Staff Writer

29 August 2018

The brand-new Titan switch debuts on Roccat’s also brand-new Vulcan line of mechanical keyboards. Three distinct versions – Vulcan 80, Vulcan 100 AIMO and Vulcan 120 AIMO – will be launched in Q3 of 2018. With its new switch, unique ultra-light keycaps, rotary dial, smart AIMO RGB illumination and premium design, does the Vulcan AIMO 120 have what it takes to forge a new path among the competition? Benchmark Reviews was given an opportunity to review the Roccat Vulcan AIMO 120, so let’s find out!

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Tags: 4250288151772, Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Review, ROC-12-441-BN-AM, ROCCAT, Tom Jaskulka, Vulcan AIMO 120

Logitech G513 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review

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7 June 2018

Enter the G513. Per-key RGB backlighting (including LIGHTSYNC, an intelligent RGB applet that can automatically update the keyboard based on the images on-screen), a waterproof leatherette + memory foam wrist rest, a pass-through USB port and sophisticated clean lines check all of the boxes to completely supplant my previous choices. Will these features be enough to make you consider the G513 for your next keyboard? Stay tuned, because Benchmark Reviews was given a chance to take a look at the G513 and something even newer: Logitech’s first Romer-G switch variation, the Romer-G Linear.

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Tags: 097855139191, 097855139207, 920-008848, 920-008860, G513 Carbon Linear, G513 Carbon Tactile, Logitech, Romer-G Linear, Tom Jaskulka

Roccat Khan AIMO 7.1 Gaming Headset Review

Categories:

Audio

16 April 2018

Roccat has added a splash of intelligent RGB lighting to their new HiRes audio headset and given it a new name: the Khan Aimo. More than just a name change and some lighting, this update of the Khan Pro keeps the HiRes designation but swaps the 3.5mm cable for USB to add some new capabilities. This allows for a new 7.1 Surround Sound feature, powered by the built-in 24-bit @ 96 kHz DAC sound card – a first for HiRes audio headsets. Will enhanced surround sound in high resolution change your game? Benchmark Reviews has a chance to take a closer look at Roccat’s Khan Aimo headset, so listen in and let’s find out!

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Tags: 4250288175549, Gaming Headset, High Resolution, Khan AIMO, Review, RGB, ROC-14-800, ROCCAT, Tom Jaskulka

Phanteks Enthoo Evolv Shift X Case Review

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6 November 2017

The premium Enthoo-series mini-ITX case developed as “Project 217” has a new name: the Phanteks Enthoo Evolv Shift X. Initially announced during CES 2017, the pair of small form factor computer cases have finally made their retail appearance in October 2017. Part of the Enthoo Evolv series, the Shift X showcases many of the same design elements in a fresh new form factor. Benchmark Reviews has been given the opportunity to take a closer look at the larger Shift X (Model PH-ES217XE_AG) – with room for custom cooling loops, 280mm radiators, high-end graphics cards and the looks to match, will the Shift X find a spot in your next build? Let’s take a look.

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Tags: 886523300977, Case, Computer Case, Enthoo Evolv Shift X, Mini-ITX, PH-ES217XE, Phanteks, Project 217, Review, Tom Jaskulka

Fractal Design Meshify C ATX Case Review

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9 August 2017

Fractal Design has announced a slew of new products recently. The Focus G series brought a splash of color and style to the typically-reserved Scandinavian case maker, while their popular Define C series added a touch of premium glass with the Define C TG. When Fractal Design offered up yet another, as-of-yet unannounced product to add to their lineup my curiosity was piqued. What else could they possibly have in store? All I had was a product name: the Meshify C. I could hazard a few guesses as to the nature of this new case: ATX, based on the Define C no doubt, with a dressing of mesh – perhaps an Arc Midi successor? Follow along as Benchmark Reviews investigates this new direction from Fractal Design.

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Tags: 817301014892, ATX Case, FD-CA-MESH-C-BKO-TG, Fractal Design, Meshify C, Review, Tempered Glass, Tom Jaskulka

Bitfenix Portal Mini-ITX Case Review

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5 June 2017

Available in matte white or matte black (each with or without an acrylic window), the Bitfenix Portal utilizes a dual frame and rail system to house enough components to power most single-GPU gaming rigs. Benchmark Reviews has the opportunity to test the new Bitfenix Portal (model BFC-POT-150-WKWKK-RP) – let’s see what it can do.

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Tags: 886027015315, BFC-POT-150-WKWKK-RP, Bitfenix Portal, Computer Case, Mini-ITX, Portal Window White, Review, Tom Jaskulka

Roccat Skeltr Smart Keyboard Review

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3 January 2017

What if a device could keep you connected in both worlds, simultaneously – or at least allow you to seamlessly switch between the two with the press of a button? That’s what Roccat hopes to accomplish with their new Skeltr Smart Communication RGB Gaming Keyboard. Bluetooth connectivity and on-board switches to flip between your computer and mobile device allow a user to respond to messages and answer calls at the press of a button. Roccat Skeltr offers a heaping of features designed to keep modern gamers connected. Benchmark Reviews has an opportunity to “Master Worlds” with a Roccat Skeltr – let’s take a look.

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Tags: 4250288188556, EasyShift[+], RGB Gaming Keyboard, ROC-12-231-WE-AM, ROCCAT Skeltr, Smart Communication, Tom Jaskulka

SteelSeries Rival 700 Gaming Mouse Review

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18 August 2016

SteelSeries, a company known for many innovations and their support of eSports, has released a new weapon in the competitive gamer’s arsenal: the Rival 700. While they’ve been busy refreshing all of their product lines to update previous models with new features, the Rival 700 is a brand new entry entirely. Positioned as the premier offering in the Rival line of mice, the SteelSeries Rival 700 has a new twist – or, more appropriately, a buzz. Modular sensors, interchangeable cords, Prism RGB illumination and swap-able panels compliment a first-of-its-kind tactile feedback system and customizeable OLED display panel. Will these features justify the price of entry? Follow along as Benchmark Reviews takes a closer look at the new Rival 700.

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Tags: 813682020033, GameSense, Gaming Mouse, M-00005-01, Review, Rival 700, SteelSeries, Tom Jaskulka

SteelSeries Siberia 350 Headset Review

Categories:

Audio

18 May 2016

SteelSeries, a company known for their support of eSports and wide range of gaming peripherals, have just about finished refreshing their gaming headset series better known as “Siberia.” The Siberia 350 which Benchmark Reviews will be looking at today is a refresh of the previous SteelSeries Siberia v3 Prism headset. Utilizing 50mm drivers, DTS Headphone X technology and a classic SteelSeries fit and finish, the 350 adds 6.5 million colors through LEDs in the earcups and features SteelSeries technologies like GameSense through SteelSeries’ settings software, SteelSeries Engine 3. Will the 350 be a worthy addition to the Siberia lineup, or will these Siberias leave us out in the cold? Follow along and read about our experiences with SteelSeries’ newest headset.

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Tags: 51204, 813682022136, Gaming Headset, Review, Siberia 350, SteelSeries, Tom Jaskulka, USB

Computer Upgrades: A Data-Based Perspective

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Technology Editorials

4 April 2016

In this editorial research article for Benchmark Reviews, I’ll examine two $350 desktop computer systems, two widely different computer upgrade paths, and a data-based approach to attempt to answer the ever-popular question: “what should I upgrade next on my PC?”. Given that $350 and an AMD-based computer, is it worth adding $350-worth of graphics power, or should a gaming enthusiast take that same amount and use it to switch sockets to Intel?

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Tags: AMD, Data-Based Perspective, Desktop Computer, Editorial, Intel, NVIDIA, Tom Jaskulka, Upgrades

NZXT HUE+ RGB LED Controller Review

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9 February 2016

Not the first time NZXT has played with RBG LED lighting, the HUE+ provides all of the functionality (and then some) of the original HUE in an even more streamlined package. Coupled with NZXT’s free standalone software package CAM, the HUE+ Smart RGB LED Controller provides eight configurable LED presets out of the box, ranging from breathing LEDs to color fades and marquee scrolling. For the endless tinkerers and those looking for even more fine control over their system lighting, the HUE+ with CAM 3.0 allows for each LED to be individually addressed! That’s an impressive repertoire for an LED controller, but is it worth the price of admission? Benchmark Reviews has an opportunity to find out – follow along as we take a closer look at the new NZXT HUE+ Smart RGB LED Controller.

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Tags: 815671012517, AC-HUEPS-M1, HUE+, NZXT, Smart RGB LED Controller, Tom Jaskulka

Roccat Kova 2016 Gaming Mouse Review

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14 January 2016

A year ago, I had the opportunity to review a Roccat Tyon – my first Roccat product since I purchased one of their Pyra and Kova mice many years ago. I remember the original Kova fondly, but it wasn’t…quite there yet. I liked the ambidextrous design, price point, Lamborghini-esque styling, and simple approach to performance (an optical sensor with driver-less configuration); I wasn’t quite as impressed with the overall build quality, lack of granular customization options or lighting. Will the new Kova change my mind? Will the improved sensor, new looks, lighting, and robust construction replace my first impressions? Benchmark Reviews has the opportunity to take the new Kova (ROC-11-502) for a spin, so let’s find out.

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Tags: 4250288164062, Ambidextrous, Gaming Mouse, Kova 2016, Review, ROC-11-502AM, ROCCAT, Tom Jaskulka

SilverStone TD03 Slim AIO Liquid Cooler Review

Categories:

Cooling

10 December 2015

The Tundra line of coolers by SilverStone is about to get larger…by getting slimmer? Well, at least two of them are: the TD03 Slim and TD02 Slim. Containing aesthetics from the Tundra Lite coolers and coupling them with a slim radiator and fan (with a total rad/fan package height of 37mm), this AIO cooler seems custom-built for slim cases or anywhere where space is at a premium. Benchmark Reviews has the opportunity to investigate the cooling potential of the 120mm TD03 Slim – will it survive the cooling testbed? We’ll also see how this cooler performs in one of its “intended use” cases: the slim Fortress FTZ01.

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Tags: 844761012281, AiO Liquid Cooler, Review, SST-TD03-SLIM, TD03 Slim, Tom Jaskulka

SilverStone ML08 Mini-ITX Slim Case Review

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19 November 2015

Accessories, PC Hardware Reviews

Hot on the heels of Benchmark Review’s look at the Fortress FTZ01, SilverStone sent over their latest iteration of the mini-ITX “Z” chassis. Based off of the Raven RVZ02, today we have a chance to look at the Milo version: the ML08B-H. Following the same internal layout the Milo ML08 squeezes the same component clearances into an even slimmer chassis with some new tricks. New tool-less drive trays, a more accessible interior and two completely thermally isolated compartments identify this HTPC-oriented “Z2” case. Follow along as we take a closer look at the SilverStone ML08.

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Tags: 844761012564, Case, Milo Series, Mini-ITX, ML08, Review, SFX PSU, SilverStone, SST-ML08B-H, Tom Jaskulka

NZXT GRID+ V2 Digital Fan Controller Review

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4 November 2015

The NZXT Grid+ V2 is a voltage regulated, 30W digital fan controller fits in practically any case (it’s about the size of two SSDs stacked on top of each other) and adds digital fan control capability for up to eight fans across six separate channels. Join Benchmark Reviews as we take a quick look at the capabilities NZXT’s GRID+ V2 digital fan controller will bring to your build.

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Tags: 815671012593, AC-GRDP2-M1, Digital Fan Controller, GRID+ V2, NZXT, Review, Tom Jaskulka

NZXT S340 By Razer ATX Case Review

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23 October 2015

The Designed By Razer program was started last year to provide a way for manufacturers to collaborate with Razer’s design studio, allowing for products with the Razer branding that may not have existed otherwise. Razer ventured into the gaming laptop market with their Blade series of laptops; so far their desktop components have been limited to peripherals (keyboards/mice/audio). That changed with the introduction of the NZXT H440 | Designed By Razer ATX case. This special edition added some signature Razer elements to the mix – that treatment has now been extended to the H440’s sibling, the NZXT S340. Today, Benchmark Reviews has an opportunity to take a closer look at the S340 “Designed By Razer” edition from NZXT (model CA-S340W-RA). Can a budget-oriented chassis co-exist with a higher price tag?

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Tags: 815671012609, CA-S340W-RA, NZXT, S340 Designed By Razer, Tom Jaskulka

SilverStone Fortress FTZ01 Mini-ITX Case Review

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12 October 2015

Generally, a few months after the Raven version is released, a premium Fortress version – sporting clean lines and a few tweaks here and there – will follow. This was the case with the RV01/FT01, RV02/FT02…well, you get the idea. When SilverStone released their first ITX Raven case – the RVZ01 – it was only a matter of time before the Fortress variant emerged. The RVZ01 was a unique chassis even by Raven standards; how would the FTZ01 manage to maintain that premium Fortress look and feel? Well, wrap it in a unibody aluminum exterior for starters. Follow along with Benchmark Reviews as we see what else has changed in the SilverStone Fortress FTZ01.

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Tags: 084476101190, Case, Fortress FTZ01, Mini-ITX, Review, SilverStone, SST-FTZ01B, Tom Jaskulka

Silverstone ML06-E Mini-ITX HTPC Case Review

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1 October 2015

Still one of the only players in the very small form factor market, SilverStone has consistently iterated on its various designs to bring us new improvements and features, case after case. Not content to rest with their niche ML05 HTPC enclosure, they dressed up the exterior with a full aluminum panel and released the ML06. That isn’t the case Benchmark Reviews is reviewing here – SilverStone decided they weren’t done, and evolved the internals of the ML06 into the product we see here today: the ML06-E. Featuring re-worked internals but the same exterior dimensions, the ML06-E is poised to be the best of the series so far. Let’s take a closer look.

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Tags: 844761012175, HTPC Case, Mini-ITX, Review, SilverStone ML06-E, SST-ML06B-E, Tom Jaskulka

Mionix Castor Optical Gaming Mouse Review

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9 September 2015

Mionix, the Swedish manufacturer of a range of gaming peripherals, has a new star in their lineup: the Castor Optical Gaming Mouse. Designed to retain the ergonomic grip of the Naos while still accommodating the three main grip styles (claw/palm/fingertip), the Castor is poised to be a comfortable option for a wide variety of users. Coated in their customary soft-touch rubber coating, the smooth curves and Aurora multi-color lighting identify this newest addition as a member of the Mionix family. Benchmark Reviews was given a chance to take a closer look at the Mionix Castor – will the tales of exquisite craftsmanship, 10,000 DPI optical sensors, zero acceleration and a grip that appeals to everyone… appeal to everyone?

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Tags: 851260002002, CASTOR, Gaming Mouse Review, Mionix, MNX-01-25001-G, Optical, Tom Jaskulka

Cougar 500K Gaming Keyboard Review

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18 February 2015

After Cougar’s fully featured 700K mechanical keyboard & 700M aluminum gaming mouse were released in 2014, a streamlined mechanical 600K & ergonomic 600M followed close behind. It’s not surprising then, in early 2015, that Benchmark Reviews has the opportunity to take a closer look at Cougar’s newest gaming keyboard; the 500K.

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Tags: Cougar 500K, Gaming Keyboard, KBC500-WRNSB, Review, Tom Jaskulka, USB Corded

Thermaltake Core V21 Micro-ATX Case Review

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13 January 2015

The Core series by Thermaltake launched with the E-ATX full tower Core V71 last year. Since then, Thermaltake has expanded into the mid-tower (V31, V41, V51) and mini-ITX (V1) form factors. The Core V21 that Benchmark Reviews will take a look at today rounds out Thermaltake’s lineup with their first micro-ATX Core offering. At first glance, the Core V21 shares many design similarities with the other Core chassis. As is true with many things in life, looks can be deceiving as the V21 is the first Core chassis to officially offer a multitude of motherboard orientations. While it arrives in stock format with a horizontal motherboard layout, it can be transformed in a matter of seconds to a traditional or inverted layout. We’ll see how this works as we build a system inside the Core V21 over the next few pages.

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Tags: CA-1D5-00S1WN-00, Computer Case, Core V21, Micro ATX, Review, Stackable, Thermaltake, Tom Jaskulka

Roccat Tyon Gaming Mouse Review

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9 December 2014

First announced at Computex in June, Roccat’s newest gaming mouse has finally hit the market. Packing an 8200 DPI laser sensor, Roccat’s EasyShift[+] function, configurable LED lighting in two zones and 12 programmable buttons (16 programmable “actions” if scroll up/down, etc. is included) the Tyon appears to check all of the same boxes as many high-end gaming peripherals. Look a little closer though, and you’ll see that the Tyon adds a few boxes other mice can’t check: a “dorsal fin” switch and an analog paddle. Powered by Roccat’s Talk FX software suite, will these innovations change your game? Benchmark Reviews has received the black version of the Tyon (model ROC-11-850, also available in white) and we’re ready to run it through the gauntlet.

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Tags: 4250288174146, Gaming Mouse, Multi-Button, Review, ROC-11-850, Roccat Tyon, Tom Jaskulka

BitFenix Pandora Micro-ATX Slim Case Review

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20 November 2014

It looks like BitFenix are at it again. Fresh off the manufacturing line, Benchmark Reviews has received something a bit different from the company known for cases like the Colossus, Shinobi and Prodigy. As their first case with aluminum panels the slim micro-ATX Pandora brings a sense of style that is a significant departure from some of their recent enclosures. Available in black or silver, with or without a window, and in Core or ICON versions (which contain a 2.4″ LCD display in the front panel) fans of the micro-ATX form factor will have quite a few possibilities to choose from. For those that are looking for something a little more elegant without sacrificing a large footprint, the Pandora may be just the thing. Are there any compromises made to keep this case slim? Let’s dig in and take a look.

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Tags: BFC-PAN-300-KKWL1-RP, BitFenix, Computer Case, Micro ATX, Pandora, Review, Slim, Tom Jaskulka

Phanteks Enthoo EVOLV Case Review

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5 November 2014

What a difference a year makes. In Q3 of 2013, Phanteks branched out from their well-known CPU cooling and fan items and released the Enthoo Primo computer case. Their first chassis won multiple awards and was quickly followed by the Enthoo Pro; a more accessible case that still exuded a premium feel from this brand-new case company. The Enthoo Luxe arrived quite a few months later, adding a splash of color to the lineup. With the premium tower, full-tower and mid-tower segments covered, Phanteks has delved into the smaller form factors. Today, Benchmark Reviews will review Phanteks’ latest offering, the micro-ATX Enthoo EVOLV. With rear-hinged aluminum panels, snap-on front and top covers concealing 200mm/140mm fans and multiple radiator mounts along with a few other surprises, will this aluminum-clad water-cooling oriented chassis pack as much of a punch as its bigger brothers?

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Tags: Case, Enthoo EVOLV, Micro ATX, PH-ES314E_WT, Phanteks, Review, Tom Jaskulka

Gigabyte GA-Z87N-WIFI Mini-ITX Motherboard Review

Categories:

Motherboards

8 September 2014