Summer is taking a heavy toll on us all. Not just because of the heat, but also because of rising tech prices across the board, driven by RAM-hungry AI and other economic factors.
Fortunately, Dell has come to cool off the frustrations of PC gamers and desk workers alike with a collection of advanced laptops, desktops, and monitors now on sale for a limited time, such as a 46% discount on the Alienware 16X Aurora Gaming laptop for $1,729.99 at Dell and a 38% discount on the Dell 14 Plus Laptop for $859.99 at Dell, to name just a couple.
The Dell 15 Laptop is simple yet effective for tackling light workloads, whether it's searching for info online or writing up documents, thanks to its Intel Core i5-1334U CPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 512GB SSD.View Deal
"It’s not perfect... but for the price and the performance on offer the [Dell] 14 Plus is easily one of the best Windows laptops going, and should be at the top of the list for students, remote workers, and just about anyone else who needs a solid notebook PC without breaking the bank." ~ John Loeffler, Components Editor at TechRadar
The Dell Tower Desktop is a mighty PC that will plow through intensive workloads thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 7 265 processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB SSD, making it an ideal companion for office workers or those at home.View Deal
The Dell Slim Desktop offers similar high performance and install space as the Dell Tower Desktop, but with a more compact design, so it doesn't take too much space on your desk.View Deal
"The Alienware Aurora laptops target the mid-range with great all-around performance and a practical design, and the more powerful 16X makes some smart upgrades to justify its added cost." ~ Zachary Boddy, former Staff Writer,
"The Alienware 16 Area-51 stands out with an eye-catching design that sets a tough standard for competitors. Underneath, it delivers impressive gaming performance, an excellent keyboard, and capable speakers." ~ Ural Garrett, Staff Writer at TechRadar
"Designed to keep up with any task you throw at it, the S3225QC has brilliant contrasting and picture quality, and is perfectly suitable for design tasks, casual use and even as a multi-purpose display with its integrated speakers and AI spatial audio calibration." ~ Zachariah Kelly, Staff Writer at Tech Radar
"The Alienware AW2725D is everything an OLED gaming monitor should be for less money than the competition. With tons of color and premium performance, it will satisfy all players from casual to professional." ~ Christian Eberle, Contributing Editor at Tom's Hardware.
The Dell 14 Plus Laptop, Dell 15 Laptop, Dell Tower Desktop, Dell Slim Desktop, and Dell 32 Plus 4K Monitor are best suited for productivity tasks as they were built specifically for rendering images with crisp detail, typing words and spreadsheets fast, and opening multiple browsers while researching info online without suffering performance hiccups.
Which are good for gaming?
The Alienware 16X Aurora and Alienware 16 Area-51 laptops, along with the Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor, are the best devices for PC games, as they are designed to help them run at high graphical settings while boosting frame rates for smoother gameplay.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
A split image shows two setups: a work area with a laptop displaying a webinar, pen, and mug on a table, and a gaming setup with a monitor, VR headset, and controller.
Dell is offering a selection of highly advanced PC devices, from gaming laptops to workhorse desktop towers, with a wide variety of discount deals for a limited time.
Alienware makes gaming laptops and desktops, sure, but the line I enjoy looking at most is its QD-OLED gaming monitors. They're immensely popular after being the first to market in 2022; they're generally well-rated, and they're usually competitively priced.
One of the most popular Alienware gaming monitors is the AW3425DW, and it has now received a significant update for 2026. Dell let me get my hands on the new AW3426DW ultrawide monitor early so I could get a true feel of what it's like, and I'm here to share my thoughts on whether or not it's worth a buy.
Dell had no input, nor saw the contents of this review, prior to publication.
It's worth noting that the older model is currently sitting at $649.99 after a $150 discount, and I wouldn't be surprised to see that price drop stick around now that the new model is here.
Here's a closer look at the specs that make up the Alienware AW3426DW.
Alienware AW3426DW
Size
34.18 inches
Panel
Samsung QD-OLED Penta Tandem (RGB stripe, 5-stack)
Resolution
3440x1440
Refresh rate
280Hz
Response time
0.03ms
Peak brightness
1,300 nits
Typical brightness
300 nits
HDR
HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500, Dolby Vision
The main change arrives for the Quantum Dot-Organic Light Emitting Diode (QD-OLED) panel. It's using Samsung's new fifth-genPenta Tandem tech that was revealed earlier this year, which the company says has twice as long a lifespan as well as 1.3 times better brightness. Text should be easier to read, and there are improvements to dark colors in bright ambient light. More on that below.
Alongside the higher brightness, the monitor now has an anti-reflective coating to better combat glare. And, finally, the refresh rate has been raised from 240Hzto 280Hz.
What I like about the Alienware AW3426DW
The small Alien head and the power button are the only RGB elements you'll find. (Image credit: Future)
From a purely design standpoint, the Alienware AW3426DW hasn't changed much compared to the AW3425DW. Its case has a pleasant Interstellar Indigo color scheme, with minimal interruptions on the back panel.
An Alienware head logo is off to the left of the stand, and there's the secondary AI logo on the other side. These logos are surrounded by venting, altogether offering a clean look.
For a bit of extra jazz, the Alienware head has customizable lighting. The same applies to the monitor's power button on the bottom edge of the casing.
The front of the monitor features Alienware branding, and that's basically it. Bezels are nice and slim, and the rounded stand seems like a perfect pairing.
I like the bubbly, rounded look of the AW3426DW's stand. (Image credit: Future)
On that note, the stand is plenty sturdy. It doesn't offer much rotation (this is an ultrawide, after all), but there's enough tilt and swivel to keep me happy. If I were keeping the screen, it'd go onto my MSI dual-arm VESA mount thanks to 100x100mm compatibility.
All OSD settings are controlled with a single joystick. There are a ton of menu options to play around with should you want to tweak the picture, and the monitor includes quite a few presets for different tasks and gaming styles. You can also change shortcuts for easier control.
The OSD menu is controlled with a single joystick.FutureOSD menu controls in the Alienware AW3426DW are quite extensive.FutureOSD menu controls in the Alienware AW3426DW are quite extensive.FutureOSD menu controls in the Alienware AW3426DW are quite extensive.Future
Smart HDR, Dolby Vision, refresh rates, and much more are all customizable. You can choose how the monitor handles multiple inputs. And, for those who game and work on the same screen, I'm happy to report that the Picture-in-Picture (PiP) and Picture-by-Picture (PbP) features work flawlessly.
The older AW3425DW's OSD menu, or "Command Center," had issues with freezing and closing randomly, but I've not seen those issues in the newer AW3426DW model.
How is the Alienware AW3426DW's color and brightness?
It's hard to convey through photos how great the Alienware AW3426DW looks. (Image credit: Future)
Thanks to the new fifth-gen QD-OLED panel, Alienware's flagship line of ultrawide gaming monitors has never looked better.
One of the biggest complaints about the older model was that black colors often appeared purple when in a bright room. That's been significantly improved here, and it seems that no matter how much light is falling on the screen, dark colors remain dark.
This latest model includes a new anti-reflective finish that Dell says reduces glare by up to 30%. I can't test for that precisely, but I can say that the only time I had issues with glare was in a sun-drenched room with direct light hitting the screen. If you're in an office or a gaming room, you should have no issues.
The Alienware AW3426DW's brightness and contrast readout. (Image credit: Future)
It also helps that brightness has gone up from a 250-nit cap to 300 nits. Whereas the AW3425DW tested for roughly 252 nits of brightness, I saw the AW3426DW hit 330 nits in SDR, and it goes up to about 1,300 nits with HDR enabled. This additional brightness pushes its HDR certification up to VESA DisplayHDR 500.
You can see for yourself the brightness, color, contrast, and white point ratings in the above chart that I pulled from my SpyderX Pro colorimeter.
(Image credit: Future)
Color reproduction has actually improved slightly compared to the previous generation. Whereas we previously tested for 97% P3 and 94% AdobeRGB coverage, the new model hits 99% and 95%, respectively. It otherwise remains at 100% sRGB.
Is Alienware's AW3426DW good for gaming?
You're going to love gaming on Alienware's AW3426DW. (Image credit: Future)
Thanks to a curved panel, an ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio, a 3440x1440 resolution, a 280Hz refresh rate, and a 0.02ms response time, the Alienware AW3426DW is an outstanding gaming monitor.
The resolution hits the sweet spot for most gamers, and once you go ultrawide, you'll find it's very hard to go back to a 16:9 aspect ratio. The 280Hz refresh rate has plenty of ceiling for high-end performance hardware, and it's fast enough that you shouldn't mind using it for competitive titles.
Because it's an ultrawide with room for (at least) three separate windows, it's also great for productivity. Text is easier to read with this generation of QD-OLED panel, and you might be surprised at how crisp everything looks if you're coming from an older model.
What I dislike about the Alienware AW3426DW
Ports on the Alienware AW3426DW are a bit more limited than I'd like. (Image credit: Future)
There's not much to dislike about this monitor from a display quality standpoint. But there are some drawbacks you should know about before buying.
The port selection is notably a bit lacking. There's no 3.5mm audio jack (and no built-in speakers), and for data, there's just USB-C (15W) and USB-A, feeding off an upstream USB-B port.
Alienware's AW3426DW is easy to love, whether you're gaming or working.
Video inputs include dual HDMI 2.1 with Fixed Rate Link (FRL) for uncompressed 4K@120Hz gaming, but the single DisplayPort is 1.4 standard with Display Stream Compression (DSC). Some newer monitors are shipping with DP 2.1 with less compression, and I'd say it only really matters for enthusiasts.
Should you buy the Alienware AW3426DW?
Alienware's AW3426DW is an outstanding gaming monitor, but it's also handy for productivity. (Image credit: Future)
You should buy this if ...
✅ You're looking for a competitively priced ultrawide gaming monitor featuring fifth-gen QD-OLED tech.
✅ You have a gaming PC that can handle a 3440x1440 resolution and that can make use of a 280Hz refresh rate.
You should not buy this if ...
❌ You're a competitive gamer who mostly plays at a 16:9 aspect ratio.
❌ You just want a QD-OLED ultrawide and don't care about the generation (go with the AW3425DW from last year that's now usually cheaper).
I loved my time with the Alienware AW3426DW, and it's something I'll recommend to anyone who's searching out a new QD-OLED ultrawide for gaming.
The 280Hz refresh rate is perfect for most people, the fifth-gen panel is better than ever, and the overall design is sleek and balanced.
Although some might complain that the port selection isn't generous enough or that the RGB lighting is lacking, others might not mind those drawbacks nearly as much.
And considering how many perks the monitor has, it's easy to see why this line of monitors from Alienware is so popular. I have to return the review sample, but the AW3426DW is at the top of my list for when it comes time to upgrade.
Penta Tandem
Alienware
AW3426DW
Alienware's AW3426DW makes several important upgrades over its predecessor, including a new Penta Tandem QD-OLED panel that ups brightness, improves color, and makes text easier to read. It's an outstanding option for work and for play, just as long as you can live with the (minor) downsides.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
A curved Alienware AW3426DW widescreen monitor displays a vibrant flower image on a wooden desk, next to an open laptop with a lit keyboard, books, and a potted plant.
Alienware's new AW3426DW has landed with a host of improvements.
So when Microsoft killed off the Surface Studio, I was incredibly sad. Although I never really used the Surface Studio's unique canvas hinge, I did very much enjoy its design and display, and so when the time came to replace it, I was never entirely satisfied with my options. I moved to the HP Envy 32, then the HP Envy 34, before switching to a Lenovo Yoga AiO 32 line last year.
I've been happily daily-driving my Lenovo Yoga AiO 32 for over a year, and while it looked good on a desk, it wasn't a head turner. Well, it appears Lenovo has taken that criticism to heart, as the follow-up is a complete redesign that puts sexy front and center.
The new Lenovo Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition is a true sight to behold. Complete with a transparent display chin that incorporates RGB lighting, a new upside-down V-shaped stand that's unlike anything I've ever seen, an incredibly thin but capable computer built into said stand, and the best display I've ever seen on an all-in-one.
I've been daily driving this AiO for the last three weeks, and this is my full review.
This review was made possible via a review sample supplied by Lenovo. The company had no editorial input and did not view the contents of this review before publication.
Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition: Price and specs
Prepare to be mesmerized by its design. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
The Lenovo Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition is a mouthful of a name, but it does make it easy to find online. You can find the device available for purchase directly on Lenovo's website for an eyewatering $3,097.99. There's only one configuration available, so there's no wiggle room on that price for now.
That configuration comes with an Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, paired with 32GB RAM and 1TB m.2 SSD storage. It also includes the Intel Arc B390 GPU, which drives the incredible 32-inch 4K OLED panel at 165Hz. Unfortunately, there are no configurations with a dedicated GPU from NVIDIA or AMD.
Lenovo's new Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition is a sight to behold, complete with a unique design that features a transparent display chin with RGB lighting, the best 4K OLED I've ever seen fitted to an AiO, and incredible performance. View Deal
Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition specs
Specification
Details
Processor
Intel® Core™ Ultra X7 358H (E‑cores up to 3.50 GHz, P‑cores up to 4.80 GHz)
Wireless Mouse; Wireless Helios Gen 2 Keyboard (Seashell, English US)
Connectivity
Wi‑Fi 7 2×2 BE & Bluetooth® 5.4
Warranty
1 Year Mail‑in
Color
Seashell
Xbox Game Pass
Included
Part Number
F0JK0009US
Price
$3097.99
Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition: What I like
These ports and buttons are easily reachable on the side. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
In a word, the Lenovo Yoga i AiO 32 Aura Edition is sexy. It's probably the best-looking desktop computer you can buy right now, and that's thanks to its absolutely insane design that places the entire computer in the stand that holds the screen up, allowing the display to take all your attention.
From a normal sitting position, you can't even see the stand. Unlike traditional stands that have a base that sits on the desk, the AiO's stand is more like a kickstand, with the weight of the display leaning against the stand, and the bottom of both the stand and the display chin making contact with the desk to form an upside-down V shape.
This is unique on its own, but when paired with the awesome-looking transparent display chin, the result is an all-encompassing 4K OLED display that looks like it floats. It's honestly super mesmerizing, and with the built-in RGB lighting enabled that shines through the transparent chin, the whole thing just looks amazing.
That RGB lighting can be controlled via Lenovo's included Vantage app, or by Windows itself using Microsoft's new Dynamic Lighting feature. This is the first time I've been able to use Windows 11's native RGB controls, and they're quick and awesome. You have a number of settings, including gradients that let you choose two colors to alternate between, and it's overall very easy to set up.
The transparent chin is a sight to behold. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
It's an incredibly eye-catching design that will turn heads whenever someone who has never seen it before comes across it. While the light-up chin is the first thing they'll notice, the second thing they'll be blown away by is the sheer quality of the 4K OLED display that sits on top of it.
This 32-inch 4K OLED panel is amazing. It's a true 10-bit panel at 165Hz, making Windows animations and scrolling look super smooth and games feel incredible to play. This is undoubtedly the best display you can find on an all-in-one PC right now, blowing the iMac and the last-gen Lenovo 32-inch AiO out of the water.
This is undoubtedly the best display you can find on an all-in-one PC right now, blowing the iMac and the last-gen Lenovo 32-inch AiO out of the water.
Colors simply pop on this screen. It's also incredibly color accurate, with a 99% DCI‑P3 and 100% sRGB rating making it great for video editors and photo artists. It's plenty bright, with up to 1,000 nits peak brightness in HDR content too. The display is surrounded by thin uniform bezels, with a metal frame that's cold to the touch and feels incredibly premium.
On the right side of the display is a USB-C port, which makes plugging in flash drives and other peripherals super easy and convenient. There's also a 3.5mm audio jack on this same display edge, which is nice for plugging in headphones. The rest of the ports are located on the stand, most of which are at the very back.
There's a door that covers this USB-A port. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
On the stand, you'll find a single USB-A port on the side of the stand, which is designed for a wireless keyboard and mouse dongle (but you can plug anything into it) behind a door. On the back, there are two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and that's it. I do wish there was maybe an additional USB-A and USB-C port, and an Ethernet jack wouldn't have gone amiss either.
Along the top of the display is a 16MP webcam that looks great and is a significant upgrade over the last gen Lenovo AiO. It's much clearer, and Windows Hello face unlock works a little faster as a result. There's a webcam kill switch on the right side of the display that's easy to reach for when you don't want anyone looking at you.
The AiO comes with a nice keyboard and mouse as well. These are automatically paired with the PC when you unbox, as the wireless dongle comes plugged in from the factory. The keyboard is hefty but premium-feeling, featuring a chiclet-style typing experience that's quiet yet satisfying.
Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition: What I don't like
It's pretty even from behind. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
Unfortunately, there are some things about the Lenovo Yoga AiO 32 Aura Edition that aren't my favorite. While this device is overall amazing and I would recommend it to pretty much anyone, that does come with a few caveats.
First of all, the design of this computer does have a few trade-offs. Firstly, the space required to set up the computer optimally on your desk is a significantly larger area than your usual AiO that sits on a normal stand with a base. The upside-down V-shape nature means that to angle the screen comfortably, you need to widen the gap between the two points of contact on the desk.
This isn't going to be an issue if you have a large desk, but for those on smaller desks, you might find the display ends up being slightly too close to you, or the stand ends up uncomfortably close to the edge of the desk. The underside of the stand is covered in a grippy texture, so it won't slide anywhere, but it's still a little unnerving.
It's incredibly thin. Where even is the computer? (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
You also lose usable desk space with this design. Sure, you can put things behind the display between it and the stand if you wanted, but that would mean you'll need to reach around the display whenever you need access to whatever it is you've put behind it. Plus, the transparent chin means you can see all the mess behind there at all times.
On the subject of that transparent chin. I love it, I really do, but my goodness, is it a dust and fingerprint magnet. Be prepared to be cleaning it on the daily. I don't know how fingerprints even end up there, as I'm never actively touching the chin, but somehow I'm always cleaning them off.
On this new model, you have no choice but to get up, lean around the display, and fondle your way into plugging your peripheral in. It's quite annoying.
This design also results in the position of the ports being really difficult to reach. While there is a single USB-C port on the side of the display, which is super easy to access and great to have, all the other ports are on the stand, most of which are at the back on the very bottom. This makes them basically impossible to reach when sitting in front of the display.
I complained about the position of the ports on the last-gen AiO from Lenovo, but at least on that device you could reach through the display stand to get to the ports from a sitting position. On this new model, you have no choice but to get up, lean around the display, and fondle your way into plugging your peripheral in. It's quite annoying.
These speakers have a problem... (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
I'd also argue that for a device being targeted at creators, it's quite lacking in the port section. There are just two USB-C and three USB-A ports on the whole device, four of which are on the back. Plus, there's no Ethernet jack for wired internet, and no SD card reader of any kind. I do wish that it had an SD card reader at the very least.
The last thing I don't like about the AiO is the built-in speaker system. In my testing, I can't help but think there's something wrong with them. Whenever the audio channel is open, an audible hissing/whooshing noise is present. This noise is present regardless of the audio being played, but is more noticeable when the volume is on medium or low settings. It's even audible when the device is muted and an audio track is playing, and it goes away entirely when the audio channel is closed.
It's so noticeable that I reached out to Lenovo to request a new review unit, thinking mine was defective, only to find the second sample has the same problem. So, I don't know if this is a hardware defect or something that can be fixed via firmware updates. I couldn't tell you what's causing the noise, but it is there.
If you've ordered one of these AiOs, let me know if this issue is present on your unit, or if I just somehow received two defective models back to back. This problem is easily solved by using an external set of speakers, which is what I do, completely bypassing the built-in speaker system. Still, it's not something you should have to put up with when paying this amount of money for a device, so if yours has this issue and you're unhappy, be sure to return it.
Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition: Performance
The transparent chin does have logos etched into it. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
This AiO is one that strikes a perfect balance between performance and quiet operation. This thing is whisper-quiet for 99% of the time you'll be using it, with the fans only spinning up under heavy sustained load for long periods. Even when on full blast, the fans aren't offensively loud.
Powered by the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H (Core Ultra Series 3) and Intel Arc B390 GPU, this AiO is well equipped to handle your usual day-to-day tasks, as well as high-intensity tasks such as video and photo editing, rendering, and 3D modeling. It's even a competent gaming machine, though I wouldn't buy one for dedicated gaming.
This thing is whisper-quiet for 99% of the time you'll be using it, with the fans only spinning up under heavy sustained load for long periods.
The Intel Core Ultra X7 358H CPU is where this machine truly shines, flexing massive numbers in multi-threaded tasks thanks to its advanced architectural efficiency. With a Geekbench single-core score of 2,851 and a multicore score of 16,964, it breezily handles heavy multitasking, AI workloads, and complex data processing.
In everyday productivity, it achieved a CrossMark score of 2,128, which means it has snappy execution across office applications. For rendering workloads, the Cinebench benchmarks reveal a single-core score of 501 and a robust multicore score of 4,927. The device has minimal thermal throttling, and as mentioned above, rarely gets loud.
The Yoga logo sits proud in the middle of the transparent chin. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
The inclusion of the Intel Arc B390 GPU elevates this machine beyond your usual standard integrated graphics. It's a highly efficient, modern graphics solution that I'd describe as more than good enough for light to moderate gaming, intensive content creation, and smooth video editing. Here are our 3DMark benchmark results:
Benchmark
Score
Performance Context
Night Raid
48,631
Excellent for esports and casual titles
Time Spy
7,793
Solid DX12 performance for 1440p gaming
Time Spy Extreme
3,630
Handles moderate 4K workloads
Steel Nomad Light
5,633
Great lightweight cross-platform performance
Steel Nomad
1,100
Pushes the integrated graphics to its limit
It's clear that the Intel B390 isn't going to be great at running the latest games at their highest settings at 4K 120Hz, but bumping things down to medium-high graphics settings and 1080p or 1440p will result in a perfectly fine gaming experience, which should be more than enough for those who are only gaming casually on their PCs.
Games like Halo: The Master Chief Collection or Hitman run great on the AiO. Cyberpunk 2077 also runs really well when set to 1440p high settings. Older games like GTA V run at high frame rates with all their settings maxed out, even at 4K. So it really will come down to the kind of games you play and how graphically intensive they are.
The Intel B390 is a step above your typical integrated graphics, but it's no dedicated GPU from NVIDIA or AMD. So expectations should be tempered if you're looking to game. Most modern games should run more than fine if you set their graphics settings to medium 1080p. It's fair to say the Intel B390 is better served for content creators, being an excellent GPU for rendering video, 3D models, and more.
The Intel B390 is a step above your typical integrated graphics, but it's no dedicated GPU from NVIDIA or AMD.
I do wish Lenovo offered the PC with the option of being configured with a dedicated GPU, as the B390 on its own might be disappointing for some, especially at these prices.
The last-gen flagship Lenovo Yoga AiO featured an NVIDIA RTX 4050, which provides roughly the same level of performance as the Intel B390, but I've found that some games run slightly better with smoother frame rates on the older NVIDIA card. So we're not seeing any real performance upgrades across generations, outside of the fact that the Intel B390 is a more efficient GPU overall.
For storage speeds, the CrystalDiskMark results are top-tier, clocking in at an impressive 7,008.27 MB/s read and 5,807.32 MB/s write speeds. This should mean boot times, app loading, and file transfers stay nice and fast.
Conclusion
I mean, c'mon. Just look at it. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
You should buy this PC if...
✅ You want a beautiful Windows all-in-one
✅ You want one of the best OLED displays on a Windows PC
✅ You're a creator who focuses on video and photo editing
You should not buy this PC if...
❌ You have a small desk
❌ You frequently need to plug in and unplug peripherals
❌ You rely heavily on built-in speakers
❌ You're a hardcore gamer who wants to game
Overall, I believe the Lenovo Yoga i AiO 32 Aura Edition is an almost perfect all-in-one. It's definitely at the top of the list when it comes to an aesthetic design point, but those design choices aren't without their own minor annoyances. For me, I'm happy to sacrifice easy port access in exchange for sheer beauty.
With that said, there's clearly a problem with the built-in audio setup on two of the units I tested. Once again, I'm hoping that this issue is software-related and can be fixed via a firmware update. Some may not even notice the hissing noise, but it's very audible and distracting for me.
The lack of a dedicated GPU option may also upset some people, especially those that are wanting to game. While the Intel Arc B390 is good, it's by no means great, especially for the over $3,000 you'll be paying for this PC new.
Those issues aside, I have to say that this AiO is the first one I've used since the Surface Studio that has blown me away. It's just jaw-droppingly good to look at, and it's something I'm proud to have sitting on my desk. There's nothing boring or corporate about it; it's simply mesmerizing.
The design, paired with the glorious 4K 165Hz OLED panel and great performance under the hood, results in an incredible experience at a high cost, which unfortunately can't be helped given the ongoing component pricing crisis. If Lenovo is able to get the speaker issue sorted, this device is a clear winner in my book.
Lenovo
Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition
Lenovo's new Yoga AiO i 32 Aura Edition is a sight to behold, complete with a unique design that features a transparent display chin with RGB lighting, the best 4K OLED I've ever seen fitted to an AiO, and incredible performance.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
Lenovo Yoga AiO i Aura Edition
Lenovo's latest flagship all-in-one might be the best-looking Windows AiO we've ever seen.
Dell's laptops can be pricey, especially in this turbulent economy. Still, the vast majority live up to their high asking prices thanks to their sleek, portable designs, strong performance for daily productivity and creative projects, and long-lasting batteries.
The Dell Pro 16 laptop is no exception, and its steep $1,529.00 listing price has been taken down a peg to $1,229.00 at Dell for a limited time.
Cut through mountains of daily workloads with the Dell Pro 16 laptop. This configuration is armed with an Intel Core Ultra 5 235U vPro CPU and 16GB of RAM for solid performance rates, a 16" FHD display for crisp visuals, and 512GB of install space.
A full render of the Dell Pro 16 laptop (Image credit: Dell)
The Dell Pro 16 laptop has received much praise from over 1,059 customers on Dell.com (average rating: 4.5), citing it's top of the line build-quality, performance, and features. And of those, 828 were perfect 5-stars from customers who bought it.
This configuration we're spotlighting is armed with an Intel Core Ultra 5 235U vPro CPU and 16GB of RAM, which enables it to boot up as quickly as a fingersnap and operate productivity apps like Microsoft Office and open multiple tabs in web browsers like Microsoft Edge with ease and no performance hiccups.
Not to mention it has a sleek design that can take a lot of punishment while being ultra-thin enough to carry in most travel bags with minimal issue for easy portability.
Other notable features include a large 16" FHD screen so you can see images and text with clear definition so you perceive them better, a built-in camera so you can host video calls at 1080p+30fps, an optional fingerprint scanner during checkout to add extra security, and a respectable battery life of roughly 9 hours before needing to recharge.
So, if you're looking for a premium-grade laptop that can topple any productivity obstacle thrown at it so you can clock out of work early, then the Dell Pro 16 could be your next best ticket out of the office.
FAQ
Is its RAM and SSD upgradeable?
The Dell Pro 16 uses DDR5 RAM which can be removed and installed with a different one up to 64GB. Same goes for its factory-installed SSD which can be replaced with a larger one that fits the laptop's M.2 slot.
Is it good for gaming?
Generally, no, as it's built for office work tasks like typing documents, collating spreadsheets, and researching info online rather than playing video games. So, if you try to run AAA PC games on it, they will either struggle to load properly or only function at their lowest graphical settings.
What ports does it feature?
The Dell Pro 16 includes a USB-C, a Thunderbolt 4 port, two USB-A 3.2 ports (one with PowerShare), an HDMI 2.1 port, a 3.5mm audio jack port, a RJ45 Ethernet port, a power-adaptor port, and an optional contacted smart card port.
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A laptop displaying a "Time Management Strategies" document on a wooden desk, next to a clock and pen. The setting is modern and well-lit, conveying productivity.
The ongoing memory crisis has taken a heavy toll on tech, forcing PC prices to rise regardless of how much we need them in our daily lives, whether that's communicating with family or working with remote colleagues millions of miles away (or simply watching Netflix).
But we'll always find deals on a range of Windows laptops so you can enjoy fast performance, crisp displays, and sizeable storage that regularly drop below $1,000, with this recent collection being a prime example.
This roundup includes the speedy and reliable Dell 14, now 43% off at $699.99 at Dell (list price $1,229.99), or the most budget-conscious ASUS Vivobook 14, now on sale for $519.99 at Amazon (list price $639.99).
"This laptop is the perfect all-rounder for my studies and professional work, offering a seamless experience that has completely transformed my daily productivity. It is incredibly fast, handling dozens of browser tabs and demanding multitasking without a hint of lag, while its near-instant boot-up times make it reliable for jumping straight into meetings or lectures. The build quality is exceptional yet light enough for easy portability." ~ Sandile, customer review
"The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 is a great convertible laptop option for those on a budget (like students) who want more performance and functionality than you'd find in a Chromebook, but its display is lackluster, which might be a dealbreaker for some." ~ John Loeffler, Components Editor at TechRadar
"The Asus Vivobook 14 won’t win hearts, but it will quietly help you meet deadlines with a focus on ergonomics, decent mid-range performance, solid battery life and an affordable price." ~ Jason England, Managing Editor at Tom's Hardware
"Lenovo's 16-inch Yoga 7i 2-in-1 has strong positives for travelers who refuse to compromise on screen size and would benefit from a transforming screen." ~ Ben Wilson, Senior Editor
"The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3x is a remarkably cheap laptop, yet it delivers good performance and amazing battery life in a slim, elegant chassis with a comfy keyboard." ~ Stevie Bonifield, Writer at Tom's Guide
You generally can't add more RAM to many of these modern laptops, as the memory is usually soldered to the motherboard (LPDDR). Where applicable, models with SO-DIMM memory can be upgraded. You can, however, often add extra storage space by replacing internal M.2 SSDs with larger ones or by connecting external SSDs.
Are these laptops good for gaming?
No. The laptops in this roundup are primarily designed for productivity tasks, not for PC gaming, so they were never intended for intensive AAA titles.
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Four laptops with diverse screens are surrounded by gadgets, including a smartwatch, smartphone, and chargers, on a gray surface. The vibe is modern and tech-savvy.
Dell's 14 Plus 2-in-1 joins this week's bargain roundup.
Stop the presses! A laptop maker just announced a price reduction in 2026. Despite the ongoing RAM crisis and component shortage, Framework just dropped the price of the Framework Laptop 13 Pro.
Framework was able to source a new SSD from its partner ADATA that offers better performance and reliability while costing less.
Framework Laptop 13 Pro preorders have not started shipping, so any order that's already been placed has been upgraded to the new SSD and had pricing adjusted.
"This new SSD comes in 1TB and 2TB options, and the 1TB lands at a lower price than the 500GB SSD we had previously qualified, so we will also switch 500GB orders to the 1TB drive at the lower price," explained Framework.
Framework's website did not show the reduced pricing when I drafted this piece, so I can't share the exact costs of the new configurations. I'll update this piece as more information becomes available.
The announcement comes as good news for those shopping for the unique laptop from Framework, but it's a relatively small reprieve from the current financial climate.
Even in Framework's announcement of the price decrease, the PC maker warned that CPU price increases are expected. "We expect that we will need to adjust the overall system price on Framework Laptop 13 Pro in the coming weeks for new orders," said Framework.
In response to Apple’s price increases today, we’ve lowered the price of some Framework Laptop 13 Pro configurations. We were able to source and qualify Gen 5 SSDs from ADATA that are both faster and cheaper, and now offer them on DIY Edition! https://t.co/HfS1l5wL1tJune 25, 2026
Framework dropped its prices on the same day Apple unveiled several price increases, which led to a playful jab. Framework clarified in a follow-up post that the timing of its reductions was coincidental and not in response to Apple.
The unfortunate reality is that many laptop makers have bumped up prices, including Framework. Microsoft, Dell, Lenovo, HP, and others have all had to raise prices. For a short time, Apple was immune to price hikes due to its stockpile of components, but that is no longer the case.
We shouldn't expect things to improve in the immediate future. When Microsoft announced another wave of price increases to Xbox consoles, the company said it expects another doubling of console storage and memory prices by the fall of 2027. The same factors that contribute to those components doubling in price will affect PC parts.
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If you’ve been waiting for a laptop deal that actually feels like a steal, this is it. The ASUS Vivobook 16 OLED, now just $1,159 (down from $1,599), is one of those rare machines that delivers more than you expect for the price. It’s a 16‑inch notebook with flagship specs, a stunning display, and Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 processor built for serious performance.
It’s the kind of deal that makes you double‑check the listing to make sure nothing’s missing. Spoiler: nothing is. You get a full‑power H‑series chip, 32GB of RAM, 1TB of storage, and a 3K OLED display in a chassis that’s only 0.55 inches thick and weighs 3.31 pounds.
The ASUS Vivobook 16 OLED is a rare find at this price. You get a 3K OLED display, 32GB of RAM, a fast Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, and a thin 3.31 lb chassis with long battery life. It is a powerful, modern laptop that stays light, looks premium, and handles heavy workloads without costing a fortune.View Deal
That’s what makes this Vivobook deal stand out. You’re getting a machine that’s already built for the next generation of computing, complete with Intel’s new Core Ultra 7 processor and a dedicated Copilot key (hey, some people think it's a selling point), at a price that feels normal.
The Core Ultra 7 255H is part of Intel’s new H‑series lineup, designed for high‑performance laptops that can handle creative workloads, gaming, and multitasking without breaking a sweat. Paired with Intel Arc graphics, it’s capable of light gaming, video editing, and productivity tasks that would slow down most midrange systems.
Specs that matter
ASUS didn’t cut corners here. The Vivobook 16 OLED features a 2880×1800 Lumina OLED display that delivers deep blacks, vivid color, and true HDR contrast. It’s the kind of panel that makes everything look better, from spreadsheets to streaming.
Under the hood, you get 32GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, which means instant responsiveness and plenty of space for creative work. The ASUS IceCool Thermal Technology with dual fans and 97 iceblades keeps the system cool even under load, while the 75Wh battery promises up to 16 hours of runtime.
Despite the power, it’s impressively portable. At 0.55 inches thin and 3.31 pounds, it’s lighter than most 16‑inch laptops and built with a reinforced steel frame that feels solid without being bulky.
ASUS also added thoughtful touches: Dolby Atmos audio by Harman Kardon, Wi‑Fi 7 certification, and an RGB ErgoSense keyboard with Windows 11’s new Dynamic Lighting support. It’s a subtle upgrade that makes the laptop feel more premium than its price suggests.
Ready for what’s next
(Image credit: ASUS)
The dedicated Copilot key is a small but telling detail. It’s a sign of where Windows laptops are heading — toward integrated features that help with writing, summarizing, and creative tasks. The Vivobook 16 OLED is ready for that future right out of the box, with Intel’s AI Boost NPU handling on‑device workloads efficiently.
That means faster photo editing, smarter background blur in video calls, and better battery life when using modern Windows features. It’s hardware that will matter as Windows 11 evolves through 2026 and beyond.
The bigger picture
The timing of this deal could not be better. With component costs rising and manufacturers shifting focus to premium laptops, midrange buyers are getting squeezed. The Vivobook 16 OLED breaks that trend by offering flagship performance at a mainstream price.
It’s proof that not every high‑end laptop has to cost two grand. ASUS managed to deliver a machine that feels premium without the markup, and deals like this will only get rarer as the market adjusts to new pricing norms.
Bottom line
If you want a laptop that looks great, runs fast, and feels ready for the next few years, this Vivobook 16 OLED deal is hard to beat. It’s thin, light, powerful, and genuinely premium.
With 32GB of RAM, a 3K OLED display, and Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 processor, this is the kind of deal that feels like it slipped through the cracks. Grab it before prices catch up.
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Press images of the ASUS Vivobook S16 laptop for 2026 with Intel Core Ultra processor.
Press images of the ASUS Vivobook S16 laptop for 2026 with Intel Core Ultra processor.
It's Prime Day, and that means there are some great Windows laptops on sale not only at Amazon, but also at all major competing retailers. What makes this year's laptop sales more important than others is the fact that all PCs have gone up in price recently due to component shortages.
It's almost unbelievable that I'm seeing up to 54%off laptops using DDR5 RAM, but the proof is in the roundup I've assembled below. These are some of the biggest discounts I've seen in all my 10 years of covering these types of sales.
What makes these deals even sweeter is the fact that Apple just raised the prices of all of its MacBooks this morning. If you want an incredible deal on a new Windows laptop, this is the place to check first.
Powerful CPU, lots of RAM and storage, number pad, and a huge 17.3-inch display make this laptop a boon for any multitaskers out there, and it's now 54% cheaper than usual.
A brand new AMD Ryzen CPU paired with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD is a sweet deal. The 16-inch display hits a 2K resolution and has a 120Hz refresh rate with 400 nits brightness.
This 18-inch gaming laptop has plenty of cooling for its RTX 5070 GPU and Ryzen 7 260 GPU. Display has a 2560x1600 resolution with a 240Hz refresh rate.
Gaming on a laptop's touchpad just doesn't work. Logitech's G305 Lightspeed is a mouse I've used for countless hours of gaming, and it's 46% cheaper than usual.
MacBook Air models with 512GB of storage have gone up from $1,099 to $1,299, while the MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage has increased from $1,699 to $1,999.
Has there ever been a better time to invest in a discounted Windows laptop with loads of memory and storage?
Which countries are taking part in Prime Day 2026?
While Windows Central primarily covers Amazon Prime Day sales in the United States and the United Kingdom, the event takes place in 26 countries, including Canada and Ireland.
Do I need an Amazon Prime membership for Prime Day?
Yes, Amazon's rivals are running competing events, including Best Buy's "Tech Fest", Newegg's "FantasTech Sale", and Walmart's "Deals & More", which all end on June 28, 2026. Each retailer can offer its own membership perks, such as My Best Buy Plus / Total and Walmart Plus, and it's important to remember that Amazon does not always offer the best deal during Prime Day. Windows Central will compare prices across retailers, so you can choose the best fit for you.
A split image shows a bright yellow MacBook Neo with hands typing and an upward red arrow on the left. On the right, multiple Windows laptops display different screens with a downward blue arrow.
A split image shows a bright yellow MacBook Neo with hands typing and an upward red arrow on the left. On the right, multiple Windows laptops display different screens with a downward blue arrow.
Amazon Prime Day is taking place as we speak, and other online retails stores are jumping into on the fun with their own sales. HP's online store is one such place, and I've just found an incredible deal on a laptop I just reviewed last week. The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 with Snapdragon is $650 off right now, down to just $1,249 while stocks last!
This is the best HP laptop I've tested in a long while. In fact, I think it's probably the prettiest Windows laptop you can buy right now, complete with a best-in-class display, premium build quality, and much more. For this price, you're getting a great device.
HP's new OmniBook Ultra is the best Snapdragon X2 laptop we've tested yet, complete with a gorgeous design, incredible keyboard and trackpad, best-in-class touchscreen OLED display, and incredible battery life and performance.
I've not long published my review of the HP OmniBook Ultra, and I came away very impressed, giving it 5 stars and calling it one of the best Snapdragon laptops this year. Under the hood is Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon X2 Plus SoC, which features 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage. It's a powerful and efficient chip, easily capable of most day to day productivity tasks, data crunching, and even light video and photo editing.
It features a best-in-class 1080p OLED touchscreen, which features inky deep color contrast and makes images and text pop . It also has an incredible keyboard, and new haptic trackpad that feels great to use.
The device is also super premium. I think it might be the best looking and feeling Windows laptop on the market currently. It's just 2.83lbs in weight, and features a brushed metal finish around the edges that looks simply incredible. The device is also designed in such a way that makes it look incredibly thin when on a desk, which is awesome.
It features three USB-C ports, along with a 3.5mm audio jack. It also has a Windows Hello equipped webcam that shoots good 1080p photo and video. Lastly, the laptop is a power champ, lasting all day on a single charge with ease. For $1,249, you're not getting a better laptop in 2026 than this.
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Amazon Prime Day week is happening right now, which is helping make good Windows 11 PCs more affordable in this current component pricing crisis climate across the entire retail space. With new laptops skyrocketing in price, deals on last-gen products like this Dell XPS 13 with a Snapdragon X Elite for $999 shouldn't be ignored, especially as it comes with 32GB RAM.
With RAM costing so much these days, devices with more than 16GB RAM usually come at a high premium. That makes this deal even more lucrative, as 32GB RAM laptops now often cost north of $1,000, and even more so on flagship devices with premium components and build qualities like the XPS 13.
As portable as it gets, this iconic 13-inch XPS laptop features Qualcomm's high-end, first-generation Snapdragon X processor for all-day battery life and a gorgeous (non-touch) OLED screen.
Powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage, the Dell XPS 13 is an excellent flagship Windows 11 laptop. It has a 13.4-inch OLED display which looks absolutely amazing, and it's paired with Dell's best-in-class haptic trackpad and zero lattice keyboard design which makes the device look very futuristic.
It's a device made out of premium materials that feel great in the hand, including a CNC-machined aluminum chassis. It's one of Dell's thinnest and lightest laptops, coming in at just 2.2lbs and 0.60 inches. It features all day battery life too thanks to efficient Arm SoC that powers things under the hood.
The chip itself is Qualcomm's flagship SoC from 2024, meaning it's perfectly capable for most tasks you'll want to throw at it. It can do light gaming, video and photo editing, and breeze through productivity workflows, heavy multitasking, and more thanks to that added 32GB RAM headroom,
It has two USB4 Type‑C ports supporting DisplayPort and power delivery. Wireless performance is handled by Qualcomm FastConnect 7800, bringing Wi‑Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for future‑proof networking.
Overall, it's an incredible laptop with lots of power and performance under the hood. And 32GB RAM on a flagship laptop in 2026 for under $1,000 is tough to come by, so I'd snap this deal up while it's still available.
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Microsoft has updated the Surface Slim Pen 2 with support for Windows 11’s new system‑level haptics. The change lets older (and more affordable) Surface devices use the same tactile feedback that ships with the latest Surface hardware.
A Surface Slim Pen 2 rests in a recessed slot above a grey keyboard, with a tablet screen displaying the Windows 11 taskbar in the background.
The Surface Slim Pen 2 now supports haptics that integrated with Windows 11.
Dell is currently blowing out a bunch of its laptops during Memorial Day weekend, and I found the 5 best sales that start at just $529 for a limited time.
Three Dell laptops are on a wooden table with American flag decorations. One displays a colorful abstract graphic, another a website, and a third shows a skydiver photo. A "Memorial Day Sale" tag is in the foreground, creating a festive and tech-focused atmosphere.
Three Dell laptops are on a wooden table with American flag decorations. One displays a colorful abstract graphic, another a website, and a third shows a skydiver photo. A "Memorial Day Sale" tag is in the foreground, creating a festive and tech-focused atmosphere.
Memorial Day weekend is home to plenty of tech deals, and Best Buy actually has some better prices than Dell when it comes to Dell's own laptops.
Memorial Day Savings Spectacular banner for Best Buy featuring three Dell laptops with vibrant screens. Background includes fireworks, stars, and red, white, and blue colors. Text highlights unbeatable laptop deals and limited time offer.
Memorial Day Savings Spectacular banner for Best Buy featuring three Dell laptops with vibrant screens. Background includes fireworks, stars, and red, white, and blue colors. Text highlights unbeatable laptop deals and limited time offer.
Microsoft upgraded its Surface Laptop for Business (8th Edition) with an integrated privacy screen unlike the others. I went back into our archives to figure out which laptop brand did it first, who followed up, and why Surface has the new best implementation.
A Surface Laptop 8 displays a digital face blending with circuit patterns, under a magnifying glass highlighting an eye, symbolizing technology and digital surveillance.
A Surface Laptop 8 displays a digital face blending with circuit patterns, under a magnifying glass highlighting an eye, symbolizing technology and digital surveillance.
Dell is offering discounts on the Dell 16 Plus laptop and several of its configurations. If you're looking for a mid-range that can help you beat schoolwork or office work, this could be the answer to your prayers.
A sleek, open laptop on a light blue desk mat displays a tech website. A small plant and books are in the background, conveying a clean, modern workspace.
The company had explored a next-gen folding phone design that included a spring-loaded button for popping open the device without prying it with your fingers.
Windows 10 support has ended. These four products and alternatives can help older PCs stay useful with ChromeOS Flex, SSDs, RAM upgrades, or Linux Mint.