5 Best laptops for Dota 2 [Black Friday & Cyber Monday]

Gaming on a laptop is possible, especially if you have enough hardware power to run the latest games. Dota 2 isn’t a new game, so it should be able to work on older gaming laptops as well.

If you’re looking to get a new laptop strictly for playing Dota 2, in this guide we’re going to show you the best gaming laptop for Dota 2.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What is the best laptop for Dota 2?

ASUS ROG Strix G15

  • 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10750H CPU
  • 15.6-inch display, full HD resolution
  • GeForce RTX 2070 8GB GDDR6
  • 16GB DDR4 2933MHz RAM
  • 1TB PCIe SSD
  • Can get loud

If you’re looking for a high-end laptop, then ASUS ROG Strix G15 might be the right choice for you. The laptop has a 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10750H processor and GeForce RTX 2070 8GB GDDR6 graphics.

The device has a 15.6-inch full HD display and a 16GB DDR4 at 2933MHz, so it should be able to handle the latest games. As for the storage, there’s a 1TB PCIe SSD available.

ASUS ROG Strix G15 is an amazing laptop, and it should handle the latest games with ease, as well as older games such as Dota 2, so be sure to consider it.

⇒ Check price

Acer Aspire 5

  • 15.6-inch full HD display
  • AMD Ryzen 3 3200U up to 3.5 GHz
  • 8GB DDR4 RAM
  • 128GB storage
  • Windows 10 preinstalled
  • Storage space could be better

If you need a budget laptop for Dota 2, then Acer Aspire 5 might be the right choice for you. This model has a 15.6-inch display with full HD resolution, and it’s powered by AMD Ryzen 3 3200U up to 3.5 GHz.

As for memory, there’s 8GB DDR4 RAM and 128GB for storage which might not be enough for additional games and applications.

Acer Aspire 5 is the best budget laptop for Dota 2, and its only drawback might be the low storage space, but that won’t be a problem if you don’t install too many games.

⇒ Check price

HP Pavilion 15

  • 15.6-inch display, full HD resolution
  • Ryzen 5 4600H 3.0 GHz CPU
  • 8GB DDR4 SDRAM
  • NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB
  • 512GB SSD and 1TB HDD
  • No major cons

Another great laptop for Dota 2 is HP Pavilion 15. This model comes with Ryzen 5 4600H 3.0 GHz CPU and a 15.6-inch full HD display. Regarding storage, the device has 512GB SSD and 1TB HDD.

HP Pavilion 15 has 8GB DDR4 SDRAM and it’s powered by NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB graphics, so it should be able to handle gaming and other resource-intensive tasks with ease.

Overall, HP Pavilion 15 is a solid device, and it’s the best gaming laptop for Dota 2 that won’t break your bank.

⇒ Check price

Acer Nitro 5

  • 15-inch full HD display
  • Intel 9th gen Quad-Core i5-9300H 2.4GHz CPU can be boosted to 4.1GHz
  • NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB GDDR5
  • 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256NVme SSD
  • USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port
  • No major drawbacks

When it comes to the best gaming laptop for Dota 2, the Acer Nitro 5 might be what you need. This is a 15-inch full HD device, and it’s powered by Intel 9th gen Quad-Core i5-9300H 2.4 GHz CPU.

As for multimedia, the laptop has NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics with 4 GB GDDR5 VRAM, so it should handle other games as well. As for the memory, there’s 8GB DDR4 and 256GB NVme SSD.

Acer Nitro 5 is a solid gaming laptop, but 256GB might be a little limiting if you plan to play other games besides Dota 2, so keep that in mind.

⇒ Check price

Lenovo Ideapad 3

  • 14-inch full HD display
  • AMD Dual-Core Ryzen 3 3250U 2.6GHz CPU
  • Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 3 graphics
  • 12GB DDR4 RAM
  • 512GB SSD
  • Might not handle the latest games well

Lenovo is a well-known laptop manufacturer and if you’re looking for the best Lenovo laptop for Dota 2, then Lenovo Ideapad 3 is just what you need.

This is a 14-inch full HD device, and it’s powered by AMD Dual-Core Ryzen 3 3250U 2.6GHz processor and integrated AMD Radeon Vega 3 graphics. As for the storage, the laptop has 512GB SSD available.

Lenovo Ideapad 3 has 12GB DDR4 RAM, so it should be able to handle multitasking with ease, and run Dota 2 smoothly at the same time.

⇒ Check price

Picking the best laptop for Dota 2 can be complicated, but we hope that you managed to find the right model for you after reading this article.

Windows 11 Won’t Boot: How to Force Start it

Microsoft grabbed much attention during this period with its latest release, Windows 11. The design, the visual features, and the excellent upgrades are just a few capabilities of what users were seeking.

After checking some of the most valuable forums, we found that Windows 11 is not booting in some cases.

From what we selected, this is the most common reported manifestation:

This PC can’t run Windows 11 – While this PC doesn’t meet the system requirements to run Windows 11, you’ll keep getting Windows 10 updates.

Let us explore some causes and solutions to this booting problem.

Why is Windows 11 not booting?

After seeing a lot of user complaints, we gather that a few elements often trigger this boot problem. The top culprits include the following:

  • Bad system files – When you have some critical files damaged on your system, you may have difficulty booting up. To fix it, you can try to open CMD when your PC boots up & run the SFC scan.
  • Hardware issues – Sometimes, you need to update some hardware to make it work again. You may need to change RAM or your hard disk.
  • Peripherals – Sometimes, the problem is not the computer but the devices attached. Once you get rid of such a device, you can boot.

This article will clarify important information and present the best options you should consider to make your Windows 11 work.

What can I do if Windows 11 does not boot?

Before you go into any of these solutions, do the following:

  • First, check the power supply – There are chances that it is not plugged into power.
  • Check the monitor – In some cases, especially on a PC, you may not have connected the monitor, and even if the computer has booted up, it will seem to be off still.
  • Double-check that your PC meets the minimum requirements for Windows 11 – Considering that if it is based on aged specifications, it might not be compatible with the operating system you want to boot.
  • Unplug peripherals – This is important because, while the PC may have no issue, an attached device may be faulty and cause boot issues.

Most of the solutions below apply if this booting error comes up randomly.

1. Enable TPM

1.1 Check if TPM is enabled

  1. Press the Windows + R keyboard shortcut.
  2. Once the Run dialog box is opened, type tpm.msc, then press Enter.
  3. Look at the Status section and ensure you see the following message: The TPM is ready for use.

If this is what appears in the Trusted Platform Module, then your TPM is enabled and should work fine. If you cannot see the mentioned message, read the steps below.

1.2 Update TPM to boot Windows 11

  1. Restart the system.
  2. Right-click on the Start menu and open Device Manager.
    windows 11 not booting
  3. Expand the Security devices tab, right-click on the TPM device, and select Update driver.
  4. Click on Search automatically for drivers.
  5. The OS will automatically scan and update for any required drivers.
  6. Restart your PC.

In case that does not help, we recommend Outbyte Driver Updater for automatic scans of missing or outdated drivers; besides the TMP device, it will scan your entire PC and prompt you to choose which ones to update.

2. Enable Secure Boot

  1. Press Windows + R.
  2. In the opened Run dialog box, type msinfo32, then press Enter.
  3. Take a look at the Secure Boot State, and check the status. For example, if your computer does not support Secure Boot, the group will be Unsupported, but if you see the option On, you’re all good.
  4. If it is Off, then continue with the following steps.
  5. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  6. On the left pane, click on Windows update, then select Advanced options on the right.
  7. Scroll down and select Recovery.
    windows 11 not booting
  8. Click on Restart now.
  9. From the options, select Troubleshoot.
  10. Click on Advanced options, then select UEFI Firmware settings.
    windows 11 not booting
  11. Click on Restart.
  12. Now, navigate the Advanced, Security, or Boot settings page (this depends on your motherboard).
  13. Set TPM 2.0 and choose the Enabled option.

3. Restore the computer

  1. In the Search menu, type recovery and click the Recovery option.
  2. Go to Open System Restore.
    windows 11 not booting
  3. Click Choose a restore point and click the Next button.
  4. Select the appropriate restore point, click Next, then follow further on-screen instructions.
    windows 11 not booting
  5. Wait for the process to finish, and see if the reboot issue is resolved.

As you can see, some of the most efficient ways are related to the Trusted Platform Module. Thus, we strongly recommend also checking our guide dedicated to Windows 11 and TMP.

In addition, we are here to support you. So, if you have any other questions, do not hesitate to let us know in the comment section below.

3 Best 6DoF Gaming Head Motion Trackers [2026 Guide]

There are quite a few things that you don’t know you need until you have them. The head tracker is one such gear that can immensely improve gaming sessions, especially when it comes to simulation games.

The gaming head motion trackers help the user turn his head movements into virtual head movements.

Imagine playing a flight simulation game like Digital Combat Simulator and being able to look around and control the viewing by moving your head instead of using the keyboard or joysticks.

Turning your head left or right will change the in-game view as well. Most head trackers usually support either 3DoF (three degrees of freedom) or 6DoF (six degrees of freedom).

The differences between these two techniques are quite significant. In summary, a gaming head tracker with 6DoF is any day better than the head tracker with 3DoF, as it offers a more immersive experience in games. 

Having said that, head trackers can be quite an expensive affair if the user doesn’t research thoroughly before making the purchase.

PC gamers don’t need highly sophisticated and costly head trackers, as one can build an IR (infrared) head tracker themselves for as low as $10. 

If you don’t like this idea, feel free to purchase a commercial gaming head tracking system for around $150 for that matter.

Today, we will be looking at some of the best motion head trackers for gaming. The list includes both DIY methods and commercial head trackers with 6DoF support.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product/offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What are the best head motion trackers for 6DoF gaming?

NaturalPoint TrackIR 5

  • Improved tracking system
  • Increased realism
  • Comes with 6DoF support
  • Intuitive TrackIR software
  • Modern design
  • Not the best infrared feature

TrackIR 5 is the latest gaming head tracker from NaturalPoint. It comes with an improved tracking system and offers an immersive experience.

It is a 6DoF based tracker which means, in games with 6DoF support, users can raise and lower their head, lean left and right, move backward and forward, and the view in-game will adjust accordingly.

The TrackIR 5 kit includes a USB infrared camera with adjustable mounts, TrackClips with three reflectors, and a disc to install the TrackIR software.

The USB infrared camera goes on top of the monitor with the help of mounts. The TrackClip, however, requires users to wear a baseball cap and attach the TrackClip onto the brim.

Those that don’t want to wear the baseball cap all the time can opt for the TrackClip Pro clip which can be clipped onto the left side of the gaming headset.

However, the TrackClip Pro costs $10 more (when purchased as a bundle) and the build quality is poor, to say the least.

It’s also a wired solution, which means the user has to be connected to the power every time they want to use it.

For those who can shell a little extra, we would recommend a third-party track clip from TrackHat. TrackHat Plus is wireless, custom-made, and supports TrackIR head tracking system.

Setting up TrackIR 5 is easy. After installing the software, mount and connect the camera to the USB port, put the TrackClip in place and you are ready to roll.

TrackIR 5 works smoothly with major titles like ARMA 11, GTR2, Tom Clancy’s HAWX, and Race Driver: GRID, X-Plane, etc.

However, if you are planning to use it with other triple-A titles like Far Cry 2 and Battlefield 2, the experience is not pleasant, mainly due to a lack of support from the game developers. 

TrackIR 5 comes to life in racing games and flight simulation games. It does take some time getting used to, but once you do, you won’t go back to the usual game-playing modes.  

The TrackIR 5 is one of the best gaming head trackers available today, and it is well worth the money spent as it takes sim gaming to a whole new level.

The only negative aspect to TrackIR 5 is having to pay extra for the Pro clip which ideally should be included in the TrackIR 5 standard bundle.

TrackHat Plus head tracking kit

Trackhat Plus Kit

Trackhat is a head tracker company that offers TrackHat Plus Head Tracking Kit, a decent alternative to TrackIR 5. It not only costs 2/3 of its rival but also offers a similar head tracking experience in sim games.

The best thing about the TrackHat is a custom-made baseball-style cap that has three inbuilt infrared LEDs with a battery integrated into it.

The battery lasts up to 10 hours and can be recharged using the USB cable which is built into the TrackHat Clip.

The company also offers two more products, the TrackHat Clip and TrackHat Clip Plus, which can be separately purchased from the official online store.

For the head tracker, the company has smartly utilized the already available resources rather than building its own. For example, the infrared head tracker camera in the package is manufactured by Sony.

The complete TrackHat Kit includes an Eye Camera which acts as the head tracker camera that has been customized to work with the company’s own OpenStack software.

OpenTrack is an open-source head tracking project that claims to offer joystick and controller key binding, low CPU usage, and a cleaner UI. OpenTrack uses FreeTrack protocol which makes it compatible with all the video games compatible with TrackIR 5.

TrackHat also sells TrackHatPlus (baseball cap), without the head tracking kit for those who already have a TrackIR head tracker but want a reliable track clip.

The downside to TrackHat is that it is not available on any of the leading e-commerce stores as the company prefers to sell its product from its official store with global shipping on offer.

⇒ Get the TrackHat Plus Head Tracking Kit now

FreeTrack – DIY head tracker

FreeTracker - Head Tracking System Software

Gaming head trackers are made of three things: a camera, a track clip with reflectors, and software. Those that don’t wish to spend hundreds of dollars on buying a head tracking kit, can build one with ease.

The software part is covered by FreeTrack. FreeTrack is a free software tool that allows users to simulate head movements in sim games. It also supports 2DoF and 6DoF for compatible games.

FreeTrack uses the PC’s/laptop’s built-in webcam to track the head movement. You can download the FreeTrack software right away.

For the Track Clip, users can buy a premade track clip for around $10. The downside to FreeTrack is the limited number of sim games supported by this free initiative.

⇒ Get FreeTrack – DIY Head Tracker now

The gaming head motion trackers are not meant to replace VR devices but offer a similar experience to an extent, without breaking the bank.

For those that need a pre-built head tracking kit with 6DoF support, both TrackIR 5 and TrackHat Head Tracking Kit are good options except for the price, which is a debatable topic though.

For casual users and everyone else, FreeTrack is a good option as it offers a similar experience, almost for free. So, let us know your choice in the comments area below.

Windows Cannot Find Bin64installmanagerapp.exe [Fix]

If you are using Windows, and you are trying to install AMD graphic drivers, then you might encounter the Windows cannot find bin64\installmanagerapp.exe error.

Updating your graphic drivers is essential for our computers to work properly. For example, you might have noticed that when you try to play some games on your computer, the game doesn’t run smoothly or it crashes. This is due to incompatible or corrupted drivers.

Why can’t I find Bin64\installmanagerapp.exe?

If you’re wondering why the Windows cannot find bin64\installmanagerapp.exe error is appearing on your screen, here are some possible reasons:

  • Corrupt files – If you accidentally delete or move a file and don’t save it elsewhere first, then that file will become corrupted if it’s not recovered. This could be a corrupted registry entry or a damaged hard drive sector.
  • Incompatible drivers – If you are using a new graphics card or a new version of your existing graphics card, then it may not be compatible with the install manager.
  • Firewall restriction – If you have an antivirus program or firewall, the installation process may have been blocked by your firewall.
  • Outdated OS – This can happen if you are using an old version of Windows or the previous installation was interrupted.

Where is Bin64?

The AMD Catalyst Control Center is a desktop application developed by AMD that allows users to configure their graphics card and monitor the performance of their computers. It also allows users to view information about their computer’s hardware and software. 

The AMD Catalyst Control Center is designed to work with all brands of ATI Radeon graphics cards and select AMD A-Series APUs. AMD Catalyst Control Center provides a number of tools to help users configure their ATI graphics card and Bin64 is part of the software component. These include:

  • Software Update – This feature allows users to update their drivers in order to get the latest features and bug fixes from AMD. The software will automatically detect any new updates when run, and prompt you to install them if applicable.
  • 3D Application Settings – This tool allows users to customize various settings for 3D applications like video games or applications. Users can choose between various resolutions, color depth, and refresh rates depending on their needs.
  • Video Overlay – This feature allows users to change how they see their desktop while using their computer. For example, if you have multiple monitors connected together, this tool will allow you to display a picture-in-picture window showing what’s happening on your second screen within your primary monitor’s space.

If you have downloaded the Installmanager app, you should be able to find it in the following location:

C:\Program Files\AMD\CIM\BIN64\

How can I fix Bin64 InstallManagerapp.exe missing?

1. Manually install the AMD driver

  1. Navigate to your browser and download the AMD Graphic driver.
  2. Next, download the DDU. (Your firewall should be off).
  3. Locate the AMD folder and delete all the contents to get rid of any leftover files.
  4. Now, hit Windows, type in Control Panel, and click Open.launch control panel
  5. Select Uninstall a Program under Programs.microsoft-visual-c-runtime-error-windows-10
  6. Find the AMD Graphic Drivers and select Uninstall.
  7. Start Windows in Safe Mode then run the DDU program.
  8. Next, install the drivers downloaded in 1 above.
  9. Restart your PC and check whether the error is still there.

Performing a clean install in Safe Mode allows you to check whether there is an underlying issue preventing the installation.

2. Run DISM and SFC commands 

  1. Hit the Windows key, type cmd in the search bar, and click Run as administrator.cmd-admin hp printer won't scan
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  3. Now type the following command and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealthDISM command
  4. Restart your PC.

If you don’t necessarily want to proceed with the manual steps, you can easily try an automated method that will thoroughly scan your device for damaging elements or crashing apps and then will try to replace them with healthy parts from its up-to-date database.

3. Disable the firewall temporarily 

  1. Hit the Windows button, type Windows Security in the search bar, and click Open.
  2. Click on Firewall & network protection then select Public network.
  3. Locate Microsoft Defender Firewall and toggle the off button.Turn off firewall if canon printer driver not installing.

4. Uninstall the latest Windows updates 

  1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Navigate to Windows Updates and go to Update history.
  3. Click on Uninstall updates.
  4. Select the most recent update then click Uninstall.

5. Update your OS

  1. Hit the Windows key and select Settings.settings windows 11
  2. Click on Windows Update, then select Check for updates.check-updates-w11 windows 11 blue screen
  3. Download and install if any are available.

If you’re still getting Windows cannot find Bin64\installmanagerapp.exe error after performing all these recommended steps, you should try resetting your PC.

In the worst-case scenario, you may have to perform a clean install of Windows as it is possible your version was corrupted during installation.

Should you encounter any other AMD driver installation issues, we have a comprehensive guide to that effect to help you resolve the majority of them.

And in case you are done with AMD drivers and want to try others in the market, we have a resourceful list of the best Windows 11 graphic cards that promise you an unmatched experience.

Let us know if you have been able to fix this issue in the comment section below.

5 best Arduino kits for kids to buy [Cyber Monday]

Arduino is gaining more and more popularity by the day, and Arduino kits for your children are perfect to get more people involved in creating awesome projects with just a bunch of seemingly random components.

The concept behind all these project creation bundles is to provide you with everything you need (guides included) to develop your own version of the projects.

Moreover, they are ideal to learn a thing or two about automation, robotics, and programming. Therefore, don’t hesitate to take a closer look at our top picks below. 

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

Which Arduino kit is best for beginners and children?

ELEGOO Mega 2560

  • Premium quality
  • 100% compatible with Arduino IDE
  • Useful tutorials
  • Lcd1602 module and gy-521 sensor module
  • Small box for the components
  • No support section on the official website

Since you already have an idea regarding what you are looking for, let us tell you more about the MEGA2560 complete starter kit.

It comes with over 200 pcs components, as well as free PDF tutorials on the CD. Those 35 lessons will certainly help you and your child as they include detailed steps on how to connect each part to the main chip (Arduino).

No less important, there’s a nice plastic case that holds all the components and they are all individually wrapped and fully protected.

⇒ Check price

UNIROI UNO starter kit

  • Package includes a CD with tutorials
  • Detailed installation instructions
  • Everything arrives in a plastic case
  • Suitable for anyone interested in Arduino
  • Inexpensive learning aid
  • Bare minimum to create basic Arduino projects

The UNIROI UNO starter kit for Arduino can be the perfect gift if you want to spark your kids’ curiosity for robots and automation, as it holds everything it needs to get them started.

The bundle comes with a free set of tutorials, a great UNO R3 board, a breadboard, a flame sensor, as well as a bunch of multi-colored LEDs.

Included in the package are also an active buzzer, a button, a set of resistors, a 1 digit 7-segment display component, a set of jumper wires, and an RGB LED.

⇒ Check price

REXQualis UNO Project

  • A lot of awesome components
  • DVD with project guides
  • A 9V plug-in power supply is included
  • Individually packaged components
  • Great price
  • Random LED issues

The REXQualis UNO Project super starter kit is an Arduino kit that’s a bit more complex than a standard, basic one.

However, it comes with everything you need to get your children into robotics and automation. Compared to a basic, more limited starter kit, this one comes with more awesome stuff, including but not limited to a classic UNO R3 board, a breadboard, a power supply module, a joystick, and a servo module.

You can also find an ultrasonic sensor, an IR receiver, a temperature and humidity module, two potentiometers, an LCD module, and remote control.

⇒ Check price

ELEGOO UNO Project

  • Lots of components to create your projects with
  • More than 20 lessons
  • Lcd1602 module with pin header
  • High-quality kite with UNO R3
  • Decent price
  • Some breadboard holes aren’t aligned with the connectors within

The ELEGOO UNO Project super starter kit is a starter Arduino project development kit that could turn into the perfect gift for your children.

Granted, the ELEGOO UNO Project Super Starter Kit is a tad more complex than its predecessors, but it’s still suitable for any Arduino enthusiast, regardless of previous experience with these projects.

The kit holds a UNO R3 controller board, a breadboard, an ultrasonic sensor, a 9V battery with DC, an LCD screen module, a temperature and humidity sensor, a remote controller, a servo motor, a joystick module, an IR receiver, a couple of buzzers and lots of other accessories.

⇒ Check price

A&R Nano Uno Mega Monster

  • Comes with a lot of components
  • ESP32 Development Board
  • HC-05 Bluetooth Module
  • Free access to PDF guides and tutorials
  • Lifetime replacement guarantee
  • Price might seem a bit high for an Arduino beginner

The A&R Nano Uno Mega Monster starter kit for Arduino is exactly what its name says. Well, maybe except for that monster part, because there’s nothing monstrous about this bundle (not in a bad way, of course).

This starter kit comprises everything you need to get your children started with understanding what Arduino is all about and considering the size of this package, you’re going to make a more-than-fair point.

With components such as a UNO R3 controller board and a NANO V3 one, a Bluetooth module, an Ethernet shield, an IR remote kit, an ultrasonic range sensor, a vibration sensor, a real-time clock module, proto shields, 4×4 keypads, and much, much more, you’re sure to win the Parent of the year contest this time.

⇒ Check price

If you feel that you don’t have enough time to plan for the perfect gift for your children, try sparking their interest in programming, robotics, and automation with these awesome Arduino creation kits.

Whether it’s the A&R Nano Uno Mega Monster starter kit for Arduino, the REXQualis UNO Project super starter kit, or the UNIROI UNO starter kit for Arduino you’re going to aim for, you simply can’t go wrong if you have even the tiniest hunch that your kid is into creating awesome stuff.

Take a closer look at all our top picks above, make a choice, then don’t hesitate to share it with us via the comments area below.

Top 13 Wi-Fi extenders for Windows [Cyber Monday]

Wi-Fi networks are convenient if you’re using Windows PC, but unfortunately, Wi-Fi networks have their limitations in terms of range.

In our how to fix Wi-Fi range issues on Windows 10 article we briefly mentioned that buying a Wi-Fi extender can help you with Wi-Fi range issues.

Today we have a list of the best WiFi extenders for gaming, but not only that you can pair with your Windows PC.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the productor offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What WiFi extender is best for gaming?

Amped Wireless REA20

Amped Wireless REA20

Amped Wireless REA20 wireless booster comes with 3 removable external antennas and it supports dual-band 802.11ac standard.

This device offers a lot of customization options thanks to its software, so it will be perfect for advanced users.

Amped Wireless REA20 might not be the most compact device, and according to the reports, it doesn’t offer the best range.

If you’re not an advanced user who wants to fine-tune Amped Wireless REA20, you might be interested in a different model.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

D-Link DAP 1520

D-Link DAP 1520

D-Link DAP 1520 is a minimalistic Wi-Fi booster that doesn’t have a power cable and a stand, instead, it connects directly to the power outlet.

This device doesn’t have any additional ports, so if you want to connect your hard drive or printer to your wireless network, you won’t be able to do that by using this device.

D-Link DAP 1520 supports the latest dual-band 802.11ac standard, and it comes with 2 internal antennas. If you want a Wi-Fi extender without any additional ports, D-Link DAP 1520 offers great performance at a reasonable price.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

Linksys RE6500

Linksys RE6500

Linksys RE6500 is a powerful Wi-Fi booster, and unlike several other devices on our list, you cannot connect Linksys RE6500 directly to a power outlet, instead, you need to power it using a standard power cable.

This Wi-Fi extender comes with 2 replaceable 3dBi dipole antennas and it supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless bands as well as the latest AC wireless standard.

Regarding connectivity, this device has 4 LAN ports as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack. Unfortunately, there’s no USB port available, and that’s the only flaw of this Wi-Fi booster.

Linksys RE6500 is a powerful Wi-Fi extender, it offers great performance, and it’s one of the best Wi-Fi extenders on our list.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

ASUS RP-N53

ASUS RP-N53

ASUS RP-N53 supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies and it offers decent speed. This Wi-Fi booster comes with one Ethernet port meaning you can connect any wired network device to it.

In addition to an Ethernet port, there’s also an audio jack available.

ASUS RP-N53 connects directly to your power outlet, so it won’t take up too much space in your home.

It’s worth mentioning that this Wi-Fi extender doesn’t have a USB port available, and it also doesn’t support the latest AC Wi-Fi standard.

⇒ Buy it now on eBay

ZyXEL WRE2206

ZyXEL WRE2206

ZyXEL WRE2206 is a compact Wi-Fi booster that connects directly to your power outlet. This device doesn’t support the latest AC wireless standard, but it allows you to easily extend your wireless network.

This Wi-Fi extender comes with an LED indicator that shows you how many devices are currently connected to the extender, and thanks to the WPS button you can easily expand your wireless network.

In addition, this device comes with a single Ethernet port, so you can connect any wired network device to it.

ZyXEL WRE2206 isn’t the best wireless extender, but with its humble specs, it should be great for basic home users.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

NETGEAR EX7000 AC1900 Nighthawk

NETGEAR EX7000 AC1900 Nighthawk

NETGEAR EX7000 AC1900 Nighthawk supports AC1900 standards and it can achieve amazing speed as long as you have a compatible router.

Regarding the frequency, this extender supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies.

NETGEAR EX7000 AC1900 Nighthawk comes with three external antennas so it has a decent range, and thanks to 5 Ethernet ports and USB 3.0, you can easily connect any device to this Wi-Fi booster.

This is an impressive device with amazing performance, however, such a device comes with a steep price.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

Trendnet TPL-410APK

Trendnet TPL-410APK

Trendnet TPL-410APK is a Wi-Fi booster, but at the same time it supports Powerline technology, so you can use it to easily expand your network around your home.

This device supports N wireless standard, and thanks to the 2 Ethernet ports you can easily connect additional network devices to it.

It’s worth mentioning that Trendnet TPL-410APK is fully compatible with TRENDnet Powerline 500 and 200 models, and in order to keep your data safe, TPL-410APK encrypts the Powerline signal.

This might not be the best wireless extender, but since it offers Powerline support, it can be a perfect solution for your home.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

Netgear EX6100

Netgear EX6100

Netgear EX6100 might not be the most compact Wi-Fi booster on our list, but it provides great specifications. This device supports the latest 802.11ac standard along with 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies.

This device comes with one Ethernet port so you can easily connect any wired network device to it. Netgear EX6100 is a great device, and the only flaw might be the lack of a USB port.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

Netgear EX2700

Netgear EX2700

Netgear EX2700 is similar to the previous model on our list, but it offers more humble specifications.

Just like the previous model, this Wi-Fi booster also comes with a single Ethernet port so you can easily connect any wired network device to it.

Unfortunately, this device only supports 802.11 a/b/g/n standards and 2.4 GHz frequency, so it doesn’t offer the same performance as the previous model, but it’s still a decent Wi-Fi extender for your home network.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

D-Link DAP-1650

D-Link DAP-1650

D-Link DAP-1650 comes with an impressive design, and we have to admit that it looks more like a wireless speaker than a Wi-Fi booster. Alongside visually appealing design, this device offers support for AC1200 Wi-Fi standard thus delivering maximum speed.

We have to mention that this device can work as a range extender, access point, or media bridge. As for additional features, this device comes with 4 Ethernet ports, one USB, and one audio jack.

D-Link DAP-1650 is an impressive device with great design and amazing features, however, such a device comes with a price.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

Amped Wireless REC22A

Amped Wireless REC22A

Amped Wireless REC22A is another Wi-Fi booster that connects directly to your power outlet.

Despite being a compact device, this Wi-Fi extender provides you with high Wi-Fi speed thanks to the latest 802.11ac wireless standard. Of course, both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies are fully supported.

We also have to mention that this device comes with a detachable antenna, so if you need a more powerful antenna you can easily replace it.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

Securifi Almond

Securifi Almond

Securifi Almond is another Wi-Fi booster, but unlike other boosters on our list, this one comes with a touchscreen display.

This device offers a great design, but it lacks certain features, such as support for a 5GHz network and the latest 802.11ac standard.

This device comes with 2 LAN and 1 WAN port, and it can work as a Wi-Fi booster or a wireless bridge.

Securifi Almond looks like an amazing device and if you want a Wi-Fi extender with a touchscreen display, this might be the perfect choice for you.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

TP-LINK TL-WA850RE

TP-LINK TL-WA850RE

TP-LINK TL-WA850RE is another Wi-Fi booster that connects to your power outlet. This device supports the 802.11n/g/b standard and it comes with 2 internal antennas.

Additional specs include 1 Ethernet port that you can use to connect other wired network devices such as your PC or a game console.

TP-LINK TL-WA850RE offers humble specs, however, it might be perfect for basic home users due to its affordable price.

⇒ Buy it now on Amazon

These are some of the best Wi-Fi boosters for Windows 10, and we hope that you’ll find a model that fits your needs.

Recently we did a list of the best Wi-Fi adapters for Windows 10, so if you’re looking for a new wireless adapter make sure that you check it out.

Here’s What To Do If YouTube Keeps Crashing or Freezing Chrome

Google Chrome is a great browser that usually plays videos without any issues; however, some users have said on forums that YouTube videos freeze on Google Chrome.

This situation is not ideal, and while various reasons may cause it, in most cases, you will need to take a few easy steps to correct the problem.

We will explore a few resolutions that might fix YouTube freezes on Chrome.

Note that you will be able to adjust issues of Bad video quality on YouTube in a few easy steps.

Why does YouTube keep crashing on Chrome?

We have had many users ask why does my youtube keep freezing?

Streaming or watching videos on YouTube should be a smooth, rewarding experience, but some of the following factors may cause your videos to hang:

  • Hardware issues – Sometimes, it has nothing to do with the Youtube service but with the devices you run it on. You may have a faulty hard disk or RAM.
  • Corrupted cache – Your cache stores vital information regarding your activity, but if corrupted, it may also lead to crashes.
  • Overclocking of the CPU – Many activities may increase your CPU clock rate. Streaming is one such activity.
  • Low memory – Streaming or playing videos is often memory intensive, and if you undertake this activity when low on memory, you may experience crashes.
  • Compatibility issues – In most cases, this may be triggered by third-party extensions. Once they are removed, the problem should be solved.

Whichever the case is, we will suggest fixes for you below.

Quick Tip:

With a complete makeover, Opera One comes out strong to deliver matching and often surpassing features that other popular browsers such as Chrome or Mozilla provide.

The Video pop-out is one particular option that offers you a flawless Youtube viewing experience without ever leaving your browser.

Opera One

Load YouTube videos in seconds with this speed-focused browser!

How do I fix YouTube freezes & crashes on Chrome?

1. Clear Chrome’s cache and data

  1. Click on the ellipses or three vertical dots in the top right corner of your browser.
    youtube freezes chrome
  2. Select More tools, then Clear browsing data.
  3. Click the checkboxes for Browser history, Cookies, and other site data, and Cached images and files, then click on the Clear data button.
    youtube freezes chrome

Chrome’s data can also clog up YouTube’s video output. So, clearing Chrome’s data might make some difference when playing videos in the browser. This fix is beneficial, especially if YouTube freezes when playing games.

2. Update Google Chrome

  1. Click on the ellipses or three vertical dots in the top right corner of your browser.
    youtube freezes chrome
  2. Select the Help option and from the list of further options, click on About Google Chrome.
  3. The browser will check for updates, and you can install a recent update if available.
    youtube freezes chrome
  4. Once installed, restart the browser for the changes to take effect, and try playing your YouTube videos again.

While browsing, you will have the best user experience using the most recent browser version. In addition, the latest versions will generally provide superior video playback to older versions.

3. Turn Off Hardware Acceleration

  1. Click on the ellipses or three vertical dots in the top right corner of your browser.
    youtube freezes chrome
  2. Then select Settings on the menu.
    youtube freezes chrome
  3. On the left pane, click on the Systems option.
  4. Then toggle the Use hardware acceleration when available option off if it’s on.
    youtube freezes chrome
  5. Restart Chrome after turning hardware acceleration off.

This is a viable solution if YouTube freezes when playing videos. You can also turn off hardware acceleration from your Windows 11 Settings app.

4. Disable Chrome’s Extensions

  1. Paste the address below onto your Chrome address bar and hit Enter.
    chrome://extensions
  2. Search for your most recently added extensions from the list of extensions displayed.
  3. Toggle the switch off to disable the specific extensions.
    youtube freezes chrome

YouTube’s freezes can also be due to conflicting extensions. So, turning off problematic Chrome extensions might resolve the issue.

5. Reset the browser

  1. Paste the address below onto your Chrome address bar and hit Enter.
    chrome://settings
    youtube freezes chrome
  2. On the left pane, click on Reset and clean up.
  3. Click on Reset settings to their original default.
  4. Click the Reset settings at the bottom.
  5. There will be a confirmation box. Click on the Reset tab for the process to begin.

Note that you can disable all extensions by resetting Chrome, which will clear the browser’s data. We, however, believe a reset may be overkill for a YouTube hanging problem and should only be used as a last resort.

6. Update the Graphics Card Driver

  1. Right-click on the Start menu and click on the Device Manager option.
    youtube freezes chrome
  2. Expand the Display adapters option, right-click on your graphics card, and select the Update diver option.
    youtube freezes chrome
  3. Click on Search automatically for drivers.
  4. If there are any updates, you will be able to install them.

Alternatively, you can use any of the best driver updaters for Windows 10 and 11 to automate the update process.

YouTube crashing in Chrome could be due to antiquated or corrupt video card drivers. Some video card drivers might even be incompatible with some of YouTube’s new features.

The above resolutions will often fix YouTube video playback errors in Chrome. However, remember that users can also utilize alternative browsers that might provide more reliable YouTube playback.

We also have a guide on HLS.js error: NetworkError – fatal: true that covers a similar issue, so check it out.

If your YouTube keeps freezing and you have read up to this point, we are confident you should be able to fix it. Let us know in the comments which of the solutions worked for you.

Stop Motion Animation Software: 10 Best To Use in 2026

Stop motion is an animation technique that involves physically manipulating objects to give the illusion of movement. This is done with an interesting technique.

In other words, the respective objects are moved over very short distances and then photographed individually which gives the impression that they move.

The photos are then played in a fast sequence to create movement. So, if you’re into stop-motion animation, you’ll also need a dedicated stop-motion animation tool for your creations.

Moreover, so-called stop-frame animation is not a simple process, and animators who use this technique have to work carefully to create really fluid animation.

Hence, if you desire to learn this animation method or you’re using it regularly then third-party software comes in handy and can provide real help.

In this article, we’re going to list the best stop-motion animation software that you can use on your Windows PC. Read the product description and if a particular tool suits your needs, download it on your computer.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product/offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

Which software is best for stop-motion animation?

  • Adobe Premiere Pro – powerful tool with pro features
  • Filmora Video Editor – lots of visual & audio effects
  • Movavi Video Editor – all-in-one editor
  • Dragon Frame – easy-to-use
  • Stop Motion Studio – very intuitive interface
  • Stop Motion Pro Eclipse – direct connectivity with your camera
  • Frames – classic tool with mainstream features
  • IKITMovie – suited for beginners
  • AnimatorHD – works great on Windows
  • MonkeyJam – pencil test animation tool

Now let’s take a closer look at each tool.

Adobe Premiere Pro – Powerful tool with pro features

Adobe-Premiere-Pro platform

Adobe Premiere Pro is well known for its strong video and audio features. I think we don’t surprise you by mentioning that Adobe can help you in creating stop motion animation effects.

You will be able to make your cartoons more dynamic with the help of Motion effect features and keyframes that Adobe offers you.

The editing process becomes easier as you are free to use Adobe’s animated motion templates or you can create your own motion graphic using the instruments from the Essential Graphics panel.

Moreover, in recent years, several graphic enhancements considerably eased the process of creating a fast sequence of movements.

In the videography process, you are offered to benefit from color correction, color grading, precise trim footage, and more.

You don’t have to be worried about the complexity of Adobe’s instruments, as it provides a lot of tutorials so you can create the quality animation that you like.

Adobe Premiere Pro

Create and edit your video projects from any device, using the cutting-edge techniques employed by this expert tool
Free trial Visit website

Filmora Video Editor – Lots of visual & audio effects

Although Filmora Video Editor is not a stop-motion software per se, you can easily use it to get the best out of your animation projects.

To this end, Filmora brings a plethora of visual and audio effects, including filters, transitions, overlays, custom titles, and elements that will help you create professional videos.

The software adds updates every month so you can make your creations more eye-catching.

The tools come with a user-friendly layout, with all editing options at hand so that you can stay more productive.

Moreover, with this software, it’s easier to create professional-looking videos using technology that will increase your video quality instantly.

For example, you can use audio ducking to improve your recording, color match, or hotkeys commands. Hence, don’t hesitate and create your animations with Filmora to stand out with your movies.

Filmora Video Editor

Give your video projects a new flavor with all the filters and effects this tool brings
Free trial Visit website

Movavi Video Editor – Complete online editor

Movavi Editor is an all-in-one solution for editing your videos in a very creative manner and in a very simple way.

With this video editor software, you can explore your imagination by creating professional videos, using an intuitive editing program. So with powerful functionalities like keyframe animation and other video effects, your video will shine.

More exactly, the program allows you to edit videos with a basic timeline editor and lively effects or text animations, transitions, or chroma backgrounds that will boost your creation beyond expectations.

Moreover, with Movavi it is possible to create stop motion videos easily by importing your photos in the editing program, arranging your scenes, and finally adding some effects or transitions.

Hence, using this video editor solution will drastically simplify your workflow with stop motion animation thus creating a remarkable outcome or put a smile on every single face.

In addition, if you need to create a professional or business-purpose video using stop-motion animation, this software is perfectly suited to add extra quality and make your product popular.

Movavi Video Editor

Using this incredible tool, you can edit and create stop-motion videos professionally!
Check price Visit website

Dragon Frame – Easy-to-use

Dragon Frame is a powerful stop-motion animation tool that will help you create really stunning images.

The software allows you to bring animations to life with the help of a bevy of professional on-screen tools.

Dragon Frame lets you capture precise movements, compose and light the perfect shot with camera controls, and edit images with the help of advanced image review tools.

What’s more, you can animate your video using tools like toggling, looping, or onion skin and make amazing shots with cinematographic features to set the camera settings or adjust focus.

You can also insert audio and edit it according to your characters’ needs. Some of its key features include:

  • Timeline: You can edit your frame with a simple drag-and-drop move to adjust timing, reshoot sequences, or restore deleted frames
  • Drawing tools: Vector-based drawing tools allow you to better control your animation
  • Live view magnification support
  • Color detection lets you compare tone ranges between shots and adjust them

You can try out the tool-free for 30 days. The trial period allows you to test the software with your camera and become familiar with its features.

Keep in mind that all the images captured using the trial version of the tool will have a watermark. Dragon Frame is suitable for professionals and experienced animators.

⇒ Get Dragon Frame

Stop Motion Studio – Very intuitive interface

The next solution on our list is Stop Motion Studio, powerful and rounded software that will make your animation movie look as famous as Lego animation productions.

Firstly, using this intuitive software will help you in creating valuable stop-motion videos with its frame-by-frame editor, simplistic timeline, or sound editing tools.

You should know by now that stop-motion animation is a slow process, and you have to take several pictures to create your final creation. However, using simple tools offered by this program you can edit your videos quickly on desktop or mobile versions.

Additionally, using this program you can produce desktop-class videos and edit them by cutting, removing, copy or paste single photos frames and adding them to any position that fits perfectly for the sequence.

Besides that, you can capture the perfect moment with your digital camera because this program supports known camera brands like Canon, Nikon, or Sony.

Therefore, you can try out the software on different devices including Windows PC, Mac, or Android, and enjoy your movies anywhere.

⇒ Get Stop Motion Studio

Stop Motion Pro Eclipse – Direct connectivity with your camera

Stop Motion Pro is an interesting animation software that easily connects to your camera or webcam. You can use it to capture and paste images and convey interesting stories through your animated characters.

You can also use markers to track and plan your characters’ movements. The tool can play up to 30 frames per second and allows you to record audio while playing back animation. Lip-sync support is also available.

The software is compatible with dozens of cameras and features advanced project management tools which are very useful when managing long-term animation projects.

Furthermore, you can create your story using practical features offered by this tool, such as tracking movement with markers, smooth playback of 30 frames per second, audio recording, multiple frames with one click, and more.

Stop Motion Pro’s UI is available in five languages: English, French, German, Spanish, and Chinese.

Therefore, take advantage of its user-friendly interface and create your animation films and characters using this robust software.

⇒ Get Stop Motion Pro Eclipse

Frames – Classic tool with mainstream features

The next entry is Frames, a powerful stop-motion software designed to produce impressive clay animation or other great animated videos.

With this specialized program, you can dive deep into your animated story and create powerful stories to transmit any message you conceive.

To be more clear, this tool provides help with capturing webcam images or importing folders with images from your digital camera. You can enjoy features like onion skin, chroma key, or time-lapse to simplify the animation process.

Moreover, if you are eager about cartoon animation you can benefit from dedicated tools to make your story alive. For example, you have drawing tools, clip art, and art animation paths, plus more soundtracks to combine narration.

If you want to expose an inspirational digital story, using images text, and videos, this program will not only provide technical help but inspire you to grow out of your comfort zone.

All in all, using Frames you will perfect your video animation skills and get the opportunity to express the stories you always needed to share with the world.

⇒ Get Frames

IKITMovie – Suited for beginners

iKITMovie is a stop motion animation tool compatible with Windows XP/Vista/Windows 7/8 or Windows 10 PCs.

If you’re into LEGO or claymation, this is the perfect tool for you. Most importantly, unlike most stop-motion tools, this program can be used by users of all ages, including older kids and teenagers.

IKITMovie features over 2,200 free sound effects and background music tracks to customize your creations.

The tool also features a green screen that allows users to replace backgrounds with still or moving images. This feature is very popular among animators using this type of animation technique.

If you’re new to stop-motion animation, you can watch step-by-step video tutorials to learn how you can better use the tool. IKITMovie is perfect for students and educators.

With that being said, you should use this solution if you need influential animation videos and qualitative editing features.

⇒ Get IKITMovie 

AnimatorHD – Works great on Windows

AnimatorHD is a Windows-based software that you can use to create stop motion and time-lapse animation.

The tool also supports stereoscopic 3D movies and DSLR cameras, including Canon and Nikon Live View, as well as 3D stereo shooting.

You can use your laptop’s webcam and other video recording devices as input sources. The RAM Player with live frames allows you to control and edit each frame according to your needs.

Once you’re satisfied with the results, you can export your animations to After Effects and further enhance them.

In addition, using this software you can benefit from powerful traits such as advanced frames and AVI movie export, multi-exposure for video feed, variants of each sequence, 3D stereo live preview, camera preview, and many more.

That being said, this software solution will offer all the functional resources you need to create unbeatable stop-motion films.

⇒ Get AnimatorHD

MonkeyJam – Free and intuitive solution

MonkeyJam is a user-friendly stop animation application that offers practical tools to craft fluid animation stories.

This tool can be used by artists or amateurs at the same time, regardless of animating background.

You can record using a webcam, camcorder, or scanner and create stop motion animations with distinct frames.

It’s worth knowing that such tool comes with drawing instruments for crafting animated characters or pictures by hand.

More exactly, you can use specific features to create professional animation movies even though the tool is designed for pencil drawing.

When the project is done, you have certain preview modes to help you see the entire film or a specific range on the shooting.

⇒ Get MonkeyJam

So, we’ll end our list of the best stop-motion animation software here. If you’ve used other similar tools that you think we should add to this list, let us know in the comments below.

How to Enter Recovery Mode in Windows 11 [4 Ways]

We will show you today how to enter recovery mode in Windows 11. This will come in handy when you try to figure out what’s causing your computer to act up, display errors, or be buggy.

Users can boot their computers into recovery mode, which provides a more stripped-down experience by deactivating some programs and drivers.

How can I boot in recovery mode in Windows 11?

1. Via Settings

  1. Go to the Settings app and navigate Recovery under the System section.recovery-page how to enter recovery mode windows 11
  2. You should click on the Restart now button next to Advanced startup. That’s it! Your PC will enter recovery mode.restart-now-button how to enter recovery mode windows 11

2. Press F11 during the system startup

This is one of the most basic approaches to enabling recovery mode to be used.

You can enter recovery mode by pressing the F11 key immediately after powering your computer, and you will enter Windows 11 recovery mode from the boot.

It should be noted, however, that this strategy may not be compatible with all PCs. For example, some may use the F9 or F12 keys, so verify with the PC maker to ensure this is the case.

3. Restart and press Shift

  1. Click on the Start icon, then tap on the Power button.start-power how to enter recovery mode windows 11
  2. Press and hold the Shift button and click on Restart now. That’s it! You will now be redirected to the recovery mode menu.

4. Enter Windows 11 recovery mode via CMD

  1. Enter the Command Prompt as described below:cmd-search-result how to enter recovery mode windows 11
  2. Lastly, please type or copy-paste the following command and let it run. You will be redirected to the recovery mode menu: shutdown /r /oshutdown how to enter recovery mode windows 11

What does the Recovery Mode do?

Recovery mode makes it possible to debug, repair, and restore the system, a recovery environment (WinRE) featuring several Advanced Startup Options.

recovery mode how to enter recovery mode windows 11

More specifically, the recovery mode in Windows 11 inherits the majority of the recovery options from previous operating systems, such as:

  • Startup Repair – Checks for and corrects issues that prevent Windows from loading.
  • System Restore – If your computer is experiencing system troubles, you can restore it to a prior restore point.
  • System Image Recovery – Restore your computer from a system image backup that was taken before.
  • Command Prompt – Advanced troubleshooting can be accomplished by using various command-line options.
  • Startup Settings – Change how Windows starts up and see if it helps to debug.

The Microsoft page gives more information on what these Windows 11 recovery methods are intended to do. However, if you want to enter it, follow one of the methods below.

Before going to recovery mode, you must get into clean boot mode and identify if the issue is related to third-party apps.

Alternatively, you can try to fix your Windows with the help of a professional repair tool. This will provide you with a much safer and smoother experience.

Summary

You may find yourself addressing a problem that necessitates restarting your computer in Safe Mode numerous times. However, if you have to go through the entire method we’ve just described every time you restart your computer, it can become a real hassle.

The System Configuration tool included with Windows provides the opportunity to enable the safe boot option for your computer. Restarting the PC effectively compels Windows to boot into Safe Mode every time you do so. Check our keyboard not working for recovery mode if you’re experiencing issues.

Note that the steps to enter recovery mode in Windows 10 are similar to those of the new Microsoft OS. While you’re here, why not look at our guide on how to exit Windows Recovery Mode?

Was this guide helpful for you? Also, do let us know in the comments section below by leaving us a review. Finally, you can share any other methods you have in mind with us.


Windows 10 Icon Spacing: How to Change It on Your Desktop

Many users reported a usual desktop icon spacing on their PC. This isn’t a major issue, but it can cause inconvenience. Luckily, there are ways to fix it.

Why are my icons spread out on my Desktop?

Multiple monitor setups are usually responsible for this issue because certain apps don’t handle them well. In some instances, new applications can be positioned randomly on your screen.

How do I change the spacing between icons on my desktop?

1. Manually resize the icons

  1. Hold the Ctrl key then press + or - keys to adjust the size and spacing of the Desktop icons.
  2. As you increase the size, the spacing increases, and vice versa.

We also have a full guide on how to change icon size in Windows 10 that will help you with that. For a more detailed tutorial, you can also read our step-by-step guide on how to reduce desktop icon size in Windows 10.

2. Edit the Registry

  1. Hit the Windows + R to open the Run command.
  2. Type regedit and hit Enter.run regedit command
  3. Navigate to the following location: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics
  4. Click on WindowMetrics on the left pane then double-click on IconSpacing on the right pane to modify the value.
  5. Choose any value between -480 to -2730 (-480 is the minimum spacing, -1128 is the default and -2780 is the maximum spacing).
  6. Tap OK to save changes.

These steps are for horizontal spacing. For the vertical spacing:

  1. Click on WindowMetrics on the left pane then double-click on IconVerticalSpacing on the right pane to modify the value. 
  2. Choose any value between -480 to -2730 (-480 is the minimum spacing, -1128 is the default icon spacing and -2780 is the maximum spacing in Windows 10).
  3. Tap OK to save changes.
  4. Restart your computer to save the changes.

If you are doing a free size and selecting random values, you may have to repeat these steps a few times until you get your desired spacing.

3. Use third-party tools

If you would like to do more with your Desktop, we have outlined some desktop customization software that will address a lot of your needs.

If you struggle with organization, you will be relieved to find out that there exist Desktop app launchers to free up some space and streamline your work.

Keep in mind that other issues can sometimes occur, and users reported that desktop icons keep moving, but we tackled that in a separate guide.

Do let us know if you have been successful in adjusting your Windows 10 icon spacing in the comment section below.

Windows 11 Split Screen Not Working: How to Force it

Microsoft’s Windows 11 operating system allows you to simultaneously launch four to six windows by dividing the screen. But several users reported that the split screen is not working in Windows 11.

Several users have encountered the error, and some shared it online. However, we saw a shortage of reliable solutions and took matters into our hands. So, let’s find out how you can fix things when the Windows split screen shortcut is not working.

Why is the split screen not working on Windows 11?

Here are a few reasons why the split screen is not working in Windows 11:

  • Snap windows feature is disabled – In most cases, users later realized that the snap windows feature was disabled.
  • Corrupt system files – If the system files are corrupt, it would trigger a range of issues and affect the operating system’s functionality.
  • Outdated or corrupt display driver – Running a corrupt or outdated driver is just as likely to cause the problem, and this is usually the case after you have just upgraded to Windows 11.

How can I fix Windows 11 split screen if it’s not working?

Before we try the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to try:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Update Windows 11 since it could be a bug in the current version.
  • If the split screen in Windows 11 is working, but you find one half to be lighter/darker than the other, verify the same in the system BIOS. And if the problem persists, it’s likely a problem with the display.
  • HP device users should disable Focus Mode in the HP Command Center, a feature often responsible for affecting the brightness in split screen on Windows 11.

If these two don’t work, head to the fixes listed next.

1. Enable Snap windows

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, go to System, and click on Multi-tasking.
     multitasking settings windows 11 split screen not working
  2. Now, switch the toggle button to enable the Snap Windows option and click on it to see a drop-down menu with all the detailed splitting scenarios.
    enable-snap windows windows 11 split screen not working

The feature should have been enabled by default once you installed Windows 11 on your computer. However, due to specific bugs or personal errors, the option ends up being disabled. Once you enable it, verify whether Windows 11 split screen is still not working.

2. Update the graphics driver

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.device manager
  2. Expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.update drivers to fix windows 11 split screen not working
  3. Now, select Search automatically for drivers.search automatically for drivers

A compatible driver might not have been installed if you just upgraded to the latest iteration. So, check for it and even try manually updating the driver to fix things when Windows 11 split screen is not working.

If the driver wasn’t properly installed or you just couldn’t find the right one, we recommend using an automated driver updater, Outbyte Driver Updater.

Outbyte Driver Updater

Have your graphics driver updated with all other outdated drivers to avoid future errors.
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3. Restart explorer.exe

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, go to the Details tab, and locate the explorer.exe task. Once you have found it, right-click on it and choose End Task.explorer-end-task windows 11 split screen not working
  2. Now go to File and choose Run new task.file-run-task windows 11 split screen not working
  3. Enter explorer and click OK.explorer-run-task windows 11 split screen not working

4. Run the SFC scan

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Search bar, type cmd, right-click on the result, and select Run as administrator.cmd-search-admin kernel security check failure windows 11
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Paste the following commands one at a time, and hit Enter after each to run the DISM tool:DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  4. Similarly, execute the following command to run the SFC scan:sfc /scannowsfc-scan-windows-11 kernel security check failure windows 11

If that does not work, you can try using a specialized third-party repair software, which will scan your PC and repair it if the error is related to corrupted system files or missing DLLs.

5. Use the keyboard shortcut

If the previous methods didn’t work, you could use the keyboard shortcut to split the screen in Windows 11 manually.

Open the program you want to split, hold the Windows key, and press the desired arrow key. For instance, to place the current program to the left, hit Windows + Left, and the other open applications appear on the right.

That’s all! It would be best if you now had the split screen feature working in Windows 11 and could easily place programs across the screen, thus increasing productivity.

Also, find out how to split screen in Windows 11 and everything else there’s to know about the feature. Besides, do not forget to check how to make Windows 11 faster than ever.

Please let us know in the comments section below which method worked best for you and which operating system version you prefer to use the most. Thanks for reading!

Screen magnifiers for visually impaired [Cyber Monday]

Having low vision due to age or illness can become extremely frustrating, especially if you’re the type of person that enjoys reading or playing games off of devices that have small screens.

While software for text magnification does exist, it can be pretty tricky, especially for those that aren’t too tech-savvy.

That is why physical magnifiers were invented, and we’ve compiled a list of what we think are the best ones yet.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What is the best screen magnifier for the visually impaired?

Kantek MAXVIEW LCD Monitor Magnifier

Kantek MAXVIEW LCD Monitor Magnifier

The Kantek MAXVIEW LCD Monitor Magnifier is a simplistic screen modifier for monitors of all the most common sizes. It is manufactured with an optical grade acrylic Fresnel lens with a high groove density which provides sharps and enhanced imagery with minimal distortion.

The screen itself consists of concentric grooves, and the contours of the grooves act as spatial refracting surfaces that bend the light rays to magnify the visual image, more than doubling its size.

Pros:

  • Comes in sizes between 15 and 24 inches
  • Fully assembled, elegant, lightweight, and patented design
  • Designed for LCD monitors
  • Manufactured of an optical grade acrylic Fresnel lens
  • Adjustable magnification minimizes distortion
  • Designed for general office use in a normal ambient light environment.
  • Light tint for contrast enhancement thereby increasing readability

Cons:

  • Not suitable for laptops
  • Any intense lighting in the perimeter of the work area will cause a distracting visual

⇒ Check price

MagniPros 3X Large Ultra Bright LED Page Magnifier

MagniPros 3X Large Ultra Bright LED Page Magnifier

If you’re looking for a simple way to magnify a telephone or tablet screen, or even a book, then the simplest of all solutions is the MagniPros 3X Large Ultra Bright LED Page Magnifier.

Put in very simple terms, it is basically like a rectangular magnifying glass that doesn’t distort the image you are hovering over, and it also features bright LED lights to let you read better even in dark places.

It is made to sit comfortably in your hand thanks to the ergonomic design, and the materials and battery efficiency make it so that this device will last for as long as you may ever need.

Pros:

  • Equipped with 12 SMD led lights which are covered by an anti-glare reflector
  • Optical grade magnifying lens covers a large viewing area
  • Designed to last 100,000+ hours not only provide a more evenly lit and brighter viewing area but consume less power than traditional LEDs
  • It only weighs 6 ounces
  • The grip of this LED magnifier is ergonomically designed for most hands
  • The brightness level peaks at 720 lumens
  • LEDs are designed to last for more than 20 years without burning out or overheating

Cons:

  • The plastic frame seems of inferior quality

⇒ Check price

Mag&Read Tablet with Workstation

Mag&Read 10 Tablet with Workstation

If you want an efficient way of reading books or the small text off of the screens of phones or tablets, but prefer to remain as stationary as possible, then the Mag&Read Tablet with Workstation is the device for you.

It features an 8-megapixel camera that offers about 20x the magnification, and if your eyesight is severely affected, you can use the integrated text reader to read and playback the text for you.

Pros:

  • Features an 8-megapixel camera for clear magnification of up to 20x
  • Includes a powerful reader that quickly scans printed text and reads it
  • Simplifies the tablet interface to make it easy to do email, browse the web, and more
  • Displays high-contrast, large text that is adjustable in contrast and size
  • Operates via touchscreen and voice commands
  • Includes workstation accessory package to transform your Mag&Read Tablet into a portable desktop video magnifier

Cons:

  • Mounting and dismounting the workstation accessory can be annoying if you’re on the move

⇒ Check price

ViSee Electronic Digital Video Magnifier

ViSee Electronic Digital Video Magnifier

The ViSee Electronic Digital Video Magnifier is pretty much a reversed version of the previous entry. With these devices, you hold the screen or book in place, and you run the optical mouse over it.

The mouse features a camera pointing downwards, and it will record any surface it passes over, projecting it on your monitor TV or any device with a display and RCA input.

The ergonomic design and compatibility with older devices make it an excellent choice for the elderly that are both visually impaired and have arthritis as well.

Pros:

  • Eight adjustable magnification levels from 1x-32x (based on a 21-inch screen)
  • Zoom in/out digitally.
  • Image system: NTSC.
  • Video connector: RCA.
  • Four display modes: full color, black type on white, white type on black, and high contrast
  • Bright long-lasting LED lights illuminate the reading material for a clearer image
  • Screen Lock: freeze a text image on the screen for easier reading
  • An oversized, ergonomic mouse for comfortable use, even for those with arthritis
  • 4 roller wheels for easy and smooth moving on reading material
  • Simple to use with single clicks for all features and functions
  • The green ON button lets you know the mouse is switched on
  • 80-inch (nearly 7-ft. long) Video Output Cable
  • Compatible with any TV/monitor with RCA input

Cons:

  • You need to be careful when using on screens not to accidentally scroll

⇒ Check price

Merlin HD

Merlin HD – Desktop Electronic Magnifier

The Merlin HD is a screen and book magnification tool that features an HD camera to provide high-resolution images on an LCD screen.

It comes in both 22-inch and 24-inch LCD sizes, and it is extremely maneuverable, as the screen easily pivots horizontally and vertically to provide the most comfortable viewing position.

It also has a wide range of adjustable magnification and adjustable viewing modes that allow you to personalize the Merlin HD viewing experience.

Pros:

  • 24-inch LCD Monitor
  • Projects high-quality images
  • Easy-to-use tactile controls

Cons:

  • Pretty bulky and mostly suitable for those that don’t go out too much

⇒ Check price

It is extremely frustrating when old age or an ailment can prevent you from doing your favorite hobbies, and the same could be said about the visually impaired and their ability to read, look at pictures and watch movies.

Thankfully, technology has evolved to the point where it lets you bypass these minor inconsistencies, allowing you to resume your favorite hobbies as if nothing happened.

Microsoft Arc Mouse not Working: 5 Trusted Solutions to Use

Have you recently purchased a Microsoft Arc Touch mouse for your PC operating system, and it is not working correctly? Unfortunately, you are not alone, as this is a regular complaint from many users.

Fortunately, it is an issue that can be easily fixed with the correct information. And the proper fixes for the Microsoft Arc mouse not working problem is what we have prepared for you in this guide.

Why is my Microsoft Arc Mouse not working?

If your Microsoft Arch Touch mouse does click but not working, it might be due to issues with your PC or the device. Below are some of the causes as reported by users:

  • Outdated PC: The first thing to check if the Microsoft Arc mouse is not responding is whether your PC is up-to-date. If it is not, you need to install the latest updates, including the optional ones.
  • Wrong power setting: The devices connected to your PC need the power setting to function correctly. We have found the power setting of the Bluetooth adapter to cause the Microsoft Arc not to connect or working issue. A quick way to fix this is to fix this effectively.
  • Outdated mouse driver: An obsolete driver is the chief cause of many issues, including this one. To get your mouse working again, you need to update the driver to the latest version.

How can I fix Microsoft Arc Mouse if it’s not working?

Before delving into the detailed fixes in this section, it is advisable to go through the preliminary fixes below and see if they fix this issue:

  • Test the mouse on another PC to know if it is faulty and needs to be replaced.
  • Enable and disable the Airplane mode on the Taskbar for some minutes.

If these do not work, you can now proceed to the fixes below:

1. Refresh the connection

  1. Open the Settings app and choose the Devices option.
    devices microsoft arc mouse not working
  2. Select the Microsoft Arc mouse option from the list of connected devices and click the Remove device button.
    remove device
  3. Now, scroll up and click Add Bluetooth or other device.
    add bluetooth
  4. Choose the Bluetooth option.
    bluetooth
  5. From here, select the Microsoft Arc mouse option.
  6. Finally, tap the Pair button.

The Microsoft Arc mouse not working issue can be caused by simple connection problems. Refreshing the connection should help restore normalcy in this case.

2. Install the latest Bluetooth driver

  1. Press the Windows key + X and Device Manager.
    device manager microsoft arc mouse not working
  2. Double-click the Bluetooth option to expand it, and right-click the device there.
  3. Choose the Uninstall device option.
    uninstall device
  4. Now, click the Uninstall button to confirm the action.
    uninstall button microsoft arc mouse not working
  5. Finally, go to the Intel website to download and install the latest version of the driver.

Since the Microsoft Arc mouse is a Bluetooth device, it requires the latest drivers on your PC to work correctly. You are downloading the newest version of the driver from the Intel website has worked for many users. So, you can give it a try too.

Alternatively, you can use a specialized tool to update your Bluetooth driver automatically. This helps to remove the ever-present risk of installing the wrong drivers.

3. Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Update & Security option.
    update and security
  2. Choose Troubleshoot in the left pane and click Additional troubleshooters.
    additional troubleshooter microsoft arc mouse not working
  3. Select the Bluetooth option and click Run the troubleshooter.
    run troubleshooter

If the Microsoft Arc mouse is not working on your PC, it might be because of minor glitches. The Bluetooth troubleshooter should help diagnose the cause of these glitches and recommend applying the fixes.

4. Disable power management for the Bluetooth adapter

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select the Device Manager option.
    device manager microsoft arc mouse not working
  2. Expand the Bluetooth option and double-click the adapter there.
    bluetooth adapter
  3. Click the Power Management tab at the top and check the box for Allow the computer to turn off this computer to save power.
    power management

The power management feature can put your adapter to sleep when it needs to save power. Unfortunately, this can cause the Microsoft Arc mouse not working issue.

5. Update the PC

  1. Press the Windows key + I and select the Update & Security option.
    update and security
  2. Click the Check for updates button.
    check for microsoft arc mouse not working
  3. Click the Download and install button to install the latest update, including the optional ones.

If your Microsoft Arc mouse is connected but not working, it might be because you don’t have the necessary updates. Restart your PC after installing the updates.

The Microsoft Arc mouse not working issue, takes away the dynamicity of the wireless device. But if you follow the fixes in this guide carefully, you should be able to solve the problem effectively.

If you are facing other issues like

Feel free to let us know if the solutions in its guide helped you solve the problem in the comments below.

9 Best Automated Animation Software [Deals of the Year]

If you need to create an animated video, there’s plenty of animation software for Windows. Animation software falls largely into 2D and 3D categories.

The 3D applications develop CGI videos, whilst 2D packages enable users to set up video animations based on 2D illustrations.

Moreover, the history of animation started hundreds of years ago with rudimental resources, of course. One of the first animations was created in the 1900s by a cartoonist named Emile Cohl, even before the Disney era.

The animation was reproduced in a short movie called Fantasmagorie, using only hand-drawn animation on individual frames.

Today, we have high-tech computerized animation and visual effects that can provide unique animation stories available for everyone out there. Here’s a quick preview of our favorite picks:

  • Adobe Animate – Excellent 3D animation software
  • Autodesk Maya – Best animation app for Mac
  • Animaker – Built-in custom character builder
  • Visme – Best animation program for beginners
  • Harmony – Best 2D animation software
  • Viddyoze – Best video animation software for social media
  • Moho – Top-notch cartoon maker utility
  • Blender – Best open-source animation software for Windows
  • Animation Desk – Nifty overlay of adjacent frames

Even though CGI animated film is prevalent in cinema, 2D animation programs are far from redundant. This is some of the best video animation software for Windows.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What is the best software for making animations?

Adobe Animate CC – Excellent 3D animation software

Adobe Animate, previously Flash Professional, is Adobe System’s latest multimedia animation software. Many choose Adobe Animate to create rich Flash content and animated video for the web. It’s great for game development, movies, and a website video.

Adobe Animate is packed with a variety of graphic design and drawing tools such as customizable vector art brushes, a rotatable canvas, and colored onion skinning for configuring animations.

With the software’s TimeLine and Motion Editor tools, you can create flowing animations with natural motion. Users can create both 3D and 2D animations with some terrific effects for landscape details such as clouds, flowers, trees, etc.

Adobe Animate supports 4K resolution so you can export and optimize videos for Ultra HD display. The software is also integrated with Creative Cloud gives you cloud storage and access to Adobe Stock images, videos, and graphics.

Here are the main features of Adobe Animate CC:

  • Asset panel with clips and animations
  • Adobe Fresco live brushes
  • Web or mobile content for games/ads
  • Publish on desktop, mobile, or TV
  • “Getting started” tutorials

Adobe Animate CC

Adobe is the best professional multimedia animation software that also supports 4K video for unprecedented quality.
Free trial Visit website

Autodesk Maya – Best animation app for Mac

Maya is the industry-standard software for 3D animations that has a comprehensive set of tools for animation, modeling, and rendering.

It’s compatible with Windows and Mac OS X and has generated graphics and effects for films such as Monsters Inc, Finding Nemo, Avatar, and Up and Hugo.

This isn’t really software for hobby animators, and a one-year subscription for Maya is pretty expensive. Blender might be a better value alternative. Nevertheless, you can still try out a one-month free trial for the software.

Maya comes packed with extensive toolsets for 3D modeling, motion graphics, texturing, and scene animations.

The latest edition includes a new Time Editor for non-linear 3D animation editing so that you can easily navigate between key-level details and clip-level views.

With its motion graphics tools, users can create stunning animations and effects with instanced objects. In addition, the software enables you to add a wide variety of atmospheric, liquid, and other 3D dynamic effects to animations.

So Maya is a serious bit of kit with which users can create animations and effects for animated films, games, or TV series.

But as this software has advanced tools, it also has hefty minimum system requirements amounting to 8 GB RAM, 4 GB HDD storage, and 64-bit Intel or AMD multi-core processor. Quadro M, GeForce GTX, FirePro W, and Radeon R9 are among the required graphics cards.

Here are the main features of Autodesk Maya:

  • 3D modeling tools
  • Revamped UV toolkit
  • Brush sculpting tools
  • 3D animation and rigging
  • Indie game workflow

Autodesk Maya

Some of the most important blockbuster movies like Avatar and Finding Nemo were created using Maya. Enough said.
Check price Visit website

Animaker – Built-in custom character builder

Animaker is not like the first two giants from our list but it still boasts a huge animated library. This tool is directed more to market professionals who need to create marketing campaigns with simple graphics, intros, or instructional videos.

And again, unlike the two software above, Animaker is pretty easy to use and learn because it’s accompanied by a pretty big database with guiding clips to train you on how to use it.

You will be able to create up to 720 types of animated videos. Just to mention a few there are 2D and 2.5 animations, whiteboard animation, infographics, and many many more.

Even the interface is pretty friendly as you will have familiar functions like cut and copy/ paste, drag & drop, edit and record but also specialized functions like camera, record, transition, and enter/ exit effects.

And as it’s mostly for marketing, you will be able to add your own backgrounds and branding, sounds, music, and even voice recordings.

Animaker offers a very good feature/ price balance so check it out to see if it fits your requirements.

Here are the main features of Animaker:

  • Professionally crafted templates
  • Video asset library
  • Custom character builder
  • 20+ facial expressions
  • Smart move functionality

Animaker

Animaker comes with one of the largest animation libraries and it’s very easy to use to get the perfect results.
Check price Visit website

Visme – Best animation program for beginners

Visme is a graphic presentation tool created for teams or beginners who need to offer animated visual experiences.

The software is quite intuitive and includes a variety of templates and pitch decks to easily showcase your ideas and visions in an interactive manner.

With multi-functional support, the platform can guarantee diverse tools for different presentation types like charts and infographics, social media templates, visual documents and reports, mockups, etc.

Besides, you benefit from thousands of professional templates, animated icons, or characters that will impress your managers or important clients.

It’s worth mentioning that you’ll be able to animate every element. It’s possible to animate objects, icons, or people in your presentation to add extra value and dynamics.

Here are the main features of Visme:

  • Animated vector icons
  • 30+ data widgets like charts, statistics, figures
  • Collaboration with your team
  • Interactivity tools
  • Photos & videos add-on

Visme

Need to better present your pitch? Using this animation presentation tool will capture your message flawlessly.
Check price Visit website

Harmony – Best 2D animation software

harmony animation software

Harmony, formerly Toon Boom Studios, is one of the industry-standard packages for 2D animation. There are three upgrade options from Toon Boom Studios to the Harmony editions. They are Harmony Essentials, Advanced and Premium versions.

Harmony is software at the cutting edge of 2D animation technology. This software blends the more traditional art tools with digital alternatives. It enables its users to combine 2D animations with imported 3D models and add a range of special effects to animated videos.

One of the best things about Harmony is its built-in compositing with which you can set up flexible cut-out character rigs.

The program enables users to set up 2D game animations that can be exported to a variety of game engines. Harmony also supports more than 13 alternative file formats.

Here are the main features of Harmony:

  • Advanced brush engine
  • Color palettes, color space, and painting
  • 2D/3D integration
  • Compositing and special effects
  • Sound management/manipulation

⇒ Get Harmony

Viddyoze – Best video animation software for social media

We have chosen this tool for all people working in video marketing or who need to create videos for academic purposes. Viddyoze is a versatile tool that will assist you in creating beautiful animations in 3D.

It is perfect for web marketers and for video-editing professionals because it allows you to create stunning intros, outros, call-to-actions, and social actions.

Even if it’s focused on short/generic creations, it remains a powerful tool to use when you want to enhance your videos in terms of quality and visual aspects.

It has a pretty fair price and includes all Viddyoze features so you can create amazing animations, have full support for any questions, and have the best export quality for your videos.

Here are the main features of Viddyoze:

  • 100% compatibility with MP4 or MOV formats
  • Unlimited usage
  • Studio aspect designs and animations
  • Customization option for brands
  • Social media video animations
  • Professional logo animations

⇒ Get Viddyoze

Moho – Top-notch cartoon maker utility

Moho, formerly Anime Studio, is vector-based 2D animation software compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X. This is also renowned software in the animated film industry that has a Pro and Debut edition.

The Pro edition has more extensive options, but Debut is a better program for beginner animators.

This software enables you to sketch out animations with freehand drawing tools and brushes, or you can also use its cartoon maker’s character wizard. Moho’s revolutionary bone-rigging system enables users to realistically animate cartoon characters.

The latest version of Moho Pro includes a variety of new tools such as Bezier handles that create smoother line bends.

Moho Pro also includes realistic motion blur effects to add to moving objects, and both versions have an updated GUI with revamped layers and library panels.

Here are the main features of Moho:

  • Strong 2D rigging system
  • Smart Bones moves
  • Optimized drawing tools
  • Photoshop files importing
  • Wind dynamics

⇒ Get Moho

Blender – Best open-source animation software for Windows

animation software

Blender is an open-source 3D animation software that has extensive options for 3D graphic editing. This is a multi-platform application compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux with which you can set up some stunning 3D models and animations.

There’s also a portable version of Blender for USB drives. Click the Installer (.msi) button on the software’s website to save its setup.

Blender includes a multitude of animation, lighting, texture, and modeling tools. The software has photorealistic GPU and CPU rendering that supports HDR lighting.

This program enables users to sculpt organic subjects with its sculpting toolset that provides 20 alternative brushes, mirrored sculpting, and Dynamic Topology sculpting.

It has a variety of simulations with which you can add realistic smoke, fluid, fire, and particle effects to animations. Blender is ideal for game animations as it includes a full 3D game engine that supports Open GL and Python scripting API.

Another good thing about Blender is its built-in video editor with which you can edit videos. The software has a flexible UI and a variety of extensions.

It also incorporates import/export options and is compatible with numerous video, image, and 3D file formats. Overall, Blender is probably the best open-source video animation software for Windows.

Here are the main features of Blender:

  • Extensive modeling toolset
  • Digital sculpting tools
  • Story art and 2D concept design
  • Object motion tracking
  • VFX object motion tracking

⇒ Get Blender

Animation Desk – Nifty overlay of adjacent frames

animation software4

Animation Desk is one of the best free video animation apps for Windows, Android, and iOS mobile devices This app enables users to combine separate picture frames into a single animation.

There’s also an Animation Desk Pro version that has extended export formats, tag and annotation options, more extensive editing tools, and Kdan Cloud storage space.

Animation Desk has a UI that’s based on a traditional animation desk with separate frames that you can sketch on. It includes numerous paint tools such as crayons, fountain pens, pencils, and a triumvirate of brush types.

The app has onion skinning that provides users with an overlay of adjacent frames, and it includes four frame rates for users to select.

You can also crop, move, and delete frames with the app’s frame manager. So this is an intuitive and comprehensive app that brings doodles to life.

Here are the main features of Animation Desk:

  • Many painting tools with pressure sensitivity
  • Onion Skinning
  • 4 sets of frame rate support
  • Color selection palettes

⇒ Get Animation Desk

So those are some of the best software for video animation. You can set up fantastic 2D or 3D animations and effects for videos, flash content, and games with those programs.

Harmony and Maya probably have the most extensive toolsets and options, but Moho, Adobe Animate, Blender, and Animation Desk offer better value.

We compiled this animation software list with user experience in mind. Do share your opinion with us regarding these solutions and let us know how they worked in your case.

Microsoft starts rolling out the Microsoft 365 app for the web

During the Ignite 2022 Conference, Microsoft announced that it will be rebranding Office 365 to Microsoft 365. This cuts across the Office app on Windows, mobile, and the web. And it now seems that the company is well on its way to better positioning itself for the future.

According to the Microsoft 365 Roadmap, Microsoft announced that it has commenced rolling out the Microsoft 365 app for the web. The company has further indicated that the rollout will be done in phases, therefore, it will be available to customers gradually in the coming weeks.

According to Microsoft:

The Microsoft 365 app enables you to create, share, and collaborate all in one place. You can create new content using a wide variety of apps and templates, access your files and apps, and leverage the intelligence of Microsoft Graph to deliver insights and recommendations for making work easier. The app also integrates third-party apps and storage solutions you’ve purchased.

Some of the changes that customers can look out for with this feature tagged 98173 include a new URL, a new visual style, and a new favicon which is similar to the new Microsoft 365 icon. This is on top of a couple of new features that Microsoft plans on launching in the few weeks to come.

  • Feed: a new page that uses intelligence from Microsoft Graph to surface relevant content based on who you work with and what you do.
  • Tagging: a new feature that helps you organize content with custom “tags”, regardless of where the content is stored. Tagging is done on an individual basis and is not seen by others across the organization.
  •  A new Apps module: a more robust experience that connects you to your Microsoft 365 apps, including third-party apps integrated with Microsoft 365.

The feature is expected to hit broad availability by late November 2022. Another notable change to look out for in January is that “links across Microsoft websites pointing to www.office.com will be updated to point to www.microsoft365.com”. Later on, whenever users click on www.office.com they will be redirected to www.microsoft365.com. That said, if you use strict firewall protections, you’ll need to add the domain to your allow list to access it.

It is worth noting that this only applies to the web client, the Office app for Windows, iOS, and Android will transition to the Microsoft 365 app in January 2023. Recently, we also got the chance to have a glimpse of what the app will look like when it will be launched.

Upside-down Question Mark: What it Means & How to Type it

Different languages worldwide have unique writing styles, alphabets, and punctuation marks that differ from others. For instance, the upside-down question mark makes little sense to English speakers, but it does in written Spanish. Likewise, using mathematical symbols like the does not equal sign when typing.

What does the upside-down question mark mean?

The upside question mark is a punctuation mark written at the beginning of an interrogative sentence. It indicates that the sentence that follows is a question. Unlike the regular one present on English keyboards, the inverted question mark can’t be found anywhere on the keyboard.

Furthermore, in the Spanish written language and other languages written with the Latin alphabet, punctuation is used to create interrogative sentences.

Its question function is indicated at the start rather than the regular question mark functioning at the end.

However, most users copy and paste the inverted mark because it is unavailable on their keyboard.

Nevertheless, this punctuation not on regular keyboards doesn’t mean it can’t be used or typed in your sentences. There are ways to use it on different devices and operating systems.

How do I type an upside-down question mark?

As said earlier, the upside-down question mark can be typed and used on devices like Windows, Mac, and Android. To do this, you need to use specific key combinations depending on the device. Next, we’ll take you through how to use it on your device.

1. Insert it into Windows

  1. Move your cursor to where you want to type the code.
  2. Enable the Num lock option on your keyboard.
  3. Press and hold the Alt key, then type any of the following to insert it: Alt + 168  Alt + 0191  Alt + 6824.
  4. Release the Alt key.

Note that you can use any of the three key combinations and still get the same result.

For users experiencing problems with their keyboard, check out fixes for issues with some keys not working on Windows 11. Also, read about what to do if the number pad is not working on your computer.

2. Type upside-down question mark in Microsoft Word

While using Microsoft Word to write on your Windows PC, press the Ctrl + Alt + Shift + / keys combination to insert the upside-down question mark.

Note that this key combination only works while on Microsoft Word.

You can check what to do if Microsoft Word is not opening on your PC. Also, read our guide on rectifying the shift key not working on Windows 10/11.

3. Type the upside-down question mark on Mac

  1. Move your cursor to the point where you want the punctuation.
  2. Press the following keys simultaneously to type the upside-down question mark: Option + Shift + ?

4. How to type the upside-down question mark on Android?

  1. Go to where you want to put the punctuation.
  2. Tap your screen to open the keyboard, then press the number/special characters to switch the button in the bottom-left corner of the keyboard.
  3. Press and hold the question mark button until a pop-up appears with an option for the upside-down question mark.
  4. Before releasing the key, swipe to the right or left based on your keyboard to select it.

The above steps apply to iPhone users also.

We have other detailed articles about typing more characters not available on your keyboard. For example, read how to type the does not equal sign on your PC.

You can also install and use a Japanese keyboard on your PC by following the steps outlined in this article.

If you have further questions and suggestions, kindly drop them in the comment section.

What is Suggested Action on Windows, and how can you use it?

Remember how Google and other popular search engines throw automatic suggestions at you as soon as you type in search suggestions on your Windows? Microsoft has now introduced a similar feature for Windows 11 users.

The feature is Suggested action and is Microsoft’s latest attempt to simplify your actions on Windows. In this article, we look into how you can use and make the most out of Suggested action on Windows.

How to use Suggested action on Windows 11

With the Suggested action feature enabled, you can schedule your phone calls and events automatically. A new suggestion will pop up as soon as you copy a phone number or set a future date.

Before we get started, though, let’s first look at how to enable the Suggested action feature in the first place. Head to the Settings menu to get started and click on System.

 From there, click on Clipboard and then toggle on the Suggest action button.

suggested action button

Let’s go over how to make a call with Suggested action first. First, you need a calling app for your Windows PC. It doesn’t matter which app you use; Zoom, Vimeo, Hangouts, etc., are all excellent options.

Highlight and copy the phone number you’d like to call. Then, right next to the Call number option, select the desired calling app, and follow the on-screen instructions to make your call.

How to use Suggested action for events

Similar to calls, before you use the Suggested action, you must have a calendar event app on your PC. Note that if you’re using the default Calendar app, this method will work just as well. To get started, select and highlight a date or time, and click on Create event.

From there, select your desired app, and fill in all the other relevant details for your event from there.

Using Suggested action on your Windows 11

So, that’s all about setting up and using Suggested action on your Windows. Note that this feature is only applicable for Windows 11 computers, so if you’re on Windows 11, you’re out of luck. Even if you’re using Windows 11, you first need to have Windows 11 22H2 update installed on your PC before you can use the Suggested action on your PC.

5 best EIZO monitors to buy [Black Friday & Cyber Monday]

EIZO is one of the world’s top display manufacturers. It has been around for over 50 years in the industry and it’s well-known for creating high-performance displays that deliver some of the best imagery that money can buy.

However, anyone that owns or has ever owned an EIZO monitor knows that they don’t come cheap, and that is why we decided to compile a list of the best EIZO monitors that won’t empty your pockets.

This is because you’re going to make quite an investment anyway, so you might as well buy an item that you truly feel good about in the process.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What is the best EIZO monitor to buy?

EIZO EV3285FX-BK 4K

  • Widescreen TFT IPS LCD
  • Colors are great right out of the box
  • High responsiveness
  • Great brightness
  • Ultra-slim frame design
  • Not necessarily budget-friendly

This EIZO EV3285FX-BK 4K 31.5″ widescreen TFT IPS LCD monitor is a great choice too, especially if you want the very best image quality.

The touch controls are very impressive. They respond immediately, while the 4K resolution makes a huge difference when it comes to those passionate about design, photography, and not only.

They can see more detail on the screen than ever before and this happens without needing to zoom in and out all the time.

⇒ Check price

EIZO CG2420-BK

  • Wide-Gamut LED IPS display
  • Built-in color calibration sensor
  • Great 1500:1 contrast ratio
  • No less than 99% Adobe RGB coverage
  • Modern design
  • Price tag

The EIZO CG2420-BK monitor lets your imagination soar with a professional-level model for use in photography, design, print, and post-production.

The monitor features a built-in self-calibration sensor for hassle-free monitor maintenance and it works flawlessly, as confirmed by users all over the world.

Additionally, vivid colors are reproduced to industry standards and the exceptionally high contrast is great for producing true blacks.

⇒ Check price

EIZO FlexScan EV2730QFX

  • Stylish 26.5in LED IPS square monitor
  • Great 1920x1920 native resolution
  • Perfect for modern 16:9 ratio movies
  • Excellent picture quality
  • Great overall value
  • Not ideal for gaming due to 1:1 screen ratio

The EIZO FlexScan EV2730QFX monitor features a unique 1920 x 1920 resolution that provides users with 78% more pixels compared with a standard widescreen 1920 x 1080 monitor.

This extended vertical space is convenient for displaying large amounts of information, making it an excellent choice for work environments and other activities where multi-tasking is a must.

The FlexScan series includes frameless monitors that let you focus more on your projects and less on your actual monitors.

It also provides you with a reduction in glare and eye fatigue, letting you work in comfort for long hours.

⇒ Check price

EIZO CS2420-BK-CNX

  • Comes in 24.1-inch and 27-inch versions
  • Wide-Gamut LED IPS display
  • Accurate color calibration
  • Includes a bundled calibration sensor
  • Ideal 1000:1 contrast ratio
  • Sensitive HDMI port

The EIZO CS2420-BK-CNX lets your creativity blossom, being specially dedicated to hobbyists and casual photographers alike.

It features a sleek, user-friendly design and many of the advanced features of EIZO’s ColorEdge lineup that users are so excited about.

These make the EIZO CS2420-BK-CNX an excellent choice if you enjoy creating and editing digital photography, illustration, and more.

⇒ Check price

EIZO FlexScan EV2450FX-BK

  • Useful Eco mode
  • Many connection points
  • Loud speakers' volume
  • Thin bezels on the top and sides
  • Great 5-year warranty
  • Flimsy cable holder on the back

Why is the EIZO FlexScan EV2450FX-BK 23.8-inch screen LED-Lit monitor worthy of your full attention? Well, let us tell you from the start about the fact that the smart screen adjusts to the condition of the natural light in the room.

A clear view from all angles is guaranteed as well, so there is no wonder that users say how much this monitor helped them release their eye strain.

This monitor adjusts to every height, every angle, and every position too and it won’t take up that much space on the desk.

⇒ Check price

As you may have probably guessed already, EIZO monitors are not exactly for everyone. They are used for graphics design, and even the budget ones come with quite a hefty price tag.

However, the few that can afford and need an EZIO monitor for their home or work will truly appreciate the quality product that they are about to get.

This article is part of a generous selection of monitors you can currently find on the market. Take a closer look and don’t hesitate to let us know your pick in the comments area below.

10+ best USB flash drives to buy [Cyber Monday]

USB flash drives are extremely useful if you need to transfer files from one PC to another, or if you need to create a backup.

We checked out some of the most popular and highly recommended USB flash drivers. Make sure you take a look at our list and pick out the best one for your needs.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product or offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

Which USB flash drive is the best?

SanDisk 16GB Cruzer Fit

  • Extremely compact
  • Available in capacities up to 64GB (1 gigabyte (GB) = 1 billion bytes
  • SanDisk secure Access software
  • Software compatible with Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Mac OS X V10. 7+
  • Does not come with a cover

The first thing that you’ll notice about SanDisk Cruzer Fit is its size. This USB flash drive offers up to 64GB of storage space.

Due to its size, this USB flash drive is perfect for your laptop, console, or any other device.

This is a USB 2.0 flash drive, so it doesn’t offer the same transfer speed as other models. However, if you’re looking for a small and affordable USB flash drive, Cruzer Fit is perfect for you.

Kingston DataTraveler 100

  • USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports
  • Sliding cap design
  • Five-year warranty
  • Free technical support
  • Slow write speed

Kingston DataTraveler 100 is a USB 3.0 flash drive with a smooth design. Regarding the transfer speed, this drive offers 100MB/s read and write speed. Just like all other USB 3.0 devices, this one is compatible with USB 2.0.

Unlike other USB 3.0 drives, this one is rather affordable, and you can get an 8GB model for about $6. If you need more storage, there are models up to 128GB available.

Kingston DataTraveler 100 offers decent transfer speed, a great design, USB 3.0 support, and an affordable price, so you should definitely check it out.

PNY Pro Elite 512GB

  • USB 3.0 Flash Drive
  • Read speeds up to 400MB/s and write speeds up to 250MB/s
  • Transfer speeds up to 80 times faster than standard PNY USB 2.0 fladrives
  • Holds over 100,000 pictures at 18MP, over 94,500 songs, or over 29.5 hours of 4K ultra HD video content
  • It gets hot while copying

PNY Pro Elite 512GB is a USB 3.0 device that offers a reading speed of 400MB/s and 250MB/s writing speed. Compared to standard USB 2.0 drives, this one is about 80 times faster.

Besides the speed, this device also comes with a great design. PNY Pro Elite is a capless drive and it has a premium gunmetal finish, so it looks impressive. This is a high-quality device with an impressive design and great speed.

SanDisk Extreme Go

  • Write speeds of up to 150MB/s
  • Up to 35X faster than standard USB 2.0 drives
  • SanDisk SecureAccess software
  • Backward-compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0
  • Drive gets unusually hot during idle

SanDisk Extreme Go is a high-quality USB 3.0 flash drive. The drive offers to write speeds up to 150MB/s. This drive is about 35 times faster than regular USB 2.0 drivers.

This means that you can transfer a movie or a music collection to the flash drive in seconds. The drive comes with the SanDisk SecureAccess software that protects your files from unauthorized access.

In addition, this device also comes with a durable casing that will protect it from shocks. SanDisk Extreme Go is a fast device with a great design.

Kingston Digital 32GB

  • USB 3.0 connectivity
  • Backwards compatible with USB 2.0
  • Five-year warranty
  • Practical cap protects the USB plug
  • It comes only with a red plastic loop

Kingston’s Data Traveler Generation 4 (DTIG4) USB Flash drive features USB 3.0 for quick and easy transfers of your favorite data.

It has a practical design and also fashionable colors for specific capacities (8GB Yellow, 16GB Blue, 32GB Red, 64GB Violet, 128GB Green).

Its backward is compatible with the existing USB 2.0 ports, and it has a practical cap to protect the USB plug. This Kingston Digital 32GB Data Traveler Generation 4 has a five-year warranty, free technical support, and legendary Kingston reliability.

Samsung BAR Plus

Samsung BAR Plus is another USB 3.0 flash drive. This drive offers read speeds up to 300MB/s, so it’s perfect for large files. Despite its speed, this drive also has both a stylish and sturdy design.

Thanks to Samsung 5-Proof Technology, this drive is waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof, magnetic-proof, and X-ray-proof. The drive also has a large keyring hole, so you can easily attach it to your keychain.

Samsung BAR Plus USB 3.0 is both a stylish and durable device, and you can purchase the 128GB model on Amazon.

⇒ Check price

Kingston DataTraveler R3.0 G2

Keeping your files protected is important, and in order to do that, you’ll need a rugged USB flash drive. Kingston DataTraveler R3.0 G2 has a shock-resistant rubber casing that protects your drive from shock or dirt.

In addition, this drive is water-resistant and it can withstand water depths up to 1m for 1 hour. The drive is rather durable, and the USB 3.0 standard also provides you with fast transfer speed.

Kingston DataTraveler R3.0 G2 has 120MB/s read and 25MB/s write speed which is decent for its price. If you need more storage space, there are also 32GB and 64GB models available.

This drive is rugged and affordable and it has a decent transfer speed, so it will be perfect for any user.

⇒ Check price

Samsung MUF-64AB

The Samsung MUF-64AB 64GB flash drive helps you to get secondary, upgraded storage for your devices. It has USB 3.1 speeds and Samsung-trusted reliability.

It was designed to seamlessly stay in your device, and always be ready for use. This great flash drive has read speeds up to 300 MB/s.

Samsung’s leadership in flash memory makes the FIT Plus a trustworthy drive to store your valuable data.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C

The type-C USB connector is designed for tablets and smartphones, but some PCs use it as well. SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C flash drive is a USB 3.1 device and it offers transfer speeds of up to 150MB/s.

The device has a retractable design that will protect the USB connector at all times. Even though this is a USB 3.1 flash drive, it’s fully compatible with USB 3.0 devices.

We have to mention that this device is designed for tablets and smartphones that have a Type-C connector. If you don’t have a Type-C connector on your PC, you’ll have to use an appropriate adapter to transfer your files.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk 16GB Cruzer Glide

Now you can store and protect your data with the SanDisk Cruzer Glide USB Flash Drive. It is available in capacities of up to 256 GB.

The Cruzer Glide USB Flash Drive features an easy-to-use retractable slide-in/out design, protecting the USB connector from damage when not in use.

You can also create a private folder on your drive thanks to the SanDisk SecureAccess software. This 128-bit AES encryption software makes it easy to password-protect critical files. You only have to drag and drop the desired files into the vault, and they’ll be protected.

⇒ Check price

Micro Center SuperSpeed 5 Pack 64GB

The Micro Center USB Flash Drive is a 3.0 flash drive with read/write transfer speeds up to 70MB/s and 5MB/s respectively. It is constructed from quality components and strictly tested to offer well performance.

The memory stick’s hard plastic cover prevents rough treatment. This USB flash drive has 64GB capacity and meets your needs of daily use. 

Just plug in the thumb drive then start data storage, backup, and transfer between devices and locations. It supports Windows OS and is compatible with PC, laptops, TV, cars, Audio, etc.

⇒ Check price

Netac USB Flash Drive 32GB

The Netac USB flash drive 32GB is a reliable and secure drive, compatible with Windows 7/8/10/Vista/XP/Unix/2000/ME/NT Linux/macOS, and compatible with USB 2.0.

You only have to plug in the thumb drive, then start to transfer and store data between devices. (there is no need to install any software).

This great flash drive has a size of 58mm×19.5mm×10.8mm, and it helps keep your digital files in the mini size, but also stay with them in your pockets.

The 360° rotated design is made from stainless steel, and the interior part is made of ABS plastic.

⇒ Check price

Apricorn Aegis

If you have sensitive files on your flash drive, you’ll need to protect them properly. Apricorn Aegis is a dust and water-resistant device with an IP58 certificate.

This drive will also encrypt your files using FIPS 140-2 Level 3 and Military Grade Full-disk 256-bit AES XTS Hardware Encryption. In order to protect your files, you can set a 7-16 PIN code.

This is a USB 3.0 device, so it will offer great transfer speed. Apricorn Aegis is a durable and safe device that will protect your files from unauthorized access.

However, such a secure device isn’t affordable, and you’ll have to pay a little for an 8GB model. There are different models available with up to 480GB of storage space.

⇒ Check price

SamData 32GB USB Flash Drives 2 Pack

The great offer from SamData of 2 USB 2.0 flash drives 32GB available in 2 different colors – black and blue, to store different content.

There is no need to install any other software, you only plug in and use it. The metal clip rotates 360° around the ABS plastic body. The capless design can avoid losing the cap, and provides efficient protection for the USB port.

This great flash drive supports Windows 7 / 8 / 10 / Vista / XP / 2000 / ME / NT Linux and macOS. It is also compatible with USB 2.0 and below. 

⇒ Check price

Flash Drive 32GB 10 Pack Multicolor

Thanks to the amazing 10 Pack, multi-color 16GB flash drives you can store, organize or share data in separate USB sticks.

These flash drives are compatible with USB 2.0 and backward. There is no need to install any additional drivers to use the flash drive. It supports Win98/ME/2000/XP/Vista/7/8/10, macOS, and Linux.

This drive supports also portable speakers, and car speakers with USB 2.0 ports. It has a 360-degree spinning design and a 12-month warranty.

⇒ Check price

PNY Turbo 32GB

PNY Turbo is another USB 3.0 flash drive. This drive has a read speed of up to 115MB/s which allows you to quickly transfer your files

Just like all other USB 3.0 devices, this one is fully compatible with USB 2.0. Regarding the design, this device has a sliding collar, and you can easily attach it to any keychain or backpack.

As for compatibility, this device is compatible with both PC and Mac computers. PNY Turbo is rather affordable. There are different models available, and you can get a 256GB model on Amazon.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk iXpand

SanDisk iXpand is another USB 3.0 drive, but unlike other devices on our list, this one comes with a Lightning connector. Thanks to the Lightning connector, you can easily transfer files from your iPhone or iPad to this flash drive.

Thanks to the flexible Lightning connector you can easily connect this drive to your iOS device without removing the case. SanDisk iXpand offers amazing design and functionality, especially if you’re an iOS user.

Keep in mind that you can’t use both Lightning and USB 3.0 connectors at the same time. Although SanDisk iXpand is an amazing device, it comes with a steep price.

The basic 32GB model doesn’t cost much, and there are also 64GB and 128GB models available.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk Extreme CZ80

If SanDisk Extreme CZ80 is too expensive for you, be sure to check SanDisk Extreme. This is another USB 3.0 drive and it offers up to 245MB/s read and up to 190MB/s write speed.

This drive also comes with SanDisk SecureAccess software that will protect your files from unauthorized access.

SanDisk Extreme doesn’t have the same transfer speed and design as the Pro model, but it has an affordable price. 16GB model is very affordable and there are different models up to 128GB available.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk 128GB Ultra Fit

SanDisk 128GB Ultra Fit is a low-profile USB 3.0 flash drive. This device is so small that you can easily attach it to your laptop and completely forget about it.

Regarding the transfer speed, this device offers up to 130MB/s read speed. It writes up to 15X faster than standard USB 2.0 drives.

In addition to its compact design, this device is rather affordable, and you can get a 32GB model on Amazon.

⇒ Check price

Kingston SE9 G2

Kingston Digital Data Traveler SE9 G2 is another USB 3.0 flash drive and just like all other flash drives, it offers high transfer speed. This device is compact, and it comes with a capless design along with a ring key.

In addition, Data Traveler SE9 G2 has a sleek metal casing that will protect it from drops and shocks. There are several models available, ranging from 8GB to 128GB, and the 64GB model.

Kingston Digital Data Traveler SE9 G2 is a fast, durable, sleek flash drive with affordable prices, so it’s perfect for almost any basic user.

⇒ Check price

Patriot Supersonic Rage 2

Patriot Supersonic Rage 2 is one of the fastest USB flash drives on our list. This drive offers up to 400MB/s read and up to 200MB/s write speed.

The device has a durable rubber capless design that will protect your drive from accidental drops or spills.

⇒ Check price

ADATA S102 Pro

ADATA Superior Series S102 Pro is a USB 3.0 flash drive, but unlike other drives on the list, it offers slightly lower speeds. This device offers 90MB/s read and 25MB/s write speed, which is lower compared to other models on our list.

We have to mention that the speed changes according to the model, and models with higher capacity offer higher transfer speeds.

Regarding the models, there are several available ranging from 8GB to 256GB. All models have aluminum housing and a titanium color finish, which makes them somewhat durable.

If you’re looking for an affordable USB flash drive and speed isn’t your main priority, ADATA Superior Series S102 Pro might be perfect for you.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk Ultra Flair

SanDisk Ultra Flair comes with a sleek durable metal casing that will protect your files from accidental drops. This is a USB 3.0 device and it offers read speeds of up to 150MB/s.

This drive comes with SanDisk SecureAccess Software that offers 128-bit encryption for your files. The drive offers from 16GB to 128GB storage, and 128GB and is rather affordable.

SanDisk Ultra Flair offers decent speed, solid design, and a great price, so it’s perfect for any basic user.

⇒ Check price

SanDisk Ultra OTG

SanDisk Ultra OTG is another USB 3.0 flash drive with support for OTG devices. Using this device you can transfer files from your PC to any Android device with OTG support.

Regarding the speed, this flash drive has a 130MB/s file transfer speed. With both standard USB and micro-USB connectors available, you can easily use this device on your PC or on your Android device.

There are 3 models available, 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB.

⇒ Check price

SAMSUNG Duo Plus 32GB

This is another USB 3.0 flash drive with OTG support which makes this drive perfect for your Android device.

Samsung Flash Drive Duo Plus comes with a metallic design that offers water, shock, and temperature protection.

The device has a standard USB connector on one side and micro-USB on another, so it will work on your PC and on any Android device that supports OTG, and file transfer speeds up to 200MB/s.

If you need more storage space, you might be interested in 64GB or 128GB models.

⇒ Check price

Choosing the best flash drive isn’t an easy task, especially if you take different factors such as speed, design, and price into consideration.

These are some of the best USB flash drives, and we hope that you’ll find a suitable device for you on our list.

No Sound When Screen Recording on Windows 10: How to Fix It

Recording sound on a computer is an essential function we take for granted due to its simplicity. This, plus the availability of some of the best voice and sound recording apps on Windows 10 makes the process seamless.

However, configuring and troubleshooting it cannot be accessible when it doesn’t work out of the box. Users have faced problems recording sound in every version of Windows or any other operating system. And Windows 10 is no exception.

Today we’ll go through some easy ways to quickly fix this issue on your device.

Why does my screen recording have no sound on Windows 10?

A number of factors may trigger issues with the Windows voice recorder. On the top of the list, we have the following factors:

  • Outdated device drivers – A simple update will fix the error in this case.
  • Wrongly configured settings – If the voice recorder is not working on Windows 10/11, it might be because you have not enabled the recording device you want to use.
  • Microphone levels – If these are not properly set, the mic may not pick up sound properly. You should adjust these settings too.
  • Disabled audio recording permission – You should as well enable this to ensure the system can record.

You can effectively fix this by updating your drivers with a dedicated tool. However, no matter the cause, we have prepared the surefire ways to improve it in this guide.

How to fix the Windows voice recorder not working?

1. Enable microphone/recording device

    If your computer uses more than one recording device, some of them might be disabled. This might lead to the Windows recorder not working issue.

    1. Right-click the sound icon on the Taskbar and Sounds.
    sounds option windows voice recorder not working
  1. 2. Click the Recording tab at the top.

    recording
  2. 3. Right-click your recording device and select Enable.

    enable

2. Update your drivers

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
    manager windows voice recorder not working
  2. Click the arrow next to the Sound, video, and game controllers option to expand it.
    sound and video
  3. Right-click the driver there and select Update driver.
    update driver
  4. Select the Search automatically for drivers option.
    search automatically windows voice recorder not working
  5. Wait for the scan to complete and install the available updates.

Drivers are the pieces of software that help the OS communicate with the hardware components and are usually the first thing to check. Using the built-in updater is a reliable method of updating the drivers in most cases.

If this fails, you’ll need to download them from the manufacturers’ website. You’ll usually find a Support or Download section where you’ll find the latest drivers.

We highly recommend a professional tool to download all outdated drivers to your PC automatically. This type of tool helps you find the right driver updates and automatically installs them.

3. Grant audio recording permission

  1. Press the Windows key + I to launch the Settings app.
  2. Select the Privacy option.
    privacy option windows voice recorder not working
  3. Choose Microphone in the left pane.
    microphone
  4. Toggle the switch for Allow apps to access your microphone forward to enable it.
    allowwindows voice recorder not working
  5. Now, you can scroll down to control the apps that can access your microphone.
    choose which

The privacy option gives more control over the data you share and how you, and other users, access the installed hardware. One of them is the option to grant access to the microphone or not.

If this privacy feature is disabled, you might face the Windows voice recorder not working issue.

4. Adjust microphone levels

  1. Right-click the sound icon on your Taskbar and choose the Sounds option.
    sounds option windows voice recorder not working
  2. Click the Recording tab at the top.
    recording
  3. Now, right-click the recording device you have plugged in and select Properties.
    properties
  4. Switch the Levels tab and make the necessary changes.
    levels

Each device has input and output levels which can be adjusted depending on your needs. For example, you can effectively fix the Windows voice recorder issue by setting the sound level correctly.

5. Select the correct recording device

  1. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 in the previous solution.
  2. Right-click on your recording device.
  3. Now, choose Set as Default Device.
    set as default
  4. Finally, click the Apply button, followed by OK.

If you have multiple recording devices installed on your machine, Windows might not know which one to use, and you’ll have to select it manually as the default recording device.

This will let Windows know which of the installed devices you want to use and make it the default one for all situations.

If you switch between recording devices, like the microphone and stereo mix, you’ll have to change it each time you want to use one or the other.

6. Try a different recorder application

Sound recording applications are a dime a dozen, and some can work differently from others. However, the fact that one of them doesn’t work for you doesn’t mean that all of them won’t work, and sometimes the problem might be with the application and not with your PC.

Depending on how they connect to the recording device, some applications might also need to be updated to work with recent versions of Windows.

Before you look for faults in your system, you might want to try a different recording application. A good choice is WavePad since it’s got all the professional features you require.

WavePad has many audio editing and recording features. You can use it to restore audio, reduce noise, sample single voices, and more.

⇒ Get WavePad

7. Run the built-in audio troubleshooter

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Select Update & Security.
    update and security windows voice recorder not working
  3. Choose Troubleshoot in the left pane.
    troubleshoot
  4. Click the Additional troubleshooters option.
    additional troubleshooters
  5. Select Recording Audio.
    recording audio option windows voice recorder not working
  6. Finally, click the Run the troubleshooter button and follow the onscreen instructions.
    run trouble

If you still can’t record sound on Windows 10, try running Microsoft’s dedicated audio recording troubleshooter. This tool automatically detects and repairs audio issues that may prevent you from recording sound on your computer.

8. Clean boot your computer

  1. Press the Windows key + R, type msconfig, and click OK.
    msconfig
  2. Uncheck the Load startup items under Selective startup.
  3. Click the Services tab at the top.
    serrvices load windows voice recorder not working
  4. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services and click the Disable all button.
    hide all
  5. Now, click the Startup tab at the top.
  6. Select, Open Task Manager.
    open manager
  7. From here, right-click each of the startup programs and select Disable.
    disable windows voice recorder not working
  8. Now, go back to the System Configuration window and click Apply, followed by OK.
    apply ok

If certain apps and programs are preventing you from recording audio on your computer, try performing a clean boot. Placing your machine in Clean Boot allows you to identify any third-party apps causing this problem.

How do I enable audio recording on Windows 10?

  1. Get the Windows Voice Recorder from the Microsoft Store if you don’t have it.
    get button
  2. Press the Windows button and type voice recorder.
  3. Select the top result to open the recorder app.
    search windows voice recorder not working
  4. Finally, click the record button, and you can start recording with your recording device.
    use record

There you have it: A list of the best solutions to fix the Windows voice recorder not working issue. With this, we believe you should be able to resolve the issue for good.

Note icon NOTE
If the Windows voice recorder is not working on Windows 11, you might need to enable the recording device before using it.
Another solution to try is to run the audio recording troubleshooter. We have shown how to do all these in the above solutions list, plus more.

Do you need a list of the best vocal recording software you can use today? Then, check our excellent guide for the top picks available.

If you re-record audio, use the comments below to tell us which solution worked for you.

Forge Installer not Opening: Fix This Minecraft Issue Now

The Minecraft Forge modding API and loader provides players with new ways to play Minecraft. However, some players have reported in forums that the Minecraft Forge installer is not opening on their system.

Some of those cite a Forge install error message that states, These libraries failed to download. And being unable to install Java Minecraft Forge affects the whole experience.

So, let’s find out why Forge is not installing on your PC and the solutions that worked for most users.

Why cant I install Forge?

Note that Forge only works for the Java version of Minecraft. So, the Forge installer would not be working for the Minecraft MS Store app.

Also, if you are using an outdated version of Java, the Forge installer won’t open. Even using a version released very recently can also lead to issues owing to the presence of bugs in it.

The best way is to uninstall Java, and then use the version recommended by Forge when downloading it.

Also, the antivirus or firewall on your computer may be behind Minecraft Forge not installing. Disabling them should do the trick.

Lastly, if the Forge installer opens and then closes, check whether you have provided administrative privileges, i.e., are running it as an administrator.

How do I install Forge 2022?

  1. Head to the download page then hit the Installer button.installer-minecraft minecraft forge not working
  2. Next, press the Skip button in the top right corner then wait for the file to download.skip minecraft forge not working
  3. Simply opening the installer that you downloaded will start the process of installing the software. Make sure that the Install Client option is still selected.
  4. Launch Minecraft and make sure the profile is set to forge when it asks you. When the game loads, you will see that there is a new Mods option available at the beginning of the experience.
  5. You will now have access to the Mods folder, and you can use Minecraft Forge to add all of your preferred mods to the game.

How do I fix Forge installer error?

1. Update Minecraft Java to the latest version

  1. Open your Minecraft Launcher app.
  2. Click the drop-down menu to the left of the Play button.
    Minecraft Launcher minecraft forge not installing windows 10
  3. Then select Latest release on the menu to update the game.
  4. When you’re sure your Minecraft game is the latest version, download the latest Forge version from the official website.

The Forge version you download and try to install must match your current Minecraft Java game version. To verify, check Minecraft’s version at the bottom-left corner of its menu screen.

2. Restart your internet router

To restart (not reset) your router, simply unplug the cable from the back of it. Wait for about 10-20 seconds, and then plug the router back in.

Wait for about five minutes for all the router’s lights to come back on. Then try installing Minecraft Forge again.

3. Reinstall Java

    If the Minecraft Forge installer is not opening in Windows 11, an effective solution would be to reinstall Java. Oftentimes, corruption or problems with the app can lead to issues, and reinstalling is the only viable fix.

    1. Press Windows + R to open the Run command, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click OK.
    appwiz.cpl to fix minecraft forge installer not opening
  1. 2. Next, select Java from the list of programs, and click Uninstall.

    uninstall to fix minecraft forge installer not opening
  2. 3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

  3. 4. Restart Windows for the changes to come into effect.

  4. 5. Open the Java download page in a browser and click Download Java button.

    download java
  5. 6. Once done, launch the Java installer package and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

4. Uninstall Minecraft completely

Uninstalling Minecraft and reinstalling the latest game version could do the trick for some players. You can thoroughly uninstall Minecraft with IObit Uninstaller.

That’s a highly-rated third-party uninstaller tool that can eradicate all leftover residual files for Minecraft along with the game.

Whatever software you need to remove, you’ll find CCleaner to be an invaluable tool. With it, you can remove Windows updates, browser toolbars and extensions, and UWP apps.

It is also worth noting that manual removal of Minecraft is rarely 100 percent effective.

As a result, we recommend that you use specialized remover software, such as the CCleaner uninstaller and cleaning program.

CCleaner is a valuable software for cleaning the system of temporary and unwanted files as well as resolving registry issues, making it ideal for completely removing Minecraft for a clean reinstall.

Find Minecraft in the list and click on it once to highlight it. Then, on the right, click the Uninstall option, and the operation will begin; simply wait for it to finish, then restart your PC and reinstall Minecraft if desired.

Therefore, with this reliable uninstaller tool, you will erase even the most stubborn apps or programs out there in just a few clicks.

CCleaner

Clean your PC of junk files and incompatibilities with a simple scan.

5. Disable Windows Defender Firewall

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Search menu, enter Windows Defender Firewall in the text field, and click on the relevant search result.windows defender firewall
  2. Click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off on the left.turn off
  3. Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall option for both Private network settings and Public network settings, and then click on OK to save the changes.disable

Once done, try installing Minecraft Forge with the firewall disabled, and verify if the Forge 1.8.9 installer is not working. If that’s the case, head to the next method.

Also, whether the fix works or not, make sure to re-enable Firewall after you are done trying since it’s a critical protection tool, and disabling it is not advisable.

6. Install Minecraft Forge via PowerShell

  1. Press Windows + E to open the File Explorer, and navigate to the folder that stores the Minecraft Forge installer file.
  2. Right-click the Minecraft Forge installer file, select Rename, and then enter forge.JAR.
  3. Hold the Space key, right-click anywhere within the folder that includes the forge.JAR file and select Open PowerShell window here.
  4. Next, input the PowerShell command and press Enter:java -Xnx2G -jar forge.jar
    PowerShell minecraft forge not installing windows 10

That’s it! If Minecraft Forge installer was not opening earlier, it should now. In case the error persits, head to the last method.

7. Reset Windows

Resetting Windows 10 might seem a bit drastic, but some users have confirmed doing so can fix Minecraft Forge installation issues. However, you will need to reinstall the software previously installed on the computer after resetting Windows 10.

Also, if you are running the latest iteration of the OS, here’s how you can reset Windows 11 to its factory settings.

After you are done resettings the OS, the install process should go through, and you would now be able to tell others how to install Minecraft Forge, and help them troubleshoot issues with it.

How do I install mods without Forge?

While you would require Forge to use most mods, there are other applications that too work well. One of the most prominently used ones is Fabric, an effective mod loader.

Many users rely on Fabric instead of Forge for its simple design and high-performance. So, if you can’t find out how to download Forge on Windows 10, Fabric will come to your rescue.

So, these are some of the best ways to fix things when Minecraft Forge installer is not opening in Windows. The methods would work if Forge verion 1.12 is not installing.

Also, find out how to install Minecraft on Windows, and steer clear of errors.

Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.

Steam Not Enough Disk Space: How to Fix

Steam is one of the most popular digital distribution platforms in the world. One of the most common issues users have reported is the Not enough disk space error.

It often appears when trying to download a game, even though there was plenty of space on the computer. Fortunately, there are a lot of solutions to this problem, and today we will go through them.

Why does it say I don’t have enough disk space when running Steam?

From user experience, we have observed that a few elements may trigger this problem. On top of the list are the following:

  • A full or almost full disk – This annoying issue will probably appear when your hard drive is almost full or already full. In these terms, you won’t be able to save or properly use large files on this drive. You might consider getting additional storage.
  • Problems with the cache – There are chances that the cache is full or corrupted.
  • Partial game download – Some errors may have led to the partial game file download making any new attempt at downloading the file trigger this error message.
  • Corrupted game files – If the downloaded files are corrupted, it may trigger this error.

Note that software like CCleaner is great for cleaning download residue. It analyzes your PC and recommends quick fixes, then automatically tunes and updates it, so it starts and runs faster and is more secure. Plus, keep in mind that outdated apps are a security risk.

Old systems and devices can have vulnerabilities, which can be discovered and shared amongst cybercriminals, but CCleaner updates your software automatically to close security holes before they can be found.

How do I fix Not enough disk space on Steam?

Before trying any of the solutions recommended in this guide:

  • We recommend a system reboot. A restart can reboot certain processes and fix simple computer issues.

1. Run Steam as an administrator

  1. Right-click on the Steam icon on your desktop, then navigate to Properties.
  2. Click on the Compatibility tab, then check the Run this program as an administrator box.
  3. Select the Apply button, then the OK button.

2. Clear Steam Download cache

  1. Press on the Windows key, type Steam, then navigate to the first result.
  2. From the top-left window corner, click on Steam.
  3. Now, go to Settings.
  4. In the left panel, choose Downloads.
  5. Look at the bottom of the window, then click on the Clear Download Cache button.
  6. Restart Steam, log in with your credentials, and start the game download.

It’s possible that some of the files that the app’s cache are incomplete, corrupted, or take too much memory, so if there is not enough disk space on Steam, the best solution is to clear the cache.

Also, if you have slow download speeds on Steam, you can easily fix the problem by following our dedicated guide.

3. Repair Steam Library files

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then open the app.
  2. From the top-left corner of the window, select Steam.
  3. Now, navigate to Settings.
  4. From the left panel, choose Downloads.
  5. In the Content Libraries section, click on Steam Library Folders.
  6. A new Steam Library Folders window should appear. Right-click on the Steam Registry C:Program Files (x86) Steam and select Repair Library Folder.
  7. Once the process is finished, restart Steam, log in with your credentials and start the game download again.

4. Verify the integrity of game files

  1. Hit the Windows key, type Steam, then navigate to the first result.
  2. In the main menu, go to Library.
  3. Find the game that’s of interest to you, right-click it, and choose Properties.
  4. Select the Local files tab.
  5. Now, click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  6. Restart Steam, log in with your credentials, and continue the game download.

The Steam Library is where all your games are, and sometimes it’s not configured correctly. Additionally, you can verify the integrity of the game files:

5. Delete the partially downloaded file

  1. Use the following keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
  2. Navigate to Task Manager.
  3. Find all the Steam services that are running and click on End task for each of them.steam not enough disk space
  4. Go to your Steam directory following the path below:
    C:Program Files (x86)Steam
    steam not enough disk space
  5. Go to the Steamapps folder and then downloading folder, then locate and delete the folder causing the problems. You can identify it by the application ID.
  6. Restart your PC, log in to Steam with your credentials and continue the game download.

If the download was interrupted by an error, the files are incomplete, thus creating a Steam conflict. To fix this, follow the above steps.

If you can’t delete the folder, you might have made it read-only. To fix it, do the following:

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, right-click on the result, then choose to Run as an administrator.
  2. In the cmd window, type the following scripts followed by Enter after each one.
    cd c:/program files (x86)/Steam
    attrib -r /S *.*
  3. This should make your folder R/W again, and you should be able to delete it.

If you do not have enough disk space on Steam, the fastest way to solve the issue is to clear the Steam download cache.

In most cases, incomplete or corrupted files are triggering the error. If that doesn’t work, repair your Steam library files and delete the partially downloaded game.

We hope that one of these solutions solved your problem. If you have any more questions or know other ways to solve the disk space issue on Steam, reach for the comments section below, and we’ll be sure to check it out.

Top 5 Best Software for Blue Yeti Microphones in 2026

Blue Yeti is one of the most popular microphone brands in the world and for a good reason. This incredible piece of engineering helps you capture even the finest sound details.

If you’re planning to buy a new Blue Yeti microphone but you don’t know what software to use with this device, you’re in the right place.

Such a microphone is trusted by most content creators because it provides sound quality to be heard. So regardless of your domain, you can perform incredible content with the right software on your game streaming, music, podcasts, and others.

In case you want to grow an online community and offer distinguished recording quality, you can use Blue mics and expand your audience on YouTube, Twitch, or other social media.

Using a state-of-the-art microphone such as Blue Yeti also requires using advanced audio recording and editing software.

Read this article to learn what are the best tools to use with your Blue Yeti microphone.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product/offers you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

What is the best software for Blue Yeti microphones?

Now let’s take an in-depth look at every app and its unique features.

Adobe Audition – Best compatibility with your mic

Adobe Audition platform

Blue Yeti mics are well-known around the world for their high standards in terms of quality and sound. Thus, you couldn’t just use any audio software tool since most of the hardware’s potential would be wasted.

However, that won’t be the case if you decide to use your Blue Yeti mics in conjunction with Adobe Audition.

This digital audio workstation not only features a multitrack, non-destructive mix and edit environment, but it also comes with a destructive-approach waveform editing view.

This allows you to perform any task with your high-performance microphone, while also letting you tweak the effects in real-time, or make remixes afterward.

More so, the audio files resulted can then be exported into other Adobe products easily, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, or Adobe After Effects.

Here are some of the benefits of using Adobe Audition with your Blue Yeti mics:

  • Features some of the best restoration and repair tools among all audio editors
  • Efficient at removing noise from audio recordings
  • Comes with an abundance of sound effects
  • Features batch processing capabilities
  • Can be tested for free for 7 days

Adobe Audition

Create, record, and design sound effects with this professional editing tool.
Free Trial Visit Website

FL Studio – Works great for musicians

Another professional tool designed for musicians is FL Studio. This great option lets you use the full capacity of Blue Yeti mics and capture the sound entirely. Be it voice recording or work video calls, you can enjoy complex services to better transmit any sound.

This software is undoubtedly a matching choice for any artist who needs to record his music. If you are a singer or a guitarist in dire need of qualitative music production, you can rely on FL Studio’s capacities.

By choosing this solution you have access to music production instruments, like the mixer setup. That contains up-to-date features including advanced automation, sidechain control, delay compensation, or audio sends. 

Elements sequence or piano roll are other leading-industry traits of the software. It offers complete DAW support and a very user-friendly browser in order to boost your music projects. 

Plus, this digital audio workstation includes a great variety of editing tools, such as drums beats or other instrument effects, to personalize your tracks and deliver full-hearted music for the audience. 

Here are some of the benefits of using FL Studio: 

  • Complete effects to manipulate sounds 
  • Instruments effects and sounds 
  • Visual features and video add-ons 
  • Infinite library of sounds and beats 
  • Unlimited free trial period 

FL Studio

Take your music to the highest peak today with FL Studio for complex music production.
Check price Visit Website

PreSonus Studio One – Awesome tool for podcasts

PreSonus Studio One is one of the best choices when it comes to Blue Yeti-compatible audio software.

This program allows you to record excellent professional vocals that will definitely impress your listeners. Whether you create podcasts or record music, Presonus Studio One is always up to the task.

There are many custom templates for voice-overs, podcasts, and music that you can choose from.  Thanks to all these features, you can increase your productivity and create professional content.

You can use your Blue Yeti microphone and Presonus Studio One to record single-person speeches, multi-person interviews, music jams, and more.

Hence have a try this professional audio recording tool and fully benefit from studio sound quality, perfect for music recording and editing.

⇒ Get Presonus Studio One

Audacity – One of the most popular on the market

Audacity is a name that doesn’t need any introduction. This tool has been around for long enough to prove its usefulness.

You can use Audacity to record podcasts or interviews, mix audio, convert old recordings into digital recordings, and more. It also features a series of advanced effects that you can rarely find in free software.

If you need a functionality that’s not included in the standard version, you can simply install a plugin and use the respective feature.

To enable the microphone, go to Edit > select Preferences then select Devices. Go to Interface and select Host: MME, then go to Playback and Recording and select Yeti Stereo Microphone as your device.

When the Mute button on the Yeti microphone is solid red and not blinking, you can hit the Record button.

Also, make sure to use a project rate between 44100 to 48000 Hz. You can also go to Effects and enable the Noise Reduction feature. Click on the ‘Get noise profile’ option and hit OK to improve audio quality.

You can also go to Effects > Equalization > Bass Boost to add a bit of extra bass to your audio recording. These settings may vary depending on your needs and the purpose of your audio recording.

⇒ Get Audacity

Blue Sherpa – Easy-to-use interface

Blue Sherpa is a free software designed for Blue Yeti mic to unlock advanced vocal broadcast effects and access firmware settings. So you can manage stunning Blue mics on this panel with Logitech G Hub software

Assuming you perform some kind of content creation and need a professional sound, you also might need all-rounded software to manage your recordings. Using this audio tool, you only have to press record and do your job.

If you always wanted to reach a wider audience and share valuable thoughts, it’s no problem for this software to offer any sound requirements, whether you need it for gaming recording, streaming, YouTube videos, or singing videos.

Moreover, this type of activity requires great technical support, audio, and video, meaning that you should treat your viewers kindly and let them hear clearly while you are talking or explaining a topic.

Besides that, this recording mic and software provide superior quality for professional life, like video calls for work meetings or online school classes.

That being said, this choice is most probably your way to success due to the rewarding audio results. Therefore download it for free and manage multiple Blue mics so easily.

⇒ Get Blue Sherpa

VB-Audio Voicemeeter – Best for gamers & voice mixing

VB-Audio Voicemeeter allows you to adapt the sound recorded using your Blue Yeti microphone in real time. This software is perfect for mixing voice and video game audio.

The tool supports the following audio formats: MME, Direct-X, KS, WaveRT, WASAPI, and ASIO.

Of course, you can also use VB-Audio Voicemeeter to mix your voice with your music on social media as well as broadcast your live podcast.

If you’re a teacher and you want to create education programs, you can also use the 2x USB headset on your computer.

This feature is very helpful especially when it comes to creating tutorials using your own audio/video recording software.

VB-Audio Voicemeeter also supports multichannel conference and interview recording features. You can then use the respective audio recording for post-production tasks.

⇒ Get VB-Audio Voicemeeter

There you go, these are the best audio recording and editing tools that you can use with your Blue Yeti mike.

If you’ve used other audio programs that you think we should include in this list, just drop us a line in the comments below.

Cyber Monday: What To Expect, Start Date & Early Deals

The viral Black Friday and Cyber Monday events for 2022 aren’t officially starting until the last weekend of November. That being said, we’re already seeing great deals appearing earlier than initially predicted.

Most retailers are so keen to start this year’s sales that we can think about starting our holiday shopping earlier.

This means you can snipe incredible bargains from Walmart, Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and many online stores eager to offer you the deal of the year.

And we’re not just talking about hardware here. Sure, we would like a new laptop, console, or tablet, the strongest PC available, or the latest VR headset.

But what about all the software out there that is also on sale? You should keep an eye out for games or apps you want.

When is Black Friday 2022?

Black Friday this year will fall on the 25th of November. Knowing this info means there isn’t much time left to take advantage of sales even before the official period starts.

However, the reality is that retailers have been anticipating the hype and launching Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals earlier.

Black Friday appears to have unofficially started earlier than ever, with several significant retailers already offering massive deals. 

While many retailers will indeed save their most exciting deals for the official Black Friday weekend, in the US, Amazon has launched advance Black Friday deals.

Best Buy is also promising excellent Black Friday prices, while Walmart is offering Black Friday Preview deals.

So we must prepare our credit cards for this massive event because surely people will be flooding the shop floors. This statement applies even more than usual, as the COVID pandemic no longer restricts us.

How can you spot the best possible deals?

With many retailers participating and many products at reduced prices, finding the best possible deal seems daunting.

Indeed, you can find your favorite product with a 15% discount; But how can you be sure that it is a bargain you’re getting?

An excellent idea would be to make a list of exactly what you want to buy. After this task is completed, you can check the current price, and you’ll surely recognize a good deal.

You can start checking which stores stock the products you’re after. This makes it easier to know precisely where to check when the sales start rolling.

Will next-gen consoles be cheaper on Black Friday?

Going on the hunt for your favorite gaming console, no matter if Microsoft or Sony makes it, will still be a daunting task in the 2022 Black Friday bonanza.

To dive deeper into this subject and see what console fits our pocket’s depth this year, let’s cover each of them.

Is the PS5 in stock?

Even though the PS5 console has been regularly sold out on most retailers’ websites constantly, we can safely state that you will be able to find a PS5 console for yourself this year if you take advantage of Black Friday.

One way of securing a PS5 for yourself this year would be to pick one of the incredible bundles available at online retailers:

BundlesWalmartAmazonBestBuyTarget
PS5 Console – God of War Ragnarök BundleLinkLinkLinkLink
PS5 Digital Edition – Horizon Forbidden West BundleLinkLinkLinkLink
PS5 bundles for Black Friday 2022

It seems that the PS5 bundles are the first to get re-stocked, but they keep flying off the shelves, so check all the stores presented above for the best deal.

Is the Xbox Series X in stock?

The same principles described in the PS5 section also apply to this product, as people have been fighting to get their hands on the Xbox Series X models since they came out.

Considering how fast these latest consoles are being sold, finding a suitable offer should be enough for you to pull the trigger and buy it as quickly as possible.

Here are the offers we could find online for this product:

However, that doesn’t mean there won’t be even better Black Friday Xbox PlayStation 5 or Series X deals, so check these links constantly.

We should see plenty of sales on games, controllers, and accessories, and we could also potentially see some discounts on the previous generation consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4.

But you don’t necessarily have to wait until then, as some of these accessories we mentioned have already gone on sale; yes, we’re talking games, controllers, and headphones ready for the taking at lower prices.

Laptops already went on sale, and it’s not even Black Friday yet

We’ve not even reached November, and dozens of laptop deals are already ahead of Black Friday.

Retailers are so keen to start this year’s sales that we can already bring you many excellent early offers should you be ready to buy a new portable PC today.

Whether you want a Windows laptop, a Chromebook, or a MacBook, there’s plenty to choose from.

We’re already seeing some early Black Friday laptop deals landing right now. Best Buy and Walmart launched early offers last week, with significantly reduced prices for this year’s Black Friday event.

Certain items in the sale can be registered if you’re a member, and the retailer will refund you the difference if the price drops any further over the holiday season. 

Lenovo also jumpstarts its Black Friday sales early, joining its fellow retailers in this race to provide cheaper products this time of the year.

While their website promises the usual doorbuster specials around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it also pays to look at the company’s website. You might be surprised to see that some future discounts are already available.

Software is also on early sale before Black Friday

Of course, not only hardware goes on sale during this time of year, and most of you know this because you took advantage of these offers in previous years.

We’ve seen Adobe knock significant percentages of their creative suites and other products in the last few years, and we can expect the same in 2022.

But we’re not just talking about them; indeed, all companies will want a slice of the pie and will provide their customers with inciting discounts.

You can buy anything you want for a lower price, including VPNs like:

VPNOffer
Private Internet Access (PIA)Link
NordVPNLink
CyberGhost VPNLink
SurfSharkLink
ExpressVPN for GamingLink

The same principles apply to antivirus software which is sure to keep your system protected online while also ensuring that no third parties would ever have access to your private information and content:

AntivirusOffer
Eset AntivirusLink
Intego AVLink
BitDefenderLink
VipreLink
PandaLink

Photo and video editing software like Corel, Adobe Photoshop, and Movavi Video Editor are also great investment choices if you’re interested. There are plenty of other software types to keep an eye out for.

But these are just some of the pre-Black Friday deals you will be able to find, so expanding your search could result in some pleasant results.

What will the best Black Friday gaming deals be?

Massive amounts typically cut prices for headsets, keyboards, hard drives, and other peripherals during the sale. This makes it the best time to grab anything you’ve had your eye on.

But that doesn’t mean that you can’t already find some goodies on the internet. All you need to know is what to search for and where to look.

Razer, for example, has all kinds of different products on the go at any moment. As you might have assumed already, the price reductions have already begun here.

If you want to get your hands on a Razer Black Widow Elite keyboard, a Deathadder Elite gaming mouse, or a state-of-the-art gaming laptop, now’s your chance.

And many other retailers have similar deals, so all you need to do is wish for something, search for it, and buy it if the price is right.

Video games are also on sale this time of the year, even before the much-anticipated Black Friday event.

Simply accessing shops on Steam, Epic Games, Blizzard’s BattleNet, Xbox, or the PlayStation Store will find deals that are hard to resist, considering the knocked-off percentage.

You might also want to stop at GameStop, which has already started discounting products. For example, Microsoft’s Flight Simulator for Xbox Series X also went on sale ahead of Black Friday.

The list is long, so it’s worth searching for your favorite games to see if they are already discounted.

What are some of the retailers worth watching this Black Friday?

As always, people will stick to the retailers that gave them awesome deals in the past, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying something new.

Amazon, Best Buy, Verizon, Home Depot, Target, and Walmart are some of the biggest and the ones people have grown accustomed to.

But it’s also worth checking out manufacturer websites, not only retailers, as you have even better chances of finding the best deals and saving some money.

Remember that Black Friday is a global event, and everyone will want to get in on the action, so all you have to do is find the offer you like most and act on it.

But you better be quick because stocks usually vanish rapidly during Black Friday, so creating a wishlist or pre-loading your online cart would also be a good idea.

What product have you set your eyes on for the year’s Black Friday? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

Email Finder Software: 9 Best We Tested in 2026

Email is still a crucial method of reaching and communicating in this day and age, even with the existence of social media and other newer forms of getting in touch. And an email finder software would provide you with the perfect start.

One simple email can open up a plethora of opportunities or even new business – small or big – as you quickly and easily email contact with an inquiry, prospecting, sales, or other information. So, if you plan on using one, here are the best email finder software tools to use today!

How can email finder software help my business?

An email finder software can be a powerful tool for any business that wants to reach out to potential customers, partners, or influencers. Here are some ways it can help your business:

  • Lead generation – It can help you find email addresses of potential customers, partners, or influencers that you can reach out to. This can generate leads and grow your business.
  • Outreach – You can reach out to prospects via email and send personalized emails, newsletters, or promotional emails to a targeted audience.
  • Marketing campaigns – Email marketing is one of the most effective ways to reach your target audience. With these tools, you can create and run targeted email marketing campaigns.
  • Sales – It can help you find the email addresses of potential clients, customers, or partners that you can reach out to and close deals.
  • Networking – The software can help you find the email addresses of professionals in your industry, which can help you build relationships and expand your network.

Now that you know how it can be effective for growing your business, let’s know what the best ones are.

What is the best email finding software?

GrowMeOrganic – Simply the best

GrowMeOrganic

GrowMeOrganic is an all-in-one sales prospecting and cold outreach platform. Unlike other tools, GrowMeOrganic offers unlimited credits on all its features. With GrowMeOrganic, you can find emails of your potential customers from platforms like LinkedIn and Google My Business and a pre-built database of 575M+ verified professionals and over 30M+ Companies.

GrowMeOrganic provides several features that benefit your email marketing services or campaigns. It can also be used to extract emails from LinkedIn and Business contacts. The perfect application that is most beneficial is used for marketing, business, and email automation. 

To prevent bounces, every email is SMTP validated. Real-time email id generation ensures the highest accuracy, up to 99%. Using this email lookup tool, you may search this database to discover and confirm your prospect’s contact details, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and other profile information.

To personalize and schedule follow-ups, send cold email campaigns. Small, medium-sized, and large businesses use the software. GrowMeOrganic is excellent for specialized searches and allows mass searches and bulk exports. Enter a company’s URL into the tool to start using, and it will return a list of emails associated with that business.

You can simplify your searches with the help of a Chrome extension. You can search for email addresses using GrowMeOrganic by entering a person’s full name and the URL or name of the organization where they are employed. Also, you can type the right keyword on the LinkedIn platform to get the contact detail of your prospect. Using the 14 days free trial period, you’ll get an overview of the dashboard of GrowMeOrganic.

The price range varies from the Basic Starter pack, $39 per month; Intermediate and StartupGrowth pack, $79 per month (unlimited credits); Mega and Expert Pro pack, $159 per month (unlimited credits).

Some key features of this tool are:

  • Allows you to search for emails based on the domain name of an organization
  • Verifies each email address using SMTP validation, reducing the risk of bounced emails
  • Lets you schedule and automate follow-up emails, which increases the response rate
  • Provides detailed reporting and analytics to track the performance of email campaigns

GrowMeOrganic

If you’re looking for professional email finder software, GrowMeOrganic is the best choice.
Check price Visit Website

Hunter – Quick and straightforward

Hunter email finder software

Hunter, previously Email Hunter, is a popular email finder software that lets you find and access a person’s email address in the simplest way possible.

his tool crawls the interwebs to find any publicly available information, whether they’re emails or other contact information, and stores it, then inspects domains of the identified target.

The finder then returns to the database and matches your search with the closest pattern to what is mostly used by the company. It also undergoes the Simple Mail Transfer Protocol to verify that it is a legitimate email address.

Hunter also has a Chrome extension to help you find a specific email address and gives you a confidence score on the same, relating to the information that’s publicly available on the email of the domain you’re comparing with.

It shows the sources of the data available on the web and allows you to find another person from the same company with the strongest used pattern.

Features include an email verifier, bulk search, add-on for Google Sheets, connection to apps such as Zapier, Hubspot, Zoho, and Pipe Drive, among other mail trackers which show who opens your emails, and 150 free trial credits for monthly searches.

It is fast, simple, easy to use, and good for domain-specific emails. Still, its free use is limited and not helpful when searching for personal email addresses from providers like Gmail, Yahoo, and others.

Here are the most important features of this email-finding tool:

  • Allows you to create & send email campaigns directly from its platform
  • Enables you to search for all email addresses associated with a particular domain name
  • Can enrich your lead data by providing additional information, including job titles, company size & more
  • Enables developers to integrate its email-finding capabilities into their applications and tools

Hunter

Hunter is a complex email finder, but it’s also one of the easiest ones to use. It’s also extremely fast and effective.
Check price Visit Website

LeadGibbon – Everything available in one click

This email finder software helps you find verified email addresses in just one click. The process is as simple as running lead searches directly from the Sales Navigator, which lets you search for title, industry, location, company size, or other categories.

Once you find what you need, click the LeadGibbon sidebar and generate verified email addresses.

You can export the data from your search to Google Sheets, complete with the person’s name, title, email, company, location, industry, and more.

The search process is made possible owing to LeadGibbon’s extension and huge database, which produces the best match (displayed in green, signifying a 99 percent probability of being correct), and a yellow check mark if it is 75 percent accurate.

This software can extract unlimited lead records through the Sales Navigator, so you have everything you need and more, plus send your emails right from the Sales Navigator in real-time.

LeadGibbon uses the default mail app and opens the compose window so you can send the emails to the verified addresses from the search process and get connected to your loads.

However, it is only available for Google Chrome, and it only identifies and provides business email addresses to users, so you cannot get personal email addresses.

The tool lets you save an unlimited number of leads, but the number of emails you can find is limited to your subscription plan, while the number of profiles you can visit daily on the Sales Navigator depends on your account type.

Here are some of its best features:

  • Integrates with popular sales and marketing tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Pipedrive
  • Allows you to add team members and collaborate on your lead lists, making it easier to communicate
  • Sync your lead lists with your CRM to ensure the information is up to date
  • Enables you to export the lead lists to CSV format, making it easy to import them into your CRM

LeadGibbon

This awesome software is the best and easiest tool to use if you want to find all the needed e-mails.
Check price Visit Website

Snov.io – Provides every piece of information

Snov.io - best email finder software

Snov.io Email Finder is an excellent Chrome extension that you can use on any platform to increase your database and productivity. And once you register and install the extension, you will get access to all the Email Finder features.

For instance, you can use it to get a list of emails by specifying a list of domains. You can upload a list of domains in a CSV file from your computer, and you’re ready. Snov.io can process up to 20,000 company domains at one time.

You can even find emails by specifying specific search parameters of a company. You can also get complete information on a company, including its location, employee number, and many more.

Do you have a list of URLs of the social profiles of some people and want to get their emails? Snov.io will help you if you upload your CSV or TXT file with the list of links but ensure that the list is under 20.000 entries.

You can use Snov.io to get the emails in bulk if you upload a file with the person’s first name, last name, and domain or URL, or you can collect emails from multiple platforms by searching people by job titles, location, and skills.

Let’s review some of its key features below:

  • Allows you to search for email addresses in bulk
  • Its Email Verifier checks email addresses for validity and accuracy
  • Provides API access which allows integration into your existing CRM
  • Allows you to create and run email campaigns directly from the platform

Snov.io

Snov.io is one of the most versatile email finder software that you can use right now, and you can use it on almost any platform.
Check price Visit Website

Sales Navigator – Works flawlessly with Gmail

sales navigator

This powerful email finder software works with Gmail and has a Chrome extension.

Once you install it, you can open a compose window by typing the email in the To field, then send it in real-time.  The active email addresses linked to LinkedIn profiles will be displayed on the right side of the window.

Although this tool will not display suggested email addresses, it can give you hints on email addresses that are not exactly connected to social data, like [email protected]; then try typing it into the To field in a new Gmail compose a message, and it may display the message to confirm it is role-based.

It is most likely invalid if it doesn’t show anything in the right column.

Sales Navigator integrates with popular customer relationship management tools, including Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, & HubSpot, making syncing your sales activities with your CRM and tracking your progress over time easier.

Check out its important features:

  • Offers advanced search filters for finding leads and prospects on LinkedIn
  • Provides insights & data on leads and prospects, including job changes, company news, & shared connections
  • Allows you to save leads & accounts and receive alerts when there are updates or changes
  • Enables users to send InMail messages to people outside their network

⇒ Get Sales Navigator

Lusha – Helps increase engagement

Lusha email finder software

This email finder software is fast and personal and gives you professional contact information at your fingertips.

Its Chrome extension enriches your profile with direct contacts such as phone numbers and emails and increases your social network profiles. With Lusha, you can find the right candidates and reach out to them immediately.

It is an efficient way to connect as it saves you time and resources and increases engagement by giving you all the relevant info you need in just one click.

The most challenging engagements are outbound ones, as you need the correct contact details and a relevant opening statement, but this tool helps you get productive fast.

It shows you your leads and candidates so you can know them and quickly build rapport with them. You can also seamlessly enrich your salesforce leads by adding premium contact and company information from your account and converting leads much faster.

It also keeps your business profiles updated with verified information and contact details so you can focus on growing your business and customer base.

You also get direct access to contact information and reach the right contact on your first try – every time.

Lusha also reveals complete company profiles such as the logo, company overview, the number of employees, social media profiles, traffic ranking, and much more. Its integration with Zapier lets you empower over 750 different products instantly and automatically.

Here are some key features:

  • Allows you to integrate with popular CRM and marketing automation tools
  • Offers lead enrichment services that allow users to add additional information
  • Enables users to automate their outreach efforts, including setting up follow-up tasks
  • Comes with a Chrome extension, which enables users to find info from their browsers

⇒ Get Lusha

FindThat.Email – Allows bulk searching

findthat.email best email finder software

FindThat.Email is described as the yellow pages since it’s so simple to use. To find a specific email, you need to enter that person’s full name and email domain, and you’re good to go.

This service has its own Chrome extension, and by using it, you can find emails from various social networks. This service has its own Chrome extension; using it, you can find emails from various social networks.

Another great feature is the bulk email finder to search for email addresses using multiple names, companies, or domains. There’s also an email verifier feature available, so you’ll be sure you’re finding the correct email every time.

It’s worth mentioning that this service fully works with over 500 online apps thanks to the Zapier. Overall, FindThat.Email is a great service, and you can try it out for free, but if you want to continue using it, you’ll need to purchase a subscription plan.

Here are some key features:

  • Uses various verification techniques to ensure that the email addresses are valid & active
  • Allows to perform bulk searches by uploading a list of names or domains
  • Chrome extension that allows you to find email addresses directly from your browser
  • API access enables developers to integrate the email lookup functionality into their apps

⇒ Get FindThat.Email

GetEmail.io – Most extensive email finder

GetEmail.io

Another one of the best email finders is a software tool that goes way beyond what a typical email extractor does, managing to obtain email addresses even when they aren’t there.

While many email extractors perform a type of site crawling to identify entities they determine as email addresses, GetEmail learns company formats, allowing it to provide you with email addresses of users that aren’t displayed publicly.

The program is 100% web-based, so it can be accessed from anywhere as long as you have an Internet connection, and all identified email addresses will be delivered in the form of CSV files.

The main selling point of the tool is just how much time it can save you, and the fast result display time (mere seconds) is undoubtedly a testimony to that.

If you consider that companies can use this to email thousands of people at once, the time saved is huge.

Here are some of its most important features:

  • Allows you to perform bulk searches by uploading a list of names and domains
  • Uses a combination of data sources to verify email addresses
  • Ensures the email addresses it provides are valid and active using verification techniques
  • Paid plans offers advanced features such as CSV export, team sharing and priority support

⇒ Get GetEmail.io

GetProspect – Great email finding features

If you’re looking for an effective email finder for your business, GetProspect is one of the best you can find.

With this smart tool, you will be able to find valid emails of your ideal customers and filter them by job title, location, industry, company size, and other criteria.

GetProspect has a bulk email finder that will get you a solid database of email addresses in just a few minutes. And then, you can save them with a single click.

You may even look for email addresses by entering the website URLs of the businesses. There’s also the option of entering the domain names individually in case you need to reach specific companies.

The solution can be integrated with a lot of other productivity tools. For instance, you can bypass LinkedIn’s limitation on profile viewing. That alone will get you thousands of emails to look through.

Also, GetProspect comes with a huge database that contains over 200 million contacts you can search through.

And the best part is that you only pay for unique and verified email addresses. The duplicates and unverified ones are free.

You will also get 50 emails for free each month and you can verify them with the built-in dedicated tool.

Let’s go over some of its key features:

  • Built-in email verification tool
  • More than 200 million contacts in the database
  • Filter emails based on job title, location, industry, company size, and more
  • Simple and friendly interface
  • Plenty of integration and collaboration features

GetProspect

Find a full library of business emails in just a few minutes and use them for your organization’s needs!
Free trial Visit website

So, this concludes our list of the best email finder software available. If you haven’t been using one already, try any of these powerful tools to automate the process of finding and verifying email addresses.

If you are looking to build a database of your customers via scanning email addresses’ websites, you should look at our list of efficient email address extractors that can help you do that.

Did your favorite email finder software make it to the list? Let us know what you use by leaving a comment in the section below.

Stereo receivers with subwoofer output [Cyber Monday]

Subwoofers change the way you can listen to music and even watch movies. They add bass and allow you not just to hear the sound, but also feel it down to your very core.

Thus, it is obvious that a lot of AV and stereo receivers have subwoofer outputs.

That’s precisely why we’ve compiled this list of what we think are the best receivers that support subwoofers so that finding the right for you is much easier.

Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.

Which receiver has the best sound quality with subwoofer output?

Pyle PTA44BT – best Bluetooth stereo receiver with subwoofer output

Pyle PTA44BT

The Pyle PTA44BT is a good all-around stereo receiver that is compatible with pretty much any device you want to pair it with, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and computers.

More so, you can stream things on the Internet and even via Bluetooth, so you don’t need any wires, you just need to be in range.

Pros:

  • 500W peak power which can be used for multi speakers w/ 4-8 ohms impedance
  • Supports Bluetooth wireless music streaming
  • Compatible with almost any device
  • Supports iPod or MP3, USB, micro SD, and AUX playback
  • Built-in FM radio with digital LCD display
  • Familiar button controls

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have FM stereo support

⇒ Check price

Pyle PT272AUBT – A/B speaker selector integrated

Pyle PT272AUBT

Yet another versatile stereo receiver, the Pyle PT272AUBT is great for streaming music off of pretty much any device, even via Bluetooth.

It has a familiar interface made up of buttons, knobs, and sliders and it even includes an A/B speaker selector that can be easily switched.

Pros:

  • Supports SD / MMC card, USB, MP3, AM FM tuner, AUX, CD player, and more
  • Equipped with Bluetooth for wireless music streaming
  • Works with today’s latest devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, computers, etc
  • The professional integrated stereo receiver has an A/B speaker selector
  • Familiar interface

Cons:

  • The occasional sound drop

⇒ Check price

Sony STRDH190.CEK – minimalist controls & sleek interface

Sony STRDH190.CEK

If you love simplicity in all of your gadgets, then you’ll want the Sony STRDH190.CEK as a stereo receiver.

It has a low-profile design that makes it fit into pretty much any cabinet, and the minimalist controls and the low number of knobs and buttons make it a great fit into the modern household.

Pros:

  • 100 watts x 2
  • Phono Input, 4 Stereo RCA Audio Inputs, 3.5-millimeter Input, Stereo RCA Output
  • Built-in Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream from other Bluetooth devices
  • Connect up to 4 speakers; A/B switching to play all at once, or in separate zones
  • Low profile design fits easily into conventional AV cabinet
  • FM Radio with 30 stations presets
  • Wireless remote control
  • Full-size (1/4 Inch) headphone jack

Cons:

  • Sound clarity is a bit lacking

⇒ Check price

Onkyo TX-NR575E – best 5.1 receiver with subwoofer output

Onkyo TX-NR575E

Connectivity is the name of the game when it comes to the Onkyo TX-NR575E stereo receiver.

This is because it has support for pretty much any connection method you can imagine, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and it can stream content off of Spotify, TIDAL, Amazon Music, TuneIn, and more

More so, the sound it delivers is of the highest quality, thanks to the 5.2.2-Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback, as well as the traditional 7.2 Channel, surround sound.

Pros:

  • 170 W/Ch. (6 Ohms, 1 kHz, 10% THD, 1 Channel Driven, FTC)
  • 80 W/Ch. (8 Ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 Channels Driven, FTC)
  • HDMI 6 In / 1 Out Supporting 4K/60 Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision, BT.2020, and HDCP 2.2 Pass-through
  • Built-in Chromecast  DTS Play-Fi, Fire Connect, and Bluetooth
  • Has internet radio with Spotify, TIDAL, Amazon Music, TuneIn, and more
  • Bring audio to another room with Powered Zone 2 Speaker Outputs and Zone 2 Line Output

Cons:

  • Customer support isn’t reliable in case of problems with the device

⇒ Check price

Onkyo TX-8270 – HDR, HDMI 4K & Dolby Vision-ready

Onkyo TX-8270Audio and video output from the Internet will be something you’ll enjoy every day if you get the Onkyo TX-8270.

Not only will you get to enjoy all the benefits of online streaming, but the image and sound quality you’ll receive will be top-notch, clearly showing you that it was worth every extra penny.

Pros:

  • 100 W/Ch. stereo power (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08%, 2 channels Driven, FTC)
  • 3 line and 1 phono input, 1 coaxial and 2 optical digital, 4 HDMI inputs/1 out, front and more
  • Gold-plated speaker a/B outputs, two subwoofer pre-outs, and zone 2 Line-outs
  • Includes Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, Airplay, Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, and more
  • HDMI Supports 4K/60 Hz, HDR, Dolby Vision compatibility, 3D, Audio Return Channel, and more

Cons:

  • The price tag
  • Quality control issues

⇒ Check price

You can’t watch a movie or listen to music and expect to feel too excited if you don’t feel the bass of a subwoofer.

Movies won’t feel as immersive, and music won’t feel as lively, so getting a stereo receiver with a subwoofer output is almost a must.

Of course, you could do all of the above without the use of a subwoofer, but it just won’t feel as good as with one.

Fix Update Components with Windows Update Reset Script: 3 Ways

As you probably know, Windows 10 is all about updates, and updates are an essential part of this operating system.

Updates have become an invaluable part of our computer use as we have had new Windows operating systems.

New drivers for the computer’s hardware components, known bug fixes, security patches, and significant improvements and upgrades are all possible with updates.

But, many users are facing various problems with Windows Update, which prevent them from receiving the latest features and improvements from Microsoft.

What does the Windows Update reset script do?

If you want to use the Windows update script, you should be aware that it performs the following tasks:

  • Re-registers all your Windows update files
  • Reset network connections on the OS
  • Gets rid of older OS update folders

All your OS services that are connected with updates will be reset. Using this script is fast and convenient and is a preferred option for restarting services.

If any of the three above points are what you hope to achieve, then you should go ahead and use the script.

Can I run Windows Update reset script in PowerShell?

Yes, you can run this script in any command line tool, and by doing so, you can fix various issues such as Windows Update button not showing on Windows.

You can always manually reset these components, but using a script is faster, especially if Windows update cannot currently check for updates.

If by any chance Windows PowerShell has stopped working on your PC, you can always use Command Prompt to run this script.

How can I use Windows Update reset script?

1. Download the script

    Here’s how to download the script with the Windows update reset script for computers running Windows 10. You may also run the Windows Update reset script on Powershell.

    All you need to do is to run the reset Windows Update script, and everything will be automatically reset. It even works on older versions of Windows, so its use is not limited to Windows 10.

    This script comes from a third-party source, and we’re not responsible for any potential damage that can occur after using it.

    1. Visit the link to download the script.
  1. 2. Once the download is done, right-click on the zip file and select Extract All.

    windows update reset script
  2. 3.  Open the file, right-click on the WUReset file, and select Run as administrator.

    Run-as-administrator
  3. 4. Wait for the script to execute completely.

This simple batch script resets all Windows Update components, like the SoftwareDistribution folder, BTS service, Cryptographic Services, etc.

2. Create the script manually

  1. If you wonder How do I manually reset Windows updates?, open Notepad.
  2. Paste the following text into Notepad:
    @ECHO OFF
    echo Simple Script to Reset / Clear Windows Update
    echo.
    PAUSE
    echo.
    attrib -h -r -s %windir%system32catroot2
    attrib -h -r -s %windir%system32catroot2*.*
    net stop wuauserv
    net stop CryptSvc
    net stop BITS
    ren %windir%system32catroot2 catroot2.old
    ren %windir%SoftwareDistribution sold.old
    ren "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader" downloader.old
    net Start BITS
    net start CryptSvc
    net start wuauserv
    echo.
    echo Task completed successfully...
    echo.
    PAUSE
  3. Now click on File, then Save as, and save the file as WUReset.bat.
    windows update reset script
  4. To run the script, right-click on it and click on Run as Administrator.
    windows update reset script

With this solution, you will create and use a very easy Windows update reset batch script.

3. Use the Windows Update Reset Github script

  1. If you wonder How do I download Windows Update reset tool?, navigate to the Github page of the Reset Windows Update Tool (Script).
  2. Expand the dropdown list on the Code button and click Download ZIP.
  3. Once the download is done, right-click on the zip file and select Extract all.
  4. Open the file, right-click on the ResetWUEng file, and select Run as administrator.

This Windows Update reset tool is an easy and efficient update solution.

Does Windows Update reset registry?

Several pieces of data in your Windows Registry describe how the OS functions and your system’s registry is often affected by changes you make, so it frequently modifies, adds, and deletes the information.

That said, Windows may be reset by reinstalling the OS, which by default resets the registry. And unless you start individually resetting registry items, it is the only way your registry will be reset.

Therefore, NO, an update won’t wholly reset your registry.

If you are wondering how to reset Windows Update components in Windows 10, there you have it.

We hope that this script will save you a lot of time and work if you already have problems with Windows Update.

Resetting Windows Update services can help if Windows Update is stuck on pending install, so be sure to try it.

But if even Windows Update Reset Script doesn’t solve the issue, you probably have some more serious problems, if that’s the case, you can tell us in the comments, and we’ll try to assist you further.

4 Best USB-C EGPUs to Add Graphics Power to Your Laptop [ 2026 Guide]

An external graphics card, aka eGPU, allows you to house a desktop graphics card and connect it to your laptop, allowing it to run apps or connect it to an external monitor with the desktop graphics card.

Currently, it’s possible to embrace the full power of desktop-grade GPUs on an eGPU thanks to the latest technologies such as Thunderbolt 3 that provides bandwidth up to 40Gbps.

Before the adoption of Thunderbolt connectivity in lots of high-end laptops, eGPUs never got the chance to take off due to the limitations of bandwidth when using USB 2.0 to connect the laptop to the eGPU.

But now, Thunderbolt 3 offers bandwidth that provides four times the speed of USB-C.

How we chose the best eGPU with USB-C ports

Our team of expert testers has made sure to try out all the devices that were worthy of mention to create the results presented in this guide.

The testing has been carried out both from the perspective of single-unit capabilities and head to head with similar devices. Thus, the list of the best external GPU for laptops with USB-C has been created.

The resulting list ensures that no matter what choice you make after reading this guide, you will still get one of the best-ranked and most capable USB-C external GPUs, to take your graphics processing power to the next level.

What to consider when choosing the best eGPU?

Compatibility

As in the case of choosing any device for your PC the most important element to consider at first is its compatibility with your system.

This ensures that you’re not going to invest any of your hard-earned money into a device that will prove useless.

Our list provides you with information about the compatibility with Windows-based PCs, but the list doesn’t end there. Most notably, a good USB-C GPU dock will work on Mac, and iOS, thus enabling good portability.

Processing speed

What would a GPU be if it didn’t offer an efficient processing speed for the graphics that are required?

The processing speed of your eGPU ensures not only that you won’t experience any sort of lag while working in demanding graphic software, but also that your gaming experience will be as smooth as silk.

Even though it can be annoying to experience lag while working in Photoshop, the impact is a lot bigger if you’re playing online games professionally, and every second can literally mean the difference between the life and death of your character.

Number and type of ports

Even though the processing speed is a very important element, the connectivity capabilities are next in line. This element is extremely important as well, as this is the bridge that connects the processing unit to your PC.

When it comes to new devices, there are two main ways of connecting them, which are known as USB-C or Thunderbolt 3. Because of the similarities of these two types of ports, it can get confusing.

To clarify this idea once and for all, let’s first understand what are the similarities and also what are differences when comparing an eGPU USB-C vs Thunderbolt 3 connection.

eGPU USB-C vs Thunderbolt 3

Even though these two types of ports look almost identical, their capabilities are not the same.

In fact, a USB-C cable can easily connect to a Thunderbolt 3 port and the other way around, but the results of the connection itself will be very different.

Similarities:

➡ Both types of cables/ports allow you to use them both for transferring data, and power through a single cable connection.

➡ Both look exactly the same way, thus causing confusion for users who have devices without proper markings next to the port.

Differences:

➡ USB-C only offers up to 20Gbps data transfer speeds and can muster about 100 watts of power to power/charge your devices.

➡ Thunderbolt 3 enables you to transfer data with speeds closer to 40Gbps, and can power/charge devices with a capability of 100W of bi-directional power.

Key takeaways:

Even though all Thunderbolt 3 cables and ports use USB-C, not all USB-C connections are also Thunderbolt 3.

Because when it comes to efficiently using the capabilities of your eGPU, it is of course recommended that you have Thunderbolt 3 compatibility rather than the slower USB-C option.

If you don’t have enough Thunderbolt ports available, then the connection will of course be affected, and thus the efficiency of the entire setup will suffer.

Cooling efficiency

If your eGPU gets too hot under extreme graphics processing loads, then both the quality and the smoothness of your gaming experience will be considerably affected.

Some devices employ water-cooling elements to help with this issue, while others use powerful fans to considerably reduce the heat build-up. Not all cooling systems are the same though, and in the next point, you will understand why that is.

Noise production

Even though it is very important to maintain your eGPU’s temperatures under control, the method used to perform this action also affects the level of noise your device will produce.

In the case of water-based cooling systems, the entire process is a lot more silent and offers the same cooling capacities as other variants.

If your device is equipped with a fan-based cooling system, the sound of the device working at full speed might be considered bothersome in some cases.

Design

Last but not least, the way your device looks can make a huge difference to the overall experience. Because this element depends on your specific preferences, there are no special guidelines to discuss.

That being said, a seamless box for your eGPU makes the device look a lot more stable and feel more sturdy while cooling vents on the sides will promote the efficiency of the built-in cooling system.

At the same time, the cooling vents and their design also allow you a peek into the inner workings of your eGPU.

All these elements considered, let’s explore what our experts concluded after rigorously testing a variety of devices available at this point in time on the market.

Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750

  • High frame rates
  • Ideal for enabling graphics-intensive gaming
  • Special effects, rendering and editing
  • Variable speed and a temperature-controlled fan
  • Oversized unit

Sonnet’s eGPU Breakaway Box 750 brings the power of a dedicated GPU to your system and does this without you needing to buy any extra GPU slots for your PC.

Because this amazing external GPU works with any sort of PC, the times in which you had to upgrade your motherboard just to get a better GPU installed are long gone.

You simply have to add your compatible video card, connect your Thunderbolt 3 system with the included Thunderbolt 3 cable and enjoy some desktop-class level gaming performance and video acceleration.

Sonnet’s eGPU Breakaway Box 750 is one of the quietest and coolest eGFX boxes on the market with a significant variable speed and a temperature-controlled fan.

Fully compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, this slick-looking GPU covers a wide range of models for both hardware types.

This amazing eGPU supports AMD Radeon VII, RX, RX Vega, Pro W, and Pro WX models; and NVIDIA GeForce RTX series, TITAN, and Quadro models.

Besides the amazing capability levels, it also bolsters one of the best configurable cooling systems that enable you to use variable speed and control the temperature of your GPU with extreme accuracy.

This fan also works very silently compared to other models, while not compromising on design and power.

As you can see, no matter what your initial system setup is, with Sonnet’s eGFX Breakaway Box, you can’t go wrong.


Razer Core X Thunderbolt 3

  • Compatibility: Windows and macOS
  • Boosts Thunderbolt 3 laptop performance
  • 700W ATX PSU with 100W laptop charging via Thunderbolt 3
  • GPU max power support up to 500W
  • Loud PSU fan
  • Heavy weight

The Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU) unit adds external NVIDIA GeForce, NVIDIA Quadro, or AMD Radeon graphics to your Windows or Mac PC with a speed of up to 40Gbps.

Please note that the graphics card is sold separately. This amazing device enables you to use up to 3 full-sized desktop graphic cards, thus enabling you to bolster your PC’s video processing capabilities to the maximum level.

In order to ensure that your Razer Core X GPUs will be able to run at full speed, this amazing device includes a 650W ATX PSU power supply that bolsters a powerful 100W laptop charging port as well.

The Razer Core X is fully compatible with both Windows and macOS devices.

In the case of Windows, you will need to have Thunderbolt 3 eGPU support with RS45 (or later) and, of course, a compatible Nvidia or AMD graphics card.

When it comes to the compatibility requirements for macOS, the Razer Core X works perfectly with High Sierra 10.13.4 or later models that have Thunderbolt 3 compatibility. Added to this, you will need to have a compatible AMD graphics card, but doesn’t support Nvidia.

Besides its great capabilities and stability, the Razer Core X impresses with its CNC aluminum exterior which perfectly wraps around the device without any obvious seams. The iconic Razer’s silver logo can be found on the cooling on the side of the device.

To ensure the effect is fully appreciated, the positioning of the cooling panel allows you to observe the actual GPU working to offer you unparalleled graphic processing capabilities.


PowerColor Gaming Station Box

  • External Graphics
  • 40Gbps Thunderbolt3 interface
  • Pci Express x16 slot
  • USB Power Delivery for charging compatible laptops up to 87W
  • Single slot PCIE
  • Very loud when running at high capacity

The PowerColor Gaming Station Graphic Cards Thunderbolt EGPU Box uses the AMD XConnect Technology and the high-speed Thunderbolt 3 connection to improve the gaming experience.

The 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 interface ensures that the processing speed is astonishingly high, and never wavers no matter what type of intensive graphics you test it with.

It’s very easy to connect with any of the following graphics chipset: AMD Radeon RX 500/400Series. AMD Radeon R9 Fury/Nano/300/290/290X/285.

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080/Ti. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070/60. NVIDIA GeForce GTX Titan X/Xp. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980/Ti. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970/60/50.

The wide range of compatibility features on this nice-looking box ensures that your friends will be more than curious to find out what it is, and beyond that, your PC will be capable of processing ultra high-quality graphics without any sort of problem.

Added to this, the PowerColor gaming Station offers you the capability to use many I/O ports that include 5 USB 3 Type-A ports, a Gigabit Ethernet (RJ–45) connector, and also the Thunderbolt type C slot. This ensures that no matter how you plan on using it, you’ll always have a port for easy connection available.

The power efficiency on this device is out of this world! Offering a whopping 550W power supply ensures that every last drop of power from your GPU will be used efficiently.

To ensure a fast and efficient power transfer, it uses a three-phase thermal control system that can be set to a variety of modes: fanless, silent, and cooling mode, while at the same time looking slick in any environment.


Gigabyte AORUS RTX 3080

  • Graphics card included
  • Water-cooled external GPU
  • Dual Thunderbolt 3 controller
  • Unobtrusive cooling System
  • Low portability
  • Limited compatibility
  • Price

The Gigabyte AORUS RTX 3080 offers a great experience for real-time ray tracing and graphics-intensive games.

This powerful external GPU box is the world’s best water-cooled device of this sort, making it a must-have for the more custom-devices oriented of you. Even though it is the first of its kind, that doesn’t mean that the capabilities it possesses don’t impress. In fact, the Aorus RTX from Gigabyte offers some of the same capabilities as the more high-end products of this type, and at a more affordable cost.

The Dual Thunderbolt 3 controller provides a faster and better connection than any other Thunderbolt port, which means high performance.

All key components of the graphics card benefit from the quiet WATERFORCE Cooling System, thus making this external GPU one of the most silent on the market at this point in time. In case you’re bothered by extra noise, this device is for you.

Added to this entire setup, the Gigabyte AORUS RTX 3080 is RTX Studio-enabled. This technology combines GPU acceleration technology and state-of-the-art Studio Drivers to enhance all graphic design software.

Some of the most well-known software options that can use this high-end tech are Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, etc. If you want to take your creative work to the next level, this external GPU will help you tremendously.

This amazing device not only looks great and is completely silent while cooling your system efficiently, but also contains a built-in network chip that allows you to connect it to a wired network, so your PC won’t need to take that task up either.

To start using this powerful machine, simply install the AORUS engine and the RGB fusion 2.0, and behold the amazing and customizable RGB lighting effects for a full-on gaming experience.


Bottom runners

Besides the eGPU options that made the list after our rigorous testing process, there have been some other devices that proved their capabilities.

Even though not directly comparable with the options we chose for this list, they could still be a good option for some users:

➡ Cooler Master MasterCase EG200

This device has not made the Top 4 list we explored today because of its lack of Thunderbolt support, but that being said, it is still a versatile and useful option.

Offering a 550-Watt PSU, and being cable of charging laptops at 60W is very useful, while at the same time allowing you to use the built-in HDD/SSD drive slots to extend your PC’s capabilities.

➡ PowerColor Mini Pro RX570

This tiny eGPU box, besides its reduced weight and size, has some useful features that might come in handy to a variety of users.

It comes with an embedded AMD Radeon RX570 8GB graphics, and offers plug and play for Mac, Mac Mini, and MacBook’s running Mac OS High Sierra 10.13.4 or later.

Unfortunately, it is not compatible with Windows-based devices, so that’s why it scored lower on the compatibility element.

➡ Akitio Node

Even though acceptable when it comes to capabilities, the Akitio Node only offers support for AMD on macOS High Sierra and should work fine on Windows-based systems.

Offering a built-in 400W SFX power supply will surely be enough to power your eGPU without issues while offering support for GPU with only one PCIe (x16) slot.


These are some of the best eGPUs with USB-C ports out there that will definitely be able to unleash your notebook’s true potential for graphics-intensive apps such as rendering but most importantly gaming.

All these eGPUs future-proof your laptop allowing upgradeability of your GPU and they’ll all be able to reduce the chance of you being stuck with an outdated laptop.

Pick your favorite one from Amazon according to your preferences.

Error Applying Transforms: 4 Thorough Methods to Solve It

The Error applying transforms error message can pop up in Windows when you attempt to update installed software or uninstall a program. The full error message states: Error applying transforms. Verify that the specified transform paths are valid.

Consequently, you can’t install a software update or remove a program when that error message pops up. These are some of the causes and potential fixes for the transforms error.

Why does error applying transforms occur?

A few elements can trigger this installation or uninstallation error. At the top of the list are the following:

  • Subkey or product key issues – Issues with your installation keys may also cause problems applying transforms.
  • Broken software update – There are possibilities that an older update was not well done, which would cause problems for future installations or uninstallation.
  • Corrupt Windows installer – The installer is critical to installation and would cause errors if it is corrupted.
  • Errors with the Registry – In some cases, this could be misconfigured app registry paths that have made installation or uninstallation possible.

Now let us consider some common fixes.

How can I fix the error applied transforms?

  1. Reregister the Windows Installer
  2. Open the Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter
  3. Uninstall the Previous Software Version
  4. Edit the Transforms Path

1. Reregister the Windows installer

  1. Press Windows + R to open Windows Run dialog.
  2. Input msiexec /unregister in Run’s text box, and press Enter.
    error applying transforms
  3. Then enter msiexec /regserver in the text box, and press Enter.

2. Use Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter

  1. Visit the Microsoft website and click Download troubleshooter to get the Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter.
  2. Click the downloaded file.
  3. Click on Next to start troubleshooting.

3. Use a third-party uninstaller to uninstall the previous software version

  1. Download CCleaner from the official page and install it.
  2. Open the program and open the Tools menu, then the Uninstall subsection. Select the programs you want to remove and click the Uninstall button.
  3. Head to the Registry submenu and click Scan for issues. Review all issues found.
  4. Restart Windows before installing the required software.

We recommend creating a system restore point before uninstalling it in case you accidentally uninstall something else.

If the applying transforms error message pops up when updating software, uninstall the previous version first.

For example, you would uninstall the currently installed Java software if the error message pops up when installing the most updated Java version.

Keeping leftover files and old versions of software may interfere with the functionality of the up-to-date version of that same software.

It would be best if you uninstalled the software with the help of a third-party PC cleaning and optimization utility. This is to ensure that no trace of your app remains on your PC to take up space and cause other errors.

4. Edit the Transforms Path

  1. Open Run with the Windows key + R hotkey, input regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. Go to the following path:
    Computer\HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Installer\Products
  3. Next, right-click Products in the Registry Editor and select Find.
    error applying transforms
  4. Select the Keys, Values, and Data check boxes on that window, then enter the title of the software that you’re getting the Error applying transforms error message for in the search box.
  5. Then press the Find Next button to find the registry key for the software entered.
  6. Double-click on the key.
  7. Double-click Transforms, delete all info in the Value data box, and press the OK button.
    error applying transforms
  8. If the applying transforms error message opens when uninstalling the software, delete Transforms by right-clicking it and selecting Delete.
  9. Then close the Registry Editor window.

One of those fixes will fix the Error applying transforms error so you can install or remove the required software. If you have any further resolutions, please share them below.

Squash Windows problems by following any guide from the Windows 10 Errors Troubleshooting Hub found here on our website.

Resource Not Owned: 5 Ways to Fix This BSoD

Blue Screen of Death errors, such as RESOURCE NOT OWNED, aren’t that common, but these can cause a lot of problems, especially when encountered in a loop. The fixes are rather simple and shouldn’t take much time. So let’s dive straight into the subject.

What does the Resource Not Owned error mean?

The RESOURCE_NOT_OWNED BSOD, as per Microsoft, basically points to the fact that a thread tried to release a resource that it did not own in the first place. Here are a few cases you may encounter the error:

  • Resource Not Owned in Edge – Many reported that Edge first stopped responding, and then the PC crashed with this stop code.
  • Resource Not Owned with Surface Pen – The error appeared for several users with a Surface Pen, though the issue was primarily limited to a particular version.
  • Resource Not Owned on Surface Pro 7 – Some Surface Pro 7 users came across the error, but our solutions worked flawlessly in this case.

How can I fix the stop code Resource Not Owned?

Before we try the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones that might help:

  • Restart the computer.
  • Update Windows to the latest available version. Microsoft has identified the bug and released a patch for it, so updating the OS should fix things.
  • Update Microsoft Edge if you are facing the error when running the browser. Many managed to fix things this way.
  • In case you are using a Surface Pen, disconnect it and try the solutions here before reconnecting.

If these didn’t work, head to the ones listed next.

1. Use a third-party repair solution

The blue screen RESOURCE NOT OWNED error is not so common, neither is it so scary either, but it’s not really a piece of cake either. You need to allocate a little bit more time if you want to tackle the problem manually.

However, there is an easier and quicker solution that might fix the problem in no time, using a third-party repair software that will get the job done automatically.

2. Update your drivers

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type devmgmt.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.devmgmt.msc
  2. Expand the Display adapters entry, right-click on the graphics adapter, and select Update driver.update driver to fix resource not owned
  3. Now, select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to install the best one.search automatically for drivers

Corrupt or outdated drivers are likely to lead to the Resource Not Owned error in Windows 10 and even the latest iteration. So, update the drivers, starting with the one for your graphics adapter, since it’s usually responsible for the error.

If Windows can’t find a better version, you can also manually update the drivers. Bear in mind that you will have to do it for all the drivers on the PC. Also, sometimes, you may have to roll back the driver updates in case a newer version is not available.

Update drivers automatically

Searching for drivers on your own can be time-consuming. So, we advise you to use a tool that will do this for you automatically.

Using an automatic driver updater will certainly save you from the hassle of searching for drivers manually, and it will always keep your system up to date with the latest drivers. You can check these 10 best driver updaters for more efficiency.

3. Uninstall conflicting software

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and click OK.appwiz.cpl
  2. Now, select the app(s) installed around the same time the error first appeared and click Uninstall.uninstall app to fix resource not owned
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Several users reported that they encountered the error due to a conflicting application. You could identify it using the log file, though the process isn’t as straightforward. But remember, it usually has to do with drivers.

Furthermore, if you use CCleaner to uninstall the troublesome software, it will wipe up all entries, ensuring that no files remain to cause BSOD issues.

⇒ Get CCleaner

4. Modify Internet options

  1. Press Windows + S to open the Search menu, enter Internet Options, and click on the relevant search result.internet options
  2. Navigate to the Advanced tab, and scroll down to Security.
  3. Now, make sure the following four entries are checked, and then click on OK to save the changes.
    • Use SSL 3.0
    • Use TLS 1.0
    • Use TLS 1.1
    • Use TLS 1.2change internet option properties to fix resource not owned

If you are encountering the RESOURCE_NOT_OWNED blue screen error when using Edge, modifying the Internet Options should do the trick the way it did for other users.

5. Get the hardware checked

If none of the methods have worked yet, it’s likely a hardware problem to blame. First, check for RAM issues using the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool, or run Memtest86+, an open-source third-party tool that runs extensive tests on the memory.

Also, check for dust accumulation and overheating (usually a sign of the former),and make sure all the connections are in order.

In case that, too, doesn’t work, you will have to get the hardware looked at by an expert for a thorough check. Some users had to get the CPU replaced for things to get up and running.

That’s it! By now, the RESOURCE NOT OWNED error should be fixed, and your computer working fine if it’s not a major hardware problem to blame.

Before you leave, do not forget to find out how to check a BSOD log to help effortlessly troubleshoot things.

If you have any other queries or know of a method not listed here, drop a comment below.

Webcam Software for Windows 10 [11 Best Apps We Tested]

The webcam software selection for Windows 10 below will help you use the full potential of your webcam. Most of them work just fine on older versions of Windows, as well as on Windows 11.

Webcam recording software can help you record high-quality videos and assist you in the post-production editing process. You can use some of the software presented below to create instructional videos or gameplay videos as many of them come with picture-in-picture features.

There are also some options that offer fun features like all sorts of filters and masks that are better suited for casual use. Most of these programs are free, but some also have premium versions, as we tried to cover all available options.

Which is the best webcam software?

Now let’s take a look at every app’s detailed features.

ManyCam – Best features & customization

ManyCam is perhaps the most recognizable program on the list (and the best, in our opinion), as it surely is among the most popular ones. This tool is arguably the best free virtual webcam software.

Although it can’t be compared with YouCam 9, feature-wise, it still offers a handful of usable options.

The best thing about ManyCam is the fact that this tool is very flexible, as it supports many programs and services.

So, you can integrate it as a camera source for Skype, and make gaming footage with the Game Capture feature, it also supports YouTube integration.

ManyCam offers many real-time effects and allows you to overlay a whiteboard and other annotations on top of your recording.

You can use Manycam to record instructional videos or gameplay, as it has a picture-in-picture feature. You get to display footage from your screen and webcam at the same time.

Other key features of ManyCam include:

  • Custom watermarks
  • Mobile app
  • Virtual backgrounds & Chroma Key
  • Background blur

ManyCam is subscription-based. They offer 3 plans and charge yearly. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ManyCam

Trust this great software for the best online video experience whether is streaming or going live!
Free trial Visit Website

Cyberlink YouCam 9 – Also great for screen capture

CyberLink’s YouCam 9 is one of the most feature-rich webcam software in the domain. You can use CyberLink’s software for basically any video recording – capturing of images, videos, or even for video surveillance.

CyberLink offers a free version of this software, as well as two other options: Deluxe, and Standard.

But you shouldn’t be skeptical about paying for YouCam 9, because the software was developed by CyberLink, which is one of the biggest, and most reliable companies in the business.

Of course, the features list varies in these two versions. Logically, the standard version offers fewer features than the Deluxe.

Cyberlink YouCam offers real-time video editing features including lightning adjustments, live skin smoothing, denoise, live masks, and other effects.

YouCam supports picture-in-picture and text overlay while recording, so you can use it for various types of projects. You can make instructional materials with annotated key points, add subtitles, watermarks, and more.

Other key features of Cyberlink YouCam include:

  • Presentation feature with pre-made templates
  • Live cursor recording
  • Photo Editing Features
  • Multiple language options

CyberLink YouCam9 is compatible with PCs that run Windows 7 or higher. You can try it for free before purchasing a license.

CyberLink You Cam 9

If you’re searching for high-quality video streaming software then this versatile tool is what you need!
Free trial Visit Website

Bandicam– Incredibly popular

Bandicam is a lightweight Windows software that records your screen, your gameplay, and footage from connected external devices, including your webcam, PlayStation, smartphones, and more.

Bandicam allows you to record from multiple sources at the same time. You can record gameplay and webcam footage and overlay them together.

To record videos with your webcam, you just have to open the app and activate the Device Recording mode. 

The software ensures high-quality videos with ultra-HD support and a hardware-accelerated encoder. You also get a high speed and high compression ratio.

With Bandicam you can record nonstop for 24 hours. You can also set up schedules for automatic recordings.

Other key features of Bandicam include:

  • Real-time overlay of pen drawing, arrowhead, and text
  • Specific screen area recording
  • Record computer sounds and your voice together
  • Insert text/comments for post-production
  • Chroma-key effect

Bandicam has a free version and a one-time purchase licensed version. You get lifetime support and updates for the premium version.

Bandicam

Record multiple sources simultaneously with high-quality and ultra-HD support at amazing speeds.
Free Download Visit Website

Debut Video Capture Software – Include a green screen tool

Debut Video Capture Software is not your regular video recording program.

The main purpose of this software is screen capturing and recording, but it also has a lot of options for customizing the video output from your webcam, even better than some apps whose purpose is solely that.

Because of that, we decided to put this program on our list of the best webcam software for Windows 10.

This program lets you capture videos (both from the screen, and from your webcam) in various formats, including VI, WMV, FLV, MPG, MP4, etc.

Its versatility allows you to capture videos from external sources, like IP webcams and it also offers some fun features like mouse highlighting.

Upgrade your social media activity with a program that is excellent for recording gameplay or tutorial videos for YouTube. We should also mention that it allows you to do the whole job in a single program, by both screen-capturing and recording from your webcam.

Key features of Debut Video Capture include:

  • Picture-in-picture
  • Green screen tool
  • Time lapse video recording
  • Logo and watermark support
  • Text captions support

Debut Video Capture has free and paid versions. The free version has its limitations, but you can use it for basic video recording and also see how the software works before deciding to buy it.

Debut Video Capture Software

Create your best media content with this video software that can do it all, from recording to customizing clips!
Free trial Visit website

ApowerREC – Has post-production features

ApowerREC is a resourceful screen recording software. It allows you to capture desktop and webcam footage and it supports the post-production editing process.

The user interface is easy to navigate. You can easily set your recording preferences such as output format, hotkeys, output folders, and more.

To record webcam footage, just make sure you connect your camera device and ApowerREC will automatically detect it. Press the webcam button in the recording window, and you’re all set.

When you start recording, the UI collapses into a floating toolbar with minimal options such as pause/start buttons. You can opt to hide the toolbar while recording.

To record webcam footage, just make sure you connect your camera device and ApowerREC will automatically detect it. Press the webcam button in the recording window and you’re all set.

ApowerREC has an annotation feature that lets you edit your footage in real-time. You can use it to add text, arrows, lines, and numbers. This can be great for creating instructional materials.

Other key features of ApowerREC include:

  • Record certain areas of the screen
  • Split recording for big files
  • Locked Window recording: capture just one even though you navigate through other apps while recording
  • Intro and outro editing options
  • Watermark support
  • Support for online uploads of your videos

ApowerREC is a licensed software with lifetime updates and technical support. It comes with a free trial, so you can try it and see if you are satisfied with it before purchasing.

ApowerREC

Record, add annotations, edit and upload videos online with ApowerREC.
Free trial Visit website

Screencast-O-Matic – Very simple to set up

Screencast-O-Matic’s screen recorder software records desktop, audio, and webcam footage. It provides many tools which can help you create various styles of videos.

The screen recorder is free and ready to use. You don’t need much setup before starting to record. You just need to install a launcher and record & edit from your browser.

The free version comes with basic real-time and post-production editing options such as frame resize and trim & cut. It also has some royalty-free music that you can in the background of your footage.

You can overlay webcam footage over your desktop and easily pick the location of your webcam section within the frame with drag-and-drop.

You get unlimited record time with the premium version and a maximum of 15 minutes for the free version.

Once your video is ready, you can upload it directly to YouTube, Google Drive, Dropbox, Vimeo, and other sharing and storing platforms.

If you upgrade and integrate the Screen-O-Matic video editor, you will be able to add more effects such as captions, narration, blur sections, zoom, add text, and more.

Other key features of Screencast-O-Matic’s Screen Recorder include:

  • Stock videos and images library 
  • Online back-up of all your files
  • Organize content into playlists
  • Password protect video files

The software is compatible with multiple types of devices and operating systems. You can use it on macOS and Windows computers, as well as on Android and iOS mobile devices.

Screencast-O-Matic

Capture, edit, store and back up webcam footage with the help of one full-feature software.
Free trial Visit website

PassFab Screenrecorder – Has picture-in-picture features

Another good option that comes with several recording and editing features is PassFab Screenrecorder. You can record webcam footage, capture your desktop activity, or combine them with picture-in-picture features.

Not only is PassFab really easy to use, but it is also very lightweight. You don’t have to worry about it interfering with other tasks and processes on your device. 

You can set up the software to only record certain screen areas. This can save you some time as you won’t have to worry about cutting frames when you finish recording.

PassFab has no recording limit, so users don’t have to worry about fitting their footage into a specific timeframe. You can trim and adjust the speed of your footage when you are done recording.

You can use PassFab for instructional videos and add real-time annotations on top of your footage. Of course, you can also add text, draw, and overlay images in editing mode.

Other key features of PassFab Screen recorder include:

  • 4K video resolution (provided you have the suitable hardware)
  • Compatible with all webcam, microphone, and speaker devices
  • Compatible with all webcam, microphone and speaker devices
  • Simultaneos recording of screen and webcam footage

PassFab is a licensed product. You can purchase a monthly, yearly, or lifetime license. Passfab offers free updates and customer support to its users. They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for unsatisfied users.

PassFab Screen Recorder

Provide high-quality video materials to any type of audience with this lightweight webcam and screen recording tool.
Free trial Visit website

Vmaker – Has a 4k option

Another software you can use to record webcam videos is Vmaker. It supports the creation of high-quality 4K recordings.

Vmaker is a full-feature video recording suite that provides free Webcam Recorder software.

You can use V maker directly, no download is required. Just add the browser extension to your browser and start recording.

One of the benefits of this software is that it provides unlimited cloud storage. You don’t have to worry about file size or the number of videos you create.

On top of that, the cloud allows you to easily access your video library from any device. You can easily create, edit and share videos on the go.

V maker allows you to record webcam, screen, and audio footage simultaneously. It comes with a set of various filters and frames that you can add on top of your footage.

The software also offers support for screen annotations, so you can easily integrate video titles, subtitles, images, and more. 

Other key features of V maker include:

  • Basic video editor
  • Supports teamwork within the cloud
  • One-tab recording in the browser
  • Real-time collaborations
  • Scheduled recordings

V maker comes with a free, but limited version and with two premium options that offer more advanced features.

⇒ Get Vmaker

Snapcamera – User-friendly interface

Snapcamera is a software that brings the Snapchat filters to your desktop.

The main purpose of this app is to offer you thousands of real-time video lenses. You can transform yourself in your favorite video game character while recording gameplay footage on your desktop.

The filter library is exactly like the one you find in Snapchat- with mostly user-generated filters. The app is very simple and easy to use. You can start recording with just one click.

You can also make your own filters, select your favorites and store them in a separate section that allows ease of access.

You can use this app to record stand-alone webcam footage, but you can also capture your screen and overlay the videos together. The software also supports gameplay recording.

You can integrate this app with other software and use the filters in real-time video calls. It also has support for live streaming on Twitch.

Other key features of Snapcamera include:

  • Footage resolution settings
  • Flip video preview
  • Snapcode overlay so your viewers can access your filters
  • Lens effects triggered by hotkeys

Snapcamera is a free, easy-to-use software that adds a touch of fun to your videos.

⇒ Get Snapcamera

Logitech Webcam Software – Classic & powerful

Logitech is one of the most famous webcam manufacturers in the world.

Therefore it is reasonable for the company to have its own webcam software. So, if you have Logitech’s webcam, probably the best option is to use its webcam software for Windows 10, as well.

With integrated surveillance mode this tool is ideal for your home cameras. It can also capture images and record videos from your system’s webcam

Additional options (like the ability to adjust the camera’s sensitivity or to enable motion detection).

Other key features of this software include:

  • Motion detection adjustments
  • Scheduled recording
  • Image quality adjustments for brightness, anti-flickering, and more

This software is free. Keep in mind, however, that you need Logitech hardware to use it.

⇒ Get Logitech Webcam Software

Windows 10 Camera – basic features on Windows

Windows 10 has its own camera app, and we simply have to mention it.

Not because Windows 10 camera is a better option, or offers more features than third-party programs, but simply because a lot of people prefer Windows’ built-in tools and apps, over any third-party solution.

So, if you don’t want to install any additional software, but still want to use your camera properly, you should definitely stay with Windows Camera.

It features the basic characteristics and it comes with a user-friendly interface that features the capture and record buttons.

You also get some additional adjustment characteristics, like adding a framing grid or reducing flickering.

Windows 10‘s default camera also works with the majority of communication services, so if you’re using your webcam just for talking with your friends/family, you basically don’t need any additional options.

That’s about it for our top five picks for webcam software for Windows 10. We offered you various options, so you can choose the one that suits you the best.

Let us know what you think about our choices, or if you have some tools to add to the list, in the comments below.

BSOD Dump File Location in Windows 7: How to Find & View Them

Windows 7 is an old operating system for which Microsoft ended support in 2020. However, there are a bunch of users across the globe still using the OS for reasons best known to them. The BSOD error isn’t a fun error to cross paths with, as it makes your PC inaccessible.

If you are experiencing a BSOD error in Windows 11, you can check out our article. In this guide, though, we will be giving you information on where you can find the BSOD dump file location in Windows 7.

What causes the BSOD error in Windows 7?

BSOD errors, in short for Blue Screen of Death error, can happen a lot on systems running an older version of Windows.

You can encounter a BSOD error because of a hardware-related issue, outdated driver software, a virus or malware attack on your PC, conflicting third-party programs that might have changed the system files, etc.

There are some of the most common reasons you can face BSOD errors in Windows 7:

  • Hardware malfunction: If you have installed new RAM or put in a new SSD into your PC, then because of a loose connection or loss of power, it can malfunction. Hardware can be broken when you push it beyond its capabilities, which will cause a BSOD error on your PC.
  • Corrupt system files: BSOD errors can also trigger because of corrupt system files. It can happen if a third-party program has changed some system settings or replaced the DLL files.
  • Virus attacks: The presence of viruses or malware can often cause multiple issues, one of which is the BSOD error. You can check out some of the best antivirus tools for Windows 7.
  • Outdated device drivers: If the drivers on your PC are outdated, then your hardware will have issues communicating with your PC, ultimately causing the BSOD error.
  • Power issues: If you are powering your PC with a fluctuating voltage, this can cause certain hardware to misbehave.

How can I find the BSOD dump file location in Windows 7?

  1. In your homescreen, right-click on My Computer and select Properties.
  2. On the right side, select Advanced system settings.
  3. Switch to the Advanced tab.
  4. Under the Startup and Recovery section, click on Settings.
  5. If under Write debugging information is selected as none, then you need to select Kernel memory dump for the dump file that contains all information for troubleshooting.
  6. The memory dump file is typically located in %SystemRoot%\MEMORY.DMP with system root is typically C:\Windows.

Also, if you were wondering about the other iteration, the location remains the same for these as well:

  • BSOD dump file location on Windows 10
  • BSOD dump file location on Windows 11
  • Memory dump file location on Windows Server 2016

How can I view the BSOD dump file in Windows 7?

  1. Download Windows Driver Kit.
  2. Open the ISO file and extract everything.
  3. Head to the Debuggers directory.
  4. You will find an x32 and x64 installer for the Windows Debugging Tool. Make sure to install the correct one.
    • For 64-bit Windows 7: Run setup_amd64.exe
    • For 32-bit Windows 7: Run setup_x86.exe
  5. After installation, open the WinDBG tool.
  6. Create a new folder on your main drive.
  7. Rename it Symbols. For example, C:\Symbols.
  8. Click on File.
  9. Select the Symbol File Path option.
  10. Insert the below path: SRVC:\Symbolshttps://msdl.microsoft.com/download/symbols
  11. Now, click on File.
  12. Click on Open Crash Dump File.
  13. Go to the location of the kernel dump file and select it.

That is it from us in this guide. If you are not a fan of looking into the problem but want to get rid of it, then we have a guide that lists a bunch of free BSOD fixers that will help you resolve any BSOD errors in no time.

Let us know in the comments below if the above-mentioned steps helped you to view the BSOD dump file location in Windows 7 or not.

5 Methods to Use if Msvcr71.dll is Missing on Your PC

The MSVCR71.dll has been included with Windows operating systems since the first version of Windows XP up to the latest iteration. But several users reported that the MSVCR71.dll is missing.

The DLL file missing error can be encountered while running several applications or even at startup and usually reads, The application failed to start because MSVCR71.dll was not found. So let’s find out all about the problem and its solutions.

Why is msvcr71.dll missing on Windows 10?

Here are a few reasons why the MSVCR71.dll was not found:

  • Corrupt system files – The most common reason the specific DLL is missing is corrupt system files. It can also cause a range of other issues and is usually easy to fix.
  • DLL file is not stored in the default location – If the file’s location is changed, either deliberately or inadvertently, it would throw the error.
  • DLL file deleted inadvertently – In some cases, users reported that the MSVCR71.dll was deleted, and getting it manually did the trick.

What is msvcr71 dll used for?

The file is critical to Microsoft Visual C Runtime and allows Windows to run applications effectively, primarily those written in C++. The location for MSVCR71.dll in Windows 10 is:C:\Windows\System32

In the absence of the DLL file or if it’s corrupt, applications that depend on it would fail to run, thus necessitating the need to troubleshoot things.

How do I fix the msvcr71 dll missing error?

Before you try the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to try:

  • Check the Recycle Bin for the file, and in case you find it there, move MSVCR71.dll to the default folder.
  • Install the latest available version of Windows. You can even update Windows offline in no time.
  • If you have another working PC (with the same configuration) running the DLL, transfer it to a USB drive and then move it to the problematic computer that doesn’t have MSVCR71.dll.

In case these don’t work, head to the solutions listed next.

1. Use a dedicated tool

Specialized repair software can be used for multiple types of computer issues. It will automatically scan your computer, find the problem, and then repair them by various methods.

Hence, it can be used successfully for BSoD issues whenever your computer is freezing, registry issues fix, cleaning module, etc.

2. Reinstall the problematic application

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type appwiz.cpl in the text field, and hit Enter.appwiz.cpl
  2. Now, locate the application that’s throwing the error, select it, and click on Uninstall.reinstall app to get msvcr71.dll
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Applications that rely on the MSVCR71.dll file usually come with it. And if you find that it’s missing, simply reinstalling the application should work. Just make sure to get it from a reliable source.

3. Download VC++ Redistributable package

MSVCR71.dll’s description says it is a Microsoft C Runtime Library, a low-level set of instructions that other programs depend on to work.

Microsoft often packages these runtime libraries together and releases them to the general public as a simple installer.

Many sources have claimed that this error has disappeared after installing the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package (x86). But before you do that, make sure to uninstall any existing redistributable package on the PC.

4. Re-register the file

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run, type cmd, and then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.command prompt
  2. Click Yes in the UAC prompt.
  3. Type/paste the following command and hit Enter:regsvr32 MSVCR71.dllregister to fix msvcr71.dll missing
  4. Once done, execute the following command to run the SFC scan: sfc /scannowsfc scan

These two commands should fix things if MSVCR71.dll is missing in Windows. Just make sure to run Command Prompt as an administrator.

5. Perform an in-place upgrade

  1. Go to Microsoft’s official website, and download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.media creation tool
  2. Run the tool, and wait for it to get things ready.things getting ready
  3. Next, click on Accept to agree to the license terms.accept
  4. Choose the Upgrade this PC now option and click Next.upgrade this PC now to fix msvcr71.dll missing
  5. Now, wait for the download to complete and follow the instructions to complete the repair process.downloading

An in-place upgrade fixes a range of issues with Windows, including missing DLL files. And you wouldn’t lose any of the saved files or applications. But, try it only as the last resort since it takes quite some time to complete.

And that’s it! The MSVCR71.dll should be available now, and the application(s) that earlier threw the error would work fine.

In case you are looking to fix things automatically, go with a reliable DLL repair tool, and it will also prevent such issues in the future.

Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.

Windows 11 vs Windows 10: Here’s Why Performance Matters

Windows 10 has been a massive success for Microsoft and regularly receives new features and patches. However, many wonder if Windows 11 is better than its predecessor. A Windows 11 vs Windows 10 study is needed for this.

If you are wondering what other people think, we did a survey about Windows 11 to understand what users think about the iteration and their expectations from it. Let’s now compare Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Windows 11 vs Windows 10 – Main Differences

What does Microsoft plan for Windows 11?

Microsoft has big plans for Windows 11 and focuses heavily on user interface redesign and improving the user experience.

Regarding this aspect, Windows 11 has removed unessential apps, such as Internet Explorer and Cortana, but you can manually enable them anytime.

Collaboration is one of the main focuses of the new operating systems, and it’s achieved by adding Microsoft Teams in Windows 11.

Lastly, Microsoft aims to improve the gaming experience, and we expect to see more FPS and better gaming performance.

These are just some of the new features you will experience, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. While all these features look promising, what about the hardware requirements?

What system requirements does Windows 11 have?

Windows 11 hardware requirements (Source: Microsoft)

The Windows 11 hardware requirements have been known for a while, and they are pretty much what we expected them to be.

There is no need to panic and start upgrading your devices to the highest tears available, as Windows 11 runs smoother and much faster than its predecessor, even on older PCs and laptops.

Here’s a quick recap of the hardware requirements:

  • CPU: 1GHz or more, 2 cores or more, compatible 64-bit processor
  • RAM: 4GB or more
  • Storage: 64GB or more
  • Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
  • TPM: Trusted Platform Module 2.0
  • Graphics card: DirectX 12 compatible with WDDM 2.0 driver
  • Display: 720p 9-inch display

The biggest change is the requirement for a TPM chip, and in case you’re not familiar with it, we wrote a guide explaining everything you need to know about Windows 11 and TPM.

Many users reported that they can’t upgrade to the latest version because the TPM device is not detected, and this has sparked a controversy among users all over the world, especially among the ones who don’t have hardware that can support a TPM chip.

Fortunately, users managed to find a way to install Windows 11 without a TPM, thus bypassing this hardware requirement.

Can your PC run Windows 11? Download PC Health Check software from Microsoft and check if your computer is compatible with the latest version.

Is Windows 11 officially released?

After being available for testing for months in the Insider channel, Windows 11 is officially available to the public.

In the past, you had to join Windows Insiders to download Windows 11, but that’s not the case anymore.

Now you can get the latest version in the form of an update, or by downloading the ISO file and performing a clean install.

Is Windows 11 stable now?

Ever since Windows 11 was released officially for users, after rigorous testing and release in the Beta channel, it’s been relatively stable. Though, you may encounter errors from time to time, as is the case with any iteration of the OS.

But, Microsoft is working on these and you should see an improvement in stability in the days to come.

Should I install Windows 11?

The short answer is yes, you should install Windows 11, as long as your PC meets the hardware requirements. If it doesn’t, you’ll be pleased to hear that support for Windows 10 will last until 2025.

This means that if you’re comfortable with Windows 10, you won’t have to update yet. Speaking of update, one major concern with new releases are the compatibility issues.

Users experienced compatibility issues with older software and hardware, so they expect a similar problem with the latest version.

Of course, these issues are mostly things of the past, and developers have fixed the vast majority of bugs that were present with the release of Windows 10.

If you want a smooth upgrade without any headaches, we suggest you wait for a couple of weeks, at least until the initial issues are resolved.

But if you’re looking at this from a long-term perspective, then yes, you should upgrade to Windows 11 since it is the future of Windows. Plus, the upgrade is free, so there’s no reason not to update.

We’ll discuss some methods if you want to know how to upgrade to the latest version. But first, let’s compare Windows 11 vs Windows 10 features.

Windows 10 vs Windows 11 comparison: New options and features

New design and user interface

The first thing you’ll notice when you start Windows 11 is its new user interface. Microsoft has revamped how all windows look, and now, each window and user interface element has rounded corners.

This also applies to the context menu as well as the File Explorer. Speaking of the context menu, some users aren’t too thrilled about the redesign, but you can disable the new context menu in Windows 11 if you want.

File Explorer went through some changes, and now it looks much cleaner than before. The Ribbons are gone and instead, we get the most common commands available in the new and sleek toolbar.

This is a major step forward from Windows 10 File Explorer and the new interface feels less cluttered while providing you with only the most essential options. To top it off, there’s a set of new icons available as well.

These aren’t the only changes, and Start Menu and Taskbar went through a major revamp, and now they sport a new and more streamlined look.

The Taskbar is now centered, and it looks similar to the one from macOS or Chrome OS. If you’re not a fan of this change, you can always move Start Menu to the left from the Settings app.

Unfortunately, the Taskbar is now locked at the bottom, and you can’t move it to the top or the side like you could in the earlier versions.

The Start Menu got a revamp as well, and now it comes with rounded corners just like all other windows. You’ll also notice that the Start Menu is now streamlined and features fewer applications.

Now you have a pinned apps section that allows you to quickly and easily access your favorite apps. Below it, there’s a recommended section that you can use to access recently opened files or recently installed apps.

Of course, you can still see all your apps, but now they are hidden behind the All apps button. We love the new look of the Start Menu, as it seems a lot more organized and minimalistic compared to its Windows 10 counterpart.

The Notification center got a full revamp as well, and now instead of an Action Center, we have a Quick Settings panel and Notifications panel.

This means that quick settings aren’t grouped with notifications anymore, and you can view them separately. Of course, the two new panels come with rounded corners, so they match the new design of Windows 11.

Last but not least, Microsoft Edge got a new design in Windows 11 that sports a simple and minimalistic user interface.

We love the new look of Windows 11, but if you’re not a fan, you can always make Windows 11 look like Windows 10 if you want to.

Widgets

Windows 11 has retired Live Tiles, and instead, it has widgets that do the same job. Although similar, they don’t reside in the Start Menu, instead, they have their panel.

From the widgets panel, you’ll be able to add, move around, or disable widgets in Windows 11 with ease.

This seems like a great feature, and since widgets have their dedicated panel, they won’t take away any precious workspace as Live Tiles did.

Improved multitasking

Although Windows 10 can snap windows onto different sides of your screen to better organize your workspace, the latest version takes that to a whole new level with Snap layouts.

With this feature, you can choose between 6 available layouts to organize your open applications better. However, Snap won’t work on old display monitors, so keep that in mind.

That’s not all, and with the new Snap groups feature, Windows 11 will memorize which applications you had open and in which layout, so you can easily revert to that layout.

Simply hover over the application in the Taskbar, and you’ll be able to choose the Snap layout that is associated with that application and restore it along with all the apps that were in it.

Virtual desktops are getting some improvements as well, and now you’ll be able to customize the background for each virtual desktop.

Switching between desktops is also improved, and now you can do it simply by hovering over the Task View icon in the Taskbar and selecting the desired virtual desktop.

Windows 11 also brings improvements when working with external monitors, and now windows on your external monitor will be memorized once you disconnect it.

After connecting your PC to the external monitor, the windows that were open on it will be restored automatically, allowing you to continue where you left off.

This is a welcome quality of life improvement, that should make multitasking on multiple monitors a lot easier than before.

Improved touchscreen input

Windows 11 focuses heavily on touchscreen functionality and it brings a new touchscreen experience. There’s no more full-screen Start Menu, and instead, icons will have more space and be easier to touch when you use your device in tablet mode.

For easier navigation, there are a couple of new touch gestures allowing you to easily switch to the last used app, go back to the desktop or restore your open app windows.

You can now also open Task View with gestures and switch between app windows and virtual desktops. Speaking of which, you can now switch between desktops simply with a four-finger swipe.

Touch Keyboard has better customization, and there are new themes to choose from, as well as a new theme engine that lets you create new themes more easily.

Pen input has been improved as well. It now comes with a Pen menu on the Taskbar to quickly launch apps that support pen input.

Pens also support haptic feedback, so you’ll be able to feel vibrations while you use them. Lastly, there’s a voice input support built-in allowing you to enter text simply by using your microphone.

If you want to know more about the new touchscreen experience, make sure that you check how Windows 11 runs on compatible Microsoft Surface devices.

Improved collaboration

Windows 11 is heavily focused on user collaboration. So it’s no wonder that we’ll see Microsoft Teams built into the latest version.

The software will be available right from your Desktop and ready to use as soon as your OS starts. This is similar to what Windows 10 did since it came with Skype preinstalled.

Since Skype is losing its userbase, and users are moving to more collaborative alternatives, it’s no wonder that Microsoft decided to remove Skype from Windows 11 and replace it with Microsoft Teams.

It seems that Microsoft Teams will get some major improvements soon. And we expect that Microsoft Teams integration into Windows will be received well among users.

If you’re a fan of Skype and you still use it, you won’t be left out, since there’s a way to enable Skype in Windows 11.

Overall, we believe this is a step in the right direction and that adding Microsoft Teams will challenge other collaboration platforms such as Slack.

Android app integration

Windows 11 brings native support for Android apps on Windows thanks to the Intel Bridge technology. Even if this is Intel technology, AMD users should be able to run Android apps natively as well.

Microsoft has teamed up with Amazon for application delivery. It means that if the PC is compatible, one can download and run apps from Amazon App Store.

Android app running on Windows 11 (Source: Microsoft)

This is a brand-new feature, and on Windows 10, users had to rely on Android emulators to run Android apps. This also brings another important question, what will happen with Android emulators on Windows 11?

We believe that Android emulators will remain relevant since not all computers will be able to natively handle Android apps.

However, Google is introducing Android App Bundles that should replace APK files. So we might see some compatibility issues in the future.

Microsoft Store

Microsoft Store is another component that was revamped in Windows 11. The first thing that you’ll notice about the new Microsoft Store is its new look.

The store is now divided into two segments, a content pane and a sidebar that you use to access certain categories, such as apps, games, movies, and TV shows.

The new store looks sleek and more streamlined than its predecessor. However, these aren’t the only changes.

As we mentioned previously, Windows 11 can run Android apps natively. And now you’ll be able to download Android apps right from the Windows Store.

The new Microsoft Store will also support Win32 apps, meaning that you can download and install regular desktop apps from it. There’s also support for .NET, UWP, Xamarin, Electron, React Native, Java, and Progressive Web Apps.

The store will be able to handle browser links. So when you download an application using your web browser, Microsoft Store will take over and install the application in the background.

Want to know more about the new Microsoft Store? If so, be sure not to miss our in-depth look at the new Microsoft Store in Windows 11.

Gaming improvements

Last but not least, we have to mention gaming improvements. Windows 11 incorporates many features from the latest Xbox Series X to bring gamers the best possible experience.

One of these features is the DirectStorage, which will allow games to load faster from the NVMe SSDs. Moreover, this feature will also load graphics assets faster, thus delivering more detailed gaming worlds.

Another feature that deserves mention is AutoHDR, and with this feature, you’ll be able to add HDR enhancements to the games that are built on DirectX 11 or higher.

With this feature, you should be able to make older games more vibrant than before, but to do so, you need to turn on Auto HDR in Windows 11 and have compatible hardware.

Xbox Game Pass plans (Source: Xbox)

Probably the biggest change in terms of gaming is the introduction of the Xbox Game Pass. So you’ll get to play new titles from Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda and gain access to more than 100 different games.

Lastly, with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can experience Xbox Cloud Gaming from a web browser and enjoy Xbox titles even on a low-end PC.

If you’re more of an old-school gamer, playing old games on Windows 11 will be easier without many compatibility issues.

These are some amazing improvements, and we can’t wait to see how DirectStorage and Xbox Game Pass for Windows 11 will work in action. And if you compare Windows 11 vs Windows 10 gaming, the former performs better.

How to upgrade to Windows 11?

If you’re looking to upgrade to Windows 11, the process is simple and similar to installing a regular update:

  1. Head to the Settings app on your PC. You can open it quickly with the Windows Key + I shortcut.
  2. Next, navigate to the Update & Security section.
  3. Click on Download and Install button.
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.

How to download Windows 11?

  1. Visit the official Windows 11 download page.
  2. Click on Download Now in the Windows 11 Installation Media section.
  3. Once the software is downloaded, run it.
  4. When the software starts, click on Accept.
  5. Check if language and edition are correct and click on Next.
  6. Select the desired option and click on Next.
  7. Wait for the process to finish.

Alternatively, you can download the ISO file directly by doing the following:

  1. Head over to the Windows 11 download page.
  2. Click the Download button in the Download Windows 11 Disk Image section.
  3. Set the desired language and click on Confirm.
  4. Click on 64-bit Download.
  5. Wait for the download process to finish.

For further details on this topic, feel free to check our guide on how to download Windows 11.

What are some good laptops compatible with Windows 11?

As we already know the official system requirements for Windows 11, it is safe to assume that not all devices can run the new OS.

The most considerable difference in the requirements is the TPM 2.0. This is a security feature that manages encryption keys, thus making your machine a lot safer.

If your PC doesn’t have a TPM chip, you’ll have to buy a TPM chip and install it to upgrade to the latest version.

Most systems that don’t support TPM will be unable to install or run Windows 11. It can shock many, but you can always invest in a PC capable of this technology.

As an alternative for desktop users, invest in a motherboard with TPM capabilities, and upgrade your system with ease.

That being said, Microsoft has also announced that in the case of some system types, a missing TPM feature will not stop users from getting Windows 11.

What are the disadvantages of Windows 11?

While there are no significant drawbacks to Windows 11, some users still prefer the previous iteration for the UI. Also, one thing that many disliked was Microsoft removing the drag and drop feature in Windows 11.

Many also felt that Windows 11 is slightly more resource-intensive, and they often ran out of memory while comparing Windows 11 vs Windows 10 RAM usage. But this is primarily because the latest iteration has a lot more features and subsequently needs more RAM.

Though, this gives the previous iteration a slight edge when comparing Windows 11 vs Windows 10 performance on an older PC.

Besides, many users reported that the latest iteration has a slight disadvantage when comparing Windows 11 vs Windows 10 battery life. Microsoft claims that the latest OS will deliver better in terms of battery life due to power optimization.

Conclusion

Windows 11 brings many improvements, and the most notable one is a full user interface redesign, coming as a major upgrade from Windows 10.

The Start Menu is streamlined, and it feels less cluttered than before. The rounded corners on windows look great; the same goes for other user interface elements.

Multitasking is improved, and now you can easily switch between Snap layouts and better organize open windows.

Probably the most significant change is the native support for Android apps and the overhaul of the Microsoft Store. This makes the store a centralized hub for all application downloads.

Lastly, improvements such as DirectStorage, AutoHDR, and Xbox Game Pass for PC will take gaming to a new level.

The latest OS is a significant step forward with great features and a more streamlined user interface. So there’s no reason not to enjoy it.

With the end of support date announced for Windows 10, upgrading to Windows 11 makes all the more sense to keep getting feature and security updates.

Speaking of comparisons, if you want to know the difference between Microsoft Copilot and Copilot Pro, check out this extensive comparative guide.

Are you excited about Windows 11 and going to switch, or will you stay on Windows 10? Let us know in the comments section below.

Get UPDF Editor at a Discount for This Shopping Season

We use PDF documents on an everyday basis, and to edit them, we need professional PDF editor software such as UPDF.

The software is a well-known PDF editor, and it’s currently on sale during the shopping season, so let’s take a closer look and see what this software has to offer.

Here’s what you’ll get with UPDF Black Friday deal

Easy-to-use user interface

UPDF allows you to read any PDF document easily, and you can choose between four different reading layouts. To make sure that your late-night reading sessions are comfortable for your eyes, there’s also a dark mode available.

Navigation through documents is easy, and you can add bookmarks or search for specific phrases easily. Thanks to the tabbed interface, you can easily read or edit multiple documents.

Lastly, there’s a page management feature that allows you to rearrange pages, and add or remove them. You can even split or rotate pages as you will.

Annotations, comments, and editing

Annotations are present, so you can highlight important sections or add comments for additional information.  

That’s not all, the application also supports shapes and stamps, and you can add them freely to any document.

Signatures are available as well, and you can add handwritten or electronic signatures to any location on your document.

Regarding the editing features, you can edit any element on the page, or even add watermarks or backgrounds to your PDFs.

You can use text, image, or PDF for your watermark, and you can adjust the size, opacity, and other features right from the sidebar.

The interface is incredibly friendly to use, allowing you to change the font style, size, color, and other properties with ease. The same goes for images, and you can move them, rotate, extract or replace them with ease.

If you need to add additional info, you can always add hyperlinks or links to other pages of the PDF document.

OCR and file conversion

UPDF uses AI-powered OCR technology that has 3 output layouts allowing you to extract textual information from an image or scanned PDF, and it can even make PDFs searchable.

If needed, you can also convert searchable PDFs into image-only PDFs. By doing so, you’ll prevent them from being editable and searchable.

The OCR feature is 99% accurate while offering amazing performance. Regarding the supported languages, this feature works with 38 different popular languages.

The software also supports exporting, and you can export files into several popular formats, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, CVS, Text, image, etc. Of course, OCR is supported during conversion and it can extract text from scanned images.

Get the Black Friday UPDF deal

The software is available at 40% for both purchase plans, and with a special buy one gift one plan during the shopping season, you’ll get the following gifts with each purchase:

  • Annual plan – Get 6 extra free months as a gift when buying an annual plan
  • Perpetual plan – Each perpetual plan comes with aJoysoft PDF Password Remover lifetime license as a gift

UPDF

Get one of the best PDF editors at discounted price this shopping season.
Check price Visit website

The software is available on all major desktop and mobile platforms and one license is universal, allowing you to use the software on any platform.

In case you’re looking for software that is focused on forms, visit our guide on the best software to create editable PDF forms.

If you’re looking for a powerful PDF editor with a sleek interface and features, this is the perfect choice for this season.

How do You Take Screenshots on a Toshiba Laptop?

Taking a screenshot helps you in a situation when you wish to save a good amount of information. In place of typing and saving the information, you can simply take a screenshot and be done with it.

If you have a Toshiba laptop, then there are a bunch of different ways to take screenshots on it. In this guide, we will show you exactly how to take a screenshot on a Toshiba laptop.

What are the benefits of taking a proper screenshot?

Here are a few advantages or benefits you get when you take a screenshot on your PC.

  • You can report an issue: If you are facing an error on our PC, then you can quickly take a screenshot of the error message and report it to the support team to get further assistance in resolving it.
  • Save important information: Say you wish to save flight information but it is too much to write down, you can simply take a screenshot and save all the information.
  • Explain something to someone: You can take a screenshot and guide someone on how to navigate through a bunch of options with clear instructions, to make their life easier.
  • Create instant and custom memes: You get meme templates on the internet, with screenshots, and you can personalize and customize them to match the situation that you wish to explain. We have a list of some of the best meme-creator software if you are interested.

How can I take a screenshot on a Toshiba laptop?

Take a screenshot on Windows 11

1. Use the PrintScr button

  1. Open the webpage, or app screen, you wish to take a screenshot of.
  2. Press the Fn + PrintScr button.
  3. Open the Microsoft Paint application.
  4. Press Ctrl + V on a new page in MS Paint.
  5. Click on File.
  6. Select Save As and select the file format.
  7. Enter the name of the file.
  8. Hit the Save button.

Taking about the usual way of taking a screenshot, you can make use of the PrintScr button on your keyboard.

Pressing the Fn + PrintScr button will take a screenshot of the entire screen. If you wish to take a screenshot of a particular window, then you need to press Alt + PrintScr.

2. Use the Snipping tool

  1. Press the Windows button to open the Start menu.
  2. Search for Snipping tool and open it.
  3. Click on New.
  4. Drag your mouse over the region you wish to capture.
  5. Click on Save Snip.
  6. Choose the location to save your screenshot.

Windows operating system comes with a bunch of essential tools one of which is the Snipping Tool. Using this tool, you can easily capture a screenshot and save it on your PC.

It also features some other editing tools to finalize your screenshots and make them send-ready. You can choose the option to take a rectangle screenshot, an oval screenshot, etc., and also capture a part of the region you wish to capture.

Take a screenshot on Windows 10

Note icon NOTE
For those using Windows 10 on their Toshiba laptops, they can also try taking screenshots by pressing the Windows + PrintScr keys.

1. Use the PrintScr button

  1. Open the webpage, or app screen, you wish to take a screenshot of.
  2. Press the Fn + PrintScr button.
  3. Open the Start menu.
  4. Select Paint application from the list.
  5. Press Ctrl + V on a new page in MS Paint.
  6. Click on File.
  7. Select Save As and select the file format.
  8. Enter the name of the file.
  9. Hit the Save button.

Taking about the usual way of taking a screenshot, you can make use of the PrintScr button on your keyboard.

Pressing the Fn + PrintScr button will take a screenshot of the entire screen. If you wish to take a screenshot of a particular window, then you need to press Alt + PrintScr.

2. Use the Snipping tool

  1. Press the Windows button to open the Start menu.
  2. Search for the Snipping tool and open it.
  3. Click on New.
  4. Drag your mouse over the region you wish to capture.
  5. Click on Save Snip.
  6. Choose the location to save your screenshot.

Windows operating system comes with a bunch of essential tools one of which is the Snipping Tool. Using this tool, you can easily capture a screenshot and save it on your PC.

It also features some other editing tools to finalize your screenshots and make them send-ready. You can choose the option to take a rectangle screenshot, an oval screenshot, etc., and also capture a part of the region you wish to capture.

Take a screenshot on Windows 7

Note icon NOTE
For those using Windows 7 on their Toshiba laptops, they can also try taking screenshots by pressing the Windows + PrintScr keys.

1. Use the PrintScr button

  1. Open the webpage, or app screen, you wish to take a screenshot of.
  2. Press the Fn + PrintScr button.
  3. Click on the Start menu.
  4. Select Accessories.
  5. Click on the Microsoft Paint application.
  6. Press Ctrl + V on a new page in MS Paint.
  7. Click on File.
  8. Select Save As and select the file format.
  9. Enter the name of the file.
  10. Hit the Save button.

Taking about the usual way of taking a screenshot, you can make use of the PrintScr button on your keyboard.

Pressing the Fn + PrintScr button will take a screenshot of the entire screen. If you wish to take a screenshot of a particular window, then you need to press Alt + PrintScr.

2. Use the Snipping tool

  1. Press the Windows button to open the Start menu.
  2. Search for the Snipping tool and open it.
  3. Click on New.
  4. Drag your mouse over the region you wish to capture.
  5. Click on Save Snip.
  6. Choose the location to save your screenshot.

Windows operating system comes with a bunch of essential tools one of which is the Snipping Tool. Using this tool, you can easily capture a screenshot and save it on your PC.

It also features some other editing tools to finalize your screenshots and make them send-ready. You can choose the option to take a rectangle screenshot, an oval screenshot, etc., and also capture a part of the region you wish to capture.

If you are using Windows 11, then you can refer to our guide on how you can take screenshots on Windows 11 in 4 quick ways.

In case the PrintScr button on your Toshiba laptop isn’t working, we have a guide that lists some of the effective solutions to resolve the issue.

We also have a guide on the best and easy ways to convert screenshot into JPG format in Windows 10.

If you are facing issues where the Snipping Tool isn’t copying images to the clipboard, then you can refer to our guide which lists some dedicated fixes. Also, we have a list of some of the best snipping tools for your PC.

That is it from us in this guide. Let us know in the comments below, which one of the methods you are using to capture screenshots on your Toshiba laptop.