Tag: review

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.

Hamgeek FPGA MiSTer Clone Review

I ordered another cheap MiSTer FPGA clone off a site called Hamgeek the other day. Hamgeek mostly sells amateur radio gear and a few other curious gadgets. Like other MiSTer devices we’ve looked at recently, it uses an FPGA chip to accurately replicate retro computing, gaming and arcade systems from the 90s on back.

Check it out in my latest MiSTer video!

The Hamgeek unit cost about $160 and arrived fully assembled with a 32 GB SD card preloaded, which let me skip the initial flashing and get straight to testing. The Hamgeek MiSTer is effectively a “clone of a clone,” utilizing the same hardware design of the QMTech device we looked at a few weeks ago.

Like other MiSTers I’ve tested you will need to download and run the Update_all script to get all of the supported cores and features to work. You can see the full setup process in the MiSTer Pi video I did last year.

Compatibility on the Hamgeek feels just as good as the other MiSTer clones we’ve looked at over the last year. I tested a range of demanding and lower-end cores. The Amiga core looked crisp and executed complex demo scene disk images flawlessly. The Saturn core ran Daytona USA without visible issues, and the Sega 32X handled After Burner perfectly. I also ran Street Fighter Alpha 3 on a CRT for extended periods, played the Neo Geo’s King of Fighters 2003, and tried Wave Race on the Nintendo 64 core. On the low end, NES and Atari 2600 content ran as expected. Overall compatibility and stability across the cores I exercised matched what I’ve come to expect from consumer Mister builds.

I also ran a memory test that exercises the 128 MB memory module. It sustained 167 MHz for about ten minutes without errors, which suggests the hardware has some performance headroom beyond what most cores require.

Video output options are flexible: HDMI for modern displays, a VGA port that can deliver RGB component for late-model CRTs, and analog/optical audio outputs via a combined 3.5mm jack. The unit does not provide RCA composite or S-Video natively, so if your television only accepts composite you’ll need an adapter or consider waiting for the Superstation One MiSTer clone that will include more analog video output options built in.

Like other Mister builds, this one includes a port for SNAC adapters that allow for direct electrical connections to certain controller types and accessories. I verified light-gun functionality on a CRT using the NES core and a Zapper.

The box has a limited number of USB ports — enough for an external hard drive and a couple of controllers, but you’ll likely want a hub — and it does not include built-in Wi‑Fi. You can add Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth with a USB dongle. MiSTers generally do not require an active Internet connection but you will need to go online for core updates.

There’s an internal cooling fan that runs continuously; it’s audible but not loud. The metal case version of the Hamgeek MiSTer I opted for is more robust than the plastic one that’s available for the same price.

If you want a ready-to-use MiSTer without assembling parts, units like this make that option accessible at a lower price than earlier preassembled builds. It’s great to see the MiSTer ecosystem getting more accessible!

See more of my MiSTer content here!

Gadget Tech Haul #14 – A Mixed Bag

In my latest gadget haul, I am looking at five items that vary significantly in utility and performance. But there are a few good ones in the mix that you can find here on Amazon (compensated affiliate link).

Check the haul out here!

I began with a four-way HDMI multiviewer from Orai (compensated affiliate link) a brand known for various video routing connectors. This device allows for four HDMI sources to be connected and displayed on a single screen simultaneously. The front panel features buttons for switching between sources and modes, including a four-way split that is particularly useful for monitoring multiple broadcasts at once. It supports 1080p at 60Hz and is HDCP compliant, meaning it can handle protected content from streaming services like Netflix. While some of the other display modes distort the aspect ratio of the video, the multiviewer functions reliably as an affordable solution for 4-up multi-source monitoring.

The monitor I used to test this device is a 24 inch 240Hz IPS display from Dell at a crazy low price (compensated affiliate link). For a budget-friendly screen, it performs well with a 0.5ms response time in its extreme mode and support for AMD FreeSync. In testing with both modern PC benchmarks and older gaming hardware, I found very little motion blur or screen tearing. The color accuracy is rated at 99% sRGB, which is respectable for this price point. The primary compromise is the peak brightness, which reaches only about 300 nits, and the included stand, which lacks height adjustment and only offers tilt. However, it does feature a VESA mount for those who prefer a more flexible setup.

Transitioning to mobile accessories, I tested the abxylute M4 Snap-On Mobile Gaming Controller controller (compensated affiliate link), which proved to be a disappointment. Although it uses MagSafe to attach to a phone, the design is top-heavy and the controls are physically cramped. The D-pad and buttons lack a premium feel, and the analog sticks do not include a click function. It also only works with the phone in landscape mode unless the controller is physically detached.

Another item that fell short of expectations was a SanDisk USB-C phone drive (compensated affiliate link). While SanDisk has a long history of reliable storage, this specific drive struggled with write speeds. Although it approached its advertised read speeds at around 140 megabytes per second, the write speeds hovered at 35 megabytes per second. During large file transfers, the drive appeared to write in chunks, often pausing as the cache caught up. It functions adequately for small file transfers or phone backups via the SanDisk app, but it is not a recommended choice for high-volume data tasks.

The final item is the EufyCam S4 (compensated affiliate link), a dual-lens security camera that includes a wide-angle 4K lens and a 2K pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera. A notable aspect of the Eufy system is that it does not require a subscription for AI detection features, such as recognizing humans, vehicles, or pets. The camera effectively tracked movement during my testing, including prioritizing the action when a car was pulling in and I was walking my dog. It comes with a 5.5-watt solar panel and a removable battery, which remained at full charge during a week of outdoor use. The solar panel can be detached for better sun placement, with Eufy providing a weather proof USB-C extension cord for that purpose. While it supports RTSP for integration with personal NAS and NVR devices, using this feature significantly increases power consumption, likely requiring a dedicated USB power source rather than relying solely on the solar panel and battery.

I will continue to keep an eye out for hardware that fulfills its promises as I prepare for the next round of testing.

Beelink ME Pro NAS Review

Beelink recently sent me their ME Pro device, a personal server that essentially functions as a mini PC with expanded storage capabilities. It looks pretty cool too.

Check it out in my latest video review!

The unit I evaluated is the entry-level model featuring an Intel N95 processor. An alternative version with an Intel N150 processor is also available, offering slight improvements in power efficiency and an increase in soldered RAM from 12 gigabytes to 16 gigabytes. Both models operate with a 25-watt thermal design power and are fully capable of managing standard personal server tasks. You can find them on Amazon here (compensated affiliate link).

The internal layout allows for measurable storage expansion. The bottom of the device accommodates up to three NVMe drives, supporting a total of 12 terabytes of solid-state storage. A separate rear panel provides access to bays for two 3.5-inch desktop hard drives. This storage setup is not designed for hot-swapping; all drives and panels must be secured with screws. Beelink includes an Allen wrench for this purpose, though I found its small size makes it somewhat difficult to use effectively. The device is designed for internal maintenance access, allowing the entire motherboard to be removed for cleaning by loosening four screws.

For networking and peripheral connectivity, the ME Pro includes a 10-gigabit-per-second USB-A port on the front and a similarly rated USB-C port on the rear, alongside an HDMI output. The device supports dual 4K display output at 60 frames per second.

Network connections are handled by a 5-gigabit-per-second Ethernet port using a Realtek controller and a secondary 2.5-gigabit port utilizing an Intel controller. When I tested the 5-gigabit connection, it yielded disk writes between 400 and 500 megabytes per second to the solid-state drives, which aligns with expected network overhead limits.

Operating as a media server via Unraid, the hardware demonstrated clear capability with common server loads. When running Plex, the N95 processor managed hardware transcoding of a 4K HDR video file to 720p with low CPU and bandwidth utilization. It also successfully handled HEVC codec transcoding. During these tasks, with two mechanical desktop drives spinning, power consumption measured approximately 33 watts, peaking near 70 watts under maximum load.

Thermal performance remained stable, with the NVMe drives showing only a minor six to seven-degree Celsius temperature increase under sustained load. Both the fans and the drives operate at a low volume. It’s a very quiet device even with running spinning drives.

There are a few hardware design choices that warrant observation. The system relies on a 100-watt wall-wart power supply, which is susceptible to accidental disconnection from standard outlets. Additionally, while the unit was shipped with a version of Windows, the necessary drivers were not pre-installed, preventing the operating system from functioning correctly out of the box. This positions the device more as a platform for user-supplied NAS operating systems, such as Unraid or Linux distributions, rather than a turnkey Windows machine.

Furthermore, for a device categorized as a “Pro” model utilizing an OS like Unraid—where one drive is typically dedicated to parity—expanding the SATA drive capacity from two bays to four would provide a more practical parity-to-storage ratio. The current configuration requires careful planning for anyone looking to maximize their redundant storage capacity on this compact platform.

Disclosure: The ME Pro NAS was provided free of charge. However, they did not review or approve this content prior to publication.

Off Grid Comms with Meshcore!

I love playing with digital radio communications. The ability to send data over long distances without any infrastructure or service providers in the middle is such a liberating concept. I’ve done a lot with amateur radio on the channel over the last few years, but lately I’ve been playing with cheap low powered LoRA based devices that don’t require a license.

In my latest video, I take a look at Meshcore, a technology that allows volunteers to build out robust off-grid networks.

Meshcore is similar to Meshtastic, but in my opinion is better suited for long distance communications. My Meshtastic experience in Connecticut has frequently been limited by the lack of nearby users and unreliable message delivery. While I have successfully made contacts from airplanes, ground-level communication has remained a challenge.

The transition to Meshcore revealed a more active community and improved performance within my region. Unlike Meshtastic, which utilizes a managed flood network where every node acts as a repeater, Meshcore requires users to assign specific roles to their devices. A device can be configured as a companion, which serves as a personal radio interface for a phone, or as a dedicated repeater. By separating these roles, the network can route messages through established paths rather than retransmitting every signal from every device. This deterministic approach reduces network congestion and allows for longer-distance communication through strategically placed repeater stations.

During my testing, I successfully sent text packets to Enfield and Vernon, Connecticut—locations over 50 miles away that would take more than an hour to reach by car. These transmissions occurred without the use of the internet or requiring a radio license, as the devices operate on the license-free 900 MHz spectrum.

Setting up these devices is a relatively accessible process. Hardware like the Heltec V3 can be purchased super cheap, while fully assembled units like the ThinkNode M5 cost around $54 (compensated affiliate links). Most Meshtastic devices can be re-flashed with Meshcore firmware.

The Meshcore project website provides a web-based flasher to install the firmware, allowing users to choose between companion, repeater, or room server modes. The room server function is particularly notable, acting as a simplified bulletin board system that stores messages for users to read when they later connect their radios.

The current landscape of the network in Connecticut shows a growing infrastructure of repeater stations, with expansion moving toward neighboring states. While it’s strictly for text messaging—no voice or video—there is something really neat about building a communication network that runs entirely on solar power and off-grid hardware.

For those who have found Meshtastic quiet or unreliable, this alternative protocol offers a different architectural approach using the same hardware. I will be watching to see how the interconnection of these regional nodes continues to develop.

Werewolf VFLEX Review: Power Almost Anything over USB-C!

Every once and awhile I come across an incredibly useful gadget that becomes an essential part of my “nerd toolbox.” The latest device I’m throwing in there is the Werewolf VFLEX – a universal power adapter for just about anything that connects to a USB-C power supply.

Check it out in my latest video!

The base unit is priced at $8 and the adapter cables are $4 A starter kit containing three base units and multiple adapter cables retails for $48. They can be purchased directly from Werewolf’s website here (compensated affiliate link).

Users first need to attach the base unit to a computer or mobile device to program in the required voltage. Configuration is handled through an Android or iOS app, along with a browser-based interface on PCs.

To test the VFLEX, I powered a vintage Atari 2600 using a USB-C battery. The Atari requires 9 volts of direct current and a center-positive polarity. After dialing in the 9-volt requirement via the web interface, the VFLEX base unit stored the setting and successfully supplied the correct voltage, indicated by a green light on the device. The Atari fired up like it was connected to its 40+ year old power supply yet was powered by the battery.

If the unit fails to receive the requested voltage from the source, it displays a red light and cuts power to the connected device. It is necessary to correctly identify both the voltage and polarity before connecting any hardware, as the VFLEX cannot prevent electrical damage if configured improperly.

The capabilities of the USB-C power source dictate what the VFLEX can output. For instance, an Anker 30-watt adapter I examined supports Programmable Power Supply (PPS), a standard that permits granular voltage adjustments. With PPS, a user can specify voltages between 3.3 and 11 volts at 3 amps, or between 3.3 and 16 volts at 2 amps. In contrast, an older 100-watt Kensington power supply lacking PPS could only output fixed increments of 5, 9, 15, or 20 volts. The quality of the USB-C cables is also a variable; relying on established brands for both cables and power adapters minimizes risks associated with non-compliant USB standard implementations.

For a more complex load, I connected a Sega Tower of Power—comprising a Sega CD, a 32X, and a Genesis console—to a single Anker Prime 160 power adapter (compensated affiliate link) using three VFLEX units. The Sega CD requires a 9-volt supply, while the 32X and the second-generation Genesis require 10 volts. Because the Anker Prime adapter supports PPS, I was able to program two VFLEX units to output 10 volts and one to output 9 volts simultaneously. Monitoring the real-time power data from the Prime adapter showed the system drawing roughly 10-12 watts in operation, well within the Anker’s 160-watt capacity. Consolidating multiple enormous Sega “wall wart” into a single adapter proved functional, provided the operator strictly adheres to the voltage and polarity specifications of the hardware.

If you’re like me and have a bunch of stuff to power, the VFLEX can be a major convenience. While the starter kit supplies enough adapters for routine applications, the system requires the operator to accurately verify the voltage before connecting any hardware to avoid damaging the electronics. When configured correctly, the device bridges modern USB-C power delivery with both legacy and contemporary hardware.

Disclosure: Werewolf provided the VFLEX free of charge, however they did not review or approve this content prior to publication. All opinions are my own.

DOS Games in a Browser? DOS.ZONE Review

For my annual Christmas retro video, I explored the Exodos project, a method for downloading and playing a vast library of classic DOS games. While functional, it requires significant disk space, BitTorrent downloads and some complexity. It also lacks native compatibility with MacOS and Linux. Following a recommendation from my friend Adam of TechOdyssey, I recently tested an alternative approach called DOS.zone.

Check it out in my latest video!

DOS.zone is a web-based emulation platform designed to run legacy DOS and Windows 95 games directly within a browser. During my testing on an M2 MacBook Air using the Brave browser, games like Doom booted quickly and ran at standard speeds without requiring any software installation or command-line management. The platform currently hosts approximately 2,000 titles, which is a smaller library compared to the Exodos project, but it focuses on immediate accessibility.

The service operates primarily as a free service, downloading and executing the game files locally in the browser rather than streaming them from a server. The DOS games run in DosBox or DosBox-X which has been ported to Javascript (more on that later).

Game progress can be saved to the browser’s local storage, provided the user clicks the designated save icon before exiting. Because local browser data can be cleared or lost, DOS.zone offers an optional subscription for a few dollars a month that enables cloud synchronization for save files. The save files can be synced across devices too.

The emulation includes various adjustable settings to tailor the experience. Users can modify the DOSBox performance by toggling the auto-adjust feature and manually setting CPU cycles, which I found necessary to stabilize the frame rate in titles like Wing Commander. Other options include mouse capture, on-screen control scaling, and an image smoothing toggle for those who prefer altered graphics over the original pixelated rendering. Notably, the platform currently lacks native game controller support, relying instead on keyboard controls or external software mapping.

Technically, DOS.zone distinguishes itself from other in-browser solutions by supporting Windows 95 environments and 3dfx hardware acceleration. Loading a game like Road Rash prompts a brief Windows 95 boot sequence before launching the application. While this specific browser port lacks the original full-screen video and music, it runs consistently at 60 frames per second. The 3dfx support extends to titles like the original Grand Theft Auto and various hardware demos, rendering hardware-accelerated graphics entirely within the browser window.

The platform also integrates a multiplayer hub where users can join active network sessions for games like Quake or Half-Life Deathmatch. In my experience, some visual assets load dynamically during the initial session, which can cause minor stuttering, but the performance stabilizes once the caching is complete.

Because the underlying technology utilizes the open-source JS-DOS API, the emulation extends to mobile devices. Testing Need for Speed on a smartphone demonstrated that the platform automatically maps necessary game controls to the touchscreen, enabling mobile gameplay without requiring a dedicated app installation.

For users seeking a broader library, the Internet Archive remains a viable alternative with over 8,800 browser-playable DOS titles. However, DOS.zone provides a more specialized technical implementation with its inclusion of 3dfx, Windows 95 support, and built-in multiplayer routing, offering a highly accessible route to revisiting legacy software without the need to manually configure local emulators.

See more retro here!

GMKTec K13 Mini PC Review

GMKTec keeps cranking out new Mini PCs despite the price pressure of RAM shortages. In my latest Mini PC review, I check out their new K13 powered by an Intel “Meteor Lake” Core Ultra 7 256V.

Check it out in my latest video!

It is equipped with 16 gigabytes of DDR5-8533 memory. This memory is soldered to the mainboard and cannot be upgraded, which may be a limiting factor depending on specific requirements.

Pricing currently sits at approximately $669 on GMKTec’s website (compensated affiliate link), with a 512-gigabyte solid-state drive, while the one-terabyte version retails for $720. Typically a PC like this would be much less expensive, but market constraints on memory prices are driving these budget PCs into higher price categories. I’d suggest checking out Amazon’s prices too and look out for sales and promotions (compensated affiliate link).

Storage is expandable by removing a single screw on the bottom panel, which features a bright green design contrasting with the black upper chassis. This reveals an additional NVMe slot, offering the possibility of adding another drive or utilizing an Oculink adapter, though the device lacks a dedicated native Oculink port.

Connectivity options include two front-facing USB 3.2 ports capable of 10-gigabit-per-second data transfers and a standard audio jack. The rear panel houses a 5-gigabit Ethernet port, which reached expected speeds during network testing and is double the speed of the 2.5 gigabit ports typically found on Mini PCs.

Wireless connectivity is handled by a Wi-Fi 6E RZ616 chipset, providing consistent throughput and not demonstrating some of the Wi-Fi constraints I sometimes see on mini PCs.

Additional rear ports include a USB 2.0 connection, an HDMI output supporting 4K resolution at 60 hertz, and two USB4 40 gigabit ports with Thunderbolt compatibility. The system draws a maximum of 70 to 75 watts under load, allowing it to be powered via a 100-watt USB-C connection to one of those USB 4.0 ports or with the included power supply that attaches to a separate power connector.

Out of the box, the hardware is set to a balanced power profile in the BIOS, and adjusting this to its high-performance setting is necessary to utilize the processor’s full capabilities. The system runs Windows 11 Pro, but it notably included a pre-installed Chinese-language voice assistant called Cherry AI. This addition diverges from the manufacturer’s typical practice of providing clean operating system installations, though no malware was detected during security scans.

In practical use, web browsing and office applications function predictably, yielding a score of 32.5 on the Speedometer benchmark. Basic 4K video editing in DaVinci Resolve operates smoothly for standard cuts, though applying visual effects increases render times due to the reliance on integrated graphics.

For gaming I was impressed with the Intel chip’s on board ARC graphics. Testing Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p on the lowest settings resulted in frame rates between 45 and 50 per second in complex environments, occasionally reaching 60 in less demanding areas. I saw similar performance with No Man’s Sky at similar settings. Emulation of PlayStation 2 software ran at full speed at the PS2’s standard definition native resolution with some room to improve graphical fidelity inside the emulator.

The system scored 4,375 on the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark and completed the associated stress test with a 99.6% pass rate. During this testing period, CPU temperatures reached 60 degrees Celsius; the exterior casing became warm, but fan noise remained minimal.

The K13 also demonstrated compatibility with Ubuntu Linux, with standard network, audio and video drivers functioning correctly. The unit ships with a VESA mounting plate for attachment to external displays, offering flexible deployment options for those seeking to minimize their hardware footprint.

All in the K13, is a bit pricey due to memory constrainsts, but it is a solid performer. If we lived in different times this would definitely be a PC to be excited about.

Disclosure: GMKTec provided the Mini PC to the channel free of charge. No other compensation was received and they did not review or approve this content or the video prior to publication.

Geekom X16 Pro Laptop Review

Geekom, a company traditionally focused on desktop mini PCs, recently expanded its hardware portfolio to include laptops. My latest video review takes a look at their 16-inch model, the Geekom X16 Pro, to see how their engineering translates to a portable form factor.

Check out the video here!

The model I evaluated is now available on Amazon (compensated affiliate link) and I suspect pricing is going to fluctuate wildly due to memory supply constraints. The hardware configuration includes an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, 32 gigabytes of soldered 7500 MHz DDR5 RAM, and a user-upgradable two-terabyte NVMe solid-state drive. Geekom also offers a 14-inch variant (compensated affiliate link) with an OLED screen and an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor at a slightly lower cost.

The visual output on my review unit is handled by a 16-inch IPS LCD panel with a 2560 by 1600 resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The refresh rate reaches 120 Hz, and the display produces 400 nits of brightness while covering 100% of the sRGB color gamut.

The chassis is constructed entirely of metal and weighs 2.8 pounds, or 1.27 kilograms. The weight distribution allows the lid to be opened with one hand, which typically indicates thoughtful structural engineering. Inside, a generous 74.92 watt-hour battery provides approximately 12 to 13 hours of standard usage with conservative brightness settings.

Input devices presented a mixed experience during testing. The backlit keyboard features a full number pad, though the key travel feels a bit spongy. The trackpad design falls short of standard expectations for this price tier. A physical barrier separates the left and right click zones, rendering the center unclickable unless utilizing Windows’ tap-to-click software feature. The physical click mechanism also ceases to register past the vertical midpoint of the pad.

The laptop includes a 2-megapixel, 1080p webcam at 30 frames per second with a physical privacy shutter, which is sufficient for standard video conferencing but lags in quality vs. other more established brands in visual quality. Security features include a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button, though facial recognition is absent.

Connectivity options are varied, featuring a USB Type-C port for charging and 10 Gbps data transfer, a full-size HDMI 2.0 port, and a USB 4.0 port capable of 40 Gbps data, display output, and power delivery. The right side houses a micro SD card slot, two 10 Gbps USB-A ports, and a headphone jack. Wireless connectivity relies on a Wi-Fi 6E radio, which achieved 800 megabits per second downstream and over one gigabit upstream on my multi-gig network. Audio is delivered via downward-firing stereo speakers that reach adequate volume levels due to chassis acoustics, though they lack low-end frequency response.

In terms of performance, the X16 Pro ships with Windows 11 Pro and the Geekom PC Manager software, which facilitates quick power mode adjustments and data cloning from previous Windows 10 machines. General web browsing and 4K 60fps video playback operated smoothly, yielding a Speedometer benchmark score of 29.4. For creative tasks, basic 4K 60fps video editing in DaVinci Resolve was responsive, but the integrated GPU struggled with advanced visual effects. Gaming performance on titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p on low settings hovered around 40 to 45 frames per second. The system scored 4,128 on the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark, placing its graphical capabilities roughly in line with older entry-level discrete GPUs from around 5 years ago.

Thermal management proved effective, passing the 3DMark stress test at 99.2% with a final CPU temperature of 57 degrees Celsius. This cooling capacity comes with an acoustic tradeoff, as the internal fan generates noticeable noise under load, rivaling levels typically found in gaming laptops.

For those interested in alternative operating systems, testing with the latest version of Ubuntu demonstrated comprehensive hardware compatibility, recognizing components like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and audio without issue.

The Geekom X16 Pro balances a capable processing package and substantial battery capacity within a very lightweight metal chassis. This is probably one of the lightest 16″ laptops I’ve looked at. While the core specifications offer dependable performance across general computing and light creative tasks, potential buyers will need to weigh these benefits against the limitations of the trackpad and the acoustic profile of the cooling system under sustained loads.

Disclosure: Geekom sent the laptop to the channel free of charge, however no other compensation was received and they did not review or approve this content prior to publication.

DSpico Review : An affordable flash cartridge for Nintendo DS handhelds

Twenty years after the release of the Nintendo DS, managing the system’s physical media presents an ongoing logistical challenge for users. In my latest retro video, I take a look at the DSPico, an open-source flash cartridge designed to boot digital copies of DS games directly on original hardware. These sell for around $20 on Aliexpress (compensated affiliate link)

Check out the review here!

The device retails for approximately $20, with shipping bringing the total cost to around $30. It is built around a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller and features a USB-C port alongside an SD card slot. The pre-assembled model I examined shipped with an 8-gigabyte SD card. The hardware requires a FAT32 format, and while some users have reported software lockups when using larger 64-gigabyte and 128-gigabyte cards, developers are currently addressing these bugs through firmware updates on GitHub. Updating the firmware requires connecting the cartridge to a computer via USB-C and transferring the necessary files to the card.

The cartridge has full access to the SD card, so you can store ROM files in an organizational structure of your choice. The DSPico reads and writes save files to the SD card and saves function just like they do on a regular cartridge. But it does not support save states like some Gameboy cartridges do.

The DSpico is compatible with the original DS, the DS Lite, the DSi, and the 3DS line. It only runs standard DS software, meaning it cannot be used to load 3DS-specific titles. On compatible hardware like the DSi and the 3DS, the DSPico also supports DSiware titles that were originally distributed strictly over the Internet – currently the only flash cart to do so.

Beyond preservation of out of print games, the DSPico serves as a loader for homebrew projects. I tested a few community projects, including a 3D role-playing game currently in development called WolveSlayer and a port of Lemmings. Both games played without issues. LemmingsDS goes beyond just a ROM file and utilizes a process where secondary assets are pulled directly from the SD card after the initial ROM loads.

As the secondary market for physical DS cartridges continues to experience price inflation, the DS Pico presents a functional method for accessing older software libraries without requiring the original media. Because the entire project is open-source, individuals have the choice to assemble the hardware themselves using the public repository or purchase pre-manufactured units from existing suppliers. The active development surrounding the device suggests that this two-decade-old handheld platform will remain accessible for the foreseeable future.

Disclosure: The DSPico was provided free of charge by the Aliexpress seller linked above. No other compensation was received and they did not review or approve this content prior to publication.

GL.iNet Comet Remote KVM Review (GL-RM1)

I picked the GL.iNet Comet KVM (compensated affiliate link) the other day, an entry-level remote KVM device designed to provide hardware-level access to computers and other HDMI-enabled equipment.

You can see it in action in my latest review!

I purchased this unit to facilitate remote administration without relying on software-based solutions. Unlike traditional remote desktop applications, the Comet captures the HDMI output from a target device and emulates keyboard and mouse input via USB, allowing for control through a standard web browser. Because it operates independently of the host machine’s operating system, it provides access to the BIOS and functions even when the target computer is not fully booted.

The hardware setup is straightforward, though it requires a wired ethernet connection as this specific model lacks Wi-Fi capabilities. The device features an HDMI input, a USB-C port for keyboard and mouse emulation, a USB host port for external storage and an Ethernet port for network connectivity. It is powered via a separate USB-C connection. During my testing, I connected the Comet to a headless mini PC. The device successfully emulated the peripherals, allowing me to navigate the BIOS and initiate a Windows boot sequence remotely from a Mac browser.

A notable feature of the Comet is its independence from mandatory cloud services. While a cloud option exists, the device does not bind itself to external servers by default, offering users greater control over their data privacy. For remote access outside the local network, the unit supports Tailscale and Zero Tier, allowing for secure VPN connections without opening firewall ports. However, users accessing the device via a browser may encounter security warnings due to the default security certificate, a configuration issue that lacks clear documentation for resolution.

In terms of performance, the Comet handles video streaming adequately for administrative tasks, with a latency of approximately 30 to 40 milliseconds on a local network. This delay makes it unsuitable for fast-paced gaming, though it supports resolutions up to 4K at 30Hz, with 1080p at 60Hz being the standard configuration. Audio pass-through is supported but must be manually enabled in the settings. The interface also includes a Wake-on-LAN feature, which can identify and boot compatible devices on the network.

File transfer capabilities are present but limited. The device utilizes a virtual media mounting system where files are uploaded to the Comet and then presented to the target computer as a USB drive. Transfer speeds are restricted by the USB 2.0 interface, resulting in slower performance for larger files. Additionally, the mobile experience is currently suboptimal; the browser interface on tablets is difficult to navigate, and the dedicated mobile app requires a cloud account, which contradicts the self-hosted preference of many users.

I also tested the device with non-standard hardware, specifically a MiSTer FPGA retro gaming setup. The Comet successfully allowed for remote control of the interface and basic operation of emulated systems, although mouse alignment and clipboard pasting were inconsistent.

Despite some rough edges, the device serves its intended purpose effectively, particularly for scenarios where installing remote desktop software is impractical or would interfere with performance benchmarking. I intend to integrate this tool into my workflow for managing test units remotely around the house and when I’m not at home.

Is the 2022-2026 Macbook Air The Greatest Laptop of All Time?

Typically, purchasing a laptop involves a compromise. If the budget is limited, one usually has to sacrifice performance, battery life, or portability. Finding a machine that adequately addresses all three requirements is rare, yet over the last few years, my 2022 MacBook Air M2 has largely managed to balance these competing needs. Despite the release of newer models, this device remains a significant benchmark for what a portable computer can achieve – and new versions cost less than the one I bought almost four years ago. Check out current offerings on Amazon (compensated affiliate link).

I take a deeper dive in my latest video.

Looking back at the hardware after nearly four years of daily use, the durability is notable. While there is some minor cosmetic wear—specifically some color rubbing off on the sides and the accumulation of oil on the keyboard—the metal chassis has held up against standard knocks and bumps. The display has maintained its brightness without flickering, and the keyboard, a departure from Apple’s lousy scissor-switch mechanism, remains fully functional with no stuck keys. Weighing in at roughly 2.7 pounds, the device is balanced enough to be handled with one hand, a feature that aids its portability.

From a port standpoint, the inclusion of the MagSafe charging connector was a practical decision. It frees up the two Thunderbolt ports for peripherals and prevents the laptop from being pulled off a surface if the cable is snagged. While the computer side of the magsafe cable is proprietary, the other end is standard USB-C. The Thunderbolt ports will still charge the laptop if using a desktop docking station.

The primary limitation regarding connectivity remains the inability to natively drive two external displays, a feature reserved for the “Pro” tier devices. However, for a single-monitor setup, the clamshell mode functions effectively as a desktop replacement.

When I originally purchased this unit, I opted for the 16GB RAM configuration rather than the base 8GB, a decision that appears to have contributed significantly to the machine’s longevity. Interestingly, a comparable configuration today—equipped with the newer M4 chip—actually costs approximately $400 less than what this M2 model cost in 2022. While the new chips offer performance gains, the 10-core GPU in this older model still handles demanding tasks competently.

Battery performance has been perhaps the most consistent aspect of the ownership experience. Across extensive travel and full days of conferences, I have yet to encounter a low-battery notification during standard operational hours. Even after approximately three and a half years and 364 charge cycles, the battery has retained about 89% of its original health. This endurance persists even when the machine is subjected to heavier workloads that typically drain portable devices quickly.

Regarding those workloads, the machine handles 4K video editing at 60 frames per second without significant friction. Using Final Cut Pro, scrubbing through footage and rendering effects happens almost instantaneously. It is a level of responsiveness often absent in lower-end Windows laptops running similar software like DaVinci Resolve. While I did not purchase this machine specifically for video production, it has proven capable of serving as a mobile editing station when I need to travel light.

The architecture also supports robust virtualization. Using UTM, I have been able to run the ARM version of Windows 11 alongside Ubuntu Linux, and even emulate older environments like Mac OS 9 and Windows 95 simultaneously. The performance is stable enough to browse the web within the virtualized Windows environment or run office applications in Linux without noticeable slowdowns.

Gaming on Apple Silicon has also evolved. With titles ported to the native architecture, performance on a fanless laptop is surprisingly viable. Running Cyberpunk 2077 on low settings yields a steady 30 frames per second. While it doesn’t reach the high frame rates of a dedicated gaming rig, it offers a playable experience for casual sessions. The lack of active cooling means the system might throttle under sustained load, but I have not observed significant performance drops during use.

Finally, the device shows promise with local AI workloads. In the video I demoed the Locally app that connects to open-source models like Gemma. My aging laptop, which released a few months before the commercial introduction of ChatGPT, processes queries with reasonable speed. While newer chips are optimized further for these tasks, the unified memory architecture allows this older model to handle basic language models and light automation without excessive memory or processing penalties.

Given its sustained performance across varied tasks—from virtualization to media creation—I see no urgency to upgrade to the M4 generation. The M2 MacBook Air continues to function as a reliable, well-constructed tool that meets daily professional demands. For those who can find this model on the secondary market or on sale, it represents a hardware investment that still offers substantial utility years after its initial release.

GMKTec K15 Mini PC Review

I recently received the new GMKTec K15, marking my first mini PC review of 2026. If I had to characterize this device with a single analogy, I would describe it as the Toyota Camry of its category: It is neither a stripped-down budget device nor a high-end powerhouse; rather, it occupies a functional middle ground. You can find it on Amazon here (compensated affiliate link).

See it in action in my latest review!

The system is built around the Intel Core Ultra 125U processor from the Meteor Lake family. This chip features a 12-core architecture—comprising two performance cores, eight efficiency cores, and two low-power efficiency cores—delivering a total of 14 threads. My unit arrived equipped with 32 GB of DDR5-4800 RAM and a 1 TB NVMe SSD. While the current price sits higher than it otherwise would due to the volatility of memory prices, if things do let up it should sell for less than its current price.

Despite the cost, the expandability is notable; the system supports up to 96 GB of RAM and features three NVMe slots, which is generous for a device of this footprint.

Connectivity is a strong suit for the K15. The front panel includes a 10Gbps USB-C port and three USB-A ports. The rear I/O offers 40 gigabit USB 4 port, which is Thunderbolt compatible, dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, and an Oculink port. The Oculink addition is particularly useful for those interested in external GPUs, as it connects directly to the PCIe bus, offering superior bandwidth compared to USB 4. During my tests, the Wi-Fi 6 chipset performed well, maintaining speeds close to gigabit levels, and the variety of ports suggests this unit could easily be repurposed as a home server.

In terms of daily performance, the K15 handles standard desktop workloads efficiently. Web navigation is snappy, and 4K video streaming presented no issues aside from the expected minor frame drops upon initial loading. Content creation capabilities, however, have a clear ceiling. When editing 4K video in DaVinci Resolve, simple cuts and transitions were smooth, but the system bogged down significantly when attempting complex color grading or heavy effects. It is serviceable for basic edits, but anything more demanding would necessitate an external graphics solution.

Gaming performance aligns with the limitations of the integrated graphics and the reduced GPU performance on this 125U processor vs. the higher end 125H. Testing Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p with the lowest settings resulted in frame rates hovering between 25 and 30 frames per second. It’s certainly playable, but lagging behind some of the more higher end mini PCs. While it struggles with modern, graphically intensive titles, it is perfectly adequate for older games or emulation. Thermals were well-managed throughout these stress tests; the CPU temperature stayed around 43°C, and the fan noise was minimal, likely due to a larger fan design that moves air efficiently at lower RPMs.

The device arguably shines brightest when running Linux. My experience with the OS was seamless, with all hardware—including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—detected immediately. The system felt more responsive on Linux than on Windows, which has become increasingly bloated. Between the stable performance, the quiet operation, and the extensive storage options, the K15 stands out as a sensible, if modest, choice for a reliable workstation.

Disclosure: GMKTec sent the K15 to the channel free of charge but no other compensation was received. They did not review or approve my review prior to publication and all opinions are my own.

This Was the Best Selling Game Console of 1976

To commemorate my upcoming 50th birthday, I acquired a piece of technology that shares my birth year: the Coleco Telstar, a video game console released in 1976. It’s the subject of my latest retro video!

I purchased this device for a local historical society project celebrating the United States’ 250th year, intended to demonstrate to younger generations what home entertainment looked like when the country turned 200. The unit, a Pong clone, was manufactured by the Coleco, formerly known as the Connecticut Leather Company making this quite relevant for a local Connecticut historical society!

This specific model, the 6040, was the first edition released by Coleco. Its market success was largely due to its price point; while competitors like the Magnavox Odyssey and Atari’s Pong console retailed for approximately $100, the Telstar launched at just $50. Adjusted for inflation, that $50 price tag is roughly $290 today. This aggressive pricing strategy helped the company sell over a million units, a figure surpassed only by a Nintendo Pong clone sold exclusively in the Japanese market.

Internally, the device is distinct from modern consoles as it lacks a central processing unit. Instead, it operates using a specific chip, the AY-3-8500, which has the game logic hardcoded directly into its circuitry. Because the software is fixed on the chip, the system is not programmable. It generates sound through a built-in speaker rather than the television set and connects to displays via an analog RF connector, originally designed to work with a switch box on the VHF band’s channel 3. While a power connector was available as an add-on, the device was primarily intended to run on six C batteries.

The gameplay experience is controlled by knobs that move paddles on the screen, with a difficulty slider available to adjust the game mechanics. The console features three variations: a standard tennis-style Pong game, a single-player handball mode, and a hockey game where players control both a goalie and a forward. Upon testing this specific unit, I noted several functional issues consistent with its age, including a stuck game selector switch and a malfunctioning difficulty slider that fails to resize the paddles correctly on the “pro” setting.

This device represents the entry of Coleco into the video game market, a venture that eventually led to the release of the legendary ColecoVision console and the less successful ADAM personal computer. The Telstar remained on the market for approximately two years before the company shifted focus to handheld games and programmable consoles. It serves as a historical marker for home gaming in 1976, predating the significant technological leap that occurred just a decade later with the introduction of titles like The Legend of Zelda.