Ben Wilson
Ben is the editor for everything in our tech channel at Windows Central, including desktop PCs, the components inside, and practically any accessory. Since most of this hardware tends to be compatible with Xbox, he also keeps an Xbox Series S close by for testing headsets, external storage, and anything with enough versatility to cover all the bases. A lifelong gamer since his first console, the SEGA Mega Drive, he has an affinity for taking things to pieces to see how they work.
Pursuing a recent career in technology journalism follows over a decade of experience in electronics retail and tech support roles, offering repairs and recommendations to consumers. A personal hobby in custom PC building built a strong desire to follow the latest cutting-edge hardware in a never-ending search to find the parts genuinely worth buying. Always on the hunt for the best value for money, he's fueled by a steady diet of caffeinated drinks and coffee-flavored food.
Forever a Windows XP fan, he's keeping up with the latest releases from Microsoft but dabbles in Linux to experiment with the inner workings of Valve's Steam Deck handheld. He'll look out for your best interests if you're considering tinkering with hardware upgrades and want the best bang for your buck. Find him on BlueSky @benwilson.net to ask questions or share opinions.
Latest articles by Ben Wilson
ASUS' answer to the Steam Deck drops to $399 with specs crushing Valve's cheapest model — making it the best value handheld
By Ben Wilson published
Deal With 512GB of solid-state storage and a gorgeous 120Hz screen, the Ryzen Z1 ROG Ally is temporarily $200 off with a discount from ASUS at Best Buy.
Best joysticks and HOTAS flight sticks for Microsoft Flight Simulator in 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
Updated Introducing a joystick to your Microsoft Flight Simulator experience further adds to the realism, and we’ve rounded up the best you can buy in one place.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck HOTAS review: My new favorite stick for Microsoft Flight Simulator
By Ben Wilson published
Review Turtle Beach offers an unparalleled experience that's better than anything I've tried to date, and it's about to become even better with a soon-to-release software update.
Best CPU for NVIDIA RTX 3060 in 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
Updated Pair a suitable processor with NVIDIA's affordable 30-Series graphics card with my best CPU for 3060 picks.
Best motherboard for AMD Ryzen 5 5600X in 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
Updated AMD's Ryzen 5 5600X is arguably the most affordable mid-range, 8-core processor, but which is the best motherboard to match? Here are my picks.
Best Intel LGA 1700 motherboards 2023
By Ben Wilson last updated
Z690 We found the best Z690 chipset boards with the LGA 1700 Intel socket.
Former AMD boss brands NVIDIA "the GPU cartel": Rumors of delayed shipments and supply control listed as strongarm tactics
By Ben Wilson published
Rival tactics Former AMD Radeon exec Scott Herkelmen hints that NVIDIA may delay shipments to if it suspects customers are simultaneously dealing with its rivals.
Best VR headset for Microsoft Flight Simulator in 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
VR Experience the best VR for Microsoft Flight Simulator with one of these headset options and take to the digital skies with unparalleled realism.
Crucial Pro Memory: Overclocking Edition DDR5 RAM review — Hitting the Ryzen sweet spot with no frills
By Ben Wilson published
Review Crucial expands its DDR5 desktop memory range with kits targeting gamers and enthusiasts looking to hit the 6000MT/s sweet spot, but is it worth it?
The best Wi-Fi 6 mesh router I've ever tested is discounted to an all-time low, and it STILL powers my home network two years later
By Ben Wilson published
Deal TP-Link's discounted Deco X55 Wi-Fi 6 mesh triple pack is still my favorite wireless networking solution since I tested it in 2022, and it still provides a reliable connection to my home office.
Crucial's latest PRO Series DDR5 desktop memory is geared towards overclocking, just like most of the other RAM brands
By Ben Wilson published
DDR5 The all-new DDR5-6000 desktop UDIMM memory from Crucial includes a sleek design and a target audience of overclocking enthusiasts, but is it enough to satisfy tinkerers?
Best Steam Deck accessories 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
Steam Deck The best Steam Deck accessories will enhance your portable console and allow you to use it as a fully-fledged PC. Grab these essentials for Valve's handheld.
Best webcam in 2024 for streaming and Microsoft Teams or Zoom meetings
By Ben Wilson published
Updated We’ve tested and compared dozens of webcams to find the best for streamers, Zoom meetings, and more.
ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A Gaming WiFi motherboard review: A solid mid-range pick for Ryzen 7000/8000
By Ben Wilson published
Review Fitting into the mid-range, this B650-A board from ASUS offers conveniences without inflating the price too much — but is it right for your next AM5 build?
HYTE Y70 Touch review: A 4K 60Hz screen built into an extravagant PC case let down by bloated software
By Ben Wilson published
Review Geared towards aesthetics, this fish tank of a PC case gains another piece of flair.
Best gaming laptops for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
MSFS Whether portable flight sims or skinny desktop replacements, here's what you need.
AMD Ryzen 5 8600G vs. Ryzen 7 8700G: Which should you buy?
By Ben Wilson published
8000G🥊 AMD's latest 8000G Series processors offer PC gaming without a dedicated graphics card, but which Ryzen is better for your budget?
AMD launches brand new processors with premium integrated graphics: Ryzen 8000G Series desktop CPUs are available now
By Ben Wilson published
8000G day AMD's latest desktop CPUs are out now, and these Ryzen 8000G processors feature revolutionary integrated graphics and AI-centric NPUs. Here's what you need to know.
AMD Ryzen 7 8700G review: Skip that graphics card for now, this CPU is the new meta for budget PC gaming
By Ben Wilson published
Review Breaking the stigma of weak integrated graphics, the Ryzen 7 8700G is a revolutionary desktop processor perfect for a budget-conscious custom gaming PC.
AMD Ryzen 5 8600G review: The ultimate CPU for a budget-friendly custom gaming desktop is here
By Ben Wilson published
Review Bypassing expensive graphics cards, the Ryzen 5 8600G allows budget enthusiasts to build a capable desktop PC without sacrificing the latest AAA titles.
Best gaming chairs in 2024
By Ben Wilson published
Updated I've picked the best gaming chairs for you, your kids, or your significant other with various styles and features to fit your budget in 2024.
AMD's new Radeon 7600 XT graphics card on sale NOW with Fluid Motion Frames (AFMF) support for extra PC gaming FPS
By Ben Wilson published
7600 XT ❤ AFMF A bump in specifications from the standard Radeon RX 7600 brings the 7600 XT up to double VRAM and includes support for AFMF to boost framerates.
Best PCs for sim racing 2024: Pre-built desktops for Forza, iRacing, Assetto Corsa, and more
By Ben Wilson, Zachary Boddy last updated
PC Racing The best gaming PC for sim racing will offer a more personalized experience than a console. Grab a ready-made computer and hit the racetrack.
Best cases for Steam Deck 2024
By Ben Wilson last updated
Protection Valve's Steam Deck ships with an official carrying case, but nothing lasts forever. We've rounded up the best Steam Deck case replacements to keep your console safe.
Acer Swift Edge 16 laptop review: This ultralight OLED challenger is almost perfect for traveling workers
By Ben Wilson published
Review A refined option in the ultralight laptop category, the Swift Edge 16 boasts a striking OLED display but walks a delicate line between a travel-friendly design and modest battery life.