Noctua has finally unveiled its highly anticipated NH-D15 G2 next-generation flagship CPU cooler along with the NF-A14x25r G2 round-frame 140mm fans. These new G2 models are designed to build upon the success of their predecessors by incorporating various improvements to enhance cooling performance.

The NH-D15 G2 represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, promising superior silent cooling performance. This is attributed to the inclusion of Noctua's advanced, speed-offset NF-A14x25r fans, eight heat pipes, and asymmetrical fin stacks that have been fine-tuned to complement the new fans.

Notably, the NH-D15 G2 offers increased compatibility with modern motherboards thanks to its offset design that allows it to clear the top PCIe x16 slot. Furthermore, the G2 version features the new Torx-based SecuFirm2+ multi-socket mounting mechanism, complete with the NM-SD1 screwdriver and Noctua's improved NT-H2 thermal compound. The new cooler is backed by a 6-year manufacturer's warranty.

Taking platform-specific optimisation to the next level, the NH-D15 G2 comes in a standard version and two customised variants. The standard NH-D15 G2 is the one-size-fits-all model for your CPU. However, for those who know what they're doing, there are the HBC (High Base Convexity) and LBC (Low Base Convexity) models for processors subjected to full ILM pressure or those with flat surfaces, respectively.

In addition to the NH-D15 G2, Noctua is also introducing the round-frame NF-A14x25r G2 fans, which will be available in single and dual fan packages for those looking to upgrade existing heatsinks. These fans are fine-tuned for push-pull configurations, with a 50rpm speed offset to “minimise acoustic interaction phenomena” for a quieter user experience. Furthermore, Noctua has announced that a square frame version of the NF-A14x25 G2 fan for water cooling radiators and case cooling applications is set to be released in September.

KitGuru says: Have you ever owned a Noctua cooler? Are you planning to get the new NH-D15 G2?

The post Noctua unveils 2nd Gen NH-D15 CPU cooler first appeared on KitGuru.

Yuri “1usmus” Bubliy, the developer behind popular programs like ClockTuner for Ryzen and Project Hydra, has revealed AMD's upcoming Curve Optimizer feature ahead of the release of the Ryzen 9000 series. This new feature is named Curve Shaper and promises to prevent CPUs from needlessly boosting clock frequencies.

According to 1usmus, this new feature aims to prevent CPUs from ramping up frequencies during idle periods and at low temperatures. The new feature is expected to be integrated with AMD's Ryzen Master software, eliminating the need for third-party downloads. It's unclear if Curve Shaper will be limited to the Ryzen 9000 series or if older Ryzen chips will also support it.

The release of Zen 5 is still a month away, but today I'll be bringing the curtain down on one incredible new overclocking feature for enthusiasts

Curve Shaper, an add-on for AMD Curve Optimizer. pic.twitter.com/L2n6rRaNGH

— 1usmus (@1usmus) July 2, 2024

As explained by the developer, the current Curve Optimizer has to be stable at both low and high temperatures across the whole load range. With Curve Shaper, we can divide things up, making the Curve Optimizer work differently depending on the temperature and frequency.

Yuri has hinted that an update to Project Hydra will be available around the launch of Ryzen 9000. This update will mark the public debut of version 1.7, which will offer support for automated video card overclocking and DDR5 memory overclocking on the AMD platform.

KitGuru says: Have you used the Ryzen Curve Optimizer tool in the past? Will you be giving AMD's new Curve Shaper a go to improve efficiency? 

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MSI has announced the expansion of its monitor lineup with more OLED displays. The latest additions are the MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED gaming monitor and a revised version of the MAG 271QPX QD-OLED (E2).

Starting with the MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED, it features a 34-inch curved (1800R) ultrawide screen with 3440×1440 (UWQHD) resolution, a refresh rate of up to 240Hz, and response times of 0.03ms. The 10-bit QD-OLED panel's SDR brightness stays at 250 nits, but in HDR mode, it goes up to 1000 nits. The display also features Adaptive-Sync technology and is VESA ClearMR 13000 and DisplayHDR True Black 400-certified. Connectivity-wise, the monitors have 2x HDMI 2.1 ports, a Display Port 1.4a, a 3.5mm audio jack, 2x USB-A, a USB-C (with 98W power delivery and DP alt. mode), and a KVM switch. The stand is quite ergonomic, offering swivel, tilt and height adjustments.

The MAG 271QPX QD-OLED E2 packs pretty much the same specs as the 341CQPX but with a smaller 1440p 27-inch panel. Still, the 240Hz refresh rate, 0.03ms response time, 10-bit colour depth, HDR and SDR brightness, and VESA certifications are the same. Connectivity options are also the same, except USB-C is limited to 15W power delivery. On the other hand, the stand of the 27-inch monitor is an improvement, as it allows users to pivot the monitor.

Both monitors come with MSI console mode support and MSI OLED Care 2.0, which incorporates a fanless design to enhance the longevity of the OLED screen. MSI OLED Care 2.0 now includes enhanced screen protection with Pixel Shift, Panel Protect, and Static Screen Detection, as well as new features like Multi-Logo Detection, Taskbar Detection, and Boundary Detection to prevent OLED burn-in.

KitGuru says: Which new MSI QD-OLED monitor do you prefer?

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Intel is gearing up to showcase its future LGA-1851 platform through a series of events for distributors and board partners. These activities are designed to set the stage for releasing the company's 800-series motherboards, including the Z890 chipset unveiled at Computex. 

The technical diagram shared on Chiphell (via HXL) confirms that the PCIe configuration aligns with previously disclosed information. The upcoming CPUs are expected to offer 16 dedicated Gen5 lanes for graphics and 4 Gen5 lanes for storage, meaning customers will no longer have to choose between Gen5 lanes for GPUs and storage. Furthermore, a Gen 4×4 interface directly linked to the CPU will allow users to connect one or more SSDs to the CPU using the slower standard.

Image credit: Chiphell

In addition, the new CPUs will come equipped with Thunderbolt 4 controllers and support connectivity for up to four monitors using integrated graphics. This will enable users to connect DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 displays to the motherboard. While the specifications for USB 20G, 10G, and 5G connections have yet to be revealed, the chipset diagram indicates support for these capabilities. Moreover, it's mentioned that the boards will support Wi-Fi 6E/7 and Intel LAN 2.5 (or 1GbE) interfaces.

One significant change in the upcoming LGA-1851 platform is the exclusion of support for DDR4 memory. Unlike the Z690/Z790 boards, which supported DDR4 and DDR5, the new LGA-1851 boards will exclusively support DDR5. This move was initially met with resistance due to the high cost of DDR5 memory. However, DDR5 prices have since experienced a significant decline.

Intel has announced that Arrow Lake-S processors will be available in Q3 2024, but up to now, we haven't heard anything about a release date for the new Intel 800-series motherboards. However, the first boards should be available alongside Intel's new CPUs later this year.

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KitGuru says: Although we can't still attribute the specs for each Intel 800-series chipset, the overall package seems to align with what we have come to expect. Do you think DDR4 support should have remained?

The post Leaked Intel presentation photo shows new details for upcoming 800-series chipset first appeared on KitGuru.

Gigabyte is set to launch an upgraded version of its 34-inch G34WQC curved gaming monitor. The new G34WQCP has the same resolution, curvature, and aspect ratio but comes with a bump in the refresh rate, so those picking up the newer version can expect even smoother gameplay.

The new G34WQCP boasts a 3440×1440 resolution with a 21:9 aspect ratio and offers a maximum refresh rate of 180Hz, an improvement over its predecessor's 144Hz. With DisplayHDR-400 certification, a 1500R curvature, and a 4000:1 contrast ratio.

The monitor's data sheet highlights impressive specs, including 120% sRGB and 90% DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage, 8-bit colour depth, and 350 nits of average brightness. Additionally, FreeSync Premium ensures tear-free gameplay, while the anti-motion blur mode and black stabilizer enhance visual clarity during fast-paced gaming sessions.

Connectivity options should be enough for most users, with two DisplayPorts 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and a 3.5mm headphone output. Ergonomically, the monitor offers tilt and height adjustment, VESA 100×100 mount compatibility, blue light filtering, and flicker-free technology. For audio, it comes equipped with two internal 2-watt speakers.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: The introduction of the G34WQCP revamps Gigabyte's line-up with a 34-inch display with a higher refresh rate than the C34WQC, but not as high-end as the MO34WQC (175Hz) and MO34WQC2 (240Hz) monitors, which feature OLED panels.

The post Gigabyte unveils upgraded 34-inch ultrawide gaming monitor with faster refresh rates first appeared on KitGuru.

Nintendo is already working to prevent scalpers from targeting its upcoming next-gen console. Speaking with shareholders, the company's president expressed confidence that it will avoid the supply shortages seen during the Switch's run, making it more difficult for scalpers to take advantage.

According to VGC, Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, assured investors that the chip shortage that plagued the original Switch won't affect its successor. In fact, Nintendo plans to grab as much chip production capacity as possible to produce enough “Switch 2” consoles to meet consumer demand, preventing scalpers from benefitting from the lack of consoles.

Furukawa also mentioned the company will consider whether it can take other measures, “taking into account the circumstances in each region”. Although Nintendo's commitment to addressing supply constraints is encouraging, the industry should remain vigilant, as scalpers may still attempt to profit from the release of the Switch successor.

An official announcement for the new console has yet to be made but reports claim it will be released in early 2025. Moreover, Nintendo's absence from Gamescom has spurred speculation that the company plans to make a separate announcement towards the end of the year.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Just because Nintendo's president said that he wants to produce enough consoles to meet demand, that doesn't mean your local store will have enough consoles for its customers at launch. However, based on Furukawa's words, one can assume that restocking will be swift.

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As the launch date of the Ryzen 9000 series draws near, new details about the Zen 5 desktop CPUs are surfacing. According to a recent report, the Ryzen 9000X3D series processors will offer full CPU overclocking capabilities, marking a significant shift from its predecessors.

Unlike the Ryzen 5000X3D and Ryzen 7000X3D CPUs, which offer limited overclocking options, the Ryzen 9000X3D is expected to provide users complete control over CPU voltage and frequency, according to Wccftech. However, it's worth noting that while AMD is set to enable full overclocking support, measures may be put in place to ensure the safety and stability of the CPUs.

The upcoming CPUs are also expected to bring improved overclocking performance for DDR5 memory. Early indications from qualification samples suggest that the Ryzen 9000 series will target DDR5-6000 memory as the optimal configuration, with the upper limit being raised to 6400 MT/s on X670 and X870 motherboards, all while maintaining a 1:1 FCLK to MCLK ratio. Moreover, the CPUs are projected to support up to 8000 MT/s EXPO memory in a 1:2 ratio using 4-DIMM mode.

Board partners are reportedly working on increasing memory support up to 9000 MT/s and potentially even 10000 MT/s, achievable through a 1:2 ratio. If that happens, AMD platforms could rival Intel's counterparts in memory speed.

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KitGuru says: Do you usually overclock your CPU or just let it run at stock? For those who overclock, do you use something like AMD's PBO, or do you do it manually?

The post AMD Ryzen 9000X3D will reportedly support manual CPU overclocking first appeared on KitGuru.

A Slovenian retailer has started offering preorders for AMD's upcoming Ryzen 9000 CPUs. While the CPUs won't start shipping until at least August 2nd, these early listings give us an idea of how much these new processors will cost in Europe.

According to the retailer (via VideoCardz), the flagship 16-core Ryzen 9 9950X is priced at €659.90, the 12-core 9900X at €499.90, the 8-core 9700X at €399.90, and the 6-core 9600X at €309.90. Based on these prices, the new Ryzen 9000 series will be more affordable at launch than the previous generation.

By comparing the listed prices of the Ryzen 9000 series with the launch costs of the Ryzen 7000 and subsequent 7000X3D series, it's clear that AMD is positioning the new CPUs to be competitively priced. For instance, the flagship 9950X is priced lower than the launch prices of the 7900X and 7900X3D, suggesting a strategic move by AMD to offer increased value to consumers.

The new Ryzen 9000 series desktop CPUs are expected to become available this summer, followed by X3D variants later in the year.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Are any of you planning on making the jump to Zen 5 this year? Will you be picking up a Ryzen 9000 CPU or will you be waiting for the X3D versions? 

The post Retailer lists AMD Ryzen 9000 CPUs starting at €310 first appeared on KitGuru.

A new Intel Arc Battlemage GPU, codenamed G31, has been found on the company's website. Although we had already heard about a G31 GPU, we didn't know much about it besides the name. That has now changed, as we've learned what package it will use and how many Xe2-cores it will feature.

The listing found by @miktdt (via Bionic_Squash) is part of Intel's BMG series design tools and is identified as “PTT Engagement – BGA3283-BMG-G31 VRTT Interposer – Prototypes”, suggesting it will use a BGA package with 3283 pins. It was also claimed that the G31 GPU will pack 32 Xe2-cores, the same number of Xe-cores the top Alchemist GPU packs.

Besides the G31, Intel's Battlemage GPU lineup should also include the 28-core BMG-G10 (BGA-2362), which was reportedly cancelled, and the 20-core BMG-G21 (BGA-2727). According to Bionic_Squash, these GPUs will all use GDDR6 memory and PCIe 5.0 connectivity.

While Intel has provided insight into the elements driving Battlemage development, the tech giant has yet to confirm the lineup of new GPUs and a specific release date. Initially expected to launch in early 2025, recent reports claim the new Battlemage GPUs will be released before Black Friday (November 29th).

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KitGuru says: Although we may not see an increase in GPU core count, that doesn't mean performance won't improve significantly. Without knowing all the details of the new Xe2 architecture, it's still too soon to draw any conclusions.

The post A third Intel Arc Battlemage GPU emerges with 32 Xe2-Cores first appeared on KitGuru.

After AMD officially announced the Ryzen AI 300 series back at Computex 2024, various reports claimed the new mobile APU series would debut on July 15th. However, that seems to have changed as new reports and listings suggest AMD has ‘pushed' the release of the first devices powered by these APUs to July 28th.

Leakers Golden Pig Upgrade and Hoang Anh Phu (via VideoCardz) have reported the alleged update to the release date. It is important to note that AMD has not officially confirmed this change, so saying that the company “moved”, “pushed”, or “delayed” might not be entirely correct just yet.

According to Hoang Anh, the July 28th date might pertain to lifting the sales embargo and the review NDA. This uncharacteristic choice of a Sunday for the launch date could impact the distribution schedule across different regions.

The alleged change in the release date has prompted retailers like BestBuy (via Hassan Mujtaba) to update their product launch schedules. Several Asus laptops, previously slated for presale in mid-July, have had their launch dates rescheduled to July 28th. As of now, Asus has not updated the release date on its website. However, unless an early presale agreement is reached between Asus and AMD, changes to the website are expected to reflect the revised release date.

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KitGuru says: If you were planning on getting a Ryzen AI 300-powered laptop at launch, it seems you'll have to wait a bit longer.

The post AMD Ryzen AI 300 launch date apparently “pushed” to July 28th first appeared on KitGuru.

FromSoftware has cautioned players experiencing performance issues while playing Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, suggesting that the culprit may be related to third-party computer mouse software running in the background…

The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, which launched to critical acclaim on June 21st, has unfortunately been marred by reports of significant performance problems on both console and PC. This has led to a ‘mixed' user rating on Steam despite numerous perfect scores from critics worldwide.

【ELDEN RING】PC版において、マウス制御関連のアプリを起動している状態でゲームをプレイするとフレームレートが安定しない場合がございます。その場合、マウス制御関連のアプリを停止してゲームプレイをお試しいただきますようお願いいたします。

— FROMSOFTWARE PLAYER SUPPORT (@fromsoftware_sp) June 28, 2024

According to a recent tweet from FromSoftware's support page, players may see improvements in performance by closing any third-party mouse control software before launching the game. The tweet, translated by Google Translate, states: “In the PC version, the framerate may not be stable when playing the game while running a mouse-control app. In that case, please try playing the game after stopping the mouse-control app.”

Some players have already reported that following this advice helped to alleviate stuttering issues caused by mouse software, though we are sceptical considering the widely-reported performance issues that have been present since Elden Ring's launch. FromSoftware has also advised players to ensure that ray-tracing settings are not accidentally enabled when loading save data from a previous version of the game, as this could also lead to unstable frame rates. Furthermore, FromSoftware has stated that additional bug fixes and balancing tweaks are in the pipeline for future updates, though we will have to see if performance is improved.

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KitGuru says: Have you been playing Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree on PC? What has your experience been with in-game stutters?

The post FromSoftware suggests Elden Ring perf issues could be down to… mouse software? first appeared on KitGuru.

Lian Li has launched its new line of HydroShift AIOs, first introduced at Computex 2024. Featuring a “tubeless” design, the HydroShift AIOs come in three variants: HydroShift S, HydroShift R, and HydroShift TL. All models pack a 2.88″ LCD on the pump block, customisable through L-Connect 3.

The HydroShift 360S, 360R, and 360TL liquid cooling AIOs sport a unique design that conceals tubing to the side of the radiator, aimed at delivering a cleaner aesthetic. Constructed with ribbed tubing for optimal performance and aesthetics, the tubing curves around the radiator with the assistance of pre-installed retaining brackets. The units also sport a brushed aluminium plate, left/right tube cover plates, and a pump mounting hardware cover.

Diving deeper into the specifics, the HydroShift 360S features a revamped pump design, operating at 3800 RPM, enhancing performance while minimising noise. The pump comes with two cables: one to synchronise with the motherboard via PWM and another that divides into SATA, PWM for the fans, and USB 2.0 for L-Connect communications. The 27mm thick radiator houses three pre-installed 28mm non-RGB fans, prioritising silent operation without compromising on performance. The fans reach speeds of up to 2500 RPM and support Uni Fan P28's side ARGB kit.

Meanwhile, the 360R model has a larger propeller, allowing it to function optimally at up to 3200 RPM speeds. It features a single cable solution with SATA for power, PWM for fan daisy-chaining, and USB 2.0 for L-Connect connectivity. With a 31mm thick radiator and three pre-installed 28mm thick ARGB and PWM fans capable of reaching speeds of up to 2400 RPM, the 360R offers efficient cooling solutions.

Lastly, the HydroShift 360TL shares the 3200 RPM pump and radiator dimensions of the 360R but distinguishes itself with three pre-installed Uni Fan TL fans. The AIO features a single cable solution enabling comprehensive control over the pump and fans through L-Connect 3, with the pump cable designed for discreet routing behind the tubes, connecting to daisy-chained TL fans and the accompanying TL hub.

The HydroShift 360S, 360R, and 360TL AIOs, available in black and white colour options, come with a 6-year guarantee and are now available for pre-order. The MSRPs are $179.99 (360S), $199.99 (360R), and $259.99 (360TL).

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KitGuru says: The idea of hiding a portion of the cables is interesting. However, because it is side-mounted, users have to ensure that their case is wide enough to fit the cooler with the bracket.

The post Lian Li aims for nearly tubeless aesthetic with HydroShift LCD AIO series first appeared on KitGuru.

More benchmarks for Intel's upcoming Lunar Lake CPUs are slowly trickling out ahead of launch. The new data gives us the first glimpse of the integrated Xe2 graphics performance, which apparently matches the AMD Radeon 890M that will power the upcoming Ryzen AI 9 HX370.

Designed for low-power devices like lightweight laptops, the Intel Lunar Lake CPUs are expected to target the U-series (17-30W) segment. On the other hand, AMD's Strix Point will target systems with power requirements ranging from 15W to 54W. The Lunar Lake CPUs bring a new CPU architecture, an updated NPU (AI accelerator), and the new Xe2 graphics.

Image credit: Jaykihn

Further into the integrated graphics of Intel's upcoming platform, we expect two models: Arc A130V and Arc 140V, each boasting 7 and 8 Xe2 cores, respectively. These cores are based on the Battlemage architecture. According to the data shared by Jaykihn (via VideoCardz), the Intel Lunar Lake iGPU will be pretty capable, achieving a Timespy graphics score of 3438 at 17W and a 4151 score at 30W. The latter is on par with what we've seen from the Radeon 890M seen in the flagship Strix Point APUs.

However, it's worth noting that the Lunar Lake system used 16 GB of LPDDR5X-8533 memory (soldered to the base tile). This configuration introduces considerations around power usage, particularly as it impacts the comparison, which does not account for memory power usage estimated at 2-3W. In addition, there's also the memory speed itself, which could significantly boost Intel's CPU performance.

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KitGuru says: Were you expecting this level of performance of the Lunar Lake iGPU? 

The post Early Intel Core Ultra 200V iGPU benchmarks show it matching Radeon 890M first appeared on KitGuru.

MSI has released new BIOS updates for various 600-series motherboards, introducing the AGESA Combo PI-1.2.0.0 microcode for its AMD X670E, X670, B650, and A620 motherboards. These updates aim to address multiple critical issues, improve system stability, and introduce new features.

These new updates bring various bug fixes and improvements to the 600-series motherboards, improving stability and performance for the upcoming AMD Ryzen 9000 series CPUs. Additionally, the update includes enhancements and workarounds aimed at Nvidia's RTX 40 series graphics cards, addressing stability concerns related to the 4070 and 4060 GPUs.

In addition to these improvements, the BIOS updates also deliver general bug fixes and optimisations to enhance overall system performance. For all users of AMD X670E, X670, B650, and A620 motherboards, upgrading to the latest BIOS version is recommended to fully leverage these improvements.

Most MSI motherboards already have the BIOS update available on their respective support page. However, it's worth noting that it's still in Beta. As such, we recommend you download it only if you really need it or believe it will improve your system's performance.

You can read more directly on MSI's website HERE.

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KitGuru says: Although MSI was the first, other motherboard vendors should soon launch the updates for their 600-series motherboards.

The post MSI launches new BIOS updates with AGESA 1.2.0.0 for 600-series motherboards first appeared on KitGuru.

MSI faced some controversy recently over the lack of firmware update support for its MAG QD-OLED monitors, when its MPG series screens have already received significant enhancements with the latest firmware. Following consumer feedback and demand, MSI has now taken steps to address this concern, announcing that firmware updates will soon be made available for the MAG 271QPX and MAG 321UPX monitors.

To ensure that MAG series monitors are ready to receive firmware updates, the displays must be already on specific firmware versions (FW.012 or newer for the 271QPX and FW.015 for the 321UPX) that support this capability. According to TFTCentral, all stock should already be on the required firmware versions for European markets. However, in other regions, some early stock may have been shipped with older firmware versions that do not support updates. In such cases, users will need to contact MSI support to arrange a return of the monitor to a service centre for a firmware update.

According to MSI, the first firmware updates for the MAG series are expected to be available around mid-July. Users will be able to download firmware update files and the necessary tool from MSI’s support pages. MSI advises users to utilise a DisplayPort > DisplayPort connection without any adapters for the firmware flashing process. Further guidance will be provided alongside the firmware files, with the update process expected to take approximately 10 minutes.

While specific details regarding the firmware updates are currently unavailable, we'd expect the update to follow a similar trend to the MPG series screens.

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KitGuru says: Do you have one of these MSI MAG QD-OLEDs? Is your monitor ready to receive firmware updates, or will you have to take it to a service centre so they can update it?

The post MSI MAG QD-OLED monitors will get firmware updates after all first appeared on KitGuru.

Intel's Core Ultra 200 CPU family debut is just around the corner, slated for release as early as September. This series is geared towards low-power mobile devices and is expected to be Copilot+ ready due to its AI performance. However, CPU and GPU performance are still important and fortunately, a recent Geekbench leak has shed light on single-core and multi-core performance.

The Geekbench entries (#1, #2) shared by VideoCardz indicate a maximum frequency of 4.9 GHz on an engineering sample. The LP-Cores are expected to reach 3.7 GHz, though Geekbench does not register them. The testing system was equipped with 32 GB of memory and was running Windows 11 Enterprise.

The processor scored 2713-2739 points in the single-core test, outperforming the Core Ultra 9 185H by 20%. As for its multi-core performance, the CPU scored around 10K points, about 20% lower than the Core Ultra 9 185H. Compared to the newly tested Ryzen AI 9 365 SKU, this score suggests that AMD Strix Point (54W) will outperform Intel's CPU in single- and multi-core loads. However, it's worth noting that while Lunar Lake caps at 30 W, both Intel Core Ultra 9 185H and AMD Ryzen 9 365 go up to 54W.

The Intel Core Ultra 7 268V will come with four Lion Cove P-Cores and four Skymont E-Cores. Additionally, the SoC/processor comes with an Arc A140V iGPU with 8 Xe2-Cores capable of boosting up to 2.0 GHz. Contrary to earlier reports, the Core Ultra 7 268V is expected to be the flagship model. Intel is also unveiling the Core Ultra 9 288V variant, boasting a higher clock speed of 5.1 GHz and a 30W PL1, whereas the Ultra 7 268V will feature a 5.0 GHz boost clock speed and a 17W PL1.

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KitGuru says: Seeing these scores, do you believe the retail Lunar Lake samples will score higher?

The post Intel “Lunar Lake” Core Ultra 7 268V CPU shows up on Geekbench first appeared on KitGuru.

A recently found patent has shed light on Microsoft's cancelled Xbox streaming device codenamed ‘Keystone'. The device, originally unveiled in 2021, was designed to enable users to stream Xbox games to TVs or monitors without needing a console. However, it was reportedly put on the back burner after Microsoft struggled to bring the cost of production down to a level that would make sense.

The patent (via Windows Central) was submitted in June 2022 and provides a look at how Microsoft envisioned the gadget. Described as a square with a circular shape on top, akin to the circular vent on the Xbox Series S, the device featured an Xbox power button and a USB-A connector on the front panel, as shown in the photo shared by Phil Spencer.

Image credit: United States Patent and Trademark Office

The rear panel was equipped with HDMI, ethernet, and power connectors, while the right side included what appeared to be a controller pairing button. Additionally, there was a circular plate at the bottom, similar to the one used for the Xbox Series X console.

In a previous interview in late 2022, Phil Spencer explained that the development of Keystone had been deprioritised due to the challenges associated with manufacturing the device at a reasonable cost. Although the device worked well, the cost was too high for Spencer, who was targeting a price tag between $99 and $129.

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KitGuru says: If Xbox launches a streaming-only ‘console', will you consider getting one?

The post Microsoft patent sheds light on unreleased ‘Keystone’ streaming device first appeared on KitGuru.

Dead Rising stands out as a timeless gem, transforming the tired concept of zombies in a shopping mall into a unique survival game that captures the madcap fun of improvising weapons and capturing undead mayhem on film. The original 2006 release, which broke new ground by bringing the living dead to a shopping centre, is now set for a deluxe remaster over a decade after its PC debut and almost two decades since its original launch.

Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster is essentially a remaster of a remaster, updating the 2016 HD Remaster that expanded the original 2006 game beyond its Xbox 360 exclusivity and onto PC.

Capcom's teaser (above) features photographer and zombie-slayer Frank West plunging out of a helicopter at the Willamette Parkview Mall. Even in the short cutscenes, it appears notably different from the HD Remaster, with better textures and even a redesigned character model of Frank. It also seems that Frank may get a new voice, with fragments of lines re-recorded from original actor TJ Rotolo.

Capcom's description of the remaster as ‘an updated release with a brand new look' hints at potential gameplay enhancements and additional content to complement the enhanced visuals. With the power of modern hardware, it's reasonable to expect more zombies swarming the screen, intensifying the chaos and action. The teaser's reference to a 2024 release signals an imminent launch, yet specific launch platforms and dates are yet to be disclosed.

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KitGuru says: Have you ever played the original Dead Rising or the 2016 remaster? What do you expect from this new remaster?

The post Capcom’s original Dead Rising is getting a new remaster first appeared on KitGuru.

Logitech G has just unveiled the G515 TKL series of gaming keyboards. These boards are packed with features, all housed in a sleek, low-profile design and compact form factor designed to free up desk space. Available with linear or tactile low-profile switches, both options offer reduced travel distance compared to standard mechanical switches.

Measuring just 22mm in height and designed to eliminate the need for a wrist rest, the G515 Lightspeed TKL aims to bring a new level of comfort to gaming sessions. Equipped with low-profile switches with a mere 1.3mm actuation distance and 3.2mm total travel distance, Logitech claims this keyboard enables gamers to perform actions more efficiently. While both switch options offer the same travel distance, the linear switch requires 43g actuation force, whereas the tactile switch demands 45g.

In addition, the G515 TKL keyboards feature a layer of sound-dampening foam, pre-lubricated switches, built-in stabilisers, and PBT keycaps, designed to ensure a smoother and quieter typing experience. Furthermore, Logitech's innovative Keycontrol technology introduces extensive customisation options, allowing each key to accommodate up to 15 distinct actions. This feature empowers gamers to configure macros, audio cues, lighting effects, and more. Additionally, the inclusion of G Shift enables the entire keyboard layout to be easily switchable, offering another layer of customisation.

The G515 Lightspeed TKL Wireless gaming keyboard includes 2:1 Lightspeed wireless pairing via dongle, allowing gamers to connect their gaming mouse and free up an additional USB port. The wireless variant also supports Bluetooth and USB-C data modes. In wireless modes, the battery can last up to 36 hours without pausing.

Both models feature Lightsync RGB lighting, which can be customised via G HUB. The Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL wireless gaming keyboard, now available in black and white, costs $139/€149.99. The wired version, coming later this year, will be priced at $99/€109.99.

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Philips has unveiled its latest gaming monitor under the Evnia brand, the 32M2N8800. We first got a look at this screen at Philips' press event in April, but it is now ready to hit the market.

The Philips Evnia 32M2N8800 packs a QD-OLED panel with 4K resolution, a claimed 0.03 ms response time, and a 240Hz refresh rate. As expected from a QD-OLED monitor, the contrast ratio is effectively infinite, rated at 1,500,000:1. As for brightness, in SDR, it's around 250 nits (typical), increasing to 450 nits (typical) for HDR content, though this can hit up to 1000 nits depending on the APL.

The monitor features a 10-bit panel with 99% DCI-P3/100% sRGB colour spectrum coverage, while it's also achieved VESA DisplayHDR TrueBlack 400 and ClearMR 13000 certifications. On the gaming front, the Evnia display has features like smart crosshair and multiple game modes, and users can take advantage of PbP and PiP to enhance multitasking.

While the display's connectivity options are somewhat limited, with just DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.1 connections, it does include a built-in USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) hub with two USB-A ports, one of which supports the USB battery charging 1.2 standard. The monitor also houses a 3.5 mm audio jack and features Philips' Ambiglow LED technology on all four sides. As for adjustability, the stand offers height, swivel, and tilt adjustments. Like most other QD-OLED monitors, the new Evnia monitor should be priced close to the £1000 mark.

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M.2 SSDs are getting seriously fast these days, but often hit high temperatures under heavy loads. To counteract that, the controller restricts performance to prevent overheating and any possible damage to the device – a suboptimal compromise. That's where the new M2 Pro from Arctic comes in…

Created for single- and double-sided 2280 M.2 SSDs, the M2 Pro is designed to prevent overheating and enable the SSD to cool down faster. The cooler measures 73 x 24.2 x 10.5 mm and includes two Arctic TP-3 Premium Performance thermal pads that enable the heat generated by the SSD to be transferred to the heatsink.

According to Arctic's testing, a Samsung 990 Pro can surpass the 90ºC mark while copying 200 GB of data. Using the M2 Pro on the SSD, Arctic's own data shows that peak temperature is reduced to less than 55 ºC.

Besides PCs, the Arctic M2 Pro cooler can also be used on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Slim consoles. The new M2 Pro, available in black and silver, is now available for $9.99/€9.99.

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Iqunix, a keyboard and accessories manufacturer, has recently unveiled its latest offerings: the EZ60 and EZ63 Magnetic Switch gaming keyboards. The EZ Series keyboards aim to offer some distinctive features that could help set them apart from most other keyboards on the market.

The EZ Series keyboards boast an ultra-high polling rate of 8000Hz, resulting in a keyboard latency of just 0.125 ms. This low latency can give players a significant advantage in fast-paced gaming scenarios requiring rapid inputs, though how much benefit 8000Hz offers versus 1000Hz is still up for a lot of debate in the enthusiast community. This feature is complemented by the Rapid Trigger mechanism, which enables users to repeat key presses mid-motion without reaching a predetermined reset or actuation point. Moreover, the Super Rapid Stop Mode sets the release sensitivity as low as 0.05 mm.

Iqunix's collaboration with Gateron has led to the development of the Star Rail magnetic switch. Using magnetic coupling and hall effect technology, these switches enable smoother keystrokes with increased stability and precise triggering. The web-based EZ software allows users to customise this and other aspects of the keyboard. Constructed from aluminium, the gasket-mounted EZ Series keyboards exude a premium feel and ensure long-term durability. Additionally, the double-shot PBT keycaps are designed to withstand prolonged usage without experiencing wear or fading.

The difference between both models is that the EZ60 lacks the arrow and Delete keys, and it instead has a bigger right-shift key and the right CTRL key. Now available, the EZ Series keyboards (EZ60 and EZ63) are each priced at $179. Customers can also use the Rewards Programme, which offers a $20 discount and a free EZ carry bag.

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The post Iqunix introduces new EZ gaming keyboard series with magnetic switches first appeared on KitGuru.