Formerly BenchmarkReviews.com
Formerly BenchmarkReviews.com
Starting today, gamers who purchase select NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 Ti, 780, 770 and 760 desktop GPUs can get their chance to play Watch_Dogs, the new PC game taking the world by storm and latest masterpiece from Ubisoft.
Read moreSuccessful series Combines Vapor-Chamber Cooler with Tri-X fans and new design features for optimum performance and cool running SAPPHIRE technology, the leading manufacturer and global supplier of AMD-based graphics products, has just added another new model to its highly acclaimed Vapor-X family of graphics cards in the successful R9 series. The SAPPHIRE R9 290X Vapor-X OC features several of the company’s industry-leading technologies and a factory overclock to deliver best in class performance with very low noise. Based on the award-winning Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture from AMD with 2816 Stream Processors, the SAPPHIRE R9 290X Vapor-X is an Overclocked edition which boasts 4GB of the latest GDDR5 memory running at 1410 MHz (5.64GB/s effective) and high speed engine clocks […]
Read moreGX Gaming, the professional gaming peripherals line by Genius, today launches the SW-G2.1 2000 speaker system in North America. Experience the Full Sound of the Battlefield With a total output power of 45 watts (RMS), GX Gaming’s latest 2.1 speaker system includes a 6.5” subwoofer providing 29 watts of heart-thumping bass, two 8 watt wall-mountable satellite speakers and a separate control box for easy adjustment of volume and bass. In 4 separate pieces, the subwoofer, speakers, and control box can be arranged to maximize the acoustics and layout of any room while still having volume and bass controls at your fingertips. Pulsating Blue BackLight To complement the rich bass, a cool blue backlight on the scorpion-emblazoned subwoofer beats along to […]
Read moreHyperX Cloud Provides Maximum Comfort While Gaming, Superior Audio Performance, Continues High Standards of HyperX Brand HyperX®, a division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the release of the HyperX Cloud gaming headset. HyperX Cloud features extremely comfortable ear cushions and larger audio drivers to give gamers ultimate comfort and superior sound during long game play sessions. HyperX Cloud uses memory foam ear cushions and a soft, leather-padded headband with custom stitching for enhanced comfort and style. The over-the-ear, closed-cup design helps block out ambient noise for a more immersive game experience. Interchangeable velour ear cushions allow gamers to hear their surroundings while also delivering dialogue and every explosion and gunfire in […]
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Where ASUS really pulls away from their competition is with digital power control for memory and processor, utilizing up to 16 power phases to ensure absolute precision stability. All hardware points are controlled by Dual Intelligent Processors 5, which consists of DIGI+ Power Control, TPU, EPU, Turbo App, and Fan Xpert. ASUS Z97-DELUXE and Z97-PRO models feature dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11ac (a/b/g/n/ac) and BlueTooth 4.0 wireless functionality. In this article Benchmark Reviews showcases the ASUS Z97-DELUXE (NFC & WLC) motherboard, and reveals the many hardware features packed onto this mainstream channel desktop board.
Read moreBIOSTAR, manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards, industrial computing systems and peripherals, has officially launched the latest edition to the CPU On-Board motherboard lineup, the “A68N-5000”. This newest micro-ATX form factor motherboard is a cost effective solution that comes with the CPU and graphics already installed and offers native support for dual-channel DDR3 memory. The A68N-5000 uses the AMD A4-5000 which is a 4 core CPU with a clock speed of 1.5 GHz with an integrated Radeon HD 8330 GPU that supports DX11.1 and HDMI, a single channel DDR3(L)-1600 memory controller as well as the Southbridge with various I/O- ports. The system runs cool and quiet with heat sinks instead of fans, this reduces noise and also dust buildup as well […]
Read moreNew high-value computer built for essential productivity and multimedia enjoyment with SonicMaster technology and high performance graphics ASUS today announced M32, a new high-value desktop computer that features a choice between discrete NVIDIA® GeForce® or AMD Radeon™ graphics for immersive gaming and high-definition (HD) video experiences. M32 has been carefully engineered with powerful Intel® Core™ processors for seamless multi-tasking, exclusive SonicMaster technology for hi-fi-quality audio experiences and USB 3.0 for super-speed connectivity. With a premium brushed-metal finish that exudes chic elegance, an HDMI port for connection to HD TVs and monitors, and an affordable price point, M32 strikes the perfect balance between cost and performance for those seeking a desktop PC for effective productivity and quality multimedia reproduction. Superb performance […]
Read more7-inch Android phablet features the new ASUS ZenUI interface and 11cm width for easy one-handed portability ASUS today announced the Fonepad 7 (FE170CG), the latest version of the 7-inch Android device with full 3G telephony functionality. This latest Fonepad 7 comes in a range of colors, and is powered by an Intel® Atom™ Multi-Core Processor 1.2GHz with Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology. It is narrower than its predecessor, with an 11cm width so it can be easily held in one hand. A narrow bezel design provides users with a larger viewing area on which to experience the brand new ZenUI interface. Intel performance in your palm The ASUS Fonepad 7 (FE170CG) features an Intel Atom Multi-Core Processor 1.2GHz with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology […]
Read moreInnovative 6,000 mAh battery with built-in flashlight pushes out up to 300 Amps at peak power to guarantee that you will never be lost in the dark with a dead phone or car battery again Juno Power is adding a new twist on portable power by solving two common problems in one convenient package. The JUMPR is a sleek, lightweight external battery that houses an impressive 6,000 Milliamps capable of jumping a completely dead car battery in minutes. The multi-functional battery also features a 5V 2.1A output able to charge power hungry devices such as smart phones, cameras, and tablets. Users will never again have to worry about being stranding with a dead phone or car battery. “We all know […]
Read moreNewly Enhanced PCIe SSD Product Line Utilizes Premium Toshiba Flash, Offering a High Performance yet Cost Effective Storage Solution OCZ Storage Solutions – a Toshiba Group Company and leading provider of high-performance solid state drives (SSDs) for computing devices and systems, today announced the RevoDrive 350 Series with workstation-grade design capabilities and maximum performance for professional content creation, multimedia, and extreme gaming applications. Achieving three times the performance of SATA-based SSD solutions, RevoDrive 350 is based on proven performance architecture and features 19nm Toshiba NAND to complete OCZ’s portfolio transition to in-house flash, offering a high-performance yet cost-efficient SSD solution for bandwidth-intensive client applications. Using the PCI Express Gen. 2 x8 interface and up to four LSI® SF-2282 processors to […]
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Announced at CES 2014, Kingston has released their replacement of the Blu series of RAM modules. Named “Fury,” the new HyperX series of DDR3 RAM claim to make overclocking even easier by automatically detecting the appropriate speeds and timings for your motherboard, making these modules “Plug and Play” ready. Arriving in 4GB, 8GB single, 8GB dual or 16GB dual-channel kits, the Fury line will have frequencies of 1333 MHz (CL9), 1600MHz (CL9), or 1866 MHz(CL10). A new asymmetric heat-spreader design in red, blue, white or black colors covers a stylish black PCB, adding a distinct look to this newest memory kit from Kingston. Benchmark Reviews received one of the dual-channel 8GB kits for testing (model HX318C10FWK2/8), so let’s see how these modules compare.
Read moreConvert mSATA SSD Into A Bus-Powered Pocket-Sized Storage Solution Plug and Play use with PCs and Macs via USB 3 solves dilemma of what to do with “old” drive after performing an internal drive upgrade VisionTek Products LLC, (VisionTek®) https://www.visiontekproducts.com, a leading manufacturer of award-winning, high-performance upgrades and accessories for PC and Apple® Macintosh® computers, today announced the immediately availability of the VisionTek mSATA mini Enclosure. The USB 3.0 bus-powered enclosure is a Plug and Play solution for re-tasking an existing mSATA Solid State Drive after upgrading the SSD in an ultra-slim notebook or for adding a new mSATA SSD to create a high-performance ultra-portable external drive. The Pocket-Sized Portable Storage Powerhouse Sized smaller than a business card and weighing […]
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Vibrant HDTV accentuates any décor with new eye-popping colors Sceptre adds a touch of color to any room and décor with their newest 32-inch LED HDTV. Part of their lifestyle Color Series, the 32-inch LED HDTV is now available in pink, purple, pearl white and black, and is the ideal way to enjoy your favorite TV programming while adding personality to any room. Sceptre’s newest LED HDTV features 3 HDMI ports that deliver superior digital video and audio from external sources through a single cable, a USB port that lets users view pictures and listen to audio directly from a flash drive, and a crystal clear LED panel with 720P, 1366×768 resolution. The 32-inch LED HDTV is also equipped with […]
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Back in 2007 Intel established a Tick-Tock model that predicted that following a micro-architectural process technology die shrink (tick) that a new micro-architecture would be introduced (tock). They’ve kept to this processor model for seven years, but no such model exists for their board chipset architecture. Instead, every tick update and new tock architecture receives a fresh LGA (land grid array) CPU socket: Nehalem brought LGA 1366 and later LGA 1156, Sandy Bridge introduced LGA 1155 followed by LGA 2011, and Haswell delivered LGA 1150. But what’s new in 2014 with Intel Z97 Express?
Read moreProvide a Sleek & Comfortable Typing Experience Rapoo’s ultra-slim, 5.6mm, E9080 and E9180 Wireless Touchpad Keyboards combine two peripherals in one easy solution. Boasting a sleek, aluminum exterior and scissor key structure, the keyboards with integrated touchpads provide a cable-free, stylish and comfortable typing experience. The E9080 Wireless Touchpad Keyboard is the perfect solution for users who want a touchpad without having to sacrifice a number pad. The integrated touchpad not only offers navigation without the need of a mouse, but it also transforms into a fully functional number pad with the swipe of a finger. Rapoo’s E9180P Wireless Touchpad Keyboard offers precise and easy navigation with configurable gesture functions for maximum control. The versatile E9180P is compatible with desktop […]
Read moreThe classic Phantom styling you’ve come to love at its lowest price point yet. Since the first Phantom was launched in 2010, NZXT has continued to bring aggressive designs and innovative feature sets to all of its chassis. Over the years, the original Phantom and Phantom 410 quickly became NZXT’s signature cases. Now, NZXT is happy to introduce its latest addition to the family, the Phantom 240. A product designed with several years of feedback in mind, the Phantom 240 brings a refreshing new style and full-view window to the table while keeping its signature asymmetrical shape. Included with the chassis are two of NZXT’s recently redesigned standard case fans, the 120mm FN V2, bringing additional cooling and lower noise […]
Read moreNewest RevolutionEyes™ Monitors Pack a Number of Exclusives, Latest Firmware Offers Support for Authorized Third-Party Software Utilities BenQ America Corp., the fastest growing display brand in North America1, today announced the availability of three new additions to its XL-Z series of first-person shooter (FPS) purpose-built gaming monitors: the 27-inch XL2720Z and 24-inch XL2420Z and XL2411Z widescreen full-HD displays. Featuring BenQ’s exclusive RevolutionEyes™ technology for exceptional monitor performance, the displays are packed with enhancements such as Motion Blur Reduction, Low Blue Light, ZeroFlicker™, gaming refresh rate optimization management (GROM), and 1-ms GTG response times. In addition, the new models offer BenQ’s latest firmware, which enables third-party utility support for further optimization options. The end result is striking visual clarity, seamless motion […]
Read moreKingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the addition of 240GB and 480GB capacities to the existing SSDNow mS200 mSATA SSD line. Kingston’s SSDNow mS200 mSATA solid-state drive allows system builders and enthusiasts a cost-effective performance boost with quicker boot time and application loads while requiring less power than HDDs. The mS200’s small-form factor is perfect for notebook, tablet and Ultrabook PCs, as well as a variety of embedded systems. It can also be used as a caching device with motherboards that support Intel® Smart Response Technology (SRT) to improve system performance. mS200 has read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds up to 520MB/s. The […]
Read moreConnects any Wired Ethernet-enabled Device to your Wireless Home Network TP-LINK, a global provider of networking products, today announced its new N600 Universal Wireless Dual Band Entertainment Adapter (TL-WA890EA), which connects any Ethernet-enabled device to your wireless home network. Providing 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz frequency or 300Mbps on the 5.0GHz frequency, the TL-WA890EA has ample bandwidth for smooth HD video and music streaming and online gaming. It simultaneously connects up to four devices to your Wi-Fi network with the four built-in Fast Ethernet ports, giving you the freedom to locate your Blu-ray Players, Gaming Consoles, DVRs, IPTV Set-Top-Boxes, Smart TVs, and other home entertainment devices. The TL-WA890EA has a built-in WPS button for a quick and easy setup process. Users […]
Read moreIntroduction of 24” to 65” Models with Screen Sizes That Offer Larger Viewing Area – Up to 20% more in some models SANYO, a leader in providing high quality TVs in America for over 35 years, introduces its 2014 Full HD lineup of LED TVs with 1080p resolution.¹ The all-new models with Full HD deliver an unprecedented environment for watching high-definition movies, TV shows, playing video games, and for photo viewing. With stunning clarity, outstanding energy efficiency and easy connectivity, the key features include SANYO’s LED Full HD technology for clear images. Some models feature 120 Hz Motion Sync for the user to enjoy high-speed action with almost no motion blur. These all-new affordable models are available at Walmart and […]
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In this article I’m going to be talking about PC gaming with Ubuntu Linux. I will discuss several areas that at the end I hope will give you a better understanding of PC gaming on a Linux based OS and how it compares to traditional Windows PC gaming that you may be considering moving away from or to try something different. While I will give examples and basic instructions within Ubuntu. This article is not meant to a full guide on using Ubuntu, and as such, if there are sections that you have trouble understanding or want more help or information, askubuntu.com is a great place for help with specific problems or questions you may have with the OS. That being said, let’s get started!
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Thermaltake has recently added another chassis to their Urban lineup. A modern update of the classic Lanbox Lite chassis (also by Thermaltake), the Urban SD1 is designed for builders that are building around the mATX/mITX form factors and still want room for large graphics cards, AIO liquid coolers and multiple drives. Utilizing modular internals in a chassis not much bigger than many ITX boxes, the Urban SD1 promises an easy building experience. Weighing in at 5.8 kg and with dimensions of 239 x 280 x 456mm (HWD), will this sophisticated relative of the Lanbox / Armor A30 deliver on its claims of high-performance in a micro-ATX form factor? Benchmark Reviews was given an opportunity to build a system in the Urban SD1 (model CA-1A9-00S1NN-00), so let’s see what changes have been incorporated in this new member of the Urban chassis family.
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Although they’ve been around since 2001, Sentey Inc. isn’t on many enthusiast’s radars. Established in 2001 and based in Doral, Florida, Sentey manufactures a range of cases, keyboards, mice, power supplies, headphones, and other items that appeal to the enthusiast and gamer. Today we have the Sentey Crimson Pro mechanical gaming keyboard– part of their Professional Gamer Series– in house for some testing.
Read moreThe new GOgroove BlueSYNC WUD Portable Bluetooth Speaker uses real wood to embrace the crisp, acoustically natural sound of music GOgroove by Accessory Power is pleased to introduce the new BlueSYNC WUD Portable Bluetooth Speaker to its full length line of natural wood products. With a rechargeable, compact Bluetooth design, this speaker provides quality sound without the limitations of space and wires. The GOgroove BlueSYNC WUD Portable Bluetooth Speaker has all the style of a 50’s analog radio with the modern functionality of today’s electronics. The speaker is made with a retro leather handle for portability and three pieces of solid wood that have been hollowed out to hold the inner workings of the device. The two-tone wooden body with […]
Read moreTargets Smart Classrooms, Corporate Boardrooms and Way-Finding Applications with Six-Point Touch Smart Display Board ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solution products, announces the immediate availability of the CDE7051-TL 70-inch, six-point simultaneous touch, interactive smart display. The CDE7051-TL provides a fully integrated, large screen touch solution for use in the smart educational classroom, corporate boardrooms and hospitality way-finding applications. The CDE7051-TL features full 1920×1080 HD resolution, delivering superior pixel-by-pixel performance in an energy-saving LED panel. Its slim design and bezel eliminates dead angles in a Windows® 8 touch environment, improving any touch experience. Equipped with a tempered glass overlay, anti-glare treatment and rounded corners, the ViewSonic CDE7051-TL is intended for heavy use. The CDE7051-TL has a variety of […]
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