Magazine

Satisfactory is just one game to wishlist ahead of the 2023 Steam Winter Sale. (Image source: Steam - edited)

Steam Winter Sale: 3 major games that blew up the official 2023 sale trailer

The Steam Winter Sale will start on December 21, 2023, discounting some of 2023's biggest games. Exact discounts are still a mystery, but Valve dropped a YouTube trailer revealing a few excellent games coming to the Winter Sale, i...

Julian van der Merwe, 18 Dec 2023 17:59

Top 3 HP laptops to elevate your work and play (Source: Unsplash)

The 3 best HP laptops to elevate your work and play

CheckMag HP offers a diverse range of laptops that excel in both design and functionality, whether it's for work or play. Choosing the right one can be challenging. Below are 3 top recommendations, highlighting their pros, cons and ideal u...

Triet Le, 17 Dec 2023 16:38

Smartwatches are the best companion to your phone. Some of the best for Christmas this 2023. (Source: Apple)

5 best smartwatches for Christmas presents including the Apple Watch Ultra 2

CheckMag More than 200 million people wear smartwatches globally. In addition to simply showing you the time, smartwatches will let you check your fitness, monitor your health, help you find your way and track a range of indoor and outdoor...

David Devey, 17 Dec 2023 16:29

GeForce GTX, GTS, GT, GS graphics cards are on their way out now (Image source: Notebookcheck - edited)

GeForce GTX cards are about to become history and buying one today makes no sense

CheckMag As DX12 Ultimate becomes more ubiquitous, with even integrated GPUs featuring RT support now, it's time to wave goodbye to the trusty old GTX/GT/GS/GTS series and embrace the new era.

Sergey Tarasov, 15 Dec 2023 15:50

Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Xiaomi 13T: A win-win depending on your budget

CheckMag Xiaomi smartphones are the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, high-end features, and affordability. Both the Xiaomi 13 Ultra and Xiaomi 13T are example of technological ingenuity. The following comparison lists the similari...

Ayesha Aslam, 14 Dec 2023 22:58

Top 5 best Asus laptops for every user

CheckMag Asus stands out in the laptop industry for its innovation and diverse offerings, from high-performance gaming to creative workstations and ultra-portable devices. Below are 5 recommendations, including the standout overall laptop,...

Triet Le, 11 Dec 2023 04:19

4 Android features iPhone users are missing out on

CheckMag Despite their similarities, Android and iPhone still provide distinct smartphone experiences, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. However, there's always room for improvement. Here are four Android features that, if adopte...

Triet Le, 10 Dec 2023 02:06

4 vaporware products that promised awesome but never delivered (Source: Unsplash)

Sega VR and 3 other vaporware products that promised to be awesome but never delivered

CheckMag Vaporware refers to products that generate significant hype and anticipation but ultimately fail to reach consumers. This phenomenon isn't exclusive to small companies; it also affects leading global corporations, underscoring the...

Triet Le, 09 Dec 2023 03:17

Aurora finally made its debut this summer, around half a decade - two Nvidia graphics generations, or six Call of Duty releases - behind schedule. (Image: Argonne National Laboratory)

Intel's defeat by AMD at Supercomputing 2023 was bigger than half a million Ryzen 9s – literally

CheckMag Gaming frames may get all the hype and excitement on the internet, but when the enterprise world has orders of magnitude more money to throw around, the world of interconnects and accelerators is far more important.

Matthew Lee, 08 Dec 2023 22:53

From cartoonish action to cute indies to the AAAs of yesteryear, there's a wealth of games that'll look fantastic on the new Steam Deck OLED (Image: Valve)

3 Steam Deck Verified games that will look gorgeous on the new OLED screen

CheckMag The headline addition to the new revision to Valve's handheld console is, of course, its eye-popping OLED display. It's got a wider colour gamut, a night-and-day improvement in contrast and brightness, and a higher refresh rate – ...

Matthew Lee, 08 Dec 2023 22:45

Capture every moment with precision (Image source: Unsplash)

3 best smartphones for photographers on the move

CheckMag The ideal companion for any photographer is a smartphone featuring a high-quality camera, ample storage capacity, extended battery life, and a lightweight design. Explore the smartphone selections tailored for your adventures in t...

Ayesha Aslam, 07 Dec 2023 23:51

Tesla's Cybertruck is surely an impressive vehicle, but repeated production delays take the punch out of many of its technological achievements. (Image source: Tesla)

Tesla Cybertruck: 4 supposedly revolutionary features that other EVs did first and better

The Tesla Cybertruck Delivery Event finally happened, and Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, claims it is the company's most revolutionary product yet. Needless to say, it was a mix of frustration and elation for pre-order holders. Unfortunate...

Julian van der Merwe, 06 Dec 2023 19:15

AMD Extended Profiles for Overclocking abbreviated as EXPO (Image Source: AMD)

The 5 best RAM brands for your Ryzen 7000 CPU

CheckMag The launch of Ryzen 7000 in 2022 brought AMD EXPO into the picture. With plenty of manufacturers releasing DDR5 RAM kits it can be tricky to find the right RAM for your needs. Let’s take a look at the five best RAM options for you...

Daniel Murti, 05 Dec 2023 21:52

The new Raspberry Pi 5 has a load of new features (Source: Raspberry Pi)

The Raspberry Pi 5 is much more than a board for projects

CheckMag The Raspberry Pi 5 has been given a significant speed boost and a slew of new features. With the introduction of faster silicone and a PCI connector that doesn't require a separate compute module, the Raspberry Pi 5 is more akin t...

David Devey, 05 Dec 2023 20:41

Being hit with a Cybertruck probably feels like being headbutted by this guy. (Source: Photo by Robert Linder on Unsplash)

The Cybertruck is for drug dealers and real life Carmageddon enthusiasts

CheckMag With the Cybertruck finally landing in consumers hands, the question remains as to who this product is aimed at. Does the Cybertruck have a place in the modern world or is it the fantasy of those who seek to dominate our crowded r...

David Devey, 05 Dec 2023 20:21

Once you make a great game, a question arises - can you make an even great one? (Image source: Rockstar)

Those excited about GTA VI had better keep their expectations in check

CheckMag Despite finer-looking graphics, games released in 2023 aren't in any meaningful way better than what we played 20 years ago. Shoot random people, steal cars, blow things up - is Grand Theft Auto VI really going to be breaking any ...

Sergey Tarasov, 02 Dec 2023 16:28

Netflix's games library contains titles previously exclusive to other platforms. (Source - Netflix)

4 great Netflix games with controller support

CheckMag Netflix's library of games is steadily growing and it features some popular titles, but not all are compatible with a controller. However, there are still a handful that have controller support.

Habeeb Onawole, 29 Nov 2023 21:00

What should your workstation look like? (Source: Unsplash)

Reasonable workstation PC specifications in 2023

CheckMag 2023 has been a year with plenty of hardware releases from Intel, AMD and Nvidia. With so many new computer parts released this year it can be a daunting task to choose the parts for your next workstation. In this article let us e...

Daniel Murti, 28 Nov 2023 22:47

Top 5 must-play games on Xbox Game Pass for every gamer

CheckMag This article explores the diverse and dynamic world of gaming through the lens of Xbox Game Pass, highlighting the top 5 must-play games that define the platform. These selections offer a mix of exciting stories, great gameplay, a...

Triet Le, 28 Nov 2023 22:34

Dirt 5 is an action-packed, arcare-style, off-road racing game that is discounted during the Steam Autumn Sale. (Image source: Steam - edited)

Steam Autumn Sale: 4 exhilarating racing game deals to round out the holiday sale event

CheckMag Here are some of the best racing games on Steam to round out the Steam Autumn Sale. Live life on the proverbial edge with Riders Republic, enjoy the off-road chaos in Dirt 5, or take things more seriously with Forza Horizon 5, all...

Julian van der Merwe, 28 Nov 2023 03:04

Top 5 tips: Streamlining your DSLR camera for first-time users (Source: Unsplash)

Top 5 DSLR camera streamlining tips for first-time users

CheckMag This article offers a beginner-friendly guide to DSLR camera customization, outlining five straightforward steps. It simplifies technical concepts, helping new photographers understand and adjust their camera settings for improved...

Triet Le, 27 Nov 2023 22:30

Free yourself from Windows and game on Linux (Source: Wikipedia)

4 slick Linux distributions for frustrated Windows 11 gamers

CheckMag The Steam Deck and Proton have done a lot for gaming on Linux. Users that were once tied to Windows for gaming now have multiple options for breaking free. Here are some of the best Linux distributions for getting your Windows-fre...

David Devey, 27 Nov 2023 22:18

It Takes Two is by far one of the best co-op PC gaming experiences to date. (Image source: Steam - edited)

4 epic Steam Autumn Sale local multiplayer games for couch co-op chaos

CheckMag Battle monsters and cosmic gods in Hellpoint, navigate your way through the cutesy world of It Takes Two, or beat your opponents into submission with epic spectacle in Guilty Gear Strive during the Steam Autumn Sale. Discounts of ...

Julian van der Merwe, 26 Nov 2023 02:58

Top 5 game-changing moments in the film industry's visual effects (VFX)

CheckMag Visual effects (VFX) in film have long sparked debate. While some argue for the realism of physical sets and props, others favor the limitless potential of computer-generated VFX. Regardless of preference, VFX has really revolutio...

Triet Le, 25 Nov 2023 22:37

Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse long-term review: Smart electronics, poor haptics

CheckMag The Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse can do things that most mice can't while looking just as exquisite as similar-priced competitors. It is also a bit too large for small to medium size hands, and the clicks sound loud and "dry" to the ...

Sergey Tarasov, 25 Nov 2023 22:29

Indie games for PC with great stories (Image source: Unsplash)

3 great story-driven indie PC games

CheckMag From simple and deeply touching to more complex and impactful, stories in indie games are diverse and unique. If you're looking forward to playing a game with a great story that might stay with you even after the credits roll, you...

Stephanie Chamberlain, 25 Nov 2023 00:42

2023's Dune: Spice Wars is just one great RTS game discounted during the Steam Autumn Sale. (Image source: Steam - edited)

Steam Autumn Sale: 4 cracking RTS games at up to 70% off in 2023's holiday game sale

CheckMag Steam's Autumn Sale is back for 2023, and it features a number of spectacular real-time strategy games at steeply discounted rates. Raid your enemies in Northgard or seize control of the most valuable resource in the universe in D...

Julian van der Merwe, 24 Nov 2023 23:17

Top 3 iOS features Android users are missing out on

CheckMag The iPhone and Android smartphones have more in common than ever before, but from a certain perspective, they still differ in features. If the Android operating system had these features from iOS, it would become more perfect than...

Triet Le, 24 Nov 2023 21:10

Large smartphones are in trend, but compact smartphones still exist. (Image source: Unsplash)

Miniature marvels: 3 attractive compact smartphones

CheckMag Sleek design and unrivaled performance make these compact smartphones worthy contenders in a market saturated with large-screen mobile phones. In this article, we explore the compact, pocket-sized marvels packed with advanced capa...

Ayesha Aslam, 24 Nov 2023 18:35

A phone with great cameras is important if you travel frequently. (Image source: Google)

3 smartphones for travelers

CheckMag If you are a frequent traveler, some smartphones are better suited for that trip than others. Choices will depend on a multitude of features, including camera equipment, battery life, and cellular connectivity. Here are 3 of the b...

Habeeb Onawole, 23 Nov 2023 16:54

The Evolution of Threadripper: AMD's answer for the HEDT market

CheckMag Ever since Intel launched its Extreme Edition Core i7 CPUs like the i7-965 in 2008, the High-End Desktop (HEDT) market has been in Intel’s firm grasp. The year 2017 came along with the launch of AMD's Zen CPU microarchitecture whi...

Daniel Murti, 20 Nov 2023 18:30

Deals of the week include a powerful gaming laptop, a beautiful TV, and a modern flagship smartphone. (Image source: various/Unsplash - edited)

Deals of the week: LG G3 OLED, Google Pixel 8 Pro, and Lenovo Legion Pro 5i still available with deep discounts

CheckMag Notebookcheck has reported on numerous fantastic deals this past week. However, these three have stood out, and they are still available at discounted prices. The LG G3 Series OLED TV delivers 65-inch viewing delight, while gamers...

Daniel R Deakin, 18 Nov 2023 16:13

iPhone 15 series. ( Image source: Apple)

A comprehensive comparison of the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max

CheckMag Apple's iPhone 15 series comprises of four models: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Despite their similarities, they differ in capacity, processing technology, and display. Discover the key differen...

Ayesha Aslam, 18 Nov 2023 14:32

Top 5 must-play Android games of November 2023

CheckMag November 2023's top 5 Android games deliver a mix of horror, strategy, and adventure, each game standing out with its unique narrative and immersive gameplay. Perfect for gamers seeking new worlds to conquer and stories to experie...

Triet Le, 18 Nov 2023 14:13

The original Google Tensor SoC. (Source: Google)

Three chips in and Google Tensor is on life support

Google introduced the Tensor series of chips with the Pixel 6 series in 2021. It was meant to usher in a range of chips specially tailored by Google to keep up with its class-leading AI-based software features. Just three Tensor c...

Sanjiv Sathiah, 18 Nov 2023 13:14

Even before the rumoured Apple Car turns up, Apple and the EV industry share a number of worrying similarities (Image Source: Vanarama)

3 unfortunate similarities between Apple and the electric car industry

CheckMag Even before rumours started circulating about Apple creating its own electric vehicle, some of Apple's business practices shared a lot in common with electric vehicle manufacturers. While not uncommon in the tech industry, they se...

David Devey, 17 Nov 2023 19:16

Lenovo Legion Pro 5 16 (image source: Notebookcheck)

The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 16 is the best budget gaming laptop that can double as an office laptop

CheckMag Most gaming laptops have extravagant and eye-catching designs, something that isn't necessarily welcome in the workplace. If you want one single laptop for gaming and taking to the office, the 16-inch Lenovo Legion Pro 5 might jus...

Stephanie Chamberlain, 16 Nov 2023 23:56

Game on! 2023's top 5 mind-blowing iOS games that are absolutely free! (Source: Unsplash)

Top 5 mind-blowing free iOS games in 2023

CheckMag If you own an iPhone running the iOS operating system with its many outstanding features, then the following games are perfect choices for you. This guide is tailored to introduce you to some of the best free games for iOS, offeri...

Triet Le, 16 Nov 2023 22:15

There are lots of gaming handheld options on the market right now. (Source: Nintendo - edited)

3 best gaming handhelds currently on the market

CheckMag The gaming handheld space has gotten pretty exciting lately, and there's no better time to get in on the excitement than now. But with quite a few good options available for the casual mobile gamer, making a choice on which one to...

Habeeb Onawole, 15 Nov 2023 23:35

Double your phone's battery lifespan: 5 smart tips to make it last longer

CheckMag If you're aiming to protect your phone battery from wear and tear and want to maximize its longevity, it's important to remember to follow a set of key practices. Maintaining the health of your phone's battery is vital for its lon...

Triet Le, 15 Nov 2023 22:28

Oversized EVs defeat the object of electrification, and their ranks are growing. (Image source: Tesla - edited)

Tesla's Cybertruck is just another bloated EV that misses the point of green transportation

CheckMag Electric cars were conceived as a more environmentally-friendly form of transport. With the effectiveness of EVs being called into question more and more, it's time to address the elephant-sized trucks and SUVs in the room. Super-...

Julian van der Merwe, 15 Nov 2023 16:48

Top 4 game-changing graphics cards for your gaming PC in 2023

CheckMag A graphics card is the soul of every gaming PC. A strong card with efficient cooling is essential for smooth gaming and conquering the virtual world. Below is a list of the top 4 most worth-buying graphics cards for gamers in 2023...

Triet Le, 15 Nov 2023 15:14

Why Windows on ARM is far from dead

CheckMag Some people compare Windows on ARM with Windows RT, declaring its death. But such proclamations may be a tad early. Arguably, Windows on ARM is more alive now than it has ever been since the 2016 Qualcomm/Microsoft partnership ann...

Benjamin Herzig, 14 Nov 2023 19:33

Top 5 family-friendly PS5 games to enjoy this holiday season

CheckMag As November approaches, we look forward to the Thanksgiving holiday and Black Friday, the most unique sale of the year. Restful holidays wouldn't be complete without moments of relaxation. Below are the top five PlayStation 5 game...

Triet Le, 14 Nov 2023 14:54

Repurpose that old laptop into something that serves a genuinely useful purpose (Credit: NotebookCheck)

5 things to do with that old laptop after upgrading to an M3 MacBook Pro

CheckMag If you've upgraded to the new M3 MacBook Pro or a Lenovo X1 Carbon, take a look at some of the options for repurposing your old hardware instead of selling, recycling or sending to landfill. Repurposing old hardware can be a rewar...

David Devey, 14 Nov 2023 14:29

The default 2 lens wide and ultrawide is the standard for all but the most expensive flagship phones (Credit: Notebookcheck)

Why the ultrawide has become the de facto second lens for all but the most premium smartphones

CheckMag The wide and ultrawide camera lenses seem to be the default setup for any phone that falls below the flagship tier. Who do we have to thank for this and are there any alternatives? If you aren't looking to spend top tier prices yo...

David Devey, 14 Nov 2023 13:53

7 warning signs your iPhone may be tracked

CheckMag By recognizing the signs of mobile phone tracking, you can determine whether your iPhone is being monitored. Below are 7 warning signs your iPhone may be tracked, which range from unexpected Apple ID login alerts to unusual data u...

Triet Le, 13 Nov 2023 21:49

This isn't the first time Microsoft has tried its luck with ARM chips (Image source: Unsplash/Microsoft/ARM - edited)

Windows on ARM is certainly more dead than it is alive

CheckMag Of the 10 ARM-powered laptops we tested in 2022 and 2023, just 1 comes with Windows on ARM - all the rest are Apple MacBooks. Apparently, laptop makers do not see much point in using ARM chips; worse still, software developers do ...

Sergey Tarasov, 13 Nov 2023 19:41

GPU accelerated ray tracing has just been added into the latest version of Lumion. (Image Source: Lumion)

Lumion 12 finally adds RTX and Radeon Raytracing support

CheckMag Lumion has been the quintessential rendering software used by university students and professional architects to visualize buildings and interiors etc. We are finally at version 12 and the developers of Lumion have decided to add ...

Daniel Murti, 12 Nov 2023 08:46

If you want a small phone with a big zoom think again, you probably won't find one. (Source: Notebookcheck)

If you want a phone with a 5x zoom, make sure you’ve got big hands

What was once considered "big" in smartphone terms is now the norm in the industry. But one feature seems to be tied specificially to the size of the screen. If you don't like big phones, don't expect to be on the cutting edge of ...

David Devey, 12 Nov 2023 08:28