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How to Dual Boot Linux and Windows 11
Dual booting Linux and Windows 11 allows you to run two operating systems on the same computer and choose between them at startup. For developers, IT professionals, gamers, and power users, this setup combines Windows 11’s strong hardware compatibility and software ecosystem with Linux’s flexibility, performance efficiency, and control. Instead of relying on virtual machines or secondary devices, dual booting gives each operating system full access to your hardware, making it ideal for tasks like software development, cybersecurity testing, data science, and system administration while still keeping Windows available for everyday work, gaming, or proprietary applications.
This guide explains why you might want to dual boot, the real benefits, the risks involved and how to avoid them, and provides a step-by-step walkthrough for safely installing Linux alongside Windows 11. It also covers what to do after installation, including system updates, boot management, and performance optimization, so your dual-boot setup remains stable and secure long term.
How dual booting works (overview)
At a high level, dual booting works by installing Linux on a separate partition of your computer’s storage while keeping Windows 11 intact. A bootloader, typically installed by Linux, allows you to choose which operating system to start when the computer powers on. Each system remains independent, with its own files, settings, and applications, but both share the same physical hardware.
In the sections that follow, we will break this process down in detail, starting with why people choose to dual boot in the first place, then moving into preparation, installation, risk mitigation, and post-installation best practices.
Why dual boot Linux and Windows 11 (use cases and scenarios)
Dual booting Linux and Windows 11 makes sense when you need the strengths of both operating systems without compromise. Rather than forcing everything into one environment, dual booting lets each OS do what it does best.
Common use cases include:
* Software development and engineering
Linux is often the preferred environment for backend development, containers, servers, and open-source tooling. Windows 11 remains useful for IDEs, commercial software, and testing Windows-specific builds.
* Cybersecurity, networking, and IT work
Many security, forensics, and networking tools are built natively for Linux. Dual booting avoids the performance and hardware access limitations of virtual machines.
* Data science and AI workloads
Linux offers better control over Python environments, CUDA tooling, and package managers, while Windows still handles productivity software and vendor-specific tools.
* Gaming and general use
Windows 11 is still the most compatible platform for modern PC gaming and peripherals. Dual booting lets you keep Windows for games while using Linux for work or learning.
* Learning Linux without giving up Windows
For users transitioning to Linux, dual booting provides a safety net. You can learn Linux at your own pace without abandoning familiar Windows workflows.
* Performance and hardware access
Unlike virtual machines, dual booting gives Linux direct access to the CPU, GPU, storage, and networking hardware, which matters for performance-sensitive tasks.
In short, dual booting is ideal when you want native performance, full hardware access, and clear separation of workflows, without buying a second computer or relying on virtualization.
What are the benefits of dual booting Linux and Windows 11
Dual booting is not just about having two operating systems. It is about getting full performance, flexibility, and control without sacrificing compatibility.
Key benefits include:
* Native performance on both operating systems
Each OS runs directly on the hardware. There is no virtualization overhead, no shared RAM limits, and no reduced GPU performance.
* Full hardware access
Linux can directly access the CPU, GPU, storage controllers, USB devices, and networking hardware. This is critical for development, security testing, machine learning, and low-level system work.
* Clear separation of environments
Windows and Linux remain isolated from each other. System updates, drivers, and software changes in one OS do not affect the other.
* Better than virtual machines for demanding workloads
Virtual machines are convenient, but they struggle with GPU acceleration, disk I/O, and power management. Dual booting avoids these limitations entirely.
* No need for a second computer
You get two full operating systems on one machine, saving cost and desk space while keeping workflows separate.
* Greater control and customization
Linux allows deep system customization and transparency, while Windows 11 maintains access to commercial software, enterprise tools, and games.
* Long-term flexibility
If your needs change, you can adjust partitions, remove one OS, or switch your primary system without reinstalling everything from scratch.
For users who need Windows compatibility and Linux capability, dual booting offers the most balanced solution with the fewest trade-offs.
Potential risks of dual booting Linux and Windows 11 (and how to avoid them)
Dual booting is safe when done correctly, but most problems come from poor preparation rather than the process itself. Below are the real risks you should be aware of and how to prevent them.
1. Data loss during partitioning
Shrinking or modifying disk partitions always carries risk if done incorrectly.
How to avoid it:
* Back up important files before making any changes
* Resize partitions from Windows first using Disk Management
* Never delete or format existing Windows partitions during Linux installation
2. Windows updates overwriting the Linux bootloader
Major Windows 11 updates can sometimes override the Linux bootloader, making Linux temporarily unbootable.
How to avoid it:
* Use UEFI mode (not Legacy/CSM)
* Keep a Linux live USB available to repair the bootloader if needed
* This does not delete Linux data and is fixable in minutes
3. Secure Boot compatibility issues
Some Linux distributions may not boot if Secure Boot is misconfigured.
How to avoid it:
* Choose a Secure Boot–compatible distro (Ubuntu, Fedora, Linux Mint)
* If needed, disable Secure Boot temporarily in BIOS
* Do not mix Secure Boot changes mid-installation
4. BitLocker conflicts
BitLocker encryption can interfere with partition resizing or Linux access to shared drives.
How to avoid it:
* Suspend BitLocker before resizing Windows partitions
* Re-enable it after installation is complete
* Avoid mounting BitLocker-encrypted system partitions in Linux
5. Clock time mismatch between Linux and Windows
Linux uses UTC by default while Windows uses local time, which can cause clock drift.
How to avoid it:
* Configure Linux to use local time or adjust Windows registry settings
6. Driver and hardware compatibility concerns
Some hardware, especially Wi-Fi chips or GPUs, may require additional Linux drivers.
How to avoid it:
* Check Linux compatibility for your hardware beforehand
* Use popular distributions with strong driver support
* Install proprietary GPU drivers after setup if needed
When planned properly, dual booting is low risk and fully reversible. Most issues are configuration-related, not destructive, and can be avoided with backups, UEFI consistency, and careful partitioning.
Got it. I read the transcript, and I’m going to mirror the same practical framing: keep Windows for the apps you paid for, add Linux for speed, efficiency, and privacy, and make it easy to undo later.
How to dual boot Linux and Windows 11 (step-by-step, detailed)
Before you start: the point of this setup
A dual boot environment gives you two fully separate operating systems on one PC. You choose which one to load at startup. This is ideal if you:
* Need Windows-only apps (work software, Adobe, certain games, specialty utilities)
* Want Linux for everyday browsing, documents, development, or a lighter OS on older hardware
* Want a “no commitment” path where either OS can be removed later
Part 1: What you need
Hardware and basics
* A USB flash drive (8 GB or larger)
4 GB can work for some distros, but 8 GB+ avoids headaches.
* At least 30 GB of unallocated space for Linux
50–60 GB is a better minimum if you plan to actually use Linux.
* Admin access in Windows 11
* A reliable backup (non-negotiable)
If partitioning goes wrong, the backup is what saves you.
Choose a Linux distribution
If you’re coming from Windows and want something that “feels familiar,” the transcript’s pick is a solid default:
* Linux Mint Cinnamon (Windows-like desktop, beginner-friendly)
Other good options (if you want alternatives later):
* Ubuntu (huge community)
* Fedora (modern, clean defaults)
For this guide, I’ll assume Linux Mint Cinnamon, since that’s what the transcript uses and it’s beginner-friendly.
Part 2: Prep Windows 11 the right way (this prevents most disasters)
1) Back up what matters
Do at least one of these:
* Copy files to an external SSD/HDD
* Use a cloud backup you trust
* Create a full system image if you want maximum safety
If you only do one thing from this whole section, do the backup.
2) Check whether BitLocker is enabled (and suspend it)
BitLocker can interfere with resizing and can complicate boot changes.
* Open Start → search “Manage BitLocker”
* If it’s on for your C: drive:* Click Suspend protection (do not “turn off” unless you understand the difference)
* You can re-enable after Linux is installed and booting correctly
3) Disable Fast Startup (prevents weird boot and disk issues)
Fast Startup can cause Windows to leave the disk in a “half-hibernated” state.
* Control Panel → Power Options
* Choose what the power buttons do
* Click Change settings that are currently unavailable
* Uncheck Turn on fast startup
* Save
4) Make sure you’re using UEFI mode (recommended)
Most Windows 11 systems are already UEFI.
* Press Win + R → type msinfo32
* Look for:* BIOS Mode: UEFI (good)
Dual booting works best when both OS installs use the same mode (UEFI).
Part 3: Create the Linux USB installer (Windows 11)
1) Download the Linux ISO
* Download the Linux Mint Cinnamon ISO from the official Mint download page (choose a mirror close to you).
* Note where it saves (usually Downloads).
The ISO is often around a few gigabytes, so it may take a bit.
2) Create a bootable USB with Rufus
The transcript mentions the Mint guide recommends Balena Etcher, but it failed for the creator, so they used Rufus. Rufus is a standard choice on Windows.
* Download and run Rufus
* Insert your USB drive
* In Rufus:* Device: select your USB drive (triple-check this)
* Boot selection: select the Mint ISO
* Leave defaults unless you know what you’re doing
Important warning: this wipes the USB drive completely. Do not use a USB stick that has files you care about.
Click Start and let it finish.
Part 4: Create space for Linux (shrink Windows partition)
This step is a big one. The goal is to create unallocated space that Linux can install into.
1) Open Disk Management
* Right-click Start
* Select Disk Management
2) Shrink the Windows (C:) partition
* Find the C: partition (your main Windows drive)
* Right-click C: → Shrink Volume
* Enter how much to shrink by
Quick sizing rule:
* Testing Linux: 30,000 MB (30 GB)
* Comfortable use: 50,000–100,000 MB (50–100 GB)
After shrinking, you should see a block labeled Unallocated.
Stop here. Do not create a new Windows volume in that unallocated space. Leave it unallocated. The Linux installer will handle it cleanly.
Part 5: Boot into the Linux USB (two good methods)
Method A (easy and reliable): Shift + Restart from Windows 11
This is the transcript’s method and it’s great if you don’t want to guess function keys.
* Keep the USB plugged in
* Hold Shift
* Click Restart
* On the recovery screen:* Use a device
* Choose the USB drive (may show as “UEFI: ”)
Method B: Boot menu function key
On power-on, use your boot menu key (often F12, F9, Esc, etc). This varies by manufacturer.
Part 6: Try Linux before installing (highly recommended)
Most distros let you run a “live” desktop from the USB.
Why you should do this:
* Confirms Wi-Fi works
* Confirms keyboard and trackpad work
* Confirms display scaling and resolution are usable
You can’t really “break” Windows from the live environment unless you start the installer and choose destructive options.
Part 7: Install Linux alongside Windows 11 (the safest path)
1) Start the installer from the live desktop
On Mint, it’s usually an icon like “Install Linux Mint”.
2) Language and keyboard layout
* Choose English
* Keyboard: typically English (US) for American users
3) Multimedia codecs (usually yes)
Mint offers “Install multimedia codecs.”
If you want better media playback support out of the box, check it.
4) Installation type: this is the decision that matters
You will see options like:
* Erase disk and install Linux (do not choose this)
* Install Linux Mint alongside Windows Boot Manager (this is the one you want)
Select:
Install alongside Windows Boot Manager
This tells the installer:
* Keep Windows intact
* Put Linux in the free (unallocated) space
* Set up a boot menu so you can choose Windows or Linux at startup
5) Confirm partition changes
The installer will warn that it’s going to write changes to disk and create Linux partitions in the unallocated space.
This is your last safe checkpoint:
* If it shows it’s touching your Windows partitions in a way you don’t expect, stop and go back.
* If it’s clearly using only the unallocated space, proceed.
6) Time zone
Pick your time zone. For US readers, this is where you choose Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, etc.
7) Create your Linux user
* Name, computer name, username, password
* Many installers require lowercase usernames (normal Linux convention)
Login choice:
* Log in automatically is convenient on a personal device
* Require password is better for security, especially on a laptop
Encryption choice:
* Encrypting your home folder improves security
* It can add complexity if you’re new
A practical approach:
* If you’re new: skip encryption for now, add it later once you’re comfortable
* If you travel or store sensitive data: consider encrypting
8) Install
Let the installer run. This may take several minutes.
9) Reboot and remove the USB when prompted
When installation finishes:
* Restart
* Remove the USB drive when the prompt tells you to
* Press Enter to continue booting
Part 8: First boot after installation (what you should see)
On restart, you should see a boot menu (often GRUB) where you can choose:
* Linux Mint
* Windows Boot Manager
If you do nothing, it usually defaults to Linux after a timeout.
Test both immediately:
* Boot Linux, confirm you reach desktop
* Reboot, choose Windows Boot Manager, confirm Windows is normal
That moment matters because it proves your dual boot is stable.
Part 9: Troubleshooting the most common problems
“I don’t see Windows in the boot menu”
* You can usually still boot Windows by selecting Windows Boot Manager in BIOS/UEFI boot options
* In Linux, tools like Boot Repair exist, but don’t guess. The main goal is: Windows is still on disk and usually recoverable.
Wi-Fi doesn’t work in Linux
This is often a driver/firmware issue, especially on some laptop Wi-Fi chipsets.
* If Ethernet is available temporarily, it makes driver setup easier
* On Mint, Driver Manager can help with proprietary drivers
Time is wrong when switching between Windows and Linux
Windows uses local time by default, Linux often uses UTC.
Fix it by configuring Linux to use local time (common fix) or adjusting Windows settings.
Part 10: After you’ve done it, what now?
1) Update Linux immediately
On Mint:
* Use Update Manager
* Apply system updates
This improves stability, driver support, and security.
2) Install drivers if needed
* For NVIDIA GPUs, you may want proprietary drivers for best performance
* Mint often makes this easier through its driver tools
3) Decide how you want to use each OS
A sensible split (matches the transcript’s logic):
* Linux: browsing, docs, daily work, lightweight performance
* Windows: paid apps, Windows-only tools, some games, device-specific utilities
4) Set expectations about files
Your systems are separate. You can:
* Keep separate documents per OS
* Or create a shared data partition (a more advanced but useful optimization)
5) Keep your exit plan simple
Dual boot is valuable partly because it’s reversible:
* If you decide Linux isn’t for you, you can remove Linux partitions and restore Windows boot
* If you decide Windows isn’t for you, you can wipe Windows and go full Linux later
Now that you’ve dual booted Linux and Windows 11, what now?
At this point, you have what most people are actually trying to achieve: Linux for speed, efficiency, and privacy, and Windows 11 available on demand for the apps and workflows you cannot replace. The difference between a dual boot that feels “done” and one that becomes annoying is what you do next. Use this checklist to lock in stability, avoid common issues, and make the setup easy to live with.
1) Confirm both operating systems boot cleanly
Do this immediately while everything is fresh:
* Boot into Linux, confirm you reach the desktop, Wi-Fi works, and basic audio/display are fine.
* Reboot and boot into Windows 11, confirm your files and apps are unchanged and BitLocker (if you use it) behaves normally.
This sounds obvious, but it catches bootloader issues early, before you make additional changes.
2) Update Linux first (stability, security, and drivers)
Most Linux problems new users hit are solved by updates.
* Open your distro’s update tool (on Mint, Update Manager).
* Install all recommended updates.
* Reboot if prompted.
This step improves hardware support, security patches, and overall reliability.
3) Install the right drivers, especially GPU and Wi-Fi
If you want Linux to feel fast and trouble-free, drivers matter.
GPU
* If you have NVIDIA, proprietary drivers often provide better performance and fewer glitches than the default open driver.
* If you have AMD or Intel, things usually “just work” out of the box, but updates still matter.
Wi-Fi / Bluetooth
* If Wi-Fi is flaky, it is often a chipset/firmware issue.
* Use your distro’s driver tool where available, or update firmware packages through the official repos.
The goal here is simple: get Linux to a point where daily use does not require tinkering.
4) Decide your workflow split (this prevents frustration)
Dual boot works best when each OS has a clear purpose.
A practical setup:
* Linux: web browsing, documents, email, development work, lightweight daily computing, privacy-sensitive tasks
* Windows 11: paid software you already own, Windows-only apps, certain peripherals, certain games, enterprise tools
When you stop trying to make one OS do everything, dual booting starts to feel like an upgrade rather than a compromise.
5) Plan how you will handle files across both systems
You have two realistic options:
Option A: Keep files mostly separate (simplest)
* Store Linux work in Linux folders
* Store Windows work in Windows folders
* Use cloud storage for anything you truly need to share
Option B: Create a shared “data” partition (best long-term, slightly advanced)
* You create a dedicated partition formatted for sharing (often exFAT for simplicity)
* Both Windows and Linux can read/write it easily
* This reduces duplication and makes switching between OSes smoother
If you are writing this as a guide, call out Option A as the default for beginners, and Option B as an “upgrade” once the system is stable.
6) Make the boot menu predictable
Most dual boot installs will default to Linux after a timeout. You can leave it that way, or you can change the default OS depending on what you use most.
Best practice:
* Set the OS you use most often as the default
* Keep the boot timeout long enough that you can switch without rushing (even 5–10 seconds is fine)
This is a small quality-of-life change that makes the setup feel intentional.
7) Re-enable BitLocker if you suspended it
If you suspended BitLocker earlier:
* Boot into Windows 11
* Resume BitLocker protection
Do this after you have confirmed both OSes boot correctly. That order matters.
8) Keep a simple recovery plan (so you are never “stuck”)
Dual booting is flexible specifically because it is reversible.
If you ever decide Linux is not for you:
* You can remove Linux partitions and restore Windows boot
If you ever decide Windows is not for you:
* You can wipe Windows later and go full Linux
The key point for readers: dual booting is not a permanent commitment. It is a way to try Linux seriously without losing the Windows tools you still need.
Conclusion
Dual booting Linux and Windows 11 gives you flexibility without forcing a permanent decision. You keep access to Windows-only software that you may have paid for or still depend on, while gaining Linux’s speed, efficiency, and reduced background overhead for everyday tasks. When set up correctly, both operating systems remain isolated, stable, and easy to switch between.
The key to a successful dual boot is preparation. Backing up your data, resizing partitions carefully, and installing Linux alongside Windows rather than replacing it removes most of the risk. Once installed, keeping Linux updated, installing the correct drivers, and defining clear use cases for each operating system ensures the setup stays reliable over time.
Most importantly, dual booting is reversible. If Linux does not fit your workflow, it can be removed. If Windows becomes less important, it can be phased out later. That flexibility is what makes dual booting one of the safest and most practical ways to experience Linux while keeping Windows 11 available when you need it.
FAQ
Is dual booting Linux and Windows 11 safe?
Yes, dual booting is safe when done correctly. Most issues come from skipping backups or modifying the wrong partition. If you back up your data, shrink the Windows partition properly, and choose the “install alongside Windows” option, the risk is low.
Will dual booting delete my Windows files?
No. When you install Linux alongside Windows, your Windows files and applications remain unchanged. Linux is installed in separate disk space and does not overwrite your Windows installation.
Can Windows 11 updates break my Linux install?
Occasionally, major Windows updates may affect the bootloader. This usually does not delete Linux and can be fixed by repairing the bootloader with a Linux USB. Keeping both systems installed in UEFI mode reduces this risk.
How much disk space do I need for Linux?
Linux can run in as little as 30 GB, but that is only suitable for testing. For regular use, 50 to 60 GB or more is recommended so you have room for applications and updates.
Can I access my Windows files from Linux?
Yes, Linux can read and write to Windows data partitions. However, it is best to avoid modifying Windows system files from Linux. For shared documents, a dedicated data partition or cloud storage is safer.
Does dual booting slow down my computer?
No. Only one operating system runs at a time, so performance is native. In many cases, Linux will feel faster than Windows, especially on older hardware.
Should I use a virtual machine instead of dual booting?
Virtual machines are convenient for light testing, but they limit hardware access and performance. Dual booting is better if you need full CPU, GPU, and storage performance.
Can I remove Linux later if I do not like it?
Yes. You can delete the Linux partitions and restore the Windows boot process. Dual booting is not permanent and does not lock you into Linux.
Can I remove Windows later and keep Linux?
Yes. Once you are comfortable with Linux, you can wipe the Windows partitions and use Linux as your only operating system. This can be done without reinstalling Linux if planned correctly.
Is Linux good for older or unsupported Windows 11 hardware?
Yes. Linux has lower hardware requirements and often runs well on systems that cannot upgrade to Windows 11. Dual booting is a good way to extend the life of older PCs without giving up Windows entirely.
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Introducing Acer's 2026 Veriton AI Workstations
Today we’re checking out Acer desktop AI workstations in the 2026 Veriton lineup. We’ll also discover what an AI workstation is, and why business desktops are increasingly being designed with local AI performance in mind.
As AI-assisted features increasingly become part of everyday office software, Acer’s Veriton desktops are positioned to deliver that capability directly on the device, without relying entirely on the cloud.
Join us as we take a closer look at five Acer Veriton desktop systems, covering compact, tower desktops, and all-in-one designs, to show how Acer desktop solutions address different workspace needs while staying firmly business-focused.
What is an AI workstation?
An AI workstation is a business desktop built to run AI-accelerated tasks locally, rather than relying entirely on cloud processing. By combining modern processors, fast memory, and AI-capable hardware, these systems support AI-assisted productivity, data analysis, automation, and emerging on-device AI features. This applies across traditional tower systems and all in one business desktop computers, giving businesses lower latency, improved data privacy, and more predictable performance in desktop systems designed for daily office use.
1. Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation
The Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation is a compact Acer desktop built specifically for professionals who need serious local AI performance in a small footprint. Powered by AMD Ryzen™ AI Max+ 395, the Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation is positioned as a Copilot+ PC, designed to handle demanding AI workloads such as running local AI models, generative AI tasks, 3D design, and content creation without relying entirely on the cloud.
Despite its compact size, the Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation is clearly aimed at heavy-duty users. Engineers can design and render 3D models using AI-enhanced tools, developers can deploy local LLMs and build AI-driven applications, while content creators benefit from faster editing and rendering workflows. With support for up to 120B parameters, up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X memory, and up to 4 TB of SSD storage, the Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation is built to multitask under pressure while remaining flexible enough for a wide range of professional AI-focused workflows.
2. Acer Veriton Vero 6000 All-in-One
Moving on to an Acer desktop built for modern business environments, the Acer Veriton Vero 6000 All-in-One features AI capability, clean design, and sustainability as standard. Built on Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processors and the Intel vPro® platform, the Acer Veriton Vero 6000 All-in-One targets managed offices and professional teams that need reliable, AI-ready performance in a single integrated system.
Performance is geared toward everyday business productivity and AI-assisted workflows, with support for up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory and up to 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage to keep multitasking smooth and responsive. The integrated 23.8-inch FHD 144 Hz touch display delivers fluid interaction, while 250 nits brightness and VESA mount support allow flexible placement across desks or shared workspaces, whatever the weather.
For collaboration, the Acer Veriton Vero 6000 All-in-One includes a 5 MP + IR webcam, stereo speakers, and Acer PurifiedVoice for clearer meetings. Business-ready connectivity and security are built in, including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth® 5.4, RJ45, TPM 2.0, and Kensington lock support. Tested to MIL-STD 810G standards and certified with EPEAT Gold, TCO, and Energy Star 9.0, this device also emphasizes sustainability through PCR materials and fully recyclable packaging.
3. Acer Veriton Vero 4000 All-in-One
Sticking with the All-In-One format, the Acer Veriton Vero 4000 All-in-One is an Acer desktop with a built-in display aimed squarely at everyday business situations that require simplicity, sustainability, and dependable performance without enterprise-level complexity. Built around Intel® Core™ Ultra processors (Series 2), the Acer Veriton Vero 4000 All-in-One targets teams that want dependable performance, modern security, and a clean, space-saving setup.
For everyday productivity, the Acer Veriton Vero 4000 All-in-One supports up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processors, Intel® Graphics, up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory, and up to 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage, delivering smooth multitasking and responsive performance across office and AI-assisted workflows. The display specs are the same as the Acer Veriton 6000 All-in-One.
Collaboration and connectivity are built in, with a 5 MP + IR webcam, stereo speakers, and Acer PurifiedVoice, alongside Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth® 5.4, RJ45, TPM 2.0, and Kensington lock support. Tested to MIL-STD 810G standards, the Acer Veriton Vero 4000 All-in-One is built using PCR materials and ships in fully recyclable packaging, reinforcing Acer’s sustainability focus.
4. Acer Veriton 2000 All-in-One
Our final integrated desktop today, the Acer Veriton 2000 All-in-One is an Acer desktop with a built-in display designed for teams that need fast, streamlined computing minus unnecessary complexity. Designed around Intel® Core™ Ultra processors, the Acer Veriton 2000 All-in-One focuses on keeping everyday business work moving smoothly, without any hiccups.
Performance is tuned for daily productivity, with support for up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processors and Intel® Graphics, delivering responsive handling of office applications, collaboration tools, and light AI-assisted workflows. To keep things running efficiently as workloads grow, the Acer Veriton 2000 All-in-One supports up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory and up to 1 TB of M.2 PCIe SSD storage, helping reduce load times and improve multitasking.
The integrated 23.8-inch Full HD display offers a 1920 × 1080 resolution, 250 nits brightness, and a 16:9 aspect ratio, with VESA mount compatibility for flexible desk, wall, or kiosk installations. Built-in meeting features include an FHD webcam with adjustable tilt for clearer calls and presentations.
Connectivity and security are business-ready, with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth® 5.2, an RJ45 Ethernet port, TPM 2.0, and Kensington lock support, making the Acer Veriton 2000 All-in-One a practical, reliable all-in-one Acer desktop for shared and professional environments.
5. Acer Veriton 2000 Large Tower
The Acer Veriton 2000 Large Tower is an Acer desktop designed for SMB content developers and productivity-focused teams that need serious AI headroom in a traditional tower form factor. Built to support AI-assisted content creation and demanding everyday workloads, the Acer Veriton 2000 Large Tower prioritizes performance, scalability, and stability for businesses that expect their computing needs to grow over time.
A key differentiator of the Acer Veriton 2000 Large Tower is its focus on AI-driven performance. With powerful NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ graphics delivering 1,800 AI TOPS, it’s positioned to handle AI tasks such as modeling, rendering, and AI-assisted content workflows all day, every day. This makes it a strong fit for teams working with creative assets, complex projects, or AI-enhanced production tools.
Scalability is central to the design. The Acer Veriton 2000 Large Tower supports expansion as workloads increase, with the ability to scale memory and storage for large media files and faster project load times. Combined with fast wired and wireless connectivity and built-in system management tools, it’s an Acer desktop aimed at SMBs that want AI-ready performance today, with room to grow tomorrow, all in a familiar, expandable large tower format.
Veriton, your solution
Acer’s 2026 Veriton lineup shows how far business desktops have evolved, combining AI-ready performance, flexible form factors, and practical security across a wide range of workplace needs. From compact AI-focused systems to integrated all-in-one designs and expandable towers, the Veriton range offers sensible options for modern offices looking for reliability and longevity. Taken together, these Acer desktops make a strong case for inclusion among the best desktop computers for business in 2026, balancing performance, manageability, and real-world usability without unnecessary complexity.
FAQs
What is the Acer Veriton range?
The Acer Veriton range is a line of business desktops designed for professional environments, offering AI-ready performance, security features, and flexible form factors.
What makes a Veriton an AI workstation?
Veriton systems are built to support AI-accelerated tasks locally, helping businesses run AI-assisted productivity, content creation, and data workflows without relying entirely on the cloud.
Are Veriton desktops suitable for small businesses?
Yes. The Veriton lineup includes options aimed at SMBs, shared offices, and growing teams, as well as models designed for more tightly managed enterprise environments.
What form factors are available in the Veriton lineup?
Veriton desktops are available as compact systems, all-in-one desktops with built-in displays, and traditional tower designs, allowing businesses to choose what fits their workspace.
Are Veriton desktops secure for business use?
Yes. Veriton systems include hardware-level security features and are designed for use in shared, professional, and IT-managed environments.
Who should consider a Veriton desktop?
Any organization looking for a reliable business desktop with AI capability, long-term manageability, and practical performance should consider the Veriton range.
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What is Preloading and How to Enable or Disable It in Windows 11 File Explorer
File Explorer preloading is a new, experimental performance feature Microsoft began testing in Windows 11 build 26220.7271 and newer Insider builds. Instead of waiting for you to open File Explorer, Windows quietly loads parts of it in the background so it can launch faster when needed. The change is subtle and usually invisible, with the only noticeable difference being reduced startup delay when opening File Explorer.
As of now, File Explorer preloading is not available in stable Windows 11 releases. It currently appears only in Dev and Beta channels, and in some cases must be manually enabled through advanced settings. This guide explains what File Explorer preloading actually does, who can use it, whether it is worth enabling, and how to turn it on or off safely if your Windows 11 build supports it.
Pros of preloading in Windows 11 File Explorer
Preloading exists to improve responsiveness, and on many systems, it does exactly that.
Faster folder access
Frequently opened folders and system locations load more quickly because metadata and thumbnails are already cached.
Smoother File Explorer navigation
UI elements such as side panels, previews, and directory trees feel more responsive when assets are preloaded.
Better performance on modern hardware
Systems with ample RAM and fast SSDs benefit the most, since background memory usage has little impact.
Improved experience with large folders
Folders containing many images, videos, or documents open faster when thumbnails and file details are prepared in advance.
Reduced delays when reopening File Explorer
Closing and reopening File Explorer often feels instant because recent state and content are already in memory.
Cons of preloading in Windows 11 File Explorer
Preloading is not always beneficial, especially on constrained systems or for users who prefer minimal background activity.
Higher memory usage
Preloading consumes RAM, even when File Explorer is not actively being used.
Increased background disk activity
On systems with slower storage, background reads can cause noticeable delays elsewhere.
Less predictable performance
File Explorer may feel busy or sluggish at startup as background tasks run.
Unnecessary overhead for infrequent use
If you rarely browse files or prefer manual navigation, preloading provides little benefit.
Can impact older or low-RAM systems
Devices with limited memory or older CPUs may feel slower with aggressive preloading enabled.
Should you turn preloading on or off?
There is no universal best setting. The right choice depends on your hardware and how you use File Explorer.
You should leave preloading enabled if:
* Your system has 16 GB of RAM or more
* You use an SSD
* You frequently work with large folders or media libraries
* You value smoother navigation over minimal resource usage
You may want to reduce or disable preloading behaviors if:
* Your system has limited RAM
* You use older hardware
* File Explorer feels slow or inconsistent
* You prefer lower background activity
Rather than fully disabling preloading, many users get better results by selectively turning off specific features that contribute to it.
How to enable or disable preloading in Windows 11 File Explorer
Option 1: Enable or disable File Explorer preloading using Folder Options (supported method)
If your Windows 11 build supports File Explorer preloading, Microsoft exposes a dedicated toggle in Folder Options.
Steps
* Open File Explorer
* Click the three dots ( … ) in the command bar
* Select Options
* Open the View tab
* Under Advanced settings, do one of the following:* Check Enable window preloading for faster launch times to enable it
* Uncheck Enable window preloading for faster launch times to disable it
* Click OK
This setting applies per user account and takes effect immediately. A system restart is not required.
If you do not see this option, your Windows 11 build does not yet support File Explorer preloading through the UI.
Option 2: Enable or disable File Explorer preloading using the Registry (advanced)
This method directly controls the setting used by File Explorer and works even when the UI toggle is present or hidden.
Enable File Explorer preloading (default behavior)
* Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter
* Navigate to:HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
* Create or modify the DWORD value: ShouldPrelaunchFileExplorer = 1
* Close Registry Editor
* Restart File Explorer or sign out and back in
Disable File Explorer preloading
* Open Registry Editor
* Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
* Set the DWORD value: ShouldPrelaunchFileExplorer = 0
* Close Registry Editor
* Restart File Explorer or sign out and back in
This disables background preloading entirely for the current user.
Final thoughts
Preloading in Windows 11 File Explorer is designed to make navigation feel faster, not to waste system resources. On modern systems, it often improves responsiveness without noticeable downsides. On older or resource-limited hardware, it can feel excessive and unnecessary.
The best approach is not to blindly disable everything, but to understand which features affect your system and adjust them selectively. With a few targeted changes, you can make File Explorer feel faster, lighter, and more consistent without breaking core functionality.
FAQ
What is preloading in Windows 11 File Explorer?
Preloading is a background process where Windows 11 prepares File Explorer content in advance. This can include folder metadata, thumbnails, previews, and frequently accessed locations so they load faster when you open them.
Is preloading the same as Windows Prefetch or Superfetch?
No. Windows Prefetch and Superfetch focus on speeding up application and system startup. File Explorer preloading is more limited in scope and is focused on file browsing, thumbnails, previews, and navigation responsiveness.
Is there a single setting to turn preloading on or off?
No. Windows 11 does not provide a single toggle labeled “preloading.” Instead, it is controlled indirectly through File Explorer options, privacy settings, thumbnail behavior, preview panes, and background activity.
Does preloading slow down Windows 11?
On modern systems with enough RAM and an SSD, preloading usually improves responsiveness and does not cause slowdowns. On older systems or PCs with limited memory, it can contribute to higher background usage and make File Explorer feel sluggish.
Does disabling preloading improve performance?
It can, but only in specific situations. Disabling thumbnails, previews, or recent file tracking may help on low-RAM or older systems. On newer systems, disabling these features often provides little to no benefit.
Does preloading affect SSD lifespan?
The impact is minimal. File Explorer preloading involves light background reads and occasional caching, which are negligible compared to normal system usage. It is not considered harmful to SSD longevity.
Should gamers disable File Explorer preloading?
In most cases, no. File Explorer is rarely active during gaming. If you are extremely resource-conscious on a low-end system, reducing background features may help slightly, but the impact is usually minor.
Does preloading collect personal data?
Preloading analyzes local usage patterns, such as recently opened folders, but it does not upload file contents. You can limit this behavior by disabling recent files and frequent folders in File Explorer settings.
Can preloading cause File Explorer to crash?
Preloading itself does not usually cause crashes. However, thumbnail generation or preview handlers for corrupted files can sometimes trigger instability. Disabling thumbnails or the preview pane can help in those cases.
What is the best balance for most users?
For most Windows 11 users, leaving preloading enabled while disabling only unnecessary features like previews for large media folders provides the best balance between speed and resource usage.
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Does Higher FPS Give You an Advantage in Gaming?
Higher frame rates have become one of the most debated topics in modern PC gaming, especially as 144 Hz, 240 Hz, and even 360 Hz displays become more common. Competitive players often claim that higher FPS provides a real gameplay advantage, while others argue that anything above 60 FPS is unnecessary because the human eye cannot perceive it. Understanding whether higher FPS actually matters requires separating hardware marketing myths from how games, displays, and human perception really work. Before deciding if higher FPS gives you an advantage, it helps to understand what FPS is, how it is produced, and how it affects gameplay beyond what you can simply “see” on screen.
What is FPS
FPS stands for frames per second, and it describes how many individual images your system renders every second while a game is running. If a game is running at 60 FPS, it means your computer is producing 60 separate frames every second. At 120 FPS, that number doubles, resulting in more frequent visual updates.
FPS is different from resolution or graphics quality. Resolution affects how sharp an image looks, while FPS affects how smooth and responsive the game feels. A game can look visually impressive at low FPS but still feel sluggish, while a simpler-looking game can feel extremely fluid at high FPS.
It is also important to distinguish FPS from refresh rate. FPS is how fast your computer generates frames, while refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), is how many times your display can update per second. To fully benefit from higher FPS, your monitor’s refresh rate needs to be high enough to display those extra frames.
Understanding FPS is the foundation for answering whether higher frame rates provide a real gameplay advantage, because the benefits go beyond visuals alone.
How do you get more FPS
FPS is the result of how efficiently your system can process game data and render frames. Increasing it usually involves a combination of hardware capability, software settings, and system configuration.
The most direct way to gain more FPS is through graphics settings. Lowering options such as shadows, reflections, volumetric effects, and anti-aliasing reduces the workload on your GPU. Many competitive players deliberately use low or medium settings, not because their hardware cannot handle higher visuals, but because it maximizes frame rate and consistency.
Hardware still plays the largest role. The graphics card has the biggest impact on FPS, followed by the CPU in CPU-heavy games such as large multiplayer titles, strategy games, or esports shooters. Insufficient RAM or slow storage can also limit performance by causing stutters or inconsistent frame delivery, even if average FPS appears high.
Modern upscaling technologies also play a major role in boosting FPS. DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) from NVIDIA and FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) from AMD render games at a lower internal resolution and upscale the image back to your target resolution. This significantly reduces GPU workload and can result in large FPS gains with relatively small visual trade-offs, especially at higher resolutions.
Some newer games also support frame generation, sometimes referred to as “fake frames.” Instead of rendering every frame traditionally, the system generates intermediate frames using motion data from previous frames. This can dramatically increase reported FPS, particularly on supported GPUs. However, because these generated frames are not based on new player input, they do not reduce input latency in the same way as native FPS increases. For competitive gameplay, frame generation improves smoothness but does not provide the same responsiveness benefits as higher real FPS.
Finally, your display determines how much of this extra performance you can actually use. A 60 Hz monitor cannot display more than 60 frames per second, while high-refresh-rate displays can take advantage of much higher frame rates. This distinction becomes critical when evaluating whether higher FPS actually provides a gameplay advantage.
Does high FPS matter if the human eye can only see 30–60 FPS?
The idea that the human eye can only see 30 or 60 FPS is a persistent myth, and it oversimplifies how human vision actually works. The human visual system does not perceive the world in discrete frames the way a computer renders images. Instead, it processes motion, changes, and timing continuously.
What people are often referring to when they cite “30–60 FPS” is the point at which motion starts to look smooth rather than choppy. That does not mean the brain stops benefiting from higher frame rates. As FPS increases, motion becomes clearer, blur is reduced, and fast-moving objects are easier to track. These improvements continue well beyond 60 FPS, especially in interactive content like video games.
Another key factor is latency, not just visual clarity. Higher FPS reduces the time between frames, which means your inputs are reflected on screen more quickly. Even if two frame rates look similar at a glance, the one with higher FPS will feel more responsive because the game is updating more frequently.
This is why players can reliably tell the difference between 60 FPS and 120 FPS, and often between 120 FPS and 240 FPS, even if they cannot articulate it as “seeing more frames.” The benefit is not just about what you see, but how quickly the game responds to what you do.
Understanding this distinction is crucial before evaluating how higher FPS actually affects gameplay performance and competitive advantage.
How does higher FPS impact gameplay?
Higher FPS affects gameplay in ways that go beyond visual smoothness. The benefits are primarily tied to responsiveness, clarity, and consistency rather than graphics quality.
* Lower input latency
Higher FPS reduces the time between frames, which means your inputs are reflected on screen faster. This makes aiming, movement, and reactions feel more immediate, especially in fast-paced games.
* Clearer motion during fast movement
Objects moving quickly across the screen appear sharper and easier to track at higher frame rates. This improves target tracking in shooters and reduces visual blur during rapid camera movement.
* More consistent frame delivery
A stable high FPS with even frame times feels smoother than a fluctuating frame rate. Consistency helps actions feel predictable, which is important for timing-based gameplay and muscle memory.
* Improved responsiveness in competitive play
Higher FPS does not increase player skill, but it removes technical delays between input and on-screen feedback. This allows skilled players to react more precisely to in-game situations.
* Reduced visual strain over long sessions
Higher frame rates can feel more comfortable over extended play sessions, particularly on high-refresh-rate monitors, because motion appears smoother and less jittery.
These advantages become most noticeable in competitive and fast-action games, where small differences in responsiveness and clarity can affect outcomes. In slower-paced or turn-based games, the impact of higher FPS is far less significant.
When higher FPS stops making a meaningful difference
While higher FPS does provide real benefits, those benefits are not unlimited. At a certain point, the gains become smaller, and most players will no longer notice a meaningful improvement in gameplay.
The jump from 30 FPS to 60 FPS is dramatic. Motion becomes smoother, input delay is reduced, and games feel far more responsive. The jump from 60 FPS to 120 FPS is still very noticeable, especially on a high-refresh-rate display, with clearer motion and faster response to inputs.
Beyond that, the returns start to diminish. Moving from 120 FPS to 240 FPS still reduces latency and improves motion clarity, but the improvement is more subtle and primarily noticeable to competitive or highly experienced players. The difference between 240 FPS and 360 FPS is even smaller and often difficult to perceive outside of specific esports scenarios.
There are also practical limits. Many games become CPU-bound at very high frame rates, meaning performance stops scaling even with a powerful GPU. Maintaining extremely high FPS can also require lowering graphics settings to a point where visual quality suffers without providing proportional gameplay benefits.
For most players, the sweet spot is a stable frame rate that matches their monitor’s refresh rate, typically 60 Hz, 120 Hz, or 144 Hz. Once that target is reached consistently, further FPS gains tend to offer diminishing returns unless competitive performance is the primary goal.
Conclusion
Higher FPS does provide a real advantage in gaming, but the size of that advantage depends on how and what you play. Moving from low frame rates such as 30 FPS to 60 or 120 FPS delivers clear improvements in smoothness, responsiveness, and input latency. Those gains directly affect how a game feels and how quickly it reacts to player input. Beyond that range, higher FPS continues to offer benefits, especially in competitive and fast-paced games, but the improvements become more incremental and are most noticeable to experienced players.
The key takeaway is that higher FPS is not about visuals alone. It is about reducing delay between your actions and what happens on screen, improving motion clarity, and maintaining consistent performance. To achieve this reliably in modern games, you need hardware that can sustain high frame rates without throttling or unstable frame times.
For players who want to push high FPS without compromise, Acer Predator laptops are built with this exact use case in mind. With high-refresh-rate displays, powerful GPUs, and cooling systems designed for sustained performance, Predator systems are well suited for esports titles and demanding AAA games alike. If high FPS and responsive gameplay are priorities, choosing hardware designed for that workload ensures your system is enabling your performance rather than limiting it.
In short, higher FPS does matter in gaming, and pairing it with capable hardware is what turns higher numbers into a real gameplay advantage.
FAQ
Does higher FPS actually give you an advantage in gaming?
Yes, in many cases. Higher FPS reduces input latency and improves motion clarity, which can help with reaction time and tracking in fast-paced games. The advantage is most noticeable in competitive shooters and action games.
Is 60 FPS enough for gaming?
For many players, yes. 60 FPS provides smooth gameplay and is perfectly fine for single-player, casual, and slower-paced games. Competitive players often benefit from higher FPS, especially on high-refresh-rate monitors.
Can the human eye see more than 60 FPS?
The human eye does not see in frames, but people can perceive improvements beyond 60 FPS. Higher FPS improves motion clarity and responsiveness, which is why many players can feel the difference between 60, 120, and even higher frame rates.
Does FPS matter more than graphics quality?
It depends on the game and the player. Competitive players usually prioritize FPS and consistency over visual fidelity. For cinematic or story-driven games, higher graphics settings may matter more than very high FPS.
Does higher FPS reduce input lag?
Yes. Higher FPS shortens the time between frames, which means your inputs appear on screen faster. This can make aiming, movement, and reactions feel more immediate.
Do technologies like DLSS and FSR really increase FPS?
Yes. DLSS and FSR increase FPS by rendering games at a lower internal resolution and upscaling the image. This reduces GPU workload and can significantly boost performance with minimal visual impact.
Do generated or “fake” frames give the same advantage as real FPS?
Not entirely. Frame generation improves smoothness but does not reduce input latency in the same way as native FPS. It can make games feel smoother, but it is less beneficial for competitive gameplay.
Do I need a high-refresh-rate monitor to benefit from high FPS?
Yes. To fully see higher FPS, your monitor’s refresh rate must be high enough. A 60 Hz display cannot show more than 60 frames per second, even if your system is rendering more.
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6 Best Acer Tablets Compared: Specs, Prices, and Features
Today we’re rounding up six Acer tablets, comparing their key features and intended use cases to help you choose the perfect device. Tablets sit neatly between laptops and smartphones, offering larger screens than a phone for reading, streaming, and browsing, while staying lighter and more portable than a full laptop. This balance makes tablets a practical choice for everyday tasks at home, work, or on the move.
Six of the best Acer tablets
For everyday tasks like web use, video calls, note-taking, media consumption, and even casual productivity, an Acer tablet can be a practical, flexible option. Whether you’re comparing different Acer tablets or looking at the Acer Iconia range, this guide breaks down what each model is best suited for. Let’s get cracking!
1. Acer Iconia Tab A11 Tablet – A11-11-A921
The Acer Iconia Tab A11 Tablet – A11-11-A921 is designed for everyday tablet tasks, pairing a large, high-resolution display with a lightweight, portable build. Its 11-inch WUXGA IPS touchscreen gives you plenty of screen space for reading, streaming, web browsing, and video calls, making it a practical option for home use or casual productivity. With modern wireless connectivity and a slim profile, it’s easy to use around the house or on the go. Recently reduced from $185.99 to $149.99, the Acer Iconia Tab A11 is now more affordable than ever, making it an accessible entry point for users who want a bigger-screen Acer tablet without stepping up to a laptop. Let’s check what it packs inside:
* Processor: ALLWINNER A523 Octa-Core, up to 1.80 GHz
* Display: 11" WUXGA (1920 × 1200) IPS touchscreen, 16:10
* Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4X
* Storage: 128 GB eMMC flash memory
* Battery life: Up to 9 hours
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax), Bluetooth 5.4
2. Acer Iconia Tab M10 Tablet – M10-11-K5N0
Next, meet the Acer Iconia Tab M10 Tablet – M10-11-K5N0, a compact, everyday tablet built around a sharp 10.1-inch WUXGA IPS touchscreen, making it well suited to reading, streaming, and general browsing. Its lighter size compared to larger tablets makes it easy to handle for longer sessions, while the included microSD card support adds flexibility for users who want to expand storage over time. With front and rear cameras on board, the Acer Iconia Tab M10 also covers video calls and casual photography without fuss. It’s currently available at $149.99, down from its original price of $179.99, offering solid value for home or study use. Here’s a look at the core hardware:
* Processor: MediaTek MT8183C Cortex-A73/A53 Octa-core
* Display: 10.1" WUXGA (1920 × 1200) IPS touchscreen
* Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4
* Storage: 128 GB flash memory
* Battery life: Up to 9 hours
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS
3. Acer Iconia V10 Tablet – V10-21-82CD
The Acer Iconia V10 Tablet – V10-21-82CD is positioned as a step up within Acer’s 10.1-inch tablet lineup, pairing a WUXGA display with a MediaTek Helio G80 octa-core processor. Its 16:10 aspect ratio makes it well suited to reading, streaming, and general multitasking, while the slim chassis keeps it portable for everyday use around the home. With 128 GB of built-in storage and dual speakers, the Acer Iconia V10 covers the basics for media consumption and casual productivity. Now available at $159.99 down from $209.99, this tablet is great value for money. Here’s what’s under the hood:
* Processor: MediaTek Helio G80 Octa-Core, up to 1.80 GHz
* Display: 10.1" WUXGA (1920 × 1200) IPS touchscreen, 16:10
* Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4X
* Storage: 128 GB eMMC flash memory
* Battery life: Up to 10 hours
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5
4. Acer Iconia Tab P10 Tablet – P10-11-K5P5
Moving on to the Acer Iconia Tab P10 Tablet – P10-11-K5P5, a tablet built for shared entertainment and everyday use. Centered on a large 10.4-inch 2K IPS multi-touch display, it’s well suited to movies, reading, and casual gaming. Its thin, lightweight design makes it easy to use around the house or take on the go, while the stereo speakers support family viewing sessions without extra setup. With expandable storage via microSD and a MediaTek octa-core processor, the Acer Iconia Tab P10 balances screen quality and practicality for home use. Value has improved too, with the price dropping from $199.99 to $159.99, making it a more approachable option in Acer’s tablet lineup. Here’s the specs you need:
* Processor: MediaTek MT8183C Octa-core, up to 2.0 GHz
* Display: 10.4" 2K (2000 × 1200) IPS multi-touch, 5:3
* Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4
* Storage: 64 GB flash storage
* Battery: 6000 mAh Li-Ion (2-cell)
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS
5. Acer Iconia V11 Tablet – V11-11-87V5
The Acer Iconia V11 Tablet – V11-11-87V5 targets users who want more headroom for multitasking and media, combining a larger 11-inch WUXGA IPS display with upgraded memory and storage. With 6 GB of LPDDR4X memory and 256 GB of built-in eMMC storage, it’s better equipped for juggling apps, storing media, and handling longer daily sessions. The 16:10 aspect ratio works well for reading, browsing, and video playback, while dual speakers support casual entertainment without extra accessories. At up to 13 hours, battery life is a strong point making it suitable for longer stretches away from a charger. This tablet is a snip at $179.99, down from $229.99, positioning it as a higher-capacity option within Acer’s tablet lineup. Here’s what’s under the hood:
* Processor: MediaTek Helio G80 Octa-Core, up to 1.80 GHz
* Display: 11" WUXGA (1920 × 1200) IPS touchscreen, 16:10
* Memory: 6 GB LPDDR4X
* Storage: 256 GB eMMC flash memory
* Battery life: Up to 13 hours
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5
6. Acer Iconia X12 Tablet – X12-11-845L
The Acer Iconia X12 Tablet – X12-11-845L sits at the top end of Acer’s tablet lineup, built around a large 12.6-inch 2.5K AMOLED display designed for immersive viewing and creative work. With its high-resolution WQXGA panel and four-speaker setup, it’s clearly aimed at users who prioritize screen quality for streaming, reading, or productivity-focused tasks. The inclusion of a stylus and keyboard expands its flexibility beyond casual use, while the slim chassis keeps it portable despite the larger display. With upgraded memory and storage, the Acer Iconia X12 is positioned for heavier everyday use. Significantly reduced from $599.99 to $449.99, this is a more compelling option for those wanting a premium Acer tablet experience. Let’s check the tech specs:
* Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-Core, up to 2.0 GHz
* Display: 12.6" 2.5K WQXGA (2560 × 1600) AMOLED, 60 Hz, 16:10
* Memory: 8 GB LPDDR4X
* Storage: 256 GB eMMC flash memory
* Battery life: Up to 16 hours
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5
Acer tablets, the verdict
Taken together, these six Acer tablets cover a wide range of everyday needs, from simple browsing and streaming to larger-screen productivity and creative use. Whether you’re prioritizing portability, display quality, battery life, or storage capacity, Acer’s tablet lineup offers clear options at different price points. If you’re shopping for a tablet for work, study, or home use, there’s likely an Acer model here that fits the bill without overcomplicating the choice.
FAQs
What can I use an Acer tablet for?
Acer tablets are well suited to everyday tasks such as web browsing, streaming, reading, video calls, note-taking, and light productivity. Larger models also work well for media consumption and creative use.
Are Acer tablets a good alternative to a laptop?
For casual use, yes. Acer tablets are lighter and more portable than laptops, making them ideal for everyday tasks. For heavier workloads like advanced multitasking or specialist software, a laptop is still the better option.
Do Acer tablets support accessories like keyboards or styluses?
Some Acer tablets support accessories such as keyboards or styluses, depending on the model. These can expand a tablet’s usefulness for typing, drawing, or productivity tasks.
How do I choose the right Acer tablet?
Consider screen size, battery life, memory, storage, and how you plan to use the device. Smaller tablets suit portability, while larger models offer more screen space for work and entertainment
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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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