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MacBook Pro M5 Pro and M5 Max (2026): These Are the Biggest Improvements

MacBook Pro M5 Pro and M5 Max (2026): These Are the Biggest Improvements

Apple has introduced the new generation MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max. These laptops are designed for professionals who need maximum performance for AI workflows, software development, video editing, and 3D rendering. The new chips, faster connectivity, and larger memory options make this MacBook Pro more powerful than ever.

Macbook

Table of contents

  • M5 Pro and M5 Max chips
  • More storage as standard
  • More RAM available
  • Faster memory bandwidth
  • Bluetooth 6 and Wi-Fi 7
  • Who is this MacBook Pro for?
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M5 Pro and M5 Max chips

The biggest upgrade of the new MacBook Pro is the introduction of the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Apple has further developed the Apple Silicon architecture with a new CPU structure and a more powerful GPU.

The new chips feature a CPU with up to 18 cores, including six so-called supercores. These cores are designed for extremely high single-thread performance, while the remaining cores focus on efficient multitasking.

In professional workloads, this can deliver up to 30% better performance compared to the previous generation M4 Pro and M4 Max.

Chip

More storage as standard

With this generation of MacBook Pro, Apple has also increased the standard storage capacity. While previous models often started with 512GB of storage, the new MacBook Pro with M5 Pro now starts with 1TB SSD storage as standard.

The M5 Max variant goes even further and starts with 2TB of storage. For users working with large projects, storage can be expanded up to 8TB.

This is especially useful for professionals working with large media files, extensive photo libraries, or complex software projects.

More RAM available

The amount of memory has also been expanded. With the M5 Pro, memory can now be configured up to 64GB RAM. The more powerful M5 Max models go even further and support up to 128GB of memory.

More RAM means heavy applications such as video editing software, 3D programs, and AI tools can process much more data simultaneously without the system needing to rely on the SSD.

Macbook

Faster memory bandwidth

One of the biggest advantages of Apple Silicon remains its high memory bandwidth. With the new chips, this has been increased even further.

The M5 Pro offers bandwidth up to 307GB/s, while the M5 Max can reach up to 614GB/s.

This ensures that the CPU, GPU, and memory can exchange data much faster. For workflows such as 4K and 8K video editing, AI models, and complex 3D scenes, this can make a significant difference.

Bluetooth 6 and Wi-Fi 7

The MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max also features improved connectivity. Thanks to a new chip, the laptop now supports Bluetooth 6.

This standard provides a more stable connection and lower latency for accessories such as keyboards, mice, controllers, and wireless earbuds/headphones.

In addition, the laptop now supports Wi-Fi 7. This latest Wi-Fi standard enables higher speeds and more stable connections, especially in networks where many devices are active at the same time.

Chip

Who is this MacBook Pro for?

The MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max is primarily designed for professionals who work daily with demanding software and large datasets.

Examples include developers, video creators, AI researchers, data analysts, and 3D designers. Thanks to the combination of powerful CPU cores, a fast GPU, and enormous memory bandwidth, the laptop can handle even the most demanding workflows.

For users looking for maximum performance in a portable laptop, the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro or M5 Max is one of the most powerful options currently available.

Quick facts: MacBook Pro M5

Feature M5 Pro M5 Max
CPU Up to 18 cores Up to 18 cores
GPU Up to 20 cores Up to 40 cores
RAM Up to 64GB Up to 128GB
Memory bandwidth 307 GB/s 614 GB/s
Storage 1TB – 4TB 2TB – 8TB
Connectivity Wi-Fi 7 / Bluetooth 6 Wi-Fi 7 / Bluetooth 6

View quick facts

MacBook Pro M5 models

MacBook Pro 14”

M5 Pro chip with extreme performance for developers and creatives.

MacBook Pro 16”

More GPU power and larger battery for heavy workflows.

MacBook Pro slideshow

Simracing 2026: transform your simracing experience with comfort, performance and immersion

Contents

Introduction: The World of Simracing in 2026

Simracing is more than just a hobby; it has become a true culture, blending competition, technology, and immersion. In 2026, virtual drivers use high-precision simulators, force-feedback steering wheels, and robust cockpits to replicate the real track experience. In this context, owning a reliable and high-performance cockpit is crucial to improving skills and fully enjoying the thrill of racing.

Today, the simracing market is booming. Events like the SimRacing Expo or online championships attract increasing numbers of participants and spectators. Games like Assetto Corsa EVO, Assetto Corsa Rally, and virtual endurance races continue to captivate, while VR headsets and force-feedback steering wheels provide unprecedented immersion.

  • Steering wheels and pedals with force feedback from top brands: Fanatec, Logitech, Thrustmaster, MOZA, Simagic.
  • Use of modular or foldable cockpits for stability and comfort.
  • Accessories such as monitor mounts or gear shifters to complete the experience.

Why a Stable Cockpit Is Essential

An unstable cockpit can significantly reduce the driving experience. Movements or vibrations when using a force-feedback wheel disrupt control and break immersion. With a stable cockpit, every corner, brake, and acceleration feels exactly like a real track, allowing the driver to focus on performance.

5 Problems Solved by Ranqer

  • Cockpit instability: The ultra-stable structure of the Ranqer keeps the wheel and pedals perfectly firm.
  • Discomfort during long sessions: The ergonomic PU leather bucket seat ensures optimal comfort for hours of driving.
  • Limited compatibility: Works with PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and all major steering wheel brands (Fanatec, Logitech, MOZA, Simagic, Thrustmaster).
  • Complex assembly and adjustments: The Ranqer offers quick setup and customizable adjustments for all sizes and preferences.
  • Equipment protection: Durable, scratch-resistant surfaces protect your wheel, pedals, and cockpit over time.

Features and Benefits of Ranqer

  • Ergonomic bucket seat with PU leather covering, adjustable for maximum comfort.
  • Ultra-stable chassis compatible with all simracing cockpits and Playseat.
  • Quick adjustments to fit all sizes and preferences.
  • Compatible with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
  • Easy and secure installation on all types of cockpits.
  • Optional accessories: gear shifter mount and TV/monitor support for full immersion.

How to Set Up Your Ranqer

  1. Unpack and assemble the chassis according to the provided manual.
  2. Install the ergonomic bucket seat and adjust the position to your height.
  3. Attach the steering wheel and pedals to the chassis.
  4. Adjust the seat distance and angle for optimal comfort and ergonomics.
  5. Add optional accessories: gear shifter, monitor, or TV mount.

Simracing Community and Lifestyle

Owning a cockpit like the Ranqer allows not only for simracing practice but also for sharing sessions, streaming races, and joining an active community of enthusiasts. Whether you are a casual player or a competitive virtual driver, the immersive experience is enhanced by a quality cockpit.

Conclusion and Invitation to Discover Ranqer

To improve your virtual driving experience, optimize comfort, and enjoy perfect stability, the Ranqer is the ideal solution. Discover it now and transform your simracing setup into a professional cockpit.

Everything You Need to Know About the New MacBook Neo: Apple’s Newest and Cheapest MacBook

Everything You Need to Know About the New MacBook Neo: Apple’s Newest and Most Affordable MacBook

For many years, Apple has offered two well-known MacBook product lines: the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. In the past, there was also an entry-level model simply called the “MacBook,” with the last version being the 12-inch MacBook.

Now Apple is introducing a new member to the MacBook lineup: the MacBook Neo. But what makes this new MacBook different? What features does it offer, and why might this be the right model for you?

Macbook Neo

Apple’s New Entry-Level MacBook Neo at a Glance

The new MacBook Neo 2026 is Apple’s entry-level model that expands the MacBook lineup alongside the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. With a starting price of €699, it is the most affordable MacBook Apple has released so far.

The MacBook Neo runs on the powerful A18 Pro chip, which we already know from the latest iPhones. Its aluminum design is available in four light and vibrant colors, and the 13-inch display provides a compact yet comfortable viewing experience.

In addition, the laptop features two USB-C ports and an impressive battery life of up to 16 hours, making it ideal for anyone looking for an affordable yet capable laptop. The MacBook Neo could even be an alternative to the entry-level iPad for users who want more performance and versatility. The model is expected to launch on March 11, 2026, with a starting price of €699.

Why Apple Is Introducing the MacBook Neo

Apple has enjoyed years of success with the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, but many laptops from other brands are still significantly cheaper. For example, Chromebooks are widely used in education due to their low price.

With the new MacBook Neo, Apple aims to offer a more accessible entry-level MacBook. This allows the company to better compete with lower-priced laptops while still giving users access to the macOS experience and the broader Apple ecosystem.

Design and Colors

The MacBook Neo features an aluminum design and is slightly more compact than the 13-inch MacBook Air. Weighing around 1.23 kilograms, it remains a lightweight and portable laptop that is easy to carry to school, work, or while traveling.

Apple is releasing this model in several eye-catching colors: silver, indigo, blush, and citrus. This makes it one of the first MacBooks available in such a wide range of vibrant colors.

MacBook Neo kleuren zilver indigo blos citrus

Performance: A MacBook with an iPhone Chip

One of the most notable aspects of the MacBook Neo is that it runs on the A18 Pro chip, a processor also found in the latest iPhones. This chip is powerful enough for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, creating documents, and performing light photo or video editing.

For students, home users, and light business tasks, the MacBook Neo offers more than enough performance. Apple chose this chip to keep the laptop affordable while still delivering solid performance for daily use.

Apple A18 Pro chip MacBook Neo

Key Specifications

The MacBook Neo comes with a 13-inch display, 8GB of RAM, and at least 256GB of storage. The laptop includes two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, and a 1080p FaceTime camera.

It also offers a battery life of up to 16 hours of video streaming and about 11 hours of wireless web browsing, allowing you to work throughout the day without needing to recharge.

MacBook Neo usb-c poorten en aansluitingen

Price and Release

The MacBook Neo is the most affordable MacBook Apple has released so far. The entry-level model with 256GB of storage costs €699, while the version with 512GB of storage costs €799.

Apple announced the laptop on March 4, 2026, and the official release is scheduled for March 11, 2026. From that moment, the MacBook Neo will be available in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Is the MacBook Neo Worth Buying?

The new MacBook Neo offers an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem, featuring a lightweight and compact design, vibrant colors, and a battery that easily lasts all day. Thanks to the A18 Pro chip, it is powerful enough for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, creating documents, and light photo or video editing.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly MacBook without too many extras, the MacBook Neo is an attractive alternative to the more expensive MacBook Air. For students, home users, or anyone who wants a compact laptop with Apple quality, it is definitely worth considering.

In short, the MacBook Neo combines a competitive price with the familiar Apple experience, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an entry-level MacBook.

iPhone 17e vs iPhone 16e: A Fair Comparison


Ceramic Shield iPhone 17e

The iPhone 17e is Apple’s latest budget-friendly smartphone, building on the iPhone 16e with several meaningful upgrades. While the design remains familiar, the 17e introduces improvements in durability, performance, connectivity, and ecosystem compatibility, making it a strong contender for users seeking an affordable iPhone without sacrificing key features.

For those upgrading from older models or exploring the iPhone ecosystem for the first time, the 17e offers practical improvements while maintaining a competitive price. Unlike the premium iPhone 17 models, the 17e focuses on essential upgrades, providing a reliable, efficient, and modern device suitable for everyday use.

In this article, we’ll compare the iPhone 17e and iPhone 16e side by side, covering the display, chipset, connectivity, camera, storage, design, and accessories. By the end, you’ll know whether upgrading is worth it or if your current 16e is still a solid choice. For full details, you can also visit the official Apple iPhone 17e page.


Screen & Durability

One of the standout upgrades in the iPhone 17e is the screen. Apple has implemented Ceramic Shield 2, offering up to three times better scratch resistance compared to the iPhone 16e. This ensures the device is more durable for daily use, while maintaining the sleek, glassy design typical of Apple devices.

The 17e keeps the 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display from the previous generation, with a 60Hz refresh rate. While it doesn’t include the always-on display found in higher-end iPhone 17 models, it delivers vibrant colors, deep contrast, and excellent brightness for media, apps, and daily tasks.

  • Ceramic Shield 2: Provides superior scratch and drop resistance.
  • OLED Technology: Deep blacks, bright highlights, and accurate colors.
  • Anti-Reflective Coating: Reduces glare for better outdoor visibility.
  • True Tone & Wide Color: Ensures natural color representation across lighting conditions.

Overall, while the screen size and resolution remain the same as the iPhone 16e, the improved durability and reduced glare make the 17e a more practical and long-lasting option for budget-conscious users.


Performance & Chipset

A19 chip

The iPhone 17e is powered by a modified A19 chip, the same processor used in the standard iPhone 17 but slightly optimized for the budget model. The 17e has one fewer GPU core, offering slightly lower graphics performance, but still delivers fast, smooth operation for most everyday tasks, from social media to streaming and casual gaming.

Compared to the iPhone 16e, which used a trimmed-down A18 chip, the A19 provides faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced AI capabilities. Apple’s Neural Accelerators handle image recognition, smart photo editing, and intelligent iOS suggestions more efficiently, giving the 17e a notable edge in performance.

  • CPU & GPU: Faster processing and improved graphics for daily tasks.
  • AI Enhancements: Smarter image recognition and app assistance.
  • Energy Efficiency: Optimized performance with minimal impact on battery life.
  • Overall Speed: Faster app launches and smoother multitasking than the iPhone 16e.

These upgrades make the iPhone 17e feel significantly snappier than the 16e, offering a better experience for users who rely on their phone for photography, video streaming, and productivity.

5 Tips to Get Your Kids to Drink More Water

Hydration: 5 Tips to Encourage Your Kids to Drink More Water

Whether at school, during sports activities, or while doing homework, kids have busy days and often forget to drink enough water. Fortunately, there are simple ways to make staying hydrated fun and consistent. With these 5 tips, you can help your children stay hydrated while enjoying the process!

WaterH bottle for kids

Why Hydration is Important for Kids

When children don’t drink enough water, their focus and energy can quickly drop. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, and decreased performance at school or during daily activities. Encouraging your kids to drink regularly is essential for their well-being and learning.

A great way to motivate them is to use products designed for children, such as WaterH bottles, which make drinking water more fun and accessible throughout the day.

Tip 1: Keep Water Within Reach

Kids often forget that they’re thirsty. To help them, place water bottles or pitchers in different areas at home: on the dining table, near their desk, or even in the living room. Simply seeing water available encourages them to drink more frequently.

Tip 2: Choose Practical and Fun Bottles

Giving your child a suitable water bottle encourages them to drink regularly, especially when on the go. The WaterH Boost Kids is perfect for school or sports activities. Durable, colorful, and ergonomic, it makes hydration fun and easy anytime.

Kid drinking water from a cup

For parents or older kids, the adult version WaterH Boost Adult is available, helping set a good example and making family hydration a shared, fun habit.

Tip 3: Naturally Flavor the Water

Sugary drinks should be avoided: they don’t properly hydrate and can reduce a child’s concentration. To make water more appealing, try adding natural flavors like lemon slices, berries, or mint leaves. This way, water becomes a healthy and delicious alternative to soda and processed juices.

Tip 4: Turn Hydration Into a Game

Drinking water doesn’t have to be boring! Use fun-shaped ice cubes, colorful straws, or personalized bottles to spark your child’s interest. Involving them in the preparation makes every sip interactive and enjoyable.

Tip 5: Create a Family Hydration Challenge

Make hydration a fun family challenge. Each member can track their water intake and motivate each other. Rewards can be symbolic, such as choosing the evening movie, a dessert, or a special family activity. This strengthens family bonds while encouraging everyone to drink more water.

Conclusion: Make Hydration a Habit

Regular hydration is essential for your child’s health, focus, and energy. With simple tips, the right bottles like WaterH, and a bit of creativity, you can turn drinking water into a fun and educational habit. Together, parents and children can make staying hydrated a healthy, lasting routine.

Explore the full WaterH range and accessories at WaterH on SBSupply and choose the bottle that best suits your family’s needs.

  • 23 Jan 2026

How many external displays does my MacBook Pro (M3/M4/M5 and Pro/Max variants) support?

MacBook M1 M2 multi-monitor setup with Casecentive DisplayLink docking station

Contents

How many external displays does my MacBook Pro support (M3/M4/M5 and Pro/Max variants)?

Native display support differs per MacBook Pro chip and depends on resolution and refresh rate. The overview below is based on Apple’s official support documentation.

Note: all configurations below are native. For MacBook Pro with M3/M4/M5 you do not need DisplayLink to use multiple external displays.

MacBook Pro with M5 chip

  • Maximum 2 external displays at the same time.
  • Examples:
    • 2× 6K@60Hz via Thunderbolt
    • 2× 4K@144Hz via Thunderbolt or HDMI
    • 1× 8K@60Hz or 1× 4K@240Hz

MacBook Pro with M4 or M4 Pro chip

  • Maximum 2 external displays at the same time.
  • Examples:
    • 2× 6K@60Hz via Thunderbolt
    • 1× 6K@60Hz via Thunderbolt + 1× 4K@144Hz via HDMI
    • 1× 8K@60Hz or 1× 4K@240Hz

MacBook Pro with M4 Max chip

  • Maximum 4 external displays at the same time.
  • Examples:
    • 4× 6K@60Hz
    • 3× 6K@60Hz + 1× 4K@144Hz
    • 2× 6K@60Hz + 1× 8K@60Hz
    • 2× 6K@60Hz + 1× 4K@240Hz

MacBook Pro with M3 chip (base)

  • Maximum 1 external display with the lid open.
  • Maximum 2 external displays only possible with the lid closed (clamshell).
  • Examples:
    • 1× 6K@60Hz via Thunderbolt
    • 1× 4K@144Hz via HDMI
    • 2× external (clamshell): 1× 6K@60Hz + 1× 5K@60Hz
    • 2× external (clamshell): 1× 6K@60Hz + 1× 4K@100Hz

MacBook Pro with M2 Pro or M3 Pro chip

  • Maximum 2 external displays at the same time.
  • Examples:
    • 2× 6K@60Hz via Thunderbolt
    • 1× 6K@60Hz + 1× 4K@144Hz
    • 1× 8K@60Hz or 1× 4K@240Hz

MacBook Pro with M2 Max or M3 Max chip

  • Maximum 4 external displays at the same time.
  • Examples:
    • 3× 6K@60Hz + 1× 4K@144Hz
    • 3× 6K@60Hz
    • 2× 6K@60Hz + 1× 8K@60Hz
    • 2× 6K@60Hz + 1× 4K@240Hz
    • 2× 6K@60Hz
    • 1× 6K@60Hz, 1× 8K@60Hz or 1× 4K@240Hz

Other MacBook Pro models

For older MacBook Pro models (for example Intel-based), this varies per generation. Check the technical specifications of your exact model on: Apple support page.


How do you connect external monitors natively to MacBook Pro (M3/M4/M5)?

MacBook Pro models with M3, M4, and M5 support multiple external displays directly via Thunderbolt (USB-C) and HDMI. You do not need DisplayLink for this.

  • Use Thunderbolt (USB-C) for high resolutions such as 6K@60Hz.
  • Use HDMI as an extra output (maximum refresh rate varies per chip).
  • MacBook Pro with M3 (base): 2 displays are only possible with the lid closed (clamshell) and an external mouse/keyboard.
  • A hub or daisy-chain can be convenient, but does not increase the maximum number of displays.

Which docking station do you need?

Which dock you need depends on your MacBook model and your goal:

  • Do you have a MacBook Air/Pro with M1 or M2 (base) and want more than 1 external display?
    Then you need a docking station with DisplayLink.
  • Do you have a MacBook Pro with M3 Pro/Max, M4 (Pro/Max) or M5?
    Then you can connect multiple displays natively and use a dock mainly for extra ports and convenience.

The Casecentive 13-in-1 USB-C DisplayLink Docking Station is ideal if you:

  • want one cable for power, network, and accessories
  • and (with M1/M2 base) need multiple external displays

How do you connect the Casecentive 13-in-1 DisplayLink docking station?

  1. Connect the dock to your MacBook
    Plug the docking station into a USB-C/Thunderbolt port using the supplied cable.
  2. Connect your monitors
    Use HDMI and/or DisplayPort on the docking station.
  3. Install the DisplayLink driver
    Download the official driver: DisplayLink driver for macOS .
  4. Restart your MacBook
    After restarting, the additional displays will be recognized as separate desktops.
  5. Arrange your displays
    Go to  System SettingsDisplays and choose “Extend”.

How many displays does the Casecentive 13-in-1 docking station support?

  • 1× HDMI 8K@30Hz (DP Alt Mode)
  • 1× HDMI 4K@60Hz (DisplayLink)
  • 1× DisplayPort 4K@60Hz (DisplayLink)

This allows you, depending on your Mac model and configuration, to use up to three external displays.

  • 19 Jan 2026

Need to replace the gas lift/gas spring on your office chair or gaming chair? Here's how to do it step by step.


Replace your office chair gas lift? Fix a chair that sinks down easily

Does your office chair or gaming chair slowly sink down without using the lever? Then chances are your gas lift (gas spring) is worn out or defective. This is one of the most common causes of a chair that keeps sinking and a height adjustment that no longer works.

The good news: in most cases you don’t need to buy a new chair. In this guide we explain how to replace the gas lift of your office chair or gaming chair yourself, which gas spring you need, and what to pay attention to during installation and safety.


How to recognize a faulty gas lift (gas spring)?

You usually notice a defective gas lift immediately while sitting. Common signs are:

  • Your office chair sinks down by itself (slowly or suddenly)
  • The chair does not stay at the correct height
  • You have to raise the chair again and again
  • The height adjustment feels unstable or jerky

Why replacing a gas lift / gas spring is important

A faulty gas spring directly affects your sitting comfort, posture and safety. When your chair keeps sinking, you often sit incorrectly without noticing, which can cause physical complaints.

By replacing the gas lift:

  • you restore the correct seat height and ergonomics
  • you prevent back, neck and shoulder pain
  • you extend the lifespan of your office chair or gaming chair
  • you save money compared to buying a new chair

Ranqer Gas Lift / Gas Spring Class 4 – the best replacement for your office chair

The Ranqer Gas Lift Class 4 for office & gaming chairs (22–28 cm) is a high-quality replacement gas spring designed for long-term and safe use. Ideal if your office chair or gaming chair keeps sinking down and you want to restore the height adjustment.

  • Class 4 quality with high load capacity
  • Smooth and stable height adjustment
  • Long lifespan and extra safety
  • Suitable for many office chairs and gaming chairs

A practical solution for working from home, gaming setups and professional workplaces.


Replacing the gas lift: how it works (office chair & gaming chair)

Replacing a gas lift is usually simple and can often be done within a few minutes. Work carefully, make sure the chair is stable and use the right tools to avoid damage.

Step-by-step guide: replacing an office chair gas lift / gas spring

  1. Step 1 – Gather the necessary tools
    Prepare a rubber mallet, a flathead or Phillips screwdriver and, if needed, some WD-40 or lubricant. These tools help loosen stuck parts and remove the gas lift safely without damaging the chair. Make sure you work on a stable surface.
  2. Step 2 – Remove the base from the gas lift
    Turn the chair upside down so the bottom is visible. Use the rubber mallet to gently and evenly tap the bottom of the chair base or the gas lift. Slowly pull the base off the gas lift. Repeat if necessary until the base comes loose.
  3. Step 3 – Remove the gas spring from the seat
    Keep the chair upside down so the underside is accessible. Tap carefully around the gas lift at the bottom of the seat using the rubber mallet. Slowly and carefully pull the old gas lift out of the seat. Repeat if needed until it is fully removed.
  4. Step 4 – Clean and inspect the parts
    Clean the chair base, seat and mounting points with water or soapy water to remove dust, dirt and grease. Dry all parts thoroughly before continuing. This ensures the new gas lift fits properly and prevents noise or looseness.
  5. Step 5 – Install the new gas lift and reassemble the chair
    Insert the new gas spring carefully into the chair base and make sure it is firmly seated. Then place the seat straight down onto the gas lift and press everything firmly into place. Test the chair for stability and check that the height adjustment works smoothly again.

For additional instructions, you can also consult the official instruction manual.

Instruction video: replacing a gas lift / gas spring

In this video you can see exactly how to replace a gas lift step by step:

How to remove a gas spring from a gaming chair / office chair – Ranqer tutorial


Final check and useful tips

After installation, check that the chair moves smoothly up and down and stays at the correct height. If everything is installed correctly, the height adjustment should work immediately.

  • Tip: Always use a rubber mallet to avoid damaging the parts.
  • If the gas lift is difficult to remove, apply a small amount of WD-40 and try again with controlled taps.
  • Always test the stability of the chair before using it for long periods of sitting or gaming.

Do you have questions about which gas lift is suitable for your office chair or gaming chair? Feel free to contact our support team.


FAQ: frequently asked questions about replacing a gas lift / gas spring

Why does my office chair keep sinking down?

In most cases the gas lift is worn out or leaking pressure, which prevents the chair from holding its height. Replacing the gas spring restores proper height adjustment.

Is replacing a gas lift difficult?

Usually not. With a rubber mallet and a stable workspace, you can remove and replace the gas lift of many office chairs and gaming chairs yourself. Follow the step-by-step guide and work carefully.

Which gas lift do I need for my office chair?

Pay attention to the length/stroke (for example 22–28 cm), the class (for example Class 4) and whether the gas lift fits your chair model. A Class 4 gas lift is often a strong choice for durability and safety.

Can I use WD-40 to loosen a stuck gas spring?

Yes, a small amount of WD-40 or lubricant can help loosen tight mounting points. Use it sparingly and let it soak in briefly before continuing.

  • 19 Jan 2026

Anschließen mehrerer Monitore an das Macbook Pro / Air M1 / M2

MacBook M1 M2 multi-monitor setup with Casecentive DisplayLink docking station

Contents

The introduction of Apple’s M1 and M2 chips brought major performance improvements, but also one well-known limitation: MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models with M1 or M2 officially support only one external display. Fortunately, there is a professional solution that removes this limitation entirely.

Why does the MacBook Pro / Air with M1 / M2 chip only support one external display?

Apple designed the base M1 and M2 chips with a single external display pipeline. Unlike older Intel-based MacBooks, the limitation is not caused by the USB-C ports themselves, but by the GPU architecture inside the chip. Only the M1 Pro, M1 Max, M2 Pro and M2 Max models support multiple displays natively.

This means users of MacBook Air M1/M2 and MacBook Pro 13-inch M1/M2 need an alternative solution to use multiple monitors.

How to connect two or three external displays to a MacBook M1 / M2

By using a docking station with DisplayLink technology, you can bypass the native display limitation. DisplayLink uses a virtual GPU to enable multiple extended displays over a single USB-C connection.

The Casecentive 13-in-1 USB-C DisplayLink Docking Station allows you to connect up to three external monitors to MacBook M1 and M2 models — fully extended, not mirrored.

How to connect the Casecentive DisplayLink docking station

Connecting the Casecentive dock is simple:

  • Connect the docking station to your MacBook using the included USB-C cable
  • Connect your monitors via HDMI and/or DisplayPort
  • Install the DisplayLink driver
  • Restart your MacBook

After installation, macOS will detect all connected monitors as independent external displays.

How many displays does the Casecentive 13-in-1 docking station support?

The Casecentive 13-in-1 USB-C DisplayLink Docking Station supports:

  • 1× HDMI 8K@30Hz (DP Alt Mode)
  • 1× HDMI 4K@60Hz (DisplayLink)
  • 1× DisplayPort 4K@60Hz (DisplayLink)

This allows up to three external displays simultaneously on MacBook M1 and M2 systems.

Want to learn more about docking stations and multi-monitor setups?

How does DisplayLink technology work?

DisplayLink works by compressing video data and transmitting it over USB-C. A dedicated driver on your MacBook decodes this data and renders it as additional displays.

This makes it possible to use multiple extended monitors even on systems that normally support only one external screen.

Download the official DisplayLink driver for macOS

What are the benefits of DisplayLink?

  • Enables multiple external displays on MacBook M1 and M2
  • Works with macOS, Windows, ChromeOS and Linux
  • Supports extended (not mirrored) desktops
  • Ideal for productivity, trading, editing and multitasking

How do you set up multiple external monitors on macOS?

Once the monitors are connected and the DisplayLink driver is installed:

  • Go to  System Settings
  • Open Displays
  • Choose Extend Display
  • Arrange the monitors to match your desk setup

Each display can be used independently for different applications and workflows.

Which docking station do you need for MacBook M1 / M2?

Not all docking stations support multiple displays on MacBook M1 and M2. You specifically need a dock with a built-in DisplayLink chipset.

The Casecentive 13-in-1 USB-C DisplayLink Docking Station is designed for professionals who need maximum screen real estate, fast networking, powerful charging and full connectivity — all through a single cable.

Installing a DisplayLink docking station

Do you want to use multiple external displays via a DisplayLink docking station? First, check your laptop’s manual to confirm that DisplayPort over USB-C is supported. If your laptop is compatible, installing your DisplayLink docking station is quick and easy.

Step 1. Prepare everything you need

Make sure everything is ready before you start, so you can get set up without interruptions:

  • Choose a workspace with enough room
  • Have your fully charged laptop ready
  • Set up your monitor(s)
  • Unbox the DisplayLink docking station
  • Make sure you have the correct HDMI or DisplayPort cables

Step 2. Download the DisplayLink software

Installing the correct software is required for DisplayLink docking stations. Always use the official drivers provided by Synaptics (DisplayLink).

Download DisplayLink for Apple (macOS)

Download the DisplayLink driver for Apple (macOS) here

Download DisplayLink for Windows

Download the DisplayLink driver for Windows here

ChromeOS

Using a Chromebook? You can skip this step. On ChromeOS, DisplayLink support is built in by default.

Step 3. Connect the dock to your laptop

DisplayLink docking stations connect via USB-A or USB-C.

  • Connect the docking station to a USB port on your laptop
  • If your laptop supports Power Delivery, it will start charging immediately

Step 4. Connect your monitor(s)

Step 4a. Connecting monitors on macOS

DisplayLink is the only technology that allows multiple external monitors to be used on MacBook models with M1 or M2 chips (depending on the docking station).

  1. Click  System Settings
  2. Go to Displays
  3. Set the desired resolution for each monitor
  4. Adjust the order of the displays using “Arrange”

Step 4b. Connecting monitors on Windows or ChromeOS

On Windows and ChromeOS, DisplayLink works immediately after installation.

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Click System
  3. Open Display
  4. Set the resolution and screen layout

Step 5. Complete your setup

Once your laptop and monitors are working, you can connect all accessories:

  • Connect a mouse, keyboard or USB drive via USB-A or USB-C
  • Use the SD or microSD card reader for media
  • Connect to stable wired internet using the Ethernet port
  • Plug in wired headphones or a microphone via the 3.5 mm audio jack

Your DisplayLink setup is now fu

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