In anticipation of Blizzard’s next installment to one of the biggest RPG to hit the gaming world, SteelSeries brings us the Diablo III gaming mouse and they also sent us one of their Dota 2 gamepads to use it with.

The mouse comes in a beautifully packaged Diablo III inspired box. There’s a concept artwork of Archangel Tyrael on the magnetic flap of the box. I like how SteelSeries has a cutout in the shape of the mouse for you to be able to test the size of the mouse. Inside the box you’ll see the unit, catalog, quick-start guide and a sticker.

The mouse is shaped like the SteelSeries Xai, but with awesome artwork and a Diablo III logo. The entire surface of the mouse is rubberized to ensure maximum grip throughout your game. It’s very comfortable to use as it fits my hand nicely (I’m a size 7), not too bulky nor too small.

The mouse has 7 buttons excluding the DPI switch which is programmable via the software which you’ll have to download from their website. The switches can guarantee 10 million clicks but from playing Diablo II, I doubt if I would reach that mark. The mouse is designed for both right and left-handed people although I find this quite troublesome as I always accidentally press the buttons near my ring finger.

The scroll button is one of the most beautiful scroll buttons ever. It’s designed to look like a demon’s spine or something. The DPI button is restricting, as you can only have two settings of sensitivity, no sensitivity up or down, just two DPI settings and the LED indicates which is working. The cable is a double-braided nylon cord which is a good thing, since when I was playing Diablo II before, mouse cords just keep on giving up on us.

Using this mouse is a charm, although the option of customizing the weight could’ve been there since I find the Diablo III mouse too light. The mouse glides the Dota 2 Gamingpad surface smoothly and the sensor seems accurate enough for FPS if you need a break from Diablo III (c’mon).

The software, which is available in their website, looks cool with its Diablo III theme. You can save different profiles for different games and it also has a macro editor. You can also set a per .exe profile, which means whenever you load a game, it automatically loads the profile you’ve set for that particular executable. You can also modify the DPI options in the settings tab, as well as the illumination of the logo. The statistics tab shows how many actuations each switch has accumulated, which is awesome.

If you’re looking for a gaming mouse to pair your newly built rig made especially for Diablo III, be sure to check this out which SteelSeries offers at Php4,999.00.

In these times when everybody is going to the cloud, Buffalo takes a step to bring your files into the cloud too, or having your very own personal cloud storage solution. Buffalo designed a storage solution that partners well with smartphones and tablets. It provides a place to securely store and share data for all Droids, tablets, PC’s and iDevices, allowing you to access photos, videos, audio files, or documents anywhere in the world.

The Buffalo CloudStation is a simple plug-and-play cloud storage solution that comes with everything you need to get started. Installation is an easy two-step process that invites users to plug the storage device into any Wi-Fi router, access Buffalo CloudStation’s website and click ‘activate’ to register the device.

It leverages the PogoPlug streaming service for photos — indeed professional photographers will be the first to appreciate the combo of storage and uploading service that Buffalo has brought. Buffalo CloudStation does not need any software for installation.

Buffalo CloudStation enables users to decide what, where and when to share data stored on the appliance. Similar to a hard drive that operates inside the computer, Buffalo CloudStation is accessible from a PC or Mac computers as well as via browser from your smartphone or tablet. And with Pogoplug apps for mobile devices (Apple / Android), users are only seconds away from their valuable content.

The Buffalo CloudStation is available in two models:  CloudStation (Single Bay) and CloudStation Pro Duo (Two Bay). The CloudStation  (Single Bay) 1 TB and 2 TB SRP is Php9,270 and Php11, 160, respectively, while the CloudStation Pro Duo 2TB and 4TB is Php19,380 and Php23,250, respectively. It also comes with a three-year warranty.

CloudStation is distributed by MSI-ECS in the Philippines. For product availability, pricing and technical infos, go to their website, or check their Facebook page.

SteelSeries is known for their high performance gaming gear used by professional gamers worldwide. They provide gaming keyboards, mice, headsets and other accessories which may be vital to the gamer’s arsenal. SteelSeries was kind enough to send us one of their best headsets in the market, The Siberia v2.

The box is full of information you need to know about the Siberia v2. It also has a window for you to check out what it looks like. The Siberia v2 has a 1m cord with 3.5mm jack for audio input and output. SteelSeries also provided a 2m extension cord if the 1m cord doesn’t cut it.

Based on the name, one can tell that this is a revamped version of a previous Siberia headset. This is not just some minor overhaul; this is a complete redesign from aesthetics to the innards of the headset. I haven’t tried the v1 but these headsets are so comfortable you can fall asleep with them on (assuming you sleep in supine). The headband is great and fits almost all head sizes with its flexible design. It comes in a wide variety of colors too which you can check out on their website.

The v2s have a closed design, which means the soundstage wouldn’t be that big but they’re pretty accurate when listening to directional audio. I used this while playing Batman: Arkham City and the direction in which you can hear the voices are very accurate. Positional audio is very useful for playing online shooters. The retractable mic design is also useful when you’re just out for a walk. According to players on the other side, they hear me perfectly fine without any hisses and what-not.

Boasting 50mm drivers as opposed the v1’s 40mm, Siberia v2 produces a more accurate sound reproduction at higher levels. The Siberia v2 sounds good, although I’m not convinced about the “Crystal clear high, low and mid-tones” on the packaging. Bassheads might be disappointed because it lacks booming bass, but for me it has just the right amount of bass I need when gaming. Listening to my FLAC collection, I’m just feeling that the highs are just not cutting through. Mid-tones are good as the vocals really shine. Then again, this was advertised as a gaming headset and audiophiles might be in the wrong section if they’re looking at this headset.

Did I mention that they are comfortable? They sit well on your head although I’m not a fan of the circular earcups because I have slightly large ears and sometimes it puts pressure on the cartilage making them uncomfortable if worn for very long periods. The earcups does a good job of keeping outside noise out and makes you focus more on what you’re listening to.

Overall, the Siberia v2 delivers one of the best performances in its price range of gaming headsets. Since audio is subjective, I suggest that you audition these ‘phones first before buying them. The SteelSeries Siberia v2 retails for Php4,999.

SteelSeries Siberia v2 Specifications:

Headphones

• Frequency response: 18 – 28.000 Hz
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• SPL@ 1kHz, 1 Vrms: 112 dB
• Cable length: 1 + 2 = 3 m (9,8 ft.)
• Jacks: 3,5 mm

Microphone

• Frequency response: 50 – 16.000 Hz
• Pick up pattern: Uni-directional
• Sensitivity: -38 dB

Following the footsteps of Angry Birds, the popular Cut the Rope game made the transition from mobile devices to your web browser. Now you can feed the cute, candy-gobbling monster, Om Nom straight from your browser simply by going to http://www.cuttherope.ie/.

The game, which has been downloaded over 60 million times on the iOS and Android platform is converted to HTML5 and optimized for Internet Explorer 9 (although Chrome, Firefox and other modern web browser users can also play). This web version is developed by a partnership between Microsoft, web design agency Pixel Lab and ZeptoLab’s lead creative team to showcase the rich interactive capabilities of the HTML5 web standard.

IE9 users get more fun though. Aside from being able to pin the game to your Windows 7 task bar for one-click access, you will also unlock 7 unique levels that’s not available to other browsers. I just wonder how it will reflect those levels where you need two fingers to swipe at the same instant when all you have here is a mouse.

Go check Cut the Rope now on your web browser.

There is the unending debate on which is the better system, Windows vs Mac. To each his own, both operating systems have their own pros and cons. But why choose when you can have both?

Iontech provided us with a pre-built “Hackintosh” system. For those of you who don’t know, Hackintosh is a coined term for running Mac OSX on a Non-Apple system. Why not just buy a Mac? Let’s face it, not everyone can afford a Mac and if you want to experience using a Mac OSX, read on.

I don’t have a tutorial on how to install Mac OSX on this machine because when we got the system, both Windows 7 and OSX were already installed. Building a Hackintosh is made easier though now that Apple uses Intel processors. What made the MaQboard more apt for “Hackintosh” is that it’s especially made for running OSX.

Here’s what you’ll get when you buy a MaQboard

• MaQboard MQ-323 – H
• Intel Xeon 3.4Ghz (Single Core) Processor

The MaQboard has 2 RAM slots; although it supports DDR3 RAM, one slot is DDR2 which can hold back the performance of a DDR3 memory stick if you put both together. It’ll be wiser to just put a single stick of 4GB RAM in it. It also has a PCI-e x16 slot for your latest GPU. The Hackintosh community is pretty big now that you can get support for every component you’ll put in your system.

For reference or if you want to build the same one as what we have, here’s the system that was sent to us:

• MaQboard MQ-323 – H w/ Intel Xeon 3.4ghz (Php8,000)
• Kingston 4GB DDR3 (Php1,150)
• Asus GT220 1GB GPU (Php2,250)
• Western Digital 1TB (Php4,999)
• Asus DRW-24B3ST ODD (Php1,000)

When building a Hackintosh, it is very important to research first on which components are compatible.

The MaQboard has most of the basic ports included.

• PS/2 ports for Keyboard/Mouse
• HDMI and VGA ports for display
• 4x USB 2.0 ports and a Parallel port
• Ethernet port
• Audio ports

OSX Snow Leopard boots quickly with this setup and everything runs smoothly. I was running Macintosh in a Windows-built machine. The bootloader also has the option to choose if you want to boot using the Windows 7 partition.

The system is snappy and apps open quickly. It immediately identified my Razer keyboard and mouse without the need for their drivers. I was able to play movies, view photos, everything that you can do on a Mac, because it IS a Mac just on a different system. Too bad the MaQboard manufacturer’s website has little to no activity so when you encounter problems with it, pray that other Hackintosh users have it as well.

I’ve read on Hackintosh forums that there seems to be no problem with programs like Adobe CS5’s suite, Microsoft Office, iLife, etc. The Hackintosh community is more than willing to help if you ever encounter any problems.

So if you ever want your own Mac system but don’t have the dough to get those expensive iMacs, why not go with cheaper alternatives like the MaQboard?

80. That’s the number of luggages that are being pilfered in airports worldwide. That’s according to Specialists in air transport communications and IT solutions (SITA).

How? Simply by breaking through the zipper with a pen which is the easiest way to gain access to your luggage. And here I thought that padlocking the zippers together would be enough to secure the contents of my luggage. And I also though that pen trick only works on those cheap luggage bags. Nope, it works on all types of zipper and thieves can seal it back without leaving a trace.

Check out this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mf-DGKUNffI

Sometimes there’s this modus operandi where the technician manning the X-ray machine will tag hot luggage bags, those with laptops and other gadgets inside which are easy to sell. His partner, usually a baggage handler, will then access the contents simply by breaking through the zipper. Once done, he will run the zipper (even when padlocked) through the opened portion to seal it back again. 10 seconds tops and you won’t know your bag has been pilfered unless you immediately check the contents.

Airline ticket rules – the ‘contract of carriage’ – excludes liability for any valuables in luggage, such as computers, cameras, electronic equipment, jewelry, business documents, artwork or similar valuable items.”

Not only you can lose your valuables this way but people can also plant drugs or evidence in your bag by opening it through the zipper.

Fortunately, Delsey, a French luggage company, came up with a simple and ingenious way to prevent this. Their ZIP SECURI TECH features double zippers, a zipper within a zipper. And this prevents thieves from accessing your bag through its zippers.

I was given a demo and yes, it’s impossible to break through the ZIP SECURI TECH zipper. I even tried it myself, punching the zipper line using a pen with a long, sharp, thin tip and I couldn’t get through unlike trying it on a bag with the typical zipper. I also tried it on an old luggage of mine when I got home and boy it was easy.

If you’re the paranoid type when it comes to your luggage being broken into, you can completely stop worrying about it when you use a Delsey luggage with the ZIP SECURI TECH. Or go with the crude solution, put your luggage inside a bigger luggage.

[Delsey]

Let me tell you about this app I’ve been playing around over the weekend. For the longest time, I’ve been looking for something that would let me send and receive SMS messages on my HTC phone using my desktop PC without any cables. Then I heard of AirDroid, a free app that allows you to control your Android device via WiFi.

How does it work?

With AirDroid, all you need to do is simply download the app, make sure your device and PC/laptop are in the same wireless network, start the app and you’re good to go. No need to download a desktop client, all you need is your web browser. AirDroid will give you an IP address and password that you need to enter on your browser so you can access the phone.

The web client looks really simple and nice, and it’s so easy to use. You can control various aspects of your phone from this client.

Probably the most helpful function to me is Messages where I can send and receive messages on my browser even when my phone is in another room charging. I can also delete message threads and save contacts straight from the message as well. My only issue here is that you won’t be alerted when there’s a new message. You need to refresh your message list if you think you got a new message.

I also love Files which lets me access my phone’s SD card from my PC. No need to Dropbox files if I want to copy things to and from my phone. And I don’t need to pull my USB cable from the charger just to copy photos off the phone.

Contacts is also helpful because it lets me edit my list of contact’s details. Easier to manage and clean up my list of contacts on a bigger screen with options in just a single click. It’s not as snappy as I want it though especially if you have plenty of contacts.

Music transfer is so easy as well. No need for cables. If you want to upload, just select your new MP3s and click Import to start transferring. Easy to export too if you want to download songs from your Android device to your friend’s PC.

Apps lets you manually install .APKs (app installer files) on your phone. Or export your APKs.  This is really useful for reviewers. I always download the same things from the Market every time I have a new Android device to review. With Apps, I can just install my set of apps wirelessly from my laptop.

There are other handy things you can do with AirDroid, you can access Photos, Call Logs, set Ringtones, and send a piece of text into your phone’s clipboard and they’re working on new features as we speak.

Overall, it’s a very useful app for Android users who spend a lot of time on their PCs or laptops. You can hide the phone inside your desk or in my case, have it placed outside our room where signal is much stronger so I won’t miss a call or a message.

Go ahead and give AirDroid a try. It’s absolutely free. Go search for it in the Android Market.

Razer is taking gaming to a whole new level, again.  Inspired by the Razer Naga MMO’s 12-button thumb grid, the Naga Hex concentrates on action-RPG and Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games, which is optimized for the user interfaces found in these games.

The six mechanical buttons is specially designed to specifically bind the spells, abilities, items and other invaluable commands in MOBA games like DotA, League of Legends, HoN and the likes for faster and easier execution.

MOBA games require highly intensive clicking, that’s why the Razer Naga Hex is constructed with special switches that offer performance of up to 250 clicks/minute – perfect for gamers with lightning fast reflexes.  Razer rated the switches are good for up to 10 million clicks.

I’ve always loved Razer mice for their ergonomic shapes.  The Naga Hex’s curvature fits your hand comfortably.  The placement of the 6-button thumb grid is validated by MOBA pro-gamers to ensure you’re getting the optimum design.

Razer Naga Hex also features the newest technology in cloud-based storage software.  The Razer Synapse 2.0 saves all user custom mouse settings and profiles to a cloud server which can be accessed from any computer.

Specifications:

• 6 MOBA/action-RPG optimized mechanical thumb buttons
• Total of 11 programmable buttons
• Special switches for up to 250 clicks per minute
• 10 million clicks life cycle
• Ergonomic curved design
• Razer Synapse 2.0
• 5600dpi 3.5g Laser Sensor
• 1000Hz Ultrapolling/1ms response time

Availability:

• Pre-orders starts January 10, 2012, Ships End of January (razerzone.com)
• In stores March 2012 (Worldwide)

Price: USD79.99

Razer presented its latest gaming concept design in the International CES, which is currently held at Las Vegas, Nevada.  As Matt Buchanan, a writer in gizmodo.com, would put it, “I just held the future of PC gaming in my hands”.

Project Fiona is a tablet created solely for PC gaming. You read that right, PC gaming.  Razer worked with Intel to be able to utilize the power of its third generation Intel Core i7 processor in Project Fiona.  Razer’s tablet will run PC games the way they’re meant to be. Essentially redefining portable gaming I might say.

What makes this a vastly superior tablet for gaming compared to other tablet devices? You don’t need to wait for your favourite PC games to be released/ported to Project Fiona, as it can run full pledged PC games right out of the box.

“Project Fiona’s combination of high performance Intel-based gaming hardware and innovative tablet design is specifically focused for PC gamers.  It will unleash the PC gamer to play their existing and future high-end games in one of the most exciting new form factors – a tablet.” – Brad Graff, Director of Partner Marketing, Netbook & Tablet Group, Intel.

Fiona’s design will feature integrated dual game controllers with analog sticks, which runs gamepad-enabled PC games right out of the box.  It’ll also feature accelerometers and a multi-touch screen, which will provide gamers and developers a box load of experimental opportunities with up and coming games.

The world won’t end in 2012, we still have this bad boy to look forward to.

Price: TBA (Estimated below US$1,000)

Availability: Q4 2012

You can learn more about Project Fiona, by visiting http://www.razerzone.com/projectfiona/.

Razer is known for their gaming accessories.  Following their mantra “For Gamers, By Gamers” here’s an accessory which both PC and XBOX360 users will love.

Introducing the Razer Onza Tournament Edition.

If you’ve ever used an Original Xbox 360 controller, then the Onza is not that much different.  I have both and use it for the PC, and I actually like the Onza’s shape better.  This one is the Battlefield 3™ Tournament Edition, as you can see from the design.  It also sports a rubberized finish which is good for intense gaming or if you have sweaty hands.  It’s connected to the PC/Xbox360 via a 15-foot braided cable which is bad news for fans of wireless controllers.

The Onza has 2 analog buttons; 6 shoulder buttons in which you can map the other two to any button you want; LED-lit face buttons and the D-pad.  Razer knew what gamers need so they made the analog buttons adjustable.  Whenever you need a heavy analog for more precision like when playing an FPS game, just turn the dial clockwise; and when you need a lighter analog for quick combos in fighting games, do otherwise.  The face buttons are lit for players who like to play in the dark.

The face buttons are unlike other gamepads since this one has a mechanical switch, and you can actually hear the buttons click, as opposed to rubber dome gamepads.  One thing though, the Start and Back buttons are situated near the bottom which feels kind of awkward to press.  Also, if you’re not a fan of analogs in fighting games, the D-pad is not an option.  If only the D-pad has the responsiveness of the face buttons, then this would be THE perfect gamepad for any gamer.

There are 2 extra shoulder buttons for gamers who need, well, two extra shoulder buttons.  It’s not configurable via software, as the Onza uses the same driver as the original Microsoft Xbox 360 Gamepad. You have to press the Remap button and assign any key from the gamepad.

All in all, the Razer Onza Battlefield 3™ Tournament Edition is well worth your money.  There are minor flaws but I’m sure the pros of this product outweigh any of it.  If you’re looking for a gamepad and the Original Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller doesn’t cut it, then the Onza is for you.  You can pick up the Razer Onza Battlefield 3™ Tournament Edition for around Php2,500 and the Non-Tournament Edition for around Php2,000.