PC experience Archives

Winsage

May 12, 2025

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just $15

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, reduced from 9, until June 1. Key features include an intuitive interface, enhanced multitasking with snap layouts, improved voice typing, advanced security features like biometric login and encrypted authentication, seamless integration with Microsoft Teams, Azure Active Directory for managing logins, Hyper-V for virtual machines, Windows Sandbox for secure file experimentation, touchscreen support, and Copilot, an AI-powered assistant. The system requirements are 4GB RAM and 40GB of hard drive space.

AppWizard

May 4, 2025

Xbox Game Pass Just Quietly Added The Most Chill Way To Play God In A Classic City Builder

Anno 1800 is a city-building game by Ubisoft set in a Victorian-inspired industrial era, recently launched on Xbox Game Pass. Players colonize resource-rich islands, managing production chains and trade networks while balancing the needs of a growing populace. The console version maintains the depth of the original PC experience with a redesigned user interface that features clean menus and a radial menu system for easier navigation. The game offers a rewarding loop of expansion, optimization, and strategic planning, encouraging immersive gameplay with vibrant visuals and smooth performance. It is designed for players willing to invest time in its complexities, with a campaign mode providing a structured introduction for newcomers.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

Microsoft bundle deal: MS Office and Windows 11 for $54.97

A bundle is available for enhancing existing PCs, including Microsoft Office Professional 2021 and an upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, priced at .97, reduced from the regular price of 8. The Office 2021 suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Windows 11 Pro features a redesigned interface, productivity tools like Snap layouts, multiple virtual desktops, improved voice typing, enhanced search functionalities, and the AI-powered Copilot virtual assistant. Advanced features include Azure AD, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and BitLocker device encryption. Compatibility with current hardware is required, and the offer is not applicable for systems unable to access Windows Update for Windows 11. Prices on StackSocial may change.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

I use Windows Task Manager daily. Here are 9 tips I wish I’d known sooner

Jon Martindale is a technology enthusiast who explores hardware, software, and artificial intelligence. He experiments with AI applications and reviews ergonomic solutions, such as standing desks, to promote better posture and workplace health. His writing shares insights on technology and its impact on daily life.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Upgrade Deadline—Millions Of Windows Users Suddenly Move

Microsoft has made significant changes to Windows, including the elimination of passwords and new account access methods, while warning users about risks like data breaches and identity theft. Windows 10 users face an urgent transition as support ends in six months, with a free upgrade to Windows 11 available for eligible PCs. Recent data shows a 4% increase in Windows 10 users switching to Windows 11, with Windows 10's market share dropping to 54% and Windows 11 rising to over 40%. However, security hardware requirements may prevent some users from upgrading, potentially affecting around 240 million PCs. Users can purchase a 12-month extension for home use, while business users may incur higher fees for extended support. After the support deadline, Microsoft will stop providing updates and security fixes for Windows 10, increasing cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Transitioning to Windows 11 is crucial for users to access the latest security features.

BetaBeacon

March 13, 2025

Google expands PC game support and introduces new earn-back program

Google is launching an earn-back program for native PC games, offering up to 15% additional revenue.

AppWizard

March 4, 2025

GTA 5 Enhanced Edition release time – when you can play the supercharged game

GTA 5 is set to receive an Enhanced Edition, launching on March 4, with features including improved performance, ray tracing, and new vehicles. Players can preload the game via Steam or the Rockstar Games Launcher, where the original version will be renamed GTA 5 Legacy. To transfer Story Mode progress, players must upload their save game through the pause menu. The estimated release time is between 1 AM PST and 2:30 AM PST.

AppWizard

March 1, 2025

Monster Hunter Wilds PC players make Steam reviews their 15th weapon as Capcom’s RE Engine delivers another Dragon’s Dogma 2-sized disaster: “Very immersive game. You can cook a well-done steak on your GPU”

Monster Hunter Wilds has received a mixed rating on Steam, with players expressing significant frustration over its performance issues. Many reviews highlight the game's optimization problems, with players noting that achieving 60fps requires frame generation, which should not be necessary. Capcom has offered tips to improve the gaming experience but has not alleviated player concerns. The game is built on the RE Engine, which has performed well in other titles, but struggles in open-world settings like Monster Hunter Wilds. The critical feedback primarily focuses on the game's performance, indicating a pressing need for improvements.

AppWizard

February 23, 2025

The Best VR Headsets for PC Gaming

In virtual reality, high-quality VR headsets paired with robust gaming PCs enhance the immersive experience, with most top-tier VR games benefiting from superior PC graphics and performance. The best VR headsets for PC include: 1. Valve Index: - Resolution: 1440x1600 per eye - Refresh Rate: 120Hz (144Hz experimental) - Field of View: 130° - Tracking: 6DoF - Weight: 1.79 lbs 2. Meta Quest 3S: - Resolution: 1832x1920 per eye - Refresh Rate: 120Hz - Field of View: 90° - Tracking: 6DoF - Weight: 1.13 lbs 3. HTC Vive Pro 2: - Resolution: 2448x2448 per eye - Refresh Rate: 120Hz - Field of View: 120° - Tracking: 6DoF - Weight: 1.9 lbs 4. HTC Vive XR Elite: - Resolution: 1920x1920 per eye - Refresh Rate: 90Hz - Field of View: 110° - Tracking: 6DoF - Weight: 1.38 lbs 5. PlayStation VR2: - Resolution: 2000x2040 per eye - Refresh Rate: 120Hz - Field of View: 110° - Tracking: 6DoF - Weight: 1.24 lbs Choosing the best VR headset involves evaluating technical specifications, comfort, and fit. A powerful PC is recommended for optimal VR performance, especially for demanding titles. Standalone headsets like the Meta Quest 3S and Pico 4 do not require a PC, while the PlayStation VR2 can connect to a PC with an adapter. VR headsets often go on sale during major shopping events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday/Cyber Monday.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

GTA 5: Everything Being Added In the Surprise PC Update

Rockstar Games will release a free update for GTA Online on PC on March 4th, aimed at aligning the PC experience with features available on PS5 and Xbox Series. The update will include new graphics options, innovative features like Hao's Special Works and ambient animals, and a refreshed Landing Page. Players will also be able to migrate their Story Mode and Online progress to the new version. Detailed system requirements will be shared shortly.