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Notebookcheck opinion articles

Occasionally, our writers can share their personal opinion concerning current events with Notebookcheck readers in the form of opinion articles to encourage debate.

Notebookcheck strives to be an unbiased and independent technology publication with a main focus on objective data oriented reviews, along with comprehensive CPU and GPU benchmark score aggregation and delivering trustworthy, transparently sourced news articles on a daily basis.

Notebookcheck has around 80 experienced contributors from all over the world producing written content, as of 2025. We offer our writers an opportunity to share their views with the readers in the form of opinion articles with the goal of encouraging and shaping public debates, in which all parties are welcome to partake. This is why we have a comments section at the end of each article. Readers are not required to sign up to participate.

Opinion articles only express the individual opinion of the author, and not of that of the entire editorial team. To avoid any possible confusion, these articles are clearly labeled as „comment“ and have a distinct visual style as compared to news articles and reviews.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the latest phone to suffer through the JerryRigEverything durability tests. (Image source: JerryRigEverything on YouTube)

JerryRigEverything claims "dehumanizing" Samsung Mobile US interaction, announces switch to non-Galaxy daily driver

Serial smartphone reviewer Zack Nelson of JerryRigEverything has claimed that after a "dehumanizing" chat with a Samsung Mobile US rep, he is switching over to a non-Samsung phone for the first time in 10 years. The development ca...
Fawad Murtaza, 29 Jul 2025 15:05
Official image of the game Mario Paint on Nintendo Switch. (Image source: Nintendo)

A new game is available for free on Nintendo Switch Online, and it's a nice surprise

Mario fans will be thrilled to hear that Mario Paint is now available for free on Nintendo Switch Online. But be warned, you'll need a subscription to this service to enjoy it and relive old memories.
Alexis Stegmann, 29 Jul 2025 14:42
The electric Tesla Model Y SUV (Image source: Tesla)

Deal | Tesla slashes up to $2,000 off select Model Ys; Why now is the time to buy

Tesla is slashing up to $2,000 off the electric Model Y SUV in the US. Customers will, however, need to act quickly to take advantage of all the available bonuses and incentives.
David Odejide, 28 Jul 2025 09:44
One-Eyed Likho is considered to be an embodiment of evil fate and misfortune in Slavic mythology. The game represents that very well. Pictured - cover thumbnail of the game. (Image source: Steam - Edited)

A haunting, mesmeric folk horror experience with minor caveats: One-Eyed Likho - First impressions

This first look at Morteshka’s new game, One-Eyed Likho, sheds light on how its monochrome visuals, folk-horror themes, and atmospheric setting shape a unique story-driven horror experience. Apart from some minor issues, the game ...
Anubhav Sharma, 28 Jul 2025 08:00
The Casio Edifice line was born in the year 2000, and it's become one of the top 3 monikers under the Japanese watch manufacturer. Pictured - A Casio Edifice model. (Image source: Samer Daboul on Pexels)

8 great Casio Edifice watches under $200 that can challenge Seiko and Citizen's models

CheckMag Casio’s Edifice series is well-known for sports-inspired designs, reliable quartz movements, and solid specs, alongside sapphire crystals, solar tech, and strong water resistance around the $200 mark - making them top value choice...
Anubhav Sharma, 25 Jul 2025 21:14
If you're serious about reading, a Kindle isn't a luxury... it's the obvious next step (Image Source: felipepelaquim on Unsplash)

The best eReader for 2025's biggest books: A reader's guide to the Kindle line up

This one’s for every book lover thinking, “Which Kindle should I actually get in 2025?” I break down the current Kindle lineup while also spotlighting the hottest books blowing up right now (Onyx Storm, anyone?) and giving you a f...
Darryl Linington, 25 Jul 2025 10:38
Lucifer and Dream face off in a moment of divine tension; one of many visually striking confrontations in The Sandman Season 2. (Image source: Netflix)

The Sandman’s swan song: A quiet grief and a final farewell

Discussing the emotional impact of Netflix's The Sandman Season 2 Part 1, its impending conclusion, and the parallel loss of Good Omens. Exploring the narrative depth, thematic resonance, and fading magic of modern fantasy televis...
Jonathan Bester, 23 Jul 2025 20:36
The Sidephone (pictured) is an upcoming dumb phone, scheduled to launch this year. (Image source: u/chrisristovski on Reddit)

9 dumb phones that are actually smart purchases in this day and age

CheckMag As dumb phones gain popularity, here are 9 great models you can invest in if you're in the market for one right now. Some of these are merely functional, while others are more design-focused - and one specific model is poised to l...
Anubhav Sharma, 22 Jul 2025 23:57
Disney live action remake flubs (Image source: AI-generated image)

Lilo & Stitch live-action remake isn’t perfect, but it might be the first one that matters

Lilo & Stitch (2025) avoids remake fatigue with a tighter story as box office results look solid and audience support seems strong without leaning too hard on nostalgia.
Jonathan Bester, 22 Jul 2025 00:55
You're training AI for free with every prompt. Generic humanoid robot pictured. (Image source: Vjulien Tromeur - Unsplash)

You’re training AI for free - And it’s not even saying thanks

You're training AI for free with every prompt, click, and CAPTCHA. Here's how human feedback is fuelling billion-dollar models... without a thank you.
Darryl Linington, 21 Jul 2025 22:13
Official image of Monster Hunter Wilds on PlayStation. (Image source: PlayStation)

This Monster Hunter-inspired LEGO set is sure to make you dream

A Monster Hunter set has been created using various LEGO products. And the result is so surprising that some people are calling for a collaboration between the two licenses.
Alexis Stegmann, 21 Jul 2025 14:47
A generic humanoid robot and a question sign. (Image source: Valeria Nikitina - Unsplash)

From data to delusion: How AI hallucinations actually happen

AI hallucinations happen when chatbots make stuff up... confidently. Learn why it happens, how it’s being fixed, and how it can impact you.
Darryl Linington, 19 Jul 2025 17:18
Brands like Casio, Seiko, and Citizen are well-known for designing functional watches well below $150. Pictured - multiple watches from the aforementioned brands. (Image source: Casio, Seiko, Timex, Orient - Edited)

8 bang-for-buck watches under $150 that punch well above their weight

CheckMag Explore the best quirky, feature-packed watches under $150 from brands like Casio, Seiko, Timex, Orient, and Citizen. We have made a list of some standout models that deliver versatile functionality, exceptional value and a whole ...
Anubhav Sharma, 19 Jul 2025 01:12
The Forgotten City is set in an ancient Roman city where people have been turned into gold statues. (Image source: Modern Storyteller, Steam, edited)

Deal | Ancient Roman time loop mystery with "Overwhelmingly Positive" rating is 75% off on Steam

Based on an ultra-popular Skyrim mod, The Forgotten City is a third-person, narrative-driven, mystery game that takes place in an underground ancient Roman city. The game, which is now less than $7 on Steam, is rated "Overwhelming...
Fawad Murtaza, 17 Jul 2025 15:28
iPhone 16 Pro Max has a much more reflective display than S25 Ultra. (Image source: 6 Months Later on YouTube, edited)

Apple iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max to get one of Galaxy S25 Ultra's best display features

Apple might finally be giving fans one of the Galaxy S25 Ultra's most useful features. According to information received by MacRumors, the displays on the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Pro Max are said to become much easier to s...
Fawad Murtaza, 17 Jul 2025 13:26
BioShock Remastered was released in September 2016. (Image source: 2K, Steam, edited)

Deal | Just $4.99 on Steam: Remaster of iconic single-player FPS with phenomenal setting is now discounted by 75%

BioShock Remastered is now less than $10 on Steam. The game is an absolute accomplishment in almost all areas, from art direction and story to combat. As such, IGN gave the game a rating of 9.7/10 in their launch review.
Fawad Murtaza, 14 Jul 2025 12:45
Resident Evil 6 will give you many hours of gameplay on a single charge, but you probably won't want to (Image Source: Notebookcheck)

Resident Evil 6 would make a great battery sipping handheld experience, except it's unplayable

CheckMag After reading reviews saying it was a good action game, just not a good Resident Evil game, I decided to give Resident Evil 6 a go. The low system requirements would make a great battery sipping handheld game, except it's unplayab...
David Devey, 13 Jul 2025 12:53
Vivo X200 Ultra: The dream of many smartphone fans is now cheaper to import than to buy directly in China (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Vivo X200 Ultra now cheaper via import: Why I haven't bought the Zeiss 35mm camera flagship phone in China

After the initial hype surrounding the 35mm Zeiss camera flagship with three roughly equally sized sensors has somewhat subsided, prices are now dropping at import retailers. In fact, importing the Vivo X200 Ultra is now roughly the same price as buying one locally in China. My original plan to pick one up here in Shanghai is proving to be more difficult and, more importantly, less cost-effective than initially thought.
Alexander Fagot, 12 Jul 2025 06:47
The Bluefox NX1 is a tiny 4-inch smartphone with Android 15, now available for order globally. (Image source: Bluefox)

Affordable and tiny Bluefox NX1 smartphone launched with 4-inch display and 48 MP camera

The Bluefox NX1 is a tiny 4-inch smartphone that boasts decently capable internals, such as the MediaTek Helio G81 SoC and a 3,000 mAh battery, with an admirably affordable price tag. Launched in China last month, the product is n...
Sambit Saha, 04 Jul 2025 17:38
The Nothing Phone (3) will come in two colorways: black and white (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Nothing reveals why the Phone (3) took 2 years to arrive and it isn't what we expected

Nothing posted a video on its YouTube channel two days ago, officially announcing the Nothing Phone (3), Nothing also explained why it waited 2 years to bring it — a wait Nothing said is equivalent to a 'death sentence' to consume...
Chibuike Okpara, 04 Jul 2025 12:19
Gemini, ChatGPT, Grok, and Perplexity (Image source: Gemini)

AI battle: Grok surprises Mrwhosetheboss with its performance and ChatGPT wins

In a video posted by Mrwhosetheboss on YouTube, he tested four AI models from different brands and scored them based on performance in each task. Mrwhosetheboss went from simple queries to tricky questions and research, pushing ea...
Chibuike Okpara, 04 Jul 2025 05:17
Black Desert's reviews are mixed as of late, but overall reviews still remain "Mostly Positive". Pictured - Official artwork from the game. (Image source: Steam)

Deal | Free on Steam: This stunning open world MMO is free again on Steam, but you shouldn’t expect a smooth ride

Black Desert is once again free to claim on Steam. This visually stunning MMO offers deep sandbox systems but leans heavy on grind and cash shop elements. The game is worth checking out if you’re curious.
Anubhav Sharma, 03 Jul 2025 22:22
Nothing Phone 3 features an asymmetric camera setup (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Nothing Phone (3): Nothing's first 'flagship' phone disappoints and is too costly

Nothing has officially announced its first 'flagship' phone after a long wait—one that’s starting to feel like it may not have been worth it. The Nothing Phone (3) is arriving over 720 days after the Nothing Phone (2), so expectat...
Chibuike Okpara, 03 Jul 2025 22:09
The Casio GW-5000HS-1 (left), the Seiko Prospex SRPL53K1 (top right), and the Citizen Promaster Mechanical GMT watch (bottom right). (Image source: Casio, Seiko, Citizen)

Casio vs Seiko vs Citizen: Which Japanese timepiece is right for you, and why?

CheckMag Casio, Seiko, and Citizen define Japan’s watch scene. Casio gives you rugged value, Seiko blends heritage with mechanical craft, and Citizen delivers solar-powered precision. Learn what sets each apart and which brand fits your ne...
Anubhav Sharma, 02 Jul 2025 17:03
Beyond Two: Souls was originally released as a PS3 exclusive in 2013. (Image source: Quantic Dream, Steam, edited)

Deal | Steam Summer Sale: Narrative-driven psychological action thriller is now 90% off

Beyond: Two Souls, Quantic Dream's psychological thriller about the life and struggles of a girl connected to a spirit, is now on sale for just $2 on Steam. The game is narrative-driven, where players engage in an interactive dram...
Fawad Murtaza, 02 Jul 2025 12:24
The Galaxy Z Fold7 may be thinner and lighter than its predecessor, but it will not do better at resisting the elements. New model pictured. (Image source: via Evan Blass)

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 expected to disappoint against many foldable flagships with surprising missed opportunity

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 should become official in just over a week's time. Surprisingly, Samsung is now slated to drop behind Google and Vivo when it comes to dust and water resistance.
Alex Alderson, 01 Jul 2025 14:03
Donkey Kong Bananza Switch 2 edition. Official teaser. (Image source: Nintendo of America)

Nintendo Switch 2 launch on Amazon fell apart over pricing of cheap imports

The reason why Amazon didn't take part in the biggest console launch ever has been revealed. For now, only a few original Nintendo Switch 2 games are available on Amazon.
Daniel Zlatev, 30 Jun 2025 17:59
Praise the Fool. One of the anime's key characters pictured. (Image Source: Crunchyroll)

Polarising 'Lord of Mysteries' anime debut raises questions over popularity potential

Lord of Mysteries, a Chinese web novel, is widely regarded as one of the best of its kind. An animated adaptation finally premiered yesterday after months of hype by an overly excited fanbase, but how much of a success is it going...
Ricci Rox, 29 Jun 2025 16:19
Raycast for Windows is now available in beta by invitation. (Image Source: Raycast)

One of the best productivity tools for macOS now comes to Windows 11

Raycast is now in the public beta preview stage for Windows users. A well-known Spotlight alternative for macOS, Raycast carries forward most of its functionality to Windows 11 with additional features being planned down the lines...
Vaidyanathan Subramaniam, 29 Jun 2025 08:26
You'll own nothing - stop killing games ft. Ross of Accursed Farms (Image source: GNCA on YouTube)

GNCA talks to Ross Scott about game ownership, digital rights, and the EU petition to save endangered games

GNCA interviews Ross Scott of Accursed Farms to discuss the Stop Killing Games campaign and its push for legal protections when online-only games are shut down. The focus is a European Citizens’ Initiative that would require publi...
Sebastian Jankowski, 28 Jun 2025 22:03
A Reddit user's gaming laptop mounted upside down in a wooden shelf, connected to an external keyboard, mouse, and microphone. (Image source: Reddit/u/YusufK80)

Reddit user mounts laptop upside down for Counter-Strike, sparks debate on heat and hinge damage

A viral Reddit post has tech enthusiasts divided over one of the strangest laptop setups in recent memory. It’s bizarre, a little cursed, and unmistakably part of today’s DIY tech culture.
Anmol Dubey, 28 Jun 2025 11:51
Cyberpunk 2077 was initially released in 2020. Edited screenshot of the game. (Image source: CD Projekt Red, Steam, edited)

Deal | Steam Summer Sale: One of best open-world sci-fi action RPGs of recent memory is now 65% off

Steam Summer Sale is back, and it brings a ton of game discounts with it. Alongside other AAA titles, Cyberpunk 2077 is now enjoying a massive 65% price cut. The resulting price of just $21 has made the sci-fi RPG a pretty easy re...
Fawad Murtaza, 27 Jun 2025 23:55
The Galaxy Buds Core. (Image source: Samsung)

Samsung Galaxy Buds Core launch with attractive pricing and limited availability

Samsung's latest wireless earbuds are now the most affordable members of the Galaxy Buds series that sell in India. They support active noise cancellation (ANC) and multi-microphone voice isolation for calls despite their newly re...
Deirdre O'Donnell, 27 Jun 2025 18:06
FBC Firebreak, official teaser pictured surpasses 1 million players despite mixed reviews (image source: Remedy Entertainment)

FBC Firebreak hits 1 million players propped by console subscribers despite mixed reviews

Remedy Entertainment's new multiplayer title, FBC: Firebreak has hit 1 million users, with a few caveats.
Rahim Amir Noorali, 27 Jun 2025 15:05
The Redmi K Pad presentation showing all available colors (Image source: Xiaomi via X; cropped)

Redmi K Pad: Xiaomi obliterates the iPad Mini 7 with an all-new device

Xiaomi just entered the mini tablet market with the Redmi K Pad, aiming to beat the iPad Mini 7. The new device was just announced in the Human × Car × Home launch event which took place today.
Chibuike Okpara, 26 Jun 2025 17:11
Subnautica 2 will also have "unkillable" Reaper Leviathan. (Image Source: Unknown Worlds)

Subnautica 2 fans have mixed reactions to lack of combat and knife replacement

Subnautica fans took to Reddit to discuss the lack of combat and weapons in the upcoming sequel. One of the devs responded to the queries by explaining the choices and also suggested that alternatives to knives will soon be presen...
Nitisha Upadhye, 24 Jun 2025 09:19
The Poco F7 will get an Indian variant and an international variant. (Image source: Poco)

The Poco F7 obliterates the Nothing Phone (3) with its early bird price

The Poco F7 will launch on June 24 with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor under its hood. The Nothing Phone (3) will also launch in July with the same chipsets. However, a leak has revealed Poco's new phone will win based on price.
Habeeb Onawole, 23 Jun 2025 18:12
A new collector's item from the world of The Last of Us has been unveiled. (Image source: Official teaser for The Last of Us - PlayStation)

The Last of Us: A new collector's edition has been announced, and you're going to love it

A new collector's statue from The Last of Us has been unveiled. But be warned, as the number of items available for sale is limited.
Alexis Stegmann, 23 Jun 2025 11:19
A gaming laptop setup under blue lighting at a demo station, running a game (Image source: Pexels / Bertellifotografia)

Reddit thread on the 'most reliable gaming laptop' reveals user concerns over thermals and long-term performance

A question about laptop reliability prompted a flurry of posts from users claiming disappointing experiences with high-end machines.
Anmol Dubey, 15 Jun 2025 21:11
Xiaomi Buds 3T Pro (Image Source: Amanz - Unsplash)

5 Bluetooth 6.0 features I think will improve your earbuds experience

CheckMag Bluetooth 6.0 is finally here, and in this article I break down five key features I think will noticeably improve your earbuds experience.
Antony Muchiri, 15 Jun 2025 14:46
Dune Awakening (Image Source: In-game screenshot - Rahim Noorali)

Dune Awakening: Early impressions from a risk-averse survivalist

Dune: Awakening is a challenging, but highly polished offering that should shape its core survival genre while bringing new players in contact with the harsh weather that Arrakis has to offer
Rahim Amir Noorali, 11 Jun 2025 15:46
The Flint 3 runs a customised version of OpenWRT and comes with Tailscale, Wireguard and Adguard built in (Image Source: Gl-iNet)

Flint 3, OpenWRT WiFi 7 router with five 2.5 Gb network ports, Tailscale and Wireguard available for pre-order at an unbelievable price

With multiple 2.5 Gb Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 7 and software that includes Docker, Tailscale, Wireguard and Adblock, the GL-iNet Flint 3 will give even the best routers a run for their money at a significantly reduced price.
David Devey, 10 Jun 2025 16:04
Super Meat Boy 3D has been shown off at Xbox Games Showcase 2025 (image source: Xbox)

Tough-as-nails platformer gets highly awaited third entry

Super Meat Boy 3D has been confirmed for an early 2026 launch. It aims to make the Super Meat Boy experience 3D, potentially adding many new layers of difficulty.
Anil Ganti, 08 Jun 2025 20:14
Travel necessity: a modern eSIM in your smartphone. We tested a special solution from Yesim. (Image source: Alexander Fagot, Notebookcheck)

Affordable and flexible without data packages: This international eSIM impresses in our travel test

At this point countless eSIMs are available. While comparison portals are supposed to facilitate choosing a suitable data package for your next trip, the devil is in the details, for example in regional packages. Fortunately, there is also an easier solution. Particularly travelers who often cross countries or only need Internet access for a few days abroad are best served with a pay-as-you-go solution. I tested one of the most attractive options for several weeks myself.
Alexander Fagot, 07 Jun 2025 23:50
This futuristic and innovative video game was unveiled at Summer Game Fest. (Image source: Cubit Studios)

This futuristic video game of unparalleled beauty offers breathtaking gameplay

Infinitesimals, a game from a small studio, promises to be as stunning as it is beautiful, thanks to attractive gameplay and a unique story.
Alexis Stegmann, 07 Jun 2025 20:33
Atomic Heart 2 unveiled at Summer Game Fest. (Image source: Mundfish via Game Rant)

Atomic Heart 2 unveiled at Summer Game Fest, and fans will love it

Atomic Heart 2 was officially announced yesterday at Summer Game Fest, and players will be able to immerse themselves in a wacky retro-futuristic universe.
Alexis Stegmann, 07 Jun 2025 10:58
18-inch laptops: This category should be more than just for gaming and devices like the MSI Raider A18, pictured (image source: Benjamin Herzig/Notebookcheck)

18-inch laptops: This category should be more than just for gaming laptops like the MSI Raider A18

We recently reviewed a lot of 18-inch laptops, including the MSI Raider A18. This young category is still dominated by gaming models like the Raider, but we think it should be more - manufacturers should also release more lightwei...
Benjamin Herzig, 04 Jun 2025 22:17
Asus ProArt P16 (image source: Notebookcheck)

It's a mistake that Asus only offers the ProArt P16 with the RTX 5070 Laptop

The Asus ProArt P16 is intended for creative users and this year's model is equipped with a new 120 Hz OLED as well as the new RTX 5000 Laptop GPUs from Nvidia. However, the RTX 5070 Laptop is the fastest GPU option available, eve...
Andreas Osthoff, 01 Jun 2025 18:37
Megan Thee Stallion at DreamCon's "Power & Creativity" fireside chat. (Image source: Michael Wyk - Houston Chronicle)

Rapper Megan Thee Stallion is making an anime with legendary Boondocks producer Carl Jones

“We're excited...We took a long time putting this together,” Megan Thee Stallion was delighted to announce her upcoming anime series at DreamCon.
Megan Miranda Reyes, 01 Jun 2025 05:55
No more loot boxes. Just lightsabers, blasters, and the entire galaxy at war. With every hero, every map, and a revived community — this might be the best Star Wars multiplayer experience yet. (Image Source : Star Wars Battlefront II Steam Page, edited)

8 years later, this Star Wars game is finally what fans hoped for at launch

CheckMag Originally released in 2017 to massive backlash over its loot box-heavy progression system, the game is now being rediscovered by players — and this time, for all the right reasons.
Santiago Nino, 31 May 2025 20:33
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Notebookcheck, 2020-06- 2 (Update: 2025-07-30)