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Showing posts from August, 2024

System76 Darter Pro Linux laptop review

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In a world where people primarily think of Mac and Windows as the two main operating systems for computers, there are other options available for those with specific needs or who want to break free from the constraints of these operating systems. Linux has remained a popular choice for developers, tech enthusiasts, and privacy-conscious users, and the demand for high-quality hardware in this realm has never been greater.  Like all the best Linux laptops we've tested, the Darter Pro is designed with these users and Linux in mind, making it a strong option in a market filled with alternatives. System76, a company known for its dedication to open-source software and user empowerment, offers a machine that not only meets the technical requirements of its users but also reflects the principles of the Linux community. Whether you need a robust development environment, a secure computing experience, or a reliable laptop that works seamlessly, the Darter Pro offers a top-notch solution ...

Netac US9 1TB USB SSD review

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Netac US9: 30-second review The market for ultrafast, high-capacity USB SSD sticks is expanding, and the Netac US9 USB 3.2 Gen 2 flash drive is a prime example of what looks to be an exceptional device. With its high-quality full metal build and dual connectors (USB Type-A and Type-C), it offers wide compatibility with a range of computers and mobile devices. The drive is plug-and-play, preformatted in ExFat for compatibility with Mac, PC, Android, and iOS devices. The design is stylish and functional, with the USB SSD being instantly recognised by all tested devices. The build quality initially seems excellent, thanks to the full metal construction that provides what seems to be a robust and high-quality feel. However, on closer inspection you'll notice that the covers that flip over the connectors although a major feature is a weak point. The cover over the USB Type-A connector is held in place by a small magnet, which generally stays secure until intentionally flipped upwards...

Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 review

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Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2: one-minute review When Lenovo released its ThinkVision M14t portable monitor around 2020, it was praised for its beautiful 1080p touchscreen display with a built-in adjustable stand and included stylus. Those positive attributes were unfortunately joined with an expensive $449 launch price and required a USB-C port with DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode to operate. Thankfully, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen-2 improves on every highlight of the portable monitor and fixes two of the biggest issues.  The M14t Gen 2 retains the sleek, all-black design of its predecessor, featuring a 14-inch IPS LCD touchscreen that can easily switch between vertical and horizontal orientations. However, this new model offers several upgrades, including a higher resolution of 1440p, an improved aspect ratio from 16:9 to 16:10, and a significantly enhanced contrast ratio of 1500:1. Additionally, the color accuracy has been boosted, now covering 100% of the sRGB color gamut, comp...

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4 review: a modest modern-day classic

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Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4: two-minute review Fixed 35mm lenses, especially those with a fast aperture, are incredibly popular with visual storytellers. They're able to shoot clean images in high contrast and low light, provide decent close-focusing skills, and offer a moderately wide perspective that allows you to include your subject's surroundings as part of the story. These are true documentary lenses.  In fact, when I lived in East Africa working for a non-profit as a photographer and writer, there was an 18-month period during which about 90% of the photos I took were with the excellent Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens for DSLR cameras, a lens I still use today with my Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera through the F-mount to Z-mount adapter.  So I was really excited when Nikon finally announced a Z-mount 35mm lens, a lens that I expect to be one of the best-selling lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras . Sadly, however, that doesn't mean the Z 35mm f/1.4 is one of Nikon's best le...

Steam Deck OLED review: a decent upgrade, but left me wanting more

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Steam Deck OLED: Two-minute review If all you want to know is whether the Steam Deck OLED is better than the original Steam Deck, then the answer is a definitive yes. This is easily the best Steam Deck model and one of the best handheld games consoles on the market right now thanks to an abundance of improvements that lead to a more comfortable and polished play experience. The most significant of these is the new 7.4-inch OLED display. This is slightly bigger than the 7-inch LCD panel on the original model but offers a considerably more vivid picture with brighter contrast, better viewing angles, and much richer colors. It’s a huge leap and something that is immediately noticeable when you place a Steam Deck OLED side by side with the original model. The bright primary hues of titles like Hades 2 or Cult of the Lamb have simply never looked better.  (Image credit: Future) Other changes here are more subtle. The Steam Deck OLED is slightly lighter and has been fitted...