Smart Year-End Upgrades

Last year we had a really interesting time as we slowly transitioned from one position within the world of computers to another. We are not just talking about the slow upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11. We are talking about whole new architecture built around new platforms, the rise of AI integration in ways that might actually make sense, and a return to well-designed hardware. It is actually quite an exciting time around here! So, the question remains, what kind of upgrades should you make before the year is out? Well, let’s take a look and see!

The Casual User

The casual user is a very unique type of person who likes computers, uses them on the daily to do their tasks, and often times finds the perfect device is one that also happens to be good enough. Whether they are surfing the web, checking out what people are doing on social media, or enjoying some Solitaire, power isn’t really a consideration. Instead, they (or you) want something that just gets the job done. Nothing flashy or over the top.

When it comes to a new computer, I would suggest the stylish FC0510DS Multi-Touch Notebook from HP. There is enough power under the hood to do pretty much any basic task needed whether you are checking email or even chatting with folks online. There are some solid port choices here including both USB-A and USB-C ports, so you can connect just about any other device you need. Speaking of peripherals, the HP notebook includes a matching mouse, so you don’t have to go shopping for that!

Speaking of mice, if you are looking for an upgrade or for a replacement, the standard mouse is never a bad choice, especially if you are a more relaxed user. Logitech’s M100 mouse should be called “ole reliable” because of how long it has been in use by tons of people! It is a basic, cost-effective solution suitable for casual users and those who feel a bit better knowing they have a backup. Alternatively, the Kensington Pro Fit Wireless Mouse is a good option if you don’t like cables and want something more form fitting to your hand. It also has additional buttons, which is a solid plus!

Sometimes, you want a real solid keyboard without breaking the bank. Now, I’ve written all about the different types of keyboards out there, and I have a ton of great suggestions. But I think it’s worth pulling two classics out: the HP 150 Wired Keyboard and the Kensington Keyboard for Life. Both of these keyboards are great for the average, everyday user who just wants something that works. There are no flashy features, no custom lights or programmable macro buttons. If you’re looking for something that gets the job done, these are some of your best options.

I do feel that everyone who uses a computer should also have some form of off-device storage to back up important files. In some cases, cloud storage options are great, but they come at a reoccurring monthly cost. So, a solid upgrade to this whole situation would be getting a portable drive like the Toshiba 1TB Canvio Ready. It’s one of the more affordable options out there, and it does the trick for those who just want to keep some files on the side. It also comes in 2TB and 4TB models at a higher premium, but for now I think drives like this would be a smart purchase for anyone who doesn’t have one already.

The Creative

Creatives tend to use specialty items that help uplift their current workload. It is more than just buying a new computer; it can sometimes be getting a new drawing tablet or a unique controller to assist with various applications. Sometimes, an upgrade can come in the form of a bright, new display!

I would like to start with some basic peripherals that could completely change the way you work. The Logitech MX Creative Console is just one of those devices that can help streamline your workload in ways you never thought! It comes in two pieces, a keypad and a controller knob. They work together to help with managing various software suites. Each button on the keypad has a small screen that changes to various shortcuts depending on what software you load up. You can even set the keypad to open applications, in which the keypad will automatically change settings to that platform. It offers a new way to interact with your software and help with fine-tuning your projects!

Anytime we are talking about creativity and the devices to help, the Logitech MX Master 4 always comes into the frame. This is a wonderful mouse that I personally use on a daily basis. It has a comfortable feeling that melds well with my hand, giving a home to every finger. The thumb gets a bit of a workout thanks to the three programmable side buttons and unique haptic feedback pad that enables me to pull up my most-used shortcuts and interact with various applications in new and interesting ways.

For artists who want something that can do just about everything, the Wacom MovinkPad Pro is a wonderful device! I have talked about this particular device at great length before, but to give you the short of it, I found it to be a wonderful tablet that isn’t made for just drawing. I was watching some of my favorite streaming media on this, as well as reading a few comics. It might be a bit awkward to pull out on the train, but the screen really does make everything pop!

A real solid display can go a long way, as we already know. Designers and editors alike would get huge uplift in details and colorization in a variety of ways thanks to displays like the ASUS ProArt series. The ProArt PA279CRV is a great baseline monitor to look at because it happens to feature 4K resolution, plenty of inputs to support multiple devices, and also has tons of compatibility with multiple color spaces, making this a great display for editors of all types. Perhaps you want something a bit more color-filled and brighter, in which case I can point you to the PA279CDV, which sports an OLED panel, making it more expensive but also more capable. You get 4K resolution with 120 Hz refresh rate, tons of inputs, a higher degree of color support, wider contrast ratio, and so much more! Definitely check this one out if you are looking for a solid OLED panel that doesn’t break the bank.

The Professional

Professionals all over really put a ton of emphasis on reliability. What is going to work the best and the longest without consulting the local IT professional? There are a few smart suggestions we can make when it comes to upgrading one’s setup. I will say right off the cuff that the Logitech MX Master 4 mouse I previously mentioned is absolutely a must-have here as well. But there are tons of other devices that can help provide some sort of ease of use within the professional world. Sometimes it revolves around performance, sometimes it is aesthetics, and the rest of the time it is both.

I have found myself becoming fond of the Logitech Signature Comfort Plus MK880 keyboard and mouse combo. Designed with business professionals in mind, both the mouse and keyboard contain cushions to help add some relief, ideal for folks like me who spend a majority of their day typing away at articles. On top of the cushions, the keyboard and mouse feel really nice to use, premium without being too over the top. There are also some slight ergonomics at work here, adding a bit of a curve that doesn’t seem as drastic as other keyboards I have used. Although, if you are looking for deep ergonomics, the Logitech Wave Keys is a good alternative, along with the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo.

Some folks like to use their work laptop as the centerpiece of their desktop setup. This is where the OWC Thunderbolt Dock comes into play. While this is designed to work with Thunderbolt 4 systems, it does have a level of scalability with other USB-C standards but just know that milage may vary. Aside from that, the Thunderbolt Dock is a wonderful addition to anyone’s desk. It offers support for multiple devices, has a ton of USB-A and USB-C ports, can charge your laptop while in use thanks to the passthrough option, and it even supports up to two 4K displays!

I care a lot about storage, especially these days where higher capacities tend to skyrocket in price. SanDisk has come out with the 1TB USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable Drive. This pint-sized drive is incredibly easy to bring with you on your travels while also acting as a solid backup for the most important files in your directory. It offers quick upload and download speeds when connected to your device, and recently we have used this to help transfer video files from my laptop over to the video team’s desk! It’s definitely worth having!

The Gamer

Gaming is my personal passion. There is no better feeling than racing around a track or running across the virtual battlefield after a hard day’s work. There are plenty of smart tools to upgrade to when it comes to gamers. Personally, I have made a ton of upgrades myself within this category, so here’s looking at what I can suggest for either you or the gaming enthusiast in your life.

Logitech G has a huge collection that constantly grows with each passing month. Over the last year, they released a ton of devices for all sorts of skill levels. They even made a few refreshes to the beloved devices that people have been using for ages now! One of these devices is the G502 X Plus LIGHTSPEED mouse! It is based on the original G502 HERO, which is still a fan favorite! Features like the optical HERO sensor and programmable buttons are still present, but the real change is the G502 X Plus’s wireless capabilities, which can deliver performance similar to a wired mouse!

When it comes to keyboards, there are three options that I think make really smart upgrade choices. Going from a basic keyboard to something more substantial means a whole lot especially when it comes to overall build quality and competitive capabilities. Razer has been best known for developing incredibly useful keyboards that blend style and performance into one complete package. This is why a keyboard like the BlackWidow V4 Pro is so sought after, as it provides competitive gamers with a strong foundation complete with mechanical switches, dedicated macro keys, and a command dial for expanded control.

The Keychron Q1 HE QMK is one of these keyboards that blend modern, clean aesthetics with gaming level performance. It’s compact and lightweight, taking up less room on the desk while providing a full set of function keys. There is also the Q5 HE QMK which is similar but features a numpad for added utility.

Finally, I can suggest the Logitech G PRO X2 TKL RAPID keyboard. This is designed with competitors in mind, allowing users to fine-tune their experience without the need for additional software. You can adjust actuation force, Rapid Trigger effect, and even set Key Priority right on the small OLED display and roller found on the right corner of the keyboard. I have been using this for my competitive games and I really love the level of customization as well as the overall feeling and typing experience.

Aside from the various peripherals, I firmly believe that a good headset will do wonders and could perhaps be the best upgrade one can make when it comes to gaming. Currently, I am a huge fan of the ASTRO Gaming A50 X! Yes, it is rather pricy, but it is the best solution if you happen to have multiple systems. They also provide some of the best sound I have ever heard, immersing me deep into my favorite games with customizable profiles for both the audio output as well as the attached mic.

If you are a single-platform gamer, then headsets like the Razer BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed and the new Logitech G Pro X3 LIGHTSPEED are both fantastic options! Both headsets have a lot in common with wireless connectivity options, multi-device support, memory foam ear cushions, and adjustable boom mics. The Pro X3 LIGHTSPEED does have wide audio support in terms of sound quality. Deciding on which one to get comes down to look and feel. Personally, I have been a huge fan of the ASTRO Gaming A50 X but all of them are great! You can’t really go wrong with choosing any of these but also check out that list if you want a bit more context behind each of these.

I would say that the last real upgrade a gamer can make to their setup is getting a better monitor. In a perfect world where your components are able to handle just about anything you throw at it, I would say a good OLED panel will pull you in. The ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG32UCDS is a great 4K display with a blazing-fast 165 Hz refresh rate. If you are like me and really enjoy the world of 21:9 aspect ratios, then you’ll take pleasure knowing that the ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDG exists. It does have a lower resolution, but I find the form factor to be absolutely delightful as the widened view immerses me further into my favorite games whether I am racing on the track or exploring vast landscapes.

I also must mention the absolute widest monitors that I have seen with my own two eyes, the Samsung Odyssey QD-OLED G91SD. This is a super-ultrawide gaming monitor with a massive footprint of 49-inches at a 32:9 aspect ratio. This is a lot of monitor here, and for many that is fine! Not every game supports this aspect ratio but that is fine! Because you have plenty of space and features to help manage screen real estate.

These are a few of the smartest upgrades that you could make when it comes to your desk setup. While I did go over a ton of products here, I would definitely check out the links to learn more about every single thing we have discussed here. If you want more, stick around B&H.