Computing: Best Products - The Tech Lounge https://www.thetechlounge.com Thu, 26 Oct 2023 11:38:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 The Best External SSDs in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-external-ssd/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-external-ssd/#respond Mon, 31 Jan 2022 15:06:21 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=16122 Times are changing rapidly and although it seems that external hard drives have come to the market just recently, fact is that they are already surpassed by the best external SSD drives that are pulling the shots nowadays. In other words, if you are after a drive that allows storing editable high-resolution content or high-performance external libraries for your games that will perfectly match the latest graphics cards and hardware in general, the best portable SSDs are certainly your best option. Of course, they are not all born equal, and finding the best one might come as a challenge; nonetheless, with a little bit of guidance, everything is achievable. Top Picks How to Choose the Best External SSDs When choosing...

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the best external ssd drives

Times are changing rapidly and although it seems that external hard drives have come to the market just recently, fact is that they are already surpassed by the best external SSD drives that are pulling the shots nowadays. In other words, if you are after a drive that allows storing editable high-resolution content or high-performance external libraries for your games that will perfectly match the latest graphics cards and hardware in general, the best portable SSDs are certainly your best option. Of course, they are not all born equal, and finding the best one might come as a challenge; nonetheless, with a little bit of guidance, everything is achievable.

How to Choose the Best External SSDs

When choosing the best external SSD drive, you should pay attention to a few details:

Sequential Read/Write Speed

One of the most importantly aspects of an SSD is its sequential read/write speed that. Depending on the drive, can go from 300MBps, in the case of standard SSDs, up to 3500MBps or above in the case of NVMe-based drives. Fact remains that even the slowest ones will give you satisfying results for mainstream use, while external NVMe drives with 2000MBps read/write sequential speeds are certainly a much better option for high-resolution content creation and high-end gaming.

Connectivity

You can get yourself the best external SSD drive possible; however, if you cannot physically connect it to your device, all that has no purpose. Have in mind that today’s external SSD drives usually have USB Type-C and/or USB Type-A connections. In other words, be sure that the desired drive can be connected to your Mac or PC.

Also, keep in mind that USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports support maximum data transfer speeds of 625MBps, USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports support speeds of around 1250MBps, while USB 3.2 2×2 ports offer speeds of 2500MBps and Thunderbolt 3 ports can deliver 5000MBps data transfer speeds.

Capacity

Along with the data transfer speeds, capacity is another very important aspect of external SSD drives. The larger the capacity, the higher the number of files and data you can store on it. Therefore, be realistic about your needs and choose the drive with the capacity that will be enough for your needs at least for a year.

Also, if you are seeking a better price-per-gigabyte ratio, the best external hard drives are probably a better choice. However, keep in mind that they are more volatile and that better performance is certainly in the hands of the best external SSDs.

Size and portability

SSD drives are generally compact devices; nonetheless, they are still different in size and you can find really tiny ones. In other words, find one that will suit you.

Encryption

If you are a regular home or office user, this feature probably doesn’t play a huge role for you. Nevertheless, if you want to keep some precious information on the drive, such as private photos, classified data, or the things you don’t want others to see, the existence of some sort of protection, such as 256-bit AES hardware encryption, will be more than beneficial.

Price

Price is always an important factor, whether you are buying a car or toothpaste. The price plays an important role; therefore, never spend more money than you have to. If you are seeking a better performing drive, price must be higher, yet be reasonable and realistic in your demands and the final result will be the best external SSD drive possible.

Best External SSD

SanDisk Extreme Pro V2 Portable SSD

One of the Best Out There

sandisk extreme pro v2

SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD is a compact and lightweight (85g) portable SSD that brings blazing fast sequential read/write speeds that should be around the 2000MBps mark. Of course, in real life, these speeds are reduced. However, with the proper hardware, their values can go very close to official numbers, and the only downside is that such devices are usually not available to most users.

When talking about other qualities of this drive, you should know that it brings excellent durability and it can withstand two-meter drops, as well as handle both dust and water, thanks to its compliance with the IP55 rating.

SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD is a well-crafted, 256‐bit AES hardware encryption-protected SSD, with USB 3.2 Gen2x2 connectivity and amazing performance that rightfully positions it among the best external SSD drives and makes it an ideal option for photographers, videographers, and generally people needing super-fast and robust storage.

Pros:

  • 2000MBps speeds
  • Five-year warranty
  • Durable
  • USB 3.2 Gen2x2 interface
  • Hardware encryption
  • Excellent build quality
  • Lightweight
  • Portable
Cons:

  • A bit pricey
  • There are only a few fully compatible devices available that can benefit from its blazing speeds

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LaCie Rugged Raid Pro 4TB (STGW4000800)

An Attractive Looking High-Volume Storage

lacie rugged raid pro 4tb (stgw4000800)

LaCie Rugged Raid Pro 4TB (STGW4000800) is a nice-looking external SSD that maybe doesn’t bring great read/write sequential speeds, but it comes with excellent durability and a great capacity for the price.

On top of that, it is fitted with some handy additions such as a free one-month Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan and an SD card slot, as well as great connectivity that allows its use along with devices with Thunderbolt 3, USB C, or USB 3.0 connectivity. LaCie Rugged Raid Pro 4TB (STGW4000800) comes with a three-year warranty and supports RAID 0 and 1 configurations.

It is resistant to 1.2-meter drops, rain, and even crashes with one-ton vehicles. In other words, it has everything needed for good on-the-go storage; of course, as long as its a bit slower 250MBps sequential read/write speed isn’t an issue for you.

Therefore, if you are after a durable and large-sized SSD drive that you can take anywhere, worry not, LaCie Rugged Raid Pro 4TB (STGW4000800) is the device for you.

Pros:

  • Three-year warranty
  • SD card slot
  • Durable
  • Free one-month Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps Plan
  • Excellent connectivity
Cons:

  • A bit slow

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WD_Black P50

The Best External NVMe SSD

wd black p50

If you are a gamer that seeks super-fast portable SSD storage for your Playstation, Xbox, or PC, WD Black P50 comes as a great option. This is one of the best external SSDs for gaming on the market and it brings nothing less than a premium performance. Its sequential read speeds can reach 3400MBps, while sequential write speeds can go up to 2800MBps, which is impressive, even for today’s standards.

WD Black P50 is available in 250GB, 500GB, and 1TB size and comes with a five-year warranty that is more than a convincing argument of its quality. This external NVMe SSD is a perfect companion for professional gamers and enthusiasts that want to carry their favorite titles wherever they go, thanks to its compact and portable build, as well as shock-resistant nature that makes it perfect for that role.

Inside of this SSD drive, there is a SanDisk 20-880007011 series NVMe controller and a Sandisk 64-layer NAND, while the device itself comes with USB 3.2 Gen2x2 connection, which makes a perfect matchup and presents the key reasons for this drive’s splendid performance.

WD Black P50 is compatible with a large base of devices and can work with Xbox, Playstation, Mac, PC, and many others, which ultimately makes this drive an excellent choice for a wide range of users, especially if you are after one of the best external NVMe SSDs out there, because this drive certainly is that.

Pros:

  • Excellent compatibility
  • USB 3.2 Gen2x2 connectivity
  • Amazing sequential read/write speeds
  • Five-year warranty
Cons:

  • None

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SAMSUNG T7 Touch Portable SSD

A Sleek Look and Solid Performance in One

samsung t7 touch

SAMSUNG T7 Touch Portable SSD is a highly popular, solid-performing external SSD that maybe doesn’t bring top-shelf performance; nonetheless, it brings more than enough speed and a pretty good gigabyte-per-dollar ratio. It is available in 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB size and three different colors: Titan Gray, Indigo Blue, and Metallic Red.

When talking about pure numbers, SAMSUNG T7 reaches 1050MBps sequential read speeds and 1000MBps sequential write speeds. It weighs only 58 grams and is compact-sized which makes it very portable.

SAMSUNG T7 Touch Portable SSD comes with USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity and two separate cables that allow its use with either USB-A or USB-C port. Moreover, it is shock-resistant and can sustain drops from about 1.8 meters, which is another bonus and a nice addition to the already mentioned good portability.

This is a sleek-looking drive, equipped with a Samsung 92-layer TLC V5 V-NAND flash and Samsung Pablo DRAMless NVMe controller, as well as AES 256-bit encryption that maybe doesn’t bring premium speeds; however, it does bring good reliability, decent protection, and solid performance that should satisfy the most.

Therefore, if you are after a solid, but not too expensive storage drive, you may be sure that SAMSUNG T7 Touch is one of the best portable SSD drive options out there and that it offers a good value for your money.

Pros:

  • AES 256-bit encryption
  • Decent performance
  • Strong build
  • Sleek looking
  • Compact
  • Three-year warranty
  • Lightweight
Cons:

  • No IP rating

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WD 1TB My Passport

Decent Performance in a Sleek Edition

wd 1tb my passport

WD 1TB My Passport is a well-built external SSD that offers great durability and equally importantly, solid performance. Sure, its 1050MBps sequential read speed and 1000MBps sequential write speed won’t impress anyone; however, it will give you enough speed for trouble-free work.

This SSD drive comes in four colors (gray, gold, red, and silver) and three capacities: 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB. Moreover, this external SSD comes with 256-bit AES hardware encryption, a five-year warranty, and a compact and lightweight design (48g) that makes it the ideal choice for travel.

Inside of it, there is a SanDisk 20-82-10023 controller and SanDisk BiCS 4 96-layer 3D TLC flash memory that is the most responsible for its good performance, while its shock resistance and 2-meter drop resistance make it a good option for a large base of users.

WD 1TB My Passport offers USB 3.2 Gen-2 Type-C connectivity that can be transformed into a Type-A connection with the help of the adapter, and it presents a good value for the money for anyone looking for the best external SSD drive at an affordable price.

Pros:

  • 256-bit AES hardware encryption
  • Five-year warranty
  • USB 3.2 Gen-2 connectivity
  • Durable
  • Compact
  • Solid performance
  • Lightweight
Cons:

  • Short cable
  • It tends to get hot

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Plugable Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive

Plenty of Speed for a Good Price

plugable thunderbolt 3 external ssd nvme drive

Plugable Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive is an affordable, yet blazing-fast drive that offers 2400MBps sequential read speeds and 1800MBps sequential write speeds. In other words, performance worth the best external SSD drives is there.

To make things even better, this drive comes in three different capacities (512GB, 1TB, and 2TB) and offers Thunderbolt 3 connectivity that makes it suitable for Mac, Windows, and Linux-running devices.

Plugable Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive is lightweight (176 grams), with a full-metal body and a decent three-year warranty. On top of that, it comes with a plug-and-play functionality; it is nice looking and it delivers a compact design that allows you to carry it wherever you go.

This external NVMe drive presents an ideal option for high-resolution content creators and gamers seeking fast-performing external storage which surpasses the best gaming hard drives when it comes to performance. Also, if you are a Mac owner, you should know that Plugable Thunderbolt 3 External SSD NVMe Drive is probably the best external SSD for Mac, considering its price. In other words, it is simply one of the best there is.

Pros:

  • Three-year warranty
  • Compact
  • Durable
  • Fast
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Fair-priced
  • Nice looking
Cons:

  • The cable is a bit short
  • It isn’t backward compatible

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ADATA SE800

Small, Fast, and Made to Last

adata se800

ADATA SE800 portable SSD is a compact and lightweight (40 grams) device that comes in 512GB and 1TB capacity and provides fairly solid performance and sequential read/write speeds of around 1000MBps.

This is a highly compatible device that can work with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android-based devices, as well as various consoles such as PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, making it pretty versatile. ADATA SE800 is available in black and blue color and it comes with the IP68 rating, which means it is waterproof, dust-proof, and shock-resistant. In other words, you may be sure it will survive any sort of abuse.

Moreover, this drive has a plug-and-play functionality, it includes a three-year warranty and provides an attractive, sleek look, as should be the case with one of the best portable SSD drives on the market.

Inside of it, there is a ASMedia ASM2362 controller and Micron 64-layer TLC that provide very good performance together with this drive’s USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity, which positions it neck and neck with the drives such as Crucial X8, which has better responsiveness; however, it also has much slower large file transfer speeds.

In other words, for the price, ADATA SE800 is pretty much one of the best there is and a device that will certainly do the job and please even the most skeptical users.

Pros:

  • Compact
  • Lightweight
  • Three-year warranty
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Fair-priced
  • Solid performance
Cons:

  • Short cables

Check Prices

Crucial X8

The Ideal Compact NVNe SSD

crucial x8

Crucial X8 is a small and practical external NVMe SSD that offers solid 1050MBps sequential read/write speeds and comes with great durability, which makes it suitable for any sort of use. There is shock-resistance, ability to withstand extreme temperatures, as well as drop-proof nature that makes it resistant even to 2.25-meter drops.

Crucial X8 comes with great versatility and can be paired with any sort of device, whether it’s a Windows-run PC, Mac, iPad, Smartphone, or a console such as PS4 or Xbox One. Moreover, it has USB-C 3.1 Gen2 connectivity and comes with an appropriate USB-A adapter that lets you use it with the more traditional devices.

It is available in 500GB, 1TB and 2TB capacity and, equally importantly, it comes with a nice three-year warranty that is another proof of its more-than-solid quality.

Therefore, if you are after the best external NVMe SSD in the budget-friendly area, Crucial X8 is the drive to check.

Pros:

  • Excellent compatibility
  • Durable
  • Three-year warranty
  • Reliable
  • Compact
  • Fair-priced
Cons:

  • No encryption

Check Prices

Seagate Barracuda Fast SSD

A Basic, yet Reliable External SSD Drive

seagate barracuda fast ssd

Seagate Barracuda Fast SSD isn’t the best external SSD available, nor the cheapest, or the most durable one. However, it is one of the more reliable ones and, more importantly, it is favored by the crowds that appreciate true quality when they see it.

Sure, this drive won’t impress you with its 540MBps sequential read/write speeds that are a bit sluggish, yet it will do the job of allowing smooth performance, as long as you are using it for usual office work or casual gaming.

Seagate Barracuda Fast SSD is available in 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB capacity and it offers great versatility that lets you use it along with any sort of console, Mac and Windows-run devices, and so on. This device is protected with a 3-Year Rescue Service Plan and fitted with USB-C USB 3.0 connectivity. It is sleek-looking, portable, and offers a pretty good value for the money, especially for mainstream users that ask for reliability before performance.

Pros:

  • Nice looking
  • Reliable
  • Good compatibility
  • Familiar brand
Cons:

  • A bit slow

Check Prices
The post The Best External SSDs in 2023 first appeared on The Tech Lounge.]]> https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-external-ssd/feed/ 0 The Best Dual Monitor Stands and Mounts in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-dual-monitor-stands-and-mounts/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-dual-monitor-stands-and-mounts/#respond Thu, 15 Oct 2020 15:36:01 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=10124 If you are looking for a proper mounting solution for your “babies” from the best ultra-wide or the best 1440p monitor crowd, you are at the right place. Of course, depending on your appetite and preferences, you are probably thinking about a dual or triple monitor stand. However, have in mind that in this guide you will be introduced only to the first group, the best dual monitor stands that offer great flexibility and usability, allowing you to get the most for your money. So, first things first, we will remind you of the important characteristics of the best dual monitor stands, the aspects that are the main reason for their excellence. Top Picks How to Choose the Best Dual...

The post The Best Dual Monitor Stands and Mounts in 2023 first appeared on The Tech Lounge.]]>
the best dual monitor stands
If you are looking for a proper mounting solution for your “babies” from the best ultra-wide or the best 1440p monitor crowd, you are at the right place. Of course, depending on your appetite and preferences, you are probably thinking about a dual or triple monitor stand.

However, have in mind that in this guide you will be introduced only to the first group, the best dual monitor stands that offer great flexibility and usability, allowing you to get the most for your money.

So, first things first, we will remind you of the important characteristics of the best dual monitor stands, the aspects that are the main reason for their excellence.

Top Picks

Last update on 2025-04-02 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Dual Monitor Stand and Mounts

If you are wondering what criteria separates the best dual monitor stands/mounts from the rest of the bunch, read the following lines carefully.

Sturdiness

The last thing you need happening to your expensive hardware, such as monitors, is for them to fall and break, or get damaged. For that reason, the sturdiness of the stand is of the essential importance and basically presents the cornerstone of the whole mounting concept.

Flexibility

The more adjustment options the dual monitor stand/mount has, the easier you will find the perfect positioning for your monitors. This includes swiveling and tilting capabilities, plate rotation, etc., the larger the angles that are supported, the better flexibility and value for your money you will get.

Weight

A dual stand/mount can offer great design and plenty of options; nevertheless, if it cannot hold the weight of your beloved monitors, it is all for nothing. Therefore, do your homework and be sure that your monitors and the stand can fit together before the purchase.

Best Dual Monitor Stands and Mounts

VIVO STAND-V002

A Very Good Dual Monitor Stand for the Money

vivo stand-v002
VIVO STAND-V002 is a dual monitor stand with a sturdy build and very good overall capabilities. It is highly versatile and provides the ability to rotate your monitors for 360 degrees, height-adjust them over the center pole, as well as tilt them from 80° to -90° and swivel for up to 180°.

This dual monitor stand allows you to place your monitors into both landscape and portrait mode, it offers VESA compatibility (75x75mm and 100x100mm) and supports monitors from 13” to 27” in size and up to 10 kg of weight (combined), allowing for an almost unlimited number of configurations. More importantly, this stand is very easy to install, it has very good cable management and is fitted with heavy-duty C-clamp that just adds to its already great functionality and versatility.

All in all, if you want a product that will give you a very good value for the money and overall one of the better performances among the best dual monitor stands out there, VIVO STAND-V002 is definitely the thing for you.

Pros:

  • Easy to mount
  • Very good cable management
  • Excellent versatility
  • It can stand a lot of weight
  • Full rotation capabilities
Cons:

  • It lacks the individual monitor height adjustment
  • Not the best quality control

Check Prices

 

WALI Dual Monitor Stand MF002

A Solid, yet Affordable Dual Monitor Stand

wali dual monitor stand mf002
If you are after a solid, but not too expensive dual monitor stand that will give you great versatility and usability, WALI Dual Monitor Stand MF002 is the product for you.

However, be aware that this isn’t a perfect product and that it has its downsides, and that is its low weight base that is causing monitors to flip over if the stand isn’t anchored to the desk. Nevertheless, that is pretty common for monitor stands in general, especially more affordable ones.

When talking about other aspects of this stand, you should know that it is VESA compatible (75x75mm and 100x100mm), that it can hold monitors that are up to 27” in size and up to 10 kg of weight (combined) and that it comes with numerous adjustment options that will allow you to easily find the perfect positioning for your monitors.

WALI Dual Monitor Stand MF002 comes with a 16” pole that allows for an easy height adjustment, arms that offer 180° tilt, and the ability to place the monitors in either landscape or portrait mode, as well as rotate them by up to 360°.

To resume, WALI Dual Monitor Stand MF002 is one hell of an option and certainly, one of the best dual monitors mounts out there, with a few drawbacks here and there.

Pros:

  • Easy to adjust
  • Easy to install
  • Sturdy
  • A solid cable management
Cons:

  • A bit unstable base

Check Prices

 

HUANUO Dual Monitor Desk Stand

Excellence in a Sturdy Package

huanuo dual monitor desk stand
HUANUO Dual Monitor Desk Stand is affordable and well-built dual monitor stand, with excellent functionality and usability that makes it a solid option for gamers, developers, and the whole assortment of users that are dependent on the two-monitor configuration.

It is built out of high-quality steel and aluminum and overall delivers a pretty sturdy construction that is suitable for monitors from 13” to 32” in size and with a weight of up to 8 kg (each). Of course, similar to many other stands, this one also requires additional support and needs to be either screwed or bolted down to the desk.

HUANUO Dual Monitor Desk Stand is VESA compatible and supports both 75x75mm and 100x100mm pattern. Moreover, it offers great versatility that is presented through its plate ability to be rotated by 360° and tilted by 180°, as well as the existence of the gas spring mechanism that allows for an easy height adjustment. Other than that, this stand is also fitted with the movable arms that can be swiveled by 180° as well as neat cable management that will allow you to make a perfect configuration with ease.

To make a long story short, if you want one of the best dual monitor stands on the market, HUANUO Dual Monitor Desk Stand will certainly be up to your standards and much more.

Pros:

  • Gas spring mechanism
  • Highly adjustable
  • Very good customer service
  • Easy to install
Cons:

  • Not that stable

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WALI M002

A Highly Functional and Affordable Dual Monitor Stand

wali m002
If you are after an affordable, but efficient dual monitor stand that will deliver plenty of functionality and gives decent value for the money, WALI M002 is the device for you.

With this dual mount, you will get a highly pleasing tool for mounting two monitors that are up to 27” in size and up to 10 kilograms of weight each, as well as ability to easily place your monitors in an ideal position, which comes as the result of this stand’s great capabilities that include the possibility for 360° rotation, 180° tilt and swivel and height adjustment over the 16” height pole.

WALI M002 stand is VESA compatible (75x75mm and 100x100mm); it allows for both landscape and portrait monitor positioning and offers multiple locking mechanisms that include 4” diameter Grommet-Base and C-Clamp that will keep your monitors safe, holding them firmly on your desk.

Altogether, WALI M002 is a solid dual monitor mount, with plenty of options and great versatility that will please even the most demanding ones among our readers.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Excellent versatility
  • It can hold a lot of weight
  • Easy setup
  • Very good customer service
Cons:

  • Not the best build quality
  • A bit flimsy
  • It lacks individual monitor height adjustment

Check Prices

 

Mount-It! MI-2752

A Great Value and Versatility in One

mount-it! mi-2752
Mount-It! MI-2752 is a very practical and easy to use dual monitor stand that can hold up to two 10kg monitors and allow for a simple way to position your monitors in a way you like.

This monitor stand is VESA compatible (75x75mm or 100x100mm); it comes along with a C-clamp and grommet base for sturdy installation and offers great versatility of the mounting arms that can tilt and swivel by 180°, individually rotate, allowing positioning of your monitor in landscape or portrait mode, as well as be raised or lowered over the 17’ long pole.

More importantly, Mount-It! MI-2752 offers very good build quality and overall great sturdiness that are backed with its five-year warranty. Moreover, it offers solid cable management, has good customer service and on top of everything, it is affordable.

In other words, it has everything that the best dual monitor stand should have.

Pros:

  • Five-year warranty
  • Very good customer service
  • Well-made and sturdy
  • Affordable
  • Easy to assemble
Cons:

  • A bit loose joints

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AmazonBasics Premium Stand

A Sturdy, High-Quality Dual Monitor Stand

amazonbasics premium dual monitor stand
AmazonBasics Premium Dual Monitor Stand is a simple-to-use monitor stand that provides great versatility to its users, whether they are gamers, artists, or developers. It is attractive-looking, made out of aluminum that gives it additional sturdiness and overall pretty solidly built.

Moreover, it is VESA compatible (75x75mm and 100x100mm) and easy to install, but more importantly, capable of holding two monitors, with up to 10 kg of weight each. Its retractable arms deliver great flexibility and allow for 75° tilting, as well as an easy rotation from portrait to landscape mode and vice versa helping you find the perfect positioning for your monitors.

AmazonBasics Premium Dual Monitor Stand comes with a one-year warranty and overall offers a lot. However, its price is a bit over the top. Therefore, if you want some of the best dual monitor mounts out there, have in mind that this one offers great performance, but a hefty price tag as well.

Pros:

  • Stable
  • Flexible
  • It can hold a lot of weight
  • Easy installation
  • Attractive looking
Cons:

  • Expensive
  • A bit tricky to tighten
  • Not the best quality control

Check Prices

 

WALI GSWM002

Excellent Performance and Sturdiness at a Reasonable Price

wali gswm002
If you are seeking good flexibility, sturdiness and the price in your new monitor stand/mount WALI GSWM002 is the right thing for you. This a dual monitor wall mount that offers a solid build, good looks, and most importantly, good performance.

It is able to hold monitors that are up to 27” in size and weigh up to 6.5kg (each), giving a solid foundation for a variety of configurations. WALI GSWM002 can be easily adjusted due to its gas spring mechanism, as well as its 120° tilting and 180° swiveling capability, and 360° rotation that allows for the easy monitor positioning in both landscape and portrait mode.

WALI GSWM002 is VESA compatible (75x75mm or 100x100mm) and can be placed on both brick and wood walls. It is fairly priced and offers very much for your money.

Overall, WALI GSWM002 is an exceptional choice and will definitely give you everything you would expect from the best dual monitor wall mount and much more, allowing you to get the best possible value for your money.

Pros:

  • Good versatility
  • Sturdy build
  • A solid cable management
  • Nice looking
  • Fairly priced
  • Good customer service
Cons:

  • A bit bulky and flimsy
  • Not the best quality control
  • Tricky setup

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Loctek Dual Monitor Arm D5D

The Best Dual Monitor Arm on the Market

loctek dual monitor arm d5d
Loctek Dual Monitor Arm D5D is a reasonably priced dual monitor arm, with everything that a developer or a devoted gamer might need.

It boasts VESA compatibility (75x75mm or 100x100mm), solid cable management, as well as numerous adjustment options. Both of its arms can be moved up or down, in a variety of combinations and rotated by 360° allowing for a portrait or a landscape mode. Moreover, they can hold monitors that are up to 27” in size and weigh up to 5 kg (each), giving you a decent level of flexibility.

Loctek Dual Monitor Arm D5D is equipped with a gas spring mechanism for easier movement and offers easy installation that makes it practical for a wide variety of users. More importantly, these arms are very durable, they come with a three-year warranty and offer support for both clamp and grommet installation.

All in all, if you are after the best dual monitor arms on the market, Loctek Dual Monitor Arm D5D should certainly be among your top picks.

Pros:

  • Sturdy
  • Easy to install
  • Very flexible
  • Good cable management
  • Three-year warranty
Cons:

  • A bit flimsy
  • Not the best quality control

Check Prices

 

EleTab ELTGM01-2

A Flexible and Cool-Looking Dual Monitor Arm

eletab eltgm01-2
EleTab ELTGM01-2 is an attractive-looking and highly practical dual monitor arm that offers everything that could be expected from that sort of product.

It delivers great versatility, due to its 360° rotation and 180° tilt and swivel capabilities; it is easy to install and it provides a pretty sturdy construction that should be capable of coping with monitors that are up to 32” in size and weigh up to 8 kg (each).

However, the last count should be taken with a level of precaution, because there are numerous claims of 30” or larger sized screens flipping over when installed on these mounting arms. In other words, official specifications might have been a bit exaggerated; therefore, observe EleTab ELTGM01-2 more as a 27” mounting tool and you will have no trouble with it.

When talking about other characteristics of this mounting arms, have in mind that this device uses a spring system for its up and down movement, that it is VESA compatible (75x75mm or 100x100mm), and that it supports either C-Clamp or Grommet Mount.

In other words, EleTab ELTGM01-2 is apparently a pretty good deal; however, obviously, it has its issues considering allowed monitor size. Therefore, if you have 27” monitors or smaller, this mounting arm is a great option; if not, some other mounting stand is definitely a much better choice.

Pros:

  • Very sturdy
  • A decent cable management
  • Easy to install
  • Nice looking
  • Good versatility
Cons:

  • Not the best customer support
  • It is not really capable of holding 30” size monitors or larger

Check Prices

 

HUANUO Dual Monitor Stand

A Good-Quality Dual-Monitor Stand

huanuo dual monitor stand

HUANUO Dual Monitor Stand is a practical and versatile dual-monitor stand that helps you find the perfect monitor positioning with ease. This monitor stand is well-built, and it offers very good adjustment capabilities, due to the dual-arms, with 180° swivel and 360° rotation capability, as well as a tilting function that allows tilting from -30°, up to +85°.

Above all, this monitor stand can support weight of up to 12kg and can handle monitors that are up to 35” in size. In addition, it is also VESA compatible and supports both 75 x 75mm and 100 x 100 mm VESA standards.

HUANUO Dual Monitor Stand comes with very nice cable management and features a C-clamp and grommet mounting base that allow easy mounting. Also, both of its mounting arms are fitted with a gas spring mechanism that supports more than 25000 movement cycles.

In other words, everything needed for the best monitor setup is there, and all that’s left is to buy one of these beauties.

Pros:

  • Excellent adjustment options
  • Cable management
  • Good-quality build
  • Gas spring monitor arms
Cons:

  • Not the best instructions

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Vari Dual-Monitor

A Very Good Dual-Monitor Stand

vari dual-monitor stand

Vari Dual-Monitor is an easy-to-use dual-monitor stand, with very good durability, and most importantly, excellent adjustability. In other words, if you are seeking a dual-monitor stand that supports a 360-degree rotation, and can be tilted and adjusted on multiple levels, this is the device for you.

This stand supports monitors up to 27” in size and up to 9 kg in weight. Moreover, it is compatible with both 75 x 75mm and 100 x 100 mm VESA standards and allows for an easy assembly that shouldn’t take more than a few minutes of your time.

Vari Dual-Monitor stand is a perfect option for a limited space, due to its height adjustment function, and can be be placed on almost any desk with equal success. Therefore, if you are after one of the best dual-monitor stands out there, you may be sure that the Vari Dual-Monitor stand is more than a good option.

Pros:

  • Easy to assemble
  • Great adjustability
  • A very good option for small tables
Cons:

  • Not the best fit for large-size monitors

Check Prices

 

Summary

If you’re ready to make your own life easier with a new dual monitor stand, by now you should have a very good idea of what you can get and how much you’ll spend on it. Review the list once again, narrow it down, and then you’ll be ready for shopping!

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The Best Curved Monitors in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-curved-monitors/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-curved-monitors/#comments Fri, 07 Aug 2020 13:58:05 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=9473 Traditional flat monitors are no longer ruling the scene if you are into gaming. The top spots are now claimed by the best curved monitors that are providing a much better field of view and altogether raise the gaming experience to another level. Of course, finding the ones that will really do the job is another thing and if you are really up for one of them, and are not an expert in the field, a couple of guidelines and advice will help you. Therefore, focus on the rest of the text and have a nice ride. Top Picks How to choose the best curved monitor When deciding on the best curved monitor, you should take the following factors into...

The post The Best Curved Monitors in 2023 first appeared on The Tech Lounge.]]>
the best curved monitor
Traditional flat monitors are no longer ruling the scene if you are into gaming. The top spots are now claimed by the best curved monitors that are providing a much better field of view and altogether raise the gaming experience to another level.

Of course, finding the ones that will really do the job is another thing and if you are really up for one of them, and are not an expert in the field, a couple of guidelines and advice will help you. Therefore, focus on the rest of the text and have a nice ride.

Top Picks

Last update on 2025-04-05 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to choose the best curved monitor

When deciding on the best curved monitor, you should take the following factors into consideration:

Response time

A small response time means that your monitor will deliver an image with less ghosting or blurring. It is preferable to choose monitors with 5ms or less response time that will help you prevent this unpleasant behavior, or at least reduce it to the minimum.

Refresh rate

The refresh rate is the number that tells you how many new images a screen can display in a second. In other words, the higher the refresh rate, the smoother the motions on your monitor, and the better the overall gaming experience.

Connectivity

The more connectivity options your monitor has, the better its overall versatility is. For that reason, always go for as many connectivity options as possible, and that way, you can prevent some possible future problems.

FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility

AMD FreeSync and NVidia G-Sync compatibility are sorts of today’s standards. Depending on what graphics card you are going to use (AMDs or NVidias), you should look for this type of compatibility in your chosen monitor, or preferably choose the monitor that supports both of these standards, which will certainly overcome any possible issues.

Best Curved Monitors

Alienware AW3420DW

One of the Best Curved Monitors Out There

alienware aw3420dw

Alienware AW3420DW is a premium-quality, 1900R, 34-inch monitor that offers no compromise and brings nothing but the best performance. This is a well-built monitor, with WQHD resolution, and more importantly, a great 2ms response time. Its refresh rate is 120Hz, while the screen itself is Nano IPS, with 98% DCI-P3 and 135% sRGB gamut coverage, meaning you will get highly accurate colors, and very good panel uniformity.

In addition, the screen surface is covered with the Screen Coating Antiglare of 3H hardness, while the monitor provides the NVIDIA G-SYNC support, allowing the games to go as smoothly as possible.

Alienware AW3420DW comes with plenty of connectivity options and offers HDMI1.4 and DisplayPort 1.2 connection, a variety of USB ports (five in total), as well as a headphone and line-out audio jack. This monitor offers 350cd/m2 brightness, provides 8-bit color depth, and delivers solid 178°/178° viewing angles.

Also, Alienware AW3420DW comes in an attractive-looking package and provides an exceptional viewing experience that shows its best results in video and photo editing. In other words, if you want a curved monitor that brings only the best, this piece of equipment is definitely for you, especially if its higher price isn’t an issue for you.

Pros:

  • Excellent viewing experience
  • Attractive looks
  • Large color gamut
  • Good connectivity
Cons:

  • Pricey

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LG 34GL750-B

A Highly Responsive, Low-Lag Gaming Monitor

lg 34gl750-b
For all of you that want to experience the intensive and dynamic games in the best possible way, LG 34GL750-B ultra-wide monitor comes as an ultimate option.

With this monitor, you will get a great response time of 5ms and motion blur reduction of only 1ms. More importantly, you will end up with a device that has a 144Hz refresh rate and is able to deliver a premium gaming experience, furnished with low lag and vivid colors that will allow you to enjoy your favorite titles to the fullest.

When talking about its major downsides, the biggest ones are certainly its low contrast ratio and poor black uniformity; nevertheless, for this class of monitor, certain compromises must be made.

LG 34GL750-B is a 34 inch, HDR10 compatible (only software emulated) IPS monitor, with a 21:9 aspect ratio and only 2560 x 1080 resolution that gives it a low pixel density. Luckily that doesn’t make a huge impact on its image quality that is still pretty sharp and should satisfy the majority of users.

This monitor is both FreeSync and G-Sync compatible, offers good viewing angles, and comes with decent connectivity that includes one DisplayPort, two HDMI ports, two USB3.0 ports and headphones jack.

In other words, if you are seeking the best curved ultra-wide monitor, with plenty of features and great overall performance, LG 34GL750-B is the device for you.

Pros:

  • High refresh rate
  • Sharp image
  • Low lag
  • Good viewing angles
  • FreeSync and G-Sync compatible
Cons:

  • Low contrast ratio
  • Only software-emulated HDR support
  • Low pixel density
  • Not that good black uniformity

Check Prices

 

Acer Predator Gaming X34P

A Monitor Built for Gaming Enthusiasts

acer predator gaming x34p
Acer Predator Gaming X34P is a premium quality monitor, intended for users who want more. It is attractive-looking, and it offers top-class performance, which, translated to numbers, means it is a bit pricey.

However, if you want an ultra-wide, 3440p x 1440p, IPS monitor, with 1900 radius that will deliver fast operations, as well as good contrast and color accuracy, and altogether a great gaming experience, this is the monitor to go for.

This piece of hardware comes with 4ms response time; it is G-Sync compatible and has a respectable refresh rate of 100Hz that, with the help of overclocking, can grow to very competitive 120Hz.

Acer Predator Gaming X34P is equipped with two 7W speakers and offers numerous connectivity options, such as one DisplayPort, one HDMI port, four USB3.0 ports, etc.

More importantly, this monitor brings great value to the user and presents a significant upgrade over its predecessor X34, establishing X34P as a serious competitor and not just a casual bystander, as it is the case with the majority of other Acer products.

To make a long story short, if you want one of the best gaming monitors out there and are not too bothered with the price tag next to it, Acer Predator Gaming X34P is certainly a great choice that won’t disappoint you.

Pros:

  • Attractive looking
  • Good connectivity
  • Excellent image quality
  • Very responsive
  • Excellent build quality
Cons:

  • VA panel has a poor contrast
  • No ultra-low motion blur (ULMB) support

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Samsung 27-Inch CJG56

A Solid and Reasonably Priced Curved Monitor

samsung 27-inch cjg56
Samsung 27-Inch CJG56 is a decent quality monitor, with more than solid performance and, equally important, reasonable price.

Keep in mind that this monitor is FreeSync-compatible, in contrast to previous generations of CJG50 monitors that were lacking this important feature, and that it comes with 1800 radius and the respectful 2560p x 1440p resolution that perfectly fits its 27-inch size.

Samsung 27-Inch CJG56 has great responsiveness (response time is only 4ms) and an excellent refresh rate of 144Hz that make it ideal for gaming. Moreover, it provides an exceptional gray uniformity and low-lag performance, followed by a very good 3000:1 contrast ratio. All of these features rightfully put it among the best curved monitors available.

However, this monitor isn’t without drawbacks and has a few issues, such as bad black uniformity, as well as terrible ergonomics (monitor can’t swivel and can’t be height-adjusted) that damage its otherwise almost perfect aura.

Samsung 27-Inch CJG56 is fitted with one DisplayPort and two HDMI ports and overall delivers pretty good value for the money. Therefore, if you are after the best 1440p monitors out there, this Samsung “baby” should certainly be at the very top of your list.

Pros:

  • High refresh rate
  • Low lag
  • Excellent 4ms response time
  • Good gray uniformity
  • FreeSync compatibility
Cons:

  • No HDR support
  • Poor ergonomics
  • Bad black uniformity

Check Prices

 

LG 34N850-B

A Highly Responsive and Feature-Rich Gaming Monitor

lg 34n850-b
LG 34N850-B is a high-quality monitor, with excellent performance and plenty of features that make it a great option for your gaming adventures.

Its key features include its great 5ms response time, 144Hz refresh rate that can be overclocked to the impressive 160Hz, as well as compatibility with both G-Sync and FreeSync 2 technology.

Moreover, this monitor is HDR10 compatible and comes fitted with the Dynamic Action Sync function that efficiently reduces lag. In other words, premium user experience and fluid gameplay are guaranteed with this fellow.

LG 34N850-B offers 3440p x 1440p resolution, 1000:1 contrast ration, and decent connectivity that incorporates two HDMI and one DisplayPort, as well as three USB3.0 ports.

This monitor delivers accurate colors and overall, very good image quality. However, its dark content reproduction is a bit mediocre, which isn’t a deal-breaker, but may present a serious issue for many, especially if you like playing more dark-oriented titles.

All in all, LG 34N850-B offers a lot for any gaming enthusiast and definitely belongs to the group of the best-curved monitors; however, it also has its flaws. Therefore, seriously consider it, but be sure that its drawbacks won’t make too much of an impact on your overall experience.

Pros:

  • Accurate color reproduction
  • Good ergonomics
  • A solid connectivity
  • FreeSync 2 and G-Sync compatible
  • Very responsive
  • Low lag
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control
  • Poor contrast levels

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ASUS ROG Strix XG35VQ

An Excellent, But Pricey Gaming Monitor

asus rog strix xg35vq
If you are after the best ultra-wide monitor that is able to deliver good image contrast, accurate colors, and overall smooth performance, ASUS ROG Strix XG35VQ is the device for you. However, be prepared to pay a hefty price for it.

Yes, you will get exceptionally fast gaming performance, due to the monitors 1ms response time, as well as very fluid motion that comes as the result of implemented Extra Low Motion Blur technology that will really make a difference.

ASUS ROG Strix XG35VQ has 3440p x 1440p resolution and 1800 radius, and only 100Hz refresh rate that is a bit lower than at the competition, but luckily doesn’t make any noticeable difference. This monitor comes fitted with advanced VA panel that is delivering image quality of lower end HDR compatible monitors and is also compensating its lack of HDR support.

ASUS ROG Strix XG35VQ offers Sync and FreeSync compatibility; it features ASUS Aura Sync RGB lighting and overall provides solid connectivity that includes one DisplayPort, two HDMI ports, as well as three USB3.0 connectors.

All in all, ASUS ROG Strix XG35VQ is almost a perfect gaming device; however, its high price tag is serious baggage on its back that not everyone is willing to accept.

Pros:

  • Slick looking
  • A solid gaming performance
  • Excellent VA panel picture
  • ELMB blur reduction
Cons:

    Expensive

    Only 100Hz refresh rate

    No HDR support

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SAMSUNG Odyssey G9

One of the Largest 1000R Monitors Available

samsung odyssey g9 2

SAMSUNG Odyssey G9 is an expensive, yet really great 1000R, a 49-inch monitor that may surprise you with its large size, but more importantly, it will impress you with its excellent performance. To be exact, this monitor offers 113.7 percent of the sRGB color gamut and 80.6 percent of the DCI-P3 gamut, or in other words, it offers amazing color reproduction. Equally importantly, its brightness is around 561 nits, in the HDR 1000 mode, which is more than respectable for any type of monitor.

SAMSUNG Odyssey G9 has a resolution of 5.120×1.440 pixels, which means that this is a Dual QHD display, which would be appreciated by the gaming community. Also, this monitor brings full support for both G-Sync and FreeSync, offers a 1ms response time, and 240Hz refresh rate, meaning: your games will fly.

If you also factor in its ease of use and good connectivity that includes HDMI, DisplayPort, and multiple USB ports, into the equation, it becomes more than clear that SAMSUNG Odyssey G9 is an impressive device and certainly one of the best curved monitors you can buy on the market.

Pros:

  • Great color reproduction
  • Very good performance
  • Excellent brightness
  • Multiple gaming features
  • Easy to use and adjust
Cons:

  • Expensive
  • No built-in speakers
  • A bit large size

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LG 34GP83A-B

A Highly Versatile Curved QHD Monitor

lg 34gp83a-b

If you are seeking a reasonably priced 1900R curved monitor with a solid build and more than a solid performance, LG 34GP83A-B is the monitor for you. Of course, have in mind that this isn’t a premium product; therefore, a plastic build is inevitable, as well as some other downsides, such as the lack of swivel function, and the limited 1000:1 contrast ratio.

On the other hand, this monitor will give you more than a positive user experience and, with equal success, prove its value in gaming, multimedia, as well as office work.

That should be no wonder, since LG 34GP83A-B monitor features a QHD resolution and offers a respectable 1ms response time and a 144Hz refresh rate that can be easily increased to 144Hz, with a bit of overclocking. Moreover, this monitor provides full support for both G-SYNC and FreeSync Premium and offers DCI-P3 98% Color Gamut and DisplayHDR 400 compatibility that guarantees accurate colors reproduction.

LG 34GP83A-B is a VESA 100×100 compatible device, with decent connectivity options that include two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort, two USB3.0 ports, and a 3.5mm jack. In other words, LG 34GP83A-B offers quite a lot for the price and brings more than a solid performance that is in the class with, for instance, Dell Alienware AW3420DW, if not better.

Therefore, if you are after a responsive, fast, and highly versatile curved monitor, LG 34GP83A-B seems like more than a reasonable choice.

Pros:

  • Reasonably priced
  • High refresh rate and response time
  • Excellent response time
  • Low input lag
  • Good color accuracy
Cons:

  • Adjustments limited to tilt and height
  • Not the best contrast ratio

Check Prices

 

LG 49WL95C-WE

An Excellent Curved Multitasking Monitor

lg 49wl95c-we

LG 49WL95C-WE is an ultra-wide business monitor that offers excellent multitasking characteristics and a solid performance that shows its best sides in video editing. This monitor brings accurate, bright colors and delivers a pretty good value for the money, although its price tag is undoubtedly a bit too high.

LG 49WL95C-WE has a 60Hz refresh rate and features the DQHD 5120 x 1440 pixels resolution, offering a dual-monitor configuration, ideal for any sort of tasks. Moreover, this 49-inch monitor provides a 99% sRGB Color Gamut, it supports HDR10, and offers on-screen controls that can be managed over the five-way joystick controller.

LG 49WL95C-WE comes with good adjustment capabilities that involve adjustable height, swivel, and tilt, and a solid connectivity configuration that includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, four USB 3.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4 port, USB Type-C port, and an audio jack. Also, it offers 350-nits brightness, and a 1,138:1 contrast ratio that isn’t amazing; however, it delivers more than enough for a respectable performance.

In short, if you are after a solid business monitor, which provides very good multitasking capabilities, LG 49WL95C-WE is more than a good option, and certainly one of the best curved monitors for that purpose available.

Pros:

  • Good color accuracy
  • Strong speaker
  • HDR compatible
  • Good connectivity
Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Only a one-year warranty

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ASUS TUF Gaming (VG32VQR)

More than a Solid Curved Gaming Monitor

asus tuf gaming (vg32vqr)

ASUS TUF Gaming (VG32VQR) is a reasonably priced, WQHD, 1800R curved, 31.5-inch monitor that brings a very good 144Hz (it can be increased to 165Hz) refresh rate and very low 4ms response time that results in a speedy performance. In addition, its FreeSync 2 and Adaptive-sync compatibility make the gameplay as smooth as possible, while a handful of features, such as the Low Motion Blur (enables the 1ms MPRT), Ultra-Low Blue Light Technology, Shadow Boost Technology, as well as Flicker-Free Technology make this monitor’s performance a real pleasure.

However, that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides. In the first place, there are the not-that-great extended viewing angles, and the inconsistent HDR400, which may affect this monitor’s otherwise positive impression.

ASUS TUF Gaming (VG32VQR) also provides excellent ergonomics and allows a tilting, swivel, as well as height adjustments. Moreover, its connectivity potential is rather impressive and involves two HDMI 2.0 ports, two DisplayPorts 1.2, two USB3.0 ports, as well as a 3.5mm jack.

In other words, ASUS TUF Gaming (VG32VQR) has quite a lot to offer. There is a crisp and detailed picture, good contrast, a handful of features, fast performance. In other words, the winning combination for the excellent gaming monitor is there.

Pros:

  • Attractive
  • Fast performance
  • Good connectivity
  • Detailed image
  • Three-year warranty
Cons:

  • Not the best extended viewing angles
  • Inconsistent HDR

Check Prices

 

Summary

Are you ready to improve your gaming experience? If you said yes, we’re sure you can find the best-curved monitor in the above list. After that, you should just pick your favorite game and enjoy the ride!

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The Best Mini ITX Motherboards in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-mini-itx-motherboard/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-mini-itx-motherboard/#respond Fri, 15 May 2020 17:52:07 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=8555 Most users have predefined beliefs and criteria when purchasing their gaming rig, they know what the best gaming motherboard is, what the ideal case for their machine is, which RAM memory will give the biggest performance boost, etc. This principle applies to every gaming configuration, no matter its size and regardless of whether we are talking about the best mini ITX motherboard or the best full-size motherboard. Gamers usually know what they want. However, what if you desperately need a solid PC with a mini ITX motherboard inside but have no predefined ideas and basically have no clue what to look for. You are only aware that your space is too small for a full-grown ATX case and that the...

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the best mini itx motherboards
Most users have predefined beliefs and criteria when purchasing their gaming rig, they know what the best gaming motherboard is, what the ideal case for their machine is, which RAM memory will give the biggest performance boost, etc.

This principle applies to every gaming configuration, no matter its size and regardless of whether we are talking about the best mini ITX motherboard or the best full-size motherboard. Gamers usually know what they want.

However, what if you desperately need a solid PC with a mini ITX motherboard inside but have no predefined ideas and basically have no clue what to look for. You are only aware that your space is too small for a full-grown ATX case and that the micro ATX just isn’t your thing.

In other words, you need somebody else’s advice and this guide is made for that purpose in the first place. We’re here to help you find the best mini ITX motherboard and make you as satisfied with it as possible.

If you have decided that this is exactly what you need, pay closer attention to the following criteria, and find the best mini ITX motherboard fast.

Top Picks

Last update on 2025-03-20 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to choose the best mini ITX motherboard

AMD or Intel

The First thing you have to decide when buying a new motherboard is to which clan you will join. Both manufacturers have their advantages and disadvantage and there is no clear winner between them.

In other words, decide based on arguments and don’t let yourself be drawn by brands. Discover which of the two will give more to your cause and make your choice in accordance with that.

Networking

In modern days, the internet and networking are becoming essential more and more. Therefore, do yourself a favor and don’t accept mediocrity in this field.

Features

Plenty of features might not be essential top performance; however, they will certainly help you achieve it. For that reason, always go for as many options as possible, or at least as much as your wallet allows.

Best Mini ITX Motherboards

ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming

One of the Best AMD Mini ITX Motherboards

asus rog strix x570-i gaming

If you are looking for a high-quality, gaming, 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen mini-ITX motherboard, with a ton of features, ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming is the device for you. With this motherboard, you are getting great connectivity that involves Intel Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6, fitted with MU-MIMO functionality, as well as multiple connectors, such as DisplayPort, HDMI2.0 port, and multiple USB ports that include three USB 3.1 G2, one USB 3.1 G2 Type-C, and four USB 3.1 G1 ports.

Moreover, this motherboard has eight SATA ports, as well as two PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots that should satisfy even the more storage-demanding users. ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming also comes equipped with the Aura Sync RGB lighting, as well as RGB LED lighting integrated into the heatsink. In the cooling department, there are actively-cooled VRM, multiple fan headers, as well as a chipset heatsink, and a heat pipe system, responsible for rapid heat dissipation.

In addition, there is also the Supreme S1220A audio, with the DTS Sound Unbound and Sonic Studio III, while the build and the parts used for it are of the highest quality, creating an excellent product worth every person’s attention.

Pros:

  • Great connectivity
  • Feature-rich
  • Good storage capacity
  • Excellent performance
  • Good build quality
Cons:

  • It gets a bit hot
  • AI Suite 3 software is too robust

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Gigabyte X570 I AORUS Pro WiFi

An Excellent Mid-Range Mini ITX Motherboard

gigabyte x570 i aorus pro wifi
A good balance of features, efficiency, and price are essential in order to establish a motherboard as the best mini ITX motherboard available on the market, and in the case of Gigabyte X570 I AORUS Pro WiFi, all these aspects are more than satisfied.

With this motherboard, you are getting excellent latency and consistency, and more importantly, one of the best power deliveries among the mid-range mini ITX motherboards. Along with that, there is a good USB connectivity with plenty of options, including Type C connection, a solid networking with BT5.0, Wi-Fi and Gigabit LAN, as well as respectable storage capacities that involve two M.2 PCIe 4.0 compatible slots and four SATA ports with support for RAID 0, 1, and 10.

Gigabyte X570 I AORUS Pro WiFi supports third- and second-generation Ryzen CPUs and is fitted with eight-phase VRM. Also, due to its excellent value for the money, this Gigabyte motherboard has positioned itself at the sheer top of offerings in its market segment and proved that, although it is a cut-down version of the full-size motherboard, its potential and qualities allow it to successfully compete even with its big brothers.

Pros:

  • Low power consumption
  • Eight phase VRM
  • Good USB connectivity
  • Two M.2 slots with support for PCIe 4.0
  • Excellent price
Cons:

  • Only two 4-pin fan headers

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MSI MPG B550I Gaming Edge WiFi

A Decent AMD Gaming Motherboard

msi mpg b550i gaming edge wifi

MSI MPG B550I Gaming Edge WiFi is a solid, decent-performing gaming motherboard that offers a good overall package. This motherboard supports 4600 MHz memory speed, it offers good overclocking characteristics, and has everything that a mainstream user may need.

There is an excellent 2.5 Gigabit LAN, Intel AX200 Wi-Fi 6, with MU-MIMO, as well as the very good Realtek ALC1200 audio that guarantees a pleasant user experience. When it comes to performance, MSI MPG B550I Gaming Edge WiFi is somewhere at the top of the offerings, among the B550 motherboards, while the 10-phase VRM, with MP2855GUT power controller, offers very impressive power delivery, making this motherboard an excellent choice.

When talking about connectivity and storage capabilities, MSI MPG B550I Gaming Edge WiFi offers a pretty decent package and comes with 1x PCIe x16 port, four SATA ports, two M.2 slots, with RAID0 and RAID1 support, as well as HDMI 2.1 output and multiple USB connectors, six of which are located on the rear of the motherboard.

All in all, if you want a solid-performing gaming motherboard that will fulfill most of your needs, MSI MPG B550I Gaming Edge WiFi is more than a solid option.

Pros:

  • Intel AX200 Wi-Fi
  • Active cooling
  • Three-year warranty
  • Compact
  • Decent performance
Cons:

  • No integrated lighting

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Gigabyte A520I AC

An Affordable, yet Fairly Good Mini ITX Gaming Motherboard

gigabyte a520i ac

Gigabyte A520I AC is an entry-level gaming motherboard, with an AM4 socket and a solid A520 chipset, which all results in a very good overall product. To be exact, this motherboard offers just the right amount of features to deliver a very good user experience; however, there isn’t anything that will truly amaze you.

There is the six-phase VRM, ALC887 Audio Codec, Intel Wi-Fi AC3168 wireless card, with both 5GHz and 2.4GHz band, and Bluetooth 4.2 function, as well as the Gigabit LAN connection. The number of connectors is very good for the size and involves two HDMI and one DP port, six USB ports, as well as multiple 3.5mm jacks.

Gigabyte A520I AC is fitted with four SATA ports, four PCIe3.0 slots, and one PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slot, capable of ultra-high speeds. For cooling purposes, there is the Smart Fan 5 feature, with a variety of sensors and fan headers, as well as an optimized VRM Heatsink that provides more than enough cooling capabilities, even for the more demanding gamers.

All in all, if you are looking for a good-value-for-the-money mini ITX motherboard that provides solid and reliable performance, without any major flaws, Gigabyte A520I AC is more than a good choice and a great deal for most people.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Good value for the money
  • Very good connectivity
  • Great looking
Cons:

  • No PCIe 4.0
  • Wi-Fi 5
  • Only Gigabit Ethernet

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MSI MEG Z490I Unify Gaming Motherboard

A Perfect Base for a Powerful Gaming Machine

msi meg z490i unify gaming motherboard

MSI MEG Z490I Unify Gaming Motherboard is a well-built, high-performing motherboard, with the LGA 1200 socket, and more importantly, a ton of features that make it one of the best mini ITX motherboards available on the market.

With this motherboard, you are getting nothing but the best. That includes Realtek RTL8125B Ethernet controller with the 2.5Gbps LAN, Intel AX201 Wi-Fi 6 CNVi module, with MU-MIMO functionality, BT 5.1 functionality, and 2.4Gbps speeds, as well as the Realtek ALC1220 HD audio codec and the Audio Boost 4 that provide an exceptional audio experience.

On top of that, there is also the 8-phase VRM, Intel JHL7540 Thunderbolt 3 controller, and the decent set of connectors that involve multiple versions of USB ports, as well as the already mentioned Thunderbolt 3 port, Display Port, and HDMI port. MSI MEG Z490I Unify Gaming Motherboard is fitted with one 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, two PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slots, and four SATA ports, with support for RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10.

In other words, everything needed for a positive user experience is there. Therefore, if the best mini ITX motherboard is what you are after, MSI MEG Z490I Unify Gaming Motherboard is more than a reasonable choice.

Pros:

  • Sleek looking
  • 10-layer PCB
  • Thunderbolt port
  • Good connectivity
  • Solid performance
  • Excellent build quality
Cons:

  • No Mystic light
  • Expansion limitations
  • There is the only eight-pin power connector

Check Prices

 

ASUS ROG Strix B450-I

A Bit Older, but Still “Deadly” Mini ITX Motherboard

asus rog strix b450-i
If you are not attracted by the latest gadgets and you respect genuine quality when you see it, ASUS ROG Strix B450-I is a motherboard for you.

When it showed up on the market, this board was high-end, and now, after a few years, it still has plenty to offer and is pretty much a winning deal if you are looking for a feature-rich AM4 motherboard.

The list of its great features includes two M.2 slots; Auto-Tuning and Fan Xpert 4 that will help you find your perfect overclocking and cooling configuration in no time, as well as Aura Sync RGB lighting that is well known for its great lighting performance.

Moreover, there is excellent HD audio, solid networking that includes both Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity, and more than decent USB connectivity.

All in all, ASUS ROG Strix B450-I is a great machine and faithful companion, of course, if you don’t mind its age.

Pros:

  • Two M.2 slots
  • Great audio quality
  • Aura Sync RGB lighting
  • Good overclocking capabilities
  • A solid overall performance
Cons:

  • Not the best Wi-Fi connectivity

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GIGABYTE Z490I AORUS Ultra

A Very Good, Feature-Rich Mini ITX Gaming Motherboard

gigabyte z490i aorus ultra

GIGABYTE Z490I AORUS Ultra is another very good LGA 1200 mini ITX motherboard that brings great practicality, good overclocking characteristics, and an overall solid performance to the market.

This is a well-built, cool-looking motherboard, with good connectivity options and very good VRM hardware, as it should be the case with one of the best mini ITX motherboards out there. To be exact, there is one DP and one HDMI port, 2.5Gbps LAN, as well as a handful of USB ports on the rear end, including one USB 3.2 (Gen2) Type-C port, four USB 3.2 (Gen1) ports, one USB 3.2 (Gen2) Type-A port, as well as two USB 2.0 ports.

GIGABYTE Z490I AORUS Ultra also comes equipped with the Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 controller, with BT5.0, as well as good storage options that include four SATA ports and 2x M.2 Slots.

In addition, there is also the Direct 8 Phases Digital VRM, Realtek ALC1220 audio codec, and the Q Flash Plus that should make the whole user experience even better.

In other words, there is everything needed for a good gaming experience. Therefore, if a well-performing, feature-rich mini ITX motherboard is what you are looking for, you will be more than happy with this choice.

Pros:

  • Good overclocking capabilities
  • Nice looking
  • Very good VRM hardware
  • Plenty of USB ports
Cons:

  • No Active VRM cooling
  • High power draw

Check Prices

 

Summary

If you are ready to buy a new (or not really new) ITX motherboard, we hope this list was helpful. Now all you have to do is pick your companion and you are good to go! Good luck!

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The Best Keyboards for Typing. Mechanical and Membrane Models https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-keyboard-for-typing/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-keyboard-for-typing/#respond Fri, 15 May 2020 17:52:04 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=8536 Keyboards are generally essential hardware if you want to successfully use your computer, and depending on your needs, there are gaming keyboards, ergonomic keyboards, keyboards for typing, etc. In other words, there is a little bit for everyone. However, finding the best keyboards for typing, that are truly worth your time and money is a bit of a different story, and demands for a bit of engagement. Luckily, that is no rocket science and you can do it by yourself and everything you need is to follow a few guidelines and pay closer attention to the following details: Top Picks How to choose the best keyboard for typing Comfortability When talking about the best keyboards for typing, the number one...

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the best keyboards for typing
Keyboards are generally essential hardware if you want to successfully use your computer, and depending on your needs, there are gaming keyboards, ergonomic keyboards, keyboards for typing, etc.

In other words, there is a little bit for everyone. However, finding the best keyboards for typing, that are truly worth your time and money is a bit of a different story, and demands for a bit of engagement.

Luckily, that is no rocket science and you can do it by yourself and everything you need is to follow a few guidelines and pay closer attention to the following details:

Top Picks

Last update on 2025-04-07 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to choose the best keyboard for typing

Comfortability

When talking about the best keyboards for typing, the number one thing on your list of priorities should be comfortability. There is no point in looking fancy, or a feature-rich keyboard if, after a few hours of typing, your hands and wrists hurt.

Compatibility

If you cannot use the keyboard along with your computer, because they aren’t compatible, it is just like you don’t have it at all. For that reason, check the specifications before the purchase, and be sure that your brand new “baby” will work with the rest of your hardware.

Backlighting

Although backlighting might not be so important for many, fact is, if you commonly work in the dark or dimmed space, the existence of this feature is of the highest priority. Therefore, depending on your habits and preferences, don’t forget about this little detail.

Best Keyboards for Typing

Microsoft Keyboard (LXM-00001)

A Comfortable Keyboard Convenient for Everyday Work

microsoft ergonomic keyboard (lxm-00001)
If you are after a decent-quality keyboard, built by a familiar brand, in the way to offer enough comfort for your wrists and hands, Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard (LXM-00001) might be a good option for you.

However, don’t get confused and think that this is the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard, or the Surface Ergonomic, because it isn’t. Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard does deliver fairly decent reliability, practicality, and ergonomics, but is more budget-friendly.

It comes fitted with a palm rest, it offers wired USB2.0 connectivity and has some very neat features such as Office 365 dedicated keys, media controls, emojis, built-in shortcuts, and much more. Unfortunately, many of these features are available only if you have Windows 10 on your computer; other Operating Systems like Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 are just partially supported, while Linux, Mac, etc. aren’t supported at all.

In other words, for the price, this is one of the best keyboards for typing there is. Of course, this only goes if you use Windows 10. For everyone else, there are just better opportunities out there.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Ergonomically built
  • Built-in shortcuts
  • Palm rest
  • Quiet
Cons:

  • It is fully supported only in Windows 10
  • No backlight
  • Not the best quality control

Check Prices

 

Logitech Ergo K860

An Unconventional, but Very Comfortable Wireless Keyboard

logitech ergo k860
Logitech Ergo K860 is a keyboard that continues the Logitech tradition of designing excellent accessories in a variety of fields, from mice and headsets to wireless keyboards. This keyboard provides top-notch build quality and offers the highest level of performance.

Moreover, Logitech Ergo K860 comes with great compatibility and can be successfully paired with numerous Operating Systems, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Linux, Android, etc., as well as be connected with up to three different devices at the same time, through wireless USB and Bluetooth connection.

Logitech Ergo K860 is a full-size keyboard that allows an excessive comfort and an easy finding of a perfect position for your hands and wrists thanks to its curved, split KeyFrame design and adjustable pillowed wrist rest. Also, this keyboard delivers great precision and fluidity and comes with plenty of features, such as hotkeys, battery status, brightness, Search, and many others.

Along with that, it offers quiet operations and allows for a decent level of customization through Logitech Options software, letting you find the optimal configuration for yourself.

All in all, if you want the best wireless keyboard for typing, you can be sure that Logitech Ergo K860 is a device that won’t disappoint you.

Pros:

  • Excellent compatibility
  • Great ergonomic design
  • Highly comfortable
Cons:

  • No backlighting

Check Prices

 

Das Keyboard 4 Professional

A Keyboard Designed for Typing

das keyboard 4 professional
Das Keyboard 4 Professional is a highly capable mechanical keyboard that provides an excellent typing experience and more importantly, improves its speed, thanks to its soft tactile Cherry MX Brown Switches that can stand up to 50 million clicks.

This keyboard is fitted with a two-port USB3.0 hub that supports speeds of up to 5Gb/s, media controls and rather large, but very attractive volume knob, as well as, Mac’s specific key functions that should allow for full compatibility with this Operating System.

Das Keyboard 4 Professional allows for clear and precise typing and overall presents a fairly good deal, but unfortunately has a high price that affects its otherwise highly positive impression.

The list of this keyboard’s benefits also includes black anodized aluminum finish, 201cm long USB cable, a footbar that can also be used as a ruler. These features maybe aren’t essential, but surely add another dimension to the product and make it more valuable.

In other words, Das Keyboard 4 Professional is definitely among the best mechanical keyboard for typing out there, with a lot to offer to its users; however, with one major flaw: its high price tag.

Pros:

  • Excellent Cherry MX brown switches
  • Two USB3.0 ports
  • 201cm long USB cable
  • Good looking
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control
  • Questionable build quality
  • No backlighting
  • Pricey

Check Prices

 

Logitech MX Keys Keyboard

A Typing Keyboard that Doesn’t Accept Any Compromises

logitech mx keys advanced wireless illuminated keyboard
Finding a perfect product is almost impossible; however, some products it can be done, and Logitech MX Keys keyboard is the prime example of that.

This device has everything you need from a typing keyboard and much more. It is comfortable and easy to use, precise, and it offers great stability.

Moreover, this keyboard offers an excellent 10-day battery life and up to five months of use when backlighting is turned off, as well both Bluetooth and USB wireless connectivity and ability to use it simultaneously with up to three different devices.

Logitech MX Keys is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS and many other Operating Systems, it comes with a one-year warranty and allows full customization of its Function keys, with its Options software.

To make a long story short, if you want the best keyboard for typing all day, Logitech MX Keys is the device that you should choose without hesitation.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Precise
  • It can be simultaneously used on up to three devices
  • Excellent compatibility
  • Backlighting
  • Good battery life
Cons:

  • Expensive

Check Prices

 

Razer Pro Type

Productivity King

Razer Pro Type
The Razer Pro Type is a productivity oriented wireless mechanical keyboard with fully programmable keys and switches rated at 80 million keystrokes. Basically, if you’re looking for a no-frills mechanical keyboard, built as a tank and manufactured by a reputable company, the Pro Type has your name on it.

Retailing for a little bit over $100, this is arguably one of the best productivity focused mechanical keyboards on the market, and it’s worth mentioning that it shares its internal components with Razer’s famous Huntsman, but with a few tweaks.

There’s no Chroma lighting in the Pro Type, nor 2.4 Ghz wireless support, but the gaming comforts are still there, which means this keyboard can be easily used in between working sessions, making for the best of both worlds. To make it simple for our readers, the Razer Pro Type has all the comforts and features of a gaming keyboard, but has a classical/office design that will not distract you or people around you.

The 104 keys keyboard features single zone white lighting, with adjustable brightness, and the keycaps have a fantastic soft-touch coating, which makes typing a pleasure. The mechanical switches are a little bit noisier than membrane keyboards, but they’re more durable and satisfying, and their clicking feel accompanied by the long travel make for a highly satisfying typing experience.

By the way, the Razer Pro Type uses tactile Orange switches, which require a stronger press than other Razer keyboards, but that translates into less typos once you get accustomed to it. Also, the keyboards support Synapse, Razer’s configuration software, which means you can create custom profiles with remapped layouts for specific applications, a feature that’s only found in premium productivity keyboards and all gaming keyboards.

Bottom line, if you’re looking for a no-nonsense wireless mechanical keyboard built on the “DNA” of a great gaming keyboard, yet designed for office tasks, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Pros:

  • Premium look and feel
  • Razer Orange switches
  • Syncs to 4 devices at once
  • Excellent build quality
  • Superb typing experience
  • Gaming ready
Cons:

  • Battery life is not the best

Check Prices

 

Logitech K780 Wireless Keyboard

A Highly Portable and Attractive-Looking Wireless Keyboard

logitech k780 multi-device wireless keyboard
Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard is a device that doesn’t offer anything spectacular; however, it delivers the right amount of everything, which makes it desirable not only as one of the best keyboards for typing, but the best all-around keyboard as well.

As mentioned, this device has everything you need. You can use it with up to three different devices and easily switch from one to another; it comes with excellent compatibility and support for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chrome OS and many other Operating Systems, and it offers an amazing two-year battery life that will make you forget you are running a wireless keyboard, not a wired one.

Logitech K780 is a well built, full-size keyboard, with a lightweight construction that, on the other hand, doesn’t affect its durability in any way. Moreover, this device is fitted with Bluetooth and wireless USB connectivity, as well as the PerfectStroke key system that drastically reduces noisy operations and makes this keyboard one of the more silent ones out there.

All in all, Logitech K780 is an affordable and well-balanced keyboard that, before anything else, allows for comfortable use, including a pleasant typing experience. All of this makes it one of the better options available on the market.

Pros:

  • Quiet
  • Comfortable
  • Excellent battery life
  • Reasonably priced
  • Small and lightweight
  • Attractive looking
Cons:

  • Bluetooth connection isn’t that reliable
  • No backlighting

Check Prices

 

Keychron K2

Spectacular Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Keychron K2
The Keychron K2 is an incredibly well built wireless/Bluetooth mechanical keyboard which makes for a great first-buy if you’re looking to enter the world of fast typing. Its sleek and minimalist design is very different from the bulky mechanical keyboards you may be accustomed with, and for way less than $100 you’ll get a 84-key keyboard with function keys, white backlight, Mac/Windows compatibility, Gateron Brown Switches, and a unique Mac layout, if you’re into that kind of gear.

That means you’ll have function keys with Mac legends, plus you can connect the keyboard to up to three devices via Bluetooth, or use it in wired mode with the provided USB C cable, which is kind of cool.

Moreover, you can switch between Android, Windows and Mac/iOS on the fly via the side switches, and you also get 2 angles with the kickstand. Build quality is solid, as the keyboard is plenty heavy and substantial, and it feels like it will last you forever. Speaking of which, the keys are designed to last for 50 million strokes, and the good news is that you can always replace keys easily if you have to, as the keyboard comes with a keycap remover included in the retail package, as well as a few extra key caps, just in case.

Performance wise, the keys are responsive, with a nice smooth texture, and typing is quick and comfortable. Bottom line is, if you’re looking for a true wireless mechanical keyboard which works great on Macs, the K2 makes for an appealing option.

Pros:

  • Solid build quality
  • Minimalist design
  • Hot swappable switches
  • Mac and Windows compatible
  • Wireless or wired operation
Cons:

  • Criminally underpriced

Check Prices

 

Summary

Whether you are a writer, copywriter, translator, or your work just demands a lot of writing, you should get yourself a good keyboard that supports all of that typing and keeps your arms and wrists in a good shape. We are sure our list was helpful and now all you have to do is choose your pair!

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The Best USB-C Chargers https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-usb-c-charger/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-usb-c-charger/#respond Sun, 10 May 2020 10:30:58 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=8501 Life is a constant change. The same principle applies to the technology and one of the concepts that are profiting from that ever-going change is definitely USB C gadgets. Devices like USB C hubs, switches, chargers, and others that are delivering excellent data transfer rates and charging times, as well as great overall performance, are becoming more and more desirable. However, finding the ones that are good enough to fulfill their full potential, such as the best USB-C chargers, is something completely different. In order to achieve that, you must have some knowledge, or listen to someone else’s advice, such as this guide, for example. In other words, if you want your money to be well spent, you need to...

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the best usb-c charger
Life is a constant change. The same principle applies to the technology and one of the concepts that are profiting from that ever-going change is definitely USB C gadgets.

Devices like USB C hubs, switches, chargers, and others that are delivering excellent data transfer rates and charging times, as well as great overall performance, are becoming more and more desirable.

However, finding the ones that are good enough to fulfill their full potential, such as the best USB-C chargers, is something completely different. In order to achieve that, you must have some knowledge, or listen to someone else’s advice, such as this guide, for example.

In other words, if you want your money to be well spent, you need to take some precautions and pay closer attention to a couple of things.

Top Picks

No products found.

How to Choose the Best USB-C Charger

When deciding for the best USB C charger, the following characteristics must be taken into consideration:

Total power output

The most important aspect for any charger is definitely its total power output that will, when insufficient, prevent you from charging your favorite device.

In other words, before the actual purchase, check your gadgets’ specifications and be sure that the chosen USB C charger can feed all your power-hungry devices.

Number of ports

If you need a USB C charger just for charging one device and have no intention of using it for multiple devices, one charging port is more than enough for you. However, if you are into gadgets and have a whole collection of them, multiple charging ports are your only solution.

Practicality

Don’t forget that a charger doesn’t only have to be powerful enough, but it should be practical as well. This is the device that you will take on travels, carry in a pocket or in your bag. Therefore, don’t forget to check the charger’s weight, if there are foldable plugs, what its dimensions are, and generally things that should affect its portability.

Best USB-C Chargers

Anker A2046 63W 4 Port PIQ 3.0 & GaN Fast Charger

Very Smart USB C Fast Charger

Anker A2046 63W 4 Port PIQ 3.0 GaN Fast Charger
If you’re looking for an USB C fast charger at a reasonable price, the Anker A2046 has your name on it. For something like $60, give or take, you’ll get a sleek and stylish 63W 4-port USB C fast charger for basically any electronic gadget you own.

The Anker A2046 is rated at 45W max, which means you can use it to power your iPad Pro, laptop, MacBook and anything in between. The 45W USB C port can be used to charge powerful devices like laptops and the like, while the 18W USB C port is great for smartphones and tablets.

You can also charge up to four devices in the same time, as the Anker A2046 offers 63W of total power. The ultra slim design is due to Anker using state of the art gallium nitride instead of silicon, and the company’s signature PowerIQ 3.0 technology is perfectly capable of delivering high-speed charging to virtually any mobile device, including full compatibility with Samsung Super Fast Charging.

The charger comes with worry-free 18-month warranty, is 0.7’’ thick and weighs a mere 5.4 oz. It’s also worth mentioning Anker’s proprietary MultiProtect safety system that provides full protection for you and all your expensive gear, and the intuitive features in the hardware that adjust charging rates to match the power demand of a given device as well as smart monitoring as to not overcharge a device after it’s reached 100%.

Pros:

  • Smart features
  • Compact design
  • Perfect for traveling
  • High-Speed USB-C Charging
  • Solid warranty
Cons:

  • Nothing worth mentioning

Check Prices

 

Nekteck 72W USB-C Charger

A Solid USB-C Charger that Has Everything You May Need

nekteck 72w 4 port usb c wall charger station
A good USB C charger has to be reliable, compact, and provide enough power and capacity, to allow for simultaneous use of multiple devices, and Nekteck 72W 4 Port USB C Wall Charger Station is exactly that sort of a device.

To begin with, it delivers a total power output of 72W that is separated between the USB-C charging output (60W) and three USB-A Ports (12W) that can support smart charging of up to 2.4A. Nekteck 72W Wall Charger Station is available in black and white color; it comes in a package with a decent 1m-long USB-C cable and a more than welcome 12-month warranty.

Although it isn’t the most affordable charger on the market, this device still presents a great deal. It offers great compatibility that allows you to use it along with MacBook, iPhone, Nintendo Switch, Android devices, Windows laptops, and many more. More importantly, Nekteck 72W Wall Charger Station is equipped with numerous safety features and comes with UL, CE, and FCC certification that, along with its excellent build quality, make it rather reliable.

Now, as you may expect, there also has to be a drawback, and in the case of this charger, its USB-A charging ports are good enough for casual use, but may have a problem with reliability, if they are too frequently exposed to maximum charging.

In other words, Nekteck 72W Wall Charger Station is a very good device that can give you a lot for your money. However, it isn’t perfect, but that is not something you can expect from any device anyways, even if that is the best USB-C wall charger available on the market.

Pros:

  • Excellent compatibility
  • Great build quality
  • Lightweight
Cons:

  • It gets hot

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TECKNET 65W PD 3.0 GaN Charger

Compact and Well Built Super-Fast Charger

TECKNET 65W PD 3.0 GaN Charger
Here comes another 65W Type C super fast charger, this time from TECKNET. The main selling point so to speak of this gadget arguably is low price tag, as the TECKNET retails for less than $40 currently, which makes it a bargain.

The 3 port fast wall charger is fully compatible with a myriad of smartphones and laptops, including the iPhone 12 Pro Max, the MacBook Pro and the latest Samsung Galaxy S21 and S20. Due to its 65W Power Delivery, the TECKNET fast charger can easily power up a depleted MacBook Pro battery, from 0 to 100% in less than 2 hours. This is kind of impressive, and that’s due to the company’s PD 3.0 with PPS technology that can deliver high-speed charging for most mobile devices.

The device is rather compact, standing at 2.2inx1.95inx1.17in and weighs 110g; these are palatable metrics for travellers, and we must mention the GaN technology, which not only reduces the size and weight of the charger dramatically, but also generates less heat, reduces power consumption effectively and improves charging efficiency greatly, makes charging safer and more convenient for people on the go.

Moreover, you can charge up to three devices at the same time, and bottom line, if you’re on a tight budget looking for the one USB charger to rule them all, this one hits the sweet spot. There are more powerful USB chargers out there, with more ports and all that, but consider the price tag and the total output: this baby is a winner in our book.

Pros:

  • USB C Super-Fast Charging
  • Amazing value for money
  • GaN circuitry
  • Travel friendly
  • 65W total power
Cons:

  • Some build quality issues

Check Prices

 

Anker PowerPort III mini

A Reliable Companion for Your Travels

anker powerport iii mini
Anker is a familiar brand that is famous for its high-quality products that provide excellent user experience and great reliability, and Anker PowerPort III mini charger is no exception to that.

This charger has a simple design that doesn’t differentiate it a lot from the competition. However, what does make it stand out is its premium build. Sadly, Anker PowerPort III mini offers only 30W of total output power, which is enough for charging your smartphone or tablet, but for many laptops, that is just insufficient with the exclusion of MacBook.

For that reason, exclude the more power-hungry devices from the equation and observe this charger more as a practical (it weighs only 63 grams, has a foldable plug, etc.), high-quality tool that will charge your smaller portable device in no time. The main reason for that is PowerIQ 3.0 technology that is implemented into this charger and supports maximum charging of 3A that, along with TUV certification, excellent compatibility and a decent 18-month warranty, makes Anker PowerPort III mini a very good option for many and definitely one of the best USB C chargers out there.

Pros:

  • Great compatibility
  • Foldable plug
  • Premium build quality
  • Compact
  • Lightweight
Cons:

  • Its total output power of 30W may not be enough for some users

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Amazon Basics 68W Two-Port GaN Wall Charger

Basic and Efficient 2-Port Charger

Amazon Basics 68W Two-Port GaN Wall Charger
As per its name, this gadget is designed to take care of charging basics with flying colors, i.e. it offers fast simultaneous charging for two devices at the same time, as well as GaN technology which reduces power consumption and improves efficiency.

The Amazon Basics is the perfect tool if you’re looking to fast-charge high-end gear like the iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy 10, MacBook Pro 13-Inch, and more. The charger is very small and light, which makes it ideal for traveling, and it’s designed with a foldable plug which makes it highly portable.

Power is nothing without control, and here safety features come into play: integrated over-voltage, overheating, and short-circuit protection. For the price asked, this 2-port GaN wall charger is hard to beat, hence it’s highly recommended by our testing staff.

Pros:

  • Compact yet powerful
  • Well built
  • Works as advertised
  • Travel friendly
Cons:

  • Nothing worth mentioning

Check Prices

 

Anker PowerPort III Nano

A Small and Practical USB-C Charger

anker powerport iii nano
If you are after a decent USB-C charger that is small enough that you can carry it in your pocket and that provides reliable performance at the same time, Anker PowerPort III Nano is the device for you.

No, it isn’t perfect and has a couple of drawbacks, such as lack of foldable plugs. However, it offers good compatibility, multiple safety features, as well as the feather-like weight of only 30 grams. Moreover, it comes with an 18-month warranty, it involves PowerIQ 3.0 technology and it provides a solid total power output of 18W.

Also, it allows for fast charging of up to 2.4A and, in general, delivers everything that a user might expect and need from their smartphone or tablet charger.

In other words, Anker PowerPort III Nano is a device that won’t overwhelm you, but will surely do the job that you put in front of it.

Pros:

  • Small
  • Allows for fast charging
  • Lightweight
Cons:

  • It comes without the cable
  • No foldable plugs

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Nekteck 100W PD 3.0 GaN Charger

Excellent Travel Charger on a Budget

Nekteck 100W PD 3.0 GaN Charger
If you’re looking for power overwhelming for peanuts money, the Nekteck has your name on it. For less than forty bucks, you’ll end up with a 100W USB C Charger, which is both GaN Tech & USB-IF Certified. The charges comes with a PD 3.0 Adapter with Foldable Plug and supports iPhone Fast Charging, being compatible with lots of high-end devices like the MacBook Air/Pro 13/16, iPad Air/Pro, Galaxy, iPhone 11/XS/XR, to name just a few.

Basically, for that kind of money, the Nekteck is the deal of the century. The GaN certification stands for gallium nitride, which is used instead of regular silicone for obtaining the best charging performance in the smallest possible form factor. This travel charger has a charging efficiency of 90 percent and delivers a maximum output of 100w, which means it can fully charge a MacBook Pro 16’’ in less than two hours.

The Power Delivery 3.0 feature enables compatible devices to be charged faster than industry standard, and the Nekteck is compatible with most USB-C devices, including laptop brands like Samsung, HP Spectre and others that support USB Power Delivery.
And if you’re worried about charging your thousand dollar laptop with a 40 bucks charger, have no worries, as this baby is USB-IF ( TID: 4170 ), FCC Certified and UL Listed, designed with over-charging, over-voltage, over-current, and over- heating protection to guarantee that you can use it to charge your devices without any safety issues.

Pros:

  • Looks and feels solid
  • Quick charges anything
  • Doesn’t get warm
  • Stays in the wall outlet
  • Comes with USB C cable included
  • 100w total output
  • Amazing value for money
Cons:

  • None really at this price

Check Prices

 

Summary

Ready to purchase a new USB-C charger? Now you sure are! We are sure that your best future companion is somewhere in the list above, so do your research and get going!

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The Best Wrist Rests in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-wrist-rest/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-wrist-rest/#respond Thu, 16 Apr 2020 14:26:24 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=7875 Good support for your arms is vital if you are spending long hours in front of your office PC, or your gaming rig. However, not all wrist rests are born equal. In other words, you must find the best wrist rest by yourself, which may present a bit of a problem if you know nothing or almost nothing about the subject. Luckily, if you know where to look or listen for advice, it is much easier… and since you are already here, don’t waste your time, read the following lines carefully and find yourself the best wrist rest in no time. Top Picks How to Choose the Best Wrist Rest You know the drill, boys and girls. Now, it is...

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the best wrist rests
Good support for your arms is vital if you are spending long hours in front of your office PC, or your gaming rig. However, not all wrist rests are born equal. In other words, you must find the best wrist rest by yourself, which may present a bit of a problem if you know nothing or almost nothing about the subject.

Luckily, if you know where to look or listen for advice, it is much easier… and since you are already here, don’t waste your time, read the following lines carefully and find yourself the best wrist rest in no time.

Top Picks

Last update on 2025-04-07 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Wrist Rest

You know the drill, boys and girls. Now, it is the time for the wrist rest characteristics you should pay your attention too, in order to find the best fit, and they include the following:

Comfort and Support

Comfort and support are definitely the most important aspects of wrist rest. This accessory can be attractive looking, have a non-slippery bottom or have some sort of ventilation that will help your hands stay dry. However, what is the point of the product, if it doesn’t perform its primary role?

In other words, make sure that the wrist rest you want complies with these requirements and only after that, look at its other features.

Price

Price is always an important matter, especially if you have a limited budget. However, it is not the guarantee of quality. For that reason, play it smart and choose the one that will perform well and not the one that is the most expensive and hyped.

Durability

Product durability is highly important, no matter what type of product you are buying. The last thing you need is a product that will break or, in this case, tear up a few days or weeks after the purchase. Therefore, check if your selected product can deliver that.

Best Wrist Rests

HyperX Wrist Rest

A Cool-Looking and Highly Durable Wrist Rest

hyperx wrist rest
HyperX Wrist Rest is a comfortable, ergonomically made wrist rest that perfectly fits a full-size keyboard and delivers the much-needed support for your arms.

Its inside is made out of special cool gel memory foam that will give you the proper hand stability, while its anti-slip surface will help you easily find the ideal position.

HyperX Wrist Rest is attractive looking and offers great durability that is enhanced with its anti-fray stitching and overall presents one of the best wrists rests for the keyboard you can find on the market right now.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Ergonomic
  • Good looking
  • Affordable
Cons:

  • Cloth covering is a bit loose

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Kensington Wrist Rest Bundle

A Spaceship Accessory that Will Make Your Life Much Easier

kensington duo gel mouse & keyboard wrist rest bundle
If you are searching for the best keyboard wrist rest, as well as the best wrist rest for a mouse, you will be happy to know that Kensington Duo Gel Mouse & Keyboard Wrist Rest Bundle delivers exactly that. This is a highly practical bundle that delivers the much-needed, good quality support for your arms and an attractive appearance, all in one.

It is available in blue, gray and red color and can be bought as a bundle, or separately, as a mouse or as a keyboard pad.
Kensington Duo Gel Mouse & Keyboard Wrist Rest Bundle has a glossy soft finish that makes it easy to clean, while its inside is filled with gel pillow material, for additional comfortability and proper support.

Another cool feature of this accessory includes its ventilation channels that help your hands stay cool and dry, while its dimensions allow you to easily use it with every size of keyboard, including the full-sized ones.

All in all, if you are spending a lot of time in front of your PC screen and seeking the proper wrist rest, Kensington Duo Gel Mouse & Keyboard Wrist Rest Bundle is definitely an efficient and attractive piece of equipment that will perfectly fulfill that role.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Ventilation channels
Cons:

  • A bit pricey

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Redragon P023

Great Comfortability in a Highly Attractive Package

redragon p023
The best wrist rest doesn’t have to only provide the proper support to your hand and wrist but offers many other features, such as durability, ergonomic design, as well as practicality, like it is the case with Redragon P023 wrist rest.

Whatever purpose you are buying it for, have in mind that this accessory has shown great results in both gaming and everyday use and that in general, it provides solid support to your wrist, thanks to its good quality memory foam inside that delivers soft-to-medium firmness that suits most users.

Redragon P023 is a lightweight and highly practical wrist rest; with a non-slip surface and waterproof coating that makes it easy for cleaning and very practical for use on all sorts of surfaces.

To make a long story short, if you want the best wrist rest for gaming or everyday use, Redragon P023 is pretty much the best option out there.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Practical
  • Washable
  • Available in a variety of sizes
Cons:

  • Because of its roll-up packaging, there could be wrinkles on it

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Glorious Gaming Wrist Pad/Rest

A Good-Quality Wrist Rest for Everyday Use

glorious gaming wrist pad-rest
Glorious Gaming Wrist Pad/Rest is a good-quality wrist rest, with a non-skip rubber base and a pretty strong grip. It is hand-washable and comes fitted with a smooth cloth surface, as well as foam-filled inside that provides medium firmness.

This wrist rest comes in multiple sizes (compact, full size, and extra-large) and with dual lock anti-fraying, a stitched frame that adds to its overall durability. It is very comfortable to use, for both gaming and everyday use, and because it is available in a variety of sizes, it can easily fit all the best gaming keyboards.

Altogether, if you are looking for a good quality wrist rest for your everyday gaming or social media networking, or some other similar activity, Glorious Gaming Wrist Pad/Rest is definitely one of the better choices out there.

Pros:

  • Available in a variety of sizes
  • Durable
  • Hand-washable
Cons:

  • Poor branding
  • A bit slippery

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Razer Ergonomic Wrist Rest Pro

A Perfect Wrist Rest for Your Gaming Adventures

razer ergonomic wrist rest pro

Razer Ergonomic Wrist Rest Pro is a high-quality wrist rest for full-sized keyboards that brings excellent durability and much-needed comfort to the user. This piece of equipment brings an ergonomics design and allows for a comfortable keyboard use in the long run.

It is made out of the finest materials, with the implementation of the cooling gel that is infused in the build, as well as the heat-transfer fabric that decreases the heat buildup during long hours of use, allowing for a trouble-free experience.

Razer Ergonomic Wrist Rest Pro has a universal design that fits every full-sized keyboard, while the inclusion of the anti-slip rubber feet makes it perfectly still on all kinds of surfaces. In other words, if you need a decent wrist rest that can be easily paired with your brand new wireless keyboard, Razer Ergonomic Wrist Rest Pro is more than a good choice.

Pros:

  • Ergonomic
  • Cooling gel implemented in the build
  • Comfortable
  • Great compatibility
Cons:

  • Not that affordable

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Aelfox Memory Foam Wrist Rest

A Highly Comfortable Multi-Purpose Wrist Rest

aelfox memory foam keyboard and mouse wrist rest
Aelfox Memory Foam Keyboard and Mouse Wrist Rest are the much-needed answer to everyone looking for good quality support for their arms and wrists. They are available in black and gray color, they offer firm support for your, and even better, they are not expensive.

Their inside is filled with medical memory foam, delivering, as already mentioned, good support, but great comfortability as well. Its bottom side is made out of rubber that provides a good grip and keeps the wrist rest in one place, while its overall dimensions make it a good option even for the full-length keyboards.

To make a long story short, if you want the best mouse wrist rest and the best wrist rest for keyboard all in one, Aelfox Memory Foam Keyboard and Mouse Wrist Rest are the best options you have.

Pros:

  • Ergonomic
  • Comfortable
  • It delivers good hand and wrist support
Cons:

  • Maybe a bit too thick

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Gimars Elongate Smooth Mouse Pad

Great Versatility and Comfort in One

gimars elongate smooth lycra mouse pad

Gimars Elongate Smooth Mouse Pad is an affordable and highly comfortable keyboard and mouse wrist rest that offers exceptional ergonomics and great comfort even for long periods. It is made out of smooth Lycra fabric, with a textured back, for enhanced anti-slippery characteristics, as well as anti-slip stickers that are another addition to its stability.

This wrist rest set is suitable for both office and home, and brings everything you may need from this kind of equipment. It is reasonably priced, it is comfortable, it has great ergonomics and it can be used on any occasion, which ultimately makes it one of the best wrist rest sets available on the market.

Pros:

  • Great versatility
  • Anti-slip back
  • Ergonomic
  • Affordable
Cons:

  • None

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Yolanda Keyboard Wrist Rest Support Set

A Super Cheap, yet Functional Wrist Rest Set

yolanda wrist rest set

Yolanda Keyboard Wrist Rest Support Set is a very affordable and practical wrist rest set that offers additional comfort and excellent build quality, all in one.

It is fitted with an anti-slip base and it is made out of good-quality materials, offering a neutral position (although it may not offer the best possible support for many users). This wrist rest fits a large base of equipment and brings a pretty good value for the money, of course, if the price tag is one of your priorities when buying your computer equipment.

Pros:

  • Cheap
  • Anti-slip base
  • Comfortable
  • Very good build quality
Cons:

  • Not the best support

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TECKNET Keyboard Wrist Rest and Mouse Pad

A Perfect wrist Rest for the Price

tecknet keyboard wrist rest and mouse pad

TECKNET Keyboard Wrist Rest and Mouse Pad is reasonably priced, lightweight wrist rest set that offers a premium build and more importantly, a comfortable use.

It is made out of the finest materials that include soft breathable fabric and high-quality foam, enhanced with reinforced edges for extended durability. This is an ergonomic piece of equipment, with a non-skid rubber base and it promises a comfortable use even in the long run.

TECKNET Keyboard Wrist Rest and Mouse Pad can be used for any sort of activity, from office to gaming, letting you use it instead of a high-quality gaming mouse pad, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. Therefore, if you want one of the best wrist rests there are at more than a reasonable price, TECKNET Keyboard Wrist Rest and Mouse Pad are more than a good option.

Pros:

  • Ergonomic
  • Excellent build quality
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable
  • Non-skid Rubber base
Cons:

  • It may not be as firm as it should

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Conclusion

Give your arms and wrists the support they need during your long working or gaming hours, before it’s too late and you have a serious problem. Investing in a wrist rest is investing in your health, and we’re sure that any of our suggestions above will be helpful. Happy shopping!

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The Best KVM Switches in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-kvm-switch/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-kvm-switch/#comments Thu, 16 Apr 2020 14:26:20 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=7845 KVM switches are highly practical devices that allow you to connect multiple computers on one display and easily switch between them, at the press of a button, or buttons. In other words, this is a device that can save you both time and resources. However, finding the best KVM switch that will successfully perform each required task isn’t as easy as it may sound. You must have some basic knowledge of the matter, or simply use somebody else’s experience and advice, in order to purchase the best device possible. Top Picks How to choose the best KVM switch If you want to buy the best KVM switch available, and it is assumable that you do, you should take care of...

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the best KVM switches
KVM switches are highly practical devices that allow you to connect multiple computers on one display and easily switch between them, at the press of a button, or buttons. In other words, this is a device that can save you both time and resources.

However, finding the best KVM switch that will successfully perform each required task isn’t as easy as it may sound. You must have some basic knowledge of the matter, or simply use somebody else’s experience and advice, in order to purchase the best device possible.

Top Picks

No products found.

How to choose the best KVM switch

If you want to buy the best KVM switch available, and it is assumable that you do, you should take care of the following KVM switch characteristics:

Number of ports

As you may guess, the more ports there are, the more computers you can connect to the KVM switch. For that reason, make an assumption of how many computers you will simultaneously work with and make the purchase in accordance with that.

Compatibility

The last thing you need is to purchase a device and later discover it cannot work with your computer because of compatibility issues. Therefore, be sure that the desired device complies with this “small” requirement.

Video Output Type

Things are pretty straightforward considering KVM switches. If, for instance, your rigs have only the VGA video outputs, your only option is the KVM switch with that connection.

In other words, these two things must comply with each other. Therefore, don’t forget about this little detail before the final decision.

Best KVM Switches

IOGEAR KVM Switch GCS52DP

A Decent Two-Port KVM Switch

iogear displayport kvm switch gcs52dp
Having a good quality KVM switch, with excellent overall compatibility, ease of use and practicality is essential for any user who must continuously switch between two rigs, and a device such as IOGEAR DisplayPort KVM Switch GCS52DP perfectly fits into that role.

It is compatible with Windows, Linux, Mac, Unix, and many other operating systems, it offers plug and play functionality and more importantly, it provides a straightforward use (switching between the PCs is done by pressing the remote button) that makes it a solid option for both professionals and enthusiasts.

IOGEAR DisplayPort KVM Switch GCS52DP comes with a three-year warranty and supports only a single monitor and 30Hz 4K resolution. It comes equipped with built-in 1.2 meter long cables that allow for the connection of up to two computers, providing a single DP (HDCP compliant), as well as both audio and microphone connection, for each of the two machines. Moreover, it comes fitted with two USB ports that allow you to connect your mouse and keyboard, and mic and audio jack that support both 7.1 and 2.1 audio.

All in all, if you are searching for the best DVI KVM switch that is easy to use at the same time, IOGEAR DisplayPort KVM Switch GCS52DP is a more than a solid option.

Pros:

  • Plug and play
  • Great Compatibility
  • Three-year warranty
Cons:

  • Not the best customer support
  • Keyboard and mouse can freeze during switching from one PC to another

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Rosewill RKV-2UC

A Cheap, but Efficient Two-Port KVM Switch

rosewill rkv-2uc
Rosewill RKV-2UC is a budget-oriented two-port KVM switch that brings only the basic stuff, but for the price, it is a masterpiece.

This KVM switch comes with built-in cables that allow for the connection of up to two computers (there is a single VGA and a double USB connection, for each of the PCs) and allows for a single-monitor displaying, with the maximal resolution of 2048×1536 pixels and two USB connections that are in the most cases reserved for keyboard and mouse.

Rosewill RKV-2UC offers good overall compatibility and can work with Windows and Mac-based systems, while on Linux, its resolution is limited to only 1024×768 pixels, which is, on the other hand, enough if you don’t use Linux on a regular basis.

This is an entry-level, plug-and-play KVM switch, which means there are no advanced features, including the USB3.0, or audio connection. Nevertheless, if the price is one of the decisive factors, for your decision, Rosewill RKV-2UC is the best 2 port KVM switch you can find.

Pros:

  • Cheap
  • Easy to use
  • Plug and play
Cons:

  • No audio connection
  • Not the best quality control

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UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch Selector

An Affordable yet Fast-Performing Device

ugreen usb 3

UGREEN USB 3.0 switch is a compact and lightweight device that brings excellent 5Gbps data transfer speeds, and more importantly, it is super easy to use. This device comes with the plug-and-play functionality and a one-button design that allows you to easily switch from one connected peripheral USB device to another.

The UGREEN USB 3.0 switch allows the connection of up to four USB devices, including scanners, mice, keyboards, printers, and so on. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows and it provides everything that the best USB switch should. Two 1.5-meter USB cables let you use this switch with up to two different computers, there are also LED indicators for easier controls, as well as the excellent build quality, which is another welcome bonus.

In other words, if you want a reliable and easy-to-use device, with solid speeds, and versatility of the best USB hubs, UGREEN USB 3.0 switch is more than a good option for you.

Pros:

  • Plug-and-play device
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • It supports 5Gbps data transfer speeds
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Easy to use
Cons:

  • None

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Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector

A Good Value for the Price

kswllo usb 3.0 switcher selector

Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector is an affordable and easy-to-use device that doesn’t bring anything amazing; however, it brings just enough for the majority of users. There is the respectable 5Gbps data transfer speed, as well as its plug-and-play functionality and straightforward use.

The switch itself is easy to use; it offers backward compatibility and allows its use with up to two different computers and the connection of up to four USB devices, including hard drives, card readers, mice, keyboards, and others.

Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector has a solid build quality; it is attractive-looking and can be used with most today’s computers, including ones run by Windows, Mac, Linux, or Chrome OS.

Therefore, if you are after one of the best-value-for-the-money USB switches available on the market, Kswllo USB 3.0 Switcher Selector is more than a good choice.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Easy to use
  • Nice looking
  • Solid performance
  • Good compatibility
Cons:

  • Numbers marking the USB connections are too tiny

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TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch

A Pricey, High-Tech KVM Switch

tesmart dual monitor kvm switch

TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch may not be the most affordable device on the market; nonetheless, if you want excellent build quality and top-class performance, this is the device for you.

To be exact, this KVM switch provides dual monitor 60Hz 4K video support, as well as 120Hz one at lower resolutions. It supports keyboard and mouse pass-through and allows you to use only a single mouse/keyboard set to fully control up to two different PCs, letting you use both wireless and corded devices, mechanical and gaming keyboards, offering low-latency performance.

TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch comes with EDID emulation support and one-year customer support. In addition, it also supports multiple control methods, including keyboard hotkeys, IR signal, and front panel buttons, offering both great versatility and ease of use in one.

Also, this KVM Switch comes in a package with four high-quality HDMI cables and two USB A/B cables; therefore, you won’t need to purchase additional ones.

In other words, if you want the best KVM Switch available and its high price doesn’t bother you, TESmart Dual Monitor KVM Switch is an excellent choice for you.

Pros:

  • EDID emulation
  • It supports 60Hz 4K video
  • Multiple switching methods
Cons:

  • Expensive

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CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch

An Excellent HDMI KVM Switch

cklau 4kx2k hdmi kvm switch
If you have an amazing 1440p monitor, but two rigs that need to work, CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch is the device for you. This is a KVM switch that supports both 30Hz 2K and 4K resolution, hotkey switching; it has its own remote, offers great compatibility (it works with Windows, Mac, Linux, etc.) and much more.

In other words, this is an amazing device and one of the best 4-port KVM switches you can find on the market right now. More importantly, it has everything that mainstream or advanced users might need. It supports hot-plug, comes fitted with three USB inputs (two reserved for the mouse and the keyboard), as well as audio and microphone connection.

Also, it allows for switching between up to four different computers that can be connected to the switch through combo cables that provide HDMI, USB, Microphone and Audio connection.

CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM Switch is a plug-and-play device with exceptional cable management and overall an amazing deal for the price.

To make a long story short, if you need a good-quality HDMI KVM switch, this is the one to look for.

Pros:

  • Good value for the money
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Good compatibility
  • Hot-key support
  • Easy setup
  • Excellent cable management
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

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Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM Switch

A Great USB Switch for the Money

rybozen usb 3.0 kvm switch
Many of you are not in need of classical KVM switch, but you still demand some of its functionality, as the ability to share and simultaneously use multiple USB devices, and for such users, Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM Switch is the ideal option.

This device allows you to share up to four USB devices, such as printers, keyboards, scanners, card readers, flash drives, and other, between two computers. This KVM switch offers great compatibility and works efficiently with Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, and other operating systems.

More importantly, it is very easy to use; it comes with plug-and-play functionality and can be used with or without a power adapter, which depends on the type of device you are connecting. For instance, external HDDs require additional power.

Overall, Rybozen USB3.0 KVM Switch is a basic device, without fancy gadgets, but most importantly, it does an excellent job. In other words, there is no mistake with this one.

Pros:

  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Excellent compatibility
  • Easy to use
  • Good price
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control
  • USB cords that come along with the device are a bit short

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ABLEWE USB 3.0 Switch

More than a Solid USB Switcher

ablewe usb 3.0 switch

ABLEWE USB 3.0 Switch is a solid, yet affordable USB3.0 switch that brings just the right amount of everything needed by a mainstream user. It offers excellent compatibility and can be used on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS. More importantly, this device offers a plug-and-play functionality and straightforward use that makes it suitable for every age.

ABLEWE USB 3.0 Switch comes with a one-year warranty and allows connection of up to four USB devices, including scanners, printers, keyboards, mice, and others. This USB switcher supports button switching that offers easy changing from one device to another; it comes with LED indicators for easier orientation and handling and brings just what most users are looking for.

There is the compact design, ease of use, good performance, and of course an affordable price that makes a win-win situation without a doubt.

Pros:

  • One-year warranty
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Ease of use
  • Excellent compatibility
Cons:

  • Not the best build quality

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Summary

We are glad if we managed to help you pick the right KVM switch for your needs. Now, all you have to do is get one and connect your devices. We’re sure it will make your life much easier!

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The Best USB Hubs in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-usb-hubs/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-usb-hubs/#respond Thu, 19 Mar 2020 15:45:42 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=7482 Today’s computers, in general, provide a lot of connectivity and expansion options; however, unless you are just a basic user, these expansions still may not be enough for you. In other words, you will need to purchase a device that would make all this possible, and the easiest way to manage that is by buying one of the best USB hubs. This is a device that will offer great versatility and functionality, and give you much-needed expansion capabilities, of course, if you choose the proper model, which can be easily done if you follow the advice presented in the lines below. Top Picks How to choose the best USB hub When deciding for the best USB hub, you must consider...

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best usb hubs
Today’s computers, in general, provide a lot of connectivity and expansion options; however, unless you are just a basic user, these expansions still may not be enough for you. In other words, you will need to purchase a device that would make all this possible, and the easiest way to manage that is by buying one of the best USB hubs.

This is a device that will offer great versatility and functionality, and give you much-needed expansion capabilities, of course, if you choose the proper model, which can be easily done if you follow the advice presented in the lines below.

Top Picks

Last update on 2025-04-08 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to choose the best USB hub

When deciding for the best USB hub, you must consider the following hub characteristics:

USB

USB ports, their number, generation and overall capabilities are the most important aspect of any USB hub. Your chosen device can be super-cheap and offer 10 ports, but what is the point if every port is of USB2.0 type that offers much lower maximum data transfer speeds and needs significantly more time to transfer your pictures, movie or working files.

In other words, pay attention to the USB ports generation and depending on your preferences, choose the devices with at least a couple of USB3.0 ports.

Power Charging

Although power charging isn’t a must, it can make your life much easier and offer an additional power charging tool that would be more than appreciated by always power-hungry smartphones and gadgets.

Compatibility

What is the point of a device if it doesn’t work with your computer? Yes, you guessed right, none.

Therefore, in order not to end up in this type of scenario, read the small print and be sure that the hub you are buying is fully compatible with your devices, and that way, save yourself from a lot of future trouble.

Best USB Hubs

Anker 10 Port Data Hub

An Efficient Large-Capacity USB Hub

anker 10 port 60w data hub 1
A high-quality product, with great functionality, is always welcomed by users, and Anker 10 Port 60W Data Hub is exactly that sort of device. It delivers a solid performance and presents a reliable USB hub option that should equally satisfy Windows, Linux and Mac users.

Anker 10 Port 60W Data Hub has a simple design and comes with a modest 18-month warranty. More importantly, it is equipped with a total of 10 USB ports, seven of which are reserved only for 5Gbps data transfer, and three that are fitted with Anker’s PowerIQ function and the ability to provide up to 2.1A of power per port.

Another interesting fact about this 60W hub is that it comes with built-in surge protection that eliminates the need for buying surge protectors, and that it provides more than enough capacity for both professional and regular use.

This hub has no major flaws, except that it needs an external power supply that, on the other hand, doesn’t affect its overall great usability, which surely makes it one of the best USB3.0 hubs available and a perfect long-run hub option.

Pros:

  • Compact
  • A large number of USB ports
Cons:

  • It needs external power in order to work
  • The USB cable could’ve been a bit longer

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TP-Link UH720

A Highly Compatible and Well-Performing Seven-Port Hub

tp-link uh720
TP-Link UH720 is slim, professional-looking 40W hub that offers plenty of connectivity and overall solid performance.

Although it isn’t perfect and comes with a few limitations (as for example, incompatibility with high-end gaming gear such as Logitech g502, and minor issues with reliability), TP-Link UH720 still presents a great deal. This is mostly due to the great compatibility that allows you to pair it with various Operating Systems as Windows, Linux, Chrome, Mac or Android.

Thanks to its seven USB3.0 data transfer ports (support 5Gbps data transfer speed) and two 2.4A USB charging ports, this hub offers plenty of functionality and capacity that should fulfill most of your needs.

As previously said, TP-Link UH720 isn’t a perfect device; however, it still delivers more than enough to be considered one of the best USB hubs out there and an overall great deal for many.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Plug and play functionality
  • Great compatibility
  • Lightweight
  • Simple design
Cons:

  • Plastic shell prone to scratches
  • It doesn’t work with Logitech g502 and similar gaming equipment
  • Issues with reliability

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Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub

An Affordable Expansion Power Tool

anker 4-port usb 3.0 hub 1

Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub is an affordable and highly practical hub that brings compact size and excellent compatibility all in one. This is a four-port device, with an 18-month warranty and respectable 5Gbps data transfer speeds that position it among the best USB hubs out there.

Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub has great compatibility and can work with Windows, Mac, and Linux-based systems, and offers plug-and-play functionality that allows its use in almost any configuration.

This is a slim device, with a 60cm-long, damage-resistant cable. Overall, it brings a great value for the money. In other words, if you need to expand your limited USB functionality, this is the device to seek.

Pros:

  • Good customer service
  • Solid performance
  • Compact
  • Good compatibility
  • Plug-and-play functionality
Cons:

  • No power charging

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Sabrent HB-UM43

A Cheap, but Efficient USB Hub

sabrent hb-um43
Greatness isn’t reserved only for the high priced, feature-rich products, but can also be found in simple and small stuff, such as Sabrent HB-UM43 hub that has everything that a mainstream user might need, and all that at a highly affordable price.

Sabrent HB-UM43 is fitted with four USB3.0 ports that support data transfer speed of up to 5Gbps, but unfortunately it has no power charging function. Each of these ports is fitted with a LED indicator and the ability to be turned on or off with the help of the dedicated switch, which isn’t that common among hubs, especially in this price range.

This hub is fully compatible with Linux, Windows and Mac-based devices and can be used with, or without a power adapter, which makes its use even more practical.

Many people don’t expect much when they buy affordable products; however, with Sabrent HB-UM43 you may be sure you will get a great product and overall excellent value for the money that will quickly convince you that you have made a good decision.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Cheap
  • Excellent customer service
  • Plug and play functionality
  • Trouble-free performance
  • You can individually turn on or off each port
Cons:

  • No power charging function

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uni USB Hub

An Easy-to-Use Four Port USB Hub

uni usb hub

uni USB Hub is a four-port USB hub, with excellent durability and solid 5Gbps data transfer speeds that rightfully position its neck and neck with the best USB hubs.

uni USB Hub is an aluminum-built device, with great compatibility (it can work with Windows, Mac, and Linux-based systems) and durability, enhanced with overcurrent, overvoltage, overheat, and short circuit protection that make this hub one of a kind.

On top of that, this device also comes with a flexible braided nylon cable and offers a compact, lightweight design that makes it suitable for almost any use.

uni USB Hub is a cool-looking device, with plug-and-play functionality and ease of use. Therefore, if you are after one of the best there is, this hub is a sure thing.

Pros:

  • Good data transfer speeds
  • Easy to use
  • Compact
  • Durable
  • Attractive looking
Cons:

  • None

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Anker USB C Hub PowerExpand+ 11-in-1

A USB Hub that Has It All

anker usb c hub 1

If you are looking for a high-quality USB hub that brings excellent versatility and great practicality in one, Anker USB C Hub PowerExpand+ 11-in-1 is the device for you. Simply, there is everything you may need. There are three USB3.0 ports, one USB Type-C port, as well as the HDMI and the DisplayPort. On top of that, this hub also allows for an Ethernet connection, has an SD card slot, and comes with an AUX port, which is rather impressive for such a small device.

Anker USB C Hub PowerExpand+ 11-in-1 also supports a 2K@60Hz multi-monitor display and a single monitor 4K@60Hz display. It offers 85W pass-through charging and has an 18-month warranty that presents a nice bonus to this otherwise great device.

Anker USB C Hub PowerExpand+ 11-in-1 is a compact and lightweight device, with support for Mac and Windows-based devices, 5Gbps data transfer speeds, and an excellent value for money – of course, if the best USB C hub with great versatility is what you are looking for in the first place.

Pros:

  • Compact
  • Lightweight
  • Decent performance
  • Great versatility
Cons:

  • Pricey

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Plugable 7-Port USB 3.0 Hub

Practicality at Its Best

plugable 7-port usb 3

Plugable 7-Port USB 3.0 Hub is an affordable and easy-to-use seven-port USB hub that supports 5Gbps data transfer speeds and offers multiple features that should make its use a real pleasure.

To begin with, this is a plug-and-play device, with excellent compatibility that allows its use with Windows, Mac, and Linux-based systems. Then, there is the hot-swap capability, over-current protection, as well as the two-year warranty that rightfully positions this hub among the best on the market.

To make things even better, the Plugable 7-Port USB 3.0 Hub also comes with a 36W wall plug, it offers UL certification, and presents an excellent value for your money if you are seeking a compact, high-volume hub.

Pros:

  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Excellent compatibility
  • Two-year warranty
  • Large capacity
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

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YaimhSound 4-Port USB Hub 3.0

An Affordable and Easy to Use Device

yaimhsound 4-port usb hub 3.0

YaimhSound 4-Port USB Hub 3.0 is a compact plug-and-play USB hub that brings an excellent build quality and the fairly respectable 5Gbps data transfer speeds. This is an easy-to-use device, with good compatibility and practical size that makes it suitable for every occasion.

YaimhSound 4-Port USB Hub 3.0 is a pretty durable device, built out of ABS plastic and designed for tough use. In other words, this is a simple and easy-to-use device that doesn’t bring anything special; however, has an excellent price and a solid performance, which makes it attractive to a large base of users.

Therefore, if you are after the affordable, yet functional USB hub, YaimhSound 4-Port USB Hub 3.0 is certainly the device to look for.

Pros:

  • Compact
  • Decent performance
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Good compatibility
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

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BYEASY USB Hub

A USB Type-A and USB Type-C Hub in One

byeasy usb hub

BYEASY USB Hub is a highly versatile and practical USB hub that offers both USB Type-A and USB Type-C connections in one device. This is a compact device with four USB ports, as well as excellent security features that include over-current protection, over-voltage protection, and short circuit protection.

To make things even better, BYEASY USB Hub also comes with a durable 60cm long cable and great compatibility that allows its use with Windows, Linux, and Mac operating systems. On top of that, its price for the four-port 5Gbps hub is more than reasonable, which certainly positions it pretty high on the list of the best USB hubs out there.

Yes, fact remains that it doesn’t bring the versatility of the best all-in-one device (a mixture of the best SD card readers and USB hubs), but it still brings a lot for the money and presents one of the easiest and cheapest ways to expand your limited USB capabilities.

Pros:

  • Good customer service
  • 60cm long cable
  • Slim and portable
  • Excellent security features
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

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Conclusion

Looking to expand your computer connectivity? We are sure you can find the best USB hub in this list – just pay attention to your needs and wants, and then use the process of elimination to find your best pick. Good luck!

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The Best USB-C Hubs in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-usb-c-hubs/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-usb-c-hubs/#respond Thu, 19 Mar 2020 15:45:40 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=7514 Laptops and PCs, in general, come with numerous connections and great diversity. However, what if that isn’t enough and you need more? What if you require an external Hub that will be connected to your computer, with a USB C cable, to provide you with additional connections? In that case, your only option is the best USB C hub that will offer a great variety of connections, as well as a great data transfer speeds that will satisfy your needs. Of course, finding the best among them isn’t the easiest task, especially for newbies. Nevertheless, a little bit of advice can get you where you are headed. Therefore, read the following lines carefully and get yourself the best USB C...

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best usb-c hubs
Laptops and PCs, in general, come with numerous connections and great diversity. However, what if that isn’t enough and you need more? What if you require an external Hub that will be connected to your computer, with a USB C cable, to provide you with additional connections?

In that case, your only option is the best USB C hub that will offer a great variety of connections, as well as a great data transfer speeds that will satisfy your needs.

Of course, finding the best among them isn’t the easiest task, especially for newbies. Nevertheless, a little bit of advice can get you where you are headed. Therefore, read the following lines carefully and get yourself the best USB C hub there is.

Top Picks

No products found.

How to Choose the Best USB C Hub

Finding a perfect USB C Hub fit for your computer is no rocket science, of course. However, as is the case with many other devices, it requires a bit of your involvement and paying attention to some details that are mostly presented in the lines bellow:

Connection Types

The most important characteristic of any USB C Hub is, of course, the type of connections that the hub is providing. Nowadays, one or a couple of HDMI outputs, along with at least two or three USB A ports is a necessity. Therefore, don’t accept anything below that.

Also, if your computer offers only Wi-Fi connection, the existence of an Ethernet port on your hub would be a good idea. Same thing applies to SD card readers as well, because with them you will get even greater functionality and versatility, and you’ll get easy access to your phones or cameras card.

Power Delivery

Most of today’s USB C hubs are equipped with a handy power delivery feature. This function isn’t a must for many; however, it can be very practical, offering an additional power source for your smartphone or computer.

In other words, if you are prone to losing or breaking your power adapters, or are just in constant need of an additional power source, owning this feature on the USB C hub would be a winning deal for you.

Price

There is not much to be said about this, except that a high price isn’t always a proof of a quality. Have in mind that no matter what your budget is, you can always find a decent device in your price range.

Therefore, look after quality presented in other people’s positive experience with the product, number of available connection types, supported data transfer speeds, etc., rather than the price itself.

Best USB-C Hubs

HyperDrive USB C Hub

A Perfect MacBook Companion

hyperdrive usb c hub
No matter how many ports you have in your MacBook Pro or MacBook Air, the reality is that you are probably going to need more, and HyperDrive USB C Hub is the device that will make all that possible.

With its dual Lightning support, two USB3.1 ports, as well as an SD card reader and a 4K 30Hz compatible HDMI port, this hub offers plenty of connectivity options that will satisfy even the most demanding users. Another cool feature of this hub is its two Thunderbolt ports, with their Power Delivery (up to 100W) support and excellent data transfer rates of up to 40Gbps that are capable of handling 5K or 2x4K 60Hz videos.

HyperDrive USB C Hub is compact and practical and more importantly, delivers a solid overall quality. It comes with a one-year warranty and is available in silver and space gray color. Its enclosure is built out of aluminum that provides an additional level of protection, while its altogether functionality and good value for the money make it so desired and popular.

As such, HyperDrive USB C Hub is probably the best USB C Hub for MacBook Pro or MacBook Air that you can get for your buck.

Pros:

  • Variety of ports
  • Excellent data transfer speeds
  • 100W power delivery
Cons:

  • Too sensitive

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HooToo USB C Hub 7 in 1

The Perfect Hub for Digital Nomads

hootoo usb c hub 7 in 1

This is arguably the last USB hub that you’ll ever need. Why? Well, the HooToo has it all: 7 ports available, including the latest USB Type C, 100 W PD charging ports, a 4K HDMI Port, SD and TF card reader, and 3 USB 3.0 ports.

Basically, all “bases” are covered, whether you’re a Mac/iPhone/Android/Windows user. Moreover, the hub features Ultra 4K video transfer @30 Hz, to extend or mirror your screen to a monitor, HDTV or projector, and supports pass-through charging of up to 100W for whatever device.

To make a long story short, this is the ultimate USB hub at an affordable price, and it works as advertised, with as-advertised USB speed and all that, plus it’s built properly, with high-quality materials and workmanship. In other words, it will last you “a lifetime” probably.

Pros:

  • Type C port
  • HDMI, SD/TF card reader
  • Compact and easy to carry
  • Has all the ports in the world
  • Solidly built
  • High speed
  • Works for MacBook
Cons:

  • None really at this price

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Anker PowerExpand+

One of the Best USB C Hubs Out There

anker usb c hub adapter powerexpand+
The best USB C hub for MacBook is a device that has plenty of connectivity options, that is compact and sleek, and most importantly, that offers reliable operations. Something like that is what every Apple fan is searching for, and thanks to Anker USB C Hub Adapter PowerExpand+, that has finally become achievable.

To begin with, this hub offers great compatibility and works not only with MacBooks, but with Windows and Linux based laptops as well. It offers a decent data transfer speed of 5Gbps, Gigabit Ethernet, two USB3.0 ports and both an SD and a micro SD card reader.

More importantly, this Anker hub provides 60W power delivery and allows for 30Hz 4K video distribution. In other words, your every need should be fulfilled.

Keep in mind that Anker USB C Hub Adapter PowerExpand+ is also highly durable due to its aluminum/polycarbonate build and that it is lightweight and very compact, which makes its overall use a highly pleasant experience in the long run.

Pros:

  • Plenty of connectivity options
  • Compact
  • Gigabit Ethernet
  • Good compatibility
Cons:

  • Short 2cm cable
  • USB C port doesn’t support data transfer

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CharJenPro USB C Hub

A Compact and Highly Practical USB C Hub

charjenpro usb c hub
A product doesn’t need to have everything in order to be great, and CharJenPro USB C Hub is the prime example of that. This is a stylish-looking device, available in four colors (black, gray, silver and rose gold) and more importantly, great compatibility that allows for its use alongside tablets and various laptop types, including MacBooks.

CharJenPro USB C Hub comes with a 12-month warranty and great expansion options that include an SD and Micro SD card reader, three USB3.0 ports, as well as one 30Hz 4K compatible HDMI port.

Unfortunately, the hub itself doesn’t have a LAN connection and lacks the data transfer capability of its USB C port. However, it offers power delivery of up to 65W (through USB C port) and provides a highly stable performance that makes it a great accessory for both professionals and mainstream users.

All in all, if you are looking for reliability, good connectivity and overall solid performance in your hub, CharJenPro USB C Hub is surely one of the best you can find.

Pros:

  • Great compatibility
  • Numerous connectivity options
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Excellent customer service
  • It delivers stable connection
Cons:

  • No Ethernet port
  • USB C port doesn’t support data transfer

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FlePow USB C Hub

A Good Product for a Good Price

flepow usb c hub multiport adapter 7 in 1
A combination of an affordable price and decent quality has proved to be a winning combination when talking about computer hardware and accessories, and FlePow USB C Hub Multiport Adapter 7 in 1 offers just that.

To begin with, this hub offers compact size, sleek looks and plug-and-play functionality. More importantly, it provides numerous connectivity options, such as 4K compatible HDMI output, three USB3.0 ports, as well as both Micro SD and SD card readers, with a data transfer speed of 104MBps that allows you to have the best SD card reader and a USB hub all in one.

FlePow USB C Hub Multiport Adapter 7 in 1 comes with an aluminum enclosure for additional support and provides a decent 5Gbps data transfer speed. Unfortunately, it has no Ethernet port and its USB C port supports only power delivery, but luckily, that doesn’t affect its overall great value.

That makes it a great match for your MacBook and one of the best USB C hubs out there.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Plug and play
  • Compact
  • Good connectivity
Cons:

  • No Ethernet port
  • HDMI port doesn’t work with TVs
  • No data transfer support of its USB C port

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MOKiN USB C Adapter

An Excellent Value for the Money

mokin usb c adapter
MOKiN USB C Adapter is a device that doesn’t bring anything spectacular to the market; however, it offers more than enough options for a variety of users.

It has a pretty sturdy construction with aluminum build enclosure, and comes equipped with multiple connections that include: two USB3.0 ports, one 30Hz 4K compatible HDMI port, as well as both Micro SD and SD card reader.

More importantly, it supports 100W power delivery through its USB-C port that is more than enough for powering an external SSD or HDD; however (but only one at the time, which is why Apple USB Super drive, with its great power consumption, is out of the question).

MOKiN USB C Adapter allows for a data transfer rate of up to 5Gbps and should work with a variety of products such as MacBooks, HPs, Dells, etc. Officially, it should also work with Android-based devices; nevertheless, be careful about that because there are multiple reports of its instability when paired with them.

MOKiN USB C Adapter isn’t a perfect device but is probably the best USB C hub for MacBook or a Windows-based laptop that you can find for the money.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • A good amount of connectors
  • Easy to use
  • Compact
  • Affordable
Cons:

  • Connection is a bit unstable when connected to Android devices
  • Stiff cable

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Anker [Upgraded] USB C Hub

A Perfect Expansion Set for Your Laptop or PC

anker upgraded usb c hub adapter 5-in-1
Everyone knows that no matter how many expansion ports you have on your laptop or PC, it is never enough. There is always one more device to be connected, or one more flash to be read. With that in mind, Anker has developed their upgraded USB C Hub Adapter 5-in-1, to deliver plenty of expansion options at an affordable price.

Anker [Upgraded] USB C Hub Adapter 5-in-1 offers a solid build, enhanced with an aluminum chassis, and provides a decent 18-month warranty. More importantly, it is fully compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux-based machines. In other words, good compatibility is guaranteed.
Another quality of this hub is its connectivity that involves a 30Hz 4K compatible HDMI port, three USB3.0 ports with maximum data transfer rate of 5Gbps, as well as one Gigabit LAN port that sadly isn’t of the best quality.

Unfortunately, this can also be said about its lack of SD card reader and inability to offer power delivery. Nevertheless, this hub wasn’t made with that intention in the first place, but to be affordable and offer good expansion capabilities, which makes it one of the best USB C hubs out there.

Pros:

  • Good customer service
  • Solid build
  • Decent connectivity
  • Good price
  • Good compatibility
Cons:

  • No SD card reader
  • No power delivery
  • Unreliable Ethernet port

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Hiearcool 7 in 1 USB C Hub

A Great Value and Low Price in One

hiearcool 7 in 1 usb c hub
Although many people don’t expect much when they buy affordable products, fact is that some of the biggest gems are hidden behind a low price, and Hiearcool 7 in 1 USB C Hub is a prime example of that.

This device comes with great compatibility and supports Mac OS, Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, even Nintendo devices. Moreover, it comes with decent connectivity that includes two USB3.0 ports, 30Hz 4K compatible HDMI output, as well as Micro SD and SD card reader.

Hiearcool 7 in 1 USB C Hub supports for 5Gbps data transfer, as well as power charging of up to 100W, but unfortunately comes without the proper cable, which is why you must purchase USB C cables by yourself.

All in all, if you want plenty of value for the price, Hiearcool 7 in 1 USB C Hub is the best USB C hub there is.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Excellent compatibility
  • Easy to use
  • Sturdy
Cons:

  • Power charging might demand careful cable positioning

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Conclusion

If you’ve decided to expand your connectivity and find the best USB C hub, there’s not much to be told. Just consider our advice and your needs – and you’ll be able to find your perfect match. Once you purchase it, you’ll be good to go!

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The Best DisplayPort Cables in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-displayport-cables/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-displayport-cables/#respond Sat, 04 Jan 2020 15:19:41 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=6737 There are numerous ways to transmit the audio-video signal from the source device to your monitor or a TV. One of the most common ones is definitely an HDMI cable; however, there are also some other quality options and one of the most efficient ones is definitely a DisplayPort cable. DisplayPort cable is cord that delivers equal, if not better performance than the HDMI cable, and presents a rightful competitor for the leading place among the best audio-video transmission cables. Of course, finding the best DisplayPort cable may present an issue, especially for those unfamiliar with cables in general. For that reason, if you are in demand for such a cord, you need to follow the following advice in order...

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best displayport cables
There are numerous ways to transmit the audio-video signal from the source device to your monitor or a TV. One of the most common ones is definitely an HDMI cable; however, there are also some other quality options and one of the most efficient ones is definitely a DisplayPort cable.

DisplayPort cable is cord that delivers equal, if not better performance than the HDMI cable, and presents a rightful competitor for the leading place among the best audio-video transmission cables.

Of course, finding the best DisplayPort cable may present an issue, especially for those unfamiliar with cables in general. For that reason, if you are in demand for such a cord, you need to follow the following advice in order the get the most for your money.

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Last update on 2025-03-30 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best DisplayPort Cable

When you are choosing the best DisplayPort cable you should pay attention to a couple of details, such as:

Compatibility

The most important aspect for any DisplayPort cable is definitely its compatibility. If, for instance, your brand-new cable doesn’t support 4K 60Hz resolution. and that is what you need for your gaming monitor. that cable is useless for you, no matter how little you paid for it.

For that reason, always choose the cables with the widest possible compatibility and save yourself from present and future troubles.

Length

One of the worst things, when you are connecting your devices, is discovering that one of your cables is too short for the configuration that you need. In that sort of situation, your only option is to improvise, and that is something that usually doesn’t end up well.

Therefore, before the purchase, take measurements and be sure that the cable length depicts your true needs.

Shielding

The last thing that you need with your cabling is that the cables break or stop working after a couple of twists. The reason for such a scenario is the poor build quality and the lack of proper shielding.

In other words, in order for you to prevent that from happening, pay closer attention to the sort of shielding your cables have and choose the cords that will offer the longest possible lifespan.

Best DisplayPort Cables

iVANKY DisplayPort 1.4 Cable

A Cable that Has It All

ivanky displayport 1
iVANKY DisplayPort 1.4 Cable is an attractive-looking and highly durable DisplayPort cable that offers amazing performance and great overall quality worth the best DisplayPort cables out there.

It is backward-compatible, it offers great reliability and more importantly, it is pretty resistant to all sorts of “molesting”. To be precise, it can withstand more than 10000 plugs and unplugs, as well as cope with more than 15000 bends. These are certainly respectable numbers that are a sure indication of how durable this cable actually is, especially when combined with its 54-month warranty.

iVANKY DisplayPort 1.4 Cable offers 32.4Gbps data transfer speed, which, when translated into real life, means that it supports 60Hz 8K and 144Hz 4K video, which may be a decisive factor for many.

On top of that, it supports HBR3, HDR, HDCP 2.2, multi-stream transport; in other words, it has everything needed for a terrific user experience. The cable itself is nylon-braided and comes with gold-plated connectors and altogether presents the sheer top of the offering and one of the best DisplayPort cables out there.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Great performance
  • 144Hz 4K compatible
  • Backward compatible
  • 54-month warranty
Cons:

  • None

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Cable Matters DisplayPort Cable

A DisplayPort Cable that Offers Both Sturdiness and Good Performance

cable matters displayport to displayport cable
Finding a DisplayPort cable that will do proper work, offer solid durability and won’t cost too much at the same time is what most customers are hoping for. Most cables don’t fit into that demands; however, there is one that does, and that is Cable Matters DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable.

Thanks to its flexible PVC jacket and bare copper conductors, this cord supports transmission of 4K and Full HD videos, as well as transfer of uncompressed digital 7.1 and 5.1 audio. Moreover, it provides solid durability.

Cable Matters DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable comes in black color and a variety of lengths (1m, 2m, 3m, 4.5m, 7.5m and 10.5m), and altogether presents a decent solution for your DisplayPort cabling needs.

In other words, if you need a solid DisplayPort cord for your brand new gaming monitor, Cable Matters DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable is the cord for you.

Pros:

  • Available in a variety of lengths
  • Shielded
Cons:

  • Not the best reliability

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Snowkids DisplayPort Cable

Great Performance and Excellent Price in One

snowkids displayport cable

If you seek a high-quality DP cable that offers great durability and versatility, Snowkids DisplayPort Cable is the thing for you. To be more exact, this cable supports 32Gbps data transfer speed, as well as HDR and HBR3.

More importantly, Snowkids DisplayPort Cable supports 60Hz 8K video, as well as 144Hz 4K and 165Hz 2K video. It is available in silver and red color and one-meter, two-meter and three-meter length.

Moreover, its build is of the highest quality and it involves copper conductors, braided shielding, and gold-plated connectors. In other words, there is everything that you need. Therefore, if you are after the best DP cable out there, be sure to check the Snowkids DisplayPort Cable as well.

Pros:

  • Excellent build quality
  • Solid performance
  • Reasonable price
  • Flexible
  • Available in multiple lengths
Cons:

  • None

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Capshi DisplayPort Cable

A Solid-Performing and Attractive-Looking DisplayPort Cable

capshi displayport cable
If you are looking for a decent performing DisplayPort cable, with good durability and an affordable price, Capshi DisplayPort Cable is the product for you.

This cable comes in four lengths (1m, 2m, 3m and 5m), it is available in gray, red and blue color, and more importantly, offers solid compatibility.

Capshi DisplayPort Cable supports 4K (144Hz) video, 3D and both 7.1 and 5.1 digital audio channels. Also, it is made out of 28 AWG tinned copper and comes with 24K gold-plated connectors. Moreover, it has multiple shielding that makes it resistant to everyday “harassment” and altogether delivers performance that should satisfy your every need, including the gaming ones.

All in all, if you want the best DisplayPort cable for the money, this one is pretty much it.

Pros:

  • Good performance
  • Available in numerous length and color options
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

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JSAUX 1.2 DP Cable

An Excellent Mid-range DisplayPort Cable

jsaux 1.2 dp cable
JSAUX 1.2 DP Cable is an affordable and highly-durable DisplayPort cable that offers decent performance (it supports 60Hz 4K and 165Hz 2K video) and a solid overall value for the price, which ultimately makes it one of the better offerings on the market.

With this cable, you are getting an excellent-quality build that includes 24K gold plated connectors, 28 AWG tinned copper, as well as triple-layer shielding (a combination of nylon braiding and aluminum shell). More importantly, such construction guarantees a stable video and audio signal, delivering exceptional reliability for its price.

JSAUX 1.2 DP Cable is available in gray and red color and four different lengths (1m, 2m, 3, and 4.5m). Moreover, it provides a plug-and-play functionality and altogether presents one of the best DisplayPort cables in the mainstream market and certainly a pretty good choice.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Solid performance
  • Plug-and-play functionality
  • Affordable
Cons:

  • None

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KabelDirekt DP 1.4

A Perfect Affordable DP Cable

kabeldirekt dp 1.4

KabelDirekt DP 1.4 is a reasonably priced, well-performing DP cable that comes with VESA certification and great compatibility that allows its use in almost any situation. This cable supports 60Hz 8K video, as well as a refresh rate of up to 240Hz, which makes it an ideal option for any gaming monitor.

KabelDirekt DP 1.4 is HDR10 compatible and is available in 1m, 2m, 3m, and 4.5m length. Moreover, its data transfer speed is at the 32Gbps mark, while the overall build quality is of the highest level. To be exact, there are gold-plated connectors, metal shielding protection, and even locking connectors.

In other words, there is everything needed from the best DP cable. For that reason, if you are after one, KabelDirekt DP 1.4 is certainly a product to look for.

Pros:

  • Reasonably priced
  • VESA certified
  • Good performance
  • Three-year warranty
Cons:

  • None

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BENFEI DisplayPort to DisplayPort

Affordability and Good Performance

benfei displayport to displayport
DisplayPort cable market is full of products that look the same and offer the same level of performance. For that reason, it is pretty hard to distinguish the good from bad products. Nevertheless, quality always finds its way to the customers, and we present to you BENFEI DisplayPort to DisplayPort cord, a cable that offers solid performance, compatibility with 4K (60Hz) and full HD video materials, as well as support for both 5.1 and 7.1 audio.

This cord is available in a variety of lengths (1m, 2m, 3m and 4.5m) and in packages of one or two. Moreover, it offers great durability thanks to the usage of 30 AWG copper and gold-plated connectors, and in general, it presents more than a solid deal for people who are looking for good performance, durability and small price in one.

Pros:

  • Simple to use
  • Available in a variety of lengths
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

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Silkland DP Cable

High Quality and Excellent Durability in One

silkland dp cable
If you are seeking a high-quality DisplayPort cable with a solid performance in the reasonably priced area, Silkland DP Cable is the tool for you.

This cable is available in red and gray colors and two lengths (2m and 3m). More importantly, it offers great compatibility and supports HDR, 3D, 8-bit, and 10-bit deep color, HBR2, and much more.

When talking about its performance, you should know that it supports 60Hz 4K and 165Hz and 144Hz 2K video, as well as uncompressed digital audio channels at 7.1, 5.1, and so on.

Silkland DP Cable comes with a great build quality that incorporates the usage of 24K gold-plated connectors, 28 AWG tinned copper wire, multiple braiding layers, and much more. The final result of these features includes excellent durability and the ability to withstand more than 15000 bends.

In other words, with this DisplayPort cable, a great overall package is guaranteed.

Pros:

  • Backward-compatible
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Durable
  • Decent performance
  • Excellent build quality
Cons:

  • Not the best grip

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AmazonBasics DisplayPort Cable

A Little Bit for Everyone

amazonbasics displayport to displayport cable
AmazonBasics cover a wide range of products, from USB Type-C cables to towels, and are known for their affordable price and solid performance. AmazonBasics DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable is no exception to that rule.

This cord is available in packs of one, five or 10 cords and five different sizes (1m, 2, 3m, 4.5m, 7.5m). Also, it supports 4K videos transmission and 5.1 and 7.1 audio and comes with a modest, but still decent one-year warranty.

AmazonBasics DisplayPort to DisplayPort is, as its name suggests, a basic cord that won’t bring anything high-end or deliver performance that can challenge the best DisplayPort cables. Nevertheless, this wire will bring a solid performance, good durability at an affordable price, or in other words, excellent value for the money.

Pros:

  • Available in numerous lengths and quantity options
  • A decent performance
Cons:

  • Not the best quality control

Check Prices

 

JSAUX 1.4 DP Cable

Top Performance at a Reasonable Price

jsaux 1
JSAUX 1.4 DP Cable is a high-quality DisplayPort cable that presents one of the best DisplayPort cables available on the market and certainly one of the better deals out there, thanks to its combination of features, price, and altogether great performance.

Due to its triple-layer shielding that involves aluminum and nylon; it is highly durable, while its performance can be compared with the best cables in the class thanks to its gold-plated connectors and high-quality tinned copper inside. In numbers, that means that this cable supports data transfer speeds of around 32.4Gbps, or in practical terms, it can pass 60Hz 8K and 240Hz 4K videos with ease.

JSAUX 1.4 DP Cable supports HDCP 2.2, HDCP 1.4, HDR, and HBR3. It is backward-compatible and it offers a decent, but not too impressive 18-month warranty.

To conclude, it offers quite a lot for its price – of course, if such high performance is what you need in the first place.

Pros:

  • Excellent performance
  • 8K compatible
  • Durable
  • Great compatibility
Cons:

  • Short warranty

Check Prices

 

Conclusion

The choice isn’t easy when it comes to DisplayPort cables, especially if this is not your area of expertise. However, we hope this guide has helped and that you have a good idea of what you need and where to get it by now. Good luck!

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The Best Custom PC Builders in 2023 https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-custom-pc-builders/ https://www.thetechlounge.com/best-custom-pc-builders/#comments Thu, 19 Dec 2019 20:48:52 +0000 https://www.thetechlounge.com/?p=6550 Today’s article is based on the premise that building your gaming rig instead of buying a “brand one” is a better choice both in terms of money and performance for the buck spent, hence we’ll discuss a hot issue: what’s the best custom gaming pc builder? It’s true that if you know a thing or two about IT, i.e. you’re an experienced engineer or a PC enthusiast, you can order the separate components from Amazon or wherever and build your own gaming PC at home, without engaging third parties into the matter. However, if you’re not well trained/specialized in the fine art of PC building, our advice would be to reach out and touch (pun intended) a company that’s specialized...

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best custom pc builders
Today’s article is based on the premise that building your gaming rig instead of buying a “brand one” is a better choice both in terms of money and performance for the buck spent, hence we’ll discuss a hot issue: what’s the best custom gaming pc builder? It’s true that if you know a thing or two about IT, i.e. you’re an experienced engineer or a PC enthusiast, you can order the separate components from Amazon or wherever and build your own gaming PC at home, without engaging third parties into the matter.

However, if you’re not well trained/specialized in the fine art of PC building, our advice would be to reach out and touch (pun intended) a company that’s specialized in producing custom machines, as per their customers’ request.

Basically, these folks are capable of delivering specialized rigs to meet anyone’s needs, ranging from machine learning to gaming. Or maybe you want a water-cooled PC with a dual GPU thing? Have no worries, because regardless of what you need, these guys are ready to go.

How to Choose the Best Custom PC Builder

Budget

Obviously, we’re not all rich and driving Ferraris, hence one’s budget comes into play even in the custom PC racket. Depending on what type of components you require in your gaming rig, including cool extras like water cooling systems to keep your hardcore gaming CPU at arctic temperatures, get ready to pay the premium if you want the best of the best. As always, there’s a building mark-up, because these guys have to pay rent and all that, so prepare to pay a little bit extra on a custom-built PC.

Warranty Issues

Since we’re talking about expensive gear and exotic components, pay extra attention to the warranty conditions; unfortunately, people tend to get distracted about this issue due to mysterious reasons. The point being, look for extended warranty offers and, provided there are warranty extension packages available, just go for it, as it will be worth the extra money in the long run if something unexpected happens, for example – you spill your beer inside your $3000 rig.

Customization Options

Even if this may sound redundant, customizability is important, as in how much liberty you have in terms of customizing your PC. Some companies are limited to components, while others offer the whole 9 yards: you can customize everything, ranging from the paint on the chassis to hardware components.

Customer Service

Yes, room service is important, and the same goes for customer service. If something goes terribly wrong, you don’t want to spend two hours on the phone or chatting with a clueless drone, hence we’ll only recommend companies with a “clean bill of health” in this regard.

Now, if you want to go DIY without involving 3rd parties, here’s a free tip i.e. some websites to help you build your PC:

• PC Part Picker
• Pangoly
• Logical Increments

With all these in mind, let’s take a closer look at the best custom PC builders right after a short commercial break:

Best Custom PC Builders

iBuyPower

Fantastic Services

ibuypower
iBuyPower is one of the most affordable custom PC builders out there, and the company is currently trying to win the hearts and minds of CyberPowerPC customers, which makes for its main competitor in the “best bang for the buck” niche, but we’ll tell you more about the latter in a jiffy. iBuyPower was founded back in 1999 and the company’s headquarters are located in sunny California. These guys are specialized in gaming-media custom PCs and they deliver in the USA and Canada only for the time being.

In terms of warranty offered, iBuyPower plays it safe, with 1-year warranty for parts and 3 for labor, yet they offer 4 and 5 years extended warranty for parts. However, they’ll charge you extra for that option and you’ll have to contact them if you want to buy the extended warranty. The company doesn’t handle the shipping and handling expenses, yet they offer a thirty-day money-back guarantee.

Compared to some of its competitors, iBuyPower’s website is focused on advanced computer users, and that gives them an edge in a crowded market. However, you’ll find an Easy Builder Tool on the company’s official website which is excellent for “noobs” looking to build the gaming rig of their dreams. The online configurator is easy to use and helps a lot with choosing the best machine given one’s particular budget, or to meet (and exceed) the customer’s particular demands.

Other than offering a variety of gaming-oriented desktop PC’s and laptops, iBuyPower also owns several brands of gaming gear which are famous in the eSports world.

Pros:

  • Easy Builder tool works great and saves time (and money)
  • extended labor/parts warranty available
  • extensive customization options including upgraded cases and RGB lighting
  • offers affordable prebuilt systems on Amazon
  • financing/monthly payments available
Cons:

  • hard to think of anything really

Visit the Website

 

CyberPowerPC

The Power of Dreams

cyberpowerpc
As we already told in the previous review, CyberPowerPC is our next pick for the best custom PC builder. CyberPowerPC was founded in 1998, one year before iBuyPower, hence they have “the higher ground”, so to speak. The company is actually one of the oldest in the industry and it’s based in California, in the “City of Industry” respectively, being known for producing cutting edge top-notch gaming PC’s.

If you take a look at their website, it becomes obvious why CyberPowerPC is one of the most trusted and most popular PC builders in the world, as they offer a wide array of machines to suit every budget. It’s important to mention that CyberPowerPC doesn’t cut corners with warranty issues, which is crucial. For example, most of their PCs come with a three-year labor warranty and one-year warranty on parts, while the company also offers lifetime tech support, which is rather unique in this niche.

CyberPowerPC’s custom builds are designed with hardcore gamers in mind, and the customization options include high-end water-cooling solutions, basic/advanced overclocking, proper cable management and even high-quality custom paint jobs. The configurator on the company’s official website is user-friendly for both “experts” and “total n00bs”.

Pros:

  • lifetime tech support
  • wide range of customization options
  • financing available via Affirm
  • solid warranty
  • you can get pre-built gaming systems on Amazon for low prices
Cons:

  • some customers complain about slow shipping times for custom systems

Visit the Website

 

OriginPC

Custom Computers for Everybody

originpc
OriginPC is a relatively novel brand compared to the previous two, as it’s been founded in 2009 by three former Alienware employees who left after Dell took over their company. The point being, Alienware was initially a stand-alone and highly popular custom PC builder, and Origin PC is its proud successor; Origin has nothing to do with EA’s Origin platform, and it’s based in Miami, Florida, far away from Silicon Valley.

Origin sells high quality/premium gaming laptops and PC’s, both pre-made and custom gear, but what’s really important is that you can get an affordable “base gaming”, which can be further customized as per the customer’s personal preference. The “base gear” consists of Chronos, Neuron, Millenium, and Genesis, which use Mini ITX, Micro ATX, ATX, and eATX chassis.

You can heavily customize both interior and exterior design with different patterns, colors, and lighting, as well as the components, in-house-made cooling solutions and accessories included. However, when it comes to customized services and paints, these are not refundable, so pay extra attention when you place your order.

Pros:

  • hardcore customization levels for basically anything
  • 30 days money-back guarantee, free lifetime tech support
  • International shipping available
  • solid warranty options (1-year parts, 3-year labor)
  • financing options available
Cons:

  • no “budget-friendly” systems available

Visit the Website

 

Falcon Northwest

The Best Custom Gaming PC Builder

falcon northwest
Falcon Northwest is marketed as the company that created the gaming PC, and that’s kind of true, considering the fact that Falcon Northwest has been around since 1992, building high-end machines for gamers and power users. Due to their seniority in the PC-building business, Falcon Northwest has a long term and a rather unique perspective over the industry, and that’s why the company is focused on building high-performance computers, with a price range between $2k and $12k.

If you take a look at the price, you’ll understand that Falcon Northwest is more expensive than its direct competitors, but the quality of materials and workmanship is probably worth the stretch. A PC custom built by Falcon Northwest will definitely stand out from the crowd, as the company provides its customers a standard array of unique cases, and also emphasizes the “optics” of your gaming rig, as they employ high-quality paint used by the automotive industry, as well as stunning prints and designs for the computer cases.

The “optics” thing goes so far that you can even order custom artwork done, though you’ll have to pay the price for the extravaganza, and it’s not cheap. There’s also a tech support feature available to Falcon Northwest customers, seven days a week from 9 AM to 6 PM Pacific Time (lifetime that is).

Pros:

  • high-end gear at high-end prices
  • excellent tech support
  • highly customizable gear, including artwork
  • solid warranty options i.e. 3 years parts and labor
  • 30 days money-back guarantee
Cons:

  • no financing available

Visit the Website

 

NZXT BLD

The Best Custom PC Builder Website

nzxt bld
Compared to other sacred-monsters in the custom PC building industry, BLD can be described as the new kid on the block, as the company was founded yesterday, i.e. in 2017, and, obviously, it has its roots in California, the land of silicon and crazy ideas (read Elon Musk). All jokes aside, BLD is no push-around, as it’s actually a subsidiary of an older company, NZXT respectively. NZXT was founded 15 years ago, in 2004, and it’s well known for its cooling solutions and custom computer cases; in recent years, the company diversified its portfolio, and with the acquisition of BLD, it looks like they are trying to conquer the world.

Speaking of the latter, BLD is a hardware expert that offers approximate FPS estimates for various games and guarantees that you’ll not be disappointed by their gear, regardless of your IT knowledge or lack thereof. All BLD custom built PC’s require a $99 flat-fee (that’s basically their cut) and they’re shipped quickly, in maximum 2 working days of the order being placed. Interestingly enough, BLD offers 2-year parts and 3-year labor warranty.

Unlike other PC builders, these guys will guide you through a step by step process to help you identify the best gear for your specific needs: basically, you’ll have to tell them what the main games you’re going to play are, as well as your budget and your Intel/AMD preference, and they’ll give you a “platform”, a basic recommendation of sorts, from where you can go up (upgrade) as much as you like or you can afford. You’ll be able to configure literally everything hardware-wise, as BLD doesn’t offer preconfigured builds like other custom PC builders, so you can choose the CPU, GPU, the RAM quantity, storage stuff, PSU and so on, cooling, RGB lighting, and even color schemes.

Pros:

  • solid customization options
  • high-quality workmanship
  • fast shipping compared to other brands
  • same-day shipping available for $200 extra
Cons:

  • no preconfigured builds available

Visit the Website

 

Maingear

Great Support, Quality and Performance

maingear
Maingear has been around building custom PCs since 2002 and they offer a pretty good selection of gaming computers and laptops, as well as workstations for their customers, i.e. they’re catering both the gaming community and professionals alike. Needless to say that all their systems are highly customizable/configurable, and the customer can choose basically everything, ranging from the CPU/GPU to adding multiple HDDs/SSDs in RAID config, RGB lights, upgraded warranties (a nice feature to have in an expensive rig), custom paint jobs, etc.

Another nice thing about Maingear is that they are selling their machines on Amazon, preconfigured rigs, hence a lot of them are Prime eligible, which means they can be shipped relatively quickly. Also, Maingear has a number of affordable systems, with their base gaming PC, the Vybe, starting at $825.

All custom machines are covered by the industry-standard 1-year warranty for parts and 3-year warranty for labor. A high-end warranty for a gaming PC can go as high as $400, but you’ll get remote diagnostic software, phone support and so on and so forth.

Pros:

  • wide range of customization for gaming and work
  • solid warranty options
  • highly customizable gar, including paint jobs
  • excellent customer support
  • you can find prebuilt rigs on Amazon (Prime eligible stuff)
Cons:

  • none really

Visit the Website

 

Xidax

The New Kid on the Block

xidax
Speaking of popular custom PC builders, Xidax hardly comes to mind, compared to established companies like Maingear, OriginPC, iBuyPower or CyberPowerPO; however, if you’re looking for a relatively affordable highly customizable machine, you may end up better with a Xidax PC. The thing is, being a new kid on the block comes with certain advantages: for example, the cheapest Xidax custom-built rig can be bought for under $600.

Obviously, Xidax also offers high-end PC’s, laptops and workstations for professional use and/or gaming, and all of them are highly customizable, including professional GPU/CPU overclocking, RGB lighting, case engraving (!), CPU delidding, faster shipping (for Christmas!) and so on and so forth. On top of that, if you’re on a tight budget, you can get your custom Xidax rig via monthly payments, as the company offers financing options through Affirm.

But what really makes Xidax stand out from the “custom” crowd is their lifetime warranty on parts and labor for their desktop systems. Keep in mind that AMD GPUs are excluded from this deal, as they only come with 2-year warranty, and the same stands for liquid cooling systems, which are covered by 1-year warranty only. If something goes wrong, your defective parts are usually replaced by new, refurbished, used or comparable components, depending on the scenario.

Pros:

  • industry-leading lifetime warranty on (certain) components
  • affordable prices for a custom PC builder
  • 45-day money-back guarantee
  • International shipping
Cons:

  • returns are at the sole discretion of Xidax

Visit the Website

 

AVADirect

A Great Choice for Beginners

avadirect
If you’re looking for quality services and a wide range of custom PCs, AVADirect comes to mind; the company was founded back in 2000, almost 20 years ago, and they currently offer custom-built rigs for prices ranging from $800 to $8000, everything covered by 1 to 3 years of warranty. Speaking of customization services, AVADirect offers interesting options like out-of-the-factory overclocking for gaming enthusiasts for both CPUs and GPUs, premium chassis featuring custom paint and custom water-cooling systems.

Depending on the system, you can get up to 3 years of warranty, not to mention high-quality tech support, which is excellent especially for the not-so-tech-savvy people. The product catalog is robust, and the company also sells individual components for upgrades and the like, i.e.you can buy custom-made systems or hard drives/SSDs, mice, keyboards and everything in between. The custom-built desktops start at ~$900, laptops start at~$1099, and yes, financing is available.

Pros:

  • great tech support
  • a wide range of customization options
  • delivers to USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, China, UK
  • up to 3 years of warranty
  • specialized in multimedia, gaming, workstations, and servers
Cons:

  • none really

Visit the Website

 

Alienware

The Sacred Monster

alienware
Alienware by Dell computers is a sacred monster in the gaming world, and maybe the most popular brand on this list. Dell corporation, which also owns Alienware, is a big sponsor of the gaming industry and they trade internationally and, besides the now-iconic alien inspired design of their gear, they have much to offer: other than looking awesome, “Alienware” gear is packed to the brim with high-end components.

However, quality comes at a price, i.e. Alienware is not the cheapest of the bunch, but at least you can sleep at night, even if the warranty offered is not on-par with other brands. Most of the Alienware-made machines come with the industry-standard 1-year warranty, but the good news is that you can remedy the “issue” by paying extra for an extended warranty. Speaking of pricing, well, they vary greatly from new to custom setups, but the main point we’re trying to make here is that you’ll get high-quality service regardless of what type of support you pay for.

Pros:

  • top-notch tech support
  • high-quality components and craftsmanship
  • International delivery
Cons:

  • kind of expensive

Visit the Website

 

Digital Storm

You Can’t Go Wrong with These Guys

digital storm
Founded back in 2002 in sunny California (Fremont) and gloriously named Digital Storm, the company specializes in gaming PCs, laptops and workstations with a price range between $700 and $3000+, everything backed by a 1-year warranty for parts and a 3-year warranty for labor. However, Digital Storm offers an extended warranty pack which consists of a 4-year warranty for parts and 6 years for labor. On top of that, you’ll get lifetime tech support if you’re a customer, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Some of the cheapest models are available for purchase via Amazon, and yes, there’s a financing option available if you’re not ready to pay the full price upfront. Speaking of custom PCs, there are 6 base configurations to choose from, which can be further customized to a greater degree depending on one’s budget; the cheaper models have limited customization options, while for the high-end versions, well, the sky is the limit.

Pros:

  • solid warranty
  • excellent tech support
  • financing options available
  • complex customization setups available for higher-end setups
  • prebuilt systems available through Amazon
Cons:

  • nothing we can think of

Visit the Website

 

Puget Systems

Almost Magic

puget systems
Puget Systems is one of the smaller custom PC builders, a niche company if you like, and they’re located in Auburn, Washington. Puget Systems is specialized in building custom gaming rigs, as well as workstations, multi-media, engineering, and scientific systems, and their rigs vary in price between $1500 and $15,000. The focus of the company is to provide its customers with top-notch builds, ranging from relatively cheap ones for “basic use” to high-end gaming gear and servers.

Reliability and know-how are what defines Puget Systems, as they’re known for performing intensive tests to make sure that their products are built to last, and they’re also experts at using software and hardware to determine accurately the heat maps, thus determining the ideal cooling solution for their rigs. Basically, if you’re a total “noob” looking for a silent yet powerful machine, Puget Systems is the way to go.

Pros:

  • excellent solution for professionals
  • solid tech support
  • wide range of customization options
Cons:

  • just a 1-year warranty

Visit the Website

 

Velocity Micro

High Performance When You Need It

velocity micro
Finally, we have Velocity Micro, another relatively small company specialized in custom-building gaming PCs and laptops, as well as professional workstations. With a price range between $1000 and $15,000, Velocity Micro has something for basically anyone looking for 4K, VR ready, Overclocking, Water cooling, Deep learning, AI and so on and so forth. One of the main selling points of Velocity Micro’s systems is their lightning-quick shipping policy (under 3 days on all products), plus the fact that all their rigs are built by hand in the US.

Testing is another forte of the company, as Velocity Micro’s stress test includes a 200-point checklist on top of 60 cycles of testing, which means all of their products are built to perfection. Another cool thing about these guys is that they offer lifetime in-house tech support, which means they’re pretty confident in their workmanship.

Pros:

  • excellent quality and reliability
  • top-notch lifetime tech support
  • 1-year warranty for parts and 2-3-year extended warranty options (costs extra)
  • ships internationally
Cons:

  • none really

Visit the Website

 

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