We reveal what you need to consider when buying a desktop computer.
7 May 2013 |
Find the right desktop computer within your budget with our comprehensive guide.
We've tested 22 security programs, including ones from Microsoft, Avast and McAfee.
3 May 2013 |
We find out which security programs you can trust to keep your PC safe from malware attacks.
We give this portable multimedia hub with Wi-Fi hotspot and 1TB storage the once-over.
26 Mar 2013 |
The Seagate Wireless Plus lets you stream multimedia to your smartphone or tablet on the go. So what's our verdict?
These colour multifunction printers are convenient options, but should you go for inkjet printers or laser printers?
1 Mar 2013 |
We review 53 colour multifunction printers including inkjet and laser models, priced from $59 to $1599.
Why not save a tree and your recycling bin by going paperless?
28 Feb 2013 |
Ditch the paper by storing all your documents as PDFs and opting for e-bills. It makes it easier to find files - as long as you automate your backups.
We've put the biggest, fastest desktop hard drives to the test.
22 Feb 2013 |
We test 11 drives from Buffalo, La Cie, Seagate and others for the best combination of performance, capacity, features and ease of use.
Which tablet computer best suits your needs and budget?
12 Dec 2012 |
Tablets are taking over personal computing. We test 57 models you can buy in Australia.
We test thin and light laptops you can take anywhere.
23 Nov 2012 |
We test 12 ultraportable laptops to see which offer the best combination of speed, portability and battery life.
A hands-on look at Apple's new iPad mini 7.9 inch tablet.
2 Nov 2012 |
Apple's iPad mini throws down the guantlet to 7-inch tablet rivals from Google, Samsung and Amazon.
We take a look at the key features of the Windows 8 OS update.
26 Oct 2012 |
This is the biggest change to the operating system in a very long time, and it’s certainly not going to be to everyone’s liking.
The future of Windows computing - Windows 8 and the Surface tablet.
26 Oct 2012 |
We take a look at Microsoft's first "Surface" tablet computer, with the special Windows RT operating system.
This smaller tablet plugs the gap between the iPod Touch and the iPad.
25 Oct 2012 |
Apple's iPad mini announcement ends months of speculation and throws down the guantlet to 7-inch tablet rivals from Google, Samsung and Amazon.
We get hands on with Apple's new mobile operating system.
24 Sep 2012 |
We take a hands-on look at Apple's updated iOS 6 mobile operating system for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.
Google's tiny tablet gets a boost with more storage and a new flavour of Jelly Bean - Android 4.2. Is this the Droid you're looking for?
4 Sep 2012 |
The updated Nexus 7 tablet is the first to use the Android 4.1.2 operating system, code-named Jelly Bean.
Backing up your important digital information is essential.
18 May 2012 |
We test 18 backup software packages that promise to keep your data safe.
The latest innovation from the tablet series by Asus.
16 May 2012 |
The Prime follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Transformer 101, with some impressive results.
This device lets you watch and play in 3D in relative privacy.
1 May 2012 |
We take a look at the Sony HMZ-T1 personal 3d viewer, and find out whether it stacks up to its claims.
We head to Las Vegas to check out some of the innovative products shaping consumer technology.
11 Jan 2012 |
We take a look at some of the latest gadgets, gizmos and technologies at CES 2012.
Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.
23 Nov 2011 |
We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.
We take a sneak peek at the 17.3” Medion Akoya laptop.
21 Nov 2011 |
We get in early to take a sneak peek at the latest Medion Akoya laptop from Aldi, ahead of its release this Saturday.
Some of these general purpose family laptops offer unprecedented performance and value.
11 Nov 2011 |
We test 12 laptops that suit the whole family, with models ranging between $730 and $2100.
The world wide web is your stage with these eight high definition webcams.
9 Nov 2011 |
Thanks to the Internet age, creating and sharing video content is as simple as talking to a camera on top of your PC.
CHOICE's latest survey reveals the ISPs worth celebrating.
27 Oct 2011 |
The survey results show which internet sevice providers performed best, how satisfied users were with service, speed, costs and billing, and trends in our use of the internet.
CHOICE's latest survey reveals the ISPs worth celebrating.
27 Oct 2011 |
The survey results show which internet sevice providers performed best, how satisfied users were with service, speed, costs and billing, and trends in our use of the internet.
This media streaming device allows you to put small pictures on the big screen.
20 Oct 2011 |
Streaming high definition video from your laptop to your TV has never been this easy.
A hands-on look at Dell's stylish 15-inch laptop
17 Oct 2011 |
Dell's 15-inch XPS15z laptop exudes an image of professionalism, but how does it perform?
Network your home instantly using its existing electrical wiring.
29 Aug 2011 |
Powerline devices provide a simple home networking alternative or addition to traditional Ethernet cabling and Wi-Fi.
The new breed of colour laser MFPs throws down the gauntlet to inkjet printers.
24 Aug 2011 |
We test 10 colour laser multifunction printers to see how they compare for performance, ease of use, features and value.
Media hubs plug the gap between your TV and your PC
19 Aug 2011 |
With the ability to play music, videos and pictures on your TV and stream directly from the internet, media hubs can be great tools for today's digital age.
We test 11 desktop computers including all-in-ones and stand-alone models.
23 Jun 2011 |
Should you buy a stand-alone tower computer or an all-in-one? We test 11 desktop computers to see how they compare.
We test 13 widescreen monitors from 21" to 27".
21 Jun 2011 |
We put 13 widescreen desktop monitors to the test, across three size categories – 21.5”, 23”-24” and 27” – to see how they compare.
This Eee Pad Transformer responds to one of the big shortcomings of tablet computers.
13 Jun 2011 |
A dedicated add-on keyboard makes the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer tablet more versatile than the average tablet.
We test 12 programs that store and share your digital pictures.
30 May 2011 |
Photo management software can bring order to digital-picture chaos.
We test 10 Network-Attached Storage (NAS) devices that can store your files and serve everybody on your network.
13 May 2011 |
Network-Attached Storage lets you store files in one central place and access them from multiple computers at the same time.
CHOICE Computer wins Best Magazine at 9th Annual IT Journalism Awards.
21 Apr 2011 |
CHOICE Computer's pick of the best add-ons for Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome
13 Apr 2011 |
All major internet browsers - Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome - come with a host of add-ons to supercharge your browsing.
Our first impressions of the eagerly awaited iPad 2.
28 Mar 2011 |
Read our quick review of the Apple iPad 2, a slimmer, faster and cheaper follow-up to the original.
Take the guess work out of choosing your next laptop.
15 Mar 2011 |
Our laptop report tells you all you need to know about memory, storage, connections, wireless, the processor, software, power supply and the screen.
Take the guess work out of choosing your next laptop.
15 Mar 2011 |
Our laptop report tells you all you need to know about memory, storage, connections, wireless, the processor, software, power supply and the screen.
Can you save money by using cheaper ink alternatives, and are they as good as the manufacturer’s own inks?
15 Mar 2011 |
Non-genuine ink may be a money-saving option, depending on your printer.
This cleaning gel cleans the improbable.
7 Mar 2011 |
This cleaning gel claims to remove the grime found in keyboards and other electronic devices.
Is Samsung's first tablet computer a serious challenger to the iPad? Here's what our experts think.
1 Mar 2011 |
The 7-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab is the thin end of the wedge in a fast-growing all-out assault on the Apple iPad.
We size up ViewSonic's debut tablet computer in Australia.
1 Mar 2011 |
The tablet war hots up, as the ViewPad 7 joins the Samsung Galaxy Tab as rivals to the iPad.
We test 10 go-anywhere laptops that won't weigh you down.
28 Feb 2011 |
It’s the holy grail of laptop computing – a compact device you can carry everywhere, but with all the features you need at a reasonable price.
A quick reference guide to the most useful key combinations.
11 Feb 2011 |
This is the quick reference guide to Windows shortcut keys from CC Jan/Feb 2011.
Which flash drives will withstand the rigours of daily life?
13 Jan 2011 |
We put these fickle devices through some punishing tests, as our video shows.
They save on space, but ongoing ink costs mean an all-in-one can be a costly choice.
6 Dec 2010 |
The printers combine inkjet printing, copying and scanning functions (some have fax) into one device.
Is bigger really better? We test 10 laptops with screens 17 inches and more.
11 Nov 2010 |
Sometimes there’s just no substitute for more screen real estate.
CHOICE guide to setting up a home network.
20 Aug 2010 |
Share data and internet access between all your computers and devices, whether by cable or wireless. These basic principles will help you set up your own.
Is this tough external hard drive tough enough to give you total peace of mind?
30 Jul 2010 |
It's shock-resistant and designed to withstand real world disasters.
See the Apple iPad in action and read our review.
31 May 2010 |
How good is the Apple iPad? Our video tells you what everyday users think of it.
These mini PCs and all-in-ones start from about $580 and are a good solution for basic home computing needs.
24 May 2010 |
Most people can do just fine with the new wave of compact and inexpensive PCs for the desktop.
Big monitors can outlast your PC and you can pick up a good one for less than $300.
8 Mar 2010 |
We tested 16 widescreen displays for performance and ease of use - eight models in the 22-inch class and eight in the 24-inch class.
You're likely to have at least one of these groups, with regular, face-to-face meetings, in your local area.
3 Mar 2010 |
We might be in the age of the internet, but computer user groups bring people together to learn more about computing and meet new friends.
Personal laser printers can colour your world, but watch out for hidden costs.
23 Feb 2010 |
We bought 10 colour laser printers designed for the home and small office and tested for speed and print quality and also compared their ongoing running costs.
Online backup could be the quick and free storage solution you've been looking for.
21 Feb 2010 |
Finally, anybody can have offsite backup. We test 10 services that offer secure online storage of all your important information.
Our browser showdown reveals performance winners.
11 Feb 2010 |
Is bigger really better? We test five leading web browsers for speed, safety and versatility.
ADSL and ADSL2 plans can be a minefield of fine print and confusing pricing. Our interactive tables help to make sense of it all.
4 Feb 2010 |
CHOICE details the main things to look for in this fiercely competitive market.
One terabyte external hard drives – give your PC a welcome capacity boost for less than $200.
8 Jan 2010 |
The quickest and most cost-effective way to add massive storage space to your computer system.
Are ergonomic devices better for you? We put 10 on trial.
4 Sep 2009 |
Specially designed ergonomic devices can be of help to people suffering overuse injuries. CHOICE invited a group of everyday users to see if they could adjust to some of these devices.
We test 10 laptops that give you good bang for your hard-earned buck.
24 Aug 2009 |
CHOICE tested 10 budget laptops that provide a good combination of power and features at a reasonable price.
Is the internet the future of TV? We take a look.
13 Aug 2009 |
With thousands of internet TV "channels" available, how do you find something worth watching?
We compare 10 media devices for playing high definition files on your TV.
2 Jul 2009 |
These days it seems that just about everything is going digital and high definition (HD), but if you create or download HD content to your computer, how do you get it over to your TV?
Head for the cloud and work from anywhere with the new wave of web apps.
15 May 2009 |
Online office suites come under the category of cloud computing, in which the programs and documents are stored on the internet "in the cloud".
Wireless networking allows you to access the web anywhere in the home.
7 May 2009 |
CHOICE reveals the issues you need to consider before you incorporate Wi-Fi into your home networking environment.
How much do you need to spend to keep your expensive equipment safe?
30 Apr 2009 |
They say lightning doesn’t strike twice in the same place — but it doesn’t have to. A direct strike on your home can burn out every piece of electrical equipment you have connected.
Beat the blackout blues with these battery backup units.
30 Apr 2009 |
The power is gone and with it all your painstaking work - it won't occur if you use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
Plans to upgrade the broadband network need to be carefully considered
29 Apr 2009 |
In April 2009 the Federal Government announced it will establish a new company that will invest up to $43 billion over 8 years to build and operate a National Broadband Network.
Thanks to volunteer computing you can donate to a good cause without lifting a finger.
18 Mar 2009 |
There’s a growing swell in a new kind of charitable donation — the idle time of your processor (CPU).
The beanbag that for many may represent the future of the internet.
12 Mar 2009 |
It’s small and squeezable, and Chumby is a versatile gadget designed to deliver a constant stream of personalised information updates on any topic.
Clean up your inbox with these no-cost junk email fighters.
3 Mar 2009 |
Spam is not only annoying, but also potentially dangerous. Here's how to combat the ever increasing stream of junk.
Watch out! If certain music industry representatives have their way, internet service providers will be required to police your use of the internet.
19 Feb 2009 |
The music industry reports a reduction in CD profits, which has motivated them to push for control over how consumers access and store music.
Protecting internet users from illegal material is important, however the proposed mandatory ISP-based filter won’t do the job.
19 Feb 2009 |
CHOICE holds a number of concerns about the government’s current proposal to introduce mandatory internet filtering at an ISP-level.
We tried out two modern versions of the ‘classic’ keyboard style for comparison.
3 Feb 2009 |
Modern PC keyboards have evolved into many different designs. But how good are they for their basic purpose — typing?
Can using VoIP with Naked DSL cut your phone bill in half?
21 Jan 2009 |
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and uses an Internet connection to make and receive telephone calls.
Email scams are on the rise, but commonsense is the best defence.
3 Dec 2008 |
Almost 70 percent of all email in Australia in August 2008 was spam and we rank in the top 10 list of countries.
Ultraportable laptops can do most of your computing tasks while on the go.
16 Oct 2008 |
If you’re always on-the-go and don’t want to leave your home or office behind, you need a laptop that won’t weigh you down — and that’s where the ultraportable category shines.
Google polishes up its web presence.
1 Oct 2008 |
Do we need another web browser, when we already have Interet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Opera and others to choose from?
There are desktop and roaming plans but is it the high-speed internet alternative for you?
1 Oct 2008 |
Wireless internet is broadband internet access that doesn't use a telephone line or cable network.
With the right software, you can get two computers for the price of one.
18 Sep 2008 |
Virtualisation is the hip computing buzzword of the moment: open up the business pages and you’ll find it in abundance.
Webcams are handy for instant messaging, video chats and quick snaps.
30 Jul 2008 |
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so a moving picture must surely be even more valuable — which is probably why webcams have become so popular for personal communication.
Our tests review the latest generation multimedia laptops.
13 Jun 2008 |
If you’re looking for a successor to your trusty old desktop computer but don’t want the bulk of a traditional PC, you might want to consider a portable multimedia powerhouse instead.
How much energy is being sucked up by the technology around your home? And what can you do about it?
30 May 2008 |
Studies show that many of us simply aren’t aware of just how much energy household electronics consume.
We tested 16 speaker systems to see which gives the best boom for your buck.
20 May 2008 |
The PC speaker market is 'booming', driven by the growth in high quality multimedia — from music and DVD movies to games and even websites.
Are consumers getting a raw deal on the price of locally available computer products?
20 May 2008 |
It doesn’t take long for a net-savvy consumer to compare the cost of computer products here and overseas.
We tried a range of CD/DVD repair kits and found them less than impressive.
13 May 2008 |
Optical discs, such as CDs and DVDs, are fairly fragile and it doesn’t take much damage for them to skip or not play. Grease, dust, exposure to excess heat, and rough handling can all result in damage that may affect playback.
Make sense of the bits and bytes.
16 Apr 2008 |
CHOICE's simple guide to broadband tells you what you need to know in order to choose the right broadband plan.
Make sense of the bits and bytes.
16 Apr 2008 |
CHOICE's simple guide to broadband tells you what you need to know in order to choose the right broadband plan.
Protect your personal information.
10 Apr 2008 |
You don’t need to pay a fortune for a good-quality shredder. One model worked just as well as some three times the price.
Fans of Linux will appreciate this new offering from Asus — a linux-based laptop.
9 Apr 2008 |
cool, compact and cheap. At just under $500, it’s the cheapest full-featured laptop on the market.
Keep your child safe from internet nasties with net filtering software.
15 Jan 2008 |
Internet filtering software helps to block unwanted content. But is your child really safe to browse the Web unsupervised with one of these programs in place?
Should your next computer be a Mac?
11 Oct 2007 |
Apple Computer fans are known worldwide as "Mac Evangelists" for their almost fanatical devotion to the brand, but is it just hype or should you really consider a Mac as your next computer?
Virtual worlds could be the future of the internet.
13 Sep 2007 |
There are different types of virtual worlds — some are more like games, some are chat forums and others simulate a life-like world.
We tested 12 budget laser printers to see which ones come up best.
30 Aug 2007 |
As price comes down and quality improves, a laser printer is a good choice for small-scale print runs.
Is it worth the risk?
6 Jun 2007 |
Here’s a few tips on how to avoid being ripped off if you miss out on buying tickets first-hand.
ADSL2 is the new kid on the broadband block.
7 Apr 2007 |
More households are opting for broadband over dial-up internet services, looking for better speeds and fewer delays and disruptions.
Got a few tapes or vinyl LPs tucked away in a corner? Why not convert them to digital format.
15 Jun 2006 |
Our guide details what you need to convert your old music into digital format and how to get started.
A 19” LCD monitor will help you make the most of multimedia computing.
30 Apr 2006 |
Our research shows that prices vary by hundreds of dollars, but the more expensive brands we tested weren’t necessarily the top performers.
We explain the pros and cons.
8 Mar 2006 |
Both technologies have their advantages and disadvantages, so the problem is deciding which is best for you.
Want to upgrade your computer for free? Here’s how.
3 Jan 2006 |
Firmware used to be read-only — it limited what the hardware could do. Nowadays, however, most firmware can be updated to give your hardware new features and capabilities.
A comfortable, supportive chair is a good investment if you spend a long time at your computer.
6 Apr 2005 |
Furnishing your study or office may seem trivial in comparison to choosing a desktop but a hasty decision can lead to long-term physical problems.
It sounds cost effective to rent but in the end you'll pay more and won't own the equipment.
4 Mar 2005 |
Renting computer equipment is a good idea if you or your business is short of cash but you'll probably pay more in the long run.
What are your options for converting text to speech?
6 Apr 2004 |
There's a lot of money going into speech to text and speech recognition software, but if you're a consumer, there aren't many options.
Garden design software can help you plan and maintain your patch of green, but packages have their drawbacks.
7 Jan 2004 |
You could employ a professional landscaper to give your garden a makeover or try the cheaper, do-it-yourself approach — garden design software.
Follow the steps below for trouble-free slide scanning.
12 Aug 2003 |
Slide attachments are available as optional extras for many current model scanners. While scanning slides can be tricky, this article provides information to assist you in your slide scanning success.
Decode the techno-babble with CHOICE Computer, the magazine designed for beginner and intermediate computer users.
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Learn about CHOICE Computer, the only technology magazine designed for beginner and intermediate computer users.