Havn, the company behind cases such as the HS 420 and the more recent BF 360, has officially branched out into power delivery. Debuting at CES 2026, the Havn XR 1000W Platinum A++ is the manufacturer's first foray into the PSU space, and it appears to be aiming for the top of the enthusiast market. Built to the ATX 3.1 standard and featuring dual 12V-2×6 connectors, the XR Series is focused on high-performance stability and quiet acoustics.

Havn (via TechPowerUP) emphasised that the design was refined through extensive internal testing at its own lab to ensure the electrical performance meets the needs of next-gen hardware. The “A++” suffix in the name refers to its Cybenetics Lambda A++ acoustic rating, the highest possible certification for silence. The company claims the unit operates at under 15 dB(A) under typical loads, a feat achieved through a fully decoupled H Series cooling fan that borrows the vibration-dampening tech from Havn's H14 case fans.

The unit's industrial design is equally premium, featuring a monopart die-cast aluminium top that serves as both a structural element and an aerodynamic intake. This shroud is designed to guide airflow directly onto the internal components and fan blades with minimal turbulence, further reducing wind noise. Havn promises rock-solid 12V rail stability and superior transient response, ensuring that rapid power spikes characteristic of high-power GPUs are handled without triggering protections or inducing coil whine.

Moreover, the unit supports the Intel C6/C7 power states and a high-efficiency 5V standby (5VSB) rail for modern “Alternative Low Power” modes. Unfortunately, consumers will have to wait a few more months to get their hands on one, as the HAVN XR 1000W Platinum A++ is slated for a global release only in Q2/Q3 2026.

KitGuru says: Havn has already proven it can compete with the industry giants in the case market, so a move into premium PSUs is a logical next step. If the XR 1000W can truly deliver Platinum efficiency at sub-15 dB(A) noise levels, it will be a formidable rival to established “silent” flagships.

The post Havn enters the PSU market with XR 1000W Platinum A++ first appeared on KitGuru.

Cherry Xtrfy has utilised its CES 2026 appearance to show what it has been working on. With the industry moving towards magnetic switches (Hall Effect, TMR, and inductive being the three most common), Cherry has decided to follow the trend. The German company has settled on TMR, which measures changes in electrical resistance rather than voltage shifts. These new sensors can detect key travel with 0.01 mm resolution while drawing significantly less power, increasing the battery life of magnetic keyboards.

The first Cherry keyboard to use this technology is the MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless, a tenkeyless (TKL) chassis with a premium aluminium top frame and double-shot PBT keycaps. This model implements an 8,000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes. The Cherry MK Crystal Magnetic switches used on this board provide a linear feel, but the board's “DualMaster” hot-swap sockets allow users to mix and match standard mechanical MX switches.

For enthusiasts who prefer a smaller footprint, the K5 Pro TMR delivers the same technological advantages in a 65% more compact layout. This wired model builds on the foundation of the popular K5 series, replacing the standard mechanical switches with MK Crystal TMR units. Beyond the switch upgrade, the K5 Pro received a polling rate increase from 1,000 Hz to 8,000 Hz to ensure parity with the flagship TKL model. Both keyboards are fully supported by the new Cherry MagCrate software, which enables advanced features such as Rapid Trigger, Dynamic Keystroke (assigning up to four actions to a single key based on depth), and SnapKey for SOCD-like movement prioritisation.

The MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless is scheduled to hit retail shelves on January 29th, 2026, for €229.99/$249.99. The more compact K5 Pro TMR is slated for a spring release, with pricing to be confirmed closer to the launch.

KitGuru says: The ability to hot-swap between mechanical and magnetic switches on a single board is interesting, but we wonder whether buyers would actually take advantage of it.

The post Cherry Xtrfy debuts TMR magnetic keyboards at CES 2026 first appeared on KitGuru.

The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS) has officially unveiled the finalists for the 29th annual DICE Awards. This year, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Ghost of Yōtei are at the front of the pack, with both titles securing a staggering eight nominations each. Furthermore, Blue Prince received five nominations, while Death Stranding 2: On the Beach received four.

The AIAS jury for the DICE Awards provides a peer-voted counterpoint to the more commercial landscape of late 2025’s awards season. As such, it's expected to see some differences between the nominees and the award winners compared to the likes of TGA. Still, most of the time they do agree on the GOTY, with the exceptions being in 2015/2016 (TGA: The Witcher 3 vs D.I.C.E.: Fallout 4), 2019/2020 (TGA: Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice vs D.I.C.E.: Untitled Goose Game) and 2020/2021 (TGA: The Last of Us Part II vs D.I.C.E.: Hades).

This year, in the DICE Game of the Year category, Expedition 33 and Ghost of Yōtei will contest the awards against games like Arc Raiders and the critically acclaimed indies Blue Prince and Dispatch. The complete list of nominees can be found below:

Game of the Year

• Arc Raiders
• Blue Prince
• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Dispatch
• Ghost of Yōtei

Outstanding Achievement in Animation

• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
• Ghost of Yōtei
• Monster Hunter Wilds
• South of Midnight
• The Midnight Walk

Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
• Dispatch
• Ghost of Yōtei
• The Midnight Walk

Outstanding Achievement in Character

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – Esquie
• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – Maelle
• Dispatch – Courtney/Invisigal
• Dispatch – Robert Robertson III/Mecha Man
• Ghost of Yōtei – Atsu

Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Ghost of Yōtei
• Herdling
• Mario Kart World
• Sword of the Sea

Outstanding Achievement in Audio Design

• Arc Raiders
• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
• Ghost of Yōtei
• Lumines Arise
• Split Fiction

Outstanding Achievement in Story

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Consume Me
• Despelote
• South of Midnight
• The Drifter

Outstanding Technical Achievement

• Arc Raiders
• Assassin’s Creed Shadows
• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• Doom: The Dark Ages

Action Game of the Year

• Absolum
• Arc Raiders
• Doom: The Dark Ages
• Hades 2
• Ninja Gaiden 4

Adventure Game of the Year

• Blue Prince
• Dispatch
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• Ghost of Yōtei
• Hollow Knight: Silksong

Family Game of the Year

• Lego Party!
• Lego Voyagers
• Lumines Arise
• Marvel Cosmic Invasion
• Popucom

Fighting Game of the Year

• 2XKO
• Capcom Fighting Collection 2
• Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
• Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection
• WWE 2K25

Racing Game of the Year

• EA Sports F1 25
• Kirby Air Riders
• Mario Kart World
• Wheel World

Role-Playing Game of the Year

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
• Monster Hunter Wilds
• The Outer Worlds 2

Sports Game of the Year

• EA Sports FC 26
• PGA Tour 2K25
• MLB The Show 25
• NBA 2K26
• Rematch

Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year

• The Alters
• Drop Duchy
• Europa Universalis V
• The King is Watching
• StarVaders

Immersive Reality Technical Achievement

• Ghost Town
• Hotel Infinity
• Marvel’s Deadpool VR
• Star Wars: Beyond Victory – A Mixed Reality Playset
• Unloop

Immersive Reality Game of the Year

• Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked
• Ghost Town
• Marvel’s Deadpool VR
• The Midnight Walk
• Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow

Outstanding Achievement for an Independent Game

• Baby Steps
• Blue Prince
• Consume Me
• Despelote
• Dispatch

Mobile Game of the Year

• Persona 5: The Phantom X
• Umamusume: Pretty Derby
• What the Clash?
• Where Winds Meet

Online Game of the Year

• Arc Raiders
• Battlefield 6
• Mario Kart World
• Marvel Rivals
• Split Fiction

Outstanding Achievement in Game Design

• Arc Raiders
• Blue Prince
• Hades 2
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
• Öoo

Outstanding Achievement in Game Direction

• Blue Prince
• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
• Ghost of Yōtei
• Hades 2
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

The winners will be revealed during the 29th Annual DICE Awards, which will take place at the Aria Resort in Las Vegas on February 12th at 8:00 PM PT (February 13th at 4:00 AM GMT).

KitGuru says: While Clair Obscur remains the favourite following its success, the sudden surge of Dispatch suggests that late-year releases shouldn’t be counted out just yet.

The post Clair Obscur and Ghost of Yōtei lead 2026 DICE Awards nominations first appeared on KitGuru.

At CES this week, Geekom showcased multiple new laptop models, including what it claims to be the world's lightest all-metal laptop, weighing just 1kg and measuring in at just 0.23″ at its thinnest point.

The X14 Pro features a 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, aiming to deliver strong colour accuracy and clarity for creative workloads. Inside, it pairs Intel’s Core Ultra 9‑185H processor with 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD, giving it enough headroom for demanding multitasking and content‑creation tasks. GEEKOM rates the system for up to 16 hours of battery life, positioning it as a genuine all‑day device. A limited‑time two‑year warranty is also included.

Alongside the 14‑inch model, GEEKOM introduced the GeekBook X16 Pro. It carries the same core specifications but scales up to a 16‑inch display for users who need more screen space for complex layouts or multi‑window workflows.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Are you thinking about picking up a new laptop in 2026?

The post CES 2026: Geekom debuts ‘world’s lightest all-metal laptop’ first appeared on KitGuru.

While 2015’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is beloved by many for a plethora of reasons, one of the game’ shining hallmarks is its excellent DLC, with the Blood and Wine expansion in particular considered by many to be worth the price of a full game on its own. Following surprise rumours in recent weeks stating that The Witcher 3 is set to get a 3rd expansion over a decade on from launch, additional insiders have corroborated the claims.

Following the surprise report from analysts ‘Noble Securities’ claiming that The Witcher 3 will be getting a 3rd expansion in the lead-up to the in-development Witcher 4, additional sources have corroborated the rumours.

Alongside IGN Poland, the publication PPE.PL (who have leaked unannounced projects in the past) confirmed the unexpected rumours, writing (as translated): “Our own sources tipped us off about a new Wild Hunt project a year ago. In the first half of 2025, we were explicitly told that The Witcher 3 would receive massive new content that fans “’will absolutely love.’”

Though PPE did not have any further details on exactly what this project will entail, it seems clear that a 3rd Witcher 3 expansion is in the works. Though purely speculation, it’s possible that as with Cyberpunk’s recent updates, this Witcher DLC could be being developed by an external studio.

With whispers suggesting that a release could be as soon as this year, here’s to hoping we won’t have to wait long to find out.

KitGuru says: Are you surprised that The Witcher 3 is said to be getting more content? Have you played the game since its ray-tracing update? Let us know down below.

The post Multiple leakers corroborate surprise Witcher 3 expansion claims first appeared on KitGuru.

Lian Li brought a broad selection of new hardware to CES this year, expanding several of its most recognisable product lines with updated cases, cooling hardware and even desks. In our latest video, we break it all down and give you a first-hand look.

Watch via YouTube below:

Timestamps:
00:00 DK 07 Wood
01:27 DK B
02:43 Vector V 150 / SLC 360 LCD AIO
04:37 LanCool 4 – with Lian Li Boss Jameson
08:18 Flex fans updates
08:44 011 Vision M
10:16 B4-mATX Chassis
14:08 V2000

On the case side, Lian Li showcased new additions across its LANCOOL, O11 and Vector families. The LANCOOL 4, which was announced shortly before the event, appeared in its final form with the curved front panel and triple‑fan intake layout. The O11 Vision M also made a physical debut, presenting a wider internal layout and a revised chamber structure aimed at improving component clearance and airflow. Lian Li also displayed the Vector V150, a compact chassis with a hybrid mesh‑and‑glass front panel.

Cooling hardware was another major part of the booth, with new UniFan models drawing significant attention. Lian Li demonstrated its latest FLEX‑series fans, including versions equipped with LCD hubs and updated interlocking mechanisms designed to simplify cable management. These new models build on the UniFan concept with more flexible configurations and expanded visual options, giving builders additional ways to customise both airflow and aesthetics. The company also displayed the HydroShift II LCD CURVED 360 AIO, featuring a movable curved display integrated into the pump housing — a notable evolution of the HydroShift concept that was previewed late last year.

Lian Li’s desk‑style chassis also returned in updated form. The DK‑07 Wood and DK‑B models were shown with revised layouts, including sliding or retractable system compartments and integrated display elements.

KitGuru Says: What did you think of Lian Li's line-up for CES this year?

The post CES 2026: Lian Li launches Lancool 4, new desks and more first appeared on KitGuru.

Obsidian Entertainment is perhaps one of the busiest studios under Microsoft, with the Fallout: New Vegas maker having worked on 6 different games since being purchased by the console maker back in 2018. Despite having just released Avowed; Grounded 2 (in Early Access) and The Outer Worlds 2 last year, Obsidian is reportedly working on 4 different unannounced projects right now.

In a report by known Xbox insider Jez Corden discussing the future of Microsoft’s console throughout 2026 and beyond, the leaker claimed that Obsidian Entertainment is currently working on “four new projects, some big some small.”

As mentioned, Obsidian Entertainment has been one of Xbox’s most consistent studios, having released 3 games just last year: Avowed in February; Grounded 2’s Early Access in July and The Outer Worlds 2 this past October.

While they are unlikely to match that output in 2026, its possible we could see two projects from the team between now and December – one of which being a tiny Pentiment-styled affair and the other perhaps being the recently rumoured Fallout: New Vegas remaster (though that is likely being handled by an external studio).

Regardless, it is exciting to see that Obsidian has plenty more currently cooking in the oven. While none of their recent releases have managed to reach the heights of New Vegas, it is nice to have a team which can produce solid products at a consistent rate.

KitGuru says: What do you think of Obsidian post-Microsoft? Will they ever be able to surpass Fallout: New Vegas? What do you think these 4 projects are? Let us know down below.

The post Obsidian Entertainment reportedly has 4 projects in the works first appeared on KitGuru.

Nintendo made a killing with the Switch’s Joy-Cons, not only due to their tendency to drift leading fans to purchase additional units, but also thanks to the console maker’s release of countless different controller colours allowing a degree of customisation when playing in handheld. Nintendo appears to be continuing the practice with Switch 2 – though with admittedly much duller offerings so far.

As shared to their Nintendo Today news app, the console maker officially unveiled their first new set of Joy-Con 2 colours for the Switch 2.

Said to be made available from the 12th of February for £74.99 a pair, fans will soon be able to get their hands on Light Purple / Light Green Joy-Cons to go alongside the default Red and Blue.

Unfortunately, as with the base Joy-Cons, the colours are limited to the dome under the thumbsticks and the magnetic rail – meaning the colours will be hardly noticeable when in handheld.

In addition, these Joy-Cons will not match the Switch 2’s siderail colours as they were based on the original Red and Blue – though this too is hardly noticeable (for the better this time).

Regardless, having more colour options is welcome to see, even if the current crop do little to make the console look different. Hopefully future releases include more all-encompassing colouring.

KitGuru says: What do you think of these new Joy-Cons? Has Nintendo kept things too low-key with the Switch 2? Will we get more vibrant options in the future? Let us know your thoughts down below.

The post Nintendo unveils first set of new Joy-Con 2 colours first appeared on KitGuru.

At CES this week, we stopped by the Endorfy booth to get a look at new peripherals hitting the market early this year, including new keyboards and mice, a new PC chassis and more.

Watch via YouTube below:

 

Timestamps:

• 00:00 New Keyboards and Mice
• 01:33 Aquarius 8000 Case
• 02:09 Viro Infras Wireless and Viro Wireless
• 03:00 Solum 2 Pro and Solum 2 Mics
• 03:48 Power Supplies

If you’ve used Endorfy keyboards before and felt the RGB wasn’t quite bright enough, the upcoming Thock V2 addresses that with brighter LEDs, along with magnetic switches for even faster response times and greater control over actuation points, making it an ideal choice for gaming desks around the world. Endorfy is also expanding its mouse range with new LIV mice, with a new grey colour option hitting the market. A new LIV mouse built with magnesium alloy is also coming out, which sheds weight even further while retaining rigidity, despite all of the cut-outs across the mouse shell to keep weight to a minimum.

Another product Endorfy is showing is the Aquarius 8000. The “8000” refers to the height class, and a smaller 6000 model is also on the way. The case ships with ARGB fans and supports Project Zero‑style back‑to‑front builds. This chassis also addresses the airflow complaints of previous ‘fishtank' style cases by putting mesh vents all along the bottom of the case, with more perforations along the back panel and roof. Availability is expected toward the end of Q1, with pricing around €139.

Endorfy also has two new wireless Viro headsets. One of the models we saw on show has a battery life of around 24 hours, which is pretty strong and more than enough to get you through a day of gaming. However, the second headset pushes for a 120-hour battery life, which could potentially get you through many gaming sessions over the course of a week without needing to reach for a charging cable. We expect to see these headsets again later in Q1 once they are ready to hit retail.

Endorfy has a wide range of Solum branded microphones on the market but this year, we are getting the Solum 2 and the Solum 2 Pro. These are standalone microphones, featuring a twist dial at the base that switches between volume and gain, so you'll be able to make adjustments on the fly without diving into any software. These are expected to enter full production soon, with availability between March and April. Pricing is around €99 for the Pro, €85 for the standard model, and roughly €70 for the entry‑level ‘Core' version. USB and 3.5mm connectivity is provided on the rear.

Finally, Endorfy has new Supremo Gold PSUs hitting the market, offering fully modular cabling at decent price points to make them more accessible to PC builders on tighter budgets.

KitGuru Says: We look forward to getting a more in-depth look at Endorfy's new peripherals and hardware in the coming months.

The post CES 2026: Endorfy launches new cases, wireless peripherals and more first appeared on KitGuru.

COUGAR has outlined its 2026 lineup at CES, presenting a range of new PC cases, power supplies and an updated ergonomic gaming chair.

The new case lineup includes the CFV235‑G, a special‑edition variant of the CFV235 series featuring a full glass front panel and graffiti‑style branding. It retains the Central Floating Ventilation structure, a suspended partition between the PSU and main chamber that converts unused internal space into an active intake path, with glass side panels maintaining a panoramic view of the system. The MX600 Max continues the series’ airflow‑focused design, using square perforations and a refined dual‑curve airflow ramp to direct air from its front‑mounted 200mm ARGB PWM fans. A modular I/O panel allows flexible case orientation, and a detachable top cover simplifies installation.

The Duoair supports both mesh‑front and glass‑front configurations, with the PSU compartment moved to the front to create a recessed intake channel feeding angled bottom fans, enabling support for GPUs up to 410mm and shipping with dual 140mm ARGB PWM fans. Rounding out the cases, the FV130 adopts a compact dual‑chamber layout with the PSU relocated to the secondary chamber, opening space for an angled bottom fan intended to eliminate dead‑air pockets while still supporting 410mm GPUs and reverse‑connector motherboards.

COUGAR is also updating its gaming chair lineup with the Terminator Air, which introduces a mechanical Dynamic Adaptive Support system built around the company’s “Second Spine” design. The chair adjusts its alignment automatically as the user shifts posture, with manual controls for backrest height and seat depth, weight‑balanced tilt control and 3D rotating armrests.

The power‑supply range expands with three updated series. The Polar V2 line (1200/1000/850) is fully modular and 80 PLUS Platinum certified, exceeding ATX3.1 requirements with a 300% power‑excursion tolerance for dual‑GPU systems. It uses Japanese capacitors, eight protection circuits and a 130mm FDB fan inside a 150mm chassis. The PV series (1200/1000/850) also carries 80 PLUS Platinum certification with up to 92% efficiency, native PCIe 5.1 support and Japanese capacitors cooled by a 140mm FDB fan. The GQ series (850/750) targets compact builds with an 80 PLUS Gold rating, up to 90% efficiency, ATX3.1 compliance and native PCIe 5.1 support, built in a 140mm‑deep form factor and cooled by a 120mm rifle‑bearing fan.

KitGuru Says: The new Cougar chair looks particularly nice. 

The post CES 2026: Cougar launches new self-adjusting chair, PSUs, cases and more first appeared on KitGuru.

At the tail-end of last year, Microsoft casually confirmed that they would be hosting another edition of their annual Xbox Developer Direct this January. With January 2026 here, the console maker has now made the announcement official – confirming that Fable, Forza Horizon 6 and more will be shown off.

Making the announcement via their Xbox Wire blog, Editor-in-Chief Joe Skrebels officially confirmed the premiere date for their 2026 Developer Direct, writing: “2026 is going to be an incredible year for Xbox players – you might even call it a… fabled year. To celebrate, we’re kicking it off with the fourth installment of our Developer_Direct broadcast on January 22, bringing you news, new gameplay, and insights directly from the incredible teams working on titles coming this year.”

As with previous Directs, Microsoft is choosing to focus on a select number of titles, with this year’s headliners being:

• Fable
• Forza Horizon 6
• Beast of Reincarnation

Playground Games’ Forza Horizon 6 was previously announced to be present at this event and so its inclusion is not too shocking. That said, the fact that we will get to see more Fable is somewhat of a surprise given that it too is being developed at Playground Games (albeit by a different team).

For the uninitiated, Beast of Reincarnation is an impressive-looking action-RPG from GameFreak – the studio behind the Pokemon series. Looking unlike anything else the team has worked on previously, Beast of Reincarnation showcases what Game Freak is capable of, and so it will be highly interesting to learn more about this somewhat mysterious project.

Though only 3 titles were officially confirmed for the showcase, just like last year it seems a surprise game is planned to be shown off, with insider Shinobi602 stating “There's a ‘secret' fourth game.”

Regardless of whether there is a secret game or not, it will be exciting to learn more about Forza Horizon 6, Fable and Beast of Reincarnation in just a couple weeks’ time. The Xbox Developer Direct will go live on the 22nd of January at 6PM GMT.

KitGuru says: Are you looking forward to the Developer Direct? What did you think of previous years’ showings? What do you think this secret 4th game will be? Let us know down below.

The post 2026 Xbox Developer Direct will include Fable, Forza and more first appeared on KitGuru.

Gigabyte is finishing up its CES announcements this week with the reveal of several new laptop models. The new models house the latest Ryzen CPUs and RTX graphics, with new AI features designed to make hardware and software management easier.

The updated GiMATE interface consolidates real‑time system information, voice‑driven controls and hardware management into a single interface aimed at simplifying navigation and day‑to‑day adjustments. The GiMATE ecosystem is also being expanded. AI Power Gear III now supports direct MUX switching between Discrete Mode and MSHybrid, while offering several automated power profiles: Auto Mode disables the GPU on battery to extend runtime, Optimus Mode targets balanced performance and Eco Mode prioritises maximum power saving. GiMATE Creator adds support for Qwen‑Image for English and Chinese visual‑generation prompts, and GiMATE Coder introduces natural‑language code generation, correction and optimisation.

Moving on to the new laptops themselves, there are three models to look at, headlined by the Aorus Master 16. This laptop is positioned as the flagship for 2026, pairing AMD’s Ryzen 9 9955HX3D with an RTX 5090 Laptop GPU inside a 19mm chassis, a notable reduction in thickness compared to the previous generation. The system uses the company’s WINDFORCE Infinity EX cooling design, combining a vapor chamber with an asymmetric Frost Fan layout to manage the thermal load of high‑end components in a thin‑and‑light form factor. This model is clearly aimed at users who want desktop‑class performance in a portable footprint.

For creators and mobile professionals, the AERO X16 shifts the focus toward efficiency and on‑device AI acceleration. It is built around AMD’s Ryzen AI 400 series processors, which are designed to improve responsiveness and handle heavier AI‑assisted workloads without relying on cloud processing. GIGABYTE positions this model as the more mobility‑friendly option in the lineup, with an emphasis on creative workflows and general productivity.

Rounding out the range is the GAMING A18 PRO, which offers a more balanced configuration. With a 20mm profile and support for up to an RTX 5080 Laptop GPU, it targets users who want strong gaming and content‑creation performance without stepping into flagship territory. GIGABYTE frames this model as a versatile choice for mainstream gamers, hybrid creators and users beginning to explore AI‑accelerated applications.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Are you thinking of picking up a new laptop this year?

The post CES 2026: Gigabyte unveils new laptop range, including high-end Aorus Master 16 first appeared on KitGuru.

At CES this week, Gigabyte has introduced four new OLED gaming monitors to its line-up, focusing heavily on picture-quality tuning for HDR and SDR content. The key new feature is HyperNits, which aims to address issues with HDR modes appearing dim by boosting the brightness curve without blowing out highlights.

For HDR, GIGABYTE is introducing a set of tuned HDR Picture Modes including HDR Movie, HDR Game and HDR Vivid, alongside a new feature called HyperNits. Many OLED panels appear dim in HDR peak‑brightness modes due to APL constraints, and HyperNits aims to counter this by reshaping the EOTF curve to boost brightness by up to 30% without blowing out highlights. Users can select HyperNits High for maximum output or HyperNits Medium for a milder 20% lift.

SDR content is handled by a new AI Picture Mode trained on a large dataset to automatically adjust settings based on activity. It can reduce brightness and blue light for work, increase contrast and adjust gamma for movies, or activate AI Black Equalizer for improved visibility in FPS titles. Adjustments are applied dynamically in real time.

These new displays will also come with a new set of Gigabyte's ‘Tactical Features'. Tactical Switch 2.0 enables one‑click switching between resolutions and aspect ratios such as 4:3 or 5:4, while Ultra Clear is designed to improve motion clarity and reduce blur in fast‑moving content.

The CES lineup includes the ultra‑wide QD‑OLED MO34WQC36 and the 4K QD‑OLED MO32U24, both featuring the new ObsidianShield film and DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification. ObsidianShield is said to improve perceived black levels by up to 40% and increases surface hardness from 2H to 3H for better scratch resistance. The MO34WQC36 also adopts a new V‑stripe sub‑pixel structure for improved text clarity. Rounding out the range is the MO27Q28GR, which uses RealBlack Glossy 4th‑gen WOLED technology and carries UL certification for bright‑room black performance.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Are you thinking of making the jump to a new-gen OLED display this year?

The post CES 2026: Gigabyte unveils new-gen OLED monitors first appeared on KitGuru.

PNY has officially entered the 2026 Small Form Factor (SFF) market at CES 2026, unveiling a trio of Blackwell-based graphics cards designed to fit where most modern flagships cannot. The new GeForce RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5070 Slim models all adhere to a strict dual-slot, 40mm-thick design, making them suitable for SFF builds. By leveraging a redesigned thermal solution that utilises a vapour chamber and an aluminium backplate, PNY aims to provide the full performance of Nvidia's reference specifications without the massive physical footprint

The flagship of this compact series is the PNY GeForce RTX 5080 16GB Slim. PNY is shipping both standard and factory-overclocked versions, with the OC model boosting up to 2730MHz. Cooling a 360W TDP dual-slot card measuring 300mm in length and 40mm in thickness is no small feat, which is why PNY has equipped the 5080 with dual 120mm fans. These fans are designed to move more air at lower RPMs, theoretically keeping the noise floor manageable even during heavy 4K gaming loads

Sitting just below the flagship, the RTX 5070 Ti Slim is arguably the most interesting entry for SFF builders, as Nvidia isn't producing a Founders Edition for this SKU. PNY's version has a 300W TDP and fits into a slightly shorter 290mm chassis. Further down the stack, the RTX 5070 Slim is even smaller, measuring 128mm wide and featuring a pair of 100mm fans. All three models use a PCIe 5.0 interface and offer modern display connectivity, including three DisplayPort 2.1b outputs and a single HDMI 2.1b port.

Software control is handled by PNY's VelocityX suite, which allows for real-time telemetry monitoring, custom fan curves and manual OC. While the cards lack the ARGB lighting found on the more mainstream Epic-X series, the clean, industrial aesthetic is clearly aimed at users who prefer performance over flair. PNY expects these units to hit retail shelves in February 2026.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: PNY is filling a gap in the market here, particularly with the dual-slot RTX 5070 Ti. For those building in restrictive spaces, these Slim models might be one of the few ways to get a high-end RTX 50 card on their systems.

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Following the launch of its Panorama series last year, Tryx has made a mark on the PC hardware market. At CES 2026, the brand is expanding its lineup to new segments with a trio of products that push the limits of how much screen real estate you can realistically fit inside a chassis. Headlining the launch is the Stage 360 AIO, a liquid cooler that ditches the single-panel approach for a unique “spliced” dual-display setup. Alongside the AIO comes a “lifestyle” chassis with a cross-flow fan design and the company’s first high-end CPU cooler, the Turris 620.

The Stage 360 liquid cooler offers an upgrade over typical LCD-on-pump systems. Rather than a single large screen, Tryx has integrated two 4.0-inch IPS displays onto an aluminium pump base, “spliced” together to create a continuous visual stage. With a pixel density of 254 PPI and a 720×720 resolution per panel, the visual fidelity is high enough to display detailed animations or even support small physical figurines placed on the base. Configuration is handled through the company’s Kanali software. Under the hood, the unit relies on 8th-gen Asetek technology and triple Rota SL ARGB fans to handle a rated TDP of 280W.

Moving to the chassis, the Flova F50 mid-tower was designed to blend a PC case with home aesthetics. The case features ventilated fabric-finished panels available in black, white or pink. However, the real innovation is the proprietary Tryx Cross-Flow (TCF) fan. Unlike traditional axial fans that push air in a straight line, the TCF is a side-mounted drum-style fan that creates a 90-degree airflow channel. This uniform wall of air is intended to eliminate dead spots over the motherboard and GPU while operating at an ultra-quiet 20 dBA. The case is also modern in its compatibility, offering full support for back-connect motherboards like Asus BTF and MSI Project Zero.

For those who prefer air cooling but still want the “screen-on-everything” aesthetic, the Turris 620 aims to deliver. This dual-tower heatsink features a massive 5.0-inch ultra-wide HD IPS display that is magnetically mounted to the top. The cooler uses a six-heatpipe configuration and a nickel-plated micro-convex base, and it can tame CPUs up to 280W. Installation is simplified through a rail system for the Rota fans, allowing them to be snapped into place without the usual struggle of wire clips.

The Stage 360 is expected to hit European shelves in February 2026 for £199.99/€229.99. The Flova F50 will arrive around the same time, starting at £129.99/€144.99, while the Turris 620 is slated for a March release with pricing to be confirmed closer to launch.

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KitGuru says: The engineering behind the Flova F50's cross-flow fan is legitimately interesting. If that TCF fan can actually deliver on its promise of silent, uniform cooling, Tryx might have more than just coolers with big displays on its hands.

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Since the launch of the PlayStation 5 back in 2020, Sony has kept the console feeling fresh thanks to plenty of additional accessories and customisation options. Joining the line-up in 2026 is the PS5’s new Hyperpop Collection – featuring bright and colourful face plates and DualSense controllers.

Making the announcement via the PlayStation Blog, the VP of global marketing at SIE Isabelle Tomatis officially unveiled the Hyperpop Collection: Featuring three new striking designs for DualSense wireless controllers and PS5 console covers.”

With a shiny/glossy finish complimented by a mix of bright colours transitioning into black, the Hyperpop collection is perhaps one of the PS5’s best-looking after-market accessories yet – second only to their ‘Chroma’ series.

The PS5 Hyperpop Collection is available in 3 colours (Techno Red, Remix Green, Rhythm Blue) and will be pre-orderable from the 16th of January – with shipping commencing from the 12th of March.

Additional details on the new console covers and DualSense controllers can be found HERE.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the PS5’s customisation compared to previous generations? Were the face plates a good idea? Which collection has been your favourite so far? Let us know your thoughts down below.

The post Sony unveils new limited edition Hyperpop PS5 DualSense and accessories first appeared on KitGuru.

MSI has officially launched the MPG 272QRF X36, a monitor developed in close partnership with Nvidia to spearhead the arrival of G‑Sync Pulsar technology. Aimed at the competitive gaming market, this 27‑inch Rapid IPS display pairs a native WQHD (2560 x 1440) resolution with a 360Hz refresh rate. While high‑refresh displays are increasingly common in the competitive scene, the MPG 272QRF X36 distinguishes itself by finally unifying variable refresh rate (VRR) and backlight strobing without the traditional compromises of flickering or screen tearing

Nvidia’s G‑Sync Pulsar technology is what makes this possible. Historically, gamers had to choose between the stutter‑free experience of G‑Sync and the superior motion clarity of backlight strobing (ULMB). Pulsar eliminates this by using variable‑frequency backlight strobing to synchronise with the GPU’s fluctuating frame rate. By dividing the backlight into multiple horizontal sections and utilising a “rolling scan” technique, the monitor pulses the backlight for only 25% of each frame duration. This ensures pixels have time to stabilise before they are illuminated, resulting in what Nvidia claims is a fourfold improvement in motion clarity (240 FPS has the motion clarity of 960Hz).

Beyond raw speed, the MPG 272QRF X36 integrates several quality‑of‑life features for varying environments. The G‑Sync Ambient Adaptive system utilises an on‑board light sensor to monitor the user’s surroundings, automatically adjusting brightness and colour temperature to maintain optimal contrast while reducing eye strain. Competitive players who still prefer lower resolutions for performance reasons will also find value in the 25″ Mode simulation. This feature provides pixel‑perfect scaling for resolutions such as 1920 x 1080 and 1280 x 960, allowing players to use a smaller windowed area with reduced interpolation artefacts or blur.

The monitor uses a Rapid IPS panel with 10‑bit colour support (8‑bit + FRC) and a peak brightness rating of 500 nits. Connectivity includes dual HDMI 2.1 ports and a DisplayPort 1.4a input. The display also supports user‑updatable firmware directly from Nvidia, allowing the G‑Sync module to receive performance optimisations post‑purchase. The MPG 272QRF X36 is priced at $649.99.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Nvidia's G-Sync Pulsar is very promising. However, considering you're getting a 27-inch IPS panel when you could get a 27/32-inch 4K OLED monitor for the same price, potential buyers will have to evaluate if they really value motion clarity that much.

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At CES this week, we stopped by to visit US PC maker, Digital Storm. At their booth, we got a look at the new Vector and Aventum 5 systems, each taking a different approach to high-end computing.

The Digital Storm Vector is designed as a slimmer, more compact alternative to traditional ATX towers, fitting high‑end components into a chassis just 4 inches wide. It emphasises performance density, managing heat, airflow and acoustics within a constrained volume while still supporting powerful CPUs and modern GPUs. In its top configurations, the Vector can be equipped with an NVIDIA RTX 6000 Pro Blackwell GPU paired with either an AMD Ryzen 9 9950X or an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor.

The Aventum 5 is Digital Storm’s latest fully liquid‑cooled desktop, redesigned to prioritise radiator capacity, airflow routing and serviceability for long‑duration CPU and GPU workloads. The system is built to keep next‑generation CPUs and RTX 6000‑class GPUs operating at boost clocks for extended periods without throttling. A large display is integrated directly into the chassis, providing real‑time system monitoring stats such as temperatures, clock speeds, utilisation and cooling performance without relying on overlays or additional monitors.

Both the Vector and Aventum 5 PCs will be available with a wide range of configuration options, including the latest desktop platforms from AMD and Intel, NVIDIA GPUs up to the RTX 6000 Pro Blackwell, large memory capacities, fast NVMe storage and high‑end power supplies. The Aventum 5 is expected to start at around $3,000 USD. Meanwhile, the Vector will start at approximately $2,000 USD. Both are expected to be available to order through Digital Storm starting in Q2.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: These aren't so much gaming PCs but rather AI development powerhouses.

The post CES 2026: Digital Storm debuts new prebuilt PCs with RTX Pro Blackwell graphics first appeared on KitGuru.

In the wake of last year’s highly-successful The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, we began to hear an increasing number of leaks and rumours suggesting that Fallout 3 would be next in line to receive such a treatment. Though yet to be officially confirmed, insiders have claimed that not only is Fallout 3 set to get a remaster, but the much-loved New Vegas too.

As claimed by known Xbox insider Jez Corden via Windows Central, “we are eventually getting a Fallout 3 remake in the vein of Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.”

This far from surprising given both the success of Oblivion Remastered and the fact that a Fallout 3 remaster was leaked by Microsoft themselves back in 2023. What is more interesting however is that according to Corden the much-loved Fallout: New Vegas is also set to receive a similar treatment.

While Fallout 3 has plenty of fans, New Vegas in particular has come to be known as one of the best RPGs of all time and so it getting a remaster in particular would be exciting indeed.

That said, while the Oblivion remaster was received warmly, it suffers from plenty of performance issues owing in part to its Unreal Engine 5 layer. Assuming Fallout 3 and New Vegas will be handled in the same way, here’s to hoping that more time is dedicated to making the experience a smooth one – though this might be asking too much from Bethesda.

KitGuru says: What do you think of this latest claim? Which of the two games would you want to see remastered first? What were your overall thoughts on Oblivion Remastered? Let us know down below.

The post Fallout: New Vegas remaster reportedly in the works alongside Fallout 3 first appeared on KitGuru.

CyberPowerPC is well known for its pre-built gaming PCs in both the US and the UK. This year at CES, the company is showcasing something for the DIY market – a new PC case designed in-house, built around a minimalist design that hides most structural and cooling elements while keeping key components on display. It is also one of the first DIY PC cases on the market to use woven steel mesh rather than standard mesh panels, heavily reducing noise resonance while maintaining strong airflow channels. 

You can get a good look at the CyberPowerPC MA-01 chassis in the video and gallery above, but for those who would prefer to read, you can find a full breakdown of this chassis below based on the details shared so far.

One of the standout features of the MA-01 is the use of woven steel mesh, a first of its kind in the PC case market. The mesh varies in porosity and depth to reduce high‑frequency resonance, lowering exhaust noise by up to 30% while maintaining airflow. The MA‑01 also conceals fans, radiators and lighting behind sculpted internal covers, with all illumination engineered to shine indirectly through vent slits and adjacent surfaces to create a soft ambient glow rather than visible LED hotspots.

Other design elements include angled vent covers that guide intake air directly onto heat‑critical components, precision‑moulded I/O shrouds that absorb side impacts and reduce insertion wear, and support for both standard ATX and back‑connect BTF‑style motherboards. The chassis also uses two curved glass panels that meet without a corner pillar, providing an unobstructed view of the GPU, CPU cooler and memory. Analog RGB dials offer software‑free control across the full 16.7‑million‑colour spectrum, with secondary push functions for colour jumping, effect modes and brightness.

The MA‑01 measures in at 460 x 235 x 498mm and has the space for seven expansion slots, two 3.5-inch drive bays, one 2.5-inch drive bay, up to ten 120mm fans and support for 360mm or 240mm liquid cooling radiators in the front and top. Component clearances include 420mm for GPUs, 185mm for CPU coolers and 200mm for power supplies.

CyberPowerPC will offer the MA‑01 in Satin Dark Silver, Satin Matte Off White and Satin Matte Steel Gray colour options. The Chrome Steel version will launch at $149.99, while the Stainless Steel model will be priced at $249.99, with availability expected in early Q2 2026.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: We'll be looking forward to getting our hands on this for a review in the future. What do you think of this new case from CyberPower? Would you like to build in one of these?

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At CES this week Kioxia is launching its BG7 series SSDs at CES 2026, marking the first client‑focused drives to use the company’s eighth‑generation BiCS Flash paired with its new CMOS‑Bonded‑to‑Array (CBA) architecture. The update targets thin‑and‑light notebooks, compact desktops and OEM systems, promising stronger performance and improved power efficiency over the previous BG6 generation.

The move to BiCS Flash Gen 8 brings a notable uplift in throughput. Kioxia rates the BG7 for up to 7,000MB/s sequential reads and as much as 1,000,000 IOPS in random workloads, translating to roughly a 10% improvement in random performance and around 16% in sequential reads compared to BG6. Power efficiency sees the biggest generational jump with sequential‑write efficiency up by approximately 67%. This improvement is achieved through a combination of CBA‑enhanced memory cells, refined control circuitry and an updated SSD controller.

The BG7 series also expands the physical formats available. Alongside the familiar M.2 2230 and 2280 options, Kioxia is adding a new M.2 2242 model to support a wider range of OEM designs and space‑constrained systems. NVMe 2.0d support has been introduced as well, giving system builders finer control over power states and device behaviour.

As with previous entries in the BG line, the BG7 remains a DRAM‑less design, relying on Host Memory Buffer (HMB) to keep costs down while maintaining responsiveness. Capacities span 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB, and the drives connect over PCIe 4.0. Security‑conscious deployments can opt for models supporting TCG Opal 2.01 self‑encrypting drive functionality.

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KitGuru Says: With DRAM being in short supply for consumer-oriented products at the moment, DRAM-less SSDs should become more prominent across the consumer market.

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The Wolfenstein series saw a massive resurgence in popularity following the release of 2014’s pseudo-reboot The New Order and 2017’s The New Colossus…with the 2019 spin-off Youngblood being a bit more contentious. After taking a break from the series to work on Indiana Jones and The Great Circle, the team behind the two mainline modern Wolfenstein titles – Machine Games – are reportedly developing a proper 3rd entry.

First reported by known Xbox leaker Jez Corden in a piece discussing the future of Xbox in 2026 and beyond, the insider claimed to have “heard that Wolfenstein III is also on the cards to coincide with the upcoming Wolfenstein Amazon TV show.”

Though far from definitive at the time, the publication Kotaku have since corroborated the claim, stating that they “can confirm it’s true from our own sources.”

Given that the team only recently released Indiana Jones and The Great Circle back in late 2024 (and have worked on various ports and updates since), don’t expect Wolfenstein 3 to arrive any time soon.

That said, back in October the team at Machine Games did tease that work on their next project had officially begun, and so it’s possible we could get an early initial announcement in the not-too-distant future. We will have to wait and see.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the modern Wolfenstein games? Did you enjoy Indiana Jones? How long do you think we’ll have to wait for an official announcement? Let us know down below.

The post Wolfenstein 3 reportedly in development according to multiple insiders first appeared on KitGuru.

This week at CES we caught up with Thermaltake to get a first-hand look at their new product launches. In our video, we take you through it all, direct from the CES show floor.

Watch via YouTube below:

Timestamps:
00:00 View Cross TG Case
00:40 GK500 Go-Kart Simulator
01:08 GR900 Racing Simulator Cockpit
01:25 GR700 Racing Race Car Simulator
01:41 Race peripherials
01:53 New Fan Series
02:29 New System components
02:46 AI Forge Software
03:16 Core PX Series Cases
03:50 Power Supplies
04:24 Retro Gaming Kit

Thermaltake’s View 370 TG ARGB is a mid‑tower chassis built around panoramic presentation, using a four‑piece tempered‑glass layout that wraps across the front and side for full component visibility. It supports Mini‑ITX to ATX boards, including hidden‑connector designs from ASUS, MSI, and Gigabyte, and offers room for up to ten 120mm fans and 360mm radiators, with two ARGB fans pre‑installed. The case also supports vertical GPU mounting and an optional 6‑inch LCD panel on the PSU shroud for system stats or custom graphics via TT RGB Plus 3.0. Front I/O includes USB‑C, dual USB‑A, and HD audio, while removable dust filters cover the major intake points for easier upkeep.

Next up we have the new Retro Series, which brings 90s workstation styling to modern hardware. Starting with the compact Retro 260 TG mATX chassis, despite its old-school look this case supports hidden‑connector motherboards, up to nine 120mm fans, a 280mm top radiator, and the company’s optional 6‑inch LCD display. The larger Retro 360 TG scales the design to a mid‑tower with ATX support, room for twelve 120mm fans, dual 360mm radiator mounts, and updated front I/O including USB‑C. Rounding out the lineup is the Retro Ultra ARGB Sync AIO cooler, which will be available in 240mm and 360mm sizes and features a CRT‑inspired 3.6‑inch LCD display on the CPU block.

Thermaltake is also expanding its sim‑racing portfolio at CES with three new cockpits and updated peripherals. The flagship GR900 uses an anodised aluminium profile frame with extensive adjustability and support for single or triple displays and can be paired with motion systems for full professional‑grade feedback. The GR700 offers a more accessible tubular‑steel design with support for belt‑ and direct‑drive wheels, an integrated monitor mount, and optional 3DOF motion for added immersion. For karting fans, the GK500 delivers an authentic low‑slung posture with adjustable seating, steering and pedals for both children and adults. Aside from the new cockpits, Thermaltake also has new wheel and pedal sets coming out, including the XRW G1 steering wheel with a five‑inch touchscreen, RGB indicators, Hall‑effect paddles and CNC‑machined construction, plus the XRP L1 load‑cell pedal set built around a 200kg sensor, adjustable pedal mechanics and high‑resolution Hall sensors for precise braking control.

On the power supply front Thermaltake has something quite innovative on show. The Golden Track Series offers a new modular approach to power supplies, launching in 750W, 850W, 1000W and 1200W models, built around a new gold‑finger connector that links the power‑supply body to a fixed rear backplane. Instead of unplugging cables or re‑routing wiring, users can swap the PSU module itself for a higher‑wattage unit while leaving the interface and all cabling in place.

Last on our list we have two design‑focused updates: Transformative Teal, a new blue‑green colourway being applied across several existing chassis, and the TR100 Koralie Edition, a limited‑run artistic re‑skin of the company’s compact Mini‑ITX case. Transformative Teal is positioned as a calming, sustainability‑inspired shade that will appear on refreshed versions of The Tower 600, View 390 Air and View 600 TG, while the TR100 Koralie Edition adds a deep blue finish and geometric motifs created with French artist Koralie Carmen Flores.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: What did you think of Thermaltake's CES showing this year? 

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In recent years Call of Duty has ramped up the number and intensity of their crossover events – with Black Ops 6 being the most egregious in this regard. Following plenty of backlash, Activision seems to have toned down their plans for Black Ops 7, officially announcing a somewhat more grounded Fallout crossover.

Though initially teased late last year, the team at Treyarch / Activision have now fully unveiled the first crossover coming to Black Ops 7; with COD x Fallout officially launching on the 8th of January alongside Season 1 Reloaded.

In what might be their most comprehensive crossover yet, this limited-time event will of course include the obligatory event pass (featuring both a paid and free track to earn various Fallout-themed cosmetics).

In addition, a paid bundle will be made available for purchase which focuses on Amazon’s Fallout show protagonist Lucy.

In terms of actual content however, the crossover will introduce a bunch of new modes across the board including:

• Deathclaw Hunt World Event [Endgame]
• Nuketown map variant ‘Vault Town’ [Multiplayer]
• S.P.E.C.I.A.L. Mayhem mode [Multiplayer]
• The Ghouls mode [Multiplayer]
• Project RADS mode [Zombies]
• Power Armor Royale [Warzone]

While a far cry from some of Fortnite’s more all-encompassing cross-overs, this latest collab will likely go down much more smoothly in the eyes of fans when compared to Black Ops 6’s offerings. We will have to wait and see – but with Microsoft owning both Call of Duty and Fallout, they’ll likely be winning either way.

KitGuru says: What do you think of Season 1 Reloaded? Are you looking forward to the crossover? How does it compare to BO6’s best? Let us know down below.

The post Black Ops 7 x Fallout officially unveiled and detailed first appeared on KitGuru.