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Grab this Ryzen-powered mini PC with quad 4K support for $250 off

15 October 2025 at 09:25

Unless you’re always working away from home, you probably don’t need a laptop—and that’s good news because you can get a much more powerful device for the same price (or even less!) if you opt for a mini PC instead. This Geekom AX8 mini PC is amazing for home offices, and right now it’s on sale for just $499 on Amazon. That’s a massive 33% discount from its original $749 and an excellent price for a powerful machine!

This Geekom mini PC comes with an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor and an impressive 32GB of DDR5 RAM. That’s a solid combo that will not stumble over any task. There’s also a speedy 1TB SSD on board, as well as Radeon 780M integrated graphics that can handle modest gaming with pretty good performance. It’s seriously robust and will last you for many years as long as you aren’t doing super-intensive stuff.

The Geekom AX8 is especially good for multitaskers because it supports a quadruple 4K setup. Between the two USB4 ports (up to 8K@30Hz) and two HDMI ports (up to 4K@60Hz), you can run several high-def displays for tons of screen real estate. It’s the perfect solution whether you’re reading dozens of documents, researching numerous browser tabs, streaming movies or playing music, meeting on Zoom, etc.

A laptop with these kinds of specs could easily cost you twice as much, so why waste the money? Get this Geekom AX8 mini PC for $499 while this limited-time Amazon deal is still around!

Save $250 on this Ryzen 7 mini PC with 32GB RAM and quad 4K support

How to get Windows 11 cheap (or even for free)

14 October 2025 at 10:00

Windows licenses cost a lot—painfully so. Paying $139 for Windows 11 Home or $200 for Windows 11 Pro feels expensive when Linux is free. That much money can easily swallow a third of a budget PC build. Yet with less developer support for Linux, Windows is a necessity for most people.

What’s not a given is paying full retail price. Yep, you can snag discounts on Windows 11. How much you’ll save depends on your circumstances (and your stomach for hassle), but if you’re lucky, you could technically get it for free. Legitimately for free, since installing Windows without ever activating it doesn’t count as a full, sanctioned copy of the software. (Ahem.)

Here’s how, in several different ways. These strategies often apply for Windows 10 licenses too, but that operating system got the axe on October 14. Your better bet will be Windows 11, as it’ll get feature updates.

Simple upgrade: Trade up from Windows 10 to Windows 11

Windows 10

Microsoft

  • Price: Free

If you want to switch to Windows 11, you don’t need to pay to upgrade from Windows 10. You can make the jump for free.

You can only trade up to the same kind of edition, however. So if your license is for Windows 10 Home, you’ll move up to Windows 11 Home. Likewise if you have a Pro license.

Our Windows 11 upgrade checklist breaks down the steps for an easy transition, but in a nutshell:

  1. Verify that your PC meets Windows 11’s requirements.
  2. Run either the Windows 11 installation assistant or create Windows 11 installation media for a clean install.
  3. If performing a clean install of Windows 11, match your edition type (Home or Pro) to what you had in Windows 10.

Also, if you choose a clean install, ensure you have your Windows 10 license key on hand, in case your hardware isn’t automatically recognized and you need to manually activate Windows. Not sure what your key is? Run a program like Magical Jelly Bean Product KeyFinder in Windows 10. (Our step-by-step guide explains how it works.)

Wondering what happened to the free upgrades from Windows 7 or 8/8.1 to Windows 10? Unfortunately, Microsoft finally shut that down in September 2023.

Easiest discount: An OEM license

Windows 11 Home OEM listing on Newegg
OEM licenses are available for both digital downloads and old-school DVD copies of Windows.

PCWorld

  • Price: $120 (Windows 11 Home), $160 (Windows 11 Pro)

Our next suggestion is a method available to everyone and has the least amount of hassle: Purchasing an OEM license.

License types are different than operating system versions. They dictate what you can do with the software, while OS versions are distinguished by the features available. Multiple Windows license types exist, but the two commonly available to a home user are the retail and OEM varieties.

Get windows 11 pro for cheap in pcworld's software store

Windows 11 Pro

Windows 11 Pro

Buying Windows 11 from Microsoft’s website or from a brick-and-mortar store gets you the retail license. If you visit an online retailer like Amazon or Newegg, you can find both retail and OEM licenses for sale. You can usually spot an OEM license by its price, which tend to go for $120 for a Windows 11 Home license and $160 for a Windows 11 Pro license—though you can grab them for less during periodic sales.

All the features of the operating system version are the same for both license types. The difference is that with a retail license, you can transfer the license key to a different PC later on.

Windows 11 Activation explanation page on Microsoft website

The process for activating a Windows 11 OEM license is the same as for a retail license.

PCWorld

You can’t do that with an OEM license. In exchange for a lower price, you get to use the license key on only one PC, period. If you build a system, and then put together a replacement one four years later, you can’t transfer the license to the new machine.

Also, if the hardware used to identify your system fails—namely, the motherboard—Microsoft’s registration servers won’t recognize your license as valid after you replace the dead part. Microsoft has historically been kind about such situations, however. You can usually call to reactivate the license after replacing a fried mobo. But it is an extra hassle.

For further savings through a retailer, you’ll have to wait for a sale (like Black Friday), when you can get an OEM license in the neighborhood of $85 (Windows Home) to $120 (Windows Pro).

Otherwise, you can pick up a cheaper license through PCWorld’s very own software store. (Yes, that’s really us, and yes, the licenses are legit.) We’re currently selling Windows 11 Home licenses for $60, and Windows 11 Pro licenses for $80. Sometimes we even put them on sale!

Deepest savings: The education discount

Windows 11 Education license box art

Microsoft

  • Price: $0 (Windows 11 Education)

Not all student discounts are reserved for the under-24 set. Your local community college might be a source for a free or extremely discounted copy of Windows—and nearly the equivalent of Windows Enterprise, to boot. You’ll just have to put in some legwork (perhaps literally) to get it.

As mentioned above, license types determine what you can do with Windows—and who can use it, as well. Through the Academic Volume Licensing agreements, schools can purchase access to Windows 11 Education for their students, faculty, and staff. Some make it available only on campus machines. Others will grant a license for use on a home machine.

In that latter camp are a number of community colleges, and they often make the Windows license free. The catch: You have to sign up for at least one course to qualify for campus discounts.

Pasadena City College's Free Windows 11 for Students program
Not every community college offers free or discounted Windows 11 licenses, but many do. (Website pictured here: Pasadena City College, located in California.)

PCWorld

To get access to the software, you should register for your class first. Afterward, find the download information for your campus’s download method. Verification of student status is typically required before the installation file becomes available.

A one-unit class usually counts though, and depending on your state, it can cost as little as $80 including administrative fees. You’ll often find one-unit classes offered by the physical education or dance departments (swim, ballet, jazz, boot camp workouts, etc.), but you can also find the occasional class on topics like Beginning Drawing, Intro to HTML & CSS, and Video for the Web.

If you were already planning on taking a class in one of these subjects, you’re getting an amazing deal. The Education edition of Windows, which is similar to the Enterprise edition, includes popular Windows Pro features like Bitlocker encryption and the Sandbox feature. You’re essentially getting Windows Pro (and then some) for as much as 60 percent off—and you get to learn something new.

Bitlocker in Windows 11

Windows 11 Pro’s Bitlocker feature makes encrypting a drive a very easy process.

PCWorld

Even if you aren’t interested in the classes, you’re still paying considerably less than what you would for even a Windows Pro OEM license. We don’t encourage truancy, but there’s nothing saying you have to show up for class, so long as you’re comfortable with a failing grade on your record.

Obviously, if your local community college doesn’t have an agreement with Microsoft in place, this strategy won’t work. Also, if the total cost of the class, administrative fees, and license fee adds up to more than the retail cost of a Windows Pro license, and you wouldn’t have otherwise taken the class, that negates this deal, too. In those cases, your main options are the OEM license (outlined above) or buying through a reseller (detailed below).

Note: If you use this method, also keep an eye out for other software deals through your school. For example, your school might offer a free Microsoft 365 account, or a heavily discounted Adobe Creative Cloud account (usually $20 per month, but we’ve seen it for as little as $100 per year).

Low prices with a big caveat: Resellers

Windows 11 Pro listing on Kinguin

PCWorld

  • Price: Under $30 (Windows 11 Home and Pro)

Scoring Windows 11 at an 85-percent discount (or more) is possible, and it’s not even difficult. But this approach comes with a salt mine of caution.

Platforms like eBay and Kinguin allow buyers to purchase product keys from third-party sellers. Some sites, like Kinguin, specialize in digital software sales—to buy Windows, you’ll find the listings for Windows 11 Home (or Windows 11 Pro), pick a seller from the list, then add their product to your cart and check out.

What makes the license keys so cheap is that they’re gray market at best. In other words, the keys aren’t illegal, but they’re likely extras from a volume licensing agreement and not meant to be sold individually to home users. So they come with risk. Critics of this method rightly point out that you can buy keys that don’t work, or eventually lose their activation status because of their unknown origins. And that has happened to some people. Customer service is often poor for these kinds of sites, too, leaving you high and dry.

Fans of this method say many people never run into issues, and in fact urge you to find the keys as cheap as possible (usually through eBay) to minimize problems. You can also buy with a credit card for some added protection. If you go this route, you should get Windows Pro keys. The cost difference is often negligible from Home and you get better features like Bitlocker encryption and other Pro features.

But what we actually recommend is to buy through reputable sources of cheaper keys instead. For example, some professional organizations are able to negotiate deals for their members—we suggest starting there. You can also check to see if your favorite media sites have special pricing for readers. PCWorld’s own software store is a good source—it offers Windows Home and Pro keys at sizable discounts (often it’s regularly as low as $60 for Home and $80 for Pro), and the keys are guaranteed to work.

This Ryzen 7 mini PC with 32GB RAM is a crazy low $320

13 October 2025 at 09:44

Nowadays, it’s so easy to achieve a minimalist office setup because you don’t need a laptop or a big desktop PC to get your work done. In fact, a mini PC is more than capable of getting everything done, including this Bosgame P4. Even better, you can get this one for 20% off, which means you only pay $320 for it at Amazon.

How can you be sure this mini PC is capable of handling your daily workload, streaming sessions, and everything in between? Well, because its specs are nothing to turn your nose at. Under the hood of this tiny little computer is an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor and a sensible 32GB DDR4 RAM. That’s a stellar combo that indicates your system will boot in no time and your apps will load in a blink. The Bosgame P4 also has plenty of storage space since there’s a 1TB SSD on board.

We’re pretty sure you’ll also love that you can set up the Bosgame P4 with up to three monitors at once. The system supports 4K displays over the HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C ports, more than can be said about most laptops these days, which require hubs to make this possible. Of course, connectivity isn’t going to be an issue with these mini PCs because there are plenty of USB-A ports for peripherals, an audio jack, as well as two LAN ports.

Frankly, that’s quite a lot for a $320 computer and you’ll certainly have quite a bit of fun using the Bosgame P4 for your daily tasks. So get one for 20% off at Amazon sooner rather than later.

Small in size but oh so powerful

Dump your laptop for this Ryzen 7 mini PC, now on sale for $319

8 October 2025 at 08:49

October Prime Day is in full swing, and that means it’s the perfect time to upgrade your workspace without breaking the bank. Tired of that sluggish laptop taking up so much room on your desk? Switch to a compact alternative! With this Beelink SER5 Max mini PC, you can score way more performance at a cheaper price while freeing up space. Right now, it’s on sale for just $319 (was $429) on Amazon!

Mini PCs are surging in popularity amongst home users because they offer the best of both worlds between laptops and desktop PCs, all for a great price. Whether you’re working, creating, procrastinating, or multitasking, the Beelink SER5 Max has the chops to get you through the day without breaking a sweat. Under the hood, you’ll find an AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor, 32GB of RAM, and a speedy 500GB SSD with Windows 11 Pro. Just plug it into a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Boom! It’s the perfect daily driver as long as you don’t need portability.

It’s particularly great for productivity because it supports up to three 4K@60Hz displays via its HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video ports. Imagine how much more you could get done without constantly swapping between apps, able to scan everything you need just by glancing from screen to screen. Not to mention the four fast USB-A ports, LAN port, 3.5mm audio jack, plus Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

This Beelink SER5 Max is one of the best mini PC deals during October Prime Day, so grab it while you can. Again, it’s only $319 right now! And while you’re at it, check out some of the other amazing October Prime Day tech deals we’ve found.

Laptop users are switching to mini PCs in droves

Nvidia and Intel could win the AI PC war with this secret weapon

8 October 2025 at 06:30

If you haven’t heard, Nvidia is investing $5 billion in Intel. According to Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, this exciting Nvidia-Intel alliance will create “Intel x86 SoCs that integrate Nvidia GPU chiplets, fusing the world’s best CPU and GPU.” This could be the injection Intel needs to break out of its funk and course-correct its downward trajectory.

But this fusion isn’t just about, say, improving Intel’s Arc integrated graphics. It’s actually a step towards AI PC dominance. Nvidia GPUs have long been the best hardware for local AI workloads, but they’re limited by VRAM. With Intel’s help, Nvidia could finally solve that bottleneck—by developing the same power that Apple has been wielding.

I’m talking about unified memory

Picture a modern desktop PC that’s fitted with an Intel CPU and Nvidia GPU. The Intel CPU relies on the RAM on the motherboard while the Nvidia GPU relies on the VRAM built into itself. To communicate, they need to move data between RAM and VRAM—and that’s slow.

For PC gaming, this isn’t a major problem. For example, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 has 16GB of VRAM and that’s plenty for games. But for GPU compute tasks, VRAM is essentially the data workspace, so more VRAM is better. This is critical for local LLMs and other local AI tasks, but also for any CUDA workloads on Nvidia GPUs.

In other words: If you want to run a local LLM on your desktop, it has to fit into your GPU’s memory. Got a desktop PC with a whopping 128GB of RAM? It doesn’t matter. If your GPU only has 16GB of VRAM, that’s your limit—and that just isn’t enough for next-gen AI.

geforce rtx 5090 founders edition

Foundry

Yes, Nvidia has the most mature GPU compute system and the fastest, most powerful GPUs in the world. But to take advantage of them for memory-hungry tasks, you need a lot of VRAM. At a certain point, it’s no longer about GPU speed—it’s about how many gigabytes of data you can fit into the GPU’s memory for direct, speedy access.

Enter unified memory. You can think of unified memory as a single pool of RAM that’s shared between CPU and GPU. With unified memory, communication between CPU and GPU is faster since data doesn’t need to be constantly moved from RAM to VRAM and vice versa. It also expands how much RAM the GPU has access to.

Now, let me be clear: Intel and Nvidia have NOT announced unified memory. Not yet, anyway. But they’ve announced something close: the integration of an Nvidia GPU chiplet on the same SoC package as an Intel CPU, connected with NVLink. And in its data center products, NVLink-C2C allows the CPU and GPU to share memory. Sound familiar?

AMD, Apple, and Qualcomm all have shared memory already

On the Mac side, Apple Silicon is the poster child for unified memory. You can buy a MacBook with 128GB of unified memory, and that memory can be used by both the MacBook’s CPU and GPU.

Meanwhile, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 has 32GB of VRAM. For AI workloads where memory capacity is the bottleneck, a MacBook can outperform a beefy desktop PC with a high-end Intel CPU and an RTX 5090, even though Nvidia’s RTX GPU is much faster than Apple’s.

You also have AMD’s APU architecture (which offers system memory shared between CPU and GPU), Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X (which has unified memory like Apple), and Intel’s Lunar Lake platform (which has on-package memory shared between CPU and GPU).

unified memory

Apple

AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ supports up to a maximum of 128GB of memory, but many AI tools and GPU compute workloads are designed for CUDA, Nvidia’s software platform. Without CUDA, that AMD system may not be compatible with the tools you want to run. (And those integrated Qualcomm and Intel GPUs just aren’t that fast. Right now, only AMD and Apple are truly in the running.)

Though they have unified memory, Apple, AMD, Qualcomm, and Intel don’t have the powerful GPUs of Nvidia or the mature CUDA platform that makes Nvidia the standard for GPU compute tasks. Yet, while CUDA is the de facto standard, the industry is trying to change this with technologies like Windows ML. Competitors are chipping away at Nvidia’s lead here.

To pull ahead again, Nvidia needs to find a way for its GPUs to access a system’s main pool of memory—just like Apple, AMD, and Qualcomm already allow on their SoCs. It doesn’t really matter if Nvidia has the most powerful GPU compute solution if the AI models and data can’t fit into the VRAM of said solution.

Not official, but the hints are there

In Nvidia’s official announcement, the company says “Intel will build and offer to the market x86 system-on-chips (SOCs) that integrate Nvidia RTX GPU chiplets. These new x86 RTX SOCs will power a wide range of PCs that demand integration of world-class CPUs and GPUs.” And in Intel’s official announcement, the two will “focus on seamlessly connecting Nvidia and Intel architectures using Nvidia NVLink.”

So, yeah, there aren’t many details here, and neither Nvidia nor Intel are talking about memory. Will the memory be on the GPU itself? Well, Nvidia describes this as “a new class of integrated graphics.” At this point, all major SoCs with integrated graphics—from Apple, AMD, Qualcomm, and even Intel itself—use unified or pooled memory. (Some platforms have memory unified at the hardware level, while others just make it fast for the GPU to share access to the system’s RAM. The key is that the GPU isn’t only stuck with its own small amount of VRAM.)

Snapdragon X2 Elite

Mattias Inghe / Foundry

Nvidia and Intel haven’t announced when they’ll ship hardware with this architecture, but multiple analysts expect 2027. This isn’t a one-off partnership, however, and it will continue. The first SoC package won’t be the last, and the architecture will likely evolve… and I believe it’ll move towards closer integration between Intel’s CPUs and Nvidia’s GPUs.

So, while Nvidia and Intel haven’t officially announced unified memory—in fact, they haven’t said anything about memory—it seems like a smart direction. All the talk about a “virtual giant SoC” where the CPU and GPU are “seamlessly connected” is a strong hint about where this is going, and NVLink is another big hint. In its data center products, Nvidia has a form of NVLink (called NVLink-C2C) that allows CPUs and GPUs to use the same pool of memory. (There’s no guarantee that’s what this will be, of course—especially in the first generation.)

Let me wear my informed speculation hat for a second: Nvidia and Intel would both love to deliver a unified memory architecture, but it’ll take multiple hardware generations to get there, and I’d bet Nvidia and Intel engineers are already talking about this as we speak. The first-generation product probably won’t be true unified memory—Intel and Nvidia would be hyping that up in their press releases if it were—but they’re almost certainly moving in that direction.

We’ll have to wait for more details, but Nvidia finally has a plausible path to crushing its competition in the AI PC wars. Nvidia already has the best GPU system; the only missing piece is memory. With Intel on board, Nvidia now has a roadmap to get where it needs to be. But Nvidia and Intel will need time to deliver the right product, and I expect that’s why they’re not talking about memory just yet. Stay tuned.

Subscribe to Chris Hoffman’s newsletter, The Windows Readme, for more expert PC advice from a real human.

Mini PC curious? These 2 deals make Prime Day ideal for taking the plunge

7 October 2025 at 22:05

Sure, there are mini PCs for $800, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to get your first mini PC. That’s crystal clear with the deals up on Amazon right now for Amazon Prime Day.

Right now, you can pick up your first mini PC for just under $170 for a massive discount of 29 percent on the normal retail price.

What will you be getting? The Bosgame E2 Mini PC boasts a Ryzen 5 3550H processor quick enough for all your apps and programs. It comes equipped with 16GB of DDR4 memory and 512GB storage – enough to store your critical files and allow you to multitask without worries. That storage capacity can be expanded up to 4TB if needed too, so there’s plenty of room to upgrade.

Or for the gamers among us you could get the GMKtec Nucbox M7 mini PC which has been reduced by 25 percent and is now only $366. The M7 sports a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 6850H processor with a maximum clock speed of up to 4.7GHz.

It also comes with AMD’s integrated Radeon 680M graphics card, sporting up to 12 cores – enough to thrash all your favorite games. The M7 also comes with 32GB DDR 5 RAM and 512GB hard drive for storage, for loading on a smattering of titles.

A HDMI 2.1 port means you can connect the M7 up to a large screen TV or monitor for video output up to 8K at 144Hz. This little unit also comes with three performance modes: Quiet, Balance, or Performance. It has an Oculink port to hook up an external video card to get real serious performance out of your games.

GMKtec’s products sell out fast so you best add this one to your cart before Prime Day ends at midnight Pacific on the 8th. This deal won’t last forever, and prices are sure to rebound back to where they were before, so get in quick.

Want to explore even more options? We’ve got a full roundup of the best October Prime Day mini PC deals brimming with deep discounts. Check it out!

This mini PC has a powerful Core i9, 32GB RAM, and a huge 45% discount

7 October 2025 at 17:18

These days, you don’t need to pay a fortune for a powerful computer, especially if you just need one for your home office and not for top-tier gaming or creative tasks like video editing. A mini PC like this Acemagician M1 strikes the best balance between performance and price, and it’s even better when you can get it on sale. Right now, it’s only $440 on Amazon (was $799.99) with this crazy discount during Amazon’s October Prime Big Deal Days!

When I say that this mini PC is ready for pretty much anything you need it to do for work and leisure, I mean it. It runs on a powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor along with 32GB of RAM, which is plenty for smoothly handling Windows 11 plus any apps plus however many Chrome tabs you like to keep open at once. The chip is a few generations old, but was Intel’s most powerful at the time, and still has plenty of pep. The 1TB SSD offers tons of storage for apps, movies, music, and photos, and you can even upgrade the RAM and SSD yourself down the road up to 64GB (RAM) and 4TB (SSD).

It comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro, which is a nice cherry on top of this stellar specs combo at this price. But what makes it so good for a home office is that it supports up to three 4K@60Hz monitors thanks to its HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C video connections. You also get six fast USB-A ports (two front, four back), 2.5G Ethernet, and 3.5mm audio.

You simply can’t get a better PC than this for under $500, so what are you waiting for? Level up your home office with the Acemagic M1 for just $440 while this hefty price drop is still available! Amazon’s October Prime Day ends at midnight Pacific time on Wednesday.

Save 45% on this high-performance Core i9 mini PC with 32GB RAM

This Ryzen 7 mini PC with 32GB RAM is excellent now that it’s 24% off

7 October 2025 at 09:21

Why shell out for an expensive laptop when you can get a compact, high-performance mini PC for a fraction of the cost? Especially if that laptop is just going to sit in your home office 24/7. Mini PCs are all the rage these days, and for good reason. I mean, look at this Kamrui Hyper H1 mini PC that’s plenty powerful and on sale for $379.99 (was $499.99) with this awesome 24% discount for October Prime Day.

This tiny yet mighty machine is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 6800H processor paired with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, delivering super-fast performance for all the tasks you need to get done in a day. If you need more power later on, you can always upgrade the system with more parts, reaching up to 64GB of RAM and 4TB of storage. Windows 11 will feel snappy on this, let me tell you.

The Kamrui Hyper H1 also features AMD Radeon 680M integrated graphics, so it’s also great for some lightweight gaming, video editing, and other creative tasks. It can also support three 4K@60Hz monitors with the available HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video outputs. As for connectivity, this tiny PC also comes with six high-speed USB-A ports for data drives and peripherals, a 2.5G LAN port, and a 3.5mm audio jack, as well as Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

Grab this stellar Prime Big Deal and score the Kamrui Hyper H1 mini PC for $349.99 before this deal vanishes. If you want to spend even less, check out the best October Prime Day mini PC deals. And don’t miss the best tech deals for Prime Big Deal Days!

Save 24% on this Ryzen mini PC with 32GB RAM for Prime Big Deal Days

Best October Prime Day mini PC deals: Save big on tiny computers

8 October 2025 at 03:33

We’re into the second day of this year’s October Prime Day event and we have until 11:59 PM PDT to get all the shopping done. This is the year’s second sale extravaganza at Amazon, and we’re excited to see what impressive deals we’ll today.

One thing we’re really loving about tech this year is the explosion of mini PCs. We’re seeing a lot more of them, and they’re super affordable, rather powerful, and absolutely tiny. Some come with the latest AMD CPU, others run on Intel, some feature DDR4, others come with the newer DDR5. Storage is usually not a problem with mini PCs, either, and multitasking on multiple screens is expected.

I’ve gone ahead and hunted all the best mini PC deals you can get your hands on straight away. Here are the best October Prime Day mini PC discounts I found, along with my recommendations. There’s also an FAQ at the end in case you need more guidance when buying these. You’ll need to be a Prime member to take advantage of these deals — here’s how to score a free Amazon Prime trial subscription and get in on the action.

October Prime Day deals on AMD Ryzen mini PCs

  • Acemagician S3A – Ryzen 9 6900HX, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support — $399 (20% off, was $499)
  • Acemagician Kron K1 – AMD RYzen 5 7430U, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support — $213.57 (33% off, was $319)
  • Beelink SER5 Max – AMD Ryzen 7 6800H, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 500GB SSD, triple display support – $319 (20% off, was $399)
  • Geekom A6 – AMD Ryzen 7 6800H, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, quad display support — $381.65 (15% off, was $449)
  • Geekom A8 – AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, quad display support – $479 (24% off, was $629)
  • Kamrui E3B – AMD Ryzen 7 7730U, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support – $298 (30% off, was $427)
  • Geekom AX8 Max – AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, quad display support – $499 (33% off, was $749)
  • Bosgame E2 – AMD Ryzen 5 3550H, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support – $179.99 (25% off, was $240)
  • Geekom A9 Max – AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 2TB SSD, quad display support – $949.05 (21% off, was $1,199)
  • GMKtec M5 Plus – AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $319.98 (20% off, was $399.98)

My favorite of the bunch is the Beelink SER5 Max . That’s an impeccable price for a fantastic device. Running on a Ryzen 7, with 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 500GB SSD, this is a great daily driver. It even supports three 4K displays, thus allowing you to multitask to your heart’s desire.

October Prime Day deals on Intel mini PCs

  • Beelink S13 — Intel Twin Lake N150, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, dual display support – $175.90 (23% off, was $229)
  • Kamrui GK3 Plus – Intel Alder Lake N95, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support – $150.29 (25% off, was $200)
  • Kamrui Essenx E1 – Intel N97, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, dual display support – $209.99 (25% off, was $280)
  • DreamQuest – Intel N95, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $246.99 (18% off, was $300)
  • Geekom GT2 – Intel Core Ultra 9, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 2TB SSD, quad display support – $999 (23% off, was $1,299)
  • Acemagic Vista V1 – Twin Lake N150, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, dual display support – $150.30 (34% off, was $229)

My favorite deal on this list is for the Kamrui Essenx E1, which is down to $210 from its $280 MSRP. Running on an Intel N97 processor and with 16GB RAM, as well as a full terabyte of storage space, this mini PC gives you enough power to complete your daily tasks without breaking the bank. Did I mention it supports two displays? That’s pretty great, especially since this thing’s so cheap!

Other great October Prime Day deals

These aren’t the only Prime Big Deal Days deals being tracked by the PCWorld team. If you’re looking to supercharge your home setup with the juiciest tech sales, hit the links for only the best expert-curated picks we’ve found.

FAQ


1.

What to consider when buying a mini PC?

There are multiple things to consider when getting a mini PC, starting with your performance needs. Once you figure out what you’re going to use the PC for, you can make the right choice for you in terms of CPU, memory, and storage. Whether or not it comes with an operating system should also be on your checklist because you may not want to worry about installing a fresh copy of Windows, for instance.

2.

Can a mini PC replace a desktop?

Yes, mini PCs can absolutely replace desktops for many users, especially if you’re mainly going to use it for office work, browsing, and media streaming. Some higher-performance models can even handle video editing or gaming, but their price tag reflects that.

3.

What is the downside to a mini PC?

One of the main downsides to most mini PCs is that they don’t come with a dedicated graphics card, so their usability for gaming is limited. Also, most mini PCs are geared towards general use, so tasks like video editing may not work as well. Understanding component limitations can help you pick the right system for your needs.

4.

Do mini PCs support multiple monitors?

Yes, most mini PCs support at least two monitors, which is more than we can say about numerous laptops on the market. Many models support three or four monitors, thus enabling you to efficiently multitask, spreading your apps across multiple screens. Most often than not, you can connect the displays via HDMI, DisplayPort, but also via USB-C.

5.

What can you upgrade on a mini PC?

Most mini PCs are easy to upgrade. The RAM and SSD are usually extremely easy to swap out and each model will come with specific requirements, as in the specific type of SSD it can support, maximum storage capacity and maximum supported RAM. Many models come with a magnetic cover that you need to pop open to access both RAM and SSD, while others require a tiny screwdriver to take out the case. Either way, it’s a fairly painless process.

Best PC computer deals for October Prime Day: Last chance!

8 October 2025 at 17:50

Amazon’s October Prime Big Deal Days 2025 sales event is almost finished, but there are still tons of great deals on desktop PCs available. This year’s event runs October 7-8 and includes solid discounts on everything from gaming PCs to all-in-ones to traditional mainstream desktop computers. You’ll need to be a Prime member to take advantage of Amazon’s steep discounts. If you aren’t a member already, check out our guide for how to get Amazon Prime for free.

I’ve been tracking and writing about the best computer deals year-round for a long time now, and at PCWorld I’ve used this knowledge to curate a list of the best available computer deals across the internet specifically for this October Prime Day. Other retailers have jumped in on the action, and some of the best desktop PC deals can even be found outside of Amazon, so I’ve included those deals too.

Best October Prime Day deals on gaming desktop computers

  • Skytech Storm, Ryzen 7 5700/RTX 5060 Ti/16GB RAM/1TB SSD, $999.99 (12% off on Amazon)
  • Alienware Aurora, Core Ultra 7 265F/RTX 5070/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $1,534.98 (17% off on Amazon)
  • LXZ Gaming PC, Ryzen 7 8700F/RX 7650 GRE/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $899.99 (10% off on Amazon)
  • Skytech Azure, Ryzen 7 5700/RTX 5060/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $999.99 (12% off on Amazon)
  • MSI Aegis, Core Ultra 9 285/RTX 5070 Ti/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $2,199.99 (24% off on Amazon)
  • Alienware Aurora, Core Ultra 9 285K/RTX 5080/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $2,299.99 (28% off on Dell)
  • Omen 35L, Ryzen 5 8500G/RTX 5060/16GB RAM/512GB SSD, $1,129.99 (16% off on HP)

My top picks:

The Skytech Storm for $130 off on Amazon is the budget deal of this Prime Day so far. With a Ryzen 7 5700 CPU and RTX 5060 Ti it’ll deliver solid frame rates at 1080p for modern games and the inclusion of 1TB of onboard storage means you’ll have plenty of space to load it up with your game library.

Another killer deal right now is the Alienware Aurora for $310 off on Amazon. Not only does it come with the latest gen Core Ultra 7 265F CPU, but also sports an RTX 5070. For this price it’s hard to go wrong and those in the market for a strong midrange gaming PC should look no further.

Best October Prime Day deals on mini-PCs

My top picks:

Amazon is offering the GMKtec M7 mini-PC for $124 off. This mini-PC not only rocks a Ryzen 7 Pro 6850H CPU and a whopping 32GB of RAM, but comes with excellent connectivity features to boot. It’s a great mini-PC and at this discount, the value can’t be beat.

If you’re more of a Mac fan, then this rare deal on the latest M4 Mac Mini for $100 off on Amazon is for you. The latest 2024 Mac Mini is a seriously good option for those looking to get great mini-PC performance for the price. The M4 chip has outstanding processing power and this model also comes with a good amount of RAM and onboard storage.

Note: If you’re looking for even more great deals on mini-PCs be sure to check out our full roundup spotlighting the very best Prime Day mini-PC deals.

Best October Prime Day deals on all-in-one & mainstream computers

All-in-one desktop computers combine a PC’s hardware with a modern display to make a desktop computer that has both form and function. Since everything is built together, you can save precious desktop space with an all-in-one. They make capable work computers and they can also be excellent home computers with the wide range of features appealing to the whole family.

  • Lenovo 24 AiO, Intel N100/32GB RAM/1TB SSD/24-inch 1080p display, $659.99 (18% off on Amazon)
  • HP OmniStudio X AiO, Core Ultra 5 226V/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/31.5-inch 4K display, $1,179.99 (28% off on HP)
  • Dell 27 AiO, Core 5 120U/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/27-inch 1080p display, $879.99 (13% off on Dell)
  • iMac M4, M4/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/24-inch 5K display, $1,533.50 (10% off on Amazon)

My top picks:

Amazon is offering a great deal of $240 off on the Lenovo 24 AiO. This budget-friendly all-in-one has way more RAM and onboard storage than most other models at this price. It’s a killer value for a trustworthy and dependable Lenovo PC.

Alternatively, the HP OmniStudio X AiO for $470 off on HP’s website is a worthy splurge. Rocking a stunning 4K display and good performance features, this flagship all-in-one from HP will upgrade any desk space—you just might want to invest in some external storage as this only comes with 256GB.

Other great October Prime Day deals

These aren’t the only Prime Day deals being tracked by the PCWorld team. If you’re looking to supercharge your home setup with more killer tech sales, hit the links below for the more of the best expert-curated picks we’ve found.

FAQ


1.

What type of desktop computer should I get?

You’ll see a ton of options when searching for a desktop computer, but they all mainly fit into four main categories: gaming PCs, mainstream PCs (towers or mini PCs), and all-in-ones (AiO). Which you should end up buying is entirely dependent upon what your needs are and what you want to do with your computer.

If you’re looking for something that will work in a home office or family room, then a mainstream PC or AiO with a solid CPU and a decent amount of RAM and storage is probably the way to go. If gaming is your main concern, a gaming desktop PC can offer a lot more bang for your buck than a laptop and you should prioritize getting the best GPU possible.

2.

How much processing power will I need in a desktop computer?

If you’re after CPU power, look for processors with higher numerical labels. Intel processors are available in the newer Core Ultra 3, 5, 7, or 9, and the older Core i3, i5, i7, and i9. AMD processors are available in the Ryzen 5000, 7000, 8000, and 9000 versions. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the more powerful the CPU for both manufacturers.

If you don’t need a ton of power, Intel Core Ultra 5 or Core i5 processors are your best bet, as they offer good performance at a decent price. You can get along just fine with a Core Ultra 3 or Core i3 for basic office and web browsing. A Core Ultra 7 or Core i7 is more suited to gaming and more intense work than everyday tasks. Also, if gaming is your main concern, you may want to consider opting for the older Core i-processors as the newer Core Ultra processors are optimized for AI performance rather than gaming.

As for AMD options, the Ryzen 5000 chips rival Intel’s Core i5 as solid all-arounders. If you need more power, the Ryzen 7000 or 8000 chips are well suited for content creation like video editing. Finally, if you’re dealing with 4K video or want peak gaming performance, spring for a Ryzen 9000.

3.

What GPU should I get for a desktop computer?

If you don’t intend to do any gaming on your computer, then feel free to save some money by going with integrated graphics. However, if you are looking to get your game on, then we recommend at least an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 or RTX 5060 (or the equivalent Radeon RX 9060) as these are the least expensive discrete graphics cards that can handle 1080p gaming on High graphics settings in most games. For 1440p gaming you’ll typically want to aim for an RTX 4070/5070 (or Radeon RX 9070/XT), and for 4K gaming you’ll need to shell out for at least an RTX 4080/5080 or upgrade to the RTX 4090/5090

Thankfully, the latest-gen GPUs have dropped significantly in price in pre-built systems so opt for those if you have the money and want a performance boost. But if you’re on a tight budget, then opting for a rig with a previous-generation card can allow you to save some money while still providing decent graphics quality.

4.

How much memory do I need in a desktop computer?

As for RAM, nowadays I think it’s best to shoot for 16GB at the minimum for all systems. If you’re on a budget or just need a basic browsing machine then 8GB may suffice but you’ll likely notice a performance drop if you tend to have multiple applications or browser tabs open. Those looking to do heavy content creation such as video editing should aim for at least 32GB or go for 64GB for 4K editing.

5.

What is a good amount of storage for a desktop computer?

Storage size is dependent upon your personal needs, but it is generally a good idea to opt for an SSD over a standard HDD as they are much faster and don’t significantly affect the price of a desktop. Before deciding, it’s best to consider what your intended use of the computer will be. Are you just storing documents or doing web browsing? Then something like 512GB will be plenty.

If you want to load up a lot of large files such as games or content creation projects, then you’ll need at least 1TB to 2TB of storage. However, just remember that even if your computer doesn’t have enough storage built-in you can always upgrade your SSD or go with an external drive to increase your available storage options.

6.

Is now a good time to buy a desktop computer?

While the prospect of tariff-induced price increases may seem daunting to consumers, right now is actually a pretty good time to buy a new PC. Component prices have generally stabilized in the face of tariffs—with the exception of high-end GPU models—and CPU prices overall generally remain affordable.

If you’re waiting for upcoming releases, you shouldn’t hold your breath. Don’t get caught in the cycle of waiting for the next new thing as something new is always around the corner. Waiting for a new product launch is only beneficial if it’s imminent and there are no good deals available right now. Fortunately, events such as October Prime Day offer buyers an excellent time to buy the latest components and PC builds at a discount.

Today only! This Ryzen 5 mini PC packs a lot of power for just $234

6 October 2025 at 08:53

If you need a new daily driver computer for your home office but you’re on a tight budget, then ditch the thought of getting a laptop and opt for a mini PC instead—something like this Beelink SER5 mini PC. Not only is it powerful enough to get you through any work day without frustration, but right now it’s on sale for $233.99 on Amazon (29% off). That’s nearly $100 off its original price and close to its all-time best discount!

The Beelink SER5 mini PC runs on an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U CPU and 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 500GB M.2 2280 SSD. While that’s far from earth-shattering specs, it’s really friggin’ good for the price. It won’t struggle to handle Windows 11 or your many apps and Chrome tabs, plus it can be user-upgraded to 64GB of memory and 4TB of storage. That gives you room to grow in the future when you need it.

One of the best things about this mini PC is its triple 4K display support for maximum workstation productivity between the HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video connections. Connectivity is excellent overall, complete with three high-speed USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a slower USB-A 2.0 port, a 2.5G LAN port, a 3.5mm headset port, plus Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

This is a bangin’ machine for just over $200 and there’s less than 24 hours left on this deal, so don’t miss it. Get the Beelink SER5 mini PC for 29% off while you still can on Amazon!

This Ryzen mini PC packs a lot of power for just $234

Best webcams 2025: Top picks and expert buying advice

4 October 2025 at 14:30

PCWorld tests webcams with one goal in mind: value. I want you to buy a webcam with the best picture quality, the best noise cancellation, and the best overall feature set for the lowest price. Our picks for the best PC webcams reflect this.

Webcams exploded during the work-from-home movement in 2020, and we’ve covered them closely ever since. Below, you’ll find our pick for the best webcam overall, budget webcam offerings, and premium 4K webcams that offer the best of everything. We have a separate article covering the best Windows Hello webcams, which use biometrics to help eliminate passwords.

Our webcam testing methodology emphasizes showing you screenshots of how the webcam will take photos and video in multiple lighting conditions, audio tests, and more. Price matters, and we may adjust our recommendations on price fluctuations due to sales or tariffs. The best webcams meet these criteria.

Why you should trust PCWorld for webcam reviews and buying advice: PCWorld has covered technology since the 1980s, including PC peripherals like webcams. But ever since the work-from-home movement kicked off in 2020, webcams have become a critical aspect of business and social activity alike — and we were on top of it from the beginning. Since then, we’ve written numerous webcam reviews, sharing testing responsibilities among our colleagues in Germany, Sweden, and elsewhere.

Anker PowerConf C200 – Best overall webcam

Anker PowerConf C200 - Best overall webcam

Pros

  • 2K (1440p) resolution with autofocus
  • Adjustable field of view
  • Solid low-light performance
  • 18-month warranty

Cons

  • Lacks 60fps support
  • Anker software is necessary for full control
  • Color balance is middling
Price When Reviewed: $59.99
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$49.99
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$49.99
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$59.99
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$59.99
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Who should buy the Anker PowerConf C200?

What sold me on this webcam are the basics: It’s just a good webcam for an affordable price. As such, it will appeal to a broad segment of buyers: work-from-home employees, small businesses, and general consumers. If you’re tired of your laptop’s webcam and want something better, start here with the Anker PowerConf C200.

It offers an affordable yet substantial upgrade from the 720p cameras found in most laptop webcams to a 1440p webcam. The webcam also works well in low light, a pitfall of many webcams.

Anker PowerConf C200: Further considerations

Anker and Amazon characterize this as a “Mac” camera. It’s plug-and-play within Windows, however.

Additional features include an adjustable field of zoom that crops down to 65 degrees, meaning you can orient the camera on your face alone. The camera autofocuses, too. Naturally, there are noise-canceling mics and a privacy shutter that actually turns off the entire device.

You will need Anker’s free Windows software, though, to enable some of these features. (That’s available on the Anker website.) We weren’t sold on the need for original software at first, but many other webcams now offer similar apps to enable full functionality.

eMeet Piko+ – Best overall webcam runner-up

eMeet Piko+ - Best overall webcam runner-up

Pros

  • Unique dual-lens design
  • Stellar low-light capabilities
  • Excellent 4K images
  • Lengthy USB-C cable
  • Great value for the money

Cons

  • No laptop clip or mount
  • Mics and audio filtering are okay
Price When Reviewed: 89.99
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Who should buy the eMeet Piko+?

Someone without an inquisitive cat. Seriously. The only knock on this camera is that (for now) it lacks a laptop mount, meaning that you’ll have to screw the camera to its tripod. That might be okay for those with a tidy desk, but bumping the camera means that you’ll have to readjust it. Otherwise, I think that most people will really like this cute little webcam.

I was amazed by its ability to capture crisp, 4K visuals in low light, and that was really what sold me.

eMeet Piko+: Further considerations

The eMeet Piko+ has a list price that’s hundreds of dollars less than some of the other 4K webcams we recommend. You’d have to put each webcam side by side to discern any differences.

I’m not a huge fan of the included utility software’s UI, but its ability to unlock some of the camera’s features, such as cropping and zooming, are easy enough to find and offer powerful configurability options — and hey, it’s software. It can be tweaked.

Read our full EMeet Piko+ review

Creative Live! Cam Sync 4K – Best budget webcam

Creative Live! Cam Sync 4K - Best budget webcam

Pros

  • 4K resolution for cheap!
  • Backlight adjustment isn’t bad

Cons

  • Poor color balance
  • Adjustable focus is of iffy value
  • Cheats a bit in frame rate
Price When Reviewed: 59.99
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Creative
$49.99
B&H
$56.99
Lenovo USA
$56.99
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$105.04
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Who should buy the Creative Live! Cam Sync 4K?

If 4K matters, and you don’t feel like spending a lot, this is the camera for you. To me, this feels like a good choice for a student, or someone who wants to look good in front of their friends and maybe while taking remote classes, but just doesn’t want to spend a ton of money.

It’s also best for someone who will be streaming from an environment without a lot of (changing) natural light, but is still well-lit by a lamp or screen.

The question you should always ask of budget hardware is, what corners did they cut? Here, the answer is: not many.

Creative Live! Cam Sync 4K: Further considerations

Okay, it has manually adjustable focus, but that’s not a problem if you don’t move around a lot. Similarly, backlight adjustment is typically handled automatically, but this webcam’s manual adjustment is not a problem if you work in a single location — you can dial it in and forget it. There’s a flip-over privacy shutter, and a button to mute the mic.

You’re going to find that it cheats in the frame rate a bit, and I wasn’t wild about the color balance. But for about $50, for a 4K camera? It’s worth investigating.

Read our full Creative Live! Cam Sync 4k review

eMeet SmartCam C960 2K – Best budget webcam runner-up

eMeet SmartCam C960 2K - Best budget webcam runner-up

Pros

  • Very good value
  • 1440p, 30Hz, autofocus
  • Good noise-cancelling mics

Cons

  • Autofocus doesn’t work as well in dim lighting
  • Somewhat precarious connection to a laptop
  • Unnecessary utility software
  • DIY privacy shutter
Price When Reviewed: $49.99
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$42.49
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$44.99
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$49.99
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Who should buy the eMeet SmartCam C960 2K?

This is for the person who says, “I want to upgrade my webcam, but I want to spend the least amount of money possible.” You’ll still get a decent upgrade; more than you would expect, actually. If a $10 discount matters, buy the cheaper 1080p version.

This webcam is also going to work better on a desktop monitor, by lieu of its rather simple mount. It feels flimsier when attached to a laptop.

eMeet SmartCam C960 2K: Further considerations

eMeet’s camera feels like a step up from other budget offerings. It’s not perfect. However, the 1440p resolution is a better both on paper and in the real world. The other part of the equation that often gets passed over are how well the noise-cancelling mics work, and in this case I was pretty impressed.

This camera is also available from multiple retailers, which helps keep the price down — a must for a budget webcam. To be fair, you’ll notice the review compares the C960 2K to its predecessor, the more vanilla (1080p) C960. It’s about $10 cheaper. The C960 2K’s picture is marginally better, with improved autofocusing, but I think that the C960 2K’s mics are genuinely superior.

I don’t love some of this webcam’s features, including the stick-on privacy shutter…but it is a budget webcam, after all.

Read our full eMeet SmartCam C960 2K review

BenQ IdeaCam S1 Pro – Best premium webcam for streaming

BenQ IdeaCam S1 Pro - Best premium webcam for streaming

Pros

  • Great value
  • Robust physical design
  • Integrated ring light
  • Macro lens genuinely seems useful
  • Slick remote control included

Cons

  • Not quite 4K (but close enough)
  • No 60fps option
  • No AI pan or zoom, though manual zooming is allowed
  • Legacy USB-A connector
  • Separate privacy shutter
Price When Reviewed: $199.99
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$199.99
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$199.99
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$219.99
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$219.99
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$219.99
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Who should buy the BenQ IdeaCam S1 Pro?

The IdeaCam S1 Pro looks particularly nice under good lighting, so it’s better for a user who isn’t expecting the camera to do a lot of heavy lifting in that regard. And while it might not offer the absolute top-of-the-line options, it never really fails at anything, either. It’s just a good, solid value. Period.

What I think I like most about this webcam, though, is that it excels as a webcam, then adds additional value through its peripherals, including both a macro (closeup) lens as well as a free remote control. This almost-but-not-quite 4K webcam even flips over for a top-down view.

If you’re a streamer (a woodworker or baker, say) then the ability to flip the webcam into a top-down mode, then undock the IdeaCam S1 Pro and bring it in close with the macro lens, feels like a tool hardly any other webcam offers.

BenQ IdeaCam S1 Pro: Further considerations

The IdeaCam S1 Pro would probably be our favorite webcam if it wasn’t for the $100 or so price premium it commands, which isn’t for everyone. It’s robustly built, and ships with a free software utility that adds to its capabilities. (Zooming in and out is most easily accomplished via the remote control, which does take up more room on your desk.)

The webcam slides in and out of a robust mount quite easily. Pair that with the macro lens, and you can zoom in on detail work for presentations or hobbyists. The webcam has autofocus, though you’ll probably want to lock down the focus for the macro lens. It all works surprisingly well together, though.

Read our full BenQ IdeaCam S1 Pro review

OBSBOT Tiny 2 PTZ 4K – Best premium 4K webcam

OBSBOT Tiny 2 PTZ 4K - Best premium 4K webcam

Pros

  • Superb 4K video in multiple lighting conditions
  • 60Hz option
  • Excellent utility software and configurability
  • Solid mic
  • Voice commands are a nice touch

Cons

  • Doesn’t sit as securely as Tiny 1
  • “Beauty” options aren’t worth it
Price When Reviewed: $329.00
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$299
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$329
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Who should buy the OBSBOT Tiny 2 PTZ 4K?

If the budget webcams we selected above were ideal for students, this is the lecturer’s webcam. Share your slides with your student (or your clients, in a business setting) and let your video app project a snapshot of your face over them as you illustrate your point. If you walk and talk, this is the webcam for you.

Floating on a gimbal, this tiny(!) 4K webcam can literally pan, zoom, and rotate essentially 360 degrees, using AI to lock on your face and follow it as you walk around a room.

OBSBOT Tiny 2 PTZ 4K: Further considerations

While the Tiny 2 webcam boasts the same gimbal and tracking features as the first Tiny PTZ webcam, OBSBOT used a bigger 1/1.5-inch 50Mpixel sensor in the new model that lets in more light and provides a slightly clearer picture. So it accomplishes what you’d expect in a webcam: It wildly succeeds as just a webcam, with gorgeous 4K HDR images — but provides the increased tracking capabilities to add value. It almost tracks a little too well; avoid zooming in too close if you walk around so as not to give your viewers vertigo!

I also love the fantastic software package that accompanies the webcam, which on the Tiny 1 was the best I’d ever seen. I’m less impressed by two new features: voice commands, which are useful but not necessary, and new “beauty” features that use AI to adjust your face. While the latter features work, I prefer a more natural appearance, flaws and all.

Read our full OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K PTZ webcam review

NexiGo N980P – Best webcam for wide-angle

NexiGo N980P -  Best webcam for wide-angle

Pros

  • 60fps
  • 120-degree viewing angle
  • Privacy shutter

Cons

  • Lack of fine adjustments
Price When Reviewed: 59.99
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$52.24
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Who should buy the NexiGo N980P?

If you have more than one person on camera at any one time, consider something like the NexiGo N980P. During the pandemic, the local middle school’s drama department broadcast monologues and scenes via Zoom, which allowed students the opportunity to perform. But a narrow webcam wouldn’t have allowed these scenes to be broadcast as effectively.

This camera would work equally well with a small conference room or even a family gathering, such as a living room where one family talks to grandparents overseas. It’s still a fixed-focus camera though — if you want an autofocusing model I recommend you pay about $100 for the upgraded NexiGo N680p instead.

NexiGo N980P: Further considerations

Not everyone needs a wide-angle webcam. But this does allow you to show off more of a scene than an ordinary webcam does, which makes it a valuable tool for specialized applications.

This fixed-focus 1080p webcam captures frames at a smooth 60 frames per second, as opposed to the more standard 30fps. You’ll look smoother and more lifelike as a result. The wide angle means that it will work well in a conference room. A privacy shutter is included.

Logitech Performance FHD Webcam – Best overall webcam for Windows Hello

Logitech Performance FHD Webcam - Best overall webcam for Windows Hello

Pros

  • Reliable
  • Basic 1080p, 30Hz functionality
  • No issues with Windows Hello
  • Attractive price
  • Privacy shutter

Cons

  • Just the basics — no added features
  • Average noise cancellation
Price When Reviewed: 54.99
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Adorama
$54.99
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$54.99
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$55
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$57.99
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$67.78
Staples
$69.99
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Who should buy the Lenovo Performance Windows Hello Webcam?

If I hadn’t tested this webcam myself, I might not have recommended it. But I was really impressed by the quality of the video this camera captured. (See our review, below, for more.) Our existing picks for the best budget webcams have a higher resolution, which I think elevates them above the Lenovo.

With a solid webcam performance and Windows Hello capability, I think you’ll really like this webcam, even as basic as it is. And you’ll save a ton, too.

Lenovo Performance Windows Hello Webcam: Further considerations

It is basic, down to the packaging. Windows handles all of the necessary adjustments: contrast, white balance, et cetera. There are no utilities to facilitate any settings you might make. The noise cancellation is adequate, but not much more than that.

Read our full Lenovo Performance FHD Webcam review

CA Essential Webcam Flex (WC-Flex) – Best line-of-sight webcam

CA Essential Webcam Flex (WC-Flex) - Best line-of-sight webcam

Pros

  • Overhead configuration can be good for streaming
  • Image quality is decent

Cons

  • Muted colors
  • Finicky zoom/crop controls
  • Ungainly; primarily for monitors
Price When Reviewed: $129.99
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Amazon
$129.99
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$129.99
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Who should buy the CA Essential Webcam Flex?

Some will dismiss the Webcam FLex as a gimmick. It kind of is. But this is also a good camera for people who want to feel more connection with the person on the other end of a video call.

With a webcam mounted on top of your monitor, you can’t look at the eyes of the person you’re talking to while maintaining eye contact with the physical webcam. CA’s webcam solves that problem, giving conversations a much more natural feel.

CA Essential Webcam Flex: Further considerations

You’ll be able to look directly into the “face” of the person you’re talking to, even if you may need to move the webcam slightly to the left or right to not block their image. Still, the person you’re talking to will see your face directly in their screen, rather than offset.

I can see this being a good camera for professionals who require fostering a sense of connection to be effective at their jobs — such as a therapist or a salesperson, for example.

Read our full CA Essential Webcam Flex (WC-Flex) review

Other products recently tested:

  • Lenovo Performance Windows Hello webcam: This basic Windows Hello webcam gets right to the point, and for the right price.
  • Toallin Hello Pro 2K webcam: Toallin’s “other” Windows Hello webcam doesn’t quite measure up in our review.
  • Elgato Facecam Mk. 2: Elgato’s upgraded 1080p webcam offers very good image quality and top-notch image software that allows you to preview changes to the image, even if the webcam is being used. But it lacks a microphone, which is a key omission even if Elgato (a mic maker) believes you’ll already buy one of its own.
  • iContact Camera Pro: One of the few line-of-sight webcams, the iContact dangles the webcam down in the middle of your screen, which allows you to “look” directly at the person you’re speaking to. It’s a great idea, executed a bit poorly.
  • Coolpo AI Huddle Mini Lite: Though this laptop id designed to be mounted on a laptop, Coolpo designed it for both individual and group use. It features excellent image quality and noise cancellation, though the utility app is buggy.

How PCWorld tests webcams

Our recommendations for webcams are weighted pretty heavily toward the image each webcam produces, as you might expect. But there are a number of additional criteria we look at when making a webcam recommendation. A separate article provides a detailed explanation of how we test webcams at PCWorld.

Simply put, I weight price heavily, trying to ensure that you’re getting the most for your money. I then look at the images those cameras produce, in multiple lighting scenarios, and take screenshots for you to examine in our individual reviews. I test how well it mounts to a laptop or monitor. Finally, I test the noise cancellation and other features.

Who curated this article?

My name is Mark Hachman, and I’ve been writing for PCWorld for over a decade. All told, I have over 30 years of experience in technology journalism, with about half of that specifically covering consumer products.

How to choose the best webcam

Laptop webcams generally offer basic 1080p functionality, so I look for a webcam that offers something better. Desktops, which don’t offer any webcam at all, lower the bar.

Take note of whether you want to use your webcam for personal use, such as recording a video for a friend; streaming; or for applications like Google Meet, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams. With the first two categories, you can record at the higher resolutions that a premium webcam provides, just like a high-end smartphone camera.

Neither Teams, Meet, or Zoom will stream the output of a 4K camera. On the other hand, they will accept the input of a 4K camera and simply downscale it to 1080p resolution. That’s not too shabby: 4K webcams tend to use larger sensors, letting in more light. You’ll tend to look better, even if your video call doesn’t take full advantage of the higher resolution. For that reason, I still think a 4K (or 2K) webcam is a good choice.

A higher resolution also allows you to digitally “zoom in” on your face, making you the focus of the call or stream. Some cameras already do this using a tight field-of-view; others can “crop in” using zoom functionality.

The other factor to consider is the refresh rate: you’ll seem more natural with a 60Hz webcam, which is the refresh rate most televisions use.

Looking like you’re on television will subtly lend you authority. People gravitate toward celebrities, and a 4K, 60Hz webcam is basically what your TV offers. If you’re an executive or making sales calls over Zoom or Teams, a premium webcam may give you an edge. That’s why professional streamers use them, after all.

All of my testing assumes that you’ll be using the available lighting. But you can certainly project an aura of confidence or authority with an accessory like a ring light. I haven’t found any webcams with an integrated ring light that I like, however — they just don’t offer enough light for me to recommend them. A well-lit room with natural light is my preferred setup for most scenarios.

Webcams: Glossary of words to know

Adjustable or fixed focus

Don’t worry about fixed-focus, as virtually all webcams have been pre-configured at a focal length that’s about the distance between your face and your laptop or monitor. You’ll need to account for this with tripods, however, or pay a little more for an autofocusing webcam. Autofocus webcams are handy for situations where you may be moving about the room, but beware distracting webcams that frequently refocus.

Higher frame rates

A standard webcam captures video at 30 frames per second, and will look “normal.” You’ll notice the smoothness of a 60fps camera though, and so will people you’re on a video call with.

Field of view (FOV) 

The camera’s field of view can vary. A 90-degree FOV helps people focus on you (and perhaps not the mess you’ve hidden off to the side). A 110-degree or higher FOV works better for group shots, although distortion can become a problem the wider your FOV gets. A 65-degree FOV may be perfect if it’s just you.

Think of a 90-degree FOV as one that would show two people seated side-by-side at what you would consider a “standard” distance from a webcam, or a foot or two. A 110-degree FOV can show three people, squeezed a bit close together. Keep in mind that many videoconferencing applications offer the option of virtual backgrounds, which eliminate visual clutter.

Privacy shutter

These devices are not a privacy threat, for the simple reason that they can be unplugged easily. Most have a flip-down privacy shutter, but you could always put tape over the camera or drape it with a dark cloth. 

Ring lights

Yes, integrated ring lights are now a thing on premium webcams, and worth the money if lighting is a challenge for you. While the integrated light will certainly help with lighting, a big bright monitor display (use a full-screen version of Notepad for a white screen) in front of you can serve a similar function. You can also purchase a ring light separately.

Windows Hello

You may have used Windows Hello with a fingerprint reader or another laptop. The camera simply “recognizes” you, logging you in. It’s exceptionally convenient. We have a separate article on the best Windows Hello webcams.

Tripod bundle

With so many webcams on the market, manufacturers are trying hard to differentiate their products. The new trend is a small tripod, which gives you more options for mounting the camera. Not all webcams include this. Normally, however, you can simply clip the webcam to the top of a display or a laptop with its “jaws” clamp, so a tripod isn’t really necessary unless you move around a lot or want a different angle.

AI

There’s a potential wild card that may be attached to webcams in the future: artificial intelligence, specifically Windows Studio Effects.

Windows Studio Effects uses the AI capabilities within a Copilot+ PC to blur your background, provide audio filtering, and provide a facsimile of eye contact, even if you aren’t looking directly at the camera. They also “crop in” to your face, offering something like automatic panning and zooming. (The OBSBOT webcams don’t need any of this, using an independent gimbal and tracking software to keep you in the frame.) Most videoconferencing applications perform these tasks already.

Honestly, the most impactful use of AI I’ve seen is AI-based noise cancellation, which works like magic, filtering out background music and white noise. (The one test that I haven’t tried is to check if it filters out the sound of a baby crying, which would be useful if your infant just woke up from a nap while working at home.)

These AI capabilities tap into the NPU on Copilot+ PCs, which include AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 processors, Intel’s Core Ultra mobile processors, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite.

FAQ


1.

What is the best webcam?

The best webcam overall is the Anker PowerConf C200. This 1440p webcam offers autofocus and an adjustable field of view for framing, as well as noise cancelling mics and a privacy shutter that turns off the device for added assurance. At $60 it’s a great value and a substantial improvement over a laptop’s 720p offering.

2.

What is the best budget webcam?

The best budget webcam is the Creative Live! Cam Sync 4K. That’s right, 4K. Of course, for $50, there are some compromises. For example, focus and backlight must be adjusted manually as opposed to automatically, and the color balance isn’t stellar. But all in all, it offers a lot for the money, including a privacy shutter and button for muting the mic.

3.

Can you use a smartphone as a webcam?

Soon, yes! Microsoft is testing a smartphone webcam feature in Windows 11 that sounds like it should be out in a month or two. The feature would allow you to mount a smartphone (how you do it is up to you) and then use either its front or rear camera as a webcam in any and all video applications. You’ll need a phone running Android 9 or above, and the connecting software to enable it to talk to Windows.

Sorry, iPhone users: This is only for Android smartphones.

4.

Do you need Wi-Fi for a webcam?

Yes and no. These webcams all connect to your computer directly, via a USB port, and you can record video from them while offline. Your computer will then need to be connected to either ethernet or to Wi-Fi for you to be able to chat with a friend or business partner, however.

5.

Can a webcam work without a computer?

Some webcams can work without a computer, but not all of them. USB webcams, featured here, connect via USB to a computer and require it to operate. USB webcams are most often those used for video chat or live streaming from your computer on websites such as Twitch.

IP webcams however, can connect directly to a network, router, or modem and do not require a computer at all in order to work. IP webcams are most often used as security cameras or for live feeds that upload directly to the cloud. Those are separate products, however, and not the same webcams we’re talking about here.

6.

How do I connect my webcam to the internet?

For USB webcams, it will be as simple as plugging the camera into your computer’s USB port, and then connecting to the internet via your computer.

7.

What software do I need to connect my webcam?

Technically, most webcams are plug and play, so you should simply be able to connect them to your PC to get them to work. Many, however, require their own software utilities to be installed to take advantage of specific features and to facilitate automatic updates. To actually use your webcam in a conference call, however, you’ll need to use Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or another videoconferencing app. Make sure you enter the app’s settings menu and select the webcam’s camera and microphone to provide the audio and video for your call.

Gamers, this is the RAM you want in your PC

3 October 2025 at 10:00

RAM is one of the components that is often underestimated when gaming—but choosing the right RAM can bring tangible benefits, especially in the gaming sector. DDR5 has long since arrived in the mainstream. However, not every DDR5 RAM module delivers the same performance.

If you are setting up your system with speed and future-proofing in mind, you should focus on DDR5-6000 with low latency.

Current platforms such as AMD’s Ryzen 7000 and 9000 series or Intel’s Raptor Lake refresh benefit particularly strongly from this combination. DDR5-6000 hits the sweet spot here: the memory controllers work optimally at this clock rate. At the same time, voltage requirements and heat development are kept within limits.

Even more important, however, is the CAS Latency (CL). Kits with CL30 or CL28 timings deliver significantly better results than widely used standard kits with CL36 or CL40. The difference is particularly noticeable in CPU-limiting scenarios—for example in competitive shooters such as Valorant or in simulations such as Cities: Skylines II.

MSI Bios

The memory latencies can be displayed and adjusted via the BIOS (here from MSI). This is crucial for the performance of DDR5 RAM with a low CL.

IDG

Various benchmarks show performance increases of up to 10 percent with the same CPU clock—simply by switching from a high-clocked, but slow-responding RAM to a finely tuned DDR5-6000 kit with low latency.

The system is also subjectively more responsive: programs start faster, loading times are shorter, and even the Windows desktop feels more direct.

For most users, a capacity of 32 GB RAM remains the sweet spot—more is currently of little benefit in everyday gaming. The quality of the modules is much more important: Those who rely on EXPO or XMP-optimized kits benefit from stable profiles that do not require manual fine-tuning.

The only important thing is that the mainboard and the BIOS or UEFI support these profiles correctly. A quick check on the QVL list (Qualified Vendor List) of the motherboard manufacturer provides clarity here.

DDR5-6000 RAM

DDR5-6000 (here from G.Skill) with low latency is currently the sweet spot for gaming PCs – fast, efficient and ideally matched to current platforms.

G.Skill

In short: DDR5-6000 with CL30 or lower is currently the most efficient and future-proof choice for demanding gamers and power users. If you upgrade now, you’ll not only ensure better performance, but also a stable foundation for future CPU generations.

Reading tip: 5 ways I lower my PC RAM usage to boost game performance

Watch: This MSI mini PC has a special power feature you don’t often see

2 October 2025 at 14:43

Mini PCs are great for fitting into a tight desktop workspace, that’s why a lot of them can be mounted to the rear of a monitor on a VESA plate. But in order to turn it on, you still have to, well, turn it on. What if you could do that like a modern TV with a console or sound bar, just by pressing the monitor’s power button? This little MSI mini PC does just that.

Adam Patrick Murray has the MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG in the PCWorld Labs, and like he’s done with the last few mini PCs, he’s taking it apart in our latest PCWorld YouTube video.

The outside has a few interesting features, including a fingerprint scanner on the power button and a header port so you can run a secondary power button on a cable. The inside is a little funny, because there’s an internal speaker mounted to the bottom tray, something you don’t always see. With an Intel Lunar Lake laptop chipset (Ultra 7 258V in this case), you get memory that’s included on the CPU itself, so the only things the user can service are the SSD (standard M.2 2280) and the Wi-Fi card.

The rear of the device holds its unique selling point: an HDMI port with CEC functionality. “Consumer Electronics Control” just means that a few things can be done over HDMI, including a full power on and off for either component. With a compatible monitor that can handle HDMI 2.1 and CEC, you can press the monitor’s power button and the PC will start.

With the Cubi mounted to the rear of said monitor, you’ve basically just rolled your own all-in-one desktop PC, like the iMac or similar designs. Neat! This is definitely focused on the business market, possibly for use in an area with multiple users who won’t need to reach around to adjust things. (The integrated speaker makes a little more sense in that regard.)

The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG doesn’t appear to be on sale in the US just yet, but it should be coming before too long. For more looks at the latest mini PCs, be sure to subscribe to PCWorld on YouTube and check out our weekly podcast The Full Nerd.

Save $120 on this Ryzen-powered mini PC with 32GB RAM and triple 4K

2 October 2025 at 12:31

If you’re in need of a high-performance PC but you’re unwilling to spend a fortune, you can skip the bulky desktops and pricey laptops. Get a mini PC instead! They’re affordable yet powerful, and they often have good sales—like this Beelink SER8 mini PC for $498 on Amazon (was $618), which is a great price for what you get inside.

This awesome home office PC is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor and a hefty 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM, a combo that makes it perfect for multitasking, work projects, watching content online, keeping a gazillion tabs open, and more. Throw in the fast 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and you have ample storage for all your files and media, plus quick system startups and app launches and data transfers.

Want to do some light gaming? This mini PC has integrated Radeon 780M graphics, which can handle modest settings at modest frame rates. It can also power up to three 4K monitors (via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video), which is perfect for any home workstation. Other connections include a fast USB-C data port, four USB-A ports, 2.5G LAN, two 3.5mm audio (one front, one back), Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2.

It’s a winner that packs lots of performance into a great price, so what are you waiting for? Snag the Beelink SER8 mini PC for $498!

Save over $100 on this Ryzen-powered mini PC with 32GB RAM

5 unmistakable signs your old PC is slowing you down

1 October 2025 at 09:00

A new PC is rarely a spontaneous purchase: people usually try to continue using their old computer for as long as possible. And in terms of the environment and your wallet, this makes perfect sense.

But at some point, the problems start to pile up: Windows updates fail to appear, programs start agonizingly slowly, or the hard drive is permanently full. When the computer is just annoying in everyday use or it can no longer keep up with the latest hardware, it’s time for something new. These five clear warning signs will tell you when it’s time to think about a replacement.

Sign number 1: No more updates available

Regular updates are crucial for keeping your PC safe and functional. If Windows or other important programs no longer receive updates, this is a clear warning signal. It becomes particularly critical when the operating system itself is no longer supported – as was recently the case with Windows 10, which will no longer receive security updates from October 2025.

Without such updates, important security patches will soon be missing. This makes a PC vulnerable to viruses, malware, and other attacks from the internet. In addition, many new programs will eventually only run on the latest Windows versions. Old computers will then also fall by the wayside in terms of software.

Tip: Check the Windows settings regularly to see whether new updates are available. If your system constantly reports that it is “up to date”, even though a newer version of Windows already exists, then it’s high time to think about a new PC.

Sign number 2: Constant overheating and noisy fans

HWMonitor Screenshot
You can detect temperature problems with the free HWMonitor, for example.

Foundry

A healthy system should remain reasonably quiet even under load. However, if your PC runs hot even when performing simple tasks and the fans become loud in continuous operation, this indicates outdated or overloaded hardware. In addition to the annoying background noise, you also run the risk of components being damaged by overheating or the PC quitting at a critical moment. In the worst case scenario, important data could be lost.

Tip: First clean your PC to remove dust and check the temperature with tools such as HWMonitor. If the problems persist despite maintenance, it often makes more sense to buy a new one than to retrofit cooling components while you’re still stuck with other outdated components.

Sign number 3: Hardly any storage space left

If the hard drive is constantly full, working on the PC quickly becomes a test of patience. Windows then constantly warns of insufficient memory, programs can no longer be installed, and even simple updates fail. An external hard drive or cloud storage can help out in the short term. In the long run, however, it becomes tedious to constantly move data back and forth.

Tip: Check Explorer to see how much free memory is left on your system hard drive (usually under “C:”). If this is permanently full or almost full and the hardware cannot be upgraded sensibly, a new PC is the better solution.

Sign number 4: Everything is only running at a snail’s pace

Does your computer take minutes to boot up, programs start slowly, and even simple tasks such as opening a browser tab feel sluggish? Then the hardware is simply too old or overloaded. An new SSD or more RAM can help in the short term. But if the system is getting on in years then that means most of the other components should be replaced as well.

Tip: Pay attention to how long your PC needs for everyday tasks. If waiting times accumulate and new software constantly jerks or crashes, it’s time to think about an upgrade. Not only will programs run quickly and smoothly, a responsive system will also be much more fun to use.

Sign number 5: Upgrade components isn’t possible or no longer makes sense

Another clear sign that a PC upgrade is due is if the computer can no longer be upgraded in a meaningful way. Old motherboards often don’t support the latest processors or RAM standards, and there is simply no room for a new graphics card in small ready-made systems. Anyone trying to upgrade here is often investing a lot of money in an old platform without any major improvement in performance.

Tip: Before upgrading your hardware, check whether your system supports modern standards (e.g. DDR5 RAM, PCIe 4.0 or 5.0). If this is not the case, in many situations it’s worth switching to a completely new device.

Conclusion: When a new PC really makes sense

Missing updates, full hard drives, sluggish performance, overheating, or lack of upgradeability: these are clear signs that your PC has had its day. However, a new system is not only worthwhile in the event of problems. Suitable hardware is also important to improve productivity or to enjoy multimedia and gaming with modern standards—and promises you’ll have more fun in daily use, too.

If you’re on the hunt for a new computer be sure to check out our roundup of the best computer deals to help you snag a great price on your next gaming rig, home office all-in-one, mini-PC, and more.

Best early October Prime Day mini PC deals: Save big on tiny computers

1 October 2025 at 05:00

This year’s October Prime Day event is landing on October 7th and will last for 48 hours. This is the year’s second sale extravaganza at Amazon, and we’re excited to see what impressive deals we’ll get.

One thing we’re really loving about tech this year is the explosion of mini PCs. We’re seeing a lot more of them and they’re super affordable, rather powerful, and absolutely tiny. Some come with the latest AMD CPU, others run on Intel, some feature DDR4, others come with the newer DDR5. Storage is usually not a problem with mini PCs, either, and multitasking on multiple screens is expected.

I’ve gone ahead and hunted all the best mini PC deals you can currently get your hands on right now. Here are the best early October Prime Day mini PC discounts I found, along with my recommendations. There’s also an FAQ at the end in case you need more guidance when buying these. You’ll need to be a Prime member to take advantage of these deals — here’s how to score a free Amazon Prime trial subscription and get in on the action.

Early October Prime Day deals on AMD Ryzen mini PCs

  • Bosgame P4 Light – AMD Ryzen 7 5700U, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $287.99 (24% off, was $400)
  • Acemagician AMR5 – AMD Ryzen 7 5700U, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support – $269 (33% off, was $399)
  • Kamrui E3B – AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support – $287.93 (33% off, was $430)
  • Beelink SER5 Max, AMD Ryzen 7 6800H, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $339 (24% off, was $449)
  • Minisforum AI X1 Pro – AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX370, 96GB DDR5 RAM, 2TB SSD, AMD Radeon 890M, quad display support – $1,119.99 (20% off, was $1,400)
  • Minisforum UM870 Slim – AMD Ryzen 7 8745H, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $478.99 (17% off, was $579)
  • Beelink SER8, AMD Ryzen 8745HS, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $499 (21% off, was $629)
  • Geekom AX8 Max, AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, quad display support – $529 (29% off, was $749)

My favorite of the bunch is the Kamrui E3B. That’s an impeccable price for a fantastic device. Running on a Ryzen 7, with 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 512GB SSD, this is a great daily driver. It even supports three 4K displays, thus allowing you to multitask to your heart’s desire. The Bosgame P4 is a close second, especially since it delivers a full TB of storage space for $288.

Early October Prime Day deals on Intel mini PCs

  • Kamrui GK3 Plus – Intel Alder Lake N95, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, triple display support – $152.99 (23% off, was $200)
  • HP Pro Mini 400 G9 – Intel Core i5 12500T, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, dual display support – $649 (19% off, was $799)
  • GMKtec M3 – Intel Core i5 12450H, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $329.99 (35% off, was $509.99)
  • Acemagic M1 – Intel Core i9 11900H, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, triple display support – $419.99 (48% off, was $800)

My favorite deal on this list is for the Acemagic M1 which is down to $420 from its $800 MSRP. Running on a speedy i5 processor and with 32GB RAM, as well as a 1TB SSD, this device gives you loads of power to complete any of your tasks. Did I mention it supports three displays? That’s amazing!

Other great early October Prime Day deals

These aren’t the only early Prime Big Deal Days deals being tracked by the PCWorld team. If you’re looking to supercharge your home setup with the juiciest tech sales, hit the links for only the best expert-curated picks we’ve found.

FAQ


1.

What to consider when buying a mini PC?

There are multiple things to consider when getting a mini PC, starting with your performance needs. Once you figure out what you’re going to use the PC for, you can make the right choice for you in terms of CPU, memory, and storage. Whether or not it comes with an operating system should also be on your checklist because you may not want to worry about installing a fresh copy of Windows, for instance.

2.

Can a mini PC replace a desktop?

Yes, mini PCs can absolutely replace desktops for many users, especially if you’re mainly going to use it for office work, browsing, and media streaming. Some higher-performance models can even handle video editing or gaming, but their price tag reflects that.

3.

What is the downside to a mini PC?

One of the main downsides to most mini PCs is that they don’t come with a dedicated graphics card, so their usability for gaming is limited. Also, most mini PCs are geared towards general use, so tasks like video editing may not work as well. Understanding component limitations can help you pick the right system for your needs.

4.

Do mini PCs support multiple monitors?

Yes, most mini PCs support at least two monitors, which is more than we can say about numerous laptops on the market. Many models support three or four monitors, thus enabling you to efficiently multitask, spreading your apps across multiple screens. Most often than not, you can connect the displays via HDMI, DisplayPort, but also via USB-C.

5.

What can you upgrade on a mini PC?

Most mini PCs are easy to upgrade. The RAM and SSD are usually extremely easy to swap out and each model will come with specific requirements, as in the specific type of SSD it can support, maximum storage capacity and maximum supported RAM. Many models come with a magnetic cover that you need to pop open to access both RAM and SSD, while others require a tiny screwdriver to take out the case. Either way, it’s a fairly painless process.

Best early PC computer deals for October Prime Day

1 October 2025 at 05:00

Amazon’s October Prime Big Deal Days 2025 sales event is right around the corner and there are already tons of great deals on desktop PCs available. This year’s event runs October 7-8 and will include solid discounts on everything from gaming PCs to all-in-ones to traditional mainstream desktop computers. You’ll need to be a Prime member to take advantage of Amazon’s steep discounts. If you aren’t a member already, check out our guide for how to get Amazon Prime for free.

I’ve been tracking and writing about the best computer deals year-round for a long time now, and at PCWorld I’ve used this knowledge to curate a list of the best available computer deals across the internet specifically for this October Prime Day. Other retailers have jumped in on the action, and some of the best desktop PC deals can even be found outside of Amazon, so I’ve included those deals too.

Best early October Prime Day deals on gaming desktop computers

  • LXZ Gaming PC, Ryzen 7 8700F/RX 7650 GRE/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $899.99 (10% off on Amazon)
  • Alienware Aurora, Core Ultra 7 265F/RTX 5070/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $1,549.99 (24% off on Dell)
  • Skytech Azure, Ryzen 7 5700/RTX 5060/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $999.99 (12% off on Amazon)
  • Omen 45L, Core Ultra 7 265K/RTX 5080/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $2,299.00 (15% off on Amazon)
  • Alienware Aurora, Core Ultra 9 285K/RTX 5080/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $2,699.99 (16% off on Dell)
  • Acer Nitro 60, Ryzen 9 7900/RTX 5070/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $1,499.99 (25% off on BestBuy)
  • Omen 35L, Ryzen 5 8500G/RTX 5060/16GB RAM/512GB SSD, $1,064.99 (21% off on HP)

My top picks:

The LXZ Gaming PC for $100 off on Amazon is the budget deal of the week so far. With a Ryzen 7 8700F CPU and RX 7650 GRE GPU it’ll deliver solid frame rates at 1080p for most games and the inclusion of 1TB of onboard storage means you’ll have plenty of space to load it up with your game library.

Another killer deal right now is the Alienware Aurora for $500 off on Dell. Not only does it come with the latest gen Core Ultra 7 265F CPU, but also sports an RTX 5070. For this price it’s hard to go wrong and those in the market for a strong midrange gaming PC should look no further.

Best early October Prime Day deals on mini-PCs

My top picks:

Amazon is offering the GMKtec M7 mini-PC for $120 off. This mini-PC not only rocks a Ryzen 7 Pro 6850H CPU and a whopping 32GB of RAM, but comes with excellent connectivity features to boot. It’s a great mini-PC and at this discount the value can’t be beat.

If you’re more of a Mac fan, then this rare deal on the latest M4 Mac Mini for $100 off on Amazon is for you. The latest 2024 Mac Mini is a seriously good option for those looking to get great mini-PC performance for the price. The M4 chip has outstanding processing power and this model also comes with a good amount of RAM and onboard storage.

Note: If you’re looking for even more great deals on mini-PCs be sure to check out our full roundup spotlighting the very best Prime Day mini-PC deals.

Best early October Prime Day deals on all-in-one & mainstream computers

All-in-one desktop computers combine a PC’s hardware with a modern display to make a desktop computer that has both form and function. Since everything is built together, you can save precious desktop space with an all-in-one. They make capable work computers and they can also be excellent home computers with the wide range of features appealing to the whole family.

  • Lenovo 24 AiO, Intel N100/32GB RAM/1TB SSD/24-inch 1080p display, $559.98 (30% off on Amazon)
  • HP OmniStudio X AiO, Core Ultra 5 125H/16GB RAM/256GB SSD/32-inch 4K display, $1,329.99 (13% off on HP)
  • Dell 27 AiO, Core 5 120U/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/27-inch 1080p display, $779.99 (16% off on Dell)
  • iMac M4, M4/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/24-inch 5K display, $1,523.86 (10% off on Amazon)

My top picks:

Amazon is offering a great deal of $240 off on the Lenovo 24 AiO. This budget-friendly all-in-one has way more RAM and onboard storage than most other models at this price. It’s a killer value for a trustworthy and dependable Lenovo PC.

Alternatively, the HP OmniStudio X AiO for $200 off on HP’s website is a worthy splurge. Rocking a stunning 4K display and good performance features, this flagship all-in-one from HP will upgrade any desk space—you just might want to invest in some external storage as this only comes with 256GB.

Other great October Prime Day deals

These aren’t the only Prime Day deals being tracked by the PCWorld team. If you’re looking to supercharge your home setup with more killer tech sales, hit the links below for the more of the best expert-curated picks we’ve found.

FAQ


1.

What type of desktop computer should I get?

You’ll see a ton of options when searching for a desktop computer, but they all mainly fit into four main categories: gaming PCs, mainstream PCs (towers or mini PCs), and all-in-ones (AiO). Which you should end up buying is entirely dependent upon what your needs are and what you want to do with your computer.

If you’re looking for something that will work in a home office or family room, then a mainstream PC or AiO with a solid CPU and a decent amount of RAM and storage is probably the way to go. If gaming is your main concern, a gaming desktop PC can offer a lot more bang for your buck than a laptop and you should prioritize getting the best GPU possible.

2.

How much processing power will I need in a desktop computer?

If you’re after CPU power, look for processors with higher numerical labels. Intel processors are available in the newer Core Ultra 3, 5, 7, or 9, and the older Core i3, i5, i7, and i9. AMD processors are available in the Ryzen 5000, 7000, 8000, and 9000 versions. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the more powerful the CPU for both manufacturers.

If you don’t need a ton of power, Intel Core Ultra 5 or Core i5 processors are your best bet, as they offer good performance at a decent price. You can get along just fine with a Core Ultra 3 or Core i3 for basic office and web browsing. A Core Ultra 7 or Core i7 is more suited to gaming and more intense work than everyday tasks. Also, if gaming is your main concern, you may want to consider opting for the older Core i-processors as the newer Core Ultra processors are optimized for AI performance rather than gaming.

As for AMD options, the Ryzen 5000 chips rival Intel’s Core i5 as solid all-arounders. If you need more power, the Ryzen 7000 or 8000 chips are well suited for content creation like video editing. Finally, if you’re dealing with 4K video or want peak gaming performance, spring for a Ryzen 9000.

3.

What GPU should I get for a desktop computer?

If you don’t intend to do any gaming on your computer, then feel free to save some money by going with integrated graphics. However, if you are looking to get your game on, then we recommend at least an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 or RTX 5060 (or the equivalent Radeon RX 9060) as these are the least expensive discrete graphics cards that can handle 1080p gaming on High graphics settings in most games. For 1440p gaming you’ll typically want to aim for an RTX 4070/5070 (or Radeon RX 9070/XT), and for 4K gaming you’ll need to shell out for at least an RTX 4080/5080 or upgrade to the RTX 4090/5090

Thankfully, the latest-gen GPUs have dropped significantly in price in pre-built systems so opt for those if you have the money and want a performance boost. But if you’re on a tight budget, then opting for a rig with a previous-generation card can allow you to save some money while still providing decent graphics quality.

4.

How much memory do I need in a desktop computer?

As for RAM, nowadays I think it’s best to shoot for 16GB at the minimum for all systems. If you’re on a budget or just need a basic browsing machine then 8GB may suffice but you’ll likely notice a performance drop if you tend to have multiple applications or browser tabs open. Those looking to do heavy content creation such as video editing should aim for at least 32GB or go for 64GB for 4K editing.

5.

What is a good amount of storage for a desktop computer?

Storage size is dependent upon your personal needs, but it is generally a good idea to opt for an SSD over a standard HDD as they are much faster and don’t significantly affect the price of a desktop. Before deciding, it’s best to consider what your intended use of the computer will be. Are you just storing documents or doing web browsing? Then something like 512GB will be plenty.

If you want to load up a lot of large files such as games or content creation projects, then you’ll need at least 1TB to 2TB of storage. However, just remember that even if your computer doesn’t have enough storage built-in you can always upgrade your SSD or go with an external drive to increase your available storage options.

6.

Is now a good time to buy a desktop computer?

While the prospect of tariff-induced price increases may seem daunting to consumers, right now is actually a pretty good time to buy a new PC. Component prices have generally stabilized in the face of tariffs—with the exception of high-end GPU models—and CPU prices overall generally remain affordable.

If you’re waiting for upcoming releases, you shouldn’t hold your breath. Don’t get caught in the cycle of waiting for the next new thing as something new is always around the corner. Waiting for a new product launch is only beneficial if it’s imminent and there are no good deals available right now. Fortunately, events such as Ocotber Prime Day offer buyers an excellent time to buy the latest components and PC builds at a discount.

Save 25% on this budget-friendly Ryzen 7 mini PC for home offices

30 September 2025 at 09:04

We love finding fantastic ways to change things up in your office, but getting a mini PC is a game-changer like no other because it’s powerful, affordable, takes up so little space, and seamlessly drives a full-blown workstation setup. Right now, this Beelink SER5 Max mini PC is on sale for just $338.99 (was $449) on Amazon, the lowest price it’s ever been!

If you’re looking for a daily driver PC that offers solid performance without burning a hole in your pocket, look no further than this deal. The Beelink SER5 Max comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor, a chunky 32GB of LDPDDR5 RAM, and plentiful storage with its 1TB SSD. That’s a lovely config that can easily handle Windows 11 Pro (which comes pre-installed), all your work apps, some creative tools, a gazillion Chrome tabs, and anything else you might want to use on a given day.

And it’s a real workstation machine as it can support up to three 4K monitors (HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video connections), plus the mini PC itself has VESA mounting so you can hook it up to the back of any VESA-compatible monitor to keep it out of sight. Connectivity also includes two fast USB-A for data, two slower USB-A for peripherals, Ethernet, and 3.5mm audio, plus Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better PC for just over $300, so take advantage of this limited-time deal while you can. Get the Beelink SER5 Max for $338.99 before it expires!

Save 25% on this reliable Ryzen 7 mini PC with 32GB RAM

Save 46% on this speedy Intel Core i9 mini PC with 32GB RAM right now

29 September 2025 at 09:19

These days, you don’t need to pay a fortune for a powerful computer, especially if you just need one for your home office and not for top-tier gaming or creative tasks like video editing. A mini PC like this Acemagician M1 strikes the best balance between performance and price, and it’s even better when you can get it on sale. Right now, it’s only $432.39 on Amazon (was $799.99) with this crazy discount!

When I say that this mini PC is ready for pretty much anything you need it to do for work and leisure, I mean it. It runs on a powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor along with 32GB of RAM, which is plenty for smoothly handling Windows 11 plus any apps plus however many Chrome tabs you like to keep open at once. The 1TB SSD offers tons of storage for apps, movies, music, and photos, and you can even upgrade the RAM and SSD yourself down the road up to 64GB (RAM) and 4TB (SSD).

It comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro, which is a nice cherry on top of this stellar specs combo at this price. But what makes it so good for a home office is that it supports up to three 4K@60Hz monitors thanks to its HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C video connections. You also get six fast USB-A ports (two front, four back), 2.5G Ethernet, and 3.5mm audio.

You simply can’t get a better PC than this for under $500, so what are you waiting for? Level up your home office with the Acemagic M1 for just $432.39 while this hefty price drop is still available!

Save 46% on this high-performance Core i9 mini PC with 32GB RAM

I switched my laptop for a mini PC and I’m never looking back

27 September 2025 at 08:00

Sometime after my social feeds started to fill up with ads for mini-PCs, I realized that there’s a silent revolution going on in desktop PCs. Welcome to the era of the mini-PC, where you can do all your computing from a PC smaller than a box of Pop-Tarts and much cheaper than a fully fledged desktop PC in many cases.

Naturally, I wanted one, so I bit the bullet and bought a GMKtek G5 mini-PC, the smallest mini-PC of 2024. Now, I couldn’t be happier. The first advantage I noticed was the price. While a new laptop of comparable performance would cost me upwards of $600, the mini-PC cost me just $150 — that’s with delivery and Windows 11 Home pre-installed, too.

I was skeptical at first about how I’d use it for work in place of my laptop, but it’s worked out to be just fine. Admittedly, I can’t use my mini-PC on the go without power and a display like I can with my laptop, but then again, I don’t need to. All my computing is done either in the office or at home and my mini-PC has all the peripherals it needs at each location.

Its tiny size alone has made my travel to and from work so much easier. While my laptop took up the whole back section of my backpack, my mini-PC slides in next to my lunchbox, taking up no more than a few inches in either direction. At only 7 ounces it’s a lot lighter too. I’ve managed to drop a whole 2 pounds weight from my shoulders on my daily commute.

mini PC

Bonnie Bayley

The fact that the performance is excellent has been icing on the cake. The mini frequently hits clock speeds of 3.4GHz; it runs all my apps smoothly and silently; and it feels a lot more powerful than my work-issue laptop. It’s not designed for games, but it’ll also run some lightweight games, and I enjoy playing Fortnite and CounterStrike 2 when I’ve knocked off work.

The power draw is very small too, only 12W and it also doesn’t heat up like my laptop does. Sometime down the track I look forward to installing more RAM in it, which I should be able to do much easier than in a laptop.

As to setup, it only takes me a few minutes to plug in my mouse, keyboard, and HDMI cables, about the same time that it takes to load up my laptop. I also really like the fact that I can choose the peripherals I want to use with my mini-PC. It means I can use my favorite keyboard at work, the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro, which feels so good for writing.

So, if you only need to use your laptop between work and home and don’t need a device for working out and about, consider switching to a mini-PC. You won’t regret the portability and performance!

Further reading:

This Ryzen 7 mini PC with 32GB RAM and quad 4K is a steal at this price

26 September 2025 at 08:45

Instead of buying a new laptop that takes up a ton of space on your desk and costs more for the performance you get, maybe what you really need is a mini PC. It’s smaller and delivers more power for what you pay, resulting in a much better value. Right now, this Geekom AX8 Max mini PC is only $529 (was $749) on Amazon with a special Prime-exclusive discount of 29 percent. (Sign up for a free 30-day Prime trial to score this price as well as more big Prime deals coming in October!)

The Geekom AX8 Max comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro and is equipped with more than enough hardware to smoothly handle the operating system while also tackling your everyday tasks, apps, browser tabs, streaming, and more. Between the AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor, 32GB of DDR5 memory, and fast 1TB Gen 4 SSD, it delivers impressive performance—way better than any laptop in the same price range.

The cherry on top is that it also has integrated Radeon 780M graphics, which isn’t dedicated but still powerful enough for modest gaming and some creative tasks like light video editing. It also supports up to four 4K monitors via dual HDMI and dual USB4 ports, plus another six high-speed USB-A ports for drives and peripherals, dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, and 3.5mm audio, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3.

This is a crazy good PC for the price, so don’t miss this opportunity. Get the Geekom AX8 Max for only $529 before this limited-time deal expires! Be sure to start a free 30-day Prime trial to unlock this price, and make use of that trial to score more Prime-only deals in October!

Save 29% on this excellent Ryzen 7 mini PC with 32GB RAM and quad 4K

Intel and Nvidia are surprise allies. Is AMD screwed?

26 September 2025 at 08:00

Welcome to The Full Nerd newsletter—your weekly dose of hardware talk from the enthusiasts at PCWorld. Missed the shocking topics on our YouTube show or freshest news from across the web? You’re in the right place.

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Intel and Nvidia’s partnership is huge. Brad even called it the biggest tech news to drop this decade.

This momentous alliance spans both consumer and enterprise, for starters. It marks several major firsts, too. Each company will integrate the other’s technology into their chips—Nvidia embedding Intel CPUs into its AI data center platforms, and Intel joining Nvidia RTX graphics with its consumer processors. Nvidia also is now an Intel shareholder, taking a roughly 4 percent stake in the company after an investment of $5 billion. And Nvidia makes its first foray into x86 as well.

The announcement caused a flurry of surprise and interest. The Full Nerd crew speculated plenty on the implications of the partnership, as did our Discord members. More than one person wondered: Is AMD screwed?

This question is a half-joke, a reference to what Gordon used to ask about Intel over the years (and even turned into a series of videos with Steve Burke of Gamers Nexus). It’s also a fair question, as joint Intel-Nvidia silicon could result in juggernaut chips.

Nintendo Switch 2 hands on Hades II handheld angled
A joint Intel-Nvidia SoC could result in Nvidia graphics powering handhelds beyond the Switch.

Foundry | Alex Walker-Todd

But it can’t be answered yet—not when so many other questions sit on the table as well:

  • Where can we expect to see these chips? Laptops seem most likely, but we don’t know yet in which segments. Brad wants to see them in $500 to $1,000 mainstream laptops. But they could appear in cheaper gaming laptops as well (or just instead). Mini-PCs also could end up spreading the love, too.

  • Would mini-PCs benefit more than laptops? Interest in mini-PCs has steadily climbed in recent years, with more vendors producing them — and the vast majority run on AMD’s Radeon-infused Ryzen APUs. This space could become hot with addition of RTX-infused processors, as affordable gaming for the masses slips further out of reach. I’d love to see a return of gaming NUCs the size of VHS tapes. (Shout out to Hades Canyon and its Kaby Lake-G processor, the hybrid SoC that temporarily united Intel and AMD in similar fashion as this Intel-Nvidia venture.)

  • What happens now for Qualcomm? Qualcomm is still chiseling at a foothold in laptops—will its ambitions be limited to reigning as the battery life champ? Though, that fate wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing, as it carves a clear spot for the company to rule. AMD would have the more awkward position, without a distinctive lane it yet owns for notebooks.

  • Will budget discrete graphics get a boost…or a nerf? I’d love to see laptops in the $500 to $700 range get RTX integrated graphics, both thin-and-light or gaming models alike. But what if that results in the abandonment of RTX 50-class graphics (e.g., 5050)? Would an Intel CPU with RTX integrated graphics perform as well? Or would the 50-class discrete mobile GPUs disappear and result in a downgrade of performance at the same prices?

  • Is Arc dead? I heard this question the most last week, more than any concerns about AMD’s future. We ended up debating this idea during this week’s show, with most signs pointing to “No”—if for no other reason than Intel avoiding too much dependence on Nvidia.
intel arc b580 limited edition 1
The catchphrase “Wait for Arc” could take on a whole different meaning in the near future.

Adam Patrick Murray / Foundry

Ultimately, the fruits from this partnership won’t show for a few years. That gives AMD time to continue gaining ground and entrenching against Intel. It’s not in a weak position—Team Red is currently estimated to reach about 40 percent market share for data centers in 2025, and it has long-standing relationships with Microsoft and Sony. AMD’s modern Ryzen CPUs are simply better than Intel’s right now; because of that, Ryzen desktop adoption surged in recent years, and the company enjoys a virtual stranglehold in handhelds. Plus, AMD could use its competitors’ ramp-up period to make further inroads on the laptop front.

That last point is a tall order, with Intel holding close to 80 percent of the laptop market. But AMD has shown a consistent ability to execute its roadmap, as evidenced by Intel’s decline—it used to hold over 90 percent for mobile CPUs. If AMD focuses even more attention there before Intel rights its ship, those numbers could change more dramatically.

Because AMD also has one more key factor in its corner: Intel and Nvidia remain separate companies. They could stay aligned for just a handful of years. Any threat to AMD may not be permanent.

Intel and Nvidia’s surprising partnership is a strategic response. Intel has struggled as of late, yes. But without the stress of current geopolitics, this historic agreement likely would have never come to pass. Such turbulence apparently makes strange bedfellows.

In this episode of The Full Nerd

In this episode of The Full Nerd, Adam Patrick Murray, Brad Chacos, Alaina Yee, and Will Smith dive into Nvidia’s $5 billion investment in (and partnership with) Intel, as well as security aggravations sparked by Microsoft’s beef with the WinRing0 driver. Apparently, Microsoft knows how to push Will’s buttons, because I’ve never seen him so indignant about anything. 

(How indignant? I might have described him as looking like an angry, fluffy chicken to audio listeners of the show.)

But despite the theatrics from me and Will, Adam stole the show with this quote: “Windows—it’s trying its best.” Someday, I’ll learn the art of damning others with kind words.

TFN25 366 TFNep366 00 53 08 15 Still004

Alex Esteves / Foundry

Missed our live show? Subscribe now to The Full Nerd Network YouTube channel, and activate notifications. We also answer viewer questions in real-time!

Don’t miss out on our NEW shows too—you can catch episodes of Dual Boot Diaries and The Full Nerd: Extra Edition now!

And if you need more hardware talk during the rest of the week, come join our Discord community—it’s full of cool, laid-back nerds.

This week’s uplifting nerd news

What crossed my desk this week had a practically rosy tinge, with fun gems spanning both science and technology. (One exception was yet another security hazard, but such are the times we live in.)

Plus, I found an excuse to have cake. Doesn’t have to be my birthday to celebrate, right?

Steam Big Picture macOS DE
I genuinely can’t imagine having more than even a few hundred games in my backlog.

Eugen Wegmann

  • Why YTX? I can see the appeal of an expanded (wider) version of mini-ITX for some builders. I’m not one of them yet. Still thinking on it.

  • Dogs can sort their toys by function: I love cats. But dogs win my heart in far less destructive ways. (Yes, I know I should probably rethink my fondness for furry jerks who destroy glass tumblers, vases, and even Brad’s personal laptop.)

  • Careful, malware in games wants your crypto: A Twitch streamer lost $30,000 of crypto to malware, pushed through what was a legitimate game. This kind of attack is on the rise—so be careful of not just what you download, but what you keep installed on your system.

Microsoft Paint
I’m glad that Microsoft didn’t just keep Paint alive, but has invested in making it better.

Foundry

  • Happy birthday, Windows NT! I’m still grateful you paved the way for Windows 2000. (Hands-down my vote for the GOAT of all Windows versions — I still reminisce about my legendary uptimes.)

Catch you all next week—hopefully by then, I’ll be able to show off a new PC case I’ve been excited about. This little aesthetic upgrade is just in time for the change of the seasons.

~Alaina

This newsletter is dedicated to the memory of Gordon Mah Ung, founder and host of The Full Nerd, and executive editor of hardware at PCWorld.

Google confirms plans to merge Android and ChromeOS, PCs and phones

25 September 2025 at 10:01

Up until now, Google’s Android operating system has been limited to smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and smartwatches/wearables (as Wear OS). There’s also Android Auto, which is used in car infotainment systems. Android hasn’t yet been used to power laptops or desktop PCs… but that’s likely to change soon.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s SVP of Devices and Services, announced at Snapdragon Summit 2025 that Google is looking into merging Android with ChromeOS and bring its Gemini AI to PCs. The effort, known as “Project Aluminium,” will probably involve Android notebooks powered by Qualcomm processors.

Osterloh said on stage:

“In the past, we’ve always had very different systems between what we’re building in PCs and what we’re building in smartphones, and we’re working to combine that.

And I think that this is another way that we can leverage all of the great work we’ve been doing together on our AI stack… bring Gemini models, bringing our assistant, bringing all of our application and developer community into the PC domain.”

So Google wants to create a single ecosystem that combines the worlds of PCs, notebooks, smartphones, and tablets. Google has thus far developed separate operating systems for these different devices, including the aforementioned Android and ChromeOS.

Ultimately, merging ChromeOS and Android into a single operating system would mean a standardized user experience and shared platform on which mobile and desktop devices could then work together seamlessly and without interruption.

This powerful Ryzen mini PC runs Windows 11 like butter for just $314

25 September 2025 at 09:22

If you’re tired of your sluggish PC and want to upgrade but don’t have the funds for a well-specced laptop or desktop, then what you need is a mini PC like this Acemagician Kron K1. On top of offering solid performance, it’s extremely affordable now that it’s on sale for just $314.10 (was $419). That’s with this Prime-exclusive discount which you can score just by signing up for a 30-day free trial of Prime. (And why wouldn’t you? With Prime Big Deal Days coming in early October, you can also use that free trial to score superb deals during that sales event!)

The value of this mini PC is hard to overstate. For starters, it packs an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor that’s only three years old and still fast enough to handle modern apps with responsive smoothness. Throw in the 32GB of RAM and you have a lovely combo that won’t get bogged down by Windows 11 or excessive browser tabs. The 1TB SSD is a nice cherry on top in this price range. It’s the perfect home office PC.

But it gets even better when you realize it can support up to three 4K@60Hz external monitors via its HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video connections. External drives and peripherals are also no problem thanks to a whopping six fast USB-A ports, and it’s all rounded out by an Ethernet port, 3.5mm audio, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2.

This is frankly an insane price for a machine of this caliber, so don’t pass up this chance to get the Acemagician Kron K1 for only $314.10. Remember you’ll need a Prime membership for this exclusive discount (sign up for a free 30-day Prime trial) and be sure to clip the on-page coupon to snag that extra $30 off and get this extra-low price.

Save 25% on this excellent home mini PC that runs Windows 11 like butter

Best PC computer deals: Top picks from desktops to all-in-ones

13 October 2025 at 18:26

Whether you’re looking for a productivity desktop, a gaming PC powerhouse, or a stylish all-in-one Windows machine, we’ve got you covered. The team at PCWorld sort through all of the daily computer sales and put together a curated list of the best deals available. But not all deals are really deals, so we only choose those offered by reputable companies and that include great hardware to ensure you get the best value for your money.

We’ve also included some helpful answers to common questions about buying a computer at the bottom of this article. If you’re considering a laptop instead, be sure to check out our best laptop deals, updated daily.

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Note: Tech deals come and go quickly, so it’s possible some of these computer discounts will have expired before this article’s next update.

Best gaming desktop computer deals

  • Skytech Storm, Ryzen 7 5700/RTX 5060 Ti/16GB RAM/1TB SSD, $999.99 (12% off on Amazon)
  • Acer Nitro 60, Ryzen 7 7700/RTX 5070/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $1,369.00 (28% off on Amazon)
  • LXZ Gaming PC, Ryzen 7 8700F/RX 7650 GRE/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $899.99 (10% off on Amazon)
  • Skytech Azure, Ryzen 7 5700/RTX 5060/32GB RAM/1TB SSD, $999.99 (12% off on Amazon)
  • iBuyPower Y40, Ryzen 9 7900X/RTX 5070 Ti/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $2,069.99 (10% off on Amazon)
  • Alienware Aurora, Core Ultra 9 285K/RTX 5080/32GB RAM/2TB SSD, $2,549.99 (20% off on Dell)
  • HP Omen 35L, Core Ultra 5 225F/RTX 5060/16GB RAM/512GB SSD, $1,119.99 (30% off on HP)

My top picks:

The Skytech Storm for $130 off on Amazon is the budget deal of this week. With a Ryzen 7 5700 CPU and RTX 5060 Ti it’ll deliver solid frame rates at 1080p for modern games and the inclusion of 1TB of onboard storage means you’ll have plenty of space to load it up with your game library.

Even though October Prime Day wrapped up, Amazon still continues to have excellent deals on gaming PCs. The Acer Nitro 60 for $530 off is an outrageous price for a strong midrange rig like this. Not only do you get an RTX 5070, but it also comes with 32GB of RAM and a generous 2TB of onboard SSD storage.

Best mini-PC deals

  • GMKtec M7, Ryzen 7 6850H/32GB RAM/512GB SSD, $365.98 (25% off on Amazon)
  • GMKtec K12, Ryzen 7 H 255/Radeon 780M/32GB RAM/512GB SSD, $499.99 (31% off on Amazon)
  • AceMagician K1 Mini PC, Ryzen 7 5700U/16GB RAM/512GB SSD, $279.00 (30% off on Amazon)
  • AceMagic Vista Mini N1, Alder Lake-N N97/16GB RAM/512GB SSD, $179.00 (31% off on Amazon)
  • KAMRUI E3B, Ryzen 5 7430 U/32GB RAM/512GB SSD, $299.99 (25% off on Amazon)

My top picks:

Amazon is offering the GMKtec M7 mini-PC for $134 off. This mini-PC not only rocks a Ryzen 7 Pro 6850H CPU and a whopping 32GB of RAM, but comes with excellent connectivity features to boot. It’s a great mini-PC and at this discount the value can’t be beat.

Another GMKtec deal on Amazon is also a highlight deal right now. The GMKtec K12 for $220 packs a solid Ryzen 7 CPU and a Radeon 780M GPU—graphics cards are a rarity in mini-PCs—so you can even do some gaming on this bad boy.

Best all-in-one computer deals

All-in-one desktop computers combine a PC’s hardware with a modern display to make a desktop computer that has both form and function. Since everything is built together, you can save precious desktop space with an all-in-one. They make capable work computers and they can also be excellent home computers with the wide range of features appealing to the whole family.

  • Lenovo 24 AiO, Core i5-1140G7/32GB RAM/1TB SSD/24-inch 1080p display, $599.99 (33% off on Amazon)
  • HP OmniStudio X AiO, Core Ultra 5 125H/16GB RAM/256GB SSD/32-inch 4K display, $1,189.99 (22% off on HP)
  • HP 24 AiO, Core i3-1110G4/32GB RAM/1TB SSD/24-inch 1080p touch display, $699.99 (63% off on Amazon)
  • Dell 27 AiO, Core 5 120U/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/27-inch 1080p display, $879.99 (15% off on Dell)
  • iMac M4, M4/16GB RAM/512GB SSD/24-inch 5K display, $1,523.86 (10% off on Amazon)

My top picks:

Amazon is offering a great deal of $300 off on the Lenovo 24 AiO. This budget-friendly all-in-one has way more RAM and onboard storage than most other models at this price. It’s a killer value for a trustworthy and dependable Lenovo PC. Alternatively, you can opt for the HP 24 AiO for just $100 more and get practically the same computer with the addition of a touch screen instead.

Alternatively, the HP OmniStudio X AiO for $340 off on HP’s website is a worthy splurge. Rocking a stunning 4K display and good performance features, this flagship all-in-one from HP will upgrade any desk space—you just might want to invest in some external storage as this only comes with 256GB.

Computer deals FAQ


1.

What are good websites to find computer deals?

There are a ton of sites that sell computers, and scouring through all of them would take you a lot of time—that’s why we do it for you here and highlight the best deals we find. However, to save you some time and frustration, you need to be smart about where you look at any given time of the year.

If you’re looking for a new computer during the holidays or around popular sale periods such as Black Friday or back-to-school, then you are likely to find great deals directly through first party vendor websites. These include the retail storefronts of popular computer manufacturers such as HP, Dell, and Lenovo.

However, if you are looking in between sales periods, it’s generally a good idea to search through large third-party retailers such as Amazon, Adorama, Walmart, BestBuy, and Newegg. Oftentimes these websites will offer limited Deals of the Day type sales in hopes of getting rid of excess stock. On the upside, you can score still-decent PCs at a steep discount.

2.

When’s the best time to shop for a PC computer?

Typically you’ll want to time your PC computer shopping around a prominent sales period. The biggest sales periods are Black Friday/Cyber Monday in late November and Amazon Prime Day in early-to-mid July. The best sales often occur leading up to and during these two events and they are great times to snag a new PC computer for cheap. Other holiday shopping periods such as the New Year sales in January, President’s Day sales in April, and the back-to-school sales event in August are also good times to find discounts on computers.

3.

What type of desktop should I get?

You’ll see a ton of options when searching for a desktop computer, but they all mainly fit into four main categories: productivity tower PCs, gaming PCs, mini PCS, and all-in-ones (AiO). Which you should end up buying is entirely dependent upon what your needs are and what you want to do with your computer. If you are looking for something that will work in a home office or family room, then a productivity PC or AiO with a solid CPU and lots of RAM and storage is probably the way to go. If gaming is your main concern, a gaming PC can offer a lot more bang for your buck than a laptop and you should focus on getting the best GPU possible. Or if you just want something that can fit anywhere and provide basic computing then a mini PC is a good bet.

4.

What CPU and GPU should I get?

When looking at your new computer’s CPU, get at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, both of which will provide plenty of processing power for everyday computing tasks. If you don’t intend to do any PC gaming, then feel free to save some money by going with integrated graphics. However, if you are looking to get your game on, we recommend at least an Nvidia GeForce 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT, as these are the least expensive discrete graphics cards that can handle ray tracing well. If you aren’t interested in those cutting-edge lighting effects, however, the RTX 3050 and Radeon RX 6600 also provide good 1080p gaming performance at even lower prices.

5.

How much memory and storage does my PC need?

As for RAM, we think its best to shoot for 16GB at the minimum for productivity and gaming, but for family computers and internet browsing, 8GB should suffice.

Storage size is dependent upon your personal needs, but it is generally a good idea to opt for an SSD over an standard HDD as they are much faster and don’t significantly affect the price of a desktop. Before deciding, it’s best to consider what your intended use of the computer will be. Are you just doing work or web browsing? Then something like 512GB will be plenty. If you want to load up a lot of large files such as games or content creation projects, then you’ll need at least 1 or 2TB or storage. However, just remember that even if your computer doesn’t have enough storage built-in you can always upgrade your SSD or go with an external drive to increase your available storage options.

6.

Is it a good idea to buy a refurbished computer?

Refurbished computers are used machines that have been repaired, upgraded, and cleaned for the purpose of reselling. They’re usually open-box returns, overstock, or models with minor cosmetic damage (scratches, scuffs, etc). Refurbished computers can be a bargain hunter’s dream as they’re likely still in good (or great) condition and you can save a lot of money. That being said, refurbished computers can have their downsides as well. In addition to cosmetic blemishes, some of the internal components might be a little older or outdated and they might not be in peak condition due to previous usage.

If you do consider buying a refurbished computer I recommend looking at eBay as they offer a one-year warranty. You can also check out manufacturer’s retail storefronts like Dell’s Outlet Store and Apple’s Refurbished Store—just be sure to look at the terms of warranty offered before purchasing.

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