Why Microsoft's Push for New PCs Frustrates Windows 10 Users: Exploring Solutions

In a that has left a number of users frustrated, Microsoft has advised Windows 10 users to consider purchasing new PCs to upgrade to Windows 11. This recommendation comes at a time when many people are struggling financially, making the prospect of buying a new computer an unwelcome suggestion. Even if they have the money, if there's nothing wrong with their system, why buy new? I can understand the security aspect as warned in the end of support notification, but you're not stuck!

For many users, the idea of having to buy a new PC just to upgrade to the latest operating system feels unnecessary and burdensome. The reality is that not everyone can afford to replace their current devices, especially when they are still functioning perfectly well. This situation has sparked a wave of frustration among Windows 10 users who feel that Microsoft should take a different approach.

Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop

Instead of pushing users to buy new hardware, Microsoft could take a page from their Xbox strategy. The Xbox ecosystem allows gamers to enjoy their favorite titles across different generations of consoles, ensuring a seamless experience without the need for constant hardware upgrades. A similar approach could be applied in a slightly different way, where a lite version of Windows 11 could be developed to run on older hardware. Heads get scratched when their specs are better than a number of systems fresh off the lot.

A number of these users we've spoken with believe that the push for new hardware has more to do with selling desktops and laptops than with providing a better user experience. While upgrading to the latest technology can offer benefits, it shouldn't come at the expense of those who are barely getting by.

Alternatives Routes to Consider

For those who are not ready to make the leap to a new PC, there are alternatives that can provide a Windows 10, Windows 11 or a Windows 11-like experience:

1. Windows 11 OS Deals: Looking for deals on the Windows 11 OS that might make the upgrade more affordable without needing new hardware? We have crazy good deals you can nab for $9.75... because why not?! (Windows 11 + Office Lifetime Bundles also available.)
   
   

2. Linux Distributions: Consider using Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Mint, which offer a user-friendly experience and can run on older hardware. If the programs you use can work on Ubuntu, and you could careless about staying on Windows... are you losing anything? By the way, you can have both operating systems on the same system... just decide on which one you'd like to use at start up:
   

   
   

   
   

   For gamers, no worries... Ubuntu has you covered. Ubuntu is a versatile operating system that supports a variety of gaming platforms. Here are some of the most popular ones:

   
   

   - Steam is one of the most popular gaming platforms and has extensive support for Linux, including Ubuntu. With Steam Play and Proton, you can play many Windows games on Ubuntu.

   
   

   - Lutris is an open-source gaming platform that allows you to manage and play games from different sources, including Steam, GOG, and Epic Games. It also supports Wine, which enables you to run Windows games on Linux. We use the Epic Games platform even more so than we use Steam nowadays (which includes titles beyond just... Fortnite), and if you do too, you're good!
   
   - Wine is a compatibility layer that allows you to run Windows applications, including games, on Linux. It's a powerful tool for playing games that don't have native Linux support.
   
   - PlayOnLinux is a graphical frontend for Wine, making it easier to install and manage Windows games and applications on Linux.
   
   - Heroic Games Launcher is an open-source game launcher for GOG and Epic Games Store. It provides a user-friendly interface to manage and play your games on Linux.
   
   ***You can use your Xbox Game Pass, but... take the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate route just like you would with Amazon Luna to stream to your hearts content without the headaches of a workaround.
   

While the push for new hardware may be frustrating, there are ways to navigate this challenge without breaking the bank... so hopefully you're able to adapt with the information we've provided by October 14, 2025. If it's the perfect opportunity for you to buy new, enjoy and... Game on!

Speak of gaming, Soulstone Survivors is coming soon to GOG!

 + Sophi 

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The 2024 Wishmas Guide for... the Ladies!

 

We can't forget the... Ladies, but on that note I'm handing this one off to Sophi!

As a woman who loves to stay updated with the latest trends, I know how challenging it can be to find the perfect gift for some women. Whether you're shopping for a tech-savvy friend, a fashionista, or a gamer, this guide has got you covered. Let's get started!

 Tech Items 

1. 4 Earbuds that Rival or Bests the Apple AirPods Pro 2
   
   
   • Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro + $20 Amazon Gift Card Bundle |  $190 
     
     
   • Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 |  $169 
     
     
   • Sony WF-1000XM5 |  $228 
     
     
   • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds |  $229
     
     
2. Meta Quest 3S VR Headset

   • This VR headset provides an immersive virtual reality experience with high-resolution displays and intuitive controls. Great for entertainment, gaming, fitness, and virtual travel. This VR headset includes Batman: Arkham Shadow.
     
     
     

   • Price: $299
     
     
3. 3 Affordable Options that rival Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft
   
   
   

• Kobo Clara Colour | $149
• PocketBook Verse Pro Color | $145

• Kobo Libra Colour | $199
  
  
  The latest Kindle features a color display, making it perfect for reading e-books, comics, and magazines. It also has a waterproof design and wireless charging. This is great, but it's rather expensive when there are alternatives with similar and far better ratings. Research the features, while these are more reasonable in price, they don't natively support Kindle books. You will have to use third-party software to convert the Kindle files. On the bright side, these options give you access to their stores, public library systems, and support a wide range of formats.

4. Mobile Game Controllers

   • For Gamers, the SCUF Nomad is a premium performance mobile gaming controller designed for iPhone and compatible with iOS 16 and above. It features customizable rear paddles, anti-drift hall effect thumbsticks that you can swap, and an ergonomic shape for maximum comfort. The controller offers up to 16 hours of battery life and includes a free app for customizing gameplay settings. It's perfect for gaming on the go, allowing players to record and share their highlights effortlessly.
     
     
     
     
     This is a great gift option type because women are always with our cell phone, and this gaming device takes away the need to carry around a Switch or a Steam Deck for gaming. The SCUF Nomad can be used for the Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Steam Link, and the PS Remote. Get the 3-Year Protection Plan for $7.99 and this will ensure that any issues will be covered for years to come.
     
     This beats the Backbone, because she won't have to worry about a subscription fee. There are enough expenses to deal with and I just don't understand why a peripheral would need a subscription. The SCUF Noman is subscription-free, and you can add all your games to the user interface for easy access. There are clips to connect your phone to your standard PS5 & Xbox controller, but this is more cohesive.

   • Price: $59.99  $99.99

 Video Games 

1. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom
   
   The people of Hyrule are being stolen away by strange rifts that have appeared--and with a certain swordsman among the missing, it's up to Princess Zelda to save her kingdom in a brand-new The Legend of Zelda story!
   
   
   • Price: $59.99
   
   
2. Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy
   
   
   • This trilogy follows the journey of Apollo Justice, a rookie defense attorney, as he learns from Phoenix Wright and tackles various courtroom battles. The remastered collection features updated HD graphics, an improved user interface, and additional content.
     
     
   • Price: $39.99
   
   
3. Princess Peach: Showtime!

• Save the Sparkle Theater as Princess Peach, taking the spotlight in her very own game. Partner with the theater's guardian, Stella, and use the power of Sparkle to help the Theets and take on Grape and the Sour Bunch.

• Price: $59.88

 Easy Wins 

1. Beauty & Spa Service
   
   
   • A Beauty & Spa gift is perfect for women who love a good pampering session. Those who rarely have the time to indulge in these services will appreciate it even more. It's a wonderful way for them to relax, and you can help make that happen.
     
     
   • Price: Starting at $15.29 (Prices may vary on location)
     
     
2. $25 Panera Gift Card and 3-Months of Panera's Unlimited Sip Club
   • If she frequently visits coffee shops and loves Panera, this gift is sure to delight her. It includes a $25 gift card, and the Unlimited Sips Club membership, which grants her unlimited iced or hot coffees, teas, fountain drinks, and more. Every time she saves money on a beverage, she'll think of you.
     
     
     
   • Price: $23.20
     
     
3. Gift Cards
   
   
   • When you're unsure of what to gift her, one thing's for certain: gift cards are a great backup plan. They give her the freedom to choose exactly what she wants.
     
     
   • Price: Starting at $10

 Fashion 

1. Pajama Set
   
   
   • Ultra-soft pajamas provide a cozy option for bedtime or lounging around the house. They offer a breathable and comfortable fit, perfect for relaxing.
     
     
   • Price: Starting at $14.30
     
     
2. 
   Belt Bag
   
   
   • A sleek belt bag is perfect for carrying essentials like her phone, wallet, and keys. It can be worn around the waist or as a crossbody when she doesn't want to carry a purse, is going for a run, or wearing pants without pockets. This is a great gift for women who tend to misplace their belongings.
     
     
   • Price: Around $7+

3. Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

• This multi-styler cuts down on heat damage and helps achieve professional-level looks with little effort. It includes attachments for different hair types and it sure to make styling her hair more manageable.
  
  
  

• Price: Around $209
  
  
4. Purses

• Purses make fantastic gifts, offering a wide range of colors and sizes to suit any preference. Take the time to identify her style and choose a high-quality purse that complements her fashion sense ahead of the big day!
  
  
  

• Price: Varies but doesn't always reflect on quality.
  
  
5. Smart Watch

• 
  This gift beautifully bridges the worlds of tech and fashion. While it stands as one of the more premium options, it offers long-term benefits for health, fitness, and productivity. The selection includes the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Apple Watch Series 10 with sleep apnea detection, Google's Pixel Watch 3, Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, and the OnePlus Watch 2.
  
  These are among the best smartwatches available in 2024, making any of them a fantastic gift choice. Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is the most affordable option, and if she isn't loyal to Apple, it's a clear winner for your wallet! A traditional watch is a great alternative if the price of the Apple Watch is too much to chew.
  

• Price: Starting at $228
  
  
6. Sunglasses

• Sunglasses are a perfect stocking stuffer that give her the ability to protect her eyes from the sun, while also looking stylish. You don't have to go expenses in this category, but if you're going to go for affordable, I recommend Sojos.
  
  
  

  
  
• Price: Around $15

These gifts are sure to delight any woman in your life, whether she's into tech, fashion, or gaming. Happy shopping!

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Sophima

 + Blu 

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The 2024 Wishmas Guide... for Younglings!

 

Don't look now, but... it's time for the Younglings to get some love!

 Gaming 

Video Games: While there are other consoles... handhelds are still the way to go for kids who are usually on the go. Great for use on the telly (sure), but those trips to other locations like the Doctor's office, travel, and much more. These types of devices like the Nintendo Switch or the Valve Steam Deck... go a long way, for younglings, and... your nerves.

If your kid(s) doesn't have a system just yet... I can help you decide on which route to go.

Nintendo Switch is a system I recommend for ages 5+, especially for fans of Nintendo first party titles, because... you won't get them anywhere else beyond their platforms (legally).

Valve Steam Deck is a system I recommend for ages 13+, especially for PC gamers who already have a Steam library. This system will give access to newer games a lot longer because it isn't at risk of Valve pulling the plug on store access. It's a PC that gives you access to your game library on Steam just like a desktop... so it's a total win and gives you the option of connecting monitors + keyboard + mouse + speakers for the standard pc experience.

On that note, no matter which route you go... here are some games we recommend:

• Cat Quest 3 is the third installment in the award-winning Cat Quest series. This 2.5D open-world action RPG takes players on a swashbuckling adventure in a fantastical pirate-themed world known as the Purribean. Players control a purrivateer cat, exploring varied dungeons and biomes, engaging in fierce battles with a refined combat system, and sailing the seas in their very own ship. The game features solo and local co-op play, allowing players to embark on treasure hunts, purrsue bounties, and more! The Trilogy is also available.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  

• LEGO Horizon Adventures is an action-adventure game set in a distant future where the land is made of LEGO bricks. Players join hunter Aloy as she battles to save Earth from an ancient digital demon and a gang of sunworshippers. The game features thrilling online and couch co-op action, allowing players to hunt machines and customize their home and characters. With stunning cinematic visuals and a mix of action, exploration, and customization, this game offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of both LEGO and Horizon.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  

• Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope: Take your dream team on a galactic adventure with Mario + Rabbids. Unleash your heroes' skills but be strategic as you dash your enemies, team jump on your allies, and... take cover! This game was added because it's a highly rated budget friendly game for the Switch! $14.99!
  
  

• Yars Rising: On the Steam Deck side... I can't sleep on this side scrolling, charisma filled adventure with a cool cast of hackers. Run, jump, sneak, and hack your way to the... heart of the mystery as you infiltrate the QoTech Corporation. Emi will continue to powerup as your adventure progresses, by way of... challenging retro minigames (to hack the system). This one is for fans of 2D side scrolling, vibrant anime art, humor + story.
  

  
  
  
  
  
• Barbie Project Friendship: Girls game too, and while some play various types of games (duh of the day)... some are girly girls and enjoy games like BPF. You play as Malibu Barbie & Brooklyn Barbie working together with friends and family to complete challenges and quests to help the community by restoring the Malibu Waves Community Center. Fans of decorating, adventure, story, and mini games will enjoy this title.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  
  
  
  

• Sonic X Shadow Generations: Strap on your kicks and dive into Sonic Generations... starring Sonic + Shadow! In this new standalone campaign for Shadow, Black Doom has reemerged and threatens to take over the world. Shadow must journey into his past, confront his memories, and unlock new dark powers to save the world. Harness those new Doom Powers to battle horse of enemies and tackle platforming challenges like never before. These abilities will give you the abilities to surf on water, stop time with Chaos Control, and fly over obstacles.
  
  Grab it for Switch or Steam Deck/PC.
  

  
  
  *Find more Switch & Steam Deck games here.
  
  
  

 Tech Gifts 

• 

  Yoto Audio Player: Is an all-in-one storytelling toy that includes audiobooks, a night light, a clock, and more. This made the list because some parents want to reduce screen time for their children, but wouldn't mind them having access to tech with a simple pixel display.
  
  - Music player
  - Bluetooth
  - Nightlight
  - Acoustically-Engineered Stereo Sound
  - Room Thermometer
  - Pixel Display
  - Audio Cards
  - Durable
  
  $79.99
  
  There is also a Yoto-Mini Player for $54.99, which allows your Younglings to take the device on the go. Outside of the custom audio cards you can make, there are 1000+ cards available for educational activities, music, audio books, soundscapes, etc.
  
  What's the benefit of this type of device? It gives your kids a safe STEM related option that also reduces screen time, while also working as a night light + white noise for bed time, clock, alarm clock and all that good stuff. These audio devices were created for ages 3 - 12+. Check out the Yoto Store for... more!

  
  
  

  

• 3Doodler Start+ Maker Bundle: This 3D printing pen gives your children an affordable way to create 3D creations. Consider the Scrib3D P1 Pen for teen crafters!
  

• VTech Kidi Star DJ Mixer: If your youngling loves music like mine, and you see them showcasing interests in possibly being a DJ... this is a badass device. Badass. You aren't just limited to the onboard options in terms of the music, you have the track sliders, tempo, custom keys, and you can also add your own music in. You can use vocals, line-in, bluetooth, and in addition to the DJ Party mode, you can record with the Studio function if they want to record a mix, but before they start on this path of DJing... they can start with Academy. It's recommend for 5+, but don't feel ashamed if you find yourself using it as well. This device comes in Black & Pink!
  
  

  
  
  
  

 Toys & Edutainment Gifts 

• Scholastic Phonics First Little Readers (24 Book Bundle): Perfect for early readers, focusing on specific phonics patterns.

• STEM Explorers Superhero Science: A budget-friendly STEM toy that introduces kids to science concepts.

• Smiless Kiddo Stem Tech Kit: A hands-on tech activity kit that teaches children how to use electronics by way of connecting them to each other to make things work. This kit has 420 projects for your children explore. This is as simple as connecting wires, the more they mix and match the parts... the more things happen when they flip those switches or turn dials. Huzzah!
  

• Minecraft Explorer Kit: I have to round out this section with this badass product from Make-A-Fort. You already know that some people just smile when they hear... "Minecraft", but imagine your kids unboxing this gift and being able to build like in one of their favorite games. You already know they go crazy over empty boxes, so imagine them diving into these:
  

  
  

  
  
  
  
• LEGO: LEGO is on the list without a doubt, because... it gives kids (and parents like myself) the opportunity to dive into creativity and practice those building skills. Playsets are cool, especially if they add to a theme we're going for... but the Classic Large Creative Brick Box gives more room to do more based on their imagination.
  
  See Black Friday toy deals... here.

  
  
  

 Outdoor Gifts 

• 
  Pedal Go Kart: Great for exercise by way of fun. The standard bikes are a classic and great for balance, but a pedal cart makes kids want to jump behind the wheel. The Honey Joy Go Kart's come in four colors, Red, Pink, Blue, and Green. If you have 2+ kids, just imagine the fun. You can grab two green karts for... $150. Honey Joy's Pedal GK2 is also available for $10 bucks more.

• Gardening Kit: This gardening kit gives your younglings the ability to decorate their own flower pots, and grow their own herbs for use in their favorite meals. Even if they don't plan on being a big gardener, it doesn't hurt to have a green thumb.

• Outdoor Explorer Kit: Includes tools for exploring nature, such as binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a compass. Other kits include tools to catch bugs. I would take this type of kit, give it to the younglings and let them roar off on their go karts in a designated area.

• Huge Tree Swing: If you have a big tree... invite a swing to the party, especially one of the huge rectangular options. These are great for multiple children to enjoy with it's 700lb capacity. You would have literally created a new hangout spot. Ensure your branch can handle that weight though. If it checks out, don't be surprised if you find yourself laying across the swing snoring the day away. This is year round fun, just... tell them not to stand on it because it would only be a matter of time before someone runs in the house trying to catch their breath because the wind got knocked out of them. #LortWhatHappenedNow!
  

  
  
  

 Gift an... Experience 

Swimming Lessons

• YMCA of Central Florida: Offers group and private swim lessons for all ages and skill levels.

• Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program: Provides swimming lessons tailored to the needs of each child.

Basketball Lessons

• i9 Sports Youth Basketball Leagues: Fun and age-appropriate basketball leagues for kids.

• Local Community Centers: Many offer basketball programs and camps for children.

Karate Lessons

• Great Start Karate: Online martial arts program designed specifically for kids.

• Local Dojos: Many offer beginner karate classes for children.

Cool Experiences in your Town (here are some options in or near Orlando)

• Kennedy Space Center: An educational and fun experience where kids can learn about space exploration.

• WonderWorks Orlando: Over 100 hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride.

• Tree Trek Adventure Park: An aerial obstacle course that takes kids far above the ground in a natural pine forest.

These gifts and experiences are sure to bring joy fun year round.

 Face Washing Regimen 

This is totally something a parent would appreciate more so than children, but... a face washing regimen with products that use natural ingredients is the gift that keeps on giving. A kid will go outside with the dog, touch everything + the dog, and... those hands end up on their faces. Gotta fight the dirt with a solid product:

• TBH Kid Cleanser: Gentle on the skin, helps restore the skin's natural barrier, balance, and retains moisture.

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin.

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