Gordon Mah Ung, executive editor of PCWorld and a titan in the world of tech journalism, passed away at the age of 58 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Known as a pioneer of hardcore PC journalism, Ung’s three-decade career left an indelible mark on the industry, from his deep-dive hardware reviews to his legendary rants and unwavering commitment to serving readers with fairness and integrity.
Ung began his career as a police reporter before transitioning to tech journalism in 1997. He became a defining voice at Maximum PC, where his mix of deep knowledge, humor, and showmanship resonated with readers and colleagues alike. His work on the Dream Machine PC builds and his “Watchdog” column, which tackled consumer issues with investigative rigor, showcased his expertise and dedication to his craft.
In 2014, Ung joined PCWorld, where he expanded his legacy with the launch of The Full Nerd, a podcast that became a cornerstone of the PC enthusiast community. His passionate engagement with audiences, both on video and in print, solidified his reputation as a trusted authority in tech.
Ung’s colleagues remember him as a generous mentor, relentless journalist, and vibrant personality who made the newsroom a better place. As PCWorld editor Brad Chacos put it, “He was the journalist and person I wanted to be when I grew up.”
Gordon leaves behind a grieving family and a legacy that will continue to inspire the tech journalism community. A GoFundMe has been set up to assist his family with medical expenses.