Guide to Undervolting your GPU [Step by Step]
April 3, 2024
Undervolting your GPU makes it run more efficiently, draws less power and keeps it cool and quiet. Here's how to undervolt your GPU in our Step-by-Step Guide.
Wondering what CPU is the absolute best for rendering? Or what GPU is the best for Video Editing? We did too when we started building our own rigs!
Our hardware section is a treasure-trove of knowledge for those who need help with picking hardware.
We do the heavy lifting for you, testing hardware, finding performance benchmarks, and coming up with recommendations that help you decide on your next upgrade specific workloads.
Not only do we cover the best hardware, but we also offer value-oriented suggestions for those on a tight budget.
From high-end hardware that’s the very best to fantastic bang-for-buck options, we remain focused on giving you valuable insight and making your purchase decisions easier.
April 3, 2024
Undervolting your GPU makes it run more efficiently, draws less power and keeps it cool and quiet. Here's how to undervolt your GPU in our Step-by-Step Guide.
March 21, 2024
CPU-Coolers can become stuck onto your CPU with little chance to remove them. This is mostly due to old thermal paste. Here's how to get it off safely without damaging your CPU.
March 13, 2024
GPUs don't always perform the way we expect them to. Here are the most common reasons why your GPU may be slow and how to fix them for good.
February 25, 2024
PC Cases come in all kinds of form factors, designs and brands, but which are the best brands to buy PC Cases from? Here's what our experience has shown over the years to be the best PC Case Brands.
February 23, 2024
Intel has been making GPUs for quite some time now, but are they good enough yet for the kind of workloads you're looking to run? Or should you stay clear of them?
February 19, 2024
Where do you plug in your 4-Pin PWM cables? On your motherboard or into a fan hub? And what if you only have 3-Pin DC Fan headers? Everything you need to know.
February 18, 2024
Have you ever come across the "Network Stack" BIOS option? Here's what it does and whether you should be using it.
February 13, 2024
Computers can show all kinds of issues, with the "GPU not detected" Error begin among those that can be difficult to fix. But fear not, here's how to fix the GPU not detected Error with our simple step-by-step guide.
February 10, 2024
Keeping your PC as cool as you can helps increase the performance and longevity of your components. Here's how to set up your PC's Fan configuration for maximum potential.
February 8, 2024
There's a list of things to check when your PC won't turn on. From the PSU over internal cabling, to faulty components, here's how to start troubleshooting this issue.
February 6, 2024
RAID Mode in your BIOS lets you set up a Drive Array within certain configurations, which can increase performance and redundancy of your storage. Here's everything you need to know about RAID mode.
February 5, 2024
A PC won't be able to enter BIOS without a CPU. Here's what you can do if you do have a CPU installed but you still can't enter your BIOS screen.
February 2, 2024
The components in your PC work best when they're not being bottlenecked. So far so good, but how can you find out if your components are prone to bottlenecking? Are there calculators for this sort of thing?
January 30, 2024
A PC can emit all kinds of noises, with buzzing noises being among those that should be investigated in most cases. Here's why and how to fix when your Computer doesn't stop buzzing.
January 30, 2024
Video Encoding is CPU demanding and will eat into your editing time if not taken into consideration when buying or upgrading a PC. A closer look at encoding performance.
January 26, 2024
The ability to upgrade your CPU is mainly tied to its underlying socket and AMD's newest Socket, the AM5 Socket is, unfortunately, not backwards compatible with AM4 or older CPUs.
January 23, 2024
Connecting the cables from your PC's Case to your motherboard can be tricky. Especially those tiny jumper-like cables that just don't seem to fit easily. Here's how to connect your front panel cables quickly.
January 15, 2024
An orange light on your motherboard can mean a host of different things. Here's how to find the likely culprit and how to fix any potential issues.
January 11, 2024
Graphics Cards can be expensive. Buying the right kind of GPU for your Video Editing or Rendering Workflow therefore is of utmost imprtance. We will teach you all you need to know about the best Editing and Rendering GPUs.
January 9, 2024
Nvidia has announced 3 new SUPER GPUs, the 4070 SUPER, 4070 Ti SUPER and 4080 SUPER. First performance figures and more in our coverage.
January 7, 2024
Wi-Fi is not the Internet. These two terms, while often being used interchangeably, don't mean the same thing. Here's what Wi-Fi sets apart from the Internet.
January 12, 2024
RAM and ROM are two vastly different technologies that both pertain to storing, writing and reading data. Here's what sets them apart and where they are found.
January 2, 2024
How do Intel's many CPU tiers compare and which make the most sense for your kind of workloads? Intel Cores i3, i5, i7, i9, we're here to clear up any confusion!
January 1, 2024
Being able to swap SATA drives without turning off your PC is quite practical for certain use cases. Here's how to do exactly that.
December 31, 2023
Whether you're upgrading your PC or are just curious, knowing what kind of RAM you currently have installed is an easy thing to check. Here's how.
December 28, 2023
One of the more complicated parts of building a PC is installing your CPU Cooler. And every CPU Cooler needs Thermal Paste, right? Well, not necessarily.
December 26, 2023
Ensuring your components aren't manually overclocked, or don't boost to such high frequencies can make them draw less power, quieter, cooler and will increase their lifespan. At a cost of performance.
December 22, 2023
You participate in the silicon lottery whenever you buy a product that houses a chip. CPUs, GPUs, and other hardware can be of varying quality, even within the same SKU.
December 20, 2023
Does it matter if you buy an AMD or Intel Motherboard? What even are the differences between the two and should you look out for specific features apart from the obvious CPU support?
December 21, 2023
Find the fastest and best NVMe SSDs within your budget and intended workloads. PCIe 3.0, 4.0, NVMe, SSD, what is important to keep in mind when chosing an NVMe SSD.
December 18, 2023
A white LED on your motherboard may just be informational but it can also indicate issues with your CPU, GPU, RAM Modules and Boot process. Here's how to troubleshoot white motherboard LEDs quickly.
December 12, 2023
PNY isn't as well known as some of the more mainstream GPU partners, but that doesn't mean it's a bad GPU brand per se, just that it caters to a different audience.
December 5, 2023
Although your PC's Memory / RAM doesn't require Drivers to work, there are a few things you can do to make sure it's performing the best it can.
November 29, 2023
Monitoring your CPU's thermals is something you may do from time to time, and the CPU Package Temerpature reading is among the most important metrics to check.
November 29, 2023
What are the best CPUs with integrated graphics (iGPU)? And how do those iGPUs perform compared to discreet Graphics Cards? Let's find out!
November 27, 2023
A GPU is meant to be utilized to its full potential, right? But does that also mean it's alright for it to be utilized 100% at all times? It depends.
November 26, 2023
Even though Laptop and Desktop GPU equivalents are named similarly, they unfortunately do not perform identically. Laptop GPUs are, in fact, a lot slower than Desktop GPUs.
November 23, 2023
Whether you're checking if your manual overclock is working properly or if someone else has tinkered with your CPU or GPU clocks, there's an easy way to check your hardware for overclocks.
November 23, 2023
Is there a best time to buy new Parts for your PC? Yes, absolutely. Every Hardware Part has major release cycles and then there are Deal-Days.
November 18, 2023
Current-gen NVMe SSDs can throttle due to excessive temperatures. Is using a heatsink for NVMe M.2 SSDs therefore the solution to keeping drive performance as high as possible?
November 8, 2023
M.2 SSDs come in many different flavors, two of them being their bandwidth & interface. Whether you get a SATA or PCIe SSD is an important decision, especially if your motherboards supports only one of the two.
November 6, 2023
The 5-Series CPUs of Intel and AMD are among the most popular and for a good reason: They combine ample performance with an affordable price. Here's who pulls ahead in the current market of Core i5 vs Ryzen5.
November 4, 2023
If the red DRAM LED Error Light is lit on your motherboard there are a couple of likely causes that can be easy to fix. Here's what we've found to be the culprit in most cases.
October 24, 2023
Two or more GPUs often increase performance near linearly in select workloads that are graphically demanding. Here's how to check if your motherboard supports running two GPUs.
October 19, 2023
The NVMe interface is as widespread as it is fast in today's PCs and Laptops. But how do NVMe generations, specifically, compare, especially performance-wise? A closer look.
October 16, 2023
Upgrading your RAM is an easy way to increase performance in many workloads. But how much RAM does your Computer actually support? Here's how to check!
October 5, 2023
Is buying used CPUs considered safe nowadays or should you rather opt for a new model? Here's everything you need to know about buying a used CPU on the secondhand market.
October 1, 2023
There's more nuance to checking all of your PCIe slots' bandwidth and generation than first meets the eye. Bandwidth sharing, bifurcation, CPU support and others play a crucial role.
September 28, 2023
The 3 most widespread micro-architectures, x86, x64 and ARM are found in a lot of different hardware today. CPUs in PCs, Laptops and Macs being the most noteworthy. How do they compare?
September 26, 2023
Many PCs have a built-in speaker that beeps to convey information about your PC's state. But what do the many beep codes mean, anyway, and is beeping always bad news?
September 20, 2023
Integrated Graphics, especially, iGPUs in mobile processors are becoming ever more powerful. But how do Intel UHD and Xe Graphics compare, two of the most popular iGPUs?
September 16, 2023
Is a BIOS update worth the hassle and potential risk it brings to the table? Here are 3 good reasons why you should consider updating your BIOS and how to do it.
September 16, 2023
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) keeps your hardware and data safe in power outages. Which UPS brands are worth your attention, though?
September 16, 2023
Does your GPU's temperature impact its performance? And if so, how can you decrease its temps to maximize performance as much as possible?
September 12, 2023
RISC-V and ARM are hot new terms that are evermore being thrown around the tech industry. What are they and which comes out on top in a direct comparison? An introduction.
September 9, 2023
Although motherboards are a crucial component in any PC that can severely impact performance, the component itself draws suprisingly little power. You should still include it in your overall PC power consumption calculation, though.
September 25, 2023
HDDs had a great run. They're a classic among PC storage, a classic that certainly doesn't reside in the past exclusively, but is overtaken by SSDs in most workloads.
September 3, 2023
CPU Fans for both AIOs and Air-Coolers can be mounted on different sides to push or pull air through the heatsink. Which is best depends on a few factors.
September 1, 2023
A Graphics Card's Power Consumption can be measured or advertised in different ways. TGP (Total Graphics Power) and TDP (Thermal Design Power) are two popular ways of doing so. Here's what they mean for you.
August 29, 2023
This Guide will help you figure out why the red CPU Light on your Motherboard is lit and how to fix the underlying issue before resorting to returning your CPU.
August 28, 2023
How does an expensive Intel Xeon CPU compare to a cheaper Core i9 CPU, especially for workstation workloads? Does a Xeon perform that much better to warrant the high price? Far from it!
August 25, 2023
Is there a meaningful difference between ATX and E-ATX motherboards that warrant picking one over the other? Let's break it down and take a closer look!
August 21, 2023
Your PC consists of many components that all have to be of comparable performance so they don't bottleneck each other. Here's how to figure out if you have any bottlenecks.
August 17, 2023
Is there any performance difference between triple-cell and quad-cell (TLC, QLC) SSDs and which one should you opt for when buying a new SSD? A closer look.
October 5, 2023
Fast Boot can cut down your PC's boot times considerably. But there're times when we recommend disabling Fast Boot entirely. Here's when.
October 5, 2023
Adjusting your GPU's fan speeds can both increase its performance by making it boost longer and at higher frequencies or generally lower the noise your Graphics Card if you're looking for silent operation. Here's how to adjust those fan curves step-by-step.
August 6, 2023
Gigabyte is best known for their GPUs and Motherboards but they have products available in other areas such as storage. Is Gigabyte a good brand to buy from today?
August 4, 2023
Does it make more sense to get more RAM or faster RAM for your PC? As so often, it'll depend on the kind of workloads you're running. A closer look & recommendations.
August 2, 2023
What are the differences between boxed, tray, and WOF CPUs? Do they perform the same or should you make sure to steer clear of certain variants? A closer look.
August 27, 2023
AMD has many boosting technologies for its CPUs, and PBO (Precision Boost Overdrive) is one of the most recent. What does PBO do, is it safe to enable? And most importantly: Will PBO increase your performance?
July 31, 2023
AMD Ryzen X3D CPUs introduce added 3D Vertical Cache compared to their X Counterparts. Does this mean X3D is the better CPU in any workload? No, far from it.
July 25, 2023
CPU cache impacts performance considerably. Why is this so and what's the difference between the different caching levels within a CPU? A closer look.
July 23, 2023
For a CPU to perform to its full potential it has to be supplied with ample amounts of power. This power comes from the PSU by using CPU Power Cables plugged into your Motherboard.
July 21, 2023
Power Limit Throttling is the CPU choosing to throttle its own power delivery to ensure system stability. If this sounds like something you'd like to prevent to increase performance, here's how.
July 22, 2023
AMD's Ryzen CPUs are segmented into 4 tiers of which each tier targets different buyers, workloads and budgets. Here's which Ryzen CPU tier is right for your needs.
October 5, 2023
A "CPU Over Temperature" Error displayed during on your POST screen is something you should fix immediately. Here's our step-by-step guide on how to do just that.
July 17, 2023
Every PC uses a different amount of power. It depends on its internal components, cooling, PSU efficiency and more! Here's how all of this works and how much power typical PCs draw.
October 5, 2023
Maximizing your PC's performance by increasing your RAM speed to its intended frequency is a crucial step when building a new PC or adding new RAM. Here's how.
July 5, 2023
The introduction of all those PCIe generations begs the question of whether PCIe slots and lanes are backward compatible. Can you use a new GPU in an older PCIe slot? And if so, does this impact performance?
July 4, 2023
Finding accurate, trustworthy info on PC-Hardware online, boils down to visiting just a few authoritative Websites that are known to be reliable in all things reviews and critical analysis.
October 5, 2023
What makes an SSD Brand good? And are there any SSD Brands in particular that you should give preference or steer clear of entirely?
June 30, 2023
PC Hardware Youtube Channels are as informative and fun as they are addictive. Here're the top channels you should subscribe to, to stay up to date on all things PC Hardware.
July 3, 2023
What's the difference between UEFI and Legacy BIOS and why does your motherboard BIOS offer a UEFI and Legacy Boot Mode Option? Is this something you should use or steer clear of?
June 26, 2023
TDP stands for Thermal Design Power, in watts, and refers to the power consumption under the maximum theoretical load of your CPU. Here's how TDP influences performance and why you should care.
August 27, 2023
DisplayPort, besides HDMI, is the most popular display interface today. The newest version 2.0/2.1 brings substantial improvements over 1.4(a) to the table that should be considered when buying a new GPU.
August 27, 2023
You've finished building your new PC and are wondering which drivers you should install so it runs at its full potential? Here's what we recommend you install first.
October 5, 2023
Make sure your GPU performs reliably and to its full potential with the help of our step-by-step guide to checking if a GPU is working properly. Benchmarks and more!
June 18, 2023
Motherboards are mounted inside your PC Case through Standoffs and Standoff Screws. Are these screws package with the motherboard or will you need extra when building a PC?
June 17, 2023
ASRock Motherboards display so-called Dr. Debug LED Error Codes if your PC is encountering hardware or configuration issues while POSTing. Here's how to dissect these codes.
January 2, 2024
Having your RAM run in Dual-Channel mode can increase your PC's performance in many workloads. Here's how to check if you've set everything up correctly to make use of Dual-Channel mode.
June 15, 2023
Most Gigabyte Motherboard display so-called error-codes on a motherboard LED-display making it easier to fix any underlying issues. Here's everything you need to know about Gigabyte LED Error Codes.
October 5, 2023
Here's how to make sure your new SSD is performing as it should by running quick benchmarks and comparing the results. Our Top 4 favorite free tools to do just that.
June 13, 2023
CAD workloads require PRO GPUs, right? Well, not necessarily. In fact, most times you get higher performance at a lower price if you don't get a PRO GPU from AMD, Nvidia or Intel for CAD Workloads.
October 5, 2023
CPU Coolers have become ever more powerful and subsequently, bigger. It's more crucial than ever to check cooler compatibility with your Case, RAM, and Motherboard to make sure you don't run into issues.
May 27, 2023
AMD's new RDNA3 PRO GPU line-up, the W7900 and W7800, bring some very interesting new developments to the table. Is this heralding the downfall of Nvidia's Pro GPUs? A closer look.
October 5, 2023
GPUs come in all sorts of variations. In our overview we give a rundown of all the different Graphics Card types so you can figure out which one suits your needs best.
October 5, 2023
Our tests show that high capacity DDR5 RAM Kits don't hit frequencies as advertised. Buyers in need of 64 or 128GB of DDR5 RAM beware until platform matures!
June 14, 2023
We'v analyzed and dissected the best AM5 motherboards for current-generation AMD Ryzen 7000 CPUs. Only a few made the cut and are recommended by us.
July 3, 2023
Updating an MSI Motherboard's BIOS may seem like a daunting process, but can actually be done quite easily by following our step-by-step guide right here.
August 27, 2023
Are internal SSDs always the first choice to make over external SSDs, or do external SSDs have benefits other than their portability? A closer look.
July 3, 2023
ASUS sure is one of the best-known brands for all things PC-Parts, Laptops, Peripherals & more. But how do their products hold up against the competition. Is ASUS a good brand?
April 17, 2023
All-In-One Liquid Coolers (AiOs) are extremely popular and powerful and our guide will make sure you have the basics down to make an informed purchase.
May 29, 2023
AMD's GPUs are often listed as second-rate at best, even though their technology is as on par with Nvidia's as can be. Here's the real reason they fall short in the current GPU market.
October 5, 2023
Dozens, even hundreds of CPUs are released with every new generation across all market segments. What general types of categories do all of these CPUs fit into?
March 29, 2023
Buying used GPUs is tempting, especially with new GPUs' steep prices nowadays. But is buying used GPUs even safe, and what are the warning signs to look out for?
June 14, 2023
3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans, also known as PWM & DC Fans have a noticeable price difference. Is this extra pin worth the price difference, or are they essentially the same?
June 14, 2023
CPU fans that don't spin aren't necessarily cause for alarm. They usually ramp up and down depending on your CPU's temperature. If they don't spin at all, though, you'll find possible fixes in this guide.
May 5, 2023
While running multiple GPUs of the same brand in one PC is something quite common, mixing GPUs from different brands introduces stability issues and considerably narrows application support.
May 5, 2023
Mechanical Keyboards can be customized in all kinds of areas with sound, look & feel being the three most important. Here's which websites let you customize and order your very own keyboard creations.
March 10, 2023
A Motherboard's Chipset is one of the most important components of a PC. It dictates features such as overclockability, PCIe Lanes, USB capability or RAID support.
May 5, 2023
QHD, WQHD, 4K, what do all these acronyms even mean and which monitor resolution fits your needs best?
October 5, 2023
PowerColor's brand name doesn't instill the greatest confidence in its GPU's performance, but their products are in fact a great option for AMD buyers.
May 5, 2023
While XFX is a lesser known brand compared to the likes of ASUS or MSI, they offer AMD GPUs that we can highly recommend, especially if you're working with a limited budget.
May 5, 2023
Mounting PC Case and CPU fans incorrectly can severely impact your PC's airflow and, subsequently, your component's performance. Here's how to figure out which way your fans will blow air.
January 18, 2023
ASRock makes AMD GPUs only, but these sure come with great performance, cooling and are easy on the eye while being on the lower-end of pricing compared many other GPU AIBs.
May 5, 2023
High CPU temperatures won't just reduce your PC's performance but may even cause long-term damage or failure of the CPU. Here's how to stop a CPU from overheating.
June 14, 2023
There are many reasons you might need to figure out your Computer's age. Is it time for an upgrade? Do you want to sell it? Is it slowing down? Here's how to find your PC's age.
February 8, 2023
We did a deep dive into Z690 & Z790 Motherboards and hand picked the best for Intel's newest and most popular CPUs that professionals need for efficient work.
November 4, 2023
CPUs are being outfitted with ever more Cores with each generation. But which CPU has the highest multi-core performance and does it even matter for typical workloads?
May 5, 2023
A Laptop's battery life will vary considerable from model to model, also depending on how you use it. Workloads, Screen-Brightness, Performance-Demand, Age, many factors influence your battery's life.
May 5, 2023
Mini PCIe has been largely replaced by the M.2 and NVMe standard, but still finds application in some smaller devices. Here's everything you need to know about Mini PCIe.
July 3, 2023
Both ASUS and Gigabyte are mainstays of the Motherboard industry and their offerings compete on almost any level. Given the choice between the two brands, though, which should you pick?
June 14, 2023
Figuring out which Graphics Card you have in your PC and what driver version it's running on, is a straightforward process. Here's how to go about checking your GPU and Driver.
June 14, 2023
Although modern Motherboards come with several small PCIe x1 slots, these slots are mostly left untouched by most PC Builders. What is their purpose and can you make use of them?
May 5, 2023
The PCIe x16 specification can be found on many a product sheet, but it doesn't always mean the same thing. Is it Bandwidth or physical slot length? Here's how to figure this one out.
December 28, 2022
Samsung and Crucial are two of the most popular SSD manufacturers. Both have a multitude of different storage offerings, but which one is better? We've analyzed both for easy comparison.
May 5, 2023
Your PC's GPU is one of the hottest components you'll encounter in a Build. Checking and monitoring your Graphic Card's Temperature is something you'll want to do sooner rather than later to ensure it performs up to its full potential.
December 14, 2022
Nvidia's newly released powerhouse of a GPU, the RTX 4080 brings solid performance to content creation workloads at moderate power-draw. Our review goes in-depth.
February 4, 2023
Motherboard prices keep going up and they seem to be more expensive than a CPU nowadays. Do expensive Motherboards increase performance and are they worth it at all?
October 27, 2022
With so many SATA Ports available on modern Motherboards, does it make a difference which one you use? Or are they all the same? They are not!
October 24, 2022
Is everyone making too big of a fuss about the new Nvidia 4090 and 4080 RTX GPUs? Or are they absolutely worth their asking price for content creation workloads?
December 28, 2022
ErP can significantly reduce power consumption of your PC when it's turned off. That's right, even turned off your PC still consumes power. ErP tackles this once and for all.
May 5, 2023
Your Motherboard's AAFP Connector enables you to use your Case's front audio jacks which can be convenient. But what are the drawbacks compared to the rear audio ports?
October 10, 2022
Are OEM/Tray CPUs safe to buy or should you stay clear of them and resort to getting a boxed CPU? Here's everything you need to know about boxed and tray/OEM CPUs.
November 2, 2022
Resetting your BIOS can fix all kinds of issues you're encountering with your PC. MSI motherboards are no different in this regard. Here's how to do just that!
September 21, 2022
Your CPU's performance is determined by the number of instructions it can execute per clock cycle. But how does IPC work exactly and how can you compare CPUs through it?
November 22, 2022
PCs draw ever more Power these days and figuring out what Power supply you have is something you'll have to do sooner rather than later. Here's how.
September 18, 2022
The most premium GPU Brand and AIB for Nvidia Graphics Cards exits the Business. Why this happened and what it means for you going forward.
September 15, 2022
With so many CPU Cooler Brands on the market today, which should you buy a Cooler from? After all, the CPU Cooler will be responsible for the performance of your CPU!
September 14, 2022
USB Ports, Colors, Types, Generations. There's nothing more confusing than USB Naming Schemes. We'll explain everything you need to know about USB Ports.
November 2, 2022
Internal USB Headers are extremely practical but a lot of times there are just too few to connect all your cases USB Ports to. Here's how to get more!
November 2, 2022
iGPUs often cause issues in GPU-intensive Applications. Here's how to disable your iGPU once and for all.
December 19, 2022
Graphics Cards, too, have a suggested Price Point set by manufacturers, called, MSRP. Our updated List shows AMD, Nvidia and Intel GPUs ranked by MSRP.
November 2, 2022
A well-functioning PC must consist of parts that are fully compatible and don't create any bottlenecks. But how do you make sure your PC-Parts all are compatible?
September 1, 2022
It's easy to assume Motherboards have integrated Graphics because of their display connector inside the I/O shield. This is not the case, though. iGPUs are integrated into the CPU.
November 2, 2022
C: and D: are drive letters assigned to partitions that don't have to be on two physical drives. They can also be assigned to USB, DVD, CD or SD Drives.
May 5, 2023
Accessing a Motherboard's BIOS might sound like science-fiction, but it's dead-simple and extremely practical for full control over your PC's devices.
November 11, 2023
There are different ways to check your PC's power consumption that give you varying amounts of insight into which PC-Parts consume the most electricity.
November 2, 2022
Sometimes all you need is a Graphics Card upgrade to run the demanding game or app you're looking to use. Upgrading a Laptop's GPU, though, has its obstacles.
April 7, 2024
How do AMD and Nvidia GPUs stack up to each other? Is one company the clear winner in performance or does it depend on the product tier you're looking to buy?
May 5, 2023
Are PCIe Wifi Adapters or USB Wifi solutions better for your needs? Is it worth the hassle to install an internal Wifi Card? Let's find out!
November 2, 2022
Is an Intel Celeron Processor too slow for most workloads? Well, it certainly depends on the workloads you want to run, but in general, yes, Celeron is an extreme budget option.
May 5, 2023
Do Dual CPU Motherboards make sense for non-server, consumer workloads like 3D Rendering, Video Editing, Gaming? It depends on your need of high core-density.
July 29, 2022
What is the difference between Samsung's popular SSDs, and especially their pro and non-pro SSDs? Let's clear up the confusion!
November 2, 2022
Can you increase your Laptop's performance by adding an external CPU to it? The answer is no, but there are some other ways to improve performance.
May 5, 2023
How should your Power Supply be oriented inside the case? Fan facing up- or downwards? Here's everything you need to know.
May 5, 2023
Does adding more RAM make your PC faster? Yes and No. It can increase performance considerably if you have too little to begin with.
November 2, 2022
High-Quality Motherboard VRMs are crucial to a properly functioning system. The CPU's Boost Clocks and Overclocks especially will benefit from good VRMs.
September 3, 2022
Are AMD GPUs compatible with Intel CPUs? After all, the two companies are competitors, right? A closer look at workloads and when you should stay clear of this combination.
July 2, 2022
Buffered RAM (Memory) reduces electrical load on the memory controller, making it less likely to become a bottleneck in Systems with lots of RAM Modules.
November 2, 2022
It's important to keep an eye on your GPU utilization to maintain your PC's health. Here's what your GPU utilization should be at in different workloads.
November 24, 2023
NVMe and SSDs can't be compared. They are two entirely different things. What you can compare, though, are NVMe PCIe SSDs and SATA SSDs. Everything you need to know.
September 3, 2022
Intel has introduced a bunch of Suffixes into their CPU Naming Scheme. What do K, F, and KF mean, and do they impact price, performance, or something else entirely?
September 3, 2022
Graphics Cards need regular cleaning to maintain their performance. Here's how to clean your GPU quickly and without investing too much time.
September 3, 2022
There's nothing worse than buying a powerful GPU that, as you find out later, does not fit into your Case. Here's how to check if your GPU will fit. GPU Clearance explaned.
September 3, 2022
Motherboards have a bunch of audioports. Well, which one should you be using for your Mic or Headphones? And what if you have a 7.1 Soundsystem?
September 3, 2022
GPUs can draw a considerable amount of power and the GPU's power cables make sure the supply is up to par. But what kinds of power cables are there?
September 3, 2022
GPUs can use shared memory when their dedicated memory is full. But how does this work and what performance implications come with using shared memory?
May 5, 2023
We'll show you how to the number of Cores and Threads of your CPU so you can decide if you need an upgrade or if your CPU is still up to speed.
January 5, 2023
Make sure you understand the process of picking a GPU for Video Editing before buying one. This Guide will teach you how to pick a GPU for Video Editing.
December 28, 2022
There are many reasons why you might want to turn on your PC without a PC Case. Here are two quick way that'll let you do just that.
September 3, 2022
Graphics Card (GPUs) are power-hungry components that output a lot of heat, even when they are not under full load. What is a good GPU idle temperature?
December 28, 2022
What are all of the different kinds of PCIe slots, why are they different lengths and which cards can you typically get for each type? Our Guide on PCIe slots.
September 3, 2022
More CPU Cores aren't always better. For one, higher core-count CPUs are more expensive, and two, single-core performance starts to suffer above a certain threshold.
June 1, 2022
Power Supplies come in 3 major variants: Fully Modular, Semi Modul and Non-Modular. What do these fancy names mean and which of the three should you pick?
May 5, 2023
Video Memory (VRAM) is high-speed memory meant to be used by your Graphics Card. It's soldered onto your discreet GPU and can't be upgraded.
December 10, 2022
Choosing a CPU for Video Editing can be cumbersome. You both need high single core performance for your Editing, but also lots of cores for Rendering.
December 27, 2022
Motherboards are made of hundreds of tiny components and various materials. Here's what the most important parts of a motherboard consist of.
November 22, 2022
A PC should be placed on a sturdy, flat surface. Carpets are prone to static electricity build-up and hinder airflow. Don't place your PC on a carpet!
January 8, 2023
Dual-Channel RAM performs better than Single-Channel RAM in almost every scenario. Here's our comparison Guide and what to look out for.
September 3, 2022
Removing your Graphics Card can feel like a daunting task at first, but is actually quite easy. Here's our Step-By-Step Guide for you to follow along.
September 3, 2022
The Motherboard can power and control all kinds of different Fans inside your PC. But where and how do you connect all of them? Here's our guide.
September 3, 2022
Power Supply Cables can be tricky to connect. Here's where all you PSU cables are supposed to go. Step-by-step instructions included.
June 17, 2022
Can you control your RGB strips and Fans if your Motherboard does not feature any kind of RGB or ARGB headers? Here's what you can do.
December 28, 2022
CHA_FAN is another one of those Motherboard Headers that adds confusion to the mix of various other Headers you come across. Here's what it's meant for.
May 6, 2022
Have you ever wondered how long your GPU lasts? Our top reasons that impact your GPU's longevity and what to do about them.
May 24, 2023
Are Graphics Cards only needed for gaming or are they required for other workloads as well? Is an iGPU sufficient for the tasks you're running on your PC?
September 3, 2022
Upgrading your CPU, GPU and Motherboard is done quickly, but do you have to reinstall your Windows Operating System as well? A closer look.
June 17, 2022
What is the ideal CPU FAN Speed and is it better to set the RPM higher or lower? How high can you go without damaging your Fan or CPU?
September 3, 2022
Motherboard Sizes influence expandability, features and price, especially. How do ATX, mATX and ITX Motherboard Form-Factors compare?
September 3, 2022
Motherboard standoffs keep your PC from shorting and increase the overall stability of your components. Make sure you keep the rules we discuss here in mind.
September 3, 2022
A weak Power Supply can lead to all kinds of issues with your GPU or PC. Here's what can happen when your PSU is too weak and what to do in this case.
June 17, 2022
There aren't many expensive PC Cases that are actually worth buying. Here's our overview of the few true high-end Cases for enthusiasts that'll blow you away.
September 3, 2022
SATA cables connect most of the storage Drives within your System to your Motherboard. Here's everything you need to know to make SATA cables work.
September 3, 2022
Whether you should choose an iGPU or a dGPU depends on your workloads. What even are the differences between an integrated and a dedicated GPU?
October 22, 2022
Clearing your CMOS is usually the last resort to fixing any hardware problems but almost always works to troubleshoot your PC-related issues.
June 17, 2022
Nvidia's LHR GPUs are considerably slower for crypto mining. But what about Rendering, Gaming, and general productivity? Are they impacted at all?
December 21, 2022
Finding out which RAM is compatible with your Motherboard is a straightforward process involving 4 easy steps. Here's how to do it.
December 11, 2023
What is the difference between a System fan and a CPU fan header? Can you use either for any of your fans? A closer look.
May 4, 2022
Dying GPUs often have telltale signs that' forewarn you to look into issues that need fixing. Here're our most common GPU issues that indicate it's failing.
September 3, 2022
Keeping your Motherboard's temperatures low is just as important as those of your CPU or GPU. Take these steps to check and reduce them as much as possible.
September 3, 2022
Why does Windows show a lower total storage capacity than expected? It has something to do with TiB and TB and converting between the two units.
September 3, 2022
There are so many types of RAM available that it can be difficult to make heads or tails of all the acronyms. DDR, SDRAM, RDIMM, ECC. We explain it all.
June 17, 2022
CSM allows you to emulate an old BIOS environment on a UEFI machine. This introduces some benefits and drawbacks that we'll take a closer look at.
November 21, 2022
Weather you're buying a new PC or upgrading your CPU, you have to make sure the Processor is compatible with your Motherboard. Here's how to figure it out.
September 3, 2022
What does single and double-sided Memory (RAM) mean and how does it impact performance? Is it the same as Memory Ranks?
November 30, 2022
Machine Learning demands has extremely high performance demands if used right. Our Guide explains what hardware components are most important to speed up your workload.
September 3, 2022
M.2 is the new performance standard for all things primary storage. What do all those specifications & slots mean and which drive do you need?
November 25, 2022
Which RAM slots should you use for your RAM Sticks? Does it make a performance difference or can you place the Modules wherever you want to?
March 23, 2022
The AMD Radeon is a low-end GPU targeted at Professionals with simple workloads. Our Review shows it's strong and not so strong suits.
March 18, 2022
Your Motherboard heavily influences all of the components that are attached to it. Keep this guide in mind to unfold the full potential of your CPU, GPU, RAM and more.
September 3, 2022
Intel especially segments its CPUs into locked and unlocked. This comes with some extra features, like overclockability, the other may save you some money.
June 17, 2022
Zotac is a well-known GPU Brand that offers Graphic Cards at reduced prices. Does this mean those GPUs aren't any good? Or is Zotac a reliable Brand that you can buy from?
November 12, 2022
You can update the BIOS without a CPU to make your Motherboard ready for newer Processors. Here's how to use the so-called BIOS Flashback Feature.
June 17, 2022
Are there any major performance benefits from going with custom water cooling instead of an AIO? Or just a lot of work for nothing?
February 8, 2023
RAM Frequency can impact the performance of certain workloads considerably. Here's how to figure out what you RAM Frequency should be set to.
April 27, 2022
There are 5 Key things you have to check to guarantee GPU compatibility with your PC. We'll walk you through them step by step.
August 20, 2022
Will you see any noticeable differences in performance when choosing either 2 or 4 RAM Modules for your PC? We've taken a closer look.
June 30, 2022
All those Latency specifications on RAM Kits can become confusing when buying memory. How important are they and what Latency is best?
May 9, 2022
Multiple M.2 Slots on a Motherboard can mean that one will be faster than the other. Here's everything you need to know to pick the right M.2 Slot.
June 17, 2022
Not all PCIe-Slots are equal. Even though a PCIe-Slot might have the right size to physically hold your GPU just fine, PCIe-Lanes have to be considered as well.
April 27, 2022
Mounting the Radiator of your AIO CPU or GPU Cooler incorrectly can severely impact your performance. Here's what to keep in mind.
April 27, 2022
You can enable Virtualization in your BIOS by switching SVM Mode to on. An Intel BIOS will have a similar option but called differently. What do you need it for?
April 27, 2022
What's the difference between MT/s and MHz when inspecting specifications of RAM Modules? Datarate and Frequency are certainly not the same thing.
June 17, 2022
Motherboard Wifi is often hidden in technical specifications & difficult to discern on an existing PC. Here's how to find out if your Motherboard has WIFI.
April 27, 2022
Hot PC components are thermally throttled and you miss out on potential performance. Here's how to make your CPU and GPU perform to their full potential.
January 20, 2023
How does DDR5 compare to DDR4? Is it worth the added cost or is the performance-increase negligible? A closer look at DDR4 vs DDR5.
June 17, 2022
Your BIOS has some very specific settings that control how well your RAM (Memory) performs. A closer look at XMP, EOCP, and DOCP.
April 27, 2022
How do Founders Edition GPUs compare to Board-Partner GPUs? Are they any good or should you stay clear of them? We take a closer look.
April 27, 2022
An extensive Article explaining the different types of SSDs, their performance, Form-Factor and recommendations for your specific workloads.
April 27, 2022
Different PCs support a different amount of SSDs. Here's how to find out how many SSDs you can safely hook up without performance-loss.
April 27, 2022
Comparing GPUs by looking at their clock speeds can be confusing. There are a couple of things you have to keep in mind.
May 2, 2022
It can be challenging to select a render engine that fits your needs. We break it down to make picking a suitable 3D Render Engine an easy task.
August 15, 2022
A lower GPU Temperature equals lower noise, longer lifetime, and if done right, higher performance. Our Guide to lowering your GPU Temperature.
April 29, 2022
Hot Processors perform worse than cool CPUs. But how hot, exactly, is too hot? And how can you ensure your CPU performs as well as possible?
April 28, 2022
Liquid Cooling needs regular maintenance and refilling to keep cooling performance at its maximum potential. Here's how long your Liquid cooling will last.
July 3, 2023
RAM Brands all source their chips from just a couple of suppliers. Is there an actual performance difference or are we just picking fancy heat sinks?
April 27, 2022
Your SSD will become too small, quickly. We've all been there. Here's what we recommend you buy for different professional and gaming workloads.
June 17, 2022
140mm Case Fans are slowly but surely becoming more popular than 120mm Case fans. Are they the clear winner in every scenario?
November 29, 2021
Are GPU Backplates worth it? Do they help with performance or are they just of aesthetic nature? Let's take a closer look.
June 17, 2022
Are there any major differences between a CPU and an APU? When does it make sense to get an APU with an integrated GPU or a CPU + GPU combo? A closer look.
March 1, 2022
Samsung's B-Die Memory Modules perform especially well in certain situations. They are especially popular amongst Ryzen Users. Our top B-Die RAM picks.
November 4, 2021
Is a Mid Tower PC Case best for your needs or should you go Full Tower? Let's take a look at the most important factors that sets these two Cases apart.
November 3, 2023
Are all GPU Brands the same or do some deliver higher Quality and Performance than others? We compare the most popular Graphics Cards Brands.
April 28, 2022
P-Cores (Performance Cores) and E-Cores (Efficiency Cores) are a novel addition to Intel's new CPUs. What can we expect of them?
April 27, 2022
What are Threads and Logical Processors compared to your CPU's Cores? And how do they perform in comparison?
February 8, 2023
The GTX and RTX abbreviations are all over the place when looking for new GPUs. But are these just marketing speak or does it actually stand for something?
April 29, 2022
Air and AIO Coolers can't be directly compared. Both have their specific pros and cons, and which one is better will depend on your workloads.
April 27, 2022
eGPUs offer increased performance for mobile devices when you need it. Rendering, Gaming and other visually demanding tasks get a serious boost.
January 10, 2023
A PC's Power Supply isn't easy to shop for. Our Guide goes over everything you need to know to choose the best PSU for your Computer.
April 27, 2022
How many case fans you need depends on your workloads, hardware components, case type and case-fan types. Here's an estimate for your orientation.
April 27, 2022
Apart from Brand and number of Cores, CPU Base and Boost clocks are among the most important metrics that determine a Processor's performance.
March 1, 2022
Do you need to upgrade your CPU or is it still fine for a couple of more years? Here's how to find out if your processor is due for an upgrade.
April 29, 2022
RAM Modules come with so-called Memory Ranks. But what are these and is there a performance difference between single and dual rank that is worth it?
March 1, 2022
Have you ever come across a JFP1 connector on your motherboard? Here's all you need to know to make the best use of it.
March 1, 2022
Have you ever come across a JCOM1 connector on your motherboard? Here's all you need to know to make the best use of it.
November 9, 2022
Modern Motherboards have specific Fan headers for AIO Coolers. Here's an overview guide of where to connect your All-In-One CPU Water Cooler.
November 22, 2022
How much RAM you need depends heavily on your typical workloads. Here's an overview of the most popular workloads and their RAM requirements.
June 3, 2022
Have you ever stumbled across the terms PWM, DC, and Auto in the BIOS's fan control section? Here's a closer look at when to use which mode.
December 10, 2022
MSI's EZ Debug LEDs are geat for troubleshooting any PC-startup Issues. You'll be able to narrow down the troublesome component in no time. We show you how.
April 27, 2022
Although the terms GPU, Graphics Card and Video Card are often used interchangeably, technically, they mean different things.
April 4, 2022
Can you combine the processing power of 2 or more PCs? How do you do this and for what kind of workloads does this make sense?
August 8, 2022
Is buying a Graphics Card with GDDR6 Memory instead of GDDR5 worth it? What's the performance difference between the two? A closer look.
November 9, 2021
We take a close look at the many Z590 Motherboard options on the market. Which is the best for your particular Intel CPU - without spending an arm and a leg?
April 2, 2022
Here's how to enable RTX Ray Tracing and Voice on supported Nvidia GPUs to make use of the extremely powerful Hardware-Feature to improve your Application's Fidelity.
November 9, 2021
M.2 PCIe Adapters let you mount your M.2 NVMe Drives onto a PCIe-Slot. Benefits include Performance increases and more extension options. Our Guide.
December 12, 2022
There are many reasons why you might want to use different kinds of Memory Modules and RAM Brands within a single System. Beware of the risks though.
November 25, 2022
Are there any Benefits to going all AMD? Or can you use an Nvidia Graphics Card with an AMD Processor? A closer look at the pros and cons of each.
November 8, 2021
ECC Memory catches and corrects Errors that might occur in stored Data, but does it make sense for you to use ECC Memory or can you do without?
November 9, 2021
Will your new GPU run on your old Graphics Drivers or do you need to uninstall your old Drivers first before installing a new Graphics Card? A closer look.
March 19, 2022
What are CUDA Cores and Stream Processors and which are more powerful? Can you gauge the performance of a GPU by comparing Core Counts? A closer look.
November 25, 2022
Hot Graphics Cards perform worse than cool GPUs. But how hot, exactly, is too hot? And how can you ensure your GPU performs as well as possible?
November 8, 2021
What is XMP good for and which XMP Memory Profile should you enable in your Motherboard's BIOS? Here's our Guide for all Motherboard Brands.
May 24, 2022
What sets Server CPUs apart from Desktop CPUs? Are there any meaningful features that warrant the premium price of Server CPUs? It's all about platform.
April 12, 2022
There are the right kind of CPU and GPU Render Engines for any type of 3D Projects. But what are the differences between them and which one should you choose?
March 23, 2022
Low Profile Memory (RAM) solves clearance issues with the CPU Cooler. But do they perform worse than RAM Modules with heatsinks?
May 9, 2022
What's the difference between Blower-Style and Open-Air Cooled Graphics Cards? Do they perform the same or is one the better choice for you to buy?
December 28, 2022
Some CPUs come with CPU Coolers that have pre-applied Thermal Paste, some don't. Always check to see if you need to buy additional Thermal paste.
May 9, 2022
Finding the perfect Low-Profile CPU Cooler for your Small Form Factor Build is not easy. You'll want to avoid mistakes that make your CPU underperform.
April 14, 2022
Pro GPUs often cost a multiple of Consumer GPUs without being faster at first glance. Why are they so expensive, what are their benefits and who needs them?
November 8, 2021
When and what type of CPU Cooler do you need to run your System at top performance? Or could you run your CPU without a CPU Cooler entirely?
August 12, 2023
Low-Profile GPUs are made to fit into small spaces, especially when starting a Small Form Factor PC-Build. Consider these best Low-Profile GPUs for your needs.
December 28, 2022
Old Thermal paste can cause decreased performance, throttling and even overheating of your CPU and GPU. Be sure to replace Thermal Paste regularly.
May 9, 2022
How much VRAM you'll need on your Graphics Card for different Software and Games depends a lot on your specific workloads. Find your sweet spot.
May 9, 2022
Even the best Motherboard Brands can turn out some of the worste Products, so beware who you're buying from. Every Line-Up is different.
December 10, 2022
PCIe Lanes can severly bottleneck your performance if you don't have enough for your workload. Here's all you need to know about PCIe Lanes.
February 8, 2023
If you're building a Workstation you'll need to make sure your Motherboard is up to the task. Learn what to look out for when buying a Motherboard for Workstation Workloads.
December 12, 2022
Should you use CPU_FAN or CPU_OPT to plug your Cooler into? Here's a quick overview on the Motherboard's Fan Header connectors.
May 9, 2022
What's the difference between NVLINK and SLI and when do you use which? Is using multiple GPUs through NVLINK or SLI even worth it? Let's take a closer look.
February 8, 2023
Upgrading your PC is easy and doesn't have to be expensive. Here's what to look out for when upgrading specific components for performance.
September 12, 2022
We will show you how you can fix bent CPU Socket Pins on both LGA and PGA Sockets. In most cases you can fix this yourself without having to buy a new motherboard.
May 14, 2022
If you want to keep your CPU cool while increasing your performance, thermal paste is the first step into the right direction. We list the best Thermal Paste for your needs.
May 11, 2022
A comprehensive List of all modern AMD Graphics Cards in Order of Performance in different Benchmarks such as Gaming and Rendering.
January 3, 2023
Are B550 Motherboards the better X570 Motherboards at a cheaper price? Here's our Guide to finding the best B550 Motherboard for your Ryzen.
January 3, 2023
Compact ATX Cases are still big enough to house powerful components. This guide will get you ready for buying the best and smallest ATX Cases.
May 9, 2022
The first thing you need to know when planning a new PC for Rendering Workloads: What Render Engine are you using and what Hardware do I need?
January 3, 2023
Picking a suitable power supply is critical, as it’s one of the core elements of your PC build. We recommend these PSUs for best performance.
May 2, 2022
Get the highest possible performance out of your Intel i9 10900K with the right CPU Cooler. Don't risk throttling your CPU.
October 5, 2021
Is the AMD Threadripper 3990X 64-Core CPU the new King for Content Creators? How does it perform in Rendering, Video Editing and other heavy processing tasks?
December 10, 2022
Looking for a motherboard that pairs well with a 3rd Gen Threadripper CPU? Find the best Motherboards for Threadripper 3960X, 3970X here.
December 10, 2022
Here’s an in-depth article for those who need a quick rundown on what LGA 1151 motherboard is the best at every price point for Intel 9th Gen CPUs.
September 6, 2023
We’re going to teach you all you need to know to purchase the best case fans for your needs. Size, RGB, Airflow, Noise, we cover it all!
May 9, 2022
Make sure your CPU performs the best it can by choosing the right CPU Coler for your AMD Ryzen Threadripper Processor. AiO or Air-Cooled, find out what is better!
January 3, 2024
AMD Ryzen or Intel Core CPUs? What processors perform best at workstation tasks such as Rendering, Video Editing, Responsiveness & General Productivity?
May 9, 2022
Looking for the best RAM for 3rd Gen Ryzen CPUs? Find great Memory that fits your budget for AMD Ryzen 3600, 3700X, 3800X, 3900 CPUs.
February 8, 2023
Looking for a motherboard that pairs well with an AMD Ryzen 5000 Series CPU? Find the best Motherboards for Ryzen 5600, 5700X, 5800X, 5900X, 5950X here.
May 23, 2022
You will want to make sure you don't lose any performance when attaching a or multiple GPUs to the Motherboard through Riser Cables.
May 9, 2022
Western Digital's "Blue" series has always offered the most for the least, but with SSD's now dominating, the "Black" series might be the better choice.
May 15, 2023
A comprehensive overview of all basic Parts you need to build a PC, Workstation or Computer. Building your own PC is easy when you start with this list.
January 22, 2024
An extensive and up-to-date List of all modern GPUs compared with the popular GPU Benchmark Octanebench.
January 30, 2024
A comprehensive List of all modern Nvidia Graphics Cards in Order of Performance in different Benchmarks such as Gaming and Rendering.
February 8, 2023
The CGDirector PC-Builder lets you quickly find the best Computer Parts for your PC & Workstation Build. Use cases include 3D-Modeling, Animation, Video-Editing, Motion Design and more.
February 20, 2022
Is it just some random name or does "Ti" stand for something specific in NVIDIA GPUs? Let's have a quick look here.
June 2, 2022
RAM (Memory) Requirements for Video Editing scale with project complexity. Find out how much RAM you need for your Video Editing Projects here.
January 6, 2023
Processor (CPU) Performance / Price Ratio for 3D Rendering. Ultimate List for finding the best CPU for Rendering.
October 6, 2023
Here's everything you need to know about the Best Hardware for GPU Rendering in Octane, Redshift, V-Ray and other modern GPU Render Engines.