Every week someone posts in a tech forum convinced their Android phone has a hardware fault because it refuses to charge past 80%. Nine times out of ten, the phone is working exactly as designed.

Modern Android devices ship with battery protection systems that cap charging at 80% by default. The logic is sound — lithium-ion chemistry degrades faster when cells are held at full charge for hours at a time.

Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and Xiaomi all have versions of this feature that run quietly in the background, often without the user ever being told of it.

The fix in that scenario is straightforward: find the setting, turn it off, done.

But here’s what most people don’t cover.

When you disable adaptive charging, and the phone still stops at 80%, there’s something entirely different. This is where the real diagnostic work starts.

A phone that gets warm during charging will automatically throttle or stop the charging current as a thermal protection measure, and 80% is roughly where charging curves slow down and heat generation increases. So a phone running warm will often stall right at that threshold.

An aging battery adds another layer. When a cell has lost 20% of its original capacity through normal wear, the battery management system can register a full charge at what the screen displays as 80%. The cell isn’t lying — it’s genuinely at capacity. It’s just that capacity is now smaller than it used to be.

A worn cable or dust-packed USB-C port creates inconsistent power delivery that’s usually enough to charge slowly up to 80%, but can’t sustain the current needed to push through the slower top-end charging curve.

And occasionally, after a software update, Android’s battery calibration gets out of sync with the hardware’s actual voltage state and causes the OS to cut charging current before the battery needs it to stop.

Each of these causes has its own fix. Figuring out which one you have to deal with tells you whether you need to tweak a setting, swap a cable, recalibrate the battery, or replace it.

This diagnostic guide covers every cause, fix, and method to check battery health on any Android device:

https://thetechnicalmaster.com/my-android-phone-wont-charge-past-80-reasons-fix

There’s a fine line between extreme overclocking and destruction. Indonesian hardware enthusiast Alva Jonathan found it — at the cost of a GPU that retails for more than most people’s monthly rent.

The card was the MSI RTX 5090 Lightning Z. The cause of death is a 2,500-watt XOC BIOS, a frozen die, and a thermal gradient that silicon simply cannot survive.

What happened is an interesting case study in materials physics, power delivery engineering, and the razor-thin margins that separate a world record from a $5,000 paperweight.

The RTX 5090 Lightning Z was never designed to be your everyday gaming card. It’s shipped with a 40-phase VRM, a 3oz copper PCB, and dual 12V-2×6 power connectors, the hardware spec sheet that reads more like an industrial power supply than a consumer graphics card.

Out of the box, it include two BIOS profiles: 800W for gaming and 1,000W for extreme overclocking. That 1,000W profile alone puts it in rarefied territory — the reference RTX 5090 TGP sits at roughly 600W. The Lightning Z at stock is already a different class of machine.

But Alva wasn’t there to game but to break records.

The Liquid Nitrogen Problem Nobody Talks About

Most LN2 overclocking coverage focuses on the speed numbers. Far less attention goes to the thermodynamic challenge that makes the numbers so difficult to achieve and so dangerous to chase.

Liquid nitrogen boils at −196°C. But when you pour it over a GPU die that actively draws hundreds of watts of power, the situation becomes deeply counterintuitive. The heatsink contact surface dropped to around −40°C during Alva’s runs. The GPU core, generating heat under extreme voltage, stayed above 0°C and registered around +9°C during stable runs.

That’s a 49-degree gradient across a distance measured in millimeters. Managing it is the entire art of LN2 overclocking.

The stable operating window was brutally narrow: keep the core between 0°C and 15°C, and the card would hold its clocks. Above 21°C, it would crash. Below 0°C, the chip became unstable. It’s less like overclocking and more like threading a needle while wearing oven mitts.

Within those constraints, the card performed extraordinary things. At 3.5 GHz stable — 1 GHz above the reference boost clock — drawing over 1,000W at 1.12V, the Lightning Z posted a Geekbench 5 compute score of 683,433. A HWBot world record. One that still stands.

The Mistake That Cost $5,000

Having set the record, Alva pushed further. He switched to an early revision of the 2,500W XOC BIOS.

The early BIOS revision had a critical flaw: it applied voltage too aggressively, too quickly. At 1.2V, the power delivery hit sections of the die that were still frozen from the LN2 cooling. The result was a thermal shock event when one region of the die expanded rapidly from the sudden heat load, while adjacent material remained contracted from the sub-zero cooling.

Silicon is hard. But it’s brittle. It doesn’t bend; it snaps.

The GB202–300-A1 die cracked. A GPU that had just set a world record was now permanently dead. No warranty.

To appreciate how extreme this situation was, consider the reference points:

A standard gaming PC draws 300–500W total system power. The Lightning Z’s XOC BIOS headroom of 2,500W is five times that of a single graphics card.

The temperature management required to run it is tighter than most industrial processes. A 21-degree crash threshold gives you less than a 22°C buffer from ambient room temperature. One warm breath near the LN2 pot at the wrong moment can end a run.

And the 1.2V that killed it is not an outrageous number in isolation. Modern GPUs routinely run at 1.0V–1.1V under load. The problem was the thermal state of the silicon receiving it, and the speed at which it was applied.

The Infographic That Tells the Full Story

We put together a detailed visual breakdown of the entire incident — the five phases of the overclocking campaign, the thermal death zone visualization, power mode comparisons, benchmark context, and the full Lightning Z spec sheet.

You can read the complete technical breakdown, with the full timeline and analysis, here:

📖 MSI RTX 5090 Lightning Z Die Snaps During Record Attempt, Result in the Big Overclocking Disaster — The Technical Master

A Warning Worth Taking Seriously

There’s a postscript to this story that matters for anyone reading it.

The 2,500W XOC BIOS has leaked online. It’s being passed around hardware forums with the claim that it “unlocks” the RTX 5090’s full potential. What that framing omits is that a standard RTX 5090 is designed for 600W, not 2,500W. The Lightning Z’s specialized PCB, power delivery, and connector setup are prerequisites, not optional extras.

Flashing this BIOS onto a standard RTX 5090 won’t unlock anything. It will destroy the card. Immediately. With no warranty coverage and no recourse.

Even on the Lightning Z, as this incident proves, the XOC BIOS comes with no guarantees. Alva had MSI’s backing, professional LN2 equipment, and four other cards to continue testing after this one died. Most people reading this likely have none of these.

The Big Picture

What this story illustrates is how far the frontier of consumer GPU hardware has moved. A card with a stock 1,000W extreme OC profile. A die architecture that can sustain 3.5 GHz with the right cooling. A 40-phase power delivery system that makes 2,500W theoretically possible at all.

Five years ago, these numbers would have described a data center GPU. Today, they describe something you can — in theory — buy for $5,090.

The engineering that makes the RTX 5090 Lightning Z possible is very remarkable. So is the precision required to operate it at these limits. Alva Jonathan ran it harder than almost anyone on earth could have, set a world record doing it, and walked away with the knowledge of exactly where the boundary lies.

For the full technical breakdown, infographic, and source video analysis, visit: The Technical Master — MSI RTX 5090 Lightning Z Overclocking Disaster

You’re probably wondering, “Is it even possible to get a decent gaming laptop under $500? Or am I just dreaming?” We get it. Trying to squeeze every bit of performance out of a budget that barely covers your Netflix subscription for a year. But the good news? Yes, it’s possible to land yourself a gaming laptop without selling your soul or settling for the tech equivalent of a potato.

While $500 won’t score you a machine that can handle Cyberpunk 2077 on ultra settings, it will get you something that can run popular games like Minecraft, Fortnite, and even some more demanding titles at lower settings. And we’ve done the homework and hard work for you — testing, researching, and (yes) staying up late playing games on these budget-friendly beasts. So if you want to get a cheap gaming rig without breaking the bank, we have compiled a list of the top picks for best gaming laptops under $500.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Cheap Gaming Laptop

Shopping for a budget gaming laptop is similar to preparing for a marathon with only a half-full water bottle and a bag of peanuts. You need to know exactly where to focus your energy to get the most out of your money. Here are the key things to keep in mind:

RAM: The More, The Merrier

In terms of gaming, RAM is the top hardware component. It’s what allows your laptop to handle multiple tasks without a nervous breakdown. In the sub-$500 range, you’ll typically see models with 8GB RAM. And while that’s decent for most casual titles, if you can find a model with 12GB or even 16GB (lucky you), that’s going to help a lot with multitasking and running most of the game smoothly and at a good pace.

Think of RAM like your laptop’s ability to juggle: the more it has, the more balls it can keep in the air. Less RAM? Well, expect a few dropped frames and delays— literally.

Storage: SSD vs. HDD — What’s the Big Deal?

Ever tried loading a game on an old-school HDD? An SSD (Solid State Drive) is the secret sauce you want — faster load times and quicker boot-ups. Most machines in this price range will give you 256GB to 512GB SSDs, which is plenty for a few big games and your everyday files.

Just imagine — you’re ready to join the battlefield for the next match in Fortnite and the guy next to you is still stuck at the loading screen. Yeah, it’s like that.

GPU: The Heart and Soul of Gaming

Here’s where the rubber meets the road: Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). Searching for a laptop with a dedicated GPU at this price tag is rare, but not impossible. Laptops with integrated graphics, like Intel UHD or AMD Radeon, can still handle many popular games. But if you’re lucky enough to score one with an NVIDIA GTX 1650 or RTX 2050, you’re in for a treat. Don’t worry, we have listed the model with a dedicated card here.

Display: Looks Do Matter

You want crisp visuals, but at this budget, you may have to compromise. Aim for Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution so you won’t feel like you’re gaming in a pixelated nightmare. Some models even toss in a 144Hz refresh rate, which is great if you find one.

Battery Life: Don’t Expect Miracles

Let’s be honest — gaming laptops and long battery life go together like cats and baths. Most budget models will last you a couple of hours tops when playing, so don’t forget your charger. If you’re dreaming of long sessions with these rigs, place your table close to a power outlet.

As we like to say around here: your laptop may be portable, but when doing continuous gameplay, it’s better to think of it as semi-portable.

Cooling System

Here’s a hard truth: budget gaming laptops can heat up faster than a skillet on Sunday morning. Look for models with decent cooling systems — you don’t want to feel like you’re using a hot plate after 30 minutes of Fortnite. Extra fans, cooling vents, or laptops with MSI’s Cooler Boost technology are great options that help keep things under control and calm.

Upgradability

While $500 is not enough to buy a dream machine, it’s enough to get a laptop that can grow with you. It’s better to choose a system with expandable RAM or the ability to add more storage down the road.

1. MSI Thin GF63 — Best Overall

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MSI Thin GF63 is a real deal at such a low budget. You get a 144Hz display, which is almost unheard of in this price range. Paired with the Intel Core i5–12450H and NVIDIA RTX 2050, this laptop was able to deliver buttery-smooth performance in fast-paced games like Apex Legends and Fortnite. We did notice some heat buildup during longer sessions, but that’s where Cooler Boost 5 comes in handy.

The higher refresh rate sets this laptop apart. It lets the fluid gameplay, even on medium to high settings. The laptop does get warm after a while, but unless you’re planning a 12-hour gaming marathon, it’s manageable. Plus, the backlit keyboard is a nice addition for fancy gamers.

Pros: 144Hz refresh rate, good performance for the price, backlit keyboard
Cons: Gets hot during heavy workload, average battery life
Best for: Gamers who prioritize graphics and smoothness

2. Lenovo V15 Laptop — Great for Multitasking and Office Work

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The Lenovo V15 is a solid performer to have gaming and productivity in one place. With an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U hexacore processor and 16GB RAM, it’s more than capable of handling light gaming alongside your day-to-day tasks. During our tests, it managed web browsing, light photo editing, and games like Apex and Fortnite without going to extreme lengths. While it’s not strictly a “gaming laptop,” it’s good for anyone who needs a balance between work and casual gaming.

The 512GB SSD provided quick boot times and switching between apps felt nice in our use. However, we did notice that the 15.6-inch FHD display lacks the vibrancy and color depth that gamers carve, but it’s sufficient for normal activities and less graphics-intensive titles. The battery life was decent — lasting a solid workday without needing a recharge, but don’t expect long gaming sessions on battery alone.

Pros: Good multitasking with 16GB RAM, Fast boot and app load times with 512GB SSD, Durable build quality & smooth overall performance

Cons: Display could be better, Integrated graphics limit performance in AAA games

Best for: Students and professionals who want a workhorse laptop that can also handle casual gaming.

3. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 — Best for Entry-Level Gamers

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This one hits the sweet spot for gamers looking for dedicated graphics. The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 comes with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 and 8 GB RAM, one of the few laptops in this price range with a legitimate GPU. In our tests, it ran Fortnite and Minecraft at medium settings without any major hiccups, though it did struggle with newer titles like Cyberpunk 2077 (to be honest, that game struggles on most systems).

The 512 GB SSD is a good amount and fast enough to handle loading times without trouble. The backlit keyboard is also a nice touch, especially for late-night sessions. Some users mentioned issues with slowdowns during downloads, but once everything was installed, it ran nicely.

Pros: Dedicated RTX 2050, fast SSD, sleek backlit keyboard
Cons: Slows during downloads, battery life is just okay
Best for: Gamers who want the most performance under $500

4. HP Pavilion 15-dw1053dx — Runner-Up

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Want storage and power without spending a fortune? The HP Pavilion 15 is the best choice. Sporting a 16 GB RAM and a whopping 1 TB HDD, this machine offers plenty of space for your games, music, and even that video editing project you’ve been meaning to start. We tested it with Fortnite and League of Legends, and it handled both very nicely, although the Intel UHD Graphics isn’t built for anything super demanding.

The battery life is surprisingly solid, but we had mixed feelings about the display. The 1366 x 768 resolution doesn’t give you the full HD experience, but it’s still decent for less demanding games. Tip: hook it up to an external monitor for better visuals during the intense gaming sessions.

Pros: Decent battery life, 1 TB storage, quad-core processor
Cons: Poor resolution display, no dedicated GPU
Best for: Gamers who need tons of storage

5. Dell Inspiron 15 3511 — Best for Casual Gamers

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Not everyone’s trying to run Call of Duty on max settings. If you usually play Minecraft or The Sims, the Dell Inspiron 15 3511 will serve you well. With a 12 GB RAM and Intel Core i5 processor, it’s perfect for multitasking — whether it’s gaming, streaming, or finishing up a school project. Plus, the touchscreen is a solid bonus for quick browsing or hopping between apps.

While the anti-glare screen made gaming in brightly lit rooms a breeze, we weren’t thrilled with the battery life — you’re going to want to keep the charger close by. But for its price, this laptop delivers solid performance, and the touch display is surprisingly responsive.

Pros: Good for multitasking, anti-glare display, responsive touchscreen
Cons: Poor battery life, no dedicated GPU
Best for: Casual gamers, students, multitaskers

Honorable Mention: Cloud Gaming as an Alternative

If you’re staring down the $500 budget line and thinking, “I really wish I could run AAA games without having to skimp on everything else,” then cloud gaming could be the perfect alternative for you.

Cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna can essentially turn your modest laptop into a high-powered gaming rig. We’ve tested this on one of our less capable machines, and it’s like sending your old Honda Civic to race while borrowing a Lamborghini engine. Suddenly, games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and Destiny 2 can even operate at a nice pace on a laptop that would usually break a sweat only loading Excel.

As long as you’ve got a solid internet connection, you can stream these games from powerful servers straight to your screen. The graphics and performance will be amazing without fitting a premium RTX 4060 in your PC hardware after selling your organ. And services like GeForce Now even have free tiers to get you started. So, before you drop your hard-earned cash on hardware, give cloud gaming a whirl — it might just save you a couple hundred bucks and some headaches.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on thorough research and personal experience to help you make informed decisions.

When I first laid my hands on the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2, I was half-convinced it might float out of my grip. Weighing just 60 grams, it’s lighter than most of my snacks. I’ve used a lot of gaming mice over the years, but this one is in a league of its own. After spending quality time with this ultra-lightweight marvel, I’m excited to share my thoughts — spoiler alert: this mouse is sleek, swift, and downright fun.

First Impressions: Hello, Old Friend

Picking up the Superlight 2 is like running into an old friend — familiar but with some noticeable glow-up features. At first glance, it looks almost identical to its predecessor, the Logitech G Pro X Superlight — the same smooth, no-frills design that made the original a favorite among competitive gamers. But it weighs 3 grams less. You can say it’s nothing, but in action or first-person shooters, this little can make a good difference in the heat of battle where you need precision.

This pro version came with a USB-C port. I was never a fan of the micro-USB charging situation with the original Superlight. The fact that the Superlight 2 has finally made the switch to USB-C is good to see. No more fumbling around with clunky cables or wondering if I’ve plugged it in the right way. Finally, Logitech has granted our wish, and I, for one, will not be looking back.

See on Amazon

Design and Build

Despite shedding a few grams, the Superlight 2 still feels solid in hand like a delicate balance of being featherlight but durable. You won’t have a feeling that there is a toy mouse in your hands that might break if you get too passionate during gameplay. The symmetrical shape is designed for versatility — it fits well whether you’re using a claw grip, palm grip, or have some hybrid finger grip going on like me.

The body is smooth with a matte finish, which does an okay job resisting fingerprints. However, if you tend to have sweaty hands during intense sessions, Logitech has thrown in grip tape for extra friction. It’s a nice touch for heated situations, and the last thing you want is your mouse slipping away.

The design doesn’t scream “Look at me!” — but rather whispers, “I’m here to get the job done.” There’s no RGB lighting, which will disappoint fancy gamers, but it also means no distractions. Besides, it helps keep the weight down and battery life up. Win-win!

Switches and Clicks: Lightforce Hybrid, a Fancy Way of Saying “Better”

Logitech didn’t only tweak the weight — they also upgraded the switches. Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 introduces Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches, which, in a nutshell, make your clicks crisp and responsive while reducing wear and tear over time. I didn’t think I’d notice the difference until I did — those left and right clicks were punchy and satisfying, almost like a tiny clicky celebration each time you frag an opponent.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The side buttons, even though are functional, but I found them a bit mushy compared to the main keys. They don’t have the same satisfying tactile feedback. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something that could have been better, especially considering how much this mouse costs.

Hero 2 Optical Sensor: A Tracking Powerhouse

Let’s get down to the real power of this mouse — the Hero 2 sensor. With a max DPI of 32,000 (it’s insane), the Superlight 2 delivers precision like a surgeon’s scalpel. Be it making micro-movements in FPS games or sweeping across your screen in strategy games, the tracking is impeccable.

Even if you’re not cranking it up to 32,000 DPI (very few of us need that ), this sensor is about speed and accuracy. And it doesn’t matter if you’re using it on glass, wood, or a mouse pad from 2005; the tracking stays silky smooth. It’s hard to describe, but once you feel it in action, you’ll know what I’m talking about. G Pro X Superlight 2 makes it feel like your hand is in perfect sync with your screen, with every flick and click in rhythm.

Wireless Performance: Speed Without Lag

Logitech’s Lightspeed wireless technology is what makes this mouse a wireless legend. No, seriously, I’ve been using it for days without even a hint of lag. The Superlight 2 has a polling rate of up to 4,000Hz, which means your inputs are registered ridiculously fast — like blink-and-it-done fast. But fair warning: to experience that, you’ll need to update the mouse’s firmware via Logitech G Hub, which brings me to the next point.

Logitech G Hub: Blessing or Curse?

Customizing your settings via the Logitech G Hub software is… fine. It’s not my favorite interface — it’s a bit clunky — but once you’ve set your DPI and polling rates, you don’t need to mess with it often. You can store up to five profiles directly on the mouse, which is a huge plus. However, what grinds my gears is the lack of an onboard DPI button. You’ll have to open G Hub every time you want to change sensitivity on the fly. A small price to pay for weight savings, but mildly frustrating nonetheless.

Battery Life and Other Features

One of the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2’s quiet victories is its battery life. Logitech claims it can run for up to 95 hours on a single charge, and while I haven’t quite clocked in that much yet, it hasn’t died on me once during extended gaming hours. This thing just keeps going. If you’re someone who despises recharging, consider Logitech’s PowerPlay system, where you can charge the mouse wirelessly while using it.

One feature I didn’t expect to love as much as I did is the PTFE feet on the bottom of the mouse. These slick pads ensure the Superlight 2 glides like it’s skating on ice — smooth, seamless, and without any drag. It’s especially noticeable during fast-paced playthroughs, where precision and speed are critical. The zero-additive PTFE offers you continuous fluid movement across different surfaces. It’s a good option for the rapid flicks in action shooters or sweeping gestures in strategy games.

Another subtle yet creative addition is the dongle storage compartment on the underside. If you tend to misplace tiny peripherals, this is a lifesaver. It’s a small detail, but keeps everything compact and organized. The USB-C adapter included in the box is another extra part for a more streamlined setup.

Pricing: Is it Worth the Investment?

At $159, the Superlight 2 isn’t exactly cheap. But then again, you’re paying for precision, performance, and portability in one sleek package. If you’re a serious gamer or even someone who just appreciates high-quality peripherals, it’s worth every penny. But being a casual gamer, you should understand if you need a mouse this high-end. That said, once you experience the buttery smooth gliding and lightning-fast performance, it’s hard to go back to anything less. Check out the latest price on Amazon.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight design (just 60g) gives handling and quick movements.
• Hero 2 sensor with 32,000 DPI for exceptional tracking precision.
• USB-C charging for convenience and faster power-ups.
• Long battery life (up to 95 hours) without RGB draining power.
• Hybrid optical-mechanical switches for fast, durable, and satisfying clicks.
• Lag-free Lightspeed wireless performance with a 4,000Hz polling rate.

Cons:

• Expensive at $159, not budget-friendly for casual gamers.
• No onboard DPI button, need software to change sensitivity.
• Side buttons feel mushy compared to main clicks.
• There is no RGB lighting.

Final Verdict

If you’re still using the original Superlight, is this upgrade worth it? Probably not. But if you’re new to the Logitech Superlight family or in need of the best gaming mouse, the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 is a great investment that can’t disappoint. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel; instead, it perfects what was already great. It’s sleek, precise, ultra-responsive, and very lightweight.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links at no cost to you. We may earn a small commission if you buy anything from these links.

I bet you spend more time typing on your phone than you’d care to admit and I’m just like you. Whether it’s texting, Googling how to cook a tasty steak, or crafting that “sorry, just saw this” reply three days late, we all live in the land of touchscreen keyboards. But there is an important question that lets many think: Is swiping faster than typing on your phone?

The Big Players: Gboard vs iPhone Keyboard

There are two big dogs in the mobile keyboard arena: Gboard (Google’s very own) for Android users, and the iPhone keyboard for iPhone users. Both have pros and cons, but in terms of the swipe vs. type debate, both platforms have embraced swiping as a legitimate alternative to traditional typing.

A Quick Look at Gboard

Gboard, available for both Android and iPhone is practically a Swiss Army knife for your texting needs. Not only does it support swiping (or “Glide typing” as Google calls it), but there are other great features such as Google search, GIFs, stickers, voice typing, and even a mini-you in the form of Bitmoji.

Swiping on Gboard is very nice, it uses machine learning to predict what you’re going to type before you’ve even realized what you want to say. That sounds fancy, but does it make you faster?

The iPhone Keyboard

For iPhone users, you didn’t have the swiping feature for a long time — until iOS 13 came along and introduced QuickPath (which is Apple’s snazzy name for swiping). Sure, iPhone keyboards have been reliable, but the swipe feature finally puts the users in the same league as the Android team. QuickPath is very smooth too, and the iPhone’s autocorrect game has always been solid (if not a bit quirky at times).

So, with both iPhone and Android phones now offering swiping options, let’s get to the core of the matter: Is it actually faster?

Swipe vs. Type: The Science Behind Speed

I’m sure you’ve had this moment: You’re furiously typing out a message, hitting every key like a concert pianist, but you suddenly see someone next to you casually swiping their finger and finishing their message fast. What kind of sorcery is this?

Well, there’s some science to it.

Swiping tends to be faster than typing because it’s about fluidity. Swiping on the screen is one smooth, continuous motion. Your phone’s algorithm fills in the gaps and predicts the word you want to spell based on your tracing pattern. So rather than tapping 8 keys to type “keyboard,” you swipe a zigzag from K to E to Y and that’s the game of only a few moments before you hit the send button.

On the other hand, typing depends a lot on precision. You have to tap for every letter and every time you do that, you need to correct a lot of mistakes doubling your time. And autocorrect is not always your way when you’re typing. Ever tried typing “ducking” when you were feeling a bit more… passionate?

But here’s the thing: While swiping can be faster, it depends on a few factors.

What Determines Your Swiping Speed?

Swiping, like all things, has its limitations. Here’s what can make or break your swiping experience:

1. Word Length and Complexity

Swiping works perfectly for shorter, simpler words. “Cat,” “dog,” or “yes”? Swipe away. But when you’re dealing with longer words like “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” (okay, maybe not that extreme), swiping can get wobbly. Your thumb starts tracing letters in loops, and your phone might be throwing a tantrum at you, “What are you even trying to say?”

2. Prediction Algorithms

This is where Gboard is amazing. Its predictive text algorithm has been trained to recognize patterns over time, so it usually knows what you’re swiping even if you take a bit of a detour. iPhone’s QuickPath is decent, but after trying it, I can say it’s still learning, especially with more complex or less common words.

The smarter the keyboard, the faster the swiping. But if your keyboard doesn’t quite “get” you yet, expect a few more mistakes and “did you mean?” moments.

3. Your Personal Style

Not everyone’s a natural swiper. Some people just feel more comfortable with good old-fashioned typing. If you’ve got years of muscle memory built up from tapping away at physical keyboards using double fingers, switching to swiping might be similar to trading in a sports car for a scooter for you. Sure, you’ll get there, but it’s an adjustment.

Then again, if you’re a texter who prefers speed and efficiency over pinpoint accuracy, swiping is probably a better choice.

Swiping and Typing Accuracy: Who Wins?

Swiping is generally pretty accurate, but when it misses, it misses big. If your swipe is slightly off, you will see total nonsense on your screen. The problem is when you’re typing fast, you often don’t notice the mistake until after you hit send — and suddenly you’re texting your boss about “lunch with giraffes” instead of “lunch with graphs.”

Typing, on the other hand, gives you more control and better accuracy. We don’t mistakes or miss the words in every text, but it’s usually a quick fix. That said, autocorrect can still throw curveballs, especially on iPhones. We’ve all had the moment when we meant to type “meeting” but somehow ended up with “meme king.”

While swiping is faster for short bursts of casual texting, typing can you a slight edge when you need to be more precise.

What About Long-Form Writing?

Okay, quick question: Have you ever tried writing a paragraph using swiping alone? It’s not exactly a picnic. Swiping is perfect for texts and short messages, but once you’re drafting long emails or notes, the pace slows down. You start fighting with your keyboard as it tries to figure out if you meant to say “and” or “sand.” Not exactly productivity heaven.

For longer texts, typing is the priority. It offers more control, and less autocorrect to battle with, and you can quickly fix errors on the go. Swiping on the keyboard might get you halfway there, but typing is going to be your marathon runner.

Is Swiping Really Faster Than Typing?

Here’s the verdict: Yes… mostly.

For quick, casual conversations, swiping is generally faster. It’s smooth, easier, and saves you the effort of tapping each letter. However, it is not the best practice dealing with long or complicated words, or when you need absolute accuracy. In such cases, typing has the upper hand.

Both Gboard and the iPhone keyboard are solid for the swipe feature, but Gboard is better thanks to its more advanced predictive text engine. Still, the iPhone’s QuickPath is no slouch, and for loyal iPhone users, it’s a welcome feature that’s only getting better.

At the end of the day, it also depends on your style, the task at hand, and how good your current keyboard is in these features. Try both and see what feels right for you. And if all else fails, there’s always voice typing — which, honestly, is a whole other can of worms. I prefer and use typing because I usually text long sentences and it does me the job in a quick time. But again, you have both in your phone’s keyboard and it’s up to you. I have said what I think about them.

I love listening to music with AirPos in the ear, so I was excited about Apple’s AirPods 4. After trying them out, I think they’re amazing, and they have given me a different experience.

The AirPods 4 come in two types: a standard one for $129 without noise canceling and an ANC model for $179. I obviously chose the ANC model, and it’s a great choice. It blocks out lots of background noise, like office fans and cars.

Even lawnmowers sound quieter with ANC on. The AirPods 4 don’t beat the AirPods Pro in sound quality but they’re still great. They have clear highs, warm mids, and good bass. Further, they’re comfy and fit well, making them a good choice.

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Introduction to AirPods 4

The latest AirPods 4 from Apple bring exciting updates. They keep the same small and light design as before but this time, they have active noise cancellation (ANC), just like the AirPods Pro.

This makes the AirPods 4 a great choice for better sound and less noise. They cost less than the AirPods Pro 2, which is $249.

The AirPods 4 with noise cancelling saves you $70 bucks from the AirPods Pro 2. The good thing is that Amazon has a discount on both variants of the latest Airpods at the time of this writing. This makes them a good deal for those looking for wireless earbuds without spending too much.

The AirPods 4 design looks similar to before, but they’ve made big changes inside. They have better sound, and a more comfortable fit, and work great with Apple products. All this, without changing how they look and feel.

See on Amazon

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

Even though AirPods 4 are open-ear, they still block out a lot of noise thanks to the new ANC feature. They work well against sounds like fans and engines. They might not block out all high-pitched sounds as well as the AirPods Pro. But, they’re still a big step up from older versions.

The ANC on the AirPods 4 might feel like a bit of pressure but I find it comfortable. These AirPods work well with Apple’s features like adaptive audio and EQ. They’re also dust and water-resistant, making them great for daily use.

My Thoughts on AirPods 4

After using the Apple AirPods 4 for several days, I’m impressed. The design is sleek and fits well in my ears. I haven’t had any issues with them falling out.

The sound quality is better than before, with a more balanced sound. The active noise cancellation is helpful, but not as strong as the Pros. The AirPods 4 hands-on experience is seamless with Apple devices. They pair easily with my iPhone and the controls work well.

In short, these new pieces of tech are a solid upgrade. They offer better sound, useful ANC, and more features without a big price jump. If you’re an Apple user, the AirPods 4 are a great choice.

Fit and Comfort

The new AirPods 4 are more ergonomic than the AirPods 3 and this design fits comfortably in your ear.

The shorter stems also help keep them in place. This means you don’t have to worry about them falling out as they stay secure and stable during daily activities.

I found the AirPods 4 very comfortable. They are lightweight and fit well, making listening a joy. Apple’s research, using over 50 million data points, made these improvements possible.

Whether you’re on the move, working out, or just listening to music, you will be happy using them. Their design ensures a snug fit which makes them a pleasure to wear all day.

Sound Quality

The AirPods 4 have improved sound quality compared to earlier models. They don’t match the AirPods Pro in audio fidelity. But, they offer a balanced sound with clear vocals and punchy bass.

The AirPods 4’s open-ear design means some sound leaks out. Yet, they still offer a good listening experience, thanks to Apple Music’s spatial audio. For casual listeners, the AirPods 4’s sound quality is a big leap forward.

Compared to the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods 4 might lack in certain frequencies. But, they extend up to 20kHz, and it’s a solid upgrade. While the Pro 2 might sound slightly better, the latest gadgets are still excellent for everyday use.

Battery Life and Charging

The AirPods 4 have great battery life. They give up to 4 hours of listening with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on. Without it, you get a bit more time, so you can listen longer without needing to charge.

In my tests, I got 3–4 hours of use with ANC. The charging case adds 20–30 hours more. So, you can use them all day without worrying about running out of battery.

Charging the AirPods 4 is easy. You can use a USB-C cable or wireless charging. A 5-minute charge gives you an hour of listening. While they might not have the longest battery life, they’re perfect for daily use. The earbuds and case work together to keep you connected all day.

Smooth Integration with Apple Ecosystem

The AirPods 4 have changed the game for me. They pair easily with my iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. Just opening the charging case connects them automatically.

I can switch audio, take calls, and use Siri without trouble. This makes my Apple devices work together smoothly.

The AirPods 4 also offer great features for the Apple ecosystem. “Find My” helps me find lost earbuds. “Conversation Boost” makes calls clear and easy to hear.

Compared to the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, the AirPods 4 are easier to use. They work directly with Apple devices, without needing a special app. This makes them the top choice for those in the Apple ecosystem.

Controls and Gestures

The Apple AirPods 4 have a cool touch-based control feature. Each earbud has a force sensor on the stem. This lets you do many things with just a press.

A single press can play or pause music, answer calls, or switch between noise modes. These controls are quick and simple. They make managing your audio easy without needing to touch your device.

The AirPods 4 also have new head gesture controls. You can answer calls or change noise modes by nodding or shaking your head. This hands-free feature is a big plus.

Even though there’s no volume control on the AirPods 4, the controls are still easy to use. You can change what the force sensor does in the Settings app. This means you can make the AirPods 4 work just how you want.

In the Settings app, you can set up the force sensor to do things like skip tracks or activate Siri. This customization makes the AirPods 4 controls fit your needs perfectly. Whether you love the controls or prefer gestures, the AirPods 4 offer great options.

Price and Value Proposition

These AirPods offer great value with their premium features at a fair price. The basic model costs $129, and the ANC version is $179. This is a big step up from the previous AirPods, with features like ANC, better sound, and a more comfy design.

The base AirPods 4 have features like Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ, usually found in the AirPods Pro. While the Pro models have better sound and noise cancellation, the AirPods 4 are a great choice for those who like the open-ear fit or want to save money. They’re $30 cheaper than the Beats Fit Pro, offering a high-quality earbud experience at a great price.

Noise Isolation and Ambient Sound Awareness

The Apple AirPods 4 offer a great mix of noise isolation and awareness of your surroundings. They block out low sounds well, but you can still hear higher noises because of their open-ended design.

Even with ANC on, you can hear mid-range sounds. But, they do a good job at cutting out low sounds, like fan hums or car rumbles. Transparency mode lets in more sounds, keeping you safe or aware of your area.

Microphone and Call Quality

The Apple AirPods 4 have great microphone performance. They make sure your voice is clear and reliable for calls and voice commands. The “Voice Isolation” feature from Apple helps by focusing on your voice and cutting down background noise.

During my tests, people said my voice was loud and clear, even in some noise. This shows how well the AirPods 4 work.

The AirPods 4’s microphones also work well with Siri. They recognize your voice and carry out commands accurately. While they might not be as top-notch as the AirPods Pro, they still offer a good calling experience.

They’re great for personal calls or business video meetings and ensure your voice is heard clearly — that makes them a good choice for many communication needs.

See on Amazon

Wireless Connectivity and Bluetooth

The AirPods 4 uses the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology for a stable and reliable wireless connection to your devices. I found pairing easy and the range to be about 30 feet (9 meters) before any issues.

They also support automatic device switching and it becomes very simple to switch audio between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

The Bluetooth connection stayed strong even with many wireless devices around. This ensured a smooth listening experience. While they don’t match gaming earbuds in latency, they’re great for music, podcasts, and videos. The AirPods 4’s wireless connectivity and Bluetooth offer a good experience across different ranges.

In summary, its Bluetooth integration is smooth and consistent. This lets you enjoy your audio without any problems. With Bluetooth 5.0, automatic switching, and a strong range, they’re perfect for daily wireless audio needs.

Congratulations on getting your hands on the latest Samsung Galaxy S24! This smartphone is packed with advanced features and innovative technology, making it one of the best choices in the market. But with so many options and settings, it can initially feel a bit overwhelming. This guide walks you through the best things you should do first with your Galaxy S24 to get the most out of your new device right from the start.

1. Set Up Your Samsung Account and Enable Galaxy AI Features

The Samsung Galaxy S24 comes with new AI-powered features, like enhanced photo editing, smarter text messaging, and on-device language translation. To take advantage of these features, sign in with your Samsung account. Navigate to Settings > Advanced Features > Advanced Intelligence to enable various AI options for apps like Samsung Keyboard, Samsung Notes, and Photo Editor. This setup helps you utilize generative AI tools directly on your device, improving your user experience.

2. Customize the Navigation and Power Button Functions

Samsung still defaults to the three-button navigation on the Galaxy S24, but you can switch to gesture-based navigation for a more modern experience. Head to Settings > Display > Navigation Bar to switch from buttons to swipe gestures. Additionally, you can modify the power button settings to function as a power menu button instead of launching Bixby, improving usability. Go to Settings > Advanced Features > Side Key to make this change.

3. Enhance the Display and Lock Screen Settings

Maximize your display experience by switching to QHD+ resolution (only available on Galaxy S24+ and S24 Ultra). Access this setting through Settings > Display > Screen Resolution to enjoy crisper images and sharper text. Also, make use of the Adaptive Color Tone feature, which adjusts the screen’s color and white balance based on ambient lighting for a more natural display experience. Customize your lock screen with new widgets by going to Settings > Lock Screen and selecting from options like weather, calendar, and health tracking widgets.

4. Set Up Samsung Pay for Secure, Contactless Payments

Samsung Pay is a powerful tool for making secure, contactless payments directly from your Galaxy S24. To set it up, open the Samsung Pay app, sign in with your Samsung account, and follow the prompts to add your credit or debit cards. This feature is widely accepted and offers robust security through tokenization and Samsung Knox. It’s a convenient way to make payments without carrying your wallet.

5. Optimize Battery Life and Enable Always On Display

To ensure your Galaxy S24’s battery lasts throughout the day, tweak settings under Settings > Battery and Device Care > Battery. Enable power-saving modes and optimize app usage to manage battery consumption efficiently. For personalization, adjust the Always On Display settings to show minimal information or a full-screen wallpaper, depending on your preferences. You can access these settings under Settings > Lock Screen and AOD.

Conclusion

These initial steps will help you make the most of your Samsung Galaxy S24’s advanced features, customization options, and security settings. Whether you’re setting up AI features, optimizing display settings, or configuring Samsung Pay, following these guidelines will enhance your smartphone experience.

So, there I was, fully set for an epic gaming session on my PS5, controller in hand, snacks at the ready, and a drink beside it, only to be greeted by the dreaded padlock icon on my game. If you’ve faced this situation, you know exactly what I’m talking about. But don’t worry, there’s a quick and easy fix that can get you back in the action: restoring your game licenses.

Restoring game licenses on your PlayStation is like giving your console a nudge, reminding it that, “Hey, I own these games, let me play!” It’s one of the simplest ways to solve issues with your digital games, and I’m here to walk you through the process. Trust me, it’s easier than finding a good Wi-Fi connection at a gaming convention.

Why Restore Game Licenses on PS5?

If you’re someone like me, you’ve probably got a a pretty big digital game library, thanks to PS Plus, the PlayStation Store, and a few too many impulse buys during sales. But sometimes, when you open PlayStation 5 and try to run one of these digital treasures, you might see a padlock icon instead of the “Play” button.

This issue can happen for a few reasons. Maybe there’s been a recent update or a bug in the PlayStation Network. Or perhaps your console needs a quick sync with Sony’s servers to remember that you do own that game. Whatever the cause, restoring your game’s licenses can usually set things straight.

How to Restore Game Licenses on PS5

Here’s how you can restore your game licenses on the PS5 in just a few easy steps:

1. Open your PS5 console.
2. Head over to ‘Settings’ and go to the ‘Users and Accounts’ section.
3. From this menu, go to the ‘Other’ section from the side list options.
4. Choose ‘Restore Licenses’ and select Restore to confirm the process.

It will take a while to restore digital licenses for your PS5 games. When it’s done, any padlocks should disappear, and you should be able to play your games without a hitch. Just like that, problem solved!

Related:

Should PS5 be Vertical or Horizontal in Position?

How to Connect AirPods to PS5

When You Should Restore Game Licenses on PS5?

You might wonder, “Do I need to do this often?” Not really. But it’s good to know how to restore your game licenses just in case you ever encounter issues with your digital library. For example:

• Padlocked Games: If a game you own suddenly shows a padlock, restoring licenses should be your go-to move.
• Missing Games or DLC: Sometimes, DLCs or even full games might go AWOL. Restoring licenses can help bring them back.
• PlayStation Store Issues: If you’re having trouble accessing content from the store or can’t purchase from the store, this might help clear things up.
• Random Game Crashes: While not as common, restoring licenses has been known to fix game crashes linked to licensing issues.

Why Does This Happen?

Sometimes the information stored on your PS5 doesn’t quite match up with what’s on Sony’s servers. This mismatch can happen after a PlayStation Network instability or when a new update arrives. Restoring your game licenses syncs everything up, making sure your PS5 knows exactly what you own and what titles you should be able to play.

So, there you have it! The next time your PS5 decides to play hard to get with your games, remember this quick fix, and you’ll be back to your adventures in no time.

And remember, gaming should be fun, not frustrating.

If you’ve ever wondered whether Instagram notifies users when you screenshot their Stories, you’re not alone. This topic has seen many changes over the years, causing some confusion. Let’s clear things up with the most recent updates.

The Short Answer: No, It Doesn’t

Instagram does not notify users when you take a screenshot of their Story and the same happens if someone screenshot your story. This means you are free to capture funny moments, favorite photos, or motivational quotes as many as you want without alerting the person who posted them. This applies to regular posts, Reels, and even most direct messages.

The Exceptions

Of course, this is not always true. Instagram notifies a user in case you took a screenshot of a disappearing message in Vanish Mode in Direct Messages (DM). Vanish Mode messages have been built to respect the highest level of privacy; the messages disappear once the viewer has seen them. If you take a screenshot of such messages, Instagram will send a notification to the sender.

Why Did Instagram Stop Notifying?

The popular social media platform Instagram has, at one point, experimented with letting people know each time others take screenshots of their Stories. First tested in 2018, it was dropped again. This could be due to several reasons; first, users probably worry too much about their privacy. Second, maybe it’s difficult to maintain across all types of content and interactions on the platform.

How to Screenshot Without Getting Notified

If you are concerned about privacy or just want to be extra careful, here are a few tips:

• Use Airplane Mode: Just put the phone in airplane mode right before you take the screenshot. This way, your phone will be disconnected from the internet, and the person on the other side will not be notified.
• Use Another Device: Watch the Story on one device and use another device to snap a photo or video of the screen.
• Screen Recording: You can take advantage of this feature on both iOS and Android to screen-record Stories silently. The only thing one has to ensure is to cut the video in the right place.

Read more: How to Become a Social Media Influencer

How to Protect Your Content

If you’re worried about others taking screenshots of your stories, consider the following few steps for better privacy:

• Close Friends: Share your stories with a select group of close friends or family members. This way, only the ones you want can view your content.
• Hide Stories: Go to privacy settings and restrict stories from people who are likely to misuse them.
• Change Your Account to Private: A more drastic option, though equally effective, is to change your account so that only selected people can view the content you post.

Bottom Line

All in all, even though Instagram doesn’t currently turn out notifications regarding the screenshots on their stories, it’s always best to bear in mind both the content of what you post and to whom you are posting. Effective use of privacy settings will safeguard content and thus ensure the peace of one’s mind.

Instagram: Performative Acts and the Illusion of Authenticity

AI in your B2B sales strategy can really up the ante in terms of doing sales in a more efficient, personal, and effective way. Here are some of the ways by which you can effectively do it.

Use Data-Driven Insights

AI can help you turn the sales process into an optimized function with data-driven intelligence. Tools like sales forecasting, lead scoring, and pipeline analysis can make decisions easier by pointing efforts toward closing the most promising leads. This generally results in improvements in the productivity and sales outcomes of sales reps using these tools.

Automate Routine Tasks

This includes all these repetitive tasks — from data entry to scheduling and note-taking — powered by AI. Thereby, this leaves the sales team free to do more strategic work, such as building relationships and selling. In general, it increases sales rep efficiency by two hours and 16 minutes daily.

Enhance Personal

Today, personalization remains one of the hottest areas of focus in the selling environment. AI helps you personalize interactions and content to fit the unique needs of each prospect. Personalized campaigns, recommended products, and targeted content: AI ensures your communication is attuned to your audience. Sales teams that use AI for personalization see — first and foremost — more customer engagement, which ultimately leads to increased conversion rates.

Increase the Efficiency of Lead Generation and Scoring

AI truly revolutionizes, and far beyond the present state, your lead-generation endeavors. It can accurately scan huge data sets much faster than what any human effort could come up with and that too seamlessly, without any break in time. AI-driven lead scoring will help prioritize the most promising leads for conversion. That is, some automatic decision about which batch is now ready for conversion needs to be a focus for the selling team, with attention fully on the most promising opportunities.

Implement Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics uses historical data but applies machine learning to predict future sales trends. Your sales team will be geared up for customers, their needs, and how to spend the maximum amount of time and resources. Predictive analytics improves sales forecasting accuracy and impacts strategic planning.

AI Chatbots and Virtual Assistants

That means the AI chatbot can take on all the initial customer inquiries, qualify the leads, and sometimes even support the customer. Virtual assistants make sure all leads are responded to instantly and they better the experience in return, thus easing up your sales team on more complex tasks. Chatbots also collect essential information that can be used to further tune your sales strategies.

Modify Training and Development

It can also be very critical in training and development. AI-enabled training tools can generally provide sales representatives with a personalized learning experience that enables them to catch up on things quickly and stay updated with various techniques for making a sale. Tools like conversational intelligence identify best practices and areas of improvement while analyzing sales calls.

Put Data Privacy and Security in Place

With the growing reliance on digital technology, data privacy and security is a big concern. AI solutions ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR and guarantee the escalatory rate of enhancement in customer data security. AI for data security therefore doesn’t mean just securing sensitive information; it means building trust.

By successfully adopting these AI trends for business, B2B sales tactics would be molded into something very efficient, personalized, and effective. Embrace these technologies to remain ahead and drive growth in your business.