On this page:

• How much do you need to spend on a student laptop?
• What’s better for school: Mac or Windows?
• Should you buy a Snapdragon processor PC?
• What’s the best screen size for a student laptop?
• Durable laptops for backpacks
• The best student laptops

Back-to-school shopping can be expensive, especially now that many schools require you to supply a laptop or tablet for your child to use in the classroom. With such a big expense, you’ll want to be sure you make the right choice so it’ll (hopefully) last until your child finishes school.

But how much do you really need to spend on a decent piece of tech? Your kids can probably present a pretty convincing case for why they need a pricey, top-of-the-line laptop from Apple, Microsoft or Dell.

But in reality, a mid-range model will suit most students. So, before you drop hundreds or thousands of dollars on a new laptop, here’s what you need to know.

Plus, for ÌÇÐÄVlog members, we’ll reveal the student laptops our experts recommend. If you just want see the best products, jump straight to the results now.

What to look for in a student laptop

The features to look for will depend on the kind of subjects your child is studying. Almost all currently available entry-level laptops meet the minimum requirements for standard school research work – things like web browsing, word processing, video streaming and so on.

But you’re probably better off considering a mid-range laptop, even if the subjects your child is doing only have basic hardware requirements. These programs can feel rather sluggish on an entry-level model.

Creative subjects generally require a bit more grunt. Photo, audio and video editing, for example, need mid-to-high-end hardware in order to run.

Here’s a basic guide on the differences between basic, mid-range and high-end laptops from our tests. Note that these are broad examples and should only be used as a jumping-off point – you’ll need to closely examine the specs of any specific model you’re considering buying.

How much do you need to spend on a student laptop?

Like any purchase, this is a ‘how long is a piece of string?’ situation. Basic laptops that meet the minimum requirements for school start at around $500. However, you can expect to spend at least $700 for one with decent performance and speeds.

Keep in mind, price generally increases with performance. A laptop with performance appropriate for creative software (design, multimedia, etc.) will  come with a price tag closer to $1000 or more. However, you shouldn’t need to spend more than $1500 on a laptop for school.

Finally, consider future needs. The laptop should last at least four years and a basic model can quickly fall behind the hardware demands of many programs. A higher upfront cost may ultimately be cheaper in the long run, if it saves you buying a replacement model a couple of years down the track.

What’s better for school: Mac or Windows?

As far as software goes, almost all of the main programs required in schools are available for both Mac (OS X) and Windows computers. This includes cloud-based software that runs in web browsers like Firefox, Chrome and Safari.

However, you may find that more specialised software – particularly in creative spaces – is exclusive to Windows or OS X. Check the course requirements for software information or speak to the school to find out if this is the case for your child’s subjects.

It’s worth noting that gaming support (particularly for older titles) is still quite limited on Apple products, compared to Windows. Even some modern games don’t work, including those that run on programs like Steam. You can check compatibility with a quick Google search – e.g. “Will Fortnite work on an Apple MacBook?”.

Apple products tend to be more expensive, which is another factor to consider.

Why you shouldn’t buy a Windows 10 laptop

Security support for Windows 10 has ended. There are still avenues for free extended support but this is also wrapping up later in the year. That means Windows 10 laptops will not be secure when connected to the internet by the end of 2026.

A Windows 11 upgrade is an option for most laptops released in the last five years but the vast majority of older models aren’t eligible. You can pay for even longer extended support but it’s expensive – possibly more than the cost of a cheap, used laptop.

The effort involved in keeping a Windows 10 laptop secure isn’t worth the hassle anymore. Make sure you’re buying a computer that’s either already running Windows 11 or is very clearly eligible for the upgrade.

Are Chromebooks good for school?

A Chromebook is a lightweight alternative to a laptop that runs Google’s ChromeOS. You can’t install most software on a Chromebook. Instead, they rely on online services and a handful of programs in the Chrome Store to function.

They’re a viable option for office work and some school projects, but can feel limited or underpowered in other areas. More specialised software, creative tools and games may not perform well or function at all on a Chromebook.

Should you buy a Snapdragon processor PC?

The processor (or CPU) is the beating heart of your computer. Intel and AMD are the major manufacturers that have occupied the vast majority of the market for the last few decades, but Snapdragon – made by Qualcomm – has recently emerged as a new player in the PC market.

There’s a lot to like about Snapdragon. On paper, it promises greater efficiency and improved performance with longer battery life, which makes sense as these processors have been powering smartphones for some time now.

Unfortunately, Snapdragon’s transition to PC hasn’t been super smooth.Though plenty of brands like Dell, Microsoft and Lenovo have released Snapdragon-powered laptops that work as promised, there are lots of software compatibility issues which could affect your child’s schoolwork.

It all comes down to how processors operate. Almost all Intel and AMD processors are built on the same architecture – the core programming that makes them run. So for decades, first- and third-party software companies built their programs to suit this architecture. 

Snapdragon processors use a different type of architecture, which means lots of the software built for Intel and AMD machines  doesn’t work properly, if at all. Up until now, developers didn’t need to code with Snapdragon processors in mind because they weren’t being used in PCs. Now it looks like Snapdragon is here to stay and software developers are rushing to catch up.

So what does this mean for parents? Before shopping around, find out which programs your kids will need for school and make sure they’re Snapdragon compatible if you’re considering a laptop with this CPU.

The CPU won’t be much of an issue if your child is mainly doing research/easy based work. Web browsers and office applications seem to be running fine on Snapdragon for the most part. But specialised software (particularly creative tools like photo, audio and video editing), networking and programming tools and lots of games are having issues.

After you’ve figured out the programs they need for school, you’ll need to work out if it’s likely to run well on a laptop with a Snapdragon processor (if you’re considering a model that uses this CPU). To do this, look for the following info online, preferably on the developer’s website if available (the wording may be slightly different):

• Native Snapdragon support: the software can run on a Snapdragon PC.
• Emulated support: the software can run on a Snapdragon PC via included software that simulates an Intel/AMD processor. Though this works, the software will operate below optimal performance and may lag, freeze and feel a bit clunky overall.
• Unsupported/no native Snapdragon support: the program can’t run on a Snapdragon PC at all.

If this info isn’t out there, ask a salesperson or contact the laptop manufacturer.

Fortunately, there are still plenty of Intel- and AMD-powered laptops being made that don’t have these issues. So if compatibility is a concern, skip the Snapdragons and stick with an Intel/AMD CPU.

If compatibility isn’t going to be an issue, it’s worth considering a Snapdragon-powered PC if it scores well in our test and fits your budget.

What’s the best screen size for a student laptop?

Though there are no hard and fast rules here, you want to find the right balance between ease of use and portability. Most laptop displays are 13–15 inches, which is suitable for schoolwork.

You may want to go a little larger, 15-inches or above, if your child is pursuing creative subjects. The detail required for this sort of work will benefit from a larger screen. You can also get 10–12-inch models, but they can feel cramped and may be uncomfortable to use for long periods.

Durable laptops for backpacks

Durability shouldn’t be overlooked when deciding which laptop to buy. Most are notoriously susceptible to accidental spills. Generally speaking, laptops don’t like to be dropped or put through any particularly strenuous situations.

They may be able to handle a few bumps in a backpack but it’s best to pay a little extra for a carry case (even as a second layer of protection in a backpack). These cost around $30–100.

Insurance may also be a good option, just in case. Check for portable cover on your contents insurance and read the fine print to make sure it covers your child taking it to school.

The best student laptops

The detailed results of our laptops review, plus the laptops that our experts recommend, are available exclusively to ÌÇÐÄVlog members. If you’re not yet a member, join ÌÇÐÄVlog to access thousands of independent reviews from our state-of-the-art labs.

Our industry experts rigorously test and compare the latest household products and services, looking at everything from washing machines and vacuum cleaners to mattresses, lawnmowers, health insurance and more. We’ll help you save time and money with our independent, unbiased advice.

The post The best student laptops from our tests appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• What is the Dell 32 Plus 4K monitor?
• Performance as a computer monitor
• Performance as a media monitor
• Specifications

If you’re going to be staring at a screen for hours on end each day (for work and play), then you want it to be a comfortable experience. Something that’s not harsh on the eyes, with comfortable brightness, smooth motion, and high levels of clarity. The Dell 32 Plus 4k Monitor (S3225QS) ticks all the boxes at an affordable price. 

What is the Dell 32 Plus 4K monitor?

The Dell S3225QS is a monitor with a 31.5in screen with a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) that has support for 60Hz or 120Hz refresh rates. The ability to alter the refresh rate means you can create the right environment depending on what you are doing.

Once you have finished your work for the day, you can switch from 60Hz (which is often the best option for flicker free document reading) to the higher refresh rate of 120Hz so movies will be streamed at their best quality.

The monitor is not technically a TV (as there is no digital tuner), but given many users these days predominantly enjoy their video entertainment online via streaming, or via Blu-ray or DVD, you can simply plug a streaming device (Apple TV, Google Chromecast) or Blu-ray player into one of the two HDMI ports to watch what you want, whenever you want.

Performance as a computer monitor

Because of the high resolution, you can use this monitor for a lot of handy multitasking – you can even work and play at the same time, with the ability to have your work and entertainment applications open side by side, or even split into four windows at the same time.

You can watch the latest movies and shows in 4K through your favourite streaming service or optical media, such as a Blu-ray player or gaming device, while answering emails and working on your Office document.

The addition of a display port further adds to the versatility of the monitor by allowing you to plug your laptop in to extend your display work area, while keeping the other two HDMI connections free for your streaming device and/or media player.

The downside of the 4K resolution on the 31.5 inch screen area is that text can look really small. This is where Windows’ scaling can come in handy. The operating system recommends scaling to 150%, but you could go bigger if you wanted, depending on how far away from the screen you are sitting.

Reflections and glare are minimised thanks to the matte finish of the screen, and the stand’s ability to tilt the screen can also help reduce any unwanted background lighting issues.

Increasing the brightness can help make the screen more viewable in light environments. You’ll need to adjust this manually as there isn’t an ambient light sensor. Full brightness was measured to be about 330 lumens in the middle of the screen at 100% brightness, while the standard out-of-the-box brightness setting (75%), was closer to 200 lumens. 

The stand also allows the slant of the screen to be adjusted, and the height can be adjusted from 4cm to 13.5cm from the desk or surface you place your monitor on, but it can’t swivel. It can also be mounted to a wall or desk bracket via a 100×100 VESA mount.

Performance as a media monitor

When viewing from the sides or from a height, the screen may look a bit washed out or pale. That’s to do with the vertical alignment (VA) screen technology used. While it claims a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees, in reality, you do lose a bit of detail from the extremities.

Connections on the rear include one DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.1 ports. Speakers are included and while the audio detail is reasonable, you could easily add a pair of external speakers or even a soundbar to the mix, particularly if you want to enjoy any audio with a bass-heavy sound. At a low volume, the detail and bass response is fine.

From a conventional seat in front of the monitor, the picture exhibits excellent contrast and brightness, with plenty of detail shown in shadows and brightly lit areas.

In our viewing test, in which a panel of three people reviewed SD, HD, and 4K content, the consensus was that it was excellent for all three. Of note was the colour reproduction, which was shown to be very close to our reference screen, and the detail, which was crisp, with plenty of depth and punch. 

Power consumption was measured at 30W during typical usage when using a 120Hz refresh rate, and a bit lower at 27W when using 60Hz. Both tests were with the default brightness level. Standby power was measured at 0.2W, and it goes into this mode within a few seconds when you turn off the computer.

Specifications

• Screen size: 31.5 inches
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Response time: 4ms
• Panel: LED Edgelight System
• Brightness: 300 cd/m²
• Contrast: 3000:1
• Colour: 99% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3
• HDR (high dynamic range)
• AMD FreeSync Premium
• Audiovisual input: 2x HDMI (HDCP1.4 and 2.2), 1x DisplayPort (all capable of 4K at 60Hz)
• Speakers: 2x 10-watt
• USB hub: 1x USB 3.0 upstream, 2x USB 3.0 downstream
• Stand: height adjustable, no tilt or pivot
• Weight with stand 8.8kg
• Dimensions (with stand): Height (55cm – 41cm) x Width (71cm) x Depth (23cm)

The post Can this Dell 4K computer monitor replace your TV? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Laptops rule contemporary computing, but the desktop is far from dead – it just got smaller. Apple’s Mac Mini range has been the compact answer for users that want plenty of power in a smaller package, without having to worry about Windows.

The latest iteration – the Mac Mini M4 Pro – ups the ante with added grunt. More than enough for the average consumer, and even for enthusiast/semi-professional creatives that need power-hungry editing software.

An even more powerful alternative is also available in the Mac Studio, which is aimed at professionals, particularly those in the creative fields, and very serious enthusiasts. So how do they compare?

Mac Mini vs Mac Studio specs

The base version of the Mac Mini M4 Pro uses a 12-core CPU, 24GB RAM (unified memory), 512GB SSD and gigabit Ethernet. This will set you back just under $2200, but you can configure the hardware to your liking, which will increase the cost. For example, our review unit included a 14-core CPU, 48GB of RAM, 1TB storage and 10 gigabit Ethernet, which costs $3549.

It has a decent array of physical ports as well. You’ll find HDMI for your main monitor, but it also supports up to three displays via two additional USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) ports. Ethernet is a nice addition in the world of Wi-Fi too, as a physical connection helps maintain a stable network.

The Studio, meanwhile, is a bigger boy in all respects – with the price tag to match. The base model, with a 14-core M4 Max CPU, 36GB RAM (unified memory), 512GB SSD and 10GB Ethernet, will set you back almost $3500. Our review unit had a bit more heft, though, with a 16-core Apple M4 Max CPU, 128GB of RAM, and a 1TB storage drive, which bumped up the cost to $6049.

There’s a larger selection of inputs/outputs too, with four USB-C Thunderbolt 5, two standard USB-C and two USB-A ports, HDMI, 10GB Ethernet and an SD card slot. The additional ports and SD slot will likely appeal to creative professionals as these can improve workflow from external devices such as hard drives, cameras or portable recorders. 

All these extra bits and pieces make the Mac Studio quite a bit bigger than the Mini. The square footprint of the Mini is 12.7cm with 5cm of height, whereas the Studio takes up much more room at 19.7cm and 9.5cm respectively.

How do the Mini and Studio perform?

Apple’s M4 CPU, whether it’s the Pro version in the mini, or the upgraded Max alternative in the Studio, is the centrepiece on show. Each one is a big, beefy brain that can easily handle all but the most processor-heavy tasks.

You won’t face any issues with demanding work such as graphic design or image and video editing, and graphically intense gaming shouldn’t be a problem either. However, tasks like highly-detailed 3D rendering and animation can cause some slowdown in the Mini, but this isn’t an issue with the Studio thanks to the higher RAM capacity.

Data moves around at a rapid pace, too. We clocked the solid-state drive (SSD) at over five gigabytes per second in the Mini when reading and writing data. The Wi-Fi 6E adapter in each model can also hit transfer speeds of up to 60 megabytes per second. In other words, really fast.

Where the Studio is markedly different to the Mini is in the way it handles displays and peripherals. It’s better equipped to connect super-high-res screens like 8K and fast external storage devices (Thunderbolt solid state drives). The higher-end hardware also improves performance by about 20 percent overall.

And despite all this power, the M4 Pro CPU doesn’t use much energy. Our experts recorded consumption rates of six watts when idle and up to 76 watts when processing a heavy load, which isn’t too bad at all.

The Studio, with its M4 Max CPU, consumes a bit more power when it’s really under the pump and working beyond the capabilities of the Mini. It uses up to 84 watts, or around 16 percent more than the Mini.

Other things to consider

While the small silver box looks very sleek on your desk, the Mini has one glaring design flaw – the power button. Apple has concealed it under the back-left lip of the Mac Mini, which means you need to lift the whole thing up every time you want to turn the computer on.

This is irritating at the best of times and may be a downright deal breaker if you have grip or dexterity limitations.

The Studio is slightly more convenient, but not by much. Its power button is placed around the back, which can also be tricky to access, albeit less so than one that’s on the bottom of the case.

With all that in mind, it’s really a matter of figuring out your performance needs before buying the Mini or Studio. Odds are the Mini will suit the needs of most consumers who want the benefits of a desktop Mac without the cumbersome size of an old-school tower PC.

There’s more than enough power on deck to straddle the line between casual use and more serious work, as long as you’re not getting deep into 3D animation. But if you are, or you just want a crazy powerful computer, go for the Studio.

The post Apple Mac Mini vs Mac Studio review: How do these desktop computers compare? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Why should I upgrade my laptop?
• Can I upgrade my laptop?
• Upgrading tips: What you need to know
• Before you begin
• Where can I buy computer parts?

Why should I upgrade my laptop?

Eventually your laptop will break beyond repair or run far too slowly to keep up with the requirements of modern software. But until then, these upgrades (or repairs) should be enough to keep your computer running with reasonable performance for a few more years.

Storage

Most older laptops can benefit from the addition of a bit more storage space. This upgrade will allow you to install more programs and  store more files on your laptop (rather than moving them onto external drives all the time).

You can increase capacity, boost performance and possibly improve battery life on older laptops by replacing the hard disk drive (HDD) with a compatible solid-state drive (SSD).

As well as being much faster than HDDs, SSDs are lighter, use less power (giving longer battery life) and stay cooler than hard drives. They’re also more durable, so any jolts or bumps to your laptop are less likely to damage them than a hard drive.

SSD prices have come down a lot over the years. You should be able to find an SSD that’s the same size as your laptop’s HDD for similar price, with a bit of shopping around. Even newer laptops that include an SSD by default can still benefit from a storage upgrade.

Most laptops use 2.5-inch SATA drives which just look like a mini hard drive (a little rectangle). Newer models released in the last five years or so generally use M.2 SSD storage sticks which look similar to RAM.

Battery

Laptop batteries wear down over time. A battery that could once hold a six-hour charge may now offer as little as 45 minutes of use before needing to be charged. Just like a car, you can fix this problem with a fresh new battery.

You shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a replacement online, though we recommend contacting the manufacturer first. If they don’t have spare parts, they may be able to point you in the direction of a reputable vendor.

RAM

Measured in gigabytes (GB), Random Access Memory (RAM) temporarily stores data while the computer is powered on. The operating system and software need a minimum amount of RAM to run smoothly. The more RAM in your computer, the better the performance – up to a point.

Say you have photo editing software that needs at least 8GB of RAM to run. You will be able to run the program if your laptop only has 8GB of RAM, but it will feel quite slow. If you upgrade to 16GB, the program’s performance, especially load times, will improve.

A larger amount of RAM also gives you the option to run multiple programs at the same time without things slowing down. For example, you may want to work in Photoshop with a YouTube tutorial running in the background.

Most entry- to mid-level computers come with 4–8GB of RAM. General performance will improve if you bump this up to 16 or 32GB.

Can I upgrade my laptop?

This mostly depends on the age of the laptop. As a general rule, older laptops are easier to upgrade or repair.

Most newer laptops have at least some components that are glued or soldered in place, requiring special tools or professional expertise to repair or upgrade. Some even use back panels that can’t be removed, making any upgrades impossible.

Here are the elements you’ll need to check if you’re looking to upgrade.

Back panel

Most older laptops use screws to hold the back panel in place, whereas newer models use a combination of screens and clips. You may also notice small, removable sections in the back panel. These are quick access points for upgradable parts, so you don’t need to worry about removing the whole panel.

First, take out the screws. If the panel pops off, you’re in luck, there’s no more work required. If not, it’s probably clipped in. Don’t worry, you can still pry it off in most cases but it takes a little work.

You’ll need a prying tool with a small, flat end such as a guitar pick. Gently ease the clips apart with a small amount of force if required. Don’t use a flathead screwdriver – the metal will damage the computer.

Some laptops make it near impossible to access the interior components by affixing the back panel with adhesive. If the prying tool won’t go in, or you can’t see a clear seam where the back panel meets the body of the laptop, it’s most likely glued on. Though it’s possible to remove glued-on back panels, doing it safely takes expensive tools and technical skills.

Battery, storage and RAM

SATA storage drives and batteries are typically screwed and/or clipped in place. Remove the screws or give these parts a gentle wiggle to feel for any give. If the storage and batteries don’t budge, they’re probably designed to stay put.

If the battery can be removed, note the model number. This will make it much easier to find a replacement.

Replaceable RAM sticks are designed to slot in and out as well. Once you find the RAM, pinch each side and gently pull back to ease it out. If you can’t see any obvious RAM sticks, it likely means that your laptop uses an alternative version that is soldered to the motherboard. These can’t be replaced.

Do not try to pry these parts out, especially the battery. One slip and you could pierce the casing, exposing you to harmful chemicals.

Upgrading tips: What you need to know

At the end of the day, it’s important to keep your expectations in check. These upgrades can breathe new life into an ageing computer, but don’t expect it to perform like it’s fresh out of the box.

Software and hardware performance are bound by the processor (CPU). For example, your CPU may not be fast enough to access all the advantages of the best quality RAM on the market. A new program will still run slowly on a laptop with an older CPU, no matter how much RAM you have.

Finally, any kind of upgrade runs the risk of data loss or hard drive corruption. Back up everything on your computer before diving in, and also make sure you back up your files if you plan to do a fresh install, which involves reinstalling the operating system and software from scratch (covered below).

Storage

Replacing the hard drive is a fairly involved process. You’ll need to reinstall the operating system (this is called a ‘fresh’ or ‘clean’ install), or clone the existing hard drive to the new one. If any of these steps sound too involved, ask a tech-savvy friend to help.

You have to create a bootable drive of the operating system if you want to run a fresh install. This sounds a lot more intimidating than it actually is, because Microsoft and Apple have step-by-step instructions on how to do this with a USB.

Once the operating system is up and running, you can move files back onto the PC and reinstall your preferred programs.

The other option is to clone (aka mirror) the entire drive. This creates a one-for-one copy of your computer, so you can reinstall everything on the new drive in one go. Apple and Microsoft supply these tools with their operating systems, or you can try third-party programs that have additional features.

While convenient, this method will also copy all the junk, bloat and random files that computers accumulate over time. These are often the cause of performance issues. A fresh install is slower but cleans everything out in one go.

Battery

There are two minor issues you may encounter while replacing the battery. First, the battery may connect to the rest of the laptop with a kind of push pad that’s taped down (rather than a plug or socket). If this is the case, keep some insulation tape on hand so you can reconnect the pad when you insert the new battery.

Secondly, there’s a small chance the computer will boot into the BIOS after installing the new battery, instead of the familiar login screen. Don’t worry, you don’t need to understand the BIOS if you’re just replacing the battery.

If your computer loads the screen pictured below, navigate to “save and exit” using the arrow keys and press “enter”. It should boot up as normal from now on.

RAM

Replacing the RAM is pretty straightforward. You don’t need to fiddle with any advanced settings – once it’s installed your laptop will automatically recognise it.

But RAM sticks come in in different shapes and sizes. Check the dimensions of the RAM in your laptop before buying replacement parts to make sure they will fit.

Before you begin

You’ll need to prepare a few things before attempting a hardware upgrade.

Check the laptop specifications

Head to the manufacturer’s website and find the specifications for your laptop. This should outline the maximum amount of storage and RAM that your laptop can take, and whether there are any other hardware limitations.

For example, older laptops may not be compatible with the newest types of RAM. Or they may not be able to utilise the high data-transfer speeds offered by the latest hardware. You could end up paying for gear you can’t actually use.

If this information isn’t available, contact the manufacturer. You can also check third-party websites as a last resort.

Back up your computer

As mentioned above, back up your files before attempting any upgrades. Repeat: back up your files!

Gather the right tools

You’ll need a precision screwdriver set, prying tools and possibly some insulation tape. Computers are also dust magnets and this is a good opportunity to give your laptop a clean. Grab some compressed air and a soft brush if you want to clear out the dust while you’re there.

Prepare a proper workspace

Most of these upgrades will take a few hours if it’s your first time. Prepare a workspace that you can occupy for a period and clear away any dust, gunk and other items you don’t need.

You’ll be working with a lot of tiny screws of varying sizes, so grab a handful of small jars or bowls to separate and store them during the installation. It’s also worth setting up a bright light, or popping on a headlamp, so you can clearly see the workspace.

Where can I buy computer parts?

There’s no shortage of local and overseas retailers online with all the spare parts you could ever need. Manufacturers also sell components from time to time, but they don’t tend to keep them in stock for more than a year or two after a laptop comes out.

You can find computer parts stores in most cities as well. Repairers, meanwhile, don’t always have a lot of parts for sale, though they can order things in if you prefer to shop offline.

Big name stores like JB and Harvey Norman may have RAM and storage available on request.

How to recycle old computer parts

The is a one stop shop for e-waste information. Just punch in your postcode and it will list all registered drop-off points in the area. Call the drop-off location beforehand just to make sure they’ll accept your laptop parts.

Most e-waste drop-offs, such as will be able to take old hard drives and RAM off your hand as well.

Batteries are a little different. The is the Recycling Near You alternative for batteries. It lists locations in your area, such as , that can to take your old laptop batteries.

Finally, most councils run e-waste drop-off events throughout the year. They accept electronics including computer parts and accessories (though batteries may not be accepted). Check your local council website for more information.

The post Tips for upgrading and repairing a laptop appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Most laptops can’t quite compete with top-end desktop computers in terms of raw grunt. Reduced performance is usually the trade-off when you’re chasing a small form factor. But that doesn’t mean power and portability can’t find ways to work together.

Venom’s BlackBook Zero 14 Phantom G9 ultraportable firmly aims its sights at power users with what’s going on under the hood. This 14-inch laptop starts at $2099 for its most basic model (8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Intel Core i5) and goes up to $6299 for the fastest speed and most capacious model (64GB RAM, 8TB SSD, Intel Core i7). It’s a lot of kick, even in the entry-level version.

Related laptop reviews

• Venom BlackBook Zero 17 Phantom
• Venom BlackBook Zero 15 Phantom
• Venom BlackBook Zero 14 Phantom

How does the BlackBook Zero 14 Phantom G9 perform?

We looked at the Platinum Edition, which sits almost in the middle of the range and costs $3099. This will get you a 13th generation Intel Core i7-1360P processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD – more than enough for high-end gaming, high-res video editing, 3D rending and complex programming. 

As far as performance goes, there’s almost nothing to fault.

General operation is very smooth and responsive thanks in part to the zippy SSD. We recorded an average of 6.8GBps when reading data and 4.6GBps when writing data, while the average GeekBench score was 6537 (standard power management setting). 

Our tests even recorded Wi-Fi speeds of up to 50MBps (Wi-Fi 6), which is great for copying large files across a network without Ethernet.

A thin chassis houses those components and there’s a fan installed to keep them cool when they’re under load. The fan only outputs a slight, low noise during full processor loads but this will vary depending on the workload and power profile.

This design helps maintain steady performance as air is drawn in from the underside of the base and extracted through the spine. However, this means that the BlackBook Zero should always be used on a hard, flat surface, rather than a comfy bed, couch or your lap when the processor is running at full tilt.

The 2880 x 1800-pixel screen is beautiful with excellent brightness and contrast, a vibrant yet balanced colour palette and reasonably deep blacks (though they can look a little pale from time to time). Highlights aren’t blown out which helps retain detail and particularly wonderful skin tones.

Typing with the wide, spacious, backlit keys is also very comfortable. They have high response, plenty of travel and yet only a slight sound when pressed. You won’t necessarily have to rely on an external mouse either, unlike so many laptops, as the large trackpad is very smooth and highly accurate.

Battery life outperformed most models that have come through our labs at an admirable eight hours and six minutes under fairly strenuous conditions (full brightness, Wi-Fi on, looping Full HD video).

However, a full recharge is on the slower side at seven-and-a-half hours though there is good reason behind this. According to Venom, fast-charge will quickly decrease the battery’s overall capacity in just two years.

All that said, there’s no getting around the fact that the BlackBook Zero is an expensive laptop. But its performance justifies the price if you need portability or just don’t want to bother with a big desktop. It’s an impressive beast that can handle just about anything the average consumer will throw at it, and then some.

Specifications

• Display: 14-inch matte
• Resolution: 2880 x 1800
• Touchscreen:Ìý±·´Ç
• Storage: 1024GB SSD (906GB usable)
• CPU: Intel Core i7-1360P 2.2 GHz 
• Graphics: Intel UHD graphics
• RAM: 32GB
• Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C), SD, HDMI Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6, power input
• Weight: 1.2kg
• Dimensions (H x D x W): 20mm x 213mm x 308mm

The post Venom BlackBook Zero 14 Phantom G9 review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Desktop computers aren’t as popular as they used to be, and for good reason. Laptop processing technology has reached a point where a traditional tower isn’t necessary for fast computing to satisfy most users. Unless you need a top tier powerhouse PC with varied ports and room for a giant screen, a laptop will almost always suffice. But what if you prefer the desktop form factor?

Enter the latest iteration of Apple’s iMac series. It’s the most efficient all-in-one computer design on the market, making it easy to place in even the most cramped of spaces – and it has plenty of power to boot.

Related Apple reviews

• Apple MacBook Air 15-inch
• Apple MacBook Pro M2 14-inch
• Apple MacBook Air M2 13-inch
• Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch
• Apple MacBook Air M1 13-inch
• Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch

How does the Apple iMac perform?

The highly efficient Apple Silicon M3 processor, which is also used in the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air laptops, allows Apple to make the iMac chassis even thinner than before. The streamlined design looks no different to a standard 24-inch monitor, save for the small frame which is only 1.1cm thick.

Screen quality is excellent with vibrant colours, plenty of detail and good viewing angles. Though it uses a gloss finish, the coating does a great job of minimising reflections. You even have the option to let the iMac adjust colour and brightness based on ambient lighting in the room with the included TrueTone mode, which also works well.

It’s powerful enough to handle all but the most demanding tasks required by industry professionals and gamers who want the very best graphics, resolution, frame rates and more. Design, photo and video editing, 3D rendering and 4K video streaming are all within its wheelhouse, and it even holds its own against the big dogs for gaming. Just don’t turn the settings up to maximum.

Impressive speakers are also housed within the confines of the thin screen. There’s great detail and clarity in vocals and higher frequencies, a surprising amount of bass and a generally warm, full-bodied feel overall. That said, there’s a 3.5mm output if you’d prefer to plug into something with a little more oomph or some good quality headphones.

The new iMac perfectly walks the line between the power of a high-end laptop and a compact desktop computer. There are times when a proper workstation is preferred and Apple’s latest all-in-one will hit the mark for almost all consumer needs in a stylish little package.

The most basic iMac costs $2199, while a fully kitted out model goes all the way up to $4518. Our review model cost $3278 due to a bump in RAM (16GB) and the addition of a Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad.

Specifications

• CPU: Apple M3 with 8 cores and a speed of 4.05GHz
• Graphics: Apple M3 with 10 cores 
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD 
• Wi-Fi: 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6E)
• Bluetooth: 5.3
• Display size: 24-¾±²Ô³¦³óÌý
• Display resolution: 4480 x 2520
• Default colour profile: iMac, TrueTone
• Webcam resolution: 1080p
• Ports: 4 x USB-C (2 x Thunderbolt 4, 2 x USB 3), Ethernet (on power supply); 3.5mm headphone port
• Input peripherals: Wireless keyboard, wireless mouse, wireless trackpad (one USB-C charging for all)
• Ambient light sensor: Yes
• TouchID: Yes, on keyboard

Benchmark scores

• GeekBench 5 CPU: 10719
• GeekBench 5 GPU: 32125
• GeekBench 6 CPU: 12006
• GeekBench 6 GPU: 30442

Read/write speeds

• Storage read: 3GBps
• Storage write: 3GBps
• Wi-Fi speed: 64MBps

The post Apple iMac review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Our expert testers
• How we choose what we test
• How we test
• Our rating system

They generally fall into two categories – the traditional ‘clamshell’ shape and the 2-in-1 convertible models that do double duty as a tablet. Tablets might also find use as laptops when equipped with a keyboard and possibly a mouse and maybe even a desktop dock.

While we still test other options like mini PCs and dongles (aka sticks), this usually takes place within a specific context, such as streaming devices. We don’t compare these to laptops and tablets.

Below you’ll find a round-up of the method our experts use to test and assess laptops and tablets.

Our expert testers

Our expert computer testers have extensive experience in working with a wide range of consumer-level computer-related technologies. Our tests aren’t only about how computers work but also how they fit into your home technology ecosystem. 

How we choose what we test

More than any other category of household product, computer technology is constantly updating and evolving. The pace of changing technology means we constantly have to re-evaluate how we look at computers. Some of last year’s top performers might become this year’s entry-level devices, as much faster chipsets offer substantial performance boosts, while storage becomes cheaper and faster.

Each time we test a particular range of computer products, we start by researching the market to find current models to compar. We try to include models in each category from across all the major brands. This includes finding out which models we can test that will still be available on retail shelves by the time testing is completed and the results have been published.

While we try to establish a level playing field for testing across a category, the variation in range of options available can make this a real challenge. It’s worth noting that there are often several models of a particular computer “family” available, having the same basic features but varying in main processor  spped (CPU), graphics processor (GPU), the amount of memory (RAM), and storage capacity and whether hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD).

In some tests we may buy a number of models from the same manufacturer that fit into different families. The models tested should give you a good indication of how a particular model family rates against current competitors, including the advantages and disadvantages of its overall design and any special features and inclusions.

We look to include the most up-to-date and popular models available in the big name retail outlets and buy them off the shelf or online just as any consumer would, so you can be sure that what we test is what you can buy and our results should be what you can expect.

How we test

Our testing of all computers includes comparison testing of performance and ease of use. We also include an expert evaluation of the display screen. Laptop and tablet testing also includes battery life testing.

Performance

Testing includes benchmarking each model using a variety of software tools. These measure various aspects of CPU performance, memory performance and memory bandwidth, video performance, 3D graphics and storage speed. 

The benchmarking software is designed to measure performance under a variety of simulated workloads.

Ease of use

Evaluation includes an expert assessment of connectors, design flaws and advantages, supplied security hardware and software, if any. We also look at the format and scope of any built-in help, support documentation and manuals, plus general design features and overall style. 

Where applicable, we also assess the supplied keyboard and mouse/trackpad, stylus pen or other pointing device. All performance testing and ease of use evaluation is conducted under the computer’s native operating system.

Battery life

Testing for laptops starts with each battery conditioned to achieve optimum life, then tested under a heavy-usage scenario with the power management features set to maximum performance and screen brightness to 100%, with Wi-Fi turned on and connected to a network. 

Because some screens, particularly tablets, can be much brighter than typical clamshell-style laptops due to being designed for outdoor use (which affects battery life if set at the highest setting) our battery life score now takes into account calculations based on the luminance (brightness) of the screen, to create a more level playing field.  

Display evaluation

Takes into account colour, brightness/contrast, glare and surface reflections, horizontal/vertical angles of view with reference still images, plus Blu-ray video playback.

Wi-Fi testing 

We connect each laptop exclusively to our test lab wireless router, then wirelessly transfer a set of test files across this closed network, timing this over several runs to establish consistency and averaging the final score in megabytes per second (MBps). All devices are restarted before testing and drivers updated to latest versions.

Temperature

Testing for laptops. Whether on your lap or held in the hand, a device should be comfortable to use and this includes temperature. We measure the temperature of the hottest part of the underside of each laptop to see if it gets uncomfortably hot after sustained heavy usage on battery only.

We consider 44 degrees the maximum acceptable comfort threshold. This test doesn’t contribute to the overall score. 

Sound evaluation

Testing using the computer’s inbuilt speakers is done by an in-house expert who evaluates the quality compared to similar devices.

Tablet use assessment

Is for 2-in-1s and tablets that can be used with a detachable keyboard. This testing takes into account how the device performs as a tablet (without keyboard) rather than as a laptop, in addition to the same CPU, graphics, storage, and Wi-Fi tests used for laptops.

Our rating system

The ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating is made up of

• Ease of use (35%)
• Battery life (20%)
• Performance (20%)
• Display (20%)
• Audio quality (5%)

We also run an additional performance test for tablets. Though these results are published, they don’t contribute to the ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating.

• Form factor (45%)
• Display (40%)
• Battery life (15%)

The post How we test laptops and tablets appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Apple has been churning out ultra-portable MacBook Airs for a decade and a half now, meaning co-founder Steve Jobs was still around when the first ones launched. At this juncture, it might be assumed there’s little reason to get excited about yet another addition to the family.

But even jaded tech industry tastemakers have been largely complimentary about Apple’s first 15-incher. Granted, the tech company’s legions of fans already have access to the 13-inch MacBook Air (from $1799), as well as the 14-inch (from $3199) or 16-inch (from $3999) MacBook Pros. 

But this 15-inch Air model, available in four different shades of grey-black (Silver, Starlight, Space Grey and Midnight), hits the sweet spot. Particularly in an era when many people now work in two or more locations. In characteristic fashion, Apple appears to have intuited what consumers wanted and has delivered a computer that’s portable (it’s big, but impressively thin and comparatively light) yet still powerful.

Related Apple reviews

• Apple iMac
• Apple MacBook Pro M2 14-inch
• Apple MacBook Air M2 13-inch
• Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch
• Apple MacBook Air M1 13-inch
• Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch

A real looker

After its dimensions, the first things you notice about this MacBook Air are its speed and the quality of its screen.

Images look vivid and sharp on the high-resolution, 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display (2880 x 1864 native resolution, 224 pixels per inch, 500 nits peak brightness, and support for over a billion colours).

As you’d expect, everything else is more than serviceable. A Full HD camera and a surprisingly crisp six-speaker sound system make video conferencing much more agreeable. The keyboard and trackpad are as user-friendly as you’d expect from an Apple product. 

There’s 8GB of memory, configurable to 16GB or 24GB, and 256GB of storage, configurable to 512GB, 1TB or 2TB. It doesn’t have a fan, so you won’t even be diverted by occasional whirring sounds. (But you might be distracted by how hot the keyboard gets.)

Toxin-free tech

Apple claims to have made the MacBook Air more environmentally friendly, using lots of recycled metals in the manufacturing process while eschewing arsenic, mercury, PVC, beryllium or brominated flame retardant (BFR). 

The company also claims over 99% of the Air’s packaging is made from recycled or responsibly sourced wood fibre. (The days of peeling endless bits of plastic off your new Apple device after unboxing it are long gone.)

A zeitgeist-friendly device

Whether by accident or design, this light and bright device is well calibrated to the needs of environmentally conscious, white-collar types in a post-lockdown, hybrid working, video conferencing world. It’s not cheap, but it’s certainly more affordable than shelling out for an Apple desktop and a laptop. Or a MacBook Pro.  

It’s possible to quibble about some design decisions – surely a laptop this large could accommodate more ports? (There’s a MagSafe 3 charging port and 3.5mm  headphone jack, but only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.) Nonetheless, it’s clear why this laptop will likely be a hit with the knowledge workers it’s chiefly aimed at.

The post Apple MacBook Air 15-inch review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

The Acer Swift Go 16 has quite a bright screen for a laptop (we measured it at 358 nits) and in particular, the OLED screen is great for watching movies because you don’t get the backlight bleed around the edges that’s typical of many LED screens. 

The blacks are deep, the colours are rich, and we found it had excellent brightness, contrast and viewing angles. As the screen finish is glossy, you might need to angle it to avoid reflections from external light sources. The built-in high-resolution (1440p) webcam also offers very good clarity and detail.

How does the Acer Swift Go 16 perform?

With Intel’s 13th generation Intel Core-i7-13700H CPU on board, this is a very quick performer that will easily cope with demanding work.

We found the SSD (solid-state drive) very fast as well, with a read speed of 5108MBps on average in our testing, and a write speed of 4626MBps. 

We recorded Wi-Fi performance of 44MBps in our testing using an 802.11ac router, which was very good, but it’s best to pair this laptop with an 802.11ax router. We did so and gained a bit more speed across short distances (56MBps). There’s also wireless connectivity via the latest Bluetooth 5.3.

The Acer Swift Go 16 is certified for the Intel Evo platform, which dictates requirements for hardware, performance and battery life. It also supports Intel Unison, which connects with select Android- or iOS phone models for shared calling, messaging and notifications.

Plenty of plug-ins

Connectivity is plentiful and useful on either side. There are two USB-3 (Type-A) ports and two high-speed USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) ports, plus a full-sized HDMI port, microSD card slot, and cable lock slot. Power is connected via a USB-C adapter. 

The USB-C ports give you the opportunity to easily expand your connectivity further via a USB-C dock or hub, if necessary. 

Keyboard and touchpad

The keyboard overall is good, with keys that have noticeable travel and good response. They give satisfying feedback, which is important for those who do a lot of typing, and two levels of backlighting for low-light situations.  

There’s also a fingerprint reader on the power button for easy logins, but use a light touch – we found it a little too easy to inadvertently press the power button when using the fingerprint reader.

The numeric pad is a bit squished, however, so it will take some getting used to for those who are accustomed to a desktop-style numpad. For example, the plus and minus keys are along the top rather than the usual position along the right side.

The ‘OceanGlass’ touchpad, on the other hand, is very large (126mm x 83mm) and there’s plenty of space to rest your palms. This helps make the Acer Swift Go 16 quite comfortable to use on your lap, despite its size. 

Battery life

For the most part, any laptop of this size is better suited to a desk position where possible, and usually near a power outlet. The battery life of the Acer Swift Go 16 averaged just under six hours in our heavy use testing. But it took us just 51 minutes to charge up to 80% full, which is pretty quick.

If you’re looking for a good large-sized laptop with the rich colours that come with OLED, and plenty of peripheral connectivity options, the Acer Swift Go 16 should be on your list. It comes bundled with Windows 11 Home.

Our test model came with 16GB of RAM (memory), which should be enough for most people’s needs, but it should be noted that the RAM is soldered to the board, so you can’t increase it down the track. 

However, you can replace the SSD (though there is 1TB installed), the Wi-Fi module, and the battery, all of which can help give the laptop a longer useful life.  

The post Acer Swift Go 16 review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

This ASUS Zenbook 14 (model UX3402ZA-KP382W) combines good speed and features with a stylish modern look and quality finish that you’ll want to be seen with.

This model is not the one with the flashy OLED screen, nor is it a touchscreen – it’s a high-resolution matte screen that means business. Having 2560 pixels x 1600 pixels gives you enough room onscreen to view two full-size documents side by side. 

The screen uses an IPS (in-plane switching) panel that provides good brightness. Though it has a matte finish, the screen shows very good detail and colour balance, and the lack of reflections makes it easy on the eyes for long work sessions.

For online meetings, the built-in webcam is more than fine. It gives 2MP still images and 1080p video, providing well detailed and well illuminated scenes in bright and dim lighting, with minimal noise.

We rated the keyboard as very good. The backlit keys are large and well-spaced, soft to touch, and quiet with plenty of travel and very good responsiveness. The power button includes a fingerprint reader for authentication.

The very large (130mm x 74mm) touchpad doubles as a number pad with illuminated virtual numeric keys that are large and easy to use. Just hold down the top-right corner to illuminate the grid of numbers.

How does the Zenbook 14 perform?

The fast 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor and long battery life will keep most users happy. Our test model included a 1.7GHz Intel Core i5-1240P processor with 12 cores, plus Intel Iris Xe graphics, 8GB of memory (RAM), and a 512GB solid-state drive (SSD). 

This Zenbook should be more than fast enough for most people’s general needs. Though only an i5 processor, we found that performance was very snappy overall, and the SSD was also up to the task, producing decent read and write speeds in our testing. 

It was also pleasantly quiet to use. We could hear a bit of cooling fan hum when we pushed the Zenbook to keep running under full CPU load during testing, but it’s very much a silent partner during normal working conditions, which is a nice feature. 

The Wi-Fi speed was also very good, giving us 54MBps when using Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and up to 43MBps using Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). 

Long battery life

You can expect to get through a long day of work with this Zenbook 14. In our heavy usage testing we achieved a very healthy 6hr 46min of battery life. This is impressive considering the battery-draining potential of a high resolution screen with excellent brightness.

We measured peak brightness at 487nits, but lowering the brightness level in normal usage will extend the battery life even further. The only downside of the high brightness was that we noticed some backlight bleed at the bottom-right of the screen when watching movies in a dark room (it’s not an issue under normal lighting conditions).

Audio quality

The challenge for thin laptops in particular is in producing high quality audio output. To its credit, the Zenbook 14 has Harmon Kardon internal speakers and support for Dolby Atmos surround sound effects.

Despite these inclusions, though, we found the audio quality fine for such things as video chat – it was nothing to rave about for pure entertainment compared to some other laptops we’ve tested. We found the sound a bit muffled overall, and the bass response lacked real depth. You might find it fine for personal movie viewing and music listening, but audiophiles will want to keep external speakers or headphones handy. 

Connection ports

The wired connectivity inclusions are good, with USB-A, USB-C (two Thunderbolt 4), full-sized HDMI, a headset port, and a microSD card slot for memory cards. 

This means you don’t immediately have to buy an adapter if you want to use an external mouse and monitor (the screen can be laid flat out of the way, which is handy if you only want to use one external monitor with the laptop’s keyboard). 

There’s no security lock slot, a common omission these days on thin laptops. For wireless connectivity, you have Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, both the latest standards.

Upgrade potential

This Zenbook has good upgrade potential, which can extend its useful working life. Under the removable base you’ll find the battery, Wi-Fi, and SSD modules can be replaced, but the RAM is soldered on. 

This is a key point. If you plan on using more than 8GB of RAM (which is what this machine is configured with), then you need to order a model with more RAM at the time of purchase, as there are no slots for additional RAM. 

The build quality of the Zenbook is good. It feels generally solid and well built, even though it weighs just 1.4kg (plus 0.32kg power supply). 

All up, this is a stylish and versatile laptop with a very good keyboard and bright screen for under $1500. It’s very fast, with a good range of ports and high degree of user comfort thanks mainly to a very good keyboard and a touchpad that can also double as a number pad.

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