Enter the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 and RTX 3060 Ti. They’re similar in name, but not quite in-game. So, what’s the difference?

Specs and Price

As part of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 30 series GPUs, both the RTX 3060 and RTX 3060 Ti are built upon the Ampere architecture, Nvidia’s successor to Turing. While both share the Ampere DNA, the key differences emerge in their detailed specifications and MSRPs.

The GeForce RTX 3060 Ti, sporting 4864 CUDA cores, boasts a boost clock of 1665 MHz, and carries 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM with a 256-bit memory bus, offering 448 GB/s of memory bandwidth. Its MSRP sits at $399, although due to market fluctuations and different versions (like the MSI, Gigabyte, or Asus models), you might find the price varies on retail sites like Amazon.

The RTX 3060, on the other hand, while having more VRAM (12GB of GDDR6), runs with a slightly lower memory bandwidth of 360GB/s owing to its 192-bit memory bus. It also has fewer CUDA cores (3584 to be precise) and a lower boost clock speed (1777 MHz). Its initial MSRP was $329, although market prices may differ.

The thermal design power (TDP) is another factor to consider when examining these cards’ energy efficiency and thermal output. The RTX 3060 Ti draws 200W, while the RTX 3060 comes in slightly lower at 170W, which might sway those with a focus on power consumption.

Important: NVIDIA uses the same names for its laptop GPUs as it does for its desktop models, but the GPUs themselves are totally different. For example, the laptop RTX 3070 Ti at 115W is closer to a desktop RTX 3060 Ti. So if you see a laptop with an RTX 3060 is a lower-spec GPU than the desktop model. Don’t be fooled!

Gaming Performance and Benchmarks

Where the rubber meets the road for gamers, or rather, where the silicon meets the CPU, is gaming performance. How do these cards fare in modern games like Cyberpunk at ultra settings? When you compare frame rates (fps), the RTX 3060 Ti generally takes the lead.

In 1080p gaming, the GeForce RTX 3060 Ti shows consistently better performance, often by a margin of 10-20 fps, depending on the game and graphics settings. This advantage expands at higher resolutions, with the 3060 Ti showing an even larger lead in 1440p and maintaining playable frame rates in many titles at 4K, at lower settings

Both cards support DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), a feature that uses AI and Tensor cores to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time, offering higher frame rates without drastically compromising image quality. In games that support DLSS, both cards can deliver higher fps, but the RTX 3060 Ti still leads the way, making it a better option for those with high-refresh monitors. We’ll unpack DLSS a little more later in this comparison.

Ray Tracing and Other Features

Graphics cards today are about more than raw horsepower, and Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 3060 and RTX 3060 Ti are no exception.

Ray Tracing: Lighting Up Your Gaming World

Ray tracing is a rendering technique that generates an image by tracing light paths as pixels in an image plane and simulating the effects as they encounter virtual objects. In layman’s terms, it’s about making lighting and shadows in games look stunningly realistic.

The “RT” in “RTX” stands for ray tracing, and Nvidia’s RTX series is among the first to offer real-time ray tracing. Both the RTX 3060 and 3060 Ti feature dedicated RT (ray-tracing) cores that handle the computational heavy lifting, thus enabling this revolutionary tech.

The effect of ray tracing in games can be breathtaking, providing a level of realism that was unthinkable in real-time graphics just a few years ago. However, such beauty comes with a computational cost, often resulting in lower frame rates. That’s where the RTX 3060 Ti flexes its muscles. With more RT cores than the 3060, it can handle ray-traced games at higher settings and frame rates.

DLSS: AI-Enhanced Performance

Another major feature of Nvidia’s RTX line-up is the aforementioned DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling. This AI-driven rendering technology uses dedicated Tensor cores (present in both the RTX 3060 and 3060 Ti) to upscale games from a lower rendered resolution to a higher target resolution. This technique can deliver image quality comparable to native resolutions while demanding fewer GPU resources, thereby improving performance and boosting frame rates.

DLSS can be particularly useful when playing at higher resolutions or when ray tracing is enabled. So, while both cards feature DLSS, the added horsepower of the 3060 Ti again gives it the upper hand regarding performance in DLSS-enabled games.

Other Key Features

Beyond ray tracing and DLSS, these GPUs are packed with features designed to optimize and enhance your gaming experience. They offer support for PCIe 4.0, allowing faster communication with the rest of your PC, and for the latest DirectX 12 Ultimate, which provides additional graphic technologies like Variable Rate Shading.

Regarding outputs, the RTX 3060 and 3060 Ti typically come with three DisplayPort and one HDMI 2.1, supporting 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz. HDMI 2.1 also enables features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), making them fit for next-gen gaming monitors and TVs.

What’s With the VRAM Situation?

For the uninitiated, the difference in VRAM size between the GeForce RTX 3060 and RTX 3060 Ti might seem paradoxical. It’s generally expected that higher-tier cards would offer more VRAM, but in this case, the lower-tier RTX 3060 boasts a larger 12GB of GDDR6 VRAM compared to the RTX 3060 Ti’s 8GB. So, what’s behind this unconventional choice?

The primary function of VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) in a graphics card is to store data that the GPU needs immediate access to, such as textures, shaders, and other gaming assets. The rule of thumb is the higher the resolution and the more complex the game, the more VRAM you’ll need.

Although the RTX 3060 carries more VRAM, it has a narrower memory bus than the 3060 Ti, leading to lower overall memory bandwidth. In practical terms, while the RTX 3060 can hold more data in its VRAM, the 3060 Ti can access and process its stored data more quickly.

The 12GB VRAM in the RTX 3060 is a strategic move by Nvidia, thanks to how that narrow memory bus has been configured. It’s narrower because it has fewer channels. The 3060 Ti has 8GB of VRAM because it has eight channels with a 1GB memory module each. Since the 3060 only has six channels, using the same module size would lead to a 6GB card, which is too little for a modern mid-range card. The only option then was to use 2GB memory modules, which is why we ended up with 12GB of VRAM.

However, it’s worth noting that in most current gaming scenarios, having more VRAM will not improve performance if the card doesn’t have the GPU horsepower to use it. The RTX 3060 Ti, despite having less VRAM, still outperforms the RTX 3060 in most gaming benchmarks thanks to its higher number of CUDA cores, faster clock speeds, and broader memory bus.

One caveat here is that some recent AAA PC game ports have been struggling on systems with 8GB of VRAM. This is largely because the next-generation consoles have a larger VRAM pool than 8GB, and are now aiming for internal resolutions closer to 1440p than 4K. That makes it hard to recommend any GPU with 8GB of VRAM in 2023. However, that’s not a good reason to buy a 3060, and you shouldn’t factor it in here. 8GB is still acceptable for 1080p or 1440p gaming, and many games’ patches have already addressed their issues with VRAM.

The newly-released 4060 Ti has the same MSRP as the 3060 Ti, although, as we’ve mentioned, MSRPs are nearly meaningless in the GPU market at the moment. However, NVIDIA is releasing a 16GB variant of the 4060 Ti for $100 more in the future, and that would be a much more future-proof choice at this stage, despite its GPU performance not being much better than a 3060 Ti.

Considerations for Building a Gaming PC

If you’re building a gaming PC, your GPU isn’t the only component to consider. Ensure you have a capable CPU (like an Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processor) and a compatible motherboard to avoid bottlenecking your graphics card’s performance.

The RTX 3060’s lower specs might be a better fit for a less high-end system, while the RTX 3060 Ti might be more suitable for a system with high-end components. If you’re upgrading a computer with an older CPU, still running DDR3 RAM, for example, the 3060 makes more sense. Even then you might be better off with an older card like the RTX 2060 or RTX 2070.

It’s also worth considering the rest of Nvidia’s product stack. The RTX 3070, for instance, offers a significant step up in performance from the 3060 Ti but at a higher price. Conversely, the RTX 3050 offers cost savings for those on a tight budget but at the expense of lower performance. Please don’t buy an RTX 3050.

Final Verdict

While the RTX 3060 and 3060 Ti share a name and a few similarities, they cater to slightly different markets. The RTX 3060, with its lower price and specs, is a decent entry-level card for 1080p gaming. The RTX 3060 Ti, on the other hand, with its superior specs and performance, is a more mid-range choice, perfect for those aiming for higher resolutions or more demanding games.

Unless you can find an RTX 3060 for significantly less money than its MRSP or the next better card, it’s almost always better to go for the 3060 Ti in this case. However, don’t forget that cards like the 4070 offer new features, such as DLSS 3 and that much more powerful cards like the RTX 3080 should drop in price now that the 40-series is finally out.

When selecting a Chromebook with a built-in stylus pen, it’s essential to consider factors such as the responsiveness and accuracy of the stylus, the device’s overall performance, battery life, and display quality. To help you choose, here are seven of the best Chromebooks with a stylus you can buy today.

1. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is ideal for those looking for a top-tier Chromebook with a built-in stylus and powerful features.

It has a vivid 13.3-inch FHD QLED touchscreen to deliver stunning colors and crisp images. It also includes a 360-degree hinge, allowing you to easily transform the Chromebook into a tablet for convenience. With the Intel Core i3 processor and Wi-Fi 6, you can expect smooth multitasking and speedy browsing.

You’ll also appreciate its backlit keyboard with wider keys to maximize your typing efficiency. The built-in stylus enables you to seamlessly take notes, draw, or navigate with precision.

The storage capacity is rated at 128GB eMMC, which (for a Chromebook) is a good amount of integrated storage. However, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 doesn’t include traditional USB Type-A ports, so you’ll need to use USB-C adapters or peripherals.

2. ASUS Chromebook Flip C433

The ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 provides a versatile convertible design with powerful performance, making it an ideal choice for on-the-go users. Its striking design features an aluminum-alloy chassis with diamond-cut edges, making it look sleek and providing added durability.

The C433 includes a 14-inch Full HD display with a NanoEdge bezel for a near-borderless viewing experience. This C4300’s 360-degree hinge also lets you effortlessly switch between laptop, tablet, tent, or stand modes. Along with the included stylus, you can operate your Chromebook however you like.

The Flip C433 has an impressive battery life, allowing you to use it for up to 10 hours on a single charge. The dual-core Intel Core M3 processor ensures a smooth and seamless performance for basic web tasks. However, with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, it isn’t going to handle the most demanding applications.

Fortunately, this Chromebook includes a MicroSD card reader, so you can expand storage capacity if needed.

3. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3

This versatile and portable Chromebook is an excellent choice for students and users who love flexibility in their devices.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 is a compact touchscreen Chromebook for students and other professional users. Its 360-degree hinge allows for multiple modes, making it perfect for various tasks, from typing assignments in laptop mode to video streaming in stand mode.

With an Octa-Core MediaTek MT8183 Processor and 4GB RAM, this Chromebook offers reliable performance for everyday tasks while remaining energy-efficient. Its built-in stylus pen adds more interactivity, making navigating web pages easier and completing assignments requiring touch input.

While the IdeaPad Flex 3 does have USB-C and USB-A ports for peripheral connections, these are only 2.0 ports, which may limit transfer speeds. Additionally, storage may become a concern with its 64GB eMMC drive. However, the 11.6” screen is rated at Full HD with a 1366×768 resolution.

4. ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3

The ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 is well-suited for study, work, and entertainment. Equipped with an ergonomic full-size keyboard, the ASUS CM3 can easily transform into a laptop with a good quality keyboard, ensuring optimal productivity.

In contrast, the tablet mode provides users a compact space to unleash their creativity, utilizing the stylus for note-taking and drawing. It comes with a 10.5-inch screen with a 1920×1200 screen resolution, 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM, and 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage available.

The CM3 is a good mid-tier Chromebook that can handle most of the usage a Chromebook user will likely be interested in. It also has a 27Wh battery that Asus claims can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, two USB-C ports, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

5. HP X360 Chromebook

The HP X360 Chromebook is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile 2-in-1 laptop with a built-in stylus pen. It features a 14″ HD touchscreen display, making it an excellent option for students and professionals.

Like the Asus CM3, the HP X360 has a 12-hour battery life, allowing you to power through your to-do list and enjoy your favorite playlists without worrying about charge.

It also includes a dual-core Intel Celeron N4120 processor and 4GB RAM, ensuring that it can easily handle basic tasks, but it might struggle with more high-intensity work. The 64 GB eMMC storage might limit the number of files and applications you can store, but with integrated Google Cloud storage, this might be less of an issue.

6. Lenovo 300e Chromebook

The Lenovo 300e 11.6″ touchscreen Chromebook is designed with versatility and durability in mind, thanks to its 2-in-1 convertible design and rugged, water-resistant build. With its 360-degree hinge and 10-point multi-touch technology, this Chromebook allows you to work in different modes (laptop, tablet, tent, or stand).

Powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4GB of RAM, the Lenovo 300e delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks. However, it may not be suitable for heavy multitasking or more demanding applications. Additionally, the 32GB storage is quite limited.

The device also comes with a user-facing 720p HD camera and a 5MP world-facing camera, making it suitable for online classes, video meetings, and streaming.

7. Acer Chromebook Spin 314

The Acer Chromebook Spin 314 is a versatile and budget-friendly option for those needing a reliable Chromebook with a built-in stylus pen. Thanks to its Corning Gorilla Glass touchscreen display, it boasts a sturdy design and impressive durability.

The built-in USI stylus compatibility suits tasks like note-taking, sketching, or navigating content. The 14-inch HD (1366×768) LED-backlit TFT LCD display is bright and rich in color and, with a 1366×768 resolution, is rated for full HD.

Under the hood, you’ll find an Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor with 4GB LPDDR4X RAM, sufficient for everyday web browsing, document editing, and lightweight media consumption. However, the 4GB of RAM may be limiting if you plan to run more demanding applications.

However, the 128GB of eMMC storage is one of the largest on this list, ensuring that you have ample space to store your important files. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi 6 support provides fast and reliable internet connectivity.

The Spin 314 also has a well-rounded collection of ports and features, including a USB Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, an HDMI port, and an OceanGlass touchpad, as well as a 10-hour battery.

Finding the Right Chromebook For You

Choosing the right Chromebook with a built-in stylus pen can significantly improve your productivity and creativity. Always do thorough research and read user reviews before purchasing a Chromebook. This will help ensure you find the ideal device to match your requirements.

Decided to buy? Don’t forget to leave your own review on Amazon so that others can benefit from your experience. You can also return your Amazon parcel if the product isn’t suitable.

Whether you have a collection of quirky keyboards or are looking for an ergonomic mechanical keyboard that can do it all, you’ll find the new Kebohub 001 an interesting specimen.

Check out our Kebohub EE01 mechanical keyboard review to determine whether you should choose it as your new keyboard.

WhatGeek x 3inuS Kebohub EE01 Mechanical Keyboard: First Impressions & Specs

3inuS is a fairly new manufacturer specializing in Apple peripherals. Their latest product is a Kebohub EE01 mechanical keyboard hub. Kebohub is a mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switches with four USB hubs: one HDMI port, one USB-C port, and three USB-A ports.

The Kebohub EE01 started as a Kickstarter campaign and is currently seeking funding on Indiegogo. If you want a more efficient addition to your working space, consider backing up this campaign.

Even though 3inuS specializes in Apple products, the Kebohub is compatible with Windows and Apple computers. For the purposes of this review, I tested the keyboard with a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Lenovo Yoga.

Before we dive into the review, here’s a complete list of specs of the WhatGeek x 3inuS Kebohub EE01 mechanical keyboard:

• Dimensions: 14 x 5 x 1.8in (35.5 x 12.5 x 4.5cm)
• Weight: 2 lbs (920g)
• Type: mechanical keyboard with a built-in 5-in-1 hub
• Number of keys: 87
• Structure: metal plate mounted
• Case material: ABS
• Form factor: TKL
• Keycap: double injection ABS – transparent letter
• Switch: Huano Blue hot-swappable, 3pin/5pin switch support
• Backlight: RGB
• Connectivity: USB-C, cable length 63 in (160cm)
• Compatibility: Mac / Windows / iOS / Android
• Color: light grey with dark and light grey keycaps
• Price: $84 on Indiegogo

Design and Unpacking

At first glance, the Kebohub doesn’t look much different from any other Windows and macOS-compatible keyboard. In fact, when I received the keyboard, the whole thing seemed kind of boring. It was packed in a see-through box with a little logo in the corner, and the keyboard didn’t look much. But I’m not one to judge gadgets based on their first visual impression.

What’s in the Box

Here’s everything you’ll find inside the package when unboxing your Kebohub EE01:

• WhatGeek x 3inuS kebohub EE01 mechanical keyboard
• Full set of darker grey caps
• Four extra switches
• Four extra Windows keycaps
• Switch puller tool
• Keycap puller tool
• User manual

The body of the keyboard and the cable are light grey with 87 keycaps – part of them are darker grey, and the rest are light grey. I had a choice of Red and Blue switches. I’m a big typing enthusiast, and I’ve never tried the Blue clicky keys that are supposed to make clicking noises and feel like an actual typewriter, so the choice was obvious.

Right off the bat, I have to say that if you’ve never tried the Blue Switch before and you don’t live alone – think twice before getting it. On one side, the typing experience is everything I hoped for, and I personally love the sound these keys make. However, it’s a total nightmare for my boyfriend to be around me when I’m using the keyboard.

The clicky sounds are so loud that I was banned from using the keyboard at night, even when I’m in a different room from my boyfriend. If you don’t want to disturb the people around you with your loud typing, go for the red switches, they’re the silent option for mechanical keyboards (and a typical gamer’s choice) that will keep your family and colleagues sane.

Back to the keyboard’s design and build quality. The body of the keyboard feels solid, and it has rubber pads on the feet to make it more stable and avoid sliding around your desk. On the back of the keyboard, you’ll also find two flip-out feet that allow you to raise one side of the keyboard for better ergonomics.

As soon as I got my hands on this keyboard, I was curious about taking out the keycaps and the switches. The best part is that you get all the tools and even some spare parts included in the package. The keycap puller tool makes it super easy to replace a keycap.

If you get tired of the modern-style keycaps included with the Kebohub, you can replace them with any keycaps of your liking. Luckily, there’s no shortage of third-party keycaps on Amazon.

The RGB Lighting

The real experience with the Kebohub EE01 starts when you plug it in, and the RGB lighting kicks in. The keyboard doesn’t require extra drivers and is a purely plug-and-play device.

For those of you who are on the hunt for a gaming keyboard, you’ll be happy to know that this keyboard has many lighting effects. Even if you’re someone like me who prefers to disable the lighting effects, you’ll probably find the one you like on this keyboard.

The Kebohub manual has two entire pages that explain different ways you can use to customize the lighting on your keyboard. For example, there are 18 preset RGB backlight effects that you can cycle through by holding the FN key and pressing the ins/home/pgup/del/end/pgdn keys. There are other backlight adjustments that you can perform using the following keyboard shortcuts:

• FN + up arrow/down arrow: increase/decrease brightness in 5 steps
• FN + left arrow: change LED flow direction
• FN + right arrow: change color (8 different colors)
• FN + -/+: adjust LED flow speed

You can also use a scheme for customizing your own backlight of chosen keys. You can find more information on this one in the user manual included in the package. It’s a shame there’s no software to control these lighting options.

The letters and numbers on the keys are clearly marked, allowing the light to shine through. It makes using this keyboard a wonderful experience.

Performance & Features

As I mentioned before, typing on the Kebohub was overall a great experience for me. The keyboard is built ergonomically, and my wrists don’t tire even after using it for several hours straight. All keycaps are designed to fit the human finger, to reduce hand fatigue after prolonged usage, and to ensure your comfort.

All the while, the rubber feet provide a decent grip on the desk and make sure the keyboard stays in place while you’re typing.

The blue switches provide just enough resistance when typing and produce the old-school clicking noise. Using the Kebohub truly feels like you’re typing on a typewriter. While the sound is satisfying, I wouldn’t recommend this type of switch for live streaming/gaming. Your mic will likely pick up on those keyboard noises, and it might ruin the audio side of your recording. If you’re looking for something in the middle, go for the brown switch, which is also available on Indiegogo.

The USB Hub

The Kebohub EE01 is a wired keyboard. Unlike a wireless keyboard that connects to your computer via Bluetooth, it doesn’t require a charger and provides a more stable connection. However, the main reason the Kebohub is wired is because it comes with a built-in hub.

You get a variety of ports available just at the back of your keyboard, which is more convenient than you can imagine. If you own a modern MacBook, it probably comes with just two USB-C ports. One of those ports will often be used to charge your computer, so all you’re left with is just one port. Besides, if you ever need to plug in something with a USB-A cable, like a hard drive, you must use a dongle.

Kebohub can replace the dongle and allow you to use USB sticks, card readers, USB headsets, and hard drives, and even charge your smartphone using its 5-in-one hub.

The keyboard’s cable is Y-shaped and has two USB-C connectors on the end. You can use one of them. If you want more power for the ports, like when you want to use one of them as a power bank, it’s recommended to plug in both of the USB-C connectors. One connector provides a total output of 1.5A for a USB-C1 or USB-A1 port, while two connectors provide 1.5A for both USB-C1 and USB-A1 ports.

The availability of an HDMI port cannot be underestimated either. With the HDMI 2.0 port, your keyboard is compatible with 4K, 2K, 1080p, and 720p monitors.

If you’re dependent on ports, you’ll love the addition of the hub to this keyboard and will quickly forget how you lived without them before.

Should You Buy the Kebohub EE01 Mechanical Keyboard?

When I received the Kebohub EE01, I didn’t even know that I needed this keyboard. During a few months of testing it, it never failed in terms of connectivity and brought me lots of joy in the form of a beautiful typing experience. The 5-in-one hub is a brilliant idea and is bound to improve your productivity and help you declutter your computer desk. I can only recommend this keyboard to anyone looking for an ergonomic mechanical keyboard with added functionality.

Mobile Pixels offers its solution to people who do most of their work on a laptop and need an extra screen without using a separate full-sized monitor. Duex Max – a portable monitor attaches to your computer’s back via magnets. This sounds almost too good to be true. Check out our 14.1″ Duex Max monitor review to see whether you should buy one as your next portable monitor.

Mobile Pixels Duex Max Portable Monitor: First Impressions & Specs

If you’re used to multiple monitor setups, switching to work from a single laptop may be a nightmare. Luckily, there’s no shortage of portable monitors on the market. Mobile Pixels alone has multiple series of portable monitors, including the Glance series (a separate portable monitor that connects to your laptop via a USB-C cable), Duex series (for a double monitor setup), and Trio series (for a triple monitor setup).

The Duex series comprises 12.5″ Duex Lite, 13.3″ Duex Plus, and 14.1″ Duex Max monitors. I’ve been testing the 14.1″ Duex Max portable monitor suitable for 14″ and larger laptops. While you can use the Duex Max with a smaller laptop as a separate portable monitor, you won’t be able to mount it onto your laptop properly because of the size of the panel construction.

Mobile Pixels also sells different accessories with Duex Max. You can buy the monitor on its own, Productivity Bundle ($305.97) that includes the Duex Max monitor, monitor kickstand, and extra laptop magnets, and an extensive Mobility Bundle ($390.95) with the Duex Max monitor, privacy filter, levstand, mini mouse, foldable keyboard, and a sleeve for your laptop.

Before we move on to discussing the monitor’s design and the setup process, here’s the full list of the Duex Max’s tech specs:

• Dimensions: 12.6 x 8.9 x 0.25 in (32 x 22.6 x 0.6 cm)
• Weight: 1.8 lbs (816g)
• Material: PC-ABS plastic & robust aluminum alloy
• Display: 1080p full HD dual-screen display
• Screen size: 14.1″
• Connectivity: two USB-C ports
• Signal type: hybrid, DisplayPort Alt, and USB video signals can be used
• Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Dex, select Android phones
• Colors: gunmetal grey, rio rouge, mallard green, set sail blue
• Warranty: one-year limited warranty
• Price: $279.99 on Amazon and Mobile Pixels website (monitor only).

Design and Unpacking

When you first take the Duex Max out of the box, you’ll first notice the sturdy plastic casing. It doesn’t feel flimsy but solid instead while also not being too much on the heavy side.

What’s in the Box

Here’s everything you’ll find when unboxing your Mobile Pixels Duex Max:

• 14.1″ Duex Max portable laptop monitor
• USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter
• Extra adhesives
• Alcohol pad for cleaning your laptop
• User manual
• Setup and attachment guide
• Magnets locations template

I had the monitor-only Duex Max version in a mallard green color. The monitor is a 14.1-inch matte panel with 1080p resolution and IPS technology capable of 300 nits. The aspect ratio is 16:9 with a 60 Hertz maximum refresh rate. For a device that turns your computer into a dual-screen laptop, the 1.8 lbs weight doesn’t seem like a lot.

However, if you own a smaller laptop like a 13″ MacBook Pro/Air, the Duex Max model will be too big and a wrong choice. The casing will extend outside your laptop’s main screen and will likely tilt your laptop’s back because of the weight. If you’re set on trying the Mobile Pixels monitor as a second screen, consider going for a different model. Both Mobile Pixels Duex Lite and Mobile Pixels Duex Plus portable monitors are smaller screens that will fit better.

Back to the Duex Max monitor that I had for testing. That 1.8 lbs weight is achieved by using lighter plastic materials in the construction instead of metal. It’s an absolute necessity, as your laptop’s hinges will need to support the extra weight of the added monitor.

Duex Max has a rectangular shape with curved edges on both sides of the screen, making it easier to grab on the sides and slide the display out. On the right side of the Duex Max, you’ll find two USB-C ports.

The back of the monitor also features an innovative magnetic mount and hinge system. Thanks to this system, you can attach this portable display to your laptop and carry the two devices together without bringing any additional equipment or extra laptop bags.

On the backside of the Duex Max, you’ll also find three buttons. You can use these to tweak the picture quality by adjusting backlight, contrast, saturation, color temperature, and more.

Setup Process

One of my favorite parts about the Duex Max is the setup process, or, more specifically, how simple it is.

The back of the monitor has a track-style mount system with four magnetic platforms. The four magnets attach to your laptop’s back using the 3M adhesives. Duex Max comes with a magnets locations template that you can use to effortlessly place the magnets on your laptops in the right positions.

Once the magnets are in place, simply attach the monitor to the back of your laptop, and it’ll slide out to align next to your laptop’s screen.

When the monitor’s fully extended, you can also move the panel to pivot for the best positioning. However, that’s all the adjustments you can make. You can’t tilt or swivel the monitor.

That’s it! Plug the monitor into your laptop using the USB-C cable and get your dual monitor to work. The display is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems and requires no additional apps to work.

Duex Max monitor is plug-and-play if your laptop uses USB-C ports. If you have an older laptop with USB-A ports only, you’ll additionally need to install the Mobile Pixels proprietary driver. Since Duex Max uses a single cable for power and data, it’s a solely USB-powered screen with no HDMI port.

Different Modes

Duex Max pleasantly surprised me in terms of the different modes that you can use.

At first, I tested the Duex Max with a 15″ Lenovo Yoga laptop, and the monitor fits perfectly on the back of the computer. I immediately felt like I had more space to do my work and focus on different projects simultaneously.

However, my main laptop is a 13″ MacBook Air, and in order to get the Duex Max to work with it, I started exploring other monitor modes. If your laptop is too small for the magnets setup, or if you simply don’t like sticking anything on the back of your laptop, you can always use the Duex Max as a separate portable monitor. You can use any kickstand you have at home to put the monitor next to your laptop. Thanks to the auto-rotation feature, you can place it on either side of the laptop, and the screen will automatically flip.

The mode I enjoyed most was probably the portrait mode. You can use the Duex Max casing to prompt the monitor next to your laptop in a vertical position. The auto-rotation won’t help you there, but you can manually switch the Duex Max screen on your laptop and put it into portrait mode.

According to Mobile Pixels, Duex Max works with almost any laptop or device, including select Android phones, as long as you can pair the monitor with them via USB-C or USB-A connection. However, I tried to pair Duex Max with multiple Android smartphones and an Android tablet and failed. All I got was the No Signal error message. The Duex Max went into power-saving mode soon after.

Performance & Features

The Duex Max LCD screen has a 1080p resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, and 16:9 aspect ratio. It provides decent screen quality and brightness for a portable monitor. When you put it next to a modern laptop, the difference is apparent, like some colors will be washed out, and brightness isn’t quite on the same level even at 100, but it’s nothing extreme.

If you’re wondering whether you can use Duex Max as a gaming monitor, the answer is negative. With the 60Hz cap for the refresh rate, this screen won’t be great for gaming. The same could be said for heavy photo and video editing. Besides that, the Duex Max is a perfectly suitable monitor for all types of computer work.

Regarding the features, Duex Max has a few that pleasantly surprised me. When you press the center button on the back of the monitor’s case, it brings up the menu you can use to tweak the picture settings. Besides the usual settings, Mobile Pixels included two interesting options: EyeCareMode and G-Sensor.

The EyeCareMode is in charge of the temperature of the screen. When enabled, it automatically makes the temperature warmer, which in turn reduces the blue light that can affect your eyes negatively.

The G-Sensor is a more innovative feature. This sensor controls the auto-rotation function. It flips the screen image when you rotate the monitor to slide it out on the opposite side or stand it up next to your laptop.

Should You Buy the 14.1″ Duex Max Portable Monitor by Mobile Pixels?

The Mobile Pixels Duex Max is a good choice if you want to experiment with a second screen and don’t mind sticking a bunch of magnets on your laptop. You can even one up and get a Mobile Pixels Trio Max if you want to have not two but three screens in front of you.

However, if you’re looking for a second monitor with a specific goal in mind (i.e., gaming or video editing), there are other choices on the market to consider, many of them more budget-friendly than the Duex Max.

Note that gaming PCs are usually built on standard ATX motherboards, so we’ll be ignoring smaller form factors like the ITX. There is a single micro-ATX option in this list for those looking for a more entry-level version, but that’s the smallest motherboard you’ll find here.

Which Chipset Should You Go For?

Motherboards are built by many manufacturers, but they’re all built around a core chipset designed by the chip maker (like Intel or AMD). This ensures that your processor is compatible with the motherboard no matter how many extra features are loaded by the third-party manufacturer.

When it comes to the Ryzen 5 5600X – or rather, any Ryzen 3000 or Ryzen 5000 series processor – there are basically just two chipsets to choose from: the X570 and the B550. The X570 is the more feature-rich chipset, with motherboards based on it falling on the higher end of the price spectrum.

Budget-friendly motherboards use the B550 chipset, which gives you decent performance at a more palatable price range by limiting some features. This is usually the preferred choice for most gamers looking to build their first PC with the Ryzen 5 5600X.

1. ASUS ROG Strix X570-E – Best Overall

Building a good gaming motherboard is a delicate balancing act. Cut too many corners and you get a board that performs poorly. Overload it with features and you get an overpriced monstrosity no one needs. But the Asus Rog Strix X570-E manages to hit the sweet spot.

This model gives you everything you could want out of an ATX motherboard, with multiple PCIe 4.0 lanes, a bunch of USB 3.2 ports, and even a Realtek LAN controller to push ethernet speeds up to 2.5Gbps. You can build a decent multi-GPU setup for online gaming with this motherboard, and even overclock the processor thanks to its extensive support for CPU power and cooling.

If you’re an experienced gamer, however, you may find the ROG Strix a bit lacking. There are only two M.2 slots for high-speed SSDs instead of the three usually sported by competitors on the same chipset. On the flip side, you get a whopping eight USB 3 Gen 2 ports, along with an equal number of SATA ports, giving you more I/O potential than most similar motherboards.

Best Overall

ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming Motherboard

$349.99 $329.99

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08/21/2023 04:04 pm GMT

2. MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk – Best Mid Range

Gaming snobs scoff at anything even slightly below the most expensive high-end systems, but you don’t need to blow the bank to build a good gaming PC. The MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk is an excellent motherboard that prioritizes the right things to deliver a mid-range gaming computer.

The biggest sacrifice it makes is the Wi-Fi. The MSI Tomahawk does not come with an integrated Wi-Fi card, forcing you to install a separate module if you wish to tap into wireless networks.

But honestly, even that is unnecessary. Unlike MSI MAG’s earlier entry-level models, the B550 Tomahawk comes with 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, allowing you to get superfast internet speeds through a wired connection, which is always preferred for a desktop PC, especially for online gaming.

In all other respects, the MSI MAG B550 matches the performance of a premium gaming motherboard. You get two M.2 slots, PCI-Express 4.0 support, and 13-phase power delivery with VRM heatsinks for overclocking. The only other drawback is the smaller number of USB slots (only six), but you do get two USB 3.2 slots for high-speed connections.

Best Mid-Range

MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Gaming Motherboard

$169.99

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08/21/2023 04:38 pm GMT

3. ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus Wi-Fi – Best micro-ATX

The micro-ATX form factor is not usually preferred for a gaming motherboard, as it cuts down significantly on PCIe lanes and other peripheral support. But the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus manages to pack a lot into the smaller form factor, proving that gaming PCs can be built on micro-ATX motherboards.

And the best part? Unlike most budget-friendly motherboards for the Ryzen 5600X, it does not come at the sacrifice of integrated Wi-Fi support.

The ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus Wi-Fi comes with two M.2 slots for high-speed SSDs, 8+2 phase VRM for overclocking, 2.5GBps Ethernet, and a USB 3.2 slot (only one, though). It even supports DDR4 4600 RAM, which is a rarity at this price point.

Speaking of the price point, that’s the only drawback with this board. It might be smaller, but the price tag isn’t particularly lower than full-sized ATX motherboards with similar specifications. Still, it is a great choice if you want to build a leaner gaming PC with the Ryzen 5600.

Best Micro-ATX

ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS Motherboard

$169.99 $154.99

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08/21/2023 04:53 pm GMT

4. NZXT N7 B550 – Best B550

B550 chipset-based motherboards are affordable but sometimes end up sacrificing too much for the savings. The NZXT N7 B550 is one of the most feature-laden B550 boards and might be the best one to get if you are not looking to switch to the X570 chipset.

NZXT N7 is well known for its Intel motherboards, with their unique white theme and clean look. The NZXT N7 B550 is their first AMD motherboard and boasts of the same aesthetics and RGB-free appearance.

Feature-wise, the board packs a lot. 12-phase power delivery, 2.5 GbE as well as Wi-Fi 6E for internet connectivity, and two M.2 slots. The rear I/O panel is well done too, with a bunch of USB slots, audio ports, and an HDMI port.

As you might expect, all these features do not come cheap. The NZXT N7 is not the most affordable B550 motherboard, though we would say the price is well worth it. The only major problem is the lack of heatsinks for the M.2 slots, leaving your high-speed SSDs prone to overheating.

Best B550

NZXT N7 B550 AMD Chipset Gaming Motherboard

$249.99

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08/21/2023 05:24 pm GMT

5. MSI Meg X570 Unify – Best Overclocking

Now we move to some of the more upper-range models. While the mid-range boards are good enough to get you started with gaming, you need something like the MSI Meg X570 Unify for serious overclocking.

The main difference with this board is the heatsink. While a budget board will sport heatsinks too, the VRM heatsinks on MSI Meg X570 Unify are massive. This translates to vastly improved cooling, letting you push the Ryzen 5600X beyond its limits.

There is even a fan in the chipset heatsink, along with dedicated heatsinks for the M.2 SSD slots too, keeping your NVMe SSDs operating at peak performance. Tying it all together is a sober, all-black, aesthetic that is a refreshing break from all the RGB-overloaded boards being sold to gamers these days.

Of course, the Meg X570 Unify comes with all the other features standard to a high-end gaming motherboard, from 2.5 GBps LAN to PCIe 4.0 lanes. This includes three M.2 slots, VRM power delivery (12 + 2 +1), and a bunch of USB 3.2 slots.

Best Overclocking

MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard

$329.99

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08/20/2023 05:25 pm GMT

6. ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Extreme – Best High-End

If the price is no bar, the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Extreme is probably the best motherboard for the Ryzen 5600X that money can buy. With liquid cooling, 10 Gbps Ethernet, and 18 + 2 power delivery, it leaves no stone unturned to give you a high-end experience.

The key feature of this motherboard is the incredible VRM. With its massive heat sink and liquid cooling potential, it can sustain extreme overclocking without breaking a sweat.

Other features are incredible as well. You get three integrated M.2 slots, with two additional slots that can be added with the included DIMM.2 AIC. The audio is top-notch, and it includes a bevy of high-speed connectivity options like USB 3.2 and Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Special care has been paid to network connectivity, with both a 10 GbE and a 2.5 GbE LAN port alongside Intel Wi-Fi 6E, leveraging the new 6 Ghz band. Overall, if you’re willing to shell out the price, the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Extreme will not disappoint you.

Best High-End

ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Extreme AMD AM4 X570/X570S EATX Gaming Motherboard

$1,109.43

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08/20/2023 05:28 pm GMT

What Is the Best Motherboard for the AMD Ryzen 5600X?

Each of the motherboards we covered here is best in its own way. The key is deciding your preference and choosing the board that best matches it.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mid-range motherboard, the MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk is a perfect choice. Lovers of overclocking will find the MSI Meg X570 Unify more to their liking unless you’re willing to splurge on the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Extreme.

On the other hand, for those looking to build on a smaller board, ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus Wi-Fi is the ideal micro-ATX choice. Going a little higher on the price will net you the NZXT N7 B550, the best motherboard on that chipset. However, the most balanced motherboard for the Ryzen 5600X has to be the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E, giving a good blend of features and affordability without going overboard.