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5 Best Curved Entertainment and Gaming Monitors From Acer
This article will discuss some of the pros and cons of a curved monitor, why you should buy one, and then introduce five of the best Acer curved monitors. Curved monitors have been around since 2013, and have a slight curvature that mimics the curve of the human eye. They offer viewers a more immersive experience by filling our peripheral vision and directing our eyes towards the center, which is more comfortable than staring at a flat screen. These monitors are particularly popular in the gaming world because they deliver a more lifelike experience while increasing the field of view, which allows gamers to see more at once.
What are the benefits of a curved monitor?
Almost everyone will have used a flat monitor at some point in their lives, but is it really worth switching to a curved one? Here are some reasons why you might consider switching to a curved monitor.
1. Creates a cinematic experience
One of the main advantages of curved monitors is their enhanced field of view, which delivers an immersive and cinema-like experience without any additional effort from the viewer. This also creates a competitive advantage when gaming, as users can detect opponents from all angles, including the sides, without moving their head.
2. Enhanced eye comfort
Curved monitors direct light from all angles towards our eyes, so we can watch our favorite shows without putting unnecessary strain on our eyes. In comparison, flat monitors can cause eye strain and fatigue during long gaming sessions or when binge-watching our favorite show because our eyes must constantly refocus to view the whole screen.
3. Less glare
Although glare can affect screens of all types, curved monitors have an advantage when handling glare. Curved monitors can deflect some reflections away from our eyes, consequently reducing annoying glare from lights or windows. In contrast, reducing glare on flat screens relies on where they are positioned.
What are the downsides of a curved monitor?
By now you may be seriously considering a curved monitor, so it is only fair that we cover some of the potential downsides.
1. Viewing angle limitations
As mentioned, curved monitors offer an excellent viewing experience due to their curved appearance. However, finding the optimal viewing position can be challenging, especially when watching the screen with a group. Curved monitors are best viewed from a central position, meaning people watching from the sides may experience image distortion. If you frequently watch movies, game, or collaborate on documents with multiple people, then a flat monitor may be a better choice.
2. Distortion
One major downside of curved monitors is the potential for distortion, which can alter the text and images at the screen's edges and impact precision. As such, curved monitors may be unsuitable for graphic design or artistic tasks that require a high level of accuracy. These users may therefore prefer a flat screen with an undistorted view.
3. Incompatibility with some games and content
Although most modern games have a wider viewing angle, some older games, applications, websites and content may not be optimized for curved displays. This can lead to distorted visuals or inconsistencies and can impact the overall viewing experience.
Our top 5 Acer curved computer monitors
Now that we have covered the pros and cons of curved monitors, here are our top 5 picks from the Acer range.
1. Acer EI2 Curved Entertainment Monitor
This stunning 31.5 inch (80 cm) curved screen offers a Wide Quad High Definition (WQHD) display resolution of 2560 x 1440 for sharper image quality. It has a 1 ms response time which reduces motion blur, and a refresh rate of 165 Hz, making it an ideal companion for casual gaming. This curved LED monitor also has a brightness of 400 nits for unrivaled quality visuals.
* Horizontal / vertical viewing angle: 178°
* Tilt angle: -5° to 15°
* Standard refresh rate: 165 Hz
* Color supported: 16.7 million colors
* Contrast ratio: 100,000,000:1
* Native contrast ratio: 3,000:1
* Speakers: 2
* Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, headphone jack, DisplayPort
* Max. power supply wattage: 68 W
* Operating power consumption: 45 W
* Height with stand: 19.93 inches (50.62 cm)
* Width with stand: 28.06 inches (71.27 cm)
* Depth with stand: 9.03 inches (22.93 cm)
* Weight with stand: 15.59 lb (7.07 kg)
The Acer EI2 Curved Entertainment Monitor is available for USD $199.99 on the Acer store, or USD $169.99 with a 15% student discount.
2. Acer Nitro EDA3 Curved Gaming Monitor
The Acer Nitro EDA3 Curved Gaming Monitor is designed for gaming and includes an ultra fast refresh rate to streamline every move. Its 16:9 aspect ratio delivers high-quality images in minute detail, while the zero-frame design maximizes screen real estate for an enhanced gaming adventure. This LED gaming monitor has a refresh rate of 144 Hz with HDMI 2.0, and 180 Hz with Display Port, along with a 1 ms VRB response time. It also supports AAMD FreeSync Premium, making it an ideal choice for gamers.
* Horizontal / vertical viewing angle: 178°
* Tilt angle: -5° to 20°
* Standard refresh rate: 144 Hz with HDMI 2.0; 180 Hz with Display Port
* Color supported: 16.7 million colors
* Contrast ratio: 100 Million:1
* Brightness: 250 Nit
* Screen resolution: 2560 x 1440
* Speakers: 2
* Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, headphone jack, DisplayPort
* Height with stand: 20.27 inches (51.48 cm)
* Width with stand: 27.93 inches (70.94 cm)
* Depth with stand: 7.84 inches (19.91 cm)
* Weight with stand: 10.8 lb (4.89 kg)
The Acer Nitro EDA3 Curved Gaming Monitor is available for USD $219.99 on the Acer store, or USD $186.99 with a 15% student discount.
3. AOPEN HC5 Curved Gaming Monitor
Next up is the AOPEN HC5 Curved Gaming Monitor that lets viewers enjoy top-quality high definition entertainment from the comfort of their gaming chair. Its crisp and lifelike colors add a touch of reality to games, and stay true to color no matter the viewing angle. This impressive curved LED monitor also supports AAMD FreeSync Premium, and has a 180 Hz refresh rate and a 1 ms response time.
* Horizontal / vertical viewing angle: 178°
* Tilt angle: -5° to 20°
* Standard refresh rate: 180 Hz
* Color supported: 1.07 billion colors
* Contrast ratio: 100 Million:1
* Brightness: 250 Nit
* Screen resolution: 3440 x 1440
* Speakers: 2
* Ports: HDMI 2.0, headphone jack, DisplayPort
* Max. power supply wattage: 68 W
* Operating power consumption: 45 W
* Height with stand: 19.45 inches (49.40 cm)
* Width with stand: 31.75 inches (80.64 cm)
* Depth with stand: 10.37 inches (26.33 cm)
* Weight with stand: 15.21 lb (6.90 kg)
Get yours for USD $299.99 from the Acer store, or USD $254.99 with a 15% student discount.
4. Acer EI4 UltraWide Curved Entertainment Monitor
With an impressive zero-frame design, 1800R curved screen, and cinematic 32:9 aspect ratio, the Acer EI4 UltraWide Curved Entertainment Monitor lets gamers dive fully into the gaming world. It has a refresh rate of 120 Hz (DisplayPort) or 60 Hz (HDMI) and a 4 ms response time. The 49 inch (124.46 cm) UltraWide curved LED display supports AAMD FreeSync Premium and lets gamers maximize their game’s full potential in unreal colors.
* Horizontal / vertical viewing angle: 178°
* Response time: 5 ms
* Tilt angle: -5° to 15°
* Standard refresh rate: 120 Hz (DisplayPort); 60 Hz (HDMI)
* Color supported: 16.7 million colors
* Contrast ratio: 100 Million:1 MAX (ACM)
* Brightness: Native: 350 nits; HDR400 Mode: Peak 400 nits
* Screen resolution: 5120 x 1440
* Speakers: 2
* Ports: HDMI 2.0, headphone jack, DisplayPort
* Height with stand: 17.2 - 20.94 inches (43.68 - 53.18 cm)
* Width with stand: 47.2 inches (119.88 cm)
* Depth with stand: 10.37 inches (26.33 cm)
* Weight with stand: 25.19 lb (11.42 kg)
This amazing curved gaming monitor is available for USD $899.99 from the Acer store, or USD $764.99 with a 15% student discount.
5. Predator X39 Curved Gaming Monitor
The Predator X39 Curved Gaming Monitor lets gamers immerse themselves in games on the 39 inch (99.06 cm) screen like never before. With a response time of 0.01 ms (PRT) or 0.03 ms (GTG) and a 240 Hz refresh rate, this curved OLED gaming monitor supports AAMD FreeSync Premium and opens up a whole new level of gaming.
* Horizontal / vertical viewing angle: 178°
* Response time: 0.01 ms - 0.03 ms (G to G)
* Tilt angle: -5° to 15°
* Standard refresh rate: 240 Hz
* Color supported: 1.07 billion colors
* Contrast ratio: 100 Million:1 MAX
* Brightness: Native: 1300
* Screen resolution: 3440 x 1440
* Speakers: 2
* Ports: HDMI 2.1, headphone jack, DisplayPort, audio line out, USB
* Height with stand: 22.84 inches (58.01 cm)
* Width with stand: 35.04 inches (89 cm)
* Depth with stand: 12.04 inches (30.58 cm)
* Weight with stand: 22.04 lb (9.99 kg)
Get yours today for USD $899.99 from the Acer store, or USD $764.99 with a 15% student discount.
So, should you buy a curved monitor?
Curved monitors offer comfort, reduced glare, and an immersive, cinematic experience that brings games and movies to life. These Acer curved gaming monitors each offer a unique set of features that make them an incredible gaming companion. From large screens to lightning fast response rates, there is an Acer curved gaming monitor to suit your needs. Check out the Acer website today to find yours, and grab an additional 15% student discount if eligible.
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How to Restore the Classic Command Prompt in Windows 11
If you miss the old Command Prompt in Windows 11, this guide will show you exactly how to bring it back. Microsoft replaced the traditional Command Prompt window with the newer Windows Terminal, a modern interface that integrates Command Prompt, PowerShell, and other tools into a single environment. While Terminal offers customization and multi-tab support, many users still prefer the classic Command Prompt for its simplicity and familiarity. In this article, we’ll explain why the switch happened, and walk you through two easy methods to restore the legacy Command Prompt interface on Windows 11.
What is Windows Terminal and why Microsoft replaced Command Prompt
Windows Terminal is Microsoft’s modern command-line environment created for both developers and power users. It brings together several command-line tools, including Command Prompt (CMD), PowerShell, and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), into one flexible interface. With features like multiple tabs, GPU acceleration, and customizable themes, Windows Terminal provides a smoother and more efficient experience compared to the traditional console.
To understand why Microsoft made the switch, it helps to look at a bit of history. The original Command Prompt dates back to the early 1980s and was based on MS-DOS, which served as the foundation of Windows for many years. As computing needs evolved, Microsoft introduced PowerShell in 2006, offering more advanced scripting and automation capabilities. By 2019, the company launched Windows Terminal to unify these tools into a single, modern application that could keep up with today’s development standards.
Still, not everyone has moved on. Many users prefer the old Command Prompt for its speed, reliability with legacy scripts, and familiar appearance. If you fall into that group, Windows 11 still gives you the option to bring the classic Command Prompt back with just a few simple settings changes.
How to restore the classic Command Prompt in Windows 11
There are two main ways to bring back the legacy Command Prompt interface. You can either change the default terminal application directly from Windows Settings or adjust the setting within the Windows Terminal app itself. Both methods are simple and reversible, so you can always switch back to Windows Terminal later if you prefer.
Method 1: Change the Default Terminal App in Windows Settings
* Click Start, then open Settings.
* Go to System and select For developers from the sidebar.
* Under Terminal, locate the option Default terminal application.
* Change it from Let Windows decide to Windows Console Host.
* Close Settings and reopen Command Prompt to confirm the change.
Tip: If you want to use Windows Terminal again in the future, simply change the setting back to Let Windows decide.
Method 2: Change the Default Terminal App Inside Windows Terminal
If you already have Windows Terminal open, you can switch back to the classic Command Prompt directly from its settings.
* Open Windows Terminal.
* Right-click on an empty area of the title bar and choose Settings.
* In the left-hand menu, select Startup.
* Under Default terminal application, change the option from Let Windows decide to Windows Console Host.
* Click Save, then close all open Terminal tabs.
* Reopen Command Prompt; it should now appear in the classic interface.
Tip: This method is handy if you frequently use multiple terminals and want to switch between them without opening Windows Settings.
How to Switch Back to Windows Terminal
If you ever decide to return to the modern Windows Terminal interface, the process is just as simple. You can reverse the setting using either Windows Settings or the Terminal app itself.
Option 1: Through Windows Settings
* Open Settings and go to System → For developers.
* Under Terminal, set Default terminal application back to Let Windows decide or Windows Terminal.
Option 2: Through the Terminal App
* Open Command Prompt or Windows Terminal.
* Right-click the title bar and choose Settings.
* In the Startup section, switch the Default terminal application option to Let Windows decide or Windows Terminal.
* Click Save and restart the app.
Your system will now use Windows Terminal as the default interface for command-line tools once again. This flexibility allows you to move between the modern Terminal and the classic Command Prompt whenever you like, depending on your workflow or preference.
Conclusion
Restoring the classic Command Prompt in Windows 11 is quick and easy, whether you adjust the setting through Windows Settings or the Terminal app. The legacy interface remains fully supported, making it ideal for users who prefer its simplicity, speed, or compatibility with older scripts. At the same time, Windows Terminal is still available for those who want advanced features like tabs, themes, and multi-shell integration.
If your computer doesn’t meet the requirements for Windows 11 or you want a smoother experience with the latest updates, consider upgrading to a new Windows 11 device from the Acer Store. Students can also save up to 15% through the Acer Student Discount Program.
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Top Acer Gaming Deals for Black Friday & Cyber Monday 2025
If you’re looking for the best Black Friday Acer laptops deals, you’re in the right corner of the internet. We’re kicking off our favorite time of year by slashing prices across the lineup. Today, we’ll cover Acer gaming laptop deals from Predator to Nitro, as well as desktops and monitors, all with hefty reductions. So, if you’re looking for the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday prices, these are the Acer deals you don’t want to miss.
When is Black Friday?
And let’s not forget, when is Cyber Monday? If you’re hungry for Acer laptop deals, you’ll want to know the dates of these two bargain bonanza red letter days! This year, Black Friday is on November 28, the Friday after Thanksgiving, while Cyber Monday is on December 1. So go save the dates of the biggest shopping weekend of the year in your diary. Together they create a four-day tech shopping frenzy where prices drop faster than a 360 Hz refresh rate.
Acer’s deadliest deals
Now let’s take a closer look at six of Acer’s tastiest discounts this Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Please note: the US sale begins on 11/27/2025 at 10am CST until 12/04/2025 9:59am CST. And we must mention that all discounts are limited availability; subject to change without notice. Now that we’ve got the dates, times, and availability sorted, let’s get stuck into the best gaming bargains from Acer this Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
1. Acer Nitro XV2 Gaming Monitor
With an MSRP of $449.99, this picture perfect gaming display is about to have its price cut by over 50%, and can be yours for a mere $219.99*! If you’re after a new gaming monitor, look no further. The 27" WQHD panel (2560 × 1440) delivers sharp, detailed gameplay, while a 300 Hz refresh rate keeps motion insanely smooth for AAA titles. Throw in AMD FreeSync™ Premium for reduced tearing and stutter for fluid visuals. Get ahold of the Acer Nitro XV2 gaming monitor and you won’t have to worry about blur ever again, as 1 ms G to G response (down to 0.5 ms) excels in rapid fire, blur-free action. Finally, you can play in the light or dark, 400-nit brightness means clear, vibrant images in bright rooms.
2. Predator Triton 14 Gaming Laptop
Next stop: meet the spa silver NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 powered Predator Triton 14. Normally priced at $1,999.99, this Black Friday reduction saves you $300, for a tidy price of $1.699.99*. This is a beastly bargain! An Intel® Core™ i7-13700H (14-core) CPU delivers strong all-round gaming and creator performance. The talking point of this gaming laptop is the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 (8 GB). This is some serious GPU power in a compact 14-inch chassis. Let’s not forget the 14" WQXGA (2560 × 1600) 16:10 display for crisp visuals and increased vertical real estate. Memory wise, 16 GB LPDDR5 memory ensures multitasking is smooth and responsive, while 1 TB SSD provides fast load times and tons of room for games and projects. The Predator Triton 14 is a killer pick for gamers or creators on-the-go.
3. Predator X39 Curved Gaming Monitor
Expand your cosmic horizons with the OLED expanse of our next bargain, the Predator X39 Curved Gaming Monitor. Normally, this deluxe curved gaming canvas has a price tag of $1,599.99, but if you strike while the iron is hot, you can save $700 and get one for only $899.99*. This is a premium, next-gen ultrawide beauty. The 39" UW-QHD (3440 × 1440) curved OLED panel delivers cinematic, ultra-wide immersion. You won’t be waiting for anything, as the 240 Hz refresh rate delivers hyper-smooth motion for competitive and fast-paced games. What’s more, OLED with 0.01 ms response gives instant pixel changes, and zero blur. 1300-nit peak brightness ensures stunning HDR highlights and vivid contrast, while AMD FreeSync™ Premium keeps gameplay tear-free and fluid. What more could you possibly want?
4. Acer Nitro 60 Gaming Desktop
Moving on to the high-powered world of gaming desktops, the Acer Nitro 60 is usually priced at $2,449.99. Let’s take $650.00 off for Black Friday, and you can have it for $1,799.99*, deal? Performance-price ratio perfected, the Nitro 60 tower is a powerful beast equipped with an Intel® Core™ i7-14700F processor (20 cores, up to 5.4 GHz) perfect for heavy multitasking and AAA gaming. NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5070 Ti delivers next-gen performance with Ray Tracing and DLSS. 32 GB DDR5 RAM keeps everything fast, while 2 TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD offers huge, ultra-fast storage for games and media. This is a bargain not to be missed.
5. Predator Orion 7000 Gaming Desktop
Attention, serious gamers! On most days of the year, this seriously hi-spec desktop fetches $3,799.99, but we’re taking $1,800 off that price, and it can be yours for a mere $1,999.99*. This is the kind of price drop that should be illegal, and coincidentally $1,999.99 sits right at the felony theft threshold in Arizona. The Predator Orion 7000 Gaming Desktop is a monster of a high-end tower, perfect for gamers who require flagship GPU power without the hassle of DIY. Intel® Core™ i7-13700KF delivers strong multi-core performance for AAA gaming and demanding workloads. NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4080 powers 4K gaming, Ray Tracing, and AI-accelerated workflows. 32 GB RAM provides plenty of headroom for gaming, streaming, and creation, while a 1 TB SSD + 2 TB HDD combo guarantees fast load times plus gargantuan backup/storage space.
6. Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop
The star of the show, Acer’s 2nd most powerful laptop is on offer this Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The rather hefty price tag of $6,999.99 has been reduced to a mere $6,199.99* for a limited time only. The Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop is a seriously powerful gaming powerhouse that outclasses even hi-spec desktops. Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX (24 cores) delivers extreme performance for AI workflows, 4K gaming, and insane multitasking. NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5090 with 24 GB VRAM provides top-tier GPU power for max-setting gaming with AI acceleration. On screen, the 18" WQUXGA (3840 × 2400) 16:10 IPS display offers true high-res clarity with a roomy aspect ratio, while120 Hz refresh rate keeps motion smooth even at ultra-high settings. Deep breath: 192 GB DDR5 RAM is far beyond standard laptop specs, perfect for creators, researchers, and other serious individuals with tasks to complete. Finally, 6 TB SSD storage gives enormous, ultra-fast space for games, project files, and RAW media.
Get it while you can
We hope you’ve enjoyed today’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday bargain foray. Whether you’re hunting for a budget-friendly monitor, a powerhouse gaming rig, or a slavering beast of an AI laptop, this year’s deals deliver some of the biggest Acer savings in the history of humankind.
From compact 14-inch laptops to ultrawide OLED displays and desktop replacement laptops packing RTX 5090 muscle, we’ve got something for everyone. Remember, stock flies off the shelves over the Black Friday weekend, so snap up those bargains while they’re hot!
*Limited availability; subject to change without notice.
Other Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals from Acer
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Best Acer Discounts for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are known for some of the biggest discounts of the year, and this article will cover some of the hottest Acer offers available in the US between 11/27/2025 at 10 am CST and 9:59 am CST on 12/04/2025. Black Friday traditionally occurs on the day after Thanksgiving, and retailers slash prices and offer limited-time-only deals to kickstart the holiday season. Similarly, Cyber Monday was created to encourage online shopping and has become a huge annual sales event. US-based online consumers spent a whopping USD $10.8 billion on Black Friday in 2024, while Cyber Monday sales hit USD $13.3 billion, showcasing the popularity of these two events. Here are some of the best Acer deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
1. Acer Aspire 14 AI laptop
First up is the Acer Aspire 14 AI laptop down from USD $1049.99 to USD $749.99 with a massive 29% discount* from November 27th to December 4th. With an Octa-core processor and 1 TB of SSD capacity, this laptop is an excellent choice for those looking for a blend of speed and storage. The Acer Aspire 14 AI laptop is a Copilot+ PC and offers AI-powered features to boost efficiency and streamline collaborations.
* Operating System: Windows 11 Home
* Processor Type: Intel® Core™ Ultra 7
* Processor Speed: 2.20 GHz
* Processor Core: Octa-core (8 Core™)
* Standard Memory: 16 GB
* SSD Capacity: 1 TB
* Display Screen Technology: LCD
* Screen mode: WUXGA
* Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200
* Speakers: 2
* Bluetooth: 5.3 or above
* Height: 0.67 inches (1.70 cm)
* Width: 12.6 inches (32 cm)
* Depth: 8.9 inches (22.60 cm)
* Weight: 3.09 lb (1.40 kg)
2. Acer Swift 14 AI Laptop
Save USD $250 on the Acer Swift 14 AI laptop, down from USD $1199.99 to USD $949.99*. This Copilot+ PC has handy AI features, a touchscreen, and 1 TB SSD storage space for an outstanding user experience. It is packed with a powerful and intelligent Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ X Elite processor and includes a Dodeca-core that makes multi-tasking seem like a breeze.
* Operating System: Windows 11 Home
* Processor Type: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ X Elite
* Processor Speed: 3.40 GHz
* Processor Core: Dodeca-core (12 Core™)
* Standard Memory: 16 GB
* SSD Capacity: 1 TB
* Screen mode: WUXGA
* Screen Resolution: 2560 x 1600
* Speakers: 2
* Bluetooth: Yes
* Height: 0.66 - 0.72 inches (1.67 - 1.82 cm)
* Width: 12.7 inches (32.25 cm)
* Depth: 8.9 inches (22.60 cm)
* Weight: 3.20 lb (1.45 kg)
3. Acer Travelmate P2 Laptop
Get 26% off the Acer Travelmate P2 laptop this Black Friday season and pay only USD $629.99 down from USD $849.99*. This laptop enhances productivity by combining increased processing power, portability, and durability while also offering business friendly features to streamline work life. It also includes narrow bezels, expanded contrast, and accurate colors for maximum efficiency. Moreover, the AMD Ryzen™ 7 PRO processor with Radeon™ Graphics accelerates multitasking so you can get more done.
* Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
* Processor Type: AMD Ryzen™ 7 PRO
* Processor Speed: 1.90 GHz (4.40 GHz turbo)
* Processor Core: Dodeca-core (12 Core™)
* Standard Memory: 8 GB
* Maximum Memory: 32 GB
* SSD Capacity: 256 GB
* Display Screen Technology: In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology; ComfyView
* Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
* Speakers: 2
* Battery run time: 13 hours
* Height: 0.76 inches (1.98 cm)
* Width: 12.9 inches (32.76 cm)
* Depth: 9.3 inches (23.62 cm)
* Weight: 3.53 lb (1.60 kg)
4. Acer Revo Box AI
The Acer Revo Box AI is a small but mighty pocket-sized mini PC that includes Copilot+ as standard. It can run the latest Windows AI tools and includes an Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor to handle multitasking and watching your favorite shows. With a standard 16 GB memory and 1 TB SSD capacity, the Acer Revo Box AI effortlessly handles applications and other computing tasks just like a standard-sized laptop. Grab yours for just USD $699.99 down from USD $899.99* during this year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday deal.
* Operating System: Windows 11 Home
* Processor Type: Intel® Core™ Ultra 7
* Processor Speed: 2.20 GHz
* Processor Core: Quad-core (4 Core™)
* Standard Memory: 16 GB
* SSD Capacity: 1 TB
* Height: 1.7 inches (4.31 cm)
* Width: 5.2 inches (13.20 cm)
* Depth: 5.2 inches (13.20 cm)
5. Acer DA0 Series Smart Streaming Monitor
Last but not least is the Acer DA0 Series Smart Streaming Monitor with a hefty 43% discount this Black Friday season. Down from USD $299.99 to just USD $129.99*, this smart streaming monitor works perfectly at home or in the office. It is compatible with platforms like Netflix and YouTube and provides a stunning audio-visual experience with media playback and wireless mirroring. The 31.5 inch (80.01 cm) zero-frame monitor maximizes screen real estate and enhances visibility.
* Response time: 5 ms
* Horizontal / vertical viewing angle: 178°
* Maximum resolution: 1366 x 768 (native and maximum)
* Standard refresh rate: 60 Hz
* Color Supported: 16.7 million
* Brightness: 200 Nit
* Native Contrast Ratio: 3000:1 (native)
* Display screen type: LED
* Screen resolution: 1366 x 768
* Aspect ratio: 16:9
* Height with stand:18.6 inches (47.24 cm)
* Width with stand: 28.5 inches (72.39 cm)
* Depth with stand: 7.9 inches (20.06 cm)
* Weight with stand: 7.6 lbs (3.44 kg)
Black Friday / Cyber Monday: limited offer deals
If you have been waiting for the right time to purchase a new laptop, screen, or other tech accessories, you’re in luck! The Acer store US Black Friday deals are valid between 11/27/2025 at 10am CST and 12/04/2025 9:59am CST, where you can check out the offers within this article or the best Acer gaming PCs Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals article for unbeatable prices. There is limited availability on all discounted products so be sure to get yours.
*Limited availability; subject to change without notice.
Other Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals from Acer
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Best Budget Friendly Acer Laptops Under $700
Following the recent Windows 10 EOS (End of Service), today we’re in search of the best budget laptops for under $700. Are you lost online, looking for a solid budget laptop? Well finding a good laptop on a budget shouldn’t feel like a long ride through the badlands of online shopping in search of a bounty that may not exist.
Budget friendly Acer laptops that run Windows 11 come in a few different shapes and sizes, and we’ve handpicked four top notch budget laptops for you to choose from. Before we get into all that jazz, we’ll cover the Windows EOS and a brief overview of budget laptops.
Windows 10 EOS = time for a new laptop?
In case you missed the memo, Windows 10 reached its end of support on October 14, 2025. To be blunt: PC users of the world still clinging to the old OS are riding on borrowed time. No more updates, no more patches, just a dusty trail of security risks ahead.
If you’ve been holding off on upgrading, act now before it's too late. Now’s the time to saddle up for a budget laptop that’s Windows 11 ready, so you can keep your data safe and your wallet intact for a bright future of computing! Now, let’s take a closer look at those budget laptops for under $700.
1. Acer Aspire Vero Green Laptop
In the market for a mean green machine that blends eco-conscious design with state-of -the-art computing power? Acer Aspire Vero Green Laptop - AV15-53P-52PG is a cypress green beauty that’s recently been reduced from $699.99 to $549.99. This Acer Aspire Vero Green series laptop is an eco-focused PC constructed with recycled materials, including PCR plastics, designed with ease of recycling and upgrades in mind.
Underneath the distinctive speckled chassis, you’ll find an Intel Core i5-1335U processor (10-core, 1.30 GHz base clock). This CPU is ultra-efficient for multitasking, streaming, light editing, and office productivity on Windows 11 Home OS. The Acer Aspire Vero Green laptop features integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, a super integrated GPU for casual creative tasks, FHD video playback, as well as light gaming.
Green credentials don’t mean that this laptop’s display is foggy. 15.6 inch Full HD (1920 × 1080), 16:9 ratio with a solid 60 Hz refresh rate delivers a sharp, reliable visual experience for work, study and even a spot of light gaming. Let’s not forget the memory: 8 GB LPDDR5 means fast, low-power memory suitable for smooth daily performance. Storage wise 512 GB SSD ensures rapid boot times, quiet operation, and of course plenty of space for all your apps, documents and media.
2. Acer Chromebook Spin 514
Moving swiftly on, let’s take the Acer Chromebook Spin 514 - CP514-3HH-R6VK for a spin! Currently only $699.99, this Chromebook is not to be sniffed at! Forgetting the Windows EOS for a second, Chrome OS is the increasingly popular lightweight, nearly instant-booting system with built-in Google Workspace and Android app support. This highly portable 14 inch laptop is a versatile, no-nonsense touchscreen device that’s ready to roll.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 514 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 5625C processor (6 cores, 2.30 GHz). This highly efficient mid-range CPU is optimized for Chrome OS, delivering strong multitasking for cloud apps, video calls, streaming, and even light gaming. Bearing in mind that this laptop is built around cloud computing, the Acer Chromebook Spin 514 doesn’t need bags of local memory or storage as most apps and files live safely online in Google Drive. That said, the laptop features 8 GB LPDDR4X RAM as well as 128 GB storage. Perfectly adequate, wouldn’t you say?
Flexibility is king with the Acer Chromebook Spin 514: 14-inch Full HD (1920 × 1080) touchscreen offers razor sharp visuals with responsive multi-touch input.
16:9 aspect ratio is standard widescreen size for productivity, streaming, and even presentations. And let’s not forget what put the “spin” in the Acer Chromebook Spin 514. The versatile 360° hinge enables laptop, tent, stand, or tablet mode for adaptable work and play.
3. Acer Aspire Go 15 Laptop
We remain aspirational as we meet our next laptop, the Acer Aspire Go 15 Laptop - AG15-71P-59PZ. Get going with this beauty from Acer’s Aspire Go line, a steady workhorse that delivers everyday reliability, simplicity and value to users who require dependable performance without breaking the bank. Before we forget, this laptop currently has a tasty price tag of only $629.99.
Stylish pure silver color chassis encases a powerful Intel Core i5-13420H processor (8 cores, 2.10 GHz base). This is a higher-powered chip from Intel’s H-series, delivering stronger performance than U-series chips for demanding multitasking and heavier workloads. Ultra-efficient Intel UHD Graphics with shared memory has got you covered for everyday computing, streaming, light creative tasks and low-impact gaming adventures.
This is another Acer laptop with a highly respectable display: 15.6 inch Full HD (1920 × 1080), IPS panel for wide 178° viewing angles with a 60 Hz refresh rate, perfect for work, study, and entertainment. With your viewing comfort in mind, Acer has added ComfyView (matte) coating to reduce glare for clearer visibility in bright environments. The Acer Aspire Go 15 laptop doesn’t skimp on memory or storage: 16 GB DDR5 SDRAM provides strong memory capacity for multitasking and productivity, while 512 GB SSD means fast and quiet storage with quick load and boot times.
4. Acer Aspire Vero 16 Laptop
Last but certainly not least on our grand tour of the best budget friendly Acer laptops under $700, meet the Acer Aspire Vero 16 Laptop - AV16-51P-5641. Recently reduced from $749.99 to $649.99, this is another Acer laptop with eco-friendly aspirations. Future proof thanks to Windows 11, and infused with AI hardware and productivity-positive design, this is a large format 16 inch laptop that’s ready when you are.
Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 125U processor (12 cores), this is an ultra-efficient AI-ready chip tailored for multitasking, streaming, and productivity with improved power management throughout the device. As you’d expect, integrated Intel graphics handle everyday productivity as well as light creative tasks and less-demanding gaming exploits.
Users requiring slightly more screen real estate can rest assured, as the Acer Aspire Vero 16 has a 16-inch WUXGA (1920 × 1200) panel, providing extra vertical space (16:10 ratio) for all your computing needs. As you’d expect, IPS technology delivers wide viewing angles and consistent color, while the 60 Hz refresh rate handles work and casual media use with ease. This model has double the memory of the Acer Aspire Vero Green Laptop: 16 GB LPDDR5X RAM, with 512 GB SSD storage for all your documents and media.
Budget-friendly, future-proof choices
We hope that you’ve enjoyed our foray into the best budget friendly Acer laptops under $700. From the eco-minded grit of the Aspire Vero Green Laptop to the steady dependability of the Aspire Go 15, the flexible Chromebook Spin 514, and the forward-looking Aspire Vero 16, Acer’s got a full posse of budget-friendly machines boxed up and ready to ride.
Each one hits a different trail for every unique user: green design, everyday power, cloud convenience, or next-gen performance. What unites these beasts is that they all share the same goal: giving you solid value without losing your shirt. The badlands of online shopping can rest easy, your bounty’s right here at the Acer store, with a whopping 15% student discount awaiting!
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Best Acer Laptop Backpacks and Sleeves in 2025
Laptop backpacks and sleeves are an important accessory that protect your device from bumps and scrapes as you travel or commute, and this article will introduce five of the best Acer laptop backpacks and sleeves for 2025. As laptops are probably one of the priciest gadgets we own, it is wise to invest in a good quality case. A flimsy laptop backpack or sleeve may not offer adequate protection, so it is crucial to check and compare before you buy. A sturdy case safeguards laptops from accidental drops and scratches, and includes handy pockets to store accessories and the charging cable. Let’s take a look at some of Acer’s top picks.
1. Acer Vero ECO Protective Sleeve
Made from 100% recycled materials, including recycled plastic bottles, the Acer Vero ECO protective sleeve protects your laptop and the environment. This sleek laptop sleeve fits most 15.6 inch (39.62 cm) laptops or Chromebooks, offering versatility and durability for users looking for an additional protective layer. It also includes a front zipper pocket for accessories like a mouse or charging cable.
* Height: 11.2 inches (28.44 cm)
* Width: 15.7 inches (39.87 cm)
* Depth: 0.6 inches (1.52 cm)
* Weight: 5.93 oz (0.16 kg)
Get yours today for USD $39.99 on the Acer store, or USD $33.99 with a 15% student discount.
2. Acer Travel Backpack
This ultra-slim backpack is lightweight and stylish, safeguarding your laptop or tablet from whatever the day brings. It includes cushioned back support and padded shoulder straps for extra comfort and support, and has a water-repellent exterior for all weather. With a top handle for easy transportation and additional inner organizers for cables and accessories, the Acer Travel Backpack is an ideal carry case for notebooks up to 15.6 inches (39.63 cm) or tablets up to 10 inches (25.4 cm).
* Height: 18.5 inches (46.99 cm)
* Width: 12.6 inches (32 cm)
* Depth: 5.9 inches (14.98 cm)
* Weight: 5.93 oz (0.16 kg)
Buy it today for USD $39.99 on the Acer store, or USD $33.99 with a 15% student discount.
3. Predator Utility Lite Backpack
The Predator Utility Lite Backpack is a multi-function backpack that oozes ease and durability. It features dedicated sections for maximum storage and a standalone laptop compartment for devices up to 17 inches (43.18 cm) with a TSA-friendly opening for ultimate convenience. This impressive backpack also includes a splash-proof interior for accidental spillage.
* Height: 17.71 inches (44.98 cm)
* Width: 11.81 inches (29.99 cm)
* Depth: 5.11 inches (12.97 cm)
* Weight: 1.76 lbs (0.79 kg)
The Predator Utility Backpack is available for USD $129.99 on the Acer store, or USD $110.49 with a 15% student discount.
4. Predator Gaming Utility Backpack
This stylish black backpack with teal accents is ideal for safely transporting Predator gaming laptops. It features shoulder and chest straps for improved support, as well as a carrying handle for easy lifting. The Predator Gaming Utility Backpack is 17 inches (43.18 cm) deep, offering enough space for your laptop to sit comfortably.
* Height: 20.5 inches (52.07 cm)
* Width: 14 inches (35.56 cm)
* Depth: 8 inches (20.32 cm)
* Weight: 3.44 lbs (1.56 kg)
Get this stunning gaming backpack for USD $149.99 on the Acer store, or USD $127.49 with a 15% student discount.
5. Predator Robust Backpack
The Predator Robust Backpack is a multi-function backpack with three main compartments to organize your gear in style. It has a water-repellent exterior and reinforced corners for extra support during travel and commuting. The backpack’s dedicated sections let you store accessories like a mouse and a charging cable without overstuffing, and it also comes with a handy standalone laptop compartment up to 18 inches (45.72 cm) with TSA-friendly opening.
* Height: 18.5 inches (46.99 cm)
* Width: 12.99 inches (32.99 cm)
* Depth: 6.3 inches (16 cm)
* Weight: 4.29 lbs (1.94 kg)
This practical gaming backpack is available for USD $179.99 on the Acer store, or USD $152.99 with a 15% student discount.
Conclusion
Laptop backpacks and sleeves protect your device from scratches and bumps on the move, and offer a useful storage space when not in use. This article has explored our top Acer laptop backpacks and sleeves for all budgets and requirements, including gaming gear. They all include additional pouches and compartments for accessories, and are designed with usability and practicality in mind. Get yours on the Acer store today, and keep in mind that purchases are subject to a 15% student discount for eligible parties.
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What Is the Windows Insider Program and Is It Worth Joining?
The Windows Insider Program is Microsoft’s official platform for users who want early access to upcoming Windows features, updates, and system improvements before they reach the public. In this article, we’ll explore what the Windows Insider Program is, how it works, and whether it’s worth joining. You’ll learn what benefits it offers, what risks to consider, and how to get started if you decide to take part in shaping the future of Windows.
What is the Windows Insider Program?
The Windows Insider Program is Microsoft’s official testing and feedback platform that allows users to preview upcoming Windows updates before they are released to the public. It was launched in 2014 alongside Windows 10 to help the company collect real-world feedback and refine new features through community testing. Participants, known as “Insiders,” receive early builds of Windows 10 or Windows 11 depending on the update channel they select.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M6NWf31jEA
There are several Insider channels, each offering a different balance of innovation and stability. The Canary Channel delivers the earliest experimental builds. The Dev Channel provides newer features that are more stable but still under development. The Beta Channel focuses on near-final versions that are closer to public release. Lastly, the Release Preview Channel offers access to upcoming updates that have already been tested and refined. Together, these channels help Microsoft test new features, collect telemetry data, and ensure compatibility across a wide range of devices before official release.
Purpose and benefits of the Windows Insider Program
The Windows Insider Program serves two main purposes. First, it allows Microsoft to test new features, system updates, and design changes in real-world conditions before a full release. Second, it gives users the chance to experience upcoming versions of Windows early and share feedback that directly influences how the operating system evolves. This approach helps Microsoft identify bugs, performance issues, and compatibility problems long before updates are rolled out to the general public.
For users, the program offers several key benefits. It provides early access to new features and interface improvements, which can be especially useful for developers, IT professionals, and technology enthusiasts who want to stay ahead of changes. It also allows participants to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub app, helping shape the final product. Businesses can use the Insider Program to test future builds in their environments, ensuring that software and hardware remain compatible with upcoming versions of Windows.
However, it is important to note that Insider builds are pre-release versions of Windows and can sometimes include bugs or unfinished features. As a result, Microsoft recommends using the program on a secondary PC rather than a primary work device.
Is the Windows Insider Program right for you, and how to join
The Windows Insider Program can be an exciting opportunity, but it is not suited for everyone. If you enjoy experimenting with new technology, do not mind occasional bugs, and have a spare computer to test early versions of Windows, then joining may be worthwhile. The program is ideal for developers, IT professionals, and users who want to preview new tools and help shape the operating system through feedback.
On the other hand, if you rely on your PC for work, study, or other essential tasks, you may want to avoid installing Insider builds. Preview versions can sometimes cause performance issues or break compatibility with certain apps and drivers. Stability varies by channel, so those seeking fewer issues should stick with the Beta or Release Preview channels instead of the more experimental Dev or Canary builds.
How to Join the Windows Insider Program
Joining the Windows Insider Program is simple:
* Open Settings on your Windows PC.
* Select Windows Update.
* Click Windows Insider Program from the sidebar.
* Sign in with your Microsoft account.
* Choose your preferred Insider channel (Canary, Dev, Beta, or Release Preview).
* Agree to the terms and conditions.
* Restart your device to apply the changes.
After your PC restarts, Windows will automatically download and install the latest Insider Preview build for your selected channel.
To share feedback or report bugs:
* Open the Feedback Hub app.
* Select the issue type and follow the prompts to submit your report or suggestion.
If you later decide to leave the Insider Program:
* Go back to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program.
* Choose to stop receiving preview builds, or reinstall Windows to return to the public release version.
* Always back up your data before switching builds to avoid losing files.
Conclusion
The Windows Insider Program gives users a unique way to explore the future of Windows and contribute to its development. By testing early builds and providing feedback, Insiders play a key role in helping Microsoft refine new features and improve system performance before public release. For those who enjoy discovering new tools and interfaces ahead of schedule, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, anyone who depends on a stable, reliable system for work or study should consider staying on the official Windows release instead.
If you are still using Windows 10, remember that support will officially end soon. This makes now the perfect time to upgrade to a new Windows 11 device. You can explore the latest laptops and desktops on the Acer Store, where you will find a wide selection of powerful, Windows 11-ready computers designed for gaming, productivity, and creativity. Students can also enjoy up to 15% off through Acer’s Student Discount Program, making it easier and more affordable to stay up to date with modern Windows features and performance.
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Why Does ChatGPT/Other AIs Keep Using Em Dashes?
The em dash has become one of the most recognizable fingerprints of AI writing, a punctuation mark that instantly makes readers wonder whether a human or a machine composed the text. In this article, we’ll explore how this tiny horizontal line came to dominate modern prose, why AI models rely on it so heavily, and why many readers have learned to treat it as a sign of artificial authorship. You’ll learn how the em dash evolved from its historical roots in typesetting, how it influences readability and rhythm, and why language models like ChatGPT keep inserting it even after being told not to. Finally, we’ll look at practical ways to communicate style preferences clearly so AI tools can produce text that truly matches a writer’s voice.
What is an em dash?
An em dash (—) is a long horizontal punctuation mark often used to create a pause stronger than a comma but lighter than a period. It gets its name from its length, which historically equalled the width of a capital “M” in traditional printing. The em dash emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries when typesetters needed a flexible way to insert dramatic pauses or shifts in tone without breaking a sentence apart.
Writers quickly embraced the em dash because of its versatility. It can replace commas, parentheses, or colons, making prose feel conversational and fluid. In fiction and journalism alike, it became a stylistic choice for signalling emphasis, interruption, or sudden contrast. For instance, the difference between “He stopped, surprised” and “He stopped—surprised” is subtle but real: the latter feels more immediate, almost like a thought happening mid-sentence.
Today, the em dash appears everywhere from novels and essays to online content. But as we’ll see in the next section, that very popularity has created an unexpected problem in the age of AI: readers have begun to associate the em dash not with style or nuance, but with machine-generated text.
Why the em dash has become the signature of AI writing
In recent years, the em dash has developed a strange new reputation online. Once considered a mark of style and rhythm, it is now one of the clearest visual cues that a piece of text might have been written by artificial intelligence. Readers, editors, and even detection tools often treat excessive em dashes as a telltale sign of machine-generated language.
This association didn’t happen by accident. Large language models are trained on billions of words drawn from books, websites, and academic papers, many of which use the em dash liberally. The mark appears so frequently in polished, professional writing that AI systems have learned to treat it as a natural choice for connecting ideas, signalling tone changes, or emphasising contrast. The result is an algorithmic bias: models overestimate how often real people use em dashes in everyday writing.
Humans, by contrast, tend to rely more on commas or short sentences to create the same flow. That’s why, when someone sees several em dashes packed into a paragraph, it feels off — too smooth, too consistent, almost unnaturally balanced. This subconscious signal has trained many readers to spot AI-written text at a glance, even before running it through detection tools.
Why AI (ChatGPT) keeps using em dashes even after being told to stop
When a user asks an AI model to stop using em dashes, it sounds like a simple instruction. Yet, the request conflicts with how large language models are built and how they interpret style. Understanding this behaviour requires a quick look inside the architecture of modern AI writing systems.
Language models such as ChatGPT are trained to predict the next word or symbol in a sequence based on probability. During training, they absorb billions of examples from books, websites, and articles, where em dashes appear frequently in well-edited text. Over time, the model “learns” that inserting an em dash is statistically more likely to make a sentence flow smoothly or appear stylistically refined. Even when users say “don’t use em dashes,” the underlying probabilities remain the same, and the model’s instincts lean toward inserting them because they appear so often in the training data.
Another reason involves tokenization. To a model, an em dash isn’t just punctuation; it’s a token that signals a certain sentence rhythm or semantic pause. When a user instruction conflicts with a strong statistical pattern, the pattern often wins unless the request is repeatedly reinforced within the same context.
Finally, formatting tools and editor environments sometimes convert two hyphens into a single em dash automatically. So even if the model outputs “--,” the final rendered version may show an em dash. This can create the illusion that the AI ignored the user’s request when in fact the issue lies in the post-processing layer.
The combination of these factors makes the em dash one of the most persistent quirks in AI-generated writing.
How to stop AI (ChatGPT) from using em dashes
Telling an AI to “stop using em dashes” often isn’t enough, because the instruction competes with statistical habits learned from millions of high-quality examples. To override that bias, you need to phrase the request in a way that is both explicit and reinforced by context.
1. Set a house style early.
State your rule clearly at the beginning of the conversation or document, such as:
“Use commas, periods, or colons instead of em dashes or en dashes in all cases.”
This sets a firm constraint that the model can apply throughout the session. The earlier the instruction appears, the more influence it has on the model’s output.
2. Replace, don’t just forbid.
If you only say “don’t use em dashes,” the AI knows what not to do, but not what to do instead. By specifying acceptable alternatives, you provide positive guidance. For example:
“If you need a pause, use a comma. If you need emphasis, use a colon or a short sentence.”
3. Reiterate your preference mid-task.
When the AI outputs text containing em dashes, correct it directly rather than vaguely. For example:
“Replace all em dashes with commas or periods.”
This reinforces the rule and resets the model’s context window for the rest of the writing session.
4. Check for auto-formatting.
Some editors, including blogging tools and document processors, automatically convert double hyphens (--) into em dashes. To prevent this, use plain-text editors or disable smart punctuation.
5. Keep style rules consistent.
AI models respond best to consistency. If your request changes between drafts (“no em dashes” one moment and “use more varied punctuation” the next), the model may revert to its default patterns.
By setting clear boundaries, providing alternatives, and maintaining consistency, users can train AI writing tools to follow their preferred style far more reliably.
Conclusion
The em dash may seem like a small detail in writing, yet it has become one of the clearest symbols of how humans and AI approach language differently. To a person, punctuation is a choice of rhythm and expression. To an AI, it’s a probability pattern shaped by data. That difference explains why the em dash appears so often in machine-generated text and why it stands out as a clue to readers trained to spot artificial tone.
Ultimately, the goal isn’t to eliminate the em dash but to understand what its overuse represents: a lack of stylistic alignment between human preference and machine learning. By communicating rules clearly and reinforcing them throughout a session, writers can guide AI tools to produce cleaner, more natural prose that truly matches their voice. In the end, mastering how to talk to AI about punctuation is less about fighting the machine and more about teaching it to listen.
Interested in how AI shapes modern writing? Check out our other articles on ChatGPT, AI tips and tricks, and digital content trends.
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Best Skills to Upgrade in ARC Raiders
Choosing the right skill tree in ARC Raiders is just as important as picking your loadout. Each point you invest shapes how you move, fight, and survive during extractions. Unlike weapon upgrades, skill points are limited, so one bad choice can slow your progression or weaken your squad. With three distinct branches (Mobility, Conditioning, and Survival) the challenge lies in finding the perfect balance between speed, stamina, and endurance.
This guide breaks down the optimal 76-point build (Level 75) that blends the best traits from every tree. Whether you play solo or in a coordinated squad, this build improves stamina recovery, looting speed, and combat consistency in both PvE and PvP. Here’s how to build a raider that never runs out of breath.
Understanding the Skill Trees in ARC Raiders
Before diving into the build, it helps to understand what each tree brings to your raider. The Arc Raiders skill tree system is split into three categories:
* Mobility (yellow)
* Conditioning (green)
* Survival (red)
Each category complements a different playstyle, and while you can focus on one path, the strongest builds usually combine all three for balanced performance in every raid.
Mobility improves stamina, speed, and recovery. It reduces the stamina cost of sprinting, dodging, and climbing, helping you outmaneuver both ARC units and rival raiders. Conditioning enhances your combat endurance by improving stamina efficiency under pressure, allowing you to carry heavier weapons and recover faster after taking damage. Survival focuses on efficiency, it boosts looting, crafting, and carry weight so you can extract with more gear and materials after each run.
Skill points cannot be freely refunded early on, which means every point matters. Understanding how these three branches interact will help you create a raider who can move quickly, fight effectively, and stay prepared for anything that happens between deployment and extraction.
Early Game Build (Levels 1–17)
In the early stages of ARC Raiders, stamina management is everything. Your first fifteen levels should focus on the Mobility tree, which helps you move faster, recover quicker, and stay active longer during fights. Early missions often involve long runs between loot spots or extraction zones, and running out of stamina mid-combat is one of the fastest ways to get eliminated.
Start by unlocking Nimbler Climber, then maxing out Marathon Runner and Youthful Lungs, which improve your stamina pool and regeneration rate. Add Slip and Slide and Sturdy Ankles to reduce movement penalties when vaulting or dropping from ledges. Once you have Calming Stroll, your stamina will recover faster even while walking, letting you stay mobile without constant pauses.
Finally, unlock Carry the Momentum, a skill that rewards aggressive play by giving you a brief burst of free movement after sprinting or rolling. This perk is particularly useful in PvP, where being able to reposition without draining stamina can decide a fight. Combine these upgrades with one or two early Survival skills such as Agile Croucher, to improve your survivability during raid.
By the time you hit level 17, you should feel lighter, faster, and far less dependent on stamina bars. That mobility advantage will make the next stage of your build much smoother.
Mid Game Build (Levels 18–39)
Once you have your stamina and movement foundation set, the next phase of your build focuses on consistency and combat endurance. Levels 18 through 35 are where most players begin tackling tougher ARC units and higher-risk raids, so the goal here is to build staying power.
Start investing in the Conditioning tree to strengthen your defensive and utility options. Skills like Used to the Weight and Gentle Pressure help you move more freely while carrying heavier gear and reduce the noise you make during breaches. Fight or Flight is another essential pick, granting stamina regeneration when you take damage, which often saves your life during extended fights.
After that, begin branching into the Survival tree to improve efficiency outside of combat. Unlock Looter’s Instincts and Good as New to increase loot awareness and recover stamina faster while healing. Add Broad Shoulders and Stubborn Mule to expand your carrying capacity and lessen the penalties for being over-encumbered.
By level 39, your raider should feel significantly more durable and self-sufficient. You will be able to sprint longer, loot faster, and survive longer skirmishes without running out of stamina or space in your pack.
Late Game Build (Levels 40–75)
By the time you reach level 40, your raider should already feel stable and efficient. The late game is where you refine that power, shifting from survival mode to full control of every encounter. These next forty points are focused on improving movement quality, loot value, and raid consistency.
Begin by finishing your core Survival perks. Unlock Looter's Luck to increase your chances of revealing rare loot and Traveling Tinkerer for expanded field crafting options. Once you have both, grab Security Breach, one of the best late-game nodes in the game. It lets you unlock high-tier chests and terminals more often, guaranteeing valuable finds in each raid.
Next, invest in Conditioning to fine-tune combat responsiveness. Prioritize Proficient Pryer, Survivor’s Stamina, and Unburdened Roll to improve recovery, faster breaching, and evasive movement under pressure. Adding Loaded Arms near the end of the tree will significantly reduce the weight of equipped weapons, giving you more freedom to carry heavier gear without stamina penalties.
Finally, revisit Mobility to polish off your movement speed. Pick up Effortless Roll and Heroic Leap for smoother dodging and faster repositioning in both PvP and PvE. Once these are unlocked, you’ll have one of the most efficient and forgiving builds possible, able to handle everything from ARC swarms to long-range player ambushes.
Recommended Final Build (At Level 75)
Reaching level 75 (76 points total) marks the point where your raider has access to every major skill tree branch and can finally specialize without sacrificing balance. This build combines 20 points in Mobility, 19 points in Conditioning, and 37 points in Survival, creating a hybrid setup that delivers excellent stamina management, reliable recovery, and efficient looting across all missions.
This setup performs equally well in PvE and PvP. In combat-heavy raids, your increased stamina pool and fast regeneration allow you to stay mobile even under pressure, while defensive perks like Fight or Flight and Survivor’s Stamina prevent exhaustion during long engagements. In looting-focused missions, Looter’s Luck, Security Breach, and Traveling Tinkerer help you gather more resources with minimal downtime.
By the time you reach this stage, your raider will feel fully optimized—fast, resilient, and efficient in every scenario the game throws at you. Whether you prefer solo extractions or coordinated team play, this balanced 76-point build gives you all the tools to thrive in ARC Raiders.
Conclusion
Building the right skill tree in ARC Raiders is about more than unlocking perks. It is about creating a raider that feels natural to play. The best builds rely on stamina control, efficiency, and adaptability rather than brute force. With the right combination of Mobility, Conditioning, and Survival skills, you can move faster, loot smarter, and outlast anyone standing between you and extraction.
Whether you prefer intense PvP encounters or large-scale ARC battles, this 75-point hybrid build offers a balanced mix of speed, endurance, and resource management. Every skill works together to keep you moving, crafting, and fighting without slowing down.
If you want to take your ARC Raiders experience further, explore the latest Acer Predator and Nitro gaming laptops on the Acer Store. Students can also enjoy savings through the Acer Student Discount Program, which provides access to high-performance laptops built for smooth gameplay and reliable performance. Equip the right hardware, master your skill tree, and make every raid a success.
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Top 10 Best Weapons in ARC Raiders
Choosing the right weapon in ARC Raiders can be the difference between a clean extraction and losing your entire stash to a rogue raider or an ARC patrol. With dozens of firearms ranging from precision rifles to heavy launchers, some stand far above the rest for their damage, versatility, and reliability under pressure. Whether you prefer sniping from rooftops or storming extraction sites, these ten weapons deliver the best balance of firepower and survival potential.
While every gun has its strengths, their performance can vary depending on the situation. In PvE, you’ll need weapons capable of destroying armored ARC units and surviving swarm attacks. In PvP, accuracy, recoil control, and quick reloads often matter more than raw damage. This list weighs both modes to highlight weapons that perform consistently across all raid types, so whether you are fighting robots or rival raiders, you’ll know exactly what to bring into battle. Here are the top ten best weapons in ARC Raiders, ranked from strong to unbeatable.
Important Reminder: Don’t be afraid of losing your gear. Always upgrade your weapons to IV and use weapon modifications. This is a high-risk high reward game.
10 Best Weapons in ARC Raiders
10. Hullcracker
Stats: Damage: 100 | Fire Rate: 20.3 | DPS: 2,030 | Range: 38.9
The Hullcracker earns its spot on this list for one simple reason: nothing else in ARC Raiders delivers explosive power quite like it. This pump-action launcher fires heavy shells that obliterate armored ARC units, making it indispensable for tough PvE encounters such as Bastion fights or swarm defenses. When used correctly, a single shot can clear entire clusters of drones or heavily damage a Rocketeer before it gets close.
Its biggest drawback is versatility. The Hullcracker’s slow reload time and limited ammo reserve make it risky in PvP, where mobility and precision often win over raw firepower. Still, for coordinated squads or solo players focused on resource farming and boss takedowns, this launcher remains a devastating choice that turns any encounter into a fireworks show.
9. Osprey
Stats: Damage: 45 | Fire Rate: 17.7 | DPS: 796.5 | Range: 80.3
If precision and patience are your weapons of choice, the Osprey is your best friend. This bolt-action rifle delivers some of the highest single-shot damage, capable of downing most raiders with a clean headshot and crippling ARC drones from a distance. Its long effective range makes it a go-to weapon for players who prefer scouting roles or like to engage before enemies even spot them.
In PvE, the Osprey excels at dismantling aerial threats such as Wasps and Snitches, allowing your squad to move safely across open terrain. However, its slow rate of fire and reload speed make it unforgiving in PvP, where a missed shot can be fatal. It’s a specialist’s weapon: lethal in steady hands, punishing in careless ones.
8. Bobcat
Stats: Damage: 6 | Fire Rate: 66.7 | DPS: 400 | Range: 44
The Bobcat is the definition of a close-quarters shredder. This light-ammo SMG boasts a blistering fire rate and tight handling, making it ideal for urban combat and building interiors. It may lack the raw impact of heavier rifles, but when fights get frantic, the Bobcat’s quick time-to-kill and minimal recoil turn it into one of the most reliable weapons for mid- to short-range combat.
In PvE, the Bobcat can efficiently tear through smaller ARC patrols and crowd-control drones, especially when fitted with stability or recoil mods. In PvP, its fast reloads and high DPS make it a favorite for aggressive solo players who rely on movement and surprise. While it lacks range, few weapons feel this smooth or satisfying in a close gunfight.
7. Vulcano
Stats: Damage: 49.5 | Fire Rate: 26.3 | DPS: 1,302.9 | Range: 26
The Vulcano is the ultimate equalizer in close-quarters combat. As a semi-automatic shotgun, it combines heavy stopping power with faster follow-up shots than its pump-action rival, the Il Toro. Every blast delivers devastating spread damage that can delete both ARC units and enemy raiders before they have time to react.
In PvE, the Vulcano shines in indoor or low-visibility missions where enemies rush in waves. In PvP, its wide pellet spread and one-shot potential make it a brutal choice for ambushes or building clears, though its limited range leaves you vulnerable in open fights. For players who like to live dangerously up close, nothing feels more satisfying than a well-timed Vulcano blast.
6. Venator
Stats: Damage: 18 | Fire Rate: 36.7 | DPS: 660.6 | Range: 48.4
Small but deadly, the Venator is the pistol that refuses to play second fiddle. This semi-automatic sidearm offers remarkable accuracy, a strong headshot multiplier, and a firing speed that rivals some SMGs. Its manageable recoil makes it ideal for quick, controlled bursts, allowing players to win duels even against better-armed opponents.
In PvP, the Venator is an exceptional backup weapon, capable of finishing enemies between reloads or when you’re caught without your primary gun. In PvE, its efficiency at medium range helps conserve primary ammo while still dropping drones and scouts with ease. It’s the perfect example of how precision can trump brute force when every bullet counts.
5. Renegade
Stats: Damage: 35 | Fire Rate: 21 | DPS: 735 | Range: 68.8
A lever-action rifle with serious bite, the Renegade rewards accuracy, timing, and steady aim. Each shot hits like a freight train, boasting one of the highest per-bullet damages among medium-ammo weapons. Its iron sights are clean and easy to track with, and the weapon feels balanced across multiple engagement ranges.
In PvE, it’s great for dismantling mid-tier ARC units before they close in, while in PvP, it excels at ambushing enemies from cover. The Renegade’s rhythmic reload cycle demands patience, but players who master it will find it delivers some of the most satisfying kills in ARC Raiders. It’s a weapon for sharpshooters who like to make every shot count.
4. Bettina
Stats: Damage: 14 | Fire Rate: 32 | DPS: 448 | Range: 51.3
The Bettina is the workhorse of the heavy-ammo category. This fully-automatic assault rifle combines stopping power with stability, producing one of the most balanced damage outputs in the game. Its recoil pattern is easy to manage, and with the right attachments, it can cut through both raiders and ARC robots like paper.
In PvE, the Bettina’s sustained fire makes it invaluable against swarming enemies or shielded bots. In PvP, it’s a reliable mid-range weapon that performs well in nearly every scenario, offering the accuracy of a rifle with the pressure of an LMG. If you want one gun that can handle anything the game throws at you, the Bettina won’t let you down.
3. Tempest
Stats: Damage: 10 | Fire Rate: 36.7 | DPS: 367 | Range: 55.9
The Tempest is the definition of reliability in ARC Raiders. This fully automatic rifle offers consistent accuracy, fast handling, and a solid rate of fire, making it a flexible choice for any loadout. Whether you’re covering teammates or pushing an extraction zone, the Tempest delivers dependable performance without the recoil or ammo waste that plagues other automatics.
In PvE, its balanced DPS helps you chip away at tougher ARC units while keeping enough mobility to dodge incoming fire. In PvP, its stability and quick reloads make it one of the best weapons for sustained firefights. If you can only take one rifle into the field, the Tempest will always have your back.
2. Ferro
Stats: Damage: 40 | Fire Rate: 6.6 | DPS: 264 | Range: 53.1
Few weapons hit as hard as the Ferro. This break-action heavy rifle is all about raw stopping power, firing high-impact rounds that can erase enemies with a single, well-placed shot. It’s slower than most rifles, but every pull of the trigger feels thunderous and decisive.
In PvE, the Ferro excels at dismantling heavily armored ARC targets, from Bastions to Rocketeers, while conserving ammunition thanks to its high per-shot damage. In PvP, it demands composure and timing, but when mastered, it can drop an opponent before they even know you’re there. It’s not for everyone, but in the right hands, the Ferro defines domination through precision.
1. Anvil
Stats: Damage: 40 | Fire Rate: 16.3 | DPS: 652 | Range: 50.2
The Anvil stands at the top for good reason. Combining the precision of a marksman rifle with the punch of a heavy weapon, it strikes a perfect balance between accuracy, control, and sheer lethality. Its steady recoil pattern and superior damage per shot make it lethal across all distances, turning every encounter into an opportunity rather than a risk.
In PvE, it can take on any ARC threat without compromise, while in PvP, it provides the versatility needed to handle both long-range duels and mid-range skirmishes. Whether you’re extracting loot or defending a train platform, the Anvil is the ultimate weapon of choice for any raider who values consistency, power, and survival.
Conclusion
Success in ARC Raiders often comes down to preparation. The right weapon can turn a desperate extraction into a flawless victory, whether you’re facing towering ARC machines or outsmarting rival raiders. From the explosive power of the Hullcracker to the unmatched balance of the Anvil, these ten weapons prove that survival isn’t just about luck, it’s about choosing the right tool for every fight.
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