USB Type-C Archives

Winsage

November 17, 2025

I tried 3 Windows laptops with Qualcomm chipsets this year – and found 3 glaring issues

Last year, Microsoft introduced Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, prompting the purchase of a Surface Pro 11, which became essential for daily tasks. This led to acquiring additional devices, including a Surface Laptop and a Dell XPS 13, both with Snapdragon X Elite chips. Despite effective marketing, businesses remain cautious about these devices. Windows on Arm has improved for Office applications and web services, with devices maintaining cool temperatures and long battery life. However, there are limitations: backup software may not work effectively on Arm devices, as external drives are inaccessible during recovery, necessitating workarounds like network or cloud storage. Installing Linux on Snapdragon-powered PCs is challenging due to a lack of compatible installation images, making Intel-based PCs more practical for work tasks. Additionally, Arm-based devices have performance constraints for gaming, with Snapdragon processors unable to compete with dedicated GPUs, making high-performance gaming unfeasible.

AppWizard

September 23, 2025

This Linux phone with Android app support has three kill switches for complete privacy

The Furi Labs FLX1s is a Linux-based smartphone priced at 9, designed with a focus on user privacy and security. It features three physical kill switches: a microphone kill switch, a camera and GPS kill switch, and a cellular connectivity kill switch. The smartphone weighs 201 grams and has a polycarbonate frame with a glass back, a 6.7-inch display (1600x720 pixels, 90 Hz refresh rate), a MediaTek Dimensity 900 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage (expandable via microSD up to 1 TB). It runs on FuriOS, supports Android app compatibility, and features KVM virtualization. The device includes a dual-camera setup (20 MP main and 2 MP macro) and a 13 MP front camera, powered by a 5,000 mAh battery. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, with charging via USB Type-C. The first batch has sold out, and preorders for the second batch are being accepted, with shipments expected in October 2025.

AppWizard

September 10, 2025

HAVN HS 420 VGPU review – pure elegance in PC case form

The HAVN HS 420 VGPU is a premium PC case priced around 0, featuring a minimalist design, a large dual-side glass panel, and strong cooling capabilities. It supports E-ATX, ATX, mATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards, has a CPU cooler clearance of 185mm, and can accommodate graphics cards up to 470mm in length. The case lacks included fans but supports various cooling options, including air and liquid cooling systems with space for radiators up to 420mm. Its dimensions are 260mm x 541mm x 547mm, and it weighs 19kg (41.9lbs). The front panel includes USB Type-C, USB Type-A ports, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The case is constructed from steel, tempered glass, and ABS, and comes with extras like Velcro cable ties and a VESA display mount. Performance tests showed CPU temperatures at 76°C and GPU temperatures at 69°C under full load, with sound levels reaching 53dBA at full fan speed. The case is designed for vertical GPU mounting and includes components like a PCIe 5.0 riser cable.

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Microsoft agrees that USB is a mess and it’s making changes to fix it: ‘Manufacturers can implement ports that look identical but differ wildly in functionality’

Microsoft is implementing new standards to enhance the reliability of USB connections, particularly for devices that comply with the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP). All WHCP-compliant hardware with USB Type-C must use USB-IF-certified silicon, ensuring efficient charging and support for DisplayPort Alt-Mode for additional monitors. USB4 certification requires a maximum data speed of 40 Gbps, up to 15 W of power for accessories, support for dual 4K displays at 60 Hz, and compatibility with PCIe and Thunderbolt 3. Testing is conducted through Microsoft's Hardware Lab Kit (HLK), and certification is paused if issues arise during testing. This initiative aims to clarify USB Type-C port capabilities and improve consumer confidence in WHCP-certified devices.