MSI B360M Mortar - Small in Size, Big in Performance

Last Year in 2017 Intel dropped their latest consumer grade CPU lineup by the name of Coffee Lake which happened to be their first ever six core processors for the consumer lineup which was earlier restricted to only four cores. Being an answer to the AMD Ryzen CPUs which are processing juggernauts in their own rights the Coffee Lake CPUs suffered from one major flaw, they only support the newer chipset motherboards with no backward compatibility to the last generation LGA1151 motherboards restricting users to the then and now expensive Z370 PCH motherboards making Coffee Lake sensible for those who wish to buy the upper segment K series processors.
Now since the AMD Ryzen G series APUs are out Intel wisely released two new chipsets for their current Coffee Lake lineup namely as the B360 and H370 giving the budget CPUs of the lineup a new lease on life!

While the difference between the H370 and B360 chipset is nominal the with just a few USB ports more in the H370 than the B360 the main difference is in terms of the PCIe lanes which are 24 in Z370, 20 in H370 and only 12 in B360 making the B360 the ultimate choice for gamers on budget who desire a basic gaming PC with one graphics card only.

Alright so that was some insight into the past and present of Coffee Lake for you now moving ahead, today thanks to MSI India I have with me their latest offering in the B360 chipset lineup in form of the MSI B360M Mortar motherboard which happens to be our second B360 under the lens so far and our first ever mITX motherboard across every possible platform till date! Priced in at $99 or Rs 9,700 in India the B360M Mortar is pretty sleek and feature rich for the price featuring dual M.2 ports, extended heatsink for better cooling, Military Class IV components and Mystic LED support to go well with all that.

Packing and Accessories

MSI brings the B360M Mortar in a solid and slim grey cardboard box which looks like a armored briefcase to go with the theme of the product. The product name, MSI logo and an abstract Mortar is neatly printed on top and the Arsenal Gaming logo is at the center of the bottom end.

At the back we have all the features nicely printed in their graphical format along with a product image and labeled diagram of the IO panel and its ports. Overall the packing is to the point and informative enough with enough protection to the contents inside.

Inside the box under a tray we find all the accessories which are generous in number, we have the installation manual for the CPU, instruction manual for the motherboard, driver DVD, a Thank You note, stand offs and M.2 SSD screws, two non-braided SATA cables, IO shield and a MSI decal. For a motherboard of this stature these accessories are sufficient and enough to get you started immediately.

A Closer Look

The MSI B360M Mortar obviously being a mITX is smaller than what we are used to here but I must admit that MSI did a great job at how they've designed it through making it perfect for the name it comes with and the Arsenal branding to which it belongs.

The motherboard is primarily black with military themed grey laced all over the heatsinks, both the VRM and PCH ones. The heatsinks are massive especially the extended one on the IO panel side with a Mortar brnading on top while the PCH heatsink is atrociously small! The PCB has abstract markings and decorations to give it a feel of a military motif which is quite interesting. As a whole this motherboard is true to its branding atleast in terms of outer appearance which is great.

At the back of the motherboard we don't have anything special and even on the logos and branding end we just have the AMD CrossFire Logo which the motherboard ofcourse supports.

For the IO panel we have four USB 2.0 and one USB 3.1 ports, one USB Type-C port, LAN port, gold plated 7.1 channel audio ports, one PS2 port, a DVI port, display port and an HDMI port.
Resolutions up to 1920×1200 at 60Hz are supported on the single-link DVI-D port, while HDMI offers 4K at a low refresh rate or lower resolutions (such as 1080P) at 60Hz.

The CPU are is quite clean even though the motherboard is a mITX but due to the low profile of the heatsinks used beefy air coolers can be used here including those of Noctua which I don't expect anyone to use here as they'll hide half of the motherboard easily but still juts in case one wants to.
Socket over here is obviously the LGA1151 which supports all the Coffee Lake CPUs till date including the locked and unlocked K series. The motherboard doesn't support overclocking so sticking to a locked CPU is what you should be doing here even though it supports K series CPUs since you can't overclock them.

The MSI B360M Mortar comes with four DIMM slots that are non reinforced and support RAM upto a maximum capacity of 64GB working at 2667Mhz which is the norm from Intel on these motherboards so if you plug in a memory rated higher than that it would still be locked at 2667Mhz which is hurting but then its Intel's guidelines and no motherboard manufacturer can do anything about it. Along side the 24-pin ATX power connector are the EZ Debug LED lights to help with troubleshooting and stuff.

Four SATA III ports are provided here out of which two are vertical and two are horizontal which is great fro cable management. None of them support RAID which is fine with me for this category and all these can work when all four are populated which is a good thing as multiple SATA devices is common these days.

Turn your gaze towards the PCIe slot areas now and we see that the motherboard has two full size PCIex16 slots, two smaller PCIex1 slots and two M.2 ports all of which are rated Gen 3.0. The top PCIe 3.0x16 slot is reinforced, wired directly to the CPU  and can support a full sized graphics card working at x16 while the bottom full sizes PCIe 3.0 slot is x4 only and shares its bandwidth with the second M.2 PCIex4 slot which is PCIe drive exclusive hence if populated the bottom PCIe slot would be disabled. The top M.2 port is PCIe 3.0x4 and can support SATA drives to but when using a SATA drive here you'll compromise one SATA port so be sure to check the manual first  to avoid any confusion or hassle.
Overall the PCIe lanes are well implemented here without any major drawbacks that I see one can face while using this motherbord if build a fast gaming system using one graphics card and a bunch of SATA and a NVMe storage. My only gripe is that the top M.2 slot doesn't come with a M.2 shield which could've been added in this price tag adding both functionality and aesthetics.

Since the B360M Mortar is quite feature rich but also a near $100 motherboard a few cost cutting features are bound to brought into effect, the most prominent being the use of the Realtek ALC892 audio codec over the more conventional ALC1220 which is not that good when powering larger speakers over the latter but works flawlessly if not better when paired with gaming headsets.


The power delivery system here is a 4+2 phase both for the CPU vCore and the iGPU rails which are channeled through a Richtek RT3607C chip that allocated four channels to the CPU power delivery while two channels for the iGPU inside. An arrangement such as this when cooled by ceramic heatsinks is enough for a motherboard which doesn't support overclocking and will ensure stable performance using CPUs as such.


Among all the chips present on the motherboard a few are noticeable such as the Intel i219v for the LAN functionalities, the use of two ASMedia ASM1480 to switch the PCIe 3.0x4 lanes between the bottom full sized PCIe slot and the second M.2 slot.

BIOS and Bundled Software

BIOS Overview

UEFI BIOS is getting more and more common with each manufacturer opting for it due to its simple and flexible interface along with the option to navigate via a mouse rather than a keyboard exclusive BIOS. MSI is no different and has offered not one but two versions of BIOS, EZ and Advanced versions, with the MSI B360M Mortar so as to suit every customer's needs.
On boot up by default you'll be greeted with a more comprehensive and detailed EZ BIOS screen. This is a crammed up screen that has the details about all the components installed on the board along with options laid out neatly under clear tabs on the left side. If you want to change fan speeds, maybe boot devices, or use its automated overclocking function, you can do so quickly and easily.








This is a much preferred version for the beginners and though it comes with a Game Boost Knob on the top left its useless since the Gaming Plus doesn't support this feature. The "Memory Try It" feature is present but won't be helpful since its a B360 PCH motherboard the restriction of 2667Mhz is applicable in every way possible.
On pressing the F7 key you'll be teleported into the Advanced BIOS version or the traditional MSI UEFI BIOS version. This is a version that all the overclockers will love since the settings are broadly laid out with tab heading like Over Clocking Settings itself but sadly these won't work here as its a no overclocking motherboard. A plethora of features are there out of which I'm showing you a selective few.
However there is a bit of an issue with the MSI current BIOS as of now which is related to RAM frequencies about which we'll talk in the next section.

Bundled Software 

This is the era when manufacturers provide customers with not just a motherboard and utility softwares that act more like blotwares if nothing else. Gigabyte App center is already what I've reviewed a lot of time & it has never failed to impress but MSI is no less rather  a bit more refined in their approach.
The heart of the software set is the MSI command set which gives you general features and information regarding the CPU, GPU, Fan Speed, IGP and the Game Boost knob...again!

Also one beautiful graphical window is there that provides you with temperature readings of each component & even tell you where they are located on the board.
The gaming app section is something that you'll  be familiar to if you are a MSI graphic card owner. It give you all the information and tweaking options related to your GPU and you can select which vital stat you want to see on your screen. Also you can adjust mouse sensitivity and assign hot keys to your gaming mouse from here making it a one stop solution for gaming.

Another added feature this time is the support of wireless control over the MSI Command Center which can be achieved via an App for your cell phone that allows full control over the features of the motherboard including adjusting voltages and frequencies aswell!
Some extra software include the SteelSeries Engine 3 for Steelseries gaming accessories, MSI version of CPUZ, XSplit Gamecaster with one year free subscription etc

Benchmarks and Overclocking  

Putting all the components together and booting up into Windows was a breeze with the MSI B360M Mortar. Everything worked properly out of the box which is a very good sign and since MSI had released no new BIOS by the date of review I'll be using the BIOS the motherboard came out of the box. Even though the motherboard features almost no RGB or non-RGB LED with the audio isolation strip being illuminated it looks quite impressive by its sheer looks.
For the benchmarks we used the following test setup configuration --

CPU: Intel Core i5 8600K
Motherboard: MSI B360M Mortar
RAM: Kingston HyperX Predator 16GB DDR4 3000Mhz
Cooler:Cooler Master MasterLiquid Pro 280
Graphics Card: Gigabyte GTX 1050 G1 Gaming OC
Storage: Corsair Neutron GTX 480 480GB
Secondary Storage:ADATA XPG SX8000 256GB M.2 SSD
Power Supply: Cooler Master MasterWatt Lite 700
OS: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit
GPU Driver: ForceWare 375.70
BIOS: 1.0F

Now even though Intel has put a strap of 2667Mhz on the B360 chipset which means no matter how high frequency kit you pair with this platform it would come down to work at 2667Mhz only even with higher frequency XMP profile enabled. Sadly in my case the HyperX Predator kit which comes with two XMP profiles of 2666Mhz and 3000Mhz couldn't work on either and I had to settle for the default 2133Mhz here. This is an issue with the initial BIOS and even MSI had the same issue with its Z370 platform when it first came out with stock factory BIOS but that was fixed with the second BIOS that rolled out so I expect the same for the B360 platform aswell in the days to come but for now we'll settle for the 2133Mhz only along with the Intel i5 8600K working at stock frequency and boost enabled.

AIDA64 Cache & Memory Benchmark

AIDA64 Extreme Edition is a great tool to bench your CPU and RAM in terms of their read-write-copy abilities. Our i5 8600K showed an impressive score along with the HyperX Predator kit.
Bear in mind that the MSI B360M Mortar couldn't go past the 2133Mhz mark on the available BIOS at the time of testing so the results are accordingly.

AIDA64 GPGPU

The reason for including this benchmark was to simply observe the AES and Hash Test which is a determent of how easily your CPU or GPU can crunch complex calculations and higher score is always regarded better. We've compared the CPU score over here since I had homogeneous data of the CPU for all four motherboards.

Cinebench R15

Cinebench uses Maxon's Cinema 4D engine to render a photo-realistic scene of some shiny balls and weird things (we miss the motorbike). The scene is highly complex, with reflections, ambient occlusion and procedural shaders so it gives a CPU a tough workout.
As Cinema 4D is a real-world application - used on films such as Spider-Man and Star Wars - Cinebench can be viewed as a real-world benchmark.

wPrime v2.10

wPrime is a leading multithreaded benchmark for x86 processors that tests your processor performance by calculating square roots with a recursive call of Newton’s method for estimating functions.

SuperPi Mod 1.5

SuperPi is a simple program that utilizes the processing power and memory speed of the system to calculate the value of Pi upto 1 Million or 32 Million decimal point depending upon what you choose. The time is calculated in minutes and seconds, we'll take them both in seconds, so lower the score faster is your computer.

3DMark Fire Strike & Time Spy

Fire Strike by 3D Mark is a test suit that plays a cinematic scene to determine the FPS, GPU temperature and CPU temperature scaling everything via a cumulative score. It is a great tool to benchmark your GPU since the render is GPU dependent.

PCMark 10

The latest offering from PCMark is the PCMark 10 and unlike its predecessor the new suite evaluates the entire system performance through just one long test, though you can always opt for the quicker and smaller ones, but the test for modern offices and home is the perfect replica of what one professional would do in their daily lives.
The performance is evaluated through basic tests like video conferencing and web browsing to complex tasks such as graphic and video editing or even rendering through POV Ray!

Rise of the Tomb Raider

The latest installation of Lara Croft in the spectacular Rise of the Tomb Raider 2016 with stunning graphics and rich location makes it a great game to benchmark with while enjoying in the due course! We used DX12 and settings were at Very High on full HD resolution.

Battlefield 1

The latest installation to the Battlefield franchise and mind it the grandest one of them all aswell, Battlefield 1 is a prequel to the infamous Battlefield 1942 placing the players right in the middle of World War 1. Based on the latest Frostbite Engine by EA-DICE, Battlefield 1 takes advantage of DirectX 12 with asynchronous compute to weave together richly detailed worlds. It is heavily taxing on current-generation hardware, and you're handsomely rewarded for investing more into your graphics setup. Settings are at High preset with full HD resolution.

CrystalDiskMark 5.0.2

CrystalDiskMark is a disk benchmark software that analyses different types of hard drive. Giving sequential benchmark write and read statistics in MB/s. A simple program that is very useful here, the above benchmark is for the ADATA SX8000 M.2 SSD and we see the desired speeds using the MSI B360M Mortar.

My Verdict 

The general perception about mITX motherboards has always been a smaller motherboard with cut down features but all that has lately changed and the MSI B360M Mortar is one leading the pack when it comes to the B360 division here. The motherboard is well perceived and designed with unique aesthetics that catches ones eye even when the motherboard is not connected or powered on and the best part is that some of those aesthetics are actually functional such as the extended heatsink on the IO panel side effectively keeping the power delivery system cool even under full load.
The lack of onboard RGB lights on this board is a double edged sword which might please a few while disappoint another few but that's a subjective topic and better left untouched. Implementation of the PCIe lanes on the motherboard is well thought of with two M.2 ports, one PCIe slot and four(three) SATA ports all working at the same time which is more than enough for any gaming PC or HTPC build that one can expect building in this price range. About performance there are no complaints whatsoever as the motherboard performs as expected in every synthetic and real life benchmark placing the B360M Mortar right next to more competition.
BIOS is an issue right now but I'm sure by the time you'll buy this motherboard new BIOS will roll out which will address the memory compatibility issue for sure. One gripe that I have here is that none of the M.2 ports are shielded which should've been an addition here as its inexpensive but adds both looks and functionality.
Pros -

• Distinct Looks
• Solid build quality
• Good Performance 
• Aptly priced

Cons - 

• No M.2 shield

I give it a 8/10 earning our Gold Award!
 

This case will highlight (or expose) your cable management skills

As reported by PCGamer, MSI is rolling out a new Mag Pylon mid-tower case that it's positioning under its "Gaming Gear" umbrella of products. It has three tinted tempered glass panels—both sides and the front—to show off your build, and supports the company's Mystic Light Sync feature to synchronize lighting across other MSI products.

The case comes with three 120mm RGB fans aligned in the front. You could swap them out for a pair of larger 140mm fans if you wanted to, and there is also room to install up to two 140mm or 120mm fans (or a liquid radiator and fans) in the top and a 120mm in rear.

Cable management is a bit more important in a see-through case like this, unless you're a honey badger and just don't care what your build looks like. Assuming you do, you'll find four large cable cutouts to the right of the motherboard tray. There are also several cable tie downs on the back of the tray.

The Mag Pylon sports a dual-chamber design that is pretty common these days. There are two drive bays supporting 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch storage drives tucked into the bottom, and around back are mounts for two more 2.5-inch drives.

You can install a graphics card up to 14.57 inches long in the Mag Pylon. The case supports mounting it vertically in front of the side panel, though it's not clear if the "construction kit" that makes this possible is included with the case or will be sold separately.

The front I/O consists of two USB 3.0 ports and two USB 2.0 ports, along with separate headphone and microphone jacks. Power and reset buttons sit on top as well.

The case looks attractive and offers plenty of features. Unfortunately, MSI did not announce pricing or availability yet.

Another fast monitor with FreeSync support

Over on MSI's website is a new product page for its Optix AG32CQ, a 32-inch class monitor with a curved VA panel and 2560x1440 resolution. It's essentially a higher resolution variant of the 1920x1080 non-Q model (AG32C) that came before it, as both share the same overall design and feature set.

The only other notable difference between the two is the refresh rate—it's 144Hz on the new AG32CQ, versus a slightly higher 165Hz on the AG32C.

MSI's new monitor also sports a rated 1ms response time and is compatible with AMD's FreeSync technology for smoother gameplay. As to the image quality, MSI claims the AG32CQ covers 110 percent of the sRGB color space, and 85 percent of the NTSC color space.

This is not an HDR display—brightness is rated at 250 nits, which is lower than the 400 nits required for VESA's entry-level DisplayHDR 400 certification. Other specs include a 3,000:1 contrast ratio (100,000,000:1 dynamic) and 178 degrees viewing angles.

There three display inputs—DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0, and DVI. As with the non-Q model, there's no built-in USB hub or speakers.

The Optix AG32CQ doesn't appear to be widely available yet, though we did spot it on Amazon's website in Spain for €499.

BENGALURU, India - May 9, 2018
CORSAIR®, a world leader in PC gaming peripherals and enthusiast components, today announced the launch of the new CORSAIR Carbide Series SPEC-OMEGA RGB enthusiast PC case. Building on the award-winning angular tempered glass design of the SPEC-OMEGA, the SPEC-OMEGA RGB adds stunning RGB lighting courtesy of two CORSAIR HD120 RGB LED fans and a custom 30-LED RGB lighting strip integrated into the case's front fascia. Powered by an included CORSAIR Lighting Node PRO digital RGB lighting controller, a total of 54 RGB LEDs illuminate your PC in stunning lighting effects and patterns, fully customizable using CORSAIR iCUE software and ready to go right out of the box.
Available in either white or black, SPEC-OMEGA RGB boasts unmistakable asymmetrical design and tempered glass panels to the front and side, making it the perfect backdrop for 54 RGB LEDs of customizable lighting. There's a lot more to see behind the sharp angles and lighting though; a new removable PSU cover and a wealth of cable tie-downs, routing holes and grommets make hiding cables and connectors out of view easy. SPEC-OMEGA is also built with maximum compatibility in mind, able to fit up to a huge 360mm liquid cooling radiator, such as that used on the CORSAIR Hydro Series H150i PRO, so there needn't be compromises on parts when your building system. Created to show off, and light up, your PC, this is the ultimate SPEC.
Availability, Warranty and Pricing
The CORSAIR Carbide Series SPEC-OMEGA RGB is available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors as well as direct from the CORSAIR webstore.

The CORSAIR Carbide Series SPEC-OMEGA RGB is backed by a comprehensive two-year warranty and the CORSAIR worldwide customer support network.

For up-to-date and regional pricing of the Carbide Series SPEC-OMEGA RGB, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.


About CORSAIR
CORSAIR is a world leader in providing high-performance PC peripherals and components to gamers, enthusiasts and e-sports athletes.

Founded in 1994, CORSAIR has won thousands of awards for its products including mechanical keyboards, precision gaming mice, wireless headsets, high-performance components that gamers use to build gaming PCs, and the CORSAIR ONE fully-integrated gaming PC.

Copyright © 2018 CORSAIR Components, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.

HyperX®, the gaming division of Kingston Technology, today announced the launch of Predator DDR4 RGB featuring industry-leading, patent-pending HyperX Infrared Sync technology. The new Predator DDR4 RGB features Intel XMP-ready profiles optimized for Intel’s latest platform, allowing gamers and overclockers to further personalize their gaming visual experience and customize their PCs and system builds. It is available as 8GB single modules and in kits of two or four with 16GB and 32GB capacities.

The new HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB comes equipped with a LED light bar with fluid RGB lighting effects. The memory is compatible with lighting control software from a range of motherboard vendors including ASUS Aura Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, and MSI Mystic Light Sync. Additional information about software and motherboard compatibility is available online at respective partner websites.

Powered directly from the motherboard, the HyperX IR Sync Technology provides an enhanced visual experience by keeping the module lighting in sync. Designed to perform using DDR4 1.35V settings on a variety of DDR4 motherboards, Predator DDR4 RGB memory is 100 percent factory tested and backed by a lifetime warranty, free technical support and legendary reliability.
Availability

HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB will be available through HyperX’s network of retail and e-tail outlets later this month. For more information on HyperX DDR4 and global availability, please visit the HyperX memory webpage.


Capacities:

• Singles: 8GB
• Kits of 2:  16GB
• Kits of 4:  32GB

Frequencies: 2933MHz

Latencies: CL15

Voltage: 1.35V

Operating Temperatures: 0°C to 70°C

Dimensions: 133.35mm x 42.2mm

Corsair Vengeance RGB - Stunning RGB...Striking Speed 

Corsair is no stranger when it comes to PC peripherals or even memory kits, while everyone who owns a PC or is an enthusiast knows about the former the latter portion is dictated by legendary kits such as the Dominator series of RAM kits which came in the DDR3 days and is still holding the top grounds in today's DDR4 era. While the Dominator is meant for those who want perfection with no holds on the price tag the other offerings include the Vengeance LPX and Vengeance LED that caters to lower section of buyers who have their own reasons to go for either of the kits. Last year Corsair took a step further in their Vengeance lineup and introduced the Vengeance RGB series which is ofcourse as the name suggests has RGB lights that replace the solid red light that the Vengeance LED came with.

While cosmetically the Vengeance RGB and Vengeance LED are same the same thing the real difference comes in the variety of kits the RGB lineup comes with including both memory size aswell as frequencies. The Vengeance RGB starts from a kit of 16GB and goes all the way upto 128GB rated from 2666Mhz to a whooping 4266Mhz! As of now these are available in white & black body colors and officially listed to be supported by Intel 100 and 200 series motherboards with no AMD Ryzen support listed whatsoever.

Our kit today is a white Corsair Vengeance RGB 16Gb kit which is rated at 3000Mhz CL16 at 1.35v and is priced in at $219 or Rs 17,000 in India which is on the premium end of the spectrum but with all the bells and whistles such as RGB LEDs, full aluminum heatspeders, matte finish on either sides, full white body and even temperature sensors that is all backed up by a robust 5 years of Corsair warranty its nothing too surprising as per the present trend.

What's in the Box!?

Corsair brings the Vengeance RGB in a sleek and slim box that is laced with Corsair gaming colors theme with a multi colored background depicting the product image in the center along with the name, size and frequency neatly printed on the bottom aswell as on the top left corner. The kits is certified to work with Intel 100 and 200 series platforms and nothing is said about AMD Ryzen so far.


At the back we see two slits in the middle from where one can take a peek inside the packaging to make sure the sticks are of the same model by reading the detailed sticker stuck on the backside of the module. Along with that we have a promotional message from Corsair on top and a Corsair Link logo at the bottom to signify that the lights can be controlled through that utility.
Open the box and we have the RAM securely packed inside a blister pack which is good enough to keep it safe during bumpy transit.

If you remember the Corsair Vengeance LED then probably you won't find any difference between that and the new Vengeance RGB as they both are similar from the outside down to the lowest bits. The body is completely white with the product name written write on the front side in the conventional font and fashion.

On the top we can see the vents for ventilation aswell as for the RGB lights to glow out through them. These are removable and can be stripped off easily revealing a single light bar at the bottom. Also on top we have textured and grained out sails logo of Corsair which are clearly visible inside a chassis when the lights are on. At the back we have the sticker with all the vital details here and out kit comes with a model number CMR16GX4M2C3000C16W which is version 3.32 of this category of kits. Oddly this kit is also rated different than what the official website of Corsair says and comes with a latency timing of 16-18-18-36 at 1.35v while the website rates this kit at 15-17-17-35 this is mainly because this particular model is not based on Hynix memory ICs but uses Micron memory chips which unfortunately gives it looser timings and also makes me apprehensive that this kit would be troublesome if used with a AMD Ryzen platform! Also its a disappointment since at this price point I expected Hynix chips if not Samsung B die which most of the competing models from other manufacturers use.

Benchmarks and Overclocking

Corsair Vengeance RGB uses SMBus and is meant to work with the Corsair Link utility for giving the user a control over the colors and behavior of the RGB lighting & I had absolutely no problem in getting the memory recognized right out of the box along with my Corsair H150i Pro RGB cooler. The utility gives the control to set colors and animation scheme either for one individual kit or to link both together depending on the user preference and style of usage. The control are pretty simple and straight forwards and the biggest USP is sadly a downside too as its a great news for people like me and other who already use a Corsair peripheral that uses the Corsair Link utility as it brings everything in one single place but the kit isn't just compatible with nay of the motherboard lighting apps and using Corsair Link solely for the RAM might appear as a hindrance to  majority of customers. It would be great if Corsair also made this kit compatible with motherboard based lighting apps for catering to a wider audience and giving the kit an added edge.

Coming over to testing the kit I've used the following setup -

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 1700 @3.6Ghz
Motherboard: Asus X370 Crosshair VI Hero
RAM: Corsair Vengeance RGB 16GB 3000Mhz
Cooler:Corsair H150i Pro RGB
Graphics Card: MSI RX580 Gaming X
Storage:Kingston A400 256GB
Secondary Storage:Corsair Neutron XTi 480GB
Power Supply: Corsair AX860i 860W
Case: Corsair Obsidian 750D
OS: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit

Now as this kit is not optimized for AMD Ryzen platform it was tough to get it to work on the rated frequency of 3000Mhz at CL16 moreover this kit is from Micron and not even Hynix which makes the job even so more tougher as the Infinity Fabric inside the Ryzen chips don't go well with Micron chips but lean more towards Hynix and Samsung B die respectively! With some tweaking around in the BIOS and latest Agesa update I managed to run the Corsair Vengeance RGB at 3000Mhz 16-18-18-36-1T using 1.4v rather than the 1.35v that the XMP profile is rated at.
I would like to see Corsair soon rolling out out of the box compatible kits for AMD Ryzen since the platform has gained unforeseen momentum and is popular among gamers aswell as content creators.
Overclocking the kit was impossible since no matter what voltage you put in or how much I tried to lower down the timings wrt frequency the result was unstable system or boot failures. So this kit is definitely not meant to be overclocked no matter which platform you are using and I'm not surprised to see this aswell since Micron ICs are not famous for being overclocking friendly but are meant to be used as they come out of the box!

AIDA64 Cache & Memory Benchmark 

AIDA64 implements a set of 64-bit benchmarks to measure how fast the computer performs various data processing tasks and mathematical calculations. Memory and cache benchmarks are available to analyze system RAM bandwidth and latency.

7-zip

This suite allows you to measure the performance of your computer. The benchmark shows a rating in MIPS (million instructions per second). There are two tests, compression with LZMA method and decompression with LZMA method. Once the total passes reaches 100, the score is taken. Higher the score better is the computer's overall performance.

SuperPi Mod 1.5

SuperPi is a simple program that utilizes the processing power and memory speed of the system to calculate the value of Pi upto 1 Million or 32 Million decimal point depending upon what you choose. The time is calculated in minutes and seconds, we'll take them both in seconds, so lower the score faster is your computer.

Cinebench R15

Cinebench uses Maxon's Cinema 4D engine to render a photo-realistic scene of some shiny balls and weird things (we miss the motorbike). The scene is highly complex, with reflections, ambient occlusion and procedural shaders so it gives a CPU a tough workout.
As Cinema 4D is a real-world application - used on films such as Spider-Man and Star Wars - Cinebench can be viewed as a real-world benchmark.

3DMark Fire Strike and Time Spy

Fire Strike by 3D Mark is a test suit that plays a cinematic scene to determine the FPS, GPU temperature and CPU temperature scaling everything via a cumulative score. It is a great tool to benchmark your GPU aswell as Memory since the render is GPU dependent and is highly sesnitive to RAM timings and frequency giving accurate measure as to how the components will perform in real life during graphics intensive tasks.

Rise of the Tomb Raider

The latest installation of Lara Croft in the spectacular Rise of the Tomb Raider 2016 with stunning graphics and rich location makes it a great game to benchmark with while enjoying in the due course! We used DX12 and settings were at Very High on full HD resolution.

GTA V

Grand Theft Auto V is an open world, action-adventure video game developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games. If you like open world adventure then this is something that you don't wanna miss with great graphics, catchy story line and unlimited potential for mods that keep coming in and out every now and then on the web. Our settings are as follows with very high quality, 16xAF, 2xMSAA and FXAA enabled.

Far Cry 5

Far Cry 5 was developed by Ubisoft Montreal and Ubisoft Toronto. The developers built this open-world action/adventure first-person shooter using the company's own Dunia Engine, originally derived from Crytek's CryEngine and first introduced alongside Far Cry 2 back in 2008. Naturally, continuous improvement makes it far more advanced now than it was a decade ago. Settings here are at High presets with no customization at all running at 1080p.

My Verdict 

The Corsair Vengeance 16GB 3000Mhz memory kit is a decent offering coming in with a balanced set of features. The out of the box 3000Mhz frequency might not sound too exciting immediately but if we look at the RGB lights that it has to offer along with its integration to the famous Corsair Link utility then we have ourselves a thing to thoroughly consider especially if you are already a Corsair product user that makes use of the Link utility.
Coming in a wide variety of size and frequency this new range surely makes it self noticeable. Performance wise the kits are only Intel compatible and not meant for AMD Ryzen with no signs of a new lineup coming up even though the new Ryzen Gen 2 CPUs are retailing around the globe. Choice of Micron chips for this price point is something that I highly detest as one expects atleast Hynix if not Samsung B die for the premium price tag this kit comes with. I could make the kit work at 3000Mhz on AMD Ryzen but most people won't be making it a big negative mainly due to the choice of memory IC over here! I really don't know if I was the unlucky one who got this kit or its what Corsair is now rolling out since the Corsair website does not list the latency of this kit as that on my kit.
It sure is a slouch at overclocking but does a good job for the stock frequency that it comes with falling in the same performance bracket as its competitors. The biggest short coming of this kit right now is its price tag which puts it in line with higher frequency kits which obviously don't offer any LEDs but do offer better performance & even with a few RGB models rated at higher frequency at a marginally higher price but which use Hynix or Samsung B dies, hence shrinking the Vengeance RGB's market slice a bit.
Pros - 

• Brilliant RGB implementation
• Compatible with Corsair Link
• Striking looks
• Solid Build Quality
• 5 Years warranty 

Cons -

• Micron Memory IC
• A bit expensive
• Only compatible with Intel Platforms

I give it a 7/10 earning our Silver Award!

Size Does Matter CORSAIR Launches Obsidian
1000D Super-Tower PC Case

BENGALURU, India - May 13, 2018

CORSAIR®, a world leader in PC gaming peripherals and enthusiast components, today announced the launch of its largest, most feature-rich PC case ever - the Obsidian Series 1000D. Building on the CORSAIR Concept Slate prototype that captured the imagination of PC enthusiasts, the Obsidian 1000D is the result of over two years of development and design to create the ultimate super-tower case. Clean exterior lines brushed aluminium details and four smoked tempered glass panels give the 1000D the iconic styling and superior build-quality enthusiasts have come to expect from the CORSAIR Obsidian Series.
Both a full E-ATX and Mini-ITX system can be installed simultaneously, cooled by 13 cooling fan mounts, powered by two PSUs (SFX and ATX) and equipped with 11 storage drives. Created to house the world's most epic PC builds, the 1000D is the ultimate super-tower PC case.
The 1000D is designed to house the most powerful, ambitious and jaw-dropping PCs on the planet, contained in a unique triple-chamber, dual-system layout. The primary E-ATX system is mounted on a raised motherboard island, lined by convenient cable routing holes and backed by a huge French-door-style rear compartment to easily hide away 2.5in drives, cabling and accessories. The Mini-ITX system sits rotated above the ATX PSU mount, providing an optional fully-equipped system to run as a file server, streaming capture system, or second gaming PC for player two.
With two systems worth of hardware to handle, the 1000D boasts a huge array of cooling options. Eight 120mm fan mounts to the front, three 140mm fan mounts in the roof and two 120/140mm fan mounts to the rear have the headroom to mount even the thickest liquid cooling radiators with fans in push/pull configuration. Fitted using replaceable telescoping fan trays* that make installation easy, the 1000D can equip up to 18 cooling fans and four 480mm liquid cooling radiators - the most liquid-cooling friendly CORSAIR case ever.
To power the huge array of cooling hardware it can carry, the 1000D includes a CORSAIR Commander PRO digital RGB lighting and fan speed controller, granting users precision speed control of up to six PWM fans, and lighting control for up to six CORSAIR RGB fans or CORSAIR RGB LED strips. The 1000D itself also boasts integrated RGB lighting, built into its front panel and front logo, as either a starting-point for a stunning RGB build, or as a subtle accent to your system.
Whether you go all-out on lighting or are building a more reserved system, CORSAIR iCUE software brings everything together, combining RGB lighting control for all iCUE compatible products including fans, RGB LED light strips, keyboards, mice and more. iCUE also provides in-depth customizable fan RPM curves to silence fans, downloadable profiles and advanced system monitoring, all controlled with a single easy-to-use interface.

Look closer behind the monolithic design and epic capabilities, and you'll find that the 1000D is loaded with extras to make building your system easy and ready for years of upgrades. The front panel offers dual USB 3.1 Type C ports, as well as four USB 3.0 ports, for multiple high-speed connections. Front, rear and roof removable dust filters ensure your system stays looking its best, while a rotatable GPU mount plate for the primary system lets you put your graphics card on show. When installing liquid cooling, you'll find a wide variety of pump and reservoir mounting points, with an exhaustive array of screws and cable ties included to add the finishing touch to your system.

Able to easily house today's most ambitious systems, cool them with room to spare, finish them with fine attention to detail and light them with stunning, or subtle, RGB lighting, the 1000D is the ultimate super-tower case.

*Additional fan mount trays sold separately

Availability, Warranty and Pricing
The CORSAIR Obsidian Series 1000D is available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors.

The CORSAIR Obsidian Series 1000D is backed by a comprehensive two-year warranty and the CORSAIR worldwide customer support network.

For up-to-date and regional pricing of the CORSAIR Obsidian Series 1000D, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.


About CORSAIR
CORSAIR is a world leader in providing high-performance PC peripherals and components to gamers, enthusiasts and e-sports athletes.

Founded in 1994, CORSAIR has won thousands of awards for its products including mechanical keyboards, precision gaming mice, wireless headsets, high-performance components that gamers use to build gaming PCs, and the CORSAIR ONE fully-integrated gaming PC.

Copyright © 2018 CORSAIR Components, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice. To know more please visit www.corsair.com

A GeForce GTX 1050 Ti and GTX 1050 2GB hybrid

It’s no longer a rumor. As originally reported by VideoCardz,  NVIDIA officially adds GeForce GTX 1050 3GB to their lineup. This means that the 3GB variant is not Asia-exclusive – otherwise it wouldn’t be listed like 1060 5GB wasn’t.

The GTX 1050 3GB has the same CUDA core count as GTX 1050 Ti, which is 768. Surprisingly, this card has 102 MHz higher base clock and 126 MHz higher boost clock than the Ti model. In other words, this card has higher theoretical computing power.

The biggest change can be seen in memory configuration. The GTX 1050 2GB has never been a good choice for 1080p gaming with higher textures. Such frame buffer is simply insufficient. The GTX 1050 3GB should become an interesting alternative here.

With 3GB GDDR5 memory on board and 96-bit memory bus, you can expect up to 84 GB/s of bandwidth. But who is this card for? Definitely casual gamers with a budget in mind. It should provide playable experience in most MMO games, not necessarily in more demanding titles (unless image quality is not important to you).

Question is, is this the last GeForce GTX 10 series graphics card before we get the taste of next-gen architecture?

Mumbai, India– Cooler Master, an award-winning computer hardware manufacturer, today, announces thelaunch ofthe new MasterBox K500L case. The first case in the MasterBox K-Series lineup, the MB K500L brings all the requisite features gamers demand without breaking the bank!

During the launch, Mrs. Meenu Jain, Head, Business Development said “The K series has always been a revered series amongst the gamers. The new MB K500L brings the right mix of features and performance to satiate the demands of gamers. There is Red LED fans, LED accents on the bezel, transparent side panel and to top it all, mesh front to enable good airflow for keeping the GPU and other components cool. Like the erstwhile K282, K350 and K380, we expect the new MB K seriesto do well. This is just the first case in the series and two months down the line, we will have another case hitting the market at a higher price point with premium features. With the K500L, our aim is to bring good gaming features to the masses! Expect the K500L to be priced aggressively.”

Salient Features:

• Super Cool Case: A partially meshed front panel, two fans at intake and ventilation holes on top for exhaust gives the case optimized airflow. This results in a thermally efficient case that can keep all components cool. 

• Versatile Cooling Options: Support for up to six 120mm fans.The K500L can be equipped with Liquid Coolers at front and rear to ensure best cooling performance for your components. 

• Lighting Effects: LED fans can’t be an exception in Gaming cases and hence the K500L comes with two Red LED fans upfront flanked by two LED light strips that help accentuate the gaming look. 

• GPU Support: Clearance of up to 400mm means the K500L will gobble the longest of GPU cards

• Stay Black, Stay Neat: Let your system stand out with a full black coating and full-length PSU cover.

• Cable Management: A clean build is the essence of making you system look good and the K500L excels at this. A full-length PSU cover hides all the cables and the 19mm space at rear helps keep the cable clutter at bay.

Cooler Master Innovation, 3D Mesh:
The MasterBox K500L is the first release in a lineup that features 3D Mesh! This nifty little innovation helps in enhancing the look as well as bring performance benefits such as excellent dust rejection. Previously, the mesh consisted of two layers: the outer layer for aesthetics and a finer, inner layer to filter out dust. Using new manufacturing technique, both these layers have been integrated into one, resulting in a finer mesh construction that molds perfectly to match the design curves and filters out dust effectively. 

Pricing & Availability
The MasterBox K500Lis available ex-stock and will retail for around Rs4,600/-

Website Link
K500L -  https://bit.ly/2HWjODv






About Cooler Master:
Cooler Master is a Taipei-based, global computer components and peripheral company with a 25-year track record in releasing innovative products that truly advance the industry. We are driven by a passion for the things that make building a PC such a unique, rewarding experience, and sustained by a vision that we can reinvent the way these machines are designed, made and used. From our landmark release of the first ever aluminum PC case to our groundbreaking switch to the modular format, Cooler Master is committed to bringing our customers and fans the utmost in choice and control. For more information on Cooler Master, please visit www.coolermaster.com or follow us onhttp://www.facebook.com/coolermaster

The MSI B350 PRO-VDH Motherboard - The Budget King!

Its been a while since AMD Ryzen made a debut with its first ever Ryzen 7 CPU lineup last year which was followed up by Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 series that was primarily focused at gamers and modest content creators rather than the enthusiasts that the Ryzen 7 was supposed to cater. With this we did see a whole new generation of X370, B350 and A320 chipset based motherboards flooding the market which recently got a new lease on life when the Ryzen G series or the Ryzen APUs released earlier in February 2018. Since the new generation of Ryzen APUs are more budget oriented the biggest benefit is obviously to the B350 PCH based motherboards and that brings me today to yet another review.
Today we'll be looking at the MSI B350 PRO-VDH motherboard and see how good or bad this $65 offering from MSI really is for your next Ryzen APU build!

Priced in at just $65 or Rs 6,300 in India the MSI B350 PRO-VDH is obviously an entry level B350 motherboard supporting the Ryzen and Ryzen G series processors. Its well equipped with plenty of USB 2.0 and USB3.0 ports, a premium audio solution and four DIMM slots.

Packing and Accessories 

With a slim and small box that is laced in colors of black and grey has a big MSI logo on top, Ryzen logo at the bottom and a golden PCB are printed among the prominent graphics. Vital  details such as Windows 10 ready, B350 chipset and PCIe3.0 are neatly mentioned and definitely matter for a product of this category.

At the back there is a colored labeled diagram of the motherboard with rest of the features along with brief descriptions and their respective graphical representations. At the bottom left you'll also find a diagram for the various ports on the IO panel which completes the package and is informative enough for a potential customer.

In the accessories section the MSI B350 PRO-VDH is a bit on the generous side and its totally understandable for a board of this price point. We have two SATA cables, a user guide, a manual, a memory installation guide, a quick start guide, driver DVD and a thank you note along with the IO shield.

A Closer Look

The MSI B350 PRO-VDH is a mATX motherboard with mild to no graphical appeal which is what one can clearly see once you have the board in your hands. Its quite basic when it comes to aesthetics and there is no second opinion about that.

With an all brown PCB, god knows why, the motherboard has shades of black and grey mainly on the VRM heatsink while the PCH heatsink is finned with no branding whatsoever. We do see the familiar veins like impressions of the circuitry embossed over the entire PCB which MSI does with most of their motherboards but the brown color is an eyesore here and a simple black would've been more welcoming without any significant extra cost.

For the IO panel we have a four USB 2.0 and four USB 3.1 ports, LAN port, audio output, one PS2 port and if an AM4 APU is installed, it can utilize the embedded graphics through a VGA port, a DVI port and an HDMI port.
Resolutions up to 1920×1200 at 60Hz are supported on the single-link DVI-D port, while HDMI offers 4K at a low refresh rate or lower resolutions (such as 1080P) at 60Hz.

The AM4 socket for the AMD Ryzen CPUs is clearly placed in the middle with enough clearance around the socket to install beefy air coolers including the Noctua ones provided your DIMMs aren't too tall. Its accentuated by red stripes all around giving it the convergence point sort of a feel which is well justified.

MSI B350 PRO-VDH supports four DIMMs with a maximum capacity of 64GB and at a frequency of 3200Mhz which is more than enough. Also these slots are colored in red and black alternate fashion but are not reinforced for cost cutting measures which is not a deal breaker at all.

The single 110mm-capable M.2 connector supports M.2 32Gbps PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe SSDs as well as SATA 6Gbps-based alternatives. The steel-reinforced PCIe slot is where PCIe 3.0x16 lanes from an AM4 Ryzen CPU are directed and should be and can only beused to install a graphics card.
Two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots are also provided which can be used to power on devices of bygone era or probably for riser cables to use cards for mining if you are into that.

As for storage option we have four SATA III 6Gb/s ports located near the PCH heatsink out of which two are vertically aligned for easy cable routing and wire management. Its strange that MSI provided only four SATA ports here since the B350 PCH supports six SATA ports and four can be a bit less for most of the users.


Talking about power delivery system the MSI B350 PRO-VDH has a 4+2 power delivery system in place which is adequate for most of the Ryzen CPUs when overclocked and enough to keep any one of them running at stock.
Out of these four are for the CPU alone while the other two are for the SoC and for the iGPU of the Ryzen G series APUs. A Richtek RT8894A PWM controls the system. Four CPU phases and two SoC/iGPU use four NIKOS PK616BA and eight NIKOS PK632BA MOSFETs which is a good and solid installation for promising overclocks both on the CPU and iGPU side.

Since the B350 PRO-VDH is quite feature rich but also at just $65 motherboard a few cost cutting features are bound to brought into effect, the most prominent being the use of the Realtek ALC892 audio codec over the more conventional ALC1220 which is not that good when powering larger speakers over the latter but works flawlessly if not better when paired with gaming headsets.

BIOS and Bundled Software

BIOS Overview 

UEFI BIOS is getting more and more common with each manufacturer opting for it due to its simple and flexible interface along with the option to navigate via a mouse rather than a keyboard exclusive BIOS. MSI is no different and has offered not one but two versions of BIOS, EZ and Advanced versions, with the MSI B350 PRO-VDH so as to suit every customer's needs.
On boot up by default you'll be greeted with a more comprehensive and detailed EZ BIOS screen. This is a crammed up screen that has the details about all the components installed on the board along with options laid out neatly under clear tabs on the left side. If you want to change fan speeds, maybe boot devices, or use its automated overclocking function or A-XMP, you can do so quickly and easily.









This is a much preferred version for the beginners and though it comes with a Game Boost Knob on the top left its useless since the Gaming Plus doesn't support this feature. The "Memory Try It" feature is as always working well on this motherboard aswell and provide some easy overclocking features on the click for the RAM provided you don't expect too much here since we are talking about a Ryzen platform who's Infinity Fabric requires you to pay some attention and do some prior homework.
On pressing the F7 key you'll be teleported into the Advanced BIOS version or the traditional MSI UEFI BIOS version. This is a version that all the overclockers will love since the settings are broadly laid out with tab heading like Over Clocking Settings itself. A plethora of features are there out of which I'm showing you a selective few.

Bundled Software

This is the era when manufacturers provide customers with not just a motherboard and utility softwares that act more like blotwares if nothing else. Gigabyte App center is already what I've reviewed a lot of time & it has never failed to impress but MSI is no less rather  a bit more refined in their approach.
The heart of the software set is the MSI command set which gives you general features and information regarding the CPU, GPU, Fan Speed, IGP and the Game Boost knob...again!



Also one beautiful graphical window is there that provides you with temperature readings of each component & even tell you where they are located on the board.
The gaming app section is something that you'll  be familiar to if you are a MSI graphic card owner. It give you all the information and tweaking options related to your GPU and you can select which vital stat you want to see on your screen. Also you can adjust mouse sensitivity and assign hot keys to your gaming mouse from here making it a one stop solution for gaming.

Another added feature this time is the support of wireless control over the MSI Command Center which can be achieved via an App for your cell phone that allows full control over the features of the motherboard including adjusting voltages and frequencies aswell!

Benchmarks and Overclocking 

Before I talk any further first let's take a glance at the test bench configuration for this test which is well optimized for the processor and motherboard we are using here -

CPU:AMD Ryzen 5 2400G
Motherboard: MSI B350 Gaming Plus
RAM:Kingston HyperX Predator 16GB DDR4 3000Mhz
Cooler: AMD Wraith Spire
Graphics Card: Vega 11 iGPU
Storage:Corsair Neutron XTi 480GB
Power Supply: Cooler Master V1200 Platinum 1200W
OS: Windows 10 64-bit

Booting into Windows with everything installed was easy and I did not face any issues with either the processor or any of the two RAM kits used over here. Obviously you need to flash the BIOS to the latest one for supporting Ryzen APUs which I had to do using a separate Ryzen CPU and Graphics Card, once done everything would work flawlessly using the on-board video output ports, over here I'm using the HDMI port though.
For the benchmarks I've used 1GB of system memory allocated for the Vega 11 iGPU along with the CPU and GPU both running at stock. Overclocking would be covered later on in the review separately so stick around for that too.

AIDA64 Cache & Memory Benchmark 

AIDA64 Extreme Edition is a great tool to bench your CPU and RAM in terms of their read-write-copy abilities. Our 2400G showed an impressive score along with both the kits here and the results are as expected without any anomalies.

7-zip

7zip is a compression and decompression program that utilizes the processing power of the CPU alone. It is a synthetic benchmark that gives results very close to real life scores.

Cinebench R15

Cinebench uses Maxon's Cinema 4D engine to render a photo-realistic scene of some shiny balls and weird things (we miss the motorbike). The scene is highly complex, with reflections, ambient occlusion and procedural shaders so it gives a CPU a tough workout.
As Cinema 4D is a real-world application - used on films such as Spider-Man and Star Wars - Cinebench can be viewed as a real-world benchmark.

wPrime 1024M

wPrime is a leading multithreaded benchmark for x86 processors that tests your processor performance by calculating square roots with a recursive call of Newton’s method for estimating functions.

3DMark Fire Strike

Fire Strike by 3D Mark is a test suit that plays a cinematic scene to determine the FPS, GPU temperature and CPU temperature scaling everything via a cumulative score. It is a great tool to benchmark your GPU since the render is GPU dependent.

3DMark Time Spy

Another suite developed by 3D Mark but this time it uses the DX12 API and is more accurate for modern gaming and other graphical workload which utilize DX12 for optimum and smoother functioning.

Ryzen Blender

This is basically a rendering tool which lets you test and bench your system's raw CPU power in terms of rendering pictures. The Ryzen scene is basically a Ryzen logo and was first shown while the launch of the Ryzen 7 series hence its apt to use it here aswell with the Ryzen  5 2400G.

PCMark 10

PCMark is an effective tool to bench and see the capacity of the system to handle day to day tasks like video conference, web browsing etc to professional tasks like rendering. Its a great tool to judge the overall potential of the system. With lower VRAM but higher clocked RAM we can see minor difference in the two systems here which can be neglected as in real life it wouldn't be noticeable.

Rise of the Tomb Raider (Medium 720p)

We are using the medium preset here without any additional tweaks at 1280x720p and we see a similar case here like that in 3DMark Fire Strike where the 1GB of VRAM is optimum for the Vega 11 iGPU since 2GB is too much of a memory for the GPU to process.

Assassin's Creed Origins (Medium 720p)

I kept this game in the list since its one of the more demanding games out there today and there isn't any other new title out there apt enough to tax the Vega 11 GPU heavily even at medium preset at 1280x720 resolution.

Overclocking

Since I'm using the stock AMD Wraith Spire cooler over here as I want to keep this review of the MSI B350 PRO-VDH motherboard as close to reality as possible and don't expect anyone buying the Ryzen 5 2400G using an after market air or liquid cooler due to the budget oriented nature of the products in focus. The best results possible that I could obtain by keeping the system perfectly stable and within the safe temperature range was by overclocking the GPU over the CPU so while keeping the voltages same I managed a stable 1500Mhz on the Vega 11 GPU inside and I must say the results we see here are damn impressive not only in their raw form but also by the fact that these are on the stock cooler, stock voltage and truly a testimony to the power delivery system of the B350 PRO-VDH motherboard!

I won't leave you hanging dry here so don't worry I did overclock the CPU alone aswell since keeping the CPU and GPU both on OC state is near impossible under load due to the excessive heat it generates so using the stock cooler at 1.36v I managed a 4Ghz on the Ryzen 5 2400G which was boot aswell as benchmark stable but the results obtained were not significant and reaching anything further than the 4Ghz was impossible but it does show that MSI has made the B350 PRO-VDH a well optimized motherboard for the Ryzen G platform.

My Verdict 

The MSI B350 PRO-VDH is not the coolest looking AM4 motherboard out there which is no brainer for sure but definitely it is the most well balanced motherboard out there in its price range for the AMD Ryzen platform.With great overclocking capacity with the new Ryzen G series APU thanks to its optimized BIOS and strong power delivery system the motherboard is everything you can ask for when it comes to raw or tweaked performance with some necessary but less felt for trade offs in the cost cutting area.
A reinforced PCIe slot and four SATA ports is something that adds much needed feature set which is both useful and aesthetically pleasing. Its amazing thast MSI managed to add four DIMM slots here rather than the usual two we tend to find in this price category of motherboards if not the form factor which makes RAM upgrade easy for budget gamers who mostly settle for lesser RAM in the first go. Obviously there are a few grey areas the first one being the provision of only three fan headers that leaves only two usable for chassis fan as one is occupied by the CPU cooler itself, most people use three or more fans now as budget chassis have these many fans out of the box! The brown PCB is something that could've been dodged with a black one instead for a marginal price difference but would've made a world of a difference for the budget gamer since the other portions of the motherboard are aesthetically well designed.
Talking about the optimization for Ryzen G series APU the presence of three video output from the get go version MSI did a fabulous job in creating a motherboard that stood the test of time when some of the top notch X370 motherboards from competing brands lacked a basic HDMI port to make them Ryzen APU friendly to say the least!
Pros -

• Well optimized for Ryzen APU
• Solid power delivery system 
• Four DIMM slots
• Aptly priced

Cons - 

• Only three fan headers 
• Brown PCB isn't the best color choice

I give it a 8/10 earning our Gold Award!

If you can run Battlefield 1, you'll easily run Battlefield 5.

Battlefield 5 doesn't release until October, but DICE and Electronic Arts already know its minimum system requirements. The good news is that if you can play Battlefield 1 on your machine, you'll definitely be able to play Battlefield 5 too, as the base requirements are the same.

And those requirements are the following, as published on the Origin store:

OS: 64-bit Windows 7, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10
Processor (AMD): AMD FX-6350
Processor (Intel): Core i5 6600K
Memory: 8GB RAM
Graphics card (AMD): AMD Radeon™ HD 7850 2GB
Graphics card (NVIDIA): nVidia GeForce® GTX 660 2GB
DirectX: 11.0 Compatible video card or equivalent
Online Connection Requirements: 512 KBPS or faster Internet connection
Hard-drive space: 50GB

Battlefield 5 will release on October 19. It will feature a 4-player co-operative mode and, no loot boxes, and no Premium Pass. For everything else we know about Battlefield 5, look no further.

Here's the reveal trailer:

The Corsair HS70 - When Solid build meets decent Audio

Corsair is a brand that is almost synonym to eSport gaming due to their rich lineup of gaming peripherals and mainly courtesy to their infamous VOID series gaming headsets that proved their metal when it came to eSports. But everything needs to evolve to sustain and so did Corsair by launching a new lineup of budget gaming headsets in form of the H series which started off with the HS50 followed by the HS60 and now the latest one to join the lot is thew Corsair HS70. The Corsair HS70 is the top of the line in the H series budget gaming headsets and take the series ahead in form of wireless connectivity ditching the hassle of wild vine like wires running all over your desk.
Today thanks to Corsair India I have with me the Corsair HS70 Wireless Gaming Headset and by the looks of it, I'm sure this is going to be an interesting review.

With a launch price of $90 the Corsair HS70 finds itself to be the cheapest wireless headset from Corsair and also among the cheapest ones as a whole. These are particularly aimed at gamers on a budget who want want something wireless without compromising upon what its predecessors have to offer including the massive 50mm neodymium drivers that power those cups and a full metal frame. The headset offers virtual 7.1 channel surround sound features along with compatibility with both the PC and PS4 sadly the Xbox is not listed compatible. Comaptible with Corsair Utility Engine or CUE the headset is available in three colors as of now carbon which is fully black, white which is white and black and one golden one which is named the SE speculatively standing for Special Edition like the iPhone SE maybe.

What's in the Box!?

Corsair has brought the HS70 in their traditional gaming designs with hues of yellow on a black box and the product image right in the center with the name and other signature features enlisted neatly in yellow accents. Unlike the other Corsair headsets this one does not not have a transparent side window to peep inside the box to look at the actual product.

Inside the box you find that the headset sits snugly inside a molded plastic case which house the headset and other accessories and documents including the user manual and warranty card. The accessories are inside a small cavity in the case and are basically three in number namely as the receiver module for connectivity, the detachable mic and a 2m long USB cable to charge the headset battery when required. Over all the accessories are enough & justifiable for this price point.

A Closer look at the HS70

Corsair HS70 is a solid looking yet distinguishable headset which has been made out of a variety of materials like premium grade plastic, metal, cloth and even rubber. The entire body is black with trims of white on the swivel joint, stitching on the headband & the cups being prominently white out of all. Over all the first impression of the headset is quite elegant and classy unlike what we are used to seeing from most of the other Gaming headsets out there which definitely earns the HS70 a few brownie points.

The cushioning on the HS70 is made out of memory foam just like all the other Corsair headsets and this one is quite firm but soft enough to comfort the ears. These oval cups are large enough to accommodate even the biggest of ear sizes including mine which most headsets struggle to leaving my ear lobe hanging out! So definitely no complaints regarding the cups at all.

Coming to the outer surface of the cups the cups are mainly made out of white colored premium grade plastic with a metallic mesh that cover the entire outer surface just like the previous models. The swivel joints are white aswell and the frame is entirely made out of aluminum which is surprisingly very light in weight. The joints on the cups are non rotatable and don't offer any rotation at all but merely tilt up and down for basic adjustments which is a bit disappointing as these are wireless headsets and are meant to be worn around the neck mainly if resting or even if roaming around the house with these on and rotating cups can make the world of difference when it comfort that ways.

The left cup is where all the ports and buttons rest, first up we have the  micro USB port for plugging in the headset for charging the battery, the power on and connected light which is green in color and right below which is a small stub of rubber which covers the mic port to connect the provided mic. I would've personally loved to see a slider or something rather than that stub of rubber as you can easily misplace it especially when going outside for a LAN party or gaming tournament. On the top we have the mic mute button which is a single press and doesn't depress in or out with respect to the status of the mic and lastly the volume control wheel which is quite smooth but lacks a click in case one is used to that from a volume wheel. On the right cup you find nothing more than the power on/off button which once held down for like two seconds powers on and off the device respectively.

The mic on the Corsair HS70 is detachable with a 3.5mm jack connector and is extremely flexible with a design identical to those that we find on the lower versions of the H series. this unidirectional noise cancellation mic has a frequency response range from 100Hz to 10Khz which is adequate along with -40dB sensitivity which can be a bit too sensitive but we'll test that in the review ahead.

Headband on the HS70 is entirely made out of solid aluminum with no hints of plastic whatsoever even on the adjustable sliders at the ends. The entire band is covered by black leatherette which is soft and smooth having the Corsair logo on top while the inner side is covered by a diamond stitch done meticulously with white cotton thread  making the headset look extremely premium on or off the head.

The Corsair Utility Engine (CUE)

The Corsair HS70 unlike the other H series headsets is compatible and makes use of the CUE software for fine tuning the performance as per the user's needs and taste. During the time of this review I didn't have an officially compatible version of CUE that would worked with the HS70 as it was still under embargo so I downloaded the one that I found latest, version 2.24.50, on the Corsair website and it worked flawlessly with my unit from the get go itself without any additional efforts. Still your device might behave differently or have additional functionalities than mine once the product is officially released with a corresponding CUE software.

The functions that we have are quite basic to be honest, there are a bunch of preset equalizers that one can choose from if they don't like the default flat EQ or might aswell set a custom one as per their taste and needs.While the FPS competition and Clear Chat didn't have any noticeable difference the Bass and Movie did make quite a difference while listening to music or playing games and watching movies ofcourse. I'd rather advice you to either stick with the default flat or go for the Movie or Bass EQ if you want to enjoy your games and movies alike.
As for the other settings you can also set the virtual 7.1 channel surround sound off or on by the click of a button which is quite starkly visible eight below the product image.

Among the other features you can monitor the device battery levels which is quite handy indeed but I wish it was present on the main page itself where all the equalizer presets are mentioned for easier monitoring. You can also turn off the voice prompt which you definitely should or a female voice would keep irritating you with every choice you make in the main area, do yourself a favor and uncheck that option please!

Let's put it to Test!

Are they Comfortable!?

How do they Sound!?

These Aren't Just Headsets, They're Lifelines
Introducing the New CORSAIR HS70 WIRELESS Series Gaming Headsets

BENGALURU, India - May 31, 2018

CORSAIR®, a world leader in PC gaming peripherals and enthusiast components, today announced the latest addition to its growing line of gaming headsets, the CORSAIR HS70 WIRELESS Series. Joining CORSAIR's award-winning range of HS headsets launched last year with HS50 and HS60, HS70 WIRELESS headsets are available in subtly styled Carbon, White or SE trim and are compatible with both PC and Sony PlayStation 4, for great gaming audio whether you play on a desktop, laptop or a couch.

Combining exceptional comfort, premium build quality and precision gaming sound with long battery life, HS70 WIRELESS is the perfect companion for gamers looking to get serious about their setup.

When your game time lasts all day, your headset needs to be right there with you. HS70 WIRELESS' plush memory foam ear pads and adjustable padded headband provide outstanding comfort with the minimum of distractions, letting you focus on what matters most, whether it's the next round, the next command, or your next target. It's not just HS70's comfort that lasts; renowned CORSAIR build quality and metal construction ensures the long-term reliability players expect from their headset, so they can look forward to great gaming audio in their favorite games today, and the DLC and sequels for years to come.

Whether it's the footstep of an enemy, a nearby ricochet or a pounding soundtrack, HS70 WIRELESS features 50mm neodymium speaker drivers that deliver accurate, wide-ranging audio, so you won't miss a cue or sound when it counts. Immersion gets even better on PC, with virtual 7.1 surround multi-channel positional audio powered by COSAIR iCUE software that puts players in the middle of the action. HS70 WIRELESS also delivers when you need to be heard, with a unidirectional Discord certified, detachable microphone that reduces ambient noise. Whether it's planning your next strategy, or just chatting with friends, they'll hear you loud and clear.

Beneath the subtle styling and immersive audio, HS70 WIRELESS features a built-in battery providing up to 16 hours of constant wireless use, or plug-in via USB to keep playing during charging. Convenient on-ear controls for volume and microphone mute are always within reach, and HS70 WIRELESS' 2.4GHz low-latency wireless boasts a range of up to 40ft from the included USB adapter, so you don't need to miss out, even when you go AFK.

With comfort to play all-day, the durability to last, audio quality that doesn't miss a beat and long-life wireless, the new HS70 WIRELESS Series of headsets offer the complete package for gamers looking to get serious about their audio.

Availability, Warranty and Pricing
The full line-up of HS70 Wireless Gaming Headsets is available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors, as well as direct from the www.corsair.com web store.

All HS70 Wireless Gaming Headsets are backed by a two-year warranty and the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network.

For up-to-date pricing of the HS70 Wireless Gaming Headsets, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.


About CORSAIR
CORSAIR is a world leader in providing high-performance PC peripherals and components to gamers, enthusiasts and e-sports athletes.

Founded in 1994, CORSAIR has won thousands of awards for its products including mechanical keyboards, precision gaming mice, wireless headsets, high-performance components that gamers use to build gaming PCs, and the CORSAIR ONE fully-integrated gaming PC.

Copyright © 2018 CORSAIR Components, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice. To know more please visit www.corsair.com

Nothing glamorous, just a really fast display.

Among the recent crop of 4K and HDR monitors that have shown up in the marketplace, Asus has quietly introduced the ROG Strix XG248Q, a more basic display that focuses almost entirely on speed.

The new display is sports a 23.8-inch TN panel with a 1920x1080 resolution, none of which sounds particularly exciting. However, it's the native (read: not overclocked) 240Hz refresh rate that Asus is hoping will appeal to fast-action gamers, along with an ultra-fast 1ms response time and FreeSync support.

"ROG Strix XG248Q is all about speed—making it the perfect monitor for esports and first-person shooters. This Full HD monitor is the fastest ever, with a 240Hz native refresh rate, 1ms response time, and Extreme Low Motion Blur technology for silky-smooth gameplay and ultra-realistic visuals," Asus says.

First-person shooters, racing simulations, and the esports category at large benefit the most from monitors with high refresh rates, if the graphics card(s) can keep up. Not that fast visuals alone will make anyone a better gamer, but it can certainly help in some situations.

The XG248Q has a max brightness rating of 400 nits. That's the baseline for a DisplayHDR 400 certification, though this is not an HDR display. It also features support for Asus' Aura Sync RGB lighting.

On the ergonomics side, users can adjust the height up to 120mm, swievel from +50 to -50 degrees, tilt the display +20 to -5 degrees, and pivot the monitor 90 degrees clockwise. Finally, display inputs include HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.4, and DisplayPort.

Asus did not say when the ROG Strix XG248Q will be available or for how much.

Taipei, Taiwan– Cooler Masterunveilsa variety of cases this year that range across style, function, and technology.New case products not only expand on Cooler Master’s aesthetic design, but also show how case technology has evolved over time. The COSMOS, H-Series, K-Series, and others have been expanded with additional cases, while the MasterCase SL600M marks the start of a brand new lineup. The concepts revealed at Computex exhibit daring new design elements while still staying true to Cooler Master’s creative DNA.

COSMOS C700M
The COSMOS C700M is Cooler Master’s flagship in the Maker segment. The new design fuses bold shapes to a soft, continuous surface. The COSMOS C700M’s impactful use of addressable RGB lighting extend upon the series’ DNA. New tech will be woven into the frame and functionality of the COSMOS C700M, to be disclosed at a later time.Although specifications and details cannot be confirmed yet, sheer versatility in configuration can be expected.
As a concept, details and specifications of this chassis are subject to change.

MasterCase SL600M
The MasterCase SL600M kicks off the “SL” series in the highest segment. Chimney-based heat regulation is an efficient way to blend together silent technology with gaming performance. Cooling for the vertical layout intakes air on the bottom and exhausts air through the top panel. The use of aluminum was a design choice that enables the MasterCase SL600M to be a sophisticated work station with the capability of being built for high performance gaming.
As a concept, details and specifications of this chassis are subject to change.

MasterCase H500M

The MasterCase H500M sits at the highest end of the H-Series, offering the highest amount of features within the series. Options for the front panel, PSU shroud, cable covers, and radiator compatibility allow builders to configure at will. The empowerment of component choice and abundant support ensures that systems will look their best when built inside a MasterCase H500M.

MasterCase H500
The MasterCase H500 is the straightforward choice in the series with two iconic, 200mm fans. Although this is the lowest-pricedcase within the lineup, both the transparent front panel and mesh panel are included to offer a choice between aesthetics and maximum airflow. Each of the front panel options compliment the industrial design of the MasterCase H500 in their own method. To enable the case to be moved more easily, a subtle handle has been placed on the top panel.
As a concept, details and specifications of this chassis are subject to change.

MasterBox MB511 & MasterBox MB520

With the MasterBox MB511, airflow is the priority with a mesh front panel accompanied by the signature intakes seen within the series. The MasterBox MB520 prioritizes lighting as a build focus with a transparent front panel that offers full view of illuminated fans. The racing spirit is found throughout the series with a variety of aesthetics and functions based on preferences per model.

As a concept, details and specifications of this chassis are subject to change.

MasterBox MB530P
The MasterBox MB530P utilizes the aggressive intakes seen on the MB510L, MB511, and MB520, but employs glass on both of the side panels and the front panel. The application of glass was put in place to support the display of addressable RGB components included with the chassis. The racing spirit remains with the MasterBox MB530P, but offers a few extras. The front panel and side panel offer a clear view of the front fans and system configuration, while the side panel behind the motherboard is patterned tempered glass to hide the open side of the PSU.
As a concept, details and specifications of this chassis are subject to change.

MasterBox K500P
Cooler Master’s new fine mesh feature unique characteristics and qualities on the MasterBox K500P. The mesh is three dimensional and can be shaped to compliment bold, rugged designs but it also refracts light differently than conventional mesh. The fans and PSU shroud are outfitted with addressable RGB.
As a concept, details and specifications of this chassis are subject to change.

MasterBox MB500 TUF Gaming Edition
 
The TUF Gaming Alliance is a collaborative effort between ASUS, Cooler Master, and other brands to create a line of products for an aesthetically cohesive gaming PC. Marked by the TUF Gaming spirit, the MasterBox MB500 is a perfect addition to any (TUF Gaming) setup. A PSU cut out was designed to make the MasterWatt TUF Gaming Edition visible through the glass side panel. Military styling, complete with camouflage, outfits the case as a battle-ready soldier.


Case Mods
The Cooler Master booth will of course have mod projects on display. One such mod will be a collaboration project with modder,Nhenhopiohach, featuring a special modular design that was originally entered into the PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds™ BATTLEMODS Asia Tour 2017 with Project Crosshairs. This design, which could end up as a future in store product, allows users to swap their system between multiple Cooler Master cases in seconds without having to dissemble the build.




About Cooler Master:
Cooler Master is a global computer components and peripheral company with a 25-year track record in releasing innovative products that truly advance the industry. We are driven by a passion for the things that make building a PC such a unique, rewarding experience, and sustained by a vision that we can reinvent the way these machines are designed, made and used. From our landmark release of the first ever aluminum PC case to our groundbreaking switch to the modular format, Cooler Master is committed to bringing our customers and fans the utmost in choice and control. For more information on Cooler Master, please visit www.coolermaster.com or follow us onhttp://www.facebook.com/coolermaster

TAIPEI, TAIWAN,JUNE 5, 2018- Cooler Master, a global leader in designing and manufacturing innovative gaming peripherals and computer components,announces its new lineup of peripherals including two new keyboard series, gaming headsets, and more.

CK Series Keyboards

Between its floating keycap design and durable mechanical keys, theCK550unleashes a world of victories.Mechanical switches life spanned at 50 million+ key strokes makes the CK550 a reliable companion for the long haul and will be available in blue, brown, and red switch types depending on regional availability. Its brawny one-piece curved aluminum top plate is finished in a sleek gunmetal hueand built to withstand a lifetime of gameplay. The CK550 features robust RGB per-key illumination capable of multiple effects and lighting modes. On-the-fly controls allow real-time customization while the easy-to-use software grants users the ability to further tailor setting preferences such as macros and RGB lighting. Cooler Master also introduces the CK552, a Best Buy exclusive available across the United States starting June 18, 2018. Brother to the CK550 and available in red switches, the CK552 boasts mirrored features and an elegant black brushed aluminum curved top plate for an opulent look.

SK Series Keyboards

Cooler Master will debut its SK line consisting of three different keyboards: SK620, SK630, and SK640. This line features unique Cherry MX low profile switches, alluring brushed aluminum top plate, RGB illumination, Type C detachable cable, and LED light bar that frames the keyboard, all packed in a minimalistic design. The SK620 is a 60% compact layout ideal for travel and LAN parties. The SK630 is an 80% compact layout with an all new software application while the SK650 is a 100% 104 key layout also with all new software application. Expect to see the new additions during Q4 of this year and Q1 of next year.

Audio

Cooler Master will display its upcoming gaming headsets the MH751 and MH752 that debuted for the first time during PAX East 2018. Both headsets feature pleather ear cushions and headband with high density foam for superior comfort, lightweight construction, high quality Omni-directional boom microphone for easier position and crystal clear communication, fold-flat design ideal for the LAN traveler, durable braided cable, and multi-platform capability to be used on various consoles, PC, and mobile devices. The MH752 also features USB connection for PC, virtual 7.1 surround sound with an in-line control box to easily control audio volume, microphone volume, microphone mute, and surround sound button switch. Lastly, Cooler Master will highlight the MH710, an aluminum housing with brushed surface in ear headphones equipped with FocusFXtechnology. FocusFX function is easily controlled through a button on each ear bud allowing adjustments between stronger bass for a greater immersion or a balanced sound signature for premium sound clarity.

Be sure to visit the Cooler Master booth at for the full scope.


About Cooler Master:
Cooler Master is a global leader in designing and manufacturing innovative gaming peripherals and computer components. With a 25-year track record, Cooler Master is driven by passion for the things that make building a PC a rewarding experience and sustained by a vision that can reinvent the way machines are designed, made, and used to make the ultimate gaming experience. From its landmark release of the first ever aluminum PC case to the groundbreaking switch of the modular format, Cooler Master is committed to bringing customers and fans the utmost in choice and control. For more information on Cooler Master, please visit www.coolermaster.com or follow us http://www.facebook.com/coolermaster.

The MSI X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC is here, will it race ahead of the competition or suffer from an overheated engine!?

The new AMD Ryzen 2000 series CPUs are here and they've picked up right from where their extremely impressive and successful Ryzen 1000 counterparts had left. Ofcourse these CPUs as AMD had promised are backward compatible to the same AM4 socket on the existing X370 and B350 chipset motherboards but then some new features such as XFR 2.0 and Precision Boost 2 that these bring to the table require a new motherboard chipset only and only if one is planning to build a new system from scratch. So here we are today with the new X470 PCH motherboards flooding the market and even though they are technically the same as their X370 counterparts these offer some new tits and bits and not to mention much more refined and revamped aesthetics. Thanks to MSI today we I'm publishing my first ever review of these new motherboards and I'm super excited as this is my favorite lineup of the MSI lot, we have with us today the MSI X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC motherboard for review!

Since some time now the Gaming Pro Carbon lineup has been the mainstream king from MSI and has always proved its worth both in Intel and AMD sides alike, to be honest I've not come across a single one of these that weren't worth the money so, my hope are already high here! With a price tag of $180 this is one of the cheaper X470 motherboards out in the market with enough RGB, dual M.2 slots, a robust VRM and plenty of IO options including a WiFi adapter from Intel!

What's in the Box!?

MSI has a different color scheme for each of its motherboard range and the same goes for the Carbon series motherboards that pretty much like its previous generations is, well mostly black with hues of colors signifying its RGB nature.
The front doesn't have much to divulge in terms of feature set nor has an image of the motherboard instead the entire real estate is occupied by a dark and mystical image of the IO cover so bye bye to the god old sports car!


The back unlike the front is printed to the brim with features! A detailed marked diagram of the motherboard is printed in one corner highlighting all the physical features and on the right we see features such as the Mystic LED, Twin Turbo M.2, USB 3.1 briefly explained.
Open the box and you'll find the motherboard in an anti-static bag resting on top of the bottom compartment that houses all the accessories.

On the accessories front the X470 Pro Carbon AC is quite humble yet provides all the accessories needed to get one started. We have a WiFi Antenna installation guide, User’s manual, Cable labels, Driver and utility DVD, Quick installation guide, Registration insert, SLI HB Bridge, USB 2.0 header extension cable, I/O Shield, Two SATA cables, 2 x WiFi Antennae, Screw for PCIe card, Rainbow RGB LED Extension cable 80cm and Y-splitter RGB LED Extension cable 80cm.

Closer Look and Features

MSI went low key with this one over here aswell. Simply placing the motherboard out of the box shows the stark reality that the motherboard is indeed different from what the usual trend is going on in the motherboard market today.

The X470 Gaming Pro Carbon is one of the few motherboards out there that shout elegance from every corner! Its a full matte black product with highlights of carbon fiber vinyl on the I/O shield, PCH while certain areas are highlighted by white plastic cover accentuated by metal strips and underlying LEDs that can be used as per one's own whims.

Looking at the CPU socket area we realize that it is extremely clean and specious with ample space to accommodate big air coolers aswell. The socket right in the middle is a AM4 which is the same as that on the previous generation X370 and like boards. This makes the entire new AMD Ryzen 2000 series compatible with previous gen motherboards after a simple BIOS update and nothing else giving you more value for money!

DIMM slots on the reinforced by metal shields that not only work as an EMI shielding to the RAM sticks to ensure hindrance free performance but also imparts tensile strength to the slots in case one uses tall or heavy Memory kits like my Kingston HyperX Predator.
These support a maximum of 64GB DDR4 memory kit working at a maximum frequency of 3466Mhz. Also the mounting mechanism is changed and both the locking brackets need to be opened prior to DRAM installation.

Along the bottom of the motherboard are two of the eight SATA III ports strangely isolated from the other six located on the right side near the PCH which could make cable management tricky.

Turn your gaze towards the PCIe area and we see three PCIe 3.0x16 slots and three PCIex1 slots for devices of a bygone era! Two M.2 slots is also provided that we'll discuss later on.
Two of the three full sized PCIe slots are armored to support large and heavy graphics card while the bottom most is partially reinforced with metal clips for added support giving the board the following configuration in SLI or CrossFireX:
Single Card: 16x/0/0/
Dual: 8x/8x/0/
Tri: 8x/8x/4x/
The PCIe Slots have three LED embedded at the bottom and lit up red when the slot is populated by a graphics card. They turn up white when the graphics card installed is using less than 16xPCIe lane.
A notable fact over here is that in ATX board like this you tend to find seven PCIe slots in total with four full length and three PCIex1 but in the MSI X470 Gaming Pro there are only five eliminating the top most slot. By doing this MSI cleverly managed to shift the DIMM slots down by half an inch which in-turn cleared out some space in the CPU area and above it giving one the flexibility to choose from a range of beefy CPU air cooler without any compatibility issue.
We also see two M.2 ports here out of which the top one is shielded and has 4xPCIe3.0 lanes to it for full bandwidth of 32Gb/s but the one near to the bottom has only 2 PCIe lanes making ti usable for SATA drives as in case one uses a NVMe drive they'll only get half the speed there. Once populated with a SATA drive you will surrender one SATA III port while populating a NVMe drive in the top slot won't have any effect on other connectivity features.

For the IO panel we have two USB 2.0 and five USB 3.1 ports, one USB Type-C port, LAN port, audio output, one PS2 port, clear CMOS button, WiFi and Bluetooth antenna connection ports, a display port and an HDMI port.
Resolutions up to 1920×1200 at 60Hz are supported on the single-link DVI-D port, while HDMI offers 4K at a low refresh rate or lower resolutions (such as 1080P) at 60Hz.

On the left side of the board we have the Audio Boost 4 technology powered by a Realtek ALC 1220 5-channel CODEC which is an upgrade to the ALC 1150 used previously by most of the manufacturers and protect by an LED illuminated isolation strip to prevent any static distortion. This arrangement is solidified with gold plated Chemi-con capacitors and three Texas Instruments  OP1562 op-amps to power headphones and provide a surround sound experience.

The CPU is powered by an 12+1 phase Military Class-5 power delivery system controlled by a NIKOS PK832BA PWM controller and constituted of 10-years rated Titanium Choke and Black Caps. This is not an all digital power delivery system but a reliable one for sure being powered by twin eight-pin EPS 12V connectors for enhanced stability and extreme overclocking, though one is fine with using any one of the two for daily use.

VCore and VccGT phases are handled by a IR 35201 3+2 phase PWM controller on this motherboard which is a good configuration and I expect to see some impressive and stable overclocking results delivered by the X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC.

Four ASMedia ASM1480 multiplexers are responsible for routing the PCIe lanes between the two silver x16 slots while some of the USB 3.0 and 3.1 USB ports on the board are controlled by the Asmedia ASM314 chip to shed load from the CPU and the Intel's I211AT Gigabit LAN controller is also in place to take care of the connectivity.

BIOS and Bundled Software 

BIOS Overview 

UEFI BIOS is getting more and more common with each manufacturer opting for it due to its simple and flexible interface along with the option to navigate via a mouse rather than a keyboard exclusive BIOS. MSI is no different and has offered not one but two versions of BIOS, EZ and Advanced versions, with the MSI X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC so as to suit every customer's needs.
On boot up by default you'll be greeted with a more comprehensive and detailed EZ BIOS screen. This is a crammed up screen that has the details about all the components installed on the board along with options laid out neatly under clear tabs on the left side. If you want to change fan speeds, maybe boot devices, or use its automated overclocking function or A-XMP, you can do so quickly and easily.







This is a much preferred version for the beginners and though it comes with a Game Boost Knob on the top left its useless since the Gaming Pro Carbon doesn't support this feature. The "Memory Try It" feature is as always working well on this motherboard aswell and provide some easy overclocking features on the click for the RAM provided you don't expect too much here since we are talking about a Ryzen platform who's Infinity Fabric requires you to pay some attention and do some prior homework.
On pressing the F7 key you'll be teleported into the Advanced BIOS version or the traditional MSI UEFI BIOS version. This is a version that all the overclockers will love since the settings are broadly laid out with tab heading like Over Clocking Settings itself. A plethora of features are there out of which I'm showing you a selective few.

Bundled Software

This is the era when manufacturers provide customers with not just a motherboard and utility softwares that act more like blotwares if nothing else. Gigabyte App center is already what I've reviewed a lot of time & it has never failed to impress but MSI is no less rather  a bit more refined in their approach.
The heart of the software set is the MSI command set which gives you general features and information regarding the CPU, GPU, Fan Speed, IGP and the Game Boost knob...again!

Also one beautiful graphical window is there that provides you with temperature readings of each component & even tell you where they are located on the board.
The gaming app section is something that you'll  be familiar to if you are a MSI graphic card owner. It give you all the information and tweaking options related to your GPU and you can select which vital stat you want to see on your screen. Also you can adjust mouse sensitivity and assign hot keys to your gaming mouse from here making it a one stop solution for gaming.

Another added feature this time is the support of wireless control over the MSI Command Center which can be achieved via an App for your cell phone that allows full control over the features of the motherboard including adjusting voltages and frequencies aswell!

Benchmarks and Overclocking 

The AMD Ryzen 2700X comes bundled with a newly designed Wraith Prism RGB Air cooler designed by Cooler Master and is enough to keep you going for your daily use but since we are bench-marking here and my ambient temperature is not exactly very low in this Indian Summer weather I've decided to go the AIO way using the Cooler Master MasterLiquid Pro 280 but still I'll drop in an image with the Wraith Prism for you to look and admire maybe if you are into RGB and stuff.


Before I talk any further first let's take a glance at the test bench configuration for this test which is well optimized for the processor and motherboard we are using here -


CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
Motherboard: MSI X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC
RAM: G.Skill Trident Z RGB 16GB 3200Mhz
Cooler:Cooler Master MasterLiquid Pro 280
Graphics Card: MSI RX 580 Gaming X 8GB
Storage:Corsair Neutron XTi 480GB
Secondary Storage: ADATA XPG SX8000 256GB M.2 SSD
Power Supply: Cooler Master V1200 Platinum 1200W
OS: Windows 10 64-bit

Our system was fully stable from the get go with no issues at all even in enabling the A-XMP profile on the memory to the rated 3200Mhz. Temperatures obviously are monitored via Ryzen Master utility and a few points worth mentioning here are that firstly the CPU hits 1.5v when under extensive load which even with an AIO cooler generates quite a lot of heat and hence the CPU clocks down to 4.08Ghz on all cores. Overclocking is easy on Ryzen 2700X on the MSI X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC, you can simply leave the voltage to auto and play around with the multiplier or you can adjust both depending upon your choice and moreover cooling solution. I managed to hit a stable 4.2Ghz on all cores using 1.4v and the results were significantly higher however anything above that was too much for the CM MasterLiquid Pro 280 to handle but I'm sure one can easily hit 4.3-4.4 using a bigger AIO or best a custom cooling loop.

AIDA64 Cache & Memory Benchmark

AIDA64 GPGPU x64 CPU

7-zip

7zip is a compression and decompression program that utilizes the processing power of the CPU alone. It is a synthetic benchmark that gives results very close to real life scores.

Cinebench R15

Cinebench uses Maxon's Cinema 4D engine to render a photo-realistic scene of some shiny balls and weird things (we miss the motorbike). The scene is highly complex, with reflections, ambient occlusion and procedural shaders so it gives a CPU a tough workout.
As Cinema 4D is a real-world application - used on films such as Spider-Man and Star Wars - Cinebench can be viewed as a real-world benchmark.

wPrime 

wPrime is a leading multithreaded benchmark for x86 processors that tests your processor performance by calculating square roots with a recursive call of Newton’s method for estimating functions.

3DMark Fire Strike Extreme and Time Spy

Fire Strike Extreme and Time Spy by 3DMark is a test suit that plays a cinematic scene to determine the FPS, GPU temperature and CPU temperature scaling everything via a cumulative score. These are a great tool to benchmark your GPU since the render is GPU dependent especially Time Spy which is D12 based and is a direct reflection of modern day gaming performance that utilize DX12 more effectively.

PCMark 10

PCMark is an effective tool to bench and see the capacity of the system to handle day to day tasks like video conference, web browsing etc to professional tasks like rendering. Its a great tool to judge the overall potential of the system. With lower VRAM but higher clocked RAM we can see minor difference in the two systems here which can be neglected as in real life it wouldn't be noticeable.

Rise of the Tomb Raider

Its old but still extremely effective to benchmark and one of my personal favorites. Using DX12 the settings are set to Very High preset at 1080p resolution with the graphics card set to stock with no additional tweaks be it manual or through the provided utility.

Assassin's Creed Unity 

The latest installation of Assassin's Creed is set in Egypt and the toll that it takes on the graphical engine and CPU is heavy in fact its strong enough to brings down most of the modern rigs on their knees. The quality is set at Very High preset at 1080p.

CrystalDiskMark 5.0.2

CrystalDiskMark is a disk benchmark software that analyses different types of hard drive. Giving sequential benchmark write and read statistics in MB/s. A simple program that is very useful.

My Verdict 

AMD has yet again hit the jackpot and given the main stream consumer something too aspire for and the existing Ryzen owners something compelling enough to make and upgrade, even though the older Ryzen is perfectly competent enough *wink*. The Ryzen 7 2700X in focus today is more tha enough for anything one would like to co with their PC and clearly beats the Ryzen 7 1800X in raw performance and offers improved gaming aswell as memory scaling which is an extremely welcome move all with the goodness of a bundles Wraith Prism RGB cooler!
Talking about the motherboard manufacturers like MSI well they have done a splendid job when it came to designing & revamping the motherboards. The MSI X470 Gaming Pro Carbon AC is a breath of fresh air and its worth mentioning that MSI has been constantly changing and evolving their Pro Carbon lineup as per time and user feedback. The X470 Gaming Pro Carbon has an entirely new design which is infact a refined version of the X299 Gaming Pro Carbon which is a beautiful motherboard in its own rights.
MSI cleverly ditched the redundant SATA express and U.2 connector to implement dual M.2 connectors along with fully functional tri PCIe slot configuration with a bunch of USB 3.1 ports all working at the same time thanks to the brilliant use of the PCIe lanes that the X470 PCH and Ryzen CPU has to offer. Overclocking wise the motherboard offers enough VRM to keep the CPU steady at a very respectable frequency provided you have the cooling solution to keep dissipate all that headt the CPU generates when locked at all cores. On the down side the motherboard does lack some vital on board buttons or indicators such as a Debug LED which is vital to almost ever user. Also the LEDs are a bit clumsy to control and the Mystic Lights software needs some tweaking from MSI's end to make the whole motherboard a bit more appealing.
The LEDs are yet again meticulously implemented by MSI on a pure black board and nifty features such as Memory Try it! in the BIOS are a welcome move. For a motherboard that costs around $180 its a  steal deal for almost anyone out there who's on a budget.

Intelligent Control - Unlimited Possibilities CORSAIR
Launches New iCUE Software Alongside VENGEANCE RGB PRO DDR4 Memory and Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE Case at
Computex 2018

BENGALURU, India - June 11, 2018

CORSAIR®, a world leader in PC gaming peripherals and enthusiast components, launched its new CORSAIR iCUE software at Computex 2018, unlocking a new level of system lighting across a huge range of CORSAIR products.

For the first time from CORSAIR, iCUE unifies dynamic lighting control, cooling control, system monitoring and command customization within a single intuitive interface, supporting literally thousands of CORSAIR products. From keyboards and mice such as the K70 RGB LUX and M65 PRO RGB, to Hydro Series PRO liquid CPU coolers and AXi Series power supplies, iCUE brings your entire system together with stunning synchronized lighting and powerful system control.

Showcasing the very best that iCUE has to offer, CORSAIR has today also announced two new flagship additions to its industry-leading range of RGB products; VENGEANCE RGB PRO Series DDR4 memory and the Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE PC Case. Both feature stunning individually controllable multi-zone RGB lighting, able to be synchronized across all your compatible CORSAIR devices with a single click, as well as in-depth performance monitoring to ensure your system runs at its best. Combining full system lighting synchronization and in-depth monitoring into a single interface, iCUE delivers intelligent control, with unlimited possibilities.
VENEGANCE RGB PRO Series DDR4 memory brings stunning multi-zone RGB lighting to the DIMM slot, with each module boasting ten bright RGB LEDs, controlled by CORSAIR iCUE software to light up your system with stunning effects. Lighting synchronizes with all your CORSAIR iCUE compatible hardware for system-wide lighting at the click of a button and illuminating your motherboard with smooth transitions and vibrant patterns. It's even possible to re-order or invert each module's lighting in iCUE, ensuring your memory looks its best, however your motherboard's DIMM slots are laid out.
Setting up VENEGANCE RGB PRO is as simple as fitting modules into a DIMM slot on most current Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards and running CORSAIR iCUE, with no additional cables or wires required. What's more, with VENGEANCE RGB PRO, there's no need to trade style for speed; VENGEANCE RGB PRO is tightly screened for high-performance, is XMP 2.0 compatible with a single motherboard setting, and available in speeds up to 4,600MHz.

Even with high-speed performance out-of-the-box, VENGEANCE RGB PRO also boasts the overclocking credentials you'd expect from high-speed CORSAIR memory. A custom performance PCB and aluminum heatspreader available in black or white provide the highest signal quality and reliability, with exceptional cooling offering plenty of potential to push your memory further.
The Obsidian 500D RGB SE adds a dash of the spectacular to the iconic Obsidian Series 500D. The standard 500D front aluminum plate is replaced with a premium piece of smoked tempered glass and backed by three LL120 RGB fans, each equipped with 16 vibrant LEDs for a total of 48 RGB LEDs of vivid illumination.

Powered by an included CORSAIR Commander PRO digital RGB lighting and fan controller, and CORSAIR iCUE software, it's easy to synchronize lighting with the rest of your CORSAIR iCUE compatible setup or choose from an extensive range of customizable lighting effects to create your own RGB masterpiece. The power of iCUE doesn't stop there; with in-depth system monitoring and customizable cooling curves, you can take direct control of your system's fans, adjusting speeds to correspond with CPU, GPU or system temperatures for low-noise operation, or even stopping them completely when you need a moment of silence.

Behind it's RGB lightshow and tempered glass front panel, the Obsidian 500D RGB SE retains all the features that have made its namesake an award winner with reviewers around the world. Smoked tempered glass panels on either side and an aluminum top plate and trim combine the best in minimalist design with premium materials, while inside plentiful fan mounts, storage space and extras, such as a vertical GPU mount, stand ready to host your most ambitious builds.

Availability, Warranty, Compatibility and Pricing
CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO Series DDR4 memory will be available in June 2018. The new Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE is available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors.

VENGEANCE RGB PRO is fully compatible with CORSAIR iCUE software, and also supports GIGABYTE RGB Fusion and MSI Mystic Light software.

CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO Series DDR4 memory is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, while the Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE is backed by a two-year warranty. Both are supported through the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network.

For up-to-date pricing of both the CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO Series DDR4 memory and CORSAIR Obsidian Series 500D RGB SE, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.


About CORSAIR
CORSAIR is a world leader in providing high-performance PC peripherals and components to gamers, enthusiasts and e-sports athletes.

Founded in 1994, CORSAIR has won thousands of awards for its products including mechanical keyboards, precision gaming mice, wireless headsets, high-performance components that gamers use to build gaming PCs, and the CORSAIR ONE fully-integrated gaming PC.

Copyright © 2018 CORSAIR Components, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Shine with Platinum or Silver
CORSAIR Launches New PSUs at COMPUTEX 2018

Introducing the New SF Series 80 PLUS Platinum and VENGEANCE Series 80
PLUS Silver PSUs

BENGALURU, India - June 11, 2018

CORSAIR®, a world leader in PC gaming peripherals and enthusiast components, announced two new additions to its industry-leading line-up of computer power supplies, the SF Series 80 PLUS Platinum in 600W and 450W, and the VENGEANCE Series 80 PLUS Silver in 650W and 750W at Computex 2018.
The small-form-factor SFX SF Series 80 PLUS Platinum PSUs belie their small size with all the features of a new high-end PSU. 80 PLUS Platinum efficient up to 94%, the new SF Series continue the CORSAIR legacy of superb electrical performance. Using 100%,105°C rated Japanese capacitors SF Series PSUs deliver incredibly stable voltages and ultra-low ripple noise - performance that's backed by a seven-year warranty.
Fully modular cabling is ideal for small-form-factor builds where space is at a premium, and individually sleeved cables mean that not only is it easier to route and position connections, but the finished system looks great too. The new SF Series also equips a low-noise 92mm fan, allowing for higher airflow at lower RPMs, with a Zero RPM fan mode switching the fan off entirely at low and medium loads for near-silent operation. Finally, and by popular demand, the new SF Series also includes an SFX-to-ATX bracket, allowing installation into both small form factor and full-size ATX cases, for when your next big build, needs a small PSU.

The new VENGEANCE Series 80 PLUS Silver PSUs provide the next step up in efficiency for system builders used to 80 PLUS Bronze, alongside low-noise performance that means an entry-level PC needn't be loud. 80 PLUS Silver efficient to up to 89%, the new VENGEANCE Series also feature 100% ,105°C rated Japanese capacitors to ensure stable power delivery and long-term reliability. For those concerned with over current protection, the VENGEANCE Series includes a switchable single/multiple +12V rail design, enabling users to instantly switch from multiple +12V rails with OCP on each cable, to a single +12V rail; allowing all of the PSU's +12V capability on any of the PSU's DC connectors.
Semi-modular cables make system builds and connecting graphics card and storage upgrades easier, while an ultra-quiet 120mm cooling fan with Zero RPM fan mode allows for near-silent operation at low and medium loads. Backed by a comprehensive five-year warranty, this is 80 PLUS Silver, back with a VENGEANCE.

Availability, Warranty and Pricing
The new SF Series and VENGEANCE Series PSUs will be available in July 2018, via
the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors, as well as direct from the www.corsair.com webstore.

SF Series power supplies are backed by a seven-year warranty, while VENGEANCE Series power supplies are backed by a five-year warranty. Both are supported by the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network.

For up-to-date pricing of both the new SF Series 80 PLUS Platinum and VENGEANCE Series 80 PLUS Silver power supplies, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.


About CORSAIR
CORSAIR is a world leader in providing high-performance PC peripherals and components to gamers, enthusiasts and e-sports athletes.

Founded in 1994, CORSAIR has won thousands of awards for its products including mechanical keyboards, precision gaming mice, wireless headsets, high-performance components that gamers use to build gaming PCs, and the CORSAIR ONE fully-integrated gaming PC.

Copyright © 2018 CORSAIR Components, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Clearly Compact CORSAIR Launches New Crystal Series
280X RGB MATX Case at Computex 2018

BENGALURU, India - June 11, 2018

CORSAIR®, a world leader in PC gaming peripherals and enthusiast components, announced the release of the new Crystal Series 280X RGB and Crystal Series 280X MATX enthusiast PC cases at Computex 2018, bringing CORSAIR tempered glass design to a new smaller form factor.

With tempered glass panels in the front, side and roof, the Crystal 280X RGB provides a stunning view of your PC. Illuminated by two LL120 RGB fans, each featuring 16 RGB LEDs, the Crystal 280X RGB also includes a CORSAIR Lighting Node PRO digital RGB lighting controller, combining with powerful iCUE software to light up your PC in a dazzling array of patterns and effects. With 32 individually controllable LEDs to light up your system, and plentiful airflow to cool multi-core, multi-GPU systems, the Crystal 280X RGB is the clear choice for your next compact MATX system.
Beneath its stylish tempered glass exterior, the Crystal 280X RGB offers a wealth of features to ensure that your system looks as good inside, as it does out. A dual-chamber design keeps your system's core hardware, such as motherboard, CPU and graphics card, on display and directly cooled by up to six cooling fans, with support for multiple 240mm liquid cooling radiators*. Meanwhile, the power supply, drives and cabling are easily concealed in the rear chamber, with plenty of room for cable routing that means even a first-time builder can create a clean looking system.

Its dual-chamber design also allows the Crystal 280X RGB to offer a substantial array of system storage, with room for up to two 3.5in drives and three 2.5in drives, so a small form factor needn't mean small capacity.

The Crystal 280X RGB's features don't stop when your system is finished either, with full-coverage dust filters in the front, roof and floor ensuring your system stays looking its best long after the build is over.
Power up your system and install CORSAIR iCUE software, and you'll discover that the Crystal 280X RGB's lighting offers a lot more than just R, G and B. Able to control and synchronize lighting across all your compatible CORSAIR products in a single click, create custom lighting presets that react to your PC's temperatures, or turn off all system lighting with a key press, CORSAIR iCUE combines intelligent control, with unlimited possibilities. The included Lighting Node PRO digital RGB lighting controller is all you need to connect up to six matching CORSAIR RGB fans and four CORSAIR RGB LED lighting strips, illuminating your system with vivid, dynamic RGB lighting.
Available in black or white, the Crystal 280X RGB is also available as the Crystal 280X, equipped with two CORSAIR 120mm cooling fans, for those who'd rather keep a low profile when it comes to their small form factor system.

Cool, clear and compact, the Crystal 280X RGB and Crystal 280X offer everything you need to make your PC small in size, but big on performance.
Availability, Warranty and Pricing
The new Crystal Series 280X RGB and Crystal Series 280X are available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers and distributors.

The Crystal Series 280X RGB and Crystal Series 280X are backed by a two-year warranty, and the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network.

For up-to-date pricing of both the Crystal Series 280X RGB and Crystal Series 280X, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.


About CORSAIR
CORSAIR is a world leader in providing high-performance PC peripherals and components to gamers, enthusiasts and e-sports athletes.

Founded in 1994, CORSAIR has won thousands of awards for its products including mechanical keyboards, precision gaming mice, wireless headsets, high-performance components that gamers use to build gaming PCs, and the CORSAIR ONE fully-integrated gaming PC.

Copyright © 2018 CORSAIR Components, Inc. All rights reserved. CORSAIR, the sails logo, and Vengeance are registered trademarks of CORSAIR in the United States and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.