desktop PC Archives

Winsage

February 19, 2025

Windows 11 update is reportedly breaking the operating system’s most vital tool

The recent 24H2 update (KB5051987) for Windows 11 has caused significant disruptions, particularly affecting File Explorer, leading to user frustrations. Many users report that File Explorer has become unresponsive, preventing access to commonly used folders. The issue has been confirmed to occur even on fresh installations of Windows 11, indicating a problem with the update itself. Some users are also experiencing Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) errors and complete operating system corruption. Microsoft has not yet provided a definitive solution, but users can temporarily revert to the previous January 2025 update to resolve File Explorer issues. There is hope that a fix will be included in the upcoming February 2025 optional update.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

The upgraded Steam Link app for Android has transformed the way I game in 2025

Steam Link has undergone significant updates, introducing features like HDR and AV1 streaming, and is compatible with over 500 Android devices. It excels in local Wi-Fi gameplay, particularly with controller-centric titles, while performance on genres like RTS and strategy games is less optimal. The app provides impressive visuals and minimal input lag, especially on devices like the AYANEO Pocket Evo. However, it has shortcomings, including cumbersome menu navigation, occasional mouse control issues, and a user interface that can be cluttered. Streaming quality is affected by distance from the router, and it faces competition from other streaming solutions like Moonlight and NVIDIA’s GeForce Now. Despite its limitations, Steam Link offers convenience for PC owners looking to access their game library.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Our favorite mini PC is affordable and perfect for photo and video editing — Right now, you can get it at a special low price with this coupon code

The Geekom A8 mini PC features a Ryzen 7 CPU and Radeon 780M integrated graphics, making it suitable for tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and photo/video editing. It runs on Windows 11 Home and offers options for AMD R9-8945HS or R7-8845HS CPUs with a TDP of 45W, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and PCIe Gen 4 storage ranging from 1TB to 2TB. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and various ports: 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB-A 2.0, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB4 Gen 3, 1x 3.5mm headphone jack, 1x RJ45, and 2x HDMI 2.0. The A8 is currently available for 9.00, discounted to 9.00 with the code WINDOWSA8R7. The package includes a VESA mount, manual, HDMI cable, and power adapter, but users must provide their own keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The A8 received a four and a half-star review for its performance and port availability.

Winsage

December 7, 2024

The Surface Studio is dead? — Microsoft ends production on $4,500 Surface Studio 2+ as stock dwindles

Microsoft has officially concluded production of the Surface Studio 2+, its all-in-one desktop PC for creative professionals and commercial users, with no plans to replenish stock. The Surface Studio 2+ had a starting price of ,500 and was known for its touchscreen display and innovative hinge design. The discontinuation aligns with Microsoft's strategy to streamline its Surface offerings in 2023, which also included the Surface Duo 3 and Surface Earbuds 2. There are no immediate plans for a successor, as rumors suggest a potential Surface Studio 3 was shelved. The Surface Studio series targeted a specialized audience and faced challenges due to its high price and last-generation specifications. Microsoft's current focus is shifting towards more mainstream products, with anticipated updates for the Surface Pro, Laptop, Laptop Go, and Laptop Studio expected in 2025.

AppWizard

December 6, 2024

The PC Gaming Show’s best trailers: creepy aliens, strategic turtles, and desktop platformers

The recent PC Gaming Show: Most Wanted showcased several upcoming indie games. 1. Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault - A sequel to Moonlighter, blending action RPG elements with shopkeeping, set for release in 2025 on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. 2. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown - A turn-based strategy game from Strange Scaffold, launching on PC in 2025. 3. Cairn - A rock-climbing adventure and survival game with a free demo available on Steam, focusing on co-op gameplay, with early access expected next year. 4. The Legend of Baboo - An adventure game inspired by Middle Eastern fables, releasing in 2025 on PC and Xbox. 5. Abyssus - A co-op shooter set in a "brinepunk" world, entering alpha on December 6th, with a full release planned for next year. 6. MainFrames - A platformer set within a desktop PC interface, launching on PC and Nintendo Switch on March 6th. 7. Deepest Fear - A sci-fi horror game combining Metroidvania and FPS elements, with a release date yet to be announced for PC. 8. Blue Prince - A reimagining of Myst, inviting players to explore Mt. Holly manor, with a potential launch in the upcoming spring.

Winsage

November 20, 2024

Microsoft is launching a $349 desktop PC that only runs Windows 11 by streaming it from the cloud — is this the future of desktop computing?

Microsoft has introduced its first dedicated desktop PC, the Windows 365 Link, priced at 9, set to launch in April 2025. This device operates exclusively through cloud technology, utilizing Windows 11 via the Windows 365 platform and is designed for enterprise customers. It measures 120 x 120 x 30 mm, features a fanless design, rapid boot times, and instant wake capabilities. It supports dual 4K displays and includes three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an audio jack, an Ethernet jack, DisplayPort, and HDMI. The device is powered by an Intel processor with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, relying on a constant internet connection to function. It will leverage Copilot+ features for enhanced functionalities and is expected to run a lightweight version of Windows, potentially based on the CorePC edition codenamed NXT. The Windows 365 Link aims to redefine the desktop experience, particularly in schools and flexible workspaces, catering to the growing trend of cloud computing.

Winsage

November 17, 2024

This all-in-one AI PC features a large 31.5″ screen, and RTX 40-Series GPU, and even has fantastic speakers

The HP OmniStudio X AIO is priced at ,979.99 and features an Intel AI CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU, with a 31.5-inch 4K UHD display. A budget-friendly 27-inch FHD option starts at ,479.99. The package includes a monitor with an adjustable stand, USB-C and power cables, a keyboard and mouse, a cable tidy clip, four AAA batteries, and setup instructions. The design is elegant and robust, allowing for tool-less assembly in under five minutes. Performance is solid for general use, with a peak temperature of 103°F during stress tests and low fan noise. The built-in 5MP IR camera offers clear imagery, and the speakers provide impressive sound quality. The HP OmniStudio X competes well against alternatives like the Lenovo Yoga AiO 9i and Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 5i. It has received various ratings: value 4/5, design 5/5, software & apps 5/5, display 5/5, performance 4/5, keyboard and mouse 4/5, and camera, mic, and audio 5/5, resulting in a total score of 4.5/5.

Winsage

November 9, 2024

Telegram is the latest of my daily Windows apps to enjoy native ARM support on Snapdragon X and even my ancient Surface

Telegram is a leading messaging application available on Windows, Android, and Apple devices. The latest version 5.7.2 includes integrated native ARM64 support. Users can download Telegram for Windows on ARM from GitHub, where it is offered as a full installation or a portable application. Previously, Telegram operated under Microsoft's Prism emulation layer on ARM devices, but now it runs natively on ARM64, providing a faster and more efficient experience. Users can download the app via an executable installer or as a portable option from the 'telegramdesktop' GitHub page.

Winsage

October 18, 2024

Master Windows 10 Clipboard: Tips for Thai Users | HP® Tech Takes – Thailand

The Windows 10 clipboard is a cloud-based system that allows users to store up to 25 text or image items for future use. It features the ability to "pin" frequently used items for quick access and requires users to remain logged into the same Microsoft account on all devices for full functionality. To enable the clipboard, users can go to Settings > System > Clipboard and toggle Clipboard History to "on." Syncing across devices can be activated in the same menu. Clearing clipboard history can be done by locating Clear Clipboard data in the Clipboard settings. The clipboard retains shortcuts like Ctrl + C for copying and Ctrl + V for pasting, and users can access clipboard items by pressing Windows key + V. Common troubleshooting tips include ensuring clipboard history is enabled and confirming compatibility of copied items. Windows 11 users have access to similar features. Security risks include the potential exposure of sensitive information, so it is advised to avoid copying confidential data and regularly clear clipboard history. The HP Z1 G9 Tower Business Desktop PC Workstation is recommended for professionals in Thailand, featuring an Intel® Core™ i5-13500 processor, 8 GB of memory, and versatile storage options.

Winsage

September 30, 2024

Creating Bootable USB Installation Media for Windows Server — Redmondmag.com

To prepare a USB flash drive for Windows Server installation, you need an empty USB flash drive of at least 8 GB, an ISO file of the Windows Server installation media (downloadable from the Microsoft website), and the Rufus utility to make the USB bootable. A desktop PC running a Windows operating system, such as Windows 11, is also required. After installing Rufus, insert the USB drive, which Rufus should detect automatically. Select "Disk or ISO Image" from the Boot Selection menu, choose the Windows Server ISO file, and ensure the settings are configured for a Standard Windows Installation with MBR partition scheme and BIOS target system. Click Start to begin the process, and customize any installation options as prompted. If an error about the ISO being revoked appears, it can often be bypassed by clicking OK. It is also advisable to create a folder on the USB drive for necessary device drivers, as the Windows Server installer may require them to detect hard drives during setup.