Today we’re excited to announce our new line of custom Linux PCs powered by Ubuntu. Though we have shipped Ubunutu based workstations in the past for special projects and customer requests, this is the first time in our 25-year history that we’ve offered a full line of non-Windows based systems. It’s the culmination of several months of hardware testing and validation of select components on the Ubuntu platform. It’s been labor intensive, but it’s the only way to ensure complete component compatibility and create the best customer experience possible. In the following weeks, we’ll make severa ..read more

Intel Core Ultra vs. Core i9 Processors With the recent release of Intel’s newest mobile processor and new naming contention, Intel Core Ultra is making waves but also confusing consumers. But how does one compare Core Ultra vs. Core i9? Let’s break down the key differences between these two lines, helping you pick the perfect CPU for your needs. Intel Core i9: Powerhouse Performance The 14th Gen Intel Core processors, codenamed Raptor Lake-R, are the successors to the prior 12th and 13th Gen lines. Just like their architectural ancestors, 14th Gen was broken out into i3, i5, i7, and i9 from ..read more

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that running hot is hardly ever what you want. Heat is the biggest design problem when engineering our builds at VM. Short-term high thermals will hinder your performance through throttling. Long-term high thermals will cut short the lifespan of your components. Why then does it seem that laptops – as a whole – oftentimes run so damn hot? From gaming laptops that either flare up to 90 C when opening a triple-A title all the way up to leaving folks with second degree burns, it’s almost anticipated that laptops are simply machines that heat l ..read more

In the ever-evolving world of content creation and gaming, having a PC that can handle both tasks with ease is essential for many users. Whether you’re a video editor, CAD user, graphic designer, or an avid gamer, choosing the right components is crucial to ensure optimal performance and a seamless user experience. In this guide, we will explore the best components for building a PC that excels in both content creation and gaming. Processor (CPU): For content creation, a multi-core processor is vital. AMD Ryzen 9 or Intel Core i9 CPUs are excellent choices, providing the necessary horsepower ..read more

In our fast-paced digital age, multitasking has become an integral part of our daily computing needs. Whether you’re juggling multiple applications for work, streaming content while working on a project, or handling resource-intensive tasks simultaneously, having a PC that excels at multitasking will help you be more productive. In this guide, we will explore the key components that make a PC adept at handling multiple tasks efficiently. Processor (CPU): Multitasking prowess starts with a powerful processor. Opt for a multi-core CPU with simultaneous multithreading (SMT) or Hyper-Threading (H ..read more

Owning a powerful PC is like having a high-performance sports car – it’s capable of incredible feats, and its true potential is realized when you push it to its limits. In the realm of computing, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs takes this experience to a whole new level. In this guide, we will explore how you can leverage the capabilities of a robust PC to your advantage with AI programs. Choosing the Right Hardware: Before diving into AI applications, ensure your PC is equipped with top-notch hardware. A high-end CPU, substantial RAM (32GB or more), a powerful GPU (N ..read more

When shopping for the best gaming laptop with maximum performance, several key factors should be considered to ensure that it can handle the demands of modern games. Though the basics are the same as a gaming desktop, here are some essential laptop aspects to look for too: Graphics Card (GPU) The GPU is arguably the most critical component for gaming performance. You’ll want a laptop with a high-end discrete graphics card, such as an NVIDIA GeForce RTX series or an AMD Radeon RX series. These GPUs support features like real-time ray tracing and AI-based enhancements for an immersive gaming ex ..read more

In the ever-evolving world of PC gaming and content creation, the graphics card is the beating heart of performance. The NVIDIA RTX 40-series has been a game-changer, with the RTX 4090 standing tall as a graphics powerhouse. But, does the average consumer really need the might of the RTX 4090 in their PC, especially given the release of the new Supers? In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that can help you decide if the RTX 4090 is the right choice for your gaming and creative needs. Performance Demands Consider your usage patterns. If you are an avid gamer who wants to experience the lat ..read more

Achieving the best Virtual Reality (VR) experience on your PC involves optimizing both hardware and software components. We’ve gone over VR configurations in the past, but here’s an update with several tips to help you get the best VR PC experience: Powerful GPU VR demands a lot from your graphics card, so it’s tops on the list here. Invest in a high-end GPU, such as an NVIDIA GeForce RTX series or AMD Radeon RX series, capable of handling VR content with smooth frame rates. Check the recommended GPU specifications for your specific VR headset, but we recommend at last an RTX 4060 or better ..read more

Can I Use My TV As A PC Monitor? Yes, it is possible to use a TV as a monitor for your PC using the included HDMI ports, but there are some things to think about before you do. Here are some considerations and recommendations for using a TV as a PC monitor: Resolution and Size Choose a TV with a resolution that meets your needs. For general use and gaming, a 1080p (Full HD) or 4K can be suitable. Consider the size of the TV based on your preference and available space. Larger TVs with higher resolutions provide a more immersive experience but may require you to sit farther away for optimal vi ..read more