Below you’ll find a list of every article we have ever written. This includes Hardware Reviews, PC-Build Guides, How-to Articles and a multitude of Benchmarks related to both Content Creation and Gaming.
CPU-Coolers can become stuck onto your CPU with little chance to remove them. This is mostly due to old thermal paste. Here's how to get it off safely without damaging your CPU.
If you're working or Gaming on your PC, there nothing more important than having a great set of headphones that are comfortable fit well and offer great audio performance. Our Brand overview shows which are our favorite.
Laptops get slower over time, but this isn't always the way it has to be. Here are our proven methods to get your Laptop back up to speed in no time at all.
AHCI and IDE are two options you can usually select from within your BIOS to make your Storage Drives run in specific modes. But what is AHCI and when should you use it?
The Quality of Laptop Displays can differ strongly from one model to another. And which panel type is right for you, depends a lot on your workloads. Let's compare!
3D Models are needed in almost any 3D Project and there are sites galore that provide them. Just a couple of sites, though, are actually worth your time. Here's our list.
PC Cases come in all kinds of form factors, designs and brands, but which are the best brands to buy PC Cases from? Here's what our experience has shown over the years to be the best PC Case Brands.
Intel has been making GPUs for quite some time now, but are they good enough yet for the kind of workloads you're looking to run? Or should you stay clear of them?
Where do you plug in your 4-Pin PWM cables? On your motherboard or into a fan hub? And what if you only have 3-Pin DC Fan headers? Everything you need to know.
Computers can show all kinds of issues, with the "GPU not detected" Error begin among those that can be difficult to fix. But fear not, here's how to fix the GPU not detected Error with our simple step-by-step guide.
Nvidia's RTX 4080 SUPER GPU Refresh is put through content creation and rendering benchmarks in our review to find out if its performance is worth investing your money into.
Keeping your PC as cool as you can helps increase the performance and longevity of your components. Here's how to set up your PC's Fan configuration for maximum potential.
There's a list of things to check when your PC won't turn on. From the PSU over internal cabling, to faulty components, here's how to start troubleshooting this issue.
RAID Mode in your BIOS lets you set up a Drive Array within certain configurations, which can increase performance and redundancy of your storage. Here's everything you need to know about RAID mode.
The components in your PC work best when they're not being bottlenecked. So far so good, but how can you find out if your components are prone to bottlenecking? Are there calculators for this sort of thing?
A PC can emit all kinds of noises, with buzzing noises being among those that should be investigated in most cases. Here's why and how to fix when your Computer doesn't stop buzzing.
Video Encoding is CPU demanding and will eat into your editing time if not taken into consideration when buying or upgrading a PC. A closer look at encoding performance.
The ability to upgrade your CPU is mainly tied to its underlying socket and AMD's newest Socket, the AM5 Socket is, unfortunately, not backwards compatible with AM4 or older CPUs.
We review the Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti SUPER in various CG-related Workloads, such as Rendering in Octane, Redshift, V-Ray, or Content Creation Apps such as After Effects and Premiere Pro.
Enabling your PC's TPM (Trusted Platform Module) has become ever more important with Windows 11 and other OS/Software requiring it. Here's how to do just that.
Connecting the cables from your PC's Case to your motherboard can be tricky. Especially those tiny jumper-like cables that just don't seem to fit easily. Here's how to connect your front panel cables quickly.
There comes a time when you have to shutdown your MacOS Applications either regularly or forcefully, especially if they become unresponsive. Here's how.
Lenovo and HP are two of the most widely known Laptop brands on the market today. They have a lot of similar hardware, but does one of them edge out a clear victory over the other?
Graphics Cards can be expensive. Buying the right kind of GPU for your Video Editing or Rendering Workflow therefore is of utmost imprtance. We will teach you all you need to know about the best Editing and Rendering GPUs.
Wi-Fi is not the Internet. These two terms, while often being used interchangeably, don't mean the same thing. Here's what Wi-Fi sets apart from the Internet.
RAM and ROM are two vastly different technologies that both pertain to storing, writing and reading data. Here's what sets them apart and where they are found.
How do Intel's many CPU tiers compare and which make the most sense for your kind of workloads? Intel Cores i3, i5, i7, i9, we're here to clear up any confusion!
Whether you're upgrading your Mac, buying new parts, looking to troubleshoot an issue or just want to know how old your device is, knowing its serial and model number is one of the first steps in doing so.
One of the more complicated parts of building a PC is installing your CPU Cooler. And every CPU Cooler needs Thermal Paste, right? Well, not necessarily.
Ensuring your components aren't manually overclocked, or don't boost to such high frequencies can make them draw less power, quieter, cooler and will increase their lifespan. At a cost of performance.
Using your MacBook with an external monitor and peripherals works best when you close its lid and put it into the so-called clamshell mode. Here's how.
Creator and Gaming oriented Laptops have a fair bit of specification overlap, which begs the question whether there's a considerable difference between the two, or if you can just use either for any of your workloads.
You participate in the silicon lottery whenever you buy a product that houses a chip. CPUs, GPUs, and other hardware can be of varying quality, even within the same SKU.
You're a creative and the computer is your toolset. Here are our 9 favorite creative things that'll beat boredom in no time. And that'll boost your mood & skills as a nice bonus.
Does it matter if you buy an AMD or Intel Motherboard? What even are the differences between the two and should you look out for specific features apart from the obvious CPU support?
Find the fastest and best NVMe SSDs within your budget and intended workloads. PCIe 3.0, 4.0, NVMe, SSD, what is important to keep in mind when chosing an NVMe SSD.
USB naming conventions and name changes have always spread confusion among consumers far and wide. Here's what you need to know about the difference between USB 3 and USB-C.
A white LED on your motherboard may just be informational but it can also indicate issues with your CPU, GPU, RAM Modules and Boot process. Here's how to troubleshoot white motherboard LEDs quickly.
PNY isn't as well known as some of the more mainstream GPU partners, but that doesn't mean it's a bad GPU brand per se, just that it caters to a different audience.
With many new Mac devices on offer from Apple, it can become complicated to pick the one that fits your needs best. Here's our in-depth buying guide on all things Mac Desktops.
All-in-one Liquid Coolers can be a head scratcher to install, and after that's done you most certainly want to make sure the pump and entire AIO is working properly. Here's how.
Changing the DPI sensitivity on your mouse can accommodate different usage mentalities and workload features. Here're two ways to change your mouse's DPI.
Monitoring your CPU's thermals is something you may do from time to time, and the CPU Package Temerpature reading is among the most important metrics to check.
Picking between an Ultrawide Monitor and a Dual Monitor setup isn't always an easy one to wrap your head around. It'll heavily depend on the kind of workloads you're running.
Even though Laptop and Desktop GPU equivalents are named similarly, they unfortunately do not perform identically. Laptop GPUs are, in fact, a lot slower than Desktop GPUs.
Whether you're checking if your manual overclock is working properly or if someone else has tinkered with your CPU or GPU clocks, there's an easy way to check your hardware for overclocks.
Current-gen NVMe SSDs can throttle due to excessive temperatures. Is using a heatsink for NVMe M.2 SSDs therefore the solution to keeping drive performance as high as possible?
There are different kinds of laptop cooling pads available on the market, but do they actually work and reduce your laptop's temperatures? And do they all work the same? A closer look.
Apple's M3 chips are once again doubling down on raw performance uplift and will outclass anything released so far. Are the M3 MacBooks worth the wait?
MacBooks certainly come at a price, but they also pack a lot of performance for high-end workloads, right? Well, Video Editing is such a heavy-duty workload and we take a look at whether MacBooks are up to it.
Building your own PC is easy and there are a lot of reasons why you should consider it too. Here are our favorite 7 of those that we'd love to share with you!
M.2 SSDs come in many different flavors, two of them being their bandwidth & interface. Whether you get a SATA or PCIe SSD is an important decision, especially if your motherboards supports only one of the two.
The 5-Series CPUs of Intel and AMD are among the most popular and for a good reason: They combine ample performance with an affordable price. Here's who pulls ahead in the current market of Core i5 vs Ryzen5.
If the red DRAM LED Error Light is lit on your motherboard there are a couple of likely causes that can be easy to fix. Here's what we've found to be the culprit in most cases.
Consulting a PSU calculator before settling on a specific PSU for your new PC build is unavoidable. Here're our 3 favorite PSU calculators that we use daily.
Two or more GPUs often increase performance near linearly in select workloads that are graphically demanding. Here's how to check if your motherboard supports running two GPUs.
The NVMe interface is as widespread as it is fast in today's PCs and Laptops. But how do NVMe generations, specifically, compare, especially performance-wise? A closer look.
Upgrading your RAM is an easy way to increase performance in many workloads. But how much RAM does your Computer actually support? Here's how to check!
Mac Minis are so small, it's hard to believe they should offer any sort of performance for demanding workloads. What's a Mac Mini used for and is it fast enough for your kind of work?
A Laptop's screen needs ample brightness, especially if you're using your device outside or in brightly lit rooms. Here's everything you need to know about a Laptop Display's brightness and other features.
LG is a widely known brand, not just for Laptops. How do they compare to other Laptop brands and are they a good enough brand to buy from? A closer look.
The Taskmanager-equivalent on a Mac, the Activity Monitor, lists all kinds of interesting info on what kind of Software is currently running, and it's easy to launch on a Mac. Here's how.
GeForce Experience is one of those tools that wants to be installed alongside your Graphics Card Driver. But is it any good or can you do just fine without installing it?
Used Laptops are a lot cheaper than brand new ones, and their performance most often is nothing to scoff at. But what are the downsides to buying a used Laptop? A closer look.
Keeping an eye on your Memory, especially when your Mac is seemingly crawling to a halt, can speed up your workloads considerably. Here's how to check your memory usage.
Is buying used CPUs considered safe nowadays or should you rather opt for a new model? Here's everything you need to know about buying a used CPU on the secondhand market.
MSI offers "Creator" and "Studio" Laptops that are both targeted at professionals running content-creation workloads, but are these specialized devices worth their asking price?
Nvidia offers both a so-called Game-Ready Driver and a Studio Driver for their GPUs. How do these drivers compare and does it matter which one you use for your workloads?
There's more nuance to checking all of your PCIe slots' bandwidth and generation than first meets the eye. Bandwidth sharing, bifurcation, CPU support and others play a crucial role.
The 3 most widespread micro-architectures, x86, x64 and ARM are found in a lot of different hardware today. CPUs in PCs, Laptops and Macs being the most noteworthy. How do they compare?
Is the default sharpness setting of your monitor something you should change when first setting up a monitor? And what if you're a content-creator that relies on accurate visuals?
Video Editing and 3D Rendering are two popular workloads that are often done on a Laptop. But are Laptops even fast enough or should you opt for a desktop instead?
Many PCs have a built-in speaker that beeps to convey information about your PC's state. But what do the many beep codes mean, anyway, and is beeping always bad news?
Secure Boot is a security setting that allows your motherboard to check that all operating system software is signed by a trusted vendor, generally Microsoft for a Windows PC.
Integrated Graphics, especially, iGPUs in mobile processors are becoming ever more powerful. But how do Intel UHD and Xe Graphics compare, two of the most popular iGPUs?
Is a BIOS update worth the hassle and potential risk it brings to the table? Here are 3 good reasons why you should consider updating your BIOS and how to do it.
RISC-V and ARM are hot new terms that are evermore being thrown around the tech industry. What are they and which comes out on top in a direct comparison? An introduction.
Although motherboards are a crucial component in any PC that can severely impact performance, the component itself draws suprisingly little power. You should still include it in your overall PC power consumption calculation, though.
The new Version of Cinebench, 2024, benchmarks CPUs and GPUs in the popular Redshift render engine. We benchmarked all modern CPUs and GPUs and list them in our score overview.
HDDs had a great run. They're a classic among PC storage, a classic that certainly doesn't reside in the past exclusively, but is overtaken by SSDs in most workloads.
CPU Fans for both AIOs and Air-Coolers can be mounted on different sides to push or pull air through the heatsink. Which is best depends on a few factors.
A Graphics Card's Power Consumption can be measured or advertised in different ways. TGP (Total Graphics Power) and TDP (Thermal Design Power) are two popular ways of doing so. Here's what they mean for you.
This Guide will help you figure out why the red CPU Light on your Motherboard is lit and how to fix the underlying issue before resorting to returning your CPU.
How does an expensive Intel Xeon CPU compare to a cheaper Core i9 CPU, especially for workstation workloads? Does a Xeon perform that much better to warrant the high price? Far from it!
Is there a meaningful difference between ATX and E-ATX motherboards that warrant picking one over the other? Let's break it down and take a closer look!
Your PC consists of many components that all have to be of comparable performance so they don't bottleneck each other. Here's how to figure out if you have any bottlenecks.
Is there any performance difference between triple-cell and quad-cell (TLC, QLC) SSDs and which one should you opt for when buying a new SSD? A closer look.
ASUS offers an entire range of different Laptops in its product stack that target different users and workloads. How do the Zenbook, Vivobook and ProArt Series compare?
Adjusting your GPU's fan speeds can both increase its performance by making it boost longer and at higher frequencies or generally lower the noise your Graphics Card if you're looking for silent operation. Here's how to adjust those fan curves step-by-step.
Dell is one of the most well-known electronics brands in existence today, but offering products in all kinds of markets doesn't always bode well for a brand. Is Dell a good Laptop brand?
Gigabyte is best known for their GPUs and Motherboards but they have products available in other areas such as storage. Is Gigabyte a good brand to buy from today?
Samsung has a great reputation in all kinds of computer-related areas, but are their laptops worth it compared to the very strong competition? A closer look.
Does it make more sense to get more RAM or faster RAM for your PC? As so often, it'll depend on the kind of workloads you're running. A closer look & recommendations.
What are the differences between boxed, tray, and WOF CPUs? Do they perform the same or should you make sure to steer clear of certain variants? A closer look.
AMD has many boosting technologies for its CPUs, and PBO (Precision Boost Overdrive) is one of the most recent. What does PBO do, is it safe to enable? And most importantly: Will PBO increase your performance?
Are Apple's Laptops, resp. MacBooks, worth their asking price or should you rather buy a comparably priced Windows-based Laptop? We take a closer look.
MacBooks aren't upgradeable, storage or otherwise. If you find yourself needing more storage post-purchase, here're several options that you can fall back on.
AMD Ryzen X3D CPUs introduce added 3D Vertical Cache compared to their X Counterparts. Does this mean X3D is the better CPU in any workload? No, far from it.
Want to hook up a single monitor to multiple devices such as multiple PCs or Laptops? Here're all possibilities to do just that. From using remote desktop software to buying a KVM switch.
For a CPU to perform to its full potential it has to be supplied with ample amounts of power. This power comes from the PSU by using CPU Power Cables plugged into your Motherboard.
Power Limit Throttling is the CPU choosing to throttle its own power delivery to ensure system stability. If this sounds like something you'd like to prevent to increase performance, here's how.
AMD's Ryzen CPUs are segmented into 4 tiers of which each tier targets different buyers, workloads and budgets. Here's which Ryzen CPU tier is right for your needs.
A "CPU Over Temperature" Error displayed during on your POST screen is something you should fix immediately. Here's our step-by-step guide on how to do just that.
Every PC uses a different amount of power. It depends on its internal components, cooling, PSU efficiency and more! Here's how all of this works and how much power typical PCs draw.
The real-time rendering solution Enscape can push just about any PC to its limits. Here's what we think of its Official System Requirements and what PC you'll need for best performance.
Maximizing your PC's performance by increasing your RAM speed to its intended frequency is a crucial step when building a new PC or adding new RAM. Here's how.
The introduction of all those PCIe generations begs the question of whether PCIe slots and lanes are backward compatible. Can you use a new GPU in an older PCIe slot? And if so, does this impact performance?
Finding accurate, trustworthy info on PC-Hardware online, boils down to visiting just a few authoritative Websites that are known to be reliable in all things reviews and critical analysis.
Known as one of the most popular Laptop Brands in the business world especially, HP offers Laptops for all kinds of workloads. But are they a good Brand for any workload?
PC Hardware Youtube Channels are as informative and fun as they are addictive. Here're the top channels you should subscribe to, to stay up to date on all things PC Hardware.
Lenovo, without a doubt, is one of the most popular and well-known Laptop brands available today. But are Lenovo Laptops on par with their fame? A closer look.
What's the difference between UEFI and Legacy BIOS and why does your motherboard BIOS offer a UEFI and Legacy Boot Mode Option? Is this something you should use or steer clear of?
If you have an unused Laptop at hand when working on your PC, it makes sense to use it as a primary or secondary monitor to extend your workspace. Here's how.
TDP stands for Thermal Design Power, in watts, and refers to the power consumption under the maximum theoretical load of your CPU. Here's how TDP influences performance and why you should care.
DisplayPort, besides HDMI, is the most popular display interface today. The newest version 2.0/2.1 brings substantial improvements over 1.4(a) to the table that should be considered when buying a new GPU.
You've finished building your new PC and are wondering which drivers you should install so it runs at its full potential? Here's what we recommend you install first.
Here's a quick and dirty guide to safely exiting your BIOS without losing any changes you may have made. This works for virtually any motherboard, PC, and Laptop manufacturer.
Make sure your GPU performs reliably and to its full potential with the help of our step-by-step guide to checking if a GPU is working properly. Benchmarks and more!
A Computer that turns On and Off repeatedly certainly is a cause for concern. Here are the most common causes and how to troubleshoot and fix this issue quickly.
Motherboards are mounted inside your PC Case through Standoffs and Standoff Screws. Are these screws package with the motherboard or will you need extra when building a PC?
ASRock Motherboards display so-called Dr. Debug LED Error Codes if your PC is encountering hardware or configuration issues while POSTing. Here's how to dissect these codes.
Having your RAM run in Dual-Channel mode can increase your PC's performance in many workloads. Here's how to check if you've set everything up correctly to make use of Dual-Channel mode.
Most Gigabyte Motherboard display so-called error-codes on a motherboard LED-display making it easier to fix any underlying issues. Here's everything you need to know about Gigabyte LED Error Codes.
Here's how to make sure your new SSD is performing as it should by running quick benchmarks and comparing the results. Our Top 4 favorite free tools to do just that.
CAD workloads require PRO GPUs, right? Well, not necessarily. In fact, most times you get higher performance at a lower price if you don't get a PRO GPU from AMD, Nvidia or Intel for CAD Workloads.
CPU Coolers have become ever more powerful and subsequently, bigger. It's more crucial than ever to check cooler compatibility with your Case, RAM, and Motherboard to make sure you don't run into issues.
The official Solidworks System Requirements leave much to the imagination and don't make buying a specialized PC all that easy. Here's what you really need to run Solidworks efficiently.
AMD's new RDNA3 PRO GPU line-up, the W7900 and W7800, bring some very interesting new developments to the table. Is this heralding the downfall of Nvidia's Pro GPUs? A closer look.
Case USB Ports are as practical as they are prone to failure. Here's how to troubleshoot and fix your front USB Ports when they're not working as intended.
GPUs come in all sorts of variations. In our overview we give a rundown of all the different Graphics Card types so you can figure out which one suits your needs best.
AI assisted Content Creation is a powerful way to support one's creative process. Here's what sort of Hardware and PC-Builds you'll need for best results.
Our tests show that high capacity DDR5 RAM Kits don't hit frequencies as advertised. Buyers in need of 64 or 128GB of DDR5 RAM beware until platform matures!
Updating an MSI Motherboard's BIOS may seem like a daunting process, but can actually be done quite easily by following our step-by-step guide right here.
The Mac Studio Display is as much an engineering marvel as it is a burden on your wallet. Here are our favorite Monitor alternatives that are better and cheaper.
Autodesk's AutoCAD is among the most popular Applications for computer-aided design and drafting. But what kind of a PC will you need to make it run smoothly?
Fusion 360's System Requirements are, thankfully, easily satisfied. It's one of the leading computer-aided design programs for manufacturing, modeling, engineering, product and printed circuit board design, and everything in between.
Adobe's After Effects is as demanding on your hardware as it is popular. It runs decently on most Laptops, but makes great use of Laptop specifications that are found on the higher-end of the spectrum.
The ability to tile textures indefinitely across a 3D Model, a Print, or other digital design comes with some preliminary effort to make the image or texture seamless in the first place. Here's how.
ASUS sure is one of the best-known brands for all things PC-Parts, Laptops, Peripherals & more. But how do their products hold up against the competition. Is ASUS a good brand?
All-In-One Liquid Coolers (AiOs) are extremely popular and powerful and our guide will make sure you have the basics down to make an informed purchase.
AMD's GPUs are often listed as second-rate at best, even though their technology is as on par with Nvidia's as can be. Here's the real reason they fall short in the current GPU market.
The Motherboard is the backbone of any PC and requires original, up-to-date drivers to ensure the best possible performance from all its connected components. Here's how to install those drivers.
Dozens, even hundreds of CPUs are released with every new generation across all market segments. What general types of categories do all of these CPUs fit into?
Both Lenovo and Dell are among the most popular Laptop manufacturers world-wide. But in a head-to-head comparison, who comes out on top, and which Laptop should you pick for your use-case?
Buying used GPUs is tempting, especially with new GPUs' steep prices nowadays. But is buying used GPUs even safe, and what are the warning signs to look out for?
3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans, also known as PWM & DC Fans have a noticeable price difference. Is this extra pin worth the price difference, or are they essentially the same?
You don’t realize how vital the middle mouse button is until it stops working. Here's our step by step guide to fixing any middle mouse button & scroll wheel issues you might encounter.
CPU fans that don't spin aren't necessarily cause for alarm. They usually ramp up and down depending on your CPU's temperature. If they don't spin at all, though, you'll find possible fixes in this guide.
While running multiple GPUs of the same brand in one PC is something quite common, mixing GPUs from different brands introduces stability issues and considerably narrows application support.
Mechanical Keyboards can be customized in all kinds of areas with sound, look & feel being the three most important. Here's which websites let you customize and order your very own keyboard creations.
A Motherboard's Chipset is one of the most important components of a PC. It dictates features such as overclockability, PCIe Lanes, USB capability or RAID support.
PowerColor's brand name doesn't instill the greatest confidence in its GPU's performance, but their products are in fact a great option for AMD buyers.
While XFX is a lesser known brand compared to the likes of ASUS or MSI, they offer AMD GPUs that we can highly recommend, especially if you're working with a limited budget.
We've gathered 14 ways that have helped us fix Wi-Fi connection issues on our Laptops. Work through them step by step to get your Internet back up and running.
Apple's Unified Memory Architecture brings with it some considerable benefits compared to regular x86 RAM. Thanks to its technical nature, close proximity to the CPU and GPU, performance is something to reckon with.
Mounting PC Case and CPU fans incorrectly can severely impact your PC's airflow and, subsequently, your component's performance. Here's how to figure out which way your fans will blow air.
While ASUS and Acer both have great Laptops to choose from, there are some clear winners if you run specific workloads. We take a closer look at their current offerings and how they compare.
A great keyboard won't magically win you an Academy Award, but it can sure make your Video Editing experience more fun, efficient, and even inspire you! Here's which keyboards we like to recommend for Video Editing.
Linear, Tactile, Clicky switches? Mechanical Keyboards are all the rage these days. In a large part because there are so many ways to customize them. Here's which switches are best for your needs.
A computer that randomly turns on by itself can be frustrating, especially if it happens at night and the noise or monitor wakes you up. Here's what you can do to fix it once and for all.
Apple's Mac Mini is a surprisingly powerful yet compact device that allows you to run many demanding workloads. But there are some strong alternatives on the market that are cheaper and, yes, better! We take a closer look.
While power saving mode on monitors is great for conserving electricity, it can become a nuisance if it happens randomly or without necessity. Here's how to keep your Monitor from entering power save mode for good.
ASRock makes AMD GPUs only, but these sure come with great performance, cooling and are easy on the eye while being on the lower-end of pricing compared many other GPU AIBs.
There are many reasons why a Computer might slow down all of a sudden. Our list of most common issues and fixes will help you get it back up and performing as it should in no time.
The Mac Studio is an engineering marvel. It's small, draws little power and performs excellently. But are there any cheaper alternatives that perform even better than the Mac Studio?
While Apple's iMac sure is easy on the eye, their practical functionality isn't always what we'd like it to be. There are some very strong alternatives on the market that aren't just cheaper, but perform better in many metrics.
High CPU temperatures won't just reduce your PC's performance but may even cause long-term damage or failure of the CPU. Here's how to stop a CPU from overheating.
There are many reasons you might need to figure out your Computer's age. Is it time for an upgrade? Do you want to sell it? Is it slowing down? Here's how to find your PC's age.
We did a deep dive into Z690 & Z790 Motherboards and hand picked the best for Intel's newest and most popular CPUs that professionals need for efficient work.
Figma has conquered the world of Interface Design Tools by storm. But what are Figma's System Requirements and do you need a strong PC to run it efficiently?
Adobe XD is among the most popular UI / UX Design Tools on the market today. If you're looking to use Adobe XD professionally, you'll need a PC that is up to the task. Here's what we recommend for a smooth Adobe XD experience.
CPUs are being outfitted with ever more Cores with each generation. But which CPU has the highest multi-core performance and does it even matter for typical workloads?
A Laptop's battery life will vary considerable from model to model, also depending on how you use it. Workloads, Screen-Brightness, Performance-Demand, Age, many factors influence your battery's life.
Mini PCIe has been largely replaced by the M.2 and NVMe standard, but still finds application in some smaller devices. Here's everything you need to know about Mini PCIe.
Almost every PC builder has had to troubleshoot boot & POST issues with Debug LEDs at least once. Most often it's an easy fix, but it can get gruesome at times. Here's our quick-fix guide to when that red LED stays lit.
Both ASUS and Gigabyte are mainstays of the Motherboard industry and their offerings compete on almost any level. Given the choice between the two brands, though, which should you pick?
Upgrading a Laptop's Processor may seem like a great way to increase performance, but there are quite a few things to consider before embarking on this endeavor, viability being the first.
Figuring out which Graphics Card you have in your PC and what driver version it's running on, is a straightforward process. Here's how to go about checking your GPU and Driver.
Although modern Motherboards come with several small PCIe x1 slots, these slots are mostly left untouched by most PC Builders. What is their purpose and can you make use of them?
There's nothing more frustrating than when your Monitor interrupts your work. If it randomly goes black when you least expect it to, here's what you can do to find a fix for it.
The PCIe x16 specification can be found on many a product sheet, but it doesn't always mean the same thing. Is it Bandwidth or physical slot length? Here's how to figure this one out.
Mechanical Keyboards are all the rage these days. They look and feel great and push your creativity and efficiency to new heights. But what should you look out for when looking to buy one?
Samsung and Crucial are two of the most popular SSD manufacturers. Both have a multitude of different storage offerings, but which one is better? We've analyzed both for easy comparison.
Your PC's GPU is one of the hottest components you'll encounter in a Build. Checking and monitoring your Graphic Card's Temperature is something you'll want to do sooner rather than later to ensure it performs up to its full potential.
Nvidia's newly released powerhouse of a GPU, the RTX 4080 brings solid performance to content creation workloads at moderate power-draw. Our review goes in-depth.
Motherboard prices keep going up and they seem to be more expensive than a CPU nowadays. Do expensive Motherboards increase performance and are they worth it at all?
The Brand of the Monitor can already tell us a lot about the quality of that Monitor and what it'll most likely be good at - workload-wise. Here're our favorite Monitor Brands to buy from.
Redshift has conquered the GPU Rendering World by storm. But with all this popularity also come considerable performance demands. Here's our take on Redshift's System Requirements.
PC Specs means "Specifications", and knowing your PC's specifications tells you a lot about how it performs or what kind of upgrades are available to you.
Is everyone making too big of a fuss about the new Nvidia 4090 and 4080 RTX GPUs? Or are they absolutely worth their asking price for content creation workloads?
ErP can significantly reduce power consumption of your PC when it's turned off. That's right, even turned off your PC still consumes power. ErP tackles this once and for all.
What's the big fuss about mechanical keyboards and their supposed superiority to membrane keyboards? What's the difference between the two? Let's take a closer look!
Professional CAD Work requires a Mouse that enables efficient work, doesn't hold you back, and won't hurt your wrist even during long work-sessions. Here's everything you need to know about picking a Mouse for CAD.
Electricity is getting ever more expensive, and your PC is one of the biggest energy hogs in almost any household. How can you reduce its power consumption and subsequently your electric bill?
You can use a Monitor with all kinds of devices, but you won't be able to use it on its own without any kind of source. Monitors don't have smart capabilities like TVs do.
Dell and HP are two of the most renowned Laptop Manufacturers on the market. But which of the two fits your needs and workloads best? Our Guide will show you just that.
Your Motherboard's AAFP Connector enables you to use your Case's front audio jacks which can be convenient. But what are the drawbacks compared to the rear audio ports?
Are OEM/Tray CPUs safe to buy or should you stay clear of them and resort to getting a boxed CPU? Here's everything you need to know about boxed and tray/OEM CPUs.
A PC's Power On Self Test (POST) is one of the most important steps when starting your PC. It checks any hardware and makes sure it functions correctly.
Apple's new ARM chip architecture surprised the entire industry thanks to its stellar performance per watt. But there are a few caveats that you should be aware of.
Resetting your BIOS can fix all kinds of issues you're encountering with your PC. MSI motherboards are no different in this regard. Here's how to do just that!
Your CPU's performance is determined by the number of instructions it can execute per clock cycle. But how does IPC work exactly and how can you compare CPUs through it?
With so many CPU Cooler Brands on the market today, which should you buy a Cooler from? After all, the CPU Cooler will be responsible for the performance of your CPU!
USB Ports, Colors, Types, Generations. There's nothing more confusing than USB Naming Schemes. We'll explain everything you need to know about USB Ports.
Graphics Cards, too, have a suggested Price Point set by manufacturers, called, MSRP. Our updated List shows AMD, Nvidia and Intel GPUs ranked by MSRP.
A well-functioning PC must consist of parts that are fully compatible and don't create any bottlenecks. But how do you make sure your PC-Parts all are compatible?
It's easy to assume Motherboards have integrated Graphics because of their display connector inside the I/O shield. This is not the case, though. iGPUs are integrated into the CPU.
C: and D: are drive letters assigned to partitions that don't have to be on two physical drives. They can also be assigned to USB, DVD, CD or SD Drives.
We've tested, scored, ranked and listed all modern Laptop Processors in order of Performance for easy comparison. All mobile CPUs from AMD, Intel & Apple.
There are different ways to check your PC's power consumption that give you varying amounts of insight into which PC-Parts consume the most electricity.
Everyone has come across a flickering Monitor at some point in time. And while it's usually temporary, if the flickering persists, it's time to fix it for good! Here's how.
Sometimes all you need is a Graphics Card upgrade to run the demanding game or app you're looking to use. Upgrading a Laptop's GPU, though, has its obstacles.
CPUs with high single core performance are ready-made for a variety of workloads you're likely to run. PC Gaming, General Productivity, or Physical Simulations all greatly benefit from high single-core performance.
How do AMD and Nvidia GPUs stack up to each other? Is one company the clear winner in performance or does it depend on the product tier you're looking to buy?
There are a myriad of Intel CPUs available to buy and it is difficult to compare them performance-wise. Here's our Intel CPU List in order of performance.
SketchUp's official System Requirements just aren't helpful enough to figure out what kind of PC you'll need for smooth modeling and rendering performance. Here's our take.
Both 24 and 27-inch Monitors are extremely popular right now. But are there any important differences you must be aware of apart from their size difference?
Many Laptops lack an Ethernet Port so they can be made thinner and sold cheaper. There are still several options how you can connect with an Ethernet Cable, though.
Is an Intel Celeron Processor too slow for most workloads? Well, it certainly depends on the workloads you want to run, but in general, yes, Celeron is an extreme budget option.
Both Dell XPS and Precision look pretty much the same, but what sets them apart? Are they targeted at different audiences and do they have different specs?
Do Dual CPU Motherboards make sense for non-server, consumer workloads like 3D Rendering, Video Editing, Gaming? It depends on your need of high core-density.
CPUs are automatically throttled and degrade over time if their temperature is too high. Especially a CPU that is idle should never get too hot. Here's what's considered a good idle CPU temp.
Video Render Time depends on a lot of different things. The type of Footage you're using, your project complexity, and, of course, your Hardware's performance.
High-Quality Motherboard VRMs are crucial to a properly functioning system. The CPU's Boost Clocks and Overclocks especially will benefit from good VRMs.
Are AMD GPUs compatible with Intel CPUs? After all, the two companies are competitors, right? A closer look at workloads and when you should stay clear of this combination.
Buffered RAM (Memory) reduces electrical load on the memory controller, making it less likely to become a bottleneck in Systems with lots of RAM Modules.
It's important to keep an eye on your GPU utilization to maintain your PC's health. Here's what your GPU utilization should be at in different workloads.
Customizing your Mechanical Keyboard is an art in itself. And the sound of your switches plays a major role. What are the quietest, most silent switches out there?
NVMe and SSDs can't be compared. They are two entirely different things. What you can compare, though, are NVMe PCIe SSDs and SATA SSDs. Everything you need to know.
Intel has introduced a bunch of Suffixes into their CPU Naming Scheme. What do K, F, and KF mean, and do they impact price, performance, or something else entirely?
Refractive and Reflective Materials & Shaders in 3D Software are defined through the so-called IOR (Index of Refraction) Value. Here's our List of common Materials.
There's nothing worse than buying a powerful GPU that, as you find out later, does not fit into your Case. Here's how to check if your GPU will fit. GPU Clearance explaned.
GPUs can use shared memory when their dedicated memory is full. But how does this work and what performance implications come with using shared memory?
Make sure you understand the process of picking a GPU for Video Editing before buying one. This Guide will teach you how to pick a GPU for Video Editing.
Graphics Card (GPUs) are power-hungry components that output a lot of heat, even when they are not under full load. What is a good GPU idle temperature?
What are all of the different kinds of PCIe slots, why are they different lengths and which cards can you typically get for each type? Our Guide on PCIe slots.
More CPU Cores aren't always better. For one, higher core-count CPUs are more expensive, and two, single-core performance starts to suffer above a certain threshold.
Power Supplies come in 3 major variants: Fully Modular, Semi Modul and Non-Modular. What do these fancy names mean and which of the three should you pick?
Deciding between a Laptop or Desktop heavily depends on your specific workloads, where you are and the efficiency you're aiming for. Everything you need to know.
Autodesk 3ds Max is as capable as it is performance-hungry. The official system requirements don't do it justice. Here's what kind of Hardware you'll need.
Autodesk's 3D Software Maya comes with serious system requirements - at least when doing complex work. But you can also get away with an entry-level Build.
Troubleshooting storage devices that don't show up in BIOS can be a hassle. M.2 SSDs even more so. Here's our step-by-step Guide to configuring your M.2 SSD.
Building a PC is fun! But once everything's assembled, what comes next? Here's our checklist and in-depth guide to your next steps AFTER building a PC.
CHA_FAN is another one of those Motherboard Headers that adds confusion to the mix of various other Headers you come across. Here's what it's meant for.
Are Graphics Cards only needed for gaming or are they required for other workloads as well? Is an iGPU sufficient for the tasks you're running on your PC?
There are some simple reasons why your RAM might not run at full speed. CPU, Motherboard incompatibility are two, more likely, though, are the following.
Motherboard standoffs keep your PC from shorting and increase the overall stability of your components. Make sure you keep the rules we discuss here in mind.
There aren't many expensive PC Cases that are actually worth buying. Here's our overview of the few true high-end Cases for enthusiasts that'll blow you away.
Dying GPUs often have telltale signs that' forewarn you to look into issues that need fixing. Here're our most common GPU issues that indicate it's failing.
Keeping your Motherboard's temperatures low is just as important as those of your CPU or GPU. Take these steps to check and reduce them as much as possible.
There are so many types of RAM available that it can be difficult to make heads or tails of all the acronyms. DDR, SDRAM, RDIMM, ECC. We explain it all.
Weather you're buying a new PC or upgrading your CPU, you have to make sure the Processor is compatible with your Motherboard. Here's how to figure it out.
Machine Learning demands has extremely high performance demands if used right. Our Guide explains what hardware components are most important to speed up your workload.
GPU Fans don't always have to spin. But when they're supposed to and don't, it's cause for alarm. Here's our checklist to make sure your GPU Fans are operating correctly.
Asus' ProArt Studiobook Laptops are purpose-built for creative professionals. We take an in-depth look at how it performs in real-world tests in our review.
VA, IPS, TN, OLED, CRT - There are just too many types of Panels on he market to wrap your head around! Here's what sets them apart and which one you should get.
Our AMD Processor List in Order of Performance will help you decide on the right AMD CPU for your needs. Multi-, Single-Core Performance and Value compared.
Your Motherboard heavily influences all of the components that are attached to it. Keep this guide in mind to unfold the full potential of your CPU, GPU, RAM and more.
Intel especially segments its CPUs into locked and unlocked. This comes with some extra features, like overclockability, the other may save you some money.
Zotac is a well-known GPU Brand that offers Graphic Cards at reduced prices. Does this mean those GPUs aren't any good? Or is Zotac a reliable Brand that you can buy from?
Not all PCIe-Slots are equal. Even though a PCIe-Slot might have the right size to physically hold your GPU just fine, PCIe-Lanes have to be considered as well.
You can enable Virtualization in your BIOS by switching SVM Mode to on. An Intel BIOS will have a similar option but called differently. What do you need it for?
Motherboard Wifi is often hidden in technical specifications & difficult to discern on an existing PC. Here's how to find out if your Motherboard has WIFI.
Hot PC components are thermally throttled and you miss out on potential performance. Here's how to make your CPU and GPU perform to their full potential.
Unreal Engine's Official System Requirements are vague and you need to take a closer look at your workloads to truly find the right set of hardware for your needs.
Liquid Cooling needs regular maintenance and refilling to keep cooling performance at its maximum potential. Here's how long your Liquid cooling will last.
Are there any major differences between a CPU and an APU? When does it make sense to get an APU with an integrated GPU or a CPU + GPU combo? A closer look.
Samsung's B-Die Memory Modules perform especially well in certain situations. They are especially popular amongst Ryzen Users. Our top B-Die RAM picks.
Is a Mid Tower PC Case best for your needs or should you go Full Tower? Let's take a look at the most important factors that sets these two Cases apart.
Unity's Official System Requirements are quite vague and you'll have to take a closer look at your Unity workloads to truly find the right set of hardware for your needs.
The GTX and RTX abbreviations are all over the place when looking for new GPUs. But are these just marketing speak or does it actually stand for something?
Exporting an MP4 from After Effects is more difficult than it should be. Here are 4 different ways you can use to output an MP4 Video from After Effects.
Blender runs on almost any Laptop, but it doesn't run -well- on any Laptop. Make sure you pick the right features for the highest possible performance.
MSI's EZ Debug LEDs are geat for troubleshooting any PC-startup Issues. You'll be able to narrow down the troublesome component in no time. We show you how.
3D Modeling and Rendering on a Laptop is possible but there are some drawbacks to consider. Choose your Mobile workstation wisely with the help of our Guide.
We take a close look at the many Z590 Motherboard options on the market. Which is the best for your particular Intel CPU - without spending an arm and a leg?
Here's how to enable RTX Ray Tracing and Voice on supported Nvidia GPUs to make use of the extremely powerful Hardware-Feature to improve your Application's Fidelity.
Will your new GPU run on your old Graphics Drivers or do you need to uninstall your old Drivers first before installing a new Graphics Card? A closer look.
What sets Server CPUs apart from Desktop CPUs? Are there any meaningful features that warrant the premium price of Server CPUs? It's all about platform.
There are the right kind of CPU and GPU Render Engines for any type of 3D Projects. But what are the differences between them and which one should you choose?
X-Particle Benchmarks tell us a lot about what kind of CPU and PC-Parts to get to maximize X-Particles' cache build time. We compare modern CPU's in different Scenes.
The Best Website to get Free and Paid High Quality Textures for your 3D Projects. Download High-Res PBR Maps from these Library Sites for 3D Artists & Designers.
Finding the perfect Low-Profile CPU Cooler for your Small Form Factor Build is not easy. You'll want to avoid mistakes that make your CPU underperform.
Make use of our first-hand experience with Online Render Farms to find the best Render Farm for your needs. Octane, Redshift, V-Ray, Blender, 3ds Max, and more.
Pro GPUs often cost a multiple of Consumer GPUs without being faster at first glance. Why are they so expensive, what are their benefits and who needs them?
Low-Profile GPUs are made to fit into small spaces, especially when starting a Small Form Factor PC-Build. Consider these best Low-Profile GPUs for your needs.
Adobe's Lightroom Tools can demand some serious performance from your System even though the official System Requirements are quite low. Let's take a look.
If you're building a Workstation you'll need to make sure your Motherboard is up to the task. Learn what to look out for when buying a Motherboard for Workstation Workloads.
Adobe's official System Requirements are fairly low and you'll need to make sure your PC is up to spec when working on more complex projects. We'll show you how.
DaVinci Resolve needs powerful PC hardware to run efficiently. We'll walk you through what the best Workstation PC for DaVinci Resolve Studio looks like.
After Effects' Official System Requirements are set so low that you'll quickly run into performance issues on more complex projects. Our recommendations are robust.
Adobe Premiere Pro's Official System Requirements are extremely low and you'll want to make sure you have some decent PC Specs for more complex Projects.
What's the difference between NVLINK and SLI and when do you use which? Is using multiple GPUs through NVLINK or SLI even worth it? Let's take a closer look.
Adobe is setting the bar low with its official Photoshop System Requirements. Be sure to follow our recommendations for efficient work inside Photoshop.
Checking your PC's Specs only takes a couple of seconds. Find out how to check what GPU, CPU, RAM, Motherboard, Storage, Nvidia Driver, OpenGL Version you have.
We all want to render faster. With this in-depth guide you'll find a multitude of methods to speed up your rendering and overall 3D render performance.
AMD's Ryzen 5000 Series CPUs have overtaken the competition for good. Content Creators have to search no further for the fastest CPUs for professional workloads.
We will show you how you can fix bent CPU Socket Pins on both LGA and PGA Sockets. In most cases you can fix this yourself without having to buy a new motherboard.
If you want to keep your CPU cool while increasing your performance, thermal paste is the first step into the right direction. We list the best Thermal Paste for your needs.
You'll need some very specific PC-Parts for efficient work in Graphisoft ArchiCAD. We've put together a guide for ArchiCAD Users that want the best possible performance.
Need a PC for SketchUp? Be sure to pick the right PC-Components to make your work as efficient as possible. This Guide shows you exactly what the Best PC for SketchUp looks like.
Is the AMD Threadripper 3990X 64-Core CPU the new King for Content Creators? How does it perform in Rendering, Video Editing and other heavy processing tasks?
Make sure your CPU performs the best it can by choosing the right CPU Coler for your AMD Ryzen Threadripper Processor. AiO or Air-Cooled, find out what is better!
AMD Ryzen or Intel Core CPUs? What processors perform best at workstation tasks such as Rendering, Video Editing, Responsiveness & General Productivity?
Looking for a motherboard that pairs well with an AMD Ryzen 5000 Series CPU? Find the best Motherboards for Ryzen 5600, 5700X, 5800X, 5900X, 5950X here.
These are the currently best performing Laptops for Video Editing. In-Depth Info on buying the right Laptops within your budget, easily understood and up-to-date.
Western Digital's "Blue" series has always offered the most for the least, but with SSD's now dominating, the "Black" series might be the better choice.
A comprehensive overview of all basic Parts you need to build a PC, Workstation or Computer. Building your own PC is easy when you start with this list.
Best Computer and Hardware for different kinds of Video Editing needs. Fast Rendering, Real-Time Live-Playback, High Performance Encoding and Decoding of Footage.
Up-to-date V-Ray CPU and V-Ray GPU Benchmark list of all modern Graphics Cards (GPUs) & Processors (CPUs). Find out how well your hardware scores in the Vray Rendering Benchmark.
Buy and Build the best Computer for Graphic Design Work. Having great Hardware Parts and workflows will increase performance and make Graphic Design work easy and fast.
The CGDirector PC-Builder lets you quickly find the best Computer Parts for your PC & Workstation Build. Use cases include 3D-Modeling, Animation, Video-Editing, Motion Design and more.
Extensive Redshift Benchmark Results List with all modern GPUs, Operating Systems, CPUs and Multi-GPU-Setups. Find the best performing GPU for Redshift.
In-Depth Guide on how to use the best CPU and GPU Render Benchmarks to test your System's performance, make your hardware perform optimally and solve possible performance problems.