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samedi 26 juin 2021

Best accessories for Chromebooks for June 2021: HP, LG, and more

Chromebooks are here to stay for both work and personal use. If you use your Chromebook for work or school, you could use it with a docking station and external monitor. Using an external monitor can provide more screen real estate, and docking stations can offer additional ports for multi-tasking. Of course, you’ll also need an excellent mouse and keyboard to complete your workstation. It’s also useful to have a nice sleeve to carry your Chromebook in on a daily basis, even if you use a backpack. In this list, we’ll take a look at the best accessories to use with your Chromebook. From mice to webcams, we’ve got you covered.

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Best external monitors for Chromebooks

Monitors come in a variety of sizes, and span the price spectrum from fairly cheap to incredibly expensive. When choosing an external monitor to use with your Chromebook, you should carefully consider your use-case as well as your budget. Here, we’ve rounded up the best monitors for 4K performance, creative professionals, and those looking to get the best overall bang for their buck.

    HP 24MH

    Best budget

    The HP 24mh is a 24-inch budget monitor that offers a good set of features for the asking price. It uses an IPS panel which means better colors and viewing angles and it also offers great sRGB coverage. The monitor also features three inputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA), a functional stand with height, pivot, and tilt adjustment, as well as built-in speakers.
    Lenovo ThinkVision M14

    Best portable

    Looking for an external monitor that you can carry with you? Lenovo offers its customers the ThinkVision M14 that features a 14-inch full-HD panel and dual USB-C ports for a seamless connectivity experience.
    Dell Ultrasharp U2719DX

    Best overall

    This monitor offers great color accuracy and sharp visuals with 1,440px resolution. It also comes with a great industrial design with slim bezels and a good set of I/O connectivity.
    HP U28 4K

    Best 4K

    HP's U28 features a factory-calibrated 4K HDR IPS panel which is great for studio work and it also features a host of I/O ports.
    LG 29WP60G-B

    Best ultrawide

    The LG 29-inch ultrawide monitor should be great for users looking for loads of screen real estate. It comes with a 29-inch wide IPS panel offering a full-HD (2560 x 1080) resolution, 21:9 aspect ratio, 99% coverage of sRGB color gamut, HDR10, and AMD FreeSync.
    ASUS ProArt Display 27

    Best for creative use

    The ASUS ProArt PA279CV is suited for customers looking for an external display for the purpose of photo or video editing. It features a 27-inch 4K resolution IPS panel that offers 100% sRGB coverage, factory calibrated for Delta E < 2 color accuracy and a USB-C port for seamless connectivity.

Best docking stations for Chromebooks

If you’re looking to use your Chromebook with an external monitor, you’ll likely want to add a docking station to increase the number of available ports. With a good docking solution, you can greatly expand your Chromebook’s versatility. You can use it to connect a mouse, a mechanical keyboard, external storage devices, multiple monitors, or all of them at once. On top of that, with some docking stations, you can even keep your Chromebook charged as long as it has a compatible USB Type-C port or thunderbolt port.

    Tiergrade USB-C Docking Station

    Best overall

    The Tiergrade USB C Chromebook docking station is perfect for power users. It offers the widest selection of ports, including two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, two USB 3.0 Type-C ports, two HDMI ports, a DisplayPort port, an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port, 3.5mm headphone and mic jacks, a S/PDIF audio port and a USB 3.0 Type-C port with 60W power delivery. On top of that, the dock also includes a full-size SD card reader and a microSD card reader.
    Baseus 16-in-1 Docking Station

    Best budget alternative for power users

    The Baseus 16-in-1 Chromebook docking station is a cheaper alternative to the Tiergrade dock with a slightly different port selection. It includes three USB 3.0 Type-A ports, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, two USB 3.0 Type-C ports, a USB type-C port with pass-through charging support, an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port, a 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack, a microSD card slot, and an SD card slot. For display connectivity, it features a VGA port and an HDMI port. However, it only supports screen mirroring for dual external displays.
    NOVOO 8-in-1 USB-C Dock

    Best portable

    The NOVOO 8-in-1 USB C dock is the tiniest Chromebook Docking Station on this list, earning it the most portable title. Despite its tiny size, it packs 3 USB 3.0 Type-A ports, an Ethernet port, a USB Type-C port with up to 100W passthrough charging, an HDMI port, and an SD card reader. That's a lot of ports for something as tiny as this. Makes me wonder why some fruity OEMs can't offer more than two USB Type- C ports on their laptops.
    Anker PowerExpand+ 7-in-1 USB C Hub

    Best budget portable

    If you're not willing to spend $40 on a tiny USB C hub, then the Anker PowerExpand+ should be a better option. It's slightly larger than the NOVOO USB C dock, but features the same number of ports. This includes two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, a USB Type-C port for data, a USB Type-C port with pass-through charging support at up to 100W, an HDMI port, and an SD card reader. It should get the job done if you have basic needs.
    Sabrent Universal Laptop Docking Station

    Best for Chrome OS tablets

    The Sabrent Chromebook docking station is a good choice for Chromebooks with a detachable keyboard as it features a stand that you can use to prop up your Chromebook when you're not using the included keyboard. In terms of ports, it offers two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, two USB Type-A 2.4A fast charging ports, an HDMI port, a DVI port, a USB 3.0 input, 3.5mm headphone and mic jacks, and a RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port.
    Targus USB-C Universal Docking Station

    Best with built-in stand

    The Targus Chromebook docking station is a good 2-in-1 option that not only offers a decent selection of ports but also doubles up as an ergonomic stand. It includes 4 USB 3.0 Type-A ports, two DisplayPort ports, 2 HDMI 2.0 ports, a USB Type-C port with 60W pass-through charging support, a headphone / mic combo jack, and a RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port.

Best mice for Chromebooks

When shopping for a new mouse to pair with your favorite Chromebook, comfort is king. In this list, we’ll prioritize the comfortable operation of each mouse over other advanced features. After considering the day-to-day usage, we’ll look at battery life, price point, and of course integration with Chrome OS. Mice come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s worth viewing a large volume of options before reaching a final decision.

    Seenda 2.4G wireless mouse

    Best budget mouse

    If you need a wireless mouse on a budget, Seenda has you covered. This mouse lacks some bells and whistles, but costs under $6 and has a comfortable design. Battery life is excellent on this device. For those that only use a mouse on occasion, this is the way to go.
    Logitech M355

    Best slim and flat design

    Some mice require you to choose whether you are left or right handed, but not the Logitech M355. This mouse has a slim and flat design, perfect for ambidextrous users. In addition, the slim profile and ultra-quiet clicks make this a great mouse to use at work.
    Jelly Comb dual mode mouse

    Best bluetooth and 2.4GHz combo

    The Jelly Comb dual mode mouse features both bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. With this, you can connect to two devices simultaneously. Jelly Comb has a number of great color options to choose from, with a price under $15.
    Logitech M570

    Best for trackball fans

    Logitech's M570 has a distinct and instantly recognizable form-factor. The giant teal trackball is easily spotted while the mouse is in use. If you do a lot of scrolling for work, and find a trackball comfortable, this is the best option by far. This is one of the most comfortable mice to use for long periods of time.
    Jelly Comb mouse and keyboard combo

    Best mouse and keyboard bundle

    Bundles are never a bad thing in terms of value. Jelly Comb packages an excellent wireless keyboard and mouse combo for under $25. Both devices feature excellent battery life, and an auto sleep mode when not in use.
    Geyes Silent Wireless Mouse

    Best noiseless mouse

    Keeping quiet while at work is sometimes important. If you're looking for a mouse that's virtually silent, Geyes has you covered. This lightweight mouse is also rechargeable and features a comfortable honeycomb design. Friends and family will surely notice the eye-catching design on your new mouse.
    Logitech MX Master 3

    Best for productivity

    The Logitech MX Master series is the industry standard for what a mouse should be. Ultra-fast mag speed scrolling, ergonomic design and app-specific customization make this an ultra-premium pick. With USB-C quick charging and the ability to work on glass surfaces, this is a mouse you can use anywhere.
    BENGOO Gaming Mouse

    Best for gaming on a budget

    The BENGOO gaming mouse provides an RGB light show to highlight your gaming atmosphere. A speed DPI switch allows four adjustable settings. This mouse is also great value, with an ergonomic design, flexible buttons, and a price tag below $10.
    Logitech M510

    Best battery life

    Logitech obviously has several options when it comes to mice. The M510 is a standout thanks to its consistent rating as a battery life champ. Users report a year or more average use on a single charge. With a comfortable design and a price under $25, this is an excellent option.
    NORMIA RITA Arc Mouse

    Best for Arc lovers on a budget

    There are many fans of Microsoft's Arc mouse design. Unfortunately, the official Microsoft Arc mouse does not play nice with Chromebooks. If you enjoy the design of Microsoft's mouse, the NORMIA RITA Arc mouse is a great substitute at less than half the price.
    Anker Vertical Ergonomic Mouse

    Best vertical mouse

    Another popular form factor is the vertical mouse design. This layout allows you to use the mouse in a grip-like orientation. Many users find this to be the most comfortable way to use a mouse for long periods of time. Anker also packs a fantastic feature set and battery life into this unique design.
    iClever Ergonomic Mouse

    Best curved vertical mouse

    If you find the Anker vertical mouse a bit too tall or rigid, iClever has another exciting option. This vertical mouse features a more dramatic curve that contours to the hand at a more shallow angle. At under $25, with whisper quiet keys, this mouse is great for home or work.

Best keyboards for Chromebooks

Using an external monitor can provide more screen real estate, and docking stations can offer additional ports for multi-tasking. With your new mouse at the ready, you’ll need a quality keyboard to complete your workstation. When choosing a keyboard for daily use, you’ll want to have both comfort and reliability. There are a range of ergonomic designs, key layouts, and advanced features to consider when shopping for a keyboard. In this list we’ll take a look at the best keyboards to use with your Chromebook, at a variety of price points.

As a preliminary note, there aren’t very many keyboards designed specifically for Chrome OS. In order to offer a variety of options, we’ve also included keyboards designed for PC and Mac in this list. Keep in mind that any of these keyboards can still work with your Chromebook, using F1-12 as a replacement for function keys. In addition, remember that Chrome OS can run on a variety of hardware, so these keyboards will work for your tablet or Chromebox as well.

    Logitech K580 Chrome OS Edition

    Best Chrome OS integration

    If you're looking for a keyboard built for Google, this is the one. Chrome OS function keys line the top of the keyboard, with a spacious number pad on the side. You also get a built-in Google Assistant key and easy switch capability for use with multiple devices.
    Brydge C-Type wireless keyboard

    Sleek Design for Chrome OS

    The Brydge C-Type wireless keyboard is a very stylish option with Chrome OS integration. As with the Logitech K580, you get a row of Chrome function keys at the top. The key travel on this keyboard is excellent and provides an enjoyable daily typing experience. On top of all those features, you get great battery life and a lifetime warranty.
    Brydge C-Type wireless keyboard

    Keyboard and mouse combo

    Perhaps you want a keyboard bundled with a wireless mouse. This slim wireless keyboard from Jelly Comb also comes bundled with a travel mouse. Both devices feature an ergonomic design and automatic sleep mode to preserve battery life. At just $25, this is a great bundle to consider.
    Havit backlit mechanical keyboard

    Mechanical keyboard lovers

    For those that enjoy the typing experience of a mechanical keyboard, Havit has a great option under $50. The Kalith Blue Switches offer nice key travel and a satisfying click. A unique ice blue LED color completes the look of this beautiful and sleek design.
    Logitech K380

    Compact design

    If you want your keyboard to take up less space on your desktop, consider the Logitech K380. This compact wireless keyboard also offers easy switch capability for up to three devices at once. This keyboard works with virtually any operating system, including Chrome OS.
    Jelly Comb folding keyboard

    Frequent travelers

    Folding keyboards are a thing, and they're pretty awesome. If you travel constantly for work, you may want to check out Jelly Comb's folding keyboard. In addition to wired and wireless connection modes, you also get a built-in touchpad mouse as an added bonus.

Best webcams for Chromebooks

Although not as essential as the mouse or keyboard, a new webcam can improve your video-conference experience. While most laptops come with in-built webcams, the quality is more often than not sub-par. It may get the job done occasionally, but it’s always advisable to have an external webcam for your Chromebook to achieve a more professional look in video meetings. If you have a Chromebox or you’ve hooked up your Chromebook with an external monitor, you’re likely on the lookout for webcams that will pair nicely with your Chrome OS device.

Here’s a list of some of the best webcams for a Chromebook or Chromebox that you can buy across various price points and use-cases.

    Logitech C270

    Best for basic use

    This is one of the best webcams for Chromebook if it's going to be your first webcam. It can only output at 720p though which should be sufficient for the occasional video call with friends and family.
    IFROO FHD 1080P webcam

    Best budget

    If you don't want to spend too much on a webcam for your Chromebook but still want decent video quality, this is the one to pick. It has a wide-angle lens and can even be used for recording and streaming.
    NexiGo Webcam with ring light

    Best with ring light

    The ring light around the webcam with adjustable brightness helps improve video quality if the ambient lighting around you is insufficient. It also has a privacy cover, auto-focus, and dual microphones.
    Razer Kiyo 1080P Webcam

    Best for streamers

    If you're a streamer or are planning to stream on YouTube or Twitch, this is a great way to get started. It has a built-in ring light, advanced auto-focus, and supports 60fps at 720p or 30fps at 1080p.
    NexiGo 2K webcam

    Best for higher resolution

    This webcam has the highest resolution among the ones mentioned in this list. There is a 4MP sensor and you can digitally zoom in up to 3X. It has a 95-degree FoV, dual mics, and a privacy shutter as well.
    Logitech C920x HD Pro

    Best for professional meetings

    The Logitech C920x is one of the most popular webcams especially for office meetings. It has support for stereo audio which means everyone can hear you crystal clear. There's also support for HD light correction.

Best sleeves for Chromebooks

Chromebooks are made to be portable. To protect your investment when out and about, you can grab a sleeve or bag at a fairly low price. Most of these options are on sale often, making the deal even sweeter. With so many options available, you can find something that fits your personal style and has functionality for daily work and play.

    Amazon Basics Executive Laptop Sleeve

    Best basic sleeve

    If you just want a basic sleeve with no frills, Amazon has you covered here. This sleeve's size ranges from 11.6 inches up to 15.6 inches, depending on the size of your Chromebook. With three color options to choose from and a low price, grab this if you just need to carry your Chromebook outside on occasion.
    Case Logic Carrying Case 13/14

    Best carrying case

    If you need extra protection for your Spectre x360 when carrying it around, the hard shell on this sleeve can do just that. Meanwhile, the inside is soft to absorb any impact from your laptop moving around.
    Nacuwa Hard Sleeve

    Best hard sleeve

    If you want top of the line protection, get this hard sleeve from Nacuwa. With a range of size options, this sleeve is suitable for any Chromebook. You also get protection from spills, and a few inner pockets to organize cables and your laptop charger.
    UNIKA Leather Sleeve

    Best leather sleeve

    For those that want an elegant sleeve, UNIKA has a nice selection of color options. This sleeve features an ultra-thin design and accommodates 13-15 inch Chromebooks.
    Lymmax shockproof sleeve

    Best shockproof sleeve

    Sometimes we all have a clumsy day or two. With the Lymmax shockproof sleeve your laptop will stay protected even if you drop it. This sleeve comes in a range of color options but is limited to 13-15 inch size compatibility.
    Nillkin laptop sleeve with stand

    Best sleeve with stand

    Would you like a laptop sleeve that doubles as a stand? Nillkin offers just that at a price under $30. With four color options to choose from you should be able to find one that matches your personal style.

That’s our roundup of the best accessories for your Chromebook. Hopefully you now have everything you need to use your Chromebook comfortably at home or on the go. Our ideal setup includes the Dell Ultrasharp 27″ monitor, Tiergrade USB-C Docking Station, Logitech MX Master 3 mouse, and the Logitech K580 keyboard. Webcam and sleeve options are really all about personal preference and style.  If you try out some of our picks, let us know how they work for you in the comments section below.

The post Best accessories for Chromebooks for June 2021: HP, LG, and more appeared first on xda-developers.



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These are the best Dell XPS 15 accessories

Dell recently refreshed its popular XPS series with some beefy hardware. They were already some of the best laptops you can get, and the latest refreshes take that even further. Featuring Intel’s 11th-generation H-series processors and Nvidia graphics, the new XPS 15 is a portable powerhouse. But no matter how good a laptop is, there’s always something you can do to improve or expand its capabilities. Or maybe you just want to protect it? That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best XPS 15 accessories you can buy to complement your device.

For this roundup, we’re covering a few different categories. We have some accessories to complete your home or office setup, others to make the XPS 15 a better travel companion, and finally, some accessories for gaming. As the XPS 15 has Thunderbolt, you can connect things like an external GPU and a gaming monitor, so you can turn it into a proper gaming rig.

    Logitech MX Master 3

    Ergonomic Wireless Mouse

    The Logitech MX Master 3 has an ergonomic design and elements like a scroll wheel for your thumb. The metal scroll wheel offers a premium feeling, plus it has 7 buttons and a rechargeable battery.
    Microsoft Bluetooth Desktop bundle

    Mouse and keyboard combo

    To set up your home office, a keyboard and mouse combo can go a long way. This wireless setup uses Bluetooth and it offers some unique features like emoji and Office keys on the keyboard.
    Samsung T7 Touch Portable SSD

    Secure external storage

    The Samsung T7 Touch is a fast portable SSD with read speeds up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds up to 1,000MB/s. Plus, the fingerprint sensor can be used to protect your data from strangers.
    Plugable 14-in-1 Thunderbolt dock

    Connect all the things

    It's hard to match the versatility of this plugable Thunderbolt dock. It can greatly expand the connectivity of your XPS 15 with two HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, seven USB ports, Ethernet and more.
    Razer Anzu Smart Glasses

    Protect your eyes and listen to music

    The Razer Anzu help alleviate the strain of working at the computer by filtering blue light, but they also have built-in speakers right next to your ears, so you can keep your music and meetings to yourself. Plus, the sunglass lenses to wear them outside.
    Surface Headphones 2

    Premium noise-cancelling headphones

    The Surface Headphones 2 feature a premium design and intuitive touch and dial controls. They also offer active noise cancellation to help you tune out background noise.
    Dell 34 Curved USB-C Monitor

    More space to work

    Dual-monitor setups are great for productivity, and this 34-inch ultra-wide monitor from Dell is a fantastic option. Its large size and WQHD resolution offer a ton of space for multi-tasking, plus it offers 65W of power delivery.
    BenQ TK850 4K HDR Projector

    For movie nights at home

    This 4K projector offers up to 3,000 lumens of brightness, so you can enjoy high-quality movies and shows even during the day. It support 4K, HDR, and can project images up to 300 inches in size.
    Kinmac Waterproof Laptop Sleeve

    Protect your XPS in style

    The Kinmac laptop sleeve offers waterproof protection for your laptop, plus plenty of cushioning on all sides in case you drop it. It comes in a lot of different looks, too.
    Dell Pro Backpack 17

    Travel safe

    The Dell Pro Backpack 17 may be meant for larger laptops, but it will still protect your XPS 15 from rain and impact. It can fit accessories and anything else you need to carry, plus you can charge your laptop with a power bank in the dedicated charger pocket.
    Microsoft Arc Mouse

    A mouse that can fit anywhere

    If you want a mouse you can take anywhere, this is the one. The Microsoft Arc Mouse is extremely thin, but it's designed to bend so it can fit right in your hand when you're using it. The virtual scroll wheel takes some getting used to, but it's a fair trade-off.
    Anker USB-C Hub

    More ports on the go

    If you need some extra connectivity while you're on the road, this Anker USB-C hub can easily slip into a bag and offers seven ports including HDMI and three USB ports. It also offers 85W of power delivery to your laptop.
    Vissles Portable 15.8-inch Monitor

    Dual screens everywhere

    Some of us can't go without a second screen for our laptop, and the Vissles portable monitor is here to address that. It has a Full HD 15.6-inch display, and it even supports touch input if you connect via USB Type-C.
    Anker PowerHouse II 400

    Go off the grid

    The Anker PowerHouse is a massive portable battery that lets you charge all your devices, including your laptop off its 388Wh battery. Overkill? Maybe, but if you're going camping or on a long road trip, it can give you power for days.
    Razer Core X eGPU

    Extra gaming power

    Some XPS 15 models already include pretty solid mobile GPUs, but if you want more power, the Razer Core X can help. This eGPU enclosure supports most GPU up to triple-slot sizes and includes a 650W PSU. You'll just need to find a GPU to put inside.
    Dell Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor

    Smoother gaming

    If you want to make the most of your GPU in games, a high-refresh rate monitor is important. The Dell Alienware 27 has Full HD resolution and supports refresh rates of up to 240Hz, as well as AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync.
    Razer Blackwidow V3

    RGB Gaming keyboard

    Mechanical keyboards are the way of life for many gamers, and the Razer Blackwidow V3 is a great choice. You can get it with clicky green switches or silent yellow ones, it has per-key RGB lighting and a multi-function dial for various system controls.
    Razer DeathAdder V2

    Gaming mouse

    No gaming setup is complete without a gaming mouse, and the Razer DeathAdder V2 has a 20,000DPI sensor and uses Razer's optical mouse switches for faster button actuation. Plus, you get RGB lighting customizable with Razer Synapse.
    Xbox Wireless Controller

    Better than a keyboard

    For some games, controllers are just easier to use than a mouse and keyboard setup, and the Xbox Wireless Controller is the gold standard for controllers on Windows. It works natively with Bluetooth and you can customize it with the Xbox Accessories app.
    8BitDo Wireless Adapter

    Bring your own controller

    If you already have a favorite controller and it's not an Xbox one, the 8BitDo Wireless Adapter is great. With 8BitDo's Ultimate Software, you can create macros, customize trigger sensitivity, and adjust the vibration strength. It supports most modern controllers.
    Xbox Wireless Headset

    A gaming headset with awesome features

    The Xbox Wireless Headset is a great gaming headset with features like mic auto-mute when you're not talking and voice isolation so you're heard clearly. It supports surround sound and lets you adjust volume levels with rotating dials, among other features.

That should show you that there are lots of accessories to help expand your experience with the Dell XPS 15. Thanks to Thunderbolt, you can plug in things like a high-refresh rate monitor for gaming, or even a whole external GPU. If you’re into gaming, something like the Xbox Wireless headset is great for talking to your teammates.

On the other hand, if you use the XPS 15 more for work, the Dell 34 Curved Monitor offers a huge canvas for productivity, making it ideal for the office. Add a mouse and keyboard combo and a Thunderbolt dock for other peripherals, and you can easily turn your XPS 15 into a productivity machine. No matter what you’re looking for, the XPS 15 can be a very versatile machine with these accessories. You can buy it below if you haven’t already.

    Dell XPS 15
    The Dell XPS 15 is a powerhouse of a laptop considering its size. Featuring 11th-generation Intel Core H-series CPUs and up to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti, it can handle almost anything you throw at it.

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This tool tells you exactly why your PC can’t run Windows 11

Microsoft’s upcoming Windows 11 operating system is the first version of the OS in over a decade to significantly raise system requirements. It’s not just one or two things either, such as needing more RAM or storage (although you do need more RAM and storage). Minimum requirements are up across the board.

Microsoft released an app called PC Health, which hasn’t been very good. It was only recently updated to tell you why you can’t have Windows 11. At first, it only told you that you couldn’t run Windows 11 without telling you what requirement you were missing.

A new app called WhyNotWin11 aims to solve that problem, and it’s available on GitHub. It breaks down which parts of your PC are compatible with the Windows 11 minimum requirements, and which aren’t. According to the screenshot above, it’s actually on version 2.1.0.0. Developer Robert C. Maehl has actually pushed nine releases over the course of two days.

Other things that have increased is the CPU requirement. For one thing, Windows 11 requires a 64-bit CPU now, and it needs to have at least two cores with at least a 1GHz clock speed. That doesn’t seem to matter though, because there’s actually a list of CPUs. That list eliminates anything earlier than Intel 8th-gen chips.

Another new requirement is TPM 2.0, which is a security feature. If it says you don’t have this, you might want to check in your BIOS if it’s enabled.

WhyNotWin11 goes down the list of each of these Windows 11 requirements. They’re clearly marked as red if it’s going to be a blocker, and green if you’re good to go. As you can see from the image above, the AMD Ryzen 7 1800X processor is marked in yellow. The chip isn’t on the supported processor list, but there’s still some debate about if that list will actually block you from getting Windows 11.

To check out WhyNotWin11, you can find it on GitHub here.

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How to check if your PC has TPM for a Windows 11 upgrade

When Microsoft announced Windows 11 this week, it was clear that this is going to be the first time in a while that the minimum hardware requirements have changed. One thing that seems to have some people stuck is the new requirement for a TPM, which stands for Trusted Platform Module (yes, people that say TPM module are like people who say ATM machine).

How can I tell if my PC is ready for Windows 11?

Windows 11 TPM 2.0 requirement

Microsoft actually makes it pretty easy to know if your PC is compatible. It makes an app called PC Health now, which will tell you if your PC is compatible, and if it’s not, why that is. If it says you’re good to go, then you probably don’t need to move forward.

How to check if you have a TPM

Checking if you have a TPM is really easy.

  1. Hit Windows + R
  2. Type tpm.msc
  3. Hit enter

TPM Management software in Windows 10

You’re going to be brought to the TPM Management screen, and it will tell you if you have a TPM, and what version you have. You’ll want TPM 2.0 for Windows 11.

It says I don’t have a TPM, so does that mean I can’t install Windows 11?

Alright, step one is to take a deep breath. There are a few things that you can do here.

First, check in your BIOS for TPM settings. If you’ve read up until this point and you’re scratching your head, wondering how you could possibly not have TPM 2.0 given how new your computer is, it could be disabled in the BIOS. This is especially true if you built your PC.

ASUS TPM settings in BIOS

It actually gets more confusing though. Even if you can’t find TPM in your BIOS settings, you still might have it. It could be called Intel PTT, which stands for Platform Trust Technology. Once you enable it in the BIOS, try the steps above again to check if you have a TPM so you can install Windows 11. You should be good to go.

Sadly, all BIOS setups are different, so I can’t really walk you through finding the setting. It’s usually under an advanced tab somewhere, and in the case of the ASUS one above (not all of them), it’s under Advanced\PCH-FW Configuration.

If there’s no setting, then you probably don’t have a Trusted Platform Module, but if you’ve got a desktop PC, you can probably add one. You can grab a TPM for a bit north of $20, although prices seem to be going up since the Windows 11 news broke. Luckily, you’ve got until this holiday season to get ready for Windows 11, and if all else fails, Windows 10 is still supported until 2025.

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Best Chromeboxes for June 2021: ASUS, Acer, HP and more

Chromebooks are incredibly popular these days. From education to enterprise, Google has a hit on its hands with Chrome OS. There are already a number of premium Chromebooks out there, but what if you want to run Chrome OS in a desktop environment? There are a number of excellent Chromeboxes out there to accomplish this very task. While they don’t get as much hype or fanfare as their mobile counterparts, Chromeboxes are reliable for work and school applications. In addition, if you like working on a bigger screen, a Chromebox is the ideal device for you. In this guide we’ll take a look at the best Chromeboxes from Acer, ASUS, and HP. Hopefully you’ll find something on our list that meets your needs.

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Best overall: ASUS Chromebox 4

ASUS Chromebox 4 on teal background

The ASUS Chromebox 4 features a 10th Generation Intel Core or Celeron processor and DDR4-2666 memory for faster, smoother and more energy-efficient performance. These specs are configurable up to a Core i7 and 16GB of RAM. It also supports up to three 4K displays and comes equipped with versatile USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for fast data transfers, and USB-C also supports power delivery and DisplayPort connections.

Offering easy access to Android apps via Google Play, the device lets you enjoy your favorite apps. For the added benefit of Chrome Enterprise, the ASUS Chromebox Enterprise 4 option empowers businesses, IT administrators and remote employees with the tools they need for enhanced productivity and efficiency. You can also configure this Chromebox with up to 256GB of SSD storage, an impressive amount for a Chrome OS device.

Overall, this is the Chromebox for you if you need a top of the line machine with a range of choices when it comes to internal specs. The ability to connect three displays makes this a workhorse at the office and should be at the top of the list for business users.

    ASUS Chromebox 4
    ASUS leads the Chromebox pack with this excellent all-around device. With customizable configurations, there are Chromebox 4 models to fit any workflow or education application.

Best for less: HP Chromebox G3

Hp Chromebox G3 on pink background

If you need performance without a high price, the HP Chromebox G3 is a solid option. Intel’s 10th generation processors power HP’s Chromebox G3 and Chromebox Enterprise G3, and there is a Celeron option for the budget-minded. HP also includes up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM and up to 128GB of storage. Unfortunately, for the 32-64GB models, you get slower eMMC storage as opposed to the 128GB M.2 SSD. Like most Chromebooks, the HP Chromebox G3 has a microSD slot for beefing up your storage if needed.

HP has four USB-A ports on this Chromebox, but it’s a shame there’s only one USB-C port available. You do get two HDMI ports, useful for connecting up to two 4K displays. With most modern accessories moving to USB-C, those looking to use multiple peripheral devices with this Chromebox may need to resort to the dongle life. It’s worth noting that older models of the G3 line exists (G2 models mainly on Amazon), but these devices are really not worth their price and should be avoided.

    HP Chromebox G3
    Those looking for a Chromebox with top specs without a high price will love the Chromebox G3 from HP. This machine packs in 10th generation Intel chips and all the ports you need for a first-class desktop experience.

Best fanless: ASUS Fanless Chromebox

ASUS fanless Chromebox on light blue background

The ASUS Fanless Chromebox features a 10th Generation Intel  Core or Celeron processor for faster, smoother and more energy-efficient performance. The fanless aluminum chassis has multiple metal fins to efficiently dissipate heat while operating quietly and to reduce maintenance needs in commercial environments. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox also supports up to three 4K displays and comes equipped with versatile USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for fast data transfers, and USB-C also supports power delivery and DisplayPort connections. Offering easy access to a rich selection of Android apps available on Google Play, the device enables use of productivity-boosting apps.

In addition, the ASUS Fanless Chromebox features a compact, space-saving design with chassis dimensions of 207 x 148 x 32 mm. Each device also features a newly designed lockable VESA mount that securely attaches to a wide range of surfaces. The VESA mount includes a screw-in rubber barrier that protects the surface of ASUS Fanless Chromebox from everyday bumps and knocks. The VESA mount also allows you to attach the device to your display and turn it into your own customized all-in-one PC for a tidy, clutter-free workspace. If you want a compact and quiet Chromebox, look no further.

    ASUS Fanless Chromebox
    Want a quieter desktop experience? ASUS has you covered with this fanless Chromebox. A range of configurable specs make this device appealing to a variety of users.

Best for business: Acer CXI3 Chromebox

Acer Chromebox CXI3 on green background

Acer touts this machine as the best for small and medium businesses alike. However, this Chromebox is also a solid option for personal use on your desktop at home. For under $270, you get quite a bit of power. The Chromebox runs the Intel Celeron 3867U processor with 4GB of standard memory. You also a 128 GB SSD for storage, very spacious by Chrome OS standards. To add value, Acer also includes a USB mouse and keyboard for easily setting up in a business environment.

With dimensions of 5.9 in x 5.8 in x1.6 in, this compact Chromebox can fit into any environment. It’s ideal for stowing away on the back of a monitor, and an optional VESA kit allows for easy mounting. You can connect this Chromebox to two displays to extend your desktop and increase productivity. It’s also worth picking up a docking station to extend port selection. If you need a Chromebox, this is one to put on your shortlist.

    Acer Chromebox CXI3-UA91
    Those that need a Chrome OS experience on the desktop will love Acer's Chromebox CXI3-UA91. With 128 GB of SSD storage, this is a great option for small businesses. This Chromebox can fit just about anywhere, even mounted to the back of a monitor.

Best combo deal: ASUS Chromebox 3 Bundle

ASUS Chromebox 3 and mouse and keyboard

The ASUS Chromebox 3 features 8th Generation Intel Core processors and DDR4-2400 memory configurable up to 8GB for faster, smoother and more energy-efficient performance. With full support for Android apps from Google Play, ASUS Chromebox 3 gives you the ability to run your favorite mobile apps with the power of a mini PC. It also comes equipped with a versatile USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port for data transfer, power delivery and DisplayPort functionality, and supports dual 4K/UHD displays for gorgeously sharp visuals and powerful productivity.

This device supports dual displays via HDMI and USB Type-C without the need for an additional graphics card, making multitasking a whole lot easier. Spread out your documents, mirror content or extend a single browser across multiple displays. When it’s time to kick back and relax, ASUS Chromebox 3 lets you browse the web, view photos from your SD card on Google Photos or watch videos in 4K/UHD. ASUS Chromebox 3 even features touchscreen support for more intuitive control and engaging gameplay.

This bundle also features a Chrome OS compatible mouse and keyboard, as well as a 24″ external monitor with HD resolution. All of these items in a single package let you plug and play your new Chromebox right out of the box. If you need to get up and running quickly with a Chromebox on your desk, this is the way to go.

    ASUS Chromebox 3 Bundle
    To use a Chromebox effectively you're going to need an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Why not buy all of these things in a single bundle? ASUS makes getting started with your Chromebox simple by giving you everything you need.

Best next-gen: Acer Chromebox CXI4

Acer CXI4 on purple background

The Acer CXI4 is the successor to the aforementioned CXI3. Acer announced this device in Q3 of 2020, but it’s still not widely available for purchase. Loaded with Google Chrome OS, the Acer Chromebox CXI4 is easy to set up, provides integrated malware protection, and offers a variety of premium features from Google right out of the box.

With an up to 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, this mini PC offers solid performance to deal with everyday tasks. With advanced Intel Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), you can now enjoy a smoother wireless experience with up to three times faster speeds than standard Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) while also coming equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.1 technology.

Easily customize this device for a variety of scenarios including educational, digital signage, or kiosks thanks to the versatility of Chrome OS. With a variety of storage options and price points for any user, this is an excellent Chromebox to keep an eye on. It’s quite a shame that Acer hasn’t yet made this model available on a larger scale.

    Acer Chromebox CXI4
    If you want to be the first to get a next-gen Chromebox, this is one of the best mid-tier options. Acer previewed this device in late 2020, with positive reviews from most outlets. This Chromebox should be available to preorder from Acer soon.

If you’re shopping for a new Chromebox, these six devices should be on your shortlist. Most of the Chromeboxes mentioned here have configurable specs, so you can find something that fits your budget. Perhaps the most important factor when choosing a Chromebox is your intended use-case and the number of ports. For top of the line performance, choose either the ASUS Chromebox 4 or HP Chromebox G3. For more budget-conscious shoppers, consider checking out the upcoming Acer CXI4.

Now that you’ve seen our picks, tell us about your favorite Chromebox in the comments below.

The post Best Chromeboxes for June 2021: ASUS, Acer, HP and more appeared first on xda-developers.



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