Woot is selling a Grade A Refurbished Nintendo Switch 2 bundle with Mario Kart World for $419, a $20 drop from last week's price. The deal arrives just before Nintendo raises the console's MSRP to $499.99 on September 1, making this the lowest price yet for the new hardware.
Dell Outlet has restocked a refurbished Alienware Area-51 desktop packing an RTX 5090, 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 4TB SSD for $5,044 with a full warranty. The configuration represents a notable discount compared to current component pricing, though it remains firmly out of reach for most buyers.
The Belkin Charging Grip for Nintendo Switch 2 offers a magnetic, 10,000mAh battery solution that's convenient but compromised by weight and comfort issues. While it extends playtime significantly, its design flaws make it less desirable for handheld use. At $60, it's a pricey accessory with mixed benefits.
Nintendo is investigating the development of a Switch 2 OLED model, according to a recent report. The new variant would enhance the console's display capabilities but the company is cautious due to potential price increases. This move could impact the console's market competitiveness.
Dell is offering a rare 50% discount on the Alienware 16X Aurora, loaded with a GeForce RTX 5070, 64GB of RAM, and a 4TB SSD, now at $2,479.99. This configuration is ideal for gamers seeking high-performance hardware. The deal surpasses the previous lowest price by over $500.
The Steam Machines' "Red Line of Death" is not as ominous as its name suggests. Instead, this feature serves as a helpful performance indicator for gamers, providing clear feedback on system limits. For Steam Machine users, this line is more about optimization insights than a cause for alarm.
Logitech's G316 X gaming keyboard boasts promising features like hot-swappable switches and a 30-zone RGB light bar but falls short due to its stiff, non-tactile switches. Despite its clacky sound, the keyboard struggles with in-game performance, especially in fast-paced games like Counter-Strike 2. Priced at $120, it faces tough competition from more capable and affordable alternatives.
The Nex Playground console effectively encourages kids to move with its motion control games, but its appeal wears off quickly due to limited depth and shovelware titles. Despite outselling expectations, its $300 price tag and $89/year Play Pass raise questions about long-term value. Nex Playground works for its intended purpose but lacks staying power.
Microsoft and Apple's recent price hikes for Xbox consoles, iPads, and Macs are just the beginning, as Big Tech warns of an impending surge in gaming hardware costs due to component shortages. Expect next-gen consoles from Microsoft and potentially Sony to launch at record-high prices. The gaming industry braces for a significant price increase in the coming years.
Valve's highly anticipated Steam Machine reservations have been marred by scalpers selling reservations on eBay at more than double the retail price. Despite Valve's randomized system aimed at fairness, scalpers have managed to secure and resale reservations, with mark-ups reaching as high as $1,550. This development leaves many genuine buyers in a waitlist limbo, unsure when they'll get their chance to purchase at the standard price.
