Brian Fagioli

One of the best things about operating systems based on the Linux kernel is they can sometimes be very lightweight. Why is this important? Well, when an OS uses very few resources, it can breathe new life into an aging PC. In other words, just because Windows 7 or Windows 10 run like molasses on your old computer, that doesn't mean you have to buy a new one. The right Linux distribution can make your older PC feel fast and new.

One of the most popular lightweight Linux-based operating systems is Linux Lite. Heck, the name of the distribution tells you that it is designed to use few resources! Version 4.4 is now available, and as per usual, it is based on the latest Ubuntu LTS -- 18.04. The Xfce desktop environment will feel familiar to those switching from Windows. Those new to Linux will also appreciate the easy access to many popular programs, such as Skype, Steam, and Spotify. Even the excellent Microsoft Office alternative, LibreOffice, is included.

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During both the 8-bit and 16-bit video game console eras, Nintendo was king. The NES was much better than the Sega Master System, while the Super Nintendo Entertainment System was far superior to the Genesis. In both eras, Nintendo had better controllers and a greater game library. Sure, Genesis had some good games too, such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Altered Beast, but SNES had Nintendo's classic mascots that many people desired, such as Mario, Kirby, and Link to name a few.

Now, following in Nintendo's footsteps (see SNES Classic and NES Classic), Sega is releasing a mini version of a classic console -- Genesis. Yes, if you were a Sega fan back in the 16-bit era, you will be able to buy a tiny version of that gaming system and relive those years. Hopefully Genesis Mini will turn out better than the much-maligned Sony PlayStation Classic, which offered terrible emulation.

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For the most part, I am not a fan of Super Hero movies or TV shows. Fighting crime with magical powers seems silly to me. As a child I loved comic books, but as an adult, I have no time for such nonsense. With that said, there are two exceptions -- Deadpool and the Christopher Nolan Batman films are enjoyable to me. This is probably because they are more adult-focused.

There is a new DC Comics movie coming out called Shazam!, and holy cow, it looks horrid (you can see the trailer below). Based on the TV commercials, it seems to be very childish and goofy -- I will skip this one. Maybe it will be good; who knows. Microsoft seems keen on Shazam!, however, as today it announces a new limited-edition Xbox One X console inspired by the film. How rare is it? There are only two, and both are being given away in a new raffle. So, yes, you have a chance to win one. The problem? It is very ugly. The colors are terrible, and the controller customization looks like it was an afterthought.

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Ubuntu is a great operating system. In fact, it has been so good for so long that many people take it for granted. Seriously, folks, think about how remarkable it is that such a high-quality Linux distribution is available for free. Despite it not costing anything, Ubuntu is arguably superior to the much-maligned Windows 10. Microsoft's operating system actually costs money now, and many users didn't even upgrade when it was offered for free.

Today, Canonical's operating system reaches a major milestone. You see, Ubuntu 19.04, which is named "Disco Dingo," has achieved Beta status. And yes, you can download it immediately -- a great way to get this weekend started! Fans of GNOME will be glad to know that version 3.32 is included in the standard Ubuntu Desktop release. Also cool? This is the first version of Ubuntu to use Linux kernel 5.

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Android fans should be in heaven right now -- there are several excellent smartphones on the market from companies like LG, Samsung, Huawei, and more. Let us not forget about Google's own Pixel phones too. Quite frankly, picking an Android device can be a bit overwhelming, but I suppose too much choice is a good problem to have!

Today, LG announces that its highly anticipated smartphone, the LG G8 ThinQ, is coming to America. Yes, if you are in the USA, you will be able to get it next month. Should you be excited? Uh, yes, because this phone has some revolutionary technology.

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If your computer has an NVMe M.2 slot, you should absolutely be using it. Look, I'm sure that SATA solid state drive you have is great and all, but the difference in performance can be significant. With prices dropping and speeds increasing, you really should upgrade to an NVMe variant if you have the cash -- it is a "no brainer."

There are many solid NVMe SSDs on the market from respectable manufacturers, and today, another one enters the market. Called "VPN100," it is a new drive from Viper Gaming with a pre-installed black heatsink that should help performance through cooling. Not familiar with Viper Gaming? While not widely known, enthusiasts know Viper to be the gaming brand of Patriot Memory -- a high-quality company. This SSD is very speedy, thanks in part to its Phison E12 PCIe Gen 3 x 4 NVMe controller.

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Google may be the world's most popular search engine, but that doesn't necessarily mean it is the best. Don't forget, Google is notorious for tracking users and logging search activity. Not to mention, there are many other search engines out there, such as Microsoft's Bing, Yahoo, and DuckDuckGo to name a few.

Believe it or not, a lesser-known search engine, Startpage.com, has defeated Google (and all others) to become the search champion! You see, following an in-depth investigation, German organization "Stiftung Warentest" has declared the search engine to be the best. Not familiar with that organization? Please know, it is similar to Consumer Reports in the USA. So yeah, this is a big deal. And yes, Startpage.com also defeated fellow privacy-focused search engine DuckDuckGo.

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If you need a streaming media box, Roku is an excellent choice. Even if your television is a "smart" variant, it is still wise to add a Roku media box to it. Why? Despite redundant functionality, the apps built into smart TVs are often terrible. Look, you want to enjoy yourself while watching videos or listening to music, right? There is no time to fiddle around with a deficient experience. Not to mention, a Roku box is extremely affordable -- you will be glad you bought it.

But what if you don't already have a television? In that case, you should consider a Roku TV -- a television set with a Roku built in. In other words, it is a smart TV that is actually, you know, smart. Can't afford a new television? No worries -- Roku is giving one away. And no, the prize is not a third-rate TV with lesser specs. Actually, it is a 65-inch 4K model from Hisense.

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As Apple's hardware business begins to show signs of decline, HUAWEI keeps pushing forward and succeeding. In many ways, HUAWEI has surpassed Apple in the design department. The latest iPhone smartphones are boring and ugly due to huge notches, while HUAWEI's Android offerings are exciting, fresh, and elegant. Apple has long been seen as the king of mobile photography, but HUAWEI is making huge strides here too, with superb cameras. Even on the laptop front, HUAWEI's offerings are besting Apple's much-maligned MacBook Pro (2016-2018).

Today, after several leaks, Huawei officially unveils its P30 Series of Android smartphones. There are two models from which to choose -- the P30 and the P30 Pro. The former features a 6.1-inch display, while the latter has a 6.47-inch screen. Both models have a 2340 x 1080 resolution and a very small notch (take notes, Apple). They both also share the same octa-core Kirin 980 processor -- RAM and storage will vary based on configuration. And yes, the cameras on both models should be great, but the Pro model in particular will provide an advanced photography experience.

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While Zyxel may not be a household name for the average consumer, the company has been making quality networking gear for many years. I have picked up several of its products in my time, and have always been satisfied.

Today, Zyxel launches a new networking product for home consumers. Called "Multy U", it is a very stylish 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) mesh Wi-Fi system. While all the specifications are respectable, it is the cute design that really makes it stand out. Seriously, folks, it is super adorable! You can hang each access point on the wall with a lanyard, for instance, plus it features a beautiful pulsating LED light (which you can turn off).

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Apple has done very well financially under Tim Cook, but the company's hardware is starting to lose its luster. iPhone sales are down, and the Mac line continues to be a confused mess -- "Flexgate" and an unreliable keyboard plague the once great MacBook Pro. We still don't have the promised new Mac Pro, and AirPower is missing in action too. While Apple Watch and AirPods are successful, I still hate them both -- the former has a terrible user interface, while the latter can hurt some users' ears (including mine). Quite frankly, I suspect most folks simply use Airpods and Watch as status symbols and for fashion -- their staying power may be limited.

So now, Apple is trying to pivot to services, and that's a very good idea. The problem? Its News+ service is lacking key news sources, such as The New York Times, for instance. Apple TV+ is a Netflix-like video service with exclusive Apple original content, which, let’s be honest, will probably be lame. Ultimately, I don't envision News+ or TV+ being successful. Thankfully, Tim Cook and company seemingly got one thing right today, Apple Arcade -- an upcoming video game subscription service for iOS, macOS, and Apple TV which will offer access to more than 100 premium games.

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Content creation is huge these days, with everyone wanting to be the next big internet star. Not only are people doing podcasts, internet radio shows, and YouTube videos, but they are streaming themselves playing games too, on platforms like Twitch.

If you want to stand out from all of the other creators flooding the web, you should obviously create enjoyable content and offer a unique personality. Talent isn't everything, however, as the technical aspect is important too. For instance, people want clear video -- nothing dark or grainy. Arguably more important is audio -- no one wants to struggle to hear your voice. Today, HyperX launches a new product that should enhance your audio experience -- the premium QuadCast Microphone.

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Ever hear of Devon Island? Yeah, neither have I. Apparently, it is an island in Canada that is referred to as "Mars on Earth" by some, including Google. Why? Because of its similar terrain/environment to the "red planet."

You see, the search giant seems very excited about bringing its popular Google Street view to this location. Truth be told, at first, I thought Google actually had miraculously brought Street View to the actual planet of Mars (silly me), but upon further investigation, my excitement was quickly extinguished when I discovered it was just a place here on Earth. But OK, I guess it's still kind of cool.

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If you have a lot of disposable income, and you are a technology enthusiast, then buying a $600 router, such as the upcoming drool-worthy NETGEAR Nighthawk RAX200 isn't so crazy. Look, there's nothing wrong with being an early adopter -- spend your money as you want! Many consumers, however, simply can't afford such high-end networking gear -- even if they want the latest and greatest.

Thankfully, a quality wireless router doesn't have to cost more than $500. Hell, you can get a very nice router for less than $100! One company in particular that focuses on the common consumer -- the "every man," if you will -- is TP-Link. Its routers are very well regarded by both professional reviewers and shoppers alike. It's not hard to see why that is either -- not only are its products affordable, but high-quality too. I often recommend TP-Link products to friends and family.

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I crave juice. No, not apple, orange, or any other fruit drink -- I am addicted to electricity. Look, we are all hopelessly dependent on our mobile devices these days. Between laptops, smartphones, and tablets, there is hardly a moment in the day when I'm not staring at a screen. Even when I am watching TV (yet another display), I have my iPad in hand for a second screen experience -- I play a lot of Words With Friends while watching The Big Bang Theory reruns.

All of this heavy device usage at home is fine, because there are many power outlets available when batteries get low. When I am on the go, however, it is a very different story. All joking aside, I get anxiety if I'm out of the house and my iPhone battery dies. What if I get lost? What if I need to call 911?  What if I need to snap a quick photograph? A nightmare! Thankfully, USB power packs/banks can solve this dilemma. If you aren't familiar, it is simply a battery with a USB port (or ports) that can charge your devices.

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