The HP DeskJet and OfficeJet printers both belong to the inkjet printer family. However, while the former is geared toward home use, the latter is designed to cater to the demands of a small business or home office. This difference in their intended audience significantly influences their feature sets and which line of printers is right for you.

In this article, we’ll review what makes each type of HP printer unique and whether you should invest in a home-grade printer or one designed for business needs.

HP DeskJet

HP DeskJets are all-in-one inkjet printers built with home users in mind. They are compact, affordable, and simple to use. They are perfect for occasional printing tasks, including text documents, homework assignments, and photo printing.

DeskJet printers use two ink cartridges, one for black ink and the other for color. They deliver decent print quality with a resolution of up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, depending on the model.

Note: There are some exceptions to the two-cartridge setup most DeskJets use. For example, the DeskJet 3520 used a four-cartridge system, so be sure to confirm the system your specific DeskJet uses before buying,

The print speed is relatively slow, with most models producing about ten pages per minute (ppm) in black-and-white and seven ppm in color. Home users generally are fine with this print speed, and if you need large amounts of black-and-white printing at home at reasonable speeds, you’re better off going for a laser printer instead.

The DeskJet series is known for its various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi Direct. The HP Smart app allows for easy mobile printing from smartphones or tablets. Some models even offer borderless photo printing, an excellent feature for photo enthusiasts. We spend so much time taking awesome photos with modern smartphone cameras that it makes sense to show some off as physical prints!

Tip: If you’re specifically looking for a photo printing solution for smartphone photos, consider something like the HP Sprocket, which turns your smartphone into the equivalent of a Polaroid camera.

While most HP DeskJets might not come with a touchscreen, the included software and the intuitive button layout make their operation straightforward. These printers typically don’t have an automatic document feeder or double-sided printing, features more common in office-oriented models.

DeskJet printers come with a warranty geared to home use and vary depending on the model and where you purchase them. You can find a range of HP DeskJet printers on Amazon and most similar retailers, offering different features. While DeskJets are meant for home users, there’s a significant difference between models, so business customers should pay attention to DeskJets in principle, especially if you’re looking for a personal, single-user inkjet for work.

HP OfficeJet Pro

OfficeJet Pro printers are more robust and feature-packed compared to their DeskJet counterparts. In some models, these all-in-one printers are multifunction printers capable of copying, scanning, and even faxing (remember that?). The HP OfficeJet Pro series is particularly popular among small businesses.

One of the distinguishing features of the OfficeJet printer series is its print speed. Some models can reach speeds of up to 20 ppm for black-and-white documents and 11 ppm for color documents. They also typically offer higher print quality with a resolution of up to 4800 x 2400 dpi.

OfficeJets use separate ink cartridges for each color, which can save cost as you only need to replace the color that has run out.

Note: As with DeskJet printers, there are exceptions regarding the ink cartridge setup. While OfficeJet printers tend to use separate ink cartridges, there are models, such as the OfficeJet 3830, which use a tricolor tank and a black ink tank.

Another cost-saving feature is the HP Instant Ink service, which automatically delivers ink cartridges when your printer is low on ink.

OfficeJets also boast (generally) superior connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and even NFC in some models. Like the DeskJet series, they support mobile printing through the HP Smart app and have Wi-Fi Direct capabilities.

Other professional features in OfficeJet include an automatic document feeder for multi-page scanning or copying, duplex printing, and a larger paper tray capacity. Higher-end models come with a touchscreen for more straightforward navigation. They also offer more robust warranty options to match their business-oriented use.

HP Enterprise – Big Business!

The HP OfficeJet Enterprise series targeted larger businesses with higher printing volumes. These printers were designed to meet the demands of a busy office environment, offering faster print speeds, larger paper tray capacities, and more robust construction than typical home models.

While the OfficeJet Enterprise printer line seems to be discontinued as of this writing, you can still buy them refurbished or as new, in cases where new stock is still available.

A notable feature of the OfficeJet Enterprise series is its exceptionally high print speed, with some models reaching up to 75 pages per minute.

They also offer high-resolution printing at up to 2400 x 1200 dpi for color prints, ensuring crisp and vibrant outputs. Additionally, these printers support high-capacity ink cartridges, helping businesses manage their printing costs more effectively.

Designed for large-scale, multifunction use, these printers also support advanced features like automatic duplex printing and scanning, touchscreen controls, and network connectivity options. Thus, the OfficeJet Enterprise series provides a reliable, high-performance printing solution for businesses with demanding printing needs.

The OfficeJet Enterprise printers were replaced by the HP PageWide Enterprise inkjet printers, but these have also been discontinued.It seems that HP’s Enterprise line is now almost entirely focused on color and mono laser printers, in the form of LaserJet Enterprise products.

Don’t Forget About OfficeJet Mobile

The OfficeJet Mobile series from HP caters specifically to those needing printing solutions on the go. These printers, designed with mobility in mind, are compact and lightweight. Despite their diminutive stature, they maintain many essential OfficeJet series features, including versatile connectivity and reliable print quality.

Much like their full-sized counterparts, the mobile variants provide up to 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution for color prints. Their print speed is competitive, with up to 10 ppm for monochrome prints and seven ppm for color. They employ two cartridges, one black, and one tri-color. Users can also enrol in HP’s Instant Ink service for convenient cartridge replacement. However, these printers have a smaller paper tray capacity and usually lack the automatic duplex printing feature due to size constraints.

The OfficeJet Mobile series is an interesting adaptation of the traditional OfficeJet line, focusing on portability. In some ways, OfficeJet mobile printers are like portable DeskJet printers when you compare their specs and features.

What About the HP Envy Range?

The HP Envy printer range offers a unique aesthetic design and functionality blend. These all-in-one color inkjet printers deliver high-quality prints, scans, and copies, ideal for various tasks at home. The Envy printers yield crisp, vibrant results with print resolutions similar to the DeskJet and OfficeJet series at 4800 x 1200 dpi for color prints. However, their print speed is typically slower, with around ten ppm for black and seven ppm for color prints.

The Envy series also has integration with the HP Smart app. This lets users control their printer directly from their smartphone, offering mobile printing capabilities and convenient printer management. Envy printers also provide robust networking, including Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi Direct. Some also support HP Instant Ink service for convenient ink management.

Despite their functionality, Envy printers are not designed for high-volume printing. They are more suited for moderate home use, as their paper tray capacity and durability may not withstand heavy-duty printing tasks. If you were considering one of the HP DeskJet models, you should also include the Envy range since there is considerable overlap in their intended audiences.

DeskJet vs. OfficeJet: Which Is Right for You?

The choice between a DeskJet and an OfficeJet printer largely depends on your printing volume and the types of documents you need to print.

If you need a printer for occasional use at home, the DeskJet series offers a good blend of affordability and functionality. It handles everyday printing tasks effectively while maintaining a compact footprint. Its competitors in the home use category include printers such as Canon Pixma and Epson. If a DeskJet sounds right for you, make sure to also look at the Envy range.

On the other hand, if you have a home office or run a small business, the OfficeJet series could be a more appropriate choice. It’s designed for higher volume printing and includes more advanced features, such as duplex printing, faster print speeds, and robust connectivity options. Its main competitors in this category include the HP Laserjet series, which are monochrome and color laser printers, and other brands like Canon and Epson.

Laser printing, especially in color, has come a long way in the last few years, and for any business we’d recommend looking at these printers first, unless you absolutely need a high-volume photo printer as well.

Laser printers use toner cartridges instead of ink, offering faster print speeds and better text quality. However, they can be more expensive initially and are usually bulkier than their inkjet counterparts. In terms of per-page printing cost, however, laserjet printers quickly pay for themselves.

The Open Box Deal

“Open box” refers to items returned by customers that are then sold at discounted prices through Amazon Warehouse.

But why are they returned? The reasons can range from a customer changing their mind to a product with minor cosmetic damage from the factory.

However, before these items are resold, Amazon thoroughly inspects their condition, checking for signs of wear and verifying they’re in perfect working condition. If an item passes this inspection and its original product packaging is intact, it’s classified as an “open box” item. In other words, the box may be open, but that’s almost all that happened.

Categories of Open Box Items: “Used – Like New” and “Very Good”

Amazon categorizes the product condition of its best open-box items as “used – like new” or “very good.” Products labeled “used – like new” have either been opened but not used or used lightly with no signs of wear. These items typically come with their original packaging and accessories and are, as the label implies, just like new.

On the other hand, “very good” items may show some signs of use. They could have minor damage, such as cosmetic blemishes or dents, missing non-essential accessories, or the instruction manual. However, these products are still verified to be in good working condition.

The specific condition of an open-box product can be found in the product description on the item’s listing page. This detailed description can help you understand the exact condition of the article, why it was returned, and what you’ll get in the box when the delivery person rings your doorbell.

Understanding the Rest of Amazon’s Grading System

Amazon has a reasonably comprehensive grading system to help you make an informed decision when purchasing open-box items. In addition to “used – like new” and “very good,” you may also come across other terms such as “used – good” and “used–acceptable.”

The “used–good” category includes items with more noticeable signs of wear and tear, but they still work perfectly. So if aesthetics aren’t that important to you, this could mean a great bargain.

Meanwhile, “used–acceptable” is the lowest grade Amazon provides, indicating that the item has been well-used and may have significant cosmetic damage but remains operational. Before buying a product at this grade, you’d have to think hard about how much the discount you’re getting means to you.

How “Open Box” Differs from “Refurbished”

While open box and refurbished items provide an opportunity to save money, they aren’t the same. Refurbished products, often marked as “refurb” or “renewed,” are items returned to the manufacturer or a third-party seller due to a defect or damage. Sometimes these items are traded in. For example, Apple refurbishes the devices you trade with new ones.

Either way, they are repaired, tested for functionality, and repackaged for sale. Refurbished items are guaranteed to be in good working condition despite possibly undergoing more significant use or damage. They often come with a limited warranty, although the duration and coverage may vary compared to a new product’s warranty.

Unlike “open box” items, refurbished products are expected to function like new products, despite any cosmetic imperfections. This restoration to near-original conditions justifies the higher price point for refurbished items compared to open-box items of the same model.

Notably, components like lithium batteries are often replaced with new ones and other “consumable” parts. It is worth looking into the specific refurbishment process for the item you’re considering, but it may have substantial advantages over some open-box items that have been moderately used.

Amazon’s Return Policy for Open Box Items

Amazon’s return policy applies to open-box items like new or refurbished ones. If an open box item does not meet your satisfaction—perhaps your laptop from the Amazon Warehouse has more dents than expected, or your smartphone doesn’t look as “like new” as described—you can return it under the standard return policy. To begin a return, head to your Amazon account’s Your Orders page. Amazon’s return process is generally hassle-free, which lowers the risk of trying open-box items.

The Manufacturer’s Warranty for Open Box Items

While Amazon’s return policy covers open-box items, the same may not be true for the manufacturer’s warranty. A manufacturer’s warranty is often linked to the original purchase and may not be transferable. Therefore, the warranty may be void for open-box items. If the manufacturer’s warranty is critical for your purchase, it’s worth considering this before proceeding with an open-box item.

Open Box Items Across Different Platforms

Amazon isn’t the only retailer offering open-box deals. You can find similar offerings from Best Buy, Walmart, and eBay. Best Buy, for instance, uses labels like “Open-Box Excellent” and “Open-Box Satisfactory” to give customers an idea of the item’s condition. Understanding these ratings across different platforms can help you make an informed choice when shopping for open-box items.

It’s essential to actually read what each rating means for each platform. Just because two marketplaces use similar wording to describe the condition of an open box item doesn’t mean that they use the same standards to label them.

The Assurance of Quality

Quality assurance for open-box items on Amazon is a meticulous process. Amazon sellers, especially those under the Amazon Warehouse Deals program, adhere to a strict grading system before listing items for sale. This rigorous quality control process ensures that the open-box items meet Amazon’s standards. If an item doesn’t pass these checks, it isn’t sold as an open-box item.

That said, plenty of products that don’t meet the on-paper standards make it through the program. Ultimately, human beings do the grading, and no matter how clear the criteria are, some measure of subjectivity is always involved. So what you’d consider a minor aesthetic defect might be a dealbreaker for someone else.

The Variety of Open Box Items

The array of open-box items available on Amazon is diverse. From smartphones like Apple iPhones to Amazon’s own Kindle devices, from laptops to vacuums, the open box category spans a vast range of products.

As long as it’s durable (i.e., not consumable), it’s eligible to be sold as an open-box item, at least in principle.

The Best Types of Open Box Items

While you can find a wide range of products listed as open-box items, certain categories tend to be more prevalent or make more sense as open-box purchases. Electronics, particularly laptops and smartphones from brands like Apple, often top the list of open-box offerings.

These high-demand, high-cost products are often returned due to minor defects or buyer’s remorse, making them prime candidates for open-box deals. This can help you save hundreds of dollars on items that are no worse for wear than when the shrinkwrap first came off.

Similarly, household appliances such as vacuums are commonly found as open box deals. Customers might return these items because of packaging damage, after deciding on a different model, or after realizing the product doesn’t fit their home. However, these types of products usually remain in perfect working condition.

Amazon’s products, like the Kindle, are frequently available too. Given Amazon’s direct control over these items, it can ensure these open-box items meet high-quality standards. It also makes it easy for them to replace any missing accessories.

The Savvy Shopping Approach

When shopping for open-box items, comparison is vital. Don’t be in a hurry to save money, but take your time. For instance, a “used – like new” vacuum cleaner might seem like a bargain on Amazon, but you might find the same item brand new at Walmart for just a few dollars more.

Always check the UPC (Universal Product Code) to ensure you’re comparing the same model across different platforms. Sometimes the open box deal might be an older model, which isn’t necessarily bad, but improvements or bug fixes might make it worth paying a little more.

Ensuring a Smooth Open-Box Purchase Experience

After purchasing an open-box item, inspecting it immediately upon arrival is vital. Verify if the product matches the description on the listing page, and check for any missing accessories.

Amazon sells many open-box items directly via Amazon Warehouse, but some are offered by third-party sellers. This means they may have slightly different standards and policies. A seller with high ratings and positive reviews is more likely to accurately describe the open box item and respond promptly to any issues. For this reason, you should carefully consider the ratings and reviews of a particular third-party seller before choosing an open-box offering from them.

The Bottom Line

The open box category on Amazon offers savvy shoppers the opportunity to snag items in like-new or very good condition for a fraction of the original cost. While these items may have minor blemishes or be missing certain accessories, they’re confirmed to be in good working condition.

Even though open-box shopping might carry more risk than buying new, the benefits could outweigh the drawbacks if you don’t mind a minor imperfection or a missing manual. To reduce waste and provide cost-effective shopping solutions, the open box initiative offers excellent value and benefits for price- or environmentally-conscious consumers.

The Basics of SIM and SD Cards

A SIM card or Subscriber Identity Module is a microchip that securely stores your mobile phone number and cellular network subscription data.

It lets mobile phones make phone calls, send text messages (SMS), and use data services on a GSM cellular network. Mobile phones have a dedicated SIM card slot, and the card’s size can range from a full-size SIM to a nano SIM card.

An SD card, short for Secure Digital card, is a flash memory card used as additional storage for digital data. SD cards can range from standard SD to microSD or (rarely used) miniSD. They’re found in various electronic devices, including Android smartphones, digital cameras, and game consoles like the Nintendo 3DS and Switch.

The main difference between a SIM card and an SD card lies in its functions. A SIM card gives your device its identity, enabling it to make phone calls and send text messages. In contrast, an SD card is essentially a portable drive that can be inserted into various electronic devices to store data.

While some devices have separate slots for each card type, others, particularly smartphones, can use a combined slot. For example, some Samsung Galaxy models often have a hybrid slot where you can place two SIM cards (dual SIM functionality) or one SIM card and one microSD card for additional storage. However, this does not mean that SIM or SD cards have anything in common since these hybrid slots simply use clever engineering design to integrate both discrete standards.

Now that we have a good overview of SD and SIM cards, let’s have a closer look at each in turn.

SIM Cards: The Key to Mobile Connectivity

A SIM card is like your mobile phone’s passport. It identifies you to the mobile network, allowing you to place phone calls, send SMS or use apps like WhatsApp that require a mobile phone number. The tiny chip contains an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number and keys for encrypting voice and data traffic.

The SIM card has no storage capacity for photos, videos, or apps. However, it does store specific information like your phone number, SMS, and contacts, depending on the phone’s settings and mobile network.

SIM cards come in four sizes — full-size, Mini SIM, micro SIM cards, and nano SIM cards.

Now, there’s a good chance the “full-size” SIM you’re thinking of is the wrong one! These credit card-sized SIMs aren’t in use anymore, and the largest SIM card size you’ll still see is the Mini SIM, but even that is getting rare. It’s typical to get a 3-in-1 SIM package. these days with the mini, micro, and nano SIM sizes built into one card. You simply break out the size your device needs. The nano SIM has virtually no plastic material around the metal contacts, thanks to how much microchip technology has advanced.

Thanks to these modern nano sims, it’s possible to have compact dual-sim phone. This means you can have two different phone numbers or mobile network subscriptions on the same device; a handy feature for frequent travelers or those juggling work and personal numbers.

SD Card: Your Mobile Data Warehouse

An SD card’s primary function is data storage. It acts as an extension of your device’s internal storage, providing additional storage capacity for your files. You can use it to store data like photos, videos, apps, and other content on your Android phone or other devices that use SD card technology such as cameras.

Unlike a SIM card, an SD card doesn’t provide network functionalities or store your mobile phone number. Its only goal is to offer extra storage space. That’s why when you get a new phone, all your apps and media files can be transferred seamlessly if you’ve stored them on your SD card.

SD cards come in various storage sizes, from a few gigabytes to a whopping 1TB or more. Leading brands like SanDisk offer a range of SD cards readily available online from retailers like Amazon.

SD cards also come in different formats. Full-size SD cards are typically used in digital cameras and laptops, while microSD cards are more common in smaller gadgets like mobile phones. Devices without an SD card slot can still access SD card data using a USB card reader, assuming they have the requisite USB port.

SIM and SD Card Support in Android and iOS Phones

For Android phones, both SIM and microSD cards are frequently used together. This means you don’t have to worry too much about buying the biggest capacity Android phone you can afford, since you can always expand your storage.

On the other hand, SD cards are not nearly as reliable as your phone’s internal storage, and spontaneous SD card failure happens when you can least afford it. So always make backups!

Apple iPhones differ slightly. iPhones also use a SIM card for network capabilities. But instead of using a microSD card for additional storage, they rely solely on internal storage. This design choice is why you must carefully choose the storage capacity when purchasing an iPhone. On the upside, you will have much higher reliability and speed than an SD card, although Apple charges a significant premium for larger storage sizes.

From Mobile Phones to Other Devices

While SIM cards are mainly associated with mobile phones, SD cards have a broader range of applications. For example, digital cameras typically store high-resolution photos and videos with full-size SD cards. Game consoles like the Nintendo Switch use microSD cards to expand storage for games and saved data.

Moreover, some electronic devices use SD cards for operational purposes. A case in point is the Raspberry Pi, a mini-computer popular among DIY enthusiasts and educators, which uses an SD card to store the operating system and program files.

You will of course find SIM cards in devices that are not mobile phones. This includes USB cellular modems, laptops with built-in cellular functionality, iPads with cellular access, and even the Sony Vita had a cellular model.

eSims: The End of SIM Cards?

SIM cards have gone from credit card sized to the tiny nano size, and might now become essentially invisible. We’re seeing the transition from physical SIM cards to the latest technological innovation – the eSIM or embedded SIM.

So, what exactly is an eSIM? It’s a small, non-removable chip embedded directly into your device. The eSIM does everything a regular SIM does, storing your subscriber profile and allowing your device to connect to a cellular network. However, the eSIM eliminates the need for a physical card and, consequently, a SIM card slot.

The primary advantage of eSIM technology is its convenience. With an eSIM, you can switch between carriers or data plans without needing a new SIM card. This means no more fiddling with tiny cards or hunting for a paperclip to open the SIM card slot. Instead, you can manage your mobile subscription directly from your device settings.

Leading tech companies are embracing eSIM technology. Apple, for example, has incorporated eSIMs into its newer iPhone models, iPad Pro, and Apple Watch. Google’s Pixel phones also feature eSIM technology, and Samsung’s latest Galaxy models provide both a physical SIM slot and an eSIM for added versatility.

It’s worth noting that while eSIM technology offers many advantages, it also has a few drawbacks. For one, not all carriers support eSIMs, and the availability of eSIM functionality can vary by region and device model. Also, the permanence of eSIMs could be a disadvantage in specific scenarios. For instance, removing a physical SIM card is easier than ensuring the eSIM has been properly erased and deactivated if you’re selling your phone.

The Future of SD Cards

As we’ve seen with SIM cards and the emergence of eSIMs, the world of SD cards is also on the brink of exciting new developments. Technology continually pushes the boundaries, expands storage capacities, and creates alternatives that could reshape how we approach data storage.

The biggest SD card you can buy is a whopping 1TB, offering a vast reservoir of storage that could easily accommodate high-resolution photos, 4K videos, extensive game files, and much more. Imagine carrying an entire library of multimedia content in a chip smaller than a postage stamp. That’s the reality we’re living in today, thanks to microSD cards.

But even as we gawk at existing 1TB cards, the horizon of innovation is extending further. We’ve already seen the announcement of a 1.5TB SD card. And a 2TB prototype microSD card has already been showcased in an even more remarkable demonstration of potential. There’s also a new official SD card standard known as SDUC (SD Ultra Capacity) which promises cards up to 128GB in size. There have been no examples of this that we could find, but it does paint the roadmap for SD technology over the coming years.

Beyond SD Cards

While SD cards are evolving, so are the technologies that might someday replace them. For instance, cloud storage has surged in popularity in recent years. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Apple’s iCloud offer ample storage space that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. The advantage? You don’t have to worry about losing or damaging physical storage cards, and you can easily share your files with others.

However, cloud storage has drawbacks and only partially negates SD card needs. Issues like data privacy, a steady internet connection requirement, and ongoing subscription costs can make SD cards a more practical option for many people.

Additionally, the rise of internal device storage is another factor to consider. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops offer ever-increasing built-in storage capacities, reducing the need for expandable storage via SD cards. SSD (Solid State Drive) technology keeps bringing down the per-GB price of internal storage, and phone storage is becoming so large that most people won’t need SD card storage. This leaves the removable, portable, and swappable nature of SD technology as its main advantage.

However, if you need help with the signup process, don’t worry! In this article, we’ll explore some common problems users face and provide several fixes to get you up and running quickly when you see “signup is currently unavailable” or another problem that prevents you from using or reaching the ChatGPT login page.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Before troubleshooting any technical issues, ensuring your internet connection is stable is critical. A weak or intermittent connection can lead to errors during the signup process.

Start by examining your physical setup. Ensure that all cables connecting your modem and router are securely plugged in. A loose or faulty connection can cause intermittent dropouts or weak signals, messing with your ability to access the internet reliably. Also, take a moment to ensure that the Wi-Fi router is adequately powered on and functioning. Refer to its manual to know what the indicator lights should look like when everything is normal.

If you’re connected to the internet via Wi-Fi, evaluate the signal strength and proximity to the router. The farther away you are from the router, the weaker the signal may become, potentially leading to connectivity issues. Likewise, some objects or metal pipes in the walls of older buildings can blog radio signals. Try moving closer to the router, or consider using a Wi-Fi network extender to strengthen the signal throughout your home or workspace.

Next, perform a quick reboot of your modem and router. Power them off, wait for a few seconds, and then power them back on. Restarting your networking equipment can resolve temporary glitches and refresh the connection between your device and the internet service provider.

If you still suspect that your overall connection might be the problem, check out our guide on troubleshooting internet connectivity issues.

2. Clear Your Browser Cache To Fix ChatGPT Sign-Up

Clearing your browser cache is a quick and easy way to resolve many web-based problems. Although we’ll focus on Google Chrome, the general concept applies to most browsers.

1. Open Google Chrome. In the top-right corner of the window, you’ll spot three dots. Select them, and a menu will appear.
2. Select Settings. Once you’ve done that, a fresh tab will appear, revealing the Chrome Settings page. This is the main control panel for your browsing experience.

3. Choose Privacy and Security in the left-hand sidebar. Select it to reveal a whole list of privacy and security options.

4. Select Clear browsing data and a new tab will appear, offering various data-clearing options.

5. Make sure you have the Cached images and files option selected. If you’re a little more ambitious, you can clear other browsing data like cookies or browsing history. It’s up to you how thorough you want to be, but clearing your cookies will mean logging out of every website; in this case, you’ll have to log in again manually with your login credentials.

6. Once you’ve selected it, click the Clear data button and watch as the digital cobwebs are swept away, leaving you with a fresh and tidy browser cache.

Remember, these steps may differ slightly depending on your browser, but the general concept remains the same.

3. Try a Different Browser

If clearing your browser cache doesn’t work, it’s worth trying a different browser altogether. Browsers can have unique quirks that may interfere with the signup process. Popular alternatives like Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge are excellent options to consider.

4. Use Incognito Mode

When troubleshooting login issues, using incognito mode can help identify if the problem lies with your browser’s extensions or settings. Here’s how to open an incognito window in different browsers:

1. Google Chrome: Press Ctrl+Shift+N
2. Mozilla Firefox: Press Ctrl+Shift+P
3. Microsoft Edge: Press Ctrl+Shift+N
4. Apple Safari: Command + Shift + N

Once in incognito mode, attempt to sign up for ChatGPT again. If it works in incognito mode, disabling browser extensions or adjusting your regular browsing mode settings may solve the problem.

Just remember that incognito mode won’t hide your location, so you can’t use it to bypass any geographical restrictions preventing your signup.

5. Consider Peak Times

At peak times, the ChatGPT servers may experience high traffic, leading to server errors and temporary unavailability of the signup process. If you encounter such errors, please try again later when the server load is likely lower.

Peak times typically correspond to periods when many users actively engage with ChatGPT. These peaks can occur during specific hours, days of the week, or even in response to events or announcements that spark heightened interest in the service. During these spikes in usage, the servers may become strained, causing delays, timeouts, or server errors when attempting to sign up for ChatGPT.

If you can’t sign up and keep getting kicked out of an unresponsive page or even an error message, too many people are trying to get on ChatGPT simultaneously. You can always head over to their official OpenAI status page, where it will show you if the ChatGPT service is having outages or not.

Remember time zones, too; the servers you’re trying to access may be in a different time zone, shifting the peak times for you to hours that might seem unusual.

6. Contact Support

If you’ve exhausted the previous options and cannot sign up, it’s time to contact OpenAI’s support team. They have a dedicated support system to assist users facing technical issues. Visit the OpenAI website or contact their support team directly for further guidance.

Remember to document any error messages or issues you encounter along the way. Taking a screenshot can be particularly helpful when contacting support or seeking assistance online. By providing specific details, you enable others to assist you more effectively.

7. Try From a Different Device

If you’re attempting to sign up for ChatGPT using a specific device, such as a Windows PC or an iPhone, try switching to a different device. Sometimes, compatibility issues can arise due to device-specific configurations. Signing up from another device or operating system might bypass these obstacles.

At the time of writing, there’s an official ChatGPT iPhone app (with Android still coming), which you can also use to sign up. Just choose the “Sign up with email” option to create an OpenAI account. This could be a workaround if the website itself has an issue unrelated to any back-end signup processes.

8. Consider a VPN

Regional restrictions or network configurations may sometimes interfere with the signup process. A virtual private network (VPN) can help bypass these restrictions by routing your internet traffic through a different location. Select a reliable VPN service, connect to a different server location, and then attempt to sign up for ChatGPT.

Just remember you still need a valid phone number used for authentication to sign up, and if you want ChatGPT Plus, you’ll also need a valid payment method. If either of these is from a different region than you’ve set your VPN to, it may not work.

As of this writing, ChatGPT is banned in these countries: Afghanistan, Belarus, Burundi, Central African Republic, China, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Libya, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen.

More countries may follow suit, or some currently banning the AI tool may change their laws or policy decisions to unban it. Be warned that if you gain access to ChatGPT in a country where it’s legally banned, you could get into some serious trouble.

9. Explore ChatGPT Alternatives

If all else fails and you can still access ChatGPT, consider exploring alternative AI chatbot platforms. While ChatGPT is an impressive language model, other options are available, such as BARD, GPT-4, Bing AI, or AI-powered tools provided by companies like Amazon or Apple. These alternatives may offer similar functionalities and help you achieve your goals.

When ChatGPT keeps timing out, the user experience is significantly affected, making it harder to leverage this hot new AI tool. You’ve come to the right place if you’re facing this issue! This article will explain the common causes of these timeouts and suggest seven detailed fixes you can try.

Understanding the ChatGPT “Request Timed Out Error”

A ChatGPT network error, especially the dreaded “request timed out” error, usually indicates a disruption between the user and the ChatGPT server. These interruptions can occur for various reasons, including an unstable internet connection, a glitch in the ChatGPT plus service, an internal server error on OpenAI’s end, or even your device settings.

For instance, network congestion, a malfunctioning modem or router, or a VPN interfering with your connection might be the culprit. It could also be due to the AI’s server status: it may be down or undergoing maintenance. Alternatively, it could be a software issue – an error code generated due to lengthy responses, browser cache buildup, or browser extensions interfering with the service. The impact of these issues varies, but they can all affect your ability to access ChatGPT efficiently.

Now that you know what might be behind the problem, let’s look at how to fix ChatGPT network errors such as a timeout.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

When ChatGPT hits you with a timeout or network error, it’s easy to point the finger at the chatbot. However, the issue might be closer to home than you think. A shaky internet connection could be the culprit behind these errors. Even the most advanced AI chatbot is only as reliable as your connection. If you don’t have a stable internet connection, then ChatGPT can’t, well, chat with you.

First, ensure your device is actually connected to the internet. The fastest way is to try accessing any other website besides one from Open AI. If other sites also don’t load, there’s a good chance your connection has general issues.

If you’re using a Wi-Fi connection, ensure your router is turned on, and all the necessary lights are flashing or steady, indicating it’s working correctly. If not, try restarting the router. Unplug it from the power source, wait for about a minute, and then plug it back in.

If using a wired connection, ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected to your device and the modem. If you can still connect, try restarting your modem using the same steps as above.

It’s also worth checking whether other devices in your household can connect to the internet. If not, it’s probably some sort of issue with your internet service provider (ISP). Get in touch with them for further guidance since it’s out of your hands at this point.

2. Check if ChatGPT Is Down

Sometimes, no troubleshooting on your end will resolve a ChatGPT timeout error simply because the problem isn’t with your setup.

Instead, the ChatGPT server might be down or undergoing maintenance, resulting in the frustrating “request timed out” error or another network error on your end. In such cases, attempting to use the ChatGPT Plus service or any other feature could result in a similar error, indicating that the issue is with the ChatGPT system itself rather than your access.

So, how do you confirm if the server is down?

Start by visiting the official OpenAI status page; here you’ll see a nice time-sliced set of graphs detailing the uptime of their various services, including ChatGPT.

You should also check OpenAI’s official social media accounts and support pages, as they often provide updates when there are significant service issues.

If you don’t see any issue on the official page, several online services monitor the server status of popular platforms, such as DownDetector. By visiting these sites and searching for “ChatGPT” or “OpenAI,” you can see if there have been many reported issues recently. These services generally provide a live outage map showing where people have reported problems.

If you find out that the server is down, unfortunately, you cannot do much. You’ll have to wait for the OpenAI team to resolve the issue. While you wait, don’t fiddle with your setup since the problem isn’t on your end. Attempting to “fix” your connection could inadvertently cause other problems.

3. Turn Off Your VPN

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network can provide a more secure connection, protect your privacy, and even bypass geographic restrictions. However, a VPN can sometimes interfere with how you access online services like ChatGPT, causing unexpected timeout errors.

When your VPN is activated, internet traffic is routed through a secure server in a different region or country. This process can slow down your internet connection or introduce instability. More importantly, it changes your IP address, which can cause issues when trying to connect to specific servers.

Some online platforms might view VPN traffic as suspicious and block it as a safety measure. If ChatGPT cannot verify your connection because a VPN masks it, it might refuse the connection, resulting in an error.

Alternatively, the VPN server may introduce a delay, leading to a timeout error or another general network error. Either way, a quick test with your VPN disabled will clear up who’s at fault.

4. Let ChatGPT Give You Shorter Responses

When using ChatGPT, how you interact with the AI chatbot can significantly impact your user experience. In particular, asking for long, detailed responses may cause the system to time out, resulting in a network error. Here’s why this happens:

Every response generated by the AI passes through an API (Application Programming Interface). The API acts as a messenger that carries the request from the user to the ChatGPT server and brings the response back. However, the API has a limit on the size of the response it can handle. If the generated response is too long, it may exceed the API’s limit, causing it to fail and leading to a timeout error.

If your interactions with ChatGPT often result in timeouts, it might be worth altering your approach. Try to ask more concise questions or ones that require shorter responses. For example, instead of asking ChatGPT to explain a complex topic in-depth, break it down into smaller questions.

This strategy reduces the chance of encountering a timeout error and improves the responses’ quality. ChatGPT can provide more precise and insightful answers with smaller, focused queries. More importantly, this allows for a more natural and interactive conversation, enhancing the overall chat experience.

5. Log Out and Back Into Your ChatGPT Account

Sometimes, a simple log-out and log back in can fix the issue. Click on your profile, log out, then sign back in. This action refreshes your session and can sometimes clear up internal server errors.

6. Use Another Web Browser

Your web browser can impact your interaction with ChatGPT. For instance, browser cache buildup, faulty browser extensions, or an unsupported browser can cause network errors. Try switching to another browser like Google Chrome or clearing browsing data in your current one.

7. Use ChatGPT Later

During peak times, server load on ChatGPT can cause it to time out. If none of the above steps work, consider using the service when server load is likely lower.

If you consistently experience network errors during specific times of the day, it might be a sign of high server load. One potential solution is to use the service at off-peak hours. Just as a restaurant kitchen can handle orders more efficiently when it’s less busy, ChatGPT servers can process requests more effectively when there’s less demand.

Of course, figuring out when these off-peak times may take some experimentation. Consider adjusting your schedule slightly if you’re using the service for work or study. You might avoid network errors and get faster, more efficient responses from ChatGPT.

There’s no denying the frustration of timeouts when interacting with ChatGPT. But armed with this comprehensive guide, you should be able to tackle most network errors head-on. Remember, if all else fails, contact OpenAI support. Keep chatting, keep exploring, and don’t let a timeout error hold you back from mastering one of the most important technologies in history.

The Oculus Quest 2 is a phenomenal VR headset with amazing games and experiences. However, sometimes casting the headset’s display to a larger screen, like a Chromecast or a smart TV, can be tricky to get right. Let’s explore several fixes to common casting issues.

Note: In this article, we’re referring to the “Oculus” Quest since that’s the name most people know and still use with search engines. However, the company has changed its name to “Meta,” so the correct name for the headsets is now the Meta Quest and Meta Quest 2.

Understanding Your Router’s Role in Oculus Quest 2 Casting

Your Wi-Fi network is vital to cast to an external device. Your router facilitates communication between your Oculus Quest 2 headset, mobile device, and casting device. If you’re experiencing casting issues, ensure your Wi-Fi router functions correctly.

While we can’t offer a comprehensive router troubleshooting guide in this article, when it comes to optimizing things for use with Quest casting, there are a few basic tips to consider:

• Assess your router’s power and connectivity through LED indicators: Take a moment to examine your router’s LED indicators to confirm it’s powered on and connected to the internet.
• Keep your router’s firmware updated: Staying up-to-date with the latest firmware not only boosts your router’s performance but also addresses bugs and bolsters security. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or contact their support team to ensure your router runs the latest firmware version. Many modern routers have a companion app that lets you check for and install firmware updates from your phone.
• Compatibility is key: Double-check that your router, Oculus Quest 2 headset, and casting device are all playing nicely together. If your router uses an older Wi-Fi standard than the Quest, consider upgrading your router to one that supports the most recent Wi-Fi standards for a smoother casting experience.
• Give your router a quick power cycle: Unplug your router, count to 30, then plug it back in. This simple trick can reset your internet connection, resolving temporary hiccups and reestablishing a stable connection between your router and devices. If you’re using mesh Wi-Fi, check out our Mesh Wi-Fi troubleshooting guide.
• Router placement matters: Find a central spot in your home for your router, ensuring it’s free from obstructions and far from other electronics that might cause interference. This will provide your Oculus Quest headset and casting device with a strong Wi-Fi signal for a seamless casting experience.
• Use a wired connection: If possible, connect your target device to the network using wired Ethernet. This can improve the entire experience, including connection issues.

If you’re confident that your router isn’t the reason casting isn’t working correctly, it’s time to move on to other likely culprits.

1. Ensure That Your Headset Is Properly Configured for Casting

To cast from your Oculus Quest or Quest 2 headset, you need to have the Oculus app installed on your mobile device, and you must have paired your Quest with the app, according to Meta’s instructions. Assuming your headset is paired with the app, launch the app and make sure your headset is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your casting device.

2. Troubleshoot Any Bluetooth Connectivity Issues for a Seamless Cast

Bluetooth connectivity is crucial for the Quest 2’s casting feature. While the Quest uses Wi-Fi for the actual video data, Bluetooth is necessary to communicate with the mobile app, and that’s the easiest way to manage and troubleshoot casting issues.

If you’re using an Android or Apple iPhone, ensure your mobile device’s Bluetooth is also turned on. With some mobile devices turning mobile data off temporarily may improve Bluetooth connectivity.

3. Use This Step-by-Step Guide: How To Cast Oculus Quest 2 to Your Preferred Device

Casting your Oculus Quest 2 to a compatible device, such as a Chromecast or Samsung TV, is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure your casting device and headset are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Turn on your casting device, and switch to the HDMI input where it’s connected.
3. Open the game or VR app you want to Cast from. You can’t initiate casting from the home interface.
4. On your hand controller, press the Oculus button to open the menu.
5. Select the casting icon.

6. Choose your casting device from the list, and press Start Casting.

Your VR experience should now appear on your chosen device. If you encounter any issues like a black screen or glitches, try rebooting your headset or performing a factory reset as a last resort.

You can also initiate casting from the Meta Quest app. On the Explore page, you’ll see your Quest (if it’s on and paired) and a Cast button.

4. Update Your Oculus Quest 2 and Casting Device

Keeping your Oculus Quest 2 and casting device updated with the latest software is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and compatibility. Regular updates often include bug fixes, improved functionality, and enhanced security measures.

To update your Oculus Quest 2, follow these steps:

1. Put on your headset and ensure it’s connected to your Wi-Fi network.
2. Press the Oculus button on your right controller to access the menu bar.
3. Click on the Settings icon.

4. Select System.

5. Select Software Update.

6. If an update is available, install it.

For your casting device, such as a Chromecast, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for updating to the latest software version.

5. Verify Casting Device Compatibility

Not all casting devices are compatible with the Oculus Quest 2 headset. Ensure that your casting device, such as a smart TV or Chromecast, is compatible before casting. Oculus Quest 2 is compatible with Chromecast devices, including Chromecast Ultra and Chromecast with Google TV. For smart TVs, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for compatibility information.

6. Use Screen Mirroring (if Supported)

Some casting devices support screen mirroring, which allows your mobile device to project its screen onto a larger display. If your casting device supports this feature, try using screen mirroring as an alternative method for casting your Oculus Quest 2. Cast your Quest to your Meta Quest app while mirroring the device to your TV.

We tested this with a Quest 2, an iPhone 14 Pro, and an Apple TV 4K. To get it to work, we first mirrored the iPhone to the Apple TV, then initiated casting to the Quest app, rather than the TV.

You may run into stability or performance issues if you’re simultaneously casting to the mobile app and wirelessly mirroring the phone to a compatible TV or another device. Instead, consider using a USB to HDMI (or similar) adapter to mirror the mobile device to a large screen and then cast from the Quest to the mobile app.

7. Keep Your Oculus App Updated and Connected

The Oculus app on your mobile device is essential for managing your Oculus Quest 2 headset and casting to other devices. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version, as this can resolve compatibility issues and improve overall performance.

8. Restart Your Oculus Quest 2 Headset

Sometimes, restarting your Oculus Quest 2 headset can resolve casting issues. To restart your headset, follow these steps:

1. Press and hold the power button on the side of your headset for a few seconds.
2. A menu will appear; select Restart to reboot your device.

Enjoy Seamless Casting

Casting your Oculus Quest 2 to a larger screen can significantly enhance your virtual reality experience and allow you to share your adventures with others. By following the steps and troubleshooting tips outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the most common casting issues and enjoy a seamless connection between your headset and the casting device.

But don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll walk you through the top ways to fix this DNS error, so you can get back to gaming as soon as possible.

Please note that all screenshots in this guide are from an Xbox Series S, but the steps apply to both Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles, although the exact menu labels may differ.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

The first thing to do when troubleshooting this error is to check your internet and network connection. Ensure your Xbox console is correctly connected to your wireless network or wired connection.

If you’re using WiFi, check the wireless settings on your console to ensure they are correctly configured. If using a wired connection, ensure the cable is properly plugged in. Try loading a web browser on another device connected to the same network to see if the internet connection works correctly or if the problem is specific to your Xbox.

You can also use the built-in Xbox network connection test by going to Profile & System> Settings > General > Network settings > Test network connection.

2. Restart Your Modem and Router

If your internet connection seems to be operating as it should, the next suspect on the list might be your modem or router. These devices, though usually reliable, can occasionally trip up, causing network-related headaches such as the “DNS isn’t resolving Xbox server names” error.

Firstly, locate your modem and router. They could be two separate devices, or you might have a two-in-one unit. Once located, unplug the power cable from each device.

Once unplugged, give them a bit of a breather. A minute should do the trick. This allows any temporary data (such as IP assignments and routing tables) stored in the device’s memory to be wiped, making way for a fresh start when power is restored.

After the minute has passed, plug the devices back in. As they boot up, they’ll go through their startup procedure, establishing a fresh connection with your ISP and reassigning network information.

3. Fix DNS Settings

If restarting your modem and router doesn’t work, you should check your DNS settings. The Domain Name System (DNS) is like an internet phone book that translates domain names to IP addresses. If your Xbox isn’t able to resolve Xbox server names, it could be due to incorrect DNS settings.

Go to your Xbox console’s settings, then to General > Network > Advanced Settings, and then DNS settings. Choose manual settings and enter the DNS addresses.

Make sure your primary DNS address and secondary DNS address are correctly set. If you are unsure what to set them to, you can use Google DNS, which is reliable and free. The primary Google DNS address is 8.8.8.8, and the secondary is 8.8.4.4.

You can use other DNS servers besides Google DNS, such as Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220). There are numerous free DNS servers to choose from.

4. Change Your Router’s DNS Settings

If you manually set DNS settings on your Xbox and it does not work, you might need to change the DNS settings on your router. To do this, you need to access your router’s configuration page. Open a web browser on a device connected to the router (e.g., Windows, Mac, or Android) and type in your router IP address. This address is usually something like “192.168.1.1” or “192.168.0.1”, often labeled as the “default gateway number,” but you can find the exact address in your router manual.

Once on the configuration page, look for a DNS settings option. Like with the Xbox settings, you can set the primary DNS and secondary DNS to Google’s DNS if you’re unsure what to use.

Remember that changing the router’s DNS settings might affect other devices on the network, so you should proceed with caution and make a note of the original settings in case you need to revert them.

Note: Some modern routers also offer a mobile app you can use to change its settings instead of a web interface.

5. Update Your Router’s Channel Width

When it comes to a wireless connection, not all settings are created equal. While your router’s default settings might be optimal for general internet browsing or streaming videos, they might not fit your Xbox console’s needs best. This is particularly true when we talk about the WiFi channel width.

In the world of WiFi, “channel width” refers to the range of frequencies a WiFi network can use. The wider the channel, the more data it can transmit at once, which sounds great. Well, it’s not quite that simple. While a larger channel width can theoretically provide faster speeds, it can also be more susceptible to interference and congestion, particularly in crowded areas with lots of competing devices in that frequency band.

Xbox consoles can sometimes have issues with channel widths greater than 20MHz. So, how do you adjust your router’s channel width?

First, you’ll need to access your router’s settings as we described above under point number four. Once you’ve logged into your router’s configuration page, you’ll need to find the WiFi settings. This can usually be found under a menu named “Wireless” or something similar.

In the WiFi settings, look for an option named “Channel Width” or “Bandwidth.” You should see an option to change this to 20MHz. If it is currently set higher, adjust it down to 20MHz, then save the changes.

Note: Some newer routers may no longer have this option, especially if you’re using mesh routers, which are much more advanced and dynamically manage channel width and operating frequency.

6. Clear Your Xbox Caches

If you were having DNS issues on a Windows computer, you”d simply open the Command Prompt type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter. Unfortunately, an Xbox doesn’t have such a convenient way of shaking out problematic DNS data. Instead, we have to use somewhat crude workarounds to get a similar result.

Sometimes called a “hard reset,” power cycling your console can clear its caches. Turn off your console and unplug it. Leave it unplugged for at least a few minutes, then plug it back in. While it’s off, press and hold the power button a few times. When you power it back on, your cache should be clear, and your console’s performance should feel snappier​ to boot!

7. Restore Default Settings

You can try restoring your console to its default settings as a last resort. This should be done with caution as it will delete all data and settings. It will, however, restore any network settings that may be causing the Xbox server names error back to their default values. To do this, navigate to the System > Console Info > Reset console.

To confirm, select Reset and Remove Everything.

8. Contact Your ISP or Microsoft

If you’ve tried all of the above and you’re still getting the error, it might be time to call in the cavalry. Your ISP might be experiencing issues with their DNS server that they need to fix, or there could be a problem on Microsoft’s end with the Xbox servers. Either way, reaching out to your ISP or Microsoft could help you resolve the issue.

The “DNS isn’t resolving Xbox server names” error can be a pain for any gamer, but as we’ve seen, you can try several methods to fix it. With patience and troubleshooting, you should resolve the issue and get back to your Xbox game in no time!

We’ve spent an unhealthy amount of time on Amazon racking our brains about which machine offers the best laptop gaming experience for no more than $2000. After lots of coffee and dreams about GPUs, here’s what we found.

What to Look For in a $2000 Gaming Laptop

With a budget of up to $2000, you’re right in the price-to-performance sweet spot for gaming laptops. In this price bracket, you can access some of the fastest available laptop CPUs and GPUs, but you’ll still have to make some compromises in build quality or some features that aren’t directly related to performance.

Our criteria for laptops in this price range aren’t complicated. At the time of writing, NVIDIA has just released its first 40-series GPUs, so there is a bit of confusion about whether gamers should go for discounted last-generation laptops or these new shiny systems. We’ve included great laptops from both generations, although it’s usually better to go with newer systems when possible. However, the state of the computer market being what it is, you’re likely to have a hard time finding the latest laptops in stock, so we’ve gone for a mix of new and slightly older machines that might be easier to buy.

Our strategy at this price point is to select laptops with the best possible performance components while accepting small sacrifices in areas such as build quality, screen specifications, or other irrelevant gaming factors. Each laptop has a slightly different purpose, but that’s the main thrust of our filter. We want something that can handle demanding games and stay relevant for some time.

We’re not considering laptops under $1500, but we have a dedicated review roundup for the best gaming laptops under $1500 if that’s a price tag you find more agreeable. For the most affordable options, head to our best budget gaming laptop roundup. If you’re not looking for a laptop in particular and want to know about the budget options, we also have a roundup of the best gaming systems under $1000.

The Best Gaming Laptop Under $2000: ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023)

This is the latest ROG (Republic of Gamers) Strix G16 at the time of writing and comes in at exactly our upper budget limit. You can donate the 1c of change to a charity of your choice.

This is a high-performance machine that’s geared toward gamers and power users. It comes with Windows 11, a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop graphics card at 140W Max TGP, which delivers impressive frame rates for gaming and multitasking. This is about as good as it gets at this price point, and really you might be getting a taste of more expensive laptops here with this visual design.

With 16GB RAM (DDR5-4800MHz) and 1TB of PCIe 4×4 storage, this laptop is OK for modern games in terms of memory, but in the medium term, you’ll want to upgrade that to 32GB. Still, you’ll get fast loading times out of the box with that SSD. The advanced cooling solution, which includes Thermal Grizzly’s Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal on the CPU and a third intake fan, promises that the laptop can handle the power it can deliver over long gaming sessions.

The Strix G16 has a fast FHD 165Hz refresh rate panel with 100% sRGB color space coverage, Dolby Vision, Adaptive-Sync support, and a thin bezel 90% screen-to-body ratio offers a great gaming and viewing experience. QHD would have been nice, but at least you won’t have issues hitting that 165Hz high refresh rate.

Between its solid cutting-edge specs and Cyberpunk-inspired design, this laptop is at the top of our wishlist for this budget segment if you can find one!

Last Year’s High-end: Asus ROG Zephyrus G15

The various Zephyrus laptops from Asus always impress in the categories they’re designed for, and as a ROG (Republic of Gamers) machine, this G15 has a lot to live up to. Priced so that there’s still enough cash for a decent mouse and headset left in our $2000 budget, the spec sheet is impressive.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 8GB GDDR6 and ROG Boost up to 1345MHz at 80W (100W with Dynamic Boost 2.0) means plenty of gaming performance at the screen’s native resolution and medium-detail 4K gaming if you hook it up to an external display. The AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS processor and 16M Cache offer plenty of power for multitasking, despite being a slightly older generation of AMD CPU.

The 15.6” 165Hz IPS-Type Quad HD display with adaptive sync is a nice touch, offering sharp visuals. That said, some reviewers think this panel isn’t as vibrant and colorful as it could be.

The 16GB 3200MHz DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD provide ample storage and memory, although new laptops are moving to DDR5 now, and 32GB should be on everyone’s medium-term upgrade list. The new memory standard isn’t worth the cost right now, but some future applications may benefit more from DDR5, so if you want to buy a laptop to use for an extended period, you might want to look for something newer in this roundup.

The main “problem” with this laptop is the RTX 3080 GPU. At this wattage, it won’t perform any better than an RTX 3070 Ti. So you’re better off buying the version of this laptop with the GPU model one tier down. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find any in stock as we wrote this. However, the 3080-equipped model is still a great deal in isolation at this price, so we still recommend it. Just note that this laptop has no webcam! Would you even notice?

That Alienware Magic: Alienware m15 R7

Alienware has quite the reputation for gaming laptops that have great specs and performance and bring something different to the design department.

The Alienware m15 R7 is equipped with a crisp QHD (2560×1440) 240Hz display, and the AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX processor and 32GB DDR5 RAM should be plenty for even the most demanding non-gaming tasks.

With 170W of total power available, its 3070 Ti might not get to stretch its legs as much as with larger laptops, but it should be more than enough for QHD gaming at up to ultra settings depending on the game.

The updated Cryo-tech cooling system and hexagonal-shaped vents help to maintain performance by maximizing air movement and dissipating heat during high-performance tasks. This helps to keep the laptop cool even during long gaming sessions. This also plays into Alienware’s signature style, and we think it looks fantastic, but that’s highly subjective.

In short, this is one slick laptop with good performance to be relevant for years to come, and since it’s a Dell product, you know you can RMA it easily if the worst happens.

The Dark Horse Option: Lenovo Legion 5 Pro

Lenovo is better known for making retro-styled ThinkPad laptops, but its Legion line of gaming laptops has slowly been building a reputation for performance at a fair price.

The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16″ boasts some impressive specs for the money. Its WQXGA (2560×1600) 165Hz display delivers vibrant visuals with remarkable clarity and offers that golden 16:10 aspect ratio to make this a great machine for gamers who also do creative work. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti 8 GB GPU offers more than enough power to run modern games at the panel’s native resolution, and don’t forget that most new big games have DLSS support.

The laptop features the Latest AMD Ryzen 7 6800H Processor Octa-Core, clocked at 3.2 GHz (guaranteed base clock) and up to 4.70 GHz Max Boost, with 8 cores, 16 threads, and 16 MB Cache. Eight cores are more than adequate for gaming, and it should be just fine for creative work if you don’t mind waiting just a little longer for renders to finish.

The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro comes with 32GB of fast DDR5 4800 MHz RAM and a 1TB SSD, allowing faster performance for memory-hungry applications and multitasking. It may not yet be one of the go-to laptop gaming brands, but you’d be making a mistake if you overlook the Legion 5 just because it’s not established in the gaming laptop space yet.

Business in the Front, Party in the Back: MSI Stealth 15

MSI makes various gaming laptops, including its enormous desktop-killer Titan series and the uber-gamer Raider series. Its Stealth laptops are the antithesis of those machines, packing serious gaming hardware into an understated chassis that wouldn’t draw any attention in the boardroom.

This 15.6″ FHD 144Hz Gaming Laptop has no trouble living a double life. The 13th Gen. Intel Core i7 processor offers reliable performance for gameplay, multitasking work, and productivity. Depending on your needs, you may want to opt for the QHD option, although that will push the laptop’s price well over our budget limit here. The good news is that with an RTX 4060 mobile chip in play, you’ll have no trouble hitting the 144Hz limit of the panel at 1080p.

The laptop has USB Type C and DDR5 memory, which you’d expect in an up-to-date 2023 machine, but sadly no Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. MSI’s latest Cooler Boost Trinity+ cooling system includes 3 fans, 7 pipes, and (they claim) the world’s thinnest 0.1mm fan blades, which help to ensure optimal thermal dissipation. In a thin-and-light gaming laptop like this, noise and thermals are always a central issue, but based on user reviews, it seems like whatever MSI is doing here is keeping noise at bay. Although the laptop does get quite hot by all accounts.

One minor issue is that when using this laptop for non-gaming purposes, such as watching videos or browsing the web, it is just short of six hours. That should be fine for most people’s mixed usage, but if you need more battery life than that, you’ll have to look elsewhere. Gaming on battery power is just as pointless here as on any modern gaming laptop.

If you don’t care about portability and live for that gamer aesthetic, there are better choices than the Stealth 15, but if you want a single laptop that can be used for work, play, and any creative hobbies you may have, it’s a killer machine. However, you may also want to consider a Razer Blade if you have more to spend.

However, even the best tech can encounter hiccups like Oculus Quest controller issues. This guide will walk you through several troubleshooting tips to get your controllers (and you) back in action.

Note: In this article, we’re referring to the Quest as the “Oculus” Quest since that’s still the brand most people are familiar with and is, in fact, written on the boxes of most Quests. However, the new official name for the product is the Meta Quest.

1. Use Hand Tracking

While working on your controllers, use the hand tracking feature for an alternative interaction method with your headset. The Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2 headset’s built-in cameras track your hand movements, eliminating the need for physical controllers.

If you’ve updated to the latest version of the Quests software, hand-tracking should be enabled by default. Put your controllers down and bring your hands in front of the headset while wearing it. You’ll see an outline of your hands appear, which means you’re ready to use the feature.

Hand tracking relies on specific gestures to interact with the VR environment. Familiarize yourself with the following basic gestures:

• Point and Pinch: Aim your hand at the object you want to select and pinch your thumb and finger together.

• Pinch and Scroll: Pinch your fingers inward and move your hand up, down, left, or right to scroll. Release your fingers when finished.

• Palm Pinch: Look at your palm at eye level, hold your thumb and index finger together until the progress circle fills, and then release.

Other gestures and interactions depend on the app or game you’re using, so be sure to check for specific instructions within the app or game. However, these three main gestures will get you through any system menus you need to interact with.

Tip: Some Quest games also support using an Xbox controller. While this may not be as immersive as using the Touch controller

2. Check the Batteries

Always begin troubleshooting by examining the device’s power source. Make sure your Oculus Quest controller has fresh AA batteries. Replace low batteries with new, high-quality alkaline or rechargeable ones for optimal performance. Make sure the battery is correctly seated in the battery compartment.

3. Ensure Adequate Charging Time

If you’re using rechargeable batteries in your Oculus Quest controller, ensure they have been adequately charged before use. Poorly charged batteries can result in performance or connectivity issues.

4. Ensure the Controller Is Turned On

It may sound obvious, but check that your controller is turned on. Press and hold the power button until the LED light turns on. If it doesn’t, the power button might be the issue, requiring further investigation or replacement.

5. Inspect the Controller’s LED Light

The LED light on your controller offers valuable status information. If it’s flashing, the controller might struggle to connect to the headset. If it’s not lighting up, there could be a power or battery issue. Consult the Oculus Quest user manual for more information on LED light patterns.

6. Verify the Controller’s Connection to the Headset

Occasionally, the issue is simply a disconnected controller. Open the Oculus app on your phone and check if the controller is listed under Menu > Devices.

If not, try pairing it again, ensuring proximity between the headset and controller during pairing for a stable connection.

7. Restart the Headset and Controller

Switch off both devices and turn them back on to resolve minor glitches. If issues persist, perform a complete restart by powering down both devices and removing the controller’s batteries before turning them back on.

8. Test the Controller in Another Game or App

If the controller isn’t working in a specific game or app, test it in another. This can help you determine if the issue is game-or app-related or a controller problem. Contact the game or app developer for support if the controller works fine elsewhere.

9. Check for Updates

Make sure both your Oculus Quest headset and controller have the latest firmware. To do this, go to the Oculus app on your phone, tap on your headset, and check for updates. Keeping your devices updated can help prevent compatibility issues and improve overall performance.

10. Pair the Controller

If your controller isn’t connecting to your headset, try repairing it.

1. Open the Oculus app on your phone, go to Menu > Devices
2. Go to Headset Settings
3. Select Controllers

4. Choose the currently paired controller that’s not working correctly. E.g., the Right Controller or the Left Controller.

5. Select Unpair Controller.

6. Under Controller, select Pair New Controller.

Follow the instructions to pair the controller again and test it to see if it works properly.

11. Clean the Controller

Dirt and grime can hinder the controller’s functionality. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior, being careful not to let moisture enter the controller as it can damage internal components. Focus on the buttons, triggers, and joystick, where dirt can accumulate and cause issues.

Avoid harsh chemicals such as alcohol, especially if you’re experiencing stick drift. Unfortunately, the nature of the stick sensors in most controllers (including Quest and Quest 2) means that they will eventually drift as the contacts degrade. Short of replacing the thumbstick assembly completely, the only way around this is to calibrate the controller until the drift becomes too much for software compensation. Then a replacement is needed.

12. Inspect the Controller for Damage

If your controller isn’t working after trying the above steps, visually inspect it for damage. Look for cracks in the casing or other visible issues that could be causing problems. If you find any damage, consider a replacement or contact Oculus Support for assistance if you think it’s a factory error.

13. Check the Play Area

The Oculus Quest uses external sensors to track the controller’s position. If you’re experiencing tracking issues, ensure your play area is free of obstructions and reflective surfaces that could interfere with the sensors. Ensure the room is well-lit, as poor lighting conditions can negatively impact tracking performance.

14. Test the Controller on Another Oculus Quest

If you have access to another Oculus Quest headset, try using your controller. This can determine if the issue lies with the controller itself or if it’s an issue with your specific headset. If the controller works on the other headset, you may need to troubleshoot your own headset further or contact Quest support for assistance.

15. Consider External Factors

External factors like radio frequency interference from other devices or Wi-Fi networks can cause issues with your Oculus Quest controller. Try turning off nearby electronic devices and see if the issue persists. If you’re using Wi-Fi, consider switching to a different frequency band or moving your router away from your play area.

16. Check the Guardian Settings

Your Oculus Quest controller may not work if there’s an issue with the Guardian settings. To check and reset the Guardian settings, go to the quick settings menu in your headset and Guardian and follow the on-screen instructions. Resetting the Guardian can help resolve tracking issues with your controller.

17. Factory Reset Oculus Quest

As a last resort, consider a factory reset on your Oculus Quest headset. This will erase all data and restore the device to its original settings. Before proceeding, ensure you’ve backed up any critical data. To perform a factory reset:

1. Open the Quest app on your phone.
2. Go to Menu > Devices.
3. Choose Headset Settings.
4. Select Advanced Settings.

5. Choose Factory Reset.

6. Finally, Choose Reset.

Now set up your Quest from scratch to see if this resolved your controller issues.

18 Contact Oculus Support

If your controller still isn’t working, reach out to Oculus Support. Provide a detailed description of the issue and any steps you’ve taken to resolve it. Oculus Support can help diagnose the problem, provide further guidance on how to fix it, or determine if a replacement is necessary.

There are a lot of 4K HDMI switches on the market, so we’ve scoured Amazon for the handful of the best HDMI switchers worth your attention.

What to Look For in the Best HDMI Switch for 4K Ultra HD

Despite HDMI being a well-established standard with generally excellent compatibility, buying the right HDMI switch adapter can be surprisingly tricky. While you should be more or less fine with any switch, there are a few key things to look out for.

First, make sure that the switch meets or exceeds your resolution and refresh rate needs. This largely depends on the HDMI version the switch supports. For example, HDMI 2.1 switches should support 4K resolution at 120Hz. However, cheaper switches using older versions of HDMI might only have 4K support at 30Hz.

If you’re only watching Netflix, hooking up a Blu-ray player, or using a 4K upscaling DVD player, there’s nothing wrong with that since these content sources almost never exceed 30 fps. However, if you want to use gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, you want at least 4K at 60Hz, or 4K at 120Hz if you have a television that can run at that refresh rate.

The next, and perhaps most obvious feature is the number of HDMI inputs. You need a switch with at least as many inputs as the number of HDMI devices you want to connect to each HDMI port on your TV. Of course, you can use multiple switches for each HDMI port, and most televisions have at least two.

Check if a given HDMI switch is certified for special features you want to use, such as Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, HDR, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital, DTS-HD Master Audio, etc. Support for these features is inherent to the HDMI standard in question, and they won’t always be mentioned, but it’s good to double-check that they work with a given switch.

HDCP compliance (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is virtually a given these days, but do check that it’s mentioned just in case. This feature is crucial if you want to watch any copy-protected content, which includes streaming shows, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Audio features can be a nice additional extra. Some HDMI switches offer an eARC HDMI output port to send audio to an AV receiver or sound bar. You may also see some switches with an integrated audio extractor, which lets you connect analog speakers or headphones. Handy for monitors with no speakers or if you have a receiver or soundbar without HDMI input. HDCP 2.3 is the latest version at the time of writing, but most switches on the market currently will be HDCP 2.2.

Remote controls are common with HDMI switches, but in some cases some may not have one. In the case of switches with an automatic switching function, you may never use the remote, but even auto switches get it wrong sometimes, so a remote is still a decent convenience.

Best All-Around Switch: Kinivo 550BN

This switch from Kinivo is an excellent all-around 4K 60Hz switcher. It offers 18Gbps of bandwidth, and auto-switching functionality. Although you also get a wireless remote. It also ticks the boxes for Dolby Vision and HDR support.

The 550BN has a generous set of five HDMI inputs, and this particular bundle even comes with a nice braided cable to connect the switch to your TV.

Really the only thing we don’t like all that much about this switch is its design, but since you’re supposed to tuck it out of sight anyway, that’s largely irrelevant. It also comes with a nice two-year warranty, somewhat offsetting its slightly higher price.

Budget Cinephile Switch: Zettaguard 4 x 1 HDMI Switch

The Zettaguard switch uses the older HDMI standard with support for 4K 30Hz only. It makes up for this somewhat by offering a cool picture-in-picture feature and it’s got a great price tag to boot for a 4-input switch.

It has official support for the full RGB 4:4:4 deep color space and LPCM 7.1 and Dolby TrueHD audio formats. While it’s not a great choice to use with 4K gaming consoles, 4K PC HDMI output, or anything else that needs 60Hz or greater at 4K UHD, for cinephiles on a budget it’s an awesome choice.

Quick and Elegant Solution: Gana Aluminum Bidirectional HDMI Switcher 2×1

Sometimes all you need is to turn one HDMI input into two HDMI inputs. That’s where a high-quality yet inexpensive solution like the Gana comes into the picture.

Not only does this attractive aluminum switch come in a variety of cool colors, it’s also bi-directional. This means you can also use it to connect a single HDMI source to two displays. Sadly, you can’t drive two displays at once, but you can switch between them at the press of a button.

As an HDMI 2.0 device, this two-port HDMI switch will go up to 4k 60Hz and, perhaps best of all, doesn’t need any external power to work, so it’s easy and elegant to implement. It may even make more sense to buy one of these Gana switchers for each of your TV’s HDMI input sources, doubling the total number of ports you have.

Best for Apple TV 4K Compatibility: ROOFULL 5 Port 4K HDMI Switch

This is an updated version of Roofull’s previous 5-port switcher, now equipped with HDCP 2.2 pass-through and HDMI 2.0a, bringing it in line with modern standards. It would have been nice to have HDMI 2.1, but at this price and considering that so few people can even take advantage of 2.1, that’s perfectly understandable.

Apart from resolution and refresh rate, this switch supports virtually all of the most important image formats, deep color depth, and lists the Apple 4K TV in particular as being compatible. That’s a big deal, as anyone who has a 4K Apple TV knows how weirdly finicky the device can be with certain cables and switches, even though, on paper, they should work.

Best Budget 4K HDMI Switch: SGEYR HDMI 2.0 Switch Splitter 3 x 1

For most people, a switcher with three HDMI inputs is probably more than enough, and picking up such a switch for around twenty bucks while also getting 4K 60Hz support seems too good to be true. Not only that, but this is an auto switcher, so the included remote is really only for occasional use. There’s really not much to complain about and that would still be true at a 50% higher price.

Retro Design Future Specs: NEWCARE 8K HDMI 2.1 Switch

The Newcare’s design is a dead ringer for the old composite switches we used back when you had to connect your old Nintendo console and your VHS machine to the TV’s sole composite inputs, but inside the retro chassis is a cutting-edge HDMI 2.1 switcher with HDCP 2.3 support along with just about any other audio and video format you can think of.

It’s also priced incredibly well, although that comes with some sacrifices. For example, there’s no wireless remote, and it doesn’t auto-switch. So you’ll have to walk up to it to operate the device. Then again, this goes up to 8K!

Ports, Price, and Performance: XOLORspace 23051 4K 60Hz HDR HDMI Switch 5 x 1

The XOLORspace 23051 may look as boring as its name, but it offers five HDMI inputs with support for 4K 60Hz and most color, audio output, and video formats. Sadly, it does not support deep color, so it’s not the best match for higher-end OLED and miniLED TVs that can use the newer color depth format, but for most other mainstream 4K displays, this is going to be an excellent choice.

You can pay $59 for a lifetime warranty, but honestly we can’t recommend this. It would make more sense to just buy two more of these switches for the same money.

Switch Your Whole House: OREI 4K 4×4 HDMI Matrix Switch

The last switcher we’re looking at here is a doozy. Not just because it costs hundreds of dollars but because this matrix switcher kit can cover your entire home. It uses HDMI-over-Ethernet, to send signals to receivers wherever you can lay cable. Officially, that’s up to 230 feet! It’s a good solution if you have a dedicated home theater space too, or a large area with multiple HDTVs to serve a single audience.

In the past, this would have limited you to HD video, but if you use a faster Ethernet cable such as CAT5e or better, you can send 4K 60Hz signals with 12-bit color. This matrix switcher is meant for business use, but if you have a large house with, for example, a 4K cable box or Blu-ray player, you can share it to up to four other TVs.

This switch also has an RS-232 serial port, which means you can connect it to an HTPC to control it. You could also use the IR remote blaster function to extend the switch’s own IR remote.

The power button is one of the most important buttons on your phone and when it doesn’t work, you’ll get locked out of crucial functions. So getting this issue sorted is a top priority! In this article, we’ll look at some of the common issues with the power button on Samsung phones and explore possible troubleshooting solutions.

Common Issues With the Power Button on Samsung Phones

One of the most common issues with the power button is that it doesn’t respond when you press it. This can happen for various reasons, but usually it’s a software-related issue. In some cases, a rogue app might be causing issues with the power button or perhaps the phone’s software might need to be updated.

Another issue that some Samsung phone users encounter with their power buttons is a stuck or loose button. This can be from physical damage to the button, or it could be due to wear and tear over time. Liquid or water damage can also be the issue, especially if it was something other than fresh water, such as seawater or pool water. If your power button is stuck or loose, you might find that it’s difficult to turn your phone on or off or that the button doesn’t provide the same tactile feedback that it used to.

In some cases, the power button on a Samsung phone might be working just fine, but the phone itself turns off without warning and then doesn’t want to turn on when you press the button. This can be caused by various factors, including a failing battery, a software issue, or even a hardware problem. If your phone is turning off on its own, it’s important to get it checked out as soon as possible.

There are more niche potential causes, but whatever the reason behind your janky power button, one of these solutions will likely sort it out.

Test Your Power Button

To check if your phones button is physically not working, you can use Samsung’s own diagnostic tool:

1. Open the Samsung Members app.

2. Go to the Support tab.

3. Select Phone diagnostics.

4. You can run all of the tests if you like, but in this case select Buttons.

5. Press each button when you’re prompted.

If the results show that your power button is working (i.e. the phone can detect the button press) then any issues you’re having are almost certainly software-related.

1. Check Your Charger and USB Cable

You may think your phone won’t power on because the button is faulty, but it may actually be that your charger or cable is faulty and so the battery is empty. Try alternative chargers or cables to rule this out.

It may also be that your battery has failed and can’t keep any battery charge. If your phone’s battery life has been getting worse lately, this is something worth checking out. Usually a phone repair shop can replace batteries for a reasonable price.

2. Restart Your Phone

The first thing you should try is restarting your phone. Restarting your phone can help refresh the system and clear out any temporary issues causing the power button to malfunction.

1. Since your power button isn’t working, swipe down the app shade, and select the power icon. Then choose Restart to reboot the phone.

2. Do not select “Power off” since if your button is physically broken you’ll have no way to turn the phone on.

3. Check for Software Updates

It’s possible that the issue is caused by outdated software. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can help resolve issues with your phone’s hardware, including the power button.

4. Clear Your Phone’s Cache and Data

There may be some temporary files or data that are causing conflicts with the system. Clearing the cache and data on your phone can help remove these files and potentially fix the power button issue.

To clear the cache and data on your Samsung phone follow our guide which explains everything you need to know about the process.

5. Boot Your Phone in Safe Mode

If your Samsung phone’s power button is not working, an app or software issue may be causing the problem. Booting your phone in Safe Mode can help you figure out if a third-party app causes the issue or if it’s a system-wide issue.

Head over to How to Start Your Android Phone in Safe Mode for more information on how to do this.

6. Use Accessibility Features to Substitute for the Side Button

Samsung phones come with various accessibility features that can help people with physical disabilities. This includes features that let you use alternate methods to operate the side button or power button.

Here’s how to enable these features:

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and Dexterity> Assistant menu.
2. Toggle the switch to turn on the Assistant menu.

3. A small circle with squares in the middle will appear on your screen. Select it to open a menu with different options

4. Select the arrow to reveal more options.

5. Select the Power off menu.

Alternatively, you can use various shortcuts to make the assistant menu appear rather than have it on-screen the whole time:

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and Dexterity> Assistant menu.

2. Tap Assistant menu shortcut and toggle the switch to turn it on.
3. Choose between the three available options for bringing up the assistant menu.

If these accessibility features don’t work for you or you don’t have them enabled on your phone, you can try the next fix on our list.

7. Try a Power Button App From the Play Store

There are quite a few apps on the Play Store that let you use a software button to lock and unlock your phone. Most of these are free, and it’s a good way to keep using your phone until you can get the button fixed, but it’s not a permanent solution.

8. Try Recovery Mode

In case your phone won’t power on because something’s gone wrong with its firmware, you can try powering it on using recovery mode. Check out How To Boot Into & Use Recovery Mode On Android for more information.

9. Factory Reset Your Phone

If you’re certain your broken power button isn’t physically defective (e.g. it passed the diagnostic test) you might want to try a factory reset as a final hail Mary attempt. This will reset your Android device to its factory default and all of your data and settings will be gone.

For more information on how to perform a factory reset, read How To Hard Reset a Frozen iPhone or Android Device

10. Hardware Inspection and Replacement

If none of the previous fixes have worked and your Samsung phone’s power button is still not working, the issue may be hardware-related. In this case, you may need to have the phone inspected or repaired by a professional.

Before seeking professional help (for your phone, not yourself!) you can check for any visible damage or signs of wear and tear on the power button or its surrounding areas. Ensure there are no cracks or chips on the button or any loose components.

If you don’t see any visible damage, but the power button is still not working, it’s possible that the button itself is faulty and needs to be replaced. In this case, it’s best to take your phone to a reputable repair shop or service center to have it inspected and repaired by a professional.

You can also check if your phone is still under warranty. If so, you may be able to get the power button fixed or the phone replaced for free. Contact Samsung support or your carrier for more information.

Remember that attempting to repair your phone yourself or taking it to an unlicensed repair shop can be dangerous and can potentially cause more damage to the phone.

Preventing Future Power Button Issues

If you’ve successfully fixed your Samsung phone’s power button issue, then congratulations! However, it’s important to take steps to prevent the issue from happening again.

Here are some tips to help you avoid power button problems:

• Avoid using the power button excessively. Modern Samsung phones let you do things like tap the screen to wake the phone up, cutting your power button use by half.
• Keep your phone and its components clean and dry. Moisture or debris on or around the power button can cause it to malfunction. Clean your phone regularly with a soft, dry cloth, and avoid exposing it to water or other liquids.
• Use a protective case for your phone. A case can help protect your phone from damage and reduce the risk of the power button getting damaged or worn out.
• Keep your phone up to date with the latest software updates. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can help prevent hardware issues like power button problems.

We’ve had to get a power button physically replaced on a Samsung phone in the past, and it was surprisingly expensive to do thanks to the labor cost. So it really is better to treat that little button with some respect until you’re ready to say goodbye to your phone. Who knows, maybe some future Samsung phones won’t have any physical buttons at all!

In this guide, we’ll show you various ways to toggle your flashlight on and off, so you can spare your shins the job of finding objects for you in the dark.

Note: Thanks to the open nature of the Android platform, there’s a good chance your phone’s menus and the exact names of options are likely different to the next person. We used a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra running Android 13, with Samsung’s One UI on top. The differences between brands and phone models (e.g. Motorola, OnePlus, Google Pixel, etc.) usually isn’t that large, but still think of any instructions you see here as general guidelines rather than exact steps.

1. Using the Quick Settings Menu to Toggle the Flashlight

The Quick Settings panel allows you to access your most-used settings with ease. It’s designed to make accessing settings faster and more convenient, so you can toggle important features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and your flashlight on or off without navigating multiple menus or settings.

To access the Quick Settings panel, swipe down from the top of your screen with one finger. A panel of icons appears, representing the settings available for quick access.

You might not see the flashlight icon in your Quick Settings panel. If so, you may have to customize the panel to include it, or you may have to swipe left or right to reveal it as part of the icon overflow.

Since every Android phone maker customizes their Android user interface, the exact details of how to customize or rearrange the Quick Settings Panel may differ, so you’ll have to refer to your specific phone’s documentation.

2. Using Voice Commands to Turn On/off the Flashlight

Using voice commands to turn your Android flashlight on and off is a cool hands-free option, and by using Google Assistant, you can do it with just a few words.

To use voice commands to control your flashlight, you’ll need to ensure that Google Assistant is activated on your device. If you’re unsure whether you have Google Assistant, you can check by saying “Hey Google” or “Ok Google” to see if your device responds.

If not, head over to How To Turn OK Google On and Off on Your Android Device.

Once you have Google Assistant set up, you can turn your flashlight on or off by saying, “Hey Google, turn on/off the flashlight.”

3. Use the Power Button to Access the Flashlight

Some Android devices have a feature that allows you to access the flashlight directly from the power/side button without navigating through menus or settings.

To enable this feature, go to your device’s Settings> Advanced Features > Side Key > Double Press and then toggle it.

Next, Open app and select Torch/Flashlight.

Once this feature is enabled, you can quickly turn your flashlight on or off by double-pressing the side/power button. In the example here, we’re using a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra; bear in mind that your Android phone may not support this feature or may have a slightly different path to activate it depending on the brand and Android version.

4. Adding a Flashlight Shortcut to Your Lock Screen

By default, you should have two shortcuts on your lock screen to access certain apps quickly. Usually, these are the phone dialler and camera apps, but you can change that to your flashlight app, similar to how the iPhone iOS lock screen has a flashlight shortcut.

1. Go to Settings > Lock Screen, then choose to edit your lock screen.

2. Choose EDIT on the Lock screen diagram.

3. Select either of the current shortcuts and then choose the flashlight app from the list of options that pops up. We’ve chosen the right-hand one here that’s currently set to open the camera app.

4. From the available apps, choose the Torch or Flashlight app.

5. Now you can simply swipe the shortcut icon on the lock screen in any direction, and it will toggle the light on or off.

5. Using a Dedicated Flashlight App

Using a dedicated flashlight app on your Android smartphone can give you more control over your flashlight settings, and even provide additional features that aren’t available with the built-in flashlight. If you use your flashlight frequently and want to explore more options, consider downloading a flashlight app from the Google Play Store.

There are many flashlight apps available on the Play Store, each with its own unique features. Some popular options include Flashlight HD, Tiny Flashlight, and Super-Bright LED Flashlight. When picking a flashlight app, it’s important to read reviews and check the app’s permissions to make sure it’s safe and reliable. Some flashlight apps are actually malicious!

One cool thing to look for in a dedicated flashlight app is the ability to adjust the flashlight’s brightness. This can be especially useful if you need less light or are trying to conserve battery life. Some flashlight apps even offer features like strobe effects or emergency signals.

6. Using the Home Screen Widget for Quick Access to the Flashlight

A home screen widget allows you to access the flashlight with a tap, without navigating through menus or settings.

To use a home screen widget for your flashlight, you’ll need to download a flashlight widget from the Google Play Store. Many options are available, so be sure to read reviews and check the app’s permissions before downloading.

Once you’ve downloaded a flashlight widget, you can place it on your home screen for easy access. Most good flashlight apps include a widget and that will be noted in the Play Store description.

1. Once you have the widget installed, long-press on an empty area of your home screen, then select Widgets from the menu that appears.

2. Find the flashlight widget in the list of available widgets.

3. Then select Add and drop the widget where you want it on the home screen home.

Once the widget is on your home screen, you can tap it to turn your flashlight on or off. Some flashlight widgets may also offer additional features, such as adjustable brightness levels or strobe effects.

7. Using Gestures to Toggle the Flashlight On/Off

Some Android devices have a feature that allows you to use gestures to control your flashlight, such as double-tapping the screen or making a specific gesture with your device.

To see if this feature is available on your device, go to your device’s settings and look for the “Gestures” option. From there, you should see a list of available gestures that you can customize, including the option to toggle the flashlight on or off.

Just be aware that not every Android phone will have this option, for example custom gestures were not available on the Samsung device running the latest One UI version we had while writing this guide.

8. Using Third-Party Launchers to Control the Flashlight

If you’re a power user and want even more control over your Android device, you might want to consider using a third-party launcher. Launchers like Nova Launcher and Action Launcher allow you to create custom gestures and shortcuts for your flashlight so that you can access it quickly and easily.

Not that we’d recommend installing a custom launcher on your phone just to get fancier flashlight features, but it might be a factor to consider if you’re going down this route anyway.

9. Using Tasker or Automate to Create Custom Flashlight Controls

Using the Tasker ($2.99) or Automate apps to create custom flashlight controls is an advanced option for people comfortable with automation and customization. These apps allow you to create complex scripts and macros that can control your flashlight based on certain specific conditions, such as the time of day, your location, or various other triggers.

To use Tasker or Automate to create custom flashlight controls, download and install one of these apps from the Google Play Store. Once you’ve installed the app, you can create a new task or flow that includes the flashlight control. These apps aren’t as hard to use as it may seem at first. It’s more like building things out of pre-existing blocks than raw programming.

10. Using a Wearable Device to Control the Flashlight

Using a wearable device to control your Android flashlight is a convenient option for those with a smartwatch or fitness tracker, especially if you have to set your phone down and want to operate the flashlight from a distance.

Some wearable devices, such as Wear OS watches, allow you to launch the flashlight app directly from your wrist or use a voice command to turn the flashlight on or off.

For example, the Galaxy Watch 4 can control your phone’s flashlight (among other things) using the open-source SimpleWear app for Wear OS. The exact details may differ based on your specific wearable, but it’s worth checking if the appropriate remote control apps or functions are available for your wearable device.

To use your wearable device to control your flashlight, you’ll need to ensure that your device is connected to your Android device and that the appropriate apps are installed on both devices. Once you’ve set up the connection, you can launch the flashlight app directly from your wearable device or use a voice command to turn the flashlight on or off.

In the $1500 or less budget segment, you’re spoilt for choice and are solidly in the “next-gen” part of the gaming laptop spectrum. If you’re looking for one device that can replace your business laptop, console, and gaming desktop in one go, this is the place to start.

What We’re Looking For in a $1500 Laptop

Gaming laptops are generally more expensive on a dollar-to-performance basis than their desktop counterparts. While a $1000 desktop gaming system can be decently powerful, a $1000 laptop will exchange a significant chunk of performance for size, portability, and convenience.

At the $1500 mark, we’re moving into the sweet spot for gaming laptops. These machines offer enough gaming grunt that you won’t feel like you’re sacrificing much in mainstream gaming performance. While we don’t expect $1500 gaming laptops to be flawless, this is where you want to be for a gaming PC that can run contemporary AAA games at 1440p 60fps with a mix of high and even ultra settings.

If you’re looking for something to use with a 4K external display (4K screens in laptops aren’t really worth it for gaming), then you may find that GPU VRAM is a real issue at this budget bracket. You’ll also have to settle for a mix of medium and high settings at 4K, or dynamic resolution scaling up to 4K in games that support it.

Our expectations for build quality at this price point are moderate. Most laptops will have plastic bodies and a noticeable (yet irrelevant) amount of flex. We don’t expect the best keyboards, and internal speakers aren’t too important since you need headphones to cancel out the fan noise anyway.

Likewise, we’re not particularly looking for flashy gamer gimmicks such as RGB lighting or sports car air vent designs. These can be nice if they don’t come at the cost of performance and functionality but are superfluous.

Battery life is a tricky thing to assess in the gaming laptop space. To be blunt, no one plays video games on these laptops running on battery power. The cuts to CPU and GPU performance are too severe, and legal limitation to battery size means you’ll barely get a decent gaming session before the battery counter hits zero. Instead, the best you can hope for is good battery life when using the laptop for other things, like work or watching videos. If the laptop can get you through most of a typical workday without needing to be plugged in, that’s a win in our book.

Please note that we’re focusing on laptops priced between $1200 and $1500 here. If you’re looking for something at or below $1200, check out the Best Gaming Laptops Under $1200. If you’re on an extremely tight budget, you’ll love our best budget gaming laptop roundup, and if you’re unsure whether a gaming laptop or desktop is best for you, our roundup of the best gaming computers under $1000 has a mix of options.

Best Sub-$1500 Gaming Laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023)

This is the most modern laptop in our roundup and, at the time of writing, the only laptop we could find in stock with the latest 13th-gen Intel CPU and 40-series graphics card from NVIDIA. The RTX 4060 should match typical 3070 Ti laptop GPUs, with the added benefit of better DLSS, ray tracing, and DLSS3 frame generation technology. So it’s solidly future-proof.

The Intel Core i7 13650HX CPU has 14 cores, 6 of those being high-performance units, more than enough to tackle modern games. The eight efficiency cores can handle background tasks from the OS, or when you’re not gaming, these little cores stop the battery from draining too quickly.

You also get snappy DDR5 RAM but only a 512GB SSD, which we can’t complain about. The screen is “only’ 1080p Full HD (FHD), but with these specs under the hood getting to that 165Hz refresh rate should be no problem. If we had to buy a laptop purely for gaming at this budget point today, this is the machine we’d get for ourselves.

If The Strix G16 Is Out of Stock: Alienware M15 R6

While the R6 has a CPU two generations behind and a GPU one generation back, thanks to decent price cuts, this is an absolute powerhouse for $1500 and offers an excellent gaming experience for the money. Eight high-performance CPU cores, a chunky NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 mobile GPU, 32GB of RAM, and a 360 Hz 1080p display.

Having a 1080p resolution is perfectly fine at 15.6” for the screen, which means this system can push eSports titles such as CS:GO all the way up to the maximum refresh rate of 360hz. If you want to turn up the eye candy in single-player games, we can’t think of any current modern title that wouldn’t run at 60 FPS or higher on this display with a mix of high and ultra settings.

If you want to hook this laptop up to a 1440p or 4K display, you can still use DLSS in games that support them. Since it seems virtually all major new and upcoming games have DLSS support, this laptop’s performance will likely stay relevant for quite a few years to come.

As for the design of the laptop, it’s classic Alienware, which is to say that it looks pretty sharp but not overdone. Ultimately this is a Dell product, but that little bit of corporate conservativeness is a positive here, as the M15 looks sophisticated, while still being just the right amount of cool.

Best Mainstream Work and Play Choice: Lenovo Legion 5 Pro

This machine from the previous CPU generation slipped into this price bracket but still holds its own without breaking a sweat. Thanks to AMD’s less expensive CPUs, this laptop offers excellent performance while being comfortably below the $1500 mark.

The 2560×1600 screen may be a little too high in resolution for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 to push games at high settings, but if you factor in DLSS or are happy with a mix of medium and high settings, it should be just fine, and crisp at this screen size.

Speaking of which, the taller 16:10 aspect ratio also makes this an excellent laptop for work. This is the same ratio favored by laptops like the MacBook, which might be a major selling point for many of you.

Best Bang For Buck: ASUS ROG Strix G15 Advantage Edition

We almost had to do a double take when looking at the specs for this Strix G15. Leaving enough room in our budget for a decent gaming mouse, this plucky machine packs properly fast components. The RX 6800M should make short work of 1440p games at high/ultra settings, and the AMD Ryzen 9 5980X CPU should have no problem keeping those 1% low frame dips at bay.

If you don’t mind the lack of DLSS and AMD’s rather middling ray tracing performance, the Strix G15 is hard to say no to. Its design is somewhat reserved (for a ROG product) despite the bright red accent panel and giant ROG angry eye on the back of the lid.

Best for Serious Work and Play: Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-54-74DE

This particular Helios 300 uses an older 11th-gen Intel CPU paired with an RTX 3060. Coupled with a 1080p 144Hz refresh rate screen, you’ll be playing current-generation games at great settings and decent frame rates, but that’s not what caught our eye.

No, this laptop is notable because it packs 32GB of RAM, a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, a 2TB mechanical HDD, and a Thunderbolt 4 port. That makes this an excellent machine for those who want to do serious work that benefits from lots of RAM, storage, and a strong CPU and GPU.

Think of it as a bargain little workstation that doesn’t look quite as boring. Alternatively, there’s just a ton of room to download games and media. Either way, it’s a great mix of attributes, and that Thunderbolt 4 port opens up the possibility of an eGPU as well!

The Changing of the Guard

At the time of writing, gaming laptops are undergoing a generational shift, especially with their GPUs. This predictably creates market chaos as great deals on last-gen systems and stock shortages on cutting-edge machines make it hard to know what to choose.

Our advice is to compare the performance of current and last gen laptops within the same price range. Then decide whether a higher-performance discounted last-gen laptop is better for you than more power-efficient newer machines with new tricks (such as DLSS 3 or efficiency cores for longer battery life), which may not have the same raw performance. Finally, keep an eye on clearance discounts on sites like Amazon, and you could get the deal of the decade on last-gen high-end laptops!

We’ve looked around Amazon’s virtual shelves to find the best outdoor speakers at currently available prices. But first, here’s what we’re looking for in these products.

What to Look For in an Outdoor Speaker

When looking for outdoor speakers, it’s important to find ones that can handle different types of weather, especially if you live somewhere with particularly wet, cold, or hot times of year. Ensure they have an IPX rating of at least IPX4 to withstand rain and direct splashes with this entry-level water-resistant standard.

If you’re looking for speakers you can install permanently, you’ll want something rated at a weatherproof IPX7. You could also consider speakers with weather-proof covers.

Since outdoor spaces are (usually) larger than indoor ones, you’ll need speakers that can produce enough sound to fill the area. Look for speakers with high wattage output and a medium- to far-field sound stage. Remember to check the RMS rating instead of the PMPO rating for a more accurate measure of the speaker’s true output power.

Outdoor speakers should also deliver clear, crisp audio with a balanced frequency response. If you want to boost the low-end response, consider features like bass radiators or built-in subwoofers, which are often key to getting great sound from these small speaker units.

Outdoor speakers may get bumped or knocked around, so choose models made from tough materials like heavy-duty plastics or metals.

Larger outdoor areas may require bigger speakers or multiple speakers, while smaller areas may only need a few smaller speakers. Consider whether you’ll be mounting or using freestanding speakers, and pay attention to how complicated the mounting system may be for a given speaker model.

Finally, these speakers don’t usually come with amplifiers, so remember to budget for an amp that can drive the number of speakers you want to install or buy a kit that includes an amp.

1. The Best For Your Beach House: Polk Audio Atrium 4

If you’re looking for wired speakers to bring audio to your outdoor space, the Polk Audio Atrium 4 speakers are an excellent choice. They produce impressive sound for their size, are relatively easy to install, and can be mounted anywhere from lawns to patios. The speed-lock mechanism makes it easy to mount them anywhere, and you can even tilt the speakers up to 180 degrees. This range of motion allows you to make the speakers face your audience and adds some flexibility to venues where folks might gather in different spots depending on the type of event.

The Polk Audio Atrium 4 speakers have several features that make them a great choice for outdoor use. They are compact and have a more rounded design than many bookshelf-style speakers. The speakers have a 4.5-inch driver and a 0.75-inch tweeter. Regarding weather resistance, they meet ASTM D5894-UV Salt Fog, Mil Standard 810 Immersion, and Mil Standard 883 for salt and corrosion standards. Perfect for seaside venues!

2. Great All-Round Sound and Value: Bose 251 Environmental Outdoor Speakers

The speakers are beautifully designed to suit any outdoor space. By all accounts, they impress both acoustically and aesthetically. Thanks to its multi-chamber bass enclosure, the speaker cabinet is designed to reproduce low frequencies with minimal audio distortion. They have an extremely wide sound field for larger outdoor areas.

Be mindful when buying a pair of these speakers since a basic pair doesn’t come with an amplifier. You’ll either have to use an amplifier you already own or buy one to drive these units. You can buy a complete kit with two speakers, an amp, and a speaker wire.

3. Premium Sound, Premium Price: Sonos Outdoor Speakers

The Sonos Outdoor Architectural Speakers By Sonance is a great choice for anyone looking to install speakers where you expect harsh weather and need your audio to work year-round without constantly installing and uninstalling hardware.

These speakers were created through a collaboration between Sonos and Sonance, one of the largest and most respected outdoor speaker manufacturers in the US. They’re built to withstand humidity, water, salt spray, heat, UV rays, and even freezing temperatures. They have a unique look that sets them apart from other outdoor speakers if you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to draw attention to the speaker system rather than hide it.

Regarding sound quality, these speakers deliver a slightly fuller sound than other outdoor speakers, more in line with traditional bookshelf speakers. If you want outdoor speakers that are tough, stylish, and sound great, then these are worth checking out, albeit at a slightly premium price. Bear in mind that you’ll need to provide an amp for these. The recommended Sonos amp can power up to six of these speakers.

4. The Big Boys: Klipsch AW-650

The Klipsch AW-650 speakers are some of the most powerful non-commercial grade outdoor speakers we’ve seen. They deliver a bigger sound than smaller wired outdoor speakers, with much more bass and a wider sound field. They also deliver better detail than most outdoor speakers based on what customer reviewers say.

Regarding ruggedness, Klipsch says these speakers are “all-weather” but doesn’t provide an IP rating to support that claim. However, they do have a UV-resistant enclosure and a rust-proof grill. Even the zinc clamp has a weather-resistant powder coating. To top things off, the speaker is paintable so you can blend them in anywhere.

One thing to note is that these speakers are unexpectedly large compared to most outdoor speakers, with a height of 15 inches, a width of 9.5 inches, and a depth of 11 inches. As such, permanent placement outdoors may be an issue if you don’t have enough space under your roof to mount them. Measure twice, as they say!

5. Best Compact Outdoor Speakers: JBL Professional Control 23

The JBL Professional Control 23 speakers are a great choice for compact and lightweight outdoor speakers. Despite their small size, they deliver good sound quality and can get surprisingly loud. One of the standout features of these speakers is their InvisiBall mounting system, which allows you to mount them without any unsightly brackets.

The Control 23 is the most compact of JBL Professional’s Control Contractor Series. So it’s a perfect choice for those who want to hide their outdoor speakers so they don’t have any negative impact on your decorations. They have weather-resistant enclosures and transducers, so you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged by the elements.

The enclosure is paintable to match your decor. Regarding sound quality, the Control 23 speakers feature a 3-inch woven fiberglass woofer. According to user reviews, these speakers offer a pleasant sound stage with plenty of travel.

6. Ultra Value Champion: Yamaha NS-AW150BL

If you’re looking for a bang for your buck, the Yamaha NS-AW150BL speakers might be just what you need. These indoor/outdoor speakers are a popular choice from Yamaha, even though they’re an older line.

While they may be a bit bigger and pricier than some other options, they deliver in terms of sound quality with very good bass performance based on what customer reviews are saying.

Many customers have left positive reviews for these speakers. However, they may not handle extreme weather and some other outdoor speakers based on some of the more negative reviews. Also, while they offer good sound quality for their price range, these aren’t audiophile grade by a long shot. If you just want some background music for a restaurant’s outdoor tables or for your pool party area, that’s fine, but not for a dedicated music listening space.

7. The Dark Horse: Dual Electronics LU43PB 3-Way High Performance Outdoor/Indoor Speakers

These Dual Electronics speakers are among the most popular outdoor speakers sold online, with thousands of user reviews. It’s no surprise, given their specs, positive reviews, and very reasonable price.

With a 4-inch woofer and 1.6-inch midrange polypropylene cone, and the three-quarter-inch dome tweeter, you’re getting a well-rounded sound out of these puppies.

The best part is that these speakers can be used indoors and outdoors. Their sound quality and design make them suitable for indoor spaces, so you can just buy the same speakers for the indoor and outdoor sections of your building. They’re weather-resistant with a UV-resistant coating to protect against the elements. And their compact design means you can place them just about anywhere.

The swivel brackets that allow for a 120-degree range of motion make installing and adjusting these speakers relatively easy. You can mount them on walls or ceilings to get that perfect angle for optimal sound projection.

The Dual Electronics LU43PB speakers are great value for their price. They deliver high-quality sound in a compact, durable design that can withstand outdoor conditions. It may not be from a widely-known brand, but if you’re not a label snob, there’s no reason to avoid them.

8. Portable Power in Any Weather: JBL Boombox 2

The JBL Boombox 2 Bluetooth speaker is a portable jack of all trades, unlike the more permanent or semi-permanent outdoor speakers we’ve looked at so far. Its mid and treble ranges are fairly well balanced, so it can reproduce vocals and lead instruments clearly. However, it lacks a bit of low bass, so you may not feel the deep thump of bass-heavy genres like EDM. Still, that’s to be expected in a portable outdoor speaker system of this size.

There’s a graphic EQ in its companion app, which you can use to tweak its sound to your liking. The Boombox 2’s design is similar to the original. It feels fairly modern, and this design makes it easy to take with you, just like classic boomboxes from the 80s and 90s. Like any speaker, the Boombox 2 has its tipping point, and distortion eventually sets in. But according to customer reviews the speaker is already plenty loud before ever getting to that point.

This is a full-on IPX7 speaker system, so you can accidentally dunk it in the pool or take it to the beach without any worries, as long as you remember to have all the port plugs in place! The claimed battery life is 24 hours, but as with any battery-powered portable Bluetooth speaker, that will vary depending on the volume as well as the type of music you’re playing.

Get Some Fresh Air (by Bach)

Taking your audio outside doesn’t have to be complicated, and the speakers we’ve highlighted above all have something special about them, making it a great shortlist of speakers that might fit your needs exactly. If you’re looking for something more computer-related, check out our best PC speaker roundup.

We’ve spent a lot of time looking for the best Chromebooks on Amazon that are both good at being work or study companions and offer some form of gaming experience to help you relax between your bouts of productivity. They aren’t going to compete with gaming laptops, of course, but if you manage your expectations, there are ways of getting a good gaming experience with a Chromebook.

What Does Gaming on a Chromebook Even Mean?

How does one even play games on a Chromebook? There are three main ways you can play video games on your Chromebook:

• Playing Android app games from the Google Play Store or by sideloading them.
• Playing streaming games through a browser.
• Playing native games through a service like Steam or sideloading.

The type of Chromebook you have will determine which type of gaming is open to you. Almost every Chromebook released from 2019 on should play Android games from the Google Play Store, whether Intel or ARM-based. If you want to play games from Steam, you need a Chromebook with at least an Intel Core i3 processor. Even then, the ChromeOS Steam client is currently in Beta and is only supported on a short list of Chromebooks.

Where we’ve included any Intel-based ChromeBooks below, we’ve noted which are on the Steam Beta support list. Presumably, Steam for the ChromeOS operating system will eventually leave the Beta phase and be available on any Chromebook with the right specs. Check the link in the previous paragraph first to see if any newer systems have been added since.

In the past, playing Android games on Chromebooks meant you had to have a touchscreen. As of ChromeOS 105, that’s no longer the case, thanks to the new overlay feature. This lets you map sections of the screen to the keyboard. So we’re not making a touch screen a requirement.

Finally, streaming is open to all Chromebooks, as long as you have a good internet connection. As long as the streaming service can run in a browser, your Chromebook should do just fine. However, having a nice screen and solid Bluetooth and Wi-Fi is a plus point for this use case.

Best Mainstream Chromebook: Acer Chromebook 516 GE

Acer markets the 516 GE specifically as a “cloud gaming” Chromebook. However, this is one of the Chromebooks on the support list for the Steam for ChromeOS beta. So if you’re brave enough to switch to the ChromeOS Beta channel, you could run some Steam games on this machine locally.

Given the 12-core, 12th-gen Intel Core i5 CPU and Intel Iris Xe graphics, you may be surprised at what a computer like this can run. Older games should work fine at low- to medium- settings. However, since ChromeOS Steam is in Beta and games are not guaranteed to run, much less run well, it’s hard to recommend this rather expensive Chromebook on the promise of Steam games.

Likewise, these specs promise a good experience for Android games, but as always with emulation solutions, your mileage may vary when playing titles from the Google Play Store.

Looking at it as a cloud gaming system, it has much going for it. A crisp 16” WXGA IPS screen with 100% sRGB coverage is a great start, and it packs Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. So you’re good to go in terms of cloud gaming without compromises.

The 516 GE should also be a little monster as a general-purpose Chromebook. We can’t realistically think of any software not running smoothly on this system unless 8GB of RAM isn’t enough for your use case. However, that seems unlikely for anyone considering a Chromebook.

Best Budget Chromebook for Cloud Gaming: HP Chromebook x360 14a

Since the x360 has a relatively low-end Pentium Silver N5000 CPU, it won’t work with Steam for ChromeOS games, and you may have a hard time with the more intense Play Store for Android games.

For gaming, this Chromebook should mainly be looked at as a device to enjoy cloud gaming on.

From that perspective, it makes a lot of sense. You can use it for school or work in laptop mode and switch to tent mode when you want to connect a gamepad and play some cloud-streaming games.

The screen is only 1366 x 768 in resolution, so this is best for those happy with 720p gaming. This makes it a good match for Microsoft’s cloud gaming service, which streams directly from cloud-based Xbox consoles.

The best cloud gaming feature on the x360 is its long battery life. The claimed maximum battery life is around twelve hours. However, realistically you should get at least half of that while streaming cloud games, and that’s still an excellent result if you want to play without being plugged into a battery bank or wall outlet.

The Ultra-Budget Choice: Dell Chromebook 11 3100

This little Dell Chromebook maintains the original spirit of Chromebooks. Instead of trying to be a traditional laptop, it’s a cheap and rugged education device that mainly relies on cloud-based services and processing.

So why even list a device like this in an article for gaming Chromebooks? The simple answer is that this is one of the cheapest ways to access cloud gaming. You have Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5, and an 11” screen with slightly more than a 720p resolution.

There are dedicated cloud gaming devices that cost more than this and don’t even have a keyboard, and that means it should be an option you’re aware of.

OLED Beauty: Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 Ideapad

This is one of the few non-Intel Chromebooks on our list, featuring a Snapdragon SC7180, which competes with the AMD Ryzen 3 2200U and Pentium Silver N5030. That’s more than enough for basic work, but you aren’t going to be playing any heavy Android games on high settings.

As a cloud gaming system, the Lenovo has a major trick up its sleeve — an OLED screen!

OLED technology offers far better contrast and color than LCD screens are capable of. This particular monitor offers FHD 1080p resolution, which is excellent for a 13’3” screen. It also covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. So you can use it for content work such as editing photos or just getting great results watching videos.

This translates well into cloud gaming because your games will look better on an OLED screen. Although cloud games often have image quality issues, an OLED screen can even help mask some of this.

The other awesome truck the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 has is that it’s a tablet and has detachable tablet functionality. So if you don’t need to use the keyboard, it can just be that wonderful OLED touch screen and the controller of your choice.

Even if you don’t have internet connectivity, plenty of Android games will work just fine. You can give more heavy-duty titles a go with their settings lowered to sensible levels.

Tall & Beautiful: Acer Chromebook Spin 713

The Acer Chromebook Spin is another Chromebook on the Steam beta support list, and it has a powerful i5 CPU and Intel Iris Plus graphics. Similar to the old Intel MacBooks, the Iris Plus GPU in this Chromebook should be fine playing simpler or fairly old Steam games.

As a cloud gaming platform, it offers an interesting 2256 x 1504 screen with more vertical space. This means that if you have a 16:9 game streaming at 1080p at the top of the screen, there should still be a lot of room left at the bottom for any apps you want to keep an eye on while playing. Whether that’s a walkthrough for the game or your email app as you wait for your assignment results, it’s a neat idea in a world of 16:9 and 16:10 aspect ratio laptops.

When you switch to work mode, you’ll appreciate the “VertiView” screen design for multitasking and working with documents. To top it off, this convertible laptop promises up to 15 hours of battery life and has Wi-Fi 6. The 128GB SSD also leaves a moderate amount of space for simpler Steam games if you do decide to embrace the beta lifestyle.