Daniel Rubino is executive editor of Windows Central. He has been covering Microsoft since 2009 back when this site was called WMExperts (and later Windows Phone Central). His interests include Windows, Surface, HoloLens, Xbox, and future computing visions. Follow him on Twitter: @daniel_rubino.
For creative professionals who want a Windows 10 PC, you have the choice of 13-inch Ultrabooks with no NVIDIA GPU or honking big 15-inch laptops that are not so fun to use on planes or to carry. The new HP ENVY 14 looks to solve that, and it does so with outstanding results. This $1,260 laptop should be on your short list.
Augmented and mixed reality are often seen as the next major revolution in mobile computing. But Microsoft is the only company on the market right now literally making billions, while others are still in development. While Apple is likely to do well in the consumer market, Microsoft is poised for the rest.
Razer's revised (and premium) Laptop Stand Chroma V2 for 2021 is a killer accessory with flashy lighting, extra ports, and it supports dual-display output. While the stand quality is excellent and makes sense for the Razer purist, the $150 price tag and lack of adjustable height may be off-putting for non-converts.
In its third year, the LG Gram 17 is still unmatched in terms of features and lightness at just under 3lbs. New for 2021 is an updated processor, improved display, and some re-worked ports. It all adds up to a fun experience, but LG can still make it even better. Here's our full review after spending the last month with bold LG Gram 17.
Famed review site Wirecutter recently dunked on Microsoft Teams, pointing out that it is hard to set up and not very fun to use. I agree with the findings, which begs whether anyone uses (and enjoys) the version for personal use. I have a feeling it is a journey that won't last long.
Microsoft is now pushing out the March 5th Android security and firmware update for the unlocked Surface Duo. The update is 82MB in size and bumps the build to 2021.207.70. No details on what has been fixed and improved have been posted just yet.
Gaming and keyboard nerds rejoice! Alienware and CHERRY have been working to bring official MX mechanical switches to laptops, and today that day is here. The latest Alienware m15 and m17 (r4) laptops are getting the optional keyboard tech, which provides an impressive 1.8mm of key travel and tactile responsiveness. Here is what else you need to know.
Dell's latest UltraSharp U2421E monitor is the ideal companion for laptop users who want a combo desktop dock and display. The 16:10 screen aspect, decent color accuracy, flexibility in viewing, and 90-watt Type-C cable to recharge your laptop are perfect for the modern office, whether home or away. Here's what we love and what we don't in our latest review.
For those who want a nice-looking and powerful Intel and NVIDIA-based desktop PC, the new XPS 8940 SE checks most of the right boxes. While the finishing on the case could be better, Dell's creator-focused PC gets high marks when it comes to performance.
For those stuck behind a computer all day, the Razer Anzu could be your next necessary purchase. The smart glasses feature open-ear audio with low 60ms latency, Bluetooth 5.1, blue-light reducing lenses, and polarize lenses for outdoor use. They're available now for $199, and we think they look sweet. Here are the rest of the specs.
In 2016, Microsoft showed off a concept of 'holoportation' using 3D scans of people to "beam them" to a virtual location. Today, the company is making it a reality with Microsoft Mesh's announcement, a new mixed-reality platform powered by its Azure cloud service. The company is also teaming up with James Cameron, Niantic, and Guy Laliberté of Cirque du Soleil to use the tech in real life.
Microsoft may finally realize GroupMe has a lot of potential. The group messaging app is popular on US college campuses and smaller organizations, but it may pick up voice and video calls, at least according to a recent user survey.
The Storm 2 is a 99WHr portable power bank that is see-through and has an on-board computer to monitor output, temperature, life cycles, and more. With up to 100 watts output, it should be able to handle all your portable needs while also looking rather rad. Here's how to get one.
Move over, Logitech, as Razer is getting in on the premium full HD webcam market. The new Kiyo Pro features a low-light STARVIS CMOS sensor, 1080P at 60 FPS, HDR, and a very flexible mount for your PC or tripod. It goes on sale today for $199, and here is why it could be killer for the office or streaming on Twitch.
HyperX joins the 60 percent hype train with its new Alloy Origins 60 mechanical keyboard. Featuring its brand-new Red linear switches, the Alloy Origins 60 brings RGB, a beautifully machined aircraft-grade aluminum body, and an excellent typing experience, so long as you are OK with the minimalist setup.
The February 5th Android security update is now rolling out for Surface Duo. The update is likely timed with Surface Duo going on sale in more markets today. The update is only 66 MB in size, and as of now, it is unclear if there is anything new or fixed.
VAIO is back with the brand-new VAIO Z for 201. A super light 14" Ultrabook built using carbon fiber, but with the heart of a workstation, VAIO Z is unlike any other laptop on the market due to its powerful 35W Intel Core i7-11375H processor. But its exquisite and quality design comes at a very high price.
First introduced in 2017, the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK 33 (CF-33) has gone to be the best-selling laptop and rugged tablet on the market. It is now refreshed for 2021 with more options, improved performance, and the latest tech for first responders and those in the military. Here's our review of this supremely badass Windows PC.
The Surface Pro 7+ for Business (2021) is Microsoft's latest (and hopefully final) spin of its dated Surface Pro design. But that doesn't make it unimpressive. The 11th Gen Intel processor and Xe graphics make it one o the fastest Surface PCs yet, and the optional 4G LTE and removable SSD are icing on the cake. That said, consumers should wait for Surface Pro 8.
For those using iOS 14, you can cross one item off your To Do list: getting widgets. Microsoft just announced that To Do for the iPhone now supports various widgets for the task manager. Here's what you need to know about it.