PC Peripherals - Techs Motion

What is Controller Deadzone? How to Find it and Fix

Uneeb Asim — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 17:21:28 +0000

Gamers in any game are always seeking a slight advantage to stay on top of the meta. One simple approach to get ahead is to upgrade your gaming setup, but not everyone can do that because of the cost involved.

So, before you go out and buy new graphic cards or a fancy pro controller, see if you can improve your present setup. Controllers, for example, are often used and may not always withstand the test of time.

After a few years of use, there appears to be a lot of controller drift and input difficulties, at least with recent models. This becomes a serious issue if you’re playing a competitive game. How can you aim properly when your stick moves on its own or doesn’t record an input? This is known as the controller deadzone.

Here, we will discuss what a controller deadzone is and ways to find it and fix it. Read on to find out!

What is a Controller Deadzone?

When you push your analog stick in a specified direction on your controller, it doesn’t fully register input since it has a deadzone. Regardless of how hard you press the stick, the controller acts as though you aren’t pushing it all the way – if at all.

This causes several annoyances when playing video games. It doesn’t feel like your actions are fully transferring to the game when you try to move your character or the camera around.

Deadzones on controllers are easy to spot, but they’re a little more difficult to correct. Until recently, deadzones on controllers were an issue that you had to live with. Things have, thankfully, changed.

Finding and monitoring your controller deadzones is crucial to resolving the issue. In the next section, we will discuss the ways to find the deadzone and fit it.

How to Find Deadzones on Controllers

With an Xbox or a PS controller, it is not difficult to find out if you have a deadzone. Over time, you will realize that the left or right analog stick on your controller is not responding as effectively as it previously did. Your player in the game would act as though you had only pushed it halfway up every time you pushed it straight up (or in any other direction).

Gamers find it aggravating in competitive games. You can use a controller deadzone test like Gamepad Tester to help you with this. It’s web software that can identify controllers hooked to your PC and show up diagnostics for them automatically.

You’ll notice two crosshairs with white dots in the center once the diagnostics are activated. The white dots shift when you move the sticks on the analog stick testers.

When the dots are static, it’s fine if they “jitter” a little; just move the sticks about and check whether the dots match up with your motions.

How to Fix Deadzones on Controllers

Some games or platforms that enable you to correct for deadzone can quickly solve the problem; all you have to do now is determine how wide the deadzone is. Depending on your platform, there are many ways to achieve this.

Fix Deadzones on Steam

Steam is by far the most user-friendly mechanism for repairing deadzones on controllers. Go to the general controller settings once your controllers have been recognized. Then press the calibrate button.

You can now see how your controller motions are being recorded and, more crucially, adjust the settings to compensate.

Conclusion

It’s a little more difficult to fix deadzones on controllers beyond the software. Things are no longer made to last as they once were. The original analog stick on the Nintendo 64 sliced your palm up before breaking, and now controllers like the one you have on the PS5 will crumble if you just abuse them a little bit. The only viable long-term solution is to purchase a new controller. You may even disassemble it for repairs if you’re extremely technically inclined.

The cost-effective approach for most PC players, however, is to employ software to correct for a deadzone and return to a regular playing experience. After you’ve rectified that, double-check that all of your settings are working properly to compensate for the lack of accuracy.

The post What is Controller Deadzone? How to Find it and Fix first appeared on Techs Motion.

Can Your Mouse and Keyboard Be Hacked? And How to Protect Yourself

Uneeb Asim — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 19:55:17 +0000

You might well be aware of hacking. It occurs frequently, and others can acquire login credentials to your system and devices over the Internet.

However, it is strange to imagine that hackers can gain access to your computer’s peripherals like mouse and keyboard and utilize it for their personal goals. Sadly, it isn’t as unusual as you may assume.

Hackers and vicious cyber attackers now can monitor or control a user’s input information into a PC within a 100-meter distance by exploiting a security problem in some adapters.

It is frightening for PC and laptop users, but don’t worry. In this post, we’ll explain how your mouse and keyboard can be hacked and how to protect yourself against it.

How are Mice and Keyboards Hacked?

Let’s look at how wireless or Bluetooth adapters function to see how this hacking works. Simply connect the adaptor to a USB socket and activate your Bluetooth mouse or keyboard.

When you operate the keyboard or mouse, it sends information to your receiver, like when you move the cursor, press a button, or input a key. In theory, this opens the door to exploitation.

Consider somebody attaching to your Bluetooth adapter and claiming to be a wireless mouse or keyboard. They would then gain access to that person’s device’s keyboard and mouse. They can then use this access to carry out malicious acts on that machine.

However, tech manufacturers must have considered this and constructed security measures into their adapters. This is correct; however, not all wireless keyboards, as well as mice, suffer from this defect. But, some do, and there’s a tale about how this issue got into the Internet.

AES encryption is used to safeguard most Bluetooth keyboards. Nonetheless, even encrypted Wi-Fi signals may be captured using a Raspberry Pi setup as a Software – deﬁned Radio. One attack captured the user’s protected PC login passwords and replayed them again to decrypt and unlock the system.

The Bluetooth USB receiver is also vulnerable. Even if the keyboard is in a protected session with the dongle, unencrypted input can still be delivered to the receiver and playback to access the associated system and send commands.

How Does the Attack Occur?

To begin with, a hacker attempting to hijack a wireless adaptor does not require pricey special tools. With only an antenna of a few dollars and several lines of Python code, they can connect to any adaptor within a 100-meter radius.

Not something you’d expect to see in a public location!

When a hacker discovers an open adaptor, he or she has two options:

They can start sending information to the adaptor to simulate mouse and keyboard activity. At this stage, they can reroute the user’s system in ways that the user might not even like them to. A malicious hacker may remove files and directories, but a more devious hacker may instruct the victim’s PC to install spyware.
Otherwise, they can get access to the adapter and examine what you’re entering. This implies that any passwords or sensitive information input into the wireless keyboard can be viewed by the hacker and used to log into sensitive accounts.

So, this is how the keyboard and mouse can be hacked by malicious hackers and put your data at risk.

Steps to Secure your Wireless Mouse and Keyboard from being Hacked

Following are some of the adoption and implementation and items to consider to ensure device safety and protect hackers from hacking your mouse and keyboards. So, to proceed, follow the steps outlined below.

Device Security

Examine the Bluetooth keyboard and mice security features given by the maker. Because some manufacturers are unconcerned with secure connectivity alternatives, they design devices in this manner solely. Try to choose with a well-known brand or the manufacturer, but this is generally taken care of.

Get Wired Mouse and Keyboard

You will go with a wired mouse and keyboard if you want the easiest but most secure option. This might be a rock-solid answer for your device’s ultimate security, and if you can go for it, you should do so right away. There is no other approach that can compete with this one!

Choose a More Powerful Device

If getting wired is not even a solution, you might consider buying gear with enough privacy built-in. Investigate merchants who do not show on the susceptible device listings and buy the products they offer.

You can also use a wireless mouse and keyboard if your PC supports it, but you should be mindful of the security concerns that Bluetooth raises.

Firmware Update

If you suspect that your wireless keyboard and mouse are vulnerable to hacking assaults, the producer may have released a driver update to address the problem.

You should look for the most recent version of the gadget on the company’s site.

Encrypt Data

The easiest way to prevent your information from being stolen through the wireless mouse/keyboard hijacked procedure is to encrypt the files or folders with a passcode, which will prohibit the hackers from accessing your computer data.

This might not aid you in detaching up towards the hacker’s connection from the wireless link, but it will help you avoid additional difficulties!

Lock Your PC

If you are concerned for the safety of your computer and believe somebody is managing it, you should lock your Computer in the administrator panel. Even though you cannot avoid the previous assault, this will assist you in securing your PC from being accessed by the attacker.

Conclusion

Yes, your mouse and keyboard can be hacked. We have outlined methods that are basic but efficient techniques for securing your wireless mouse and keyboard from hackers and thereby safeguarding your computer data.

All of these approaches will not require you to perform any complicated operations on your computer; instead, you can proceed with your protecting wall development by following a few basic steps.

Simply follow these steps to protect your mouse and keyboard from being hacked.

The post Can Your Mouse and Keyboard Be Hacked? And How to Protect Yourself first appeared on Techs Motion.

Do you Need a Trackball Mouse?

Uneeb Asim — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 15:30:41 +0000

A great number of computer users are content with traditional mice, but a small handful enjoys trackballs.

Though a standard mouse is much more comfortable to use and provides higher accuracy & control, a trackball gives extra efficiency and accessibility.

There are several valid reasons for this affection! If you’re curious to know if you want a trackball mouse, here is why it’s the best tool for you.

Who is a Trackball Mouse Ideal For?

A trackball mouse is perfect not just for professional workers sitting in front of a computer for long periods and general consumers who want a more relaxed alternative, but also for individuals who have mobility or skill challenges gripping and using a mouse.

Trackballs provide enhanced availability and ease of use for such people who may have difficulty handling and using a mouse in a conventional manner.

Because a trackball is a fixed peripheral, it can aid by enabling you to spin the ball and click keys in whatever way you feel fits. All you want to do is choose a form and size that works for you.

Now, we move on to the reasons to buy a trackball mouse. Let’s find out!

Design and Build Quality

Ordinary mice exist in a variety of styles but always have the same fundamental layout: right-click, middle-click/scroll wheel, and left-click. Some may add extra buttons, although they seldom deviate from the standard three-button configuration.

However, Trackball mice are available in several different layouts depending on the size and position of the trackball.

Trackballs that move with your thumb typically have a more traditional layout of left, middle, and right clicks. Trackballs with a bigger, finger-operated core ball are more inventive in their designs. Some even employ a scroll ring instead of a clickable wheel.

Trackballs rely on several ball bearings beneath the globe to ensure the ball moves smoothly and effortlessly. These bearings might become dusty or gunked up over time and may need to be cleaned with a Q-tip.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Due to long hours of sitting each day, the discourse regarding good ergonomics in the workplace has expanded in recent years.

Although standing up is good for your health, using more ergonomic input gadgets can help you avoid repetitive strain injury (RSI). These problems are generated by stressing your muscles in almost a similar way over and over again.

Because of the trackball’s secure location, trackball mice might be a godsend for professionals suffering from wrist-based RSI.

Whereas a standard mouse requires you to rotate your arm and wrist, a trackball merely requires you to move your fingers. Your wrist will be at a healthy angle if you utilize a wrist-rest on your trackball. This relieves it of the strain caused by swiping your mouse around.

Efficiency

It may take some time to get used to using a trackball. However, after a week or so of getting used to it, your cursor’s accuracy can improve significantly.

That’s also especially important for small, precise control that trackballs are more responsive to. Trackballs also make it much easier to whip the cursor from one side of the working space to another.

Durability

A mouse is among the few PC parts that still have spinning parts, and these parts wear down and break over time. Inexpensive mice fail the most rapidly, but high-quality mice also age out.

Because trackball mice are immobile, they are not subjected to the stress of violent situations or falls. A trackball may outlive a high-quality office chair if the buttons are kept in good condition. A well-cared-for mouse may live just as long, although they appear to break down a bit more often compared to trackball mice.

Great Alternative to the Travel Mouse

Travel mice are useful, but they need enough space to move around. Trackballs are ideal for accurate work, even when traveling. As such, it might be better for people short on space (such as those who use a lot of tiny motel room desks).

Conclusion

Essentially, if you suffer wrist or forearm pain from using a mouse or touchpad, it is strongly recommended to check out a trackball mouse. The ergonomics are a significant advantage of utilizing this as your primary cursor control.

The trackball is a strong, classic option, even though it is misinterpreted and underestimated. The trackball is a smart alternative for experts and regular users, with a broad range of styles and advantages extending from ergonomics & RSI avoidance to speed and accessibility.

Of course, it goes without saying that gamers have no need for a trackball mouse and should stick to what they are using right now.

The post Do you Need a Trackball Mouse? first appeared on Techs Motion.

Why You May Want to Use Multiple Mice and Keyboards?

Uneeb Asim — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 15:09:12 +0000

Almost every system in the world has a mouse and keyboard attached to it. Although it’s common to get one of both, there are times when you’ll like to link two keyboards or two mice to one PC.

Some PC users prefer to use a separate wireless mouse to handle a multimedia PC. Others may be like to keep one arm on an additional keyboard for fast access to commands.

Whichever your reason, this post will explain to you the benefits of utilizing several mouses and keyboards, as well as how to install them.

How to Install Multiple Mice and Keyboards?

Having multiple mice and keyboards is a configuration with several fascinating applications. After attaching numerous peripherals to your PC, there are multiple ways you can use to set them up.

The Basic Way: Connect Both Keyboards or Mice Directly

Simply connect your additional mouse or keyboard through Bluetooth or put it into a USB port. When Windows has finished installing the appropriate drivers, you may type with either keyboard and control the cursor with both mice.

To view anything you presently have connected:

Step 1: Go to Settings
Step 2: Click on Devices
Step 3: Click on Bluetooth & other devices.

You may fine-tune how your mouse functions underneath the Mouse, keyboard & pen option. However, these choices will apply to all linked mice. Based on how varied your mice are, one may feel too sensitive or underly sensitive, so make adjustments accordingly.

Unifying Receiver

A unifying receiver is included with modern Logitech mice and keyboards. This little dongle connects up to six Logitech gadgets to your PC through a USB connection. As a result, if you wish to utilize numerous Logitech keyboards or mice, you may save a few USB ports.

Work Simultaneously on Multiple Monitors

Suppose you have numerous displays and separate apps operating over each. In that case, you may set two (or even more) keyboard/mouse pairs to simply transition between the display and task.

Many software can assist Windows in distinguishing between several mice and keyboards, permitting you to utilize several cursors and enter information at the same time.

Pluralinput is one such piece of open-source that performs a good job at multitasking. Because it is in beta, you may encounter some issues. These are the steps involved to set it up:

Install and run Pluralinput, then select “Set up a new device option” from the left menu.
A list of all linked keyboards and mice will be shown. Simply tick the box next to each mouse or keyboard you wish to be used as Pluralinput and then click the “Apply changes to devices” button.
The application will install new drivers and display a new configurable cursor (orange by default). This cursor, however, will have limited control. It can only be used within apps like Word, Notepad, browsers, and others.

If Pluralinput isn’t for you, TeamPlayer is a far more robust alternative. It also includes an old free version that is remarkably enough for essential use.

Now, what are the benefits of having multiple mice and keyboards? Read on to find out!

Benefits of Multiple Mice and Keyboards

There are two major advantages of using multiple mice and keyboards. Let’s take a look!

Control Your PC from Different Locations

Two keyboards/mice would be useful if you want to operate your PC from different locations.

But, for this to function, you must have a wireless keyboard/mouse or a keyboard/mouse with an extremely long cord.

Even when a cable keyboard/mouse is attached, the wireless mouse or keyboard will effortlessly link to your computer. After that, you can control your PC from anywhere in the house. If your PC is streaming to a wireless display, having another keyboard and mouse that can connect to your PC wirelessly will be a huge help.

Use Multiple Keyboards for Multi-Key Functions

A membrane keyboard (which we usually use) enables four keypresses together or simultaneously. In most circumstances, this is adequate. Nevertheless, if you are playing a multiplayer game (a split-screen game where both players are using the same keyboard), one keyboard will not suffice.

Luckily, if each person connects a keyboard, the PC will receive up to 4 key pushes from each participant. As a result, you’ll be capable of playing any game without stuttering or button collisions. You will not have an issue playing Tekken or Fifa with your friends while using multiple keyboards.

But, do remember that the computer cannot tell which keyboard is sending the information. To avoid this, just assign distinct command keys to each participant within the game.

The post Why You May Want to Use Multiple Mice and Keyboards? first appeared on Techs Motion.

How to Clean a Trackball Mouse

Uneeb Asim — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 16:26:22 +0000

Dust particles can pour into your trackball or mouse and accumulate over time, just like they can on any other electrical equipment. The longer you use your trackball without cleaning it, the more likely you will have issues with your sensor’s tracking ability.

This article will show you how to clean a trackball mouse in just a few minutes thoroughly. Your trackball mouse does not need to be completely dismantled or disassembled because it can be done quickly, efficiently, and safely.

Recommended Tools For Cleaning Your Trackball

Microfiber – used to clean the plastic surfaces.
Q-tips – for cleaning bearings and other difficult-to-reach places
Air Sweeper – to clear dust from the sensor and housing
A brush – to clean the joints and tiny crevices.
Tiny screwdriver (optional) – to access the trackball and clean it thoroughly.
Tweezers (optional) – to aid in the removal of stickers and the disconnection of ribbon cables. Take the toothpick and glass cleaner as well.

Now that we have all we require. Let’s begin the cleaning.

Note: Before you begin, make sure your trackball is switched off or disconnected and the batteries have been removed.

Pre-Clean Wipedown

Get your microfiber cloth and wipe off the surfaces of your mouse if your trackball hasn’t been cleaned in a while. Make sure your towel is just a little moist, and not completely saturated.

If you’re going to use a disinfectant spray, make sure it’s okay for plastic and spray the towel instead of the trackball.

Cleaning the Trackball

If the ball is sticky or extremely greasy, cleaning the ball and everything in the housing cup underneath it is an excellent idea.

Step 01: Pop-out Trackball

Based on the trackball, this might require popping the ball out via the access hole with a pen or finger or just tipping your gadget upside-down & allowing gravity to do the job.

There may even be a stylish eject button on some newer models. Whatever method you choose, make sure your trackball is loose and out.

Step 02: Wipe Down With Wet Microfiber

Take your microfiber cloth and wipe off the ball if it’s extremely sticky or oily now that we’re free-balling.

While the oils on your skin and fingertips aid in the smooth rolling of the ball, too much attract dust and filth. A microfiber cloth, moist or dry, will assist wipe anything off the surface.

Cleaning Mouse Buttons

Cleaning the buttons is a little more difficult since you risk damaging them if you don’t do it correctly.

So, to do this correctly, unplug your mouse from the equipment and carefully wipe any dust particles or dirt and grime. It may have piled up inside the corners surrounding the buttons that it might otherwise not be possible to access.

Next, disinfect the buttons with rubbing alcohol and remove any lubricant or dust that has developed over time.

How To Clean Bearings and Sensor

Three roller bearings, as well as a sensor, may be found in the socket cup under your trackball.

The bearings may accumulate a lot of dust, filth, grease, oil, and anything else that finds its way beneath the trackball over time, especially in dustier conditions.

To retain a smooth trackball, it’s critical to wipe down these areas on a routine basis.

1. Clean the Bearings and Sensor

Clean out any filth on top of the bearings with a Q-tip, tiny brush, or the similar microfiber as previously.

Because some bearings roll while others don’t, you may need to use a brush or toothpick to wipe down both the bearing as well as the housing if other techniques fail to reach the nooks and crannies.

If you have an air duster, use this to sweep aside any particles that have found their way into the sensor cavity. Not only should your balls ride on clear bearings, but the sensor should be able to sense the ball properly as well.

Start giving the cup a final wipedown with your microfiber before replacing the trackball in its housing.

Deep Cleaning

It is important to remember that if your warranty hasn’t already gone, this will most certainly void it, so continue around your own risk.

Remove the rubber feet and stickers from your trackball.
Open up your mouse by loosening and removing all screws with a small screwdriver, most likely a Philips head #1.

Measures to Take While Cleaning Trackball Mouse

You must not allow the hardware inside of the trackball mouse to become wet while cleaning it. To clean each part, just use rubbing alcohol or water, and make sure the cloth is not soaked with these fluids.

Cleaning your trackball mouse on a routine basis is also necessary. It will become more accurate and efficient as you clean it. The timeline varies, but if you clean the trackball once every six months, it will work at full capacity.

Conclusion

Mouse, gaming or otherwise, get filthy, and a trackball mouse is not an exception.

It’s crucial to have a clean mouse not only for hygienic reasons but also for performance, comfort, and mouse longevity. It would be best if you also had a clean mouse-pad to prevent the trackball mouse from dust.

How to Clean a Trackball Mouse

Techs Motion

Definitive Guide to Keyboard Layouts

Uneeb Asim — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 15:02:02 +0000

The keyboard is an essential component of a PC. Although it is global, it has different layouts, just as we do when we speak other languages. The QWERTY layout is the most common. Still, other English layouts, as well as international layouts of multiple languages, are also used.

Below is a guide to identifying your keyboard form factors and layouts to make it easy for you to understand.

Form Factors

The form factor of a keyboard relates to its overall size and shape, such as full size, 60 percent, or 80 percent. A form factor’s layout might be winkeyless or Winkey, ANSI or ISO. Another type of layout that is referred to as “logical layout” comprises QWERTY, Dvorak, QWERTZ, and so on.

Full Size

Full size is the most popular keyboard form factor. If you’re using a PC keyboard right now, it’s probably something like this:

The following are the primary characteristics of a full-size keyboard:

The primary alphabetic cluster
Above alphanumerics + Function Keys + Print Screen/Scroll Lock/Pause
Standard navigation cluster with arrow keys, plus PgUp/PgDn, and so on.
To the right of the navigation cluster, there is a numeric pad.
Most current full-size keyboards (like the Filco seen above) feature a conventional layout, with a rectangular alphanumeric cluster, a 6.25x spacebar, and 1.25x bottom-row Winkey modifiers (Ctrl, Alt, Win, Menu), and key placement/size as shown above.

Tenkeyless

Full-size keyboards without a Numpad are known as tenkeyless keyboards. “Tenkey” refers to digits 0 through 9.

The tenkeyless design has numerous potential benefits:

It takes up less space on your desk.
This enables you to properly orient your keyboard to your body.
Allows you to position your mouse closer to your body (which many people prefer).
It is more transportable.
It is more suited to the minimalist aesthetic.
The standard function key row is retained.

75% Keyboard

The majority of laptops come with a 75 percent keyboard layout. These keyboards are extremely small, with no spaces among the keys. The keyboard lacks number keys as well as several navigational keys. Because of their small size, these keyboards are extremely portable. Replacing keycaps for such keyboards is difficult to come by.

60% (compact/mini)

This is the keyboard for you if you want a customized keyboard. The 60 percent keyboard layout is smaller than the 65 percent keyboard layout. These keyboards do not have any underutilized keys and just have alphanumeric keys and a few control keys. They are excellent for typing and give an excellent typing experience.

40% Keyboard

This is the smallest workable keyboard layout. Because this is the smallest keyboard, it lacks numeric keys, function keys, navigation keys, and the number row of alpha keys. It simply contains letters and widely used controls.

Keyboard Layouts

After forms and factors, now, we discuss keyboard layouts.

QWERTY keyboard layout

In the United States, the QWERTY keyboard layout is widely used for laptops and computers. Christopher Latham Sholes, a newspaper editor and printer invented it in the early 1870s.

If the initial letters on the top-left corner row are Q, W, E, R, T, and Y, you have a QWERTY keyboard. This configuration is intended to improve typing speed by adjusting the gap between the hands on the keyboard. According to research, this style generates the most typing strokes and is the most efficient when compared to several other layouts.

QWERTY Layout on Windows

Dvorak Keyboard Layout

Dr. August Dvorak developed the Dvorak layout throughout the 1930s. Dr. Dvorak positioned the most popular vowels and consonants on the home line, except for the letter U:

A (3rd)
O (4th)
E (1st)
U (13th)
H (8th)
T (2nd)
N (6th)
S (7th)

As can be seen, the Dvorak layout also places the most frequently used characters in the English, E (1st) and T (2nd), on the largest digits, the middle finger. Most frequent punctuation is indeed located right just above left hand’s home row, which is being found to benefit typists who use this keyboard layout.

Because the Dvorak layout is not commonly used, the sample size of typists using it is too small to determine if the layout is innately quicker than the QWERTY layout. However, early research suggests that Dvorak (and Colemak) typists are more accurate.

Standard Keyboard Layout

Now that you understand the fundamental keyboard layout, we may move on to the various keyboard standards and forms for those layouts. ANSI, which stands for American Standard, is now the most popular (and normal) keyboard layout as well as style. Also, there are ISO and JIS standards and forms that are Japanese and European, respectively.

These two alien layouts radically affect the look and action of the keyboard. We’ll concentrate on ANSI and ISO standards since they’re widely utilized in Europe and the US.

The two layouts differ substantially in two ways. The enter key on the ANSI keyboard is a huge rectangle, whereas the ISO keyboard is an upside-down L-shape. Thus, the backslash button is located just above the enter key on ANSI keyboards. However, on ISO keyboards, it is located towards the left of the enter key.

Language layouts

The language layout (also known as virtual layout or logical layout) is the final step in the chain of keyboard properties:

Form factor
Layout
Language layout

It is simply how the operating system determines which character to display on the screen when you hit a key. However, mechanical keyboards may be supplied in a variety of languages. All of this implies that the keyboard comes pre-installed with keycaps that correspond to the language.

An ISO Nordic keyboard is just an ISO layout keyboard with a Nordic keycap set. You may still change the language of the operating system to anything you want.

To demonstrate it properly, here’s a comparison image of the ISO Finnish layout and language (1st image) and the ISO Estonian layout and language (2nd image):

MAC Keyboard Layout

Both hardware and software on the Mac enable multi-language input.

Hardware

When you order Apple Macintosh hardware, you have the option of selecting a keyboard layout. This has an impact on how the keys on your keyboard are configured. Apple Knowledge Base HT2841 includes information on 32 various keyboard layouts.

The US keyboard is based on the ANSI standard:

The International English and Dutch keyboards are based on the ISO 9995 standard:

Software

The keyboard layout software converts a key press into an on-screen character. There are 139 software keyboard layouts available in Mac OS X.

Here are three examples: US, US International, and ABC-Extended (previously: US Extended).

The US keyboard and the US International keyboard are very identical. The US International version converts the tick (‘) and single quote (‘) keys into modifier keys (for grave accent and acute accent). The alt key on the US keyboard is the only one that accomplishes this. This is something that US International does all the time.

The distinction between the US keyboard and the expanded keyboard is more pronounced. The enlarged keyboard enables for much more modifier keys to be used to construct ligatures.

Conclusion

We hope you found this guide useful. If you are used to an ANSI or ISO keyboard, you should keep with that physical layout when purchasing or building a mechanical keyboard.

Learning one of the alternatives will take time and may not be worth it even after months of practice if you’re used to typing in the QWERTY layout.

The post Definitive Guide to Keyboard Layouts first appeared on Techs Motion.

Mouse Tips and Shortcuts to Know

Uneeb Asim — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 20:05:04 +0000

Your mouse is capable of much more than simply clicking on icons and online links. It offers a variety of useful functions that can help you save time, whether dealing with text or even using your internet browser.

You can quickly select content, display menus, and change views using double-clicks, triple-clicks, the right button, and the scroll wheel.

A trackpad is a mouse that is incorporated into a laptop (also known as a touchpad). It can double-click and triple-click like a mouse. However, right-clicking and scrolling are different.

Here are some mouse tips and shortcuts for Windows, Mac, and Google Chrome you may use to shorten the time it takes to accomplish certain basic word-processing and surfing tasks.

Double-clicking

You’re undoubtedly used to double-clicking with the left mouse button or double clicks on a trackpad to launch files and apps, but you can also double-click to execute other activities.

When dealing with text in a word processor or email, double-clicking a word selects it. You also manage your open window (i.e., minimize, maximize). The text can then be copied, deleted, or formatted.

Triple-clicking

Most people are unaware that triple-clicking with the left button or three clicks on a trackpad is a valuable shortcut for generating selections in a variety of circumstances.

Most word processing programs allow you to triple-click on a paragraph to choose the entire section.
You may also pick a URL by triple-clicking it in your web browser’s address bar. If you like, you may copy the URL using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+C (Windows) or Command+C (Mac).

Right-clicking

Use the right-click menu whenever you wish to highlight text or inspect the details of an item. For example, if you select a file or paragraph, you can right-click it, copy it, and then right-click somewhere else to paste it.

Choosing a word and right-clicking it in your web browser will allow you to look for the term (for example, in Google Chrome, Opera, etc.).

Scroll Wheel

A trackpad lacks a scroll wheel, although a mouse does. To scroll on a trackpad, you’ll need to use two fingers to swipe up or down. Scrolling may be advantageous in some situations (like with your web browser).

You can also use the scroll wheel to pick an URL and launch it in the Google Chrome tab, much like a mouse button. On trackpads, this option is not available; instead, you must right-click to launch a new browser tab.
Some websites and apps, such as Google Maps, let you zoom in and out by scrolling up and down.

Open Multiple Links

This method helps you access many URLs in real-time. You simply press and hold the [CTRL] button and click on the URLs you wish to open. Every one of them will open in a new tab.

Select Multiple Text Pieces and files Using [CTRL] Key

You may use this approach to select numerous text fragments in a file. Pick a text part, then hit and hold the [CTRL] key to choose the next text part you desire.

Select Vertical Text Using [ALT] Key

It’s quite simple; simply hold down the [Alt] key while selecting the text with your mouse’s left button.

It is important to point out that this method does not work on internet pages. You may also use this approach, but only on Microsoft Office documents.

Shift + Click

To select the full paragraph, hit and hold the shift button and left-click on the paragraph, it is so simple, and it reduces your work time.

Mac Mouse Shortcuts

Here are some major Mac mouse and trackpad shortcuts that can save your time when doing work.

Trackpad gestures

To learn much about these gestures, go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Trackpad. You may disable a gesture, modify the kind of gesture, and learn which gestures are compatible with your Mac.

Trackpad motions necessitate the use of a Magic Trackpad or a built-in Multi-Touch trackpad. You can also Force click and receive haptic feedback if your trackpad supports Force Touch.

Click with your finger.
To click, use one finger to tap.
Secondary click (right-click)
Use two fingers to click or tap.
Smart Zoom
To zoom in and out of a webpage or PDF, double-tap with two fingers.
Scroll
Scroll by swiping two fingers down or up.
Zoom in and out.
To zoom in and out, squeeze with two fingers.
Rotate
Rotate a picture or even another item by wrapping two fingers around each other.
Swipe among pages
To see the previous or next page, swipe two fingers left or right.
Show desktop
Spread your thumb and three fingers to display the desktop.
Swipe between full-screen apps
To switch between full-screen apps, swipe four fingers left or right.
Display all active apps
Swipe up with three fingers to exit your current window and see all of the apps that are presently open.

Mouse Gestures

Click
To click, use the left part of the mouse as you could use some other device mouse.
Secondary click
As with a typical computer mouse, click the right side of the mouse.
Scroll
To move up or down, swipe one finger up or down the Magic Mouse.
Smart zoom
To zoom in or out of a webpage or Document, double-tap with one finger.
Swipe between pages
To see the past or next pages, swipe your finger left or right.
Swipe between full-screen apps
Swipe two fingers left or right to switch between full-screen apps.
Launch the Notification Center
Swipe two fingers left from the right side to see Notification Center.
Mission Command
To access Mission Control, swipe up with 4 fingers.

For more details about trackpad and mouse, check out this Apple support Site.

Conclusion

If you’re a gamer or your job demands you to spend a significant amount of time in front of a PC, you should use mouse and keyboard shortcuts to reduce your work time.

The trackball mouse is a good option as well, and you can do your work faster increase your productivity by using these tips and shortcuts mentioned in the post.

The post Mouse Tips and Shortcuts to Know first appeared on Techs Motion.

How to Prevent Eye Strain From Screens

Uneeb Asim — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 16:18:23 +0000

You most likely use displays for almost anything – to work, relax, or simply keep up with your social life. If your eyes feel tired and dry at the end of the day, your vision is blurry, or your head, shoulders, and neck ache, all that time spent on digital devices could be to blame.

You can avoid straining your eyes by changing how you use mobile phones, PCs, tablets, and other screens.

Do Screens Make Your Eyesight Worse?

Almost everyone uses a screen in their everyday lives; digital eye strain (DES) is more frequent than ever.

While hardly anyone spends their whole day staring at a computer screen, the majority of people do use cell phones. According to experts, digital eye strain occurs in approximately 50% of screen users.

So, do screens impair your vision? The good news is that eye strain isn’t a long-term issue.

There is little evidence that strain causes long-term eye damage. Still, it can produce considerable discomfort and make getting through a workday difficult.

Computer Eye Strain

What is the impact of the screen on the eyes? There are various indicators to be aware of, and they differ significantly based on whether you use a PC, TV, or mobile phone.

When using a TV (LED, LCD), and even if you are playing games on your calibrated TV Screen, it can also cause eye strain.

Let’s look at a few of the signs and how to prevent digital eye strain.

Computer Eye Strain Symptoms

The most common symptoms of eye strain, according to the American Optometric Association, are:

Headaches
Dry Eyes
Red Eyes
Blurred Vision
And in severe cases, Neck and Shoulder Pain

These symptoms will appear after viewing a screen for extended periods if you use a computer all day for work.

How To Prevent Eyestrain From Computer Screen

Follow these measures to prevent your eyes from computer screens.

1. Use The 20/20/20 Rule

Your eyes are not intended to stare at something straight in front of you the whole day. Using the 20/20/20 principle, you can start by giving the eyes more rest throughout long workdays.

Unless you stare at the display for twenty minutes, you must take a glance at anything at least 20 steps away for 20 seconds. However, the longer you look away from the display, the better it is for your eyes.

2. Ensure Your Room Is Well Lit

It may seem contradictory, but having less light in your room is beneficial to the eyes when looking at the screen. Offices should not be overly bright, so shut your curtains and use fewer lighting systems when feasible. The light should not be too dim, but not too bright either.

Choose fewer power lights and keep your artificial light half as bright as the usual office.

3. Use High-Resolution Screens

Most individuals are no longer need to utilize CRT screens. Those were the old desktop screens with weak refresh rates that produced a perceptible flicker and made your eyes itch.

Screens today often have refresh rates of 75Hz or higher—the greater the number, the better. Additionally, higher resolution screens look more alive and provide a better user experience. When you can’t see the pixels, your eyes have to work much harder to interpret the visuals in front of you.

4. Reduce Glare

Glare on the PC screen can produce eye strain because it tries to stop your eyes from adjusting as smoothly as they do to the content you’re trying to focus on.

Get an anti-glare matte screen where feasible (instead of glass-covered LCDs). If you wear glasses, keep in mind that they have an anti-reflective coating. If you are playing video games, then you should have the best gaming glasses.

5. Take a Break

It is necessary to take regular rest if you work at a PC or watch TV all day. These pauses do not have to be lengthy. Take a few moments every hour or so to get up, go for a simple walk, and expand your hands and feet.

Taking a break from the PC can greatly decrease not just eyestrain and dryness but any other neck or back pain you may be experiencing from sitting at a screen.

6. See an Eye Doctor

If you’ve attempted everything above but still can’t find relaxation, it’s time to have your eyes tested. Schedule a meeting with an eye specialist or ophthalmologist to determine whether you require a new prescribing for glasses or contacts.

Your specialist could also advise you to use over-the-counter or prescription medications, like artificial tears or lotions, to alleviate your symptoms.

Mobile Phone Eye Strain

Smartphone screens, like computer screens, can produce eye strain. We all need to talk about it because we utilize them in place of pen and paper for almost anything. But how would cell phones damage your vision? What are its symptoms? Let’s take a look!

Eye Strain From Phone Symptoms
Mobile eye strain symptoms are similar to computer eye strain signs.

Smartphone eye strain can cause:

Dry Eyes and Discomfort
Terrible throbbing headaches all around eyes
Impaired vision

How To Protect Eye Strain From Phone Screen

Let’s look at ways to shield your eyes from phone screens.

1. Adjust Screen Settings

It’s easy to overlook that you should personalize the device since it looks great right out of the box. Everybody’s eyes are unique, and all phones enable you to adjust the brightness, contrast, and text settings.

Reduce the brightness when you’re at home, or enable automatic brightness adjustments to allow your smartphone to react to your surroundings. Increase the font size to make it simpler to read text messages.

2. Use Night Mode

Night mode capabilities on recent Android and Apple devices make this simple to automatically lessen eye strain at night. When you enable this feature, your mobile will automatically switch screen set up based on the time of day.

3. Keep A Sensible Distance

From 16 to 18 inches away, you must be able to see anything on your phone’s screen. Keep your handset away from your face, but if you find yourself trying to bring it nearer, consider zooming in on your screen instead.

4. Don’t Forget To Blink!

According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, when utilizing a screen, a man blinks up to 66 percent lesser frequently.

Blinking is necessary since it aids in the transmission of hydrating chemicals such as tears in your eyes etc. When you blink fewer times compared to normal, your tears evaporate quicker, leading to red & dry eyes.

The post How to Prevent Eye Strain From Screens first appeared on Techs Motion.

Computer Monitor Myths You Should Know

Uneeb Asim — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 17:43:13 +0000

A computer monitor is no more a tool for visualizing software in contemporary times. When picking one, you should consider the visual quality plus the amount of comfort it provides.

Digital technologies have advanced dramatically in recent decades, and a standard CRT monitor is no longer appropriate for household usage.

The majority of consumers have no idea what their monitor is made of and only care about attractive metrics like curve, size, price, and year of manufacturing.

Many of us were brought up in a period when historical evidence was sufficient to determine whether a myth was true or not. We didn’t require quantitative research or trials to know if a good friend’s word was accurate or unfounded.

Today, we’ll look at some of the most common computer monitor myths. Hopefully, this post will assist you in making a better-educated decision before making a purchase.

Myth 1: Monitors Can Impair Your Eyesight

Although medical experts agree that spending too much time gazing at a monitor isn’t healthy for your eyes, the amount of damage it does varies depending on who you ask.

The most serious concern is that staring at a large screen may induce macular degeneration, which is one of the significant causes of blindness. Is there, however, any evidence to back up this fear?

At this moment, there is no convincing evidence that long-term visual impairment may be caused by monitor use. However, it would help if you were cautious since monitors can induce eye strain, which might result in temporary problems.

Myth 2: You Should Get a Monitor with a Refresh Rate of 120 Hz

This is also something to which you should pay close attention. The vast majority of customers are unaware of the differences between 60 Hz and 120 Hz displays unless they make that comparison.

If you want to test the difference for yourself, go to a local tech gadgets store and look for two displays with different contrast ratios and refresh rates. Each of them should, ideally, be of the same company and product range. Request that the expert plays the same video on them. On a 120 Hz display, the picture will be smoother and more detailed, so you’ll see the contrast right away.

To eliminate the misconception regarding an adverse effect of a high refresh rate, it’s important to remember when it first appeared. CRT displays with refresh rates more than 80 Hz had a detrimental influence on human eyes in the 1990s. However, this issue was resolved with the introduction of LCD and LED displays.

Myth 3: It’s Always Better to Have a Faster Response Time

The time it takes for a monitor to process a signal is known as the response rate. In simple terms, this is the timeframe when the image on your monitor is refreshed.

When you input words on your keypad, for instance, there is a slight pause between your system processing the action and showing it. However, you will never see it because the reaction rate is recorded in milliseconds and cannot be recognized by the naked eye.

It is true that the lower the response rate, the better. You will notice unpleasant delays if you operate with a display with a 30 ms or greater reaction rate.

Lower response time, on the other hand, does not imply higher performance. If the reaction rate is less than 10 ms, the human eye will not perceive any changes. As a result, if you wish to get a monitor with an 8 ms reaction rate, you will be wasting your money and not seeing any improvement in performance.

Myth 4: Sleep Quality Is Affected by Screen Light

Is it unhealthy to stare at a monitor in the dark? Artificial light reduces the quality and length of sleep in general. Furthermore, computer screens emit artificial light. In this way, screens do have an effect on sleep.

However, using a monitor in the darkness isn’t the only way we come into contact with artificial light at night. Many other items, such as street lights, fluorescent tubes, and so on, emit this type of light. What’s the difference between the two?

Our circadian rhythm is our body’s normal sleep/wake cycle, which is disturbed by intense artificial light, particularly light in the blue-to-white range of the spectrum.

Brighter light colors, like yellow and orange, have a similar influence on sleep quality as the cooler blues, although not as much.

When you use bright monitors in a dark environment before night, your circadian rhythm is disrupted since your brain thinks it’s daytime. This inhibits the production of melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep and prepares you for the night. As a result, changing the blue light on your screen to orange light might really help you sleep easily at night.

It is true in both directions. People have utilized artificial blue light to cure some mood-related diseases, including seasonal affective disorder, because of the genuine impact.

Myth 5: A Bigger Monitor Means a Better Display

On ultrawide screens, people like watching movies or playing video games. The size of a monitor is said to be the most important feature. However, this is only partially true; a monitor’s size is only relevant if it matches a particular resolution. As a result, purchasing a large display with a poor resolution will be a huge error.

The majority of contemporary displays have a resolution of 1080p (1920×1080). However, if you’re thinking of getting a 27-inch monitor, be prepared for a lot of pixelation. It occurs because the monitor’s size is insufficient to guarantee a smooth image with the available pixels.

If you’re looking for a 30-inch screen, be sure it has a resolution of at least 2048 x 1152 pixels. It still is widescreen, and it’s known as QWXGA or quad-wide extended graphics array.

Get a screen that supports a resolution of at least 2560 x 2048, commonly known as the quad super-extended graphics array (QSXGA), or the newest resolution to hit the market, known as 4K (3840×2160), for massive panels like those you’d typically see at the stadiums.

With a resolution proportionate to the size of your screen, you’ll have plenty of viewing options and a lovely, clean image. However, obtaining displays that support such resolutions would be difficult.

Conclusion

So these are the most common myths about computer monitors that still exist, and you should know. While using a computer in the dark may disrupt your sleep and cause eye strain, you should not be concerned about long-term eye damage. You can always try the dark mode to lessen some of the impact.

Choose something that you enjoy. Put it to the test. Use it to your advantage, reasonably, of course. Make sure you don’t have any regrets about purchasing it. Most importantly, avoid the wicked little figures that lead you astray into purchasing something that, in reality, offers less than it claims.

The post Computer Monitor Myths You Should Know first appeared on Techs Motion.

Logitech Streamcam Review

Miodrag Matović — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 18:16:30 +0000

The Ideal Streaming Cam for Beginners

Logitech Streamcam is a versatile and well-built streaming camera, with excellent image quality and performance perfect for Livestreaming beginners. This is a practical and easy-to-use device, with excellent flexibility and numerous handy features such as multiple mounting options, capable software, and fast USB3.1 connectivity. In other words, every important ingredient for the best streaming camera is there.

Specifications:

Connectivity: Wired (USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C)
Image resolution: 2.1 Megapixels
Microphone: Dual omnidirectional mic with noise reduction filter
Mounting Options: L-shape joint or Tripod
Weight: 222 grams
Dimensions: Deep 61 mm, Height 58 mm, Width 48 mm

Features

Logitech Streamcam is a streaming cam that is fast and reliable, and more importantly, that offers an excellent 60fps 1080p performance. In addition, it is compatible with both Windows and Mac machines, as well as optimized for the OBS and Xsplit software, which may be of major importance for live streamers. Also, Logitech Streamcam comes with an accurate smart auto-focus and exposure, as well as auto face tracking that is another reason for more than a pleasing image quality.

Logitech Streamcam can be used in both landscape and portrait mode, due to the 90° movement ability and offers good mounting capabilities that involve both monitor and tripod mounting options. More importantly, this camera is fitted with a 2.1MP lens, it has a focal length of 3.7mm and supports a 78-degree field of view, which isn’t much; however, it is good enough for more than a solid image.

When talking about the microphone, Logitech Streamcam is equipped with a decent dual omnidirectional mic, with a noise reduction filter that doesn’t do miracles; nonetheless, it provides satisfying results for the majority of users.

Logitech Streamcam also comes with an appropriate Logitech Capture software that allows for numerous adjustments and customization, and offers great flexibility, letting you make the perfect video with ease. Simply, everything needed for the creation of solid streaming content is there.

Usage

One of the crucial reasons the Logitech Streamcam is so good for newbies in the Livestream world, is its ease of use. The software that comes with it is intuitive and straightforward, allowing quick adjustments, while the quality of the RAW footage is in class with the best capture devices on the market.

Video footage has a great color balance, there is also good autofocus that results in a clear image, while the background noise is limited to the minimum and noticeable only in not-well-lit surroundings, which is the only detail you have to pay attention to during filming.

You can use OBS and XSplit for recording and streaming, as well as combine them with the Logitech Capture software that doesn’t have the power of the first two; nonetheless, as mentioned, it provides great flexibility and ease of use that may be crucial for many users. In addition, this software also offers some additional features, such as the ability to change the resolution, exposure, make color corrections, image stabilization, white balance, etc., making it more than a handy tool.

Design

Logitech Streamcam is a stylish, well-built device available in black and light gray, and with a more traditional, yet unique look, with two mounting options (flip-out arm, with a smaller foot for monitor mounting and a small tabletop tripod) that make this camera a highly versatile one.

The front part of the Logitech Streamcam is fitted with a fabric cover, with a LED indicator on the top-right corner and Logi logo at the bottom of the device, while the entire camera is made out of good-quality plastic that gives it a bit of a premium touch.

Good

In other words, Logitech Streamcam is a pretty good streaming camera that brings an excellent 60 fps video quality, with crisp and smooth image and great versatility that is presented through the multiple mounting options, as well as a ton of recording options that let you create perfect content with ease.

To make things even better, this camera also brings a great appearance, has a free software with plenty of options, as well as many useful features, such as the ability to rotate and allow for vertical videos, which is another of its finest qualities.

Bad

If you are after one of the best webcams out there, Logitech Streamcam is a camera that you should seriously consider.

However, that doesn’t mean that there are no drawbacks with this device. To begin with, there is the high price, as well as the lack of the streaming capability of its Logitech Capture software, while its cable is a fixed one, which limits its overall usability a bit.

In addition, Logitech Streamcam also lacks a privacy cover, but more importantly, it can create a bit of a noisy image in lower-light conditions, which certainly isn’t something to be cheerful about.

Final Thoughts

Logitech Streamcam has a lot to offer, yet has its issues here and there. However, in reality, they don’t make much of a difference.

Simply, this camera is designed for streamers and content creators that are looking for good image quality and a decent level of flexibility in every field, and Logitech Streamcam finds itself very well fitted for that role. Smooth 60fps video footage, along with the stylish looks and the ease of use – this is a winning combination in the web camera market and Logitech has figured that out and created a highly capable camera that should satisfy most of your needs.

For that reason, if you are a professional content maker, have a lot of online meetings, or simply want to create good-quality content, Logitech Streamcam is a great choice for you and one of the best webcams you can find on the market that only requires for a decent ring light to give you the best performance possible, as it should be the case with the camera of this class.

The post Logitech Streamcam Review first appeared on Techs Motion.

Razer Cynosa Chroma Review

Miodrag Matović — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 17:27:52 +0000

An Excellent Entry-level Gaming Keyboard

Razer Cynosa Chroma is a budget-friendly gaming keyboard that brings a decent performance and offers excellent RGB lighting that is neck and neck with the best gaming keyboards out there. This is a beautiful keyboard, with all the necessary stuff, although it is revoked of any extras, such as dedicated keys, and fully committed to the entry-level market and players that have a limited budget, yet want to have a proper gaming experience.

Specifications:

Form factor: Full-size
Connectivity: Wired (USB 3.0 or 3.1 Type-A)
Keyswitches: Mesh Gaming-Grade Keys
Number of keys: 104 programmable keys
Software Type: Razer Synapse 3
Onboard storage: No
Media keys: Yes
Cable length: 2 meters
Weight: 943 grams
Dimensions: Width 463 mm, Depth 154 mm, Height 31 mm
RGB lighting: 16.8 million color Chroma RGB lighting

Features

Razer Cynosa Chroma has everything that you need for proper gaming, such as 104 fully programmable keys, excellent customization options, as well as the ability to manage up to ten commands simultaneously, with the help of the built-in key rollover anti-ghosting.

In addition, there is also the Razer Chroma lighting, with the ability for individual backlight of each of the 104 keys, and the Chroma Workshop that allows synchronization with the popular games, and a large base of devices from more than 30 manufacturers. Also, there is the Hypershift function that allows for Macros creation, as well as the excellent Razer Synapse 3 software that will let you adjust even the smallest detail on your keyboard with ease.

Usage

That should be no surprise since the Razer Synapse 3 presents one of the most user-friendly software solutions out there, due to its redesigned and intuitive UI that does make a difference.

When talking about the usage of the keyboard itself, the first thing you will note is that it is super quiet, while the mesh switches provide a smooth feeling, with a decent actuation, as should be the case with a proper gaming keyboard.

However, that should be no surprise since the Razer Cynosa Chroma’s membrane switches provide a much deeper travel than the regular membrane switches; therefore, they deliver a much better gaming experience. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean you will end up with the same level of responsiveness with a mechanical keyboard, yet you will get the most you can from a membrane-based keyboard.

In other words, the Razer Cynosa Chroma keyboard is a decent device that is very good for general use and typing, due to the switches’ light feeling, as well as a pretty good gaming tool. However, this goes only if you aren’t already spoiled with the highly responsive mechanical switches, in which case, you may consider the Razer Cynosa Chroma’s keys a bit too mushy for your taste.

Design

When it comes to the design, Razer Cynosa Chroma sticks to the main goal of the keyboard – to be simple, and as a result, it offers traditional looks, with the addition of spill-resistant characteristics, and a durable build that also includes solid membrane switches that allow for up to 80 million clicks.

Razer Cynosa Chroma is a full-sized keyboard, although a bit more compact than the competition. It is built mostly from black plastic and it is fitted with 104 fully programmable keys that can be individually backlit, as the Razer Chroma lighting.

Unfortunately, Razer Cynosa Chroma’s basic build means that there are no media or dedicated macro buttons, not even a USB pass-through, which means that the more demanding users might feel a bit disappointed.

Good

Of course, that doesn’t mean that the Razer Cynosa Chroma is a bad keyboard – it isn’t; however, this keyboard is built for an entry-level gaming market and as such, it needs to have an affordable price, which means that certain savings had to be made here and there.

Luckily, these actions haven’t ruined it – they helped create one of the best budget gaming keyboards on the market, a device that offers solid performance, good customization features, and impressive RGB lighting. To make things even better, Razer Cynosa Chroma is a very quiet device, with probably the best membrane switches on the market, great following software, as well as handy features such as Hypershift, as well as the Chroma Workshop, that will let you fulfill its gaming potential to the max.

In other words, this is a device that has a lot to offer for its price and as such, it needs only good complementary pieces, such as the best budget mice to show you its true value.

Bad

As mentioned earlier, the number of Razer Cynosa Chroma downsides isn’t the shortest one; however, the price is what dictates many things and as a result, certain assets have to be removed to make the savings. The features such as dedicated macro and media keys, wrist rest, as well as mechanical switches all had to go away.

However, what is the most important is that the resulting product is still pretty good, regardless of the cuts, and presents a pretty solid gaming solution. However, one thing that doesn’t have that much with the savings, and would have helped, is the ergonomics – it is rather disappointing that and should be improved with the future releases.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Razer Cynosa Chroma is what it is supposed to be, and that is an efficient gaming keyboard at a budget price. No, this keyboard won’t blow you away, yet it will do its job pretty well.

To be exact, Razer Cynosa Chroma will give you a similar value as the HyperX Alloy Core RGB keyboard that offers a similar level of features and performance and has dedicated media keys, while the Cynosa Chroma offers more customization options.

Another pretty similar device is the Razer Cynosa V2 that also offers a similar experience and in addition, has dedicated media keys, yet costs slightly more. In other words, you may be sure that the Razer Cynosa Chroma will give you everything that you need for a pleasant gaming experience, and more importantly, that won’t drastically impact your wallet, which is maybe the most important aspect of any device in these turbulent times.

The post Razer Cynosa Chroma Review first appeared on Techs Motion.

Razer Kiyo Webcam Review

Miodrag Matović — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 17:25:38 +0000

A Webcam Perfect for Video Streaming

Razer Kiyo is a unique-looking webcam, with an excellent 1080p image quality and a handy lighting ring that makes it an ideal option for video streaming on Twitch, YouTube, and similar services. This is easy to use, with plug-and-play functionality and great compatibility that allows it to work with a variety of devices, including Windows and Mac-based devices, Android, Xbox One, and many others.

Specifications:

Connectivity: USB2.0
Image Resolution: 4MP
Video Resolution: 1080p
Video encoding: YUY2/MJPEG or H.264
Field of view: 81.6 degrees
Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Xbox One, Chrome OS, Android

Features

Razer Kiyo is a great device, dedicated to capturing a sharp and detailed image and their easy streaming on the needed services. This is the webcam that supports 30fps 1080p, as well as 60fps 720p video capture and can create still images of 2688 by 1520 pixels.

Razer Kiyo has an 81.6 degrees field of view, USB2.0 connectivity, and comes along with a built-in ring light that works very well in both bright and darkroom surroundings. In addition, this webcam is fully compatible with the Razer Synapse 3 software that provides multiple presets and settings changes, such as enabling/disabling autofocus, changing the focal distance, and many others.

When talking about the OBS software, you will be glad to know that Razer Kiyo supports all of them and that its best results show with the OBS or XSplit that is also recommended by the Razer, and that it is compatible with all sorts of video conferencing services, making it a good conference tool as well.

Usage

Simply, Razer Kiyo is a highly versatile device that offers great compatibility and allows for easy use, no whether it comes to the Synapse 3 settings changes, video conferencing, or streaming, which is the key objective of this webcam. In other words, Razer Kiyo offers a straightforward use; therefore, no matter your age, or tech education, any task should be managed without a hassle.

Its picture quality is great, images sharp, and with a lot of details, while its exposure is well-balanced. The included ring light brings excellent brightness, although it’s maybe too bright, which can be easily changed and adjusted to your preferences, with the help of the twist-ring around the camera.

What is even better is that the Razer Kiyo brings great low-light performance even without the light ring, which rightfully positions its neck and neck with the best streaming webcams available. Therefore, no matter how you plan to use this camera – for video calls, streaming, or something else, you may be sure you will get the perfect image.

However, its audio quality is something completely different and is in the class with built-in laptop microphones that are delivering soft and muffled sound, which is a big no-no, especially for this price. In other words, if you need good quality sound, you will need to get an external microphone that will make all the trouble go away.

Design

In the design department, Razer Kiyo brings an excellent look, with great attention to details and a rather unique appearance that rightfully separates it from other high-quality webcams.

Its combination of a small lens in the middle of the glossy black plastic, lens-textured disk, with status LEDs on the top and a Razer logo bellow, and the translucent white ring that is surrounding it, gives this webcam exclusive looks, offering a premium feel. Also, the very good movement of the camera that includes the up and down tilting and the foldable bottom, as well as the ability of the camera to be paired with tripods, makes this webcam an ideal solution for any sort of task, including the professional ones.

This webcam also comes with a built-in 1.5 meter USB cable and presents a well-built device, as should be the case with prominent streaming webcams such as this one.

Good

Razer Kiyo has good looks, and before anything else, it provides an excellent picture quality in both still and video images. In addition, its low-light performance is impressive and can be additionally enhanced with the built-in ring-light, while the webcam allows its use with almost any device, due to its great compatibility, as well as its plug-and-play functionality.

Also, Razer Kiyo can be easily adjusted with the help of the Razer Synapse 3 software, letting you see the finest details, while the streaming software, such as OBS or XSplit, work flawlessly with it, offering great usability of the device.

In other words, everything needed for a premium experience is there, except for the mic that simply isn’t up to the class of this device.

Bad

Simply, this is a major disadvantage and downside of the Razer Kiyo – the mediocre microphone that offers muffled sound and has no purpose if you are into professional streaming. This device only offers a great opportunity for creating high-quality videos, while the poor audio performance demands an additional microphone if you have any intention of using this webcam for serious work.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Razer Kiyo is one of the best streaming webcams you can find on the market, without any doubt; however, only if you are observing just its video and image quality that are among the best in the class. In the case you are also including its audio into the equation, the overall conclusion changes drastically and instead of a great device, this webcam turns into just a decent one.

When talking about the competition, Razer Kiyo is neck and neck with the webcams such as Logitech HD Webcam C920 and C922 that provide a similar level of performance; however, lack the lighting and offer the more classical appearance that isn’t anything bad, yet gives the Razer Kiyo a slight edge in the design department.

In other words, if there was a better microphone, the Razer Kiyo would probably be the best of the best among the streaming webcams. This way that simply isn’t the case. Nonetheless, if you are willing to pair it with a pro mic, you will be more than pleased with the results and end up with the perfect tool for video conferencing, streaming and have many other opportunities that this device brings to the customer.

The post Razer Kiyo Webcam Review first appeared on Techs Motion.