Phanteks has announced the official launch of the XT M3, the latest addition to its XT chassis family. This new micro-ATX offering is designed for gamers and PC builders seeking a blend of high-end performance, exceptional airflow, and a clean, contemporary design—all within an accessible price bracket.

The XT M3 emphasises user-friendliness with its toolless side panels, providing easy access to the interior. Despite its compact footprint, this chassis boasts impressive internal capacity, supporting up to nine fans. It comes pre-installed with three M25 120 mm fans, ensuring a solid cooling foundation right out of the box. The XT M3 also supports 360 mm radiators on the top panel for those who prefer liquid cooling. Furthermore, triple fan mounts allow users to ventilate the graphics card directly.

The interior also accommodates full-size GPUs and is compatible with rear-connect motherboards, facilitating incredibly clean cable routing for a clutter-free interior. Moreover, the XT M3 includes a front I/O panel featuring USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 and USB-A 3.0 ports, ensuring modern connectivity options for peripherals.

The Phanteks XT M3 is now available with three M25 fans included or fanless. The version with three pre-installed fans is priced at £59.99/$69.99/€69.90, while the fanless variant is priced at £49.99/€59.90. Both versions are offered in black and white finishes.

KitGuru says: Which colour option of the XT M3 do you like the most?

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If you have an Nvidia RTX graphics card, you might want to check the rewards section of the Nvidia App, as the company currently offers a free subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud. This promotion allows you to try out a broad suite of Adobe's professional photo and video editing tools, including Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, without an immediate financial commitment.

To be eligible for this offer, you must own an RTX GPU from one of the past three generations. The duration of the free trial varies based on the generation of your card: if you have a GeForce RTX 30 or RTX 40 series card, you'll receive one free month of Adobe Creative Cloud. However, if you own an RTX 50 series GPU, Nvidia is doubling that offer, providing two free months instead.

Furthermore, RTX 50 series GPU owners receive an exclusive bonus: access to Adobe's Substance 3D collection. This reward grants entry to five distinct Adobe applications, such as 3D Sampler, 3D Designer, and 3D Painter, and a substantial content library that can be valuable for game development and other 3D creative projects. A full Adobe Creative Cloud subscription typically costs around $69 per month, so these offers represent a significant value proposition.

A key detail to remember when claiming this reward is that you must provide payment information to Adobe for the one- or two-month trial. After the complimentary period concludes, your subscription will automatically renew, and you will be charged the standard monthly fee. If you do not intend to continue your membership, you must cancel your subscription before your free month or two expires to avoid any charges. It's also important to note that this reward is exclusively for first-time Adobe Creative Cloud users.

KitGuru says: Do you have an RTX 30, 40, or 50 series card? Are you planning to register it to take advantage of Adobe Creative Cloud's free month (or two)?

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Montech has announced the global availability of its latest cases, the X5 and X5M. These cases are engineered for performance PC builders, and hardware enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive refresh that blends modern design with next-generation component compatibility and a sleek, racing-inspired aesthetic.

The X5 is a full-featured evolution of the preceding X3 series. It boasts an expanded interior capable of housing E-ATX motherboards, providing ample room for even the most complex and power-hungry system configurations. The X5 accommodates graphics cards up to 420 mm in length. A thoughtful addition is the integrated GPU holder, built directly into the casing, which negates the need for any additional accessories and ensures even the largest next-generation GPUs are securely installed and free from sag. Moreover, the case comes pre-equipped with three 140 mm fans in the front and a single 120 mm fan at the rear. Furthermore, it offers extensive radiator support, with room for up to 360 mm radiators on both the front and top panels.

Aesthetically, the X5 features a fine carbon print finish, lending a sleek, gaming, and subtly motorsport-inspired accent to the case. The integrated ARGB lighting system offers a diverse palette of 25 lighting styles, all controllable via a physical switch on the top I/O interface. This I/O panel includes USB-A and USB-C ports and a compact audio jack.

Accompanying the full-sized X5, the X5M emerges as a more compact alternative with the same design language. It arrives ready for action with four pre-installed 120 mm fans, configured to ensure internal compatibility for top-tier components within its smaller chassis footprint. This makes the X5M ideal for tighter setups or minimalist desk environments with more limited space. Despite its reduced size, the X5M doesn't compromise on visual appeal. It retains the sophisticated carbon-textured appearance and the vibrant ARGB lighting system, ensuring a cohesive look whether paired with its larger X5 sibling or utilised as a standalone build.

Together, the X5 and X5M form a versatile and high-performance case series. The new X5 cases are available in black and white with an MSRP of $75, while the more compact X5M in black and white retails for $59.

KitGuru says: What colour and model are your favourites of the new Montech X5 series?

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While Windows 12 is reportedly being worked on, Microsoft still has plenty of work left to do on Windows 11. This week, Microsoft announced its plans for the next major Windows 11 feature update, which is now available to Windows Insider testers. 

According to Microsoft's Jason Leznek (via Tom's Hardware), Windows 11 version 25H2 leverages the same core platform and servicing stack as the current version 24H2. This shared foundation means that users upgrading from 24H2 to 25H2 can expect a streamlined transition, described as “as simple as a quick restart”, akin to applying a typical monthly cumulative update. This method is significantly faster than the “OS swap” experience encountered when upgrading from earlier versions like 23H2 to 24H2, which involved a more extensive file replacement process.

While the initial preview build of Windows 11 version 25H2 mirrors the features already present in the 24H2 Beta Channel, Microsoft plans to introduce new functionalities progressively. As with previous Windows iterations, new features developed for 25H2 will first be integrated into the 24H2 branch in a disabled state. As these features mature, they will be bundled into monthly cumulative updates for 24H2 and activated via small enablement packages. Although an official release date for version 25H2 has not been set, the period from September to October 2025 is considered a likely window. This timing strategically aligns with the official end of support for Windows 10 in October 2025 (one-year extension not included).

Updating to version 25H2 will also reset the support clock. Enterprise and Education editions will receive an extended 36-month maintenance cycle, while consumer and professional editions will be supported for 24 months. This incentivises users to upgrade to 25H2 to ensure their PCs remain supported with the latest security and bug fixes for the longest possible duration. Windows Insiders can begin testing version 25H2 immediately, providing feedback to Microsoft as development progresses. Once generally available, users can activate Windows 11 version 25H2 by restarting their systems after the enablement package is applied.

KitGuru says: Unfortunately a lot of these major Windows updates have also introduced new bugs. Perhaps this time around, Microsoft will manage a smoother rollout. 

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While Nvidia has not yet made any official announcements, the rumour mill is spinning, with recent reports indicating that the RTX 50 Super series is on the way and will feature upgraded VRAM and a higher TDP. 

The latest intel from kopite7kimi points to the RTX 5070 Super utilising the GB205-400 GPU, indicating a fully enabled version of that silicon. This card is expected to feature 6,400 CUDA cores, a modest increase over the original RTX 5070's 6,144 cores. The most significant upgrade, however, appears to be in the memory configuration. The RTX 5070 Super is rumoured to pack 18GB of GDDR7 memory, bringing a 6GB increase over the original RTX 5070. Since it retains a 192-bit memory bus, this implies the adoption of 3GB GDDR7 modules. Memory speed is expected to remain consistent at 28 Gbps, maintaining the overall bandwidth at 672 GB/s. The card's TGP is also set to increase to 275W, an additional 25W compared to the RTX 5070.

Nvidia is reportedly also working on an RTX 5070 Ti Super, according to kopite7kimi. This GPU is expected to employ the GB203-350 GPU, maintaining the same 8,960 CUDA cores as the current RTX 5070 Ti. However, the memory configuration on the RTX 5070 Ti Super sees a notable upgrade. While it will retain 28 Gbps GDDR7 memory and a 256-bit memory bus (meaning no change in bandwidth at 896 GB/s), its capacity is set to increase to 24GB. This is again attributed to using 3GB GDDR7 modules, which are reportedly common across all upcoming RTX 50 Super variants.

The TGP for the RTX 5070 Ti Super is also rumoured to climb to 350W, a 50W increase that places it just 10W below the RTX 5080. The TGP value for the RTX 5080 Super is claimed to be 415W, a 55W increase over the RTX 5080.

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KitGuru says: Given the supposed specs of the RTX 50 Super series, it's unclear if Nvidia will replace the existing non-Super models with the new ones. Nvidia could make them coexist, selling the Super models as the high-VRAM variants.

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Intel is reportedly developing a new strategy to challenge AMD's stronghold in the gaming CPU market. A new report suggests that upcoming Nova Lake CPUs will integrate a “bLLC” (large Last-Level Cache) technology, hoping to get the same performance gains from AMD's 3D V-Cache in their X3D processors. 

Haze (via Techspot) states that at least two Nova Lake CPUs will feature this enhanced L3 cache. Both configurations are said to include 8x P-cores and 4x low-power E-cores. One variant will pack an additional 20x E-cores, while the other will have 12x E-cores. Both are expected to have the same 125W TDP rating.

This “bLLC” technology isn't entirely new to Intel's ecosystem, having already been implemented in their Clearwater Forest server CPUs. In those chips, a local cache is integrated directly into the foundation tile, which sits beneath the compute tiles. This approach mirrors AMD's current 9000-series X3D architecture, where 3D V-Cache is attached to the bottom of the CPU dies. However, this development surprises some, as Intel had previously downplayed plans for a consumer-facing technology akin to AMD's 3D V-Cache. In November 2024, Intel's Tech Communications Manager, Florian Maislinger, explicitly stated that there were no intentions for a desktop version of such a feature.

The Nova Lake-S series for desktops is anticipated to launch in late 2026 or early 2027. This generation is expected to introduce a new LGA 1954 socket and feature at least six desktop variants. The lineup is rumoured to range from a top-end CPU with 52x cores and a 150W TDP to an entry-level model with 12 cores and a 125W TDP.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: AMD has had great success in the gaming market thanks to 3D V-Cache. Do you think Intel will get a comparable performance bump? 

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Nvidia rolled out a new DLSS Software Development Kit (SDK) a few days ago, bringing the most recent DLSS Transformer model out of beta. Now, testing with the latest SDK shows huge VRAM improvements when using the latest DLSS model. 

As noted by VideoCardz, this latest SDK, version 310.3.0, also brings crucial VRAM consumption optimisations. Nvidia's official changelog briefly noted these improvements, with more detailed information in the new DLSS Programming Guide.

At 1080p resolution, the 310.3.0 SDK's Transformer model consumes 87.77 MB of VRAM. This represents a 19.8% reduction compared to the previous beta version, which used 106.9 MB. Similar VRAM decreases, averaging around 20%, are applicable across higher resolutions, up to 8K. The following table details the VRAM reduction per resolution when moving from DLSS version 310.2.0 to version 310.3.0:

Resolution	DLSS Version 310.2.0	DLSS Version 310.3.0	VRAM Reduction
1920×1080	106.90 MB	85.77 MB	21.13 MB
2560×1440	181.11 MB	143.54 MB	37.57 MB
3840×2160	387.21 MB	307.37 MB	79.84 MB
7840×4320	1517.60 MB	1225.17 MB	292.43 MB

For typical configurations, such as a GPU with 8 GB of VRAM running at 1080p resolution, the DLSS model's footprint now accounts for approximately 1% of the total available memory. While the new Transformer model still requires more VRAM than the older CNN model (which used 60.83 MB at 1080p), the gap has significantly narrowed.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Have you already tried the new DLSS Transformer model version 310.3.0? Did you notice any reduction in VRAM usage with the latest DLSS version?

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Bohemia Interactive is preparing a brutal new challenge for those hardened DayZ veterans who found the zombie-infested wilderness a little too forgiving. The developers have officially announced “Badlands”, the next major expansion for the survival game, set to drop sometime in 2026. This addition will transport players to a desolate desert zone where the elements themselves pose as much of a threat as the undead hordes.

DayZ has always pushed players to survive in a world where the dead walk. But true to the best zombie fiction, the dangers extend beyond mere shambling corpses. Injuries, starvation, and even other players remain consistently high on the list of common causes of death.

The “Badlands” expansion introduces the Nasdara Province, a sprawling 267 km² map. This war-scarred desert region starkly contrasts with the frigid landscape of the previous Frostline Expansion. In Nasdara, thirst is a constant and lethal threat, and survival will hinge on navigating frequent droughts, adapting to new terrain, and mastering region-specific weapons and gear.

Players can also expect new and adapted variants of the infected. While one might hope the extreme heat would slow them down, these undead have seemingly evolved, proving just as menacing in the desert. The “Badlands” expansion is confirmed for release sometime in 2026. For those who have yet to brave the world of DayZ, the base game is currently available on Steam at a 50% discount (Summer Sale), priced at $24.99/£24.49.

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KitGuru says: Do you still play DayZ? Can the Badlands expansion revive or revitalise your interest in it?

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Cooler Master is rolling out a duo of intriguing new PC cases, catering to vastly different builder preferences. The first is the third iteration of their popular SFF chassis, the NR200P V3. The other one is the Masterbox CM695, a “Classic Odd Design” case aiming to bridge the gap between vintage and modern PC builds. 

Unveiled initially at CES 2025 in January, the latest version of the NR200P (via Videocardz) boasts a redesigned side panel engineered to fully showcase and cool a graphics card running the entire length of the chassis. This window features a removable mesh screen, allowing users to completely expose the GPU for superior ventilation when performance demands it. Cooler Master asserts that the NR200P V3's design prioritises user-friendliness, with a tool-less approach to assembly and maintenance. The chassis is CNC-machined, and panels are secured with magnetic latching mechanisms, promising quick upgrades and hassle-free servicing.

Cooler Master has also unveiled a distinctly different offering: the Masterbox CM695. As indicated on its product page, this mid-tower case embraces a “Classic Odd Design”, featuring elements common in 20-year-old cases. Externally, the CM695 presents a refined aesthetic, featuring ample mesh to ensure optimal airflow for internal components, and, perhaps most surprisingly for a modern chassis, a classic 5.25-inch drive bay. Inside, the case continues its blend of old and new, incorporating an old-school HDD cage alongside modern cable routing channels equipped with rubber grommets for tidiness.

With dimensions of 477 x 209 x 488mm, the CM695 is described as tall and slender. Its front panel is split, with a solid top section and a mesh bottom allowing adequate airflow to its two pre-installed 120mm fans. Connectivity ports are conveniently located on the top of the case, adjacent to another mesh section that can accommodate three additional 120 mm fans. Builders will be able to choose between a solid left side panel or a tempered glass option to showcase their internal components.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Of the two new Cooler Master PC cases we've just shown, which one looks the most interesting to you?

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LG has announced that it has begun mass production its new and improved 4th Generation OLED panel. The new panel is aimed at taking OLED gaming to new heights, with even higher refresh rates and even higher contrast ratios. 

This Primary RGB Tandem technology is unique in its approach, stacking the three primary colors of light – red, green, and blue – into four independent layers. This structure boosts peak brightness and maximises contrast ratio, producing more vivid and precise visuals for users. The panel also boasts a colour reproduction rate of 99.5%, which LG Display claims is the best among current OLEDs. Furthermore, LG has employed a special film and an upgraded internal panel element structure to combat screen glare, blocking 99% of internal and external light reflections. This ensures that the panel maintains its image quality without colour distortion, even in brightly lit environments. This commitment to visual fidelity has earned the panel certifications for Perfect Black, Perfect Colour, and 100% Colour Fidelity from global organizations like UL Solutions and Intertek.

In parallel with this mass production milestone, LG revealed details about an even faster OLED display panel that simultaneously supports a 540 Hz refresh rate and QHD resolution. Breaking the 500 Hz barrier was previously considered a significant hurdle due to the potential for a steep drop in picture quality. However, LG Display claims to have successfully overcome this limitation by developing and applying a new proprietary algorithm.

Adding another layer of innovation, LG Display highlighted its proprietary Dynamic Frequency & Resolution (DFR) technology. This smart feature allows ultra-high refresh rate settings up to 720 Hz when operating in HD resolution. DFR empowers users to dynamically choose their preferred refresh rate mode based on the content, prioritizing either resolution or speed as needed.

Moreover, LG's OLED monitor panels also feature an industry-leading response time of a mere 0.03ms. This rapid pixel transition is crucial for appreciating the speed of fast-paced games, as even a high refresh rate can be undermined by slow response times. Combining a 0.03 ms response time with a 540 Hz refresh rate allowed LG's new OLED panel to achieve the highest tier of the VESA standard, ClearMR 21,000. LG expects to start mass production of its 540 Hz Gaming OLED panel in H2 2025, suggesting that monitors featuring these cutting-edge displays could hit the market soon.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Have you already jumped into the OLED monitor bandwagon? Will you do so with one of these new-gen LG OLED panels?

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