How to Guide                                                    

When it comes to building a PC, planning is everything. Whether you're a first-time builder or a seasoned enthusiast, visualizing your setup ahead of time helps avoid compatibility issues and makes the whole process smoother and more cost-effective.

That’s why we are excited to introduce you to 

 — an incredibly useful online tool that lets you create and preview your custom PC builds in real time. Even better? Many of our darkFlash cases and cooling products are available on the platform, so you can see exactly how your setup will look before you make a purchase!

 is a browser-based PC builder that focuses on 

. You can select your components — from the CPU and GPU to the case, fans, and power supply — and the site will automatically check compatibility between parts. 

 apart is its stunning 3D rendering: it allows you to see how everything fits together, down to cable clearance, airflow direction, and lighting layout.

Pick your Case, CPU, motherboard, GPU, RAM, and other components step by step. If you already have some parts in mind, you can load them directly.

3. Select Your Case (Example: darkFlash DY470)

 — this is required before adding any components. You can browse the list 

 in the search bar to begin building with that case.

💡 Note: Make sure to choose products labeled with “3D” to enable 3D preview features.

After clicking on a component, you’ll see its 

 — making it easy to learn more or buy directly from online stores.

Once you’ve selected all your components, you can preview the full build in 3D. Use your mouse to rotate and view from different angles. You can also use the controls below the preview window to adjust RGB lighting effects in real time.

Happy with your setup? Save it for later or share it with friends or on forums. It’s a great way to get feedback or make sure everything’s ready before you hit “buy.”

Before You Buy, Try It Out on Buildcores!

 before making any final purchases. It’s the perfect way to visualize your setup and make sure everything works — and looks — just the way you want it.

If a product isn’t available for direct purchase, feel free to contact a local dealer in your region for assistance. We hope this tool makes your PC building experience smoother and more enjoyable!

PC building is about more than just hardware — it’s about creating something uniquely yours. Let 





When it comes to building a PC, planning is everything. Whether you're a first-time builder or a seasoned enthusiast, visualizing your setup ahead of time helps avoid compatibility issues and makes the whole process smoother and more cost-effective.

That’s why we are excited to introduce you to Buildcores — an incredibly useful online tool that lets you create and preview your custom PC builds in real time. Even better? Many of our darkFlash cases and cooling products are available on the platform, so you can see exactly how your setup will look before you make a purchase!



What is Buildcores?





Buildcores is a browser-based PC builder that focuses on visualizing your build in 3D. You can select your components — from the CPU and GPU to the case, fans, and power supply — and the site will automatically check compatibility between parts. 

What sets Buildcores apart is its stunning 3D rendering: it allows you to see how everything fits together, down to cable clearance, airflow direction, and lighting layout.



How to Use Buildcores

1. Visit the Buildcores Website

Head to https://buildcores.com and click on “Start Building” to begin.







2. Choose Your Components

Pick your Case, CPU, motherboard, GPU, RAM, and other components step by step. If you already have some parts in mind, you can load them directly.







3. Select Your Case (Example: darkFlash DY470)

Start by selecting your PC case — this is required before adding any components. You can browse the list use the filters on the left, or search for a specific model. For example, type “darkFlash DY470” in the search bar to begin building with that case.

💡 Note: Make sure to choose products labeled with “3D” to enable 3D preview features.









4. View Specs and Buy Links

After clicking on a component, you’ll see its detailed specifications along with purchase links — making it easy to learn more or buy directly from online stores.







5. Preview Your Build in 3D

Once you’ve selected all your components, you can preview the full build in 3D. Use your mouse to rotate and view from different angles. You can also use the controls below the preview window to adjust RGB lighting effects in real time.









6. Save or Share Your Build

Happy with your setup? Save it for later or share it with friends or on forums. It’s a great way to get feedback or make sure everything’s ready before you hit “buy.”



Before You Buy, Try It Out on Buildcores!





We recommend exploring your build on Buildcores before making any final purchases. It’s the perfect way to visualize your setup and make sure everything works — and looks — just the way you want it.

If a product isn’t available for direct purchase, feel free to contact a local dealer in your region for assistance. We hope this tool makes your PC building experience smoother and more enjoyable!

PC building is about more than just hardware — it’s about creating something uniquely yours. Let Buildcores and darkFlash help you bring that vision to life!

Get a realistic view of your build, check compatibility, and plan with confidence.

Visualize Your PC Build in 3D — No More Guesswork

In 2025, gamers looking to upgrade their GPU have their eyes on two major contenders: 

. Both target the high-volume 1080p and 1440p gaming market, and both offer 16GB of VRAM, modern architecture, and compelling price-performance value.

So, which one is the better choice? This article breaks it down across performance, features, pricing, and target users to help you make the smart move.

Both are mid-high tier GPUs perfect for competitive and AAA gaming at 1080p/1440p resolutions.

Based on benchmark tests across popular titles, the RTX 5060 Ti maintains a modest performance lead in most scenarios:

The 5060 Ti benefits more from ray tracing and DLSS 3.5. For non-RT games, performance is nearly neck and neck.

If you value AI features or are into livestreaming, content creation, or ultra-smooth visuals, NVIDIA clearly leads in the software ecosystem.

In many global markets (including the US and EU):

So, while the 5060 Ti may edge out performance, 

the RX 9060 XT offers better price-per-frame

, especially if you don't prioritize ray tracing.

ASUS PRIME GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB GDDR7 OC Edition

Conclusion: Both are Excellent, But Serve Different Players

 is a price-performance champion—especially for players who don’t need heavy ray tracing or AI features. Meanwhile, the 

 shines in ray-traced titles and future-proofing, thanks to DLSS 3.5 and broader NVIDIA ecosystem support.

No matter which you choose, make sure you’re getting the 16GB version. That’s the true baseline for next-gen gaming in 2025 and beyond.



(5060 Ti vs. 9060 XT, VIDEOCARDZ)



In 2025, gamers looking to upgrade their GPU have their eyes on two major contenders: NVIDIA’s RTX 5060 Ti and AMD’s RX 9060 XT. Both target the high-volume 1080p and 1440p gaming market, and both offer 16GB of VRAM, modern architecture, and compelling price-performance value.



So, which one is the better choice? This article breaks it down across performance, features, pricing, and target users to help you make the smart move.



Specs at a Glance

Both are mid-high tier GPUs perfect for competitive and AAA gaming at 1080p/1440p resolutions.







Real-World Gaming Benchmarks

Based on benchmark tests across popular titles, the RTX 5060 Ti maintains a modest performance lead in most scenarios:





(VIDEOCARDZ, Source: Etektnix)



The 5060 Ti benefits more from ray tracing and DLSS 3.5. For non-RT games, performance is nearly neck and neck.



Ray Tracing & AI Upscaling: DLSS vs FSR

If you value AI features or are into livestreaming, content creation, or ultra-smooth visuals, NVIDIA clearly leads in the software ecosystem.







Price & Value

In many global markets (including the US and EU):





RTX 5060 Ti 16GB sells around $429 USD



RX 9060 XT 16GB starts around $349 USD

So, while the 5060 Ti may edge out performance, the RX 9060 XT offers better price-per-frame, especially if you don't prioritize ray tracing.



Who Should Buy Which?





Buying Tips



(ASUS PRIME GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB GDDR7 OC Edition)







Go for 16GB models – Avoid 8GB versions. Upcoming games are more VRAM-hungry, even at 1080p.



Check live pricing – If the 5060 Ti is only $30–$50 more, it may be worth it for the DLSS + RT extras. But a $70+ gap makes RX 9060 XT hard to ignore.



Conclusion: Both are Excellent, But Serve Different Players



(GIGABYTE Radeon RX 9060 XT GAMING OC 16G)



The RX 9060 XT is a price-performance champion—especially for players who don’t need heavy ray tracing or AI features. Meanwhile, the RTX 5060 Ti shines in ray-traced titles and future-proofing, thanks to DLSS 3.5 and broader NVIDIA ecosystem support.



No matter which you choose, make sure you’re getting the 16GB version. That’s the true baseline for next-gen gaming in 2025 and beyond.

A head-to-head comparison of NVIDIA and AMD’s top mid-range GPUs to help you make the right upgrade in 2025.

RTX 5060 Ti vs RX 9060 XT: The Ultimate 2025 Mid-Range GPU Showdown

If you've been researching computers recently—whether you're building a PC or upgrading components—you've probably come across mysterious motherboard model names like “Z890,” “B760,” or “X870.” But what do these letters and numbers actually mean? And how can you make sure you're choosing the right one?

Don't worry—this article is written specifically for 

. It'll help you fully understand motherboard naming conventions, and also explain the differences between Intel and AMD boards.

What is Z890? How do you read a motherboard model number?

Let’s break down the naming logic using “Z890” as an example. It can be divided into two parts:

Intel vs AMD Motherboards: What’s the Difference?

While both Intel and AMD motherboards let you plug in a CPU, RAM, and graphics card to run a PC, their naming systems and specifications are different.

Different CPU generations use different sockets:

, meaning it offers enhanced features and expandability—like more PCIe lanes, USB ports, and stronger power delivery.

Here’s a quick summary of common usage scenarios:

(Only a selection of mainstream models is listed)

(for full motherboard support, please refer to each brand’s official website)

Quick Tip: Make Sure the CPU Matches the Socket!

You can’t install an Intel 13th Gen CPU (LGA1700) on a motherboard that only supports LGA1200. Similarly, you can’t use a Ryzen 7000 CPU on an AM4 motherboard.

Conclusion: Motherboard Model Numbers Aren’t That Hard!

Then motherboard model names won’t feel like a foreign language anymore. You’ll be able to confidently choose the right board without getting confused by spec sheets!





If you've been researching computers recently—whether you're building a PC or upgrading components—you've probably come across mysterious motherboard model names like “Z890,” “B760,” or “X870.” But what do these letters and numbers actually mean? And how can you make sure you're choosing the right one?



Don't worry—this article is written specifically for complete beginners. It'll help you fully understand motherboard naming conventions, and also explain the differences between Intel and AMD boards.



What is Z890? How do you read a motherboard model number?

Let’s break down the naming logic using “Z890” as an example. It can be divided into two parts:





Z: Represents the tier or level of the motherboard (higher-tier models have more features and cost more)



890: Indicates the CPU generation it supports (this number changes with each new CPU generation)



Intel vs AMD Motherboards: What’s the Difference?

While both Intel and AMD motherboards let you plug in a CPU, RAM, and graphics card to run a PC, their naming systems and specifications are different.





(ROG Z890, VIDEOCARDZ)



Intel Motherboards Overview

Intel models usually start with Z, B, or H to indicate tier:





Z Series: High-end; supports CPU and RAM overclocking; most feature-rich



B Series: Mid-range, good value and performance; ideal for most users



H Series: Entry-level, basic features, lowest cost

Different CPU generations use different sockets:





LGA1851: For the latest 15th Gen Core Ultra (e.g., Z890, B860)



LGA1700: For 12th to 14th Gen



LGA1200: For 10th and 11th Gen





(AORUS X870, VIDEOCARDZ)



AMD Motherboards Overview

AMD uses X, B, and A to represent tiers:





X Series: High-end, for enthusiasts and creators; supports the most PCIe and USB lanes



B Series: Mid-range, best value for performance



A Series: Entry-level, no flashy features, good for budget users

AMD supports two main socket types:





AM5: For the new Ryzen 7000 to 9000 series (e.g., X870E, B850)



AM4: Compatible with Ryzen 1000 to 5000 series

＊The "E" in AMD motherboard models stands for Extreme, meaning it offers enhanced features and expandability—like more PCIe lanes, USB ports, and stronger power delivery.



Which Motherboard Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary of common usage scenarios:





Gaming, streaming, video editing, or overclocking?
Choose Intel Z series or AMD X series



Gaming on a budget?
Go with Intel B series or AMD B series



Just browsing the web, writing reports, or watching videos?
Go with Intel H series or AMD A series



(Only a selection of mainstream models is listed)

(for full motherboard support, please refer to each brand’s official website)



Quick Tip: Make Sure the CPU Matches the Socket!


You can’t install an Intel 13th Gen CPU (LGA1700) on a motherboard that only supports LGA1200. Similarly, you can’t use a Ryzen 7000 CPU on an AM4 motherboard.

Before buying, always check:





The motherboard’s CPU socket (e.g., LGA1700, AM5)



The CPU generations it supports



Whether the memory type is compatible (most new boards are now shifting to DDR5)







Conclusion: Motherboard Model Numbers Aren’t That Hard!


Once you understand that:





Letters indicate tier/level



Numbers refer to CPU generation



And the CPU must match the socket

Then motherboard model names won’t feel like a foreign language anymore. You’ll be able to confidently choose the right board without getting confused by spec sheets!

What do motherboard model names mean? What should you pay attention to when choosing one?
Here’s everything you need to know!

Z890? X870? What Do Motherboard Model Names Mean?

In recent years, a familiar yet reinvented product category has been quietly reshaping the gaming landscape: handheld gaming PCs. Devices like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw are gaining traction, capturing the attention of gamers who seek portability without compromising power.

But why are these devices suddenly so popular? How do they differ? And what lies ahead for this growing market? Let’s break it all down.

Unlike traditional handheld consoles like the PSP or Nintendo DS, today’s handheld gaming devices are essentially 

In short, these devices let you play full-fledged PC games anywhere, not just mobile versions or indie titles.

Why Are Handheld Gaming PCs Changing the Game?

Handheld PCs strike a rare balance between mobility and power. Gamers no longer have to choose between being tied to a desk or sacrificing quality. Now, they can enjoy AAA titles on the subway, at a café, or even on a plane.

For PC gamers, these devices offer a smooth transition. You can log in to your existing accounts and 

—no platform switching or re-purchasing required.

With support for services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce NOW, players can even stream games without installing them, making these devices more flexible than ever.

ROG Ally X vs. Steam Deck vs. MSI Claw | Comparisons

What’s Next for the Handheld Gaming Market?

ASUS, Valve, and MSI are just the beginning. Rumors suggest brands like Lenovo, Gigabyte, and even Acer are developing their own handheld gaming devices. Expect more competition, innovation, and potentially lower prices.

With the integration of newer AMD and Intel chips, handhelds are approaching 

With better Wi-Fi (and upcoming Wi-Fi 7), handhelds could become true hybrid gaming machines—stream games on the go, and plug into docks at home for full 4K play.

Handheld gaming PCs aren’t just a nostalgic comeback. They represent a new era of mobile-first, PC-level gaming. For players who are always on the move—or who just want a more flexible gaming lifestyle—these devices offer freedom like never before.

Whether you’re a casual gamer, a PC enthusiast, or someone tired of sitting at a desk, your next gaming rig might just fit in your hands.





In recent years, a familiar yet reinvented product category has been quietly reshaping the gaming landscape: handheld gaming PCs. Devices like the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and MSI Claw are gaining traction, capturing the attention of gamers who seek portability without compromising power.



But why are these devices suddenly so popular? How do they differ? And what lies ahead for this growing market? Let’s break it all down.



What Are Handheld Gaming PCs?

Unlike traditional handheld consoles like the PSP or Nintendo DS, today’s handheld gaming devices are essentially mini gaming laptops in disguise.



They typically feature:





Windows or Linux operating systems



x86-based CPUs, often from AMD or Intel



Access to full PC game libraries like Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Epic Games



Built-in gamepad controls, mimicking Xbox-style layouts



In short, these devices let you play full-fledged PC games anywhere, not just mobile versions or indie titles.







Why Are Handheld Gaming PCs Changing the Game?

Portability Meets Performance

Handheld PCs strike a rare balance between mobility and power. Gamers no longer have to choose between being tied to a desk or sacrificing quality. Now, they can enjoy AAA titles on the subway, at a café, or even on a plane.



Seamless Game Library Integration

For PC gamers, these devices offer a smooth transition. You can log in to your existing accounts and continue your game progress on the go—no platform switching or re-purchasing required.



Cloud Gaming and Instant Access

With support for services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce NOW, players can even stream games without installing them, making these devices more flexible than ever.







ROG Ally X vs. Steam Deck vs. MSI Claw | Comparisons







What’s Next for the Handheld Gaming Market?

More Brands Are Joining In

ASUS, Valve, and MSI are just the beginning. Rumors suggest brands like Lenovo, Gigabyte, and even Acer are developing their own handheld gaming devices. Expect more competition, innovation, and potentially lower prices.



Laptop-Level Performance, Pocket Size

With the integration of newer AMD and Intel chips, handhelds are approaching laptop-grade performance in palm-sized devices.



Hybrid Local & Cloud Gaming

With better Wi-Fi (and upcoming Wi-Fi 7), handhelds could become true hybrid gaming machines—stream games on the go, and plug into docks at home for full 4K play.







Conclusion

Handheld gaming PCs aren’t just a nostalgic comeback. They represent a new era of mobile-first, PC-level gaming. For players who are always on the move—or who just want a more flexible gaming lifestyle—these devices offer freedom like never before.



Whether you’re a casual gamer, a PC enthusiast, or someone tired of sitting at a desk, your next gaming rig might just fit in your hands.

In recent years, a familiar yet reinvented product category has been quietly reshaping the gaming landscape: handheld gaming PCs.

The Rise of Handheld Gaming PCs and Future Trends

If you want to play video games, aside from the simple and convenient home consoles like the PS5 or Xbox, you also have the option of choosing between a gaming desktop or a gaming laptop. So, should you build a gaming PC or buy a gaming laptop? The answer depends on several factors:

Some people, due to work or personal reasons, need to travel frequently or can't stay in the same place for long. In this case, a gaming laptop is definitely the more convenient choice. It’s easy to carry around, and it can serve both work and gaming purposes, making it a very practical option.

Can You Accept Slightly Lower Performance?

Even if both systems are equipped with an RTX 5080 graphics card, there is still a noticeable difference in performance between a desktop and a laptop. Desktops are larger in size and draw power directly from a wall outlet, so they’re not limited by power constraints. 

Laptops, on the other hand, rely on power adapters and have more compact designs. Without effective power and thermal management, laptops can overheat, which may shorten their lifespan. If high performance is a top priority, a gaming desktop is the better choice.

Laptops take up less space, combining the monitor, keyboard, and main components into a single unit. Desktops, in contrast, require space for the case itself and additional room for peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Compared to laptops, desktops definitely require more space for setup.

For the same specifications, a gaming laptop will generally be more expensive than a desktop PC. If you don’t need portability and have enough space, building a gaming desktop will offer the best value for money.





If you want to play video games, aside from the simple and convenient home consoles like the PS5 or Xbox, you also have the option of choosing between a gaming desktop or a gaming laptop. So, should you build a gaming PC or buy a gaming laptop? The answer depends on several factors:



Do You Need Portability?

Some people, due to work or personal reasons, need to travel frequently or can't stay in the same place for long. In this case, a gaming laptop is definitely the more convenient choice. It’s easy to carry around, and it can serve both work and gaming purposes, making it a very practical option.







Can You Accept Slightly Lower Performance?

Even if both systems are equipped with an RTX 5080 graphics card, there is still a noticeable difference in performance between a desktop and a laptop. Desktops are larger in size and draw power directly from a wall outlet, so they’re not limited by power constraints. 



Laptops, on the other hand, rely on power adapters and have more compact designs. Without effective power and thermal management, laptops can overheat, which may shorten their lifespan. If high performance is a top priority, a gaming desktop is the better choice.







How Much Space Do You Have?

Laptops take up less space, combining the monitor, keyboard, and main components into a single unit. Desktops, in contrast, require space for the case itself and additional room for peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Compared to laptops, desktops definitely require more space for setup.







What About the Price?

For the same specifications, a gaming laptop will generally be more expensive than a desktop PC. If you don’t need portability and have enough space, building a gaming desktop will offer the best value for money.





Let's conduct an in-depth analysis for you based on usage needs, performance requirements, environment, and budget considerations.

Gaming PC vs. Gaming Laptop: Which One Is Better?

The two major GPU manufacturers both released their next-generation graphics cards in 2025, along with their latest AI-based image upscaling technologies — 

 are advanced AI-based image upscaling technologies designed to boost gaming performance while preserving visual quality.

These technologies allow games to be rendered at a lower resolution internally and then upscaled to higher resolutions using artificial intelligence. The result is higher frame rates and smoother gameplay — without significantly sacrificing image clarity.

FSR 4 is AMD’s first version to adopt machine learning techniques, likely using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to enhance image quality.

It upscales lower-resolution frames to higher resolutions and can generate intermediate frames to increase frame rate.

FSR 4 AI-Enhanced Upscaling plus Frame Generation

FSR 4 not only upscales low-resolution images to high resolution but also inserts intermediate frames to boost frame rates.

Offers multiple quality presets — Performance, Balanced, and Quality — to give users control over performance vs. image clarity.

, with AMD aiming to reach over 75 supported titles by the end of 2025.

DLSS 4 uses NVIDIA’s advanced deep learning model, powered by Tensor Cores, which are dedicated AI processing units on RTX 50 series GPUs.

One of DLSS 4’s biggest strengths is its ability to generate entirely new frames, dramatically increasing FPS without overloading the GPU.

DLSS 4 works with NVIDIA Reflex to reduce latency, keeping gameplay responsive even at high frame rates.

, making it more broadly available than FSR 4.

As FSR continues to evolve and potentially adds multi-frame generation in future updates, the gap between AMD and NVIDIA is narrowing — making this an exciting time for PC gamers and developers alike.





The two major GPU manufacturers both released their next-generation graphics cards in 2025, along with their latest AI-based image upscaling technologies — FSR 4 and DLSS 4.



FSR 4 (FidelityFX Super Resolution 4) by AMD and DLSS 4 (Deep Learning Super Sampling 4) by NVIDIA are advanced AI-based image upscaling technologies designed to boost gaming performance while preserving visual quality.







These technologies allow games to be rendered at a lower resolution internally and then upscaled to higher resolutions using artificial intelligence. The result is higher frame rates and smoother gameplay — without significantly sacrificing image clarity.



FSR 4 – AMD’s Approach







Machine Learning Upgrade

FSR 4 is AMD’s first version to adopt machine learning techniques, likely using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to enhance image quality.







Upscaling + Frame Interpolation

It upscales lower-resolution frames to higher resolutions and can generate intermediate frames to increase frame rate.



FSR 4 AI-Enhanced Upscaling plus Frame Generation

FSR 4 not only upscales low-resolution images to high resolution but also inserts intermediate frames to boost frame rates.







Modes

Offers multiple quality presets — Performance, Balanced, and Quality — to give users control over performance vs. image clarity.







Hardware Support

Currently limited to AMD’s Radeon RX 9000 series.



Game Support

Works only with games that support FSR 3.1, with AMD aiming to reach over 75 supported titles by the end of 2025.







DLSS 4 – NVIDIA’s Latest Evolution







Deep Learning Core

DLSS 4 uses NVIDIA’s advanced deep learning model, powered by Tensor Cores, which are dedicated AI processing units on RTX 50 series GPUs.



Multi-Frame Generation

One of DLSS 4’s biggest strengths is its ability to generate entirely new frames, dramatically increasing FPS without overloading the GPU.







Reflex Integration

DLSS 4 works with NVIDIA Reflex to reduce latency, keeping gameplay responsive even at high frame rates.







Wider Adoption

Already supported by over 100 games, making it more broadly available than FSR 4.



Key Differences at a Glance

As FSR continues to evolve and potentially adds multi-frame generation in future updates, the gap between AMD and NVIDIA is narrowing — making this an exciting time for PC gamers and developers alike.





AI-based image upscaling technologies developed by AMD and NVIDIA to improve gaming performance while maintaining image quality close to native resolution.

FSR 4 vs. DLSS 4 - AI-based Image Upscaling Technology

While many modern games come with built-in benchmarks to help you instantly assess whether your system runs the game smoothly or if settings are too high or too low, not everyone buys a PC just for gaming. For productivity or professional use, third-party benchmarking tools are a better way to measure your system's performance through detailed data.

Developed by Maxon, Cinebench R23 is a free CPU benchmarking tool that evaluates both single-core and multi-core performance using the Cinema 4D rendering engine to simulate real 3D scene rendering. It’s one of the most widely used benchmarking standards in the industry and among DIY enthusiasts. Bonus: It also supports macOS!

Created by CPUID, CPU-Z is a popular tool for viewing detailed hardware information. It also includes a built-in benchmark module that tests both single-core and multi-core performance using compute-heavy tasks. Unlike Cinebench, it doesn’t simulate real-world scenarios but provides quick and simple performance data.

3DMark is a professional-grade benchmarking tool for testing GPU and overall system performance. It can simulate gaming scenarios, heavy graphics rendering, ray tracing, and more—providing a performance score based on your hardware.In addition to GPU tests (like ray tracing and DirectX 12), it can also evaluate CPU performance. 3DMark is an all-in-one solution, but it comes with a price tag.

FurMark is a stress-testing tool specifically for GPUs. It pushes your graphics card to its limits with a highly demanding "furry donut" rendering, helping you test stability, temperature, and cooling efficiency. This type of testing is often referred to as a “burn-in test.” Thanks to its signature rotating donut graphics, FurMark is jokingly nicknamed "the donut test."





While many modern games come with built-in benchmarks to help you instantly assess whether your system runs the game smoothly or if settings are too high or too low, not everyone buys a PC just for gaming. For productivity or professional use, third-party benchmarking tools are a better way to measure your system's performance through detailed data.



Recommended CPU Benchmark Tools

Cinebench R23 – Free

Developed by Maxon, Cinebench R23 is a free CPU benchmarking tool that evaluates both single-core and multi-core performance using the Cinema 4D rendering engine to simulate real 3D scene rendering. It’s one of the most widely used benchmarking standards in the industry and among DIY enthusiasts. Bonus: It also supports macOS!







CPU-Z Benchmark – Free

Created by CPUID, CPU-Z is a popular tool for viewing detailed hardware information. It also includes a built-in benchmark module that tests both single-core and multi-core performance using compute-heavy tasks. Unlike Cinebench, it doesn’t simulate real-world scenarios but provides quick and simple performance data.







Recommended GPU Benchmark Tools

3DMark Benchmark – Paid

3DMark is a professional-grade benchmarking tool for testing GPU and overall system performance. It can simulate gaming scenarios, heavy graphics rendering, ray tracing, and more—providing a performance score based on your hardware.In addition to GPU tests (like ray tracing and DirectX 12), it can also evaluate CPU performance. 3DMark is an all-in-one solution, but it comes with a price tag.







FurMark Benchmark – Free

FurMark is a stress-testing tool specifically for GPUs. It pushes your graphics card to its limits with a highly demanding "furry donut" rendering, helping you test stability, temperature, and cooling efficiency. This type of testing is often referred to as a “burn-in test.” Thanks to its signature rotating donut graphics, FurMark is jokingly nicknamed "the donut test."





Get to Know the 4 Most Popular Benchmarking Tools for Testing CPUs and GPUs Today.

Recommended Software for Testing CPU and GPU Performance

Most motherboards on the market come with four RAM slots, but that doesn't mean filling all four is the best option. The optimal number of RAM sticks depends on the balance between stability and performance you're aiming for.

Recommended Setup: Two Sticks in Dual-Channel

If your motherboard has four slots, the best configuration is usually 

While filling all four slots might look visually pleasing, it doesn’t necessarily mean better performance—and may even cause problems:

Key Things to Keep in Mind When Installing RAM:

To maximize performance, install the RAM in the 

Mixing RAM sticks with different brands or frequencies can lead to compatibility issues or prevent your system from booting properly.





Most motherboards on the market come with four RAM slots, but that doesn't mean filling all four is the best option. The optimal number of RAM sticks depends on the balance between stability and performance you're aiming for.



Recommended Setup: Two Sticks in Dual-Channel

If your motherboard has four slots, the best configuration is usually two RAM sticks. Here’s why:





Maximum RAM performance: Two sticks allow for dual-channel memory, significantly boosting speed compared to a single stick.



Faster boot times: With only two sticks, the system performs fewer checks during startup.



Dual-channel advantages: The CPU can access two RAM modules simultaneously, increasing data transfer speed dramatically.



Room for future upgrades: You still have two empty slots for easy expansion down the line.







What Happens If You Use Four Sticks?

While filling all four slots might look visually pleasing, it doesn’t necessarily mean better performance—and may even cause problems:





Slower boot times: The system takes longer to check all four modules during startup.



Compatibility issues: All four sticks must have identical specs (capacity, speed, etc.) or performance could suffer.



Reduced stability: Due to motherboard wiring design, having four sticks can cause latency issues that affect performance and stability.







Key Things to Keep in Mind When Installing RAM:

1. Correct Slot Placement

To maximize performance, install the RAM in the 2nd and 4th slots from the left (usually labeled DIMM A2 and B2).







2. Avoid Mixing Brands or Speeds

Mixing RAM sticks with different brands or frequencies can lead to compatibility issues or prevent your system from booting properly.





Here's what you need to know about how many RAM sticks to install for optimal performance — and key tips to watch out for.

RAM Demystified: How Many Sticks Are Best for Your PC?

Should you buy a prebuilt computer or choose your own components online and assemble it yourself at home? The answer depends on your needs, brand preferences, and personal habits. Both options have their pros and cons—let’s break down how to decide between a prebuilt PC and a DIY one.

If you’re a beginner, don’t want the hassle of building a PC, or just need a reliable computer for office tasks, a prebuilt PC is a solid choice. You’ll pay a bit more, but save a lot of time and avoid technical complications, especially when it comes to warranty and support.

If you’re knowledgeable about computer components, value performance for your money, and enjoy DIY projects, building your own PC is the way to go. Not only will you better understand your system, but you’ll also save money. Just make sure to research 

 before buying parts to avoid any major setbacks.





Should you buy a prebuilt computer or choose your own components online and assemble it yourself at home? The answer depends on your needs, brand preferences, and personal habits. Both options have their pros and cons—let’s break down how to decide between a prebuilt PC and a DIY one.



Option 1｜Prebuilt PC

Pros of Prebuilt PC:





Extremely Convenient: No need to choose individual components. Simply select a model that fits your budget and requirements, place the order, and use it right out of the box once it arrives.



Unified Warranty: Since all components are provided by the same brand, after-sales support tends to be more comprehensive. If an issue arises, you can deal directly with the brand.



Higher Stability: Internal components are carefully matched by the manufacturer, so hardware compatibility issues are rare.

Cons of Prebuilt PC:





Higher Cost: For the same specifications, a prebuilt PC typically costs around 20% more than a DIY one.



Limited Component Options: The parts are pre-selected by the manufacturer, leaving little room for customization.



Limited Upgrade Potential: Prebuilt systems often use proprietary motherboard or power supply designs to fit their cases, making future upgrades more difficult.







Option 2｜DIY PC

Pros of DIY PC:





Better Price-to-Performance Ratio: You can tailor your build to your specific needs and allocate your budget to the components that matter most to you.



Highly Customizable: Mix and match components from different brands to get the performance and aesthetics you prefer.



User-Friendly Installation: Most modern components are designed for easy installation, and following manuals usually gets the job done without issues.

Cons of DIY PC:





More Time-Consuming: Researching, selecting compatible parts, and assembling the PC all take considerable time and effort.



Scattered Warranties: Each part comes with its own warranty from a different manufacturer. If something breaks, you’ll need to contact the specific brand for service.



Greater Risk for Beginners: Even though installation is simpler than before, cable management—especially for the motherboard—can still be tricky. Incorrect wiring can lead to boot failure or even hardware damage.







So, Which Should You Choose?

Best for Prebuilt PC Users:

If you’re a beginner, don’t want the hassle of building a PC, or just need a reliable computer for office tasks, a prebuilt PC is a solid choice. You’ll pay a bit more, but save a lot of time and avoid technical complications, especially when it comes to warranty and support.







Best for DIY PC Users:

If you’re knowledgeable about computer components, value performance for your money, and enjoy DIY projects, building your own PC is the way to go. Not only will you better understand your system, but you’ll also save money. Just make sure to research compatibility issues and best practices before buying parts to avoid any major setbacks.





Prebuilt PCs are more suitable for office work or general use, while DIY PCs are better for gamers seeking the best value for performance.

Prebuilt PC vs. DIY PC: Which Is the Smarter Choice?

As an enthusiast of games and computer DIY in this age, we, darkFlash, feel proud and grateful for keep thinking how to develop impressive and extraordinary products with high-end facilities by assembling and using the PC cases, CPU coolers, case fans, and even gaming chairs and tables in person.

Our goal is to create products that could extremely exert its effect by every user.