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Patrick Campanale

pcamp96

When I’m not working on building custom computers or fixing phones, I love to write about technology. I’m always looking out for the best deal on any tech I can get my hands on, so one day I decided, “Why not write about it?!” You can follow me on Twitter or Instagram @pcamp96, though I’m way more active on Twitter. If you’ve got a tip to an awesome deal, go ahead and drop me a line at patrick@9to5mac.com!

Connect with Patrick Campanale

Best gaming computers to build or buy for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

Flight Simulator difficulty

Microsoft’s Flight Simulator 2020 comes out next month, and it’s going to be awesome. I’m stoked to play it. Many think this gorgeous game needs high-end specs to run, and while PC games always prefer expensive hardware, due to extra processing power, you won’t need a $3,000 desktop to enjoy Flight Simulator 2020. Head below for a list of the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 minimum, recommended, and ideal specs, along with the best custom-built and pre-built computers to run the game.


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Blackmagic’s new URSA Mini Pro shoots 12K RAW that can be…edited on a laptop?

Blackmagic is well-known around here for its (relatively) budget-friendly cinema cameras. While RED charges upward of $55,000 for some camera bodies, Blackmagic has models that are much more affordable for those wanting to shoot with something higher-end than a DSLR but aren’t quite ready for cinema-level gear. Well, the latest from Blackmagic, the URSA Mini Pro, offers something that, really, nobody else can even begin to claim: 12K 60FPS recording. That’s right, the URSA Mini Pro records 12K footage — and it can even be edited on a laptop.


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AMD + Lenovo launch ‘world’s first’ 64-core/128-thread PRO Workstation

threadripper pro thinkstation p620

Today, AMD announced a new selection of Ryzen Threadripper PRO processors that offer some insane specs. The entire lineup includes 128 PCIe 4.0 lanes and up to 2TB of ECC RAM, and you’ll find up to 288MB of cache and 128-threads available. While this is quite insane, AMD has partnered with Lenovo to create the “world’s first” 64-core/128-thread PRO Workstation, ready to tackle literally any task you throw at it.


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HyperX launches new DDR4 memory kits up to 256GB 4800MHz, priced from $77

DDR4 memory brought with it many enhancements when upgrading from DDR4. The two biggest new features were faster speeds and higher capacity, both of which HyperX is taking full advantage of with its latest Predator and FURY RGB memory kits. Sporting up to 256GB of RAM and up to 4800MHz speeds, these DDR4 RAM modules are Intel XMP certified and have even been cleared by AMD as “Ready for Ryzen.” What can you expect with HyperX’s latest RAM? Keep reading to find out more.


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Amazon’s upcoming New World game delayed to spring 2021

Amazon is getting into the video game business, but there have been quite a few delays. Crucible, the company’s first game, was originally set to launch in March, some six years after development began. That launch date got pushed back to May and thankfully was on time for that. New World is a completely different design and was originally going to launch in August of this year. But, due to some delays, Amazon is pushing back its launch and final beta test to the spring of 2021 — nearly a full year later.


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RHA TrueConnect 2 truly wireless earbuds have new specs + 44 hours of battery

RHA’s TrueConnect truly wireless earbuds were a hit back in 2018 when they originally launched, and now we’re seeing an all-new version with plenty of upgrades. One of the biggest updates is that RHA packed 44 hours of battery life into the TrueConnect 2, which the original version only offered 25 hours of longevity. You’ll also find a better sound signature, IP55 waterproofing, and a $150 price tag.


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OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 holds up to 128TB, has a PCIe slot, 85W charging, more

OWC is well-known for its high-end storage solutions. Announced back at CES 2020, the ThunderBay Flex 8 is a powerful storage solution that offers Thunderbolt 3 RAID storage, docking, and PCIe expansion in one slim package. That’s right, it can hold up to eight drives, acts as an I/O dock, and even sports a PCIe x16 expansion slot, plus it can charge at up to 85W, all through a single cable.


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eufyCam 2 Pro is all-new with 1-year battery life, HomeKit, 2K recording, more

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Anker’s smart home brand, eufy, just released an all-new 2K security camera dubbed the eufyCam 2 Pro. It packs 2K recording and free local video storage plus much more, including 365-day battery life and on-device human detection software. Priced from $150, these cameras will ensure that your home is properly secured, allowing you to easily view your home from afar, even when it’s dark out, thanks to built-in color night vision. The best part about these cameras is compatible with Alexa, Assistant, and even Apple’s HomeKit.


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Microsoft x 8Bitdo Bluetooth controller works with xCloud, ideal for Stadia

8Bitdo and Microsoft have partnered to make a portable, battery-powered, Bluetooth-connected gaming controller for xCloud and Stadia. This controller takes on the form-factor of old PlayStation controllers with a D-Pad on the left and two joysticks in the center. With an included clip to hold your phone at an angle, this controller is the best way to enjoy gaming while on-the-go.


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Best cashback credit cards for July 2020

american express blue cash preferred cash back credit card
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If you’re looking at picking up a credit card that offers you general cashback and not travel points, then this is the roundup for you. We’ve scoured the internet to find the best cards to get and even offer some personal insight with many of the cards that we’ve used ourselves. So, without further ado, here are the best cashback credit cards in July 2020.


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Polk Audio’s Assistant-enabled MagniFi 2 soundbar can play Apple Music

Polk Audio is updating its MagniFi lineup with the MagniFi 2 Sound Bar. This series is designed to “reduce the barrier to entry to a multi-channel home theater,” and this all-new soundbar offers a performance-tuned, 6-driver array to deliver a “huge soundstage and outstanding fidelity.” This simple soundbar is a great option for those who want a mid-range home theater upgrade, something that’s better than a standard 2.1-channel setup but not quite ready for Dolby Atmos.


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VIZIO finally enters the OLED market with two models priced from $1,300

VIZIO is probably one of my favorite TV manufacturers around. Offering a combination of budget-focused options with feature-rich models, you’ve been able to find just about anything in VIZIO’s TV line…that is, except for OLED. But, that all changes as the company is debuting the VIZIO Masterful OLED TV Collection alongside the Dolby Atmos-enabled Elevate Sound Bar. What do these two new products bring to the table? Keep reading to find out.


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Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 Remaster cast includes both old and new favorites

Last month, we got our first look at the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 and 2 remaster. We’re now getting our first look at the skaters that the game is launching with. The original Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise was a genre-defining moment in gaming, and the team is hoping to do that once again. You’ll still get the same skaters that the game launched with back in the ‘90s, but you’ll also see a bunch of all-new, yet familiar faces in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 Remastered’s cast.


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Anker’s PowerExpand USB-C dock has dual 4K display output, 45W charging, more

Anker’s latest PowerExpand USB-C Docking Station is designed with mobile users in mind. It offers 45W of USB-C Power Delivery, 4K HDMI and DisplayPort, SD, Gigabit Ethernet, and much more. Whether you’re wanting to transform your Mac mini, MacBook, iPad Pro, or Windows-based laptop that has USB-C, this dock is a fantastic option for all.


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Dell’s latest G5 desktop is perfect for beginners, while the G7 reigns king

Hot on the heels of Acer announcing four new gaming rigs, Dell is back at it again with all-new laptops for families to enjoy gaming this summer. Whether you’re wanting to play with your kids, or they’re wanting to battle with each other, Dell’s refreshed G Series offers quite a few killer features for entry-level gamers. Dell is announcing an updated G7 laptop, G5 desktop, and even new monitors. Pricing isn’t that bad, honestly, with computers starting as low as $700 and monitors from $280.


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Wyze Cam Outdoor enters the scene with 6-month battery life + more at just $50

Wyze, a fan-favorite (and 9to5Toys favorite) is back again with another new product launch, this time with the company’s most-anticipated release: Wyze Cam Outdoor. That’s right, our favorite budget-focused smart home company is at it again, this time tackling the outdoor camera market. Wyze Cam Outdoor sports an IP65 weather-resistant rating can function entirely offline, and sports up to 6-month battery life. Wyze didn’t stop there though, so keep reading to learn everything about what Wyze Cam Outdoor brings to the table.


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AKASO takes on DJI and GoPro with the dual-screen Brave 7 LE Action Camera

If you’re wanting to pick up an action camera to use on summer vacations or just around the house when you head to the pool, there are two obvious choices: GoPro and DJI. Well, AKASO is actually one of the bigger brands for those looking for a budget-focused alternative on Amazon, and the highly-rated company is introducing its latest action camera, the Brave 7 LE. This 4K action camera is IPX7 waterproof out of the box up to 1-meter, and even includes a bonus case that protects it up to 30-meters. But, that’s not all, so keep reading to find out why AKASO’s Brave 7 LE Action Camera should be your next purchase.


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ViewSonic’s two new portable monitors pack USB-C and are just 0.6-inches thin

ViewSonic, one of the largest display manufacturers around, is introducing two portable monitors into its award-winning lineup. The TD1655 and VG1655 are brand-new additions that are designed to be paired with both laptops and tablets easily. Whether you’re needing to add a secondary screen to your laptop bag for on-the-go work, or just wanting something with a slim profile at home, these monitors are must-haves.


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Apex Legends is coming to Steam, Switch with cross-play + new event

EA just finished announcing new titles, updates, and more during its EA Play event. However, an announcement I was expecting to come at the end was actually the leader of the event: Apex Legends. Apex is one of my favorite games right now, and I play it more frequently than any other title in my library. Starting June 23rd, Apex will be getting an all-new takeover event where Crypto reigns supreme. But, that’s not all that was announced at EA Play for Apex Legends, as the game will be gaining cross-play later this year along with a Steam and Switch port, so keep reading to find out more.


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RexBuds are AI-powered true wireless headphones with a 100-hour battery

Redux Audio is the latest to enter the truly wireless headphone lineup with its RexBuds. These earbuds, which are truly-wireless and offer up to 100-hours of battery life, are powered through artificial intelligence. What does the AI in RedBuds do? Well, it’s how the active noise cancellation functions, making these buds a great option for those on iPhone or Android who aren’t a fan of Apple’s AirPods.


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CORSAIR’s latest computers sport RTX 2080 Ti, Ryzen 9 3950X, more

CORSAIR is launching two new desktops today, one being the VENGEANCE and the other being an updated ONE PC. The VENGEANCE rocks both AMD’s latest Ryzen 3000-series processors or the Intel 10th generation Core options, while the ONE is being updated to use AMD’s Ryzen, given that the company already has an Intel version on the books. The VENGEANCE is geared towards gamers, while the ONE is designed to be more of a content creator platform, but both are built to be beasts at all tasks.


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NZXT’s CRFT 06 H510 Rainbow Six Siege case will only have 500 made

NZXT’s back at it again, this time with a limited-edition Rainbow Six Siege case made on the company’s H510 platform. Partnering with Ubisoft, NZXT is launching the CRFT 06 H510 Siege, which is the “perfect tactical deployment for fortifying your position in Rainbow Six Siege.” As the sixth entry into NZXT’s limited-edition series of gaming products, this case brings the “iconic in-game barricade to your gaming station.” It has an illuminated 6 Logo on the front panel, a special-edition breeching puck, and more.


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Samsung’s insane 49-inch 1000R curved monitor is a 240Hz gamer’s dream

Samsung’s latest monitor, which was announced back at CES, is finally here. Further expanding the Odyssey lineup after the G7’s announcement a few weeks ago, the Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor has a few very interesting tricks up its sleeve, like QLED technology, 240Hz refresh rate, HDR1000, a “DQHD” resolution, and…a 1000R curvature. This ultra-curved display is really a gamer’s dream, though it does have a lofty price tag to match its high-end features.


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Viotek’s latest monitor sports 4K 144Hz, G-SYNC, FreeSync, more

While a few years ago playing games at 1440p 144Hz was a pipe dream, these days, we’re looking at 4K 144Hz and saying “I think my system can actually handle that.” Seriously, it’s amazing how the technology has changed over just the past few years, and Viotek is here to keep up with the ever-changing standards with the launch of its latest monitor, the GFI27QXA. Sporting a 4K 144Hz panel, this monitor is designed to fit into high-end setups…especially given its premium $750 price tag. Is Viotek’s latest monitor worth it for you? Keep reading to find out everything it has to offer.


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Tackle yard work with Greenworks’ electric mower at $143.50, more in today’s Green Deals

Amazon is offering the Greenworks 20-Inch 3-in-1 12A Electric Corded Lawn Mower for $143.32 shipped. This is down from its $175 going rate and is the second-best price that we’ve tracked in 2020. Offering an all-electric design, this mower requires no gas or oil to function. Just plug it in with an extension cord and you’ll be ready to mow your entire yard with ease. The 20-inch deck is wide enough to make large passes while cutting, and the 3-in-1 design allows you to bag, mulch, or discharge the yard clippings. Rated 4.3/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on electric pressure washers and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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Tamron’s 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RDX zoom lens for Sony is a do-it-all beast

Tamron has been coming on strong with Sony lenses. My personal favorite is the 28-75 f/2.8 Di III, but the lens company also launched a 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III, and even a 70-180 f/2.8 Di III, further expanding its focal range coverage. Well, if you’re wanting an all-in-one lens, Tamron just launched it with the 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 zoom. While it is a variable aperture, instead of fixed, this lens is a killer option if you need to cover a wide focal range at a single time.


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Greenworks’ 1800PSI electric pressure washer hits $99, more in today’s Green Deals

Amazon is offering the Greenworks 1800PSI 1.1-GPM Electric Pressure Washer for $99 shipped. Also available at Lowe’s. Normally $149, today’s deal is among the best pricing that we’ve tracked all-time and is the lowest available. Offering 1800PSI, this pressure washer is perfect for cleaning the driveway, house, fence, or even your car. No oil or gas are required here, thanks to the electric nature of Greenworks’ pressure washer. Plus, you’ll get five quick-connect nozzles bundled with your purchase, giving you the ability to clean just about anything. Rated 4/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on Dusk to Dawn LED light bulbs and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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Xbox Series X launches in a few months, here’s everything we know so far

Xbox Series X hardware specs detailed

We’ve seen quite a bit of information come out over the past few months based on the Xbox Series X. From our first look at gameplay in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, to hardware specs, information on Quick Resume, and the initial launch, we’ve got it all right here. Well, Microsoft went in-depth in a blog post today to outline everything that we currently know about the Xbox Series X, and what’s to come. So, without further ado, let’s dive into everything Microsoft has told us about the Xbox Series X.


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ESCORT’s latest Redline 360c radar detector offers twice the range, more

ESCORT, one of the premier radar and laser detector companies, just launched its latest Redline 360c, which is the “first-ever connected, extreme-range driver alert system.” This is ESCORT’S most sophisticated and powerful addition to their intelligent driver alert portfolio to-date. With twice the detection range of previous models, this radar detector can keep you safer than ever before. You’ll need to keep a few things in mind when picking up the new ESCORT Redline 360c, so keep reading to find out more.


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Best credit cards for DIY projects and renovations to save big

If you’re planning any major DIY projects or renovations this summer, then it’s likely you’ll need to purchase quite a few supplies. If you’re going to be picking up expensive items like bathtubs, showers, sinks, countertops, or even appliances, there are a few tricks you should know in order to save the most. So, without further ado, these are the best credit cards for DIY projects and renovations.


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EA is launching 25+ games on Steam, EA Access coming this summer

Starting today, EA, or Electronic Arts, is launching its first wave os 25+ games on Steam. Previously, these titles were only available on Origin, but now EA is learning from Microsoft after the company launched a few of its exclusive titles on Steam, which eventually joined the best-seller list on Valve’s gaming platform. Keep reading to see what games are coming and learn more about what you can expect from EA Access on steam later this summer.


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Report: Amazon planning 7-10 day summer sale kicking off on June 22

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After numerous reports that Amazon is delaying Prime Day, we’re now seeing news that the online shopping giant is planning a sale on June 22 to “jumpstart sales” after recent COVID-19 refocusing. This is good news to consumers considering the last report that we saw said that Amazon’s Prime Day sale would be delayed until September, while it normally takes place during June or July. This unnamed event has been dubbed the “Biggest Sale in the Sky” and is expected to go for anywhere from 7- to 10-days.


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Lenovo’s latest VR headset offers 4K screens and 3 DoF for enterprise

Lenovo with Pico Interactive is launching an all-new all-in-one virtual reality headset, which offers innovative technology designed specifically for enterprise users. The Mirage VR S3 sports Lenovo’s ThinkReality software platform, which is among the first device- and cloud-agnostic AR/VR platform. It allows commercial customers to deploy and manage applications and content on a global scale super easily.


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Why it’s important to downgrade unused credit cards and where to start

american express blue cash preferred cash back credit card

If you have a credit card that charges an annual fee to keep it active, you might not be getting the most out of the subscription. You might have signed up for the higher-end card initially for the sign-on bonus, but now primarily use a different card, and aren’t getting the full benefit of the expensive card anymore. Regardless of the situation, it’s always a good idea to sit down, go over your cards, and find out which ones charge an annual fee and what benefits it brings. So, without further ado, here’s why you should downgrade your unused credit cards and where you should start.


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Upgrade your backyard BBQ this summer with these tips and budget-friendly gear

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Now that it’s getting warm outside, you might be ready to take advantage of the beautiful weather by grilling. I know grilling is something I absolutely love doing when the weather permits. There are some absolutely crucial tips and gear that can make or break a great backdoor BBQ though, so we’re here to help make sure your dinner comes out delicious. So, if you’re wanting to upgrade your backyard BBQ, here are some of the best tips, tricks, and gear to make sure you have.


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Call of Duty Modern Warfare Season 4 launches June 3, here’s what we know

Call of Duty’s latest installment, Modern Warfare, is getting its fourth season on June 3rd. The Call of Duty Modern Warfare Season 4 update will bring with it quite a lot, but the main storyline begins in the campaign and continues through Special Ops. While we don’t know everything that Season 4 will entail, we do have a bit of storyline progression and some keys as to how to learn more about what’s to come.


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No Man’s Sky soars onto Xbox Game Pass for console and PC in June

If you haven’t heard of Xbox Game Pass, well, it’s only the best game subscription service for both Xbox and PC gamers alike. With titles like Sea of Thieves, Red Dead Redemption II, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, all of the Gears of War, and more, Xbox Game Pass offers insane value. The thing is, it only gets more valuable as time goes on. Well, starting in June, both Xbox and PC gamers will be able to enjoy No Man’s Sky at no additional cost as long as they have an active subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Not sure what No Man’s Sky is, or why it’s such a big deal that it’s a part of Xbox Game Pass? Keep reading to find out more.


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The Sims 4 Eco Lifestyle expansion lets your actions affect the environment

Sims 4 is EA’s latest lifestyle simulation game and is the continuation of the long-standing series of games that have been out for years and years. I’ve always enjoyed playing The Sims, and the newest installment offers quite a few new expansions. The latest update is Eco Lifestyle and brings an all-new play style to the game that we’ve never seen before. Your actions in-game will affect the overall town at Evergreen Harbor, but what all changes as you play?


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Razer’s all-new Blade Pro 17 offers a 1080p 300Hz or 4K 120Hz display, more

Razer is changing the game again by refreshing its Razer Blade Pro 17 lineup of laptops, offering up to 300Hz refresh rate displays, NVIDIA SUPER graphics cards, and up to Intel’s 8-core i7 processors. However, what really sets this laptop apart is the 4K 120Hz option for creators who want both high resolution and high frame rate. You’ll be able to get the i7-10875H processor and the NVIDIA RTX 2080 SUPER, giving you plenty of power on the go.


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