Acer today announced updates to its popular Predator Triton 300, Predator Helios 300 and Nitro 5 series of gaming notebooks, all of which have been refreshed to take advantage of the latest 11th Gen Intel Core H-series processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Laptop GPUs - including the new GeForce RTX 3050 and GeForce RTX 3050 Ti. On top of a number of other updates, improvements to the devices' displays ensure that players will appreciate as much of this power boost as possible.

"The new silicon announced today are as exciting for us at it is for users, as more powerful processors let us push the thermal management capabilities of our devices further than ever," said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, IT Products Business, Acer Inc. "There is a lot of exciting technology coming to the surface right now, and we're able to offer an excellently tuned package for players of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or investing in your first gaming notebook, this is the time."

ASUS today announced ZenDrive U8M, an all-new, high-style external DVD-writer drive that features the latest-gen USB-C interface to enable instant and convenient multimedia playback and data archiving. Imbued with the spirit of the iconic ASUS ZenBook series, U8M is the perfect complement to the latest-generation ultraslim laptops. It offers M-DISC support for creating long-lasting archives and includes intuitive software for easy, comprehensive backups.

ZenDrive U8M packs serious functionality into its robust, ultraslim 13 mm frame. Finished with the beautiful, Zen-inspired concentric-circle aesthetic, it effortlessly combines great design, solid construction and sophisticated style. For simplicity and speed, ZenDrive U8M connects via USB-C. This type of port is a feature of virtually all new laptops, including all new ASUS ZenBook models—so ASUS ZenDrive U8M is ready to plug right in. The smart little socket enables any-way-up connection convenience, empowering users to add instant multimedia playback or backup functionality to any modern Windows or Mac computer.

The Epomaker B21 is a retro 65% compact, yet innovative, wireless mechanical keyboard with knob switch controls. With dual connectivity modes (wireless or wired) and both Windows and Mac layouts, the B21 is the ultimate match for any device setup. It easily pairs with up to three devices at once to maximize productivity. The Epomaker B21 is the perfect companion to elevate your work and gaming experience.

Inspired by the keyboard community, we designed the B21 to be as small as possible, while preserving all of the essential multimedia and function keys on Mac and Windows. This was made possible by designing unique combination keys that are intuitive and easy to use. The B21 also comes with control knobs and multimedia keys to offer the same functionalities as a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard, but with a much smaller footprint. Designed for versatility, the B21 can connect both via Bluetooth for wireless connectivity or with the included USB Type-C cable. With Bluetooth 5.0, it can simultaneously connect with your phone, laptop, or tablet to provide the most efficient multitasking and speedy performance.

When governments need a hardware upgrade, they will usually take the route of exploring options with security in mind. However, if you happen to have some engineering talent to employ on a new project, why wouldn't you just build a custom motherboard for your own purposes. Today, GS Group Holding and Philax, have announced that they are starting the manufacturing of Russia's first motherboard based on a B450 chipset from AMD. Looking at the motherboard, which you can see below, you might find it very similar to those of ASRock. And that is because Philax has a licensing agreement with ASRock to use the design of the B450M Pro4 motherboard, with the addition of a TPM module which is often used by government agencies, to produce this board.

Producing around 40,000 pieces, these motherboards are expected to handle anything from 4000 series to 5000 series of AMD processors. As far as the specifications go, the board is coming in a standard Micro-ATX form factor. It is equipped with four DDR4 memory slots that can take a memory with up to 3200 MHz speed. There are two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and one PCIe 2.0 x1 slot, which are of course limited by CPU choice. The motherboard enables four SATA III and two M.2 ports for storage expansion. When it comes to I/O, the board features HDMI, D-Sub, DVI-D, four USB 3.1 Gen1, two USB 2.0, one USB Type-C, and one USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A port. GS Group Holding and Philax also have a partnership that goes beyond just motherboards. They also plan to produce about 50,000 custom monitors for government purposes as well.

HyperX, the gaming division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., today announced it is now shipping the HyperX Alloy Origins Core Mechanical Gaming Keyboard featuring HyperX Blue mechanical switches. Built for performance and longevity, HyperX Blue mechanical switches offer a shorter actuation point and 80 million click rating to meet gaming and work from home needs. The HyperX Alloy Origins Core tenkeyless keyboard features a minimalistic, compact design with RGB backlit keys to enhance home offices and PC gaming setups. HyperX blue switches are favored by gamers that like clicky key sounds and operating action.

Alloy Origins Core is built with a full aircraft-grade aluminium body for durability and stability, plus a space-saving tenkeyless layout to maximize desktop real estate for ultimate mouse movement. Alloy Origins Core features RGB backlit keys with exposed LED for brighter illumination with radiant lighting effects and five adjustable brightness levels to enhance gaming, day or night. The USB Type-C to USB Type-A keyboard cable is also detachable.

Gigabyte Technology, one of the top global manufacturers of motherboards, graphics cards, and hardware solutions, announces today the latest BIOS of B560 AORUS motherboards. Enhanced by the 12+1 phases DrMOS power stage with 60 Amps for each and full coverage VRM thermal design, B560 AORUS motherboards can support Intel Core i9 11900K (F) series processors overclocking to all cores 5.1 GHz. The exclusive anti-interference design of memory circuit enables DDR4 speed raising up to XMP 4800 MHz, and overclocking performance boost to DDR4 5300 MHz. which demonstrates GIGABYTE's strong R&D strength and persistence in quality. Users can enjoy the performance boost of time-limited overclocking by simply updating to the latest BIOS to meet their special needs.1

Intel B series chipset motherboards have been always excluded from overclocking due to the product positioning. Although the memory XMP overclocking is unlocked on 500 series, the processor frequency can only reach up to 4.8 GHz by Turbo Boost. Thanks to the efforts of Gigabyte's R&D team, the processor can be overclocked to 5.1 GHz and maintain low temperature under the Prime95 no AVX burn-in test. This powerful performance benefits from the top-quality materials of GIGABYTE AORUS motherboards and product design capabilities, which include 12+1 phases/ 60Apms DrMOS power stage, 6 layers 2Oz ultra-cool PCB, full-covered VRM thermal design, and the latest Smart Fan 6 technology for temperature control. These features allow processors to have a stable and pure power supply under ultra-high frequency operation, providing the most solid backing for the CPU limited-time overclocking.

GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd, a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, is thrilled to announce new member to M series lineup, GIGABYTE M32Q gaming monitor. The M series lineup is designed to enhance work productivity meanwhile offering an ultra-fast gaming and desiring entertainment experience. The unique KVM button on the rear side allows users to quickly switch between devices. The lineup is equipped with USB Type-C ports that provide display, data, and power delivery to mobile devices. By connecting the devices (DisplayPort alternate mode support) to the monitor directly, users are able to use keyboard and mouse to control those devices and have them charged at the same time. It brings diverse using scenario and greatly enhances productivity.

GIGABYTE M32Q is a 32-inch flat-display QHD resolution and equipped with the latest SuperSpeed IPS panel to achieve a 1 ms GTG response time with a 165Hz (OC 170Hz) refresh rate, providing smooth moving image and awesome picture quality. For color performance, 8-bit color and super-wide color gamut of 94% DCI-P3/ 120% sRGB offering the outstanding color accuracy and consistency. Moreover, it is VESA certified DisplayHDR 400 to ensure spectacular display quality for the ultimate gaming and movie watching experience.

Built for consumers who are searching for a stylish and reliable solution to share content across their compatible devices, including iPhone devices and Mac computers, Western Digital announced today the company's first flash drive with dual Lightning and USB Type-C connectors, the SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe. With both Lightning and USB Type-C connectors and an all-metal casing, the SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe provides a sleek way for users to seamlessly access and move files between iPhone, iPad Pro, Mac and other USB Type-C devices, including Android phones.

Western Digital resolves the hassle of moving files between devices with different connectors with the new SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe. This new flash drive comes with two connectors, which enables a quick move of files, eliminating the need to email content from one device to another in order to upload or save.1 Once files are on the drive, they can be transferred using the high-speed USB 3.0 connector to a USB Type-C-compatible computer. Consumers who want a heightened sense of privacy can password-protect their files and photos with the iXpand Drive app. The app can also be used to free up space on an iPhone or to automatically back up photos, videos, documents and contacts without the hassle of a slow internet connection.2 The drive is available in 64 GB, 128 GB and 256 GB, allowing more space for photos, videos and games.

[Editor's note: Our review can be found here for those interested.]

CORSAIR, a world leader in high-performance gear for gamers and enthusiast components, today announced the launch of its first-ever 60% mechanical gaming keyboard, the CORSAIR K65 RGB MINI, alongside a full range of CORSAIR PBT DOUBLE-SHOT PRO Keycap Mod Kits to unlock a huge new range of keyboard personalization.

Packing massive features into its impressively small size, the K65 RGB MINI boasts 100% CHERRY MX mechanical keyswitches, dynamic per-key RGB backlighting, CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing Technology with 8,000Hz polling, and a detachable USB Type-C cable. Launching alongside the K65 RGB MINI, the new CORSAIR PBT DOUBLE-SHOT PRO Keycap Mod Kits offer five additional colors with which to customize your K65 RGB MINI or compatible keyboard and make it your own. Together, K65 RGB MINI and the new PBT DOUBLE-SHOT PRO Keycaps offer a powerful, personal, and portable CORSAIR keyboard experience in the smallest form-factor yet.

Sharkoon Technologies is an international supplier of high-performance, quality PC components and peripherals. With the CA300H, Sharkoon now presents another PC case in the premium ELITE SHARK series. Like the other cases in the series, this sturdy ATX tower is designed for showcasing quality high-end hardware, and, with its generously dimensioned interior, it offers a wide variety of installation options.

From the outside, the case aims to impress with an overall appearance of sturdiness combined with elegance. The side panels are made of tempered glass, allowing an optimal view into the interior of the case. The top panel of the CA300H is made of metal, while the frame of the front panel is made of polished aluminium. The aesthetic highlight of the case is provided by the ornate geometrical pattern on the front panel, which is emphasized by the light of the addressable RGB LED fans which are installed behind it. The LEDs of all the fans, the I/O panel and further RGB components can be adjusted as desired via the addressable RGB controller.

HyperX, the gaming division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., today announced its Alloy Origins 60 mechanical gaming keyboard is now shipping in the U.S. and Canada. A compact, 60 percent form factor keyboard, Alloy Origins 60 features HyperX Red linear mechanical switches that are built for performance, longevity and rated with an 80 million lifetime click rating per switch. The keyboard includes RGB exposed backlit keys for brighter illumination with radiant lighting effects and double shot PBT keycaps with secondary functions for long-term use and durability.

Alloy Origins 60 is the first HyperX 60 percent gaming keyboard built with HyperX Red linear mechanical switches. HyperX Red switches are designed with a shorter actuation point and shorter travel time than other switches on the market, for a more responsive switch action. As a durable, stable gaming keyboard, Alloy Origins 60 features a full aircraft-grade aluminium body and offers a space-saving 60 percent layout that maximizes desktop real estate for ultimate mouse movement.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, at their February RazerStore Live event last night, announced their first external dock, the Razer Thunderbolt 4 Dock Chroma, and an updated version of their laptop stand, the Razer Laptop Stand Chroma V2. The two new desktop accessories aim to provide a connectivity solution to every type of user, no matter their desktop setup, with an expansive selection of ports, premium aluminium build, and signature Razer Chroma RGB under glow.

The all-new Razer Thunderbolt 4 Dock Chroma has been designed to expand desktop connectivity and empower users to do more - whether on a Windows or Mac¹ laptop or desktop. It features the latest standards in connectivity, including a UHS-II SD card reader to quickly transfer files from a camera, an Ethernet port for fast and stable internet connectivity, three USB Type-A ports for connecting legacy devices, and four USB Type-C Thunderbolt 4 ports for connecting everything else.

Thermaltake, the leading PC DIY premium brand for Cooling, Gaming Gear, and Enthusiast Memory solutions, today announced the W1 WIRELESS Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Go wireless and type freely with the W1 WIRELESS, which supports 2.4 GHz, low energy Bluetooth and wired USB connection modes. It is also equipped with Cherry MX mechanical switches and ultra-durable PBT keycaps for the best typing and gaming experience.

Supports ultra-fast 1 ms 2.4 GHz technology, with a wireless range of approximately 10 meters, and battery lasting up to 1.5 months. Another wireless option is through Bluetooth. Connect to Bluetooth 4.2 enabled devices with battery lasting up to 2.5 months, or plug in for wired USB Type-C connection mode.

The leading global motherboard manufacturer, graphics card, and small form factor PC manufacturer, ASRock, proudly announces the compact Mini PC - Jupiter X300. This product supports AMD Ryzen 4000G Series processors and up to 64 GB fast DDR4-3200 MHz memory. This delivers decent performance for a wide range of home entertainment and business use. Jupiter X300 provides perfect expandability with only 1L of size, a PCIe Gen3 Ultra M.2 (2280) SSD slot, a 2.5-inch SATA 6 Gb/s hard drive bay, and a M.2 Key-E slot for Wi-Fi module.

The connectivity of ASRock Jupiter X300 Mini PC includes dual USB Type-C ports, six USB Type-A connectors as well as three simultaneous display outputs which include DisplayPort, HDMI, and D-Sub. In this way, ASRock Jupiter X300 Mini PC offers users productivity and flexibility for any scenario. In addition, Jupiter X300 is also available with the model equipped with DASH LAN and TPM function for Enterprise Solutions.

DisplayPort 2.0 was supposed to see its implementation beginning by the end of 2020, but that time has come and gone without a single DisplayPort 2.0-touting product on sight. According to VESA, the rollout has been delayed mostly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented the standards body to perform its PlugTest events, where engineers and hardware developers convene to discuss, tinker, and decide on the standard's implementation. VESA held multiple of these events per year, but none in 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic; thus, the delay we are now witnessing surged.

VESA plans to have their first 2021 PlugTest event in Spring of this year, however, and aims to see products on the shelves later, and likely not before 2H 2020. The standards body said that there are, indeed, DisplayPort 2.0 monitors currently in-development, but that these too have been affected by the lack of PlugTests. DisplayPort 2.0 is an update to the current 1.4 implementation, and currently, there are no launched products (monitors, graphics cards, etc) that can make use of the new version. The new standard will technically support up to 80 Gbps max, nearly three times the currently available bandwidth in the DisplayPort 1.4 spec. DisplayPort Alt Mode 2.0 also brings most of these capabilities to USB Type-C connectors via the USB 4.0 revision.

EIZO Corporation today announced the release of the 23.8-inch FlexScan EV2480 - a frameless Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS monitor equipped with a USB Type-C terminal for improving productivity and comfort at the workplace or home office. The FlexScan EV2480 is equipped with a USB Type-C connection that allows users to display video, playback audio, transmit USB signals, and supply power to connected devices. This convenient multi-purpose connectivity makes it faster and easier to connect a laptop when moving between workstations or when working away from the office. It is also equipped with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs to provide users further flexibility.

Modern laptops are often limited in their connectivity options as a tradeoff for their enhanced portability. The EV2480's USB Type-C terminal provides users access to four USB Type-A ports for easily connecting peripherals such as an external keyboard, mouse, web camera, or storage device. In addition, the USB Type-C terminal delivers up to 70 Watt for conveniently charging small desktop PCs and laptops, eliminating the need for an additional power supply unit.

Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., a world leader in memory products and technology solutions, today announced its upcoming NVMe SSD roadmap at the all-digital CES 2021. Although we adopt a new format this year, Kingston will bring its industry-leading SSDs to the forefront for attendees to experience virtually.

"Now that CES is moving online, we have a greater opportunity to connect with new and existing tech communities around the world," said Louis Kaneshiro, director of the SSD product engineering division, Kingston. "CES is the best time to share what's next from Kingston and we are very excited to launch our first Gen 4.0 NVMe SSDs as well as an external drive this year. When it comes to NVMe, we will have all customer segments covered from consumers to prosumers to data centers."

Dynabook Americas, Inc., a leading provider of professional-grade laptops, today introduced the Satellite Pro laptop series. The company also announced a strategic relationship with SYNNEX Corporation (NYSE: SNX), a leading provider of distribution, systems design and integration services for the technology industry, to handle the United States distribution of its new Satellite Pro laptops and expand its reach into the small and medium business sectors. At launch, the Satellite Pro series will consist of three new models, including the 14-inch Satellite Pro C40, 15.6-inch Satellite Pro C50 and 15.6-inch Satellite Pro L50 with prices starting at $499.99 (MSRP).

Dynabook's Satellite Pro laptop series feature modern designs, a unique commitment to quality and all-round computing capabilities that deliver exceptional value ready for the most demanding tasks required by both professionals and students. Dynabook will offer multiple configurations of the three new Satellite Pro laptops featuring a mix of 10th Gen Intel Core processors and Windows 10 choices, including four Satellite Pro C50 and three Satellite Pro C40 options with prices starting at $499.99 (MSRP). The Satellite Pro L50 configuration will feature a 10th Gen Intel Core processor, Windows 10 Pro, NVIDIA graphics and priced at $899.99 (MSRP).

In an effort to make it as easy as possible to carry your data with you everywhere, Silicon Power (SP) is releasing 3 new USB flash drives. Despite their small size, these UFDs with OTG support and COB technology are offering plenty of storage space and durability that's reliable for daily mobile usage.

With up to 128 GB of storage capacity, the Mobile C20 is the perfect solution to gain additional storage space on next-gen devices with limited expansion ports, especially smartphones and tablets. Move data between USB Type-C devices easily, or free up space on them and quickly make room for new photos, videos, songs, and apps. With USB OTG support, directly connect these devices to the Mobile C20 for quick back-ups or to easily access the additional storage space.

Gaming Case, Power and Cooling brand Montech has just released it's SKY series, Montech's latest high-end line of PC cases. The SKY puts extreme prejudice and focus on details and materials. And further combining this attention to details with it's designer front mesh panel to achieve unmatched cooling performance and expandability. The SKY ONE is the first to come from the new line-up, and includes many Montech proprietary technologies. The front panel features Montech's latest Air Performance Fine Mesh, also adding on USB Type-C, dedicated GPU Card Holder and Montech's Cable Management Bar makes the SKY ONE the most feature rich Montech case to date. Together with front and top side Dual 360 mm Radiator Support, it's a mashup of functionality and style for the PC Gamer.

Taking front stage at the front of the case the SKY ONE incorporates Montech's unique "Air Performance Fine Mesh" design front panel. This mesh not only allows maximum airflow through the entire front panel, but also effectively prevents dust from entering. When cleaning is needed just pop off the front mesh for easy cleaning. Three front USB ports including a USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, which can achieve high-speed and full charging power for Type-C peripherals and devices.

ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance DRAM modules and NAND Flash products, today announces the launch of the ADATA SE770G RGB external solid state drive (SSD). Performance-driven and bold, SE770G features USB3.2 Gen 2 and Type-C connectivity, read/write speeds of up 1000/800 MB/s, and a spacious panel of RGB lighting.

The SE770G isn't the typical run-of-the-mill external SSD. With a spacious panel of RGB, it will light up workspaces at home and on the go with a glorious cube-patterned effect. In the past, external SSDs were relegated to the shadows while other RGB-adorned peripherals and devices took the spotlight on peoples' desktops. With the SE700G, it is now the time for external SSDs to shine.

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of display solutions, launches the VG2756-2K and VG2756-4K 27-inch docking monitors. Developed to be a workstation command center, both the VG2756-2K and VG2756-4K are designed with built-in Ethernet and USB Type-C ports and integrated vDisplay software for quick access to on-screen display settings, giving users more control of their work environment.

The ViewSonic VG2756-2K and VG2756-4K docking monitors deliver fast data, audio, video and charging power over a single USB-C cable, enabling users to quickly and easily create a more streamlined and efficient workspace. Built-in RJ45 Ethernet lets users connect to their wired network and transmit data directly to their computer or laptop via only a single USB-C cable - no docking station needed. One USB-C cable eliminates the need for HDMI, DisplayPort and other cables, wires and adapters. An integrated USB-A hub also allows users to connect to peripherals like a keyboard and mouse. The vDisplay Manager software delivers easy access to OSD settings to control brightness, volume, and more, as well as customized screen templates for multi-tasking.

Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., a world leader in memory products and technology solutions, today announces the addition of the DataTraveler Duo to its family of double versatility, dual-interface USB flash drives. DataTraveler Duo provides ultimate flexibility for users with newer and legacy devices.

DataTraveler Duo features dual USB connectors that work with both standard USB Type-A and USB Type-C1 ports to easily share files between laptops, desktops and mobile devices. The dual-interface drive is also ideal as extra storage with 32 GB and 64 GB capacities. The USB 3.2 Gen 1 speeds allow users to easily access and transfer documents, photos, videos, music and more. Dual sliding caps protect the connectors when not in use.

HyperX, the gaming division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., today announced it is shipping the new HyperX Alloy Origins Mechanical Gaming Keyboard featuring HyperX Blue mechanical switches. Built for performance and longevity, HyperX Blue mechanical switches offer a shorter actuation point and 80 million click rating to meet gaming and work from home needs. The full-sized HyperX Alloy Origins keyboard features a minimalistic, compact design with RGB backlit keys to enhance home offices and PC gaming setups. HyperX blue switches are favored by gamers that like clicky key sounds and operating action.

The HyperX Alloy Origins mechanical keyboard is the first full-sized gaming keyboard built with HyperX Blue switches. As a durable, stable gaming keyboard, Alloy Origins features an aluminium body with an aircraft-grade brushed finish and leverages a space-saving layout to maximize desktop real estate for ultimate mouse movement.

Western Digital Corp. today released two new SanDisk portable SSDs that offer nearly 2x the speed over previous generations. The SanDisk Extreme and SanDisk Extreme PRO portable SSDs are purpose-built to keep up with today's high-quality content demands. Professional photographers, videographers and enthusiasts capture and keep life's best moments every day and they need reliable solutions that perform on the move at astonishing speeds.

With capacities up to 2 TB, the new NVMe drives are perfect for creating amazing content or capturing and moving incredible 4K and 8K footage with ease. The flagship SanDisk Extreme PRO portable SSD features a forged aluminium chassis made to stay cool under the pressure of a heavy workload and a durable silicone design to withstand the rigors of production. The drives also help keep content safe with password protection and an upgrade to 256-bit AES hardware encryption.