Kris Wouk
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Articles by Kris Wouk
Why I Prefer GNOME for My Linux Desktop Original
GNOME's simplicity allows for a quick setup and seamless integration into different distributions. Extensive customization options are available for GNOME through gnome-tweaks and extensions. GNOME feels optimized for laptops, offering smoother performance and gesture-based controls. While other desktop environments like XFCE and Cinnamon exist, GNOME and KDE are still the most popular options. Plenty of Linux users prefer KDE, but GNOME simply feels like home to me. Related What Is GNOME in Linux?
The Technics AZ100 Are My New Favorite Wireless Earbuds of All Time Original
Technics AZ100 earbuds retail for $299, offering top-tier music playback with a focus on fit. The earbuds deliver superb sound and call quality, supporting various Bluetooth codecs and Dolby Atmos. The earbuds have customizable touch controls through the Technics Audio Connect App, solid battery life, and three-device multipoint Bluetooth support.
9 Linux Gaming Myths That Just Won't Die Original
Despite having taken major steps forward thanks to more support from developers and a massive boost from Valve’s Proton, there are still plenty of myths around Linux gaming. These, in particular, refuse to go away. 9 Most Games Aren’t Available on Linux Back when PC games still shipped on DVDs, or even CDs, it was a rare treat to find a Linux binary tucked into the installation discs.
Nvidia Drivers on Linux: What You Need to Know Original
Nvidia's bad rep on Linux is due to proprietary drivers and past performance issues. Installing Nvidia drivers on Linux is simple if you follow your distro's instructions. Gaming-centric Linux distros make Nvidia driver installation even easier. While AMD continues to fight valiantly, Nvidia is a force to be reckoned with in the world of GPUs, and they’re difficult to avoid. On Linux, this is slightly more complicated than it is on Windows, but is it enough to be a problem?
Underwhelming Performance Drags This Great-Feeling Gaming Handheld Down Original
The Lenovo Legion Go S retails for $729 and is currently only available with Windows 11 Home, though a cheaper SteamOS version is coming. The device has a comfortable design, 120Hz IPS display, 32GB RAM and 1TB storage, which is upgradable. Performance is underwhelming due to the AMD Z2 Go chip. Battery life is average. Since the launch of the Steam Deck, there has been clear room for a competitor to stand up to Valve’s mighty handheld.
Here's Everything New in Ubuntu 25.04 'Plucky Puffin' Original
Ubuntu 25.04 brings the 6.14 kernel, an upgraded software stack, and updated apps. GNOME 48 brings new HDR settings, a Wellbeing settings tab, and more. Nvidia users get enhanced GPU performance with Dynamic Boost. Ubuntu 25.04, nicknamed "Plucky Puffin" is arriving this month. The release takes major steps forward to help prepare for the next long-term support (LTS) release next year.
State of Linux Windowing Systems: Is Wayland Good in 2025? Original
Wayland is largely in-place as the display server for most major Linux distributions. Wayland offers hardware acceleration and generally better performance than traditional X11. Nvidia users in particular may still face some issues, but overall, Wayland adoption is increasing and bugs are down. The Wayland display server has long been called the way of the future for Linux. But take a quick look, and you’ll find plenty of people suggesting it’s not ready for prime time.
With Flash Drives Like This, Who Needs a Portable SSD? Original
The PNY PRO Elite V3 offers ultra-fast read and write speeds compared to traditional flash drives. The metal build and retractable USB-C connector make it durable and convenient. Speeds may vary based on your type of USB-C port. USB flash drives are handy for moving files around, but for speed or capacity, they aren’t the best choice. That may still be the case for many drives, but it certainly isn’t true of the PNY PRO Elite V3 Type-C USB Flash Drive.
GPU Acceleration in Linux Terminals: What It Is and Why It's Useful Original
GPU-accelerated terminals offer smoother scrolling and higher refresh rates than traditional terminals. Using the GPU can improve overall performance by displaying text faster, which speeds up command completion. Even using integrated graphics, GPU-powered terminals offload work from the CPU, allowing for more graphical effects without sacrificing speed. A Linux terminal does a few things, but mainly, it shows line after line of text.
The Powerbeats Pro 2’s Heart Rate Monitor Is Its Least Appealing Feature, for Now Original
Beats PowerBeats Pro 2 retail for $249 and compete on price with the AirPods Pro 2, but lack advanced codecs. Earbuds have a comfortable design, secure fit, physical controls for active use, and IPX4 sweat resistance. Heart rate monitoring has potential but limited app support; ANC and transparency mode are solid. If the PowerBeats name seems like an older one, it’s because the last release was six years ago.
9 Popular Raspberry Pi Operating Systems That Aren't Raspbian Original
Raspberry Pi OS—formerly known as Raspbian—may be the default operating system for your Raspberry Pi, but it’s far from your only option. Whether you’re building a tiny NAS, mini PC, or home server, you’ve got some great choices. 1 DietPi Most Linux distributions aimed at running on the Raspberry Pi aim to be lightweight, but DietPi takes things even further.
I Tried CachyOS, and Now It Might Be My New Main Distro
CachyOS is an Arch-based distro with optimized performance settings, especially for gaming. The installer provides many bootloader, filesystem, and desktop options, including Btrfs as the default. The distro includes tools like the Cachy Hello app for easy package management, and can install common gaming packages with a few clicks. Distro hopping isn’t exactly uncommon in the Linux world, but have you ever found yourself switching distributions by accident?
I Tried CachyOS, and Now It Might Be My New Main Distro Original
CachyOS is an Arch-based distro with optimized performance settings, especially for gaming. The installer provides many bootloader, filesystem, and desktop options, including Btrfs as the default. The distro includes tools like the Cachy Hello app for easy package management, and can install common gaming packages with a few clicks. Distro hopping isn’t exactly uncommon in the Linux world, but have you ever found yourself switching distributions by accident?
5 Linux Distos Built for Creative Work Original
To the uninitiated, Linux may be nothing but arcane console commands, but it offers a great desktop experience and a ton of powerful multimedia applications. The distros we’re looking at here focus on helping you get creative work done. 1 Ubuntu Studio If you’re not sure where to start with Linux distros focused on getting creative work done, Ubuntu Studio is a great place to start.
How to Choose an Audio Mixer for Beginners Original
Pay close attention to what you plan to plug in to the mixer, and make sure you have plenty of available inputs. If you need more than analog stereo output, like digital outputs or a USB connection for a computer, make sure the mixer has one. While extra features can be great, don't discount the utility of a small, portable mixer if that's all you need. If you’re a content creator, the right audio mixer can make your life much easier, especially as you expand your setup.
Filesystems on Linux: When Should You Not Use Ext4?
Ext4 is essentially the default Linux filesystem, offering simplicity and compatibility, making it a solid choice for most users. Btrfs supports snapshots and is self-repairing, while XFS excels with large file storage due to its parallel read and write operations. exFAT is best used for removable drives that you'll use with other computers. As with many things, a typical Linux install offers a choice of filesystems, though the Ext4 filesystem is typically the default for most distros.
The Best Samsung Galaxy S25 Cases of 2025 Original
Even if you’re not usually someone who uses a case, in recent years they’ve gotten more useful. Whether you’re adding magnetic charging or a touch of style, these are the best options for protecting your Galaxy S25. Best Overall Spigen Ultra Hybrid MagFit Designed for Galaxy S25 Case Samsung's Galaxy S25 lineup supports WPC Qi2.1 cases like this one, letting you add Qi2 wireless charging with ease.
7 Problems You'll Likely Run Into Gaming on Linux
Gaming has come a long way since the early days of Linux when it was far from easy. Still, you can expect to run into some issues, so it’s best to be prepared to you’re ready when you encounter them. 1 Lack of Linux Support for Many Games While many developers over the years have offered Linux support for games, it was barely a drop in the bucket until Valve’s Steam Deck and, with it, SteamOS, brought Linux closer to the mainstream.
7 Problems You'll Likely Run Into Gaming on Linux Original
Gaming has come a long way since the early days of Linux when it was far from easy. Still, you can expect to run into some issues, so it’s best to be prepared to you’re ready when you encounter them. 1 Lack of Linux Support for Many Games While many developers over the years have offered Linux support for games, it was barely a drop in the bucket until Valve’s Steam Deck and, with it, SteamOS, brought Linux closer to the mainstream.
These Open Earbuds Are So Good You’ll Forget They Even Exist Original
The 1MORE S70 open earbuds offer great sound, a comfortable fit, and a clear picture of your surroundings. The microphone array in the S70 provides impressive call quality, and the battery life is excellent. The touch controls are easy to accidentally activate, but the app lets you disable them if this is a frequent problem. Open earbuds are more popular than ever, offering better awareness of your surroundings than standard earbuds.
Why I Prefer a Tiling Window Manager on Linux Original
A keyboard-first workflow is great if you're already a touch typist. Keeping your entire config in text files makes it easy to move and keep with you. Tiling window managers look cool and can be fun to use. Do you shake your head whenever you see someone extoll the virtues of a tiling window manager? They’re certainly not for everyone, but if you’re wondering what the appeal is, here are a few of my reasons for using one.
Command Line Email With Mutt: Manage Your Inbox in the Terminal
Mutt is a text-based email client known for speed and customization, with support for features like PGP and message threading. Command-line email clients like Mutt offer fast inbox navigation, customization, offline reading capabilities via tools like isync, and seamless integration with notmuch for easy search. Mutt is ideal for terminal-based users who primarily deal with plain text emails. Not a fan of webapps for email but find traditional mail clients too bulky and slow?
What Is a Tiling Window Manager on Linux? (and 5 to Try) Original
Tiling window managers arrange the windows on your screen efficiently to maximize productivity, leaving other programs to handle other jobs. They do require some initial setup time, and you may have to familiarize yourself with programming languages to do this. Popular options like i3, Sway, Hyprland, Qtile, and AwesomeWM offer varied approaches and setups. Tiling window managers have the potential to enhance your productivity, after you spend a little time setting one up anyway.
I Want To Love This Gaming Headset, but I Can’t Ignore One Major Flaw Original
Razer Barracuda X Chroma retails for $129; the older version is $99 without RGB. Features an updated microphone and faster connectivity in addition to six-zone RGB lighting. Headset features battery life of up to 70 hours with RGB lighting off, 30 hours with lighting on. Imagine a Razer-branded peripheral, and no matter what it is, it’s probably covered in glowing lights.
This Chromebook is perfect, assuming you already own a laptop Original
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11-inch Gen 9 is modestly priced, but offers solid productivity performance. This Chromebook has a slim build with a small, but usable keyboard and trackpad, and a sharp display. Perfect as a second device, but extended sessions or using it on your lap can be frustrating. The 11-inch form factor is a tricky one, landing somewhere between the ideal size for a tablet and a laptop.
Meet Ubuntu Studio, a Linux Distro & Software Toolbox for Creatives Original
Ubuntu Ubuntu Studio is a specialized Linux distribution focused on content creation with pre-installed software for audio, video, graphics, and photos. You can use the Ubuntu Studio Installer to add the Ubuntu Studio tools and apps to Ubuntu or any official Flavor of Ubuntu. The Ubuntu Studio Audio Configuration wizard simplifies setting up low-latency audio on Linux.
I Don’t Think I’ve Tried Better Wireless Headphones for Under $100
The 1MORE SonoFlow Pro offers a great sound quality upgrade over the original model, with improved noise cancellation and up to 100 hours of battery life. The price for the headphones remains the same despite significant upgrades. Tactile controls, solid software, and impressive ANC make the headphones a valuable purchase.
10 Tips for Using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) I Learned as a Beginner
A digital audio workstation makes recording music easier than ever: all you need is a computer. Easy is relative though, and if you’re new to using DAWs, they can be tricky. Here are a few tips that helped me out early on. The Best DAW is the One You Have One issue that plagues both new digital audio workstation (DAW) users and even seasoned users is the nagging feeling of being limited by a particular DAW.
Soundproofing Basics: 7 DIY Tips for Reducing Echo and Background Noise Original
Professional recording studios are expensive and difficult to build, so it makes sense that our homes aren’t built similarly. Still, whether you’re a content creator or you just spend a lot of time in meetings, you might be looking for some simple tips to improve the sound of your room. 1 Carpet the Room Soundproofing a room–meaning keeping outside sounds from leaking inside or the other way around–isn’t simple, easy, or cheap.
The Best Tech Gifts for Audio Geeks in 2024 Original
It's easier shopping for music fans than some other people, but finding the perfect gift is still tricky. Whether you're buying for a budding collector or a Spotify fanatic, we've got some great ideas for you. Awesome ANC Headphones Sony WH-1000XM5 Sony's wireless noise canceling headphones have been the ones to beat for generations now, and that remains the case with this latest iteration.
How to Customize Your Linux Terminal Prompt for a Better Workflow Original
Customizing your Bash prompt isn't just fun, it can be useful too. Showing simple system information is easy, but fancier prompts can get complex quickly. Third-party plugins and scripts let you customize your prompt much more easily. Are you sick of everyone else’s terminal prompt looking fancier than yours? They’re not just good-looking, but a well-customized prompt can increase your productivity too, and it’s easy to get started. Why Customize Your Terminal Prompt?
Who Needs Transparency Modes When You’ve Got These Open-Style Earbuds?
At a list price of $70, the 1MORE Fit SE S31 offer budget-friendly open-style earbuds with good sound quality. Comfortable with around-ear hooks, the S31 have an IPX5 rating and offer a secure fit for exercise and activities. Max battery life of 30 hours and customizable options with the 1MORE app make the S31 a solid purchase.
How to Transfer Files Between Systems Using scp and rsync Original
Both scp and rsync can transfer files securely, but rsync is better for regularly scheduled transfers and handling network issues. Use scp for manual file transfers; rsync is more suited for scripts and cron jobs with advanced options like compression. Both require SSH for security, but rsync also needs to be installed on both computers to be used.
AV Linux: Exploring a Distro for Audio/Visual Work Original
Linux AV Linux offers a suite of free tools and a kernel tweaked for audio and video production. The distribution differs from Ubuntu Studio and Fedora Jam, focusing more on audio with the Enlightenment desktop. AV Linux provides both open source tools like Ardour, and closed-source commercial software that requires separate licenses like Reaper and Harrison MixBus.
Why You Should Be Using Aliases in the Linux Terminal Original
You can use aliases both temporarily and more permanently by adding them to config files. Aliases can simplify commands you need to use frequently. With aliases, you can completely replace one command with a more powerful command without needing to memorize it. The humble alias is a powerful ally when it comes to using the Linux terminal, but it’s one you could probably stand to rely on more.
Everything You Need to Start Recording Music on Linux Original
Do you dream of making music but want to do it in the (mostly) free and open-source world of Linux? Whether you're ready to start recording music on your favorite Linux distribution or you're looking for the right place to start, here's what you'll need to know. Keep in Mind the Type of Music You Want to Make You can make any kind of music you want on Linux, but it helps to know what you're looking to do.
This Gaming Laptop's Performance Outpaces Its Price
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 offers excellent performance at a sub-$3,000 price point. Limited configuration options are available, focusing on storage, RAM, and GPU choice. The build is sturdy and solid-feeling, plus the keyboard feels great. It isn’t all that common to call a laptop that retails in the neighborhood of $3,000 a good deal.
Batocera vs. RetroPie vs. Lakka: Which Retro Gaming OS Should You Use? Original
Linux RetroPie, Batocera, and Lakka run on stripped-down Linux and focus on retro gaming, maximizing hardware resources for emulators. RetroPie works best on Raspberry Pi but is limited, Batocera is user-friendly and runs on various hardware, and Lakka offers the most customization for power users. Both Batocera and Lakka can run in live USB mode, letting you run and use them without permanently modifying your PC.
5 Ways to Get Your Money's Worth Out of Plex Pass Original
Plex is a multifaceted service that ties together your own personal media library with various sources from across the web. While paying for a Plex Pass subscription gets you hardware-accelerated encoding and other media server features, there are a bunch of other features that make it well worth the money. 1 Use Plex to Watch and Record Live TV If you’re not totally familiar, Plex is both a streaming aggregator and a server that lets you essentially build your own streaming service.
Why Neovim Is My Text Editor of Choice, and What Makes It So Powerful Original
Linux & macOS Terminal Its keyboard-first workflow is the key to Neovim's power, enabling intuitive and powerful editing actions. Setting up a basic configuration for Neovim is easy with tools like kickstart.nvim or even full-blown distributions. Neovim is endlessly customizable with a rich plugin ecosystem, allowing you to extend the app indefinitely. While other editors may offer more visual flair and a friendlier aesthetic, Neovim traces its roots back to an editor for the 1970s.
What Is Neovim, And How Can You Get Started Using It? Original
While it has a daunting reputation, Neovim is a powerful text editor well worth learning. Neovim is a drop-in replacement for Vim, with an overhauled architecture and support for plugins written in Lua. Plugins can add entire new categories of features to Neovim. Whether you’re a seasoned coder, just getting into programming, or simply want to edit a few files, a good text editor is an essential tool.
Gaming on Linux: Here's How I Monitor My GPU Stats Original
You can use Steam overlay for basic stats like an FPS counter. MangoHud offers detailed GPU info, and you can install it fairly simply, depending on your Linux distribution. Goverlay simplifies setup using MangoHud and other tools, providing customization options for GPU stat monitoring. Want to monitor your frame rates or GPU temperatures while gaming on Linux? It takes a little bit of setup, but it’s a simple process that you’ll have up and running in no time.
The Best iPhone 16 Cases of 2024 Original
Nobody really wants to cover up their beautiful new phone with a case. That said, if you want that phone to actually stay beautiful, keeping it protected with the right case is the best way to keep it looking as good as the day you bought it.
Dell XPS 16 9640 Review: Gorgeous With Great Performance, but Not for Everyone
The price starts at $1,499 with options to customize. It has a beautiful design but some keyboard and touchpad usability issues. The OLED display upgrade is recommended for better colors and contrast. The Dell XPS 16 9640 is the company’s first 16-inch model, and it’s every bit as stunning to behold as its smaller predecessors. A decently spec’d version will cost you, and it has some noticeable flaws, but it’s tough to resist the combination of power and elegance.
Why I Keep Coming Back to Fedora Workstation
Linux Fedora Workstation finds an ideal balance between cutting-edge and stable. The default spin of Fedora uses the GNOME desktop, which is well-suited for use on laptops. Fedora is not without its drawbacks, but you should consider how any operating system suits the way you use your computer. As is the case with many Linux users, I’ve spent time installing and using many different distributions over the years, but I still keep coming back to Fedora Workstation. Why?
Why I Keep Coming Back to Fedora Workstation Original
Fedora Workstation finds an ideal balance between cutting-edge and stable. The default spin of Fedora uses the GNOME desktop, which is well-suited for use on laptops. Fedora is not without its drawbacks, but you should consider how any operating system suits the way you use your computer. As is the case with many Linux users, I’ve spent time installing and using many different distributions over the years, but I still keep coming back to Fedora Workstation. Why?
Think Open-Style Earphones Lack Bass? These Will Change Your Mind
Beyerdynamic's VERIO 200 open-style earphones offer great sound quality at $219. The fit is comfortable, secure, and compatible with wearing glasses, plus they feature IP54 water-resistance. Excellent battery life of up to 8 hours on a single charge, making them a solid option for open-ear designs. Unlike traditional earbuds, open-style earphones help to keep you aware of your surroundings without the need for transparency modes.
What Is Budgie on Linux and Should You Use It? Original
Budgie is a desktop environment for Linux computers that emphasizes easy personalization and a fast, familiar layout. Budgie borrows from the GNOME environment, offers lighter resource usage compared to KDE Plasma, and features the Raven sidebar. Budgie can be installed on existing Linux distributions easily, but popular distros like EndeavourOS, Fedora, and Ubuntu offer pre-installed editions. The Linux desktop is a more fluid concept than it is with Windows or macOS.
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