hardware performance Archives

Winsage

May 13, 2025

Get Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for only $15 — Get it before Windows 10 ends

Microsoft is phasing out updates for Windows 10, leading to increased vulnerability for users. Windows 11 Pro is available for .97 and offers enhanced features and security, including biometric login, advanced antivirus defenses, and Smart App Control. It improves productivity with features like voice typing, a powerful search function, BitLocker encryption, Windows Sandbox, Hyper-V, and Azure AD. Gamers benefit from DirectX 12 Ultimate for better graphics and performance. Windows 11 Pro includes the AI-powered assistant Copilot, which can answer questions, open applications, modify settings, summarize web pages, and integrate with GitHub. It also features Widgets, MS Teams, and touchscreen support. Users should check system requirements before upgrading.

Winsage

March 22, 2025

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro now $10 with Stack Social deal

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, reduced from its original price of 9. A coupon code, WINDOWS, can further reduce the price to .97. Key features include an intuitive interface, enhanced voice typing, advanced security, and gaming capabilities with DirectX 12 Ultimate. The package includes Microsoft Teams, Widgets, and touchscreen support, and purchasing it grants a lifetime license. Users should ensure their PC meets the minimum requirements for Windows 11. Additionally, Walmart is offering Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) for 9.99, and the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for .99.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

Windows 11 will soon let you know why your PC hardware sucks

A new feature in the latest test builds of Windows 11 includes a FAQ section aimed at helping users understand how their hardware affects system performance, specifically addressing issues related to GPU memory and system RAM. Discovered by a Windows enthusiast, this feature is available in the Dev Channel build and can be manually activated, although Microsoft has not officially confirmed it. The FAQ provides information on the implications of low RAM and GPUs with less than 4GB of memory, and it notifies users who are not on the latest version of Windows 11 to consider updates. The adaptability of the FAQ responses is still unclear, and the feature may be rolled out to all Windows 11 users in the future, particularly with the upcoming 24H2 update.

Winsage

February 22, 2025

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro before Windows 10 support ends

Microsoft is discontinuing support for Windows 10, encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, which is currently priced at .97 (regularly .99) until March 30. Windows 11 Pro features a user-friendly interface, enhanced multitasking capabilities, advanced security measures including TPM 2.0 and BitLocker encryption, and tools for businesses like Azure AD and Hyper-V. It also includes gaming enhancements through DirectX 12 Ultimate and an AI-powered Copilot for various tasks. The license allows one activation key for two devices, and users should check their PC's compatibility before purchasing.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

This Windows 11 Pro With AI Copilot at 90% Off Is Your Last Shot of the Year, Offer Ends Soon

StackSocial is offering a lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro at a price significantly reduced by 90% from the standard retail price of 9. The license allows installation on two PCs that meet the minimum system requirements. Windows 11 Pro features enhancements such as an AI-powered assistant called Copilot, DirectX 12 Ultimate for improved gaming graphics, BitLocker Drive Encryption for device security, and Smart App Control to prevent the installation of untrusted applications.

Winsage

December 6, 2024

5 reasons to keep your Windows drivers up to date

Drivers are essential software that connect a computer's hardware to the Windows operating system, ensuring smooth operation and recognition of components like the motherboard and graphics card. Windows typically installs necessary drivers automatically when a new device is connected, but this process may not always occur. Keeping drivers updated is important for optimal functionality and security, as outdated drivers can lead to performance issues and vulnerabilities. Each hardware component requires specific drivers, and users can manually download them from the manufacturer's website if automatic installation fails. Regular driver updates can enhance hardware performance, particularly for gaming, and help avoid compatibility issues. Outdated drivers can cause hardware instability, leading to crashes or connectivity problems, which may be resolved by updating. Additionally, keeping drivers current protects against security vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit. Updating drivers can also resolve longstanding hardware issues that persist despite other troubleshooting efforts.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

Windows Central’s highest-rated laptops are already on sale ahead of Black Friday — save up to $640 with my shopping advice

As the holiday shopping season approaches, discounts on Windows laptops are becoming available, including high-end Copilot+ PCs and budget-friendly options. A curated list of the best deals for 2024 is being compiled, which will be updated as Black Friday nears. Windows laptops are categorized into three primary types: 1. Notebook: A classic clamshell design, often used for gaming. 2. Convertible: Heavier, pricier laptops with 360-degree hinges and touch displays, suitable for media and creative tasks. 3. 2-in-1: Devices with a detachable keyboard, allowing tablet-like use. AI PCs, equipped with processors that include a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), are gaining attention in 2024. Examples include Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen AI 300. Microsoft's Copilot+ PC program enhances the AI experience for laptops with NPUs. However, for most users, having an NPU may not be essential, and focusing on overall performance is recommended. The evaluation process for Windows laptops includes testing hinge strength, chassis durability, port speed, camera quality, speaker performance, fan noise, display quality, and battery life. All laptops in the Black Friday collection have ratings of four stars or higher. Black Friday 2024 is scheduled for November 29, 2024, with many retailers already offering deals. Cyber Monday will follow on December 2, 2024, focusing on online shopping, with some tech deals continuing from Black Friday.

Winsage

October 18, 2024

Now on DVD: Windows 11 24H2 (yes, really) has been slimmed down and ready for action by Tiny11 developer

NTDEV has released a lightweight version of the Windows 11 feature update version 24H2, named Tiny11, which occupies only 3.54 GB and can fit on a DVD. This version is designed for older or less powerful machines and can run with just 176MB of RAM, compared to the 4 GB required for standard Windows 11 installations. NTDEV also created a "text-only" version of Windows 11 that operates with only 100MB of RAM by removing the graphical interface.

Winsage

September 18, 2024

I bought the cheapest Surface Pro 11 model: 3 takeaways from a Windows expert

The Windows PC landscape has been dominated by incremental updates focused on Intel CPUs, but the introduction of Copilot+ PCs with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series ARM processors marks a significant change. The Surface Pro 11, which I tested in its most economical configuration, shows improved battery life and performance compared to its Intel-based predecessors. It retains a familiar design similar to the Surface Pro 9 and operates on Windows 11, providing a consistent user experience across ARM and Intel platforms. The device remains cool and quiet during intensive tasks, with a battery life exceeding 10 hours, effectively doubling that of the Intel-based Surface Pro 9. Compatibility with software is generally good, though some older applications may face challenges. The Surface Pro 11 features advanced AI capabilities, including a front-facing camera with automatic framing and eye tracking, while some anticipated AI features are still pending. The testing methodology includes both quantitative benchmarks and qualitative assessments to evaluate performance, portability, and battery life comprehensively.

AppWizard

August 22, 2024

Seeing Black Myth: Wukong running on GeForce Now may have finally convinced me that cloud gaming is the future

The author initially preferred traditional gaming experiences but had a change of perspective after witnessing Black Myth: Wukong being streamed on a GeForce Now-enabled MacBook at Gamescom 2024. The game, which previously required high-end hardware for optimal performance, ran smoothly with an average bandwidth of 50-70 Mbps on unreliable trade show internet. The gameplay remained smooth despite a minor latency spike, thanks to the GeForce Now Ultimate account providing RTX 4080-equivalent performance. The author noted the potential of cloud gaming to allow players with older hardware to enjoy demanding titles without compromise. They acknowledged the need for a reliable internet connection to fully appreciate cloud gaming and recognized its convenience, despite challenges like fluctuating prices and dependency on service providers. The author reflected on the future of gaming, considering a model where users pay for hardware usage rather than investing in components that require upgrades. They highlighted the industry's shift towards internet connectivity for real-time gaming experiences while acknowledging concerns about unreliable connections and service discontinuation.