Welcome! I’m Matthew S. Smith, a prolific tech journalist, critic, product reviewer, and influencer from Portland, Oregon. I have 15 years of experience covering consumer tech from a variety of perspectives. I was among the first to try Microsoft HoloLens, I’ve covered blockchain and the metaverse since 2016, and I’ve tested thousands of PC laptops, desktops, monitors, and other peripherals.

I’m currently focused on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and metaverse innovations, in addition to (and sometimes right alongside) my coverage of the latest consumer electronics. I’m available for new projects including reviews, columns, and in-depth features. Shoot me an email if you want to get in touch.

Where to find my work

The publications I’ve worked with include IEEE Spectrum, The Verge, Ars Technica, Wired, Business Insider, PC World, Lifewire, IGN, Reviewed, MakeUseOf, Kotaku, and Consumers Digest, among others.

I was an editor at Digital Trends for nearly six years, starting in the role of Computing Editor and eventually rising to the role of Reviews Editor. I led a group of editors to cover products in literally every major category of consumer tech. Together, the team tested over 1,000 products every year.

Where to watch (and hear) me:

I make documentaries on video game history at for Computer Gaming Yesterday, my YouTube channel. It focuses on computer games from the turn of the millennium including real-times strategy and massively multiplayer games.

I frequently appeared on Digital Trends’ YouTube channel during my time with that publication. This included video reviews and exclusive features, such as a deep-dive on Intel’s Hades Canyon NUC which, at the time, was the most powerful gaming PC of its size.

I also co-hosted a PC hardware podcast with Greg Nibler and Brad Bourque in 2016 and 2017. Close to the Metal issued over 50 thirty-minute episodes during its run.

Get in touch

You can reach me by email here, or reach out to me on LinkedIn.