Tech & Gadgets Glossary Singapore
Clear definitions for the tech and gadget terms you’ll encounter in our Singapore product reviews — from PC components and display specs to aircon jargon and repair terms, explained simply.
PC Components
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
A GPU is the chip responsible for rendering images, video and animations. In PCs, it refers to a dedicated graphics card (e.g. NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon) handling gaming, video editing and 3D rendering. The more powerful the GPU, the smoother and sharper your visuals. Read the full GPU guide →
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The CPU is the primary processor of a computer — handling all general computing tasks from running your OS to processing data. Common brands in Singapore include Intel (Core i5, i7, i9) and AMD (Ryzen). Matching a strong CPU with the right GPU is essential for balanced PC performance. Read the full CPU guide →
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM is your computer’s short-term working memory — it holds data your system is actively using for fast CPU access. For most Singapore users in 2026, 16GB is the sweet spot. Gamers and content creators should aim for 32GB. Read the full RAM guide →
SSD vs HDD
SSD (Solid State Drive) uses flash memory — fast, silent, durable. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) uses spinning platters — cheaper per GB but slower and fragile. Most modern laptops use SSDs. Upgrading from HDD to SSD is one of the best value improvements for an older laptop in Singapore. Read the full SSD vs HDD guide →
Thermal Paste
Thermal paste is a heat-conductive compound applied between a CPU or GPU and its cooler to fill microscopic gaps and maximise heat transfer. In Singapore’s heat and humidity, thermal paste dries out faster than in temperate climates — causing overheating and throttling. Replacement costs S$30–S$80 at most repair shops. Read the full Thermal Paste guide →
Display & Gaming
Refresh Rate (Hz)
Refresh rate measures how many times per second a display redraws the image, in Hertz (Hz). 60Hz is fine for everyday use; 120Hz or 144Hz is noticeably smoother for gaming and scrolling. Most flagship smartphones and gaming monitors in Singapore now offer 90Hz–165Hz. Read the full Refresh Rate guide →
G-Sync vs FreeSync
G-Sync (NVIDIA) and FreeSync (AMD) are adaptive sync technologies that sync the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU’s frame output — eliminating screen tearing and stutter. FreeSync is now compatible with NVIDIA GPUs too, making it the better value option for most Singapore buyers. Read the full G-Sync vs FreeSync guide →
IPS vs VA vs TN Panel
IPS — best colour accuracy and viewing angles, ideal for creative work and general use. VA — deepest contrast ratios, great for movies and immersive gaming. TN — fastest response times for competitive gaming but poor colour and narrow viewing angles. Most monitors in Singapore are IPS or VA. Read the full IPS vs VA vs TN guide →
Mobile & Repair
IP Rating (IP67 / IP68)
IP (Ingress Protection) rating measures how well a device is sealed against dust and water. IP67 allows submersion to 1m for 30 minutes. IP68 allows deeper submersion as specified by the manufacturer. Most flagship phones in Singapore carry IP68 — but water damage is typically not covered under warranty. Read the full IP Rating guide →
OEM vs Aftermarket Parts
OEM parts are made by the original manufacturer — consistent quality but more expensive. Aftermarket parts are third-party — cheaper but variable in quality. For screens and batteries, OEM is always preferable. Always ask your repair shop which parts they use. Read the full OEM vs Aftermarket guide →
Battery Cycle Count
A battery cycle is one complete discharge and recharge from 100% to 0%. Most lithium-ion batteries are rated 300–500 cycles before capacity degrades. Singapore’s heat accelerates this. If battery health drops below 80%, replacement is worthwhile — many shops offer free battery health checks. Read the full Battery Cycle guide →
Chip-Level Repair (Board-Level Repair)
Chip-level repair fixes individual components on a circuit board — capacitors, IC chips, power regulators — rather than replacing the whole motherboard. More technical but significantly cheaper, and it preserves your data. The best independent repair shops in Singapore offer chip-level repair for laptops and phones. Read the full Chip-Level Repair guide →
Warranty (Local vs International)
Local warranty is backed by the Singapore authorised distributor — claimable at local service centres. International or parallel import warranty may require sending the device overseas or offer no local coverage. Always confirm warranty type before buying electronics in Singapore. Read the full Warranty guide →
Aircon
Aircon Chemical Wash
A chemical wash is a deep clean where internal aircon components — evaporator coil, blower fan, drainage tray — are soaked and scrubbed with chemical solution to remove mould, bacteria and mineral deposits. Recommended every 1–2 years in Singapore’s humid climate. Costs typically S$80–S$150 per unit. Read the full Chemical Wash guide →
Aircon Refrigerant (R22 vs R410A)
Refrigerant is the chemical that circulates through your aircon to absorb heat and cool your room. R22 (Freon) is phased out by NEA — found in pre-2010 units, increasingly scarce and expensive. R410A (Puron) is the current standard in all modern aircons. If your R22 unit has a gas leak, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair. Read the full Refrigerant guide →
Workspace
Ergonomics (Chair & Workspace)
Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment and environments to fit the human body — reducing strain during prolonged use. For office chairs, key factors are lumbar support, seat height and depth, armrest adjustability (2D, 3D or 4D) and headrest positioning. With Singapore’s strong work-from-home culture, an ergonomic chair is one of the most impactful home office investments. Read the full Ergonomics guide →