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| PC World - 13 Jun (PC World)Father’s Day 2024 falls on Sunday, June 16 and is a great opportunity to find bargains on the best tech and general “Dad stuff.” Time is running out, so we’ve rounded up the best last-minute deals you can quickly get your hands on.
And these don’t even have to be for your father. Whether you’re a son, daughter, father or mother, you may want to snag some deals for yourself.
Apple AirPods (Gen 2) with Lightning Charging Case
Apple
Apple
Apple
Whether you’re listening to music, podcasts or phone calls, Apple AirPods are always fantastic choices, and they’ll make a great gift for Father’s Day. Usually available for $129, you can snatch the AirPods for a mere $80 right now, the best price we’ve seen thus far. Add in the fact that you get a total of 24 hours of listening time with the charging Case and easy access to Siri, and you have a great gift any iPhone user will love.
Grab the 2nd Gen AirPods for 38% off on Amazon
Hanycony Surge Protector Power Strip
Hanycony
Hanycony
Hanycony
Yes, we are recommending a surge protector—because we all need more, and this one has a super versatile design, and costs only $12.33 on Amazon. It has eight widely spaced AC outlets and four USB ports, including two USB-C. Even though it’s packed with outlets, this isn’t a large power strip because it comes with a three-sided layout. The outlets are also big enough not to block adjacent outlets, which is always good to consider.
Get this awesome surge protector for only $12.33 (38% off) on Amazon
Journey ALTI Wireless Charging Desk Mat
Eugen Wegmann
Eugen Wegmann
Eugen Wegmann
The reversible ALTI desk mat—20% off for father’s day with code “GIFT20?—features a built-in wireless charging panel that fast-charges your smartphone and earbuds at the same time. Pull open the ALTI to stow paper and notes, removing clutter even further. It works with Android phones, iPhones and earbuds that support wireless charging. It’s down to $104 with the code!
Get the charging mat for $104 with code GIFT20
Gerber Gear Utility Pocket Knife with Money Clip
Gerber
Gerber
Gerber
One thing every dad will love is the Gerber Gear Utility Pocket Knife with Money Clip, which is now on sale for Father’s Day at $14, down from $18. This is a super versatile tool that comes with a sharp utility razor blade, perfect for everyday tasks. Obviously, you can replace the blade when it goes dull. The knife is compact and will neatly fit into a pocket (no more losing that utility knife!). It even has a money clip, so Dad doesn’t even have to carry his wallet when he’s out and about.
Get the pocket knife/money clip for only $14 on Amazon
Ember Smart Mug 2
Ember
Ember
Ember
Everyone enjoys a hot coffee in the morning, right? The Ember Smart Mug 2 is now on sale for Father’s Day at $103.95, down from $129.95. This innovative mug will keep drinks warm to the perfect temperature for up to 80 minutes on a full charge, or all day if sat on the charging coaster. You or dad can use the app to choose temperatures between 120°F and 145°F, making for a custom experience.
Grab the Ember Smart Mug 2 for only $104 on Amazon
GoPro HERO10 Black
GoPro
GoPro
GoPro
Snag a top action camera at nearly half price. If you’re going on any fun adventures this summer, you’ll want to make sure you can record them in fantastic quality—5K video capture at 60fps. What better way to capture those adventures than with the GoPro HERO10 Black? It’s down to $229 from $450, making for an impressive 49% discount on Amazon. It’s a fantastic purchase for adventure enthusiasts and extreme sports fans alike.
Get the Hero10 Black on Amazon for $229
Char-Broil Electric Grill
Char-Broil
Char-Broil
Char-Broil
The Char-Broil Electric Grill is now on sale for Father’s Day at $170, down from $250—a 32% discount. This electric grill offers the convenience of grilling without using gas or charcoal. Just pop this in an outlet, and it will reach the necessary high temperatures super fast. The grill has a special cooking technology that seeks to create juicy and evenly cooked food. So, if your father’s tired of using the same old grill every time, this Char-Broil is a good option, especially as the 320 square inches of cooking space can fit about 12 medium-sized burger patties.
Snag this electric grill for only $170 on Amazon
ASUS ProArt Display 23.8-inch Monitor
Asus
Asus
Asus
Fantastic monitors are hard to come by in the sub-$200 price range. And yet, here’s the Asus ProArt Display PA247CV, down by 27% to $145 on Amazon. This is a fantastic price for a 24-inch, 1080p, IPS monitor, and one of the best prices we’ve seen for this model.
Get this 1080p Asus monitor for only $145 on Amazon
Wyze Cam v4 2K HD Wi-Fi Smart Home Security Camera
Wyze
Wyze
Wyze
With an MSRP of $35.98, the Wyze Cam v4 may be just what you need to keep an eye on your home, pets, and kids. The 28% discount on Amazon makes this camera an even more enticing purchase at $26. With the Wyze Cam v4, you won’t need any subscriptions to view your own recordings—just add in a microSD card of up to 512GB and record 24/7 locally. For just $26, this camera is a steal (pun intended).
Steal the Wyze Cam v4 for $26 on Amazon
23andme Ancestry Service (US)
23andme
23andme
23andme
Get $20 off on 23andme’s basic DNA kit. After testing at home, you will receive 50-plus reports including Ancestry Composition, Ancestry Detail Reports, Maternal & Paternal Haplogroups, and Neanderthal Ancestry. It’s only $99, down from $119 on 23andme. Bonus idea: Buy one for yourself and compare dad’s DNA to yours!
Get this basic DNA test for just $99
Gerber Gear Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multi-tool
Gerber
Gerber
Gerber
At just $25 on Amazon, this compact multi-tool offers 12 essential functions, including needle nose pliers, wire cutters, tweezers, a bottle opener, a package opener, a plain edge blade folding knife, scissors, small and medium flat head drivers, fine and coarse files. That’s a long list, but we’re sure you or dad will find use for at least one of them every day.
Snag Gerber`s 12-in-1 multitool for $25
PCWorld’s deals section is also full of the latest and greatest tech deals, and we’ a’re always on top of the best laptop deals and desktop deals picked by the PCWorld team. If you’re an iPhone or Mac user, check out Macworld’s iPhone user gift guide and Mac user gift guide.
Other retailers offering Father’s Day deals
Many retailers are offering discounts for Father’s Day, including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. Check out Zagg for power and protection gadgets and accessories, Chipolo for AirTag Bluetooth tracker alternatives, Casely for Phone cases and chargers with code SPF25, 23andme has 35% off its popular DNA kits, and Thermoworks, where you can find the best thermometer deals for helping with barbeques and smart home devices.
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| ![](/n.gif) | | BBCWorld - 12 Jun (BBCWorld)Brits living abroad for more than 15 years now have the right to vote in the UK general election. Read...Newslink ©2024 to BBCWorld | ![](/n.gif) |
| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 11 Jun (PC World)Online security used to be simple. All you needed was a good password, and in the early days, you didn’t need a ton of numbers, letters, and special characters to achieve that goal. No need for antivirus software to verify you were logging into legitimate sites, either. Privacy also wasn’t quite as fragile as it is today. Your email wasn’t constantly being lost to yet another data breach.
But as hackers and criminals get more sophisticated, so have recommendations for best security practices. Currently experts recommend the use of unique, random passwords (and the more characters, the better), plus two-factor authentication as a strong baseline. But you can go further—and companies on the frontlines of cybersecurity are trying to make that easier.
the best ANTIVIRUS SUITE
Norton 360 Deluxe
Read our review
One such step is called masked email. (You may also hear it referred to as email masks or email masking.) It formalizes a long-available feature known as email aliases as a privacy and security measure. A randomized email address is created to hide (aka mask) your true email address for an online account. Any correspondence sent to the masked email address gets forwarded to your actual inbox. The sender doesn’t know about the email’s final destination. They’ll only find out if you accidentally reply to a message as your main account.
The benefits are twofold. You get better privacy, because the more you use different masked email addresses (ideally, one per online account), the more you limit the potential fallout of the information leaking in a data breach. That email address won’t work on other websites as a login ID or for a password reset. Nor can someone take over the address like with an actual account. It’s just a forwarding address, and a disposable one at that.
Masked email vs email aliases
Masked email is a more specific (and automated) take on email aliases.
Masked email is a more specific (and automated) take on email aliases.
PCWorld
Masked email is a more specific (and automated) take on email aliases.
PCWorld
PCWorld
If you already filter your incoming email and/or guard against spam by using email aliases, masked email may sound like an empty marketing term for a familiar feature. But there is a slight difference—email masking is a narrower use of email aliases, with a particular style in how the aliases are created.
With masked email, the focus is on auto-generated random, unique identifiers. Think 4k9xkeo@emailservice.com or even siftflask.3242@emailservice.com. You don’t need to come up with your own aliases, thus streamlining their use. The suggested aliases also completely obscure your email address, which inserting periods into your username (e.g., random.username@gmail.com) or adding a plus sign and an extra phrase (e.g. randomusername+alias@gmail.com) don’t achieve. You should also get streamlined controls to block incoming mail or disable the forwarding address if it gets flooded with unwanted email.
The result is a faster, easier way to maintain anonymity in your contact info—and for sites that default to email addresses as usernames, your login info too. With the added benefit of integration with some browsers and password managers, email masking saves time and reduces the hassles of the DIY route.
Ways you can start using masked email
Some email providers offer masked email as part of their plans. Fastmail takes that one step further by offering integration with password managers for super-simple creation and storing of aliases.
Some email providers offer masked email as part of their plans. Fastmail takes that one step further by offering integration with password managers for super-simple creation and storing of aliases.PCWorld
Some email providers offer masked email as part of their plans. Fastmail takes that one step further by offering integration with password managers for super-simple creation and storing of aliases.PCWorld
PCWorld
Two common ways to get email masking is through an email provider or a dedicated service. Email providers offer the feature as an integrated part of the service. Access will likely cost you a little bit, though. Only a few providers offer masked email, typically bundled into paid plans (e.g., Apple iCloud+, Fastmail, ProtonMail). That said, ProtonMail does offer a limited amount of masks for free, and prices otherwise start as low as $0.99 USD per month (iCloud+).
a password manager that supports email masking
1Password
Read our review
Dedicated services can be used with any site, main email address, browser, password manager, etc. You create an account using the email address you want to receive the forwarded email, and then create masks through the web interface or a browser extension. Some services also offer premium plans that allow sending and replying from an email mask, support larger file attachments, and generate email masks for multiple email addresses. All email masks are managed through the service, which is less convenient than with an email provider. You won’t have a single repository for your direct and forwarded email.
To really simplify the incorporation of email masking into your daily flow, choose a service that integrates with a password manager. Once you connect your email account or masking service, you’ll be able to create the email masks directly within the password manager. It eliminates the need to copy and paste the new forwarding address when saving login info. Right now, 1Password has a partnership with Fastmail, and Bitwarden has relationships with Fastmail, SimpleLogin, Addy.io, DuckDuckGo, Forward Email, and Firefox Relay. Apple users can use the company’s Hide My Email feature; email masks automatically save to iCloud Keychain if you actively use the latter.
Alternatively, you can pick a password manager like NordPass that directly handles email mask generation.
Free email masking services
SimpleLogin is the most generous with the features available to free users.
SimpleLogin is the most generous with the features available to free users.PCWorld
SimpleLogin is the most generous with the features available to free users.PCWorld
PCWorld
While getting masked email through an email provider usually costs money, dedicated services usually offer a free plan. They’re more limited in scope but still a great start.
Addy.io allows you to create unlimited “standard” email masks. These are based on your Addy.io username, however—so if you want more privacy, you can then use one of your 10 free shared domain email masks. You can send and reply from your aliases, too. The catch: You’re limited to 10MB (yes, megabytes) of bandwidth per month. The company estimates that to be roughly 140 emails max. (Start adding in attachments and that drops very, very fast.)
SimpleLogin offers 10 free forwarding addresses. There are no bandwidth limitations, and forwarded emails can be up to 25MB each. The service also allows you to reply to email from an alias, too.
Firefox Relay lets you create just 5 free forwarding addresses, with a 10MB size limit per email and no bandwidth limitations. It’s the most stripped down of the freebie tiers, but it makes the list for a couple of reasons: It works across devices (and browsers—there’s a Chrome extension, too), and upgrading to the paid tier with unlimited addresses and the ability to send email from aliases is just $12 per year. (If you’re intensely focused on privacy, consider quitting Chrome and switching to Firefox while you’re at it.)
Live exclusively in Apple’s ecosystem? Sign in with Apple is a free way to get started with the company’s take on email masking.
Live exclusively in Apple’s ecosystem? Sign in with Apple is a free way to get started with the company’s take on email masking.PCWorld
Live exclusively in Apple’s ecosystem? Sign in with Apple is a free way to get started with the company’s take on email masking.PCWorld
PCWorld
Apple users also have an alternative option called Sign in with Apple. For apps and websites that allow you to sign in with your Apple ID, you get access to a limited form of Hide My Email, the company’s email masking service. Apple will generate a random forwarding email that will pass messages from the site or app to your Apple ID’s linked email address. Unlike with the version of Hide My Email that comes with iCloud+, you can’t change the generated aliases or create ones independently. Also, as a general security note, signing in with this method can carry risk, since anyone with access to your Apple account could also then access linked services and apps, too.
P.S.—Unique user IDs help online privacy and security, too
The general concept behind masked email can be applied to creating user IDs, too. For sites that ask you to create a dedicated username (e.g., randomuser1), going with a new identifier each time makes it harder for people to track you across the web. Unauthorized access to your other accounts is less likely, too, when your username and password are different for every site and app. And you can combine masked email with a unique user ID so that you’re really hard to trace—useful when signing into sites that have yet to implement passkeys, a more secure alternative to passwords. (Or when, in the name of saving your future bacon, you still keep a username/password combo as secondary method of logging into an account with passkeys enabled.)
Sounds complicated? This is why a password manager is so handy. It lets you continually level up your security with very little mental burden, especially if you pick one with support for email masking and passkey storage. Choose a paid password manager or a free one—either will make life easy.
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| ![](/n.gif) | | sharechat.co.nz - 11 Jun (sharechat.co.nz)![NZ Located](/pimages/nzsmall.gif) Mercury’s board today announced that Vince Hawksworth has decided to retire as Chief Executive, effective 31 August 2024. The board is delighted to announce that Stew Hamilton, the company’s current Executive General Manager Generation Read...Newslink ©2024 to sharechat.co.nz | ![](/n.gif) |
| ![](/n.gif) | | BBCWorld - 11 Jun (BBCWorld)The BBC’s Nick Robinson explains how he is approaching his interviews with party leaders ahead of the UK general election. Read...Newslink ©2024 to BBCWorld | ![](/n.gif) |
| ![](/n.gif) | | BBCWorld - 11 Jun (BBCWorld)Find out which constituency you are in, who you can vote for and where you can vote using our postcode search. Read...Newslink ©2024 to BBCWorld | ![](/n.gif) |
| ![](/n.gif) | | BBCWorld - 11 Jun (BBCWorld)Many voters have told the BBC that housing is a big issue for them in the general election. Read...Newslink ©2024 to BBCWorld | ![](/n.gif) |
| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 11 Jun (PC World)The arrival of 2.4GHz wireless technology has revolutionized wireless gaming headsets. Now they are more reliable than ever before and some can even rival their wired counterparts when it comes to connection latency and sound quality.
There are myriad different styles, designs, and hardware inclusions — it’s enough to make your head spin. So, to simplify things, I’ve done the hard part for you by getting hands-on and putting each device through its paces. The list below only includes those that have excelled in my extensive testing. The best gaming headsets strike a balance between performance, usability, and extras, placing them in a league above the rest.
Why you should trust me: I’m not just a tech expert, I’m also a gaming enthusiast. I’m always on the hunt for better gear to make my own experience better.
I know what gamers want. Yes, I’m looking for technologies like spatial audio and Active Noise Cancellation in my gaming headsets, too. If a product makes the cut, I want to spread the word. If it doesn’t, I think it’s my obligation to let you know. I love to play, and I want you to have the best gaming experience as well.
For a rundown on how I test wireless gaming headsets and for buying advice, you can read my article “How we test gaming headsets at PCWorld.“
Updated May 29 2024: I’ve added the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 recommendation to this list: This headset sounds great in games and has a long battery life of up to 80 hours. It also has a lot of controls, some of which are remappable so that you can personalize your gaming audio exactly as you wish. Learn more in the summaries below.
Logitech G Astro A30 Wireless – Best wireless gaming headset
Pros
The styling is very appealing
The 40mm drivers produce a very natural sound
The cans are very soft and comfortable
Cons
Some of the moving parts feel a bit tight
Leatherette in the cups can get sweaty on hot days
Battery life is decent but not excellent
Best Prices Today:
$189 at Amazon$229.99 at Logitech G
Why I like the Logitech G Astro A30 Wireless
Right out of the box, this headset looks fantastic, with fashionable Astro logos on both left and right earcups and very plush leatherette coverings over cushy memory foam, which feels very soft against your ears. As if that wasn’t enough, you can also swap out the magnetic speaker tags on the outside for pre-made designs of your own choosing, to further personalize your look.
The Astro A30 also has a refined and natural sound profile, thanks to very finely tuned 40mm audio drivers. But where this headset truly shines is in the connectivity department; it features low-latency 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, as well as wired connectivity, so it can connect to just about anything, including a PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, and Mac. You can also mix and balance your different audio sources so you never have to miss a thing while playing.
Who should buy the Logitech G Astro A30 Wireless
Gamers who want to personalize their headset’s look, but also want decent audio, great connectivity, and excellent cross-compatibility. It’s also a great option if you like the convenience of listening to multiple audio sources as you play.
Read our full
Logitech G Astro A30 Wireless review
Logitech Astro A50 – Best wireless gaming headset runner-up
Pros
Charging cradle is smaller and still very unique
Switches to the more reliable 2.4GHz band (finally)
Comfortable and durable
Cons
Middling battery life
Poor noise isolation
Expensive
Best Prices Today:
$222.80 at Amazon299.99 at Astro
Why I like the Astro A50
Although it doesn’t come cheap, the Logitech Astro A50 packs in more gamer convenience than most similarly priced gaming headsets. In our PCWorld hands-on review we considered the A50’s onboard controls, which include an easy-to-locate volume wheel and a chat/game channel mixer, to be best in class. The mixer allows you to easily switch between your game audio and chat programs in an instant.
As well as a refined audio profile, the A50 features a sleek and convenient charging cradle that displays your chosen EQ profile and your selected audio mode — Dolby or stereo. The headset uses the current best-standard 2.4GHz band Wi-Fi signal for the most reliable wireless connectivity. It’s also comfortable and durable.
Who should buy the Astro A50
Serious gamers who like to tinker with EQ settings, mix audio sources, and like the convenience of being able to know what profile they’re using at the drop of a hat. It’s also a fine option for gamers who want charging to be as effortless as possible between games.
Read our full
Logitech G Astro A50 (2019) review
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 – Best wireless gaming headset under $100
Pros
Clear refined audio profile
Great control selection that you can personalize further
Attractive and comfortable design
Cons
PC and PlayStation versions lack Xbox compatibility
No USB-A to USB-C adapter
Slightly heavier than the previous generation
Best Prices Today:
$99 at Amazon
Why I like the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3
To me, the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 feels like the first of a new wave of wireless headsets that offer more value for your money. For starters it sounds better and its battery life of up to 80 hours is a lot longer than the previous generation Turtle Beach Stealth 600 headset (Gen 2).
The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 also has excellent cross-platform compatibility. For example, my Xbox model easily connected to my Xbox X/S, PC, cellphone, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 5. It also featured Wi-Fi and Bluetooth so that I could switch audio sources on a dime.
The headset also had a lot of convenient controls on its left earcup. Some of these, like the power and Bluetooth pairing buttons, featured multiple functions, so I always had deep gamer functionality at my fingertips. A remappable chat / mixer wheel and Mode button, allowed me to have my most used controls on hand whenever I needed them.
Who should buy the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3
Casual gamers who want an all-around great gaming headset with decent audio and a long battery life should go for this headset. It’ll also suit players that like to have control of those critical audio changes they make in their headset’s companion app. Lastly, the Stealth 600 Gen 3’s price tag of just $99.99 also makes it a great option for gamers on a budget.
Another good option for gamers on a budget is the HyperX Cloud Core Wireless. This gaming headset costs just $99.99 but features a solid aluminum frame, clear audio, a detachable boom microphone and spatial audio courtesy of DTS Headphone:X.
Read our full
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 review
Razer Blackshark V2 Hyperspeed – Best midrange wireless gaming headset
Pros
Ultra-light and comfortable
Excellent microphone quality
Long-lasting battery life and fast charging option
Versatile connectivity options
Cons
Sound tuning favors esports
Material quality could be better
Non-detachable microphone
Best Prices Today:
$129.99 at Amazon$129.99 at Razer
Why I like the Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed
The Blackshark V2 Hyperspeed is an esports worthy headset that costs a lot less than the premium headsets that esports players usually go for. The standout is the headset’s microphone, which is near broadcast quality. The V2 Hyperspeed is also very lightweight — it weighs less than 10 ounces, so you can wear it for marathon gaming sessions and not feel like you need to take it off.
In regard to sound, the V2 Hyperspeed sports large 50mm audio drivers that produce audio across a frequency range of 12Hz to 28KHz. It has a low bass so sounds like explosions are particularly noteworthy in games.
Who should buy the Razer Blackshark V2 Hyperspeed
If you’re aspiring to start competing in esports competitions and don’t have a huge budget to drop on a $300 headset, then the Blackshark V2 Hyperspeed is just the ticket. Its excellent microphone quality also makes it a great option for players wanting to record in-game videos.
Read our full
Razer Blackshark V2 Hyperspeed review
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X – Best midrange wireless gaming headset runner-up
Pros
Great sound quality, especially in the mids
A lot of metal makes it very solid and robust
A very comfortable design
Cons
Passive noise cancellation isn`t great
It`s more expensive than some rivals
The mushroom shaped dongle can be finnicky
Best Prices Today:
$159.99 at Amazon$159.99 at Best Buy$179.99 at SteelSeries
Why I like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X may not be as flashy as it’s pricier sibling the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, but it easily caters to all your gaming needs, offering great sound quality, a robust metal frame, and simultaneous 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity that lets you stream music from your smartphone while missing absolutely none of your game’s audio.
What’s more, when it comes to comfort the 7X actually outdoes the Nova Pro — its soft mesh ear coverings just don’t get sweaty like the Nova Pro’s leatherette ones do in hot weather. On top of that, the Arctis Nova 7X has excellent cross-platform compatibility. In fact, in our playtesting we had no trouble connecting it up to just about anything with a USB-C port.
Another worthy contender in the midrange wireless category is the Logitech G935. This headset gets a lot right, featuring quality audio with a rich bass presence, a clear-sounding microphone, and an onboard dongle storage compartment.
Who should buy the Arctis Nova 7X
Gamers who want a jack-of-all-trades headset with easy-on-the-ears clamp pressure and comfortable earcups that also won’t cost the kitchen sink.
Read our full
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X review
HyperX Cloud III Wireless – Best battery life
Pros
High-quality design and good workmanship
Multi-platform compatibility
Detachable microphone
Above-average battery life
Cons
Occasional sound fluctuations in DTS Surround Sound
Microphone adjustment required in noisy environments
No Bluetooth
Best Prices Today:
$129.99 at Amazon$169.99 at HyperX
Why I like the HyperX Cloud III Wireless
In our testing of the Cloud III Wireless, we found it produced a deep bass and clear treble signature that allows you to pick up even the slightest audio nuances in games. The sound is delivered via a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi signal that enables a delay-free transmission. Although it doesn’t feature Bluetooth connectivity, it does have other convenient features. For example, the Cloud III Wireless’s microphone is detachable, so you can wear it like a pair of headphones when on the go.
The Cloud III Wireless’s design resembles most other HyperX Cloud core headsets, in that it features black and red styling and plush faux-leather earcup coverings over a soft memory foam that molds to the contours of your head. The HyperX Cloud III Wireless has a very decent battery life — HyperX claims it can provide 150 hours at 50 percent volume, which means you don’t have to constantly recharge between games.
Who should buy the HyperX Cloud III Wireless
The HyperX Cloud III Wireless doesn’t have Bluetooth so it’s best suited to dedicated PC gamers. Its excellent battery life will especially suit gamers that don’t like having to frequently charge their headset.
Read our full
HyperX Cloud III Wireless review
Audeze Maxwell Wireless – Best audio quality
Pros
Impressive audio that sounds warm and full-bodied
Strong and robust design
Excellent cross compatibility
Cons
It`s quite heavy and large
The headband isn`t extendable
The software app is too simple
Best Prices Today:
$299 at Amazon
Why I like the Audeze Maxwell Wireless
The Audeze Maxwell Wireless produces the kind of audiophile-grade sound you’d expect from a high-end studio headset, yet it’s expertly tailored for gamers. Its sound quality comes courtesy of 90mm planar magnetic drivers, which are a change from the 40mm or 50mm neodymium drivers we see in most gaming headsets. The Maxwell Wireless is a very versatile device, it sports all three connectivity types: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity via its USB cord. It also has solid cross-compatibility — our Xbox version worked with PC, Mac, Xbox 360, Xbox X/S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Android and iOS devices.
Large, round-shaped cups, instead of oval or square cups, ensure the Maxwell Wireless fits even the largest of ears. Their distinctive shape also gives this headset a unique look. The cups are also very comfortable — they feature a luxurious leatherette material over soft memory-foam cushioning. The headband and yokes are both made from metal, and that does make the Maxwell Wireless quite heavy. Still, you can quite easily wear them for three hours straight and not feel any discomfort.
Who should buy the Audeze Maxwell Wireless
Anyone who wants the very best sound quality you can possibly get in a gaming headset. If your game has a rich and detailed soundscape, this headset will convey it better than any headset you can currently buy.
Read our full
Audeze Maxwell Wireless review
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless – Best audio quality runner-up
Pros
Great quality audio
Dual wireless functionality
Lots of software options for personalization
Cons
Quite expensive
Active Noise Cancellation won`t block out all external sound
Best Prices Today:
$292.50 at Amazon$349.99 at Best Buy
Why I like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro features just about everything you could possibly want in a wireless gaming headset, including excellent sound quality, style, comfort, and a durable metal headband. With support for 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless, as well as wired connectivity, the Arctis Nova Pro is easily compatible with your PC, laptop, or Xbox device. It also comes with a GameDAC base controller that lets you switch between your PC and Xbox One or Xbox X/S at the press of a button.
The headset incorporates technologies that elevate your listening experience, including Active Noise Cancellation, 360 Degree Spatial Audio, and Pro Grade Parametric EQ. All this functionality will set you back $349.99, which admittedly isn’t cheap. But for a headset that sounds this impressive and can actually make you a better gamer, that could be a price worth paying.
Who should buy the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
This headset is in many ways superior to most gaming headsets on the market. I’d recommend it to serious gamers who want Hi-Res audio and spatial sound in their games. If you like experimenting with EQ settings to create audio profiles, this headset is also ideal for that.
Read our full
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless review
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro – Best for FPS games
Pros
Punchy audio that`s ideal for FPS games
Solid attractive and versatile design
Very good noise cancellation
Cons
Lacks support for spatial audio
The batteries need frequent changing
It`s expensive
Best Prices Today:
$226 at Amazon
Why I like the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
These cans look like, and can just as easily pass as, a premium pair of headphones. The cross-platform compatibility is extremely, good too — the Xbox version connects to everything except PlayStation, while the PlayStation version connects to everything except Xbox.
The Stealth Pro packs in a lot of premium functionality, from plush leatherette earpads to dual wireless connectivity (2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) and Active Noise Cancellation, you have lots of tools at your fingertips to elevate your gaming experience. The audio drivers are also especially tuned for FPS games.
Who should buy the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro
Anyone who owns a bunch of gaming devices and wants to use just one premium headset across all of them. Also, since the Stealth Pro’s audio drivers are particularly well-tuned for FPS games, if that’s your jam, then this headset is ideal.
Read our full
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro review
Asus ROG Delta S Wireless – Best for casual gaming
Pros
It comes with two sets of earpads to personalize comfort
The headband and cups allow for a good amount of head movement
The audio sounds great across the spectrum
The build quality is robust
Cons
The AI Noise Cancellation could be better
It lacks a boom microphone
No simultaneous Bluetooth functionality
Best Prices Today:
$159.99 at Amazon
Why I like the ROG S Wireless
The Asus ROG S Wireless doesn’t boast deep gamer functionality, like simultaneous Bluetooth or a game chat mixer wheel, but what it does have is about as good as it gets for casual gaming. With Bluetooth as well as 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, it connects easily to PC, Mac, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. The headset is one of the most comfortable you will find since it comes with two sets of interchangeable earpads in the box — a plush 100 percent protein leather pair and a cooler hybrid mesh pair. The earcups swivel and tilt giving your head and neck plenty of space to move. The headset is also very robust, featuring a strong metal headband and yokes.
On the sound front, the ROG Delta S Wireless’s 50mm neodymium drivers are extremely loud. They produce a clear sound across the audio spectrum. Slightly less impressive is the headset’s beamforming microphone, which is located inside the headset rather than externally like a boom-style microphone. Its downside is that it can occasionally pick up background noise, which is really the only thing we would have changed about this headset.
Who should buy the ROG S Wireless
Casual gamers — i.e. gamers who value comfort and sound quality and who want the convenience of a headset that they can simply plug in and start playing with.
Read our full
Asus ROG Delta S Wireless review
Corsair HS80 Max – Most comfortable design
Pros
Great audio performance with neutral mid-tones
Lightweight comfortable design
Mesh coverings on the earcups minimize sweat
Flip-to-mute mic
Cons
The omnidirectional mic is not detachable
Lacks true simultaneous audio connectivity for listening to multiple audio sources at once
The small RGB light zones feel like an afterthought
Best Prices Today:
$179.99 at Amazon$179.99 at Corsair
Why I like the Corsair HS80 Max
It’s unusual for a premium gaming headset to show off lightweight plastic cups instead of metal ones, and mesh fabric material over the earcups instead of plush leatherette ones, but that’s what makes the Corsair HS80 Max so comfortable. Weighing in at just 12.4 ounces, and with breathable mesh fabric that keeps sweat from building up on your ears, you can wear this headset all day long and not experience any discomfort.
But comfort aside, the Corsair HS80 Max is clearly a premium gaming headset — the audio sounds neutral and warm and Dolby Atmos surround sound support gives you excellent directionality in games. The headset throws in a few sweeteners on top of its excellent audio, including a flip-to-mute mic and RGB lighting zones on each ear. While this headset allows you to connect to Bluetooth and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi signals at the same time, true simultaneous audio isn’t possible. Still, a simple Bluetooth control allows you to switch between audio sources at will.
Who should buy the Corsair HS80 Max
Players who especially want a lightweight headset with mesh earcups but don’t want to lose the kind of premium audio fidelity and functionality they’d normally have to forgo to get those features.
Read our full
Corsair HS80 Max review
EPOS H3PRO Hybrid – Best microphone
Pros
Produces clear and distortion-free sound
The 7.1 surround sound works well and elevates your gaming experience
It feels comfortable even on hot days
Cons
The earcups are all plastic unlike some rival gaming headsets
The bass can seem subtle at times
Best Prices Today:
$98.99 at Best Buy$137.90 at Amazon
Why I like the EPOS H3PRO Hybrid
The “Hybrid” in the EPOS H3PRO Hybrid’s name hints at its dual connectivity — it features both wired and wireless options, which means it can hook up to just about all your devices, be it your PC, Mac, console, or smartphone. For wireless connectivity, the H3PRO Hybrid supports low-latency Wi-Fi or Bluetooth 5.2, or you can use both of these options at the same time to voice-chat or listen to music while simultaneously hearing your game’s audio.
The H3PRO Hybrid’s audio is very refined. In our play test it delivered crisp and clear-sounding high and mid tones and balanced bass tones. We were similarly impressed by the headset’s Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that does a respectable job blocking out ambient noise. Additionally, our testing found that the H3PRO Hybrid’s microphones were some of the best we’ve heard in a wireless gaming headset, faithfully reproducing voices as they sounded. The detachable boom mic is also very easy to remove and replace via its simple magnetic attachment point.
Who should buy the EPOS H3PRO Hybrid
Gamers wanting to sound better in voice chats should consider this headset, which not only has a clear and refined sounding microphone, but also gamer-centric features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and dual wireless functionality with simultaneous audio.
Read our full
EPOS H3PRO Hybrid review
Razer Barracuda Pro – Best surround sound
Pros
Excellent audio through the bass, mid, and high tones
THX Spatial Audio is a treat in games
Lightweight and comfortable design
Cons
No boom mic means the mic audio suffers somewhat
ANC works but could be better
Best Prices Today:
$238.42 at Amazon$249.99 at Razer
Why I like the Razer Barracuda Pro
Gamers wanting a full surround sound experience — either for the strategic advantage that brings, or just for thrills, should dig this headset that features arguably the best spatial audio we’ve heard. The pro-grade Razer Barracuda Pro supports THX Spatial Audio that delivers excellent sound directionality in games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Battlefield I. Razer’s Synapse app also lets you personalize the spatial audio by tweaking the audio’s directionality and creating profiles for specific games and media.
The Barracuda Pro is a little different from other gaming headsets in that it doesn’t have a dedicated boom microphone, relying instead on innocuous slots to pick up the sound of your voice for chats. The advantage of that is that it can pass off as a convincing headphone at any time, making it a highly versatile device.
Who should buy the Razer Barracuda Pro
Players of FPS games are particularly going to love how the Razer Barracuda Pro will give them a jump on opponents. The headset’s THX spatial audio support brings a dimensionality to sound that I barely thought possible.
Read our full
Razer Barracuda Pro review
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) – Best wireless headset for esports
Pros
Comfortable
Long battery life
Pre-loaded EQ profiles
Great microphone
Cons
No notches on the volume wheel
Aggressive battery saving
Best Prices Today:
$199.99 at Amazon
Why I like the Razer Blackshark V2 Pro
Although it shares the same name as its 2020 predecessor, the 2023 Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is a far more impressive headset, adding Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, an improved HyperClear Wideband microphone, and on-headset pro-tuned FPS profiles to an already impressive list of legacy features. The battery life has also been ramped up to 70 hours, which simply means you can spend more time exactly where you should be — in your game.
The headset currently sets you back just $200, which all things considered, seems exceptional value considering its potential to be a really great e-sports set; features like its 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, comfortable cloth earcup coverings, and THX Spatial Audio, are just the kinds of extras pro gamers really want. However, the BlackShark V2 Pro has no Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to block out unwanted sound, which means it’s better used in a quiet room rather than on a noisy bus. But then again, who plays Fortnite esports matches on a noisy bus ride home anyhow?
Who should buy the Razer Blackshark V2 Pro
Esports players or casual gamers who want a reliable and comfortable headset with great connectivity, but that don’t necessarily need Active Noise Cancellation.
Read our full
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) headset review
Roccat Syn Max Air – Best RGB wireless headset
Pros
The audio sounds balanced
Simultaneous Wi-Fi and Bluetooth lets you listen to multiple audio sources at once
The futuristic styling looks fantastic
Cons
The microphone picks up a lot of ambient noise
The controls are reasonably basic
It`s expensive considering there`s no ANC
Best Prices Today:
$112 at Amazon$249.99 at Roccat
Why I like the Roccat Syn Max Air
The Roccat Syn Max Air is just an all-around great headset for gamers, with quality audio, a comfortable fit, and lots of gamer attitude. In our playtesting we found its 50mm Nanoclear drivers sounded really balanced through the midrange frequencies, making it ideal for esports games like Fortnite and Counterstrike: Global Offensive. Its versatility is another big strength — it has dual wireless connectivity so it can hook up to just about any device you need it to.
Using the simultaneous Bluetooth functionality is a must do with this headset, too. In just a few seconds you can add a second audio source from your Bluetooth-compatible device, allowing you to either enjoy music or take calls while missing absolutely none of your gaming audio.
Who should buy the Roccat Syn Max Air
Anyone who wants a headset that rocks a deep gamer aesthetic with futuristic styling and RGB lighting. The excellent audio, dual wireless connectivity, and comfort is an added bonus on top of that.
Read our full
Roccat Syn Max Air review
How we test wireless gaming headsets
To find the best of the best, we put every wireless gaming headset through a legion of tests. We examine everything from design and styling to the integrity of their Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth signals. Since these headsets are tailor-made for gaming, we spend many hours trying them out in games, listening closely to their sound quality, and testing extra features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) or spatial audio technologies. Our testing criteria mainly falls under these categories:
Design and ergonomics
When it comes to gaming headsets, design is crucial for your overall comfort. It’s also crucial for maximizing your gaming experience. To that end we consider factors like the overall shape and fit of the headband and earcups, their clamping force, and crucially what they’re made of—which affects how they feel. We also examine things like whether they have boom microphones, if the microphones are detachable, and whether there’s onboard storage for the dongle.
Connectivity
Wireless gaming headsets transmit sound to and from your PC via a wireless signal. However, the way they do this can vary. Key connectivity considerations are whether the headset connects via a Wi-Fi or a Bluetooth signal or provides a choice of both of these options. We also look at the Wi-Fi band the headset uses, all the while mindful that the 2.4GHz band is the current best-in-class standard for a low-latency connection.
Audio quality
This will make or break your gaming experience, and while there are lots of factors that determine audio quality, it can quite simply be determined by listening closely to the fidelity of the sound and the tonal range available. We also listen keenly for any audio distortion, such as rattling or hissing sounds that can be red flags for sound quality.
How to choose a wireless gaming headset
1.
Are wireless headsets okay for gaming?
Wireless gaming headsets have become so advanced that the latency most gamers used to experience is no longer that much of an issue. That being the case, the latency of the audio signal even in the fastest wireless headsets with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi can still be somewhat higher than in wired headsets (100 to 200 milliseconds compared to just 3 to 7 milliseconds).
2.
Do pro gamers use wired or wireless headsets?
Most competitive gamers will still prefer to use a wired headset over a wireless one to reduce audio latency and signal interference. Chances are though, if you’re not playing competitively and have relatively low game pings, you won’t notice any delay in your audio.
Wireless gaming headsets also bestow a number of advantages over wired only headsets. For example, you can enjoy your game’s audio while roaming away from your device, are freed from the clutter of cords, and in some headsets, you can even enjoy the benefits of multiple audio sources at the same time.
3.
Should I choose a set with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth or both?
A low-latency connection can make a world of difference, allowing you to hear the best-quality sound while also minimizing the likelihood of signal dropout or interference. As a general rule the lowest-latency wireless connection you can get these days comes courtesy of a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection. A Wi-Fi connection will also give you the best wireless range, allowing you to wander anywhere up to 20 feet away from your device without losing your audio. However, to take advantage of Wi-Fi you’ll need to plug a dongle into your devices.
Some headsets also offer Bluetooth connectivity, which still does a decent job transmitting your audio signal but somewhat lowers the fidelity of the sound quality. Another downside is it can also suffer latency issues. And, while it’s granted that most gamers wouldn’t choose Bluetooth over Wi-Fi for these reasons, one benefit of Bluetooth is that if you plan on using your gaming headset with multiple devices, it allows you to conveniently and quickly switch between them without needing a dongle.
4.
Why is checking compatibility important?
It pays to research which of your devices work with a new gaming headset since compatibility can vary widely. By that I mean checking to see if it works with any consoles you might have, such as Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 or 5, or XBox X/S, and your smartphone. Doing so can save you the cost and inconvenience of having to purchase multiple headsets.
You’ll also want to check that the headset’s software-dependent features like 3D spatial audio are supported by not only the devices, but also the games you want to use it with, since that is not a given and you may be sorely disappointed if you can’t take advantage of the full breadth of your headset’s capabilities.
5.
What design traits are the most comfortable?
Beyond just being pleasant to wear, comfortable headsets help prevent pain and injury to your ears and head. What constitutes a comfortable headset can come down to personal preference, but as a general rule, these points will help guide you in choosing one that’ll keep you feeling snug.
Lightweight design: Lighter headsets are generally more comfy over prolonged periods, and can prevent you feeling too much pressure on the top of your head. Designs that incorporate plastic tend to be lighter than those that have more metal in them.
Soft materials and padding: The padding and coverings in headsets can be made from a broad spectrum of materials including PVC, rubber, memory foam, artificial leather, and plastic. Ideally the padding in the earcups should gently melt into the sides of your head with minimal force, while the earcup coverings should feel smooth rather than coarse. Many manufacturers opt for a combination of memory foam padding with leatherette coverings that we think gives you the most luxurious and comfortable feeling you can get these days.
Extendable and flexible headband: A headband that extends vertically to cover your ears will prevent soreness in the parts of your ears not cupped, while one that is flexible and opens easily will reduce unwanted clamp force hurting your ears and sides of your head.
Rotating earcups: These allow your head a degree of horizontal movement (left and right) without the headset’s earcups pulling your ears in the other direction.
6.
What makes a headset durable?
As is the case with most other tech devices, wireless gaming headsets that eschew plastic for metal in their designs are a lot tougher and tend to last longer than those that don’t. That’s especially important for the arc of the headband which will quite often snap in two when made entirely from plastic.
When it comes to the durability of earcups, genuine leather tends to reign supreme over other materials, being a little more resistant to wear and tear than leatherette, plastic, or polyester cloth. On the flipside, leather tends not to circulate as much air to your ears and thus can make you sweat more, so any durability concerns you have will need to be weighed up against your personal comfort needs.
7.
Should I opt for a headset with spatial audio or not?
Most wireless gaming headsets will offer stereo sound from both earcups, but an increasing number now offer 3D spatial audio. This feature mimics the kind of sound experience you’d expect to get from having multiple speakers, thereby delivering sound through a 360-degree sound-scape in your headset.
Headsets like the Razer Barracuda Pro Wireless, SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, and HyperX Cloud Core Wireless, all offer their own spatial audio technologies, so the chances are good that a new-to-market mid-range or premium headset will support this technology.
While there are some differences between the spatial audio technologies used by different headsets, on the whole most work reasonably well, allowing you to clearly hear the directionality of sounds in games. Suffice to say, if you’re a competitive gamer this feature can give you a big advantage over your competitors, allowing you to better pinpoint sounds like your opponents’ foot-falls, explosions, or enemy fire a little easier than you otherwise would.
8.
How do I get the best noise isolation?
Noise isolation refers to how well your headset can isolate the sound coming from your own gaming headset while simultaneously blocking out any external sound from outside. Apart from just being plain annoying, sound leaking into your headset can be a strategic disadvantage in tightly contested games, especially in shooters like Overwatch or Counter-Strike: Global Offensive that rely on directional audio prompts.
At the very least, you will want to ensure your gaming headset has decent passive noise isolation, which is a measure of how well its overall physical design is effective at stopping external sound entering your ears. However, if only the strongest noise-blocking power will do, look for a headset with Active Noise Cancellation. This technology actively detects and analyzes the sound pattern of incoming noise and then generates a mirror anti-noise to cancel it out.
9.
What are the key considerations about the microphone?
From a design perspective a good microphone should be either detachable or fold back into the headset’s body to be virtually undetectable when you’re not using it. This allows you to more discreetly use your wireless gaming headset as a pair of headphones when you’re not gaming, making it a little more versatile than a purely wired set.
Although you’ll mainly be using your headset’s microphone for casual voice chats in gaming sessions, you’ll also want to check that it has noise-cancelling technology and that the sound it picks up is clear and free of distortion—after all, your gaming friends won’t want to listen to your voice for very long if it’s muffled or full of static.
10.
Why do some gamers wear two headsets at once?
Just a cheer, boo, or drop of a bottle cap in the crowd at an esports event can put a pro gamer off their game and in the worst-case scenario that could cost them the tournament. To avoid that happening, pro gamers wear two headphones: an inner pair that outputs the game audio and another that covers the outside of their ears and blocks ambient noise.
Additionally, many tournament rules make wearing two headsets at once compulsory to avoid players obtaining any kind of information advantage from the crowd—basically this is considered cheating.
11.
What wireless headsets work with consoles?
Sony and Microsoft both make top-quality wireless headsets for their respective devices, but there are also a range of wireless headsets from other companies, like SteelSeries, Logitech G, and Razer that will work just as well with consoles like the PS4, PS5, Xbox X/S. Again, the most important thing you need to look out for when choosing a wireless headset is that it has compatibility with the console you need it for.
If you intend on using your wireless headset with an Xbox console, it will have to support Xbox Wireless, which is Microsoft’s certified wireless technology that allows you to connect without a dongle. Sony’s PS4 and PS5 consoles, on the other hand, don’t have any such certified wireless technology, which means you can simply connect using your wireless headset’s supplied dongle. However, if you own a PS5 you’ll also want to check that your wireless headset supports Sony’s Tempest 3D Audio, which is the proprietary technology that provides spatial audio support on this device.
Nintendo’s Switch console is one of the easiest consoles to connect with; in most cases you can simply plug the headset’s wireless dongle in directly or else pair the headset’s Bluetooth to the device and away you go!
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| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 11 Jun (PC World)Torrenting, or P2P (peer-to-peer) file sharing, is a convenient way to download large files quickly. But it certainly isn’t without risks. Not only are there security risks involved in downloading files from unknown sources, but there is a privacy risk as well. That’s why it’s imperative that you use a VPN while doing any torrenting or P2P file sharing. A VPN can help keep you safe by keeping your connection private and encrypting your data so that unwanted prying eyes—cybercriminals, overbearing ISPs, or nosy government watchdogs—can’t keep tabs on your activity.
There are so many VPNs on the market nowadays that finding a trustworthy service can seem like a herculean task. Here at PCWorld, I’m continually testing and reviewing VPN services to find the very best. Below you’ll find a list of my favorites that support P2P and torrenting. I have broken them down into categories ranging from privacy superstars to all-purpose standouts.
Why you should trust us: Here at PCWorld we’ve been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. We’re continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out our article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you’ll find our favorite VPNs and additional information about how we test these services as well as helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a VPN on your own.
If you’re interested in using a VPN for more than just torrenting you can check out my overall list of best VPN services for more great options.
1. NordVPN – Best VPN for torrenting overall
Pros
Loaded with tons of VPN configuration options
Outstanding speeds
Multiple independent no-logs audits
Included antivirus and password manager
Cons
Expensive
Why I like NordVPN
NordVPN is my top pick for torrenting due to its fantastic security features, multi-hop connections, and independently verified no-logs policy. Plus, it comes with built-in ad- and tracker-blocker as well as malware protection and a link checker—you know, for any of those dubious Linux torrenting sites you might run into. NordVPN also proved to be the fastest VPN on the market in my testing so those large P2P files should download in no-time.
It truly has everything you could want to make your torrenting faster, easier, and most importantly, safer. NordVPN also comes with broad device support and an easy-to-use Windows app. It might be a bit expensive, but if you opt for longer-term subscriptions it becomes a lot cheaper.
Who should buy NordVPN
NordVPN is the perfect VPN for torrenting and anyone who is looking for a VPN for this purpose would do well to subscribe to the service. It’s also a great overall VPN option for people who want speed and extra features. Even power users will find plenty of customizable options to get the most out of their experience.
Read our full
NordVPN review
2. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for torrenting runner-up
Pros
Excellent speeds
Easy-to-use interface
Unblocks all streaming services
Great security and privacy practices
Cons
More expensive than many competitors
Light on some features for a top VPN
Why I like ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is our favorite VPN so it’s no surprise that it’s landing as one of the top picks for torrents as well. Even though it’s our best overall pick for VPNs, I gave it the runner-up spot here as NordVPN comes with a few more security features than ExpressVPN—I say, the more security the better when torrenting.
However, ExpressVPN is still an excellent VPN choice for torrenting as it makes all of the right privacy promises and its speeds are very good. It also has a lot of other good qualities that make it worth your while, such as smart DNS and great unblocking capabilities. Also, ExpressVPN is officially based in the British Virgin Islands meaning it isn’t subject to any international data intelligence sharing alliances or data retention requirements so you can feel confident your ISP or other interested parties can’t uncover your traffic P2P activity.
Who should buy ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a true all-arounder and a great option for everyone. Since it’s our top pick overall for VPNs, I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a VPN for more than just torrenting—especially if they want to do streaming.
Read our full
ExpressVPN review
3. ProtonVPN – Best free option
Pros
Excellent free plan
Great privacy tools
Reliable and transparent no-logs policy
Cons
Premium plan is expensive
Why I like ProtonVPN
My pick for best free VPN for torrenting is a no-brainer: ProtonVPN. At no cost, you’ll get a one-device connection with no data or time limits. I repeat, no data or time limits. That’s absolutely unheard of from a major VPN provider and it means you can safely torrent to your heart’s content without worrying about your file sizes. Sure, the free version of ProtonVPN comes with access to only five servers, but when you’re torrenting the server location shouldn’t matter anyways.
ProtonVPN also has some of the fastest speeds around, both upstream and down, which is helpful when you want to spread the Open Office love as quickly as possible. The Swiss-based service has excellent privacy promises, and it has a bunch of servers in a friggin’ bunker too—looking at you torrenting preppers.
Who should use ProtonVPN
Anyone who wants to torrent should use a VPN and anyone who doesn’t want to, or have the means to, pay for a premium VPN should use ProtonVPN instead. It’s free and has no data limits. I call that a win-win.
Read our full
ProtonVPN review
4. Mullvad – Best for privacy
Pros
Good speeds
Higher level of anonymity possible than with most VPN services
Windows desktop is easy to use
Cons
Not guaranteed to work with Netflix
Lacks the extra services that some VPNs offer
No password protection for your account
Best Prices Today:
$5.37 at Mullvad
Why I like Mullvad
Mullvad is the ultimate VPN when it comes to privacy and anonymity. The Sweden-based company appreciates your business, but it’s not interested in finding out who you are. It goes well beyond the standards of most other VPN companies when it comes to protecting your anonymity. Instead of using an email and password combo, Mullvad randomly generates an account number that functions as your username and password. And you can even decide to mail in cash as a subscription payment if you don’t want your credit card on file.
While Mullvad focuses on privacy, it’s no slouch in other departments as well. It ranks in the top 10 for speeds, and comes with a convenient split tunneling feature as well. All servers are capable of P2P transfers so you can just pick your favorite server and start torrenting. Plus, the service has a very inexpensive monthly subscription fee.
Who should buy Mullvad
Mullvad is ultimately for the privacy conscious user. Those who really demand ultimate anonymity when torrenting or just using a VPN in general will find that Mullvad takes active measure to ensure they never know who you are—meaning no other observer will know who you are either. Due to its affordable monthly plan it’s also a great option for VPN users on a budget.
Read our full
Mullvad review
5. Private Internet Access – Best for customization
Pros
Independently verified no-logs policy
Unlimited simultaneous device connections
Incredible number of servers
Great extra features such as multi-hop and split tunneling
Cons
App panel awkwardly located on the lower-right corner of screen by default
Speeds are just okay
Best Prices Today:
$11.95 at Private Internet Access
Why I like Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is one of the most popular VPN providers and has seemingly been around forever. PIA not only comes with an insane amount of servers, but also great features such as multi-hop an app-based kill switch, and split-tunneling. All servers are capable of P2P file transfers and features like port forwarding mean you’re torrenting will be faster and more reliable.
PIA also has a great record of transparency, regularly undergoing independent no-logs audits. It does lack some speed in comparison to our other top picks here, but that shouldn’t translate to too much of a hit while torrenting.
Who should buy Private Internet Access
PIA is best suited for those who like to tinker with their software. It provides some many customizable features that it can come across as a bit overwhelming to the uninitiated and those just looking for a set it and forget it option. But power users will find a plethora of tweakable options and settings to keep them happy through all of their torrenting endeavors.
Read our full
Private Internet Access review
How we tested
If you’ve read a number of these VPN articles, you know the drill by now. I test on three different days taking the average speeds we find in six different countries (each country is tested multiple times per day). Then we take all those daily averages to get an overall global average in megabytes per second. Then we compare that to the base speed without a VPN, and then express the result as a percentage based on how much of the base speed the global average maintains. If there are particularly standout speeds in a certain country or region we will generally call those out too.
The reason we don’t quote specific speeds is that these can vary by all kinds of factors such as your location, ISP, home network load and equipment, and so on. The percentages, however, give you a generally good idea of how much of a dip to expect when you connect to a VPN—there’s always a dip.
One other factor torrent users will want to know about is that we read the privacy policy for each and every VPN we cover. Yes, it is painful so we save you the hassle. The reason we do that is a VPN may promise up front that it doesn’t track your web browsing, but then you find that actually it does log IP addresses, timestamps, and bandwidth used. So we dig into the details so you can know exactly what the VPNs we review promise.
What to look for in a VPN for torrenting
There are a few hard-and-fast rules you need from a VPN when downloading torrents. Here’s what to look for:
Blocking
First of all you want a VPN service provider that allows torrenting of P2P file sharing on their network. Most do, but there are a few notable exceptions such as Tunnel Bear, which actively blocks torrents.
Then there are VPNs that partially block torrents, especially on U.S. servers such as TorGuard. This VPN service recently settled a lawsuit brought against it by a consortium of Hollywood production companies and as a result, TorGuard promised to no longer allow torrents on its U.S. servers. On top of that, many other VPN services don’t want to end up in a lawsuit like their competitors and actively disallow torrenting on their American servers.
Service location
For that reason, we recommend using VPN services that are based outside the U.S., and from those VPNs you should use servers based in countries that are friendlier to torrents. This avoids the issue of dealing with torrents being blocked outright when all you want to do is load up Ubuntu on that new laptop. Most VPN services will specify which servers allow torrents, but a popular and easy choice is Sweden. The speeds are usually good, and most services include Swedish servers in their networks along with many other countries that are torrent-friendly.
No-logs policy
The next thing you want is a VPN that has an ironclad no-logs promise from the service provider, because nobody wants to be exposed downloading free and open source software. That means that the service should include a promise not to maintain logs of any kind.
We say “promise” since there’s no real way to know for sure that a VPN isn’t logging your activity. You ultimately have to trust that they’re not doing it. This trust can come from a few factors, in order of reputability: The company’s no-logs promise has been proven by a court challenge, numerous third-party audits have verified the service’s claims, or you might just take the company at its word—proceed with caution.
Speed
Finally, after those details have been verified, you want a VPN with solid speeds. Torrents can take a long time to download as it is, depending on how many people are sharing the file. The last thing you want is to see your download slowed down by shoddy VPN speeds.
To get the VPN you need for torrenting, just put all those attributes together: allows torrents, absolute no-logs promise, torrent-friendly services and servers outside the U.S., and excellent speeds.
FAQ
1.
What is a VPN?
A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet traffic and disguises your identity while browsing the internet. When used for torrenting, a VPN will anonymize your torrenting traffic and keep your ISP from potentially throttling your connection in the future.
Additionally, VPNs allow you to connect to servers all across the world. So if you’re looking to access location-restricted content, such as streaming services, you can connect to the appropriate country’s server and gain access that way.
2.
How does a VPN work?
A VPN hides your IP address by redirecting it through a remote server hosted by the VPN company. To anyone looking in, the VPN server then becomes the source of your data instead of your actual location. These remote servers can be in your own country or located in different countries around the world. All of your network traffic from your computer to the VPN is sent over a secure and encrypted connection.
When connected to a VPN while browsing the internet, the VPN acts as a middleman between your computer and a website. Your computer sends a request to the VPN, which then passes it on to a website. The website then sends its response back to the VPN which forwards it through the secure connection to your computer. All of the traffic rerouted through the VPN shows as coming through their server rather than your own computer. This keeps your ISP and other third parties from snooping on your internet activity.
3.
Are VPNs legal to use?
Yes! In most countries, including the United States, using a VPN is perfectly legal. Even though some websites might try to block VPN connections, they are still okay to use. Please note, while using a VPN is legal, some of the activities done while using a VPN might be illegal. Activities such as downloading pirated copyrighted content or accessing dark web markets are both illegal with or without a VPN.
4.
Is Torrenting through a VPN safe?
Safety while torrenting comes down to two things: anonymity and protection from malware or other malicious files.
As far as anonymity goes, yes, you will be protected from any snooping outsiders or your own ISP’s restrictions on file torrenting by using a VPN. If you know and trust the P2P network you are using, torrenting with a VPN should be completely safe from prying eyes.
In regards to protection from malware and other malicious files, no. A VPN on its own will not protect you from accidentally downloading malicious files from P2P networks or torrent sites. For this, it is highly recommended that you use an antivirus program to help keep you safe.
5.
Do VPNs track my browsing or store my data?
This depends entirely on the VPN provider you choose to use. There have been instances in the past of VPN providers spying on their users or collecting data. However, these were mainly free VPN services with no explicit no-logging policies.
When searching for a VPN, be careful to check the company’s website for a no-logging policy, third-party trust verification, and trustworthy user reviews. That being said, most of the major paid VPNs have clearly stated no-logging policies so it is typically best to stick with one of them.
6.
How many servers should my VPN have?
There isn’t a specific number of servers that make one VPN better than another. It’s common for VPN providers to advertise the number of servers they have, but this is largely a marketing gimmick and doesn’t necessarily equate to the quality of the VPN service itself. Other factors such as server-location spread and server quality are just as important if not more so than the number of available servers.
That being said, most popular VPN providers offer between 3,000 to 5,000 servers. We recommend that you avoid any premium service with less than 1,000 servers as this could be an indication that the company is not yet well established, which could portend reliability issues.
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| ![](/n.gif) | | PC World - 10 Jun (PC World)At a glanceExpert`s Rating
ProsExcellent all-day battery lifePortability and performanceGood valueConsNo USB Type-A portsNo option for 32GB of RAM on the base modelOur VerdictLenovo’s ThinkBook is a better business laptop for most people than a top-of-the-line ThinkPad, but the lack of ports may be a problem.
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x (Gen 4) is a 13-inch business laptop designed for portability. The ThinkBook line of laptops is a more affordable alternative to Lenovo’s high-end ThinkPad laptops. But this laptop doesn’t just beat a top-of-the-line ThinkPad on price — it beats it on battery life, too.
The value is definitely here: At $1,106, this ThinkBook is much less expensive than Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Carbon. It lacks the high-end touches of the ThinkPad X1 Carbon, but it’s an incredibly practical machine for getting work done on the go — or at your desk.
Looking for more options? Check out PCWorld’s roundup of the best laptops available today.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Specs
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
The ThinkBook is a capable “ultraportable” business laptop. It’s branded as an “Intel Evo” laptop and features a Meteor Lake-based Intel Core Ultra CPU with Intel Arc graphics. Our review model included an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H CPU, but Lenovo also offers this machine with a Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor for another $432. That upgrade seems overboard for a laptop at this price point, and it would make more sense if Lenovo offered this machine with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor as an upgrade instead.
This laptop includes 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM that’s soldered to the motherboard. That’s fine for many purposes, but you can’t get 32GB of RAM without also upgrading to that Intel Core Ultra 9 CPU. This unfortunately isn’t a good machine for you if you need or want 32GB of RAM.
Our review unit also included a 512GB SSD. For an extra $89, you can upgrade that to a 1 TB SSD — that’s reasonable, at least.
While Intel’s Meteor Lake platform includes a neural processing unit (NPU,) Intel’s first-generation NPUs aren’t powerful enough for Windows 11’s upcoming AI features. This laptop won’t get those AI features Microsoft just announced, which are exclusive to Copilot+ PCs. If those features are important to you and you want an Intel-powered PC, you’ll want to wait for Intel’s Lunar Lake hardware.
CPU: Intel Core Ultra 5 125H
Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X-8400MHz
Graphics/GPU: Intel Arc graphics
Display: 13.5-inch 2880×1920 IPS display with 120Hz refresh rate and touch screen
Storage: 512GB M.2 PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Webcam: 1080p webcam with physical webcam shutoff switch
Connectivity: 3x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C), 1x combo audio jack
Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Biometrics: IR camera for Windows Hello
Battery capacity: 74 Watt-hours
Dimensions: 11.6 x 8.1 x 0.5 inches
Weight: 2.7 pounds
MSRP: $1,106 as tested
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Design and build quality
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
Lenovo’s ThinkBook 13x has a smart all-metal design, all grays and silvers. The edges are slightly rounded so you don’t have hard metal edges pressing into your hands. The “ThinkBook” name appears on the laptop’s lid and the “Lenovo” brand name appears both below the bottom right area of the laptop’s keyboard and on the lid.
Build quality feels excellent whether you’re holding the laptop in your hand or opening and closing the laptop’s hinge. At the top of the display, the area with the webcam and IR camera sticks out a bit. This reduces the bezel around the display and gives you a good handhold to use while opening the laptop.
At 2.7 pounds, the laptop feels nice and light — but not quite as light as a ThinkPad X1 Carbon, naturally. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon is also a more ruggedized design, so it will likely do better in extreme environments. But the ThinkBook will be more than sufficient for the average business traveler.
The ThinkBook 13x has one trick up its sleeve: A “Lenovo Magic Bay” connection at the top of the lid, behind that webcam bar. This lets you connect “Magic Bay” accessories magnetically. Lenovo bundled a Lenovo Magic Bay Light which is designed to provide extra lighting for video calls and other recordings. However, I don’t see Lenovo offering any other Magic Bay accessories for this laptop on its online store, and Lenovo told me available accessories vary between regions.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Keyboard and trackpad
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
The ThinkBook 13x’s keyboard is a good keyboard and is a pleasure to type on. It’s a good size and the key travel feels reasonably snappy — in other words, the keys don’t feel “mushy” to me.
That said, this definitely isn’t the most premium keyboard I’ve used — Lenovo’s more expensive ThinkPad X1 Carbon definitely offers a snappier and more premium typing experience. But this is a solid keyboard.
The keyboard also has all-white LED keyboard backlighting so you can see the keys in a dark room. However, there’s no red “nub” for controlling the mouse in the middle of the keyboard, as there is on ThinkPads.
Like the keyboard, the trackpad feels response and smooth. It’s not quite as smooth to the touch as the touchpad on that high-end Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, but it’s definitely something I could be happy using regularly. The click-down action feels right, too.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Display and speakers
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x’s 13.5-inch display is exactly the kind of thing you’re looking for on a portable business laptop. You’re getting a 2880×1920 IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 3:2 aspect ratio. That 3:2 aspect ratio is an excellent choice that offers a lot of vertical space for getting work done.
The display also offers up to 500 nits of brightness, which is great to see. It does have a fairly glossy display that’s prone to reflections — which you can see in some of the photos in this review. It’s probably not the best option for use outdoors in direct sunlight, but the high brightness can help compensate.
This display is also a touch screen, which is convenient for scrolling documents and navigating the Windows operating system.
It’s a good-looking screen with a solid resolution, refresh rate, and brightness, along with a good aspect ratio and a touch screen. Sure, this isn’t a beautiful OLED display like the one the ThinkPad X1 Carbon offers — but that’s probably part of why this ThinkBook beats that ThinkPad when it comes to battery life.
The speakers are good for a business laptop, too. Lenovo says they’re Harman Kardon speakers, and you’ve got the Harmon Kardon logo on the laptop. It also supports Dolby Atmos audio. You won’t be replacing your home theater system with this laptop, but you’ve got a good volume and clarity here. I took this laptop on a weekend trip and watched some videos in a hotel room with a noisy air conditioner running a few feet away, and it offered a great watching-videos-in-a-hotel-room experience — a common task for any business laptop!
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Webcam, microphone, biometrics
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x’s webcam looks great for a laptop webcam: It’s a 1080p webcam that puts 720p webcams to shame. You’re probably only going to do better if you hunt down an external 4K webcam. You’ve also got a physical switch for turning off the laptop’s webcam on the right side of the machine, which is a common privacy feature on business laptops.
This machine has a trick up its sleeve with that magnetically attaching Magic Bay Light, too. It offers customizable lighting so you can record videos in a more natural light. I’ll be honest, though — it’s a little fatiguing staring at the laptop’s screen while the Magic Bay Light is shining brightly just above it, so you probably won’t want to use this all the time.
The four-microphone array also offers good, clear sound quality. Between the webcam, microphone, and speakers, this laptop will offer a great experience for online meetings and video calls without any extra accessories.
The ThinkBook 13x includes an IR camera that supports facial recognition with Windows Hello, and it speedily logged me into Windows with my face in a variety of lighting conditions.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Connectivity
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
Connectivity options on the ThinkBook 13x are a little limited, which is a problem for a business laptop. You’re getting three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports: one on the left side of the laptop, and two on the right. One of them is used for charging the laptop.
Also, you’ve got a combo audio jack on the left side of the machine. That’s it: You won’t find any classic USB Type-A ports here, nor will you find an HDMI port or an SD card reader. For anything even a little off the beaten path, you’ll need a dongle.
Whether this is a big deal is up to you. If you don’t plug in devices much, a thin-and-light laptop with a total of three USB-C ports may be perfectly fine — along with a dongle for when you need it.
For wireless connectivity, the ThinkBook has Wi-Fi 6E support and Bluetooth 5.3 hardware built in. Wi-Fi 7 routers aren’t very widespread yet, so it’s no surprise to see a laptop like this one choose Wi-Fi 6E hardware. But, if future-proof Wi-Fi 7 is a priority to you, this is the wrong machine for you.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Performance
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x handled everyday desktop tasks — web browsers, office applications, and more — with snappy performance. That’s no surprise with the hardware in this laptop. Of course, we ran the Lenovo ThinkBook 13x through our standard benchmarks to measure its performance.
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
First, we run PCMark 10 to get an idea of overall system performance. This particular benchmark is a little more focused on the CPU, but it tries to measure general system performance. The ThinkBook 13x turned in a great result for an ultraportable laptop, with an overall score of 6,911 — just a little bit behind Lenovo’s much more expensive ThinkPad X1 Carbon and ahead of many other similar laptops in its class.
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
Next, we run Cinebench R20. This is a heavily multithreaded benchmark that focuses on overall CPU performance. It’s a quick benchmark, so cooling under extended workloads isn’t a factor. But, since it’s heavily multithreaded, CPUs with more cores have a huge advantage.
The ThinkBook 13x with its Core Ultra 5 CPU delivered a score of 5,117. That’s a stronger result than the ThinkPad X1 Carbon and other systems with Core Ultra 7 CPUs.
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
We also run an encode with Handbrake. This is another heavily multithreaded benchmark, but it runs over an extended period of time. This demands the laptop’s cooling kick in, and many laptops will throttle and slow down under load.
The Lenovo ThinkBook took 1,174 seconds — that’s about nineteen and a half minutes — to complete the encode process. That’s faster than the ThinkPad X1 Carbon, once again. The ThinkBook seems to deliver better cooling than the somewhat smaller and lighter ThinkPad X1 Carbon, which is no surprise. Of course, we also see the larger HP Pavilion Plus deliver great performance here thanks to its cooling ability.
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
Next, we run a graphical benchmark. This isn’t a gaming laptop, but it’s still good to check how the GPU performs. We run 3Dmark Time Spy, a graphical benchmark that focuses on GPU performance.
The Intel Arc graphics in this machine are faster than previous-generation Intel Iris Xe graphics. But they delivered a higher performance score the Arc graphics in the ThinkPad X1 Carbon — again, this laptop seems to punch above the ThinkPad X1 Carbon’s performance in a variety of ways. Cooling is likely a huge factor.
Overall, the ThinkBook 13x’s performance is excellent for a business laptop. Earlier, I wrote that I would like to see Lenovo offer this machine with a Core Ultra 7 CPU as an option. But, seeing how the Core Ultra 5 hardware here is beating so many other Core Ultra 7 systems, there may be no point in that!
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Battery life
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x includes a 74 Watt-hour battery, which is a good size for an ultraportable system. It also delivers excellent battery life in the real world.
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
IDG / Chris Hoffman
To benchmark the battery life, we play a 4K copy of Tears of Steel on repeat in the Movies & TV app on Windows 11 with airplane mode enabled until the laptop suspends itself. We set the screen to 250 nits of brightness for our battery benchmark. This is a best-case scenario for any laptop since local video playback is so efficient, and real battery life in day-to-day use is always going to be less than this.
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x lasted for 783 minutes on average. That’s over 13 hours of battery life during video playback — notably better than the ThinkPad X1 Carbon.
Of course, machine will definitely not get 13 hours of battery life under normal use when you’re using web browsers, office applications, and everything else you use. But it should reliably deliver all-workday battery life, which is a huge deal. That’s something the ThinkPad X1 Carbon and a lot of other business laptops can’t reliably deliver, which is a shame — but this machine can.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x: Conclusion
The ThinkBook 13x is an excellent ultraportable business laptop: It’s a great price and offers high performance along with good keyboard, display, and excellent all-day battery life. The webcam, microphone, and speakers are great for business meetings.
While a machine like the ThinkPad X1 Carbon offers more premium touches with an OLED display and snappier keyboard, I’d say the ThinkBook 13x offers a better overall package with its all-day battery life and better performance benchmarks in a variety of scenarios — not to mention the much lower price.
There are still some catches: If you want more connectivity than three USB-C ports and an audio jack, you’ll need to look elsewhere. If you want more than 16GB of RAM on your laptop, you can’t get more without spending a lot of extra money to also upgrade the CPU.
Still, some people will prefer a lighter laptop with a more beautiful OLED display and snappier keyboard — even if it can’t necessarily deliver all-day battery life under many workloads. The ThinkPad Carbon X1 is still compelling.
But the ThinkBook 13x is a better ultraportable business laptop for most people.
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