MacBook 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 23, 2024

I made the switch from Mac to Windows and I’m regretting it

The transition from a MacBook Pro to an HP Spectre x360 has highlighted significant differences between macOS and Windows 11. Windows 11, despite improvements in its user interface, suffers from inconsistent design elements, with modern apps contrasting sharply with older tools. First-party applications also show design discrepancies, and third-party apps on Windows often lack the quality and features found on macOS. Exclusive macOS applications, such as CleanShot X and MoneyCoach, offer superior functionality compared to their Windows counterparts. File management is notably better on macOS, with Finder providing a more efficient experience than File Explorer, and the Preview app offering useful features for PDF editing and image manipulation. Overall, the user experience on macOS is perceived as more polished and intuitive compared to Windows.

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 13, 2024

Ready to ditch Windows? 5 factors to help you decide between Linux or MacOS

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, leaving users vulnerable to security threats without updates. Upgrading to Windows 11 requires hardware compatibility checks. MacOS is free but requires expensive Apple hardware, while Linux can be downloaded for free and installed on multiple machines. MacOS limits users to three hardware options, whereas Linux offers a wide range of hardware choices and customization options. MacOS is user-friendly but less customizable, while Linux provides extensive personalization. Open-source Linux software typically receives faster security updates compared to proprietary systems like MacOS. Both Linux and MacOS are reliable, with Linux often considered more stable than MacOS.

Winsage

December 11, 2024

Quest 3’s Windows 11 Integration Arrives As Experimental Feature

Quest 3's latest enhancement, introduced during Meta Connect 2024, integrates Windows 11 into Horizon OS v72, allowing users to connect and mirror their Windows 11 PC with a simple tap by looking at the device. This feature is developed through a partnership with Microsoft, utilizing Windows 11 Remote Desktop technology. Once connected, the PC screen turns off and is replaced by a virtual display, enabling users to create up to three virtual monitors. Currently, users must enable 'Pair to PC with Microsoft Mixed Reality Link' in their headset settings and download the Mixed Reality Link app on their Windows 11 PC for setup, but this will not be necessary once the feature exits beta. After setup, users can connect to their PC with a tap on a virtual button without launching any applications. However, the feature requires a local network for operation, unlike Apple's similar feature, which can function without one.

Winsage

December 9, 2024

Get Microsoft Office Pro and Windows 11 Pro for 83% off with this bundle deal

Stack Social is offering a bundled lifetime license for Microsoft Office Pro 2021 and Windows 11 Pro at an 83% discount. The bundle includes Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2021, which features Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and Teams. There is also a version available for Microsoft Office 2019 without Teams. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as biometric login, Smart App Control, Windows Studio Effects, DirectX 12 Ultimate, snap layouts and desktops, seamless redocking, improved voice typing, and a powerful search experience. Users will also benefit from Microsoft Copilot for enhanced workflow efficiency. Buyers should be aware that Microsoft can terminate licenses, but Stack Social has a reliable reputation. The bundle does not include Microsoft 365 subscription benefits, and users must have Windows 10 or 11 to access the software.

Winsage

December 2, 2024

These Cyber Monday Microsoft Surface deals could make me ditch my MacBook

Cyber Monday offers significant discounts on Microsoft Surface devices, making it a favorable time for upgrades. The Surface Pro tablet and Surface Laptop are highlighted as top recommendations, especially for users who prefer Windows 11 over Apple's products. The introduction of Qualcomm's Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips has revitalized the Surface line, enhancing its competitiveness against iPads and MacBook Airs. Current Cyber Monday deals include substantial savings across various retailers in the US and UK, with discounts on products ranging from electronics to appliances.

Winsage

December 1, 2024

Time is almost up on the best Windows laptop deal I’ve seen for Cyber Monday — so good I bought it twice!

The Surface Laptop 7 is available at a discounted price of 9 during Cyber Monday, making it one of the most sought-after laptops of 2024. It features a touchscreen display, a keyboard and trackpad, and is powered by the Snapdragon X Plus with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage. The 15-inch variant has a price drop to 9, offering 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, which is more affordable than an entry-level MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage. The Surface Laptop 7 is recommended as the best Windows laptop currently available.

Winsage

December 1, 2024

Save $400 on one of the best Windows laptops we’ve seen this year

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is currently priced at ,199.99 on Amazon, reflecting a 0 discount. It features a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, a neural processing unit (NPU), 16 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of storage. The laptop is noted for its performance, portability, and extended battery life. It was launched in June 2024 and has maintained a price close to its recommended retail value since then. Price comparisons show it at ,199.99 on Amazon and Walmart, while Best Buy lists it at ,299.99. Reviews highlight its swift performance and battery longevity, with ratings of 5 stars from TechRadar and 4 stars from Toms Guide.

Winsage

December 1, 2024

The Ultimate Mac vs Windows Battle: Can Apple’s M4 Pro Reign Supreme?

The MacBook Pro features the M4 Pro chip and excels in CPU performance, outperforming the Asus ProArt StudioBook 16 by 50% in Cinebench multicore tests. It is particularly beneficial for creative professionals in photo and video editing due to its efficient hardware-software integration. The Asus ProArt StudioBook 16, equipped with an AMD HX 370 CPU and RTX 4070 GPU, excels in GPU-intensive applications such as 3D rendering and gaming. It offers up to 64GB of RAM compared to the MacBook Pro's base configuration of 24GB, which is advantageous for memory-intensive tasks. The MacBook Pro has three Thunderbolt 5 ports, while the Asus provides a broader array of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and SD card slots. The MacBook Pro operates cooler and quieter under load, while the Asus tends to run hotter and louder. For gaming, the Asus ProArt StudioBook 16 delivers higher frame rates and better compatibility with modern games. The MacBook Pro is known for its premium build quality and long-term reliability, often retaining better resale value, but it comes at a higher initial cost. The Asus offers better value for users focused on gaming or GPU-intensive workflows.