Home Blog Page 14

Best Laptops for Computer Science

0

If you’re studying computer science, you’re going to need a great laptop. Not just any computer will do, as you’ll need to learn and apply specialized information. There are some specific requirements for notebooks meant for computer science, and in this article, we will cover them all.

Before diving into our buying guide and list of best laptops for computer science, a few words on what is CS?  Computer Science studies computers and algorithms, hardware and software design and the application of these solutions. It’s an exciting field!

It’s no wonder that Computer Science is so popular, with projected job security, high starting salaries and great demand for experts in this field all over the world. European nations are anticipating a shortage of over 900,000 IT workers by 2020.

Programmers, coders, developers, network administrators, software or hardware engineers and others who are part of the broad range of CS specialties may have slightly different needs for their laptops. Since software development is currently the hottest subcategory, we’ll focus on notebooks for programming here. The other reason to look for perfect laptops for developers is transferability. These notebooks tend to be suitable for most tasks associated with other Computer Science fields, so be sure to shortlist them if versatility is important to you.

What to Look For in a Laptop for Computer Science

Most IT companies with strong development teams look very similar. If you visit, you’ll probably find open space, programmers wearing headphones to keep noise out and maybe play some productivity music, and two monitors on each desk, along with a laptop and a docking station. Most people keep collaboration tools on one monitor and coding on the other.

Why no desktop or traditional tower? Great question! With the rapid development of mobile hardware, there is no need for desktop computers for software developers. Complex calculations are done on centralized servers with powerful workstations. Developers often take their work home or work remotely from another location that appeals to them, so a laptop makes sense. At the same time, power is essential – in fact, it’s even more important than portability. So, what does ideal Computer Science laptop have?  The best way to find the perfect model is to go through all the components.

Display

Being a professional programmer or student of Computer Science, the laptop screen is the primary interface for communication with your code. Since you’ll spend countless hours with your eyes glued to the notebook display, you should probably choose a good one. There are a couple of things to consider when selecting a laptop screen. You want your resolution to be at least FHD, which will help you see a bigger portion of the code you’re working on. The good news is that those awful 1368×768 TN screens with terrible viewing angles are almost gone; in fact, they’re mostly found in the budget category, which by the way isn’t where you’re going to find the best laptops for computer science.

Besides FHD resolution, it’s best to choose an IPS screen. It has better picture quality, and it is beter suited to a combination of work and multimedia content. The ideal size is debatable. With 13” you get to enjoy a lightweight notebook that’s easier to tote around, but with smaller screen comes less on-screen code. The 15.6” models have more space, but the tradeoff is that they’re bulkier. We would recommend 14” or 15.6” notebooks because the size of the screen makes a huge difference when coding.

Storage

SSD storage costs far less than it used to, and that’s a good thing, because it’s essential for computer science. On that note, do not buy a laptop without SSD, or if you do, make sure it has an expansion slot so you can buy one. SSD is by far the one component that contributes the most to the overall user experience. If you need a lot of storage space you can opt to buy a computer with an SSD-HDD combo. There are a lot of notebooks with 128 GB SSD + 1 TB HDD storage, so you have plenty of options.

Another thing to consider is that bigger SSD means faster speed. This means the ideal notebook for computer science would be one with m2 NVMe 512 GB SSD. The next best thing would be regular SSD, as big as your budget allows. If you buy a laptop with traditional HDD storage, you will be able to work normally, but the boot times will be longer, and the system won’t be as snappy as with the SSD. The same logic applies for most applications you install.

RAM

Everybody always needs more RAM, or so they think. For Computer Science it depends on the type of work and the workload. If you have a couple of VMs up and running, you will need more than 16 GB. If you have a project in Docker plus an open browser, text and code editor you can easily go over 20 GB of RAM usage.

You might be able to use less RAM. For example, when working in Android Studio, Eclipse, Xcode or Visual Studio and doing your programming in C++, JavaScript or Phyton, 8 GB of RAM should be enough to get you by. If you can, it’s best to choose systems with 12 or 16 GB of RAM at minimum.

CPU

When looking into the best CPU for computer science, it’s a very good idea to choose Intel Core i5 or higher, preferably 8th generation that has more physical cores. AMD Ryzen processors are fine, too. Choose at least Ryzen 3 3300U that comes with four cores and eight threads.

For simple programming and student assignments, lower tier CPUs will work. Choose something like Intel Pentium or Core i3, for IDEs opt for Core i5, or the above mentioned four core CPUs for advanced use with virtual machines.

Graphics

Graphics cards are traditionally not of much use for software developers, but there are fields inside Computer Science that make good use of GPU. If you are working with 3D graphics tools like Maya, Blender or 3D Studio, or if you’re into Machine Learning and AI, Nvidia graphics cards with CUDA cores will be a huge help. An additional benefit for systems with graphics cards is gaming, not that we want to redirect you from the CS  to CS: GO path.

Battery life

Ultrabooks and laptops with Intel CPUs that have a U suffix will generally have better autonomy. The battery size and power will also play a significant role. Traditional HDD storage also uses more power, and the same goes for a discrete GPU.

The main feature and advantage of a laptop is mobility, so go for more autonomy. If you can get a battery with an 8-10 hour lifespan, that would be great.

Design and usability

Technical specifications aside, your laptop is something you use daily, and it might be part of your personal style. Sleek aluminum ultrabooks, bezeless screen, weight, and design can all be the X-factor when choosing the best notebook for Computer Science. Don’t discard your design preferences, but do rather take better performance over style and the categories you’ll need to look for in the long run are weight and sturdiness.

Top Computer Science Laptops without Budget restrictions

Now that we’ve covered important components and what to look for in the best laptop for Computer Science, it’s time to see what’s out there. It’s best to choose the fastest, best designed and equipped devices.

Acer Predator Helios 300

Acer Predator Helios 300
Acer Predator Helios 300

The Acer Predator Helios 300 is branded as a gaming machine, and it has an almost juvenile-looking, very aggressive design. And while you will be able to play new games on this machine, in the context of Computer Science, this is among “best buy” solutions in the high-end category.

Performance

The main feature for a gaming laptop is power, and Helios 300 has plenty of that. Great news, this machine’s power will serve you very well once you get into software development. Whatever you throw at Acer Predator in terms of IDE, programming languages or virtual machines, it will do without even breaking a sweat. Its’ powerful six core i7 processor and 16 GB of RAM are exactly the sweet spot for worry-free performance. If you need more RAM, there are expansion options on Predator Helios 300. Since it’s a gaming laptop, it comes with a discrete graphics card. The Nvidia GTX 1060 has Pascal architecture with 6 GB of GDDR5 VRAM, and all that means is that you will be able to play modern games in FHD comfortably, if you feel like taking a break. For professional use, GTX 1060 s equipped with 1280 CUDA cores let developers could take advantage of more applications.

Design & Features

Helios 300 has a classic combination of black and red color with subtle design features and a perfectly acceptable weight of 5.61 lbs. Slim design for gaming means that this model could get hot under a full load. One of the most distinctive features is its FHD IPS display with stunning 144 Hz refresh rate. It has excellent viewing angles and color accuracy, and it’s lightning fast.

When it comes to storage options, this computer isn’t the best. Having 256 GB SSD is great for performance and user experience, but you might want to get additional HDD (there is available slot) or external drive to archive your projects.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7-8750H (6 Cores,12 threads) 2.20 GHz (up to 4,1 GHz)
  • GPU NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 6GB
  • Display: 15,6’’ FHD LED IPS, 144 Hz
  • RAM: 16 GB
  • Storage: 256 GB PCIe NVMe SSD
  • Baterry: 4-cell Li-Ion, 3220 mAh

+ Extremely powerful, reasonable price, 16 GB RAM, great screen, build quality

  • We would like to see more storage space

Check the price on Amazon


HP Omen Gaming Laptop

HP Omen Gaming Laptop
HP Omen Gaming Laptop

Another gaming laptop, HP Omen shares most of the hardware components from Helio 300. It differentiates itself with more storage capacity and some other features.

Performance

Although you could code with the cheapest available CPU on the market, for advanced tasks and if you want your machine to be future proof, go for at least a Core i5 processor. HP Omen, with Core i7-8750H and its six fast cores, can handle all programming tasks with ease. Along with the fast 256 GB of PCIe NVMe SSD and 16 GB of RAM you can work with virtual machines, have your project in a Docker and in most cases this machine will be the perfect desktop replacement.

Design & features

Omen follows classic gaming design with a black case with red highlights and the Omen logo under the screen and on the back of the screen. With the desktop grade GPU, the laptop has excellent gaming performance, but the cooling system requires a bulkier design and Omen weighs 5.56 lb. The laptop isn’t too heavy for gaming, but in the context of Computer Science and mobility, it is a bit overweight.

With this HP Omen and its fast SSD-spacious HDD combination, you will have all the storage options you could need for your projects. External I/O ports include Thunderbolt with fast data transfer speeds, Mini DisplayPort and HDMI for easy external monitor connectivity.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7-8750H (6 Cores,12 threads) 2.20 GHz (up to 4,1 GHz)
  • GPU NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 6GB
  • Display: 15,6’’ FHD  
  • RAM: 16 GB
  • Storage: 256 GB PCIe NVMe SSD+ 1 TB HDD
  • Battery: 4-cell Li-Ion, 70 Wh

+ Powerful hardware, storage  options, build quality, RAM

  • Gaming design

Check the price on Amazon


Apple MacBook Pro

Apple MacBook Pro
Apple MacBook Pro

There are some more budget-friendly options for Apple laptops for Computer Science, but we choose the Apple MacBook Pro 2018 model for its strong hardware base. MacBook Pro and Air are common choices for professional programmers due to the reliability of the platform.

Performance

This MacBook has one of the fastest SSD in the laptop category, and with Core i7 aligned with 16 GB of RAM, Apple MacBook Pro is lightning fast. Bigger SSD means you have everything you need for a workstation replacement in one mobile form factor. It has everything a Computer Science student or programming professional would need, including speed, reliability, and a great Retina display. Its Radeon 560X graphics card lags behind Nvidia GTX 1060, but for coding and software development this component is not as important as other crucial hardware parts.

Design & Features

MacBook Pro got a serious performance boost, and one of its side effects is a slightly chunkier design. It still is impeccably crafted, with an aluminum unibody case and a top-quality keyboard. Apple added a touch bar above the keyboard that has some cool features. The bezels around the display could have been thinner, but that’s just nitpicking.

Besides great screen and outstanding performance, this MacBook Pro has good battery life, a new T2 Chip for full disk encryption and Siri integration.

The downside is connectivity with only four Thunderbolt 3 ports, which means you’ll need adapters for most external devices.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7 (6 Cores,12 threads) 2.66 GHz (up to 4,3 GHz)
  • GPU AMD Radeon Pro 560X, 4GB GDDR5
  • Display: 15,4’’ Retina IPS, 2880×1800
  • RAM: 16 GB
  • Storage: 512 GB SSD
  • Battery: *

+  Gorgeous screen, performance, design, battery life

  • Expensive, connectivity options

Check the price on Amazon


Huawei MateBook X Pro

Huawei MateBook X Pro
Huawei MateBook X Pro

Known as a mobile phone manufacturer, Huawei tried with the design and naming to follow Apple MacBook style. MateBook X Pro is a stunning laptop with thin, stylish design and lots of power under the hub.

Performance

Powerful Core i7 with four cores and low TDP will enable the user to have extended battery autonomy, with little to no sacrifice in performance. Along with an Intel CPU for excellent user experience and a fast, responsive feel, it offers 16 GB of RAM and fast 512 GB SSD.

This laptop has an unusual “3K” resolution with 3000×2000 pixels. The IPS screen looks great with almost no bezel, and with color accuracy and good viewing angles. The configuration includes MX150 GPU which will boost your casual gaming hours but won’t do much for Computer Science tasks.

Design & Features

With a weight under 3 pounds, the Huawei MateBook X Pro impresses with the amount of power inside the case. The very thin notebook has an aluminum unibody case, full keyboard, and a large, accurate touchpad. The screen mentioned above has touch features. It’s a premium design from top to bottom. A long-lasting battery makes this a great choice for Computer Science students, and the design and performance features are fantastic as well.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7-8550U (4 Cores, 8 threads) 1.80 GHz (up to 4,0 GHz)
  • GPU NVIDIA GeForce MX150
  • Display: 13.9’’ 3000×2000
  • RAM: 16 GB
  • Storage: 512 GB PCIe NVMe SSD
  • Battery: 4-cell Li-Ion, 57 Wh

+ Design, display, performance, battery

  • Price

Check the price on Amazon


Dell XPS 9370  

Dell XPS 9370
Dell XPS 9370

Dell XPS 9370 is another sleek and premium notebook in very famous Dell’s high-end series. Thanks to almost bezel-free screen design, Dell managed to put a 13.3’’ screen into a slimmer and smaller case.

Performance

Almost identical configuration to Huwaei ultrabook means that the same rules apply with Dell XPS. It’s powerful and at the same time not a cheap machine with the synergy of the strong processor, the 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD. The small screen features 4K resolution which Is a bit of overkill but could come in handy when coding on the go and you need more than one window with the lines of code on your screen. The small form factor laptop could be a great addition for Computer Science students and professionals alike.

Design & Features

A fancy aluminum unibody design with a bit of imitation of wood on the inside, plus a screen with almost no plastic around the display make Dell XPS one of the best-looking ultrabooks out there. Especially if your mojo says mobility. With XPS you won’t sacrifice performance, plus you’ll enjoy a premium design and all the benefits that come with a long-lasting battery.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7-8550U (4 Cores, eight threads) 2.20 GHz (up to 4,0 GHz)
  • GPU Intel HD Graphics
  • Display: 13.3’’ 3840×2160
  • RAM: 16 GB
  • Storage: 512 GB SSD
  • Battery: *

+ Screen, design and build quality, performance

  • Only Intel HD Graphics, price

Check the price on Amazon


Top mid-range laptops for Computer Science

This category in which we looked for products that have hardware potential almost as the high-end models, but without some of the top-notch features is perhaps the sweet spot for Best Buy models. We will still be focused on performance, and getting the most value for money.

ASUS VivoBook S

ASUS VivoBook S
ASUS VivoBook S

An ultrabook like a laptop, ASUS VivoBook S brings power and design into the sub $1000 category. This is the perfect laptop for those who can’t afford high-end Apple or Dell XPS models, but don’t want to compromise performance.

Performance

Energy saving U Core i7 processor will give enough power for Computer Science tasks including compiling of your code. VivoBook S has 8 GB of RAM which is enough, but not future proof. What we like is the combination of SSD and hard drive that gives you a faster operating system due to SSD and a lot of storage on board with HDD. GPU doesn’t play a significant role in software development so that Intel integrated graphic will do just fine.

Design & Features

A sleek design with 0,7.’’ depth and a weight of only 3.7 pounds make this model a desirable ultrabook. Its IPS screen has NanoEdge Display branding with narrow bezel. The case is made out of brushed metal, and the battery is enough for a couple of hours of coding off the grid. ASUS VivoBook S offers the advantage of rapid charging: It can return to 60% in just 50 minutes. The laptop has a backlit keyboard without a numerical part, as well as a fingerprint sensor for security.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7-8550U (4 Cores,8 threads) 2.20 GHz (up to 4,0 GHz)
  • GPU Intel UHD Graphics 620
  • Display: 15.6’’, 1920×1080
  • RAM: 12 GB
  • Storage: 128 GB SSD+ 1 TB HDD
  • Battery: 3 cells, 42 Wh

+ Screen, performance, design

  • Only Intel HD Graphics,

Check the price on Amazon


HP ENVY x360  

HP ENVY x360
HP ENVY x360

This is a convertible laptop that can be used in various modes from classic notebook to tablet. It aims for the lifestyle audience, but because of his abilities, it can be a great laptop for Computer Science. The 8th generation of Core i5 CPUs comes with four physical cores, and that can boost performance in some use cases.

Performance

It’s great that Core i5 comes with four cores. In combination with 12 GB of RAM, this means that the HP Envy x360 offers good performance. Unfortunately, Envy x360 comes without SSD, so this is the first upgrade we would recommend. On the other hand, you will have plenty of storage space.

Design & Features

The main feature of Envy x360 is its ability to revolve screen from normal laptop position for 360 degrees to tablet position. This fantastic IPS touchscreen is ideal for multimedia in tent mode, but its overall quality will be appreciated when writing lines of code as well. The only setback could be the reflective nature of the screen. It features a sleek metal body and appealing design with more than solid hardware make this great buy.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i5-8250U (4 Cores, 8 threads) 1.60 GHz (up to 3.40 GHz)
  • GPU Intel HD Graphics 620
  • Display: 15.6, 1920×1080
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 1 TB HDD
  • Battery: 3 cells, 42 Wh

+ Screen, performance, design

  • No SSD, on discrete graphics

Check the price on Amazon


Apple MacBook Air  

Apple MacBook Air
Apple MacBook Air

This is a great choice for those who want or need an Apple laptop, and who can’t afford the MacBook Pro. With Apple products, you get automatic compatibility with Unix and Linux frames. MacBook Air is a lightweight, stylish notebook that performs well, too.

Performance

Dual-core Intel i7 CPU with 8 GB of RAM and fast SSD mean a responsive and quick Mac OS. The upside to this device is battery autonomy, but in terms of raw power, you could probably do better with a Windows laptop in the same price range. If you don’t need complex programming surroundings or virtual machines, the Apple MacBook Air will do just fine.

Design & Features

Apple introduced Retina displays back in 2016, and this model is the predecessor with only 1440×900 display. This resolution has a silver lining in better battery life, and it needs less computing power. The design is one of Apple’s strongpoints. MacBook Air is thin, portable, with a sturdy aluminum body so appealing that it’s often copycatted by other manufacturers.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7, dual core, (2.2 GHz, Turbo Boost up to 3,20 GHz)
  • GPU Intel HD Graphics 6000
  • Display: 15’’  1440×900
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 128 GB SSD
  • Battery: *

+  Design, appeal, battery, everyday performance

  • Price, little storage, outdated hardware specs

Check the price on Amazon


Acer Swift 3 SF315-41G-R6MP

Acer Swift 3 SF315-41G-R6MP
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41G-R6MP

Laptop for Computer Science with Ryzen 7 CPU? Well, computing power and four cores of the new AMD processors suggest this is a great idea. Acer Swift 3 comes with Ryzen CPU (you can find Intel models also) and a great price. Swift 3 has the looks as well as the performance.

Performance

Four Cores AMD Ryzen 7 2700U can get up to 3.8 GHz with parallel tasks being its strong side. Thanks to 8 GB of RAM Swift 3 it will have no problem for most low and mid-level Computer Science tasks. For more advanced environments, RAM could be the weak link, but there are options for an upgrade to the motherboard. This notebook comes with AMD Radeon RX 540 graphic card which is an odd choice considering its not a significant improvement from integrated APU GPU on Ryzen 7 2700U. For coding and development workload, the GPU won’t do much, but you could play some games when you’re not working.

Design and Features

The all-metal body and thin 0.74 inches profile make this an attractive ultrabook solution. It has more power than MacBook Air, and at a lower price. Acer Swift 3 has quick and safe fingerprint login, backlit keyboard and IPS display with Corning Gorilla Glass protection

SPECS

  • CPU AMD Ryuen 7 2700U  (4 Cores, 8 threads) 2.20 GHz (up to 3.80 GHz)
  • GPU AMD Radeon RX 540
  • Display: 15,6’’  1920×1080
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Battery: 4-cell Li-Ion, 3220 mAh

+  Design, build quality, performance, price

  • Would love to see more RAM and storage options

Check the price on Amazon


Dell Inspiron i5378-7171GRY

Dell Inspiron i5378-7171GRY
Dell Inspiron i5378-7171GRY

The Dell Inspiron i5378 is part of the Inspiron 13 5000 2-in-1 series. It is a convertible-hybrid notebook, and you can use it in a tablet, tent and normal laptop mode. This model comes with older, but still relevant CPU and reasonable RAM-storage options.

Performance

With stylish metal design and convertible features, it is clear that this laptop wasn’t designed just for work. However a great screen, long-lasting battery, and acceptable hardware configuration mean that this Dell will be great for Computer Science students that have to work on their projects and want to binge-watch Netflix or Amazon Prime shows in their spare time. This version of the Core i7 CPU has two physical cores, and you get 8 GB of RAM. The processor should cover your needs, and if RAM is a bottleneck you can’t get past, there is an expansion option up to 16 GB.

Design & Features

Small, thin and mobile. That could be the description for this metal body sleek convertible laptop with a 360-degree hinge. Another great thing is the FHD display with wide viewing angles.  

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i7 7500U (2 Cores, 4 threads) 2.70 GHz (up to 3.50 GHz)
  • GPU Intel HD Graphics 620
  • Display: 13.3’’  1920×1080 touchscreen
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Battery: 3-cell, 42 WHr

+  Build quality, screen, convertible options

  • Older dual-core CPU

Check the price on Amazon


Top cheap laptops for Computer Science

For computer science students on a tight budget, this will be the most exciting category. We browsed through laptops under $500 and tried to find the best price-performance models. Depending on your workload, and what is required, most of the cheap laptops for computer science could also be your safe choice.

Dell 15.6’’ Gaming Laptop

Dell 15.6’’ Gaming Laptop
Dell 15.6’’ Gaming Laptop

Gaming laptops are a great choice because they need to have the best hardware for smooth performance in live RPGs and more. In this case, with Dell 15.6’’ Gaming laptop you get an excellent-quality (but older) gaming model for a lower price than the latest version. It still features a quad-core CPU, and it has a still-relevant Nvidia GTX 960M GPU.

Performance

Although the 6th generation is a bit outdated, the Core i5-6300HQ has four physical cores, and it will not cause bottlenecking. This CPU pairs with 8 GB of RAM and a fast 256 GB SSD, so you’ll get a fast and responsive user experience. With GTX 960M you will be able to play games, and of course its CUDA cores will help with professional applications.

Design & Features

Like many gaming laptops, it’s not thin or light. Unlike many gaming branded laptops, Dell doesn’t have an aggressive design. Under the hub, this model has an advanced cooling system with two 240 thermal fins which keep the laptop cool even under high load.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i5 6300HQ (4 Cores, 8 threads) 2.30 GHz (up to 3.20 GHz)
  • GPU Nvidia GeForce GTX 960M
  • Display: 15.6’’  1920×1080 touchscreen
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Battery: 6-cell, 74 WHr

+  Performance, thermal properties, Display

  • Older processor

Check the price on Amazon


HP 15i5825t  

HP 15i5825t
HP 15i5825t

When buying a cheap laptop, you should expect some compromises. HP 15i5825t has a new Intel CPU, but cuts cost on screen and storage options. The big picture is positive, though.

Performance

Intel brought more physical cores across the 8th generation of its Core processors after AMD introduced the Ryzen series. For users, that means that Core i3 looks a lot like i5 from the previous generation, and the same thing is for Core i5 and i7. With four cores, i5- 8250U will deliver an adequate performance regardless of the mobile U mark for energy efficiency. With the standard of 8GB of RAM and 128 GB SSD, this system is responsive and fast.

Design & Features

This is a lower tier product, and design is rudimentary without premium features. The plastic case is solid, and the screen is with a low resolution of 1368×768. For coding purposes, we would recommend getting an additional monitor with better features. HP delivered a mixed bag here with good performance and hardware, but some cost-cutting on the design and display.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i5 8250U (4 Cores, 8 threads) 1.60 GHz (up to 3.40 GHz)
  • GPU Intel® UHD Graphics 620
  • Display: 15.6’’  1366×768, touchscreen
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Battery: *

+  Performance, price

  • Design, Display resolution

Check the price on Amazon


Acer Aspire E 15  

Acer Aspire E 15
Acer Aspire E 15

This is an extremely budget-friendly laptop, just above the Chromebook category. The main feature is the 8th Generation Intel CPU. Other hardware specification is not so impressive but is ok if we take the price into account.

Performance

Acer Aspire E15 is one of the most popular series out there, with plenty of budget-friendly hardware options. Computer Science students will find that this is an affordable laptop with enough juice from the CPU and more than enough storage. At the same time, RAM could be its weakness in the long run.

Design and Features

FHD Screen and Wi-Fi ac are among the most significant features. Great battery life up to 12 hours is an additional plus, as well as USB Type-C ports (both 3.0 and 3.1). Although cheap, this laptop has a cool design, with a plastic case that leans towards brushed aluminum looks, plus a big touchpad and a full keyboard.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i3-8130U (2 Cores, 4 threads) 2.20 GHz (up to 3.40 GHz)
  • GPU Intel HD Graphics 620
  • Display: 15.6’’  1920×1080
  • RAM: 6 GB
  • Storage: 1 TB HDD
  • Battery: *

+  CPU, battery, price

  • Only 6 GB of RAM

Check the price on Amazon


HP Pavilion 2019

HP Pavilion 2019
HP Pavilion 2019

An entry-level notebook for Computer Science, the HP Pavilion 2019 comes with competent quad-core Pentium CPU, a touchscreen, and less-impressive hardware than some other options. Low pricing is its most appealing feature, so the target group is students on a tight budget.

Performance

With 8 GB of RAM and Pentium N5000, you won’t get too much power, especially without SSD. A terabyte of storage can come in handy, but an SSD upgrade would be most welcomed. With all its shortcomings, Pavilion will do alright with basic coding tasks, handling MS Office apps and multimedia.

Design & Features

Plastic generic case doesn’t have any distinctive features. The laptop comes with black minimalistic, almost lack of design effort, but it does feature a touchscreen,  full chiclet-style keyboard, and touchpad with dedicated left and right button.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Pentium Silver N5000 ( 4 Cores, 4 threads) 1.10 GHz (up to 2.70 GHz)
  • GPU Intel UHD Graphics 605
  • Display: 15.6’’ 1366×768, touchscreen
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 1 TB HDD
  • Battery: *

+  Price

  • Weak CPU, display resolution, no SSD

Check the price on Amazon


Acer Swift 3 SF315-52

Acer Swift 3 SF315-52
Acer Swift 3 SF315-52

The only renewed laptop on our list is Acer Swift 3. This is a refurbished computer with a three month warranty, which presents a bit of risk. On the other hand, if you are a student of Computer Science with a bare-bones budget, this model is an opportunity to get the high-end design and features for less money.

Performance

Kaby Lake R or the 8th generation of Intel Core CPUs come with more cores, and this energy efficient processor will deliver both performance and all that with acceptable TDP. It comes with 8 GB of RAM which is minimum for comfortable developers projects, and it features Optane memory along with classic 1 TB HDD. Optane offers faster boot and load times, similar to SSD.

Design & Features

Thin, lightweight and with a nice aluminum body, the Swift 3 looks better than the price would suggest. If you add great IPS FHD display to the equation, you get a bargain. You will have enough performance for Computer Science tasks, and at the same time enjoy a stylish, very mobile laptop packed with ports.

SPECS

  • CPU Intel Core i5 8250U (4 Cores, 8 threads) 1.60 GHz (up to 3.40 GHz)
  • GPU Intel® UHD Graphics 620
  • Display: 15.6’’ 1920×1080
  • RAM: 8 GB +16 GB Optane
  • Storage: 1 TB HDD
  • Battery: 4-cell Li-Ion, 3220 mAh

+  Build quality, CPU performance, battery

  • No SSD

Check the price on Amazon


Dos and don’ts

For students of Computer Science, all of the laptops from our guide will be a good choice, some of course better than others. We can’t stress enough that SSD is a must in 2019, and if your budget allows you to do so, it’s a great idea to get something with more than 8 GB of RAM.

The CPUs on these models probably won’t cause bottlenecks even if you go with lower tier Pentium processors, but if you plan serious projects that require a more complex environment, then a quad-core Core i5 or i7 is recommended. This also applies for professionals, who should look at the middle or high-end models from our best laptops for Computer Science list.

Last but not least, build quality and design can be sacrificed for stronger CPU/RAM configuration, but try to avoid sub FHD displays. That’s it! With this list of the top laptops for computer science, we’re sure that you can find a model that meets – and maybe even exceeds – your needs.

6 Best Laptops for Writers of 2021

0

We hear it all the time: What are the best laptops for writers? Whether you’re a freelancer, a novelist, or someone who falls somewhere between the two in the grand scheme of things, you need a laptop that supports your creative endeavors comfortably. If your work computer needs to handle other tasks, you’ll want to take them into consideration as you make your choice.

What does a writer need in a laptop? Good question! The answer depends on that individual’s unique requirements. You might need something with plenty of speed to help keep research moving along while multiple browser tabs and documents are open. If you’re writing full-time and you tend to take your laptop along with, you’re probably going to want something with more than decent battery life. If you don’t always have access to the internet, storage is going to be a concern as well.

With these and a few other considerations in mind, we’ve come up with this list of the best laptops for writers.

Choosing a Laptop that Meets Your Needs

Good news: Many of the best laptops for writing aren’t considered fancy – in fact, many of them are fairly basic in terms of computing power. At the same time, they’re efficient, and they come with good-quality screens with high resolution, so your eyes don’t burn out before your work hours end.

Unless you plan to stick to one place most of the time, you’re going to want something that’s portable, too. If your laptop is enormous or weighs a ton, you’re going to face some limits when deciding where to exercise your creativity for the day.

Now that you know which factors many successful freelancers and authors find most important when choosing a work companion, here’s our roundup of the best laptops for writers.  

Top Laptops For Writers – April 2019

RankProductScoreLink
1.APPLE MacBook AIR (2017)9.1Check Product
2.ACER Chromebook 14 (Best Value for Money)8.6Check Product
3.ASUS ZENBOOK UX330UA-AH548.4Check Product
4.ASUS VIVOBOOK 15.68.4Check Product
5.LENOVO THINKPAD E5808.1Check Product
6.ACER ASPIRE E157.9Check Product

ACER Chromebook 14

ACER Chromebook 14
ACER Chromebook 14

The first laptop on this list is a great option for those who are on a tight budget. The ACER Chromebook 14 may be cheap, but don’t let that scare you: it is worth every penny. This 14-inch laptop is well-built. It offers overall quality along with a stylish, classic look. Appearance-wise, it’s often compared with the MacBook Air. This fantastic little laptop has a 14-inch full HD display and runs on Chrome’s operating system. It uses Intel Celeron N3160 Quad-Core 1.6 GHz Processor and has 4GB RAM.

If you are someone who thinks of your laptop as a steadfast companion that’s by your side at all times, then you’ll probably find that this is a great option. It also has a durable keyboard with hard plastic keys that won’t tear, and it comes with 32GB of storage which most people find sufficient in a writing laptop. An external hard drive is always a great option if you need more storage. When it comes to power, this laptop delivers: Despite the low price, its battery lasts up to 12 hours.  

Check the price on Amazon


ASUS ZENBOOK UX330UA-AH54

ASUS ZENBOOK UX330UA-AH54
ASUS ZENBOOK UX330UA-AH54

This Azus ZenBook is often described as the “MacBook for a windows guy”. In fact, this laptop is often compared to Apple’s MacBook Air 13 inch. If you’re looking for a good writing laptop that can also handle tasks like video editing and programming, this one delivers.  

The ZenBook comes with a full HD IPS display and a beautiful aluminum body just under an inch thick. Its battery life is great at just over 10 hours. This laptop weighs just a little over a kilogram, so it isn’t terribly challenging to carry along. In terms of performance, this ZenBook has 8GB RAM and an Intel I5 7200 processor. It’s speedy enough to support your creativity, no matter how fast your mind is racing.

This laptop is a great pick in terms of its price to value ratio, and it gets top ratings for overall user experience. As an all-around great choice, this is one of the best laptops for writers whose tasks extend beyond document prep.

Check the price on Amazon


LENOVO THINKPAD E580

LENOVO THINKPAD E580
LENOVO THINKPAD E580

Efficiency and durability are two factors that helped the Lenovo Thinkpad E580 make its way onto this list. It’s got plenty of power and it will almost certainly provide you with the ultimate writer’s experience.  

In areas such as multimedia, entertainment, and some forms of gaming (you know, for those times when you’re taking a well-deserved break), this is a great option. We should mention that it’s also fantastic in terms of productivity! This is a nice, compact model, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of Lenovo’s best-selling laptops worldwide. At eight hours, the battery life supports long writing sessions.

If terms of technical specs, the ThinkPad E580 has a 15.6-inch full HD IPS display with special anti-glare coating. When it comes to storage, the device is equipped with 226GB SSD. Powered by the latest 8th generation Intel Core i5 quad-core processor and 8GB RAM, it is likely to be a great laptop for writing and other tasks.

Check the price on Amazon


APPLE MacBook AIR (2017)

APPLE MacBook AIR (2017)
APPLE MacBook AIR (2017)

No list of great laptops should be without a Mac! The MacBook Air gets consistently high ratings, and it delivers everything we’ve come to expect from Apple’s products. No wonder its sleek design is often imitated by other brands! The MacBook excels in terms of quality components, and its battery life is a robust 10 hours.

This 13-inch beauty comes with a 5th generation Intel Core i5 processor paired with 8GB RAM. Its keyboard is comfortable, and most people like the responsiveness of the TrackPad.  If you’re a multitasker, then you’re going to like the way this laptop handles everything with nimble ease.

While this isn’t the most affordable laptop out there, it’s up to nearly any task. Its’ longevity is another reason why we think it’s one of the best laptops for writers.

If you require extra power and greater functionality, then you may want to opt for the similar Apple MacBook Pro. However, for your daily needs as a writer or editor, this laptop is a robust, reliable option.

Check the price on Amazon


ASUS VIVOBOOK 15.6

ASUS VIVOBOOK 15.6
ASUS VIVOBOOK 15.6

Lightweight and ultra-thin at just about one inch thick, the Asus Vivobook 15.6 offers easy portability for writers who enjoy taking their work everywhere. Vivobook 15.6 features Intel core i5 and offers 8GB RAM.

This laptop has a speedy processor, easily running professional writing software and much more.  Although it doesn’t feature a numeric keypad, it has a comfortable keyboard.

With a sleek look, easy portability, premium performance, good battery life and many other desirable features, this laptop is a great option for writers.     

Check the price on Amazon


ACER ASPIRE E15

ACER ASPIRE E15
ACER ASPIRE E15

Acer laptops are among the most popular in the “cheap computer” category, not just for their very reasonable pricing, but for their reliable features. Kind of like a good pair of jeans that lasts, the Acer Aspire E15 is a great option for those who want a combination of inexpensive pricing and overall value. This is one of the bestselling laptops on Amazon, with more than 1500 positive reviews.

The full HD display comes in at 15.6 inches, so it’s easy on your eyes. The Aspire E15 has storage of over 1TB and comes with Intel i3 7th generation processor that can handle all your writing tasks. If you’re into gaming, you’ll be thrilled to discover that this laptop delivers in that department as well.

Check the price on Amazon


When considering all the factors that go into choosing an ideal writer’s laptop, we’ve done our best to keep price, storage, power, and keyboard durability in mind. Whatever you write and wherever you work, your laptop is an important investment. We hope our suggestions make it easier for you to come up with a shortlist and find the best laptop for writing and sharing your perspective with the world.

[Guide] Top 5 PS4 Camera Extension Cables in 2021

0

There’s no question that the PS4 is one of the most popular gaming systems.  While it’s great on its own, there are certain accessories that can make it even better! The PS4 camera is one of those features that is great, but it could use some work.

Sony did a great job with the camera. Unfortunately, many consumers find that the cable that comes with it isn’t long enough.  There’s another problem: Sony doesn’t offer a cable extension meant to pair with the existing camera/cable combination. This means that consumers have to use cables from other manufacturers, which raises questions of compatibility and more.

What Makes the PS4 Camera Cable Special?

If you’re among those who need a camera extension cable for your PS4, you might think that it’s built to fit into a standard USB port. Look a little closer though and you’ll see that this plug is a specialty item. It’s unique to Sony, and if it can’t reach where you need it to, then you’ll need an extension cable from a third party.

How to Choose a Cable Extension for the PS4 Camera

You probably know that cable extensions have different features. This is why it is important to consider several factors and your own needs before making a decision. Here are a few tips to help you choose:

– Remember that you need to get one extension cable to fill your needs. In many cases, users find that putting two of these extenders together along with the PS4 camera cord makes for a bad experience or it simply won’t work at all.

– Measure the distance from where you normally play to the PS4 to determine how much length you need, be sure to leave some slack room for movement while using this.

– Make sure that a longer cord doesn’t present a trip hazard. You don’t want to have an accident with the PS4.

Top Camera Extension Cables

A quick search reveals that there are many extension cables to choose from. You want one that is proven to work well without causing damage to your PS4. Here are some of the more popular options to choose from, based on consumer reviews from satisfied PS4 owners.

RankProductScoreLink
1.UGREEN USB Extension Cable9.4Check product
2.Camera Extension Cable (PS4) by Calibur 118.7Check product
3.UGREEN 15 Feet Extension Cable8.6Check product
4.CableCreation Super Speed Active USB Extension Cable8.2Check product
5.USB Extension Cable Extender Cord for PS by SCOVEE8.0Check product

Camera Extension Cable (PS4) by Calibur 11:

Camera Extension Cable (PS4) by Calibur 11
Camera Extension Cable (PS4) by Calibur 11

Perhaps one of the oldest options on the market, this cable was developed soon after the issue with the too-short cable was uncovered. Some of the notable features about this is that it is 6.5 feet long, it allows you to simply plug and start playing and it basically gives you everything you need in one simple package. Those who have used this cable give it rave reviews stating that it was easy enough to hook into and use along with giving them a lot more length than what they thought they would have with the PS4 camera. In addition, they found it flexible and didn’t worry about breaking it.

Check the price on Amazon


UGREEN USB Extension Cable:

UGREEN USB Extension Cable
UGREEN USB Extension Cable

This cable extends your reach by 6 feet. Users found it to be high quality and long lasting. This extension cable is a little thicker than some others, making for good durability. It does have a tendency to tangle however it’s not hard to untangle, either. This is a common issue with cords of all kinds and it’s easily remedied by careful handling.  

Check the price on Amazon


UGREEN 15 Feet Extension Cable:

UGREEN 15 Feet Extension Cable
UGREEN 15 Feet Extension Cable

Like the previous model, this UGREEN PS4 extension cable is thicker than some others. It offers the advantage of greater length, which is fantastic for those who have longer distances to cover.  Users tend to like this extension cable, mentioning that it’s sturdy and versatile enough to use for multiple purposes, along with offering compatibility with their PS4 cameras.

Check the price on Amazon


CableCreation Super Speed Active USB Extension Cable:

CableCreation Super Speed Active USB Extension Cable
CableCreation Super Speed Active USB Extension Cable

The CableCreation Super Speed extension cable is 16.4 feet long. Besides working with the PS4 camera, it’s compatible with a variety of other devices. Most users found this cable to be more than enough for their needs with many stating that they used this for other applications as well. With a 4 out of 5 star rating on Amazon, it seems to be one cable that does it all, and it gets high marks for reliability as well as overall function.

Check the price on Amazon


USB Extension Cable Extender Cord for PS by SCOVEE:

USB Extension Cable Extender Cord for PS by SCOVEE
USB Extension Cable Extender Cord for PS by SCOVEE

One of the features that makes this cable so great is the fact that is it made with super performance materials meant to resist damage and breakage. This is ideal for those who want to maneuver in tight places or who are going to be pulling this tight. At 6.6 feet in length, it’s shorter than some other PS4 camera cables we’ve reviewed, but it does fit the need of most people. One feature that users love is that this cable does not tangle as badly as some others on the market.

Check the price on Amazon


The Life Span of a PS4 Extension Cord

When ordering a PS4 Camera Extension cable, you might find yourself wondering just how long it will work before it needs to be replaced. For the most part, as long as you take care of these cables, they’re likely to last for several years. You can help extend the life of your PS4 camera extension cable by avoiding kinks, not stepping on it, and of course, keeping it away from curious pets who might chew on it. Roll it up carefully when you put it away after each use. This way, nothing will happen to it by accident when you’re not watching. By choosing one of the five best PS4 camera extension cables on the market right now, you’ll enjoy a combination of quality and durability. Without proper care, the life span of your extension will be a lot shorter.  

If you have issues with their PS4 camera and need a longer cable, there are definitely some great options to remedy the situation so you can enjoy playing even more. The key is to find the one that works best for you!

5 Best Anti Fog Sprays in 2021(For VR, Glasses, Car…)

0

Without our sight, where would we be? If you’ve experienced fogging, you know just how dangerous visual impairment can be; in fact, serious injuries can happen when you aren’t able to see what’s going on around you. The good news is that you don’t have to live with fogging. Besides covering the best anti fog sprays on the market right now, we’ll take a look at some other ways to stop lenses from fogging up.

Why Does Fogging Occur?

Fogging occurs as a result of the condensation of water in the atmosphere. As we exhale, water vapor from our breath comes in contact with the lenses. As the lenses cool the vapor, it forms tiny droplets on their surfaces. This is the stuff we call fog.

Condensation can cause glasses, windscreens, VR headphones, and many other things to fog. You’ve probably experienced some of these things for yourself!  

The Problem of Fogging Glasses when You are Playing VR

Since VR games are often played for hours, it can be impossible to avoid fogging VR headset. If this has ever happened to you, you know that fogging can completely ruin your gaming experience. Luckily, there are quite a few things you can do to stop lenses from fogging up, so you can stop putting your game on “pause” and keep enjoying the action. Keep in mind that a number of factors affect fogging including room temperature, humidity, your skin’s temperature, your breathing rate, and more. With all this in mind, you might have to try different solutions to fogging before you arrive at one that works consistently.

Let’s take a look at some solutions to the problem of fogging:

  • Anti-fog wipes
  • Using shaving foam
  • Using a bar of soap
  • Using water repellent spray
  • Using anti-fog spray.

All of the above are great options; however, the focus here is on the use of anti-fog spray. For more suggestions on how to prevent your VR headset or glasses from fogging up, check out this article.

Antifog Spray Solution

There are several antifog solutions for users of VR headsets. These spray solutions are made to reduce the build-up of fog. We’ll start with a quick look at how anti-fog sprays work, which might help you find the best antifog spray for your situation.

Anti-fog sprays reduce surface tension, which in turn causes those tiny water droplets to spread apart and reduces the likelihood of fog buildup.

These solutions were developed by NASA decades ago to be used for spacewalks. Today, they’re popular with users of VR and other kinds of glasses. The level of effectiveness of anti-fog may differ depending on the brand in question and what their solutions contain.  

Anti-fog sprays are effective due to the fact that they attract water. Tiny droplets of water often combine to ‘form’ fogs. These solutions prevent fogging from happening by making the water droplets form a thin, unified layer which is easier to see through than the individual droplets.

Best Antifog Sprays on The Market

There are a lot of antifog sprays available these days, and shopping can be tedious. We’ve done the legwork for you, combing through unique factors and features to help you determine which is the best anti-fog spray for lenses. Keep in mind that it’s possible to invest in anti-fog glasses/goggles. At the same time, anti-fog sprays often do the trick, so you can continue enjoying your current lenses. Here’s our list of the best anti-fog sprays.

Jaws Quick Spit Antifog Spray      

Quick Spit Anti Fog Spray
Quick Spit Anti Fog Spray

There’s a good reason why Jaws Quick Spit Antifog Spray is an Amazon bestseller!  This antifog spray does not contain any toxic chemicals, plus it works for both glass and plastic objects. This product is popular with users who are looking for a combination of efficiency and affordability. It gets high marks for keeping lenses clean and clear under different operating conditions.

Check the price on Amazon


Cat Crap Anti-Fog Spray

Cat Crap Anti Fog Spray
Cat Crap Anti Fog Spray

Although the name is a handful, Cat Crap is a powerhouse when it comes to anti-fogging equipment. And while the brand’s name might make you snicker, it is a great option for all kinds of applications. It can be used in and out of water and still give the same amazing results. It is efficient and long-lasting; in fact, a single once-over with this spray will give you a full-day of fog-free equipment.

Check the price on Amazon


Scuba Mask Sea Drops

Scuba Mask Sea Drops Anti Fog Spray
Scuba Mask Sea Drops Anti Fog Spray

Scuba Mask Sea Drops  is made in the U.S.A. using the best industry standards. Itis geared towards all kinds of uses. Non-toxic, alcohol-free, and suitable for use on glass, plastic, and rubber, this formula is also non-abrasive. Just two drops does the trick, keeping lenses fog free. Scuba Mask Sea Drops gets high marks for keeping vision clear even in cold environments.   

Check the price on Amazon


Cressi Antifog  

Cressi Anti Fog Spray
Cressi Anti Fog Spray

As antifog solutions go, Cressi Antifog is one of the best in terms of usefulness and product line. This brand offers different kinds of antifog, so you can easily decide which is most convenient for you. The company  offers users a range of wipes, drops, as well as anti-fog sprays. Of all these, consumers like the spray best, often mentioning that they enjoy hours of fog-free performance.

Check the price on Amazon


Clarity Antifog Wipes

Clarity Anti Fog Wipes
Clarity Anti Fog Wipes

Although this is a list of the best anti-fog sprays, we couldn’t leave these wipes alone. Clarity antifog wipes are a convenient, effective way to deal with fogging.

Each cloth is good for at least 20 wipes, so you get great results without having to carry a whole spray bottle. The wipes need to be kept away from dirt and moisture, so it’s best to seal them up between uses.  They can be used to de-fog VR lenses, eyeglasses, paintball masks, ski goggles, and a lot more.

Check the price on Amazon


Fogging can be unsafe, plus it’s uncomfortable and let’s admit it, fairly maddening.  Luckily, we have easy access to a variety of anti-fog spray solutions, and these tend to make an amazing difference. These products might be available at some brick and mortar stores, but unless you have access to a specialty shop, you might find it’s easier to find them online. With the right anti-fogging spray, VR lenses and other see-through objects take on new clarity so you can see comfortably and enjoy your experience.  

🎧 The Best Headphones for PSVR

0

PlayStation VR is a high-end virtual-reality headset that has found its place in over one million homes worldwide. The sales in 2016 were higher then expected, with over 700,000 shipments,  and with 350,000 sold in the first quarter of 2017 alone, PSVR has a huge numbers advantage in sold units over the closest competitors – Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

You are probably aware that buying a VR headset is only an initial investment and some additional equipment is required in order to fully enjoy the VR experience. The reason for better sales of PSVR compared to high-end PC devices (Rift & Vive) might be that it doesn’t require as much unplanned expense after you’ve purchased it, nor the pre-investment in your PC hardware. While PlayStation VR excels at many things, it doesn’t have built-in headphones like Oculus Rift for example.

Besides PlayStation Move Motion controllers and PlayStation Camera (currently available in a Launch Bundle), buying headphones for PSVR is also mandatory. There are earbuds in the shipment box along with your PlayStation VR, but they are far from amazing. While there aren’t any designated PSVR headphones officially released, many companies recognized the market’s demand for this product and started working on it.

What you need to know before buying headphones for PSVR

Many headphones available nowadays are PSVR compatible, and some are even specifically designed just for it. There are several things you should consider before acquiring your PSVR headphones in order to get the most out of your headset. Headphones that are connected via USB port won’t do. Only the ones with 3.5mm jack will work with PlayStation VR, which you will plug into the processor unit.

There are 3 essential things that you need to consider before buying a PSVR headphones:

  1. 3D audio support
  2. Ability to block outside sounds
  3. Comfort

First of all they have to support 3D surround sound and respond properly to the VR environment.

1. What is 3D audio?

How 3D audio feels like

Binaural audio or 3D audio is a unique way of recording a sound that emulates the workings of the human head and how our brain processes sound.

Our anatomy dictates how we understand the sound we head: the sound enters our left and right ear at different times. For example, if you happen to hear a car driver honk its horn on your left, it takes a few extra microseconds for the honk to reach your right ear, so the sound will be louder in one ear then the other.

But it’s actually more complex then that. Different frequencies are also attenuated, because sound is reflected differently, depending on the angle that the sound wave hits the ear, also the air itself attenuates different frequencies with distance.

The brain takes all of that information (sound delay, volume of the sound and frequency spectrum) and then determines the direction of the sound. It’s really quite amazing.

Using the same principles, almost a hundred years ago at AT&T Bell Laboratories scientists have developed a method for recording sound that emulates the way humans process it.

The resulting 3D sound is also called binaural audio.The output is just a standard “stereo” sound, but the trick is that they’ve used the above to tweak certain sounds in the stereo stream, so your brain can successfully interpret that specific sound as coming from a specific direction.

Using headphones/earbuds ensures that the binaural audio is delivered to the correct ear, without audio bleed. Binaural sound is not as effective if it comes from speakers some meters away.

For binaural audio to work it requires headphones.

2. The headphones need to block outside sounds

Next important feature you need to look out for is headphones’ ability to block out the outside sounds. Hearing anything other than the game you are playing can break the immersion and this is something you definitely want to avoid.

3. Comfort is another key issue

Finally, headphones have to be comfortable and fit well over your PSVR, if they fall off your head or pinch your ears while you are trying to enjoy a virtual-reality session, well, that is a deal-breaker!


You don’t need expensive gaming headphones

Gaming headsets are overpriced in general and you don’t need their features with PSVR.

The number one thing is that the ration of quality/price with gaming headphones is simply terrible. You can be better of with just some quality studio reference headphones. Ask an aspiring artist or anyone that produces music in his spare time and they will comfirm.

Also, you don’t need a microphone or a lot of other features that can be useful on a gaming headset for PSVR because they’re either already built in (mute,volume,mic) OR you don’t want them such as wireless or simulated surround sound.

Let’s cut to the chase

You WANT to use the PSVR’s 3D audio. Binaural audio works MUCH better with wired headphones!

As long you are getting your audio from the PSVR headphone jack, you should be getting that 3D sound the developers intended.

You just need to get a wireless transmitter. If you do want to go wireless, just make sure whatever you get doesn’t have high latency, or lag. You want the audio and visuals to be in sync!

Now that we have covered the basics features you should look out for before making the purchase, we at VRborg have done some research for you, and present some of the best headphones for PSVR available on the market.


The Best Headphones for PSVR

PlayStation Gold Wireless Stereo Headset

First on our list is the Sony’s official PlayStation exclusive headphones – Gold Wireless Stereo Headset, also known as – PlayStation Gold or Sony Gold. This is a wireless headset (obviously) but in the shipment box the 3.5mm cable is also included, and you will have to connect PlayStation Gold to your PSVR manually via this cable to make it work.

The PlayStation gold is gamer’s favourite across the globe mostly because of the sound quality and the fact they are very comfortable. They will fit nicely over your headset, and there are several different colours to choose from, which enable you to customize your VR image. After you’ve put the headset on, put the headphones so they fit over your ears and align them with the black part of PSVR on your forehead. This will ensure that PlayStation Gold stays in place, giving you a peace of mind as to freely move your head around.

The design of earcups makes even prolonged use comfortable and without any side-effects, sweating for example, because the padding breathes well. This however is also a cause of its main flaw – noise gets in and out of the headset a lot. Bear in mind that PlayStation Gold is a mid-range headset, costing under $100, and for the given price, this is pretty common. While the headphones are sturdy enough to handle, I wouldn’t dare to say that it’s built to last, since the headband left me with the impression that it would snap, if you were to accidentally apply just a bit too much axial stress on it.

Check the best deals on Amazon

Turtle Beach Stealth 350 VR

Stealth 350 VR is the Turtle Beach‘s headset designed specifically for virtual reality. A simple design modification at the headband cushion, which is cut-out in the middle, makes necessary space for the HMD cable management with Rift and Vive. High end VR headset developers on many occasions stated that 3D sound makes up almost the half of the complete experience.

While many different headphones can be used with PSVR, Stealth 350 VR might just be the right choice for you.

These headphones feature large, high performance, 50mm Neodymium speakers over the ear-cups and battery-powered amplification you turn on and off on the left headphone. Amplified audio system works very well, ensuring that spatial sounds work accordingly to your current environment, which is very important for VR immersion.

Sound doesn’t work unless amplifier is on, and make sure to switch it off when you finish the session. At Turtle Beach they claim that battery is made to last for up to 30 hours of gaming, however it will run out quickly if you haven’t turned the amp off.

Over-the-ear cushions are made of memory foam and wrapped in fabric ensure breathable fit, and the overall design makes Stealth 350 VR light and comfortable.

Bass boost is variable and the microphone can easily be detached when not in use. Additionally, the mic features noise-canceling technology and that will eliminate any background noise created by movement or other factors in the real world. Mic monitoring also allows you to hear your own voice when you talk to other players.

If you happen to own Oculus Rift or HTC Vive, Stealth 350 VR seems like a right choice, since it comes with changeable cables to swap between the platforms.

While headset’s clever design makes all the difference and it fits over PlayStation VR headset perfectly, aesthetically it isn’t that appealing. Matte black colour looks fine, but plastic dominates its build for a simple reason – to meet the mid-tier price range. The headset is firm enough to handle, but as it is very lightweight you probably shouldn’t jounce it around too much.

All things considered, Stealth 350 VR probably won’t be your primary regular-gaming headset, but its specific design enhances the VR immersion and experience on each step of the way, so we have to admit that at Turtle Beach they have achieved what they aimed for. Another good thing that it isn’t exclusively made for PlayStation, so you can use it with other VR devices too.

Check the best deals on Amazon


Most Convenient Headphones for PSVR

Plantronics RIG 4VR

Plantronics RIG 4VR Gaming Headset

The massive headband for PSVR rules out many headset models, and designers at Plantronics had this in mind when engineering RIG 4VR.

Plantronics RIG 4VR is licensed by Sony, therefore this is as close as you can get to “official” headphones for PSVR.

To fit the headphones around the PSVR headband, designers made an even wider headband that is very elastic and flexible. I just can’t see it snapping unless you really put in some effort to break it. Ear-cups have an unique oval shape, and are a bit smaller than usual which may cause problems to users with a bit bigger ears.

The left ear-cup features a detachable mic and the cable with standard 3.5mm jack. The good thing about the cable is that it can be split at just about the right length to plug it into your PSVR. This means you wont have to deal with another cord at your neck, but you still have the extension when you want to put the headphones to another use.

The stylish appearance of the headset is complemented with comfortable fit too. While RIG 4VR is robust, it somehow managed to retain its lightweight, which is pretty important considering that PSVR weighs around 610 grams, especially for extended use. Bass isn’t excessive, but I didn’t feel like it is lacking either.

When you consider the price, RIG 4VR offers a high quality sound. Although we can’t say that it sounds better than some more expensive headsets, it is certainly up to par. 3D audio reproduction works really well, and increases the sense of actually being inside the games like Resident Evil 7 for example.

The ear cups are comfy and vented. Even after prolonged gaming sessions on your PSVR, your head wont get sweaty at all. Once again, this makes blocking outside noise impossible, but still gives you a great sense of spatial awareness. While real-world sound may be immersion-breaking, it is useful at times when you have friends or family around during your VR sessions, since you’ll be able to clearly hear them. Additionally, RIG 4VR isn’t a “one-trick-pony”. It works surprisingly well with other standard headset applications like regular gaming or listening to music.

When compared to PlayStation Gold headset, the notable downside is absence of manual controls on headphones, so you will be relying on menus to make volume adjustments. Sound quality however is superb, and the design fits your fancy PSVR headset perfectly.

Check the best deals on Amazon

Bionik Mantis Headphones

Bionik Mantis Headphone for PlayStation VR

The most original and definitely the neatest of PSVR dedicated audio solutions are Mantis Headphones created by bionik. These cleverly designed headphones are just clipped onto both sides of the Sony’s virtual-reality platform and just hang down over your ears.

For some people bulky headphones that encapsulate your ears may seem unnecessary uncomfortable, since they can weigh your head down. Comfort and ease of use you gain with Mantis’ design has only one drawback.

You have probably guessed it by now – complete outside sound blocking is unattainable, since the earpieces don’t completely cover your ears but just rest atop of them. It seems that we will have to wait for new generation of PSVR headphones to deal with this predicament and provide complete auditory immersion.

The Mantis on the other hand is very convenient for use and installation – each earpiece folds out in case you need to communicate with someone who is beside you in the real world. So you can look at the drawback we aforementioned as not such a bad thing after all, since if you have kids or pets, having a sense of what is happening around you in the real world is pretty important. Also this feature is helpful if you like showcasing PSVR to your friends.

The audio quality despite the circumstances is still very good, even without the silencing benefit of over-the-ear headphones. It is still far from high-end headphones quality, but for price of $50 it is very practical and cost efficient solution.

Check the best deals on Amazon


Best In-ear (Earbuds) Headphones for PSVR

For those of you who value convenience above all other things, choosing an earbud headphone for your PSVR does seem like an attractive choice.

The thing you should keep in mind however is if you decide to use wireless earbuds, you should expect lower quality of sound for the reasons mentioned above.

For the maximum sound quality use a Bluetooth transmitter plugged into the PSVR headphone jack. Don’t be alarmed if you do get an infrequent pop sound every so often.

The quality of a Bluetooth transfer is only so good. But with the earbuds setup this way you can enjoy PSVR’s 3D audio!

Hussar Magicbuds

Hussar Magicbuds
Hussar Magicbuds

You will get an excellent bang for you buck with Hussar Magicbuds. They provide an excellent alternative to more expensive wireless earbuds whilst providing you with a satisfactory quality of sound.

One thing to note however, is that they do not boast a exeptional bass quality, so expect the sound to get a bit choppy with heavy bass in the background.

With wireless headphones, the most frequent way of damage is when they accidentaly fall out of your ear and then you, or someone else steps on them. You should’t worry with that happening if you choose to go Hussar Magicbuds route. Although wireless, the earbuds are connected by a cord that goes behind your head to ensure maximum safety while being minimally intrusive.

The battery lasts for 9 hours, which is also satisfactory and they also provide the user with some noise cancellation abbilities.

However, don’t expect premium sound quality if you choose to buy Hussar. They are comfortable, inexpensive and also wireless, but with a drawback of an “OK” sound quality.

A great budget wireless option none the less.

Check the best deals on Amazon


Cheapest option

iJoy Premium

Give yourself more audio control without having to break your bank. Not only do you have the comfort of over-ear cups, but you can connect them through BlueTooth. There are seven different color options for you to choose from and over four hours of battery life! The package comes complete with a six-month warranty as well.

Check the best deals on Amazon


The Verdict

Turtle Beach Stealth 350 VR PlayStation Gold Wireless Stereo Headset Plantronics RIG 4VR Bionik Mantis Headphones Hussar Magicbuds
Weight 1.1 pounds 10.4 ounces 8.5 ounces 7.2 ounces 0.6 ounces
3D Surround Sound Yes Yes Yes Yes Possible
Comfort & Fit A A B- A B
Noise Cancellation B B B- B- C
Integrated microphone Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Wireless or Wired Wirelles Both Wired Wired Wireless
Score B+ B+ B- B- C
Price Check on Amazon Check on Amazon Check on Amazon Check on Amazon Check on Amazon

PSVR is an amazing and immersive device with one major flaw – the audio peripheral doesn’t come with the package. Sony might have thought that this will lead the customers to purchase their PlayStation Gold headphones and earn some extra cash that way. Fortunately for us, other companies worked on the solution too, hence there are few decent options available on the market.

PlayStation Gold has many qualities, but I wouldn’t dare to say that it is the go-to option in this case, unless you prefer fancy looks over comfort. All of the other headsets we covered offer better fit over your PSVR, especially bionik’s Mantis and Plantronics’ RIG 4VR.

Mantis was designed exclusively for PSVR use, and has no applications otherwise, while RIG 4VR is an option you can put to good use in other situations as well. They both look imposing when paired with your PSVR.

If your motto is “louder is better”, then Turtlebeach’s Stealth 350 VR is the right pair of PSVR headphones for you. However, the design, while clever and practical, visually isn’t very impressive.

Sound tends to “bleed” in and out of each of the aforementioned headsets. We assume that you enjoy your virtual sessions in the tranquillity of your room, so this isn’t too much of an issue then. Still, we eagerly await the release of headphones that provide complete outside sound blocking, for even higher stratum of immersion.