+ support that technology unlocks.
Gamers will also appreciate the blistering 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, which translate into buttery smooth visuals. Plus, the AMD FreeSync Premium Pro promises tear-free and stutter-free gameplay.
Of course, the Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd gen isn’t just for gaming. You can connect up to four different devices at the same time, switching between them as needed. Frankly, that’s ideal for all those gaming sessions you squeeze in between work meetings (it’s not just me who does that, right?). Thanks to the Multi View feature, you can keep an eye on your work chat while playing.
One super cool thing is that the Ark has a built-in KVM switch, which enables you to control multiple PCs with a single mouse and keyboard, efficiently simplifying your workflow. Simply brilliant.
The Samsung Odyssey Ark Gen 2 has so much to offer. While we admit it’s a pricey monitor, it’s a worthwhile purchase, especially now that it’s $1200 off. The finest things in life are never cheap, but one of the finest monitors ever unveiled can be yours for a whole lot cheaper than usual today.
Save $1200 on the Samsung Odyssey Ark 2 at Samsung
Editor’s note: This article originally published on May 15, but was updated when the Odyssey Ark appeared in Samsung’s sale with an even lower price.
Monitors Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 24 May (PC World)Our PC storage drives won’t last forever and that’s why it’s always a good idea to use backup software to keep your data safe. The best Windows backup software can keep us covered when our primary drive finally croaks.
While Apple’s Time Machine provides users with an effective, set-it-and-forget-it recovery system, Microsoft users aren’t so lucky. Instead, users are stuck deciding the best way to keep their data safe with a patchwork system of restore points, recovery discs, and file backups. Thankfully, a number of great third-party backup options have cropped up in recent years to help solve the woes of Windows users.
Why you should trust us: It’s in our name: PCWorld. Our reviewers have been testing PC hardware, software, and services for decades. Our backup evaluations are thorough and rigorous, testing the promises and limitations of every product — from performance to the practicalities of regular use. As PC users ourselves, we know what makes a product stand out. Only the best online backup services make this list. For more about our testing process, scroll to the bottom of this article.
Also, check out PCWorld’s roundup of best external drives for recommendations on reliable storage options — an important component in a comprehensive backup strategy. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to keep your data on the cloud or need the flexibility of data storage for different operating systems, then check out our list of best online backup services.
Updated May 23, 2024: See our recent review of Aomei Backupper Pro. Like our two top picks below, Aomei now integrates cloud storage with its local backup offerings, making it a complete backup solution capable of preserving your important data both locally and remotely, as any good backup strategy should do.
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R-Drive Image – Best Windows backup overall
Pros
Super-reliable, fast, disk and partition imaging with replication
File and folder backup with differential copies
Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive support
Lean-and-mean Linux and WinPE boot media
Cons
Minor interface quirks
No support for S3-compatible online storage
Best Prices Today:
$44.95 at R-tools Technology
R-Drive Image has long been a favorite of ours—a low-resource-consuming product that’s unparalleled in its reliability. Its ability to back up disks, partitions, folders, and files made it a one-stop shop for data preservation and recovery.
Now, with version 7.2, R-Drive Image goes even further with direct support for online storage services, so you can not only back up to a local drive, but also to your preferred cloud storage, be it Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc. You can also replicate images across multiple destinations, adding redundancy that’s so critical to a good backup strategy.
It’s hard to think of anything R-Drive Image is lacking, other than support for S3-compatible online storage. But given its track record of continuous improvement to an already-good thing, we wouldn’t be surprised to see that in the future.
Read our full
R-Drive Image review
Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office – Best Windows backup with malware protection
Pros
Imaging, backup, and disaster recovery
Actively protects against viruses and ransomware
Integrated cloud storage available
Cons
Heavy installation footprint
Best Prices Today:
$49.99 at Acronis
Acronis well established itself as a trusty stalwart of backup software many years back with its renowned Acronis True Image program. The program’s name might have changed a few years back to Cyber Protect Home Office but it’s reputation as a capable, flexible, and rock-solidly reliable backup solution continues. Indeed, it’s easily the most comprehensive data safety package on the planet.
While Cyber Protect Home Office doesn’t offer the same support for third-party cloud storage as R-Drive Image, it does allow you to back up to local, networked, or its own cloud storage (available at select tiers). Besides offering unparalleled backup functionality that’s both robust and easy to navigate, it integrates security apps as well, which protect against malware, malicious websites, and other threats using real-time monitoring.
As our reviewer said, “If you’re looking for a comprehensive, set-it-and-forget-it data-safety solution, I know of nothing better, or comparable for that matter.”
Read our full
Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office review
Retrospect Solo – Best for added ransomware protection
Pros
Easy to use (once learned)
Copious feature set
Good performance
New anti-ransomware backup protection
Cons
Somewhat steep learning curve
Best Prices Today:
$49 at Retrospect
The latest version (18.5) of this stalwart Windows backup program is every bit as feature-packed as we’d expect. It even adds an interesting pre-backup file scanning to root out anomalies before overwriting your previous backup—a nod to the emergence of ransomware as a concern. It’s got a bit of a learning curve, but once familiar, Retrospect Solo delivers the goods.
Read our full
Retrospect Solo review
Fbackup 9 – Best free Windows backup
Pros
Easy, friendly interface
Backs up local files as well as files on Dropbox and Google Drive
Rock solid performance
Supports versioning
Cons
Some advertising nags
Doesn’t support other online destinations.
Backs up to, but not from network locations
Best Prices Today:
Free at Softland
Fbackup 9 provides you with excellent backup options at no cost, and there’s no better price than free. Fbackup 9 is both more stable and easier to use than many of the premium options for Window’s backup software. It allows you to back up files to or from any local storage, to network locations, and to Google Drive or Dropbox. It does have some ads that you’ll need to put up with, but fortunately they are generally kept out of the way while using the software. Most users looking for an easy and free way to securely store their important data need look no further.
Read our full
Softland FBackup 9 review
Windows File History backup – Best free Windows backup runner-up
Pros
Excellent continuous data protection with versioning
Easy, timeline browsing of backed-up files
Integrated into Windows
Backs up user-created libraries
Cons
Easy “Add folder” function removed from Windows 11
Among the free programs we tested, Windows File History backup is one of the easiest continuous data protection software for Windows. It’s unfortunate that the latest version removed the “add folder” function from File History, but otherwise it continues to improve upon an already solid backup program. Also, it provides many of the features and functions of other third-party paid backup programs, all for free. And you can’t argue with free. It would’ve taken the top spot for free options if not for the fact that FBackup offers more versatility in terms of where you can back up your data, such as cloud storage.
Arcserve ShadowProtect SPX – Best Windows backup for SMBs
Pros
Fast and reliable continuous data protection
Super easy restores to real or virtual hard drives
Handy timeline overview
Excellent disaster recovery
Cons
Slightly daunting login dialog
Image-based backup only
Pricey for end users
Best Prices Today:
$99.95 at StorageCraft
If you are looking for something more robust than just file and folder backup for your business, then Arcserve ShadowProtect SPX has you covered. It comes loaded with a full feature-set that allows you to quickly and easily restore your data and it has support for third-party virtual hard drives. It is also an excellent choice not just for Windows users, but also Linux users or those in mixed Windows/Linux environments. ShadowProtect is a bit pricey, but it is an extremely reliable backup software with foolproof continuous data protection.
Read our full
Arcserve ShadowProtect SPX Desktop review
How we test
We run each program through the various types of backups it’s capable of. This is largely to test reliability and hardware compatibility, but we time two: an approximately 115GB system image (two partitions), and a roughly 50GB image created from a set of smaller files and folders. We then mount the images and test their integrity via the program’s restore functions. We also test the USB boot drives created by the programs.
How to pick a backup software
As with most things—don’t over-buy. Features you don’t need add complexity and may slow down your system. Additionally, if you intend to back up to a newly purchased external hard drive, check out the software that ships with it. Seagate, WD, and others provide backup utilities that are adequate for the average user.
File backup: If you want to back up only your data (operating systems and programs can be reinstalled, though it’s mildly time- and effort-consuming), a program that backs up just the files you select is a major time-saver. Some programs automatically select the appropriate files if you use the Windows library folders (Documents, Photos, Videos, etc.).
Image backup/imaging: Images are byte-for-byte snapshots of your entire hard drive (normally without the empty sectors) or partition, and can be used to restore both the operating system and data. Imaging is the most convenient to restore in case of a system crash, and also ensures you don’t miss anything important.
Boot media: Should your system crash completely, you need an alternate way to boot and run the recovery software. Any backup program should be able to create a bootable optical disc or USB thumb drive. Some will also create a restore partition on your hard drive, which can be used instead if the hard drive is still operational.
Scheduling: If you’re going to back up effectively, you need to do it on a regular basis. Any backup program worth its salt allows you to schedule backups.
Versioning: If you’re overwriting previous files, that’s not backup, it’s one-way syncing or mirroring. Any backup program you use should allow you to retain several previous backups, or with file backup, previous versions of the file. The better software will retain and cull older backups according to criteria you establish.
Optical support: Every backup program supports hard drives, but as obsolete as they may seem, DVDs and Blu-Ray discs are great archive media. If you’re worried about optical media’s reliability, M-Disc claims its discs are reliable for a thousand years, claims that are backed up by Department of Defense testing.
Online support: An offsite copy of your data is a hedge against physical disasters such as flood, fire, and power surges. Online storage services are a great way to maintain an offsite copy of your data. Backup to Dropbox and the like is a nice feature to have.
FTP and SMB/AFP: Backing up to other computers or NAS boxes on your network or in remote locations (say, your parent’s house) is another way of physically safeguarding your data with an offsite, or at least physically discrete copy. FTP can be used for offsite, while SMB (Windows and most OS’s) and AFP (Apple) are good for other PCs or NAS on your local network.
Real time: Real-time backup means that files are backed up whenever they change, usually upon creation or save. It’s also called mirroring and is handy for keeping an immediately available copy of rapidly changing data sets. For less volatile data sets, the payoff doesn’t compensate for the drain on system resources. Instead, scheduling should be used.
Continuous backup: In this case, ‘continuous’ simply means backing up on a tight schedule, generally every 5 to 15 minutes, instead of every day or weekly. Use continuous backup for rapidly changing data sets where transfer rates are too slow, or computing power is too precious for real-time backup.
Performance: Most backups proceed in the background or during dead time, so performance isn’t a huge issue in the consumer space. However, if you’re backing up multiple machines or to multiple destinations, or dealing with very large data sets, speed is a consideration.
FAQ
1.
How often should backups be scheduled?
Ideally, you should schedule backups of your data as often as possible. This is especially true if you are working on an important project or have data that you absolutely cannot afford to lose. It is a good idea to automate the backup process and have the Windows software back up your data every hour or so.
2.
What is the difference between Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Windows backup services?
Services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive are considered to be cloud storage services. This means that a user must place their files or data onto the service’s cloud manually. It’s almost like having a physical storage drive in the internet’s virtual cloud.
Windows backup software, meanwhile, provides continuous versioning and backup of all the file history on your device. It will continuously and automatically backup every specified file on a device. Windows backup software also offers additional data security measures such as file encryption. Furthermore, these backup services allow you to create a bootable optical disc or USB thumb drive for recovery after a system crash.
There are cloud backup services (distinct from those mentioned above) that offer many, though not all, of the benefits of a Windows backup program, such as continuous backups and versioning for multiple devices. You can learn more about them in our roundup of best cloud backup services.
3.
Can I back up files to and from my cloud storage?
Until recently, backup software was restricted to making local backups — i.e., to another drive, external or internal, connected to your system. A user would have to turn to a third-party solution, such as a cloud storage manager in order to integrate their cloud storage into File Explorer thereby making it accessible to the backup software.
But the situation is changing, and now many backup programs are recognizing the importance of integrating cloud storage into their backup and sync functions. Indeed, our favorite backup program, R-Drive Image, recently added support for all the popular cloud storage services, cementing its place at the top of our list.
4.
Will Windows backup software slow down my computer?
In most situations Windows backup software won’t noticeably slow down your computer. If you are backing up to more than one device or multiple different destinations, or if you are backing up very large data sets, then you may notice your system slow down as it performs the backup. Otherwise, Windows backup software typically runs in the background or during dead time so you shouldn’t notice a decrease in performance.
Also, it’s a good idea, if the option is available with your software, to run a continuous backup. This will cause the software to perform backups of only the files you change in real time and it requires less bandwidth and processor resources to maintain.
5.
Does Windows Backup save everything?
Yes, by default Windows Backup and Restore saves all data files including those in your library, on your desktop, and in Windows’ default folders. It will also create a system image if you need to restore Windows in the case of an emergency or system failure.
A system image is a great way to save all the data on your system including installed applications. But be careful as this system image can potentially take up hundreds of gigabytes of storage on your computer’s hard drive.
Backup Software, Personal Software Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 24 May (PC World)Need a new monitor for your PC? We’ve combed through scores of options to find the best monitors on the market right now. Our picks are the result of hundreds of hours spent testing the latest models from Acer, Asus, BenQ, Dell, LG, Samsung, and other major brands.
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 May 23, 2024: See our recent review of the Pixio PX248 Wave, which offers gamers a lot for its $150 price tag: a nice design, decent built-in speakers, adaptive sync, and good motion clarity with up to a 200Hz refresh rate. For budget shoppers, it offers good value.
Dell Ultrasharp U2724DE – Best monitor overall
Pros
Attractive and functional design
Class-leading Thunderbolt and USB connectivity
IPS Black improves contrast
120Hz refresh rate
Cons
Most competitors offer 4K resolution
No HDR support
Adaptive sync has some caveats
Dell’s Ultrasharp U2724DE is arguably the most versatile monitor ever sold. It’s great for home office productivity, good for gaming, and can handle more serious content creation workflows, like photo and video editing.
The U2724DE has an IPS Black panel that roughly doubles the monitor’s contrast ratio (compared to other IPS monitors). It can’t beat a more expensive OLED or Mini-LED panel, but it’s still alluring. It also lacks the burn-in worries of OLED which, although unlikely to occur in mixed use, might become an issue if you spend all day working in Excel and plan to keep your monitor for as long as possible.
Dell pairs the IPS Black panel with an enhanced 120Hz refresh rate. Upping the refresh rate greatly improves motion clarity and makes the U2724DE a viable display for gamers. That’s a big deal. It means you can buy one monitor for both work and play.
The U2724DE goes all-in on connectivity. Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort-in and -out, and HDMI are present. It even has a 2.5G Ethernet port. These features are ideal if you plan to connect a laptop over USB-C, as the U2724DE will greatly expand the laptop’s connectivity.
Resolution is the only notable downside. The U2724DE is a 1440p monitor, while many competitors in its price bracket offer 4K. This is the trade-off made to hit monitor’s 120Hz refresh rate. Those who prefer 4K should consider the Dell Ultrasharp U2723QE, which also has an IPS Black panel and extensive connectivity. Shoppers on the budget, meanwhile, can consider the U2724D. It’s nearly identical to the U2724DE but reduces the available ports to hit a lower price.
Read our full
Dell U2724DE review
Acer K242HYL – Best budget 1080p monitor
Pros
Attractive color accuracy and gamut
Acceptable sharpness for a 1080p display
Avoids motion clarity pitfalls
Menu system is easy to use
Cons
Barebones design
No height adjustment on stand
Only one HDMI, no DisplayPort
Power LED is very bright
Best Prices Today:
$149.99 at Acer
Need a monitor that works well at an extremely low price? The Acer K242HYL is our go-to pick.
The Acer K242HYL’s specifications are good for a budget display. It has a 24-inch screen with 1080p resolution and a maximum refresh rate of 75Hz. Adaptive sync is supported, so the monitor will function with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. Video inputs include HDMI and VGA. Build quality is good thanks to robust plastic panels that feel thick and durable when handled.
This monitor has a bright image with reasonable contrast. Color performance stands out, as the monitor can cover most of the sRGB color gamut and has extremely good color accuracy overall. Photos, videos, and games look close to what their creator intended.
The K242HYL lacks a height-adjustable stand but offers a VESA mount that is compatible with most third-party monitor stands and arms.
That aside, the K242HYL is an outstanding budget monitor suited for everyday use, casual gaming, and amateur content creation. This is all the monitor most people will ever need.
Read our full
Acer K242HYL review
Monoprice CrystalPro 44522 – Best budget 4K monitor
Pros
Sharp, clear image
Strong color performance
Functional ergonomic stand
Includes USB-C despite low price
Cons
Generic design
Limited image quality adjustments
Not a great choice for viewing games and movies
The Monoprice CrystalPro (Model #44522) stands out as the best budget 4K monitor choice, offering a sharp and vibrant 4K display at an affordable price point of $300 (which is often reduced below $220 during sales).
Image quality is a highlight. The Monoprice CrystalPro delivers a crisp 27-inch IPS panel, a decent color gamut, and good color accuracy. The monitor’s contrast is mediocre but competitive with other budget 4K monitors.
Connectivity is surprisingly good. The monitor includes USB-C connectivity with support for up to 65 watts of USB Power Delivery, which makes it possible to charge a connected tablet or laptop. That feature is usually reserved for more expensive monitors. Monoprice also includes a decent ergonomic stand that can adjust for height, tilt, and swivel. Many similarly priced competitors only adjust for tilt.The monitor has a couple downsides. Its design is generic and its limited image quality adjustments can make image quality more difficult to customize. These problems are usually shared by competitors, however, which leaves Monoprice in a good spot.
Shoppers should note our recommendation applies to the 27-inch CrystalPro monitor with model number 44522. Monoprice also has an older, 28-inch model that’s easy to confuse with this newer display. Our recommendation only applies to model 44522.
Read our full
Monoprice CrystalPro 44522 review
Dell G2724D – Best budget gaming monitor
Pros
Handsome design with functional stand
Attractive SDR image quality
Good motion clarity at 165Hz
Supports all Adaptive Sync standards
Cons
No USB connectivity or 3.5mm audio-out
Lackluster HDR
Best Prices Today:
$179.99 at Dell Home
Dell’s G2724D hits the sweet spot for gamers on a budget who also care deeply about quality.
The 27-inch IPS LCD panel features 1440p resolution and a refresh rate of 165Hz. The color gamut spans 100 percent of sRGB, 86 percent of DCI-P3, and 82 percent of Adobe RGB, ensuring a bright and vibrant image that’s not only excellent in games but serviceable for most content creation. But its standout feature is the Adaptive Sync support, with official support for VESA Adaptive Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Nvidia G-Sync.
Despite its affordable price, the monitor doesn’t skimp on design, with a handsome matte black and gray chassis and sporty rear vents that provide an aggressive yet unobtrusive look. It also comes with a functional monitor stand that offers a range of ergonomic adjustments and a compact base that doesn’t take up unnecessary desktop space.
The monitor doesn’t offer USB connectivity or 3.5mm audio-out. Also, the HDR performance is a bit lackluster, so those who require HDR gaming may want to look at other options.
But it’s hard to beat the G2724D’s performance at $200 or below and, more importantly, it offers everything an average PC gamer is going to need for smooth and responsive gaming. All told, it offers excellent value, and could have a place on your desk for five to 10 years.
If you want to save even more money, check out the Pixio PX248 Wave. It’s a step down from the G2724D, but still surprisingly solid at less than $150 — nice design, decent built-in speakers, up to 200Hz refresh rate, adaptive sync, and good performance.
Read our full
Dell G2724D review
Innocn 27M2V – Best budget HDR monitor
Pros
Excellent color gamut and accuracy
Sharp, vivid picture
Strong HDR performance
Good connectivity
Cons
Design looks nice, but feels inexpensive
Thin user manual
Confusing on-screen menu
Best Prices Today:
$799.99 at Amazon
You likely haven’t heard of Innocn—but if you want a great HDR monitor on a slim budget, the Innocn 27M2V should be on your short list.
The Innocn 27M2V is a 4K Mini-LED monitor with a maximum refresh rate of 160Hz. It hits an impressive maximum measured HDR brightness of 877 nits, which is enough to deliver a gut-punch of detailed luminance in vibrant HDR scenes. The 27M2V outperforms OLED and LED edge-lit monitors.
And it’s no one-trick pony. The 27M2V has accurate and vivid color, immersive contrast, and crystal-clear sharpness. It can’t defeat OLED monitors like the Alienware AW3423DW in SDR content, but it’s closer than you’d think.
The 27M2V provides strong connectivity, too. It includes a USB-C port with 90 watts of Power Delivery for charging external devices. That’s flanked by one DisplayPort and two HDMI 2.0 ports, for a total of four video inputs.
What’s the catch? The monitor’s design, although reasonably attractive, feels inexpensive when handled. The on-screen menus are confusing, a problem worsened by the lack of a quality user manual. And customer support can only be reached by email.
Fortunately, these issues are reduced by excellent pricing. The Innocn 27M2V has a retail MSRP of $799.99 on Amazon, but frequently goes on sale for as little as $679.99. It’s fantastic value at either price.
Read our full
Innocn 27M2V review
Alienware AW3423DWF – Best gaming monitor
Pros
Excellent contrast ratio
Top-notch color gamut and accuracy
Great motion clarity
Respectable HDR performance
Extremely competitive price
Cons
Stand is a bit too large
No USB-C
Maximum HDR brightness is lackluster
Best Prices Today:
$1,094.99 at Amazon
Alienware’s AW3423DWF is an outstanding PC gaming monitor.
This monitor has a QD-OLED panel, which is like that used in top-tier OLED televisions. OLED provides a nearly infinite contrast ratio, excellent color performance, and respectable brightness. The result is a punchy, vibrant image with an unparalleled sense of dimensionality. The monitor’s ultrawide aspect ratio only heightens the sense of immersion.
Motion clarity is superb. The monitor has a refresh up to 165Hz and supports both AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and VESA Adaptive Sync. The OLED panel technology it uses has lower pixel response times than competitors, too, so there’s minimal added blur and ghosting in motion. Motion is as crisp as you’ll find below 240Hz.
The Alienware AW3423DWF is an alternative to the AW3423DW, a slightly older and nearly identical monitor. The AW3423DW has a higher fresh rate of 175Hz and supports Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate. It’s also $100 to $200 more expensive. Though we recommend the AW3423DWF for most people, the AW3423DW is better for owners of high-end Nvidia graphics cards.
The AW3423DWF is expensive at $1,099.99, but its performance justifies the price. Competing 34-inch and 38-inch ultrawides without QD-OLED technology are often just as expensive but have less impressive image quality.
Read our full
Alienware AW3423DWF review
Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX – Best HDR monitor
Pros
Excellent gaming performance
4K resolution
Dimmable mini-LED backlight
Ergonomic adjustment options
Cons
High power consumption
Extremely expensive
Best Prices Today:
$1,889.99 at Amazon
Okay, folks. Hold onto your butts, because we’re about to take a trip out to the cutting-edge of PC monitors: the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX.
This monitor has a Mini-LED backlight with 1,152 zones that can adjust brightness independently. As a result, it can ramp up brightness to extremely high levels when required, or turn off zones entirely in dark scenes. This results in an excellent contrast ratio and superb brightness.
These traits make the PG32UQX a standout in HDR games and movies. Bright, high-contrast scenes look amazing. You can almost feel the heat of an explosion and the intense glare of sun reflecting off a window or mirror.
There’s more to the monitor than HDR, however. It scores extremely well in overall contrast, has class-leading color performance, and provides a crisp 4K image. The monitor supports G-Sync Ultimate for smooth gameplay with Nvidia hardware and has a maximum refresh rate of 144Hz.
The only problem? Price. This monitor sells for around $3,000. Shoppers may want to consider the slightly less exorbitant Viewsonic Elite XG321UG as an alternative. It has a similar Mini-LED backlight.
Read our full
Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX review
Philips Creator Series 27E2F7901 – Best home office monitor
Pros
IPS Black panel improves contrast ratio
Excellent color gamut and accuracy
Sharp 4K image
USB-C connectivity with Power Delivery, DisplayPort-Out
Cons
Generic design
Awkward on-screen menu system
Lackluster HDR, 60Hz refresh rate
Best Prices Today:
$399.99 at Amazon
Philips’ Creator Series 27E2F7901 is the ideal monitor for your home office. It features a 27-inch display with IPS Black panel technology, tons of useful connectivity, and top-notch image quality.
Its IPS Black display panel is a rather new technology that significantly enhances the contrast ratio compared to older IPS monitors, which results in a deeper, more immersive image. Its color gamut and accuracy are commendable, too, and its 4K resolution means web pages, photos, and PDFs all look razor-sharp.
Connectivity is another big strength. The 27E2F7901 accepts video over HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C, with the latter also serving as a USB hub for multiple downstream USB ports. The USB-C port is also capable of charging devices that require up to 96 watts of power. It has DisplayPort-Out, as well, an uncommon connection that can connect a second monitor directly to the Philips.
While the monitor’s design is not as attractive as Dell’s Ultrasharp series, it still retains the features most people need. It comes with an ergonomic stand that adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. The monitor also has an adapter for use with 100x100mm VESA mounts, making third-party monitor arms and stands an option.
Though excellent, the 27E2F7901 isn’t perfect. The on-screen menu system can be awkward to navigate. Also, while HDR is supported, the monitor’s HDR performance is underwhelming. And its humble 60Hz refresh rate will disappoint gamers.
These downsides are not uncommon as many competitors also have them. Due to the Philip’s pricing however, these can be forgiven—the 27E2F7901 retails for just $499.99. Though not inexpensive, it undercuts similar home office monitors from Dell and LG by roughly $100. Overall it provides exemplary value by delivering top-tier connectivity and image quality for an excellent price.
Read our full
Philips Creator Series 27E2F7901 review
Viewsonic ColorPro VP16 OLED – Best portable monitor
Pros
Versatile, useful stands
Good connectivity, cables included
Numerous image quality customization options
Top-tier image quality even at default settings
Cons
Speakers are included, but weak
Pricey for a portable monitor
No HDR
Best Prices Today:
$392.41 at Amazon
The Viewsonic VP16-OLED is an impressive portable OLED monitor that combines class-leading image quality with a unique and useful stand.
As its name suggests, the VP16-OLED has a 15.6-inch OLED panel with 1080p resolution. It delivers outstanding image quality, scoring top marks in color accuracy, gamut, and contrast. The VP16-OLED’s performance is superior to many full-sized OLED monitors—and completely smashes portable competitors. This makes the VP16-OLED ideal for photographers, videographers, and other content creators.
The monitor has a versatile stand. It can be used as a kickstand, as is true of most portable monitors, or expand to hold the monitor upright. The stand includes two USB-C ports, either of which can be used to provide power and video input to the monitor. It also offers a micro-HDMI port for use with devices that lack USB-C. Viewsonic bundles the monitor with several cable types and a USB-C power brick, so you don’t have to buy additional adapter cables or accessories.
There’s just one problem: It’s expensive. The Viewsonic VP16-OLED retails at $399.99, more than double the price of a basic 1080p portable monitor. That’s tough to justify if you just need a second monitor to display Slack and Twitter, but it’s a worthwhile upgrade if you care about image quality.
Read our full
Viewsonic ColorPro VP16-OLED review
Asus ProArt PA348CGV – Best ultrawide monitor
Pros
Excellent SDR image quality
Sturdy, hefty design
Wide range of customization
120Hz refresh rate
Cons
USB-C hub lacks video-out or ethernet
HDR is merely passable
Best Prices Today:
$1,015.06 at Amazon
Asus’ ProArt PA348CGV is an ultrawide that targets professionals but throws in features to please gamers.
Professionals will love the PA348CGV for its excellent color accuracy, wide color gamut, and healthy range of image quality adjustments. The monitor looks outstanding at default settings and can be tuned to fit a variety of color gamuts or meet specific color temperature and gamma targets.
Monitors like this normally leave gamers in the cold, but the PA348CGV is an exception. It has a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz and supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Its motion clarity can’t rival the best 144Hz or 165Hz ultrawide gaming monitors, but it’s a huge boost over a 60Hz panel.
The PA348CGV is built like a tank with sturdy plastics and a weighty stand that keeps the ultrawide panel planted. It also has good connectivity with a total of four video inputs, one of which is USB-C. The USB-C port drives a hub with four additional USB-A ports.
And here’s the real surprise: the PA348CGV’s MSRP is just $729. That’s not cheap, but it’s close to the price of alternative professional monitors that completely lack an enhanced refresh rate or adaptive sync. That makes the PA348CGV an easy choice for ultrawide enthusiasts.
Read our full
Asus ProArt PA348CGV review
Alienware AW2524H – Best high-refresh monitor
Pros
The best motion clarity available today
Bright, vivid image quality
Compact ergonomic stand
Cons
Limited video input selection
Mediocre image quality
High pricing for a 24-inch monitor
Do you want motion clarity? Alienware’s AW2524H, the world’s first 500Hz gaming monitor, is for you.
Fast objects look detailed and quick camera pans across an in-game map remain legible. Competitive gamers will also love its lightning-fast input latency with support for Nvidia Reflex Analyzer, which helps players see precisely how fast their PC responds to input. Just be warned: this performance comes at a premium price of $829.99 MSRP, and the benefits can only be fully realized in games that can reach 500 frames per second.
It’s an attractive monitor, too, with Alienware’s sleek, futuristic design and excellent build quality. The compact stand allows for ergonomic adjustment but doesn’t consume excessive desk space.
The AW2524H’s image quality is not competitive with similarly priced monitors, but it’s not bad, either. It offers strong SDR image quality with decent brightness, good contrast ratio, and vivid color. However, the HDR image quality is underwhelming, and the monitor lacks some connectivity options, such as USB-C input.
Alienware’s super-fast 500Hz monitor isn’t for everyone, but competitive gamers shouldn’t think twice. The monitor’s motion clarity is unbeatable.
Read our full
Alienware AW2524H review
Asus ProArt Display OLED PA32DC – Best monitor for professionals
Pros
The best SDR image quality yet
Good HDR performance
Long list of image quality features
Exceptionally sturdy
Numerous inputs, plus USB hub
Cons
HDR brightness could be better
Glare can be an issue in bright rooms
Only 60Hz, no adaptive sync
Best Prices Today:
$3499 at Asus
Do you need a monitor with exceptional color accuracy, contrast, and sharpness? The Asus ProArt Display OLED PA32DC delivers. It’s an impressive monitor that, in several respects, is the best we’ve ever reviewed.
The monitor’s key trait is its high-quality OLED display panel. It has excellent contrast, color accuracy, and a wide color gamut, all of which add up to a realistic and dramatic image. The monitor also has 4K resolution and a conventional RGB subpixel layout, which avoids the color fringing issues that are found in QD-OLED monitors like the Alienware AW3423DW.
Image quality is superb out of the box, but experienced owners can go a step further. The PA32DC has numerous image quality options in its on-screen menu system and includes a built-in calibration utility for ultra-accurate results. Professionals can use these options to achieve the exact results their work requires.
It’s a wonderfully robust monitor with chunky bezels, big menu buttons, and a sturdy chassis that includes a built-in handle. Asus supplies both a VESA stand for desktop use and flip-out legs for quick setup at a mobile studio or job site. The monitor has extensive connectivity including five video inputs.
The only downside? It’s expensive with a retail price of $3,000. Even that, however, is not so bad: Similar OLED and Mini-LED monitors, like the Apple Pro Display XDR and LG UltraFine 32EP950, are often even more expensive.
Read our full
Asus ProArt OLED PA32DC review
Acer Predator CG48 – Best television alternative
Pros
Excellent SDR, strong HDR image
Great motion clarity
Superior contrast and wide color gamut
Multiple PC-friendly connections including USB-C hub
Useful bundled remote
Cons
Only one HDMI 2.1 input
Sharpness is just ok
Stand offers no adjustment, no VESA mount
Best Prices Today:
$1,267.07 at Amazon
Want a massive display, but don’t want to deal with the “smart” features and limited PC connectivity of a television? Acer’s Predator CG48 is an excellent choice.
This 48-inch OLED monitor delivers 4K resolution and a refresh rate up to 138Hz. It offers an outstanding picture straight out of the box with spot-on color accuracy, excellent contrast, and a wide color gamut. It also has excellent viewing angles and, of course, a large display area that’s ideal for a large office or small home entertainment center. The monitor’s maximum brightness could be higher, but it still looks good in HDR content, especially when used in a dark room.
Though similar in size to some OLED televisions, the Acer Predator CG48 is not a TV. It doesn’t have a TV tuner and can’t connect to a coaxial antenna or cable connection. PC connectivity is superb, though, with DisplayPort, USB-C, and HDMI 2.1 available, as well as three additional HDMI 2.0 ports.
A remote is included and can be used to navigate the monitor’s on-screen menu. Acer provides a wide range of image quality adjustments that make it easy to customize the image to your liking. The monitor’s out-of-box performance was excellent, too, and worked well with both PC and game console inputs.
The Acer Predator CG48 carries a MSRP of $1,499.99, which is high. It’s often on sale, so it’s wise to shop around. Buying the monitor at a discount can save you hundreds.
Read our full
Acer Predator CG48 review
Corsair Xeneon Flex 45WQHD240 – Best big-screen ultrawide
Pros
Incredibly immersive gaming experience
Huge 45-inch ultrawide OLED panel can be adjusted from flat to 800R curve to suit your setup
Exceptional image quality, contrast, color performance, and HDR
Elite motion clarity on a 240Hz panel
Abundant connectivity with USB-C hub and power delivery options
It made four people who walked into my office stop and say “WHOA” like Keanu Reeves
Cons
Poor text clarity and general sharpness for productivity work
Very expensive
No swivel or tilt options, stand can’t be replaced
Bending mechanism feels clunky and mildly terrifying at first
Enabling HDR mutes desktop contrast and vibrancy
Best Prices Today:
$1,499.99 at Amazon$1499.99 at Best Buy
Want a monitor that can (literally) flex on your friend’s puny 34-inch ultrawide? The Corsair Xeneon Flex 45WQHD240 is for you.
The Xeneon Flex has a flexible OLED panel that can be positioned so that the display is entirely flat or curved up to a radius of 800R (among the most aggressive curves you’ll find on any monitor). A pair of handles on the right and left flank are used to flex the display. They feel a tad awkward but get the job done.
It’s a massive display with a 45-inch ultrawide panel and a 21:9 aspect ratio. It’s much, much larger than a 34-inch ultrawide (roughly 10 inches wider and 5 inches taller), which provides an extremely immersive experience and tons of room for multi-tasking apps. It’s also taller than a 49-inch super-ultrawide like the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9, though (of course) not quite as wide.
Image quality is excellent with an extremely high contrast ratio and wide color gamut. The 240Hz refresh rate provides superb motion clarity, too. Even HDR performs reasonably well, as the panel’s brightness is relatively high (for OLED, at least). The monitor’s 3440×1440 resolution doesn’t look sharp spread across the 45-inch panel, but this only feels noticeable on the Windows desktop. Games and streaming content look incredible.
The Corsair Xeneon Flex is built like a tank and has a massive, stable stand with built-in ports including USB-C. Unfortunately, the stand doesn’t adjust for height. It’s also an expensive monitor at a retail MSRP of nearly $2,000. That’s a lot of cash, but the Xeneon Flex’s versatile OLED panel and top-tier image quality justify the price.
Read our full
Corsair Xeneon Flex review
What to look for in a monitor
There are literally hundreds—and perhaps thousands—of monitors to choose from. Choosing one from the crowd can be difficult, but knowing the key traits of a monitor will help you make your decision.
Resolution
Most monitors are available in 4K (3,840×2,160), 1440p (2,560×1,440) and 1080p (1,920×1,080) resolution. A higher resolution provides a sharper, more attractive image and is generally preferable. There’s nothing wrong with 1080p, however. It remains the baseline and is by far the most popular resolution sold today.
Connectivity
Look for a monitor with a connection supported by your computer. HDMI and DisplayPort are the most common. USB-C is rising in popularity because it can charge connected devices, such as a laptop.
Refresh rate
Most monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate, but a higher refresh rate (such as 144Hz) will make motion look smooth and crisp. This is most appealing to PC gamers, as improved motion performance is most noticeable when panning the camera in a 3D game.
Adaptive sync
This technology also improves motion performance. It does so by keeping a monitor’s refresh rate in sync with the video input from your computer. Our guide to FreeSync and G-Sync provides more detail.
HDR
Many 4K monitors support HDR, but often the HDR performance is lackluster. The HDR will function, and may look superior to SDR, but it won’t approach the quality implied by the spec. To ensure a quality HDR experience, look for a minimum of VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification (or VESA DisplayHDR True Black). See our article on everything you need to know about HDR on your PC to learn more.
Want to know more before you make a decision? Our monitor buying guide explains the nerdy details of monitor specifications.
How we test monitors
Our monitor guides are based on testing by freelance and staff contributors with decades of combined experience.
While we rely on our eyes for an initial impression, we thoroughly test each monitor with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool. This specialized hardware can objectively measure a monitor’s brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, luminance and color uniformity, gamma, and many other aspects of image quality.
Using this tool helps us detect strengths and weaknesses that don’t stand out at a glance and guarantees that a change in lighting conditions or monitor location won’t skew our impression.
FAQ
1.
What size of monitor should I buy?
Monitor size depends on personal preference and location.
A 24-inch monitor is fine for a desk that is around 24 inches deep, or less. Its small size will still be sufficient because the monitor is closer to you.
Most people, however, will want to go with a 27-inch monitor. The added size will make the monitor easy to see. This also opens up a wider range of 4K monitor options, as 4K is very rare on a 24-inch monitor.
Larger monitors, such as a 32-inch widescreen or 34-inch ultrawide, are great for deep desks and people who want an immersive experience. Monitors this large can serve as a TV replacement in a small room.
Displays of even larger size, such as 42-inch or 48-inch HDTVs, are best for home theater setups or an unusually large office. You’ll want to sit four to six feet away from a display of this size.
2.
What display input is best? (HDMI vs. DisplayPort vs. USB-C)
USB-C is the best display input for most people. It works by bundling DisplayPort into USB-C, so offers all the same features as DisplayPort. Yet it retains the features of USB-C including optional support for Power Delivery to charge external devices. This is why we recommend a USB-C monitor for most people.
DisplayPort is generally second-best. It supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI. This input is particularly common on desktop computers.
HDMI comes in third due to lower resolution and refresh rate support. This is improved by HDMI 2.1, but this feature remains hard to find and often adds to a monitor’s price.
All three of the options above handle 1080p at 60Hz, which is the most common resolution and refresh rate available today. It’s also important to buy a monitor that has an input compatible with your PC.
3.
Are all monitors compatible with Windows and MacOS?
Modern monitors are compatible with all recent versions of Windows and MacOS. They’re plug-and-play, which means the monitor should display an image without the need to install driver software or mess with Windows or MacOS settings.
Gaming, Monitors Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 24 May (PC World)If you’re looking for a decently priced gaming laptop with a snappy RTX 4060 graphics card, then the Lenovo Legion Slim 5—on sale for just $1000, down from $1480—might just be what you’re looking for.
This 14.5-inch Lenovo Legion Slim 5 has an OLED display and a 120Hz refresh rate. The SuperBright technology and matte finish maintain vivid colors and reduce glare, providing an immersive viewing experience with a resolution of 2880 x 1800.
Then, under the hood, this laptop has a Ryzen 7 7840HS CPU and 16GB of memory. As far as graphics, the Legion Slim 5 rocks an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 with 8GB of dedicated video memory.
It also features a 1TB SSD for fast startup times, quick data access, and a quieter, cooler operation compared to traditional hard drives. Plus, it won’t hurt your back when you lug it around. At just 3.85 lbs and 0.84 inches thick, it’s easy to take anywhere.
This is an incredible deal for a high-performance machine, perfect for gamers and creatives alike. With the amount of memory this laptop has, you can rest assured it’ll work great for gaming, editing videos, or multitasking multiple apps for work.
Don’t miss this opportunity to upgrade your gaming setup with the Lenovo Legion Slim 5 for only $1000—a fantastic price for a top-tier laptop ready to handle anything you throw at it.
Get the Lenovo Legion Slim 5 for $1000 at Best Buy
Gaming Laptops Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | ITBrief - 24 May (ITBrief)The OpenADR Alliance achieves 200 members, driven by surging demand for EV charging technology. New innovative members like EVchron and Hypercharge join, heralding a significant milestone. Read...Newslink ©2024 to ITBrief | |
| | | ITBrief - 23 May (ITBrief)Open-platform video tech is enabling cities to meet sustainability goals by unifying data from IoT devices, thus improving public services and reducing environmental impact. Read...Newslink ©2024 to ITBrief | |
| | | Stuff.co.nz - 23 May (Stuff.co.nz)Mastercard is integrating artificial intelligence into its fraud-prediction technology. Read...Newslink ©2024 to Stuff.co.nz | |
| | | RadioNZ - 23 May (RadioNZ)The national institute of skills and technology is paying $2000 a day to specialist advisors looking into how to replace the mega entity. Read...Newslink ©2024 to RadioNZ | |
| | | PC World - 22 May (PC World)USB Type-C is the most flexible connection for notebooks and smartphones. The most important of its many capabilities is as a charging socket for battery-powered devices. USB-C should finally make everything simple: One socket, one cable, one power supply for all devices – from computers to smartphones and tablets to headphones and other peripherals.
So much for the theory, which always sounds simple with USB. The reality is more confusing.
Not every USB-C power supply is suitable for every device. Not all Type-C ports can be used to charge devices quickly or at all. And not every Type-C cable ensures reliable power transmission.
This guide will give you an overview of the technical possibilities of Type-C charging and recommends suitable power supply units for all devices. If you’d like to avoid all the background and simply know which cords as worth your hard-earned money, be sure to check out our roundup of the best USB-C cables. We perform hands-on tests that go far deeper than most other sources on the Web.
There are many symbols that identify a USB-C port on a laptop as a charging port. In practice, however, you will usually only find the Thunderbolt lightning bolt (at the bottom) on the housing.
There are many symbols that identify a USB-C port on a laptop as a charging port. In practice, however, you will usually only find the Thunderbolt lightning bolt (at the bottom) on the housing. IDG
There are many symbols that identify a USB-C port on a laptop as a charging port. In practice, however, you will usually only find the Thunderbolt lightning bolt (at the bottom) on the housing. IDG
IDG
USB Type-C: The standard connection for charging
Almost all mobile devices can now be charged via USB Type-C: For smartphones, Apple was the last major manufacturer to switch from the proprietary Lightning connector to USB-C last year with the iPhone 15.
Apart from that, there are only very cheap bargain smartphones that still rely on micro USB as a charging port. The situation is similar for tablets, where market leader Apple already favored USB-C over Lightning three years ago with the iPad 9. You will also hardly find any devices without USB-C for headphones, ebook, readers, and mobile speakers.
Only laptops still have numerous models that do not use Type-C to charge the battery: These are often older model series from the entry-level range. More frequently, however, USB-C is not the main connection for charging.
Although powerful gaming and multimedia laptops have USB-C, they also have a dedicated power connection with a higher charging capacity that fits the power supply unit supplied. Business laptops with a USB-C port and power supply unit often still have the hollow plug connection so that companies can continue to use power supply units from decommissioned models.
A Type-C connection on a laptop also does not always handle power delivery. The only way to find out whether a Type C socket is capable of power delivery is to look at the technical data. A Type-C port with Thunderbolt supports charging in any case.
Further reading: We tested 43 old USB-C to USB-A cables. 1 was great. 10 were dangerous
Advantages of power delivery via USB-C
The triumph of Type-C is easy to explain, as the connection offers numerous advantages for users and manufacturers:
Cables can be connected quickly and easily because the symmetrical plug is twist-proof.
The socket takes up little space so that devices can be made lighter and flatter.
And as Type-C can handle data and video transmission as well as charging, ideally a single cable is all that is needed between the computer and peripherals, which keeps the desk tidy.
Whether a mobile device supports USB-C Power Delivery is usually stated in the technical data for the connections. If so, you can use a suitable power adapter for charging.
Whether a mobile device supports USB-C Power Delivery is usually stated in the technical data for the connections. If so, you can use a suitable power adapter for charging.
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Whether a mobile device supports USB-C Power Delivery is usually stated in the technical data for the connections. If so, you can use a suitable power adapter for charging.
IDG
IDG
Devices can also be charged faster with USB-C: Power supply units for micro USB only deliver up to 10 watts, while chargers with a Type A connection usually deliver 15 to 18 watts. Type-C, on the other hand, supports the improved USB Power Delivery (PD) transmission protocol, which usually allows charging capacities of up to 100 watts and even up to 240 watts in the current version.
our favorite Usb-c Charging cable
Belkin BoostCharge 240-watt charging cable
Best Prices Today:
$19.99 at Amazon
However, this does not apply to all Type-C connections, devices, and cables: Although everything fits together mechanically, not every combination has to provide the optimum charging power — for example, because different levels of the Power Delivery standard are supported or devices and power supply units do not implement the standard correctly.
USB-C and Power Delivery: How the charging technology works
The technical basis for charging via USB-C is the USB Power Delivery (USB PD) standard. It specifies voltage levels of 5 to 48 volts and currents of 3 or 5 amps in so-called “power profiles” or “power rules.” Depending on the power supply unit, power cable, and device, charging capacities of between 10 and 240 watts are possible.
A typical smartphone power supply unit with 30 watts, for example, offers power profiles for a charging capacity of 15, 27, and 30 watts, while a laptop power supply unit also offers power profiles for 45, 60, 65, or 100 watts.
Before transmission begins, the power supply unit (source) and consumer (sink) agree on the required voltage and current: The power supply unit first checks the cable to see whether it can transmit up to 3 or 5 amps and provides a basic voltage of 5 volts.
It then tells the consumer what other voltages it can supply. The consumer answers which one it needs so that both can agree on a suitable power profile.
Some multiple power supply units, such as this one from Ugreen, use the semiconductor material gallium nitride (GaN): this allows them to be built very compactly despite their high charging power.
Some multiple power supply units, such as this one from Ugreen, use the semiconductor material gallium nitride (GaN): this allows them to be built very compactly despite their high charging power.
Ugreen
Some multiple power supply units, such as this one from Ugreen, use the semiconductor material gallium nitride (GaN): this allows them to be built very compactly despite their high charging power.
Ugreen
Ugreen
Ideally, any USB-C power supply will charge the device with a Type-C charging socket with optimum performance and as quickly as possible. Even if the power supply does not completely fulfil the requirements of the device, it should provide a minimum charging power, even if the charging process then takes longer.
Conversely, it does not speed up the charging process to use a power supply unit that offers a higher output than the device requires because the consumer cannot call it up.
Since version 3 of USB PD, the power supply unit and consumer can adjust the voltage and current more dynamically. To do this, both must support the optional standard extension PPS (Programmable Power Supply Protocol).
Best 3-port usb-C wall charger
Ugreen Nexode Pro 65W 3-Port GaN Fast Charger
Best Prices Today:
$55.99 at Amazon
The device can then request voltage and current from the power supply unit that deviate minimally from the prescribed power profiles: This speeds up the charging process, but can also ensure that the battery is less stressed during charging or that a smartphone or notebook receives the appropriate charging power in real time depending on the current system load.
Labels such as Fast Charge or Super Fast Charge 2.0 on Samsung smartphones and power supply units, for example, indicate support for PPS.
Further reading: Best USB-C PD laptop chargers 2024: More portable power
How to find out whether a power adapter fits the device
The easiest way to do this is to use the power adapter recommended by the manufacturer for charging. This is common for laptops, as new devices are supplied with a suitable power supply unit.
Smartphones and tablets now often do not come with a power adapter in the sales box: You can buy the right charger from the device manufacturer.
USB-C should make this investment superfluous and put an end to the confusion of power adapters that only fit one device. A power supply unit that can charge all your devices without any problems is therefore ideal.
To do this, the power supply and device must have a USB-C connection and support USB Power Delivery: You should be able to find this information in the technical data, often as an abbreviation such as “PD” or “PPS.” If the power supply unit or device does not support USB PD despite Type-C, charging can start, but only at 15 watts.
So that you can charge all devices with one power supply unit, it should have sufficient charging power for the most powerful device and suitable power profiles for devices with lower energy requirements.
A laptop is usually the device that requires the highest charging power: Ultra-mobile laptops usually need a power supply unit with 45 watts, standard laptops require 60 watts, and particularly powerful laptops 100 watts.
For smartphones, tablets, and portable speakers or headphones, on the other hand, 30 watts or less is sufficient.
Further reading: Don’t buy these dangerous USB-C accessories
To ensure that a USB-C power supply for the laptop charges other mobile devices, it should support power profiles for 15 and 27 watts via USB-PD.
With third-party power supplies, you will often find a list of other devices that can be charged with it in the technical data of a laptop power supply. If tablets such as Apple iPad Pro and smartphones — for example Samsung Galaxy S24 — are listed, the power supply is also suitable for smaller mobile devices.
If you want to use the power adapter that came with your laptop, check the manufacturer’s website for information on its output power: If you find information such as “9 volts – 3 amps,” the power adapter is suitable for smartphones and tablets. These values are usually also printed on the power supply unit under “Output.”
Conversely, notebooks can also be charged with a smartphone power supply unit: This is helpful when travelling if you only want to take the lighter mobile phone charger with you. The power supply unit should offer at least 27 watts of charging power and a voltage of 9 volts. This is sufficient for small and light laptops.
It is best to switch off the notebook when charging, because if it consumes more power during operation than the mains adapter supplies, the battery will be drained even when the charger is connected. However, many notebooks require 15 volts and most require 20 volts as the charging voltage. If your smartphone power supply delivers this, the notebook can also be charged with it – but usually only slowly.
The best cable for charging via USB-C
A good USB-C cable is crucial to ensure that the charging power from the power supply unit to the device is stable. The cables transmit a current of up to 3 amps as standard.
This is sufficient for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Notebooks can also be charged with up to 60 watts using such cables – this is sufficient for small and lightweight laptops. For larger and more powerful laptops, however, charging will take longer depending on the battery size and operating load.
To charge these laptops at optimum speed via USB-C, you need a cable that can transfer 5 amps. The fast charging functions of some smartphones and tablets also require an appropriate cable – for example, Super Fast Charging from Samsung.
Many smartphones can be charged faster: However, you need the right power adapter and the right USB-C cable for this, both of which support the PPS standard or a higher current transfer of 5 amps.
Many smartphones can be charged faster: However, you need the right power adapter and the right USB-C cable for this, both of which support the PPS standard or a higher current transfer of 5 amps.
IDG
Many smartphones can be charged faster: However, you need the right power adapter and the right USB-C cable for this, both of which support the PPS standard or a higher current transfer of 5 amps.
IDG
IDG
These cables contain a chip, the so-called e-marker: It contains information about the capabilities of the cable, such as the maximum power supply capacity, voltage, and current values and supported charging protocols.
It outputs this information when the power supply unit and consumer negotiate the optimum charging power via USB-PD to ensure that the charger delivers the appropriate voltage and current values for the cable and the connected device.
Further reading: Samsung Galaxy owners: Buy this GAN charger for the fastest charges
Most manufacturers usually describe the corresponding cables as “100 watt cables.” You will also often find a reference to the e-marker chip in the technical data.
In addition to power transfer, USB-C also supports data and image transfer — if you want to use a cable for all applications, you must pay attention to this in its description: These multifunction cables are usually slightly more expensive than pure charging cables. Cables for Thunderbolt are guaranteed to support all USB-C transmission types.
Good value Usb-c charging cables
Anker New Nylon Series 3 USB-C to USB-C 2-pack
Best Prices Today:
$13.99 at Amazon
You can‘t tell how well a charging cable transmits data: In theory, longer cables are more susceptible to voltage loss and limit the flow of current due to a higher resistance. Thicker cables are supposed to ensure more stable transmission.
In practice, however, you cannot use this as a rule of thumb: The quality of a cable depends on its internal workmanship.
A basic tip: Buy cables for higher charging capacities from well-known suppliers such as Anker, Belkin, or Ugreen. They are reliable and usually cheaper than the corresponding offerings from the laptop or smartphone manufacturer.
Chargers with multiple ports: One power supply for all devices
A single power supply unit is usually not enough for a large number of devices: You often want to charge different devices at the same time via USB-C. This is why there are power supply units with several USB-C and USB-A ports, which can be used to charge a notebook, smartphone, and headphones in parallel, for example. This is also useful when travelling if you only have one socket available on the train, for example.
When making your choice, you should first consider how many devices you want to charge at the same time and on which ports: Multiple power supply units are available with numerous connection combinations, so you should always be able to find a suitable model.
Devices with two USB-C ports cost from around $20, while prices with three Type-C ports start at around $40. In most cases, the power supply units also have a charging port with a Type A connection in addition to the USB-C outputs.
You also need to decide what maximum charging power the multi power supply should have: Up to 45 watts is sufficient for a smartphone and headphones. If you also want to charge a laptop, at least 60 watts is recommended.
USB power supply units with multiple connections:
ManufacturerManufacturer ProductPrice (Euro)max. charging power (watts)Number of type CNumber of type AAnkerPrime (GaN)8010021Armature735 (Nano II)356521Armature735 Prime (GaN)506521Armature323203211BelkinBoost Charge Pro40652–UgreenNexode Pro Mini (GaN)10016031UgreenNexode (GaN)306521UgreenNexode (GaN)5510031UgreenNexode Pro Mini (GaN)456521
It is important to know how the power is distributed over the individual ports: The maximum charging power specified by the manufacturer usually applies to all ports together, only for the combination of certain ports or only if only one port is occupied.
For example, if you choose a 65-watt power supply because you also want to charge your laptop, it will usually only deliver this charging power if a single USB-C port is occupied. If you charge another device on the second Type-C port, the power is then divided between 45 watts on one port and 20 watts on the other – the laptop will then charge more slowly.
If all the ports on a three-port power supply are occupied by consumers, the power on a single port can drop even further. In addition, not all type C connections on the power supply unit have to deliver the same charging power: for example, the laptop may only receive up to 65 watts at port 1. If you connect it to port 2, it will only receive up to 45 watts.
best single-port usb-C charger
Anker 713 Nano II 45W Charger
Best Prices Today:
$27.99 at Amazon |
$27.99 at Best Buy
You should therefore look for the technical data for a model on the power supply provider’s website before buying: Well-known manufacturers such as Anker or Belkin list the charging power that the individual ports offer with single or multiple connections.
The desired power supply should definitely support USB-C Power Delivery and preferably also PPS!
Many manufacturers advertise more expensive models with the abbreviation “GaN”: This stands for the semiconductor material gallium nitride, from which, for example, the voltage converters in corresponding power supplies are made: They work very efficiently without overheating, which enables small power supply units with a high charging capacity.
This article was translated from German to English and originally appeared on pcwelt.de.
Desktop PCs Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 22 May (PC World)Your hard drive may not always perform well, and sudden disk errors or accidental deletion can cause you to lose data. But there’s no need to feel frustrated after losing essential data on a hard drive. We’re here to help!
In this article, we’ll guide you through recovering data from hard drives with different hard drive recovery solutions, and provide all the tips you should know about hard drive recovery.
Read on to find out more information.
Common causes of hard drive data loss
Hard drive data loss can result from many scenarios. Although recovering a hard drive with professional software like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard will be simple, you should understand why the data was lost to avoid it happening again. Here are some common causes of hard drive data loss to be aware of:
Physical damage: Dropping the hard drive on the ground, exposing it to extreme temperatures, or water damage can cause physical damage and data loss.
Hardware failure: The read/write heads, motor, or circuit board can fail, preventing the drive from accessing stored data.
Accidental deletion: Unintentionally deleting files or formatting a new hard drive without backing up data can result in data loss.
Virus or malware attack: Malicious software can delete data, corrupt files, or render a hard drive inaccessible.
File system corruption: Errors in the hard drive’s file system can corrupt data on a hard drive, making it unreadable or inaccessible.
After learning the common causes, you should know how HDD data recovery works and the steps you need to take to get back your data.
What to do before restoring hard drive data
After becoming aware of data loss on your hard disk, you should stop using the hard drive immediately. If you keep using the drive and writing new data, the recovery success rate will decrease because the data may be overwritten.
Then, diagnose the reason for data loss. As mentioned above, your hard drive may have encountered physical damage, like the hard drive being water-damaged or physically broken. It is very hard to recover data from physically damaged hard drives. If your hard drive is not physically damaged, you should be able to perform hard drive recovery to rescue missing data.
If the recovery programs are not helpful, seeking professional data recovery services is necessary. Data recovery experts can help fix hard drive issues without losing data.
Below we will outline three solutions for data rescue from a logically damaged hard drive: apply the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, repair the file system on the hard drive, and contact data recovery services.
Method 1. Recover hard disk data with HDD recovery software
To quickly recover data from a failed hard drive with a recovery product, we recommend EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard. It’s a 100% secure recovery program with advanced recovery technology and user-friendly interfaces.
Here are the main features of this handy hard drive recovery tool:
Supports data recovery on HDDs, SSDs, external hard drives, SD cards, and USB flash drives.
Recovers various file types from a hard drive easily, including photos, documents, videos, audio, and email.
Retrieves data from different brands of hard drives, including Western Digital, Seagate, SanDisk, LaCie, Toshiba, Samsung, and Crucial.
Now, check the guide below and start file recovery on the hard drive with the EaseUS hard disk recovery tool:
Step 1. Download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard from the official website. The free version allows you to recover 2GB of data on the hard drive. You can also download the Trial version to preview the file. Launch the software on the PC (this tool is available for both Windows and Mac) and click “Search for Lost Data.”
EaseUS
EaseUS
EaseUS
Step 2. You can find lost files through the file path or file type. If you want to recover deleted photos from the hard drive, choose “Type” and select “Pictures”.
Step 3. You can preview the files before recovery. This software will automatically repair corrupted files. Click “Recover” and choose a new location to save recoverable files.
EaseUS
EaseUS
EaseUS
Method 2. Recover data from hard drives with a corrupted file system
If the file system is corrupt, your files and folders cannot be accessed on the hard drive. There are two ways that you can repair a corrupted file system with the CHKDSK tool and perform file recovery:
1. Use CMD
Step 1. Type in cmd in the Windows search box and run Command Prompt as administrator.
Step 2. In the Command Prompt window, type in chkdsk, which will automatically scan for disk errors. If you need to repair the hard drive, type in the chkdsk drive letter: /r instead.
EaseUS
EaseUS
EaseUS
2. Use Windows File Explorer
Step 1. Launch Windows File Explorer and locate the target hard drive.
Step 2. Right-click the hard drive and choose “Properties”.
Step 3. A new window will then appear, and you should choose the “Tools” tab > “Check” to start scanning.
EaseUS
EaseUS
EaseUS
Step 4. If this disk tool finds no error on this hard drive, a notice window will show up, and you can choose “Scan drive” to check the file system errors.
If all the methods we have mentioned fail, you should check the last one.
Method 3. Restore data with a hard drive data recovery service
Coming to the professional data recovery team is the last method, but worth a try. When the data loss problem on the hard drive cannot be solved by yourself with recovery software, it means that the data loss issue is serious. That’s why you need professional help.
If you don’t have time to visit local recovery labs, visit EaseUS’s official website > Data Recovery tab > Data Recovery Services > Request a Free Consultation. A hard drive recovery engineer will diagnose the problem and help you recover hard drive data online.
How to prevent data loss on hard drives
Don’t want to suffer data loss on a hard drive or any other storage device again? Check these tips to avoid data loss in the future.
Back up important data regularly: The most straightforward way to prevent data loss is to back up data once a week. Prepare a backup disk or upload these files to the cloud.
Use reliable antivirus software: Download safe software and use a good antivirus to protect your computer from viruses and malware.
Avoid mishandling or dropping the hard drive: Think twice before deleting files on the hard drive and prepare a bag to carry the drive out.
Apply reliable data recovery software: Some recovery products can cause further data loss on the hard drive and even result in permanent deletion.
Conclusion
Have you recovered essential data from the hard drive using the recommended methods and recovery software? You can trust EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard and EaseUS data recovery services. EaseUS’s advanced recovery technology and reliable after-sales service will give you a good recovery experience.
Cleaning and Data Recovery Software, Personal Software, Storage Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
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