Tag: review

GMKTec G11 Mini PC Review – A Budget (by 2026 standards) Offering

The landscape for budget mini PCs has shifted recently. Not long ago, a well-equipped unit could be found for under $200, but those options have become increasingly scarce.

My latest Mini PC review takes a look at the GMKTec G11, a machine that attempts to balance affordability with a modern feature set. Powered by an AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor, the unit I tested includes 16GB of RAM and Windows 11 Pro for a fairly reasonable price. For those who prefer to provide their own components, a barebones version is available for about $169 (compensated affiliate links).

The hardware design is functional, offering a variety of connectivity options. On the front, there are three 10Gbps USB 3 ports, including one Type-C port that supports 4K video output at 60Hz. It is worth noting that this port does not support power delivery, so the included external power supply is still required. The back of the device features dual 2.5 gigabit Ethernet ports, which performed to standard in my testing, and two additional HDMI ports that can each deliver 4k 60 independently. For wireless connectivity, the G11 uses a MediaTek Wi-Fi 6E radio. In my environment, it reached speeds of 600Mbps downstream and nearly a gigabit upstream.

Inside the chassis, the G11 shows some improvements over previous entry-level models from this manufacturer. It now features two NVMe slots rather than one running with the older mSATA standard, allowing for dual-drive configurations. The RAM is also user-upgradeable, with two DDR4 slots supporting up to 32GB.

Cooling is handled by an internal fan that remains relatively quiet during standard operations. Users can toggle between three performance modes in the BIOS; switching from the default 20-watt “standard” mode to the 25-watt “performance” mode provides a measurable boost in benchmarks, though it does cause the fan to engage more frequently.

My initial experience with the software was less straightforward. Unlike previous GMKTec machines I have reviewed, which arrived with a clean installation of Windows, this unit included several pre-installed applications. One, called “GMKTec Claw,” appears to be a version of an AI application that requires a login I did not have. Another, titled Herdsman, is apparently a Local AI client that was entirely in Chinese. Given the low-level system access these types of AI tools often require, I would suggest that users consider a fresh installation of Windows or a move to a Linux distribution upon receiving the device.

In terms of daily performance, the G11 handles standard productivity tasks, such as web browsing and office applications, without difficulty. However, I encountered some limitations during specialized testing. While streaming 4K video at 60fps on YouTube, the system dropped a noticeable number of frames, suggesting that the drivers for this specific Ryzen processor may still require optimization. The Browserbench.org Speedometer benchmark placed the R2514 in the same performance bracket as Intel’s N300 and N150 processors, which are common in this price range.

Graphical performance is modest but better than its low-end Intel competitors. During a test of No Man’s Sky at 720p on the lowest settings, frame rates stayed consistently below 30fps. Similarly, PS2 emulation struggled to reach full speed at native resolutions.

For those interested in media serving, the AMD architecture presents some challenges with Plex. While I managed to get some hardware transcoding working in Windows, higher-bitrate 4K HDR files caused the CPU usage to spike and the video to buffer. This is an area where an Intel Mini PC generally maintains an advantage.

But the G11 proved to be a stable platform for Linux. I booted the latest version of Ubuntu and found that the hardware was recognized immediately, including the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules. The operating system felt responsive, and for users looking to run Docker containers or a basic home server, this hardware offers a capable foundation. The system draws about 11 to 12 watts at idle and peaks at 48 watts under heavy load, keeping temperatures around 60°C while running sustained heavy workloads.

The G11 represents the current entry point for the mini PC market. While it no longer carries the sub-$200 price tag of years past for a full configuration, it provides a functional set of ports and upgradeable internals that suit basic desktop needs or lightweight server duties.

Amazon Tech Haul 16! Prime Day 2026 Edition

It’s time for another gadget tech haul! This time I have a collection of seven new items that I found of interest ahead of Amazon’s 2026 Prime Day(s)! Check out the video here!

You can find a compensated affiliate link to the complete list here. Many of the items are on sale for Amazon’s big summer promotion. With the exception of the Logitech Mouse below, all of these items came in free of charge from their manufacturers. All links below are compensated affiliate links.

The first device is the Aurzen D1R Air portable projector. It operates on the Roku TV platform and weighs approximately 2.6 pounds. The unit projects a 300-lumen image, which is optimized for an 80-inch display in darkened environments. It supports standard streaming applications and wireless display casting from computers, though the integrated speaker is basic and the input lag makes it less suitable for fast-paced video games. The device features automatic keystoning and focusing, and it can be powered via a traditional wall outlet with its included power cable or a 65-watt USB-C power supply (not included). The manufacturer also provided me with an optional tripod accessory equipped with an internal battery capable of powering the projector for roughly two and a half hours.

The Logitech Mobi Fold is a full sized bluetooth mouse that is optimized for travel thanks to its foldable design. It features standard left and right buttons, a capacitive scroll area, and forward/back navigation controls built into the center scroll surface. It charges via USB-C, pairs with up to three separate devices, and includes a user-replaceable battery.

Anker’s Soundcore Work is a meeting recorder that has server-based AI features for transcription and summarization. The hardware features a detachable, wireless microphone that magnetically clips to clothing, with the base unit able to attach to phones via Magsafe. Users receive 300 free minutes of transcription per month, after which a subscription fee applies. The device can be used without a subscription, but audio extraction is currently limited to the manufacturer’s proprietary app only.

In the diagnostic category, Treedix sent along their awesome USB Cable Tester. This tool identifies the specifications of connected cables, such as USB 4 or Lightning, by reading pinouts and e-marker data. It can also conduct a resistance test. It operates on a single AAA battery or direct USB-C power.

The Zima Board 2 is a fanless mini PC/server equipped with an Intel N150 processor, 8 gigabytes of non-upgradeable RAM, and 32 gigabytes of eMMC storage. It features a PCIe slot on the side for adding expansion cards (even GPUs), along with two powered SATA connectors for attaching external storage. It utilizes a custom operating system designed to simplify Docker container installations and does so more effectively that many competing NAS devices. However, the software defaults to older versions of these applications, requiring manual intervention to secure the latest updates. It’s priced higher than other comparably spec’ed Mini PCs that have more upgrade paths. But I found its headless design and Zima OS to be interesting enough to include in this lineup as there is potential here.

For portable power, Sharge sent over their Shargeek 170 power bank. It features a transparent casing that exposes its circuitry and battery cells, a 24,000 milliamp-hour capacity, and can deliver a maximum output of 170 watts. The built-in display provides real-time data on wattage and remaining runtime. In testing, it successfully powered the Aurzen projector and charged a dead mobile phone simultaneously while accepting an incoming charge. Plus it looks super cool.

The last items on the list is the ClonerAlliance Box Pro Pocket, a standalone video capture device. It records up to 1080p video at 60 frames per second via HDMI, but its standout feature lies with its analog inputs for RCA, component, and VGA connections. In the video I demonstrated capturing the VGA output from my 29 year old college laptop along with a VHS capture and upscale to 1080p. The device features an integrated screen and saves video directly to external storage (USB or SD card), providing a straightforward method for digitizing legacy media formats.

If you liked this lineup I have over a dozen more similar hauls I’ve done over the last couple of years! Check them out here.

Lenovo Idea Tab Plus 2026 Review – Budget Android Tablet

With technology prices rising due to memory shortages, finding a capable tablet that remains affordable has become more of a challenge. I recently reviewed the Lenovo Idea Tab Plus, a 12.1-inch device that is currently bundled with a case and pen at a great price over at Amazon (compensated affiliate link).

Click here to see my video review!

The tablet features a metal back and a glass display, weighing in at 1.17 pounds. While it supports accessories like a stylus and a keyboard case via pogo pins, these are not included in the base configuration which is what Lenovo sent to me for review.

The 12.1-inch screen offers a resolution of 2560 by 1600 and reaches a brightness of 600 nits. With a 90Hz refresh rate and 96% DCI-P3 color coverage, the interface feels responsive and the color accuracy is sufficient for general media consumption and light photo editing.

Under the hood, the device runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 6400 eight-core processor paired with 8GB of RAM. For storage, it provides 128GB internally, though an SD card slot allows for expansion up to 2TB. The physical ports are limited to a single USB-C 2.0 port used for charging and data; notably, it does not support wired video output.

During my daily use, the battery life consistently lasted between 10 and 12 hours for standard tasks like web browsing and email. The audio experience is supported by a quad-speaker system that automatically adjusts its stereo orientation when switching between landscape and portrait modes. While the 13-megapixel rear camera lacks stabilization, it produces sharper still images than many other budget tablets I have tested. The 8-megapixel front camera is adequate for video conferencing and supports facial recognition for unlocking the device, which is necessary as there is no fingerprint reader.

Performance is steady for multitasking. I found that I could run a YouTube video alongside a web browser without significant lag. The tablet also supports HD playback on streaming services like Netflix, which utilizes the 2K display effectively. For gaming, the hardware is capable of handling standard Android titles and some Gamecube emulation through the Dolphin emulator, though it does not match the benchmarks of more expensive models like the entry-level iPad or even some recent high-end budget competitor from Walmart’s Onn brand.

Two software features stood out during my time with the device. The first is a “PC mode” that allows apps to run in resizable windows, mimicking a desktop environment. This is particularly useful if the tablet is paired with a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard. The second is an integrated GPS radio that functions without an internet connection, a feature increasingly absent from other tablets in this price range.

On the software side, the device ships with Android 16. Lenovo has committed to two operating system updates and four years of security patches. However, the initial setup experience is somewhat hindered by a significant amount of pre-installed bloatware and prompts to download additional sponsored applications. Once these are cleared and the initial system updates are finished, the performance levels out.

While it lacks the high-end power found in flagship devices, this tablet occupies a practical middle ground. It offers a solid build and a high-resolution display for users who prioritize media and productivity over heavy gaming.

Disclosure: Lenovo provided the tablet for review on loan. No other compensation was received and they have not reviewed or approved this content prior to publication.

See more tablet reviews here!

This Retail GPU Works Great for Local AI !

I recently began exploring the practical applications of local AI by integrating a new GPU into my hardware configuration. I purchased an Asus card equipped with 16 gigabytes of video memory (compensated affiliate link) that by today’s standards is at a fairly “budget” price.

Check out what it can do in my latest video!

16 gigabytes is enough RAM to house the Gemma 4 26-billion parameter mixture of experts model. This specific model provides a balance of performance and efficiency that mirrors what many users expect from cloud-based subscriptions, but without the need for external data processing and costs.

My current setup involves an external GPU configuration using an Oculink Thunderbolt dock connected to a GMKTec mini PC. While the computer itself contains 64 gigabytes of system RAM, running these models exclusively on a GPU is necessary for maintaining acceptable speeds. For the software interface, I am using LM Studio, a free cross-platform application that allows for fine-tuning performance settings. One useful feature of this software is the ability to offload portions of a model to system memory if the GPU’s capacity is exceeded, though this results in a significant reduction in processing speed.

During initial testing, the Gemma model generated text at a rate of approximately 45 tokens per second generating a short fiction story. While the system consumes about 200 watts of power under a full load, it idles at 36 watts. Beyond simple text generation, the setup is capable of visual analysis. In one test, I provided the model with a photograph of some friends and I in front of Space Shuttle Atlantis. It accurately identified the shuttle and the attributes of the individuals in the frame, correctly processing the visual data without external assistance.

I also tested the model’s ability to handle complex document analysis. I combined a 24-page FCC proposal regarding prepaid smartphones with a transcript of a video I had previously recorded on the topic. Because LM Studio does not currently support PDF files, I converted the information into a single text document. After increasing the context length to its maximum setting to ensure the AI could “see” the entire file, I asked it to draft testimony for the FCC based on my specific concerns raised in the video and attributing those concerns to a specific portion of the FCC’s draft proposal. The model successfully identified my points regarding the privacy of whistleblowers and reporters and was mostly correct in its attributions.

The model demonstrated further utility in coding tasks. It managed to write a functional browser-based Space Invaders clone in a single attempt, including basic game logic and sound effects. Later, I used it to generate a Python script designed to scrape education statutes from a state website. When the first version of the script returned an error, the AI analyzed the problem and provided a corrected version that successfully consolidated numerous legal chapters into one searchable document.

For datasets too large for a standard chat interface, I utilized an application called Anything LLM to perform retrieval augmented generation, or RAG. This process involves indexing and embedding documents locally so the AI can query them efficiently. I uploaded five megabytes of state statutes and asked the model to calculate a specific school grant amount based on a complex formula. The model performed the necessary math and returned the correct figure of $2.2 million. I found that while the local model sometimes requires more specific prompting than cloud-based alternatives like Google’s Notebook LM, it is capable of providing high-fidelity results.

Running larger models, such as those with 31 billion parameters, reduces performance to about five tokens per second when the GPU memory is exceeded. However, the flexibility to swap between various models from Google, Qwen, or other developers allows for a customized approach to different tasks. These tools have reached a point where they are functional for data analysis and automated workflows while keeping all information on a local server. For anyone with a modern video card and a sufficient amount of VRAM, these local models offer a viable way to experiment with AI without relying on the cloud.

Local AI is Finally Usable! Real-World Workflows on a 5-Year-Old Mac with Google Gemma

For the past few years, I have been downloading local AI models to determine if they could handle practical automation tasks or summarize long-form content. Historically, these experiments have been unsuccessful, with the models typically failing to provide comprehensive results or losing track of the original context. However, recent developments in model optimization, specifically on Apple hardware, have changed the baseline for what is possible on a personal computer.

In my latest video, I demo running Google’s latest Gemma 4 model, a 26-billion parameter “mixture of experts” model optimized for the Mac using the MLX framework on my 2021 Macbook Pro with an M1 Max and 32GB of RAM.

Check it out here!

I observed the model generating approximately 50 tokens per second. While this is slower than a high-end cloud-based system, it represents a very usuable generation speed for a local setup. The unified memory architecture of the Mac allows the GPU to access data efficiently, which is why these older machines remain relevant for AI tasks that would otherwise require significant cloud computing resources.

During my testing, I provided the model with a transcript from a recent video to see if it could produce a coherent summary. Unlike previous local models that often provided incomplete or erratic responses, this model maintained a consistent narrative and adhered strictly to the provided text. I also tested it with a dense legal document from an FCC docket. After processing a large amount of extracted text, the model was able to delineate the key arguments of the filing and, upon further prompting, condensed the information into a concise executive summary.

I also examined the model’s vision capabilities using a tool called MLX studio, which supports image analysis. I uploaded a photograph with some friends and I in front of a space shuttle and asked the model to describe the scene. While it misidentified the vehicle as a Dreamchaser—a different type of spacecraft—the level of detail was a step forward from earlier local models that often provided much less accurate descriptions. This functionality is particularly useful for my ongoing project to index a large archive of digital photos dating back to 1997. Using a local model for this type of organization could potentially eliminate the costs and privacy issues associated with the thousands of API calls required for cloud-based indexing.

To test the model’s utility in a production environment, I integrated it into my N8N automation server. I currently use a cloud-based AI with my N8N server to scan news feeds and identify relevant stories for my daily work. I ran a portion of this same workflow using the local Gemma model to see if it could replicate the results. It took approximately three minutes to process the news briefing. Although the results were not quite as polished as those from the cloud, the model successfully identified unique stories and avoided duplicated stories about Apple’s WWDC event that were being published at the time.

Google appears to be prioritizing the development of effective local models more than some of its competitors, providing a way for users to utilize AI without incurring expenses beyond the electricity required to run their own hardware. Seeing a 26-billion parameter model function with this level of stability on a five-year-old laptop has caused me to rethink my existing workflows. I am now looking at which of my daily tasks can be moved away from the cloud and managed entirely on my own hardware.

See more videos like this here!

SuperStation One With Dock MiSTer Review : Lots of Analog TV Options!

After months of waiting, I finally got my Superstation One, a new “consoleized” MiSTer device developed by hardware maker Taki Udon. For those who follow the MiSTer open-source project, the Superstation One represents a shift toward a more consumer-friendly form factor that does not require stacking a bunch of circuit boards together.

See it in action in my latest MiSTer review!

For those not familiar, a MiSTer runs classic computers and video games (both console and arcade) using FPGA technology. The FPGA chip replicates the logic of the original chips found on these devices which makes it incredibly accurate to the original. While the Superstation One looks a lot like the original Playstation, complete with controller and memory card slots, it is compatible with the full MiSTer library of old computers and gaming platforms.

The Playstation ports utilize an integrated “SNAC” interface to connect the peripherals directly to the PS1’s FPGA core, which reduces input latency compared to standard USB. While the base unit is limited to PlayStation controllers, adding the dock provides a universal SNAC port for other adapters, such as those for NES Zapper light guns as I demoed in the video.

The base console retails for $210, and I paired mine with the $45 docking station. The dock includes an optical drive intended to eventually boot physical media for systems like the Sega CD and TurboGrafx-16. However, at this stage of development, the CD drive is not functional within the software. The dock does provide other useful features, such as an NVME slot for high-capacity SSD storage, several additional USB ports, USB interfaces for development and a “SNAC” port for attaching original controllers and light guns.

The variety of video outputs sets this apart from other MiSTer clones I have used. It includes a standard HDMI output found on most modern devices, but it also integrates a wide range of analog video options: VGA (including the option to break VGA out to component RGB), a Sega Saturn-style DIN connector (for special DIN RGB cables), a dedicated component video output, S-video, and composite RCA. This is currently the only MiSTer that incorporates all of these video options directly on the hardware.

In my testing, I was able to run an RCA composite signal to a 40-year-old Hitachi television while simultaneously outputting an HDMI signal to a modern monitor. This allows for playing on a period-accurate zero latency CRT display while capturing high-definition footage for a stream or recording. The video signals were clean, and the composite and S-video options worked without requiring additional configuration (for most cores) or external dongles.

I tested several demanding cores, including the PlayStation, Saturn, Neo Geo, and Sega 32X. Everything performed the same as other MiSTer hardware I have tested.

The software environment, however, feels unpolished. Because this hardware is offering video output features beyond what is typically found on a stock MiSTer, I encountered some cores that required specific dip-switch adjustments to output color correctly over certain analog connections. Taki Udon is developing a custom, console-style menu system that is currently in a beta state that is just barely usable. Eventually that interface will be able to access the optical drive but for now it’s mostly a proof of concept.

The build quality is generally solid, though there are minor points of concern. The plastic doors on the unit can detach easily, and the system runs noticeably warm during operation. While my unit remained stable during extended memory tests without a cooling fan, the developer now offers an active cooling solution for those concerned about heat.

But all in, this hardware offers a more accessible entry point for users who want a turnkey solution rather than a DIY assembly. It consolidates features that usually require multiple add-on boards into a single footprint. As Taki now focuses in on the software aspects fo the device and the optical drive becomes functional, the utility of the Superstation One will expand.

Walmart Onn Pro 13.2″ Tablet Review

I recently purchased the new Onn Pro 13.2-inch Android tablet from Walmart for $288 (compensated affiliate link) to see how it compares to other devices in the budget-conscious market.

In my latest video review, I take the tablet out for a spin and check out all of its features – some of which aren’t even advertised.

The tablet runs on Android 16 and features a 13.2-inch display, which is a significant size for a device at this price point. It feels substantial, weighing approximately two pounds, with a metal design and a glass display that feels thick and durable, though it lacks an anti-fingerprint coating and tends to collect dust and smudges.

The hardware includes a MediaTek 8775V processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a micro SD card slot. It carries an IP54 rating, meaning it is resistant to dust and splashes but should not be submerged.

The display has a 2400 by 1600 resolution with a 3:2 aspect ratio. While the specifications do not list a high refresh rate, I found that the settings allow for 90Hz or 120Hz, providing a more fluid visual experience than the standard 60Hz found on most entry-level tablets. However, the included pen does not function when the screen is set to 120Hz. The brightness appears to be between 400 and 450 nits, which is more than adequate for indoor use but lower than higher-end iPads.

A notable feature is the USB-C port’s ability to function as a video input. When I connected the tablet to my Mac, it prompted me to use the device as an extended display. While this worked, the tablet currently struggles with aspect ratio mapping, resulting in a squished image that distorts the desktop. There is some minor latency, but the feature shows potential as a portable monitor if future firmware updates address the scaling issues. It is important to note that the port only supports video input, not output, so the tablet cannot be mirrored onto a larger television or monitor via cable.

The tablet comes with a basic protective case and a USI 2.0 compatible pen. The pen attaches magnetically to the top of the tablet, though it does not charge there; it requires a separate USB-C connection for power. Because it follows the USI 2.0 standard, users can swap it for other compatible third-party pens. In my testing, the writing experience felt functional for note-taking or basic sketching, though there was some noticeable lag and occasional issues with palm rejection when the pen was lifted too far from the screen.

In terms of daily performance, the device handles web browsing and multitasking efficiently. I was able to run split-screen applications, such as YouTube alongside a browser, without any significant slowdown. The software environment is relatively clean, with the Walmart app being the only pre-installed software beyond standard Google services. For media consumption, the tablet supports Widevine L1, allowing for full HD playback on streaming services like Netflix. The stereo speakers are clear, though they lack deep bass, and there is no dedicated headphone jack.

Gaming performance is respectable for this hardware class. During my time with Fortnite at native resolution and low settings, I averaged between 45 and 50 frames per second. I also tested emulation; some GameCube titles ran at full speed, while PlayStation 2 emulation stayed just under full speed at around 50 frames per second depending on the game. The 3DMark Wildlife benchmark returned a score of 3,270, placing it in a similar performance bracket to the Nvidia Shield TV.

Battery life is advertised at 15 hours, which seems accurate for light tasks like reading or emailing at moderate brightness and 60Hz. Intensive tasks like gaming will reduce that runtime significantly but still provides multiple hours. It is worth noting that while a charging cable is included in the box, a power adapter is not. Additionally, this model lacks a GPS radio, which may be a consideration for users who rely on offline navigation.

Walmart typically maintains these devices on the market for about two years, and while it carries a one-year warranty, there is no formal commitment regarding future Android OS or security updates. This tablet represents a specific segment of the market where hardware value is prioritized over long-term software support.

For those looking for a large-screen Android experience without a high price tag, the Onn Pro provides a functional set of features that generally exceed the typical expectations for the budget category. It will be interesting to see if the video input functionality is refined over time, as that remains one of the more unique additions to an otherwise straightforward hardware package.

Walmart’s Value Packed onn 8.1″ Core Tablet Review!

Walmart’s Onn brand has emerged as one of the leading makers of budget consumer electronics. In addition to making solid TV streaming devices, they also make a line of great Android tablets that deliver a ton of value.

In my latest video, I take a look at their new Onn 8.1″ Core Tablet.

The 8.1″ device bears a clear physical resemblance to the iPad Mini but occupies a much different segment of the market. At a price point of $138 (compensated affiliate link), it aims to provide a functional tablet experience for those who prioritize cost over high-end performance.

The build quality is a notable starting point. The tablet features an all-metal aluminum back, giving it a weight of 10 ounces that feels substantial yet portable. The 8.1-inch IPS display operates at a resolution of 1000 x 1524, which is slightly above 720p. While the brightness peaks around 350 nits—noticeably lower than more expensive competitors—the pixel density remains high enough that text appears sharp and readable. One functional improvement I noticed is the display’s ability to ignore unintended inputs; resting a thumb on the edge of the screen does not interfere with scrolling, a common frustration with previous budget tablets.

Under the hood, the device runs on a Snapdragon 685 processor, a chip that has been in circulation for a couple of years. While this means the tablet will not break any speed records, it is supported by a generous 6 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. For users who need more space for offline media, there is a dedicated microSD card slot on the side. During my testing, web browsing on sites like NASA’s homepage was efficient, and the device handled split-screen multitasking with YouTube and a browser running concurrently without significant lag.

The software experience is a departure from many budget devices that come pre-loaded with third-party applications. This tablet runs a very clean, “vanilla” version of Android. Aside from the Walmart app, there is no bloatware or intrusive advertising. It also integrates Google’s Gemini AI, allowing for hands-free voice commands that can pull up weather reports or transit information, provided the device is unlocked. However, the lack of biometric security is a drawback; there is no fingerprint reader or facial recognition, requiring a PIN for every unlock.

On the hardware side, the tablet includes stereo speakers that work well in landscape mode, though it lacks a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. Users will need to rely on the USB-C port or Bluetooth for audio. The cameras are functional but basic: the front-facing 720p lens is enough for video calls, while the 1080p rear camera captures acceptable images and video in a pinch, though the quality is much lower than what a premium device would offer.

Gaming performance varies depending on the demand of the title. For casual “instant games” or web-based applications, the tablet is responsive. More intensive games like Genshin Impact are playable on low visual settings, though they require a lengthy initial download and installation process. In benchmarks, the 3DMark Wildlife test returned a score of 646, which aligns with previous Onn Pro models using the same processor and well behind the more expensive iPad Mini. Battery life is rated at up to 15 hours for basic media consumption, though this decreases during heavy gaming or high-stress tasks.

Once again, Walmart delivers a straightforward option for those who need a portable device for reading, streaming, and basic productivity. It avoids the clutter of many affordable tablets while maintaining a build quality that feels more expensive than its price tag suggests. Keeping expectations aligned with the hardware, it offers a predictable and clean Android experience.

I’ll have a review of their new Pro version once I’m able to acquire one. Stay tuned!

2026 Streaming Sticks Compared!

For about sixty dollars, it is possible to purchase the three most prominent budget streaming devices on the market: the Roku Streaming Stick, the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD, and Walmart’s Onn 4K streamer. While these devices provide significant functionality for less than the cost of a modern video game, the landscape of entry-level streaming is shifting. Manufacturers are increasingly relying on ad-supported content and stricter software ecosystems to subsidize these low hardware costs.

In my latest video, I recently spent time testing the latest versions of these devices to see how they manage this balance between affordability and user experience.

Check it out here!

The Roku remains a consistent choice for those who prioritize simplicity. At approximately $29, the 1080p model features an interface that, while getting increasingly cluttered with advertisements and suggested content, remains the most straightforward to navigate. The remote control included with the Roku feels more substantial and premium than those provided by Amazon or Walmart. Roku has also refined its search capabilities, integrating more intelligent results that can better answer more complex queries. While Roku has long moved away from supporting games, its dedicated sections for free, ad-supported content are well-organized and easy to locate.

In contrast, the new Fire TV Stick HD represents a significant departure for Amazon. This device runs on the new Vega operating system rather than the Android-based system used in previous generations. This shift has practical consequences for users who enjoy customizing their devices; because it is no longer Android-based, the ability to sideload third-party applications is gone. It’s game library is limited only to streamed games from Amazon’s servers. I also found the navigation on this 1080p stick to be notably sluggish. The hardware seems to struggle with the demands of downloading thumbnails and advertisements for the home screen. While it integrates well with the Alexa ecosystem and security cameras, finding free content requires more effort than it does on competing platforms.

The Onn 4K streamer from Walmart stands out as the most flexible option for power users. Despite its low price point—often around $40—it offers 4K resolution and runs on the Google TV platform. Unlike the new Fire TV, the Onn device runs with a mature Android ecosystem, allowing for the installation of various apps, emulators for classic gaming, and VPNs. It also incorporates Google’s Gemini AI, which provided the most sophisticated search results during my testing, such as filtering for specific actors across different genres. While the hardware specifications are modest, with 8GB of storage and 2GB of RAM, the device remains responsive and open to user customization.

Each of these sticks serves as a practical tool for travel. They allow users to maintain their own login credentials on a personal device rather than relying on the potentially insecure or logged-in accounts found on hotel or rental property televisions. Most support hotel Wi-Fi portals, though the reliability of these connections can vary.

Choosing between these devices depends largely on the user’s technical comfort level. The Roku is a reliable recommendation for someone who wants a dependable, no-frills experience. However, for those who value the ability to tinker with software or require 4K resolution at the lowest possible price, the Onn streamer has become the primary choice in a market that is otherwise becoming more restrictive.

The era of the open, flexible streaming stick appears to be narrowing. As major players like Amazon transition to proprietary operating systems that limit third-party software, the choice for consumers is no longer just about which remote feels better in the hand, but about how much control they are willing to trade for a lower price tag. The hardware remains inexpensive, but the true cost is increasingly measured in the space occupied by advertisements and the limitations of the software.

Needs More Linux: Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini X with ARM Snapdragon Review!

My latest Mini PC review is of a Snapdragon-powered Windows 11 mini PC from Lenovo, the IdeaCentre Mini X. At a price point hovering around $700 (compensated affiliate link), it features the Snapdragon X1-26-100, an 8-core processor, paired with 32GB of DDR5X RAM.

See my full video review here!

While the memory is soldered and cannot be upgraded, I found that the storage is more flexible; lifting the internal power supply reveals an open NVME slot for those who might want to expand beyond the included 512GB drive or eventually attempt a dual-boot setup.

The build quality of the machine is substantial. The metal frame gives it a sense of durability and weight that keeps it stationary on a desk. Unlike many mini PCs that rely on external power bricks, this model houses its power supply internally. This design choice contributes to the unit’s heft but also introduces a specific acoustic profile. I noticed that the fan dedicated to cooling the power supply remains audible even when the system is idle, producing a constant oscillation that persists regardless of the workload. A second fan on the CPU package only engages under heavy sustained loads, but the baseline noise from the internal power supply is a factor to consider for those seeking a silent workspace.

In terms of connectivity, the IdeaCentre Mini X offers a mix of modern and legacy options. It includes a 40Gbps USB 4 port on the back and several 10Gbps USB-A and USB-C ports. However, there is a lack of support for external GPUs which makes the 40Gbps port less useful. The inclusion of gigabit Ethernet also feels somewhat dated when compared to the 2.5 or 5 gigabit ports becoming standard in the mini PC market. For displays, the device provides both HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, which I found worked reliably for dual-monitor setups.

Testing the software performance revealed the current state of the Windows on ARM ecosystem. Using native ARM applications like the Brave browser resulted in a quick and responsive experience for standard web tasks and document work. However, media performance was inconsistent. While Netflix functioned well through its native app, I encountered a significant number of dropped frames when attempting to play 4K60 video through a browser on YouTube. This suggests that while the hardware is capable, driver optimization for browser-based video playback is still a work in progress.

For more intensive tasks, the results were varied. I tested a native ARM version of DaVinci Resolve and found it could handle basic 4K60 video editing and real-time transitions quite well, often outperforming similarly priced Intel or AMD mini PCs in simple rendering tasks. It is not a professional-grade workstation for heavy effects, but it is functional for clip-stringing.

The 32GB of RAM also proved useful for running local large language models. Using LM Studio, I was able to run a Gemma 4B model with respectable text output speeds. This capability, combined with a low power draw that stays between 5 and 42 watts, suggests the machine could eventually serve as an efficient home server or AI node if Linux support becomes more accessible.

Gaming remains a challenge for this platform. Since many popular titles lack native ARM ports, they must run through a compatibility layer. In my testing with Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p on the lowest settings, the system averaged only about 20 frames per second. While older titles or less demanding games might be playable, users primarily interested in gaming would likely find better performance from traditional Ryzen or Intel-based systems at this price.

The Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini X feels like a specialized tool rather than a general-purpose replacement for every user. It shows clear potential for corporate environments where the low power consumption and high RAM capacity could offer a better return on investment over a large fleet of power hungry desktops. While the platform is still maturing and certain software hurdles remain, the hardware itself is a solid example of the direction ARM-based Windows machines are taking. I plan to keep an eye on the development of Linux drivers for this unit, as that could unlock an entirely different set of use cases for this hardware in the future.

3 More Awesome Self Hosted Apps!

A few weeks ago, I shared a look at several self-hosted applications that simplify digital workflows. I have three more to discuss today, all of which share a common trait: they can be tested immediately in a web browser without the initial requirement of setting up a private server. These tools focus on utility and privacy by performing most of their tasks locally on the user’s machine rather than on a remote server.

Check them out here!

The first tool is BentoPDF, an open-source PDF toolkit designed for privacy. Unlike many online PDF editors that require you to upload documents to their servers, Bento PDF operates entirely within the browser. If you choose to self-host it, the server merely acts as a repository for the code; the actual processing happens on your computer.

I demoed a few of its many tools in the video. One was its compression utility that I put to work on a 12-megabyte document. By applying the “photon engine” algorithm, the file size was reduced to 2.6 megabytes while maintaining legible text and clear images. I demoed another tool that allows for the creation of fillable forms from static documents. I tested this with a town building permit, adding text fields and checkboxes that functioned correctly when opened in a standard PDF reader. The application also supports annotations, such as highlighting and redactions, though it does not allow for direct editing of existing text or images.

Moving from document management to media, Retro Assembly is a library and emulation platform for retro gaming. It functions as a ROM manager that serves the game files to your browser, which then handles the emulation locally. This architecture allows for a consistent experience across different devices. I tested a game on my computer, saved the state, and was able to pick up exactly where I left off on my mobile phone.

The interface is organized similarly to media managers like Plex, automatically pulling in metadata for a clean visual library. While it supports many 8-bit and 16-bit systems, its performance on higher-end systems like the PlayStation depends on the processing power of the device you are using to play. It does not currently support certain platforms like Sega CD, but for cartridge-based games, the experience is stable.

The third application is Feed Zero, a relatively new open-source RSS reader. RSS remains a practical way to follow multiple websites in a single place, and Feed Zero offers a feature often reserved for paid services: the ability to pull in the full text of an article even if the original feed only provides a short snippet.

The application stores your subscription data and reading history locally in the browser. For those who want to sync their feeds across devices, it offers an encrypted cloud sync option where the data is secured on your device before being sent to their server. Alternatively, it can be self-hosted to keep all data within your own network. While it is still in active development—YouTube integration is currently limited—it is a lightweight and functional alternative to centralized news aggregators.

These applications demonstrate the capabilities of web browsers as application platforms. For those interested in self-hosting, tools like Unraid (compensated affiliate link) provide a straightforward entry point for managing these applications via Docker containers.

See more videos like this here!

New Onn 4k Pro Streaming Box Review – 2026 Version

My latest review takes a look at the new Onn 4K Pro, which serves as the current top-of-the-line streaming device from Walmart. Priced at $60 (compensated affiliate link), this unit represents an update to the model released two years ago. I purchased the device with my own funds to evaluate its performance both as a standard consumer streaming box and as a tool for more enthusiast-level use cases.

Check out the review here!

The hardware features a fabric covering (in light grey or black) intended to help it blend into home decor, a design choice necessitated by the built-in microphones that allow for hands-free operation. On the exterior, there is a physical switch to disable the microphone for those concerned with privacy. The device also includes a remote finder button on the top, which triggers a beep from the remote to help locate it. In terms of connectivity, the back panel houses an HDMI output, a USB 2.0 port for external storage or peripherals, and a 100 Mbps Ethernet jack. While the inclusion of a wired port is useful, I found that the onboard Wi-Fi actually provided significantly faster data speeds, reaching approximately 500 Mbps compared to the 100 Mbps limit of the physical jack.

Internally, the device runs on an Amlogic S905X5M processor with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. During my testing, the interface felt responsive, and navigating through various menus was efficient. The device supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for mainstream streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus.

The software experience is centered on the Google TV interface and includes a dedicated button for free ad-supported television, which provides quick access to a variety of free streaming channels (including some local NBC affiliates). The integration of Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, allows for more complex voice queries than standard voice search. For instance, the assistant can filter recommendations by specific actors or provide deep dives into educational topics. When the television is off, the box can function as a standalone smart speaker for controlling home automation devices.

For those interested in high-fidelity media playback, the Onn 4K Pro presents some challenges. While it supports frame rate matching in certain apps like Netflix, other major platforms like Disney Plus and Apple TV did not switch to 24p mode during my tests, which can lead to motion jitter. Furthermore, for users with local media libraries, the device does not support Dolby Vision Profile 7 or lossless audio pass-through. This distinguishes it from more expensive enthusiast hardware like the Nvidia Shield, which remains the standard for handling high-bitrate Blu-ray rips.

Although the hardware is 64-bit, the operating system is currently a 32-bit version of Android 14. This prevents certain applications, particularly high-end emulators, from running on the device.

Benchmarks indicate that this processor is roughly three times faster than the previous Onn model and outperforms the current Google TV Streamer, though it still falls significantly short of the aging Nvidia Shield. This puts the device in a specific market position. It is a capable, affordable option for the average user seeking a snappy interface and integrated smart home features, but it stops short of being a comprehensive solution for the most demanding home theater enthusiasts and gamers.

Owners of the previous version may find little reason to switch, as many of the new software features have been backported to the older hardware. Choosing this device ultimately depends on whether the faster navigation and hands-free Google Assistant features outweigh the technical constraints of its 32-bit architecture.

Free App Hidden Gem: Remotion : A Motion Graphics Generator!

As a member of my local school board, I am responsible for delivering an annual budget presentation that explains school costs to the community. While standard presentation software like Apple’s Keynote or PowerPoint handles basic charts well enough, I often find myself wanting to execute specific animations that those programs cannot easily manage. Recently, I began using a tool called Remotion to bridge that gap.

Check it out in my latest video!

Remotion is a framework that allows users to create videos programmatically using React. It is free for individuals and small teams, and while it allows for manual coding, the process becomes more efficient when paired with AI coding agents like Claude, Gemini, or OpenAI’s Codex. In my recent tests, I found that Codex offered a straightforward way to connect the AI directly to the Remotion plugin to generate motion graphics from raw data.

The workflow begins by pointing the AI toward a local project folder containing the necessary data, such as a CSV file. For my presentation, I used data regarding how cost shares shift between the three towns in our school district. I have found that using higher-intelligence models, such as GPT-5.5, tends to yield better visual results on the first attempt, even if it uses more processing credits and uses up usage allocations faster.

By prompting the AI to create an animated pie chart using the supplied data, the system generates the necessary Remotion code and files automatically.

During the initial run, the AI produces preview frames to verify its progress. Once the first iteration is complete, the tool summons Remotion’s a web-based interface where the animation can be viewed in real time. This allows for immediate refinements. For example, in my first version, the labels were marked as “PP” instead of percentages, and the animation paused at the end of every fiscal year. I was able to instruct the AI to update the labels, remove the pauses, and shorten the total runtime from 25 seconds to a more concise 15 seconds. The looping preview updated in realtime as the changes were made.

Beyond simple data visualization, the tool is capable of handling more stylistic requests. I experimented with a dark mode version of my chart that included a glow effect on the moving elements. I also tested its ability to create looping backgrounds for video production. By providing a PNG of my logo, I was able to have the AI generate a tiled, looping animation suitable for a YouTube channel. While this required some additional tweaking, it was significantly faster than building the same asset manually in a motion graphics application like Apple Motion.

When a project is ready for export, the software offers several rendering options via FFmpeg. It can output standard MP4 files or more professional formats like ProRes. This is particularly useful for video editors who need to generate graphics with transparent backgrounds, such as lower thirds or custom overlays. Moving from a raw dataset to a functional, animated graphic now takes roughly 30 minutes of iteration, providing a practical alternative to traditional manual animation methods.

All in, pairing Remotion with an AI coding tool produces some amazing results that will no doubt improve the quality of your presentations. And you can’t beat the price!

See more free app hidden gem videos here!

Disclosure: OpenAI provided some free credits to use Codex for this project but they did not review or approve this content prior to uploading. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.

OSMC Vero V Review: A Legit Nvidia Shield Alternative for Plex?

For some time, my search for a media player that matches the capabilities of the Nvidia Shield has come up mostly empty. The goal is usually the same: find a device that handles Dolby Vision Profile 7 and Profile 5, lossless Dolby and DTS audio, and 24p frame rate switching without requiring significant technical workarounds.

While I have previously examined devices like the Ugoos AM6B+, they often required a level of modification that made them less than user-friendly. But the other day I picked up a Vero V, a device from the open-source OSMC project that is being positioned as a dedicated high-end player for media enthusiasts.

Check it out in my latest video!

The Vero V is priced at approximately $200 and must be imported from the UK, which puts it at around the same price point as the Nvidia Shield. Unlike the Shield, which runs on Android TV, the Vero 5 is built on a minimal Linux installation running the OSMC fork of the Kodi media player. This means it lacks mainstream streaming applications like Netflix or Disney Plus. It is a specialized tool intended for playing back local media or files served from a home server.

The Vero V has an AM Logic S905X4 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. While the Wi-Fi is limited to 802.11 AC, the inclusion of a gigabit Ethernet port provides the necessary stability for high-bitrate 4K files. On the back, it features HDMI, optical audio, and analog outputs, alongside USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports. In my testing, the device booted into its interface in under 30 seconds, and the setup process for audio passthrough and resolution switching was straightforward within the OSMC menus.

Since there is no native Plex application for OSMC, I utilized the PM4K for Plex add-on. The interface differs slightly from the standard Plex client but remains functional, maintaining metadata, watch history, and library organization. During playback tests, the Vero V handled Dolby Vision Profile 7 and Profile 5, as well as lossless formats like Dolby Atmos, TrueHD, and DTS:X. It also demonstrated capable tone mapping when playing HDR content on a standard 4K display.

A significant point of discussion for enthusiasts is the level of Dolby Vision support. Currently, the Vero 5 supports the Minimum Enhancement Layer (MEL), which is comparable to the Nvidia Shield’s capabilities. However, the developers are testing a beta firmware that aims to support the Full Enhancement Layer (FEL), a feature typically found only on standalone 4k Blu-ray players.

Choosing between this and more established hardware depends largely on one’s specific needs. The Nvidia Shield remains a more versatile device for those who want a single box for both Plex and subscription streaming services. Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, recently promised to support the Shield “for as long as we shall live” given his personal affinity for the now decade-old media player.

However, for those looking for a dedicated player supported by an active community of enthusiasts, the Vero V serves as a reliable alternative that functions effectively right out of the box. Having a hardware option that does not rely on a large corporate ecosystem provides a certain level of security for the future of high-end home media playback.

(Sorta) Affordable Mini PCs Aren’t Dead Yet: GMKTec K17 Review

The mini PC market has faced various supply constraints recently, making it difficult to find hardware that balances cost and performance. But there are still some decent value propositions out there, one of them being the GMKTec K17, a unit priced at approximately $550 (compensated affiliate link).

See it in action in my latest Mini PC review!

The K17 is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V processor from the Lunar Lake family. In my testing, the chip proved to be power-efficient, drawing only about five watts at idle and reaching about 48 watts under load. One significant trade-off for this efficiency is the memory configuration; the system includes 16GB of LPDDR5X-8533 RAM that is soldered to the board, meaning it cannot be upgraded.

Storage, however, is more flexible. The internal chassis features two NVMe 2280 PCIe 4.0 slots. My review unit came with a 1TB drive pre-installed, leaving the second slot open for additional storage or a secondary operating system. When I opened the case to inspect the internals, I noticed that the Wi-Fi antennas are attached to the bottom plate. This requires careful handling during disassembly, as the cables can be easily disconnected.

The port selection is varied, though the labeling requires close attention. On the front, one USB-A port supports 10 Gbps while another is limited to 5 Gbps. There is also a full-service USB 4 port capable of 40 Gbps, which supports Thunderbolt devices, power input, and video output. The rear of the device houses a USB 2.0 port, three 5 Gbps USB-A ports, two HDMI ports, and a 2.5 gigabit Ethernet jack. I confirmed the Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E performance met the expected speeds for those standards during my network tests.

In practical day-to-day use, the K17 handled standard tasks without hesitation. Web pages loaded quickly, and 4K video playback on platforms like YouTube remained stable without dropped frames.

For video editing work, I tested DaVinci Resolve with a 4K project. While the system handled basic cuts and transitions well, more complex effects and color grading led to significant slowdowns. Without an external GPU, this machine is better suited for light editing rather than professional-grade production.

Gaming performance was stable for an integrated GPU. In Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p with low settings, the frame rate hovered between 40 and 50 frames per second. For those willing to drop the resolution to 720p, achieving 60 frames per second is likely. I also tested PlayStation 2 emulation, which ran at full speed with some room for graphical enhancements. Benchmark results from 3DMark TimeSpy benchmark gave the K17 a score of 3,458, placing its graphical capabilities in the same range as older dedicated cards like the Nvidia GTX 1060.

One of the most distinct characteristics of the K17 is its thermal management and acoustic profile. During a 3DMark stress test, the system maintained a temperature of 59 degrees Celsius with a 98.9% stability score, indicating very little thermal throttling. More notable, however, was the noise level. Even under a full load, the fan remained nearly silent, producing only a faint whir that was difficult to hear in a standard room environment.

While the device comes with a Windows 11 Pro license, I also tested its compatibility with Linux by booting the latest version of Ubuntu. The hardware was recognized immediately, including the Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and audio components. The interface felt particularly responsive under Linux, offering a viable alternative for users who prefer that environment.

Given its low power draw and quiet operation, the K17 functions as a capable general-purpose machine that manages to perform reliably within the constraints of its compact form factor and current market conditions.

I Built a Better YouTube Subscription Tab & An Apple TV App!

A few days ago, I shared a look at the self-hosted applications I use to manage my digital life, including an RSS reader for tracking YouTube creators. While that system worked, the interface lacked the specific functionality I needed to categorize content effectively. The standard YouTube subscription tab has become increasingly difficult to navigate due to the inclusion of Shorts and a lack of consistent organization. I wanted a way to group creators by topic—such as amateur radio, retro tech, or gaming—and have them appear in a streamlined, chronological feed. So I built my own browser!

See it here in my latest video!

I spent about an hour collaborating with the Claude Code to draft the code for a custom RSS reader. I am not positioning myself as a professional developer, but rather as someone using these tools to solve specific personal workflow issues. By providing initial instructions and refining the output through a series of prompts, I was able to build a functional application that organizes videos into specific buckets and subcategories.

The application utilizes YouTube’s RSS feeds rather than the platform’s API. This decision simplifies implementation, as every channel and even specific playlists have an associated RSS feed. This allows for more granular control; for example, if a creator produces various types of content, I can subscribe only to the playlist that interests me. To prevent hitting delivery limits from YouTube, the code includes a staggered refresh cycle. While the default is to check feeds every 60 minutes, the interval can be adjusted on a per-channel basis for news-heavy content that requires more frequent updates.

The current interface allows for easy management of the 129 channels I have imported so far. I included an OPML import feature, which makes it possible to migrate existing subscriptions from other readers. Within the app, I can move channels between categories, create new labels, and click directly through to YouTube to watch videos. Since I use a premium account, the absence of an integrated player to avoid ads is not an issue for my viewing experience.

One significant limitation of my previous setup was the difficulty of accessing these feeds on a television. I tasked the AI with helping me build a client for Apple TV that connects to the database server, which I plan to host in a Docker container on my local network.

This process involved learning the basics of Apple’s Xcode environment to side-load the Apple TV app. I was really pleased to see the Apple TV app could in turn call up the YouTube app and have the video start playing immediately.

The development of this project was funded in part by credits provided by the AI service, totaling approximately $20 in usage costs. My goal now is to move this code into the open-source community. I do not have the personal bandwidth to manage a software project or maintain the code long-term, so I am looking for interested parties to take over the project and post it to GitHub. If someone is willing to maintain it as an open-source tool, I believe it could serve as a useful alternative for those who find the current state of video subscription feeds unsatisfactory.

The server-side logic is designed to run in a container, which opens the door for other developers to create clients for Android or various web platforms. At the moment this serves as a personal tool that aligns my video consumption with the specific categories I prefer for browsing what I want to watch. I intend to continue refining the system for my own use while waiting to see if a broader community project develops around the initial codebase.

New MiSTer Cores! 3DO and Apple IIgs FPGA Betas Show Promise

I have been revisiting the MiSTer project recently to look at two new cores currently in development for the platform. This hardware, which costs approximately $160, uses FPGA chips to replicate the original logic of vintage computers and game consoles from the mid-1990s and earlier.

In my latest MiSTer update, I look at two new cores – one for the 3DO and the other for the Apple IIgs, both of which are receiving significant updates from the development community.

See them in action in my latest review!

The 3DO core, developed by Srg320, is nearing completion and is currently available for testing on single RAM MiSTer devices. In 1994, the 3DO occupied a specific niche in the market, offering graphical fidelity that rivaled and in some cases exceeded high-end PCs at a much lower price point. The console had support from Electronic Arts and a few other well known publishers who all made next-gen ports of their 16-bit titles along with new games. I bought my Panasonic 3DO console in 1994 when the price reduced from $799 to $399.

The system seller for the 3DO was the amazing port of Road Rash that came with arcade quality 3D graphics, a great soundtrack featuring Soundgarden and other popular artists, and some killer full motion video cut scenes. Testing Road Rash on the new core showed performance that appears consistent with the original hardware, though perhaps slightly less fluid than a stock console.

I also spent time with Wing Commander 3, a game notable for its transition between full-motion video segments starring Mark Hamill and Tom Wilson and 3D space fighter combat. The video playback is stable, though the output seems slightly dark, suggesting a need for gamma adjustments. I observed minor graphical artifacts, such as unexpected patterns in the starfields.

Compatibility on the 3DO core is not yet universal; titles like Zhadnost load slowly, and the Need for Speed currently fails due to an NVRAM error. Other titles ran but with some glitches like a green vertical line visible in Total Eclipse. However, for a beta core, the majority of the library I tested is functional.

Next I turned to the Apple IIgs core, which is being developed by “Allen SWX.” The IIgs implementation emulates a ROM 1 machine with 8MB of RAM. This setup allows for the use of hard drive and floppy disk images including the newer “Woz” format. I was able to boot into GS/OS System 6 and access personal files from my own hard drive images dating back to the early 1990s. The core reproduces the authentic, albeit slow, operating speed of the original hardware. While the games run as expected, the audio output currently sounds somewhat muffled compared to the original machine.

These developments represent a steady expansion of the MiSTer library into systems that were previously considered outliers. While neither core is finished, the progress indicates that the technical hurdles for these specific architectures are being addressed.

The AT4k Launcher for Google TV and Android TV Brings an Ad Free Experience – No Rooting Required!

I recently spent some time testing a new interface for Android TV and Google TV called AT4K. It brings the visual style of the Apple TV interface to much lower cost devices like the Onn streamer I tested it on. The primary draw of this specific launcher is that it functions without advertisements and can be configured to run as the default launcher without having to root your device, similar to the Projectivy launcher I looked at last year.

Check out AT4k in my latest review!

The layout features a header row that behaves similarly to the standard Android launcher, pulling content cards from associated apps. For instance, when I scrolled to the Apple TV app icon, the header displayed specific shows and movies from that service. If an app does not provide its own cards, the system pulls from other apps like Plex. The header can be removed if you just want the standard app layout.

Below this header, the rest of the applications are arranged in a grid. Managing these icons is straightforward; holding down a selection button triggers a “jiggle” mode that allows for moving apps or grouping them into folders. I created a dedicated folder for games, and the process was functional and mirrored the organizational style found on Apple TV devices.

Navigating the settings reveals two distinct areas: one for the standard Android system settings and another for AT4K’s internal configurations. The launcher supports both light and dark modes, though I found the light mode to be quite legible. There are premium features available for a one-time fee of five dollars, such as the ability to use custom images or videos as backgrounds and the option to expand the app grid from five to seven icons per row. During my time with the app, I encountered some difficulty interacting with the custom image menu, which is something to monitor in future updates.

One of the more practical aspects of AT4K is its ability to become the default launcher without requiring the user to root or hack the device hardware. It utilizes Android’s accessibility options to override the standard launcher. By enabling the AT4K service in the accessibility menu, the launcher can intercept the home button press and manage the boot sequence. To test this, I enabled the “override current launcher” and “start on boot” settings before power-cycling my device.

After the reboot, the original Google TV interface appeared momentarily before AT4K automatically took over. I launched several resource-heavy applications, such as HD HomeRun and Apple TV, and in each instance, pressing the home button returned me back to the AT4K interface rather than the factory default.

The app manager within the settings also provides a quick way to hide specific applications from the launcher or access deep system settings like “force stop” or “uninstall.”

I found the setup process to be accessible for most users, as it does not require adjusting complex security settings. For those who prefer the aesthetic of the Apple ecosystem but want to maintain the flexibility of an Android-based device, this launcher offers a functional middle ground. I plan to keep this as my primary interface for the time being, as it provides a streamlined experience that remains stable under regular use.

Six Self Hosted Apps I Use on my Home Server ! Synology, Unraid, Linux Etc.

The pursuit of digital efficiency often leads to a familiar crossroads where a user must choose between a recurring subscription fee or the sacrifice of data privacy. For some time, I have been looking for ways to streamline my professional and personal workflows without relying on external servers or third-party data mining. The current landscape of open-source software has made it increasingly feasible to host powerful applications on a small home server, such as a Synology or Unraid NAS or a Linux machine and installing the applications via Docker containers.

In my latest video, I take a look at six self hosted Docker applications running on my Synology NAS!

To manage these applications securely, I use a private VPN called Tailscale. This allows me to access my home-hosted tools from any location without opening ports on my firewall. It creates a seamless connection between my mobile devices and my server, ensuring that my data remains isolated from the public internet while remaining accessible to me. This setup provides the foundation for several utilities that have replaced more traditional, paid software services.

One of the basic utilities I maintain is Uptime Kuma, a monitoring tool that tracks the status and performance of my various services. It provides real-time data on ping rates and uptime, sending a notification to my phone via an app called Pushover if a service fails. This eliminates the need for a paid monitoring service and provides immediate feedback on the health of my local network.

Information management is another area where self-hosting has proven effective. I use two different RSS readers, FreshRSS and TT-RSS, to curate content from YouTube and various technology websites. Rather than relying on platform algorithms, these tools allow me to organize feeds into specific topics like retro gaming or modern tech. TT-RSS, in particular, is useful for aggregating large volumes of data—sometimes dozens of articles at once—which I then process through other automation tools.

For personal tasks, I have moved toward simpler, self-hosted alternatives to mainstream apps. Actual is a straightforward personal finance tool that functions as a manual checkbook and budgeting application. I don’t have it connected to my banks, but that options is available through . For note-taking, I have transitioned from the more complex Obsidian to a tool called Blinko. It offers a clean interface that works through the browser on screens of any size, allowing me to capture quick thoughts and organize them with tags later. It also includes an API and an AI component for querying my own notes.

The most substantial part of my current workflow is built on N8N, an open-source automation platform. I use it to handle repetitive tasks that previously took hours of manual effort. For example, my weekly email newsletter (sign up here) is now generated by a workflow that pulls data from my blog and YouTube RSS feeds, formats the text, and utilizes AI to suggest subject lines. I also use N8N to monitor specific FCC dockets for our continuing efforts to stop broadcast TV encryption. When a new filing appears on the FCC website, the system automatically downloads the PDF, sends it to an AI model for summarization, and emails me the highlights.

I have also automated my social media presence using these local tools. Instead of paying for a distribution service, I built a queue system that posts updates to platforms like X, Blue Sky, Threads, Mastodon, Facebook and LinkedIn at regular intervals. This system was developed with the assistance of Claude, which can connect directly to the server to help write and troubleshoot code. This transition to self-hosting has replaced several hundred dollars in annual subscription fees with a stable, private infrastructure.

As I continue to integrate these tools, the focus remains on finding applications that offer high utility without unnecessary complexity. The transition to a self-hosted environment requires an initial investment in learning how to manage Docker containers, but the resulting control over data and workflow efficiency provides a clear alternative to the standard subscription model. I am regularly looking for new applications to add to this local ecosystem as the technology evolves.

Check out more self hosting videos here!

What a sub $500 Mini PC looks like these days: GEEKOM A5 Pro Review

Finding a mini PC for under $500 has become increasingly difficult in the current market, but I recently spent some time with the Geekom A5 Pro (compensated affiliate link) to see how it balances cost and performance. While the machine bears a physical resemblance to the more powerful A8 model, this version utilizes a Ryzen 7 5300U processor and targets users with more modest computing requirements.

Check it out in my latest video review!

The unit Geekom sent me for review can be found on Amazon (compensated affiliate link). It features a Ryzen 7530U, which is an older six-core, 12-thread chip running at a 15-watt TDP.

Inside, the hardware is accessible but reveals some of the compromises made to reach this price point. It uses DDR4 RAM rather than faster DDR5, and while there is an expansion slot for a second SSD, it is limited to the SATA interface rather than NVMe. The RAM can be upgraded to 64GB. I also noticed during disassembly that the Wi-Fi antenna design is somewhat delicate; the cable is easily detached when opening the case and requires some patience to reconnect to the motherboard.

The external build quality remains high, featuring a metal case and a variety of ports. The front panel includes two 10Gbps USB-A ports—one of which supports device charging while the PC is powered down—alongside a headphone jack. The side houses a full-size SD card reader, while the back provides two HDMI ports and two USB-C ports. While it lacks USB 4, the USB-C ports do support video output, allowing a four-display 4K setup. There is also a 2.5gigabit per second ethernet port that performed as advertised in my testing.

In daily operation, the A5 Pro is efficient and quiet. It idles at around 7 watts and peaks at 46 watts under heavy load. The system fan is rarely audible during standard desktop tasks. It includes a licensed copy of Windows 11 Pro, and the machine handled web browsing and general office applications smoothly. However, the age of the processor becomes apparent when pushing the integrated graphics. During 4K YouTube playback at 60 frames per second, I observed frequent dropped frames, a limitation not typically seen on more modern AMD chips.

Creative tasks and gaming yielded mixed results. Simple video editing in DaVinci Resolve is feasible for basic projects, but adding complex effects or transitions leads to significant rendering delays and stuttering during playback. Gaming performance is similarly constrained; modern AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 struggled to reach 15 frames per second at 1080p on low settings. But, the machine is well-suited for emulation of older consoles or playing legacy PC titles, where it maintained consistent frame rates.

Thermal management is tuned for silence rather than maximum output. The system failed a 3DMark stress test with a score of 95.7%, suggesting about a 4-5% performance drop during sustained heavy workloads. For most users, this five percent dip in performance will likely go unnoticed, especially given the quiet nature of the fan.

The machine performed very well under Linux. Testing with the latest version of Ubuntu showed that all hardware components were recognized immediately, and the interface felt more responsive than Windows, likely due to the lack of operating system bloat.

While the A5 Pro could serve as a capable low-power home server, its AMD architecture makes it less ideal for hardware transcoding in applications like Plex compared to Intel-based alternatives.

Ultimately, this device reflects the current state of the hardware market. A few years ago, this budget would have secured more contemporary components, but today it buys a reliable, if slightly older, set of specifications. It remains a functional option for light office work or a dedicated Linux station, provided the user understands the graphical limitations inherent in the hardware.