MacBook Pro Archives

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Chrome failed to install on Windows PCs, but Google has issued a fix

Several Reddit users have reported difficulties installing Google Chrome on Windows PCs, a problem also experienced by the Laptop Mag team on multiple Windows 11 laptops. Users noted that the direct download from Google was problematic, while a workaround using the installer from ninite.com was successful. Issues were reported on both Windows 10 and 11, with speculation about a glitch in the latest installer release. Google acknowledged the issue and confirmed a fix had been implemented, allowing successful installations afterward. A step-by-step guide for resolving the installation hurdle was provided, recommending the use of an offline installer named “ChromeStandAloneSetup64.”

Winsage

February 25, 2025

Finding Windows 11 sluggish when you’re working with files and folders? You’re not alone – and it’s high time for Microsoft to sort out File Explorer

Microsoft is addressing performance issues with File Explorer in Windows 11, which users have reported as being slow to respond. A specific bug causing delays when closing the application is being worked on, but many users continue to express dissatisfaction with the overall performance, including delays of up to ten seconds when opening folders. Users have reported frequent crashes, especially when using tabs, and slow response times for the right-click context menu. Feedback indicates that these issues persist even on modern PCs with ample memory and fast SSDs. Despite being available for over three years, File Explorer's performance problems have not been fully resolved, and recent updates may have worsened the situation for some users.

Winsage

February 4, 2025

5 reasons you should use PowerShell even if you don’t use Windows

PowerShell is a command-line interface that operates across Windows, Linux, and macOS, designed for automation and system management. It utilizes the Common Language Runtime (CLR) from the .NET framework, allowing it to function on any OS with CLR support. PowerShell automates repetitive tasks, enhancing productivity in file management, data processing, and system administration. It provides a familiar interface for system administrators managing mixed environments, facilitating effective cross-platform network management. PowerShell is compatible with Microsoft services like Azure, AWS, VMware, Exchange, and Active Directory, and can execute certain Linux commands natively. Since becoming open-source under the MIT license, it has encouraged community contributions and adaptation for modern IT environments. PowerShell differs from Windows PowerShell by offering cross-platform functionality and regular updates, making it a versatile tool for managing systems and services across various operating systems.

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 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

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.

Winsage

November 27, 2024

16 Best AI PC deals for Black Friday: Save up to $400 off a new AI-ready laptop

AI PCs are gaining attention during the 2024 holiday shopping season, with significant Black Friday deals available. Key processors featured include AMD Ryzen AI, Apple M3 and M4, Intel Core Ultra 200V, and Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite. Current notable AI PC deals include: - Apple M3 MacBook Air: ,099 now 4 at Amazon. - HP OmniBook X: ,199 now 9 at Best Buy. - Dell XPS 13: ,399 now ,099 at Dell. Best AMD AI PC deals: - HP OmniBook Ultra (AMD Ryzen AI): ,379 now 9 at HP. - Asus Vivobook S 14 (AMD Ryzen AI): ,199 now ,013 at Amazon. Best Apple AI PC deals: - Apple M3 MacBook Air 15: ,299 now 9 at Amazon. - Apple M3 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB): ,499 now ,199 at Amazon. - Apple M4 MacBook Pro 14: ,599 now ,399 at Amazon. - Apple M4 MacBook Pro 16 (32GB/1TB): ,999 now ,799 at Best Buy. Best Intel-powered AI PC deals: - Asus ExpertBook P5 (Intel Core Ultra 200V): ,099 now 9 at Asus. - Asus Vivobook S14 (Intel Core Ultra 200V): ,199 now 9 at Walmart. - Dell XPS 13 (Intel Core Ultra 200V): ,399 now ,099 at Dell. - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (Intel Core Ultra 200V): ,299 now 9 at Best Buy. Best Qualcomm Snapdragon X Copilot+ AI PC deals: - HP OmniBook X (Qualcomm Snapdragon): ,199 now 9 at Best Buy. - Dell XPS 13 (Qualcomm Snapdragon): ,199 now 9 at Dell. - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (Qualcomm Snapdragon): ,289 now 9 at Lenovo.

AppWizard

November 4, 2024

Don’t look now, but Macs are finally getting good for gaming

The evolution of gaming on Mac has progressed significantly, with notable improvements in performance, particularly with the introduction of the M-series chips. The Mac Studio M2 Ultra and the 16-inch MacBook Pro M3 Max have demonstrated impressive gaming capabilities, with the latter achieving nearly 90 frames per second in Baldur's Gate 3 and maintaining around 50 FPS at high graphics settings. Historical data shows a clear trajectory of improvement in gaming performance across different MacBook models, with the M3 Max able to run Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 120 FPS at 1200p resolution. Despite these advancements, MacBooks still face challenges compared to dedicated GPUs from competitors like AMD and Nvidia. Upcoming M4 MacBooks are expected to further narrow the performance gap with Windows laptops, particularly as some Windows devices struggle with compatibility issues.

AppWizard

October 8, 2024

Alleged M4 MacBook Pro Unboxing Video Reveals These Four Upgrades

Epic Games has won a legal battle against Google, resulting in a U.S. judge ruling that the Google Play Store is an illegal monopoly. This ruling requires Google to allow Android users to download competing app stores and enables third-party app stores to distribute apps typically found on Google Play. Google can no longer mandate the use of its Google Pay Billing system for transactions, allowing developers to use alternative payment options. Developers can also link to alternative installation methods within their apps. Additionally, Google is prohibited from incentivizing carriers and manufacturers to preinstall the Play Store or rewarding developers for exclusivity. These changes must be implemented within three years, starting November 1, 2024. Google plans to appeal the decision, citing concerns over consumer privacy and security. Epic Games has also filed another lawsuit against Google and Samsung, alleging collusion to obstruct sideloading on Galaxy devices, although there is no evidence to support this claim.