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Why are Motherboard Sales Collapsing
The impact of rising memory prices is spreading well beyond RAM kits themselves. What began as a sharp increase in DRAM costs is now translating into a measurable slowdown across the broader PC hardware market, with motherboard sales reportedly falling at a pace that has prompted manufacturers to reassess product launches and sales targets.
Major motherboard vendors have seen motherboard sales decline by approximately 40 to 50 percent compared with the same period in 2024. The drop reportedly covers the November–December 2025 window, a time that typically benefits from Black Friday promotions and year-end consumer upgrades.
Why motherboard demand is collapsing
The underlying issue is not motherboard pricing itself. The problem lies in the cost of building a complete modern platform. Current mainstream desktop platforms now require DDR5 memory outright, which removes the budget flexibility that previously existed with DDR4 systems. As DRAM prices began climbing in October 2025, the total cost of entry for a new build rose sharply, discouraging many consumers from committing to full system upgrades.
DRAM supply has increasingly been prioritized for enterprise, data center, and AI focused workloads, where higher margins justify allocation. That shift has reduced availability at the consumer level and pushed prices higher across the board. For many enthusiasts, the added cost of memory alone is enough to delay or cancel an upgrade. Motherboards, being part of a bundled purchasing decision, are among the first components to feel the slowdown.
Sales targets cut and product launches delayed
The scale of the slowdown is forcing motherboard manufacturers to reassess near-term expectations. With fewer consumers committing to full platform upgrades, vendors are increasingly cautious about production volumes, inventory planning, and the timing of new releases.
In a softer demand environment, launching refreshed or higher-end models carries greater risk. Excess inventory becomes harder to clear, pricing pressure increases, and promotional activity may fail to generate the usual lift. As a result, manufacturers are more likely to space out releases, prioritize existing product lines, or delay introductions until market conditions improve.
This more conservative approach reflects an effort to balance supply with reduced demand rather than push new hardware into a market that is not ready to absorb it. For consumers, it may mean fewer high-profile launches in the short term, but a more stable lineup once pricing pressures across memory and other components begin to ease.
CPU platforms are not immune
The slowdown in motherboard sales is also expected to ripple into CPU demand. Desktop processors are rarely purchased in isolation, and fewer platform upgrades naturally translate into fewer CPU sales.
AMD may be somewhat insulated in the short term thanks to backward compatibility across parts of its ecosystem, including continued support for existing AM5 boards and its Ryzen 9000 series. Even so, there is little incentive for many users to move from Ryzen 7000 to 9000 if it involves paying significantly more for DDR5 memory.
Intel faces similar challenges. Users on older DDR4 systems cannot transition to newer LGA1851 motherboards and Core Ultra 200S processors without absorbing the cost of DDR5, further dampening interest. This environment is unlikely to help momentum for Intel’s upcoming Arrow Lake Refresh, which will arrive into a market already cautious about platform spending.
Broader consequences for the PC market
Memory pricing pressures are also intersecting with rising NAND flash costs, particularly for TLC and QLC wafers commonly used in consumer SSDs. GPU pricing has offered little relief either, with recent sales events failing to deliver meaningful reductions. Taken together, these factors make PC building increasingly expensive at a time when consumer budgets are already strained.
The result is a slowdown that extends beyond individual components. Fewer new builds affect motherboard makers, CPU vendors, memory suppliers, and even system integrators. Over time, this environment could also reduce the availability of lower-cost gaming PCs, further narrowing the entry point for new users.
A pause, not a permanent shift
While the current situation is disruptive, it is unlikely to be permanent. DRAM pricing cycles have historically corrected through increased production, demand normalization, or shifts in broader technology investment trends. Whether relief comes from expanded manufacturing capacity, cooling AI-driven demand, or other market adjustments remains uncertain.
For now, however, the message from the market is clear. Rising DRAM prices are not just inflating memory costs; they are reshaping consumer behavior across the entire desktop PC ecosystem. Until those prices stabilize, motherboard sales declines may be less an anomaly and more a reflection of a PC upgrade cycle on pause.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are motherboard sales dropping right now?
Motherboard sales are declining primarily because the cost of building a full PC has increased. Modern platforms require DDR5 memory, and rising DRAM prices have made upgrades significantly more expensive. As a result, many consumers are delaying or cancelling full system builds, which directly impacts motherboard demand.
Are high DRAM prices the only reason for weaker PC sales?
No. While DRAM prices are a major factor, they are part of a broader cost increase across PC components. SSD prices have risen due to NAND shortages, and GPU pricing has remained elevated. Together, these pressures increase the total cost of a PC, discouraging new purchases.
Does this affect both AMD and Intel platforms?
Yes. Both ecosystems are impacted because new platforms require DDR5 memory. AMD users upgrading to newer AM5 systems must factor in higher memory costs, while Intel users moving from older DDR4 platforms face the same issue. The memory requirement is now unavoidable for current-generation desktops.
Is it still worth upgrading a PC in 2026?
It depends on your current system and needs. If your PC already meets your performance requirements, waiting may be the more cost-effective option until memory pricing stabilizes. Incremental upgrades such as storage, cooling, or peripherals can often extend the useful life of an existing system without the expense of a full rebuild.
Will motherboard and memory prices come down again?
Historically, memory pricing has moved in cycles. Increased production, reduced enterprise demand, or shifts in broader market conditions could eventually ease prices. While there is no guaranteed timeline, current conditions are widely viewed as temporary rather than permanent.
How does this impact prebuilt gaming PCs?
System integrators are also affected by higher component costs, which can lead to price increases or fewer budget-focused configurations. Entry-level and mid-range gaming PCs may become harder to find at previous price points until memory and storage costs normalize.
What should PC enthusiasts do in the meantime?
For now, many enthusiasts are choosing to wait. Others are investing in quality-of-life upgrades such as monitors, input devices, or storage rather than committing to a full platform change. These smaller upgrades can still deliver noticeable improvements without the high upfront cost of a new build.
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Best Acer RTX 5070 Ti PCs You Can Buy Right Now
Today we’re getting up close and personal with Acer Nitro and Predator laptops and desktops powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti. With interest ramping up around the 5070 Ti price, ongoing chatter about a possible RTX 5070 Ti discontinuation, and discounts starting to appear well below 5070 Ti MSRP, it’s a good time to see where Acer’s lineup stands.
We’ll also break down the practical differences between the desktop and laptop versions of the RTX 5070 Ti, most notably the shift from 16 GB of VRAM on desktop cards to 12 GB on mobile GPUs, and what that means for real-world use. Once we’ve covered the basics, we’ll run through four Acer systems that put the RTX 5070 Ti to work, spanning portable gaming laptops and full-fat, full-sugar desktop machines.
5070 Ti MSRP: launch pricing no longer tells the full story
On the RTX 5070 Ti discontinuation rumor, Nvidia has confirmed that the card has not been discontinued. The confusion appears to stem from ongoing memory supply constraints, which have limited production and availability rather than signaling an end-of-life decision. While the RTX 5070 Ti remains officially in production, constrained supply and continued demand mean the 5070 Ti price has been more volatile than expected, especially across prebuilt systems where availability varies by configuration.
Desktop vs laptop RTX 5070 Ti: what’s the difference?
There’s an important distinction to make between desktop and laptop RTX 5070 Ti implementations. While they share the same name, they’re built for different power and thermal envelopes. The most noticeable difference is video memory, with desktop cards typically offering 16 GB of VRAM, compared to 12 GB on laptop GPUs. That gap can matter for VRAM-heavy games, creative workloads, and longer-term headroom, especially when choosing between a portable system and a full desktop setup. Without further ado, let’s wade into the water and check out four Acer computers with 5070 Ti.
1. Predator Helios Neo 16 AI Gaming Laptop – PHN16-73-979X
The Predator Helios Neo 16 AI Gaming Laptop – PHN16-73-979X is a full-tilt gaming laptop built to push the RTX 5070 Ti hard in a portable form factor. Pairing Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX processor with a 16-inch WQXGA 240 Hz display, it’s clearly aimed at high-refresh gaming and demanding creative workloads. With 64 GB of DDR5 memory and a 2 TB NVMe SSD, there’s plenty of headroom for multitasking, large game libraries, and content creation without compromise. This model has also seen a meaningful price shift, now listed at $2,399.99 after previously sitting at $2,649.99, making it more competitive among high-end Acer gaming laptops. Here’s what it’s packing under the hood:
* Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Tetracosa-core (24 cores), 2.70 GHz
* Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti with 12 GB GDDR7
* Display: 16" WQXGA (2560 × 1600) CineCrystal (Glare), 240 Hz, 16:10
* Memory: 64 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 2 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD
* Battery life: Up to 5 hours
2. Acer Nitro 60 Gaming Desktop – N60-640-UR25
Moving on to a full desktop setup, the Acer Nitro 60 Gaming Desktop – N60-640-UR25 delivers the RTX 5070 Ti in a traditional tower built for sustained performance and easy connectivity. Powered by an Intel Core i7-14700F processor and paired with 32 GB of DDR5 memory, it’s well suited to high-refresh gaming, multitasking, and content-heavy workloads without the thermal limits of a laptop chassis. With a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, there’s ample fast storage out of the box, while built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit Ethernet make it flexible for different home setups. This model is currently listed at $2,449.99, positioning it as a ready-to-go RTX 5070 Ti desktop for users who want plug-and-play power in the Acer Nitro range. Here’s a look at the core hardware:
* Processor: Intel Core i7-14700F, 20 cores, up to 5.4 GHz
* Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti with 16 GB VRAM
* Memory: 32 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 2 TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth 5.3
* Power supply: 850 W, 80 Plus Gold
3. Acer Nitro 16S AI Gaming Laptop – AN16S-61-R5FY
Returning to a gaming laptop form factor, the Acer Nitro 16S AI Gaming Laptop – AN16S-61-R5FY pairs the RTX 5070 Ti with a 16-inch high-refresh display in a streamlined chassis designed for everyday gaming and productivity.Built around a 16-inch WQXGA IPS display with a 180 Hz refresh rate, it’s designed for fast-paced gaming while the ComfyView matte finish helps reduce glare during longer sessions. The AMD Ryzen 7 processor and 16 GB of DDR5 memory provide a balanced platform for gaming, streaming, and everyday productivity, while the 1 TB NVMe SSD offers fast storage for games and applications. With a lighter weight than many gaming laptops in its class, this model is easier to carry between home and work setups. The Acer Nitro 16S AI is currently listed at $1,849.99, positioning it as a more accessible RTX 5070 Ti option in Acer’s lineup. The specs you expect:
* Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 350, Octa-core, up to 5 GHz
* Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti with 16 GB VRAM
* Display: 16" WQXGA (2560 × 1600) IPS, 180 Hz, 16:10
* Memory: 16 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD
* Battery life: Up to 6 hours
4. Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI Gaming Laptop – PHN18-72-902R
Stretching the horizons with screen size, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI Gaming Laptop – PHN18-72-902R is built for users who want a near-desktop viewing experience in a laptop form factor. Its expansive 18-inch WQXGA IPS display with a 250 Hz refresh rate is clearly aimed at high-frame-rate gaming and immersive content, while the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and RTX 5070 Ti provide the horsepower to back it up. With 64 GB of DDR5 memory and a 2 TB NVMe SSD, this model is configured for heavy multitasking, large game libraries, and demanding creative workloads. Positioned at the upper end of Acer’s gaming lineup, it’s currently listed at $2,849.99, reflecting its larger scale and high-end configuration. A quick look at the hardware:
* Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Tetracosa-core (24 cores), up to 5.40 GHz
* Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti with 12 GB GDDR7
* Display: 18" WQXGA (2560 × 1600) IPS, 250 Hz, 16:10
* Memory: 64 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 2 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD
* Battery life: Up to 5 hours
Reflections on 5070 Ti
Looking across Acer’s RTX 5070 Ti lineup, it’s clear how much the surrounding hardware and form factor shape the overall experience. From high-refresh gaming laptops to desktops built for sustained performance, each system targets a slightly different type of user despite sharing the same GPU. With pricing drifting away from launch expectations and availability still patchy, the sensible approach is to look beyond headlines and focus on the configuration that best matches how you actually play, create, and work.
FAQs
Is the RTX 5070 Ti discontinued?
No. Nvidia has confirmed that the RTX 5070 Ti has not been discontinued. Limited availability is linked to supply constraints rather than an end-of-life decision.
What’s the difference between desktop and laptop RTX 5070 Ti GPUs?
The biggest difference is memory. Desktop versions typically offer 16 GB of VRAM, while laptop variants usually come with 12 GB, which can affect performance in VRAM-heavy games and creative workloads.
Are Acer RTX 5070 Ti laptops good for more than gaming?
Yes. With high-core-count CPUs, fast memory, and large displays, these systems are also well suited to content creation, streaming, and general productivity tasks.
Should I choose a laptop or desktop RTX 5070 Ti system?
That depends on how you use your PC. Laptops prioritize portability and integrated displays, while desktops offer fewer thermal limits and easier long-term upgrades.
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How to Optimize Your RAM in Windows 11
RAM has quietly become more expensive over the past year, driven by tightening DRAM supply, increased demand from AI servers, and manufacturers scaling back lower-margin consumer production. For everyday PC users, this means upgrading memory is no longer as cheap or as painless as it once was. As a result, optimizing the RAM you already have on Windows 11 has become more important than ever. With the right settings and a few system-level adjustments, it is possible to reduce unnecessary memory usage, improve responsiveness, and extend the useful life of your current hardware before committing to a costly upgrade.
How Windows 11 uses RAM
Windows 11 is designed to take advantage of available memory rather than leaving RAM idle. The operating system actively caches frequently used files, applications, and system processes in memory to improve responsiveness. This means higher RAM usage on an idle system is not always a problem. In many cases, Windows will automatically release cached memory when an application actually needs it.
Problems arise when background apps, startup programs, or poorly optimized software consume memory unnecessarily. When available RAM runs low, Windows relies more heavily on virtual memory stored on your SSD, which is significantly slower than physical RAM. This is when users start to notice stuttering, slow app switching, longer load times, or reduced performance in games and productivity workloads.
Understanding this behavior is important because optimizing RAM in Windows 11 is less about “freeing” memory at all costs and more about preventing waste so your system can prioritize the tasks that actually matter.
How to check your current RAM usage in Windows 11
Before making any changes, it is important to understand how much memory your system is actually using and what is consuming it. Windows 11 includes built-in tools that make this easy, without requiring third-party software.
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, then switch to the Performance tab and select Memory. Here, you can see how much RAM is installed, how much is currently in use, and how much is available. This view also shows memory speed, form factor, and whether your system is running in single- or dual-channel mode.
Next, move to the Processes tab and click the Memory column to sort apps by usage. This helps identify programs that are consuming large amounts of RAM in the background. Web browsers, game launchers, cloud sync tools, and messaging apps are common culprits. On a healthy system, idle memory usage should typically stay well below half of your total installed RAM.
This step matters because Windows, developed by Microsoft, is generally efficient at managing memory on its own. If RAM usage is already reasonable, aggressive “optimization” can do more harm than good. If usage is consistently high at idle, however, it is a clear signal that background software is wasting memory and needs to be addressed.
Five ways to optimize your RAM in Windows 11
Before getting into actual optimization, it is worth clearing up a persistent myth: you cannot download more RAM. Physical memory is a hardware component installed on your motherboard, and no website, app, or “RAM booster” can increase it. Many of these tools simply force Windows to clear cached memory, which often makes performance worse by causing the system to reload data it was already managing efficiently. Real RAM optimization in Windows 11 is about reducing waste, improving how memory is allocated, and ensuring your existing hardware is running as intended.
1. Disable unnecessary startup apps
Startup apps are one of the biggest and most overlooked sources of RAM usage. Many programs register background services that load automatically every time Windows boots, even if you rarely open the app itself.
Open Task Manager, go to Startup apps, and review each entry carefully. Disable anything that is not essential to system operation, such as game launchers, auto-updaters, RGB control software, and messaging apps. After restarting, you should see lower baseline memory usage and faster boot times. This also gives Windows more headroom to cache useful data instead of juggling background processes.
2. Restrict background app permissions
Even when not listed as startup apps, some programs continue running background processes throughout the day.
Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps, select an application, then choose Advanced options. From here, set Background app permissions to Never for apps you do not need constantly active. This is especially useful for cloud sync tools, media apps, and secondary browsers. Over long sessions, limiting background permissions prevents gradual memory creep that can slow down your system.
3. Make sure your RAM is running at the correct speed
Many Windows 11 PCs ship with RAM running below its advertised speed due to conservative default BIOS settings.
Restart your system and enter the BIOS or UEFI menu. Enable XMP on Intel platforms or EXPO on AMD platforms to allow your RAM to run at its rated frequency and timings. This does not increase capacity, but it significantly improves memory bandwidth and latency, which can have a noticeable impact on gaming, multitasking, and content creation workloads.
4. Optimize browser and extension behavior
Web browsers are among the most RAM-hungry applications on modern systems.
Limit the number of active tabs, remove extensions you no longer use, and enable built-in features such as sleeping or inactive tabs. Each extension runs its own background scripts, and poorly optimized add-ons can consume large amounts of memory over time. If you frequently multitask with many browser tabs open, improving browser discipline can reclaim several gigabytes of RAM.
5. Let Windows manage virtual memory properly
When physical RAM runs low, Windows uses a portion of your SSD as virtual memory. This is normal behavior, but misconfigured settings can cause performance issues.
Go to Advanced system settings → Performance → Advanced → Virtual memory and ensure System managed size is enabled. Windows dynamically adjusts the page file based on workload, which is usually more effective than manual tuning. Disabling or severely limiting virtual memory can lead to crashes or stuttering, even on systems with higher RAM capacity.
Optimizing RAM in Windows 11 is about reducing waste and making sure your hardware is configured correctly, not forcing memory to stay empty or relying on software tricks. If you have followed these steps and still notice high memory usage after long sessions or heavy workloads, manually clearing RAM can be useful in specific situations. For a step-by-step explanation of when clearing memory makes sense and how to do it safely, you can read our full guide on how to clear RAM in Windows 11.
Conclusion
With RAM prices rising and upgrades becoming less affordable than they once were, getting the most out of the memory you already have matters more than ever. Windows 11 is designed to use RAM aggressively to improve responsiveness, but that only works well when background software is kept under control and hardware is configured correctly.
By disabling unnecessary startup apps, limiting background activity, ensuring your RAM is running at its intended speed, optimizing browser behavior, and confirming proper dual-channel configuration, you can reduce wasted memory and improve day-to-day performance without relying on misleading tools or shortcuts. These steps will not replace the need for more RAM in demanding workloads, but they can significantly extend the usable life of your system.
At a certain point, optimization reaches its limits. If your system frequently stutters, relies heavily on disk activity, or struggles with modern applications even after tuning, adding more physical RAM is the only meaningful solution. Until then, smart configuration and disciplined software management remain the most effective ways to keep Windows 11 running smoothly despite higher memory costs.
When upgrading makes sense
If you have reached the point where additional RAM is necessary, choosing a system that is properly balanced from the start matters just as much as raw capacity. Modern laptops and desktops sold through the Acer Store are configured with current Windows 11 requirements in mind, offering sensible memory capacities, upgradable designs on select models, and hardware combinations that avoid common performance bottlenecks.
FAQ
Does clearing RAM improve performance in Windows 11?
Only in specific cases. Clearing RAM can help after long uptimes, memory leaks, or when an app fails to release memory. For normal day-to-day use, Windows already manages RAM efficiently, and routinely clearing it does not improve performance.
Is high RAM usage bad in Windows 11?
No. High RAM usage is often normal. Windows uses available memory to cache apps and files so they load faster. It becomes a problem only when available memory stays low and you experience slowdowns, stuttering, or heavy disk usage.
Can you download more RAM?
No. RAM is a physical hardware component and cannot be downloaded. Software that claims to add RAM usually forces Windows to clear cached memory, which often results in worse performance.
How much RAM do you need for Windows 11?
For basic use, 16 GB is the practical minimum. For gaming, creative work, software development, or heavy multitasking, 32 GB is recommended. Systems with less than 16 GB are more likely to struggle with modern workloads.
Does RAM speed matter more than RAM capacity?
Capacity matters more. Having enough RAM prevents slowdowns caused by disk paging. Faster RAM can improve performance, especially in games, but it cannot compensate for insufficient memory capacity.
Will adding more RAM make my PC faster?
Only if your system is currently running out of RAM. If Windows is frequently using virtual memory on your SSD, adding RAM will noticeably improve performance. If you already have enough RAM for your workload, speed gains will be minimal.
Should I use RAM cleaner or memory booster apps?
No. These tools often reduce performance by forcing Windows to discard useful cached data. Windows, developed by Microsoft, already manages memory more effectively than third-party utilities.
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10 Best Games Made By Swedish Developers
Sweden has become one of the most quietly influential countries in modern game development. Over the past decade, Swedish studios have released games that did more than review well. They sold millions of copies, won major awards, and shaped entire genres, from cooperative storytelling and grand strategy to extraction shooters and indie action classics. This list looks at ten standout video games made by Swedish developers, focusing on what made each one significant, whether through sales milestones, industry recognition, long-term player engagement, or lasting influence on how games are designed and played.
1. Minecraft
Minecraft was developed by Mojang Studios in Stockholm and first entered public alpha in 2009, with its full release arriving in November 2011. The sandbox game allows players to explore procedurally generated worlds, mine resources, build structures, and survive in dynamic environments. Over time it expanded across virtually every game platform, from PC to consoles, mobile devices, and even educational hardware, making it one of the most widely accessible games ever created. Minecraft: Education Edition and other licensed versions have been used worldwide in classrooms to teach subjects from programming to collaborative problem-solving.
A major milestone in Minecraft’s history came in September 2014, when Microsoft acquired Mojang and the Minecraft intellectual property for $2.5 billion, a figure that made global headlines and remains one of the largest studio acquisitions in gaming history. Since then, Minecraft has continued to flourish under Xbox Game Studios, becoming the best-selling video game of all time with 350+ million copies sold worldwide as of 2025. It has sustained massive active engagement, with hundreds of millions of monthly players, spawned official conventions such as Minecon, and expanded into movies and merchandise that have set records for video game adaptations at the box office.
2. Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 was developed by Arrowhead Game Studios in Stockholm and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It launched on February 8, 2024 for PlayStation 5 and Windows PC, later expanding to Xbox platforms. The game is a cooperative third-person squad shooter that pits players against overwhelming alien threats in a satirical intergalactic conflict, combining strategic team play with fast-paced combat and friendly-fire mechanics. It regularly updates with new “Warbonds” and seasonal content long after launch, helping sustain community engagement.
Commercially, Helldivers 2 was a surprise blockbuster. Within its first 12 weeks it sold over 12 million copies, becoming one of Sony’s fastest-selling titles and later surpassing 15–18 million sales worldwide, with strong performance across platforms including Xbox. The game debuted as one of the best-selling premium releases of its launch year and achieved extremely high concurrent player counts. Critically, it earned widespread recognition: Helldivers 2 won Best Multiplayer Game at The Game Awards 2024, took Game of the Year and multiple technical honors at the 2024 TIGA Awards, and was a major winner at the 28th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards, including Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition and Online Game of the Year nominations. It also received nominations and wins at the Golden Joystick Awards and BAFTA Games Awards, further cementing its status as one of the most successful cooperative shooters of this generation.
3. Battlefield 1
Battlefield 1 was developed by DICE (Digital Illusions Creative Entertainment) in Stockholm and published by Electronic Arts. It launched worldwide on October 21, 2016, as the fifteenth installment in the long-running Battlefield franchise and the first to be set in World War I, featuring horses, biplanes, early tanks, and large-scale multiplayer battles that emphasized historical warfare. The game runs on DICE’s Frostbite engine and was released on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, later arriving on other digital platforms including Steam in 2020.
Commercially, Battlefield 1 was a major success and became one of DICE’s biggest launches to date, with players logging 59 million hours of play within its first ten days. Early analyst estimates and financial tracking placed total sales at around 15 million copies, while some retrospective industry reports estimate over 21 million players across platforms, indicating strong long-term engagement.
Critically, the title was widely praised for its presentation and multiplayer design, earning nominations at The Game Awards 2016 for Best Multiplayer and other categories, and winning Outstanding Achievement in Sound Design at the 20th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards. Its multiplayer modes and immersive depiction of The Great War helped Battlefield 1 stand out in a crowded shooter market and remain one of Sweden’s most enduring contributions to the genre.
4. It Takes Two
It Takes Two was developed by Hazelight Studios in Stockholm and published by Electronic Arts under the EA Originals label. The game launched on March 26, 2021, across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. It distinguishes itself with enforced two-player cooperative gameplay, meaning it cannot be played solo; one player needs a partner, either locally or online. The story focuses on a divorcing couple magically transformed into dolls, and its design constantly shifts mechanics to match narrative themes.
It Takes Two was one of the most successful original titles of its generation. Critical acclaim translated into commercial success, with the game selling over 20 million copies worldwide (an unusually high total for a strictly co-op experience) and approaching 27 million copies as of late 2025 according to industry tracking. The title won Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021, as well as Best Multiplayer Game, and received multiple nominations at the BAFTA Games Awards (nine nominations including Best Game) and other major ceremonies, cementing its status as a landmark cooperative design.
5. Valheim
Valheim is a survival sandbox game developed by Iron Gate Studio in Skövde, Sweden and published by Coffee Stain Publishing. It launched in early access on February 2, 2021, initially on PC and later expanded to Xbox platforms as well, building a Viking-themed cooperative survival world with boss progression, crafting, and exploration mechanics that appealed to a broad audience.
The game became one of the fastest-selling indie titles in history. Less than a week after launch it had reached over 4 million copies sold, passed 5 million within its first month, and continued that momentum as it topped Steam charts. By April 2022 Valheim surpassed 10 million copies sold, and later disclosures showed the game had sold over 12 million copies worldwide, all while still being updated with new content.
Critically, Valheim earned overwhelmingly positive reception on Steam (96 % positive user reviews early on), and it was nominated at The Game Awards 2021 and won recognition such as Best Debut and Audience awards at the Game Developers Choice Awards, highlighting its impact as a breakout survival hit from a small Swedish development team.
6. Mirror’s Edge
Mirror’s Edge was developed by DICE in Stockholm and released in 2008 for PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. It introduced first-person parkour movement as the core mechanic, emphasizing momentum, spatial awareness, and traversal over traditional gunplay.
The game stood out immediately for its clean, high-contrast art direction, minimal HUD, and sense of speed, which were deliberately designed to help players read the environment while moving quickly. Its visual style influenced later first-person games that prioritized clarity and motion.
While not a massive commercial hit at launch, Mirror’s Edge achieved long-term recognition as a cult classic. It won Outstanding Achievement in Visual Engineering at the 2009 D.I.C.E. Awards and was influential enough to justify a reboot, Mirror’s Edge Catalyst, released in 2016.
7. Crusader Kings III
Crusader Kings III was developed by Paradox Development Studio in Stockholm and released on September 1, 2020 for PC, later arriving on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on March 29, 2022. It blends grand strategy with character-driven role-playing, letting players manage dynasties, engage in marriages, wars, intrigue, and long-term story-driven campaigns across medieval history. Reviews praised its deep systems and accessibility improvements, with high critical scores and a very positive reception by players.
The game’s sales milestones reflect its long-term success: it reached 1 million copies sold shortly after launch, passed 2 million sales by March 2022, hit 3 million by September 2023, and exceeded 4 million copies sold worldwide by April 2025. It was nominated for Best Sim/Strategy Game at The Game Awards 2020, recognized by outlets such as PC Gamer as one of the best strategy titles of the year, and remains one of Paradox’s most commercially successful and enduring strategy releases.
8. Warhammer: Vermintide 2
Warhammer: Vermintide 2 was developed and published by Fatshark in Stockholm, releasing on March 8, 2018 for PC and later on consoles throughout 2018–2020. It is a cooperative first-person action game set in the Warhammer Fantasy universe, where up to four players battle hordes of Skaven, Chaos, and other enemies together with melee and ranged combat.
The game sold 500,000 copies in under a week after launch, reached 1 million copies in less than five weeks, and had sold over 2 million copies by the end of 2018. As of late 2025, Fatshark reports that over 25 million players have engaged with the title across free events and ownership.
Vermintide 2 received multiple nominations at the 2018 Golden Joystick Awards, including Best Co-operative Game, and was widely praised for its loot system, varied enemy design, and gameplay that evolved beyond its predecessor.
Remarkably, more than seven years after release, it continues to receive substantial free content updates and seasonal events, demonstrating enduring community support and Fatshark’s commitment to long-term live service.
9. Hotline Miami
Hotline Miami was developed by Dennaton Games, a small Swedish indie duo, and released in October 2012 on PC before expanding to PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo platforms. The game is a top-down action title known for its extreme violence, one-hit-kill combat, and surreal, fragmented storytelling.
It became a breakout indie hit almost immediately. By 2014, Hotline Miami had sold over 1.5 million copies, an enormous figure for a low-budget indie game at the time, and it played a major role in defining the early-2010s indie boom on PC and consoles.
The game won Best PC Game at the 2013 Golden Joystick Awards and received critical acclaim for its soundtrack, visual identity, and subversive narrative. Its electronic soundtrack, featuring artists like Perturbator and Carpenter Brut, also became influential far beyond the game itself.
Hotline Miami’s success directly led to Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number and helped establish Devolver Digital as a major indie publisher. Today, it is widely regarded as one of the most influential indie games of the 2010s.
10. ARC Raiders
ARC Raiders is a multiplayer extraction shooter developed and published by Embark Studios (Stockholm). It launched worldwide on October 30, 2025 for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X/S, built on Unreal Engine 5 and blending PvPvE extraction gameplay with cooperative and competitive elements. Players form squads to scavenge, fight robotic enemies called ARCs, and extract loot within timed missions, with progression tied to gear, blueprints, and workshop upgrades.
The game was nominated and won Best Multiplayer Game at The Game Awards 2025, and also received honors such as Most Innovative Gameplay at The Steam Awards 2025 and Best Shooter in several year-end lists. It was long-listed for multiple categories at the 2026 D.I.C.E. Awards and BAFTA Games Awards, demonstrating strong critical recognition early in its lifecycle.
Commercially, ARC Raiders exceeded expectations. It sold over 4 million units shortly after launch and then surpassed 12 million copies sold worldwide by early 2026, with concurrent player peaks reported near one million across platforms and exceptional retention compared with similar titles.
Steam user reviews are “Very Positive” with high engagement, and the game features 50 achievements/trophies across platforms that encourage exploration, combat, and extraction mastery. Future planned updates and community events (such as “North Line” content patches and holiday events) have helped sustain the player base and support a long-term development roadmap. At Acer Corner we have a wide range of articles on Arc Raiders, if you're interested in expanding your in-game knowledge about the best guns in Arc Raiders or who the rescue raiders are please check out our articles!
Conclusion
Swedish game developers have had an outsized impact on modern gaming, delivering titles that are not only critically respected but commercially successful and technically demanding. From cooperative standouts like It Takes Two to large-scale experiences such as ARC Raiders, Helldivers 2, and Crusader Kings III, these games push systems through dense worlds, complex AI, and fast-paced action. They are designed to scale with better hardware, rewarding players who can maintain stable frame rates and high visual settings over long play sessions.
For players who want a reliable way to experience these games at their best, Acer’s Nitro and Predator gaming lines are built for exactly this kind of workload. Acer Nitro laptops strike a balance between performance and accessibility, making them a solid choice for players who want smooth gameplay across modern titles without stepping into ultra-premium pricing. Meanwhile, Acer Predator systems are aimed at enthusiasts who want maximum performance, higher refresh rates, and the thermal headroom needed for long sessions in demanding games.
Whether you are exploring post-apocalyptic battlefields, managing dynasties across centuries, or coordinating with friends in high-pressure co-op encounters, the combination of thoughtful game design and capable hardware matters. Acer Nitro and Predator systems are designed to keep up with the ambition of today’s best games and the studios behind them.
FAQ
Why does Sweden produce so many successful video games?
Sweden has a long-standing game development ecosystem supported by strong technical education, early broadband adoption, and government-backed creative grants. Many Swedish studios also benefit from experienced talent that has moved between AAA and indie projects, allowing knowledge to circulate across the industry.
Are these games mostly indie or AAA titles?
They are a mix of both. Games like Minecraft and It Takes Two began with small teams and grew into global hits, while titles such as Helldivers 2, Crusader Kings III, and ARC Raiders come from well-funded studios with AAA production values.
Which Swedish game has sold the most copies?
Minecraft, developed by Mojang in Stockholm, is the best-selling video game of all time, with over 300 million copies sold worldwide and a reported acquisition value of $2.5 billion when Microsoft purchased Mojang in 2014.
Do Swedish developers focus on a specific genre?
No. Swedish studios are unusually diverse. They have produced top-tier games in co-op action, grand strategy, extraction shooters, sandbox survival, rhythm-based action, and narrative-driven adventures, often setting benchmarks within each genre.
Are these games still actively supported?
Many of them are. Games like Crusader Kings III, Helldivers 2, Vermintide 2, and ARC Raiders continue to receive major updates, expansions, or live-service content well after launch.
Do you need a high-end gaming PC to play these games?
Some titles scale well on mid-range hardware, but many benefit from stronger systems, especially those with large environments, complex AI, or online multiplayer. Higher-performance hardware helps maintain smooth frame rates and consistent visual quality.
Why do so many Swedish games emphasize co-op or systemic gameplay?
Swedish developers often prioritize systems that encourage replayability, player interaction, and emergent gameplay. This design philosophy shows up in co-op-focused titles, strategy games with deep simulation, and sandbox experiences that allow players to shape outcomes rather than follow fixed scripts.
Are there more Swedish games worth mentioning beyond this list?
Yes. Notable honorable mentions include Payday 2, Cities: Skylines, Goat Simulator, Mirror’s Edge, and Valheim, all of which have had significant commercial or cultural impact.
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How to Check Your Laptop Specs in Windows 11
Knowing your laptop’s specs helps you understand what your system can actually do. Whether you are checking game requirements, diagnosing slow performance, or deciding if it is time for an upgrade, your hardware details are the first thing you should look at. If you are using Windows 11, you already have everything you need built in. No downloads or third-party tools are required.
This guide walks through the easiest and most reliable ways to check your laptop specs in Windows 11, starting with quick overviews and moving into more detailed options.
1. Use Settings for a quick system overview
This is the fastest way to see your core laptop specs.
Open Start, then Settings, select System, and click About.
Here you will find your processor model, installed RAM, system type, and Windows 11 version. This view is ideal for quick compatibility checks or confirming basic hardware, but it does not show detailed graphics or storage information.
2. Use Task Manager for CPU, GPU, and RAM details
Task Manager is the most useful tool for performance-related specs.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, then switch to the Performance tab.
From here, you can click through each component:
* CPU shows your processor name, core count, and clock speed
* Memory shows total RAM, speed, and usage
* GPU shows your graphics card model and video memory
* Disk shows whether you are using an SSD or HDD
If you care about gaming, content creation, or system responsiveness, this is the most important screen to check.
3. Use DirectX Diagnostic Tool for graphics details
If you want precise graphics information, including driver versions, use DirectX Diagnostic Tool.
Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
* The System tab lists your CPU and memory.
* The Display tab shows your GPU model, driver version, and VRAM.
This tool is especially helpful when troubleshooting games or graphics-related issues.
4. Use System Information for full hardware specs
For a complete hardware breakdown in one place, use System Information.
Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
This window shows:
* Processor and motherboard details
* Installed memory
* BIOS version
* Storage devices and connected hardware
This is the best option if you need detailed specs for support, upgrades, or advanced troubleshooting.
The laptop specs that matter most in Windows 11
If you do not want to dig through everything, focus on these four components:
* The CPU determines overall speed and multitasking ability.
* The RAM affects how smoothly apps run and how many you can keep open.
* The GPU is critical for gaming, creative work, and video playback.
* The storage type matters more than capacity. SSDs are dramatically faster than HDDs.
These four specs explain most performance differences between laptops.
When should you check your laptop specs?
You should check your specs if Windows 11 feels slow, a game or app will not run properly, you are installing new software, or you are considering a new laptop. Knowing what you have makes it much easier to decide whether to optimize your system or replace it.
Conclusion
Windows 11 makes it easy to check your laptop specs once you know where to look. For quick answers, the Settings app is enough. For performance and gaming details, Task Manager and DirectX Diagnostic Tool give you deeper insight. For full technical information, System Information shows everything in one place.
Spending a few minutes checking your specs can save hours of frustration later and helps you make smarter decisions about upgrades, software, and performance expectations.
FAQ
How do I quickly check my laptop specs in Windows 11?
The fastest way is to open Settings, go to System, and select About. This shows your CPU, installed RAM, system type, and Windows 11 version in one place.
Where can I find my graphics card information in Windows 11?
Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, then go to the Performance tab and select GPU. You can also type dxdiag into the Run dialog for detailed graphics and driver information.
How do I know if my laptop has an SSD or an HDD?
Open Task Manager, select the Performance tab, and click Disk. Windows 11 will clearly label the drive as an SSD or HDD.
What specs should I check before installing a game or app?
Focus on your CPU, RAM, GPU, and storage type. These four components determine whether software will run smoothly or at all.
Why does my laptop feel slow even if the specs look fine?
Performance issues can come from background apps, limited RAM, thermal throttling, or slow storage. Checking Task Manager’s usage graphs can help identify the bottleneck.
Do I need third-party software to check laptop specs?
No. Windows 11 includes everything you need through Settings, Task Manager, DirectX Diagnostic Tool, and System Information.
What information should I write down or screenshot?
At minimum, note your CPU model, total RAM, GPU name, and storage type. This is usually enough for support, upgrades, or compatibility checks.
How often should I check my laptop specs?
You typically only need to check them when installing new software, troubleshooting performance issues, or considering an upgrade or replacement.
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Smarter Teaching Starts with Acer Chromebook Plus
Teaching today involves far more than delivering lessons. Educators are planning content, managing digital classrooms, communicating with parents, and supporting diverse learning needs - often all at once. The tools they rely on need to keep pace without adding complexity.
Chromebook Plus is designed to support this reality. Built for productivity, learning, and creativity, it offers a more capable Chromebook experience for educators and students who need stronger performance and smarter tools throughout the school day. With enhanced hardware and integrated features built into ChromeOS, Chromebook Plus helps streamline everyday tasks so teachers can stay focused on teaching.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLb5w-UxCUc
What Is Chromebook Plus?
In case you’re unfamiliar, Chromebook Plus isn’t just a singular device - it’s a whole category of Chromebooks built to a higher standard. Chromebook Plus models are designed for users who need more power and flexibility than a traditional Chromebook typically offers, making them well suited for modern classrooms and academic workloads.
Compared to standard Chromebooks, Chromebook Plus models are billed to feature double the processing power, double the memory, and double the storage - not to mention upgraded displays and webcams. This strong hardware foundation allows Chromebook Plus devices to be primed to support more demanding teaching and learning workflows, while setting the stage for smarter software experiences and advanced tools that are built directly into ChromeOS.
A Smarter ChromeOS Experience for Education
On Chromebook Plus, everything down to the operating system is designed to support the pace and multitasking demands of teaching and learning. Combined with the aforementioned stronger performance under the hood, nearly everything that teachers might use their laptops for, such as switching between lesson plans, student submissions, and presentations, feels smoother and more responsive throughout the school day.
On top of this, built-in tools within ChromeOS also help simplify common classroom tasks. Features like Select to Search with Google Lens allow educators to quickly explore or verify content directly from images and on-screen materials, while Text Capture makes it easier to quickly grab and utilize information from PDFs, scans, or photos when preparing worksheets or slides. Live Translate supports multilingual classrooms by helping break down language barriers in real time, and Google Tasks integration helps teachers and students stay organized without leaving their workflows.
Together, these improvements turn Chromebook Plus laptops and ChromeOS into more than just a standard laptop or operating system - they become a practical teaching companion that reduces friction, helps keep materials connected and accessible, and allows educators to focus more on instruction and engagement rather than getting bogged down in device management.
The Built-In AI Advantage with Gemini
Teaching often means balancing lesson planning, content review, and communication - while also adapting materials for different learning levels. On Chromebook Plus, AI support is built directly into these everyday workflows through Gemini, helping educators work more efficiently without stepping outside the tools they already use.
Rather than functioning as a separate app or add-on, though, Gemini is integrated into ChromeOS - while also extending seamlessly into Google Workspace. This means AI assistance is available across familiar tools like Docs, Slides, Gmail, Drive, and Classroom - where much of a teacher’s planning and communication already happens. Whether drafting lesson outlines, refining instructions, summarizing reference materials, or preparing presentations, educators can access Gemini-powered support directly within their existing workspace.
Further, with features like Help Me Read, teachers can highlight articles, reference materials, or dense documents and instantly summarize or simplify them - useful for quickly reviewing sources or adjusting reading levels for different classes. On the flip side, Help Me Write supports drafting lesson outlines, classroom instructions, or parental communications by helping either generate, refine, or rephrase text while keeping educators in control of the final content.
Chromebook Plus also introduces more intuitive ways to bring AI into daily workflows. The Quick Insert key makes it easier to generate content directly where it’s needed, whether that’s inside a slide, document, or worksheet. And for lesson planning or research-heavy preparation, NotebookLM helps turn uploaded teaching materials into structured summaries, discussion prompts, or study questions, allowing educators to focus on their own trusted sources rather than the open web.
Taken together, these AI capabilities are meant to simplify workflows without adding complexity. Gemini on Chromebook Plus acts as a practical assistant, helping teachers prepare faster, adapt content more effectively, and support a wider range of learners.
Creativity and Personalization for Teaching Materials
Teaching isn’t only about writing lesson plans - it’s also about how ideas are presented. Chromebook Plus includes built-in creative tools that help educators quickly adapt visual materials to match their teaching goals, without relying on external editing software.
With the Magic Editor in Google Photos, teachers can easily adjust and refine images used in slides, worksheets, or classroom activities. Simple edits, such as removing distractions, reframing visuals, or highlighting key elements, make it that much easier to tailor content for different subjects or age groups.
Chromebook Plus also streamlines how visual elements are added during lesson creation. The previously mentioned Quick Insert key also allows teachers to generate or place images directly into documents and presentations, making it easier to build engaging materials on the fly - especially when adapting lessons or responding to student needs.
A Chromebook Built for Teaching
Chromebook Plus is designed to support teaching as it exists today - not as a single feature or AI add-on, but as a more capable Chromebook experience built for education. With its stronger performance, smarter ChromeOS tools, and integrated Google AI, it brings together the essentials teachers rely on throughout the school day.
Acer helps deliver this experience through its extensive Chromebook Plus portfolio, offering educators a broad range of devices designed to meet different classroom needs and teaching styles. From compact 14-inch models to immersive 16-inch displays, Acer Chromebook Plus devices combine fast processors, premium displays, and durable, thoughtfully designed chassis that gives schools and teachers the flexibility to choose the right tool for their environment.
The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 in particular stands out as a strong option for teachers. Its 14-inch touchscreen display, fast performance, and flexible convertible design make it well suited for lesson planning, presenting, and everyday classroom use. Backed by military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H), it’s designed to handle the demands of daily teaching while maintaining a sleek, modern form factor that fits both classroom and professional settings.
Together, Acer Chromebook Plus devices offer a practical foundation for digital-first teaching - combining performance, durability, and built-in intelligence in devices designed to keep pace with modern education workflows.
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