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Best Android phones in 2024

By admin January 16, 2024

Best Android phones in 2024, Need a new phone? Look no further than this selection of best Android phones you should buy, including the best from Google, Samsung and more!

We’re approaching the tail end of 2023, and it’s safe to say that it’s been a great year for smartphone enthusiasts and those who were in the market to buy a new phone. We have seen some incredible launches from the likes of Samsung, OnePlus, and Apple, and there are simply too many good flagships to count this year. We’ve also received some solid mid-rangers and best value picks in the form of Galaxy A54 5G, Pixel 7a, and more recently, the Galaxy S23 FE.

Similarly, the foldable space was also packed with some great launches, so there’s no shortage of reliable Android phones in 2023. If you are in the market to buy a new Android flagship and can’t figure out which one is better, then check out the collection below in which I’ve highlighted some of the best phones across different categories.

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Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra in green with transparent background showing front and back of the phone with S Pen stylus

Source: Samsung

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motorola edge+ 2023 in black, transparent background, floating in air showing angular front and back sides

Source: Motorola

Motorola Edge Plus (2023)

Fantastic alternative

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Source: Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

Best value pick

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Samsung A54 5G in black with transparent background, showing front and partial back panel

Source: Samsung

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Best mid-range pick

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oneplus11 device in black transparent background showing only back side

Source: OnePlus

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Best Android phones in 2024

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Best overall

The best flagship on the market, hands down

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is one of the best phones on the market, packing an all-new 200MP sensor, a refined design, a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, and One UI 5.1.

Pros

• The most versatile camera system

• Excellent performance

• S Pen included

Cons

• Too big and unwieldy to use with one hand easily

• Other than the main camera and new chip, not a major upgrade over the S22 Ultra

Considering the Galaxy S21 and S22 Ultra held this spot for almost all of 2021 and 2022, Samsung didn’t need to do much for the Galaxy S23 Ultra to claim this spot immediately upon release, particularly in the U.S. market. And while Samsung retained mostly the same display, design, and internal components except for the newest Qualcomm chip, it does bring a major update: the main camera is now a 200MP sensor, capable of shooting actual 200MP photos or 12.5MP shots using 16-in-1 pixel binning.

The new camera allows the Galaxy S23 Ultra to make further improvements to low light photography, as a normal binned photo will contain almost twice as much image information as the S22 Ultra’s main camera shots. You can also shoot in full 200MP, after which you can crop in significantly and not lose as many details as other mobile camera photos. While the other cameras on the rear — a pair of 10MP zoom lenses and the 12MP ultra-wide — remain unchanged from the S22 Ultra, Samsung’s improved computational photography plus the newer ISP in the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip make for improved photos with better exposure and colors.

The fully integrated S-Pen, 5,000 mAh battery, along with a gorgeous 6.8-inch Super AMOLED panel with excellent peak brightness and energy efficiency all make their return, making for a polished and powerful device. Throw in Android 13 with four guaranteed years of Android updates and then another year of security updates, plus great Samsung software features like Samsung DeX, and you have a do-it-all, well-rounded flagship that offers more than what any other phone has to offer. If you want the most reliable, capable, and widely available Android phone, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is still it.

Motorola Edge Plus (2023)

Fantastic alternative

A surprisingly good alternative to phones from Google & Samsung

The 2023 flagship Edge+ brings an impressive spec sheet and an affordable price. From the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor to the 165Hz pOLED display, Motorola is offering North Americans perhaps its most complete high-end phone in years.

Pros

• Great overall performance

• Reliable software experience

• Excellent battery life

Cons

• Zoom past 5x on the cameras is a mess

• Not available at carriers

The 2023 model of the Moto Edge+ is a high-end phone that once again brings Motorola into the flagship conversation. It offers a long list of features that makes it worth it in 2023 over other options out there. The Edge+ (2023) brings a lot of improvements over its predecessor to become a great alternative to flagships from Samsung and Google.

One of the highlights of this phone is its design. The Edge+ (2023) features curves on both front and back for a quad-curved design that looks beautiful and feels premium to hold. It also sports a 6.67-inch OLED panel with support for up to 165Hz refresh rate. The phone is powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip to deliver excellent performance, and it also packs a massive 5,100mAh battery for reliable battery life.

My only complaint is the availability because the Edge+ (2023) is not available on any carriers in the U.S. That’s a potential deal-breaker for those who prefer bundling their phones with qualifying plans for monthly payments instead of buying them unlocked. But if that’s not stopping you, then I can’t recommend the Moto Edge+ (2023) enough. There’s a lot to like about this particular smartphone, and you can learn more about it in our Motorola Edge+ (2023) review.

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

Best value pick

Reliable Samsung Galaxy experience that we know and love, for cheap

The Galaxy S23 FE comes in tons of colors and gives you the core Samsung experience for a more affordable price.

Pros

• Beautiful AMOLED display

• Premium build quality

• Samsung’s One UI 5.1 software

Samsung’s new Galaxy S23 FE stands as a great choice for those who are looking to buy a Galaxy smartphone, but don’t want to shell out a premium price for it. The Galaxy S23 FE looks and feels in hand like its flagship siblings. It even has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz refresh rate, which is the same as the one you get on the regular Galaxy S23. It sports Gorilla Glass 5 on both front and the back, and it even features an aluminum frame and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

The only difference between the Galaxy S23 FE and the regular Galaxy S23 is that the more affordable model is powered by a relatively older Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip in the U.S. as opposed to the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chip. It also features a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom as opposed to a 12MP sensor, and a 10MP selfie camera instead of a 12MP shooter on the Galaxy S23. The rest of the camera sensors are the same, though.

The fact that the Galaxy S23 FE offers a very similar experience to the more expensive flagship Galaxy S23 models for a starting price of $600 is great. That’s $200 less than the most affordable model in the flagship Galaxy S23 lineup, making it a great value pick. Google’s Pixel 7a is also a solid option to consider if you’re in the market to buy a relatively affordable phone. The Pixel 7a is, in fact, even cheaper, so it’s better suited for those who are on a tighter budget. I suggest you check out Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 7a comparison to learn more about the differences between the two.

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Best mid-range pick

Samsung Galaxy experience for less

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is a great mid-range phone. It offers a sleek design, a beautiful 120Hz display, plenty of power under the hood, and a triple camera setup on the back.

Pros

• Excellent screen at this price point

• Solid main camera

• Glass body instead of plastic

Cons

• Useless macro camera

• A bit slower than pricier phones

Samsung’s Galaxy A54 brings a 120Hz vibrant OLED display, a strong 50MP, f/1.8 main camera, and a glass body at a mid-range price. Previously, Samsung’s A series used a plastic body, so this new construction is an immediate step-up. The phone also packs a large 5,000mAh battery and keeps expandable storage, which is very rare in modern smartphones.

The A54 runs Android 13 with Samsung’s OneUI, and the software experience is pleasant. Despite the phone running on an Exynos chip — which doesn’t get the best rep — overall performance is relatively smooth. The phone isn’t going to zip around as fast as a flagship Samsung or even the OnePlus 11, but it’s not a slow phone either.

The main camera uses Samsung’s improved software processing to produce lively images, and even in low-light situations, it performs well. The ultrawide camera is just average, however, falling to the usual soft details and noise in low-light situations. However, add in official IP67 water resistance and stereo speakers, and the A54 is a very good mid-range option. It’s also cheaper than the Galaxy S23 FE, and you can check out our Galaxy S23 FE vs Galaxy A54 5G comparison to learn more about the differences between the two.

OnePlus 11

Best software and speed

Still the fastest and smoothest phone around

The OnePlus 11 is the company’s return to form, offering an almost-flagship experience at a lower price point than what Samsung charges.

Pros

• Fast, zippy UI

• Very good main camera

• Fast charging with included charger

Cons

• No official water resistance rating even though cheaper phones offer it

• No wireless charging

Look, I know OnePlus’ OxygenOS has lost a bit of its identity over the past year, ever since OnePlus and OPPO finally admitted to being the same company and OxygenOS began looking more and more like OPPO’s ColorOS. But here’s the thing: ColorOS is good, and this “colorfied” version of OxygenOS running in the OnePlus 11 is still one of the zippiest and smoothest software around.

Every Android flagship offers a 120Hz refresh rate these days, but OxygenOS’ (and ColorOS’) animations just zip around noticeably faster and smoother than, say, Samsung’s OneUI, which sees dropped frames from time to time. Google’s Pixel UI has pretty smooth animations, and a case can be made for that software taking this spot, but OxygenOS is just a bit more customizable, with a better always-on display and more useful shortcut gestures.

The OnePlus 11 itself is a fine phone, too, running on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, with a visually striking design that sees the camera module spill over the sides and blends into the chassis. It also has a very good Hasselblad camera system headlined by a 50MP IMX890 main camera plus a 48MP ultrawide shooter, and a 32MP 2x telephoto zoom lens. Photos captured by the OnePlus 11 are vibrant with punchy colors and excellent dynamic range.

The OnePlus 11 ships with a 100W fast charging brick (80W in the U.S.) that can top up the phone from 0-100% in under 25 minutes. Overall, the OnePlus 11 is a good-looking, polished Android phone that should satisfy your need for speed, and it’s priced a few hundred dollars cheaper than the Galaxy S23+.

Google Pixel 8 Pro

Best point-and-shoot camera

Google’s AI camera magic

$799 $999 Save $200

The Pixel 8 Pro is the latest flagship from Google, and it packs the best the company has to offer in 2023. It features the newest Tensor G3 processor, like its regular Pixel 8 sibling, but it comes with a 6.7-inch OLED display, a brighter screen, a larger battery, and more storage options.

Pros

• Incredible AI camera features

• Absolutely one of the best camera systems around

• Good design and build quality

Cons

• Not a big jump over the Pixel 7 Pro

• Not the best performing flagship out there

A quick comparison between the Pixel 8 Pro vs Pixel 7 Pro will tell you that the new flagship doesn’t bring a lot of new things to the table. It does offer a better camera system, though, thanks to all the new generative AI features. All of these features are scary good, and they allow you to tweak the photos after the fact, meaning you tweak and make a shot better even after capturing it.

As far as the cameras are concerned, the Pixel 8 Pro sports a triple camera setup at the back which includes a 50MP main camera, a 48MP telephoto, and a 48MP ultrawide camera. It also features a 10.5MP selfie shooter with PDAF as opposed to a 10.8MP shooter on the previous-gen model. We’ve added lots of camera samples captured using the Pixel 8 Pro in review, so be sure to check it out in case you’re wondering how good the cameras are.

In terms of the internals, we’re looking at Google’s new Tensor G3 chip inside the Pixel 8 Pro as opposed to the Tensor G2. The base variant of the Pixel 8 Pro also comes with 12GB of RAM instead of 8GB. Some other noteworthy differences between the two include a slightly bigger battery, support for faster charging, and the addition of a new temperature sensor. The Pixel 8 Pro, however, costs $100 more than the Pixel 7 Pro at launch. In fact, you’re likely to find the Pixel 7 Pro at discounted prices now, so keep that in mind.

Asus ROG Phone 7

Best gaming phone

The ultimate Android gaming phone

Packed with specs and software gaming optimizations, the Asus ROG Phone 7 is one of the best when it comes to smartphones specifically made for mobile gaming.

Pros

• Gaming-specific software

• Packed to the gills with specs

• First-party gaming accessories

Cons

• Sub-par camera performance

ASUS has a solid list of gaming phones under its belt, so it’s hardly a surprise to see an ROG phone making it to our list as the best gaming phone pick. The ROG Phone 7 comes with all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a gaming in 2023, and it’s a great pick for those who are looking to buy Android phone for gaming.

It packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SOC, up to 16GB of LPDDR5X memory, and up to 512GB of UFS4.0 storage. Notably, it also packs a 6,000mAh battery with 65W fast charging, which delivers up to two-day battery life. The ROG Phone 7 also boasts a huge 6.78-inch 165Hz AMOLED display, which is a fluid and responsive panel for gaming.

The ROG Phone 7 is a bit on the heavier side, weighing in at 239g, but it’s partly due to Asus’ Gamecool 7, an included cooling solution that has a large vapor chamber, graphite cooling sheets, and an external fan accessory. The extra heft is essentially just a small price to pay for a phone that runs cool and won’t thermal throttle while gaming.

The ROG Phone 7 is not for everyone, but it’s a great choice for those who are looking to buy a reliable Android handset for gaming. You can also consider checking out the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate, which steps things up, for an even better experience.

OnePlus Open

Best large foldable

Snatching the crown from Samsung’s best foldable phone

$1500 $1700 Save $200

The OnePlus Open is the company’s first foldable, featuring a sleek design, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform chip, advanced camera system, and more. It is available in two colorways and starts at $1,500.

Pros

• The best foldable phone displays yet

• Impressive camera hardware

• Great multitasking features

Cons

• No wireless charging

• A bit on the expensive side

The OnePlus Open is currently the best foldable phone you can buy in the U.S. market if you’re looking for a large-sized foldable device instead of a clamshell model. The OnePlus Open, just like the Galaxy Z Fold 5, is a book-style foldable that gets a lot of things right and offers a premium experience at a relatively lower price. It’s essentially just a rebranded OPPO Find N3, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that it’s a solid entry in the foldable space.

One of the highlights of the OnePlus Open is that there’s no noticeable crease on the internal folding display of this device. It also has a matte finish that makes it less reflective than the ones on the competing phones. The Open also sports an excellent set of cameras that can capture some photos and videos like the ones highlighted in our OnePlus Open review.

The OxygenOS powering the overall experience of the OnePlus Open is also great, and it brings some solid multitasking features to the table. Part of what makes a book-style foldable great are the multi-tasking features that let you take full advantage of the screen real-estate, and OnePlus has got it right for the most part.

It also looks great and has a premium build to match its price tag. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 is also a good foldable phone overall, but it falls a bit short while going against the OnePlus Open in a head-to-head comparison. I suggest you check out our OnePlus Open vs Galaxy Z Fold 5 comparison to learn more about the differences between these two phones.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

Best small foldable

Evenly matched with the Moto Razr+

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the latest compact foldable from Samsung, offering a flexible 6.7-inch internal display, a 3.4-inch external display, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, and much more.

You can score up to $600 off with trade-ins at Samsung.com.

Pros

• Compact form factor

• Bigger outer screen offers more usability

• New hinge improves the form factor

Cons

• The camera still needs work

• No DeX support

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, just like its predecessor, is a fun foldable phone that’s significantly more affordable than its bigger sibling. Unlike the Fold 5, which is a better phone for power users, the Flip 5 is a pocketable phone that’s only meant to make your smartphone experience more fun. I’d say it’s a good entry into the world of foldable, and you should consider buying one if you fancy a phone that’ll make you stand out.

Unlike other Samsung products this year, the Z Flip 5 got one big upgrade. It now sports a much bigger cover display on the outside, which lets you do more things without unfolding the phone. It’s almost the same size as the one you get on the Moto Razr+, but Samsung makes it a bit harder to use applications on it. The Flip 5 also gets the same hinge as the Fold 5, meaning it folds completely flat. Notably, it’s also powered by the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip for Galaxy, so it’s just as powerful as Samsung’s other flagship Galaxy phones this year.

I suggest you stop by our Galaxy Z Flip 5 review to learn more about it before picking one up. It’s similar to the Moto Razr+ in many ways, and I’d say they’re both evenly matched when it comes to compact foldable phones in the U.S. But the Z Flip 5 edges it out slightly in software and power.

Best Android phones: The final say

You’ll find plenty of good phones in this roundup, so I highly recommend exploring all the listings to find the right phone. But if you don’t want to spend time looking at all the options and don’t mind splurging to get the best phone, then I suggest picking the Galaxy S23 Ultra. It’s one of the most well-rounded phones you buy right now, as it gets a lot of things right for the price. Premium features like the new 200MP camera and the included S Pen make it the best in the Android space, and you can’t really go wrong with it.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Best overall

The best of the best

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is one of the best phones on the market, packing an all-new 200MP sensor, a refined design, a custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset, and One UI 5.1.

Phones like the OnePlus 11 and the Galaxy S23 FE also offer good value for your money, but they miss out on some features, thereby forcing you to compromise. All things considered, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra remains the undisputed champion, and it’s still the phone to pick if you’re looking for a reliable all-rounder.

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Best Free Pinterest Downloader in 2024

By admin January 15, 2024

Best Free Pinterest Downloader in 2024, Pinterest is the ideal tool for generating new ideas and gaining inspiration. One may discover a wide variety of creative expressions, including images and films, that span almost any subject they can think of. Pinterest is a platform for visual discovery that was largely developed to assist users in locating photographs of topics that interest them. These photos may include ideas for home design, tasty recipes, gardening ideas, and more.

Although the majority of users are used to adding Pins to their boards, you can also download a picture from Pinterest to your computer or smartphone and store it for offline usage.

Here is all you need to know about how to save images from Pinterest to the memory roll of any digital camera.

8 Best Pinterest Image Downloader in 2024 to Get HD Photos

Have a look at the below-mentioned most popular free Pinterest image downloader!

1. Pincase

Source: Pincase

Introducing Pincase, a powerful tool designed specifically for downloading videos and images from Pinterest. With Pincase, users can effortlessly save their favorite content from Pinterest, whether it be captivating videos or stunning images.

Pincase is a user-friendly tool designed to enhance the downloading experience on Pinterest.com by providing a convenient and free video downloading feature. Additionally, the platform offers a convenient download feature that allows users to easily download various types of media, including images, GIFs, videos, and Story Pins.

This Pinterest image downloader simplifies the downloading process by incorporating a convenient download button positioned at the upper left corner of every pin. This feature enhances the user experience and makes it more efficient to save desired images. The extension has the capability to facilitate the download of various types of content from Pinterest, including images, gifs, videos, and Story Pins. The pincase batch image downloader feature is designed to significantly enhance the efficiency of your downloading process. The feature allows for the convenient downloading of multiple files, including gifs, images, and videos, all at once.

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Best Free Pinterest Downloader in 2024

2. SavePIN Pinterest Image Downloader

Source: SavePIN Pinterest Image Downloader

Are you tired of the repetitive task of manually downloading images from Pinterest? SavePin is a comprehensive and efficient solution that caters to all of your Pinterest image-downloading requirements. With our efficient Pinterest photo downloader, users can effortlessly and promptly acquire high-resolution images. By utilizing a simple and efficient process, users have the ability to effortlessly save numerous images simultaneously, granting them convenient and unrestricted access to their collection from any location and at any given time.

This free Pinterest image downloader is compatible with a wide range of devices, ensuring that users can access it seamlessly across various platforms. The tool is completely free from any potential risks or threats, ensuring the utmost safety and security. This product is designed to seamlessly integrate with and function effectively on a wide range of devices.

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3. Pinterest Image Downloader Online

Source: Pinterest Image Downloader Online

When it comes to watermark-free Pinterest image downloads, this is the greatest tool available. The versatility of the Pinterest Image Downloader Online tool allows for seamless compatibility across multiple platforms, including Android, iPhone, and PC. This eliminates the need for users to switch between different tools when utilizing their various devices.

Users can save several photographs at once with ease using a straightforward and effective approach, which gives them convenient and unlimited access to their collection at any time and from any location.

The compatibility of this free Pinterest image downloader extends to a diverse array of devices, enabling users to effortlessly utilize it on multiple platforms. The tool boasts a remarkable level of safety and security, as it is entirely free from any potential risks or threats. The design of this product ensures a smooth and efficient integration, allowing it to effectively operate on various devices.

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4. PINTDD

Source: PINTDD

Another best free Pinterest image downloader is PINTDD. It is designed to provide users with an exhilarating experience when it comes to downloading images from Pinterest. With this exceptional tool, users can easily and conveniently download their favorite Pinterest images online, making it the ultimate treat for those who find excitement in captivating visuals. With just a few simple steps, it is possible to effortlessly download Pinterest images onto various devices such as PCs, laptops, tablets, or smartphones within a matter of seconds. This Pinterest photo downloader provides users with the ability to unlock the vast world of Pinterest. It enables users to search for and acquire high-definition quality photos from Pinterest effortlessly.

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5. DotSave

Source: DotSave

DotSave.app is another meticulously crafted web-based Pinterest image downloader that offers users an unparalleled experience in downloading videos from the platform. With its seamless functionality and user-friendly interface, it stands out as the ultimate choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient Pinterest downloader.

The main objective of the website is to provide a convenient and easy-to-use solution for users who wish to download Pinterest videos and pictures onto their devices. This allows them to access the videos offline, use them for personal purposes, or incorporate them into various creative projects. Users can select from a variety of video formats (including MP4) and quality thanks to the website.

The feature enables users to customize the downloaded videos or pictures according to their individual preferences and requirements. Users are provided with the option to select their preferred download format, such as JPEG or MP4, for the content they wish to download from Pinterest. By providing users with increased control, they are able to ensure that the downloaded files are compatible with their specific intended use.

Users can select from a variety of video formats (including MP4) and quality thanks to the website. The feature enables users to customize the downloaded videos or pictures according to their individual preferences and requirements.

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6. Pintvideodownloader.com

source:Pintvideodownloader.com

Despite being a well-known and linked platform, Pinterest does not provide its users with a way to download images, photos, or pictures from the site. In order to get over this problem, Pintvideodownloader provides you with a Pinterest image downloader that lets you download pictures of your choice.

Pintvideodownloader is a specialized platform designed specifically to assist users in the process of downloading videos from Pinterest. In addition to its other features, the platform also provides users with the ability to download images, GIFs, and stories. The Pinterest Image Downloader is designed to provide users with a user-friendly experience, ensuring that they can easily download Pinterest images and achieve a high level of satisfaction.

Furthermore, it should be noted that Pintvideodownloader consistently maintains the high quality of images without any compromise. When you make a wish, you receive precisely what you desire, including the ability to download high-definition pictures without any degradation in their quality. When using Pintvideodownloader, users can download images without any worry as there is no watermark present on the downloaded images.

The software seamlessly integrates with a wide range of web browsers and operating systems, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance across different platforms. Hence, this versatile tool can be utilized on both mobile devices and computers.

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7. BotDownloader

Source: BotDownloader

Last but not least, the BotDownloader is another free Pinterest image downloader that you can consider. It is a user-friendly tool that allows you to effortlessly download images or photos from Pinterest. Whether you use a Desktop, Laptop, PC, Tablet, or Android Phone, this tool provides a seamless experience for accessing and saving Pinterest content. Additionally, users have the option to download Pinterest photos in either jpg or png format.

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8. Pinterest HD Image & Photo Downloader

Source: Pinterest HD Image & Photo Downloader

If you are still not quite satisfied with the best free Pinterest image downloaders provided above, then here’s another one to help you. Pinterest HD Image & Photo Downloader is an HD downloader that allows you to save images or videos from the Pinterest board. All you need to do is copy the URL of the link you want to save, paste it into the website, and download content with ease.

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Final Words- Pinterest Image Downloader in 2024

Pinterest gives users the ability to construct digital bulletin boards by compiling pictures and videos related to a variety of subjects. There is no need for you to continuously look for the pictures that you like while you are logging into your account online. You will have direct access to them via the board(s) that you manage as well as the boards that you follow.

You may avoid the hassle of taking screenshots every time you wish to save a picture on Pinterest by using the options that are now accessible to you so that you can download the image instead. Using either of the following free Pinterest image downloaders you can easily download and save a high-quality picture from Pinterest to your mobile device or desktop computer.

That’s all! We hope you found the article informative and helpful. If you have any questions or further suggestions regarding the same, then please feel free to tell us in the comments section below.

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Computer

Best laptops for CAD and 3D modeling 2024

By admin January 14, 2024

Best laptops for CAD and 3D modeling 2024, Are you heading off to college? Starting a new semester soon? It’s probably about time you upgraded your laptop or computer. But glancing at some of the best laptop deals will show you there are many options out there. What should you be looking for if there’s something specific you want to do, like taking notes with a stylus, researching on the internet, or even a little gaming on the side?

What about streaming some movies or shows with friends in your dorm? Don’t worry. That’s precisely what we’re going to review in this guide. We’ll cover all of the best laptops for college for the 2024 school year.

Apple MacBook Air M1 (2020)

Best Apple MacBook

As far as Apple products go, it’s older, yes, but the 2020 Apple MacBook Air M1 is still incredibly capable. It’s also affordable, which makes it accessible to college students on a budget. It comes packed with some excellent features and hardware, too. Like the stunning 13.3-inch Retina display, 18 hours of battery life, and super easy-to-use Mac OS. In our Macbook Air M1 review, we praised it for its excellent keyboard and touchpad, phenomenal battery life, rock-solid build quality, and the M1 chip’s power and performance at the time compared to Intel’s. We still stand by those praises today.

Best laptops for CAD and 3D modeling 2024

Lenovo Yoga 6 13-inch AMD

Best 2-in-1 laptop

With the base model starting around $600, for great specs, including an AMD Ryzen 7000 Series mobile processor, the Lenovo Yoga 6 2-in-1 is perfect for students on the move. The thin and light frame adds to the portability, with the convertible and touchscreen-enabled display excellent for just about any configuration you can think up. You can use it like a notebook to take class notes, prop it up to watch media, use it as a traditional laptop, and more. Plus, the visuals are vibrant and appealing on the 13.3-inch WUXGA full-HD display, and the audio-optimized speakers are Dolby Atmos compatible.

HP Pavilion Aero 13

Best bang-for-your-buck

Unsurprisingly, our HP Pavilion Aero 13 review praised this little machine that could for its quality, performance, battery life, minimalist design, and lightweight build. It weighs just over 2 pounds and is no burden, even better when tossed into a backpack or handbag. And while it is classified as a budget laptop — excellent for students — it also packs a decent amount of power under the hood. The base model for about $550 includes an AMD Ryzen 5 Series processor with AMD Radeon graphics, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB solid-state drive.

The 13.3-inch display is full HD, operating at a 1900 by 1200 resolution. There’s no touchscreen, and it’s a bummer to see no backlit keyboard in the base model, but you can certainly make do.

Dell XPS 13 (9315)

Best no-nonsense option

You’ll find that, like most laptops, the Dell XPS 13 can be customized so that you can choose your RAM, storage, and more, with varying price points. The base model starts at about $799 for 8GB of DDR5 RAM — the fastest on the market today — Intel Iris Xe graphics and a 12th Gen Intel Core i5 10-core processor. It is an excellent student option because the price is reasonable, the performance is acceptable, the battery life is terrific, and the machine is reliable overall. Plus, the 13.4-inch full HD display doesn’t hurt either.

ASUS TUF Gaming F15 (2022)

Best for gaming

You should know that the ASUS TUF Gaming F15 is a powerful machine, but it’s also overkill if you only do schoolwork and everyday productivity tasks. However, if you want to do some gaming in your free time, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU pairs well with the Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of DDR4 system RAM. Depending on the system requirements, you can play most newer games on medium to high settings, some even higher than that.

It doesn’t have the best battery life, so you’ll need to stay near an outlet, especially if you’re playing games, but that’s a solid tradeoff for more power. It’s also a bit pricy for students on a budget, but that’s a tradeoff for the extra power.

How we chose these laptops for college

As a college student, likely on a tight budget, the compromises you’re willing to make for a great PC will always be different from those of someone with money to burn who wants the best. That doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t want the best possible for your price range, but there are factors to consider that are more important than others.

Here’s what we prioritized when choosing laptops for college students:

Price

You have a budget, and you need to stick to it. We don’t blame you. That’s why we prioritized laptops from all affordable but capable brands, especially compared to more expensive counterparts. Aside from our gaming choice, which was selected for power above all, everything else on this list should be accessible.

Battery life

From studying in a library for long hours to hanging out in a friend’s dorm, you’ll probably opt for laptops with reliable battery life. Again, aside from our gaming pick, everything else on this list has excellent battery life to offer and should get you through most of your day, even without a quick charge.

Display

Even at a budget price, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have a full HD resolution display in this day and age. Every laptop we selected has at least that or better.

This article is managed and created separately from the Digital Trends Editorial team.

The 5 best laptops for CAD and and 3D modeling in 2024

Whether it’s engineering or game design, 3d modeling and CAD work has become very big in the past few years, especially with a lot of folks starting to do it at home for things like 3D printer files. Of course, not every laptop you pick up can handle doing that sort of work, so if you plan to do either, then going for a laptop that is fit for the job is important. To that end, we’ve collected our five favorite laptops across various price ranges and needs so that you can pick the perfect laptop for you.

Legion Pro 5 Gen 8

Best overall for 3D modeling

While the Legion Pro 5 Gen 8 is not necessarily the most powerful laptop on this list, it’s one of the best to balance specs with cost, so if you’re looking for a good mid-range option that ticks most of the boxes, then this is the one to go for. Under the hood, it runs an AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX Processor, which is a mid-to-high-end CPU that should handle most modeling tasks with ease. That’s especially true since it easily overshoots the recommended requirements for AutoCAD for a processor that can do more than 3GHz.

You also get plentiful RAM here with 32GBs of DDR 5 memory, which is also double the recommended 16GB for AutoCAD, although we’d actually say the ideal amount of RAM starts at 32GB, so you’re good. It’s also the newer and faster memory compared to DDR4, so it should perform better overall. As for graphical processing power, you get an RTX 4070, which is a solid mid-range gaming GPU that should handle most 3D modeling tasks relatively well and should be fine for most use cases.

In terms of screen size, we’re happy to say that it’s a very solid 16 inches, so there is lots of room to see details, and it even runs a 2560 x 1600 resolution, which is perfect without pushing the GPU too much. It can hit a peak brightness of 300nits, which isn’t that great if you’re in well-light areas, although the 165Hz refresh rate is certainly nice for a smoother experience. We should also mention that it’s a bit on the heavier side, so be sure to take that into account if you need to move around a lot.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16

Best powerful Laptop for 3D modeling

You might be thinking to yourself, “What is a gaming laptop doing on a list of 3D modeling laptops?” Well, it’s not a surprise that there is quite a big overlap when it comes to a good laptop for gaming and a good laptop for 3D modeling. For example, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 has an Intel Core i9-13900H, one of the most powerful CPUs on the market, and just a grade below professional-grade CPUs like the Intel Xeon and the Ryzen Threadripper. As such, it’s more than happy to chug away at any 3D modeling tasks you send its way without too much hassle, assuming you aren’t doing anything crazy.

In a similar vein, the Zephyurs M16 runs an RTX 4090 under the hood, which is one of the best non-professional grade GPUs out there and, again, will easily handle most 3D modeling tasks you throw its way. That said, the inclusion of the RTX 4090 does mean that it drinks up electricity like it’s abundant, so the battery life is not that great, especially when you’re putting a lot of load on the GPU. It also means that it runs pretty hot, so these are two very important things to consider before buying in.

Luckily, the screen is excellent, with a 16-inch that runs a 2560 x 1440 resolution, which is always a nice addition to have. The same goes for the 240Hz max refresh rate, which you likely aren’t going to need for non-gaming needs, so setting it to 120Hz will give you a smooth experience while freeing up some processes for 3D modeling. We should also mention that you get a very impressive 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage, which really puts this configuration of the Zephyrius M16 in a league of its own.

MacBook Pro 16

Best powerful MacBook Laptop for 3D modeling

If you’re in the Apple ecosystem or want a MacBook for 3D modeling, then you have to go for the absolute best that Apple has to offer, which is the M3 Max MacBook Pro 16, a bit of a mouthful but hard to beat in terms of specs. Actually, we would have probably picked the M3 Pro version to save a little, but sadly, the M3 Max version is the only one that has the 36GB of RAM that we consider to be ideal for 3D modeling. Even so, the M3 Max chip is the best that Apple has to offer, with a 14-core processor that will easily handle most tasks you throw at it.

Even better, the M3 Max also has a whopping 36 GPU cores, so it’s exceedingly well-suite for 3D modeling tasks, and some would argue that Apple has some of the best hardware for graphics rendering and work in general. That said, you should keep in mind that not all applications work on both Windows and MacOS, with MacOS sometimes missing out on a few, so be sure to check that your app is supported on MacOS before taking the plunge.

That said, if it does run on MacOS, then you’ll be happy to know that you get an SSD with 1TB of storage, so your apps will load fast, and you’ll have a lot of space for any files you need, which are likely a lot for this sort of work.

Finally, while not exceedingly important, the 16-inch screen of the MacBook Pro is just lovely, as it has a 3456 x 2234 resolution running on a Liquid Retina XDR display, the best one that Apple offers. Also, it’s a relatively portable laptop for its specs, so even though you’re paying a premium, it’s perfect for those who tend to move around a lot.

LG gram 17

Best thin and portable laptop for 3D modeling

Solid 3d modeling laptops don’t need to be big, bulky, and very expensive, and if you want something that’s very thin and portable, you can’t go wrong with the LG Gram 17. It sits at an incredibly 0.7 inches of thickness despite the fact that it runs an RTX 3050 under the hood. Now, granted, the RTX 3050 is a very entry-level GPU, but the fact that it has a GPU at all is impressive, and every little bit counts when it comes to 3D modeling. It also only weighs 3.2 pounds, which is equally impressive.

In terms of processing power, it has an Intel Core i7 Evo, so it’s more than capable of handling 3D modeling and clears the recommended specs of most apps by a good margin. That said, the RAM only meets the recommended specs with 16GB of DDR5 memory, and while we would have liked to see double that, it’s not going to grind any 3D modeling to a complete halt. As for storage, you get a 1TB SSD, so lots of space and quick loading of apps and data.

Finally, it’s worth touching on the fact that the display is very good, a 17-inch display that runs WQXGA and gives you a relatively large amount of space to do your work, and we hope you can appreciate that. Even so, one disadvantage of the larger screen is that, combined with how thin it is, it can feel a bit flimsy, which isn’t ideal for something this pricey. So, if you do end up buying this one, don’t treat it like a rugged laptop, but be sure to be somewhat gentle with it.

IdeaPad Gaming 3

Best budget laptop for 3D modeling

While budget options aren’t ideal for heavy-duty 3D modeling, they’re a good option if you’re just starting out and don’t want to spend a ton of money. Funnily enough, this is the second gaming laptop on this list, but we can’t deny that the IdeaPad Gaming 3 is also great as a budget 3D modeling laptop. For example, it has the same RTX 4050 as the LG Gram 17 but costs only half the price, so it’s excellent value if you don’t care as much about having a thin and light laptop.

Another thing that’s more value-oriented is the 15.6-inch screen, which only has a 1920 x 1080 resolution and only hits 45% NTSC, which isn’t that impressive. Also, it can only hit 250nits of brightness, which is equally unimpressive and means that it won’t deal with bright direct lighting or even bright indirect lighting. On the other hand, it can run at a 120Hz refresh rate, so it’s still going to give you a smooth overall experience when viewing it, as will the 16GB of DDR5 RAM. Again, it is not the ideal of what we’d like to see, but it is more than enough to cover the recommended specs of most apps.

As for processing power, you get the mid-to-high-end AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS, which should handle most 3D modeling tasks without issue; plus, it’s generally a bit more power efficient and an excellent CPU for productivity. When it comes to battery life, you should expect around seven to ten hours, depending on what you’re using it for, with more general activity like watching a video taking up less battery.

How We Chose These Laptops for 3D modeling

Processing power

It’s probably not shocking to know that having a powerful CPU under the hood of any 3D modeling laptop is important since it’s one of the main number-crunchers of the CPU and goes a long way. That means that you should ideally aim for something like the Intel i7 or the Ryzen R7 as sort of the starting point, which is why most of our picks above are based around those processors.

In a similar vein, GPUs are also very important for 3D modeling, but this one is a bit more complicated due to the fact that there are consumer-grade GPUs and professional-grade GPUs. While professional-grade GPUs, like the Quadro family of cards, is excellent for 3D modeling, they are prohibitively expensive for most people, especially since high-end consumer GPUs have comparable specs. As such, we avoided any Quadro or professional-grade GPUs and instead focused on consumer GPUs that are cheaper and easier to find. Going with consumer GPUs also means that you have a lot more leeway in configurations and choices for laptops.

RAM

Memory is another important thing you’ll need to keep in mind, especially since a lot of more budget-friendly laptops tend to only go for 8GB. Unfortunately, the recommended specs for most CAD and 3D modeling software tend to sit at 16Gb, and even that is something we consider too low. Preferablly, we like to see something around 32GB or up, although anything above 32GB does tend to be quite expensive and will start giving you diminishing returns. So, if you’d like to go for a higher amount, just be sure that you actually are going to need it.

Screen

Ironically, the screen is the thing that will likely have the least impact on 3D modeling, mostly because it’s just a visual output more than anything else. So, while it would definitely nice to have a large 18-inch screen running 4K resolutions, 1080p is perfectly fine, as is a smaller screen. Also, smaller screens mean smaller laptops, so if you value portability, going with a smaller screen isn’t all that bad.

This article is managed and created separately from the Digital Trends Editorial team.

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Guide

How to Fix high CPU usage 2024

By admin January 14, 2024

How to Fix high CPU usage 2024, PC freezing, going slow, or running into hitches where it shouldn’t? Even if you have one of the best processors, high CPU usage could be to blame. Unfortunately, if you aren’t too computer savvy, what this means, what part of your computer causes the issue, and CPU failure symptoms are all sort of a mystery.

So, what is CPU usage? Here, we’ll investigate high CPU usage, the factors that affect CPU utilization, and more.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

What is CPU usage?

The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU) is arguably the most important component inside any computer. Whether you’ve got one of the best processors on the market or you’re running an entry-level machine, your processor always serves as the brain of the operation. It sends instructions to all the other pieces of hardware in your device and is responsible for executing each and every task. If you’d like to read a more in-depth explanation about the CPU itself, check out our guide to what is a CPU.

Every processor has a limited capacity at which it can execute commands and run various programs. The better the CPU, the more tasks you can simultaneously perform without a hitch. However, no matter how powerful the CPU is, every chip will eventually hit its maximum capacity and begin slowing down. This will depend on your current CPU usage: In other words, the number of things your processor is being made to do at the same time.

When you’re not running many applications, your CPU usage should be low, and in an ideal scenario, everything should run smoothly. However, if you open a CPU-intensive program (such as certain games or video editing software,) you may notice that the response times increase as your CPU usage goes up.

Fluctuations in CPU usage are normal and nothing to worry about — as long as your PC continues running smoothly. If you’re unsatisfied with the performance of your PC, the first step is to check its CPU usage.

How to Fix high CPU usage 2024

How to check CPU usage

Checking CPU usage on Windows comes down to simply opening the Task Manager. If you already know how to do that, you can skip ahead to our next steps.

The three easiest and quickest ways to run Task Manager are:

• Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+Escape to bring up the Task Manager directly.

• Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl+Alt+Delete to bring up the lock screen and select Task Manager from there.

• Right-click on the taskbar or the Windows icon at the bottom-left side of your screen. Pick Task Manager from the list.

With Task Manager open, navigate to the Performance tab and select CPU from the left-hand side menu. This will produce a curve diagram that displays real-time updates about the performance of your CPU. You can also check the Open Resource Monitor option at the bottom to see more detailed information about your processor.

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What is a normal CPU usage?

Before you jump right in and start trying to fix the problem, it’s important to learn whether the CPU usage you’re currently experiencing is abnormal in the first place.

Remember that depending on your processor, it could be that your computer is just utilizing the resources available to it in an efficient manner under heavy workloads. High-end CPUs are able to handle all manner of multitasking, but budget processors may not be able to run multiple resource-heavy programs at once.

If you are currently not running any additional programs, your CPU usage should be anywhere between 1% and 10% just through Windows processes alone. Anything higher than that on an idle PC means that something might be wrong. However, if you’re playing a game or even have multiple browser windows open, the CPU usage will climb accordingly.

If you’re unsure whether your CPU usage is too high, here are a few indicators to look out for:

• High idle CPU usage: You’re not running any programs and your CPU usage is still above 20%.

• Higher than usual CPU usage: You’re not using any new programs, and yet your CPU usage is higher than it used to be.

• High CPU usage during tasks that aren’t resource-heavy, like word processing, or browsing social media in just a couple of tabs.

• High CPU usage combined with freezes, crashes, and slow performance.

There are some programs that commonly consume a lot of processing power. Check out our suggestions below if you’re not sure whether your software is one of them.

How to fix high CPU usage

It’s important to monitor CPU usage and act if something seems amiss. If the amount of software you’re running doesn’t warrant slower loading times or high CPU usage, check out our quick steps below to resolve this problem.

Restart your computer

Sometimes all your PC may need is just a quick restart. This will clear out temporary files, shut down any programs you didn’t know were running, and give your computer more of a fresh slate.

If a while has passed since you last restarted your computer, save all your work and reboot. After the restart, launch the programs you’ve previously had open and check if your CPU usage is now back to normal.

Check open processes

If the problem comes back after re-launching previous software, it’s time to check which program is the culprit.

Launch Task Manager (if you’re not sure how to do that, click here,) and click the Processes tab at the top. You will be presented with a list of processes that are currently running on your computer. This is a long list, and it’s important that you don’t close any programs without knowing what they do. To make the list easier to navigate, click on Name to sort by software type.

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Programs found under Apps are usually safe to close if needed. Check their CPU usage. If it’s a program that typically consumes a lot of CPU power, it might be that your high CPU usage is not abnormal. In any case, you can close the program to make sure your PC is running smoothly without it. Save all your work before you proceed.

Pick the program with the highest CPU usage and click End Task in the bottom right corner. Start it back up and check whether your CPU usage has improved. Try to close all the programs you don’t currently need — if the program or background process that consumes the most CPU power is unknown to you, write down its name and give it a quick Google search. It could be a virus that you need to get rid of.

Be mindful of the following:

• Apps with a very high CPU usage that shouldn’t require too many resources

• Background processes with a high CPU usage

• Windows processes with a high CPU usage

If any of the processes on your computer are CPU-heavy and you’re not sure what they are, write down their names and make sure they’re safe.

Scan your computer for viruses and malware

Unfortunately, malware and viruses are often the culprits behind high CPU usage. You may sometimes notice them by browsing through the Task Manager, but oftentimes they will be concealed and won’t be that easy to spot.

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Getting rid of malware and viruses can be tricky and highly situational, but there are a few steps you should take that can resolve your problem.

• Download one of the best antivirus programs available and scan your computer.

• In addition to an antivirus program, you can download malware and spyware-specific programs such as Malwarebytes and SpyBot S&D. Scan your PC with these programs after the antivirus scan is over.

If the software finds any harmful programs on your computer, it will likely help you get rid of them. This may lower your CPU usage.

Update your drivers

Your CPU can take quite a beating if you’re using old drivers or unoptimized software. Sometimes, fixing high CPU usage may be as easy as simply updating your drivers.

In this step, try to update all of your drivers. This includes motherboard drivers, GPU drivers, audio drivers, and more. Check out our dedicated guides on updating all of your drivers and updating your graphics card drivers if you’d like a step-by-step tutorial on how to do this.

A word of warning: Do not use third-party software for updating drivers. A lot of the commonly advertised software on the internet may be dangerous to your computer. Whether it’s out-right malware or it simply downloads all the wrong things, you don’t want to deal with that. It’s best to learn how to update your drivers yourself and rely on secure methods of doing so.

Update your software

The software you’re using may simply be an older version of an already updated program. In such cases, the CPU usage may be abnormally high and it may have been fixed in a patch that you haven’t downloaded yet.

Following the Task Manager, update your most CPU-heavy software to the latest version and see whether that will do the trick.

Update your BIOS

This is more of an advanced option, but in some cases, updating your BIOS may help fix the issue with high CPU usage. Updating your BIOS will require knowing the exact model of your motherboard.

If you’re not sure which motherboard you’re using, we’ve got you covered. Check our guide to find out all of the specifications of your PC, including the motherboard. Once you know the model of your motherboard, simply search for it in Google and add “BIOS.” Download the latest BIOS directly from the manufacturer’s website — do not trust other sources. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer in order to update your BIOS.

Check your power settings

Certain power settings in Windows may affect your CPU performance. This applies to both laptops and desktops. You may currently be using a low power setting without even knowing it, so changing it might help.

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Follow the steps below to change your power plan in Windows.

• Click on the Windows logo in the bottom left-hand corner and type in: “Power Settings.”

• On the right-hand side of the Power & Sleep section, navigate to Additional Power Settings.

• Click on Show Additional Plans and then select the High Performance plan. Alternatively, if you’re already running the High Performance plan and you’re experiencing CPU problems, try out the Balanced plan instead.

Clean your PC

Keeping your PC clean is important, not just on the software side, but on the dust-free side. That’s right — our computers gather a lot of dust every single day. The more dust your PC or laptop has accumulated, the worse it will run, and that’s all thanks to the rising temperatures within the chassis.

Don’t let us catch you letting it get this bad … Wikimedia

If you haven’t given your PC a good clean for a while, it might be the time to do so. This process will usually require the use of compressed air. You can pick up a can of compressed air on Amazon and from many other stores.

Remember that before you ever attempt to clean your computer’s vents, you need to fully turn it off and unplug it. If you want to learn how to clean your PC, as well as a few more handy tips to make it run faster, check out our in-depth guide on the topic.

Run System Restore

If your high CPU usage is a recent development and everything was running smoothly just a few days ago, fixing the problem may be as easy as running System Restore on Windows. Windows 10 users can refer to our separate guide on reinstalling and restoring Windows here.

For Windows 11 users, accessing System Restore can be done in a few quick steps:

• Click the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen and type in Control Panel.

• Once in the Control Panel, type in Recovery in the search box.

• Pick Recovery and then Open System Restore.

• In the Restore System Files and Settings section, click Next.

You will then be prompted to select a restore point that you want to go back to. Choose one from before these issues started and follow the instructions provided by Windows. Keep in mind that you may lose any new files and programs you’ve installed since the restore point.

Unfortunately, many users cannot utilize System Restore. This is because Windows doesn’t automatically create restore points, which is why your list may be empty. If that’s the case, you may need to take more drastic measures.

Reinstall Windows

This option should be treated as a last resort. If all the other steps failed and you still cannot pinpoint the reason why your CPU usage is so high, giving your Windows a clean install may be the solution to your problems.

Before you pull the trigger, keep in mind that reinstalling Windows will delete all of your installed programs. You are allowed to keep your files, but you may also opt to do a completely clean install and let Windows delete all of them. Whether you choose to keep your files or not, it’s good to back up your data before you begin.

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Reinstalling Windows 10

If you’re not sure how to reinstall Windows 10, check out our guide that will lead you through the steps required to do so.

Reinstalling Windows 11

In order to reinstall Windows 11, click on the Windows logo at the bottom-left side of the screen and type in: “Reset this PC.”

Once you’re in the correct section, select Reset PC. Windows will then prompt you to choose from several reinstall options. You can choose whether to keep your personal files, keep any changes you’ve made to Windows settings, and keep pre-installed apps that came with your Windows 11 PC.

Pick the option that suits you best and allow Windows to reinstall itself. When the reinstallation is complete, you will have to install all your drivers and trustworthy programs again. Once your system is back up and running, check your CPU usage again — you should be able to see a marked improvement.

Further troubleshooting

If you have tried every one of our recommended steps and found no improvement, the issue may be more complex than can be covered in any given guide. Fortunately, all you need is an internet connection in order to troubleshoot your computer.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

There are two main things to search for in times of abnormal CPU usage:

• Your exact model of CPU + “high CPU usage.” Check our guide to learn which processor you have.

• The process or program that hogs the most CPU usage in Task Manager + “high CPU usage.”

Searching for these terms will give you more specific advice from users who have gone through the same kinds of issues. Read the advice carefully and follow it as best as you can. However, never download any third-party programs: You may put your PC at much greater risk instead of fixing it.

CPU usage FAQ

Which programs cause high CPU usage?

Many kinds of programs can cause high CPU usage. If you’re running one of them, your computer may slow down. In such cases, make sure you close all other programs to give your processor the breathing space it needs in order to run these resource-heavy tasks.

Some of the most notorious CPU-heavy programs include:

• Video and photo editing software

• Encoding and decoding software

• CPU-heavy games, such as PUBG

• Browsers with many tabs open, many plug-ins, websites with a lot of videos and photos, etc.

• DVD burning programs

• Video or photo converters

• 3D modeling software

• Benchmarking programs

Is high CPU usage bad?

Every PC will go through cycles of high CPU usage — there is nothing wrong with that. However, If your CPU usage is constantly high or even at 100%, there is definitely a reason for concern.

Your CPU heats up when under heavy loads. This may cause your computer to overheat, but even in the best-case scenario, it contributes to wear and tear. Your PC may freeze when running at 100% CPU usage as soon as you add an extra application into the mix. Freezes and crashes are common, and each one may cause another problem to pop up.

In short: Yes, it’s bad, although as long as you’re expecting your CPU usage to be high, it’s fine and fully expected to happen at times.

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Featured

The best anime on Netflix 2024

By admin January 14, 2024

The best anime on Netflix 2024, Even though it’s known for its big-budget originals like Stranger Things, Netflix also has a wide variety of anime titles for you to choose from. With a healthy mix of original productions and established favorites, Netflix has plenty of excellent anime to watch across movies and TV, as well as covering every genre longtime fans and uninitiated viewers alike could want.

Given Netflix’s copious offerings, knowing how and where to get started with the genre can be overwhelming. Thankfully, we have curated a guide that parses through some of the best the streamer has to offer. This Netflix guide is updated every month and is sure to contain something to pique newcomers’ interest.

If you want more options, check out our other guides to the best anime on Hulu and the best anime available on Amazon Prime Video.

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off (2023)

One of the more recent Netflix-original anime series, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off is an exciting take on this charming franchise. Animated by Science Saru and developed by Bryan Lee O’Malley and BenDavid Grabinski, this limited series takes the series in a bold new narrative direction. Scott Pilgrim Takes Off sees the titular character go missing, compelling his love interest Ramona Flowers to investigate his sudden disappearance, all while the supporting cast works on creating a fictionalized story about Scott’s life.

The series features the principal cast from the live-action movie Scott Pilgrim vs. the World returning to reprise their roles, including Michael Cera as the titular character, Mary Elizabeth Winstead as Ramona, Chris Evans as Lucas Lee, and Brie Larson as Natalie Adams. From its charming character designs, storytelling, and animation work, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off was acclaimed as a celebration of the franchise with an inventive new story.

The best anime on Netflix 2024

Vampire in the Garden (2022)

Former Attack on Titan and Vinland Saga animation studio Wit Studio teamed up with Netflix for the anime-original story Vampire in the Garden. This series is set in a dystopic world where the remnants of humanity cling to their last safe-haven city after vampires overthrow them as the world’s apex species. In the middle of a battle, a human soldier named Momo encounters a vampire queen named Fine, who connects with her over their shared desire to escape from the war-torn land.

Both characters then set off on a quest to find a rumored ecosystem where both humans and vampires can coexist peacefully. Wit Studio has long since made a name for itself thanks to its slick art direction and animation work, delivering some satisfying action sequences. Likewise, the military dystopia and dark fantasy elements offer a refreshing change of pace from the vampire theme’s conventional gothic aesthetic.

Yasuke (2021)

Both a Netflix original and an anime-original story, Yasuke takes a dark fantasy spin on a piece of 16th century Japanese history. Animated by MAPPA and created by LeSean Thomas, the series follows the titular African warrior who served as a samurai and retainer for the daimyo Oda Nobunaga.

Set in a dark alternate reality that combines elements of magic and advanced technology, Yasuke tries to put his military past behind him after the Nobunaga’s forces are defeated by the demon warlord Yami no Daimyo. That is until he’s tasked with escorting a sick young girl with magical powers to a special doctor. Yasuke is a creative spin on real-world history and features a great voice performance by Lakeith Stanfield in the anime’s English dub.

The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.: Reawakened (2019)

A Netflix-distributed sequel and adaptation of the ending of Shuichi Aso’s manga, The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.: Reawakened concludes the comically chaotic high school exploits of its titular lead. Saiki continues to try to keep a low profile with his psychic abilities to avoid any attention and inconveniences.

However, between helping cover for his dad’s mishaps at work and the hijinks he gets roped into with his group of friends, Saiki might discover how these gifts could be used for good. Much like the original anime adaptation, The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.: Reawakened builds on the light-hearted humor that makes it such an endearing watch. Studios J.C.Staff and Egg Firm did well to stick to the script to give the anime adaptations a satisfying close and retain the fun spirit of Aso’s supernatural comedy.

Ōoku: The Inner Chambers (2023)

One of the more recent Netflix-original anime, Ōoku: The Inner Chambers is an engaging samurai period piece. Based on the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Fumi Yoshinaga, the animation team at Studio Deen adapts an alternate history where the male population is nearly decimated during Edo-period Japan, and eligible men serve as concubines for the female Shogun within Ōoku.

It’s an interesting spin on the alternate-history approach, telling a unique story rooted in drama and romance. Ōoku: The Inner Chambers examines its story through the lens of women dominating in authority in a power structure built by a patriarchal society before them.

Ajin (2016)

Ajin: Demi-Human is an entertaining supernatural-thriller with a well-executed art direction. Animation studio Polygon Pictures adapts Gamon Sakurai’s manga of the same name, set in a world where mysterious and immortal human beings dubbed “Ajin” were discovered in Africa 17 years prior and have since been deemed threats to humanity.

High-schooler Kei Nagai discovers he’s an Ajin and must flee the authorities before they can conduct disturbing experiments on him, forced to pick a side in a fight he never expected to be a part of. In an environment where CG animation is still growing, but promising, Ajin: Demi-Human is a solid endeavor. The animation art style, animation, action, and worldbuilding make for a concise watch.

Mononoke (2007)

Mononoke is an excellent horror-esque mystery thriller. A production by Toei Animation, this series is also an anime-original story and is set in a feudal Japanese world where a Medicine Seller is an occult master who travels the countryside exorcising evil spirits.

Things take a darker and more intense turn when the Medicine Seller’s travels take him to an inn plagued by these spirits and a string of mysterious murders. Mononoke is an exciting and creative folkloric fantasy with horror tones, with an intense mystery at its core. Likewise, the series is bolstered by a striking and picturesque art style.

Den-noh Coil (2007)

Anime fans looking to delve into original stories would do well to give Den-noh Coil a chance. An original anime produced by experienced studio Madhouse, Den-noh Coil is set in an alternate near-future where augmented-reality glasses are a norm for everyday life.

It follows the story of a kind-hearted middle schooler named Yasako Okonogi and her family who move into Daikoku City despite rumblings of people mysteriously disappearing. Den-noh Coil is an inventive mix of coming-of-age and a technological mystery-thriller, making for a unique anime experience.

PLUTO (2023)

Naoki Urasawa is credited with writing and illustrating some of greatest seinen manga in the industry, and Netflix obtained the license for the adaptation of Pluto. Set in the same continuity as Osamu Tezuka’s landmark Astro Boy series, Pluto tells a mystery involving the murder of the heroic robot Montblanc, who fought in the 39th Asian War.

Things become far bleaker when war veteran and Europol detective Gesicht investigates the grisly killing of the war hero, as the plot unravels a deep-rooted conspiracy against the robots who took part in the war. Though inherently less grounded as a premise compared to the revered Monster, Pluto is a gripping blend of the crime drama and science fiction genres. Urasawa is known for his cerebral stories, and the animation team at Studio M2 brilliantly conveys that in their anime adaptation.

Onimusha (2023)

In addition to anime and animation in general, Netflix is continuing its relationship with video game publishers to adapt their properties. Capcom’s Onimusha is the latest in these endeavors, with animation studio Sublimation taking a 3D CGI approach to this world.

Netflix’s Onimusha takes the legendary ronin Miyamoto Musashi, wielding the Oni Gauntlet, and is sent on an undercover mission to thwart a looming demonic threat. It’s an engaging and vibrant spin on Edo-period Japan in fantasy, and while its plot is fairly straightforward, Onimusha does enough to deliver an action-packed story. Likewise, the anime is an impressive showcase of how far CG animation has come.

Resident Evil: Death Island (2023)

Capcom’s Resident Evil franchise is the face of the survival-horror genre in gaming, and it’s no stranger to anime adaptations. The latest entry to the anime side of the property is Resident Evil: Death Island, animated by studio TMS Entertainment. This anime movie brings together some of the video games’ most iconic characters — Leon Kennedy, Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, and Claire Redfield — on a rescue mission to Alcatraz Island.

The operation leads to dealing with a new strain of the T-Virus and a shadowy threat. Resident Evil: Death Island doesn’t break new ground for the franchise’s anime adaptations, but it’s an unapologetically fun, gory, and bombastic action-horror movie. Its use of CG animation and grotesque creature designs are also well done and keep the spirit of the games.

GOOD NIGHT WORLD (2023)

Another Netflix original anime, studio NAZ’s Good Night World is an adaptation of Uru Okabe’s web manga of the same name. The story revolves around the members of a broken, emotionally dysfunctional family who all find a semblance of fulfillment within a virtual reality video game called Planet.

However, what these characters don’t realize is that they’ve managed to form a functional family unit with each other. An interesting premise, Good Night World does well to gradually piece together the more secretive aspects of these characters’ backstories, with the plot taking dramatic turns as it incorporates elements of their real lives and their video game personas.

Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix (2023)

Another one of Netflix’s “Western-style anime” originals, Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix delves into video game publisher Ubisoft’s backlog. Loosely inspired by the Far Cry 3 spin-off game Blood Dragon, but vibrant sci-fi adventure sees the fugitive and branded enemy of the state Dolph Laserhawk lead a team of rebels in a dystopian technocracy.

Animated by French studio Bobby Pills, Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix is a high-octane and colorful celebration of some of publisher Ubisoft’s most memorable games. The series does well to balance over-the-top action with a sincere, heartfelt plot at its core.

Castlevania: Nocturne (2023)

Though it leans more into anime-inspired TV rather than the conventional definition of the genre, Netflix and Powerhouse Animation Studios’ Castlevania: Nocturne is nonetheless a highlight of the streamer’s animated catalog. This sequel series takes place 300 years after the events of the original series, as Richter Belmont comes into his own alongside his surrogate family of Maria Renard and Tera.

Nocturne is set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, where the vampiric aristocracy is working to usher in a fabled vampire messiah to plunge the world into an eternal night. Art direction and animation continue to be strong points in this TV side of the video game franchise. The series also lays an exciting groundwork for what’s to come.

Kengan Ashura (2019)

One of the most bombastically entertaining martial arts anime shows on Netflix, Kengan Ashura returns for a second season. The story continues the titular protagonist’s rise in the underground combat rings of the corporate Japanese world, as wealthy businessmen hire some of the most elite fighters to settle disputes in brutal fights.

Tokita Ouma is eager for the sporting element of it all, and he’s determined to make a name for himself by taking on the strongest figures in this grueling world. Larx Entertainment’s adaptation of Yabako Sandrovich and Daromeon’s manga has been well-received for its straightforward, yet effective story and over-the-top action sequences.

GAMERA -Rebirth- (2023)

Godzilla may be the face of the kaiju subgenre, but Gamera has developed a respectable cult-classic reverence in this space. Animated by studio Engi, the Netflix-original series Gamera Rebirth also functions as a reboot of the franchise following the 2006 live-action movie Gamera the Brave.

Set in Tokyo during the summer of 1989, it follows four children who witness the rise of the titular turtle monster as he defends humanity against a string of hostile monsters. Gamera Rebirth focuses the action on the monster battling against five distinct monsters across its six-episode season. For fans of the genre, this series should be an engaging action-heavy romp.

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The best Mac apps for 2024

By admin January 12, 2024

The best Mac apps for 2024, One of the best parts about owning an Apple computer is the massive ecosystem of superb Mac apps it gives you access to. There are apps available to Mac users no matter what you are looking for, whether that’s productivity, photo and video editors, security suites, and more. You can get them from Apple’s own App Store or from third-party developer websites, and many of the best Mac apps are even free.

Whether you just bought your first Mac or you’re a longtime Apple customer, here’s a look at some of the best Mac apps you can get.

Alfred

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Think of Alfred as Spotlight with a dash of Siri. It’s an application launcher, but it can do a lot more than just that. With Alfred, you can quickly perform calculations, execute web searches, and find word definitions, among many other functions.

It’s a Mac app that fills the gap between Siri and your Spotlight search by allowing you to automate tasks and perform advanced functions that, frankly, Siri should be able to handle on its own. Version 4 improves the workflow creator, introduces rich text snippets, and more.

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The best Mac apps for 2024

The best old games PC 2024

By admin January 12, 2024

The best old games PC 2024, Classic games are the rare ones that stand the test of time, so we’ve rounded up the very best old games that are still worth playing on PC today. Looking for the best old PC games? There are many perks to being a PC gamer, but we will save extolling them all for a day when we are feeling particularly inflammatory. For now, we will focus on just one: the best old games remain forever playable. Sometimes it takes a little more work, but it’s a lot easier than digging through your parent’s attic for an ancient console you think they still have.

Yes, even on the highest-end multi-cored rigs with the latest X-Titan Turbo Hydra Fulcrum Mk.III GPU, you can still boot up veteran strategy games, majestic ancient RPG games, trusty ol’ point-and-clicks, and other legendary games of yore. Below you will find a testament to those PC stalwarts like Deus Ex: Game of the Year Edition that prove the best old games are truly timeless and deserve space on your SSD even to this day.

X-COM: UFO Defense

Strategy gaming meets turn-based tactics. The first X-COM game is still one of the best strategy games ever released on PC. This excellent old PC game inspired the team that went on to make Fallout, birthed several spin-offs and sequels, and was officially remade in 2012 as XCOM: Enemy Unknown – which is itself a classic. That’s some legacy.

In X-COM: UFO Defense, much like the remake, players must defend Earth from an alien invasion. In doing so, players must manage the clandestine X-COM group, choosing where to position bases and what technologies to research in order to effectively combat the extraterrestrial threat. Players must also win battles on the ground using a squad of X-COM soldiers in turn-based tactical combat.

The game itself has aged brilliantly where gameplay is concerned, though it is nowhere near as pretty as its modern-day remake. Assuming total control of mankind’s final barrier against the alien menace is still a joy: progressing through the research tree, turning your operatives into psionic super-soldiers, and then deploying them in the field to kick xeno-butt never gets old. Fancy some modern XCOM instead? Check out our XCOM: Chimera Squad review.

The best old games PC 2024

Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee

A 2D platformer where absolutely everything can kill you in an instant: long falls, any enemy attack, grazing past an obstacle, overcooking a grenade… the list goes on. Its puzzles are complex, its gaps between saves overly long, and its enemies nearly impossible to avoid. Frustrating? Rewarding is the word you are looking for. Probably.

At the center of all this struggle is the titular Abe, an enslaved Mudokon who discovers the meat processing factory where he works is soon to be the slaughterhouse of his entire race. Abe breaks free and begins a quest for emancipation that the player can either go along with (making their journey much more difficult) or ignore. Choosing to steer a group of your own people into a volley of gunfire as a means of distracting an enemy is never an easy decision to make.

If you are not keen on jumping too far back in time in order to play this, one of the best old games available, check out the official HD remaster with the hilarious Oddworld: New ‘N’ Tasty.

Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri

Like any Civ game, Alpha Centauri is all about colonizing a world, growing an empire, and competing and cooperating as you see fit with other factions vying for power. The twist? Set on a distant planet in the future, this old PC game is far more story-driven, forcing you to interact with mysterious alien lifeforms and races that previously inhabited the planet.

Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri fits the 4X games formula of empire-building, research, war, and diplomacy with an excellent story. Featuring fascinating factions and complex leaders, Alpha Centauri offers a more focused experience than the ‘blank canvas’ of the main series. The smaller scope of the game emphasizes everything that is great about this old game’s narrative, helping Alpha Centauri remain as memorable as always.

Baldur’s Gate II

There is something about that beautiful, seemingly hand-drawn aesthetic of the Infinity Engine that is completely timeless, and Baldur’s Gate II uses that to deliver one of the best role-playing games of all time. Sure, you might still be working through Baldur’s Gate 3 right now, but it’s never a bad time to go back to the next best game in the series.

Gamers brought up on modern role-players may have trouble adapting to the tactical Dungeons & Dragons combat and plethora of dialogue, but it is precisely these traits that make Baldur’s Gate II endure as one of the best old PC games. The dark fantasy setting of Amn is a joy to explore with your party of companions, who are unforgettable for their excellent writing and catchy soundbites (“Go for the eyes, Boo!”). From its pretty pre-rendered backgrounds to its rich, mysterious world brimming with character, Baldur’s Gate II is truly ageless.

Planescape: Torment

This list will not turn into an ode to the great CRPGs of the ‘90s, we promise, but… just… one… more…

In contrast to Baldur’s Gate II’s classic, companion heroics, Planescape: Torment is a lonely, personal journey to uncover the lost memories of a person who has lived and died untold lives with no recollection of them. Set in a surreal otherworld of multiple planes and bizarre creatures that defy conventional fantasy tropes, Torment is one of the oddest and greatest videogame stories ever told. Focused more on dialogue and choices than combat, Torment encourages you to uncover its world through exploration, conversations, and clever, choice-filled questing.

Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind

When we first assembled this list Morrowind was still relatively young, but now it’s nearly old enough to buy itself a beer we think it’s finally earned ‘classic PC game’ status. No doubt this will upset the PC gaming elders, who are probably lost in some procedurally generated Daggerfall township.

Morrowind doesn’t just represent the Elder Scrolls series’ arrival on the 3D scene, it’s also the game that cemented the layout for Oblivion and Skyrim, two of the most popular videogames of all time. There are dozens of all-timer questlines and the foundations of Skyrim’s character builds, and it’s all wrapped up in what’s probably the most interesting and immersive open-world games to date.

Half-Life

Back in 1998, Half-Life’s storytelling and the conviction of its fictional world were far beyond anything else in the genre. Indeed, they were beyond anything else in gaming.

The opening in which you fly through the Black Mesa Research Facility is magnificent. Radioactive waste passes by, witty comments sound out from speakers overhead, and doors open and close all around. Valve crafted a world full of minutiae and intricacies that you could pore over in between all the alien fighting and physics-based puzzling. Seamless level transitions and a narrative that never broke away from the first-person perspective make this game not only one of the best old games but one of the finest games ever made.

We’ve spent years waiting for the mythical Half-Life 3, but with the release of Half-Life: Alyx, our hunger for new Half-Life has only gotten more ravenous. Sounds like the perfect excuse to revisit – or begin – the series. If aging visuals really aren’t for you then the fan-made Black Mesa remake is officially out and receiving just as positive reviews as the original.

Deus Ex

Visually, Deus Ex has not aged as gracefully as some of the pixel-era games on this list, but its deep RPG systems, dense hub worlds, and intriguing conspiracy crackpot plot make it proper ‘PC games bucket list’ fodder.

The number of ways in which you can tackle the game’s missions still holds up today: You have countless means of molding JC Denton to your play style. Your choices about how you interact with the world all feel significant and, as a result, Deus Ex continues to be the gold standard that immersive sims, stealth games, and RPGs strive for, and remains one of the best old games on PC. If you want to see how the Deus Ex series has modernized over the years, check out our Deus Ex Mankind Divided review.

Outlaws

The lack of tribute to this gunslinging wild-western shooter is no less criminal than the exploits of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Outlaws was among the PC’s best first-person shooters, sprite-based or not.

Several gameplay innovations helped Outlaws stand out, including a manual reload system, and the first-ever sniper scope used in a shooter. The orchestrated Sergio Leone-inspired soundtrack is spine-tingling, and the animated cutscenes have that lovely LucasArts touch that provides context to the tough, rootin’ tootin’ gunfights taking place across trains, frontier towns, and other environs of the Old West. Outlaws is a goldmine of excellent stylistic and gameplay features in a classic FPS package and an exceptional old PC game at that.

The Longest Journey

Coming in the twilight years of point-and-click adventure games, The Longest Journey is a poignant swansong for the genre. You are April, an 18-year-old student who shifts between two contrasting realms to restore the mysterious force that allows them to exist harmoniously.

The contrasting realms of the magical Arcadia and gritty urban Stark realm are evocatively presented, and in both, you will meet characters as strange and well-rounded as your strong, troubled protagonist. Yes, it suffers from the point-and-click pitfall of absurdly cryptic puzzles, but they are worth toughing through to experience this beautiful interdimensional adventure. The Longest Journey’s sequel Dreamfall is also worth playing, though it is not quite on par with Funcom’s original.

Diablo II

The continuation of online support and the fact that Blizzard released patches for Diablo II up to the release of the official remake attest to the game’s enduring appeal as one of the finest old PC games.

The high-intensity action RPG mechanics, which have been emulated but rarely topped by other games over the years, and its grungy, well-animated pixel art set Diablo II apart. Its loot-‘em-up gameplay is so appealing that it does not need to move with the times. Blizzard’s perfection of this formula has allowed Diablo II to completely defy the typical videogame life cycle. You don’t have to track down an old copy of this either as Blizzard released a solid remaster in the form of Diablo 2: Resurrected. Check out our Diablo 2: Resurrected review for our complete verdict.

Fallout 2

Looking at the image above, it is easy to say that Fallout has come a long way since the isometric days. But that would ignore the tremendous narrative and mechanical depth hiding amidst those pixels and pre-rendered backdrops. Fallout 2 is on Steam and, in high-res and with cloud saves, this fantastic old game is all the more appealing to revisit.

Fallout 2 is not forgiving, and bad decisions or character development can essentially ruin your experience. But ride the wave of its deep systems and you have one of the greatest RPGs of all time. The range of factions, side-quests, and characters paint a rich picture of a post-apocalyptic world that is a grim joy to explore. It is harsh, bleak, and kind of ugly, but Fallout 2’s wild wasteland came to define the series. Take a look at our Fallout 4 review to find out what the series has transformed into.

Theme Hospital

Still one of the funniest and most whimsical building sims on PC, Theme Hospital is a unique gem that no developer has even dared try to emulate. Its sense of humour ranges from excellent soundbites of the receptionists urging patients not to die in the corridors, to the emergent chaos of a mass vomit breakout in the waiting areas. AI prodigy Demis Hassabis was even involved in the project as a young boy, making this literally the work of a genius.

The cutesy visual style, so great at conveying fictitious illnesses like Bloaty Head and Hairyitis, conceals a relentless and challenging sim. Up there with the best old PC games, Theme Hospital stands in a league of its own… unless you count spiritual successor Two Point Hospital.

System Shock 2

You never forget the confused fear you feel when a mutant is apologizing to you while battering your head in with a wrench. It is harrowing, deeply unsettling, and captures the dark spirit of this lonesome story in which you are hounded by a murderous AI aboard a spaceship.

Yes, System Shock 2 was sort of succeeded by BioShock, but it is a tonally different beast – a psychological horror that drips with a cold, claustrophobic atmosphere. Grab one of the mods that updates the graphics and lighting to revive that intense technophobia you felt all those years ago.

Quake

It is hard to imagine anything dislodging Doom’s place in the pantheon of PC gaming greats (don’t worry, it’s listed here). However, it is Quake that sees id’s vision of demonic corridor-shooting executed most successfully. Of the two forefathers of those great franchises, Quake proves most affecting to revisit today. Doom’s cacodemons and hell knight sprites look kitsch now, but Quake’s roster of far less recognizable abominations – all lipless mouths and faceless horrors – still manages to unsettle. They are helped along by flawless sound design created in collaboration with Trent Reznor, and a medieval occult aesthetic that falls somewhere between Doom and Hexen.

The culmination of those elements – not forgetting its excellent arsenal of high-impact, heavy weapons – feels like id’s best attempt to pull together the elements they experimented with throughout the ’90s. Quake and its many sequels are all available with an Xbox Game Pass subscription, and we’ve found that they run superbly on modern PC setups – no frustrating compatibility modes are needed here.

Doom

Sure, we’ve already got Quake on this list, but where would modern PC gaming be without its sci-fi horror-based FPS sibling, Doom? Every boomer shooter fan has their preference between the two, so in the interest of pleasing everyone, we’ve included both.

Doom’s certainly the more colorful of the two and so is generally a lot easier to navigate, and you can also move a lot faster and more freely thanks to its slightly more open levels. Monsters take a bit less effort to kill and the levels are much less stingy when it comes to handing out ammo – it’s the better pick for cheap, run-and-gun thrills, while Quake offers a little more mastery and pure horror. This is also handily available via an Xbox Game Pass subscription and runs well on modern systems.

Starcraft

Starcraft may have been somewhat left behind by its shinier sequel, but even those not looking for a competitive experience could do a lot worse than revisiting one of the finest narrative RTS campaigns ever. Along with Warcraft 3, the original Starcraft represents pre-Activision Blizzard at its creative pinnacle.

Okay, so, in the same way that Warcraft owes a lot to Tolkien, this story of space marines, space bugs, and ethereal elder beings may owe a lot to Warhammer 40k, Aliens, and Starship Troopers. Everything owes a lot to Aliens, though, and that doesn’t stop this genre classic from holding up today. Come for the pitch-perfect execution of archetypal RTS games scaffolding, and stay for the character-focused sci-fi epic stuffed with juicy plot reveals.

The Curse of Monkey Island

While the first two Monkey Island titles are genre-defining adventure games, produced at the peak of LucasArt’s heyday, that doesn’t stop them from being a daunting proposition for modern gamers curious to see what all the fuss was about. Monkey Island 3: The Curse of Monkey Island may not have the best puzzles, the best story, or the best jokes, but it is the easiest to slip into for new players, and it’s still an excellent adventure game in its own right.

Featuring singing pirate barbers, a lactose-intolerant volcano god, and a giant chicken demon among its less ridiculous elements, The Curse of Monkey Island continues the adventures of Guybrush Threepwood, the world’s most useless pirate. A colorful cartoon aesthetic and a jaunty, moreish soundtrack top off this hearty mug of adventure game grog.

Now that you’ve taken a historical tour of our most cherished classic videogame memories, you know what to do: turn those old games, into ‘sold’ games. Okay, we’ll stick to writing, writing more list features, that is. And, if you want the cream of the crop both new and old, here are the best PC games of all time, or if you don’t want to splash the cash, here are all the best free PC games. For now, though, we’ll be going back to embracing the sweet, sweet nostalgia of our misspent youth.

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Best Remote Desktop Software in 2024

By admin January 11, 2024

Best Remote Desktop Software in 2024, Screen sharing windows, more accurately known as Remote desktop software, are tools that allow you to access one pc from another pc remotely.By remote, we mean that users can take the access of a mouse and keyboard of a distant PC just like their own. Remote access is highly beneficial for people sitting at long distances, the IT department of large corporates and many more.

However, to do this, you need specialized software which will connect your PC to the host system. Once you have the required software in place, you can easily connect your client pc with the host pc with proper credentials.

Are you scared about the technical aspect of sharing the screen with another computer? Just download a free screen sharing software to get your job done.

List of the 9 Best Remote Desktop Software for 2024

While many Windows computers come with in-built software, however, there are several best screen sharing software that can do the job in a much better way and also provide additional features.

1. Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist is a blessing to IT departments and works on a cloud-based software platform. It is one of the best ways to connect to end customers within seconds.

It works on an On-demand mechanism and sends email invitations to its user to connect with the host PC. It supports file transfer, video, and voice chat along with solving rebooting issues on the client-side.

Additional features:

• It comes with an easy to use auto-detect tool.

• It also supports the recording of sessions for monitoring purpose.

• It can also club client system based on their location and functions.

It is one of the best troubleshooting tools for IT companies which can solve all kinds of system-related issues. This stunning application comes in both a free and paid version. With the free version, you can connect with up to 5 machines.

With all the features, this tool is undoubtedly worth a try.

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2. TeamViewer 14

This all-round software undeniably deserves a place in the list of best screen sharing software. This comprehensive tool can support multiple devices with a massive number of platforms.

It’s easy to use UI makes it the right choice. It also comes in a free version for home users. You can connect up to 4k desktops, share files, and also supports alternative VPN’s.

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3. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is one of the easiest and the most straightforward screen sharing application. It works as a chrome extension and is quite easy to install.

You can add multiple users to the host computer using a security pin. The only drawback of this application is that when compared to other players is has a limited number of features to offer.

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4. Remote Desktop Manager

It is a must-have application for SME businesses who are looking for an efficient system to control their computer systems remotely.

It comes with a good range of features and is quite easy to use. Individual users can opt for its limited free edition while large corporates can buy a site license to support all PC.

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5. Remote Utilities for Windows

Another most trusted and reliable option in the category of best screen sharing software is “Remote Utilities for Windows.” It comes with incredible features that can give enough competition to even the paid software.

Users can connect up to 10 PC with this feature-rich tool. It works on 2 platforms, the first one if the Host software that is installed on the Host PC and the Viewer software that need to be installed on the clients pc.

The only downside of this incredible piece of technology is that it can only work on Windows PC.

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6. LogMeIn Pro

LogMeIn is the ultimate choice for large companies which require a powerful and robust screen-sharing technology.

It is specially developed to support large enterprises and comes with a suite of sophisticated and useful tools that can easily manage multiple systems and users.

The only downside is that it does not suit everybody’s pocket. However, as an additional benefit, you get 1TB of cloud storage with its premium subscription.

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7. Remote PC

Personal or business use, Remote PC is suitable for both. It works on Cloud, which makes it a good option for individual users as well as large enterprises.

Several computers can be configured with the host PC, and additional users can also be added with an access key and password.

All the remove connection are highly secure with AES-256 encryption, and use of access credentials adds on to the security level.

A round the clock support team is also available to help users and customers. Individual users can get this stunning tool in $ 51.12 as first-year subscription.

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8. Connectwise Control

This powerful application is effortless to use and comes with an array of features. It works on 2 key options: Access and support.

Support is a Cloud-based service which supports real-time accessing of users machine. It also uses a 2FA mechanism and AES-256 encryption to ensure high-end security.

Users can schedule meetings, give remote prints, and transfer files. Its standard plan costs $35 annually and allows a single user to connect with 3 different system.

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9. VCN Connect

Another well-known name in the list of best screen sharing software is VCN Connect. It is most suited for multinational companies.

Users can easily connect, monitor, support, and collaborate with the user’s devices. Real-time remote access is quite easy with this powerful desktop tool

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What is remote desktop software?

Remote desktop software, also known as remote access software, allows users to access another computer or system remotely in real time and work on it like their local device. It ensures easy, efficient, and secure access to one or many remote desktops.

While the software can also be used for remote support, a remote desktop tool is typically used by employees to access a machine remotely rather than to resolve a technical problem. Though the maintenance functions may not be as extensive as those of remote support solutions, remote desktop tools aid support teams in performing basic maintenance tasks on numerous devices from a single station.

Typical use cases of a remote desktop tool include granting employees access to and managing distant computers anytime, from any device, which gives them the privilege to work from anywhere. Sometimes IT support professionals use remote desktop software to troubleshoot and perform maintenance tasks remotely.

What are the common features of remote desktop software?

The following are some core features of a remote desktop tool that can help users achieve greater flexibility and cost savings through remote work:

• Remote access and control: Remote desktop software provides end users access to and control over other devices not in their physical vicinity. The software facilitates the visibility of a specific window or the entire desktop.

• Multi-monitor support: Many workplaces now opt for multiple monitors at their workstations to help improve productivity. As a result, the remote desktop tool supports the capability to view multiple monitors at a time.

• Multiple operating system (OS) support: Businesses today use Windows, macOS, Linux, or other OS, and sometimes multiple OS within the same company. Remote desktop software has features to handle viewing and functioning on any OS, independent of the OS the end user is connecting from.

• Mobile device access: Remote desktop tools allow administrators to access connected mobile devices and support mobile OS like Android, iOS, and more.

• Data encryption: When a user’s device is being used and managed remotely, it may leave the user feeling vulnerable. The remote desktop tool offers a data encryption feature to secure the connection and protect data.

• File management: Remote desktop software facilitates file sharing and transfers to enable quick and effortless work discussion, collaboration among colleagues, and viewing of relevant documents when working remotely. The shared or transferred files are highly secure as permission to access them is granted only to authenticated user accounts.

• Remote configuration: The software helps configure a remote PC for access so that the end user can take complete control of the device over the internet anytime.

• Chat: The chat functionality of the remote desktop software allows users to send and receive messages between computers.

• Application management: Remote desktop tool centrally manages, configures, and monitors applications on employee devices.

• Session transfer: Access to remote sessions for IT support can be transferred between users using a remote desktop application.

• Session recording: A remote desktop tool provides the ability to record remote sessions at a desired location on the local computer.

• Security: All the data shared across a remote connection is encrypted. It also uses multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure only authorized users can log in and notify suspicious activities.

• Deployment flexibility: Remote desktop tools can be deployed on the cloud and on-premises, depending on the organization’s requirements.

• Remote printing: Some remote desktop solutions provide remote printing capabilities to help users print documents using a locally plugged or network printer.

• Session usage reporting: Activity log tracking and session analytics is essential for IT managers and chief information officers (CIOs) looking to track, manage, and optimize helpdesk activities.

• Branding: Remote desktop systems may let businesses customize client applications to match their websites.

What are the benefits of remote desktop software?

There are several benefits that a business can reap from a remote desktop tool. Below is a list of advantages that the tool offers:

• Efficiency: Remote desktop tools offer the potential to maintain numerous devices from a single workstation. Users can access the systems they need from wherever they are located.

• Cost savings: Remote desktop tools may require the installation of remote client software on user devices. However, some web-based remote desktop software provides remote access with zero endpoint installation or configuration. Clientless, centrally-managed solutions do not require installation, management, and software maintenance on individual devices, thereby cutting down IT support costs. Additionally, these solutions enable users to work from home with the most reliable and secure connection resulting in reduced overhead expenditure for office space, computing equipment, software, utilities, etc.

• Flexibility: Employers are increasingly promoting flexible and remote work. The ability to work from anywhere, at any time, and on multiple devices increases employee productivity and turnover. These tools enable employees to work remotely with a seamless remote desktop connection to one or many desktops at the workplace.

• Business continuity: Remote desktop platform ensures business continuity in times of crisis, such as pandemic outbreaks, harsh weather, and transportation strikes. It provides access to business applications and data from home, enabling organizations to meet their business objectives.

Who uses remote desktop software?

• Customer support teams: Employees on support teams are most likely to use the remote desktop tool. The software greatly improves the efficiency of most support teams’ day-to-day routines and tasks.

• IT departments: Software and licensing administrators in the IT department can use remote desktop tools for scheduling and running maintenance on devices, regardless of the device’s physical location or the administrator.

• Data archive teams: Teams that do heavy data archive work may also benefit from using a remote desktop tool. Data archives tend to be optimized toward UNIX systems like Linux’s numerous variants, so having a remote Linux build that can be tapped into from a Windows desktop can be incredibly valuable.

• Software engineers: Remote desktop solutions enable developers and engineers to share a single workstation, use integrated development environments (IDEs), access remote servers, and investigate bugs remotely.

• Educational institutions: Teachers, professors, educators, and administrators use remote access solutions for conducting classes and accessing tools and files from remote locations.

• Remote users: Remote employees rely on these solutions to access company files and servers and complete tasks without being in the office.

What are the Alternatives to Remote Desktop Software?

• Remote support software: Remote support and remote desktop tools are so similar that many use the two names interchangeably. There is a slight but notable difference between the two. Remote desktop software focuses more exclusively on access to and control over a remote device. While remote support software does this as well, these solutions offer more expansive features to assist with maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) software: Remote desktop and VDI software have similar characteristics but slightly different target functions. A remote desktop tool tends to focus on creating connections to physical devices. In contrast, a VDI tool hones in on entirely virtual desktops associated with servers or even an OS being run within another OS. VDI software allows for centralized hosting and viewership of numerous desktops, whereas remote desktop focuses on the ability to access numerous physical desktops from a single location.

• Screen sharing software: These systems partially match the functionality of remote desktop solutions by allowing users to share screens and demonstrate processes to viewers. Sales, marketing, and support teams use screen sharing tools to provide demos, brainstorm, and resolve technical issues.

Challenges with remote desktop software

Remote desktop tools can come with their own set of challenges.

• Connectivity: Remote desktop usage occurs entirely via the internet, so connectivity issues can end up disrupting the experience. When implementing a remote desktop tool, users must ensure high internet connectivity.

• Hardware dilemmas: Remote desktop software relies partly on the end device’s hardware functioning optimally. If there is an issue with the end device’s hardware, the software may not be able to access the remote device.

• Privacy: The means to take control of other users’ computers remotely does come with a certain degree of privacy risk. In the wrong hands, losing control of one’s computer means compromised data on the computer or an entire network. Companies need to use strong endpoint protection software when implementing remote support software to protect internal devices.

• Operating system compatibility: Some remote desktop systems may not efficiently support different operating systems such as Linux, macOS. or their outdated versions. This Os non-compatibility makes it challenging for remote users to receive timely solutions.

• High-performance tasks: Network speed and bandwidth variation may impact remote desktop tools’ ability to to complete tasks demanding high computational resources, including video rendering, data analysis, and graphic design.

• User experience: Complex remote desktop applications make it difficult for users to log in, establish connections with remote devices, and share files.

How to choose remote desktop software

Organizations buying remote desktop software must consider business-specific needs and the following factors to maximize the return on their investment.

• Device whitelisting and authentication: Choosing a remote desktop platform with device or endpoint authentication is crucial for preventing unauthorized systems from connecting with remote devices and gaining unattended access.

• Two-factor authentication (2FA): Remote desktop solutions with 2FA capabilities verify user identity to protect devices and data from brute-force attacks, social engineering, and phishing.

• Security compliance: Buyers must ensure that the remote access tool of their choice meets different security standards, including General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), System and Organization Controls (SOC 2), Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Also, consider choosing solutions that update security protocols regularly.

• Ease of use: Selecting a user-friendly remote desktop tool is essential for ensuring that even non-technical users have a seamless experience while using the system. Moreover, users should be able to install the application without any difficulty.

• File transfer: Remote desktop tools with file sharing features allow users to share presentations, documents, and data, enabling them to send or receive files immediately. Also, consider looking for systems with remote printing, chat, multi-monitor support, and remote wake-on-LAN functionalities.

• Available on mobile devices: Choosing a system that users can access from a phone or tablet helps technical support specialists resolve issues on the go.

• Price and customer support: Consider thoroughly evaluating customer support availability and features against price to find the best solution.

Depending on their organizations’ sizes, needs, and preferences, buyers must try different tools to find the one that best fits their compatibility, security, usability requirements, and budget.

Remote desktop software pricing

Remote desktop software is available in two deployment models: on-premises and cloud. Based on the models, the software can also be purchased as a perpetual license or as annual or monthly subscriptions. Remote desktop tools are priced as a perpetual license for on-premises software, whereas cloud-based solutions are available on a subscription basis. Some remote desktop tools can be downloaded for free private usage and are available as a three-tier license, often business, premium, or corporate.

Remote desktop software pricing varies depending on the number of seats, devices, and features organizations require. Below is a general overview of pricing based on tiers buyers choose.

• Entry-level plans range from $10 to $15 monthly and include basic features. These plans suit individual users and small businesses.

• Mid-range plans can cost businesses up to $35 per month. They provide more features suitable for larger business teams.

• Advanced plans cost around $75 monthly and offer advanced support and user management features. These are ideal for larger enterprises with extensive business requirements.

Implementation of remote desktop software

How is remote desktop software implemented?

There are generally two ways in which a remote desktop software is implemented:

• OS-based implementation: OS-based remote desktop solutions are built directly into the OS. No extra software is required to use OS-based remote desktop solutions as the tools are already installed. For example, some versions of Windows come with built-in remote desktop software.

• Third-party-based implementation: Third-party-based implementation is needed when remote desktop software has to be licensed by the user. Once the buyer has decided on the software that fits their particular needs and installed it, it should be ready for use.

Remote desktop software trends

• Companies will adopt a hybrid workplace model: Companies are now looking at providing the choice of working from the office only for a few days a week. The remote working element in a hybrid workplace is a trend that is expected to grow. Employees within an organization have increasingly started preferring to work from home or anywhere else with flexible working schedules. Employers are also providing the flexibility to do so. Remote desktop and remote support software will be widely used when working remotely, as they provide seamless IT support without letting external factors hinder business processes from running smoothly.

• Organizations will opt for consolidation of remote work tools: Organizations use multiple software solutions such as video conferencing, remote support, and remote desktop to enable effective collaboration across employees, clients, and partners. It is essential to consolidate these tools and provide the organization with better visibility to enhance operational productivity, thereby reducing the need to monitor each device individually. The adoption of centralized solutions is expected to rise, considering it would help companies ensure compliance and tackle software management issues.

• BYOD trends continue gaining popularity: Many organizations encourage employees to use BYOD devices to control capital expenditure costs rising from hardware purchase and maintenance. Employees using their devices often rely on remote desktop solutions to connect with peers or access server files. Remote workers using their devices for office work are more likely to experience cybersecurity threats. Businesses must continue investing in cybersecurity, cloud security, and vulnerability management tools to prevent data leaks and unauthorized access and mitigate remote work tech vulnerability.

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Best Free Phone Number Apps 2024

By admin January 11, 2024

Best Free Phone Number Apps 2024 Here, you will learn about the 9 best free phone number applications for Android that allow you to make phone calls free anywhere in the world. We all have witnessed the era of utilizing actual landline phones but eventually, it comes to an end. Between easily available Internet & cheaper smartphones, it is easy to drop that cord for good. You will still need to get a data connection like WiFi or a carrier plan, but there are certain applications available over the web that allow you to make phone calls at no cost.

Free calling tools help you make or receive international and domestic calls for free using cellular data or WiFi. Phone number apps include other much-needed features such as transferring, call recording, call forwarding, and customized voicemail greetings. Such apps give you a second phone number (typically in the US) that you can consider to text or call any other America-based number, and fortunately, it will exactly show that you are in the US only.

This write-up contains a descriptive list of top-notch free phone number apps for Android, and it will help you make the right decision.

9 Best Free Calling Apps for Android to Making Free Phone Calls in 2024

Below listed are some of the most popular phone number apps that you can consider to make calls for free across the globe. Without further ado, let’s get started.

1. Dingtone

Dingtone is one of the most excellent phone number apps available on the Google Play Store. The application can give you a phone number according to your local area code. Moreover, it can make phone calls across 200 countries. With this free number app, users can easily make an unlimited number of calls over mobile data as long as their corresponding friends & family use the same application. The in-app purchases enable you to make phone calls even to real phone numbers through a credit system. Later on, you can add or get more free credits via numerous adverts and promotions.

Key Features of Dingtone:

• Make phone calls to anyone without any sort of hindrances.

• It supports international calling.

• Make video & voice calls, and send messages in over 200 countries.

• Supports conference calls.

• Comes with an in-built recorder that allows you to record calls.

Get it on Play Store

Best Free Phone Number Apps 2024

2. Hushed

Yet another free phone number app for Android is Hushed. It lets you call, and send pictures, videos, and texts to any number across the world. This app helps you keep your real number safe and protected by giving you a second number that you can consider to make phone calls. What’s more, it allows you to add and manage multiple phone numbers. In addition to this, it also lets you forward a call to another number. Using this tool, the users can also record and customize their voicemails.

Key Features of Hushed:

• Completely free to use.

• Keep your conversation secure and private.

• Enables you to integrate the app with Slack or DropBox.

• You can even access your number through WiFi or a data connection.

• Users can manage more than one number.

• It has full talk, text (SMS), picture messaging, and MMS capabilities.

Get it on Play Store

3. Grasshopper

Grasshopper is a free phone number app that offers excellent communication solutions for small organizations or businesses. The tool provides a one phone number that can be accessed on currently existing mobile devices or landlines, without any hassles. Moreover, it lets you receive multiple calls at the same time by routing to another team member or phone. Its WiFi calling feature easily detects suspected spam calls. Users even can modify the call forwarding settings.

Key Features of Grasshopper:

• You can make and receive phone calls through a mobile or desktop application.

• This app converts voicemail messages to text so that you can easily read without listening.

• It offers a complete view of your business interactions across multiple channels.

• Allows you to record professional messages in order to welcome your clients or customers.

• The tool lets you send/share fax documents as a PDF from your preferred email.

Get it on Play Store

4. Ring4

Be it for business or personal purposes, Ring4 is the best free phone number app that you can consider in order to generate a second phone number. Not only a second phone line or eSim, but Ring4 also supports high-definition (HD) video conferencing, call recording, voicemails, robot call blocking, and international calls. With an unlimited call, text, and video meeting plan, Ring4 is an excellent solution for your virtual office.

Key Features of Ring4:

• Creating and managing multiple phone lines is much easier.

• Allows you to choose a number with your local Area code.

• Provides a contact list and dial-pad.

• Comes with in-built recorders that help you record any call with ease.

• Its smart block feature lets you block unwanted calls.

• Enables you to customize voicemail messages or greetings.

• You can send text messages along with emoticons and picture messaging.

Get it on Play Store

5. MightyCall

MightyCall is one of the best virtual phone systems designed especially for small businesses. This free phone number app enables you to make and answer calls on any device of your choice. It also lets you reject the call, accept, or send it to voicemail. The application helps you to form your flow with a conversational and clear chart. Moreover, it provides you with the complete history of your communications. You can effortlessly forward calls to any phone number or device.

Key Features of MightyCall:

• Offers unlimited calling.

• You can choose a toll-free or area code number without paying a penny.

• Allows you to record your calls.

• Lets you listen to voicemails and receive notifications.

• You can even visualize your voicemail.

• Organize all contacts related to your business in one place.

Get it on Play Store

6. GrooVeIP

GrooVeIP is another deserving free phone number app for Android. Using this application, you can get a real US phone number that you actually give to other people. This service supports both texts and calls. In addition, the app contains in-app purchases. If we talk about the free part, then it is a little bit iffy. You can also earn credits at no cost. But for this, you will have to watch advertisements and complete the required offers. We understand that it is a bit daunting but it works like magic. Additionally, there’s also an option to purchase credits. Not for unlimited, but the tool is a perfect choice for limited free calls.

Key Features of GrooVeIP:

• Lightweight and easy-to-use tool.

• It has a separate dialer that can be accessed to make phone calls.

• This Android free phone number app will provide you with free credits every month.

• Easily call any landline or mobile phone in Canada or the US.

• Send text messages to friends & family.

Get it on Play Store

7. ConXhub

Last but not least, ConXhub is another free phone number app for Android users. It is a lightweight and user-friendly application that enables users to generate multiple numbers and profiles. Using this advanced business phone number app, you can even receive phone calls from multiple numbers. Not only for Android, but it is also available for iOS devices.

Key Features of ConXhub:

• Provides good and high-quality calls.

• Lets you forward calls to any phone or mobile device around the world.

• It can provide you with a local, international or toll-free number from any country of your choice.

• Simple and quick navigation.

Get it on Play Store

8. Phone.com

Last but not least, Phone.com is the last free phone number app for Android. This tool is quite more advanced than any other conventional alternative. This tool is used by a lot of businesses to take care of their professional needs like sales, support, and many more.

Key Features of ConXhub:

• The interface of the app is quite simple.

• You can create multiple numbers as per the number of users with the tool.

• You can use the app to send SMS and MMS from your smartphone.

• The app also supports conference calls.

Get it on Play Store

9. 2ndLine – Second Phone Number

Here’s yet another of the best free phone number apps for Android. 2ndLine – Second Phone Number is an amazing app that allows you to get the caller ID of the user calling you. You can even search for the phone number on the app and get its details.

Key Features of 2ndLine – Second Phone Number:

• The tool can easily transcribe text from a voicemail.

• The app works well in the US and Canada.

• 2ndLine – The second Phone Number allows picture messaging.

• The app is compatible with Android smartphones and tablets.

Get it on Play Store

That’s A Wrap!

So, the above suggested were some of the best free phone number apps available for Android. We hope you liked the information shared in this article helpful.

If we missed out on anything, then let us know in the comments section below. Furthermore, you can also drop your queries or doubts in the comments. Before you go, do subscribe to our Newsletter for receiving daily technology updates.

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Internet

Best Game Streaming Services for 2024

By admin January 11, 2024

Best Game Streaming Services for 2024, Do you want to play popular video games, but don’t own a console or gaming PC? These top streaming services let you access remote hardware to play games on almost any device you already own.

Stadia is dead, but game streaming isn’t. Although Google no longer lets you remotely play games, several other big names have their own options. These services let you stream new and classic titles as if you have a gaming PC or a console right in front of you—only they’re located in a server rack somewhere else in the country. They give you access to big gaming power for a monthly fee—all you need is a modest PC or mobile device that can connect to a strong internet signal.

You’ll find our top, tested picks below, as well as buying tips to help you find the best game streaming services for your budget or platform.

Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks

Shadow

Best for Full Remote PC Access

Why We Picked It

Shadow is the most powerful gaming streaming service because it isn’t limited to games. Instead, it lets you remotely access a full Windows PC with 28GB of RAM and an Nvidia RTX A4500 GPU (the approximate equivalent to a GeForce RTX 3070). That means you can run anything on it, from any game store, or manually install any game or software yourself. Shadow is also the priciest service we’ve tested, but its functionality is worth the expense.

Who It’s For

For gamers, Shadow is a fantastic way to get all of the benefits of a full gaming PC on a much cheaper computer. Outside of gaming, Shadow is an ideal service for creatives who need more power than their local hardware provides.

Best Game Streaming Services for 2024

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Best Dedicated Game Streaming Service

Why We Picked It

For $16.99 per month, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes a selection of hundreds of games for both Xbox and Windows. It also features cloud gaming as part of the membership, accessible on Android devices. In this case, the game streaming is a bonus feature that’s still in beta, but we’ve been impressed by how well it works so far.

Who It’s For

Hard-core gamers. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers a huge selection of excellent games, including the most recent releases from Microsoft and Bethesda, for a pretty reasonable price. Plus, you can stream them to a PC, an Xbox, or an Android phone.

Amazon Luna

Best for Many Streaming Options

Why We Picked It

Amazon Luna offers multiple channel-based choices for game streaming, with a compelling (if uneven) game selection on the $9.99-per-month Luna+ channel, the $17.99-per-month Ubisoft+ channel, and the $4.99 Jackbox Games channel. If you have Amazon Prime, Prime Gaming offers a small selection of streaming titles you can play without an additional subscription. We strongly recommend getting the $49.99 Amazon Luna Controller, as it uses its own Wi-Fi connection to improve performance (the controller also makes it easy to switch between Luna-compatible devices).

Who It’s For

Amazon devotees. The Luna+ channel game list is pretty hit-or-miss and doesn’t include the most recent releases, and the Ubisoft+ channel is ridiculously expensive. However, $5 for all of the Jackbox games is a nice option if you want to host a party.

Nvidia GeForce Now

Best for Steam Gamers

Why We Picked It

GeForce Now doesn’t have a dedicated game catalog, but it lets you stream titles from your Epic Game Store, Steam, and UPlay libraries (including Fortnite and more than 80 other free-to-play titles). If you own a gaming PC with an RTX graphics card, you’ll be happy to know that GeForce Now supports ray tracing, too. The rather sudden removal of Blizzard’s games means that you can’t be certain if a title you want to play will stay on the service.

Still, if you want to try GeForce Now without paying the $9.99 monthly Priority subscription ($49.99 per six months) or $19.99 monthly 4080-equipped Ultimate subscription ($99.99 per six months), you can use the service for free with one-hour sessions, less access to servers, and no RTX compatibility.

Who It’s For

This is for PC gamers who want the best possible PC gaming experience, but don’t have the hardware for it. Shadow is more flexible since it’s just a powerful Windows PC, but GeForce Now lets you leverage the power of a 4080 graphics card.

Antstream Arcade

Best for Gen X Gamers

Why We Picked It

If you like retro gaming, check out AntStream. This service focuses almost exclusively on 1980s-era arcade and computer titles (like Amiga, Commodore 64, and Spectrum ZX). Featuring more than 1,300 games, Antsream has one of the largest streaming libraries, but most of those options are at least 30 years old and may not appeal to everyone.

Who It’s For

This is strictly for retro gamers with a ton of nostalgia for arcade games from the mid-1990s and earlier, as well as for pre-Windows gaming computers. Where else can you stream games for the Amstrad?

Sony PlayStation Plus Premium

Best for PlayStation Fans

Why We Picked It

PlayStation Now was Sony’s dedicated game streaming service, but it’s since been rolled into the highest-tier PlayStation Plus subscription service. Unlike Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PlayStation Now doesn’t work with mobile devices and it doesn’t feel quite as responsive even under good network conditions. It also only streams up to PlayStation 4 games; you need a PS5 if you want to play games for that system.

Who It’s For

Dedicated PlayStation fans who want to play the entire PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog, as well as more recent PS4 games, on a PC.

Buying Guide: The Best Game Streaming Services for 2024

What Is a Game Streaming Service?

Game streaming lets you remotely access hardware on the service’s servers. You use a client to log into a powerful PC over the internet, and the games you play run on that PC instead of your own hardware. The client simply provides a live feed of the video and audio coming from the server hardware, and sends all of your inputs to that server to translate into gaming commands. Essentially, you’re controlling a computer that isn’t in front of you, and seeing everything that computer displays.

How Do You Stream Games?

As you can imagine, you need a fast network connection for these services to be useful. If your internet is slow or inconsistent, the inputs you send won’t come through properly, and you’ll experience gameplay lag and glitches. More than a fraction of a second of lag between your commands and the system responding can make a game unplayable.

Depending on the game streaming service, you’ll need an internet connection with speeds that are at least 5Mbps to 20Mbps. You don’t need a wired hookup, but it helps, as does 5GHz Wi-Fi. You don’t want to skimp on your router for these services, and you should seriously consider a fiber connection if it’s available in your area.

With a fast and consistent connection, gameplay can feel instantaneous, with input lag of milliseconds. This makes most games perfectly playable, though it might still be too slow for competitive gaming. If you’re controlling a multiplayer shooter or fighting game, every frame can make a difference, and you might not want to rely on a streaming service in those cases.

What Is the Best Game Streaming Platform?

Every publicly released game streaming service is available on Windows in some form, either as a dedicated app or in a web browser. This effectively lets you turn even a cheap work laptop into a high-end gaming PC. PC clients have the added benefit of supporting even faster and more stable Ethernet connections, in addition to Wi-Fi.

You can also use a smartphone to play games on most streaming services. Every service except PlayStation Now has an Android app, though the iOS game streaming ecosystem is a bit shakier with some services like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate using a browser app as a work-around from the iOS App Store. Just remember you’ll be playing console and PC games on a smaller smartphone or tablet screen, which can feel awkward.

Several of the services also have straight-to-TV options, either directly through a smart TV platform or with extra hardware like a media streamer. Amazon Luna works with Amazon Fire TV devices. Nvidia GeForce Now works with certain LG and Samsung TVs, and has an Android TV/Google TV app. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also works on recent Samsung TVs. PlayStation Now works on any PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5.

How Do You Play Games on Streaming Services?

You almost certainly need a gamepad. Amazon Luna works with some Bluetooth gamepads, but the Luna Controller is the best way to play over that service. GeForce Now works best with an Xbox Wireless Controller, but you can also use any XInput-compatible wireless gamepad. PlayStation Now is compatible with DualShock 4, DualSense, and Xbox controllers.

Shadow, meanwhile, works with any wired gamepad that’s compatible with Windows, but it doesn’t support Bluetooth controllers. You’ll also want a keyboard and mouse. After all, you’re accessing a Windows PC directly, so the ability to move a pointer and enter text is useful. You can use a touch screen and on-screen keyboard if you’re using the Shadow Android app, but if you want to get the most out of a Windows PC, you really need a mouse and keyboard.

Play More Games

If you’re looking for specific games to play through these services, check out The Best PC Games and The Best Xbox Games. Curious about owning your hardware? Take a look at The Best Gaming PCs.

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