This system is built for enthusiasts who want top-tier performance without building their own rig. With AMD’s latest X3D processor, Nvidia’s most powerful GPU, and fast DDR5 memory, it’s aimed squarely at gamers chasing the highest frame rates at 4K and beyond.

Why we like this CLX Set Gaming PC deal

Even with a relatively modest percentage discount, this PC brings together some of the most desirable components on the market in a ready-to-go build. For buyers who want the best gaming PC with zero setup hassle, the current price makes this flagship system slightly more approachable.

Gaming-focused Ryzen 9 X3D CPU

The Ryzen 9 9900X3D uses AMD’s 3D V-Cache technology to boost gaming performance in CPU-limited and competitive titles. What this means for your FPS is smoother frame delivery at 1080p and 1440p in esports games, while still having more than enough power for demanding open-world and simulation titles that lean heavily on the processor.

RTX 5090 for 4K and ray tracing

Nvidia’s RTX 5090 is built for extreme workloads, which makes this PC ideal for 4K ultra settings with ray tracing and DLSS enabled. In practical terms, you’re getting a GPU that can push high frame rates in today’s most demanding games and stay relevant for future releases that rely more on AI upscaling and advanced lighting effects.

Premium supporting parts

CLX rounds out the build with 32GB of DDR5 RGB memory, a roomy 2TB NVMe SSD, and a 360mm AIO cooler to keep temperatures in check. These parts matter for gaming because they reduce load times, keep multitasking smooth, and give the system thermal headroom for long play sessions without throttling.

What to consider before you buy

This is one of the best prices we’ve seen for this CLX Set build, but it’s still firmly in luxury PC territory, so it only makes sense if you plan to use its RTX 5090 and Ryzen 9 power for 4K gaming or heavy creative workloads. It has been slightly cheaper in the past, but given current flagship GPU pricing and the convenience of a fully assembled, warrantied system, this deal remains competitive.

If you’re gaming mostly at 1080p or 1440p and don’t need ray tracing at max settings, a far cheaper prebuilt will deliver better value. But for buyers who want a future-proof, no-compromise gaming PC right now, this $600 discount makes an already elite system easier to justify before the price go up again.

This board is built around AMD’s X870 chipset and packed with modern features like WiFi 7, PCIe 5.0, USB4, and multiple M.2 slots. It’s aimed at gamers and enthusiasts who want strong performance today with plenty of headroom for future CPUs, GPUs, and storage upgrades.

Why we like this ASUS ROG Strix X870-A deal

At just over $220, this motherboard delivers high-end features usually reserved for boards closer to $300. The discount makes it a strong pick for builders who want next-gen connectivity and solid power delivery without overspending on an extreme flagship model.

Built for high-performance Ryzen CPUs

With a 16+2+2 power stage design and robust cooling, the ROG Strix X870-A is well suited for Ryzen 7000 and newer processors, including X3D chips. What this means for your gaming is stable performance under load and the ability to run powerful CPUs without worrying about throttling during long gaming sessions.

PCIe 5.0 and fast storage support

The board includes PCIe 5.0 for GPUs and four M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs, giving you access to the fastest storage speeds available on consumer PCs. In real terms, that means quicker boot times, faster game installs, and reduced load screens in large open-world titles.

Modern connectivity with WiFi 7 and USB4

WiFi 7, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and USB4 bring this board firmly into next-gen territory for networking and peripherals. That’s especially useful if you game online, stream, or move large files regularly, since you’re not stuck with outdated ports or slower wireless performance.

What to consider before you buy

CamelCamelCamel confirms that it's one of the best prices for the ROG Strix X870-A, but it’s still an enthusiast-grade motherboard, so it only makes sense if you’re building on AMD’s AM5 platform. If you’re sticking with older AM4 CPUs or don’t need WiFi 7 and PCIe 5.0, a cheaper B650 board may offer better value.

That said, if you want the best gaming motherboard for a new Ryzen gaming PC with strong power delivery and modern features, this deal is well-timed. At nearly $77 off, the ROG Strix X870-A becomes a much more attractive option before the price jumps back up.

The Server Slam runs from February 26 through March 2, and it’s open to everyone on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.

When does Marathon Server Slam start?

Bungie has confirmed that Marathon Server Slam begins on February 26 at 10 AM PST. As always, that translates differently depending on your region.

Here are the confirmed global start times:

What is the Marathon Server Slam?

The Server Slam is a large-scale technical stress test ahead of launch. Unlike the earlier closed alpha, this weekend is open to all players and is designed to push the servers to their limits.

Because this is a stress test, Bungie has warned players to expect:

The goal is to gather data and improve stability before the official launch.

What’s included in the Server Slam?

During the playtest, players can:

Importantly, loot earned during the Server Slam will carry over to the full game if you decide to purchase Marathon at launch.

Why this LG C4 deal is worth considering

The C4 series sits in LG’s sweet spot, premium performance without the ultra-high pricing of the G series. At 83 inches, this is a true home theater display.

Self-lit OLED pixels

With over 8 million self-lit pixels, you get perfect blacks and exceptional contrast. OLED still leads the way in terms of cinematic picture quality.

Brightness Booster tech

LG’s Brightness Booster enhances individual pixel luminance, helping highlights pop while maintaining color accuracy.

Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos & Filmmaker Mode

You’re getting full support for high-end HDR formats plus immersive audio. FILMMAKER MODE ensures movies look as intended.

Built for gaming

This makes it ideal for PS5, Xbox Series X, or high-end PC gaming.

Who should buy this?

At this size, OLED deals don’t come around often, especially not on the latest 2024 model.

Final word

The 83-inch LG OLED evo C4, now at its lowest price ever, makes this one of the best premium TV deals currently available. If you’ve been holding off on going big with OLED, this is the kind of drop worth acting on.

If today’s board has you second-guessing your groupings, don’t worry, below is everything you need to know about puzzle #991 for February 26, including difficulty, hints, and the full answers.

Hints for today’s Connections groups

Here are four clues to help steer you toward the correct categories. They’re ordered from the easiest group to the toughest:

If you’d like a little extra help, here’s one word from each group:

Today’s Connections answers (February 26)

If you’re ready for the full solution, here it is:

🟨 Pivotal point: CROSSROADS, LANDMARK, MILESTONE, WATERSHED

🟩 Green things: GRASSHOPPER, SHAMROCK, STATUE OF LIBERTY, WASABI

🟦 Elements of joke-telling: CALLBACK, PUNCHLINE, SETUP, TIMING

🟪 “___ please”: ATTENTION, CHECK, DRUMROLL, PRETTY

Today’s grid leans pretty fair overall, but the purple group can still trip you up if you’re focused on synonyms instead of spotting a shared phrase pattern.

Can Connections get harder?

Connections doesn’t steadily ramp up in difficulty, but the NYT mixes category styles constantly. Some days are synonym-heavy, while others lean on pop culture, wordplay, or “fill in the blank” phrasing like today’s purple group.

If today clicked quickly, don’t get too comfy, tomorrow might test a totally different kind of pattern-spotting.

How difficult is today’s Mini Crossword? (February 26)

Today’s Mini Crossword leans moderate in difficulty. Most of the clues are fairly direct, but a couple require you to think about abbreviations or less obvious phrasing.

Mini Crossword hints for today (February 26)

Below are lightly reworded clues to nudge you in the right direction before scrolling to the answers.

Across

Down

Today’s Mini Crossword answers (February 26)

If you’re ready for the full solutions, here they are:

Across

Down

Quick solving tip

On Mini Crossword days, watch for abbreviations and shortened phrases, clues like directions, Latin terms, or brand references often signal compact answers. Because the grid is small, crossing letters are especially powerful, so filling in the most straightforward entries first can quickly unlock the trickier ones.

If today’s NYT Strands puzzle has you staring at the grid a little too long, you’re not alone. Strands can feel deceptively simple until you realize every single letter must be used, and the spangram often forces you to rethink the board. Below are a few spoiler-light clues to help you get moving, and if you’d rather jump straight to the full solution, that’s further down the page.

This guide covers NYT Strands puzzle #725, released on Thursday, February 26.

Today’s NYT Strands theme hint

Spangram hint

The spangram is two words combined into one, and it perfectly describes the overall theme of today’s puzzle.

If you need another push, it refers to speaking back with attitude.

Today’s NYT Strands answers (February 26)

Here are the answers, Spangram last:

Quick solving tip

When multiple words share a similar tone or personality trait, it’s often easier to group them conceptually first before scanning the board letter by letter. Once you lock in one adjective that fits the theme, look for others with a similar vibe. Strands themes tend to cluster tightly.

This guide covers Quordle game #1494, released on Thursday, February 26.

Quordle hints for today (February 26)

Here are a few spoiler-light hints to steer you in the right direction before the full answers:

Vowels:There are 3 different vowels used across today’s four answers.

Repeated letters:Two of today’s answers contain a repeated letter.

Uncommon letters (Q, Z, X, J):No, none of these letters appear in today’s set.

Starting letters:Today’s answers begin with:

Today’s Quordle answers (February 26)

If you’re ready to see the solutions, here they are (top-left to top-right, then bottom-left to bottom-right):

Quick solving tip

If one grid is refusing to cooperate, don’t brute-force it. Use a “coverage” guess that tests fresh consonants you haven’t tried yet; it often unlocks two boards at once, and it’s especially useful on days like this, where repeated letters can trick you into placing the same vowel in the wrong spot.

If you’re struggling with today’s puzzle, don’t worry, as we’ve got you covered with hints, clues, and the answer for today’s Wordle (Thursday, February 26).

What is the difficulty level for Wordle today? (February 26)

Today, the difficulty level for Wordle #1713 is moderate, as the word isn’t commonly used in everyday conversation.

What is the meaning of today’s Wordle?

Today’s word refers to a long, pointed weapon, often associated with medieval combat or jousting.

Wordle hints

If the clue wasn’t enough, here are a few hints that should get you going in the right direction.

Letter breakdown

What is today’s Wordle answer? (February 26)

As you can see above, we’ve shared a few hints and clues to help you solve today’s #1713 Wordle faster. However, if you still can’t figure it out, then you can check out the answer for today’s Wordle below:

Does Wordle get harder with time?

Wordle doesn’t inherently get harder, but the variation in difficulty is what Wordle is all about. Some days, you’ll be able to guess it instantly, but on others, you’ll be stuck for hours. In short, the challenge isn’t always the same, so every puzzle is different and unique. While the game itself doesn’t get harder each day, players who want a tougher challenge can turn on Hard Mode in the settings. You can also use a Wordle puzzle solver to assist when it gets too hard.

What are the last 10 Wordle answers?

Starting with the latest, the last 10 Wordle answers are SHRED, ATTIC, GUAVA, AWAKE, STANK, HOIST, MOGUL, SQUAD, ROOST, and SKULL. It’s important to keep them in mind, as Wordle doesn’t repeat recent words, so there’s no point in guessing these again.

This tri-band BE9700 router is built around WiFi 7 tech, which means higher speeds, lower latency, and better handling of lots of connected devices. With a 10G port, multiple 2.5G LAN ports, and wide coverage, it’s clearly designed for modern homes packed with consoles, PCs, smart TVs, and smart devices.

Why we like this TP-Link Tri-Band BE9700 deal

This router offers WiFi 7 and multi-gig wired networking. And at just $200, it’s one of the best routers right now. Of course, the discount isn’t massive, but considering how expensive early WiFi 7 gear still is, this makes the Tri-Band BE9700 far more approachable for gamers and power users.

WiFi 7 speed and lower latency for gaming

The Tri-Band BE9700 supports WiFi 7 with 320MHz channels, which means faster wireless speeds and more stable connections compared to WiFi 6 and 6E routers. For gaming, that translates into lower latency, smoother online play, and fewer drops when multiple people in your home are streaming or downloading at the same time.

Multi-gig wired ports for modern setups

With one 10G port and three 2.5G LAN ports, this router is ready for high-speed fiber internet and powerful gaming PCs or NAS systems. Instead of bottlenecking your setup at 1Gbps, you can take advantage of faster wired connections for big game downloads, streaming, and local file transfers.

Coverage and security for busy homes

The Archer BE600 is rated to cover up to 2,600 square feet and handle up to 120 connected devices, which makes it a good fit for families or smart homes with lots of gear online. HomeShield security and built-in VPN support also add peace of mind, especially if you’re gaming, working remotely, or managing multiple devices on the same network.

What to consider before you buy

This is one of the best prices we’ve seen for the Archer BE600, but it still makes the most sense if you have, or plan to get, WiFi 7 devices and multi-gig internet. If all your hardware is still WiFi 5 or WiFi 6 and you’re on a basic broadband plan, you may not see the full benefit right away.

That said, for gamers and households that want to future-proof their network and cut down on lag and congestion, this deal is well-timed. At $50 off, the Archer BE600 becomes a much more attractive upgrade before the price jumps back up.

As usual, pre-orders are expected to open either during the Unpacked livestream or immediately after it concludes, with the full retail launch following shortly after.

Limited-time S26 pre order deal

Samsung Galaxy S26 release date & time

Samsung has confirmed that Galaxy Unpacked takes place on:

Historically, Samsung opens pre-orders as soon as devices are announced, which means availability should begin on February 25 at around 10 AM PST (or shortly after the presentation ends).

Expected timeline (based on reliable leaks)

While Samsung hasn’t formally confirmed the rollout schedule yet, multiple credible sources suggest the following:

Samsung has already been running a reservation program in select regions, strongly indicating that pre-orders will go live immediately after the announcement.

We’ll update this section as soon as Samsung confirms official dates.

Samsung S26 pre order & where to buy US

Samsung S26 pre order & where to buy UK

Samsung S26 pre order & where to buy CA

Samsung Galaxy S26 pre order bonuses

One of the most credible leaks ahead of launch suggests Samsung will bring back its popular:

“Double the storage on us” promotion

This typically means:

Samsung has already referenced this offer in early UK registration pages, and leaks suggest similar deals may apply in parts of Europe and potentially the US.

Trade-in savings

Samsung is also expected to continue its enhanced trade-in program, which may include:

As always, trade-in values vary based on device condition and model.

We’ll confirm exact bonuses once pre-orders officially open.

Has Samsung officially announced the Galaxy S26?

At the time of writing, Samsung has not directly used the “Galaxy S26” branding in promotional material, instead referring to its upcoming device as a new AI-powered Galaxy phone.

However:

Barring a last-minute surprise, the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra are expected to be officially revealed during today’s event.

Samsung Galaxy S26 series at a glance

Here’s what we know so far based on credible leaks and regional pricing disclosures:

Models expected:

Expected starting prices (based on France leak):

Storage options:

Chipsets (region dependent):

Operating system:

Ultra model highlights (leaked):

This PC is clearly aimed at enthusiasts who want uncompromising performance for modern games, whether that’s competitive titles at ultra-high frame rates or AAA games at 1440p and 4K. With a Ryzen 7 9850X3D, RTX 5080, and fast DDR5 memory, it’s built to stay relevant for years without immediate upgrades.

Why we like this Skytech Gaming King 95 deal

At just under $3,000, this system packs some of the most desirable gaming components you can buy today into a ready-to-go prebuilt. The discount may be modest, but given current high-end GPU and CPU pricing, this configuration still represents strong value for a no-hassle flagship gaming rig.

Gaming-focused Ryzen 7 X3D CPU

The Ryzen 7 9850X3D is designed specifically with gaming in mind thanks to its large 3D V-Cache, which helps boost frame rates in CPU-limited and competitive titles. What this means for your FPS is smoother 1080p and 1440p gameplay in shooters and esports games, while still having enough muscle to handle demanding open-world and simulation titles without bottlenecking the RTX 5080.

RTX 5080 for 4K and high-refresh gaming

Nvidia’s RTX 5080 is built for serious performance, which makes this PC well-suited for 1440p ultra settings and 4K gaming with the help of DLSS and modern upscaling tech. In real terms, you’re getting one of the best gaming PCs that can push high frame rates on today’s most demanding games while also being ready for next-gen titles that lean harder on ray tracing and AI features.

Strong supporting parts and upgrade headroom

Skytech pairs the core hardware with 32GB of DDR5-6000 RAM, a 1TB Gen4 NVMe SSD, and an 850W Gold ATX 3 power supply, which gives you both speed and room to grow. The 360mm ARGB AIO cooler and Wi-Fi 6 support round things out, which overall makes this a balanced, high-end system that doesn’t need immediate upgrades to feel complete.

What to consider before you buy

This Skytech Gaming King 95 is still a premium purchase even with the $300 discount, so it makes the most sense for gamers who actually plan to use its RTX 5080 and Ryzen X3D power for high-refresh or 4K gaming. It’s been slightly cheaper in the past, but given the ongoing cost of flagship GPUs and the convenience of a fully built, one-year warrantied system, this price is still competitive.

If you’re mainly playing at 1080p or don’t care about ray tracing and ultra settings, a cheaper mid-range prebuilt will deliver better value. But if you want a future-proof, no-compromise gaming PC right now, this deal makes the Skytech King 95 a lot easier to justify before it disappears.

This model uses Samsung’s new NQ4 AI Gen3 processor with Upscaling Pro and Motion Xcelerator 144Hz, which means smoother gameplay and sharper visuals even when you’re not feeding it native 4K. It’s clearly aimed at PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC gamers who want a big OLED screen without stepping into ultra-premium price territory.

Why we like this Samsung 55-inch OLED S90F deal

At just under $1,100, this TV undercuts many competing OLEDs while still offering modern gaming features like 144Hz refresh rate, HDR+, and low-latency performance. It’s a great chance to get the best TV at the best price currently available on Amazon.

Gaming-focused 144Hz display

The S90F’s Motion Xcelerator 144Hz panel is built for fast action, whether that’s competitive shooters or racing games. For gaming, it means smoother motion and reduced blur compared to standard 60Hz or 120Hz TVs, especially if you’re running a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a gaming PC capable of higher frame rates. OLED also brings near-instant pixel response, so dark scenes stay clean and sharp without the smearing you see on cheaper LED panels.

AI upscaling and HDR for movies and streaming

Samsung’s NQ4 AI Gen3 processor handles upscaling from 1080p and 1440p content surprisingly well, making older shows and streaming apps look closer to native 4K. For everyday use, this means Netflix, YouTube, and sports broadcasts look sharper without you having to tweak settings constantly. Plus, HDR+ support gives highlights more punch and keeps colors vibrant without blowing out bright scenes.

Smart TV features that don’t get in the way

Samsung Vision AI and Alexa built-in make the S90F easy to use as a living-room hub, but the real value is how quickly it switches between apps and inputs. Auto Low Latency Mode and fast input response mean less fiddling and more time actually playing.

What to consider before you buy

This is the lowest price we’ve seen for the Samsung 55-inch OLED S90F, but it’s still a premium TV, so it makes the most sense if you want OLED contrast and gaming features in one package. If you mostly watch cable TV or don’t game, a cheaper QLED or LED model might be better value.

That said, for console and PC gamers who want 144Hz smoothness, OLED blacks, and strong HDR performance, this deal hits a sweet spot. At $500 off, this premium TV is a lot easier to justify, and likely won’t stay at this low price for long.

If you are building the ultimate battlestation with the best curved gaming monitor, the Odyssey G9 is a stand out choice. Built with a massive 5120x1440 Dual QHD resolution, this screen effectively replaces a dual 27-inch monitor setup without the annoying bezel in the middle. This means extreme multitasking capabilities for productivity and unparalleled immersion in simulation, racing, and open-world games. 

Why we like this Samsung Odyssey G9 deal

Finding a monitor that strikes a balance between sheer size, premium HDR capabilities, and elite gaming speeds is tough. Here is a closer look at why this specific $250 discount is worth your attention.

Extreme 1000R curvature

Instead of a gentle curve, the 1000R bend of the Odyssey G9 closely matches the natural contours of the human eye. This means the edges of this massive 49-inch display wrap perfectly into your peripheral vision, significantly reducing eye strain during long sessions and pulling you deeper into your games.

Blazing fast 240Hz performance

Despite its massive size, this monitor is built for competitive speeds. It features a native 240Hz refresh rate and a 1ms (GtG) response time. Combined with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, your gameplay will be exceptionally smooth and free of screen tearing, even in the most chaotic fast-paced shooters.

DisplayHDR 1000 visual fidelity

With DisplayHDR 1000 certification, this monitor can reach intense peak brightness levels. When playing visually stunning titles or watching HDR content, the contrast between dark shadows and bright highlights pops dramatically, which makes in-game lighting feel much more lifelike and vibrant.

What to consider before you buy

Dropping $749.99 on a monitor is a serious investment. You need to make sure your desk is physically big and sturdy enough to handle this massive, heavy display. More importantly, driving a dual-QHD resolution at anywhere near 240 frames per second requires a very powerful, high-end graphics card.

However, if your PC has the horsepower to run it, this 25% discount makes the 2024 Samsung Odyssey G9 one of the most immersive displays you can put on your desk for the price. It is a fantastic pickup for flight sim enthusiasts, productivity power users, and immersive gamers alike.

Equipped with a high-performance AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX and the latest Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070, this 18-inch beast is built to replace your desktop. What this means for your gaming experience is the ability to play modern AAA titles at the native 2.5K resolution with high frame rates, fully utilizing the ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate. It is a top choice for anyone looking for the best gaming laptop that pairs a massive 18-inch screen with the latest tech from both AMD and Nvidia.

Why we like this ASUS ROG Strix G18 deal

Finding a $300 discount on a 2025 model with current-gen silicon is rare. Here is why this specific Eclipse Grey configuration is a standout for high-end gaming.

Massive 18-inch ROG Nebula display

The centerpiece of this laptop is the 18-inch Nebula Display. It features a 2.5K resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and a 3ms response time. With 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, it is not only incredible for immersive gaming but also accurate enough for professional video editing and content creation. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides extra vertical space, which is a huge plus for both productivity and seeing more of the battlefield.

Next-Gen RTX 5070 graphics

The RTX 5070 laptop GPU brings a fresh architecture to the table, offering improved power efficiency and access to the latest DLSS 4 features. This allows you to crank up the settings in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 while maintaining fluid performance. Combined with the Ryzen 9 8940HX, you have a machine that won't break a sweat during heavy multitasking or streaming sessions.

Advanced ROG Intelligent Cooling

One of the biggest advantages of an 18-inch chassis is the thermal headroom. ASUS utilizes a tri-fan technology and a full-width heatsink to keep the CPU and GPU cool. This ensures that your hardware can maintain its boost clocks longer, which prevents the thermal throttling that often plagues smaller, thinner laptops during long gaming sessions.

What to consider before you buy

While $1,799 is a fantastic price for this level of hardware, remember that this is a "desktop replacement" in every sense of the word. At 18 inches, it is quite heavy and requires a specific oversized backpack for transport. Additionally, the 16GB of RAM is sufficient for most games today, but you may want to take advantage of the easy upgrade slots to jump to 32GB later if you plan on doing heavy creative work.

However, at $300 off, you are getting a premium 240Hz panel and a next-gen GPU for a mid-range price. If you have the desk space for it, the ROG Strix G18 is a powerhouse that is ready for the future of gaming.

Built around AMD's B850 chipset, this ATX board delivers excellent stability and power for current and future Ryzen processors. What this means for your everyday gaming is maximum reliability during marathon sessions, robust power delivery for high frame rates, and access to blazing-fast DDR5 memory speeds. Here's why it's one of the best gaming motherboards out there:

Why we like this ASUS TUF Gaming B850-E deal

Finding a motherboard that strikes a balance between military-grade durability, modern features, and a reasonable price can be tough. Here is a closer look at why this specific $50 discount stands out.

Next-gen connectivity

This motherboard is built to keep you connected with blazing speeds. It comes equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5Gb Ethernet port, ensuring your multiplayer matches are as lag-free as possible. It also features a high-speed USB 20Gbps Type-C port on the rear I/O, which gives you massive bandwidth for external storage and peripherals.

Ample storage options

When it comes to game libraries, storage space fills up fast. This board offers three M.2 slots, giving you plenty of room to install multiple NVMe SSDs for near-instant game load times. It is also PCIe 5.0 ready, which means you are set up for the absolute fastest graphics cards and storage drives of the future.

DIY-friendly building features

Building a PC can sometimes be stressful, but ASUS has included several quality-of-life features to make it easier. The BIOS FlashBack feature allows you to update the motherboard's firmware using just a USB stick and a power supply—no CPU or memory required. It also supports Aura Sync, which allows you to easily color-coordinate your RGB lighting across all your compatible components.

What to consider before you buy

Dropping $424.99 on a B-series motherboard is still a serious investment, as high-end B850 boards can sometimes overlap in price with entry-level X-series options. Additionally, this is an ATX-sized board, so it will not fit into smaller micro-ATX or Mini-ITX cases.

However, at $50 off, this is the cheapest we have seen this specific model on Amazon. If you are building a standard mid-tower or full-tower gaming PC and want a rugged, reliable board with Wi-Fi 6E and robust DDR5 support, this 11% discount makes the TUF Gaming B850-E a very smart pickup.

The iBUYPOWER Y40 Pro White is a $3,600 gaming PC now available for $3,000, saving you $600 (16%). Featuring Intel's Core i9 14900F and an RTX 5080, there's a huge amount of gaming and productivity power here, ideal if you don't want to build a PC yourself.

Why we like this RTX 5080 Gaming PC

4K gaming GPU

The RTX 5080 is a hugely powerful graphics card that can deliver excellent 4K gaming and shred 1440p resolutions at high settings. It's also a massive boost for content creators and streamers, for productivity needs, coding, encoding, or simply future-facing gaming performance.

Excellent CPU

Intel's Core i9 14900F may be a prior-gen processor, but it's a highly powerful and flexible option with plenty of life to it. If you have no plans to upgrade this system and prefer to pick out the best prebuilt gaming PCs every few years, it's ideal, with plenty of gaming and productivity power.

For power and performance

The added components in this build are clearly complementary, and it's also clear iNUYPOWER knows its parts. The 14900F can run hot, and an AW4 240mm liquid CPU cooling system is paired with RGB fans to help keep things cool. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM is ideal, and a 2TB SSD is a decent size for gamers.

What to consider before you buy

At $600 below the regular price, this is a fine option for a prebuild. However, if you have any intention of future CPU upgrades, this Raptor Lake gaming PC may not be for you. The 14900F is an excellent CPU with no upgrade path, and an AM5 machine may be best. If you want to spend less, look at the best gaming PC builds under $3,000.

Rumors suggest that the Pixel 11 family of phones will use Google's Tensor G6 processor. However, that's not the key bit of news. The latest leaks report that the Tensor G6 will include the Titan M3 chip, a new security co-processor that can help the Pixel 11 family match Apple for security.

Tensor G6 and Titan M3?

According to Mystic Leaks (via 9to5Google), the Tensor G6 plus Titan M3 pairing is being worked on. The M3 is purportedly targeting the G6 (codenamed Google Epic), running firmware known as "longjing". The key information here is that Google wants to compete with Apple’s Secure Enclave.

The Secure Enclave is essentially a separate processor (co-processor) in Apple devices designed specifically to handle sensitive information. Google's Titan chip is designed with the same idea, but Apple has held the edge in previous generations of devices.

Obviously, Google doesn't want to lag in developing its own SoC solutions, and it's interesting to see such rumors appearing even if security co-processors are a bit of a nebulous topic. Certainly, user device security is critically important, and Google won't want Pixel devices to be seen as 'lesser'.

Pixel 10a a cost blip?

The initial Pixel 11 devices are reportedly planned for a summer release. In the meantime, we're still a little surprised at the processor of the Pixel 10a. The likelihood is that the Tensor G4 choice was cost-related. But by the time the summer comes around, the new G6 should be the focus.

GTA 6 is officially planned to arrive on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in November. However, one game that's a PS5 exclusive is Marvel's Wolverine. That's now confirmed for a September 15 release, but what's the significance? The theory is that Wolverine's timing confirms GTA 6's arrival date.

GTA 6 release date 'link' to Wolverine

A post by the X account @GTAVI_Countdown states: "PlayStation just confirmed Wolverine will launch 2 whole months before GTA. This is a strong indicator that Sony knows the GTA 6 release date is locked in, as they have a partnership with Rockstar Games and would want to avoid being overshadowed by November’s behemoth release."

Does any partnership between Sony and Rockstar impact the specific timing of Wolverine's release? It isn't clear. But a post about the theory on Reddit has found disagreement, with one user replying: "I think this is a bit of a stretch if I'm honest".

A further comment adds: "They really don't know any more than anyone else". And the most upvoted? "I think the bigger indicator for a release this year is that the green light has been given for the millions for marketing. They won’t waste their money only to delay the game again and pay more millions for a second marketing campaign".

Publisher money does indeed talk. And anyway, some games may or may not attempt to avoid the giant releases of the year. But what's ideal for PS5 gamers is an apparent two months for enjoying Wolverine before GTA 6 releases.

The new video isn't really a trailer. Instead, the six-second video features a slash of adamantium claws before revealing Marvel's Wolverine will be unleashed on September 15. When it comes to an effective date reveal, this is pretty much it. No filler, just facts, as you can see.

Marvel's Wolverine gameplay

Marvel's Wolverine is, sadly for owners of other platforms, a PS5 exclusive. However, the details we have for the title suggest it'll provide a worthy adventure for X-Men and Wolverine fans. A gameplay trailer posted in September 2025 showcases impressive in-game footage and cinematics.

With bloody, brutal, and frenzied combat guaranteed, fans will control Wolverine in and out of his iconic yellow-and-black fit, with guaranteed appearances from familiar faces. The gameplay trailer shows a mix of close-quarters frenzy and large-scale, high-stakes cinema-esque set-pieces.

As for how the actual mechanics of the title will work, it seems likely that fast-paced action and flow will be prioritized for gamers. The top comment (we can get behind) on the gameplay trailer comes from @Grimedoc8180, who states:

"The one game where getting shot multiple times, then crouching behind cover for a few seconds to regain health makes sense lol".

This makes sense. As a character, Wolverine is part human and part weapon, and we're sure we'll see exactly that dynamic explored come September, along with ridiculous recovery times. PS5 fans could have a real gem on their hands (along with plenty of acrobatics and claw-slashing).

This guide covers Quordle game #1493, released on Wednesday, February 25.

Quordle hints for today (February 25)

Here are a few spoiler-light hints to steer you in the right direction before the full answers:

Vowels:There are 4 different vowels used across today’s four answers.

Repeated letters:Only one of today’s answers contains a repeated letter.

Uncommon letters (Q, Z, X, J):Yes, one of these rarer letters appears in today’s set.

Starting letters:Today’s answers begin with:

Today’s Quordle answers (February 25)

If you’re ready to see the solutions, here they are (top-left to top-right, then bottom-left to bottom-right):

Quick solving tip

On tougher Quordle days, avoid tunneling on a single board. If one word is proving stubborn, play a strategic “coverage” guess that tests unused letters across all four grids. It’s often more efficient than forcing a near-complete word, especially when comparatives or uncommon letters are involved.

This guide covers NYT Connections puzzle #990, released on Wednesday, February 25.

Hints for today’s Connections groups

Here are four clues to help steer you toward the correct categories. They’re ordered from the easiest group to the toughest:

If you’d like a little extra help, here’s one word from each group:

Today’s Connections answers (February 25)

If you’re ready for the full solution, here it is:

🟨 Care for: BABY, FOSTER, MOTHER, NURSE

🟩 Elementary: BASIC, KEY, PRIMARY, PRINCIPAL

🟦 Jameses: BROWN, COOK, DEAN, HARDEN

🟪 Ending in family words: ALKALINE (line), DECLAN (clan), DIATRIBE (tribe), NAPKIN (kin)

The purple category is the trickiest today, requiring you to spot hidden words at the end of each answer. Once you notice the shared pattern, the connection becomes much clearer.

Can Connections get harder?

Connections doesn’t steadily increase in difficulty, but category styles vary day to day. Some puzzles lean on straightforward synonyms, while others, like today’s purple group, rely on subtle wordplay.

If today’s challenge felt manageable, tomorrow’s could test a completely different skill set.

This guide covers NYT Strands puzzle #724, released on Wednesday, February 25.

Today’s NYT Strands theme hint

Spangram hint

The spangram is a single word that describes the overall category these answers belong to.

If you need another push, it refers to vehicles designed for space exploration.

Today’s NYT Strands answers (February 25)

Here are the answers, Spangram last:

Quick solving tip

If you spot one obvious term tied to a specific field, focus on related equipment or mission types rather than scanning randomly. Strands themes usually cluster tightly, so once the subject clicks, the rest tend to follow quickly.

This guide covers Wordle puzzle #1712, released on Wednesday, February 25.

How tricky is today’s Wordle answer?

Today’s Wordle lands on the easier side. It’s a commonly used word, and once you lock in the right starting letters, it tends to reveal itself quickly.

A clue to the meaning of today’s Wordle

The solution means to tear, cut, or rip something into very small, thin pieces, often quickly or forcefully.

Wordle hints

If the clue wasn't enough, here are a few hints that should get you going in the right direction.

What is the starting letter for today’s Wordle?

Today’s Wordle answer begins with the letter S.

Letter breakdown

If you’re narrowing things down, that should help eliminate a lot of near-misses.

Today’s Wordle answer (February 25)

If you’re ready for the solution, here it is:

The last 10 Wordle answers

Here are the most recent Wordle solutions, starting with the latest: BUYER, ATTIC, GUAVA, AWAKE, STANK, HOIST, MOGUL, SQUAD, ROOST, and SKULL. Wordle doesn’t typically repeat recent answers, so keeping these in mind can help you avoid wasted guesses.

While the New York Times has started reintroducing older words again, it’s still unlikely that any of the most recent solutions will pop back up anytime soon.

So, step forward the middling ROG Strix G16 2025 variant currently available at Amazon. This gaming laptop has a $1,900 regular. But it's currently $400 off at $1,500. That's the lowest price it's seen since December's Cyber Week, and it's a laptop well worth considering.

Why we like Asus ROG Strix G16

Great mobile processor

This laptop is built around Intel's Core Ultra 9 275HX processor. Generally, this will perform lower in gaming than an AMD equivalent, but it offers big battery and efficiency benefits, as well as cooler temps. Essentially, it's a great laptop CPU, and the GPU matters far more for games anyway.

Built for Full HD Gaming

Nvidia's RTX 5060 mobile GPU is built to demolish Full HD 1080p gaming and to deliver up to 1440p in some titles. It's a fine GPU for a gaming laptop of this price, and will support productivity, creative, or daily content needs. And with Nvidia DLSS support, gaming performance goes a bit further, too.

Premium display and features

One of the highlights of Asus' ROG Strix G16 laptops is the excellent ROG Nebula display. A 16-inch 2.5K, 240Hz display, a screen users love, is joined by other great inclusions, like the full-surround RGB Lightbar, and Asus's advanced cooling solution.

What to consider before you buy

Given the price of RAM right now, it's certainly worth making sure the 16GB this laptop has is enough. However, if you feel you'll want 32GB, you can opt for the more expensive model that costs $300 more (currently also on sale). We'd also recommend comparing with the best gaming laptops to ensure this is the model for you.

This guide covers the NYT Mini Crossword for Wednesday, February 25.

How difficult was today’s Mini Crossword?

Today’s Mini lands in the moderate range. While several clues are fairly straightforward, a couple require a second read before the answer clicks. Because the grid is small, there’s less room to maneuver if you get stuck early, so careful interpretation is key.

Mini Crossword hints (February 25)

If you’d rather solve it yourself, here are the clues without the answers.

Across

Down

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword answers (February 25)

Here are the completed clues and answers for today’s puzzle.

Across

1A. SAVE5A. CRAVE7A. ROPED8A. AMONG9A. PARTY

Down

1D. SCRAP2D. AROMA3D. VAPOR4D. EVENT6D. EDGY

Is the Mini Crossword harder than it looks?

The Mini is designed to be quick, usually solvable in just a few minutes, but clever wordplay can make certain clues surprisingly challenging. Because the grid is so compact, each answer has more impact, and a single tricky clue can slow down the entire solve.

If today’s puzzle felt tougher than usual, you’re not alone.

The Galaxy A36 5G launched earlier in 2025 as Samsung's mid-tier pick for everyday users who want reliable performance without flagship pricing. It hits the key notes well: a large AMOLED screen, solid battery life, 5G connectivity, and a clean rugged build, without straying into the premium tier. If you've been eyeing it since launch, this is a reasonable time to pick it up.

Why we like this Samsung Galaxy A36 5G deal

At $424.99 for the 256GB unlocked variant, you're getting a lot of phone for the money, especially considering the storage bump and the six-year Android update promise from Samsung. The A36 5G ships with Android 15 and One UI 7 out of the box, and Samsung has committed to six major Android version upgrades, which is genuinely rare at this price point.

A 6.7-inch AMOLED display that earns its keep

The Galaxy A36 5G features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1080x2340 resolution at 385 ppi, and a peak brightness of 1,900 nits. That's a genuinely capable screen for scrolling, streaming, and casual gaming.

Snapdragon 6 Gen 3; solid for daily tasks, modest in gaming

The chipset is Qualcomm's Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, with an Adreno 710 GPU and 8GB of RAM on the 256GB model. In day-to-day use (browsing, social apps, streaming), it's perfectly adequate. Casual games run without issue, and lighter titles feel smooth enough.

More than decent battery and camera

The Galaxy A36 5G packs a 5000mAh battery with 45W wired fast charging, hitting 66% in around 30 minutes and a full charge in roughly 68 minutes. That's a welcome upgrade over the previous generation and should handle a full day of use for most people with room to spare.

On the camera side, you get a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 5MP macro lens. The main camera produces solid shots in good light, and Nightography helps after dark.

What to consider before you buy

The Galaxy A36 5G is a dependable daily driver, not a powerhouse. If you're upgrading from a phone that's two or three years old, the improvement in display quality, charging speed, and software support will be immediately noticeable. If you're coming from a recent mid-range or flagship device, you might not like the performance step-down, particularly if you're a heavier gamer or multitasker.

At $424.99, this isn't a budget phone; it's a mid-ranger at a mid-range price with a slight discount attached. But the six-year update window and Samsung's ecosystem reliability make it a genuinely smart long-term buy. If the price suits your budget and you want a no-drama daily phone with a great screen, the A36 5G is worth serious consideration.

This is MSI's "slim" answer to the bulkier Titan 18 and Raider 18 lines. Despite sitting in the same performance tier, the Stealth 18 HX AI keeps things relatively compact and travel-friendly for an 18-inch machine. And it brings all the flagship specs along for the ride. If you want near-desktop power in a package that doesn't look like it was designed for a LAN party bunker, this is a strong contender.

Why we like this MSI Stealth 18 HX AI deal

For $3,799, you're getting an RTX 5090 laptop that weighs around 6.4 lbs and measures just 20mm thin, which is genuinely slim for an 18-inch powerhouse. That's the core pitch here: enthusiast-grade hardware without the full brick-sized form factor of most competing systems. The 5% discount isn't dramatic, but given how little this model tends to move in price, it's worth taking seriously. For more options, check out our best gaming laptops guide.

A 24-core mobile chip that punches hard

The Core Ultra 9 275HX is Intel's current flagship mobile processor, built on the Arrow Lake-HX architecture with 8 Performance cores and 16 Efficiency cores. For gaming, it holds its own extremely well; CPU-bottlenecked titles and competitive games benefit from that high single-core speed, and it's fast enough that the RTX 5090 is rarely left waiting. In productivity workloads like video editing or 3D rendering, it's one of the quickest laptop CPUs available right now, trailing only some of Apple's silicon in multicore benchmarks. 

RTX 5090 Laptop GPU: 4K gaming delivered

The RTX 5090 is the most powerful GPU you can get in a laptop right now. At 4K with the native UHD+ display (3840x2400), titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong are playable with DLSS 4 doing some heavy lifting. At 1440p, you're looking at very high frame rates in most AAA titles, which is where competitive and enthusiast gamers will be most comfortable.

Display, memory, and extras

The 18-inch Mini-LED panel is one of the genuine highlights here. It's UHD+ (3840x2400) at 120Hz, VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certified, covers 100% DCI-P3, and uses an IPS-level panel with a matte finish, so no mirror-like glare during long sessions. That's a serious display for both gaming and content creation.

On the memory and storage side, you get 64GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB NVMe SSD, which is plenty for modern workloads and large game libraries. Wi-Fi 7 rounds out the connectivity, and MSI throws in a 99.9Whr battery ( the maximum allowed on flights) along with a six-speaker Dynaudio audio system and a per-key RGB SteelSeries keyboard. Nothing feels left out.

What to consider before you buy

The MSI Stealth 18 HX AI is a serious machine, and at $3,799, it's not a casual purchase, but the specs genuinely justify the price tier. The RTX 5090 at 150W does give away some frames compared to bulkier competitors running the same GPU at higher wattage, so if raw benchmarks are your priority over portability, the Raider 18 or Alienware 18 Area-51 are worth a look. Battery life and fan noise under full load are also worth considering.

That said, if you want the most powerful 18-inch laptop that still passes as sleek, this is a short list of one. The $193 discount is modest, but this configuration rarely drops much, and pricing on RTX 5090 laptops across the board remains elevated. If you've been holding out for a deal on this one, this is a reasonable time to pull the trigger.

Built around the immensely powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, this 16-inch machine handles heavy multitasking and maxed-out AAA gaming effortlessly. With this laptop, you get the ability to drive incredibly high frame rates on its stunning 16.0-inch WQXGA OLED display, ensuring ultra-smooth, tear-free visuals whether you are exploring immersive open worlds or playing competitive shooters.

Why we like this Lenovo Legion Pro 7i deal

Finding a high-end 2025 gaming laptop below its retail price is a nice win for enthusiast gamers. For $2,549, you are getting a $150 discount on a top-tier machine that is fully equipped for the next generation of PC gaming.

Next-gen RTX 5080 graphics

The RTX 5080 is an absolute powerhouse, thanks to its massive performance gains and access to the latest AI-driven features like DLSS 4. It delivers incredibly smooth framerates and stunning ray tracing at 1440p and beyond. If you want to drop your budget, we have guides covering entry-level machines, but this Legion is built for uncompromising high-end performance.

Stunning 240Hz OLED display

Lenovo equipped this laptop with a beautiful 16-inch WQXGA OLED panel, hitting up to 500 nits of brightness. The 240Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth motion in fast-paced games, while the OLED technology provides perfect, inky blacks and vibrant colors that make your games and media truly pop.

Ultra 9 processing and Gen 5 storage

With the 24-core Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM, this laptop crushes heavy productivity tasks like video editing, streaming, and 3D rendering. Paired with a lightning-fast 1TB Gen 5 NVMe SSD, game loading screens become practically non-existent.

What to consider before you buy

Dropping $2,549 on a gaming laptop is a massive investment. While a $150 discount isn't a huge percentage off, finding any sale on newly released RTX 5080 hardware is very rare. It is worth noting that packing this much desktop-class power into a 16-inch chassis means the fans will get loud under heavy load, and battery life during intense gaming will be extremely limited—you will need to stay plugged into the wall for maximum performance.

However, this is one of the best prices we have seen for this specific Gen 10 model on Amazon. If you want a top-of-the-line portable powerhouse with a gorgeous OLED screen and the newest silicon available, this is a very strong pick right now.

Built with 50mm graphene drivers, the PRO X 2 delivers a highly precise soundscape that excels in esports titles. What this means for your FPS is the ability to easily distinguish between overlapping sounds, so you can clearly hear enemy footsteps even during chaotic firefights. It's a lightweight, tournament-ready headset that handles everything from intense 1080p competitive shooters on PC to immersive 4K single-player adventures on your PS5.

Why we like this Logitech G PRO X 2 deal

Logitech's PRO lineup is built with input from esports professionals, which is why it usually commands a high premium. For its current price of $189.99, you are getting a $90 (32%) discount on a flagship headset that rarely sees price cuts this deep.

Graphene audio drivers

The shift to graphene drivers is a significant upgrade over standard mylar speakers. This stiffer, lighter material reduces audio distortion, providing a cleaner and much more detailed sound profile. For gamers, this means enhanced directional audio and clearer comms when coordinating with your team.

Multi-platform connectivity

This headset gives you plenty of flexibility with Lightspeed wireless, Bluetooth, and a 3.5mm wired connection. You can easily use it with your PC, swap over to your PS5, or pair it with your phone or Nintendo Switch. To read more options for a different color aesthetic, we have guides covering various styles, but this clean white version is a standout choice for any modern setup.

Battery life and comfort

Logitech packed up to 50 hours of battery life into this wireless headset, which means you can easily go a week or two without reaching for a charging cable. It also features rotating hinges and plush memory foam earpads, keeping you comfortable and focused during marathon gaming sessions without clamping down too hard on your head.

What to consider before you buy

The Logitech G PRO X 2 Lightspeed is a top-tier esports headset offering exceptional audio clarity and a comfortable fit. It lacks features like active noise cancellation (ANC), and the detachable boom microphone, while perfectly fine for Discord, doesn't quite match the stellar audio quality of the headphones themselves.

However, at $189.99, this is one of the best prices we have seen on Amazon for this specific model. If you take your competitive gaming seriously and want an edge in positional audio, this is a very strong pickup while this deal lasts.