Laptops Archives

Winsage

December 28, 2024

I’ve been a Windows on Arm user for years — Snapdragon X Elite has changed everything

The author has been using Arm-based computers, specifically an M1 Mac Mini and a Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered Windows two-in-one PC, and has found Apple's silicon consistently impressive while Microsoft's offerings have lagged. In April 2024, Microsoft introduced the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets, enhancing the compatibility layer for applications on Windows on Arm through a new emulator called Prism, which matches the efficiency of Apple's Rosetta 2. Testing the Honor MagicBook 14 Art, powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, revealed significant improvements, including native support for previously struggling applications like Google Drive and ExpressVPN. The MagicBook features a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite, offering seamless application launch and multitasking without the random freezes seen in earlier models. Its thermal performance is commendable, achieving around ten hours of usage in "Balanced" mode. The device also includes a Neural Processing Unit for enhanced AI capabilities. Compatibility advancements allow mainstream applications to run natively, and upcoming Windows updates promise to expand this further. The MagicBook 14 Art is priced at approximately ,750, featuring 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a detachable webcam for privacy. Despite the progress, the market for Snapdragon X computers remains niche, and Qualcomm's disputes with Arm could impact future sales.

Winsage

December 28, 2024

Best Windows 11 AI features that work on any computer

A Copilot+ PC is not required to access many AI features in Windows 11; older laptops that run Windows 11 can still utilize various AI-driven tools. The Photos app includes AI enhancements such as the Background tool, which allows users to blur, remove, or replace backgrounds in images. The Generative Erase function in Photos enables users to remove unwanted objects from photos. Microsoft Clipchamp offers an Auto Compose feature for quick video editing, allowing users to create videos with AI assistance. Microsoft's Copilot has become a standalone app, enabling window movement and custom keyboard shortcuts, and integrates advanced language models to assist with various tasks across Microsoft applications.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

Compare Dell Latitude 5300 Laptop i5 Intel Core i5 8th Gen-8365U Integrated 8GB 512GB SSD Windows 10 vs Lenovo Thinkpad T490s (20NYS3050D) Laptop (Core i5 8th Gen/16 GB/256 GB SSD/Windows 10) – Dell Latitude 5300 Laptop i5 Intel Core i5 8th Gen-8365U Integrated 8GB 512GB SSD Windows 10 vs Lenovo Thinkpad T490s (20NYS3050D) Laptop (Core i5 8th Gen/16 GB/256 GB SSD/Windows 10) Comparison by Price, Specifications, Reviews & Features

Dell Latitude 5300 specifications: - Processor: Intel Core i5 8th Gen (8365U) - RAM: 8GB - Storage: 512GB SSD - Operating System: Windows 10 Lenovo ThinkPad T490s specifications: - Processor: Intel Core i5 8th Gen - RAM: 16GB - Storage: 256GB SSD - Operating System: Windows 10 Dell Latitude 5300 features: - Lightweight build for portability - Extended battery life suitable for travel and remote work Lenovo ThinkPad T490s features: - Durable construction - Ergonomic keyboard for enhanced typing experience - Commendable battery life Price comparison: - Dell Latitude 5300 is competitively priced considering its storage. - Lenovo ThinkPad T490s is slightly higher in price due to enhanced RAM and robust build quality.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

Got a new laptop with Windows 11 in S Mode? Let’s break down what that means (and how to switch it off if it’s not for you)

Many Windows 11 laptops come preinstalled with Windows 11 in S mode, which restricts app installations to those available in the Microsoft Store to enhance security and efficiency. S mode is beneficial for families and less tech-savvy users as it prevents downloading unverified applications and continues to provide security features like Windows Defender and Windows Hello. To switch off S mode, users need a stable internet connection and an active Microsoft account. The process involves opening the Settings app, navigating to the System page, and selecting the Activation category to switch to Windows 11 Home or Pro. After confirming the choice in the Microsoft Store, users can verify the transition by attempting to download a non-Microsoft browser.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year

This year has seen significant advancements in consumer technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, highlighted by Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative in collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, introducing fanless, battery-efficient laptops to the Windows ecosystem. AI companies like OpenAI have expanded their offerings, prompting competitors such as Google, xAI, and Facebook to enhance their products. New brands like XREAL have emerged, while established companies like ASUS have innovated with dual-screen laptops. Accessory manufacturers have also improved their products. The Windows Central Tech Awards for 2024 recognize standout devices and features across various categories, including Tech Innovator of the Year, Best Processor, Best Overall Laptop, Best Keyboard, Best Pre-Built Gaming PC, Best Mini PC, Best Gaming Laptop, Best Gaming Headset, Best Tech Accessory, Best Monitor, Best Gaming Input, Best Gaming Hardware, Best Desktop All-in-One, Best Budget Laptop, Best Business Laptop, Best Mobile App for Windows Users, Best Windows Feature, Best Mouse, and Best Windows PC App. Looking ahead to 2025, advancements in AI, robotics, cloud computing, and potential breakthroughs in 6G and quantum computing are anticipated, with Microsoft focusing on AI server technology acquisitions and developments in PC gaming handhelds and new Xbox hardware.

Winsage

December 20, 2024

Windows 10 Support Ends In 2025, Should You Spend Big On A Windows AI Laptop?

Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 in October 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading their systems, especially if their current PCs cannot transition to Windows 11. Only systems with TPM 2.0 security technology will qualify for a free upgrade to Windows 11, which has received criticism for complicating the upgrade process. Windows 11 features a new user interface and incorporates AI tools for enhanced functionality. The tech industry is shifting towards AI technology, with new processors like Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and Intel's Lunar Lake promising improved battery efficiency. However, AI PCs often exceed Rs 1 lakh, posing challenges in markets like India, where average laptop prices are around Rs 60,000. Qualcomm is working on making AI features more accessible at around Rs 80,000. While investing in a Windows AI laptop may be tempting, it might be wise to wait until 2025 for a broader range of options at various price points.

Winsage

December 20, 2024

The best Windows laptops we tested in 2024: Our pick lasts longer than the M4 MacBook Pro

The landscape of Windows laptops in 2024 features a variety of options, including robust workstations powered by Qualcomm technology, dual-display devices, and discreet gaming machines. The 13-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is highlighted as the top choice, equipped with the Snapdragon X Elite processor and exceptional battery life. The HP Omnibook X 14 is noted as the best mid-range option, while the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 is recommended for budget-conscious users. The Lenovo Yoga 9i (Gen 9) is recognized as the best 2-in-1 laptop, and the Alienware m16 R2 is identified as the best gaming laptop. Upcoming models include the Dell XPS 13, HP Omnibook Ultra Flip, and Framework Laptop 13, with updates expected after testing. The HP Omen 17 gaming laptop received mixed reviews, praised for performance but criticized for keyboard, speakers, and battery life.

Winsage

December 19, 2024

Two new bugs discovered in Windows 11 24H2 release

Microsoft has acknowledged two new bugs in the Windows 11 24H2 release. 1. An audio output issue affects integrated speakers, Bluetooth devices, and headsets, particularly in systems using Dirac Audio. Microsoft has temporarily suspended the update for certain devices from an undisclosed manufacturer, and no workaround is currently available. 2. The Auto HDR feature, which converts SDR content to HDR for gaming, is causing incorrect color displays and game freezes. Microsoft has advised gamers to disable this feature, and the update has been blocked for devices with Auto HDR enabled until a solution is found.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

The Windows 11 experience (from someone in a hurry)

The author needed to acquire a new laptop for a colleague and chose one at Costco after conducting personal research. Upon bringing the laptop home, the setup process was delayed by a lengthy update that took over 30 minutes, followed by an upgrade to version 23H2 that took an additional hour. The update process was complicated by the laptop entering sleep mode and requiring multiple updates, including a substantial 24H2. Additionally, the manufacturer’s software added 1.4 gigabytes of drivers, necessitating a reboot. The entire process stretched from around 6 PM to midnight, with significant data downloads involved. The author also faced issues with Microsoft Edge, which prompted unwanted notifications and settings imports despite instructions to keep browsers distinct.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

The Windows 11 experience (from someone in a hurry)

A colleague's laptop at work failed just before their month-long leave, prompting an urgent need for a replacement. The author went to Costco to choose between two laptops, receiving inadequate advice from a sales associate. After purchasing a laptop, the setup process involved lengthy updates, including a significant upgrade to version 23H2 and additional updates that extended the process into the night. The manufacturer’s software added complexity with further downloads and required reboots. The author noted excessive bandwidth consumption during the updates despite high internet speeds and encountered issues with the laptop entering sleep mode. Additionally, while setting up the laptop, the author accidentally visited a scam site and faced persistent marketing from Edge to switch default browsers.