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How to Remove Stickers from Laptop the RIGHT WAY

So you loved applying your favorite stickers on your laptop, and now you think that it looks childish? Well, it happens with most of us who own a laptop. The only way to personalize a laptop is by applying stickers to leave a personalized essence on it.

But removing the stickers isn’t that easy as applying one, because you just can’t peel it off the laptop! If you think that it is the time to get rid of the childish stickers, then this guide will help you for sure.

Here are some sure-shot ways to remove stickers from the laptop.

How to Remove Stickers from Laptop

1. Solvents

You can use some solvents to remove the sticker from the laptop without leaving the goo sticking to the laptop. But you cannot use all solvents as most of them can damage the laptop while voiding the warranty.

So what solvents can you use then?

WD-40

Goo Gone

Lighter Fluid

Mineral Spirits

These are mild solvents and can dissolve the adhesive of the sticker, making it loose and easy to remove. There are some other solvents you can use i.e., rubbing alcohol, vinegar, acetone, and Windex, which are beneficial in removing stickers from the laptop.

Take a small ball of cotton and apply the solvent on the edges of the sticker. Don’t pour it strictly on the sticker as the solvent can enter inside the laptop through the ports, and boom your laptop is out of warranty due to liquid damages, if any!

After applying the solvent, leave it as it is for a couple of minutes before you wipe off the stickers. So you have removed the sticker successfully? Good Job! Now take a damp cloth and remove the residual so that there’s no solvent sticking on the laptop.

Note: Always wear gloves while using solvents to protect your skin from irritations and allergies.

2. Mild Abrasives

If you don’t have any solvent available around the house, then you can use mild abrasives to remove the stickers. But make sure that you are using a mild abrasive in order to protect your invaluable laptop from getting scuffed.

The best examples of mild abrasives are Scotch Brite Pads, magic erasers, baking soda, and toothpaste. Abrasives work well on fresh stickers as the sticker goo isn’t that hard. You have to be very careful while using abrasives as the tiniest of mistakes can leave a scratch on the laptop.

Always keep a microfiber cloth at hand when using abrasives to remove stickers. Rub the damp cloth to remove the goo after you have removed the sticker successfully.

3. Hair Dryers and Heat Guns

So using solvents and abrasives didn’t help remove the stickers? With a heat gun or a hairdryer, you can remove the sticker indeed! The primary benefit of using a heat gun is to heat up the goo so that the sticker loosens itself and you can remove it on the go.

Use a hairdryer or a heat gun on the lowest heat setting to safeguard your laptop from heat damages. Also, don’t focus the heat on a particular area, and keep it moving on the edges of the sticker.

Keep a plastic scraper handy so that you can peel off the sticker once it starts getting loose. Using a hairdryer or a heat gun helps in removing all types of stickers, even the stubborn ones, as goo cannot withstand the heat.

After removing the sticker, wipe off the surface with a damp microfiber cloth, and there you are with a clean laptop free from all childish stickers!

4. Oil-based Materials

Using oil-based material is inexpensive as well as tried and tested hack to remove stickers from laptops. These include petroleum jelly, tea tree oil, mineral oil, and substances with moisturizing properties.

Apply a little amount of any of these oil-based substances on the sticker and let it sit for around 5-7 minutes. Make sure that you are not applying it anywhere close to the ports and the gaps of the laptop. Oil-based materials are excellent for uncoated stickers.

So you had applied a plastic-coated sticker that’s even more stubborn than an uncoated one? If yes, then apply some more quantity of any of these substances and let it seep inside the sticker for some time.

Take a plastic scraper and try to peel off the sticker. After successfully removing the sticker, wipe off the surface immediately with a damp cloth to remove the oil, and the residual goo.

Note: if you are planning to leave the oil-based material overnight applied on the sticker, then drop this plan! It can lead to discoloration of the particular area on the laptop, which is non-fixable.

Few Tips on How to Safely Remove Stickers

I understand the excitement of removing the stickers, but here are some things you should keep in mind while getting started with any of the aforementioned hacks.

Turn Off the Laptop

Turn off the laptop and take the power cord out of the wall outlet before using any of the sticker removal tips. Experts recommend that you should never use abrasives and any other metallic element on your laptop when it is powered on.

Turn the laptop off, and then go ahead with the process.

Do Not Use Solvents and Abrasives on MacBook.

Apple recommends that you should never use solvents and abrasives on the MacBook or any other Apple device for removing the stickers. It can even result in voiding the coverage plus, you can damage or scratch the surface of the MacBook because these laptops are made using metal.

How to remove stickers from MacBook then? Continue reading to get the answer!

Wear Gloves and Glasses for Protection

Use gloves and protective glasses while removing the stickers. The protective gear will keep you safe while scraping off the sticker, and you can do the task easily without getting harmed.

The Apple-Approved Ways to Remove Stickers from MacBook

Apple says that you should shut down the device before starting with the cleaning process. Now remove the charging adapter from the wall outlet, and prepare for the cleaning.

Take a soft lint-free cloth and dampen it in the water! Scrub it gently over the sticker and try to remove it. Apple doesn’t recommend using abrasives, aerosol sprays, and solvents as these can damage the laptop.

You can only use a damp cloth or a hairdryer (not recommended by Apple) to heat up the sicker a little bit to remove it successfully.

How to Remove Sticker Residue From Laptop

So you were able to remove the sticker, but the sticker residue is still there, making the laptop look bad? Removing goo is much easier than removing the sticker, and you can use the following substances to wipe it off from the laptop.

1. Rubbing Alcohol

Take a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol and rub it on the goo gently. You can even place the cotton ball on the goo stain to blot it. Wipe off the surface with a damp wipe to clean the alcohol and the residues of goo.

2. Windex

Windex works well in removing the goo from multiple surfaces, including glass. Spray a little amount of Windex on the goo and rub it with a rag or a lint-free cloth. Make sure to protect the ports of your laptop from Windex solution.

3. Goo Gone

Goo Gone is specifically for removing goo, and you can use it to remove the stains effectively.

4. Toothpaste

Just like cleaning your teeth, the toothpaste can also eliminate the goo stains. Spread pea-sized toothpaste on the stain, and rub it with a lint-free cloth. Now use a damp cloth to clean the toothpaste and the stain.

Is It A Good Idea to Take Off The Stickers from the Laptop?

It depends on what type of stickers you are planning to remove. The license key, serial number sticker, and the warranty seal enhance the value of your laptop, so you shouldn’t remove them if not required. However, if you have no plans to sell your laptop and it’s out of coverage, then you can remove these stickers too.

Conclusion

With these easy hacks, you can remove stickers from your laptop. Also, the tips are ideal for most of the laptops, including metallic and plastic-bodied. Take extra precautions while cleaning MacBooks as abrasives, and solvents can damage the surface.

This complete guide on how to remove stickers from the laptop will definitely help you to get rid of the stickers you don’t want on your laptop anymore!

The post How to Remove Stickers from Laptop the RIGHT WAY appeared first on Laptop Verge.

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How to Play PS4 on a Laptop Screen

How many times does it happen that you come home eager to play the new FIFA you just ordered a couple of days back only find out that the TV is currently occupied by your sister or dad enjoying their favorite TV soap or sports?

The wait is killing, isn’t it? So what if there you didn’t need your TV to play your PS4? Yup, believe it or not, you can also connect and play your PlayStation on your laptop screen.

Though keep in mind that the process can be a little tricky and won’t simply work by you connecting the HDMI cable to your laptop rather than the TV.

But why? What is the problem?

That is because the HDMI ports on your laptop and PS4 are output ports and cannot be converted into input ports so easily. So what can you do? Here are a couple of tricks to play PS4 on a Laptop screen.

Method 1: With a Video Capture Card

This is one of the easiest ways to turn your laptop into your new LCD for gaming but remember but your pocket might take a little hit as there are a few things that need purchasing.

Here’s what all you will need.

Laptop

Video Capture Card

Internet (WIFI or Ethernet)

File sharing enabled

HDMI cable

Step 1: The first and foremost thing to connect your PS4 to the internet. If you have a wireless network then go to the Settings option on the menu. There you will find the Internet Connection Settings. Once you locate your WI-Fi, hit the button and connect to it.

But I do not have a wireless connection so what do I do?

Well, in that case, you will need to connect both your laptop and PS4 using Ethernet Cables

Step 2: Next up, you will need a Video Capture Card. We recommend you go with the Elgato Game Capture Card HD60 S. It is an absolute value for money pick as it gives you Full-HD quality and ability directly stream on Twitch, YouTube, etc. at a low cost of less than $120 (no wonder it is an Amazon best-seller).

Step 3: Once you get the video capture card, you need to connect it to your laptop. The USB and all the software needed to establish the connection correctly will be provided to you with the purchase.

Step 4: After you connect the video capture card to your laptop it needs to be hooked up to the PS4. This again is an S-Video connection cable. All you have to do it put in the HDMI cable into the HDMI-IN port on the Capture Card and HDMI-Out port on the PS4.

Step 5: Run the Capture Card software you just installed onto your laptop and turn on the PS4. The software will do a quick search and show the PS4 on the screen within 60-seconds.

Note: To enjoy the game graphics to the fullest make sure to run the software in full-screen.

And just like that, you no longer have to wait for the TV. You can turn your laptop into a screen for your PS4 anytime anywhere but note, that this method does not work with Macbooks.

So what if you have a Macbook or cannot purchase the Video capture card as of now? Well, no problem, we have another trick up our sleeves. Here’s all about it.

Method 2: With Remote Play (Also works with Mac)

Things you will need for this method include:

Your Laptop

A PS4

USB cable or DUALSHOCK 4 USB wireless adaptor

An Account on PlayStation Network

Internet Connection

The Catch: One of the reasons we do not recommend this method first is that it does require a TV at first. For a few minutes only but yes, you will need your LCD as your PS4 settings require a little adjustment for streaming to your laptop.

So if you can get that access, here are the steps.

Step 1: Firstly, you need to download the Sony Remote Play app on your Windows or Mac laptop. It is easy as the files for both OS are available on the official website itself. Once the download is complete, get done with the installation which takes about a minute.

Got more than one PS4 at home? Then step 2 is important for you. But if you not, you can jump right to step 3.

Step 2: Its time to set up the PS4 for connection.

For that, you will need to turn one of the PS4’s into the primary console. So how do you do that? Well, switch on your PS4 and head to the Playstation Network settings available in the settings menu. There you will find the  Account Management option with an option to Activate the current system as the Primary Console.

Another thing you will have to do is make sure your PS4 has the software 3.50 or higher running on it. In case you haven’t updated it in a while just hit the System Software Update in the settings menu to download the latest updates.

Step 3: Now you have to enable the Remote Play option in PS4 settings. For that you’ll have to go into Settings, then into Remote Play Connection Settings, check if the Remote Play is enabled. To allow you access to the games through your network, the PS4 should power on or the Rest mode activated.

Step 4: Activate Rest Mode. It is usually by default enabled, however, it is good to check. Go to the Settings, then to Power Save Settings, now Set Features Available in Rest Mode.

Confirm that the Enable Turning on PS4 from Network is ticked, if it isn’t you have to enable this feature to be able to stream your PS4 on your laptop.

Step 5: Now you have to switch to the Remote Play app on the laptop, after tweaking things up in the PS4 settings. On the left corner of the app, there’s a Settings option.

You need to set the settings like resolution, frames per second, etc. You can set the resolution to 1080p, but it’s usually set at 720p because for the higher resolution you’d need a high power laptop and also a PS4 Pro. While on the frame rate you can choose from standard to high frame rates. With high, you will get 60fps which is pretty dope but will eat up your network.

Step 6: Connecting DUALSHOCK 4 Controller. You can use a USB cable or DUALSHOCK 4 wireless USB adaptor to plug in the controller to your laptop.

To connect the wireless controller follow these steps:

First, hold down Share and circular PlayStation buttons on your controller till the light bar starts flashing on the controller.

Plug in the USB adapter into your laptop and hold it in a pushing position for at least 3-4 seconds. Your controller now paired.

Step 7: You’ll be able to see a Start option in your Remote Play app on the laptop. You’ll be prompted to log-in to your PlayStation Network when you click on that start button. The app will search for the first PS4 in the network and will take you to the PS4’s home screen.

This is the console being streamed on to your laptop. Interestingly you can also use your laptop’s mic and keyboard for chat and text typing.

Step 8: In case you want to power off the PS4. You have to press down the PlayStation button on DUALSHOCK 4 controller, then go to power settings and enter Rest Mode. This will sleep your PS4 and terminate the connection stream.

The post How to Play PS4 on a Laptop Screen appeared first on Laptop Verge.

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5 Reasons You Need a Laptop Stand RIGHT NOW!

Whether you are gamer, programmer, blogger, etc. it is very likely that you have turned away from your old bulky desktops and switched to compact and portable laptops.

But that freedom that the laptops provide also increases the risk of poor postures, eyestrain, backaches etc, especially if you happen to use it for hours together.

So should you not use the laptop?

Absolutely not, what if I told you there is a solution that will cost you less than $50? Yes, I am talking about laptop stands and if that reason alone wasn’t enough to convince you, here are 5 more.

1: Makes working easier

A bad posture isn’t just bad news for your muscles and tissues but also for that promotion and increment you have been eagerly waiting for. That is because it inhibits blood flow and is likely to make you feel lazy thus hampering your ability to think and get the job done in time.

With a stand, your laptop gets a slight lift and bring it to eye level. This does not only prevent red-eye but also ensures you do not end up with an aching back, should or neck by the end of the day.

Not just reducing strain, it even makes typing a whole lot easier.

Keeping the laptop at eye level is why so many students turn to libraries for working on the laptop (just in case you had been wondering).

2: Increases laptop durability

A laptop stand isn’t just great for your health but also your laptop’s health especially if you find it overheating a lot.

Keeping your laptop flat on the table or on your lap restricts airflow since most of the laptops have the fans and vents at the bottom. And if that happens more often or not, you are going to end up with a burnt motherboard.

A laptop stand prevents by providing the laptop the alleviation it needs to throw the hot air.

If you go for the high-end models, these even have additional fans which come in handy if your laptop has gotten old and does not cool like before.

So that means you now work from the bed, sofa, etc. without toasting your laptop or your body.

3: It helps keep the workplace clean

Are you the sort of person that always has stuff lying around all over the table while working? Well, a laptop stand could be the solution you need.

Yes, it protects the laptop but also because some of these stands come with storage spaces. This means you can get space for your keyboard and mouse or other smaller stuff as well, in turn freeing up the clutter.

And in case no one told you yet, a clutter-free table can help maximize productivity as it increases focus. Not to forget, it is something your mother is sure to be damn proud about (just in case you need that extra motivation to clean 😉 ).

4: They are light and portable

Whether you are working or gaming from home, a coffee shop, co-working space, on a hilltop while sipping tea or at the beach, a laptop stand can be a carried anywhere, anytime as they both sleek and lightweight.

Most of the stands can be folded and easily fit into your backpack. And since they are lightweight, you are hardly going to feel the weight of it.

For example, the AmazonBasics Ventilated Adjustable Laptop Stand weighs just under 2.5lbs and has dimensions of 13 x 11 x 7.2 inches (L x W x H) making it one of the most compact laptop tables on the market.  And if that wasn’t enough, it costs under $20.

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How to Prevent Laptops from Overheating?

As laptops have gotten sleek, sexier and more powerful so has our dependence on them.

From work, playing games, streaming Netflix to even our favorite sports, it can be our TV, mobile or gaming console (pretty much anything you want to be).

But with all that power in the bank, it is no surprise that most laptops suffer from the problem of overheating.

Even if you aren’t using it excessively, older laptops do tend to heat up really fast.

Thankfully, preventing your laptop for turning into a frying pan is easy and in this article, we’ll cover everything that you can do about it.

Tip 1: Place the laptop at a height

One of the main reasons why the laptop’s internal cooling system tends to fail to live up to expectations is not because it isn’t good enough but because we often place the laptop wrongly.

This is especially true if you happen to use your laptop on the bed and place it on blankets, pillows or even your laptop as it blocks the airflow.

This hampers the cooling and results in heat build-up which, in turn, toasts your laptop.

But fear not because the solution is pretty simple.

All you need to do is ensure you place your laptop on a hard and flat surface. Now, you can use a makeshift stand using books, trays, etc. but if you have serious work I would recommend you go with a laptop stand or an adjustable table.

Personally, I have been using the RhinoFlex Adjustable Stand. Made with Aluminum legs, it is pretty sturdy and allows me to work from the couch, bed, the recline.

It also has a mousepad, can be set up in under a minute and when not in use, putting it away is easy since it can be folded (just what I need on those lazy Sunday mornings).

In case you do not have a designated workstation, this adjustable table by Defy Desk is large enough for a monitor, laptop and even your coffee cup.

Tip 2: Buy a Laptop Cooler

If you have an old laptop or one with low specs then just placing the laptop right won’t help solve the overheating. This is where laptop coolers can come in handy.

But finding the right laptop cooler is both tough and crucial. That is because there tons of brands and models claiming to be best and a wrong cooler will only make matters worse.

To ensure this does not happen, it is important to not just know about cooler but also have detailed knowledge about your laptop’s cooling system.

Most of the laptops have their ventilation at the bottom from where they take in the cool air. The reason for that is because hot air tends to rise up.

But this system isn’t always successful since it only manages to suck the air away and doesn’t exactly cool the laptop but rather can lead to overheating.

So if you happen to have a laptop with vents at the bottom a cooler that blows cold air into the laptop is exactly what the doctor ordered for.

Along with that, also make sure the cooler is energy-efficient and gives you effective cooling without piling on the electricity bills.

If you are in the mood for some DIY, you can also make your own laptop cooler and the video below gives you step by step details on how it is done.

  Seems like a lot of work doesn’t it? Well, there is an easier way, buy a laptop cooler. And to make that buying decision easier for you, we have covered detailed reviews right here.

Tip 3: It could be a software issue

If none of the hardware fixes result in lasting improvements, you can also revert to software fixes that address the performance and power usage of your laptop. However, addressing excessive heat with a software fix means you give up performance in favor of preserving the hardware.

You can either reduce the brightness of your screen or reduce the CPU clock speed.

In Windows, underclocking or under-volting is done in the BIOS, but can also be controlled through software tools. Consult our under-volting guide for more information about this procedure. If you own a MacBook, try one of these fixes.

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How to Clean Touchscreen Laptop in Under 10 Minutes

Over the years laptops have evolved not just in terms of design and power but like our mobiles, even they have become touchscreens.

Now, while the touchscreen laptops offer a bucket load of advantages, especially when you are cramped up for room and cannot use a mouse, they are more high-maintenance.

That means not cleaning them regularly can result in problems and repairing a touchscreen laptop will cost you the big bucks.

So if you do not want to be spending thousands of dollars on repairs, here’s how you can keep your laptop screen protected from dust, dirt, grime, oils, and sticky stains in under 10-minutes.

Plus, a few handy tips to ensure you do not have to clean it every day (because we know how hectic like can be at times).

Get Rid of Dust Using a Fiber Cloth

If you use a DSLR camera or glasses, you probably already have a collection of these clothes. You might have even got a couple free with your glasses and lens cleaning kit and guess what, these are perfect for laptops as well.

Microfiber cloths are the way to go because they do not leave behind any lint or debris of their own and are so soft that you do not have to worry about scratches even if you happen to use it slightly roughly.

Yup, you can also use cotton or other materials but these are very likely to leave their dirt and stains behind. But avoid using towels and tissues at all cost. That is because they are not as soft as they might seem when you wipe your hands and can easily lead to scratches.

Step 1: Grab a new fiber cloth that has been tailor-made for cleaning eyewear and camera lenses like this pack of 6 Magic Microfiber Cloths that will come in handy to clean not just your laptop but also your TV, mobile, etc.

Step 2: Make sure your laptop is neither on nor connected to a power source. This isn’t just for safety reason but more importantly, a dark screen will show you exactly where most of the dust lies thus making the process more efficient.

Step 3: With light pressure, start moving the cloth across the screen but make sure you do it in a single direction. This is important because if you scrub it or move the cloth is all directions it can lead to scratches or just result in the dust getting collected elsewhere.

Step 4: Keep on wiping until you have covered every corner of the screen.

For Dirt and Grim, a Sponge is Ideal

Sometimes you’ll end up with more than dust on your display. Instead of rubbing away at it with your microfiber cloth to no avail and potentially dirtying the cloth in the process—you can instead use the damp sponge method.

You’ll need a brand-new household sponge and either distilled or deionized water. Alternatively, use water you know has been filtered. Avoid standard tap water as it can leave mineral marks on your display.

Step 1: Shut down your laptop and unplug it from its power source. If possible, you should also remove the battery.

Step 2: Wet the sponge with the distilled water and wring it out so there are no drips.

Step 3: Gently wipe the affected area of your monitor’s screen with the sponge. Watch for drips and clean them up immediately if there are any.

Step 4: Once the area is clean, wait for the display to completely dry out before closing the lid and/or using your machine.

Use Solutions When it Gets Sticky and Oily

If the cloth method didn’t do it and the wet sponge failed to have an impact, it’s time to use a bottled cleaning solution like the Klear Glass Cleaner. I recommend this mainly because it is non-toxic and does not contain any Ammonia or Alcohol.

You are also provided with a Microfiber cleaning cloth to ensure your laptop screen looks just as good as it did when you first bought it.

Or if you are in the mood for some DIY, you can make a solution at home as well. Thankfully, you can buy a screen-cleaning spray from a number of different outlets, often with a microfiber cloth.

However, if you’d rather make your own, you’ll want to mix equal parts distilled water and white vinegar — which is great for general cleaning, too — or alternatively the same ratio of distilled water and high-percentage isopropyl alcohol.

Keep in mind, however, that you should avoid using any type of glass-cleaning fluid. You’ll also want to refrain from spraying anything directly on your monitor.

Step 1: Shut down your laptop and unplug it from its power source. If you can, remove the battery just to play it safe.

Step 2: Spray or apply the cleaning fluid onto a microfiber cloth. Make sure that the cloth is damp, but not wet.

Step 3: Gently rub the cloth over the affected area. Rub in small circles to avoid streaks and avoid heavy pressure as that can damage the display.

Step 4: Repeat as necessary, making sure not to drip any fluid onto your laptop’s display or keyboard.

Step 5: When finished, wait for the display to dry completely before closing the lid or powering on your laptop.

Few Tips to Keep in Mind

Tip 1: Don’t forget to clean it regularly

Like all electronics, if you want your touchscreen to operate at optimal levels i.e. give you the same bright and clear display it did at first while not lagging at every click, you will have to clean it on a regular basis.

While giving it once every 2-3 days is a good habit, doing it once a week is a must especially if you happen to be stuck to your laptop all day long.

Tip 2: Like with Food, Wash hands before using the Laptop

Another thing you can do reduce the need to clean your laptop is to wash your hands before sitting for work or entertainment. This is even more important you are in the habit of munching on chips and other fried stuff around your laptop.

That is because oil from the skin can make the screen and keyboard greasy.

Tip 3: Avoid household cleaners

If you thought you don’t need a special eyeglass or lens cleaner for your laptop you have got it wrong.

That is because your household cleaners have been formulated to clean tough stains and contain harsh chemicals that can damage the screen and result in loss of color, brightness, etc.

On the other hand, eyeglass cleaners are non-toxic and specially designed to clean sensitive glass surfaces.

Tip 4: Always keep the laptop door shut

How often do you move away from the desk to not return for hours or fall asleep without closing the laptop door?

Closing the laptop door when it is not in use is the simplest way to keep it protected from all kinds of stains and dust. Not just that, it will also keep away harmful sunlight that damages the screens visibility overtime.

Tip 5: Always carry it around in a laptop bag

If you happen to live on the go, you will always want to carry your laptop around in only the laptop bag as it does not just protect the laptop for dust and dirt but also from any exterior damage.

Avoid carrying it in your handbag or backpack especially if you are carrying other stuff with you as these backs lack the cushioning needed to protect the laptop screen and body.

This Amazon Basic laptop bag will cost you about $20, is ultralight and can easily fit in even the biggest of laptops. Plus, there are multiple compartments so you can also carry the chargers and other accessories and essentials around with ease.

And even with all that load, it won’t hurt your shoulder as the shoulder strap makes carrying it even for long hours a breeze.

Spending $20-$25 today will save your $1000 or more laptop for tomorrow especially since we are talking about touchscreen laptops.

The post How to Clean Touchscreen Laptop in Under 10 Minutes appeared first on Laptop Verge.

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How to Buy Your New Laptop on the Cheap?

Do you know when all hell breaks loose for me? When my laptop gives way. And do you know why a broken laptop is so dreaded by not just me but pretty much everyone using a laptop?

Yes, because you lose tons of data (which obviously you could have backed up) but more so because buying a new laptop is sure to burn a hole in the pocket.

But what if I told you that you can easily save a few bucks by simply not being foolish or ignorant?Interested?

Then, here are a few points to save a couple of hundred dollars or more on your next purchase be it Macbook, Dell, Asus etc. (now get your dream laptop on the cheap

).

Do not pay for unwanted features

Okay, so you enter an Apple Store or Dell Store, go around asking about the best laptops and in the next 15 minutes, the salesman has already convinced you how the new MacBook is just what you need. But really, do you?

If you are a video editor, graphics designer, then you would most likely want something with a high-end graphics card, huge disk space, and RAM, a powerful processor like an i7 etc.

But if you need something only for entertainment purposes while on your travels that can handle the occasional MS Word or PowerPoint Presentations, then, believe it or not, you can get a laptop for as low as $350.

And if you happen to go for a refurbished model (yes, they are worth consideration as well), you can in for a real bargain which brings me to my next point.

Refurbished Laptops can be a REAL bargain

I know a common understanding is that refurbished laptops are faulty but I would like you to reconsider it.

That is because most of the refurbished laptops are those models that have been returned due to a wrongly made purchase.

Plus, most brands have extensive testing procedures to ensure the laptops are up to desired standards so you can rest assure that you are not being handed a faulty piece.

Not only will you also get a warranty with these laptops but this could be your best shot to get a MacBook (yup, even Apple has refurbished models).

Definitely brands like Dell, ASUS, HP etc. will cost significantly lesser but don’t tell me you didn’t want a MacBook ever.

Look for Upgradable Laptops

Okay, so let’s assume you still do not want a refurbished laptop there is a 3rd alternative which sets you up perfectly well for the future.

Simple, get an upgradable laptop. Upgrading parts like the RAM can add to the multi-tasking capabilities of a laptop and can be done on the cheap as and well the need arises.

Buying a laptop with 32GB or even 16GB RAM will cost you significantly higher as compared to an 8GB or even 4GB RAM laptop.

Similarly, even the GPU can be upgraded so your simple $700-$600 laptops will operate at power with any $1000-$1500 laptop and even turn into a beast of a gaming laptop capable of running games like GTA V, FIFA etc. within a few hundred dollars.

Keep an eye out for discounts and offers

Whether it is a laptop, a fridge, air conditioner or any home appliance or gadget, there is always a right time to buy it and most often it is right after the release of a newer version.

Why?

Because when a new model is released the older models are available for a significant discount.

The post How to Buy Your New Laptop on the Cheap? appeared first on Laptop Verge.

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Laptop Battery Not Charging? Here’s What You Can Do

So you finally brewed your favorite cup of coffee, got to your desk, plugged in your laptop charger and its, Work Mode on (But wait, is your laptop not charging? So you unplug it, and try again but still nothing (oh, the horror).

But don’t fret just yet. There are a number battery-related problems that you can solve all by yourself. So here’s what you need to do next time your laptop battery isn’t charging.

Tip 1: Check if you are still plugged in

You would be surprised as to how many time you might have actually forgotten to turn on the switch on or left the plug loose (because we are all just always in a hurry now, aren’t we?). So the first and foremost thing would be to double check all the plugs.

Also, make sure all contact points whether on the laptop of the power point are not damaged. The problem could also be caused by a faulty power outlet so plug it in a different one. With this, you can eliminate the obvious reasons or even find quick-fix to a common problem.

Tip 2: It Could be a faulty charger

If your charger is old and weary it could be a break in the line causing the problem. For that, check the entire length of wire for breaks especially the ends as that is where it usually happens (Apple users would relate). But there’s always a naughty pet or a rat that could have also chewed off a bit causing the damage.

Also, check for any discoloration in the wire or the port. Any burn marks or smell can mean you only need a new charger.

Tip 3: Keep your system up to date

How often do you hit that ‘update later’ button every time you get notification of impending updates? Well, we are all guilty of it, right? But while it may not seem like a big deal, it precisely is.

If you’re using a windows laptop, you’ll find 3 options in the device manager tab that is especially for the battery. Make sure you update all 3 especially the ‘Microsoft ACPI Compliant Control Method Battery’. Once done, simply reboot the system and give it a check. In case that doesn’t work, uninstalling the Microsoft ACPI Compliant Control Method Battery’ can help.

If you’re using an old Mac, you can rest the SMC (System Management Controller) by shutting down your laptop, taking out the battery and holding the power button for 5 seconds. Once done, place back the battery and voila, should be good enough.

But with new Mac’s there’s a problem, you cannot simply take the battery out as they are sealed within a chassis, but there’s another solution. Hold down the power button while pressing the common + shift + option keys and then turn on the laptop.

Tip 4: Ensure you’re using the right USB port

If you’re charging your laptop through the USB-C port, are you sure you’re using the right one? That’s because even though most laptops come with 2 USB-C ports not both of them are meant for charging.

You could have also connected it to the one meant for data transfer or dock connection so make sure you try out both in case your laptop is new and you are not sure which the right one is.

Tip 5: Take the battery out

This is where it’s going to get a little technical (time to get the geek out boys and girls). If all of the above methods have failed, you will need to determine if the problem is a faulty battery or not.

For this, take out your laptop’s battery (see video below if you haven’t done it before). Once the battery is out, plug-in the charger and fire up the baby. If all goes well, all you need a new battery.

  Tip 6: Don’t let the laptop overheat

Does your laptop overheat when running for long hours? Well, an overheated laptop often does not charge because, one, the system automatically shuts that off in order to keep the battery from heating further and causing a fire.

Secondly, it could just be a malfunctioning of the sensor due to the excessive heat. To prevent this, you can either have a cooling pad do the trick for you or avoid using your laptop on the bed or the sofa and check back later on the battery status once the system cools down.

Tip 7: Watch out for the power settings

If you’re using a Windows laptop, your power setting will be in the Control Panel. Are the settings as per your preference or do you find anything changed? You would especially want to check the battery indicator and sleep options. In case, you do not understand the settings, the best things would be you restore it to default (easy peasy).

On Mac laptop, the Energy Saver option in the System Preferences will have the required tabs. Again, the sleep option, battery options and also the settings for when the charger is plugged in are key. You also have the option of restoring default setting in case of any confusion.

Tip 8: Get Tech Support

Whether you’re using a Mac, an Asus or even HP, each brand is known to have excellent tech support. Plus, what better place to get some assistance from than the creators themselves, isn’t it?

The post Laptop Battery Not Charging? Here’s What You Can Do appeared first on Laptop Verge.

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How Much SSD Do I Need for Gaming?

Ever experienced a game crash right in the middle of a crucial moment, and an error message popping up to warn you about low disk space? Or, how about downloading a game that fails after leaving it for a few hours because your disk ran out of space? Many other similar issues will irritate any die hard gamer, and the often cause of these problems is a poor SSD. Here, we aim to guide you on how much SSD for gaming is required for that smooth experience you’ve been longing for. And because an SSD alone is insufficient for running heavy games, we also aim to discuss other factors that can influence the overall performance of your machine before and during gameplay.

Crucial Factors to Carefully Consider When Choosing a Gaming Laptop

SSD

A solid state drive for gaming is a necessary requirement for a laptop that’s primarily used for this purpose. SSD replaced HDD as the top choice of many gamers and business users alike because of its fast, heavy duty performance. This is mainly due to the design of an SSD, which allows it to have no mechanical component moving around while in use. That’s why you can find these SSDs already included in many of the more recent laptops today.

A data storage capacity of 256GB for an SSD is quite common these days. This is often sufficient for general purposes. However, the relevant needs of a gamer is different. In fact, 256GB for gaming can seriously hinder your experience. Many wildly popular games like FIFA 19 and Witcher 3 require more than 50GB. If you install games like these in a laptop with 256GB SSD, then you’ll only be able to keep 4 or 5 of them, and to install new games, you’ll have to remove previous ones.

So, an SSD with a 512GB data storage capacity should be the minimum for gamers. And, 1TB gaming SSDs are already available. I recommend getting a 512GB SSD, or better yet, a 1TB SSD. Anything more might be unnecessary, unless you also do some serious video editing and movie collecting. On the other hand, anything less can significantly affect your gaming experience.

It’s also important for you as a gamer to get an SSD with this data storage capacity, instead of an HDD. That’s because applications and relevant components of your operating system run faster and smoother with an SSD, as opposed to the speed and performance that an HDD can provide. These are the top reasons why an SSD and the right amount of data storage are crucial for ensuring the best gaming experience. Now, let’s talk about other factors that should influence your decision in choosing a gaming laptop.

Processor

A strong CPU (central processing unit) can effectively complement a good SSD for gaming. An Intel Core i7 8th or 7th generation CPU is sufficient enough to run any game that’s available in the market today. This processor will still be useful for future games to be launched in the next couple of years or so.

A fast processor will also be capable of efficiently accessing and storing relevant chunks of data in the available SSD. A powerful CPU can also streamline communication processes between required components of your operating system (OS), your favorite games and other third party programs. For example, laptops like the Acer Helios Predator 300 comes with a latest generation Core i7 processor, as well as a 512GB SSD, which can be expanded upon user request.

Operating System Version

Because most gamers use Microsoft Windows, we’ll talk about this in greater detail than any other OS. Windows 10 is the latest version from Microsoft, and this occupies more disk space than Windows 7. This means Windows 10 can be unsuitable for a gamer with an SSD of just 256GB data storage capacity.

Even if Windows 7 might be sufficient for the same gaming setup, Windows 10 is still recommended for users who want to play the latest games today. That’s because almost all game development companies and individual game developers try to keep at pace with the latest updates and versions of Microsoft Windows, which means their latest titles are likely to be integrated with support for Windows 10 at the moment since it’s the most recent version from Microsoft. Also remember to consider this while you’re looking for the best SSD gaming laptop today.

RAM (Random Access Memory

Both CPU and SSD of your gaming laptop rely significantly on available RAM resources. That’s because these components store and retrieve data in your laptop’s RAM modules to carry out certain tasks required by your OS, firmware, games and other third party applications. And yes, internal and external hardware devices that are connected to your laptop also rely on available RAM resources. This can significantly effect the performance of these tools.

Heavy duty gaming and compute-extensive tasks require at least 8GB of RAM for efficient performance and seamless communications with your hardware, software and OS. On the other hand, 4GB RAM is sufficient for lighter general purposes.

Video Card

Your laptop’s video card is a crucial factor that can significantly affect your overall gaming experience. Remember, many of the latest games today are heavy on animated 3D sequences, augmented reality gameplay and realistic colored graphics. To render, display and interact seamlessly with these things, your graphics adapter should be equipped with the right memory, relevant features and compute capacity.

Your video card also regularly accesses and stores required graphical game data, text and audio in both your laptop’s RAM modules and data storage disks. This means having an SSD can optimize the I/O (input / output) processes of your video card, games, OS, hardware, firmware and other third party applications.

The NVIDIA GTX 1080 video card tops the list of recent graphics adapters for gaming in the market today. A cheaper yet still powerful alternative is the NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti. AMD also has formidable contenders like their Vega video card series.

Conclusion

The answer to the question “How much SSD do I need for gaming?” is 512GB to 1TB or more. This is for you to have sufficient data storage capacity for Windows 10, firmware components of your internal and external devices, your favorite games and other third party programs that might be useful for your day-to-day activities. And, don’t forget to consider the other factors discussed earlier, in order for you to get the best SSD laptop in the market today. Also, it should be in your best interest to look closer at the battery life, form factor, display quality and screen resolution of the gaming laptops with SSD in your shortlist.

The post How Much SSD Do I Need for Gaming? appeared first on Laptop Verge.