Latest PCs & Components How-To Stories
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How-To
How to set up a new SSD or hard drive in Windows
Use Disk Management to easily set up a new hard drive, SSD, or USB stick under Windows.
Tip
What used PC hardware is good to buy, and what should you avoid?
The dream of a powerful PC can be expensive due to high hardware prices. Used PC components can offer a cost-effective alternative, as long as you know which parts are worth it and which you should avoid.
Tip
Why an optical drive is still valuable
Most people regard optical drives as obsolete, but they still have a place in PCs.
How-To
How to install Windows on a Mac
Intel Macs are long gone, but you can still install and run Windows on Macs with Apple Silicon.
Tip
If your PC turns off while playing games, here's what to do
One of the most common causes of a sudden and unexpected computer shutdown is heat. Here's how to prevent damage from overheating.
How-To
1080p, 1440p, 4K: Which monitor resolution should you choose?
Choosing the right monitor depends on several factors, including pixel count and refresh rate. We compare the advantages and disadvantages of 1080p, 1440p, and 4K monitors.
How-To
Clean up cable clutter: These tricks create beautiful cord order
Please tidy up, vacuum, wipe! Hardware professionals recommend a once-a-year tour of the PC and consumer electronics. Besides dust and dirt disposal, tidying accessories are also worthwhile.
How-To
How to sit properly at your PC and keep your body happy
Paying attention to proper ergonomics while you work at your PC will make you more comfortable now, and in the long term.
Tip
How to repair USB 3.0 ports in Windows 11
USB 3.0 is still one of the most popular USB standards. However, it can happen that the USB 3.0 ports on the Windows 11 PC no longer work for no apparent reason. Fortunately, they can be repaired in most cases.
How-To
Raspberry Pi troubleshooting: Helpful fixes to common problems
Having troubles with your Raspberry Pi? Here are the most important troubleshooting solutions.
How-To
Take productivity to new levels with an MMO gaming mouse (seriously!)
It may seem unusual at first glance, but an MMO or MOBA mouse is not just a must-have for avid gamers. With their multiple customization options, programmable buttons and comfort, they are great for taking your productivity to a new level.
How-To
How to make your graphics card better with a few clicks
Can graphics cards from AMD and Nvidia be made better with just a few clicks? Yes, here's how.
How-To
How to fix audio problems on your Windows PC
If your computer audio abruptly stops working, you can try these simple steps in five minutes or less.
Tip
How long does data last on an SD card?
SD cards are faithful companions in cameras, mobile phones, and many other devices. They capture our most beautiful moments, store important documents and are thus almost indispensable. But how long can we actually rely on these little helpers?
Tip
How to test and change your motherboard's CMOS battery
The CMOS battery is an often overlooked but crucial element. Hidden on the motherboard of your computer, it acts like an emergency power supply for the BIOS.
Tip
How does CPU memory cache work?
One of the most important parts of a processor is the cache, but how exactly does it work?
How-To
The right way to put RAM in your PC's memory sockets
The correct placement of RAM modules is crucial for the optimal performance of your computer. We explain which RAM slots you should use and why it makes a difference where the memory modules are placed.
How-To
PC boot problems: What to do when POST fails
Finally, you have assembled the PC of your dreams. You connect it to the mains, press the power button, and — nothing happens. Your computer does not start, it does not POST.
How-To
Do you need an anti-static wristband when you're building a PC?
Experts recommend that you ground yourself when handling electronic components. What does that mean in practical terms?
Tip
Can ECC RAM be used in home PCs?
Error-correcting code (ECC) RAM is mainly used in workstations and servers, but the question is whether it can benefit conventional computers.
How-To
7 mistakes to avoid when buying a graphics card
When buying a new GPU, there are a few mistakes you should avoid. We tell you which seven points you should pay attention to.
How-To
Liquid metal vs. thermal paste: Which CPU compound is better?
Liquid metal as a heat conductor offers better heat transfer, but also risks such as spillage and damage to PC components.
How-To
Is an 80 Plus Platinum-rated power supply overkill?
When buying a power supply, other specifications should be considered besides performance, such as the 80-Plus rating. But what is the difference between 80-Plus Gold and Platinum?
Tip
Does RAM clock speed matter for gaming? The ultimate guide
We compare DDR4 and DDR5 memory in a gaming test. This is the best way to know how to invest your money in RAM.
Updated
How to set up two monitors for double the screen real estate
Whether you're using a desktop or laptop PC, a dual-monitor setup is an easy upgrade that pays big returns in productivity.
How-To
Should you upgrade your PC or buy a new computer? A guide
Your PC is too slow, but you don't want to spend a lot of money on a new computer? We tell you whether it makes sense to upgrade your PC and what you need to bear in mind.
How-To
PWM vs. DC: Which fan is better for PC cooling?
Deciding between PWM and DC case fans can be confusing. At the same time, it is important for the optimal performance of your computer.
Updated
How to create an insane multiple monitor setup with three, four, or more displays
The more displays your computer has, the better—but there are considerations to keep in mind as you move into extreme multi-monitor setups for enhanced productivity and gaming.
Tip
Ultimate backup: Archival M-Discs store your data for 1000 years
Long-term storage of digital data is important, but also challenging. Archival CDs such as M-Discs offer a good solution with high durability.
Tip
How to fix common USB connection problems in Windows
Occasionally, problems can occur with USB connections. We offer solutions for fixing them in Windows 10 and 11.
How-To
AMD Radeon tuning guide: 6 tips to optimize your graphics card
Our guide explains how to get even more performance, efficiency, and picture quality out of AMD Radeon RX 7000- and RX 6000-series graphics cards.
Tip
How to use Nvidia Video Super Resolution to beautify ugly videos
Video Super Resolution (VSR) was introduced by Nvidia in early 2023 and uses AI-based GPU power to transform grainy video into a sharp and responsive image in your browser.
Tip
6 incredibly useful PC accessories for your desk
Whether it's ambient lighting, ring lights, or inductive mouse pads, every PC user can benefit from adding these accessories to their PC set-ups.
How-To
How to increase the energy efficiency of your PC
An energy-efficient computer makes double sense: It not only protects the environment, but also reduces your electricity costs. Here are some tips.
How-To
PC bottlenecks explained: How to know if your CPU or GPU is limiting games
Current games can push modern computer systems to their limits in many ways. But how do you know if your CPU or graphics card is limited? Here's how.
How-To
6 big PC hardware myths, exposed
No longer the stuff of legend, we're shedding light on the biggest myths surrounding PC hardware.
How-To
How to tell what kind of RAM you have
There are several easy ways to learn more about your system's memory.
Updated
How to update your PC’s BIOS
Updating your BIOS can cut boot times, fix compatibility issues, and improve overall performance–or brick your system if you do it wrong. But with recent AM5 motherboard issues, an out-of-date BIOS can leave your PC vulnerable.
How-To
How to benchmark your graphics card
Even if you aren't into overclocking, benchmarking your graphics card can help ensure your GPU is running as expected. Here's how to do it.
How-To
How to securely erase your hard drive or SSD
Ensure that the data on your old drives is safe from prying eyes with this simple guide to securely wiping your hard drives.
How-To
Seeing blurry, distorted patches of red on your new monitor? Try this fix
Do red text and images on your monitor look like a highly compressed JPEG file? Don’t worry, it’s probably not an issue with your panel.
How-To
How to fix stick drift on the Steam Deck
If your Steam Deck's analog sticks are showing movement even when you're not touching them, it's time to bust out the screwdriver.
How-To
How to turn an old tablet into a second PC monitor for free
Spacedesk: The best free software for turning a tablet into a computer monitor
How-To
How to change the page orientation in Google Docs
Need to change the page orientation in Google Docs? We've got you covered.
How-To
How to add a summary to any Google Doc
Need to add a summary to your Google doc? We'll guide you every step of the way.
How-To
How to turn off auto-capitalization in Google Docs
Our comprehensive guide on how to turn off auto-capitalization in Google Docs.
How-To
How to make a table of contents in Google Docs
If you're looking to better organize your Google Doc, you should consider adding a table of contents. Here's how to do it.
Tip
Building a tiny PC? This accessory can save your cables from a sad fate
Managing cables in small form factor PCs can be a nightmare. A simple, cheap fan accessory can help.
How-To