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smartpcgaming-blog · 7 years ago

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The Best Gaming Controllers of 2018

The Best Gaming Controllers of 2018

The rise in PC gaming over the years has opened the market for gaming accessories as 56% of gamers choose PC over consoles. While these numbers are important to proving how popular PC gaming is, that doesn't mean these individuals want to give up the console gaming experience. Gaming controllers combine the experience of console gaming and the freedom of PC gaming, but choosing the right controller can make the difference in how you enjoy this experience. Now that you have the best gaming computer on the market, why not complete your set up with the best gaming controller? Read on for our list of the best gaming controllers of 2018.

Logitech Gamepad F310

The first of our top gaming controllers is the Logitech Gamepad F310. While it's not the most glamorous option on the list, it is one of the most affordable. And let's be honest, who doesn't love to save a bit of money? The F310 is the perfect "starter" controller, ideal for those who are looking to use their controller more casually while they're gaming. The dual-stick controller has a set of customizable buttons and responsive triggers. Its casing finds a balance between being sturdy yet light enough to take on-the-go. While it isn't a wireless controller, setting it up is a breeze. Simply plug it in and you're ready to go. As functional as it may be, the most redeeming quality is the F310's price. For $20, what you get is worth it. Especially if you are looking for something to try out before investing in more expensive gaming controllers. However, while the F310 is great for the casual gaming, it might not be the right fit for extended play. One of the primary issues with the F310 is its triggers. While they're functional, they can be tough to press down. This may especially be an issue for games that require you to use the triggers often. The controller's directional pad also has its issues. Its loose build made it difficult to maneuver in some games. That said, while it isn't the perfect controller, the Logitech Gamepad F310 is ideal for casual gamers. For the price, you get a reliable gaming controller that performs well under most circumstances. Just make sure you stretch out those fingers once in a while.

Sony Dual Shock 4

The Dual Shock 4 is the latest in Sony's line of counsel gaming controllers. While it wasn't intended for PC gaming, it's become a popular choice in the community. One of the best qualities of the Dual Shock 4 is its design. The controller's curved shape makes it a natural fit in your hands, making for comfortable gaming sessions. Not only is the controller's design great, but so its button layout. The placement of each button and trigger just feels right. You don't need to think about where buttons are, you just press them, which makes for a more satisfying overall gaming experience. The buttons also have a nice responsiveness to them. Each one clicks down and springs back into place discreetly. The Dual Shock 4's signature touchpad is another key feature that sets it apart from other gaming controllers. When used with PCs, this pad can control your computer's mouse. The controller operates both wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired with a Micro-USB. Its 8-hour battery life will provide you with enough fuel to get through a late night of gaming. However, as great as the controller is, it wasn't intended for PC use. Because of this, you will have to do some research to figure out how to connect the controller to your computer.

8Bitdo SN30 Pro Controller

This next controller is a modern twist on a classic controller. While the 8Bitdo SN30 Pro Controller is grounded in old school video games, it works with modern titles, too. Despite its retro appearance, the 8Bitdo SN30 has some added features that make it a great choice for gamers. One of these upgrades is its wireless capabilities--the 8Bitdo SN30 connects easily to your device via Bluetooth. As far as the controller's layout, the 8Bitdo SN30 is a near-perfect recreation of the retro gaming controllers you might have grown up with. It's entire look and feel recreates the old school gaming experience. With that said, there are some minor tweaks that bring this controller into the modern world, like the addition of joysticks that makes them more compatible with newer games. The shoulder triggers have also been split to give the controller more uses. Between its features and its compact build, the 8Bitdo SN30 is an ideal travel companion for any gamer. While it may fit perfectly in the hands for some, the size of the controller could be uncomfortable to others, depending on the size of your hands and length of your gaming sessions. Despite its size, the 8Bitdo SN30 is great at what it does, and it is a good choice for those that are into combining retro and modern gaming.

Steam Controller

Steam holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its extensive library and consistent deals have made it extremely popular in the gaming community. Because of this, it isn't surprising the company would create its own controller. While the design is similar to most gaming controllers, Steam put its own twist on things. The Steam Controller's customizable buttons, for example, allow users to enjoy games their way, as users can create their own button setups for each game. This completely custom gaming experience allows you to find the best way to play for each individual game. If you find a configuration that works well, you can also share your settings with other users. But if custom buttons sound like too much for you, the controller's default settings will get the job done nicely. The controller's overall layout is different from other controllers, as the Steam Controller attempts to combine the experience of using optical mice and gaming controllers. The dual trackpad setup takes the place of joysticks, and the pad on the left works as a directional pad and the right side emulates using a mouse. Together, the Steam Controller offers a gaming experience quite unlike other gaming controllers. However, some gamers prefer a more straightforward experience. While you may have control over most of the buttons operate, it can still feel too different to learn new configurations for every game. Having a controller this different takes some time to get used to. While the touchpads are responsive, they don't have that natural feel because the layout isn't standard. The Steam Controller tries to ease the debate between mouse and controller gaming. But ultimately, the controller's custom options don't get enough use. As a result, the Steam Controller offers a very standard but solid gaming experience. If you are a sucker for customized setups, it may be a good option for you to tinker with.

Microsoft Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller

While there are many companies out there creating unique controllers, standard designs are always reliable. Microsoft's Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller is both attractive and functional, outperforming other gaming controllers on the market. The Xbox One Elite's clean design gives it the look of luxury. But looks aren't always everything. The controller's build has some weight behind it, promising a sturdy structure. In addition, its buttons have the same quality feel and response as the traditional Xbox controls. The Elite's triggers have a nice pull and click, letting you know when its maxed out. The joysticks offer strong grip for wide, comfortable control. Many of the Elite's parts can be swapped out quickly via light magnets. The thumb pads can be exchanged for different shapes and sizes, which gives you more control over its comfort and appearance. Similar to other gaming controllers, the Elite has both wired and wireless options. But connecting wirelessly to your PC will require an adapter. The Elite has a very familiar feel with a premium look. The controller's weight even feels like a luxury item. However, the Elite also comes at a more expensive price. For this price, some may question whether what you get is worth it. It ultimately depends on what you're looking for in a controller. It's true that the Elite has some customizable features, but most of them are just for looks. However, its performance and comfort also make it a great choice for gamers that enjoy longer sessions. Ultimately, while it may not be for everyone, the Elite is more than just a fancy Xbox controller. Its features and build make it a strong competitor to other gaming controllers.

NVIDIA Shield

Many gaming controllers all seem to be based on similar products. The NVIDIA Shield is not one of them. While its layout may be familiar, the features and design make it unique. The Shield's design makes it stand out among other controllers. Just holding it in your hands makes it feel like a quality product. The button placement and arrangement gives it a very familiar feel. But its overall design makes feel so much cooler. But the Shield isn't just all looks. In addition to responsive buttons and triggers, the Shield also has several controls that set it apart from other gaming controllers. For example, one interesting feature is a built-in microphone. Plus, there's also an input jack for those who choose to use their headset. It also has a mouse pad built into its surface which allows you to navigate through menus on your computer quickly and easily. Another unique feature of the Shield is volume control. The smooth touchpad at the bottom of the controller allows you to easily change the volume without any hassle. That said, the Shield comes with a couple quirks. While it's nice to have a microphone built in, it can be a bit oversensitive. There is the possibility of it picking up the sounds the buttons clicking and other random noises. This can be especially annoying for those that stream their gameplay. It also isn't as simple to set up as some of the other gaming controllers out there. While connecting the Shield to your PC isn't that difficult, you will have to install a special software package from NVIDIA to get it working. Overall, the Shield is a fairly standard gaming controller that brings a few extra features to the table. NVIDIA has put out some fantastic gaming accessories out on the market. From virtual reality headsets to graphics cards, the company knows what it's doing with their products. And the same is true of the Shield. The controller is a well-rounded device that looks cool and functions well.

Razer Wildcat

The last of the controllers on our list is a giant in the video game accessories game. The Razer Wildcat is an amped up Xbox controller with a bold design and strong functionality. At first glance, there's not too much different with this controller from the standard Xbox one. And you're right--the Wildcat holds onto many of the same buttons and functions as standard controllers. There are some added features including a set of customizable buttons along the bottom. But surprisingly, the Wildcat is not a wireless controller. This is a disadvantage when compared to other controllers--even the standard Xbox ones. However, the Wildcat does come with lots of extra gripping that make it more comfortable than others. The bumpy, rubber surfaces are perfect for long gaming sessions. While the Wildcat isn't the cheapest controller, it is a comfortable and effective device. While you won't be able to walk away mid-game, the controller will be reliable and rest comfortably in your hands.

Comparing Gaming Controllers

The market for controllers is growing year after year. While it's helpful to read reviews and hear what works for others, try to find what works best for you. Check out some of our reviews to find out if the latest trends gaming are worth the hype. Read the full article

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The Top Five Choices for a 3D Virtual Reality Headset

We've daydreamed about this technology for decades. Still, it's taken a few years for 3D virtual reality headset sales to catch on with the most gamers. With the increase of innovative ways augmented reality apps are creeping into our phones, more users are interested in VR than ever. For many traditional gamers, the transition from standard screen-based playing to a more VR based engagement can be jarring. The idea of moving around and swinging your body rather than your thumbs is foreign after decades of traditional gaming. If you're thinking about jumping on the bandwagon for VR gaming, here's a rundown of the top 5 choices for a VR headset on the market right now.

1. Google Daydream View

Remember a few years ago when Google first launched their Cardboard project? They started off by offering to sell you a piece of cardboard that wrapped around your smartphone. When strapped on your head, it would lead to an immersive experience. The idea seemed kind of goofy at first. But then it started to catch on. The Daydream headset is the natural extension of that concept. You slide your phone into the headset and, thanks to the lenses mounted in the front, you get a merged view of two images. This 3D virtual reality headset isn't the most sophisticated setup. But when paired with external objects, has great potential. They sell a pairable remote that you hold to control your actions. This allows you to navigate 3D simulations and augmented reality locations. With the number of apps growing for the Daydream every day, you're sure to find something that fits your style of exploration and play. Look for new additions to the platform's library to include all your favorite online viewing experiences.

2. HTC Vive

The latest offering from HTC is their Vive, which couples a 3D virtual reality headset with two motion controllers and two base stations. The base stations allow you to create a VR environment in any room. You get to move around a range of 10 feet through whatever environment you're playing in. Other tracking accessories give you a natural type of gameplay as they track virtual options in a 3D space. Their sports and gun zapper set is available as an add-on for under $150. Other third-party companies are coming out with some pretty great accessories including leg and foot tracking. The HTC set up requires pretty serious computing power. They recommend a minimum of a GeForce GTX 970 GPU paired with an Intel Core i5. Check out our guide to making sure you've got the processing RAM for uninterrupted gaming. Currently, you need to be tethered to a computer but HTC is slated to offer untethered sets soon. They've been showing models around different conventions and expos. Let's bet they've got an untethered 3D virtual reality headset hitting the market in the near future.

3. Oculus Rift

The gold standard in VR over the last few years has been the Oculus Rift. As HTC and PlayStation move into the market, the brand's clout has been taken down a notch. That doesn't mean that the Oculus Rift is showing any signs of slowing down. Their 3D virtual reality headset has a similar look and feel to HTC's Vive while offering Oculus Touch motion controllers. It's also cheaper than some of its competitors while maintaining a competitive edge in style and processing power.

4. Sony PlayStation VR

Taking the place of where the Oculus Rift was a few years ago is Sony's PlayStation VR headset. They offer one of the best and simplest tethered systems on the market today. This 3D virtual reality headset can be used to play some of your favorite games in an immersive format. Set it to theater mode and you can view games as if they were projected on a massive screen. The gameplay for their latest titles has been designed with the VR headset in mind. To get the most out of it, you might have to add a couple of extras. The PlayStation Move controller bundle costs a bit extra but the entire package still comes to less than the Rift. Check out Playstation's site to find out which games are currently available with integrated VR gameplay. With 100 titles and counting, there's a game for everyone on PlayStation's roster. also make sure to check out our Sony Playstation VR Review

5. Samsung Gear VR

Samsung continues their tradition of creating intuitive and cutting-edge tech at a reasonable price. With the Gear VR, you can turn your Galaxy S6 or S8 into a v3D virtual reality headset in a snap. While they won't be able to get to every potential VR gamer on the market, they will start to build brand loyalty over the coming years. Many new phones offer free add-ons for switching to Samsung. If you're in the market for a new phone, see if your sales agent can offer any kinds of free add-ons to your Samsung. Otherwise, you might have to shell out an extra $130 for the Gear VR. It's a bit more expensive than Google's headset offering, but it comes with a touchpad and a Bluetooth controller. Check out the patented motion sensing when you set up the Bluetooth connection. With the help of Oculus developers, the software works great on the number of games and apps that were developed specifically for the system.

A 3D Virtual Reality Headset for Any Gamer

Any PC or console gamer should find a great VR headset option to suit their gaming habits. Lots of electronics stores have setups allowing customers to take the systems for a spin. Before you invest, why not take a test drive with your favorite big box retailer. If you still can't decide which VR headset will work for your gaming type, contact us for more helpful hints on what to look for. Read the full article

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The Top Five Choices for a 3D Virtual Reality Headset

We’ve daydreamed about this technology for decades.

Still, it’s taken a few years for 3D virtual reality headset sales to catch on with the most gamers. With the increase of innovative ways augmented reality apps are creeping into our phones, more users are interested in VR than ever.

For many traditional gamers, the transition from standard screen-based playing to a more VR based engagement can…

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#3D virtual reality headset

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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Does Nvidia Or AMD Make The Best Video Graphics Card ?

Video graphics card requirements have come a long way from the Unreals and the Quake OpenGLs of the early 90's. With thousands of high-end titles and an endless array of spellbinding graphics, there's never been a more captivating time to be a gamer. But how do you choose a graphics card to bring out the sparkle in your gaming? Today, we'll be putting two of the gaming world's biggest card producers under the microscope. Join us, as we look into performance, price, and software, and find out who comes out on top: Nvidia or AMD.

Choosing A Video Graphics Card

There's no getting away from it: video gaming is a multi-billion d ollar industry. With hundreds of new releases every year, major consoles vying for your attention, and a mountain of computer hardware, there's a lot to digest. And, when it comes to computer rigs, there's no bigger talking point than the question of graphics cards. For those not in the know, a graphics card is a piece of expansion hardware that goes into your computer and helps your machine process graphics. You might get a machine with one already installed, or you might buy a new one, separately, after the fact. Whatever the case, these cards take complex data from the CPU and translate it into graphics output for your screen. There is a distinction made between these cards and so-called "onboard" graphics processors. The only thing you need to know is, a video graphics card is, typically, your best bet at being able to play a high-end video game. And there are no bigger players in the video graphics industry than Nvidia and AMD. But how do you go about choosing the right card for you? Let's take a closer look at these two gaming titans, and what each brand has to offer you.

Nvidia

Nvidia's graphics processing technology has been at the forefront of gaming technology since the late '90s. But it's their GeForce card line that's really stood the test of time. Nvidia has pioneered significant developments in graphics processing. Their product line includes high-performance drivers, builds, chips and wireless communications. So how does it stack up? Price Part of the purchase when it comes to Nvidia is a slightly higher price for a high-end card. How high of a price are we talking about? Their best-performing card, the Titan Xp came in at a breathtaking $1,200 launch price, earlier this year. Which isn't exactly fair, as this marks the extreme end of their pricing. Newer releases have featured hardware that at least challenges its performance. Prices, on average, tend to range from $400 to $700. Performance NVidia graphics cards are popular purchases for people looking for high-performance graphics processors. As mentioned, their highest-performance card at the moment is the Titan Xp. This powerhouse rounds off their 1080p 144fps cards with a full-fat Pascal GP102 GPU. Ratcheting down your performance from there, Nvidia offers a robust range of 1080p, 4K, 900p, and 1440p 60fps and VR performance cards. On the lower end of their product line, the GT 730 through GTX 460 cards offer performance to carry you through most classic and indie games. Drivers and software As one of the most widely-used graphics cards for video gaming, Nvidia offers competitive drivers and software. Their software, however, is an area where Nvidia has been able to truly shine. The GeForce Experience software allows for automated driver updates and seamless game optimization. It also allows for screenshots and video capture. This is actually one area where Nvidia currently dominates, with a clear focus on the needs of the gaming community.

Click here for the best prices on Nvidia video graphics cards

AMD

AMD (or Advanced Micro Devices) is actually a microprocessor manufacturer with a line of GPU products. That being said, it's not like their graphics cards are anything to sniff at. Generally considered to be better value for money than Nvidia tech, AMD cards provide high-end performance at a reduced cost. But how does that reduction in cost affect their competitive edge? Price AMD cards, as we've mentioned, typically cost less for about the same amount of money. This, however, isn't usually by any significant amount, and recent releases have actually put them largely at the same prices. The line's midrange card, the $420 AMD Radeon RX Vega 56 bettered its price equivalent, the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 on certain benchmark lists. That said, subsequent releases have put the two brands almost neck and neck. While you might still find better deals on AMD over Nvidia, the truth is, the market price on these two lines has largely evened out. Performance While AMD does perform well in most of their cards, they have garnered a bit of a reputation for following in Nvidia's footsteps in recent years. AMD released Freesync tech in their processors, adapting monitor refresh rates to specific games. This was a good development, but one that Nvidia had already managed with their G-Sync monitors. Sometimes AMD's ahead, as was the case with their TressFX hair physics which beat Nvidia's Hairworks to release. By and large, however, AMD has made its mark on the industry by developing open features, and not by innovating before anybody else does. As a final note, AMD cards, whether deserving or not, have a bit of a reputation for "running hot", heating up over long periods of use. Drivers and software AMD's integrated software takes the form of their Radeon Crimson ReLive package. As a UI that maintains and controls GPU processes, it's a platform designed to complement the brand's flagship Vega video graphics card. It's a powerful application, but one that, unfortunately, apes a lot of the functionality of the GeForce Experience. Still, with the ability to underclock memory frequencies and cap frame rates on a hardware level, it's not like you're losing out in any way by using it.

Click here for the best prices on AMD video graphics cards

The Winner

There's a misconception in the video graphics card community that you have to love either Nvidia or AMD and completely reject the other. The truth is, they're both significant players in gaming hardware. With dozens of releases at a wide range of prices and performance, and with both lines scoring high marks on various games, there's no one clear winner. That said, you came here to find a winning graphics card. Going by price comparisons, features, software and innovation, Nvidia has earned their spot at the top of our list. Interested in learning more about PC gaming? Check out some of our comprehensive hardware, title, and PC reviews, and take your gaming to the next level, today. Read the full article

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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Does Nvidia Or AMD Make The Best Video Graphics Card ?

Video graphics card requirements have come a long way from the Unreals and the Quake OpenGLs of the early 90’s.

With thousands of high-end titles and an endless array of spellbinding graphics, there’s never been a more captivating time to be a gamer.

But how do you choose a graphics card to bring out the sparkle in your gaming?

Today, we’ll be putting two of the gaming world’s biggest card…

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#video graphics card

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The Five Best Gaming PCs For Serious Gamers

Everyone is clamoring for the best gaming PC on the market. But with gaming PCs, it's not as simple as 'one over the other.' Let's take a look at the best gaming PCs for any type of gamer. 2017 was a relentless year for PC games. Dozens of must-play games hit the market. But you need a top-notch rig to get the most out each experience. You're a serious gamer. You want the best performance, whether you need or not. You want to have everything you need for the best new games of tomorrow. No need to buy the most expensive rig. Who can afford that? Let's take a look at some of the real-world factors that go into buying the best gaming PC.

What Makes an Ultimate Gaming PC?

The 'Ultimate Gaming PC' differs from person to person. Games are a factor, but so are other realities. The buyer's budget is a factor. So are the types of games the buyer likes to play. What do you want your PC to do? Some want to multitask while gaming. Some want their PCs to be virtual reality-ready. You don't want to spend money on features you're never going to use. But you don't want to cut yourself short when something new piques your interest. Gamers on a tight budget might want a powerful CPU and graphics card out of the box. Why? You can upgrade other features later.

The Five Best Gaming PCs for Serious Gamers

There are enough gaming PCs out there to fit any gamer's needs. So, what are you looking for? We've reviewed five gaming PCs that fit the needs of five types of gamers. No matter who you are, you'll be satisfied with a gaming PC in this lineup. The Best Gaming PC for Gamers on a Budget SkyTech ArchAngel GTX 1050 Ti Featuring: AMD FX-Series Six-Core FX-6120, 8 GB DDR3, 1 TB HDD, Nvidia Geforce GTX 1050 We can't all afford the maxed out, monster machines. But as we've shown, you don't have to lose out on great gaming quality. The SkyTech ArchAngel is an affordable gaming computer that doesn't disappoint. You benefit from a durable computer that supports the highest quality games at one of the lowest prices on the market. This works great as a gaming computer and a work computer. If you're trying to save money, you needn't buy both. Run your favorite games on full settings. Just don't expect too many bells and whistles. This is a pure, highly-functional computer. It's a great model among low-end gaming PCs that provides some serious bang for your buck. The Best Gaming PC for Multitaskers HP OMEN Featuring: 7th Gen Intel Core i7-7700 Processor, 16 GB DDR4-2133, 1 TB 7200RPM SATA + 256 GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 There's nothing like video conferencing with friends as you team up on some baddies. The HP OMEN provides the latest customizable hardware. It supports all of your digital needs and then some. You get all the power you need, even when multitasking. It runs more efficiently than other models, even at fast speeds. And you'll enjoy all of your favorite games, even at max settings. The HP OMEN has a handsome tower and great customizable features. It also has great energy efficiency. Support hours of gaming, even as you switch back to your video conferencing or those complex Excel spreadsheets. The Best Gaming PC for Next Gen Technologies Alienware Aurora R5 Featuring: Intel Core i5 6th Gen, 64-bit Quad-Core Processor, 8 GB DDR4, 1 TB HDD + 120 GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 The Alienware Aurora has an eye-catching design. It's easy to upgrade, to suit all of your gaming needs. It has a variety of pricing options for both budget shoppers and VR enthusiasts. It has an ergonomic design and runs silently. It's great for any environment. Its well-designed chassis allows you to access components quickly. You install new graphics cards and storage with minimal friction. Its versatility makes it a great choice for any next-generation gamer. The Best Gaming PC for Space Savers Corsair ONE Compact Gaming PC Featuring: Intel Core i7-7700 3.6 GHz, 64 bit Quad-Core Processor, 16 GB DDR4 2400, 1 TB HDD + 240 GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 8 GB Skeptical about small machines? Rest reassured with the pre-built Corsair One. This compact PC is powerful and quiet with impressive performance-driving components. It comes free of unnecessary software found in other systems. And despite the size, it's quiet underneath its heavy load. The Corsair ONE provides everything you need to get up and running right away. You can have Corsair upgrade almost any component in the system whenever you want. The Corsair ONE provides true VR and 4K gaming for any environment. A great fit for any family room, home office, or dorm room. Set up and start playing in no time flat. The Best Gaming PC for Performance CyberpowerPC Panzer VR 2255 Featuring: Intel Core i5-8400 2.80 GHz, 64 bit 6-Core Processor, 8 GB DDR4 3000, 1 TB HDD + 120 GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB GDDR5 The CyberpowerPC Panzer is one of the best high-performance, pre-built gaming PCs on the market. It outperforms most other desktops when running graphics-intensive games. Say goodbye to lag. The unit is fast and great for multitasking. It's also VR ready for the best in next-generation gaming. This is an out-of-the-box PC that is a superior alternative to custom builds. This PC features a clean exterior and a side window that can be customized by color. The liquid cooling system is quiet. The system provides LED lighting so you can see the interior of the computer. This is a computer for serious gamers. If you want something that can handle anything you throw at it, choose the CyberpowerPC Panzer. Learn More and Get Connected Not ready to buy? No problem there. Staying up to date on the latest and models in gaming PCs is easy. By now you might have a good idea of the model you're looking for. Keep your ear to the ground as the best PCs come out. Make a move when you find the one for you. Contact Smart PC Gaming for insights and reviews of the best technologies on the market in 2018. Read the full article

#gamingPCs

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The Five Best Gaming PCs For Serious Gamers

What Makes an Ultimate Gaming PC?

The Five Best Gaming PCs for Serious Gamers

#gamingPCs

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The Five Best Gaming PCs For Serious Gamers

Everyone is clamoring for the best gaming PC on the market. But with gaming PCs, it’s not as simple as ‘one over the other.’ Let’s take a look at the best gaming PCs for any type of gamer.

2017 was a relentless year for PC games. Dozens of must-play games hit the market. But you need a top-notch rig to get the most out each experience.

You’re a serious gamer. You want the best performance,…

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#gaming PCs

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The 8 Best Gaming Ram Reviews

Every serious gamer knows that having the best gaming RAM is crucial. You need your computer to keep up to speed at all times. The amount of RAM you have is important. You should notice a step up in performance in many cases when upgrading from 4GB to 8GB, for example. But the amount of memory you have isn't everything. The brand you choose can affect performance too, and ultimately you need to know you've chosen reliable RAM modules. Here are the 8 best gaming RAM brands out there, and how they can help you to become victorious.

What's RAM? Why is it Important?

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It's a storage component that temporarily holds information about data being used by applications while you're using the computer. Being able to quickly access this data is key to fast performance. The faster your RAM is, the faster your computer will run -- in principle. Other components matter too. RAM is especially important to gamers because games use such a large amount of data so quickly. Having fast RAM is the difference between keeping up or experiencing "slowdown"-- which we all know is incredibly frustrating. That's a real crash course in how RAM works. Yet, there's much more to it than this. Heed our recommendations and you won't have to worry about doing too much research yourself. But do make sure any RAM module you buy will fit your motherboard before you make a purchase!

1. Crucial and Ballistix

Crucial produces several series of RAM, one of which is the highly reliable Ballistix range. The Ballistix Sport, Tactical and Elite series are optimized to meet gaming needs. They promise more speed, elevated integrated graphics performance and a sound base to build on. The module decoration on each series is a nice touch.

2. HyperX

Built to best work with an overclocked system, HyperX Ram supplies some of the best gaming RAM available today. Each of the four series - Savage, FURY, Predator, and Impact is available in DDR4 or DDR3. The Predator is particularly impressive, boasting speeds of up to 4000MHz with plug-and-play overclock compatibility. The Impact range is specifically built for small format desktops and notebooks. Despite its size, it'll still reach speeds of up to 2666MHz.

3. G.Skill

G.Skill brags about its low latency pretty often. We can't really blame them. When you're battling to produce and supply the best gaming RAM on the market, latency is a key factor. Even a few microseconds can cost you a game, so you need your RAM to be super-responsive. The Trident Z, Ripjaws and Flares series are very much worth looking into. You'll note that G.Skill doesn't compromise on fantastic appearances as much as it won't compromise on sheer, brutal speed.

4. Corsair

Corsair is a huge name in computing, and for good reason. It's known for producing exceptionally high-quality gaming products, from cases to cooling. And of course, some of the best gaming RAM around. Its Vengeance series is a household name for PC gamers, and its top-spec Dominator series pushes out speeds of up to 3200MHz. Corsair builds with precision and takes into account pretty much every factor to deliver stability and great performance. If you're looking for a solid, reliable workhorse of a RAM module, this could be what you're after.

5. Mushkin

With two decades of experience building RAM, Mushkin is another solid force. Gamers will be particularly interested in its Stealth series, which run under the tagline 'built to perform, developed to outperform'. We like the sound of that. Muskin also offers a high end series of RAM called the Redline series. Mushkin offers a lifetime warranty on its RAM modules, so you can rest assured that if anything goes even the tiniest bit wrong, the manufacturer will be there to lend a hand.

6. Kingston

Kingston is the largest independent memory manufacturer in the world. And it's been going for over 30 years now. That should put any doubts to bed about the quality of its products. It wouldn't be here today if it didn't make great parts. It actually owns the HyperX series, which we talked about earlier. But if you're a gamer it's still worth looking into Kingston's core products, as they can still be used for gaming PCs. Highly-tested and system specific options mean that you can personalize your RAM choice to very particular needs. Which is brilliant if you're using anything especially demanding or unusual in your gaming rig.

7. Black Diamond

Black Diamond creates high-speed and relatively affordable RAM. This could make it a good choice for a restricted budget, as you won't need to compromise on memory speed. It's not the biggest name in gaming RAM options, but alternatives like these are always worth looking into when you're shopping around. You may find yourself pleasantly surprised by the quality you get for this price. DDR4 and DDR3 options are available.

8. Patriot

It's not cheap, but it's about as fast as you can currently hope for. Watch games whoosh past with Patriot's Viper Elite series sitting in your set-up. It's built to take on the most demanding applications and games without an issue. Patriot use quality build materials and its quality control program makes sure you can rely on every single module it puts into the market.

I've Got the Best Gaming RAM! What Now?

Besides great RAM, you'll need a great graphics card, a fast hard drive, and other top-notch components. These will give you an edge while you're gaming - and it'll still often be cheaper than gaming on a console. We hope this has helped you to select the best gaming RAM for your battle station. If you're on a tighter budget, be sure to check out our guide to cheap gaming computers, or keep an eye on second-hand marketplaces for people selling off older iterations of any of the 8 we've named above. You can also check out our budget conscious component builds to get a starting point to build your ultimate gaming system! Now, onward to victory! Read the full article

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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The 8 Best Gaming Ram Reviews

Every serious gamer knows that having the best gaming RAM is crucial. You need your computer to keep up to speed at all times.

The amount of RAM you have is important. You should notice a step up in performance in many cases when upgrading from 4GB to 8GB, for example.

But the amount of memory you have isn’t everything. The brand you choose can affect performance too, and ultimately you need to…

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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Razer Blade Review 2017

Razer Blade Review

Razer is a company that sets its main focus on gamers. That’s how were only available in the beginning, and that is just how it’s continued, even while it makes an attempt to broaden its reach to a far more mainstream audience using its Gunmetal Cutter Stealth and new white peripherals.

The Razer Blade laptop comes squarely under the gambling umbrella, although that isn’t its…

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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#farpoint #ps4pro #ps4 #ps4vr

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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Farpoint Review: Is it worth all the hyper

Farpoint Review Farpoint is main video games developed for PlayStation VR that feels as though greater than a tech demonstration, a proof concept, or a normal game with VR features slapped on as an afterthought. That works to its edge, because although it will be a mediocre shooter if you enjoyed it on a standard display, in VR it seems good, especially when you play with the new PlayStation VR Target Controller. Like worthwhile VR game, Farpoint makes concessions for the constraints of virtual certainty. For instance, in report missions opponents only ever before come at you from leading, which enables you to play the complete game and never have to change much. By traditional shooter specifications it's monotonous design, however, in Farpoint, it can help push away the action sickness a lot of people experience in VR and avoids problems with moving beyond your bounds of where in fact the PlayStation Camera can discover you or your controller (which may be a DualShock or the gun-shaped Goal). And unlike something similar to The London Heist or Until Dawn: Dash of Bloodstream, Farpoint doesn't feel just like a simplistic taking gallery because you can maneuver around its environments widely. Gleam wide selection of foes that behave intelligently in battle, and big levels that encourage anyone to pop from cover to repay as your opponents gain surface and make an effort to flank you.

If you are comfortable in VR and want a supplementary amount of control, you can fiddle with your options and permit using an analog adhere to turn kept and right. When you can belly it I strongly suggest choosing the "smooth look" option. That becomes pretty much necessary in Farpoint's challenging co-op missions, but even VR lightweights can handle the marketing campaign. The reason Farpoint is noteworthy is the remarkable feel of its gunplay. Which deeply satisfying tempo to controlling these guns, and you also see their complicated moving parts clicking and slipping as you methodically bare their chambers, touch the reload button, and bodily tip desire to Controller up and again toward your make to swap backward and forwards in the middle of your two equipped weapons. But the showcase is hefting the interestingly light Target Controller (or a DualShock, clumsily) up to that person and shutting one eye to fall into line your weaponry' sights seems intuitive, snappy, and natural - it's much better than every other shooter I've played out in VR. The accuracy rifle and shotgun specifically feel just like a match manufactured in heaven, properly complementing each other as you snipe faraway jetpack-wearing aliens and draw the shotgun out in worry when leaping spiders pop from the ground before you. Using a utilitarian rocket-equipped assault rifle and a less useful alien plasma rifle and spike launcher (quite definitely in the vein of Halo's Needler) rounding out the choice Farpoint might well have used more weapon variety, but it toenails the fundamentals so well that it is easy to recommend with the alone.

At around five hours to complete, Farpoint's report marketing campaign doesn't end pleasantly. As you combat to rescue a set of scientists stranded on an alien world the story plot needs some predictable changes, mainly conveyed through uncomfortable fixed-perspective cutscenes. Those are well crafted, but viewing a video tutorial doesn't play to VR's talents. Then it ends so abruptly I got surprised to start to see the credits start moving. Farpoint also seems unfinished in other, stranger ways, like in its inadequately thought-out menu software. If you choose the first quest the starting cutscene doesn't play, in case you decide on the cutscene straight it simply performs all the cinematics to be able and skips all the gameplay portions. To play the entire game again right from the start - if, for example, you want to show Farpoint off to a pal - you have to choose the beginning cutscene, watch it, then leave back again to the menu and choose the first quest, ready through multiple prolonged loads. That may be chalked up to clumsy program design, but other issues popped up that definitely weren't done deliberately: at one point I had fashioned to close the overall game credited to a reoccurring insect that made my complete view go totally dark-colored, so when I opened it right back up I'd been repaid several checkpoints, enjoy it hadn't preserved. Yet I used to be stuck outfitted with the spike launcher I'd found later in the particular level, that was terribly ill-suited to the sniper-filled canyon I needed to combat through first. With actually no chance to simply restart the complete level, it was an enormous pain to capture up to where I'd been.

Farpoint's marketing campaign will feel brief since it is; having said that, holding a plastic material firearm at attention all night on end is merely as tiring as you'd expect, so it is not at all something most people can stay and play all day long. However, a small number of bonus methods, including two-player online co-op missions and obtained arcade-style concern levels filled with leaderboards, keep things interesting even after you have wrapped up the key missions. The co-op missions are unique and challenging, with multiple difficulty levels and successive waves of foes that could keep you on your feet even with somebody. There are busy occasions when one player dies, and the other must scramble to either obtain the revive or complete the face single, creating some strong fight-or-flight sensations. And you may even amuse yourself in the key menu by traveling a distinctive space train station environment, turning the many weapon models around in the hands to peer at their every little aspect, and flinging items into a faraway porthole for items. Update: As of writing this article 6/19/2017, The Farpoint Bundle is sold out at every retailer and there is currently no information on when new stock will arrive. However, the game is able to played with a regular dualshock controller, but I wouldn't recommend playing it that way Click to Post

#farpoint

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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Farpoint Review: Is it worth all the hyper

#farpoint

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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Farpoint Review: Is it worth all the hyper

Farpoint Review

Farpointis main video games developed for PlayStation VR that feels as though greater than a tech demonstration, a proof concept, or a normal game with VR features slapped on as an afterthought. That works to its edge, because although it will be a mediocre shooter if you enjoyed it on a standard display, in VR it seems good, especially when you play with the new PlayStation VR…

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#farpoint

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smartpcgaming-blog · 8 years ago

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NBA Playgrounds Review: Is this the next NBA Game?

NBA PLAYGROUNDS REVIEW

The new licensed game from the NBA is NBA Playgrounds, and whether it’s fair or not, it immediately draws a comparison to NBA Street and NBA Jam. So the question that nostalgic gamers have to ask themselves is can this game really compare to the culture changing games of yesteryear? If you approach NBA Playgrounds expecting the same game as NBA Jams, you will be disappointed, but that doesn’t mean that this isn’t a good game on its own. They definitely share some similarities, NBA Playgrounds is a two on two games features real stars. It has all of the relevant current players and many legends that have hung up their sneakers a while ago. As expected every player also have ridiculous dunks and crossovers that without a doubt set this game in a fantasy realm when it comes to gravity. While NBA Playgrounds has many similarities to the games of the past it also has many differences. When I was younger I used to love playing NBA Jam and like every other player I would constantly mash the turbo button, that tactic will absolutely not work in NBA Playgrounds. Stamina drains very quickly in this game, you can probably only accomplish one cross over and set up for a dunk before your stamina is completely drained. Stamina is key and the way you conserve it will be crucial to winning. All moves besides basic dribbling drain stamina, which is indicated by a bar underneath your player. Using turbo or performing crossovers will drain it quickly. When you first start playing NBA Playgrounds you will feel that the stamina bar is very limited, but you’ll soon appreciate the strategy that it forces upon the game. Unleashing for a monster dunk will hinder your ability to get back on defense and go for a steal. The limited stamina will actually force you to be more cautious with your decision making and introduces an added layer to the game that is welcome once you get used to it. The shooting mechanics in NBA Playgrounds also take some getting used to. Shooting requires you to release the shot at the correct time to make the shot, which sounds easy enough. Unfortunately, the main issue is that the timing doesn’t mesh with the animation. In other words, the timing will always be the same regardless if you’re doing an insane somersault dunk or if you’re simply taking a jump shot. Initially, you will try to line up your release with the animation but once you realize that, the animation doesn’t matter you will finally begin to drain your shots and dunks. Another quirk in the game is that between baskets the team that scored is automatically pushed back to their side of the court until you inbound the ball. That wouldn’t be an issue until you realize that some opposing players have very long dunk celebrations and you will not be allowed to inbound the ball until they return to their side of the court. During my play thru I had to wait for Shaq to finish doing the worm, and for Karl Malone to finish dancing around for a good 10 seconds before the gameplay was allowed to continue. When you see these celebrations for the first time they are funny but once you have to wait six to seven times watching the same celebration before you can continue they get very annoying very fast. Performing special moves such as alley-oops, blocks, steals and insane dunks fill up your power meter. Once your bar is filled, you receive a random power up for a short time. The power ups that I experienced were making the other teams shot clock go really fast, and that my next shot would automatically go in regardless of who, or where I shot it from. The power ups that I saw didn’t seem overpowered and while they definitely affected the gameplay, they didn’t seal the game for either team once activated. When you first start NBA Playgrounds all the mode are locked besides exhibition, this is done so that you are forced to play thru the tutorial. After a few games, tournaments and online matches unlock. There are six tournaments of four games each, all taking place at a new venue. This is the main way to unlock content. Completing a tournament unlocks the level and awards a card pack. Each game in the tournaments also has a challenge, like scoring a certain number of three-pointers or blocking the ball X amount of times. This is a great addition because it awards players for mixing up their team As you play games and complete challenges you are awarded XP. For every level, you complete you are then awarded a card pack. This is how you gain new players in NBA Playgrounds. Card packs consist of 5 different player cards, which range from normal players to epic or legendary players. I currently have a legendary Harden and an Epic Durant that I am currently using in my game. The digital card packs have become a trend in most sports game, and are a very popular feature. They are just as popular in NBA Playgrounds. Opening a pack gives you a sense of suspense wishing you can get the next great player for your collection.

Overall the graphics and animations look amazing in NBA Playgrounds. All the players have a wacky look to them and everything is exaggerated. The game is not very demanding on your graphics card at all, I was able to play the game on ultra 1440p on an older Nvidia GTX 980Ti without any issues at all. While NBA Playgrounds isn’t as deep as NBA Streets or a game changer the way NBA JAM was, it is a very good game. I would recommend it especially for gamers who wants to take a break from simulation basketball and just enjoy an over the top basketball experience. Click to Post

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