The holiday season means a lot of cooking and baking for a crowd, which is significantly more difficult if you wait until Black Friday to outfit your kitchen. Save yourself the hassle—and give yourself more time to get acquainted with your new gear—by saving on a bunch of Ninja appliances on Amazon right now. You’ll beat the holiday rush and save a bunch of money at the same time.

Ninja SFP701 Combi All-in-One Multicooker $179.99 (Was $229.99)

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Counterspace is premium kitchen real estate, so we’re advocates for getting appliances with multiple functions. Ninja’s multi-cooker has 14 settings, including bake, air fry, proof, sous vide, toast, steam, seat, sautee, and broil. All of these functions can be accessed from the control panel, which allows you to cycle between functions and change the multi-cooker’s temperature with the push of a button. We like that the smart oven’s buttons are large, which makes them easy to hit, and that the lights next to each current function illuminate when they’re selected.

A big part of this appliance’s appeal is Ninja’s “combi cooking” system. The smart oven comes with a deep cooking pan on the bottom, with a crisper plate and bake tray that can fit on top. This allows you to cook two parts of a single meal simultaneously. In the photo above, you’ll see baked ziti and chicken breasts, which are both being cooked by selecting the “combi meals” function. This cooking system will make a big difference if you’re frequently ordering out due to lack of time. On a big meal day like Thanksgiving, think about the appeal of having multiple sides—or even a few turkey breasts and stuffing—being ready together.

Other appliance deals that’ll make you feel like a cooking ninja:

• Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender, $89.95 (Was $129)
• Ninja OL701 Foodi 14-in-1 SMART XL 8 Qt. Pressure Cooker, $249.99 (Was $349.99)
• Ninja K32014 Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System, $179.99 (Was $299.99)
• Ninja KT200 Precision Temperature Electric Kettle, $62.99 (Was $89.99)
• Ninja GR101 Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle, $119.99 (Was $139.99)
• Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, $199 (Was $229)
• Ninja CI101 Foodi Power Mixer System, $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer, $179.95 (Was $199.99)
• Ninja B39010 Foodi NeverStick Premium 10-Piece Bakeware Sheet Set, $143.99 (Was $179.99)
• Ninja BN601 Professional Plus Food Processor, $99.95 (Was $119.99)

The post Kick your kitchen up a notch before Black Friday with these Ninja appliance deals appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		ASUS ROG Strix		SEE IT	With the best refresh rate of any portable monitor, the Asus ROG Strix is great for gamers and non-gamers alike.
Best for laptops		Arzopa Portable Monitor 2K		SEE IT	The Arzopa’s 2K portable monitor shows that good things come in small packages.
Best budget		Arzopa A1 Gamut		SEE IT	The Arzopa A1 Gamut proves you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality portable monitor.

When you’re using a laptop or traveling and need more screen real estate, portable monitors provide new versatility and solid picture quality in an easily portable form factor. Plus, laptops, tablets, and smartphones provide convenience and mobility, but those small screens can cause headaches, blurry eyes, and fatigue. Trying to crowd a lot of information on such a small screen only exacerbates the problem—especially if you’re using computer devices for several hours a day. However, a portable monitor can provide a much better working and viewing experience. Picking the right one for you will depend on several factors, but we’ve done the legwork to select and highlight the best portable monitors currently on the market.

• Best overall: ASUS ROG Strix (XG16AHPE)   
• Best for laptops: Arzopa Portable Monitor 2K
• Best 4K: Innocn 15.6-inch OLED Portable Monitor (PU15 PRE) 
• Best portable touchscreen: ASUS ZenScreen Touch MB16AMT
• Best for vertical use: Arzopa A1C
• Best for drawing: Espresso Display
• Best for gaming: Nexigo 17.3” 300Hz
• Best multi-screen: LIMINK LK14
• Best unattached multiscreen: The Portable Monitor Slide
• Best budget: Arzopa A1 Gamut

How we chose the best portable monitors

As a freelance journalist for over 10 years, I’ve reviewed home and tech products for publications including PopSci, CNN Underscored, NBC News Select, Popular Mechanics, Architectural Digest, Tom’s Guide, The Daily Beast, USA Today’s Reviewed, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and Bob Vila. Our personal monitor selections are based on personal testing, extensive research, recommendations from fellow critics, and user impressions.

The best portable monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

A portable monitor can give you a dual-monitor experience even when you’re away from your desk setup. Even with the limitations of their size and form factor, the best portable monitors come in different sizes and have different features that can help you be more efficient with less digital eye strain. Whether you need it for work, school, or play, at least one of these displays should be a perfect fit.

Best overall: ASUS ROG Strix (XG16AHPE) 

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Buy it used or refurbished here: eBay

Why it made the cut: The ASUS ROG Strix has a high refresh rate and lots of great features, making it the best choice for most people.

Specs

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Weight: 1.98 lbs
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: LED
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Inputs: HDMI, USB, Audio jack
• Battery life: 7,800 mAh

Pros 

• 144Hz refresh rate
• Landscape and portrait modes, plus a universal tripod
• Nvidia G-Sync compatible
• Battery-powered option

Cons

• Expensive

Perhaps unsurprisingly from a company that makes excellent, and at times affordable, battlestation accessories, the best portable monitor is made for gaming. The ASUS ROG Strix 15.6-inch portable monitor is one of only a handful of models with a 144Hz refresh rate, which provides smooth animation in and out of games. 

Even if you don’t play much, it has some very useful bells and whistles. Its kickstand rotates, so you can easily switch between traditional landscape or vertically minded portrait mode. It also has stereo speakers in case you forget your headset at home.

In addition to a micro-HDMI to HDMI cable, a USB Type-C cable and a USB Type-C to A adapter are also included. One usual feature is the universal tripod socket—a hole with a ¼” thread—which makes it convenient to use the portable monitor with a tripod stand. However, a sleeve, which can be used as a stand, is also included.

If you really want to max out your portable gaming setup, ASUS also makes an even bigger 17.3-inch version of the Strix portable monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate. Most people, even gamers, don’t really need a 240Hz display, which is why we recommend the less expensive model. It may be worth the extra cash if you want to carry around a zero-compromises esports display, however.

Best for laptops: Arzopa Portable Monitor 2K

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Buy it used or refurbished here: eBay

Why it made the cut: Arzopa’s monitor has a higher resolution than we expected to see at its price.

Specs

• Screen Size: 13.3 inches
• Weight: 1.41 pounds
• Resolution: 2560 x 1600
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: 2 USB-C, 1 Mini HDMI, 1 headphone jack
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Compact size
• High-resolution screen
• Three inputs

Cons

• USB-C ports on one side

If you want something to pair with a smaller laptop, the 13.3-inch is the ideal second screen. The portable monitor has the same resolution as Apple’s 13-Inch MacBook Pro (pictured above), which makes them a particularly good pair. Text, images, and videos look sharp on Arzopa’s screen, although I recommend immediately enabling its HDR mode, which wasn’t on by default. This setting will make colors look a lot more accurate, which is necessary if you’d like to use the portable monitor for image or video editing. In our tests, this portable monitor with a MacBook Pro benefited our productivity.

We were used to working on a display of its size and resolution, which made adapting our workflows a lot easier. Arzopa’s monitor has two USB-C ports and one Mini HDMI port to connect multiple devices simultaneously. The company bundles the portable monitor with both a USB-C cable and Mini-HDMI cord so that you can use it with all of your devices right out of the box. Our only complaint is that both USB-C ports are located on one side, requiring us to snake the cord around the back of our MacBook to its Thunderbolt 4 ports. It’d be perfect if Arzopa could update this portable monitor’s design with one USB-C port on both sides.

Overall, we were happy with how easy the monitor was to set up and use. Our MacBook Pro recognized the monitor immediately, and we could adjust its resolution and color profile settings in the Display Preferences section of MacOS. It was also easy to adjust the monitor’s brightness, contrast, and HDR settings through a little switch on the right-hand side of the display. It only took about five minutes to fully set up Arzopa’s monitor, and it would’ve taken less time if we weren’t messing around with different settings.

Most 13.3-inch portable monitors are only 1080P, and the extra resolution on Arzopa’s 2K display makes a big difference. The ability to see even more information on the screen is reason enough to upgrade if you have a lower-resolution second screen. This is an excellent place to start if you’re new to portable monitors.

Best 4K: Innocn 15.6-inch OLED Portable Monitor (PU15 PRE) 

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Why it made the cut: The Innocn PU15 PRE is expensive, but its 4K OLED display is incomparable among portable displays. 

Specs

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Weight: 2.07 lbs
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: USB and HDMI
• Battery life: 5,000 mAh

Pros

• 4K resolution
• OLED panel
• Touch screen
• Portrait and landscape modes

Cons

• Very expensive

Innocn’s top OLED portable monitor is the most expensive pick on our list, and for good reason. Among desktop monitors and laptops, 4K OLED touchscreens don’t come cheap (and we won’t even talk about the best OLED TVs prices). Among portable monitors, they are virtually unheard of. Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays feature self-emitting backlit pixels that can independently turn on and off when an image calls for it, producing incredible contrast and a more vivid picture. Combine that with 4K resolution, and, well, it’s very pretty.

Meanwhile, the touchscreen feature allows you to use the portable monitor like a drawing tablet. It has stereo speakers, in case you need them, and it can be used in both portrait and landscape mode. At $799.99, it is considerably more expensive than the rest of our picks, but it also delivers a higher class of picture.

Best portable touchscreen: ASUS ZenScreen Touch MB16AMT

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Buy it used or refurbished here: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The ASUS Zenscreen Touch’s portable touchscreen is responsive and easy to use. You can even draw on it.

Specs:

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Weight: 1.98 pounds
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: LCD
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: 2 Micro USB
• Battery life: 7,800 mAh

Pros

• Touchscreen
• Built-in speakers
• Compatible with Thunderbolt 3

Cons

• Have to download driver for USB Type-A connection

The ASUS ZenScreen Touch’s 10-point 1080p touchscreen won us over with its intuitive fingertip control, which makes it incredibly easy to make changes to documents, play games, and draw on slides. It comes with many of the basic features we look for, including stereo speakers and a smart case kickstand. Having a portable monitor with a touchscreen is especially helpful for traveling workers getting things done on a phone. You can use the ZenScreen Touch app to control your Android phone, making it a perfect pairing for a powerful smartphone like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. There’s even a smartpen holder for your stylus to ensure you don’t lose it when not in use.

Best for vertical use: Arzopa A1C

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Why it made the cut: Arzopa’s A1C is a 15.6-inch portable monitor that can be used for email and Slack.

Specs

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Weight: 1.69 lbs
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: LED
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Inputs: HDMI, USB, Audio jack
• Battery life: N/A

Pros 

• Price
• Multiple connectivity options
• Low blue light protection

Cons

• Hinge system is finicky

Arzopa’s A1C portable monitor shares many of the same features as the company’s 2K model, which we recommended earlier, but at a significantly lower cost. The build quality of the display is solid, save for its folding stand, which required a fair amount of time to fully understand.

You need to fold it in a particular way, which was unclear due to the vague instructions—that said, setting up the monitor was smooth sailing once we got the hang of it. You can connect this portable monitor to your device using the included USB-C to USB-C or micro-HDMI to HDMI cable. We exclusively used the former. Our computer quickly recognized the monitor, and we could immediately begin using it.

This display’s 1080P resolution is a step down from Arzopa’s 2K model, but it still displayed colors very well, and text looked pretty clear. HD videos looked perfectly fine on this monitor, and the display is the perfect place to keep spare windows you need to use or reference while working on your computer’s main screen. While the A1C can be used horizontally, using it vertically will make it more comfortable to view certain applications. Email and chat apps (think Slack or Google Teams) work particularly well this way, as do long-form articles.

Basically, turning the monitor on its side gives you a more smartphone or tablet-like experience. The only downside is you have to deal with a cable sticking up over the monitor to your computer. When the A1C is used in this capacity, it can improve your productivity. If you’re trying to mitigate the negative effects of staring at a screen all day, you’ll appreciate this monitor’s built-in blue light protection, which may reduce eye strain during extended use.

If you’ve been holding out on getting a portable monitor by waiting for a good deal, it’s hard to argue with the Arzopa A1C’s value.

Best for drawing: Espresso Display

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Why it made the cut: The Espresso Display has a stylus pen that can be used to draw, sketch, retouch photos, and edit videos on the portable monitor.

Specs 

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: LCD
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: USB-C (2)
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Touchscreen with stylus function
• Automatically rotates
• Ultra-thin design
• Available in 2 display sizes
• Compatible with various artistic apps
• Built-in speakers

Cons

• Stylus (plus stand and case) are extra

Creatives looking for a portable monitor to complement their main display will appreciate the level of functionality and convenience available on the Espresso Display. It has both touchscreen and pen capabilities, which makes it easier to be productive anywhere. The portable monitor, made of aeronautical grade aluminum, offers two USB ports and is compatible with Mac. It can also support numerous apps, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchbook, Microsoft Whiteboard, Mural, FigJam, Miro, and ZBrush.

The monitor can be used for document markups as well as whiteboarding. The 15.6-inch version is the largest of the espresso Display models (the other two are 13-inch and 13-inch touch versions), but it’s incredibly slim: 0.2 inches thin and weighing only 2 pounds.

The only problem we found with the espresso Display is that everything is considered extra. The company ships the espresso Display Monitor, USB-C to USB-C cable, and a cleaning cloth. However, the pen, stand, and case are extra.  These items can be purchased separately or in a bundle.

Best for gaming: Nexigo 17.3” 300Hz

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Why it made the cut: The generous screen provides plenty of viewing space, and the 300Hz refresh rate is ideal for gaming.

Specs

• Screen size: 17.3 inches
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: IPS
• Refresh rate: 300Hz
• Inputs: USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack
• Battery life:  N/A

Pros

• 300Hz refresh rate
• Adjustable kickstand
• Dual Hi-Fi Speakers
• FreeSync, G-SYNC
• Delta-E <2 color accuracy
• Built-in kickstand

Cons

• Doesn’t come in 13-inch version

If you need an extra monitor for gaming but would prefer something portable that’s easy to break down, store, and transport, the Nexigo 17.3” 300Hz portable monitor certainly fits the bill. The generous 17.3-inch screen eliminates the need to squint and ensures that you can see more of the game. It’s compatible with Playstation, Switch, and Xbox. Or you can use it with any game console with an HDMI or USB Type-C output.

The monitor features a 300Hz refresh rate and is compatible with FreeSync and G-SYNC to provide a seamless gaming experience and lag-free response time.  Gamers will find this particularly important as tearing and stuttering are greatly minimized. And the Delta-E <2 provides accurate colors for a more realistic experience.

The dual Hi-Fi speakers make it easier to hear and be immersed while gaming, though you’ll likely still want to invest in a gaming headset. The built-in kickstand keeps the portable monitor securely in place and can be adjustable from 50 degrees to 80 degrees. There’s also a magnetic protective cover to keep the monitor safe from dust, a foldable stand, and an IR remote.

In addition to the 17.3-inch model, Nexigo also makes a 16-inch version along with models with different refresh rates.

Best multi-screen: LIMINK LK14

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Why it made the cut: Dual monitors attach to either side of your laptop to provide a 3-screen setup.

Specs

• Screen size: 14 inches on each side
• Weight: 3.3 pounds
• Resolution: 1920 x 1200
• Display type: IPS
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: USB-C, HDMI, Displayport, VGA
• Battery life:  N/A

Pros

• Leather Smart Case
• Kickstand on back and top center 
• Delta-E <2 color accuracy
• Fits 13-inch to 16-inch laptops

Cons

• Not compatible with M1 and M2 chip MacBooks (but does support M1 Pro and M1 Max chip).

Perhaps the only thing better than an extra monitor is two extra monitors. The LIMINK LK14 Portable Triple Monitor attaches to your laptop and provides one monitor on the left side and another one on the right side. (Note: dual monitor setups are referred to as “triple” monitors because when set up correctly, they provide three monitors – including the laptop’s monitor).

We like this dual monitor setup because it doesn’t put undue pressure on the laptop. The LIMINK LK14 uses metal clips and a pull ring to attach the device. The 8-level kickstand on the back ensures that the installation is secure and allows the laptop screen to be tilted from 0 to 45 degrees. Since there are two monitors, it requires two cables to connect (one for each monitor). It’s worth noting that each monitor has three ports.

The aluminum alloy body is strong and corrosion-resistant, but the monitors are still lightweight. When the monitors are not in use, they collapse in the middle and can be stored in the leather smart case for easy transportation.

Best unattached multi-screen: The Portable Monitor Slide

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Why it made the cut: You don’t have to attach your laptop to these dual portable monitors physically, and it can fold into a triangle for sharing your screen with others.

Specs

• Screen size: 13.3 inches x 2  
• Weight: 4.4 pounds
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: IPS
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: USB
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Both monitors are rotatable
• 14-level kickstand
• Connects via single cable
• Available in 2 finishes

Cons

• Costs a pretty penny
• Heavier than some dual monitors

Like most snobbish MacBook owners, I like to keep my laptops smooth and clean—so I don’t really like the idea of attaching anything to the exterior. Fortunately, the Slide not only fits on laptops of any size, but the dual monitors are also standalone, so I can just slide my laptop monitor right up against the area where the laptop attaches. This means that I can also use the dual monitors with a smartphone or tablet instead of a laptop. 

Most dual portable monitors need two cables (one for each monitor). However, the Slide only needs one cable for power and video transfer from both monitors. This results in a cleaner, less-cluttered workspace.

The dual monitors can rotate to form a triangle (the left monitor rotates 180 degrees, and the left monitor rotates 60 degrees), making this an excellent choice for presentations or group collaborations. This configuration allows you to provide three viewing angles instead of having people crowd around you. Even when you’re not presenting, having two extra screens significantly increases your viewing real estate. The Slide is available in either a Premium Aluminum or a Carbon finish.

Best budget: Arzopa A1 Gamut

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Why it made the cut: The Arzopa A1 Gamut offers an ideal balance of features, quality, and price.

Specs

• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Weight: 1.44 lbs
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Display type: LCD
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Inputs: Mini HDMI, dual USB-C, Audio jack
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Compatible with most devices
• IPS display offers large viewing angles
• Bright, large display
• Plug-and-play design

Cons

• New stand design is a separate piece that could get lost
• Built-in speakers are lacking in quality

Too often, you have to choose between quality and price. The Arzopa A1 Gamut offers a compromise with excellent quality despite the reasonable $149 price. And it frequently goes on sale, so you can usually get it much cheaper. The large 15.6-inch display with slim bezels provides a large viewing area. It made our transition from a large desktop monitor to a portable monitor much easier when on the go.

Arzopa designed the A1 Gamut with an FHD (1920 x 1080) resolution, which results in sharp, clear images and text. You can easily adjust the brightness on the side of the monitor. We found it plenty bright, even when working in rooms with lots of windows and light. And the IPS display makes it easier to see at a range of angles, even if there are windows directly behind you. The 1200:1 contrast ratio is higher than many portable monitors, resulting in a rich, attractive display. While it won’t provide perfectly accurate colors, it works for editing photos in a pinch—just be prepared to make adjustments if you plan on printing the images later.

The A1 Gamut is incredibly easy to set up and use. It comes with all of the cords you may need to connect to your favorite devices and features two USB-C ports along with a mini HDMI port. All you need to do is plug in the monitor, which automatically turns on. You won’t need to fuss with downloading drivers or anything of the sort, as it’s a true plug-and-play device. The main downside is that the ports are all on the left side, which happens to be the same side as our MacBook Pro, making the connection a little less than ideal.

Arzopa redesigned the stand since our version, and it is now a separate metal piece. That separate piece could be easy to lose. But it offers an adjustable height, which is not typical for portable monitors, and makes the display more ergonomic. Unfortunately, the new stand means there is no longer a built-in cover for the A1 Gamut, so you will want to take care when packing it up for travel. 

What to consider when buying the best portable monitors

There are several factors to consider when choosing between portable monitors. Budget, resolution, and ease of connectivity are usually top of mind. However, other factors may depend on your personal preferences. These are some of the features you should keep in mind to ensure the portable monitor meets your needs:

Screen size

Portable monitors tend to mirror the sizes of laptop displays, coming in sizes from 14 inches to 15.6 inches to 17 inches. Since you’re always moving portable displays around, picking a screen size comes down to personal preference. A larger screen looks great and makes things easier to see, but remember that a larger screen will take up more space on your desk or table and in your laptop bag or suitcase.

Connectivity

Most portable monitors connect to devices via USB-C and/or mini-HDMI cables (such as this inexpensive AmazonBasics option). While an increasingly wide array of phones, tablets, PCs, and other devices support USB-C, you may need a USB-C hub, adapters, or a USB-A to USB-C cable. Likewise, if you already have a standard HDMI cable, you may need to purchase an HDMI to mini-HDMI adapter for mini-HDMI-based screens. Make sure that the monitor you select has the ports you need to pair it wherever you plan to use it, including your laptop, smartphone, tablet, camera, and game consoles.

Resolution

Your portable monitor’s resolution will determine the sharpness and clarity of its picture. As you can see, based on our selections, most portable monitors support 1080p resolution (often referred to as Full HD). That puts it on par with most basic and mid-range desktop monitors. There are high-resolution models, including some portable 4K monitors. And, just like when shopping, say, for desktop monitors for Macs, they cost quite a bit more.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), refers to how many times your monitor can redraw an image each second. A higher refresh rate opens the door for a higher frame rate in games and smoother movement in menus and other software. All monitors on this list feature a 60Hz refresh rate, meaning the screen updates 60 times a second. That’s lower than we’d recommend for a standard monitor, but it is standard among portable monitors. That said, there is a 144Hz display, which stands out as an especially good choice for gaming and drawing.

All IPS, all the time

While desktop monitor panels come in a few flavors, all of the portable monitors on our list are In-Plane Switching (IPS) displays. This technology ensures color accuracy and better views from wider angles (for example, even if someone is standing on the far-left side of the monitor, the view should be good. However, it’s debatable if an IPS display panel makes that much of a difference in a portable monitor. 

Audio

Some portable monitors include built-in speakers (and headphone jacks), which may or may not be important in certain situations. If you’re connecting your monitor to a computer or phone, you may already have the audio covered through the device. In general, the speakers on these monitors aren’t especially impressive, so powered desktop speakers or over-ear headphones are usually the way to go. That said, if you think that monitor audio will be useful, be sure to check for that feature.

FAQs 

Final thoughts on the best portable monitors

• Best overall: ASUS ROG Strix (XG16AHPE)   
• Best for laptops: Arzopa Portable Monitor 2K
• Best 4K: Innocn 15.6-inch OLED Portable Monitor (PU15 PRE) 
• Best portable touchscreen: ASUS ZenScreen Touch MB16AMT
• Best for vertical use: Arzopa A1C
• Best for drawing: Espresso Display
• Best for gaming: Nexigo 17.3” 300Hz
• Best multi-screen: LIMINK LK14
• Best unattached multiscreen: The Portable Monitor Slide
• Best budget: Arzopa A1 Gamut

A portable monitor helps make it easier to do serious work away from your primary work setup. Having more screen space to spread out all your windows can help you keep track of things. Looking at a larger display, especially compared to a phone’s screen, will help reduce eye strain. Plus, you have a way to mirror your screen and show other people. If money is no object, the Innocn OLED provides the best resolution possible. However, you can spend a lot less and get something very useful, from the gaming-focused ASUS ROG Strix to the very affordable Arzopa A1 Gamut. No matter what you go with, simply having one of these displays should hopefully make your life a little easier.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best portable monitors of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Black Friday has long reigned as the champion of cheap TVs. But Amazon’s October Prime Day is no slouch when it comes to big-screen bargains. A huge new TV will serve you well whether you want to play video games, enjoy sporting events, or binge-watch the latest seasons of your favorite shows. Jumping up to a bigger, brighter, higher resolution set can get expensive—especially if you’re interested in the latest screen technologies like OLED and MiniLED—but Prime Day deals make the upgrade a lot more palatable. You’ll appreciate the investment, no matter how big or how small, each time you feel like channel surfing.

Note: You’ll have to be an Amazon Prime member to take advantage of most of these deals, so be sure you’re signed up before making a purchase.

Samsung LS03B $1,597.99 (Was $1,997.99)

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Samsung’s LS03B (colloquially referred to as the “Frame TV”) has a double purpose. On one hand, it’s an ultra-thin 65-inch 4K TV that supports HDR (high dynamic range) for better color reproduction, has Amazon’s Alexa built-in, which allows for voice control, and an anti-reflective matte display. All of these features make it a great set for streaming your favorite TV shows or movies and playing the latest video games.

On the other hand, you can engage this TV’s “art mode,” and it’ll cycle through high-resolution digital images from a library of over 2,100 new and classic works of art. Art mode is initiated each time you turn the TV off and costs either $5 per month or $50 per year. Individual pieces of art can be purchased a la carte for different prices. The Frame’s matte display is essential for “art mode” to work because it won’t reflect natural or artificial light like a typical screen would.

The best Samsung TV deals

• Samsung 65-inch QLED 4K Q80C, $1,297.99 (Was $1,497.99)
• Samsung 77-inch OLED 4K S95C, $3,797 (Was $4,797)
• Samsung M70B, $299.99 (Was $399.99)
• Samsung CU7000, $667.99 (Was $747.99)
• Samsung UN43CU8000FXZA, $389 (Was $439.99)

The best Sony TV deals

• Sony X80K, $648 (Was $699.99)
• Sony X85K, $698 (Was $849.99)
• Sony XR65X90L, $1,098 (Was $1,499.99)
• Sony XR A80L, $1,798 (Was $1,998)
• Sony X93L, $1,698 (Was $1898)
• Sony KD43X77L, $398 (Was $449.99)
• Sony X93L, $3,798 (Was $4,499.99)

The best Hisense TV deals

• Hisense 65U6K, $548 (Was $799.99)
• Hisense 55U8K, $748 (Was $1,099.99)
• Hisense U6HF, $199.99 (Was $499.99)
• Hisense 43A4H, $178 (Was $239.99)
• Hisense 50U6G, $429.99 (Was $534)
• Hisense 75U7K, $997 (Was $1,499)
• Hisense 85U8K, $1,799 (Was $2,699)

The best TCL deals

• TCL QM8, $1,498 (Was $2,299.99)
• TCL S3, $179.99 (Was $229.99)
• TCL 65S450F, $379.99 (Was $529.99)
• TCL 50S450R, $279.99 (Was $349.99)

The best XGIMI projector deals

• XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro 1080P Portable Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth, $500 w/ clickable coupon (was $599)
• XGIMI MoGo 2 Portable Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth, $299 (Was $399)
• XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K Projector, $1,179 (Was $1,699)
• XGIMI Halo+ 1080P Portable Projector, $649 (Was $849)
• XGIMI Aura 4K UHD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector, $1,599 (Was $1,999)

The best Roku streamer deals

• Roku Express 4K+, $29 (Was $39)
• Roku Streaming Stick 4K, $37.99 (Was $49)
• Roku Express 4K with Voice Remote Pro, $49.99 (Was $59)
• Roku Streambar 4K HDR Streaming Device & Premium Roku Soundbar, $99 (Was $129)

Accessorizing other activities? Take a look at our ongoing list of Big Deal Days discounts.

Want more deals delivered to your inbox weekly? Sign up for PopSci’s Deals newsletter and save money on stuff you’ll really use.

The post The best Amazon Deal Days discounts on TVs from Samsung, Hisense, TCL, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon hosts Prime Day, but it’s also an active participant. The company has slashed the prices of its Kindles, Fire TV streaming devices, Ring cameras, eero WiFi routers, and more. These gadgets can help you finish your work efficiently and then kick back once the day is over to enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies. Whether you’re treating yourself or want to get a jumpstart on holiday shopping, there’s a little something for everybody in these deals.

Note: You’ll have to be an Amazon Prime member to take advantage of most of these deals, so be sure you’re signed up before making a purchase.

Ring Video Doorbell $54.99 (was $99.99)

SEE IT

Ring’s Video Doorbell is among the best-known smart home security gadgets and is down to its lowest price ever for Prime Day. The doorbell’s camera can record 1080P video, has a night vision to capture clear images in low-light situations, and a motion sensor to alert you when someone has approached your home. You’ll need to connect this doorbell to a home with preexisting wiring, but battery-powered models are also on sale—see more on that below.

Once the doorbell is installed, you can set it up and manage it using the Ring app. You also have the option to subscribe to the Ring Protect Plan, which comes with cloud storage for your video clips and costs $3.99 per month or $39.99 per year. Nobody likes to think about what to do if a burglary happens, but the Ring Video Doorbell can act as a deterrent and leave you with valuable evidence if someone does happen to get inside.

The best Echo deals

• Echo Pop, $17.99 (Was $39.99)
• Amazon Echo Dot, $22.99 (Was $49.99)
• Echo (4th Gen), $54.99 (Was $99.99)
• Echo Show 5, $39.99 (Was $89.99)
• Echo Studio, $154.99 (Was $199.99)
• Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen), $159.99 (Was $249.99)

The best Fire TV deals

• Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, $22.99 (Was $49.99)
• Amazon Fire TV Cube, $109.99 (Was $139.99)
• Insignia F30 Series LED 4K TV, $169.99 (Was $269.99)
• Amazon Omni Series 4K TV, $389.99 (Was $549.99)
• Amazon Omni QLED Series 4K TV, $439.99 (Was $599.99)

The best Fire Tablet deals

• Amazon Fire 7 tablet, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Amazon Fire HD 8, $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• Amazon Fire HD 10, $74.99 (Was $149.99)
• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro Tablet, $74.99 (Was $149.99)
• Amazon Fire Max 11, $149.99 (Was $229.99)

The best Kindle deals

• Kindle Kids, $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Kindle Paperwhite Kids, $109.99 (Was $169.99)
• Amazon Kindle Scribe, $289.99 (Was $369.99

The best Ring deals

• Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen), $29.99 (Was $59.99)
• Ring Video Doorbell, $54.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus, $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Ring Video Doorbell Wired, $34.99 (Was $64.99)
• Ring Spotlight Cam Plus, $119.99 (Was $169.99)
• Ring Alarm 14-Piece Kit, $197.99 (Was $329.99)
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro, $99.99 (Was $169.99)
• Ring Battery Doorbell Plus, $129.99 (Was $179.99)
• Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, $199.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, $149.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ring Stick Up Cam, $59.99 (Was $99.99)

The best Blink camera deals

• Blink Outdoor (3rd Generation) camera, $99.99 (Was $249.99)
• Blink Outdoor (3rd Generation) camera [2 pack], $99.99 (Was $249.99)
• Blink Outdoor (3rd Generation) camera [3 pack], $99.99 (Was $249.99)
• Blink Outdoor (3rd Generation) camera [5 pack], $189.99 (Was $379.99)
• Blink Outdoor (3rd Generation) camera [6 pack], $239.99 (Was $479.98)

The best Eero router deals

• eero mesh WiFi router, $44.99 (Was $69.99)
• eero 6 mesh WiFi system, $159.99 (Was $199.99)
• eero Pro 6 mesh WiFi 6 system, $239.99 (Was $399.99)
• eero 6+ mesh WiFi system, $194.99 (Was $299.99)
• eero Pro 6E mesh WiFi System, $399.99 (Was $549.99)

Accessorizing other activities? Take a look at our ongoing list of Big Deal Days discounts.

Want more deals delivered to your inbox weekly? Sign up for PopSci’s Deals newsletter and save money on stuff you’ll really use.

The post Save up to $240 on Amazon Echos, Kindles, and more for October Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Audio-Technica AT2020		SEE IT	In terms of overall audio and build quality, you won’t find a better inexpensive XLR microphone than Audio-Technica’s AT2020.
Best kit		Tonor XLR Condenser Microphone		SEE IT	If you want an entire at-home recording setup, Tonor’s budget XLR microphone and accessories bundle will get you almost all the way there.
Best budget		Pyle Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone		SEE IT	Pyle’s Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone is ultra-durable and designed to sound great.

A cheap XLR microphone is one of the key pieces of gear you’ll need to start a podcast or lay down vocals on a track you’re working on. Expensive gear is nice, but you can get a lot of quality out of a mic that costs well under $100. XLR microphones are used by professional musicians and broadcasters worldwide due to their consistency and universal, interface-friendly connector. You’ll never have to worry about a software update accidentally breaking your microphone or that it will somehow become technically outdated. Instead, spending a couple of bucks today will allow you to use and appreciate this gear for years (if not decades) to come. And the best cheap XLR microphones will provide good enough results that you may never have to upgrade.

• Best overall: Audio-Technica AT2020
• Best for podcasts: Marantz MPM-1000
• Best kit: Tonor XLR Condenser Microphone
• Best USB-XLR combo: Samson Q2U
• Best budget: Pyle Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone

How we chose the best cheap XLR microphones

When deciding which cheap XLR microphone recommendations to include in our guide, we considered the different reasons one may need to pick up a mic. Musicians and podcasters need slightly different equipment, though using the same XLR microphone for both cases can work. We also considered microphones that come with accessories like stands or arms, as these bundles can save you even more money when compared to picking up pieces of gear individually. The word cheap is relative, but we made sure all of the microphones we’re recommending cost under $100—the least expensive model below costs under $23. The SM7B is a standard, sure, but not everyone has $399 (or more) to spend on one component.

The best cheap XLR microphones: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you want to finally start a podcast or go from songs you’ve recorded on your phone’s mic to making polished tracks, these are the best cheap XLR microphones to start a recording rig.

Best overall: Audio-Technica AT2020

SEE IT

Specs

• Microphone type: Condensor
• Weight: 1.32 pounds
• Price: $99

Pros

• Sound source isolation
• Includes stand mount
• Part of a rich accessories ecosystem

Cons

• Price

This is the most expensive XLR microphone we’re recommending, but if you can stretch your budget a bit, you’ll be rewarded with audio excellence. Audio-Technica’s AT2020 is a condenser microphone designed for broadcasters or vocalists to sound their best. Thanks to its cardioid pattern, the microphone will reject more unwanted sounds coming from the sides or rear, just picking up what you want: your voice. It comes with a mount, so you can easily attach it to any microphone stand, and can be oriented on its side for easy access. You may want to get a sturdy stand because the AT2020 is among the heaviest microphones we’re recommending. One reason we like Audio-Technica gear is that it tends to last a long time, and the company offers first-party accessories designed to work especially well with its own hardware. Getting the AT2020 today means you can build a studio-class audio setup piece by piece.

Best for podcasts: Marantz MPM-1000

SEE IT

Specs

• Microphone type: $49
• Weight: .66 pounds
• Price: $49

Pros

• Directional cardioid mic capsule
• Includes shock mount, windscreen, and desktop stand included
• 20-20,000Hz frequency range

Cons

• Not a great choice for recording instruments

For many podcasters, a USB microphone is their first, and often only, thought. But that limits them to a direct-to-laptop setup. If you want to be broadcasting on a budget without having your other hardware be limited, you won’t find a better cheap XLR microphone than Marantz’s MPM-1000. The mic comes with all the accessories you’ll need to sound your best on the go. All you’ll need to add to this bundle is an audio interface or mixer, and you’ll have a competent mobile recording setup with outboard processor access. The MPM-1000’s cardioid microphone capsule is oriented in such a way that the only sound being recorded will be your voice, and its frequency range captures the natural range of the human voice (and human hearing). The included windscreen will also act as a pop filter to prevent an unwanted frequency spike when you say words with the letter p in them. Marantz’s shock mount will keep the microphone from picking up unwanted distortion if it’s moved around while on a stand. You’re getting an exceptional amount of value from this bundle, given its $50 price tag, and you can up the ante by getting a package that includes a set of M-Audio headphones for under $90.

Best kit: Tonor XLR Condenser Microphone

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Specs

• Microphone type: Condenser
• Weight: 4.19 pounds
• Price: $64.99

Pros

• Includes a lot of helpful accessories
• 20Hz-20kHz frequency range
• Off-axis audio suppression

Cons

• You need a permanent recording space

If you have enough room for a permanent recording area, this cheap XLR microphone from Tonor comes with most of what you’ll need to get started. The microphone itself was designed with off-axis audio suppression, which is its way of only capturing your voice rather than sounds happening around you. The microphone’s high-frequency range ensures voices of all pitches can be picked up accurately. This microphone is a fine choice on its own, but Tonor’s included accessories push it over the edge.

The pop filter will prevent harsh sounds from marring your recording when certain consonants are spoken, Tonor’s shock mount will prevent the microphone from shaking around too much when it’s moved, and Tonor even includes an XLR cable in the box. The most helpful accessory in this bundle is the microphone arm, which allows you to position Tonor’s cheap XLR microphone directly in front of your face at the perfect angle. This gives you the greatest chance of creating a high-quality recording and allows you to adjust your chair’s position while moving the mic in front of your face.

Best USB-XLR combo: Samson Q2U

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Specs

• Microphone type: Dynamic
• Weight: .7 pounds
• Price: $69.99

Pros

• Great for recording instruments and vocals
• Can be connected directly to a computer if need be
• Has a built-in headphone jack for monitoring

Cons

• Price

While we’re highlighting cheap XLR microphones, Samson’s Q2U also offers USB connectivity, so you can plug the mic directly into your computer to create digital recordings. This is also the only microphone we recommend with a built-in headphone jack, so you can listen to the recordings you’re making in real-time to know whether you’ll need to move the microphone’s position or if a recording sounds off for some other reason. Samson includes both a pop filter and desktop stand with its microphone, so you’ll have a compact recording setup ready to go. The fact that you can use this as the backbone of an entire recording setup is especially great for beginning broadcasters or musicians without much room. Samson’s Q2U may be a little pricer than most of our other recommendations, but its versatility more than makes up for its cost. Want to up the build and sound quality? The Samson Q9U is a dynamic microphone that our reviewer found capable of handling high SPLs to vocal subtleties.

Best budget: Pyle Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone

SEE IT

Specs

• Microphone type: Dynamic
• Weight: 1.32 pounds
• Price: $22.80

Pros

• Includes long audio cable
• On and off switch
• Price

Cons

• Heavier

If you want an ultra-cheap XLR microphone for your first recording setup or need a secondary mic to keep in a gig bag, Pyle’s Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone is the right choice. This unidirectional mic has a durable all-metal design, with an anti-dent ring along the middle of the microphone to prevent dings. The company says its built-in pop filter manages unwanted sounds well, so a standalone filter isn’t needed or included. In fact, the only accessory bundled with this mic is a 15-foot-long cable. The most clever part of this microphone’s design is its on-off switch, which is helpful if you’re performing music live and don’t want to risk feedback from the PA system when you’re not performing. It may be heavier than most of the microphones we’re recommending, but that’s the counterbalance to having an all-metal design. If you need the cheapest XLR microphone possible without settling for subpar sound, Pyle’s mic is the one.

What to consider when choosing the right cheap XLR microphone for you

There are many factors to keep in mind when choosing the best cheap XLR microphone for you. Below, you’ll find the ones we considered most important when selecting the microphones for this guide. Price was a factor, of course, as we highlight the best budget gear in this category, and these are the other things we thought about while picking microphones with our favorite mid-century connector:

Microphone type

Generally speaking, microphones can be categorized into two types: dynamic and condenser.

Dynamic microphones feature a Mylar diaphragm with a conductive coil attached to it. When sound waves vibrate the diaphragm, it moves the coil in a magnetic field, creating an AC voltage. As a result, dynamics are sometimes called moving-coil dynamic microphones. Live musicians typically use this mic style due to their durability and lower chance of distortion.

Condenser microphones feature a movable diaphragm attached to a fixed metal plate; both are charged and have electrodes attached. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, the distance between it and the plate changes, creating what’s called capacitance and resulting in small voltage changes that mimic the original wave. This microphone style has better high-frequency audio reproduction, which makes it better for picking up voices, which is especially helpful for broadcasters.

Weight

Weight is very important if you plan on holding your microphone while singing or recording a show. If a microphone is too heavy, it’ll cause fatigue. If it’s too light, you may unintentionally move it around a lot, leading to unwanted pops on your recording.

Accessories

If you’re starting your recording setup from scratch, a cheap XLR microphone may not be the only thing you’ll want to pick up. While some of our recommendations include accessories, you might need to consider things like a tabletop stand, pop filter, arm, and, most importantly, XLR cables. Getting a microphone bundle is also helpful because you know for a fact that all of these accessories will work with one another.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cheap XLR microphones

• Best overall: Audio-Technica AT2020
• Best for podcasts: Marantz MPM-1000
• Best kit: Tonor XLR Condenser Microphone
• Best USB-XLR combo: Samson Q2U
• Best budget: Pyle Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone

A cheap XLR microphone can serve you well for many years, and will become the cornerstone of your recording setup. It’s a lo-fi tool you can confidently bring into any recording studio or music venue, with a guarantee you’ll be able to plug it into the house system to get the sound you’re familiar with. You can even continue using your cheap XLR microphone as you upgrade other pieces of gear in your recording setup.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cheap XLR microphones in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		TCL Q6		SEE IT	TCL’s Q6 offers the perfect balance of performance and price.
Best OLED		Sony BRAVIA XR A80L		SEE IT	Sony’s BRAVIA XR A80L will provide the best contrast and color reproduction of any Google TV out there.
Best budget		TCL S3		SEE IT	It’s hard to argue with a new 43-inch HDTV that costs $200.

Google’s Android TV has become a go-to software platform for TV makers over the past few years because of the search giant’s commitment to providing continual software updates and user interface improvements. Android TV is loaded onto TVs from the likes of Sony, TCl, and Hisense, three companies committed to creating cutting-edge sets for movie watching and gaming alike. Choosing one of the best Android TVs means picking a television with an operating system that keeps content streaming smoothly.

• Best overall: TCL Q6
• Best OLED: Sony BRAVIA XR A80L
• Best for gaming: Sony XR65X90K
• Best QLED: Hisense U7H
• Best budget: TCL S3

How we chose the best Android TVs

Our recommendations for the best Google TVs are based on a mix of hands-on testing and research. We paid additional to each Google TV’s video and audio quality, size, refresh rate, port selection, and price. The way you tend to use your TVs is also important. For example, if you’re a hardcore gamer, you’ll need a TV with different specs than someone who just wants to stream video for a couple of hours after work. Both are valid use cases, but require different hardware.

The best Android TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’re ready to get a more modern smart-home TV for your family room or want a new one for your home theater system, these are the best Google TVs you can get right now.

Best overall: TCL Q6

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Sizes available: 55, 65, 75, 85-inches
• Ports: 3x HDMI, 1x Ethernet, 1x optical audio, 1x coaxial, 1x Ethernet, 1x USB

Pros

• Excellent picture quality
• Snappy performance
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Some settings are confusing

The 2022 model of TCL’s 6-Series is so good that it earned a spot in our guide, but the company has continued to defy our expectations of what to expect from a sub-$1,000 4K TV with its successor, the Q6. We’ll cut to the chase: This is the TCL TV you should get unless you have really specialized needs or a very strict budget. In our tests, which included playing Nintendo Switch games and streaming native 4K content from Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services, the Q6 couldn’t have performed much better.

We noticed the biggest differences when watching shows with a lot of contrast—like Star Trek: Picard—in which dimly lit scenes are often punctuated with pops of light and color. We can confirm each shot from a phaser was pleasing to the eye, and details in dark, seemingly abandoned spaceships were present. The Q6 was able to show colors more accurately, too. In games, like the Nintendo Switch‘s Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, foliage looked lush, dragons looked imposing, and “The Depths” felt isolating.

Gamers who play on more powerful consoles or PCs will be able to push the Q6 and their gaming hardware to its limits thanks to the TV’s 120Hz panel. Additionally, features, like TCL’s Game Accelerator Enhanced Gaming and Auto Game Mode with AMD FreeSync will automatically optimize the Q6 to lower latency (lag) for the smoothest experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone who spends their nights playing online titles with friends, the Q6 has you covered.

We’re also pleased to report that TCL’s Q6 was as easy to setup as it was to use. The model we tested ran Google TV, and we could run through most of the setup process on our phone using the Google Home app, which is available on iOS and Android. It took about 10 minutes to sign into our Google account, run through the typical gauntlet of security questions, and download a software update. Similarly, Google’s operating system was easy to navigate, and streaming apps loaded quickly. Shortcut buttons on the Q6’s remote made opening the most common streaming apps a single button push away.

We don’t have any complaints with the TCL Q6’s performance, but we were a little confused by the default picture setting being a low-power mode. We’re used to seeing normal in its place and didn’t want to limit the screen’s brightness for the sake of power savings. We ended up using the Q6’s Smart HDR setting for the majority of our tests, which worked well for both playing games and watching videos.

If you want a reliable TV that runs well and looks even better, we can’t find much fault with TCL’s Q6, which is competitive not only with the company’s other sets but also with what’s available from TCL’s competitors.

Best OLED: Sony BRAVIA XR A80L

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Sizes available: 55, 65, 77, 83-inches
• Ports: 4x HDMI, 1x Ethernet, 1x optical audio, 1x coaxial, 1x Ethernet, 2x USB

Pros

• OLED display
• Fast refresh rate
• Exclusive features for PlayStation 5

Cons

• Price

As far as QLED and MiniLED technology have come, they can’t match the true black levels of an OLED screen, which makes them particularly good for gaming. Sony is no stranger to the space, considering the PlayStation’s multi-decade dominance in the console space, so it’s not surprising that it makes the best Google TV for gamers.

The XR A80L’s OLED panel has a 120Hz refresh rate, support for Dolby Vision HDR, and runs on a custom processor that optimizes its performance for video streaming and gaming. These features will benefit all gamers, but PlayStation-exclusive ones like Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Mode will tune the set when you plug in Sony’s console. The two can speak to one another in ways other consoles can’t because of custom hardware and software developed for each.

Another exclusive feature of Sony’s TVs is the BRAVIA CORE app, which allows you to buy and stream digital copies of the company’s movies at the highest-possible quality. Cinephiles will appreciate this more than the common streamer, but it’s nice to have as these films will show off what the XR A80L is truly capable of. This TV has no discernable technical flaws, but its price tag matches its fidelity. If you don’t mind spending extra to have the best of the best, though, this is a no-compromise Google TV.

Best for gaming: Sony XR65X90K

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Sizes available: 55, 65, 75, 85-inches
• Ports:4 HDMI, 1x Ethernet, 1x optical audio, 1x coaxial, 1x Ethernet, 2x USB

Pros

• Custom Sony processor
• Fast refresh rate
• Exclusive features for PlayStation 5

Cons

• Can’t quite match the Sony BRAVIA XR A80L

If you like everything about the Sony BRAVIA TVs except price, and don’t mind giving up its OLED screen, we recommend the Sony XR65X90K. It has the same PlayStation-exclusive gaming features, processor, refresh rate, resolution, and port selection as its luxe sibling, alongside access to Sony’s BRAVIA CORE service.

The only real difference is the screen technology used by both sets. While the XR A80L has an OLED display, the XR65X90K sports a full array LED screen. The differences will be subtle to most people, but hardcore gamers who want the most hyper-realistic-looking skin tones and contras (assuming their games are going for such an aesthetic) may be disappointed. Everyone else will find a lot to like from this Google TV, which costs roughly half the price of the XR A80L when it’s on sale.

One place the XR65X90K actually pulls ahead of the XR A80L is in its maximum screen size. The former tops out at 85 inches, while the latter only goes up to 83 inches. Again, this is a subtle difference, but one that could make a big difference to gamers.

Best QLED: Hisense U7H

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Sizes available: 55, 65, 75, 85-inches
• Ports: 4x HDMI, 1x Ethernet, 1x optical audio, 1x coaxial, 1x Ethernet, 2x USB

Pros

• Very affordable
• Excellent picture for the price
• Bright
• Full-array local dimming for better contrast

Cons

• Picture lags behind more expensive sets

Hisense has spent the last several years pouring more resources than you’d expect to find in a QLED TV at its price range. So much so that we named it one of the best 65-inch TVs regardless of operating system or price. It includes some unexpected niceties like HDMI 2.1 ports, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a svelte frame. Most importantly, Hisense chose to hop on the QLED bandwagon, which means you should expect excellent brightness, contrast, and overall performance. It even has local dimming zones, which allow the TV to automatically and intelligently manage the brightness levels on different sections of the screen.

All of these features will benefit gamers and video streamers alike, and we wouldn’t expect to find them in a TV priced well under $1,000. Now the color reproduction and contrast may not be as high as they would be on higher-end sets, but we can still recommend the U7H without reservation because it punches far above its weight.

Best budget: TCL S3

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080P
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Sizes available: 32, 40, 43-inches
• Ports: 2x HDMI, 1x headphone jack, 1x USB, 1x Ethernet jack, 1x coaxial, 1x optical
• Operating system: Google TV, Roku TV

Pros

• Price
• Available in smaller sizes
• Modern look

Cons

• Two HDMI ports

Choosing a best budget TV for this guide was difficult because all of its hardware punches above its weight at its price class. There isn’t a poor value in TCL’s current-generation lineup, which is a testament to its value. That said, if you need an inexpensive TV for a guest or bedroom, or have very basic video streaming needs, TCL’s S3 is the one to get.

The 1080P TV doesn’t have the same gaming or premium video features as its high-end siblings, but it does have a couple of distinct advantages. First, you can get a TCL S3 TV in sizes as little as 32 inches, which is the perfect size for a dorm room or to wall mount in a kitchen. Big screens are great for home theaters and living rooms, but they’re not always necessary. The second reason to pick up a TCL S3 TV is, unsurprisingly, its price. The largest-screen model in this line costs under $200. That’s an incredible value for a 43-inch screen. If you’re not gaming or playing streaming 4K videos, this is all the TV you’re going to need.

It’s easy to associate inexpensive tech gear with looking and feeling cheap, but TCL has maintained a high bar for industrial design even with its lower-specced TVs. The S3 TV’s bezel (rim) is nearly flush with the screen, which lowers its bulk and weight in addition to making it look modern. The only problem you may run into is its relatively low number of HDMI ports. There’s enough for one game console and a soundbar, but not much else. If all you want to do is stream the latest season of Stranger Things, this won’t be an issue.

If you’ve been using the same TV for a decade, and want an inexpensive replacement that will look and perform well for its price, TCL’s S2 is the one to get.

What to consider when choosing a Google TV

When deciding which Google TV is appropriate for you, we drilled down into tech specs that make the biggest difference between all sets. One additional overarching factor in your decision will be your budget, which we factored heavily in our decisions.

Size

We understand space constraints may bar you from picking up a truly massive screen, and with that in mind we’ve tailored our recommendations to suit every room. Our Google TV recommendations range in size from 32 to 85 inches. It’s worth noting that going for the largest possible TV may not be wise, even if you have enough space due to your viewing angle. You want the Google TV to be far enough away that you can comfortably see things happening on both edges. We recommend you reference this chart to ensure you get the right-sized Google TV for your room.

Resolution

A Google TV’s resolution determines the number of pixels on its panel, and in this case, more means more. A 4K TV has eight times as many pixels as a 1080P set, which means videos will look sharper and, therefore, more lifelike. While we’re mostly recommending 4K TVs, you should also think about the resolution of the content you consume. If you play games on the Nintendo Switch and have a basic Netflix account, for example, you’ll only be gaming and streaming 1080P content.

A majority of the video content you’ll watch is HD, but we feel getting a 4K set today means you won’t have to upgrade in the near future. The amount of 4K video content continues to increase exponentially, and it’s better to have a TV that can handle it rather than having to get another set down the line.

Refresh rate

A television’s refresh rate determines the number of times it’s able to display new information every second. This doesn’t matter when you’re watching TV shows and movies (unless you’re a serious cinephile who watches movies at 24 frames per second), but is important for gaming. If you have the right system and games, a Google TV with a 120Hz refresh rate will make gameplay look buttery smooth. As with 4K video content, you’ll need a game that can run at up to 120 frames per second to take full advantage of this tech spec.

Ports

The assortment ports on the back of a Google TV aren’t as important as they used to be as people cut the cord and have moved on to streaming video from services you can access directly from the set. Still, if you plan on hooking up a soundbar, game console, or other peripherals, you’ll want to get an Android TV that has enough ports to handle your equipment.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Android TVs

• Best overall: TCL Q6
• Best OLED: Sony BRAVIA XR A80L
• Best for gaming: Sony XR65X90K
• Best QLED: Hisense U7H
• Best budget: TCL S3

As Google TV continues to evolve, it’ll become even easier to recommend sets running this operating system to everyone. The fact that you’ll find the operating system running on TVs at a wide range of prices only speaks to Google’s commitment to the space. We eagerly anticipate the continued introduction of new features as the platform evolves. Rest assured, getting one of these Google TV today means a positive experience.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Android TVs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		3Doodler PRO+ 3D Printing Pen		SEE IT	A full, professional 3D pen kit for serious creators.
Best for kids		3Doodler Start+ Essentials Kit		SEE IT	A fun 3D pen kit with safety features for younger makers.
Best budget		SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen with Display		SEE IT	An entry-level option for the 3D pen curious.

The popularity of 3D printers has spiked in recent years, but if you want to take a more hands-on approach to creating three-dimensional objects, you’ll want a 3D pen. This gadget has many of the same features as a 3D printer: You “build” 3D objects using heated-up filament, which quickly hardens, leaving you with a model. The difference is that a 3D printer will automatically build the model for you based on a digital drawing, whereas you’ll need to build the creation manually using a pen. It takes more work, but building a model with the best 3D pens gives you much more precision as long as your hands are steady.

• Best overall: 3Doodler PRO+ 3D Printing Pen
• Best for kids: 3Doodler Start+ Essentials Kit
• Best budget: SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen with Display

The best 3D Pens: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: 3Doodler PRO+ 3D Printing Pen

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Wood, Nylon, Metal, ABS, PLA & Flexy
• Weight: .26 pounds
• Price: $199.95

Pros

• Works with a lot of materials
• Coms bundled with six materials
• LED screen shows the pen’s temperature and tactile speed

Cons

• Price

If you want to jump into the 3D pen world with both feet, 3Doodle’rs Pro+ is the one to get. The pen is compatible with Wood, Nylon, Metal, ABS, PLA & Flexy materials, and comes bundled with all those filament types, so you can start crafting right out of the box. The pen itself has an ergonomic, curved design, with a small LED screen on the top to show you key stats about the pen in real-time. You can adjust the pen’s temperature, changing how long it takes the material you’re working with to dry. The replaceable nozzle shouldn’t clog up, but if it does, 3Doodler includes an unblocking tool to dislodge stuck filament. If you’re looking to upgrade from a more entry-level 3D pen or want to get a sense of what types of creations this type of gadget is really capable of, 3Doodler’s Pro+ is our recommendation.

Best for kids: 3Doodler Start+ Essentials Kit

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Plastics
• Weight: .68 pounds
• Price: $49.99

Pros

• Easy to hold
• Fun design
• Comes with eight sets of plastic

Cons

• Heavy

3Doodler’s Start+ Essentials Kit is basically a giant, interactive crayon. The fun-colored pen is large, comfortable to hold, and has large buttons that are easier to hit. It’s a little heavier than our other recommendations, but that’s due to its large, curved shape. 3Doodler says this model is 50% faster than the previous model, which should keep kids a little more engaged. While the 3D pen is only compatible with plastic, 3Doodler includes eight colors of filament to help get them started. The filament itself will not get hot enough to burn a kid’s hands, which is a good safety precaution. If you know a kid interested in art, a 3D pen will allow them to express themselves in new and interesting ways.

Best budget: SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen with Display

SEE IT

Specs

• Materials: Plastic
• Weight: .8 pounds
• Price: $29.99

Pros

• Comes with filament
• Mini LED screen
• Price

Cons

• Heavy

If you’ve been curious about 3D printers and pens but don’t know if you’ll like them enough to make a big investment, check out SCRIB3D’s P1. It has many of the same great features as our best overall pick, including a small LED screen that displays the filament temperature, a bundle of different plastic filament to get you started, and an easy-to-use design. Buttons on the 3D pen allow you to change the filament flow speed and temperature, giving you more precise control over your creations. The pen is heavier than our other recommendations, so it may fatigue your hand a little more quickly, but this won’t be an issue if you’re working on smaller projects. For $30, the P1 offers enough of the 3D pen experience to let you know whether jumping up to a more serious model is wise.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 3D Pens

• Best overall: 3Doodler PRO+ 3D Printing Pen
• Best for kids: 3Doodler Start+ Essentials Kit
• Best budget: SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen with Display

We feel that 3D pens deserve more of the attention the best 3D printers have received lately, especially for makers on a more limited budget. Younger creators, in particular, may find this tool helpful because it doesn’t require a computer or software, just a reference drawing or imagination. You can hone your skills to create increasingly more intricate designs or continue building on older ones as your familiarity with 3D pens increases.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 3D pens for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Dell S2722QC		SEE IT	Everything a creative professional or student needs in a single, well-constructed package.
Best for gaming		Samsung Odyssey Neo G8		SEE IT	A no-compromise display for serious PC or console gamers.
Best budget		Philips 288E2E		SEE IT	All the performance most people need—for a lot less money.

Whether you’re working from home, gaming, or creating content, a solid 4K monitor provides all the screen real estate you need to get things done. A high-resolution display will allow you to see text, photos, and video in great detail—especially media that’s been created recently. External monitors have been a common tech accessory for decades, but the marketplace for 4K displays specifically has expanded greatly over the past few years. The combination of 4K PC and console games, accessible 4K video, and the necessity of a home office or learning space has accelerated this change. If you’re assembling a new computer setup, these are the best 4K monitors available right now.

• Best overall: Dell S2722QC
• Best for gaming: Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
• Best curved: AOC CU32V3
• Best ultrawide: LG 38WN95C-W
• Best budget: Philips 288E2E

How we chose the best 4K monitors

The monitor market has introduced several new 4K models in recent years, but these high-res options still aren’t the standard. If you want 4K resolution, that narrows the field quite a bit right off the bat. By eliminating hundreds—if not thousands—of options, it’s easier to choose the best one for your needs. Our recommendations are based on meticulous research and carefully considering the most common uses for a 4K monitor. We’ve also considered the computer platform (Mac or PC) you’re using and whether you’d like to use your monitor with several devices or to replace a TV.

A monitor is the type of tech accessory most people will rely on daily for a decade or more, so our recommendations must stand the test of time and be ready to work with every computer you get. Longevity, multi-functionality, and value were the core virtues we considered when searching for and ultimately selecting the best 4K monitors.

The best 4K monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Our selection of 4K monitors is designed to match any budget and lifestyle. Some are “all-rounders,” which means they’ll be pretty good for many tasks, while others are designed for a specific purpose—gaming, for example—or have a differentiating tech spec, like a curved panel. Our 4K monitor recommendations will serve you well while browsing the web or streaming video.

Best overall: Dell S2722QC

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 27-Inches
• Ports: 1 x USB-C PD, 2 x HDMI, 2 x USB-A, 1 x headphone jack
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
• Speakers: Yes

Pros

• Can quickly charge laptops while they’re connected
• Multiple USB-A ports
• Built-in speakers

Cons

• Low refresh rate for serious gaming

Dell’s S2722QC is an all-in-one package that offers the right mix of excellent performance for most uses and value. One of its standout features is a USB-C port, which allows you to connect it to a MacBook or many modern Windows laptops without an adapter. Yes, there’re multiple HDMI ports on this display, but hooking your computer up to it over USB-C has two big advantages.

First, the laptop will actually charge while it’s connected to this monitor, so it’ll be ready to go when you disconnect it. Second, the single cable also supports data transfer, which is helpful if you hook up an external hard drive, webcam, or another accessory into the S2722QC’s USB-A ports. Using this 4K monitor as a charging station and USB hub puts it at a big advantage over most external displays available now—especially given the S2722QC’s sub-$300 price tag. As a bonus, this single-cable solution will make your home office setup look neater. and ensure your laptop is ready to go when you take it out of your home.

If your laptop doesn’t have a USB-C port, you can still plug it into one of this external display’s two HDMI ports. The next time you upgrade your machine, these welcome features will likely become accessible, which future-proofs the S2722QC a little bit. This 4K monitor’s port selection is complemented by its 3W speakers, which will be useful if you haven’t invested in a standalone audio system for your computer. You shouldn’t expect any audio miracles from this hardware, but it’s better to have something than nothing.

The S2722QC’s only downside—depending on how you plan on using your 4K monitor—is its relatively slow 8ms (millisecond) response time and 60Hz panel. This doesn’t make a difference when you’re watching videos, browsing the web, or editing photos. The only time you’ll notice this feature is when you’re playing fast-paced games like first-person shooters. Casual or slower-paced games don’t require a fast refresh rate display, but cutting-edge titles will suffer slightly, so opt for a dedicated gaming monitor instead.

If you’re not a PC or console gamer looking for a high-resolution display primarily for gaming, the S2722QC will serve you very well.

Best for gaming: Samsung Odyssey Neo G8

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 32-Inches
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 2 x USB-A, headphone jack
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
• Speakers: No

Pros

• Extremely high refresh rate
• Support for Adaptive Sync with AMD and NVidia graphics cards
• Matte display won’t show glare from lights

Cons

• Price
• Curved display may not be for everyone.

If gaming is your primary use case for a 4K monitor, Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G8 is a no-compromise display. Its 240Hz panel is incredibly fast, allowing you to play the latest games at their fastest-possible speed—so long as your gaming computer‘s graphics card and processor are fast enough to handle them. The monitor’s display panel is complemented by built-in software support for Adaptive Sync, which will offer better performance when it’s hooked up to a computer with an AMD or NVidia graphics card.

Adaptive sync will further reduce latency (lag) and the frequency of image artifacts like screen tearing, which can occur when the screen is updated with new images quickly. This technology, which works with settings like low input lag mode and a refresh rate optimizer, increases the probability of smooth, consistent gameplay.

Many modern games support HDR (high dynamic range), which improves contrast and color accuracy when a PC or console is hooked up to a display that supports them. Samsung outfitted the Odyssey Neo G8 with Quantum HDR 2000, so newer games, TV shows, and movies will really pop. Games that don’t support HDR will also look nice, so don’t worry if you spend a lot of time playing the classics.

While Samsung focused primarily on optimizing the Neo G8 for gaming, it made design choices that make it a solid pick for general use. The 4K monitor can be tilted and height adjusted and rotated a full 90 degrees. This is a huge deal ergonomically, as it allows you to position the monitor exactly where you want it without having to get a third-party stand or mount.

The most controversial choice is that the Odyssey Neo G8 has a curved display, a love-it-or-hate-it situation. Curved displays have the advantage of taking up more of your peripheral vision, which, combined with the Odyssey Neo G8’s 21:1 aspect ratio, will create an immersive gaming experience. On the other hand, curved displays can reflect light from multiple angles, which can get frustrating if you’re playing in a well-lit room.

If you have a dedicated PC or console gaming setup, Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G8 can be an excellent 4K desk-friendly display. That said, its cutting-edge hardware does come at an extremely high price. Don’t get us wrong, the Odyssey Neo G8 is an excellent 4K monitor and priced appropriately given its tech specs, but it’s a significant investment.

Best curved: AOC CU32V3

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 32-Inches
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2, headphone jack
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
• Speakers: No

Pros

• Large viewing angle
• Built-in blue light reduction
• Price

Cons

• Curved display may not be for everyone or everywhere

We mentioned the big pros and cons of choosing an external display with a curved panel in the Samsung write-up above, but if you’ve decided this type of display is right for you as a content creator, AOC’s CU32V3 is the monitor to pick. The 32-inch 4K monitor will fill your field of vision, which can be helpful if you’re hunkering down on a big video or photo editing project that requires your full attention. Creative work is what the CU32V3 excels at because it supports 121 percent of the sRGB color gamut along with 90 percent of the Adobe RGB and 89.8 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamuts. These specs become particularly important when you’re color-grading video, which needs to look accurate on multiple TVs with different settings.

The CU32V3’s 4ms latency and 60Hz refresh rates are fine for most tasks, but we wouldn’t recommend playing serious games on this 4K monitor. Those tech specs are appropriate for a monitor in the CU32V3’s price range and will only affect users with a particularly intense use case. AOC was pretty generous when deciding on this monitor’s port selection, though we’d have liked to see some USB-A ports since they’ve become standard on many displays. On the other hand, we appreciate the CU32V3’s built-in blue light reduction mode, which will make it easier to use it late at night. A blue light mode will tint the screen, so it shouldn’t be enabled when photo or video editing, but it’s a nice feature if you’re surfing the web or using this 4K monitor for regular tasks.

If you’re set on getting a curved 4K monitor, AOC’s CU32V3 is an excellent value thanks to its big screen and color reproduction.

Best ultrawide: LG 38WN95C-W

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 38-Inches
• Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt (USB-C), 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 2 x USB-A, 1 x Headphone jack
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
• Speakers: No

Pros

• Massive display that’s still VESA compatible
• Solid refresh rate for gaming
• Wide port selection

Cons

• Price
• May be too big for many desks

Ultrawide monitors have become popular recently because they allow you to have two full-sized windows open on a single display rather than requiring a dual-monitor setup. At 38 inches wide, the 38WN95C-W requires a huge space commitment, but you’re rewarded with a curved display guaranteed to take up all of your peripheral vision. Technically this is a QHD+ (3840 x 1600) display, which isn’t quite a “true 4K,” but it’s the closest you’ll get with a display like this. The monitor would have to be comically tall to accommodate the extra 500 pixels, and you won’t miss them with this type of display.

The 38WN95C-W is stacked on the tech side, especially in its port selection. You can connect four devices to it simultaneously using its mix of HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt ports. The monitor’s Thunderbolt 4 input—the same shape as a USB-C port—has the same benefits as the one in our best overall pick for this guide. You can charge your laptop and connect it to accessories through the 38WN95C-W’s pair of USB-A ports with a single cable.

Gamers will appreciate the 38WN95C-W’s 1ms response time, 144Hz refresh rate, and support for AMD FreeSync and NVidia G-Sync, all of which make this monitor a solid pick for gaming. Its height, swivel, and tilt-adjustable stand also score points in the ergonomics arena. Frankly, it’s hard to find a task the 38WN95C-W isn’t well suited for.

The limiting factor for this display is space—if you have enough and are committed to living the ultrawide monitor lifestyle, the 38WN95C-W can handle anything you throw at it with aplomb.

Best budget: Philips 288E2E

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 28-inches
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Headphone jack
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
• Speakers: Yes

Pros

• Support for 120 percent of the sRGB spectrum
• Height and tilt adjustment
• Price

Cons

• Refresh too slow for gaming

Philips’ 288E2E proves how far the affordability of 4K monitor technology has come in a relatively short time. For $270 (at the time of this reporting), you’re getting a 28-inch 4K display with AMD FreeSync support, the ability to display 120 percent of the sRGB color spectrum, built-in speakers, and an ultra-slim design. Philips had to make very few feature cuts when designing this display, and they mostly come down to nice-to-have-but-unnecessary extras, namely a USB-A port and ultra-fast refresh rate.

These commissions aren’t glaring—though gaming on a 60Hz panel isn’t ideal—and make the 288E2E feel like a slightly more barebones version of our best overall pick, Dell’s excellent S2722QC. Part of this 4K monitor’s appeal is its averageness. Hear us out: There’s no curved panel or ultrawide design, just a straight-ahead high-resolution display. While this may be relatively boring, it’s exactly what most people are looking for in a 4K monitor for general tasks. This display even has built-in speakers, a relative niche feature not found in many of its competitors in this price range.

If your needs are relatively modest, the difference between Philips’ 288E2E and other picks is insignificant. You can use the money you save by picking up this display to upgrade additional parts of your home office setup.

What to consider when buying the best 4K monitors

Several factors should be considered when deciding which 4K monitor fits your needs. These are the five we’ve deemed most important when conducting our research and to help you make your selection:

Screen size

4K monitors come in a variety of sizes, but bigger doesn’t always necessarily mean better. A large monitor will take up more room on your desk and may not be necessary if your needs are modest. Photo and video editors can take full advantage of the space available on a 38-inch 4K monitor more easily than a writer or typical student. Ironically, it’s easier to see individual pixels on a monitor as its screen size grows, which may annoy you if you’ve got very sharp sight. The 4K monitors we recommend run the gamut from 27-38 inches.

Ports

A monitor’s ports (also called inputs) determine which cable is required to connect it to a computer or other tech accessory. All of the 4K monitors above are equipped with multiple HDMI ports, which are the most common input found on external displays and TVs. Many also feature a DisplayPort or USB-C port, which are more niche but serve the same purpose. Some of our 4K monitor picks have USB-A ports, which allow you to use them as a hub to connect your computer to additional accessories.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate—measured in hertz, shortened to Hz—determines how quickly it can be updated with new information. Refresh rates are measured in milliseconds, which means this tech spec isn’t important for common tasks but will make a difference if you choose to use your external display for gaming. A typical monitor offers a 60Hz refresh rate, but it can go much higher. Some gaming monitors go as high as 500Hz, but that’s extreme for the category.

VESA compatibility

All 4K monitors above come with a built-in stand, but you can replace it with a different one—whether it’s a wall mount or a monitor arm—if preferred, as long as they are VESA compatible. Switching to a different monitor stand may improve the ergonomics of your computing setup or save you desk space based on the one you choose.

Speakers

If you’d like to use your computer as a TV replacement, it’s smart to get one with built-in speakers. A monitor’s speakers will never match the quality of a powered pair but will work well in a pinch.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 4K monitors

• Best overall: Dell S2722QC
• Best for gaming: Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
• Best curved: AOC CU32V3
• Best ultrawide: LG 38WN95C-W
• Best budget: Philips 288E2E

A 4K monitor will quickly become the most important tech accessory in your computing setup, right next to the external hard drive you use for regular backups and the Wi-Fi router you rely on for a steady Internet connection. It used to be difficult to find monitors with this resolution without spending thousands of dollars or settling for sub-par specs, but thankfully that’s no longer the case. Advancements in display technology have made 4K monitors more accessible and affordable than ever, and once you get one, there’s no going back.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio, to video games, to cameras, and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 4K monitors for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Apple’s decision to launch the iPhone 15 with a USB-C port instead of a Lightning jack means potentially replacing the accessories you use to keep your smartphone’s battery topped up. We have an entire guide dedicated to everything you’ll need to make this port transition move smoothly, and if you want to address/or sidestep that issue, Anker is discounting its Magnetic Portable Charger by $20 on Amazon.

Anker Magnetic Portable Charger, $39.99 (Was $59.99)

SEE IT

This portable power bank has a capacity of 5,000mAh, which is enough juice to extend the life of your iPhone by several hours. It has a USB-C port, which recharges the battery itself and can power up your tech, and a built-in MagSafe magnetic charging pad. This allows you to recharge any iPhone from the 12th generation onward without a cable. The magnets in Anker’s battery pack and your iPhone will attract, snapping them into perfect alignment to ensure a constant charge. While you can use this battery pack while protecting your iPhone with a MagSafe-compatible case, its thickness may impact your charging speeds.

Anker has marked its Magnetic Portable Charger down by $20, but you can save an additional $10 by clipping a digital coupon on its product page, which is active right now. There’s no set time when the deal or coupon will expire. Apple hasn’t changed the iPhone’s charging port since 2012, and if you want the switch to go as easily as possible, this deal can help. It’s also a great get if you’re an iPhone owner who wants to hold onto an older model without investing in more Lightning accessories.

More deals to help you get charged up:

• Apple MagSafe Charger, $33 (Was $39)
• Anker Nano II 30W Fast Charger, $23.99 (Was $33.99)
• Apple MagSafe Duo, $110.49 (Was $129)
• Belkin MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand, $119.83 (Was $149.99)
• Anker MagGo Charger, $129.99 (Was $139.99)
• Anker 40W USB C Car Charger, $16.99 (Was $29.32)

The post Take 35% off a wireless battery pack at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Ride1Up Rift		SEE IT	The Ride1Up Rift is an outstanding electric bicycle bike whether you’re headed to work or joyriding around town.
Fastest		Priority Current		SEE IT	The Priority Current gets up to max speed quickly and maintains that speed once it gets there.
Best budget		Ancheer Blue Spark		SEE IT	Offering all the basic ebike elements at a lower cost, the Ancheer Blue Spark is a great budget ebike.

While electric bikes have existed in some form or another for more than a century, the modern version was properly introduced in the 1990s—to little fanfare. At the time, they were considered something of a novelty and failed to generate much interest. That changed in the 2000s, when ebikes took off in China. In the last 10 years, the rest of us have come around: There are countless ebikes now, which come in configurations to suit every rider’s needs. But with so many to choose from, how do you pick the one that will put you out in front of the pack? The best electric bikes deliver power (duh), comfort, style, and smart features, whether you’re riding for sport, for work, or simply as a way to get around.

• Best overall: Ride1Up Rift
• Best moped-style: Ride1Up Revv 1
• Best fat tire: Juiced RipCurrent S
• Best cargo: RadPower RadWagon 4
• Best off-road: QuietKat Jeep
• Best for speed: Priority Current
• Best budget: Ancheer Blue Spark

How we chose the best electric bikes

As a lifelong outdoor and fitness enthusiast, bicycling has always been a part of my recreational repertoire. From daily commuting to work via road bike to mountain biking through the rurals of my native state of Washington, I’ve spent more than my fair share of time perched upon the pedals. When it came to electric bikes in particular, I took the testing very seriously—by which I mean I had a lot of fun riding around! At this point, I’ve ridden ebikes from an expansive range of brands—both renowned and up-and-coming—have discussed the pros and cons of different options with industry experts, and have even built several of them piece by piece straight out of the box.

I’ve written about outdoor and fitness gear, including electric bikes, for publications like Popular Mechanics, Runner’s World, the Manual, Thrillist, the Daily Beast, and the Los Angeles Times. All that testing has made me an expert at recognizing genuine quality over hype. In categories where my judgment was a tie, I looked to impressions from real-world owners to verify which ebikes deliver a truly electrifying experience.

The best electric bikes: Reviews & Recommendations

Our selections for the best electric bikes span a spectrum of budgets, from several hundred dollars to several thousand. We’ve included ebikes from a variety of categories that include a fairly wide range of features, so while which is right for you is determined largely by your specific needs, we think the options below cover the bases for most new and veteran riders.

Best overall: Ride1Up Rift

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Ride1Up’s Rift is easy to assemble and feels smooth to ride.

Specs

• Battery capacity: 52V 20 Ah
• Range: 45-60 miles
• Motor: Hub
• Class: 2-3

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Solid frame and overall construction
• Comfortable to ride
• Cost

Cons

• Weight

After a few rides, I began to see Ride1Up’s Rift as wish fulfillment for anyone curious about electric bicycles. The Rift was almost fully assembled when it arrived, which is very helpful if you’ve never put together an electric bicycle. We recommend following Ride1Up’s video instructions for a step-by-step guide on putting it together. It’s possible to assemble this bicycle by yourself, but it’s far easier for two people since one can keep the Rift steady, or lift up its frame while the other attaches its front wheel. The one accessory you’ll need when assembling any eBike—beyond the correct tools—is an air compressor to fill its tires.

Once the bicycle was set up and a helmet was firmly strapped to my head, it was time to take the Rift for a ride on the suburban streets of Long Island. The area I rode in was paved but hilly, giving me the chance to test this electric bicycle’s motor. I started by riding around without any “pedal assistance” to get a feel for how the Rift handled. It’s a heavy electric bicycle, but after a couple of minutes, I had a good handle on how to take wide and sharper turns or how its fat tires would handle bumps in the road, hoses, or smaller potholes.

None of these smaller obstacles posed a problem, thanks to the Rift’s fat tires, though we wouldn’t recommend going over huge bumps just for fun. Ride1UP recommends checking the bicycle’s brakes several times before taking it for a ride to make sure they’re fully operational, and these small test rides gave me the opportunity to do so—though I also checked them before getting on the Rift for the first time.

All of the Rift’s pedal assistance features are accessible via a 2.2-inch color screen mounted on the left handlebar. It’s easy to check your trip time, power consumption, and pedal assistance level (between one and five) at a glance. You shouldn’t be spending a lot of time looking at the screen while riding, so we appreciate how cleanly this information is arranged. As its name suggests, pedal assistance will only kick in when you’re pedaling. The electric bicycle’s motor will kick on after a few seconds, which gives you time to adjust to the increase in speed. Settings one and two feel like a nice little push while you’re going up hills—enough of a boost to make them easier to climb while still requiring effort.

Cranking the Rift’s pedal assistance up to four or five will turn pedaling into a performative act. We could get up steep hills easily, but always felt completely in control of the bicycle. Yes, the Rift can up to 28 miles per hour with pedal assistance cranked up to five, but we never felt like we were going too quickly. If you’ve never used an electric bicycle before, we recommend sticking to the lower power levels to start and working your way up.

Overall, the Ride1UP Rift is a stupendously smooth ride whether you’re upgrading from a different electric bicycle or have always ridden an analog bike. It strikes the right balance between easy assembly, ease of use, comfort, and overall design.

Best moped-style: Ride1Up Revv 1

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Specs

• Battery capacity: 52V 15 Ah
• Range: 30-60 miles
• Motor: Hub
• Class: 2-3, off-road mode

Pros

• Available in full suspension or hardtail configurations
• Multi-class speed system for use on and off roads
• Very comfortable suspension and seat deliver a smooth ride

Cons

• Relatively heavy
• Non-adjustable seat

The Ride1Up Revv 1 is one of the most durable moped-style electric bikes we’ve tested. It offers switchable speed classes and multiple suspension options for a customizable and streamlined riding experience. The bike comes equipped with 20″ x 4″ all-terrain tires, a 750-watt motor, and a 52-volt (15 Ah) battery that offers a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge. While the Revv 1 ships ready-to-go in Class 2 mode, users can unlock a top speed of 28 miles per hour by switching into Class 3 mode using the bike’s control buttons and LCD display. For legal use on private roads, an additional off-road mode is also available to bring the bike’s top speed above 28 miles per hour. The Revv 1 sports a vaguely motorcycle-like design from its frame to its accessories. Weighing in at 93 pounds when fully assembled, it also feels like a real motorized vehicle more than a traditional bike. While it’s possible to assemble this bike on your own, we’d recommend enlisting another set of hands or even a bike shop to be safe.

The Revv 1 offers one of the most comfortable rides in the electric bike market thanks to its pillowy suspension, rugged tires, and extra large seat. We easily cruised along both pavement and fire roads without issue. Riders who normally stick to slower speeds and off-road riding may prefer the more responsive feel of the hardtail configuration. Still, the full-suspension configuration is ideal for maximum flexibility whether you’re commuting or hitting the trails. We do wish the Revv 1 offered some measure of seat height adjustment for users with longer legs; however, overall, the bike’s 32.5-inch seat height should feel comfortable enough for the majority of riders.

Best fat tire: Juiced RipCurrent S

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Why it made the cut: TheJuiced RipCurrent S is powerful, comfortable, and stylish.

Specs

• Battery capacity: 52V 19.2 Ah
• Range: 40-120 miles
• Motor: Hub
• Class: 3

Pros

• Better than average range
• Super comfortable seating and handlebars
• Awesome throttle
• Rack, fenders, and powerful headlight included

Cons

• Very heavy

Before you even start riding, the Juiced RipCurrent S delivers a favorable impression. It looks amazing, boasting an aesthetic that fuses classic road-bike elements with a modern tech edge. The seat is highly comfortable, the handlebars ergonomic, and the overall build quality is immediately evident.

Once you’ve started down the road, you’ll quickly realize why the RipCurrent S excels at the head of the pack. Its thumb-controlled throttle is smooth and powerful, capable of propelling you up to 28 MPH with minimal pedaling exertion. The 9-speed cassette gears shift crisply, and as you’re charging ahead, you’ll enjoy a supremely smooth ride.

All of that is great, but perhaps most important is the RipCurrent S’s outstanding electrical performance. With a range that spans 40 to 120 miles depending on how hard you push it, I tested the RipCurrent while riding alongside several other ebikes and this one accelerated faster than most and outlasted them all.

What’s more, with its sturdy, integrated carrying rack, an uber-bright headlight, and fenders, bell, and tail light included, the RipCurrent S has pretty much all the features any typical rider would need.

All in all, the Juiced RipCurrent S is a truly superior ebike. It’s ideal for daily commutes, and thanks to its front air suspension and fat tires, it’s even fairly off-road capable.

Best cargo: RadPower RadWagon 4

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Why it made the cut: RadPower’s ebikes are all solid, but their RadWagon 4 is an unparalleled cargo hauler.

Specs

• Battery capacity: 48V 14Ah
• Range: 25-50
• Motor: Hub
• Class: 2

Pros

• Massive cargo carrier
• Twist-grip, motorcycle-style throttle
• Surprisingly good acceleration
• Highly adjustable seating and handlebars

Cons

• All that cargo capacity does reduce the range

Generally speaking, RadPower’s electric bikes all offer the utmost in durability, comfort, adjustability, and customization options. Our favorite design, the RadWagon 4, takes things a step further by tacking on a massive cargo carrier and powerful motor. I’ve seen people carry everything from a week’s worth of groceries to musical gear to multiple child safety seats on this thing.

At the same time, the RadWagon delivers an all-around comfortable, downright fun riding experience. Its seating and handlebars are comfortable and highly adjustable to suit your preferences, and it’s got a slew of slick customization options. I’m particularly enamored by their front-end basket and the twist-grip throttle, which provides ample acceleration.

As with other cargo bikes, the extra power needed to carry its cargo translates to a shorter range than other models, but its battery life is still very solid.

Best off-road: QuietKat Jeep

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Why it made the cut: The QuietKat Jeep delivers true go-anywhere capability.

Specs

• Battery capacity: 48V 14.5Ah
• Range: Up to 58 miles
• Motor: Mid-drive
• Class: Configurable as both 1 and 2

Pros

• Superior off-road ability
• Outstanding suspension
• Removable thumb throttle
• Ultra-durable

Cons

• Somewhat limited range

It should come as no surprise that one of the most capable (if not the most capable) off-roading ebike was inspired and cosigned by the Jeep brand, inspired by their 4×4 vehicle. With its high-grip fat tires, advanced torque sensor motor system, powerful brakes, outstanding suspension, and peak power output of 1,500 watts, the QuietKat Jeep is genuinely capable of going just about anywhere. That includes everything from hardpacked trails to soft sand and even snow.

The QuietKat Jeep is all about performance and capability. The company’s four-bar link, Fire-Link suspension system optimizes ground contact, the motor is designed to provide bursts of power and torque when pushed to overcome obstacles, and the whole thing is designed to carry plenty of weight—both human and cargo.

Speaking of cargo, one of the coolest and most unique things offered by the Jeep is its various cargo kits. The Angler’s Kit includes a gear trailer, premium suspension seat post, and Gore cargo cooler. The Overland Kit boasts a Tannus Armour Tire Liner, portable ebike solar charging system, and a bike rack tailored to fat-tire bikes. And the Ultimate Hunter Kit fuses the town, offering the tire liner, premium suspension seat post, fat tire bike rack, and a cargo trailer.

Best for speed: Priority Current

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Why it made the cut: The Priority Current seems sparse at a glance, but the more you put in, the more it puts out.

Specs

• Battery Capacity: 48V 10.4 Ah
• Range: 20-50 miles (in Class 1 setting)
• Motor: Mid-drive
• Class: 1 or 3

Pros

• Great looks
• Class 3 capability
• Integrated USB charger for devices
• Enviolo CVT shifter option

Cons

• Limited range
• LCD screen looks big but does little
• No throttle

I’ll start out by saying that the use of the word “fastest” can be a little misleading with electric bikes, as the fastest any of them can go under motor power—legally—is 28 MPH. The Priority Current earns the distinction for getting up to max speed very quickly and maintaining that speed once it gets there. While the Current has no throttle, its pedal assistance is undeniably powerful. The more you put into pedaling it, the more it will put out.

The Current comes in Class 1 out of the box, but you can easily change the settings and upgrade to Class 3 via an onboard digital display. When choosing your Current, you can go with either a classic Shimano 5-gear shifter or pay a bit more for the Enviolo CVT—a super-smooth transmission system that is in gear no matter how you shift it and can be easily adjusted to suit your terrain via a little gauge indicating flatness vs. hilliness. It also has a super-durable belt drive and an integrated USB outlet for charging devices on the go.

The Current doesn’t have a top-tier range, which may be an issue for long-distance riders. Without Priority’s battery extender, it realistically tops out at around 30 miles. But the Current shines in regards to the overall design, offering an attractive, classically minimalist vibe, and a durable build quality that can go a long way with little to no maintenance.

Best budget: Ancheer Blue Spark

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Why it made the cut: Offering all the basic ebike elements at a lower cost, the Ancheer Blue Spark is a great budget ebike.

Specs

• Battery capacity: 48V 10Ah
• Range: Up to 38 miles (in pedal-assist mode)
• Motor: Hub
• Class: 2

Pros

• Solid motor power
• Throttle-capable
• Smooth transmission

Cons

• Limited range
• Slower charging time

If you’re looking for a solid electric bike that delivers all the standard features without paying thousands of dollars, the Ancheer Blue Spark is a great pick. While there are technically ebikes out there for half its just-shy-of-$1,000 price tag, they simply don’t offer enough features to make you feel like you’re getting a quality battery-assisted ride. The Blue Spark gives you the true electric bike experience, and it does so for $1,000 or $2,000 less than similarly equipped models.

Generally speaking, the Blue Spark offers the performance you need for daily commuting or casual off-roading. Whether in pedal-assist or throttling mode, it will provide plenty of speed and adequate hill-climbing ability, and its riding experience is smooth. 

The lower price comes with caveats, as it always does: The Blue Spark suffers from a rather limited range, but its 20-38 miles capability is pretty typical for its price. And while it certainly is a fine bike for taking over light off-road trails, just be aware that it isn’t meant for anything too extreme.

Blue Spark owners who have ridden it over the long run report that it’s very durable, though, requiring less maintenance than you would expect considering its lower cost. When all is said and done, this is a great bike if you’re looking for a quality ebike but can’t fork over several grand.

Things to consider before choosing from the best electric bikes

With electric bikes available in a seemingly endless variety and wide range of price points, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Many people assume that spending more money guarantees that you get a better product: While there is an element of truth there, I’ve found that the best ebikes can excel in a few key ways without rocketing into the upper stratosphere of bike prices. Here are a few things to consider if you’re looking to ride one of the best electric bikes:

What is its riding range?

Few things make an electric bike less fun and functional than finding yourself out of juice with a long ride still ahead of you. Ebikes boast a lot of tech, which makes them heavy … and makes them a genuine pain in the keister to pedal sans power. Suddenly peddling your slick, cool tech-infused bike feels more akin to pushing an aircraft carrier through the mud.

To avoid this, get an ebike with a large battery. Look for electric bikes that boast the highest watt-hour (Wh) capacity. Ebikes are rated in volts and amp-hours, so to determine battery life in watt-hours you should be multiplying its volts and amps specs. Our best overall pick, for example, has a 52-volt 19.2 amp-hour battery which results in nearly 1,000 Wh. Generally speaking, I’ve found that most bikes offer between 500-800 watt-hours, so anything near the high end of that range is great.

To determine the range from here, you would theoretically just divide the total watt-hours by the average miles per hour. So let’s say you’re averaging 20 MPH on that 1000 Wh bike; then you’d have a range of 50 miles. If you’re looking to go on a really long ride, some companies support external battery packs that can recharge their bikes on the go.

The truth, however, is a bit more complicated. The harder your bike’s motor works—due to bike weight, load weight, speed, hilly terrain, etc.—the more power it uses. The reverse is also true. Lighter weight, flatter terrain, more laidback speed equals less power usage. So essentially, the real-world range is determined by the rider, what they’re doing, and where they’re going.

What class of electric bike do you need?

In the United States, electric bikes are divided into three classes depending on the degree of motor assistance they provide to augment your pedaling.

Class 1 electric bikes are solely pedal assist: They provide oomph to your pedaling up to 20 miles per hour. These are the most basic ebikes and they can be used everywhere traditional bikes can go.

Class 2 electric bikes feature a throttle that, at the flick of a switch, can propel you up to 20 miles per hour on their own and maintain that speed even if you aren’t pedaling. Depending on where you live, Class 2 ebikes may not be allowed on certain bike lanes and trails. The European Union, for example, has a total ban on throttled bikes.

Class 3 electric bikes usually drop the throttle in favor of pedal assist and have stronger motors capable of reaching 28 miles per hour. Regulations for Class 3 bikes vary from place to place, but they tend to be allowed on roads and bike lanes but may be restricted from mountain bike trails and multi-use paths.

Speaking broadly, commuters and professionals tend to gravitate toward Class 2 bikes, which require the least effort, or Class 3 bikes, which are faster and tend to be better equipped for carrying heavy loads.

Type of motor

Electric bikes almost always feature one of two motor types: mid-drive or hub-drive.

Mid-drive motors are positioned on the bottom bracket and their primary benefit involves the fact that they have a greater gear range, making them easier and more efficient to pedal uphill. The downside, however, is that they’re harder on the bike and can exact a heavy maintenance toll. 

Hub-drive motors, on the other hand, are usually attached to the rear hub and require little-to-no maintenance. That said, hub-drive motors do usually make it a bit more challenging to change a flat tire. 

To make a broad generalization, hub-drive motors make for better commuter bikes, while mid-drive motors are geared more toward performance riding on trails or up hills. The latter tends to be somewhat more energy-efficient, but you won’t necessarily feel the difference unless you’re riding up a lot of hills. 

Durability and build quality

It can be hard to determine unless you buy a bike and spend many years with it, but you want to make sure you aren’t buying a bike that’s going to need repairs all the time. When trying out different bikes, pay attention to whether the parts all feel firmly in place, or if some of them seem brittle or poorly fitted in any way. Check that the motor and chain system doesn’t rattle to any undue degree. Lastly, get on the bike and make sure that the design feels comfortable.

Lights, carriers, and other extras

One final thing to look for in an electric bike involves safety, convenience, and other add-on features. Many ebikes include high-quality lighting systems, integrated locks, and other safety/protective elements. Some, like the VanMoof S3, even have tracking and remote locking systems, alarms, and other tech-enabled security. 

Several brands also boast the option to trick out your ride with super-sleek integrated rear cargo carriers, front-end baskets, water bottle holders, bells, and other fun/functional accessories. Just as with a traditional bike, you can always tack on third-party products, but the best companies offer some really cool options to build out your bike from the get-go. How much do electric bicycles cost?

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best electric bikes

• Best overall: Ride1Up Rift
• Best moped-style: Ride1Up Revv 1
• Best fat tire: Juiced RipCurrent S
• Best cargo: RadPower RadWagon 4
• Best off-road: QuietKat Jeep
• Best for speed: Priority Current
• Best budget: Ancheer Blue Spark

Picking the right electric bike comes down to how you expect to use it. I spent an entire day testing out different ebikes with my brother and nephew, and while we all agreed on which was the best, we preferred different models based on our individual riding styles.

Knowing that, my final advice is to test out a variety of ebikes before you buy one. Reading descriptions online can be useful, but digital hype versus on-road reality can make a big difference. I had somewhat low expectations for the Juiced RipCurrent S, for example, because it was a lesser-known brand getting comparatively less attention online. Then, when we actually tried it out, my testing trio unanimously agreed that it was the best.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best electric bikes of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Pro		Logitech Combo		SEE IT	Elite performance, ease of use, and protection on the go, all at a price tag that won’t make you break a sweat.
Best Overall		Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad		SEE IT	The very best performance, ease of use, and finish, but with a price tag that might make you back away slowly.
Best Bluetooth		Zagg Pro Keys		SEE IT	If you don’t need a trackpad, this gives you great protection and keyboard use at a surprisingly low price tag.

An iPad can be a laptop replacement, depending on your workload, but you’ll need an iPad keyboard to maximize its potential. A keyboard is one of the most useful iPad accessories because it significantly changes the tablet’s capabilities. Typing becomes easier, and shortcuts like copy (CMD + C), paste (CMD + V), and cut (CMD + X) can be used to manipulate text without touching the screen. Many productivity apps on the iPad support their own keyboard shortcuts to easily access settings without touching the tablet’s display. The best iPad keyboards will help extend its usefulness and help you take full advantage of this incredibly powerful gadget.

• Best overall: Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad
• Best pro: Logitech Combo Touch
• Best Bluetooth: ZAGG Pro Keys
• Best budget: Brydge 12.9 Pro+ Wireless Keyboard
• Best traditional keyboard: Logitech K380

How we chose the best iPad keyboards

We take product testing very seriously at PopSci and have had the opportunity to get hands-on time with many of the iPad keyboards we’re recommending. We surveyed the dozens of iPad keyboard options and narrowed our selections to fit every use case and budget. We put each keyboard through its paces by typing, swiping their trackpads, and carrying them around to gauge their weight.

To find the best iPad keyboards, we addressed the main reasons you might pick one up. Writers and creatives will have more aggressive needs than folks who want an easier way to dash off emails or prefer keyboard typing to tapping on a screen. We also ensured that our case recommendations were available in different sizes to accommodate different iPad models. And iPad keyboards vary pretty significantly in cost, so we were also mindful to have recommendations at every price point.

The best iPad keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you got your iPad for fun, more affordable processing, or productivity on the go, adding an iPad keyboard can up the usefulness and ease of use for both productive work and your more relaxing time on an iPad, like surfing the internet or texting friends. When you’re choosing the right keyboard, there are a number of things to consider. Options include a trackpad, for true use without touching your iPad screen, a variety of charging options, folio cases, external keyboards, and more. To help you sort through it all, we’ve done the legwork to find the best iPad keyboards for everybody’s needs.

Here’s the one thing the technological fat cats don’t want you to know: You can pair any Bluetooth keyboard to the iPad. Similarly, you can connect any wired keyboard to its USB-C or Lightning port, and it’ll work automatically. We’ve elected to go hands-on with purpose-built keyboards for the iPad but also included standard Bluetooth keyboards. Whether you want to jump from primarily using a computer to a tablet or want to breathe some new life into an iPad that’s been underused, we’ve rounded up the best iPad keyboards for your needs.

Best overall: Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad

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Specs

• Compatible models: iPad Pro 12.9 (Gen 3. Gen 4. Gen 5. Gen 6.), iPad Pro 11 (Gen 1. Gen 2. Gen 3. Gen 4), iPad Air (Gen 4), iPad (Gen 10)
• Trackpad: Yes
• Weight: 2.42 pounds
• Connectivity: Magnetic Apple Smart Connector
• Function keys: No
• Backlit keys: Yes
• Keyboard Style: Folio keyboard case
• Trackpad: Multitouch trackpad
• Power: Smart connector draws power from iPad

Pros

• Quiet keyboard switches
• Good keyboard feel
• Solid construction

Cons

• Only works with iPads
• Doesn’t give protective coverage

The Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad is the flagship model of iPad keyboard cases and comes in a variety of sizes for different models. As such, it has the fit and finish you’d expect. The quality and ease of use are the same as the iPad itself, but it comes with a high price tag to match. 

Rather than plugging in this keyboard case, the keyboard connects to your iPad with the Apple Smart Connector, which also allows it to draw power from your iPad, so you don’t have to charge the keyboard separately. This does, of course, limit your keyboard use to iPads, though, so you won’t be able to link this to other devices, and your keyboard will draw down the battery of your iPad. 

The keyboard case covers the back of the iPad but won’t cover the sides, so if protection is a big concern, you might want something more robust. The bottom is rubberized though, so that it will stay in place, and the handsome “floating cantilever” design allows you to adjust your viewing angle, and just looks awesome. 

The feel of the keyboard and touchpad are satisfying and will make you pleased to use Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad day after day for work or relaxation. 

Best pro: Logitech Combo Touch

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Specs

• Compatible models: iPad Pro 12.9 (Gen 3. Gen 4. Gen 5. Gen 6.), iPad Pro 11 (Gen 1. Gen 2. Gen 3. Gen 4.)
• Trackpad: Yes
• Weight: 1.72 pounds
• Connectivity: Magnetic Apple Smart Connector
• Function keys: Yes
• Backlit keys: Yes
• Keyboard Style: Folio keyboard case
• Trackpad: Multitouch trackpad
• Power: Smart connector draws power from iPad

Pros

• Comfortable keys
• Responsive trackpad
• Immediate connectivity

Cons

• Expensive

If you’re looking for performance similar to the Apple Magic Keyboard, but at a lower price point, this keyboard folio from longtime Apple partner Logitech (makers of mice and other accessories we love) is a perfect fit. 

The Logitech Combo connects to your iPad via the Apple Smart Connector, similar to the Magic Keyboard, to give seamless connectivity and power. This makes packing and using the combo a breeze. The combo also offers a kickstand on the back to allow you to prop your iPad up and even allows you to change the viewing angle for the greatest comfort. If you are building out your iPad ecosystem, you’ll also enjoy that the combo comes with space to store your Apple Pencil, which is great for those who use their iPads for drawing or other creative work.

Your creativity will only be aided by the flexibility of the Combo. It offers more protection than the Magic Keyboard, thanks to a case that wraps all around the edges of the iPad, and when you are traveling the keyboard covers the screen. If you want to use your iPad without the keyboard though, you can detach it from the folio case and get the same edge protection without the keyboard in your way.

The trackpad is easy to use, though some might find that the small keyboard keys laid out close together can lead to some accidental button presses and typos. 

Best Bluetooth: ZAGG Pro Keys

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Specs

• Compatible models: All iPad models
• Trackpad: Yes
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Function keys: Yes
• Backlit keys: Yes
• Keyboard Style: Folio keyboard case
• Trackpad: Multitouch trackpad
• Power: USB-C rechargeable internal battery

Pros

• Affordable and easy to use
• Solid protection with keyboard flexibility
• Long battery life

Cons

• Have to use the iPad touchscreen
• Bulkier than some options

If you don’t need a trackpad but still want keyboard performance, this Zaggs option gives you all the keys you need, including arrows and iPadOS-specific function keys, for an affordable price. 

While this case is a bit wider and heavier than other folio keyboard case options on this list, it does give robust full-edge protection for our iPad. If you are looking for a bit more streamlined use, though, the keyboard detaches from the case, so you can more easily use the iPad while relaxing or drawing. And, if drawing is your thing, this case also has a slot for an Apple Pencil built in.

When you are using the iPad for work, though, the case has two viewing angles to keep you comfortable. The keyboard keys themselves are very quiet, though they are a bit small and can lead to some typos. For a bit of fun, the keyboard keys are backlit with seven different colors that you can cycle through for whatever color matches your energy. 

And if you want to use your keyboard for devices that aren’t your iPad, the Zaggs keyboard attaches via Bluetooth to multiple devices simultaneously, allowing you to cycle through your iPad, computer, and even your phone.

Best budget: Brydge 12.9 Pro+ Wireless Keyboard

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Specs

• Compatible models: iPad Pro (12.9-Inch Gen 3. Gen 4.)
• Trackpad: Yes
• Weight: 1.1 Pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Function keys: Yes
• Backlit keys: Yes
• Keyboard Style: Folio keyboard case
• Trackpad: Multitouch trackpad
• Power: Rechargable battery

Pros

• Most laptop-like
• Excellent build quality
• Many viewing angles

Cons

• Heavy

If you’d like to turn your iPad Pro into a MacBook essentially, Brydge’s 12.9 Pro+ Wireless Keyboard is the ideal accessory. The keyboard is made from aluminum and has the same keyboard layout as Apple’s laptops. It connects to your iPad wirelessly over Bluetooth, held securely to the tablet by slotting it into two clips on top of the keyboard. Once installed, you can tilt the keyboard forward and backward with pinpoint precision. If you’ve put off getting an iPad keyboard because of the lack of flexibility, this keyboard design solves that issue.

We found both the keys and trackpad on Byrdge’s keyboard to be very responsive. Every key press was registered, and we very rarely had a dropped character. Our experience with this keyboard’s trackpad was similar; we felt we had total control over the iPad’s cursor. Movements, swipes, and clicks were all registered, and scrolling, in particular, felt smooth. Brydge released software updates through its iPadOS app to continually improve performance as Apple updated its operating system.

The best thing about Brydge’s keyboard is that it makes the iPad feel just like a MacBook technically. The worst thing about Brydge’s keyboard is that it makes the iPad feel just like a MacBook physically. The extra weight and thickness from an added Brydge Pro+ is noticeable when carrying the iPad around both on its own or in a bag. The iPad Pro’s relatively thin and light design is compromised—though you can easily detach the iPad at any time. If you’d like your iPad Pro to look and feel like a next-generation MacBook at a lower cost than many alternatives, however, Byrdge’s 12.9 Pro+ Wireless Keyboard is the best choice.

Best traditional keyboard: Logitech K380

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Specs

• Compatible models: All iPads
• Trackpad: N/A
• Weight: .9 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Function keys: Yes
• Backlit keys: Yes
• Keyboard Style: Compact external Keyboard
• Trackpad: No
• Power: 2x AAA batteries

Pros

• Variety of colors
• Small and easy to travel with 
• Affordable

Cons 

• Keys are a bit small
• Have to replace batteries 

Unlike other entries in this article, the Logitech K380 is a proper external wireless keyboard rather than a keyboard case. Because of this, you get a lot of versatility that comes with not having your keyboard attached to your device. 

Chief among this flexibility is the ability to attach this keyboard to three devices and switch through them with the push of a button. It makes it supremely convenient to move between your iPad, MacBook, or even your phone. The keyboard also comes with a full slate of keys that make the keyboard more convenient, including playback control, brightness keys, and volume keys. 

While this keyboard does not attach to your iPad, it is still supremely easy to bring along with you anywhere you go. That’s because the compact keyboard weighs less than a pound and comes in a compact and sturdy build that easily fits on your lap or a tabletop. 

Some might not like that this keyboard requires two AAA batteries (we recommend rechargeables) rather than uses an internal battery; however, the low power demands mean you shouldn’t need to replace those batteries for more than a year, even with heavy use. 

Do you prefer to keep things in the Apple ecosystem for maximum compatibility and/or aesthetic reasons? The Apple Magic Keyboard, pictured here, is another fabulous option.

What to consider when shopping for the best iPad keyboards

There’s an overabundance of iPad keyboards available in 2023, which are designed to suit every type of person or potential use case. Below, you’ll find what we weighted most heavily when deciding which iPad keyboards to test. We also considered cost and value and made sure to have options that would suit a wide range of budgets. Note: Most of our testing was conducted on a 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

Compatible models

Apple has four lines of iPad: iPad, iPad mini, iPad Pro, and iPad Air, which have differently sized displays. You’ll need to make sure that you’re getting an iPad keyboard that’s compatible with the model you have. This is clearly labeled on each iPad keyboard’s product page. If you’re unsure of which iPad model you have, you can find that information by opening the settings app on your tablet, tapping on “General,” then tapping on “About. The iPad’s model name will be the third piece of information listed.

Trackpad

Many iPad keyboards released after 2020 have a built-in trackpad to mimic the experience of using a laptop more thoroughly. A cursor will appear when you touch an iPad keyboard’s trackpad, and you can use it just like the one on a laptop or desktop computer. You can scroll through web pages or apps, switch between apps, select text, and thousands of other commands or gestures. If you intend to turn your iPad into a laptop replacement, getting a keyboard with a trackpad will make the transition a lot smoother.

Weight

One of the iPad’s greatest strengths—especially compared to a laptop—is its lightness. You’re going to add bulk and weight by attaching a keyboard, which will be noticeable when you carry it around in a bag or backpack. We’ve noted the weight of each iPad keyboard we’re recommending for this reason. One metric to keep in mind as a point of comparison: Apple’s 13-inch M2 MacBook Air weighs 2.7 pounds.

Connectivity

An iPad keyboard can be connected to the tablet in the following ways: by plugging in a cable, pairing over Bluetooth, or using the iPad’s magnetic pins. Each connectivity option has pros and cons, but there’s no significantly better or worse connectivity method.

Typing requirements

Not all keyboards are created equal. If you are looking to do long word processing on your iPad, make sure you get a more robust keyboard that will let you type comfortably for extended periods of time. If you are just using your iPad keyboard as an inbetween, it might be more worthwhile to save money and opt for a cheaper, less ergonomic keyboard. 

Function keys

All of the iPad keyboards we’re recommending have a row of function keys on top. These keys allow you to adjust the iPad’s brightness and volume or access other useful system settings at the push of a button.

Backlit keys

If you plan on using your iPad for productivity tasks at all hours of the day and night, it may be helpful to get one with backlit keys. This will allow you to type more easily when working in spaces without a lot of light.

iPad usage

Will you be typing, or do you plan on doing some drawing as well? A keyboard attached to your iPad can be cumbersome when you are using your iPad as a tablet and not typing. If so, consider a folio with a keyboard that can detach or a completely external keyboard that allows unhindered use when you’re not typing. 

iPad protection

Consider if you will be treating your keyboard as an iPad case as well. If so, how much protection do you need? If you are constantly throwing your iPad in and out of your bag, make sure you have back and edge protection. If, however, it is just an in-between workstation at home, you may be able to get away with a keyboard that does not offer any, or just minimal, protection. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best iPad keyboards

• Best overall: Apple Magic iPad Keyboard
• Best pro: Logitech Combo Touch
• Best Bluetooth: ZAGG Pro Keys
• Best budget: Brydge 12.9 Pro+ Wireless Keyboard
• Best traditional keyboard: Logitech K380

Apple continues to improve both iPad hardware and iPadOS in ways that make the tablet a viable laptop replacement for more and more people. The introduction of trackpad support in 2020 was its last major push in this area, and it allowed the company (and third parties) to design iPad keyboards that were much more Mac-like than before. Whether you’ve got an older iPad you’d like to try and use in new ways or have gone all-in on the iPad productivity lifestyle, a keyboard isn’t a necessary accessory, but it does open up use cases for the tablet that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. It will have the biggest impact on your typing speed, and many popular applications have begun building keyboard shortcuts into their software to make it easier (and faster) to access key functions. And iPad keyboards with trackpads turn the iPad into a legitimate laptop competitor in many instances; after all, the latest iPad Pros run on the same processor as the newest MacBooks. If you want to get the most out of Apple’s tablet, we strongly suggest pairing it with a keyboard.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best iPad keyboards of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Sonos released its latest at-home speakers, the Era 100 and Era 300, in March 2023. Their new name signified the next chapter of Sonos’ journey into connected speakers, and the multi-driver, multi-channel 300 even introduced Dolby Atmos support into its non-soundbar speakers. With the company’s latest speaker—the creatively named Move 2, a successor to its first party speaker—Sonos seeks to bring some of its new audio standards into a device you could take anywhere.

The original Sonos Move was released in 2019, and a lot has happened in the audio world since then, especially in the increasingly competitive world of high-fidelity wireless speakers. Having spent a little more than a week with the speaker, I can confidently say the Move 2 is an excellent addition to Sonos’ lineup, taking everything I really liked about the Era 100 and cramming it into a portable speaker.

The Move 2’s release comes at an interesting time in the portable smart connected speaker world. JBL released its new premium lineup, including the Authentics 300, which is the same price as the Move 2. Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A5, released this past spring, comes in at a whopping $1,300, which proves premium audio companies are taking portable speakers seriously. The Move 2 keeps pace and even exceeds much of its competition by offering a speaker with an inviting design, great sound, continued advancements in sustainability, and tight integration with the company’s every-growing ecosystem of speakers. Sonos, like Apple, has cultivated an active fanbase, and they’ll find a lot to like about the Move 2. Skeptics may become converts if they give the speaker a chance.

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Overview

• The Sonos Move 2 is the second generation of Sonos’s first portable speaker, released in 2019.
• It inherits many features found on the Sonos Era 100, including stereo sound, a USB-C port for charging and expandability, and a recessed volume slider.
• Music lovers charmed by Sonos’ sound profile, ease of setup, and broader ecosystem should consider the Move 2 before any other mid-sized portable Bluetooth speaker.

Pros

• Excellent sound
• Wireless charging
• Replaceable battery
• Modularity (Via USB-C)
• Built-in handle

Cons

• $50 price increase from the original Move
• Coating can come off

The verdict: The Sonos Move 2 is a big improvement over the original in tangible ways, including better battery life, stereo sound, and even more sustainability features. In a crowded field, it’s hard not to recommend this portable speaker to anyone who cares about ease of use, ergonomics, and great sound.

The build

It seems odd to describe a speaker as inviting, but that’s the adjective that’s continued to come into my mind during my time with the Move 2. From the front, it looks like a standard Sonos speaker: Ovular, brandished with the Sonos logo, and a pinhole-sized LED on top to let you know the speaker’s status. On top of the speaker, you’ll find a recessed well that acts as a volume slider—swiping your finger left turns audio down, right turns it up—as well as play/pause, voice assistant mute, and track selection controls.

Turning the speaker around will reveal a power button, Bluetooth button, a mic switch, and USB-C port. The USB can charge the speaker or connect the Move 2 to a Sonos dongle for additional connectivity options. There are two exposed pins at the very bottom, allowing you to wirelessly charge the Move 2 by setting it atop a charging base (a plastic loop) included in the box. The base feels solid, and the speaker immediately recognized it and began charging. This isn’t the only way to top up the Move 2, but it gives the speaker a sense of additional portability; you feel like you can grab the speaker and go at any time. Sonos more than doubled the Move 2’s battery life compared to the original version, offering up to 24 hours of use per charge instead of 11. You shouldn’t have to plug it in daily—and I certainly didn’t—though you might have to more often if you pump the volume or take advantage of its ability to be a power bank for USB-C devices. Sonos did this without dramatically increasing the speaker’s size or weight, too.

What makes the back of the Move 2 different than any other speaker I’ve tested is that those aforementioned buttons are inside a tapered recess. The top of this control panel cutout is hollow, with enough space for four of my fingers. This acts as a handle, allowing me to transport the Move 2 from place to place easily. It’s the type of industrial design feature that feels immediately natural and nicer than the straps or handles that come with many larger portable speakers. While I really like the Move 2’s sound profile—more on that later—it’s this built-in handle that charmed me the most.

Cutting a chunk out of the back of your speaker could be a recipe for disaster as it leaves less space for audio components (bigger amps and drivers are better) and a battery. Sonos seems to have accounted for this, and I never had any issues with the Move 2’s sound or lifespan. I set it down on its charging stand for testing purposes but could have gotten a week’s worth of daily use from the speaker without running the risk of having it conk out. This is not entirely unique for a speaker in the Move 2’s size class, but still nice to see.

While the Move 2’s physical design impressed, what’s on the inside really counts. Sonos outfitted the speaker with three class-D amplifiers to drive a pair of angled tweets and a single mid-woofer. This driver array allows the speaker to play music in stereo, though you might want to pair it with a second Move 2 if you’re concerned with better channel separation. My only complaint about the Move 2’s build is that part of its finish got scratched while being transported in a backpack, which feels like it shouldn’t happen so easily for a speaker intended to be lugged around. All this doesn’t take away from the Move 2’s ability to perform indoors or out; with an IP56 rating, the speaker is protected from dust and high-pressure water streams so that you can feel confident taking it from the patio to the pool, the backyard to the beach (though don’t submerge it in sand nor surf).

The setup

Sonos has streamlined the setup process to the point of virtual perfection. The Sonos app (available on both iOS and Android) immediately recognized the Move 2 and asked if I wanted to add it to my system. Tapping “yes” on the prompt initiated a setup process that happened entirely in the background. The speaker was added to my home’s WiFi network and integrated as part of the Sonos system in under a minute.

I was prompted to download a firmware update, which was just as simple, and then I was free to begin testing the speaker in earnest. Many wireless speakers have a similarly straightforward setup process, but it’s impressive that Sonos has streamlined it for one that connects over WiFi. It’s tedious to enter your WiFi password into yet another app, and I was pleased I didn’t have to.

If you’re on an Apple device, like I was for testing, you can stream lossless music to the speaker over WiFi using AirPlay 2, Apple’s custom protocol. Non-Apple devices can stream music from both services and their local library through the Sonos app. If you prefer Bluetooth, you can enable this mode by pressing the Bluetooth button on the back of the speaker. The first time you do this, the speaker will enter a pairing mode, and the LED on its front side will flash blue. Once connected, you can use it like a typical Bluetooth speaker, trading more universal connectivity for more limited bandwidth and range. However, it’s important to note that you must go through the WiFi setup before taking advantage of Bluetooth; this is not a speaker intended for anyone who doesn’t have a connected household.

It’s unnecessary, but you can connect the speaker to your Amazon account via the Sonos app to use the Move 2’s microphone to access Alexa, Amazon’s smart home assistant. When connected, you can use the Move 2 to control smart-home devices and play tracks with your voice. The Move 2 ships with Sonos’ more limited smart home assistant mostly designed around music playing. The microphone can be temporarily muted by tapping a capacitive touch control on the speaker’s top.

The sound

If you’ve heard a Sonos speaker before—especially the Era 100 or recently released Ray and Beam 2 soundbars—you’ll be familiar with how the Move 2 sounds. Sonos has its own preferred tuning and makes no qualms about admitting that. The Move 2’s press page goes so far as to say the speaker’s class-D digital amplifiers are “precision-tuned for the speaker’s unique acoustic architecture.” I’m typically very critical of non-flat EQs because I’d like to hear music as close to the artist’s intentions as possible, but I admit to liking the Move 2’s sound profile a lot.

Don’t worry; Sonos hasn’t evoked the infamous “smiley face,” or U-shaped, EQ setting wherein the lowest bass and treble frequencies are jacked up while the midrange is tamped down. The speaker sounds remarkably natural, with a tasteful EQ that you’ll only notice if you’re really listening to it. If you’re listening to tracks you’re very familiar with, you may notice a little extra bass here or a little less treble there, but it’s all in favor of making audio sound pleasing.

There isn’t an identical “one-sound-fits-all” Sonos sheen applied over everything you hear, as tweaks will vary from song to song and room to room. Sonos’ audio profile is backed up with Automatic Trueplay, a software feature that adjusts the Move 2’s sound based on the environment using the speaker’s built-in microphone. This happens in real-time, and it was possible to hear a slight difference in the Move 2’s sound when moving from one location to another. The one caveat, however, is that you need to have the microphone enabled for Automatic Trueplay to work. A physical switch on the back cuts off power to the mics if you’re not into persistent monitoring, but there’s no way to create a Trueplay profile that works with the mics off.

Some speakers, like JBL’s Authentics 300, live up to their name by providing a warts-and-all presentation of music, which is great if you crave music accuracy but does rely on you having higher-quality, better-mastered source material. This was the strategy high-end audio companies employed before the powered, connected, and wireless speaker revolutions. Still, it doesn’t always square with the way people listen to music now, i.e., listening to lossy tracks on streaming services. Both paths work, but Sonos’ path of applying digital processing makes it easier to get a consistent experience.

While listening to podcasts, I noticed the richness in each voice, regardless of its register. There was a lot of detail, while a subtle sheen was placed over the entire recording to buff out some rough edges, which were audible when listening through other speakers. Sometimes, some light processing is good; you want to enjoy a show rather than be distracted by the effects of someone broadcasting from an untreated room. This doesn’t mean poor-sounding recordings will magically sound good; it’s just that good recordings can sound even better.

I had a similar experience when listening to music. I could make out every bass note Chris Hillman played on The Byrds’ cover of Bob Dylan’s “You Ain’t Going Nowhere” as clearly as the snare drum beats laid down by Michael Clarke. Jumping ahead 55 years to Olivia Rodrigo’s “bad idea right?” I was similarly pleased that the bass—turned way up—didn’t drown out the multi-layered vocals or driving guitar solo. I tested the Move 2’s treble performance by listening to The Clash’s “Train In Vain (Stand By Me),” whose intro includes a series of cymbal hits that can sound piercing on speakers with a bright sound profile. If that’s the case, each hit will hurt your ears. The Move 2 walked right up to that line but didn’t cross over. Naturally, the mastering and resolution of the music you listen to will play a factor in your experience. Different versions of the same songs can differ pretty dramatically depending on the musician and engineer’s tastes.

Listening to tracks from different eras and genres, I continued my formal tests by listening to Earth Wind & Fire’s autumnally appropriate “September.” The song, a total bop, has a lot going on. The horns in the background, conga drums, steady drum and bass lines, and those soaring vocals. The auditory menagerie sounded well-kempt on the Move 2, on which each song element was audible if you focused on it. On the whole, the Move 2’s sound profile sounds a little bass-heavy (not uncommon for a speaker that can see outdoor use), with a lot of effort put into making sure sounds in the midrange, like vocals, sound particularly great.

I spent most of my time listening to lossless audio tracks from an iPhone over WiFi, but did pop on Bluetooth mode for testing (the baseline SBC and native-Apple AAC codecs are supported). I didn’t notice any significant quality hit switching to the more compressed format and didn’t even feel limited by its lower range most of the time. In most cases, a track’s mastering will matter much more than its resolution.

While the speaker can play songs in stereo, it can’t recreate as wide a soundstage as a pair of individual speakers or even the football-shaped Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin. If I listen to the lopsided stereo mix of The Mamas & the Papas’ “California Dreamin’,” it still sounds pretty close to the mono mix. On the Zeppelin, I could clearly hear vocals from half the band on my left and the other half on my right. Stereo separation gets better the further away you sit, but a portable Atmos speaker, this is not. Of course, you’re not taking the Zeppelin anywhere with you, no matter how powerfully dynamic it sounds. You can pair two Move 2 speakers together for better separation to the tune of $900, but you should consider other options at that point.

The conclusion

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Specs

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.3 x 5 inches (HWD)
• Weight: 6.61 pounds
• Battery life: Up to 24 hours
• Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C port
• IP Rating: IP56
• Voice assistants: Amazon Alexa, Sonos Voice Control
• Price: $449
• Release date: September 20, 2023

Sonos has been on a roll since the introduction of its first smart speaker, the One, in 2017. The Move 2 is the latest addition, and it benefits from the improvements Sonos continually makes to its audio infrastructure and product ecosystem. Some features I didn’t test, like the ability to hook the Move 2 to a turntable using an optional dongle or the user-replaceable battery, speak to Sonos’ confidence in this being your go-to portable speaker for a long time and that you may even find new ways to use it. Of course, the Move 2’s $449 price tag will put it out of reach for many people, which is why the Toblerone-shaped Sonos Roam exists for $179. But what you get with the Move 2 is similar performance to the homebound Era 100 wherever you go and a battery that keeps going and going. The Move 2 is a refined speaker that will satisfy existing Sonos fans with its familiarity and audio quality that should convert new fans if their budget allows.

The post Sonos Move 2 speaker review: Welcome to the portable era appeared first on Popular Science.

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Over a decade since it introduced its first Flip, a “party in your palm,” JBL is a titan in the portable party speaker market. The speaker designer now has over a half-dozen popular verticals, so anyone searching for a Bluetooth speaker can find the features that fit their space and lifestyle. When JBL launched its latest wireless speaker line, however, the company introduced three speakers that aim to elevate active at-home listening. The mid-tier model, dubbed the Authentics 300, might be the Goldilocks of the bunch. JBL spared no expense with the speaker’s industrial design, which is top-notch and frankly unmatched. Coupled with a driver array that delivers stereo sound and the ability to connect two smart-home assistants at the same time, JBL took inspiration from the past with eyes on the future. The approach worked, and anyone looking to get a taste of a mobile home-stereo experience should be aware.

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Overview

• JBL’s Authentics 300 is one of the company’s new flagship wireless speakers, launching alongside the Authentics 200 and 500 speakers.
• The speaker offers true stereo sound by way of two 1-inch tweeters, a single 5.24-inch woofer, and a downward-firing 6.5-inch passive radiator.
• This speaker’s audio quality does not degrade when its volume is pushed to 100% and gets loud enough that you’ll never need to push it that far.

Pros

• Superb audio quality
• On-speaker EQ knobs
• Classic, classy design
• Works with both Amazon’s Alexa and the Google Assistant
• Made in part from recycled materials

Cons

• No IP durability rating
• So-so battery life for a large speaker

The Verdict: For music lovers who want “the best” sound quality possible, JBL’s Authentics 300 delivers the goods. The speaker’s price is steep, but it’s aesthetically peerless and makes good on the promise of “room-filling sound.”

The build

Take one look at the JBL Authentics 300, and you may find yourself in a bit of a trance. The matte metallic frame, black leather-like enclosure, and hard-padded grille bring to mind grandiosity you don’t typically see in speakers—or most other audio gear—below $1,000. That grid, a callback to the formed Quadrex foam of the L100 (a three-way speaker introduced in 1970), gives the speaker the feel of a vintage hi-fi with a 2020s twist. Though the materials feel—and are, in fact—extremely luxe, they’re also environmentally friendly. JBL says its speaker is made from 100% recycled fabric, 85% recycled plastics, and 50% aluminum. Even its box is made from recycled wood and soy ink.

Ironically, this design looks so good in a home office or living room environment that I was initially hesitant to grasp the solid, swiveling cast-alumminum handle and take it around. That feeling soon abated, and the Authentics 300 took many car trips and walks around different apartments and houses. This speaker isn’t subtle, though, so expect the brushed gold accents to catch people’s eye and for them to ask about it if they’re unfamiliar with higher-end audio.

The Authentics 300’s controls are located on its topside. There’s a power, Bluetooth, and heart-emblazoned “Moments” button alongside knobs for adjusting its volume, treble, and bass. The Moments button lets you immediately access a playlist on your selected streaming service or customize a favorite music track. All of the buttons are concave, which means they’re easy to push even when you’re not looking (the power button is larger, so you don’t accidentally turn the speaker off), and all three knobs move smoothly when turned. One favorite touch was the LED light ring surrounding all three knobs, which visually indicates how high or low they’re set.

The Authentics 300 is a portable speaker outfitted with the latest WiFi and Bluetooth standards—versions 6 and 5.3, respectively. That said, there are still a handful of ports around the back alongside where you plug in the removable power cord. The presence of an AUX input (for a preamp-equipped turntable, perhaps) was a welcome surprise on a speaker this nice, as was the Ethernet port for wired networking. A USB-C port around the back can be used for audio playback, but only on the model shipping in the USA. Authentics 300 speakers sold internationally don’t have this functionality despite having the port. It’s an odd omission but one that most people won’t run into frequently.

While this speaker is totally wireless, you may want to relegate its use to the backyard and different rooms in your house because it has no IP rating, aka dust or water resistance. If you use the speaker outside, we’d recommend checking the weather first. The lack of an IP rating is disappointing if you compare the Authentics 300 to other portable wireless speakers from UE, Sony, or even JBL itself. Still, the company doesn’t seem to be aiming to compete with those directly. This speaker is more of an at-home, connected speaker that happens to run on a battery, so you can take it place to place.

The setup

Setting up the Authentics 300 required making a trip to JBL’s One app, which is available on iOS and Android. An iPhone found and then asked to pair with the speaker, which required entering some WiFi credentials. The process was smooth enough, and music was playing within 10 minutes of unboxing the speaker. You can avoid this process entirely by using the speaker in Bluetooth mode, which only requires you to push the Bluetooth button on the speaker and then search for it in your phone’s settings app.

The JBL app can also be used to set up Moments, adjust a three-band EQ, manage streaming services, and update the speaker’s software. The app is thoughtfully designed and well thought out, so accessing (or all) of these functions is simple. We’re especially happy to see that the text for each section are larger and bolded, which makes them easier to read. There’s even some color coding, which provides an additional visual indicator.

You can also use the JBL One app to set up a voice assistant, which involves one of the features exclusive to the entire Authentics line. These are currently the only smart speakers that integrate Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant simultaneously. Other smart speakers support both hands-free systems but make you choose between one and the other, but with the Authentics speakers, you can use both. If you’re in a home with two people who use separate smart assistants or like some features from one and others from another, this feature will come in handy.

The sound

JBL is no stranger to premium audio gear—the company has been producing live sound reinforcement and stylish home setups for over 75 years. Back in 2014, JBL introduced its first AirPlay-enabled Authentics line, the tabletop L8 and L16 models, and in the last year, it has designed some outstanding high-end powered speakers, the 4305P and 4329P. All of that informs the current releases. Still, it’s surprising just how hard the company went with this portable speaker. The speaker’s larger size allowed JBL to build in a 5.24-inch woofer flanked by two 1-inch tweeters and augmented by a downward-firing 6.5-inch passive radiator, 100 watts of transducers translating to big, bold, crystal-clear sound. Capable of reproducing a frequency range of 45Hz to 20kHz, this is easily the best-sounding portable speaker we’ve tested from a raw performance standpoint, and if that’s what you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed.

I listened to a variety of music and spoken word audio through the Authentics 300, and I can’t say I found any technical fault with what we heard. There was no sibilance, no overly shimmery highs or blown-out lows. Put on a flat, stable surface, the bass radiator allowed this speaker to punch well above its expected weight where low frequencies were concerned. The opening guitar strings to Warren Zevon’s “Carmelita” rang true, and we could easily hear Jackson Browne’s backing vocals during the chorus. Ditto for the dense mix of perfectly mixed instruments on “Pet Sounds,” the title track from the Beach Boys album of the same name. That song has a lot of ambiance with its classical-meets-contemporary composition, and the Authentics 300 handled them all perfectly.

Listening to older songs on a speaker is always interesting because they weren’t mixed or even necessarily with the idea of what audio equipment would be available half a century later. Sia’s “Gimme Love,” which certainly was, sounded absolutely enormous, with booming bass and incredibly up-front sounding vocals. The lilting, acoustic-guitar-filled “I Remember Everything” by Zach Bryan (featuring Kacey Musgraves) was a riveting experience not only for the excellent performance but how the speaker presented it. The track came across as almost hymn-like.

Because of its two-tweeter driver array, the Authentics 300 can play music in true stereo, but physics still apply; don’t expect the channel separation of discrete components. We could clearly hear different sounds coming from both sides of the speaker, but the drivers are so close together that the stereo effect was somewhat limited. The biggest benefit here is that stereo tracks (basically any music released after 1968) won’t be folded down into mono, impacting its mix. We’d argue more music made today is mono-friendly due to the explosive popularity of smaller portable Bluetooth speakers, but the point stands. Don’t worry; if you want better stereo separation, you could always pick up and pair two Authentics 300 speakers, spacing them far apart—just be ready to part with $900 to create this setup.

Most of our music listening tests were conducted by playing music from our local library and Apple Music through an iPhone using AirPlay 2. WiFi streaming offers better bandwidth and farther range, so we recommend connecting to the speaker this way if possible. Bluetooth worked, too, and there wasn’t an egregious dip in enjoyable audio when switching to lossy delivery. However, the only codec supported is the lowest-bitrate, plain-vanilla SBC, so we recommend sticking with WiFi, which the speaker was obviously designed for.

One mark of a good piece of audio equipment is that it doesn’t flatten the sound of everything you’re listening to the point that it sounds samey. The Authentics 300 features self-tuning that calibrates and optimizes it whenever you move the speaker, and very few companies can pull off an EQ that’s custom-tailored and tasteful. With this one, however, you may find yourself hearing new elements of older tracks or realize how different two songs by similar artists really are. Listeners with a diverse musical diet will be rewarded for their adventurousness by hearing all the different ways creators make their music.

But the Authentics 300 doesn’t live in a bubble; similarly sized speakers like Marshall’s Kilburn 2 and Sony’s SRS-XG300 are available for under $250, and neither is a slouch. Sonos is about to release its Move 2, which is smaller but targeting the same market for the same price (and if you’re not inclined to, well, move your speaker, the multi-driver multi-channel Sonos Era 300 brings Dolby Atmos to the party). With the Sony IP67 and the Sonos IP56, those are speakers for a pool party. However, none of the speakers we’ve been testing seek to offer the same type of on-the-go hi-fi experience. They sound great, don’t get us wrong, but the Authentics 300 is simply a step above in terms of the detail you can hear in your music, whether inside or out.

The speaker also launches alongside the Authentics 200 and Authentics 500, which share many of the same features but with a little twist. The Authentics 200 is a more compact, more affordable version of this speaker with the same speaker driver layout, but it lacks a rechargeable battery, so it needs to be plugged in at all times. The Authentics 500 is a more expansive, more expensive cabinet of captivation with additional drivers that support virtual Dolby Atmos, and it needs not only a wall socket but also a much larger shelf and understanding neighbors as it pushes some serious air. Get one of each speaker and station them throughout different rooms, and you can play the same song everywhere simultaneously.

It makes sense that JBL designed this new battery-powered new wireless speaker alongside a traditional at-home speaker—one that has to be plugged in all the time—and decided to go portable early enough in the process to avoid any compromises. Few considerations were made to weight—Sony and Marshall’s speakers are roughly half as light— or even battery life; the Authentics 300’s battery also lasts only eight hours compared to a 20- and 25-hour playtime on the Kilburn II and SRS-XG300, respectively. With the Authentics 300, JBL makes the statement that it’s all about sound first, and portability is a bonus.

The conclusion

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Specs

• Dimensions: 13.4 x 7.7 x 7.1 (LWH)
• Weight: 10.8 pounds
• Battery life: Up to eight hours
• Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3
• IP Rating: N/A
• Voice assistants: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Price: $449.99
• Release date: September 17, 2023

At nearly $500, the Authentics 300 isn’t a speaker for most people, but that higher price tag freed JBL to make choices to suit the most hardcore listener. It would have been easy to blow a majority of the speaker’s development budget on looks alone, but JBL dug deeper. The JBL Authentics 300 isn’t just a great-sounding speaker; it’s an outstanding-sounding speaker, and that makes all the difference. The company did have to make some trade-offs—this speaker is heavier than the competition and only lasts eight hours per charge—for the sake of building in the best audio components. But it made the right choice. The Authentics 300 is an investment well worth making if you want a single speaker with retro-modern appeal and the ability to deliver a powerful rumble in any room of the house.

The post JBL Authentics 300 speaker review: Allowed to be loud appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple may have had the news of the day by announcing its new iPhone models, but Samsung is bringing its own heat by way of multiple monitor deals. The company has deeply discounted dozens of displays, which can be hooked up to a PC or Mac to help boost your productivity. Having a large screen can not only provide extra digital real estate for work, but make watching videos and playing games more enjoyable.

Samsung G50A, $279.99 (Was $399)

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Samsung’s G50A stands out amongst Samsung’s monitor deals because it offers a little something for everybody. It’s first and foremost a display for gamers thanks to its 27-inch size, QHD resolution, ultra high 165Hz refresh rate, support for NVIDIA’s G-Sync for additional fidelity, and HDR10. While these are undoubtedly gaming-focused features, everybody can take advantage of the monitor’s high resolution and appreciate HDR when watching videos or viewing pictures. Those features also come in handy for creating content.

Similarly, the G50A’s port selection: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x USB-A can be used to connect a gaming PC and console or regular computer and streaming stick. There’s even a headphone jack if the one on your computer is in an inconvenient place. Amazon’s deal knocks $120 off the G50A’s price and brings it well below $300. That’s very reasonable for a gaming monitor, and the G50A also works well as a home office upgrade if you’re tired of relying on a small laptop screen or lower-resolution HD display to get things done.

See some more super smooth Samsung monitor deals

• Samsung S80A, $254.19 (Was $270)
• Samsung T350, $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Samsung T35F, $126.44 (Was $219.99)
• Samsung Odyssey G9, $999.99 (Was $1,399.99)
• Samsung Odyssey Neo G8, $999.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• Samsung UR59, $349.22 (Was $449.99)
• Samsung ViewFinity S60A, $287.49 (Was $359.99)
• Samsung ViewFinity S80PB, $499.99 (Was $579.99)

The post Get a big Samsung monitor for a small price during this Amazon sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple has announced its upcoming smartphones, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, which will be available for preorder this Friday, Sept. 15, and arrive on Sept. 22. These will be the first models to feature a USB-C charging and data transfer port (with the Pro models supporting 10Gbps USB 3 speeds). This will replace the Lightning port used by Apple’s smartphones since the iPhone 5 launched in 2012. Apple says it’s making the change because USB-C has become a universal standard.

In addition, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), which we love, will also start shipping with a combination MagSafe & USB-C charging case on the 22nd. If you’ve been using an iPhone or AirPods for several years, this change means replacing all of your Lightning charging cables and accessories with ones that work with USB-C. Thankfully, USB-C is a universal standard, so plenty of options are available.

Both the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro series phones also support wireless charging at up to 7.5W using a Qi charging pad or 15W using a MagSafe magnetic charger. We’ll explore some of your best options below, so you’ll be all set for the iPhone’s launch day.

• Best USB-C cable: Anker USB C to USB C Cable
• Best USB-C power adapter: Amazon Basics 65W One-Port GaN USB-C Wall Charger
• Best MagSafe charger: Apple MagSafe Charger
• Best MagSafe battery pack Anker MagGo Wireless Portable Charger
• Best multi-device MagSafe charger: Nomad Base One Max
• Best MagSafe travel charger: ZAGG 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe

Best USB-C cable: Anker USB C to USB C Cable

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As far as value and quality go, this two-pack of Anker’s USB-C to USB-C cables allows you to jump into the new charger world with both feet. Both cables are six feet long and have a braided nylon covering to protect them from little nicks and scratches. Anker says the protective shielding at the base of both connectors is designed to be bent 12,000 times, which should prevent fraying. Our other reason for recommending these cables over others is that they can carry up to 100W of electricity. USB-C cables all look the same but can transfer power at dramatically different rates.

You can use this pair of USB-C cables from Anker with an iPhone, tablet, game console, or laptop and charge all of them at their maximum speed. If you can get away with using three charging cables (the one Apple includes with the iPhone and this two-pack from Anker), the total cost of your Lightning to USB-C charging transition will set you back less than $15. Anker also offers these cables in a smaller, 3.3-foot size and a couple of different colors.

Best USB-C power adapter: Amazon Basics 65W One-Port GaN USB-C Wall Charger

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If you’ve been plugging your iPhone—and other tech accessories—into a power adapter with a USB-A plug, now is the time to upgrade. Amazon Basics’ pocket-sized charger can top up your new iPhone at its maximum charging speed and is compatible with any USB-C to USB-C cable. We’re recommending this 65W power adapter over Amazon’s less expensive 30W model because it’s also powerful enough to charge a laptop or tablet.

Best MagSafe charger: Apple MagSafe Charger

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One way to side-step the Lightning to USB-C port transition on the iPhone is moving to wireless charging. Your best choice is picking up one of Apple’s MagSafe charging pucks, which support wireless charging speeds of up to 15W. This accessory will magnetically connect to the back of your iPhone, automatically aligning itself to the correct spot to optimize its charging speed. If you don’t like the look of an errant charging accessory on your desk or nightside table, we recommend picking up an inexpensive aluminum stand to house it.

Best MagSafe battery pack: Anker MagGo Wireless Portable Charger

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Anker’s MagGo is a 5000w power bank that allows you to MagSafe wireless anywhere. The battery pack magnetically attaches to the back of your iPhone and automatically begins to refill its battery. You can extend the life of your iPhone by several hours using the MagGo, but it doesn’t have quite enough juice to refill it completely. Additionally, this battery pack only supports wireless charging speeds of up to 7.5W, half MagSafe’s technical maximum. You can connect your phone to its USB-C port for faster charging speeds using a cable.

Best multi-device MagSafe charger: Nomad Base One Max

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If you’d like to kiss charging cables goodbye completely, Nomad’s Base One Max is the ultimate charging accessory. The wireless charger can top up an iPhone (at 15W via MagSafe), Apple Watch, and AirPods (both at 5W a piece) simultaneously. There are similar accessories, but none have the fit and finish of the Base One Max, whose glass and metal design matches Apple’s luxe, minimalist aesthetic. This is the wireless charging solution to permanently set on your desk, so you can grab your most-used devices at any time without feeling tethered. The one thing you’ll need to complement this accessory is a 30W power adapter, as Nomad doesn’t include one in the box.

Best MagSafe travel charger: ZAGG 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe

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ZAGG’s 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe is an excellent investment if you travel often. It has many of the same performance characteristics as Nomad’s charger, but it can fold into a neat package and be stored in a backpack pocket. Wirelessly charge your AirPods, Apple Watch, and iPhone in hotels, AirBnbs, and even internationally—if you remember to bring a power converter. ZAGG includes a power adapter with this accessory, and it fits into a specific slot in the included carrying case, so you can easily grab this charger and go.

The iPhone enters the hear and now

Another thing we love about this change is that it opens the iPhone up to a wealth of audio accessories—including some of our favorite headphones with built-in DACs (such as the Focal Bathys and Bowers & Wilkins Px8), external DAC/amps, etc.—allowing for advanced resolution playback without the need for an additional cable beyond what comes with the gear.

The post The iPhone has a new (old) charging port—here are the best accessories appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best game console		Nintendo Switch		SEE IT	The Nintendo Switch’s hybrid-console approach makes it the best pick for new and lapsed gamers.
Best TV		Samsung S95C OLED		SEE IT	The S95C OLED will make both modern PC and console games look incredibly sharp and vibrant.
Best gaming laptop		ASUS ROG Strix G16		SEE IT	The ROG Strix G16 will allow you to play the highest-end games anywhere in the world.

If you’re into video games like I am, you know the struggle—there are always those friends that look at you funny when you bring up a difficult Bloodborne boss or try explaining the Legend of Zelda timeline. We know they’re missing out on masterful storytelling, adrenaline rushes, breathtaking fantasy worlds, and triumphant feelings, but even getting them to try a Pokémon game is hard. Still, I have hope that these misled non-gamers can be turned into full-fledged gaming connoisseurs. And the holiday season is the perfect time to get them to take the plunge. Gaming is more popular than ever thanks to the rise of streaming services, smartphones, and cutting-edge game consoles. Still, most people who want to game are in it for the experience of kicking back on a couch and spending a few hours running, jumping, slashing, shooting, or using magic. Whether you’re shopping for a hardcore or lapsed gamer, these gaming gifts include some core components they’d appreciate.

• Best game console: Nintendo Switch
• Best controller: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller
• Best handheld PC: Asus ASUS ROG Ally
• Best handheld PC Dock: Syntech Mini Dock
• Best TV: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best monitor: Samsung Odyssey G30A
• Best mouse: Razer Viper V2 Pro
• Best keyboard: SteelSeries Apex Pro
• Best headset: Logitech G PRO X
• Best mobile gaming controller: Backbone One
• Best compact gaming computer: GEEKOM Mini PC
• Best gaming laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16
• Best for streaming: Elgato HD60 S+
• Best WiFi routers: Eero 6+
• Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2
• Best microphone: Shure MV7

Best game console: Nintendo Switch

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If you’re in the position to give someone (or yourself) their very first console this holiday, don’t chase after the flashy new PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. The Nintendo Switch is a better starter piece because it has something for everyone, whether that’s classic Mario or Zelda games, online team shooters like Overwatch, or even a game where you walk around as a goose, honking and messing with people. Nintendo also offers the Switch Lite for $100 less, but you can only play it handheld-style instead of connecting it to your TV. I’d suggest opting for the original version if you can swing it—the option to switch from TV to handheld is a delight. If you want to go a little more luxe, you can spend an extra $100 on the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, which has a larger, more vivid screen and plays all the same games.

Best controller: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller

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8Bitdo’s Ultimate Bluetooth controller lives up to its name. The gamepad, which works with both the Nintendo Switch and Windows PCs, feels great in the hand, has a familiar button layout, and can switch between Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz wireless connection. Additionally, buttons on the back can be programmed on the back to trigger custom commands in compatible games. Perhaps the coolest thing about this controller is the included charging dock, which makes topping up its battery a lot easier. If you keep the controller docked when you’re not playing, it’ll never run out of juice. Xbox and PlayStation players shouldn’t feel left out, as the official first-party controllers for the Xbox Series S/X and PlayStation 5 are available.

Best handheld: Asus ASUS ROG Ally

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The ROG Ally is one of the most innovative gadgets we’ve reviewed in 2023, and it’s a fierce competitor to Valve’s venerable Steam Deck. The Ally runs a full version of Windows, which means you can play games from multiple digital game stores, from Steam to Xbox Game Pass. ASUS packed the ROG Ally with a 7-inch 1080P display, custom processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage, so it’s stacked enough to play the AAA games from 2023 at high settings. If you’re catching up with games released years ago, you should be able to push them to ultra settings while maintaining a steady framerate. Like the Nintendo Switch, you can connect this handheld to your TV to play games at higher-than-HD resolutions, too. As handheld gaming PCs go, the ASUS ROG Ally is the top of the heap, and any Windows gamer will sink hundreds of hours of games over the holiday season and beyond.

Best handheld PC Dock: Syntech Mini Dock

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If you’re going to connect your gaming handheld to a TV, you’ll need to get a dock. The best one we’ve tested is this six-port model from Syntech, which doubles as a stand. An integrated USB-C cable connects the dock to your portable computer and allows you to plug in accessories (via USB-A), a wired internet connection (via Ethernet), and a TV or monitor (via HDMI). The dock required no software to run and was instantly recognized by the ROG Ally as a compatible accessory. There’s even a USB-C port on the dock, which you can plug into an outlet using a USB-C cable and power adapter to keep the handheld charged. If you’re going to get someone a handheld gaming PC—or know someone who already has one—this is the accessory we recommend gifting them.

Best TV: Samsung S95C OLED

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If the gamer in your life demands the absolute best fidelity from their games, Samsung’s S95C OLED is the ultimate screen. Samsung decked its high-end display with four HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing console and PC gamers to play the latest titles in 4K at up to 120 frames per second. Our reviewer played Returnal on a PlayStation 5 during his testing time and was extremely impressed with the results, even in a brightly lit room. The advantage OLED TVs have over their LCD counterparts is far better contrast and color reproduction. These are key specs for gamers since they’ll want the most immersive and lifelike experience possible. The good thing about this gift is that it can be enjoyed by non-gamers who want to watch TV shows and movies that look their best.

Best monitor: Samsung Odyssey G30A

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Speaking of monitors, PC and console gamers will all appreciate Samsung’s Odyssey G30A. Its 144Hz refresh rate will make games look super smooth, and support for AMD’s FreeSync technology will prevent abnormalities like screen tearing (distortion) from getting in the way of online matches or intense sequences with a lot of movement. Additionally, its large size means gamers will feel immersed while playing titles at their desk. We also like that the G30A has multiple HDMI ports so that multiple consoles can be plugged into it simultaneously. We understand not everybody has enough room for a 27-inch display, which is why we feel like 24-inch LG’s 24GN600-B is another good option. If the person you’re getting this gift for has expressed interest in curved monitors, Samsung’s 34-inch Odyssey G5 deserves a look.

Best mouse: Razer Viper V2 Pro

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Regular mice are too slow to keep up with the split-second movements necessary to play PC games competitively, which is why we recommend getting serious gamers Razer’s Viper V2 Pro. The wireless optical mouse provides peak performance on any surface and can survive up to 90 million clicks without faltering. Razer even allows you to change the mouse’s sensitivity by pushing a button instead of managing it through software. The most impressive feature of this mouse is that it’s wireless, which is atypical for gaming mice as it can lead to latency (lag) between your input (movement or a click) and how long it takes the PC to respond. Razer feels like it’s cracked the code on how to offer premium performance without a cumbersome cable. If wires aren’t an issue, Razer’s Basilisk V3 is another good pick; its optical sensor is almost as good, and it’s equipped with RGB lights and even more programmable buttons. Not sure? Check out additional cheap gaming mice we recommend.

Best keyboard: SteelSeries Apex Pro

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The right keyboard can also help improve one’s performance in online games, and SteelSeries’ Apex Pro is the one to get for the gamer in your life. The wired mechanical keyboard has LEDs, making it easier to see keys in the dark (in addition to looking cool), and programmable buttons that can be linked to certain actions for specific games. Its standout feature is an OLED screen, which can present computer stats, notifications, and quick access to certain settings. Equally important is the keyboard’s palm rest, which makes it more comfortable to use during long gaming sessions. Slightly less luxe is the company’s own Apex 3, which lacks a screen but has most of the same other features, including the palm rest. Prefer something wireless? We’ve got top picks for that, too.

Best headset: Logitech G PRO X

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Hearing and speaking to teammates is essential when playing competitive multiplayer games online, which is why Logitech’s G Pro X is such a great gift. The headset can create a virtual 7.1 surround sound environment, so players will be able to hear opponents approaching from any direction. This makes a huge difference when playing games where every second counts. The G Pro X’s large, 50mm drivers will deliver clear sound regardless of which game they’re playing. The headset’s microphone is flexible, so gamers can move it around to find the perfect place for them. Communication is key during online matches, so having a microphone that’s always near and ready is a huge plus. This headset is compatible with PCs, the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch (Xbox gamers should check out this headset instead). Or, if you’re feeling extra giving, there’s Audeze’s $299 Maxwell wireless headset.

Best mobile gaming controller: Backbone One

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The Backbone One effectively turns your iPhone 15 or Android smartphone into a Nintendo Switch. This controller shell connects directly to the smartphone’s USB-C port and grips itself to both sides of the device. Once connected, gamers can play iOS titles that support external controllers with traditional buttons, triggers, and control sticks. The Backbone One can also be used by iPhone gamers who want to stream cloud games using services provided by Microsoft, Sony, and NVidia. This accessory brings out the full gaming potential of the iPhone or Android device. If you have an iPhone 14 or earlier, you’ll need to get the version of this controller with a Lightning jack instead.

Best compact gaming computer: GEEKOM Mini PC

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One of the biggest barriers to entry for would-be computer gamers is finding enough space for a desktop, but GEEKOM’s latest Mini PC is an interesting solution. This compact gaming PC can run many newer titles at 1080P with medium to high settings enabled, and you may be able to eke out even more performance on a game-by-game basis. That’s due in large part to the machine’s 13th Generation 14-core Intel i9 processor, 32GB of RAM, and 2TB NVMe SSD. There are less expensive mini PCs out there, but GEEKOM’s is one of the few that can offer excellent performance without a dedicated graphics card, and in a form factor this small. If you’re shopping for a lapsed PC gamer, or someone who wants to give gaming on Windows a try, this is the gift to get.

Best gaming laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16

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Gaming laptops used to be incredibly compromised, but ASUS’ ROG Strix G16 proves how far technology has come. The Windows laptop has an Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, 16GB of RAM (memory), 1TB SSD, and a GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card with 8GB of dedicated video memory under the hood. Its 16-inch HD display has a refresh rate of 165Hz, which is better than most gaming monitors. A higher refresh rate allows the screen to keep up with fast-paced games without lagging. This laptop’s specs are overkill for casual gamers who mostly stick to indie titles, but it’s the right machine for gamers who like to live on the cutting edge, but travel too often to justify getting a high-end desktop. The laptop is also chock full of ports, so connecting accessories won’t require an adapter; it even has an HDMI port, so plugging it into a monitor or TV is a single cable affair. Razer’s Blade Stealth 13 is a good alternative if you’d like to get them a similarly specced machine with a smaller footprint.

Best for streaming: Elgato HD60 S+

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Elgato’s HD60 S+ simplifies the complicated process of getting console game footage onto your PC for editing or live streaming. The unassuming puck has HDMI ports and a USB port, which is all you’ll need to connect your console to a computer. The HD60 S+ can capture 1080P high dynamic range video at up to 60 frames per second. It’s compatible with all current-generation game consoles and Windows PCs. If ever there was a great gaming stocking stuffer, this is it.

Best WiFi routers: Eero 6+

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You might not think WiFi routers are a great gaming gift until you realize it’s impossible to stream or download games without a solid connection. This set of three Eero 6+ routers can blanket an area of up to 4,500 square feet with a wireless WiFi 6 network that supports speeds up to 1,000 megabits per second. In all likelihood, that means you’ll get the top internet speed you’re paying for without having to plug your console or PC into your cable modem. If the gamer you’re shopping for complains about getting dropped from matches constantly, this gift will solve the issue once and for all. We prefer mesh WiFi routers because they can cover more ground, but Netgear’s Nighthawk Pro is the best single-point option for gamers, thanks to its ultra-fast top speed.

Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2

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A webcam is another essential accessory for game streamers, and we can’t recommend Obsbot’s Tiny 2 highly enough. The 4K webcam sits on a rotating stand and uses AI to follow a subject as they move. During active streams, the streamer will always stay in frame, which is especially important during games like Dance Dance Revolution or any title with motion controls. If you’re shopping for a streamer who records VR games, they need a webcam that can keep up with them since they can’t manage their video stream while playing. It doesn’t hurt that the Obsbot’s video looks crystal clear, and that its microphone is surprisingly good, too. Static streamers may enjoy Logitech’s C922x, which has similar specs but won’t move around.

Best microphone: Shure MV7

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It’s almost impossible to build an online audience for game streams without talking to them while you play, which is why Shure’s MV7 is such a great gift. The USB microphone connects directly to a computer and has easy-to-use software that handles all the important audio settings that impact vocal quality in a couple of clicks. What you end up with is studio-quality sound without much fuss. Importantly, the microphone has a headphone jack, so you can listen to yourself while you’re chatting. This is helpful because you’ll be able to adjust your speaking volume or detect audio abnormalities instantly. A more budget-friendly USB alternative is Senheisser’s Profile USB Microphone, which doesn’t match up to the MV7 feature-for-feature but will make streamers sound better than their laptop mic would. Feeling spendy enough to assemble a broadcast-quality rig complete with external interface? Bump up to the high-resolution XLR Logitech for Creators Blue Sona.

The post The best gifts to get your friends into gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Sonos Beam (Gen. 2)		SEE IT	Elegant design and beautiful sound within a compact network-connected soundbar.
Best with surround sound		Vizio M Series M512a-H6		SEE IT	When you’ve got the extra space, but don’t want to spend the extra money, you won’t find a better value than this soundbar, subwoofer, rear speakers package.
Best budget		Roku Streambar Pro		SEE IT	Roku’s soundbar offers great sound for its price and doubles as a 4K media streamer.

Every year, TVs find a way to look better but sound worse, so upgrading to a soundbar can get you audio that does those vivid images justice. Soundbars can definitely get expensive, but there are plenty that will still fill up a room with loud, well-defined sound for a more down-to-earth investment. Many of them also provide Bluetooth and/or WiFi connectivity for wireless streaming, as well as voice control from digital assistants. This guide shows you the best soundbars under $500, so you can get everything you want in one modestly priced package.

• Best overall: Sonos Beam (Gen. 2)
• Best with Dolby Atmos: Polk Signa S4
• Best with surround sound: Vizio M Series M512a-H6
• Best 5.1: TCL Q6510
• Best 3.1: Sony HT-S2000
• Best with subwoofer: Yamaha YAS-209
• Best smart: Roku Streambar Pro

How we chose the best soundbars under $500

I have covered and reviewed audio products—both in the pro audio and home audio realms—on and off for most of the 21st century for outlets including Mix, Maximum Tech, DJ Tech Tools, Bob Vila, and some defunct publications printed on paper called magazines. PopSci editors and I chose these soundbars based on their appropriateness for different needs, first-hand experience when available, the value they present, and their consensus reputations based on expert reviews. While a stickler may insist that a soundbar is just the oblong thing that sits under a TV, the fact is that many soundbars on the market also come with subwoofers and sometimes satellite speakers for surround sound. For variety’s sake, we chose picks in several configurations, from single bars to a more expanded setup. However, all of these choices rely on the performance of the main soundbar, which is several speakers integrated into one unit to accompany and enhance a TV, improving the legibility and enjoyment of your content.

The best soundbars under $500: Reviews & Recommendations

When it comes to modern TVs, the best QLEDs or the best OLEDs all still seem to have one thing in common: internal speakers that may not exactly be garbage but that don’t reach far past the lower limits of mediocrity. Permit yourself a bit of excitement because no matter which of the best soundbars under $500 you choose, it will bestow you with a marked improvement over your TV’s built-in speaker audio while perhaps also adding a wireless music streaming solution to your media room. Sure, you could shell out thousands of dollars on a massive wireless surround sound system. But you don’t have to. Just figure out how many audio channels you want, how much wireless/wired connectivity you prefer, and whether you need an additional subwoofer or rear speakers. Then, you’ll be ready to pick from these selections and immediately enhance your TV viewing. 

Best overall: Sonos Beam (Gen. 2)

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Why it made the cut: With its updated design and virtual Dolby Atmos sound, the Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) keeps the versatile features, sparkly sound, and expandability that made the first version a hit. 

Specs

• 25.6 (W) x 2.7 (H) x 3.9 (D) inches
• 6.35 pounds (2.88 kg)
• 5.0 channels with one tweeter and four woofers
• Frequency response: apprx. 49Hz-19kHz
• Built-in WiFi and HDMI eARC
• Compatible with Dolby Atmos, Apple AirPlay 2, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Pros

• Good sound and spacious audio imaging for its compact size
• Smart speaker features and WiFi streaming
• Pleasant minimalist design

Cons 

• No Bluetooth
• Limited connectivity of 1 HDMI and 1 Ethernet port

If you love the look and features of the Sonos Arc but have a smaller space or budget, the Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) is the right choice. The soundbar is effectively a smaller, less expensive version of the Arc with many of the same features.

Sonos outfitted the updated Beam with four midrange woofers, one tweeter, and three passive radiators to ensure the quality of its midrange, treble, and bass performance, respectively. It doesn’t produce as much sound as larger soundbars—including the Arc, an outstanding Dolby Atmos soundbar that we’ve also tested with the stand-out Era 300 spatial audio speakers—but the Beam (Gen. 2) does well for its size. The audio quality of the Beam (Gen. 2) isn’t an issue, but you won’t get quite the same level of stereo separation and oomph at high volumes. These nitpicks have more to do with the laws of physics than a design error on the part of Sonos, though, and the Beam (Gen. 2) shines when you start watching TV shows and movies.

We heard impressive detail during our tests, with clear separation between dialogue and background sounds. When watching Groundhog Day, scenes in the diner stood out in particular. We could hear the protagonists speaking, but the ambiance of their room—people speaking at other tables, the clinking sounds of silverware hitting plates, staff puttering around—were also present and audible. The difference in audio quality between the Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) and our TV’s built-in speakers was similar to the delta between HD and 4K video. The former is passable, but the latter is a lot richer.

Much of the Beam (Gen. 2)’s audio quality comes down to custom-designed hardware combined with unique tuning. No soundbar sounds quite like this one because Sonos went out of its way to control every part of its design—inside and out. This advantage makes the Beam (Gen. 2) easy to recommend. We liked how this soundbar sounded out of the box, but you can adjust its EQ through the Sonos app. We don’t think this is necessary, but we recommend turning on TruePlay when setting the Beam (Gen. 2) up. This proprietary feature allows the soundbar to analyze the room and where it’s placed inside it to adjust its sound accordingly. The difference will seem subtle, but optimizing this soundbar is worth taking two minutes.

A lot of hay is made over premium soundbars that can decode and playback mixed using the Dolby Atmos surround sound standard, and the Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) is no different. Sonos positioned two of the soundbar’s drivers outward, so sound will bounce off the sides of your room and hit you from multiple angles. Let us be clear: This is a neat trick, but it doesn’t replace or replicate the experience of listening to music or watching movies in true surround sound, with speakers placed all around the room. Luckily, Sonos allows you to pair the Beam (Gen. 2) wirelessly with additional rear-channel speakers and a subwoofer to achieve the surround sound effect with its most compact components.

The Beam (Gen. 2) shines when it’s part of a multi-speaker surround sound system, and while building one costs a lot of money, you can break up the cost over time. We advise starting with a subwoofer to help fill out the soundbar’s bass performance (a big, dedicated speaker makes the biggest difference on the low end and opens up the smaller speaker’s headroom for clearer dialogue and effects). Then, add more speakers as time progresses.

We can’t find much fault in the Sonos Beam (Gen. 2’s) sound, but its connectivity options are pretty barebones. You can only connect it to your TV with an HDMI cable—sorry if you prefer using an optical cord or your TV’s ports are all filled up. There’s an Ethernet port if you’d like to connect it to your network with a cable, but WiFi worked just fine for us. Sonos made up for this by building the Beam (Gen. 2) with support for Bluetooth and AirPlay 2, which makes it easy to use the soundbar as a speaker for music listening. Additionally, you can use the soundbar’s microphone to control it with Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant.

If you’re space-constrained or already have a couple of Sonos speakers that can be repurposed for home theater purposes, the Beam (Gen. 2) is the right choice. Its audio performance is rock solid, it’s aesthetically pleasing, and the ability to augment it with other Sonos gear is welcome—if expensive.

Best with Dolby Atmos: Polk Signa S4

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Why it made the cut: It’s a tough ask for a single compact soundbar under $500 to be the audio centerpiece of home theater surround sound, but Polk Audio’s Signa S4 succeeds.

Specs 

• 41 (W) x 2 (H) x 3 (D) inches
• 21.20 pounds (9.62 kg) (Soundbar with subwoofer
• 5.1 channels with dedicated center channel and side-firing channels plus a subwoofer
• Frequency response: 50Hz-20kHz
• Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, and 4K HDMI eARC
• Compatible with Dolby Atmos

Pros

• Respectable surround sound performance from a two-component system
• Voiceadjust™ technology actually works
• Three connectivity options.

Cons 

• Virtual surround-sound processing is just that

When you have a small space but want to supplement your TV speakers with a compact soundbar to play Dolby Atmos material, your options are starting to get better. Compact soundbars at that price don’t often have top-firing speakers that make the 3D height-oriented Atmos effects special. Still, some utilize Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, a technology that simulates the Atmos 3D effects from a speaker system without up-firing or overhead speakers.

Like the Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) above, the Polk Audio Signa S4 soundbar uses virtual Dolby Atmos processing to create the illusion of Atmos effects from its L/R stereo and side-firing speakers. Unlike the Beam, the Signa S4 has a wireless subwoofer to fill out the low end, which does very well. Setting up the Signa S4 was a simple affair thanks to its HDMI (ARC port), though you can connect it to your TV using an optical audio cable or AUX cable. Remember that you’ll need to use an HDMI connection to properly play Dolby Atmos content. We were pleased that this system’s wireless subwoofer connected to the soundbar without any configuration.

Once it was hooked up, we started playing video games and streaming videos from a variety of services. We consistently liked what we heard: Clear dialogue, no overmodulation at loud volumes, and some 3D audio effects when listening to content with a Dolby Atmos mix. Clever driver placement and AI can’t replicate the experience of hearing audio coming from speakers placed in front and behind you. Still, the Signa S4 sounds different from a standard stereo soundbar to our ears.

If you’re curious about Dolby Atmos but want a compact audio system rather than a multi-speaker monster, Polk Audio’s Signa S4 is well worth your time.

Best with surround sound: Vizio M Series M512a-H6

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Why it made the cut: Simply put, this soundbar with subwoofer and rear surround speakers offers the most complete home theater audio setup of a level of quality under $500. 

Specs 

• 40 (W) x 2.68 (H) x 4.07 (D) inches (soundbar)
• 8.47 pounds (3.8 kg) (soundbar)
• 5.1.2 channels with 11 total speakers, including subwoofer, two satellite speakers, and two up-firing speakers
• Frequency response: 45Hz-20kHz
• Built-in Bluetooth 5.0 and 4K HDMI eARC
• Compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Siri/Google Assistant/Alexa voice control 

Pros

• World-class value for the price
• Up-firing drivers for surround standards like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
• Transparent sound for intelligible vocals in music and shows

Cons 

• No WiFi streaming
• No room correction or graphic EQ; light on sound enhancement settings
• Rear surround speakers are wired to the subwoofer

A single soundbar can blow the doors off the sound of your TV’s built-in speakers. However, you don’t really get very low bass rumble or truly immersive surround sound from a single soundbar—especially under $500. So when you have a package like the Vizio M Series M512a-H6—including a soundbar with top-firing speakers, a wireless 6-inch subwoofer, and rear satellite speakers for just under the $500 mark—it’s a legitimate cause for excitement. The top-firing drivers in the soundbar make the object-oriented overhead effects from Dolby Atmos or competing DTS:X material more immersive, and the rear speakers provide the depth to your soundstage that true surround sound needs.

Naturally, there are a few limitations at this price level. For one thing, the rear surround speakers are not wireless like in most higher-priced systems; rather, you have to connect them with speaker wire to the subwoofer, making it more challenging to position them well in your space. You also don’t get WiFi streaming or built-in support for smart assistants. However, the M512a-H6 does have Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless streaming, and you can set it up for voice control via the major voice assistants. 

More importantly, the M512a-H6 provides a full-spectrum, immersive sound with deep bass, top-firing and rear channels, and a transparent sound that complements a range of sources from music to visual entertainment well—and all for under $500.

Best 5.1: TCL Q6510

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Why it made the cut: TCL’s Q6510 is a full-on 5.1 surround sound system with wireless speakers that work without latency.

Specs 

• 35.4 (W) x 2.7 (H) x 3.9 (D) inches (soundbar)
• 5.1 pounds (2.31 kg) (soundbar)
• 5.1 channels with nine total speakers and wireless subwoofer
• Frequency response: 42Hz-20kHz
• Built-in Bluetooth and HDMI ARC
• Compatible with Dolby Audio DTS Virtual:X 

Pros

• Low-latency surround sound speakers
• Automatic AI calibration
• Includes wall mounts

Cons 

• No WiFi/Chromecast/AirPlay
• No voice control through Alexa/Siri/Google Assistant

TCL’s Q6510 is a four-piece 5.1 surround sound soundbar that solves our biggest issues with this type of speaker system. The front right, front left, and center-channel speakers are built into the bar itself, while the wireless subwoofer has a pair of ports on the back that supply the rear right and rear left speakers with power. Many 5.1 soundbar audio systems rely on a mix of upward and front-firing drivers to achieve surround sound, but they can’t achieve the same level of performance as a set of discreet speakers.

In our tests, the Q6510 performed very well given its surprisingly modest price tag—$300 normally, $250 at the time of this writing. Our initial test was to listen to the soundbar independently, but it was clear that TCL designed the system with at least the subwoofer connected to fill out its sound. The soundbar and subwoofer paired to one another immediately, and the soundbar’s thinner sound was instantly richer.

If the Q6510 was only the soundbar, it’d still be worth recommending for folks seeking a sizable upgrade over their TV’s internal speakers. The front channels checked all the boxes: dialogue sounded clear, loud sounds like explosions never caused distortion, and it was easy to get great sound at any volume level. But, on top of that (or, more appropriately, underneath it), we were especially pleased with the Q6510’s wireless subwoofer, which provided quite a lot of bass. Part of this has to come down to TCL’s Automatic AI Calibration, which adjusts the speakers based on the room that they’re in. As components get added to the system and moved around, the calibration makes tweaks.

And the Q6510 is not just a 3.1 soundbar system; it’s a full 5.1 surround sound system. Connecting the pill-shaped surround speakers to the subwoofer was simple (their power cable is connected to the speakers themselves), and they instantly synced with the soundbar. Linking the surround speakers to the subwoofer has one major benefit and one downside. On the one hand, your surround speaker placement options are limited to within a few feet of the subwoofer, whose placement options are also somewhat limited for the same reason. On the other hand, you get a 5.1 surround sound system that only requires two outlets, which makes it easier to configure in a greater number of rooms.

TCL made the right call here because the cable connecting the rear speakers to the subwoofer is pretty generous. Once everything was connected, the Q6510 offered an excellent surround sound experience. We used it to watch movies and TV shows with a 5.1 track and could distinctly hear sounds from every direction. Despite their size, the rear speakers included in the Q6510 system sounded full and clear. They added the level of dimensionality you want from a 5.1 surround sound system over a stereo or 3.1 audio setup.

TCL didn’t cut any audio corners when designing the Q6510, but the system doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles you might expect from a modern sound system. There’s no WiFi connectivity or smart assistant access, which may bother you but didn’t hinder our testing experience; we prefer companies focus on audio performance first over additional smart features. The one extra TCL does include is mounting gear for the soundbar and surround speakers, which is genuinely useful if you’d like to make your system look as discreet as possible. If you want a true 5.1 audio system with a small footprint, TCL’s Q6510 is the way to go.

Best 3.1: Sony HT-S2000

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Why it made the cut: When you want a fuller-sounding subwoofer in a pretty small package, Sony’s HT-2000S should be your new go-to.

Specs 

• 31.5 (W) x 2.6 (H) x 5 (D) inches (soundbar)
• 8.16 pounds (3.7 kg) (soundbar)
• 3.1 channels with left/center/right channels and built-in subwoofers
• Frequency response: 48Hz-20kHz
• Built-in Bluetooth 5.2 and HDMI ARC
• Compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS X

Pros

• Supports hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz
• Built-in subwoofers reduce this system’s overall size
• Bass is surprisingly powerful

Cons 

• External power brick

While 5.1 soundbars offer “true” surround sound by way of dedicated rear-channel speakers, you can still get an immersive experience with a 3.1 system like Sony’s HT-S2000. The soundbar has a center channel and right and left drivers, which offer clearer vocals and stereo sound, respectively. Many 3.1 soundbars have a wireless subwoofer to provide bass, but Sony took a different tactic and built a dual-subwoofer into the soundbar itself. This makes the overall setup a lot more compact, but it required the company to move the power supply outside of the soundbar and onto the cable. This is cumbersome because you’ll have a chunky power brick hanging around your home theater setup, but this is our only real complaint with Sony’s soundbar.

On the sound side, the HT-S2000 performs very well. The internal subwoofers deliver clear lower frequencies well, though we wouldn’t say they’d beat some of the dedicated subs we’ve tried. The tradeoff is that you only need to dedicate one outlet and less than 32 inches of space to your entire home theater. If you’d like to expand your setup, you can augment the HT-S2000 with a Sony subwoofer and rear speakers over time to create a fuller 5.1 surround sound system. We like recommending modular gear so you have the flexibility to make your setup sound sweeter step by step.

Setting up the HT-S2000 was a single-cable affair thanks to its HDMI eARC support. My television immediately recognized the soundbar, and I could start watching movies and TV shows without downloading an app or even touching the included remote. We won’t say this 3.1 soundbar setup was as immersive as the multi-component 5.1 systems we’ve tried, but it’s certainly held its own. For a subwooferless system, we don’t think you can do much better than this. We could detect distinct stereo separation—so long as the movie or show had any to begin with—and sound effects never got too loud to hear the vocals.

Sound effects that typically tax an audio system’s bass (think explosions) came through clearly, too. We’d imagine this performance would be even better with Sony’s additional speakers, but don’t think anyone will have complaints about how the HT-S2000 sounds out of the box. Sony does offer the ability to tweak the HT-S2000’s sound using its Entertainment Connect App on iOS and Android, which lets you switch between a handful of EQ modes, but we never felt the need to make any changes. This soundbar supports virtual surround sound through Dolby Atmos and DTS-X, and while we detected some additional separation, it didn’t stand out.

If you’d like a compact, great-sounding soundbar setup but don’t have the space for a 5.1 setup, you should seriously consider the HD-S2000. This is doubly true if you’d like to build a fuller surround sound system when space, time, and budget allow.

Best with subwoofer: Yamaha YAS-209

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Why it made the cut: A straightforward stereo soundbar with a subwoofer can still have a place in a modern home entertainment room when it sounds this good and has the technological bell and whistles. 

Specs 

• 36.63 (W) x 2.5 (H) x 4.25 (D) inches (soundbar)
• 6 pounds (2.7 kg) (soundbar)
• 2.1 channels with left/right speakers and wireless subwoofer
• Frequency response: 35Hz-20kHz
• Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2, Amazon Alexa, and 4K HDMI ARC
• Compatible with DTS Virtual: X 3D
• 200W total power

Pros

• Remarkable overall sound and low-frequency bass response for the price
• Product Dimensions
• Amazon Alexa integrated

Cons 

• No display screen
• Doesn’t work with Yamaha’s MusicCast surround speakers

The YAS-209 soundbar with subwoofer may be only a 2.1-channel (stereo) system, but it doesn’t skimp on many extra features for a soundbar under $500. It allows Bluetooth and WiFi streaming, an HDMI input with 4K passthrough, HDMI ARC output, and a better-than-nothing virtual surround sound mode. Its built-in Amazon Alexa integration lets you control the soundbar with your voice and includes standard Alexa operation, like asking it questions, setting timers, controlling smart home devices, etc. And you can also combine other Alexa-enabled speakers to build a multi-room audio system. 

Perhaps more importantly, the YAS-209 also sounds very good for this price range. It has a lower-than-average frequency response for deep, contoured bass, very good detail in the high range, and a crisp overall sound that doesn’t suffer when you turn it up. While a center channel might help distinguish vocals and dialog within complex sound mixes, the Clear Voice setting goes a long way to make up for it.

Of course, if you’re not deadset on buying something today, Yamaha announced the launch of the SR-B40A soundbar with wireless subwoofer and the SR-B30A soundbar with built-in subwoofers, expected in August and September of 2023, respectively, and both costing less than $400.

Best budget smart soundbar: Roku Streambar Pro

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Specs 

• 32.2 (W) x 2.8 (H) x 3.9 (D) inches (soundbar)
• 5.5 pounds (3.4 kg) (soundbar)
• 3.1 channels with left/center/right channels and wireless subwoofer
• Frequency response: 40Hz-200Hz
• Built-in Bluetooth 5.0, AirPlay 2, and HDMI ARC
• Virtual Surround Sound 

Pros

• Doubles as a 4K media streamer
• Can be upgraded with additional Roku speakers for true surround sound
• Excellent audio performance and smart streaming capabilities
• Support for AirPlay 2, in addition to Bluetooth
• Works with Amazon’s Alexa and can be managed in Google Home

Cons 

• Best for users who like Roku’s platform

Roku’s Streambar Pro has no right to work as well as it does for its $179 price (which is why it tops our best soundbars under $200 list). The mid-sized soundbar has four 2.5-inch drivers, which approximate the performance of a left, right, and center-channel home theater setup. In our tests, dialogue sounded surprisingly clear, and the Streambar Pro’s bass performance was strong enough to handle loud sounds (think explosions in action movies) without distorting. Don’t get us wrong, you’ll still get better bass performance out of a soundbar system that comes with a dedicated subwoofer—more on that later—but we never found the Streambar Pro’s sound lacking.

Roku says the Streambar Pro supports virtual surround sound, but there’s only so much they could accomplish with four forward-facing drivers. Please don’t get this soundbar hoping it’ll recreate the experience of a true height channel-equipped surround sound system in a compact form, or you’ll be disappointed. That said, other technologies supported by Streambar Pro make using it a lot better. Bluetooth and AirPlay 2 allow you to stream audio—and video in the case of AirPlay 2-compatible devices—directly to the Streambar Pro. If your smart home is built around Amazon or Google’s ecosystem, you’ll appreciate the ability to control this soundbar using Alexa or Google Assistant. It doesn’t support Siri control, but Apple reserves that functionality for its own hardware.

The Streambar Pro can only be connected to a TV with an HDMI cable, which is the default option for soundbars these days, but worth noting in case you’ve used up all your ports. If you were hoping to connect using an optical audio cable, you’re out of luck. Next to the HDMI port, you’ll find an Ethernet jack and USB-A port, which come in handy because this soundbar’s marquee feature: acting as a media streamer for your TV. Yes, this soundbar has a full-powered 4K Roku streamer inside (so you have no excuse not to fire up Weird: The Al Yankovic Story right after plugging everything in). We’re typically skeptical of gadgets that try to accomplish two completely separate tasks, but we can’t help but be impressed at how well Roku pulled this off.

Once you connect the soundbar to your TV, you’ll be walked through the standard Roku setup process: creating or signing into an active Roku account, logging into your home network, and picking your streaming apps of choice. From there, you can use Streambar Pro to access content from almost every major video and audio streaming platform. We’ve used Roku’s standalone media streamers before and found the Streambar Pro to be every bit as performant and easy to use. Roku bundles the Streambar Pro with the same remote as many of its media streamers, so if you’re familiar with its other tech, you’ll feel right at home.

The decision to build a media streamer into its soundbar was shrewd. Roku is counting on the fact that one of your TV’s HDMI ports is being used by a similar device, which you can replace with its own hardware. If you’ve been relying on the streaming apps built into your TV’s operating system, Streambar Pro will upgrade both audio quality and overall usability. Roku’s operating system and remote are the easiest to use in our experience, so in this case, double dipping works.

We mentioned the Streambar Pro’s serviceable bass and so-so surround sound performance earlier, and while neither is a dealbreaker, Roku does offer ways to improve these downsides. This soundbar can be augmented with a subwoofer and up to four speakers to create a true 5.1 surround sound system. The additional speakers and subwoofer connect to the soundbar wirelessly, which is wonderful. The subwoofer adds just the right amount of bass while placing additional speakers all around the room is more immersive than using any soundbar on its own. Roku sells a full surround sound system for around $500, but you can pick up these pieces individually over time if you’d prefer.

The Streambar Pro offers the right mix of audio quality, modularity, and additional features that make it the ideal choice for anyone who wants to upgrade from the speakers built into their TV. Whether you want to start building a home theater or make it easier to find and watch TV shows and movies on your new set, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.

Things to consider when looking at the best soundbars under $500 

The No. 1 reason to buy a soundbar is to bask in the improved audio quality. But that improvement requires space immediately in front of your TV, so you must ensure you have room on or above some piece of furniture. The soundbars on this under $500 list aren’t giant like some of the high-ticket soundbars (the amazing but substantial Sennheiser AMBEO, we’re looking at you), but they do vary in size, so it doesn’t hurt to double-check that you have enough space for one. Of course, there are other things to consider as well. 

Audio channels

Some people may look at a group of blocky soundbars and assume that they all have pretty much the same stuff going on inside. But that’s not the case. All soundbars house multiple speakers inside one unit, but their channel configuration varies greatly. There are 2-channel stereo soundbars; 3-channel options that add a center channel for clarifying vocals and dialog; 5-channel soundbars that are better equipped for recreating surround sound; and even larger speaker arrays that add more surround sound channels. Suppose a soundbar states a 7.1.2-channel configuration, for example. In that case, the “7” is the number of standard speaker channels, the “1” indicates a subwoofer, and the “2” is the number of top-firing speakers for producing next-generation surround-sound standards like Dolby Atmos. But you won’t find many under $500, so if that appeals to you, check out something premium like the Sony HT-A7000.

Add-on speakers

If you only want to devote enough space for a single soundbar, there are plenty of standalone options out there for you. However, many soundbars also come with subwoofers for adding some stomach-shaking bass rumble that you won’t get from a soundbar alone. Subwoofers are great, but they are bulky and have to be plugged in. Also, some soundbars either come with additional rear satellite speakers for making surround sound more realistic or can be expanded with compatible rear speakers sold separately. The satellite speakers also need to plug into an outlet and sometimes need to connect with a speaker wire. Additional speakers add to the experience but also usually add to the cost, so think about whether you want just a soundbar or a more complete setup. 

Connectivity

Because soundbars are made to supplement your TV’s audio, all today’s models have an HDMI port to transmit the TV’s sound (some with the HDMI 2.1 standard most desirable to today’s gamer). But from there, the level of connectivity, both wired and wireless, varies greatly. Some have additional HDMI inputs, while others don’t. Some have 4K passthrough HDMI eARC for the most modern TVs, but others do not. On a particular soundbar, you may or may not find analog and digital audio connections, USB drive ports, Bluetooth and/or WiFi for wireless streaming, and even integration with smart-home voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Google Assistant. If any or all of the above are important to you, plan accordingly while soundbar shopping. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best soundbars under $500

• Best overall: Sonos Beam (Gen. 2)
• Best with Dolby Atmos: Polk Signa S4
• Best with surround sound: Vizio M Series M512a-H6
• Best 5.1: TCL Q6510
• Best 3.1: Sony HT-S2000
• Best with subwoofer: Yamaha YAS-209
• Best smart: Roku Streambar Pro

Oftentimes, with technology, the quality and sheer quantity of what you get increases while the price stays the same. But that’s not always the case, as price fluctuations in today’s market pop up with increasing regularity. Even while writing this guide, I saw price increases that eliminated certain soundbars from consideration. Fortunately for now, however, $500 or less is still enough to buy you some elegant standalone soundbars with many high-tech extras, a boomin’ system with a soundbar and a subwoofer, or even a full Atmos-compatible package with soundbar, subwoofer, and satellite speakers. I’m not one to advocate for conspicuous consumption. Choose prudently for features you want and will actually use, but if you’re considering buying a soundbar for less than $500 and have the budget, you may want to act before the price jump bug bites again. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best soundbars under $500 in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Twelve South Deskpad		SEE IT	This vegan leather desk pad is perfect for almost every application.
Best for productivity		Orbitkey Desk Mat		SEE IT	Orbitkey’s desk mat keeps design simple, focusing on useful organization features.
Best budget		YSAGi Multifunctional Office Desk Pad		SEE IT	This budget-friendly desk pad is a cost-effective upgrade for home offices or dorm rooms.

If you’re careful, a good desk can last a lifetime—and a good desk pad can help. Sometimes you drop a heavy steel roleplaying die on the surface, or maybe an industrious kid gets curious about what their name would look like permanently etched in it. A desk pad can both add color and organization to your desktop while protecting the surface from scuffs, dents, and chips—prolonging the life of the desk by years for just a few dollars. If you regularly use a computer at your desk—and, honestly, who doesn’t—a desk pad can also play the role of mouse pad, giving you a large scrollable surface. These are the best desk pads we’ve found and tested.

• Best overall: Twelve South DeskPad
• Best sustainable: Orbitkey Desk Mat
• Best multifunctional: Adir Self-Healing Reversible Cutting Mat
• Best gaming: Razer Goliathus Extended Chroma Gaming Mouse Pad
• Best looking: Grovemade Desk Pad
• Best clear: Artistic Krystal View antimicrobial desk pad
• Best smart: KeySmart TaskPad
• Best felt/wool: Oakywood Merion Wool and Cork Desk Pad
• Best budget: YSAGi Multifunctional Office Desk Pad

How we chose the best desk pads

Desk pads come in many sizes and are made from various materials. Realistically, it’s hard to say what’s “best” for any individual because so much of the choice comes down to personal taste. For our list of the best desk pads, we scoured Amazon and other retailers to look for unique desk pads that are well-designed, stylish, and made from quality materials. We can’t predict your taste, but we can offer up pieces that make sense for a wide range of technical and aesthetic sensibilities.

The best desk pads: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’ve invested in a nice desk, it doesn’t hurt to invest just a little more to maintain that desk. From the hobbyist to the office worker to the gamer, there’s a desk pad here for everyone. We went with popular and non-traditional suggestions to ensure everyone can find something interesting and exciting to perfect their desk space.

Best overall: Twelve South DeskPad

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Why it made the cut: People looking for an upgrade over the feel of their raw desk should stop here first.

• Minimum/Maximum sizes: 29.37 inches x 15.75 inches
• Thickness: 4.9mm
• Material: Vegan leather
• Styles: Black, Grey

Pros

• Comfortable feel
• Spill-resistant
• Performance

Cons

• One size option

Twelve South is best known for its Apple-focused tech accessories, so we were surprised when the company announced the DeskPad, which can be used with any computer or tablet. Even more surprising was how much we really liked it during our tests. Part of the DeskPads’ appeal is its comfortable feel, courtesy of vegan leather. If you’re used to keeping your arms planted on plastic or wood, you’ll notice the extra padding very quickly. In our experience, the DeskPad’s supple feel was a noticeable improvement.

We had no problem using an optical Bluetooth mouse on the DeskPad, with no hit to performance or hitches. The mouse slid over the surface of this desk pad with ease. We also dropped a little water on the DeskPad to check its “spill resistance” and found that its materials did impede water from soaking in. You won’t want to replace your desk pad often, so it mustn’t absorb water and get moldy or begin cracking.

There aren’t any major downsides to using Twelve South’s DeskPad, save for the fact that it’s only offered in one size. We highly recommend trying if you can make it work on your desk.

Best for productivity: Orbitkey Desk Mat

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Why it made the cut: Organization-minded design elements like a secret paper compartment and a cord organizer make the Orbitkey desk mat a useful choice.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum sizes: 27 x 14.6 inches – 35.2 x 16.6 inches
• Thickness: 4.9mm
• Material: Vegan leather
• Styles: Black, Stone

Pros

• Elegant look
• Cable organizer/pen holder
• Secret paper compartment

Cons

• Expensive

While the Orbitkey desk mat seems a bit expensive at a glance, its smart design stands out compared to other pads, with features that make it worth a look. A long pen holder runs along the far edge of the pad, which also creates a path to hide cables that need to run under it. Beneath its vegan leather top and felt bottom, the pad has a compartment for storing papers, whether you just need to keep a receipt handy until you can expense it or need to stash a secret treasure map that you need to keep safe. It looks basic but delivers much more functionality than most similarly simple desk pads.

Best multifunctional: Adir Self-Healing Reversible Cutting Mat

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Why it made the cut: You can cut it without ruining it!

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum sizes: 12 x 18 inches – 24 x 36 inches
• Thickness: 3mm
• Material: Vinyl
• Styles: Dual-sided green/black

Pros

• Self-healing vinyl
• Dual-sided
• Lots of built-in visual tools for hobbyists

Cons

• Not Stylish. At all.

Most of the desk pads on this list are pretty stylish. This one, however, is purely practical. Adir’s self-healing cutting mat is made for tinkerers and craftsmen–anyone whose desk serves as both a computing workstation and a workbench. The self-healing vinyl surface closes up as a blade cuts through it, protecting your desk and keeping the workspace smooth. It serves the most basic need of a desk pad, protecting your desk surface, better than any other pad on this list.

Best gaming: Razer Goliathus Extended Chroma Gaming mouse pad

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Why it made the cut: This gigantic cloth mouse pad was designed for precision gaming performance.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum sizes: 10 x 14 inches – 12 x 36 inches
• Thickness: 3 mm
• Material: Cloth
• Styles: Black, Mercury, Quartz, Halo Infinite

Pros

• Customizable RGB lighting
• Wide enough for a mouse and keyboard
• A few different styles

Cons

• Requires USB connection to light up

Razer is one of the biggest names in PC gaming hardware, with its own take on just about every peripheral, including mice. With the Goliathus Extended Chroma, Razer gives you an extremely wide mouse pad that gives you plenty of surface space made specifically for great response atop your gaming desk. If you plug it into your PC, it also adds a bit of flash to your setup with customizable RGB lighting to match your gaming gear.

Best looking: Grovemade Desk Pad

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Why it made the cut: Grovemade’s Matte Desk Mat is a beautiful addition to any home office.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum sizes: 11 x 24.75 inches – 26.5 x 49 inches
• Thickness: 3.5 mm
• Material: Vegan leather
• Styles: Black, Dark Grey, Light Grey, Navy, Light Blue, Light Brown, Orange, Light Pink, Dark Green, Light Green

Pros

• Comfortable to use
• Wide range of sizes
• Large color assortment

Cons

• Bigger sizes get expensive

Let’s be honest; everybody who’s interested in a desk pad cares at least a little bit about aesthetics. If you care a lot about the look of your workspace, Grovemade’s Matte Desk Mat is the one to get. In our experience, the desk pad looks gorgeous on a desktop, which gave our desk a colorful pop. The company offers 10 color options—including more neutral colors like Black and Light Grey, in case you’d like to go with a more traditional look. Likewise, this desk pad is available in five sizes, so you’ll definitely find one that matches your desk—be mindful that the largest size costs $140.

Grovemade says its desk pad was designed to work with optical mice, which was true in our experience. We had no performance hiccups during our tests and liked how the vegan leather felt under our arms. You’ll pay a little more for Grovemade gear, but its quality—and the fact that it’s manufactured in the U.S.—easily justifies it. If you want to make your workspace more comfortable, functional, and better looking, don’t skip Grovemade’s Matte Desk Pad.

Best clear: Artistic Krystal View antimicrobial desk pad

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Why it made the cut: Most desks are much dirtier than you realize. If that bothers you, an antimicrobial desk pad may help.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum Sizes: 12 x 17 inches
• Thickness: 4mm
• Material: Vinyl
• Styles: Clear, frosted, black

Pros

• Clear surface lets you put notes and photos underneath
• Antimicrobial protection in the pad

Cons

• Not a great mouse pad

The Artistic Krystal View antimicrobial desk pad offers something a little different: It’s infused with Microban, an antimicrobial additive that helps it resist bacterial and fungal build-up. Most antimicrobial products are coated with it, so the protection wears off eventually. The Artistic pad has that protection built in so that you can wash the mat without worry. A clear mat also offers a nice opportunity for you to put the desk surface to use. You can slide notes, pictures, calendars, and things like that underneath to keep them in view without having them sliding around and getting in the way.

Best smart: KeySmart TaskPad

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Why it made the cut: With so many wireless charging devices out there, having a charger built into your desk pad makes life easier.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum Sizes: 16.54 x 35.43 inches
• Thickness: 2mm
• Material: PU Leather
• Styles: Black

Pros

• Nice size
• Built-in charger
• Cuts down on overall cable clutter
• Matte black look blends into any desk setup

Cons

• Slow charging
• Expensive

The KeySmart TaskPad is a bit pricey but offers some very convenient features. The PU Leather desk pad features a Qi wireless charging station on the left-hand side, which can charge up your iPhone 14, Pixel 7 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, or just about any other mid-range or premium smartphone, as well as any number of Qi-enabled earbuds, mice, watches, and other devices. Having a standard spot for your phone helps keep it from getting out of eyesight, and while the charger is slow, it’ll help keep you topped off throughout the day.

Best felt/wool: Oakywood Merino Wool and Cork Desk Mat

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Why it made the cut: Oakywood’s wool and cork desk pad is perfect for glass and steel desktops and is especially eco-friendly.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum Sizes: 24.4 x 11.8 inches – 35.5 x 11.8 inches
• Thickness: 3mm
• Material: Cork-backed felt
• Styles: Anthracite or Gray

Pros

• Eco-friendly
• Non-slip cork backing
• Stylish

Cons

• Wool isn’t for everyone

Our desks are often cold, hard surfaces that can leave us with icy hands, and anything that can warm up your office environment is a good thing. One solution, besides bundling up or using a space heater, is Oakywood’s wool desk mat, which does provide some warmth. It feels especially well-suited to metal and glass desks and cooler climates, which is true of the basement office I sometimes work from. The wool and cork pad puts a warm, soft barrier between me and my cold, hard desktop.

Oakywood suggests cleaning the pad with a vacuum from time to time, but I haven’t and never noticed any noticeable gunk buildup in months of testing. I have been mindful not to spill liquid on it, though, as the wool wouldn’t repel it. The only downside to using this desk pad is that wool is far more abrasive than leather—vegan or otherwise. I didn’t mind, and it didn’t hinder the performance of my mouse, but this is something to keep in mind if you have sensitive skin.

Best budget: YSAGi Multifunctional Office Desk Pad

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Why it made the cut: YSAGi offers tons of different color and size options for a bargain-bin price.

Specs

• Minimum/Maximum Sizes: 13.7 x 23.6 inches – 23.6 x 47.2 inches 
• Thickness: 2mm
• Material: PU Leather
• Styles: 14 dual-sided color options

Pros

• Very affordable
• Dual-sided
• Lots of sizes and colors
• PU Leather is durable

Cons

• No non-skid feature

With so many YouTubers and other streamers out there showing off their desk setups, creating a coordinated and stylish look for your office is more popular than ever. YSAGi’s dual-sided desk pad is a perfect way to add both color and aesthetic structure to your desk space. You can find a YSAGi desk pad to fit any style or desk arrangement: It comes in four different sizes and as many as 14 color combinations. (Not every color is available in every size, though.) There are a variety of options with a cork side, as well. No matter what you pick, it costs less than $15. That’s far less than we’d expect to pay for a good desk pad.

Things to consider before buying a desk pad

Every desk is a little bit different, so picking the perfect desk pad may require a little bit of forethought. If you’re using a small desk, you don’t want to get an XXXL pad that will cover the whole surface. An overly thick pad can mess with your desk’s ergonomics. Wool and felt desk pads look great, but you don’t want one if you have a habit of knocking over drinks or eating at your desk. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you look for a surface that speaks to you.

Measurements are key

This should go without saying, but your desk pad should fit on your desk with room to spare. Like a pair of pants, technically getting the desk on the pad is not good enough. You want it to “fit” well and look good.

Measure the space you want the pad to cover carefully, then pick one that’s a little smaller, if you can, to keep it from completely dominating your desk. An oversized desk pad creates more problems than it solves, taking up room you need for other things. It won’t matter if the mat has wireless charging, RGB lighting, or cable organizers if the desk pad gets in your way. If it’s too small, well, then you won’t have room for writing and typing and whatever else you plan to do in that space.

Materials matter

There are tons of different materials available for desk pads. Manufacturers use all kinds of stuff to make them, including linoleum, vinyl, leather, Polyurethane (PU) leather, merino wool, cork, cloth, and more. Some materials, like vinyl and PU leather, are chosen for durability, while merino wool, cork, and leather look and feel more luxurious.

Consider your habits before picking a specific desk pad material, especially with more niche and/or expensive options like wool, leather, or cloth. Do you want your desk pad to double as a mouse pad? If so, you should probably want to avoid materials that aren’t smooth, like wool. Be really honest with yourself: How often do you spill coffee on your desk? If the answer is more than “never,” then avoid pads made out of cloth or fiber. Gamers will specifically want to look for a low-friction surface with a very grippy base so they can mouse around freely during heated Fortnite sessions.

Can you write on it?

While we don’t spend as much time penning missives as we did half a century ago, most of us still pick up a pen from time to time to sign documents, write diaries, or jot down grocery lists and other daily notes. If your pad is thick and relatively squishy–think of the classic mouse pads that used to come with our computers—you may find it challenging to write sharp, legible lines. Consider how often you use your desk for handwriting, and whether you’d prefer to put papers on the pad, or directly on your desk.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best desk pads

• Best overall: Twelve South DeskPad
• Best sustainable: Orbitkey Desk Mat
• Best multifunctional: Adir Self-Healing Reversible Cutting Mat
• Best gaming: Razer Goliathus Extended Chroma Gaming Mouse Pad
• Best looking: Grovemade Desk Pad
• Best clear: Artistic Krystal View antimicrobial desk pad
• Best smart: KeySmart TaskPad
• Best felt/wool: Oakywood Merion Wool and Cork Desk Pad
• Best budget: YSAGi Multifunctional Office Desk Pad

It’s easier than ever to coordinate, warm up, class up, and protect your workspace, thanks to the wide selection of desk pads. You can find various sizes and materials to fit just about every workspace, and this list provides options that will suit any home office. If you’re curious about extra-large desk pads, we have an entire guide dedicated to them.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best desk pads of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Amazon has made the best inexpensive tablets for quite some time, and the company has recently expanded the higher end of its line with the Fire Max 11. The 11-inch tablet has better specs and works with a keyboard and stylus to offer a more iPad-like experience when tackling productivity tasks. And, right now, you can get the Fire Max 11 for $190, which is $40 less than usual, bringing the tablet back down to its cheapest price.

Amazon Fire Max 11, $189.99 (Was $229.99)

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The Fire Max 11 is an impressive piece of kit on paper. It has an 11-inch display with a resolution of 2000 x 1200 (over 1080P), eight-core processor, 4GB of RAM (memory), and 64GB of storage. You can expand its storage by up to 1TB by popping in a MicroSD Card. The tablet has an 8-megapixel front and rear-facing camera, which can both record 1080P video. Finally, Amazon says the Fire Max 11 can run for up to 14 hours per charge.

It’s hard to argue with the supreme value of the Fire Max 11 as a media consumption device. Videos and books will look sharp on its screen, as will the handful of games that run on FireOS. Web browsing will also be easier thanks to the tablet’s large display. If you need a large-screen tablet for those common tasks, the Fire Max 11 shouldn’t be missed.

If you’d like a lightweight productivity tablet, this may be a good fit, depending on your needs. The Fire Max 11 can run the Microsoft Office suite—Word, Excel, PowerPoint—and even comes with a free, three-month trial to those services. The number of apps available on FireOS is more limited than iOS or the Google Play stores, so do a little research to see if the software you rely on—or an equivalent—is available.

Some other great deals that might light your fire:

• Amazon Fire HD 10, $119.99 (Was $149.99)
• Amazon Fire TV Stick, $24.99 (Was $39.99)
• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, $26.99 (Was $54.99)
• Sony WH-XB910N, $148 (Was $249.99)
• Sony WH-1000XM5, $348 (Was $399.99)
• Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, $353 (Was $469.99)
• Dyson Outsize Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, $499 (Was $599.99)
• iRobot Roomba 692 Robot Vacuum, $170 (Was $299.99)
• iRobot Roomba s9+, $599.99 (Was $999.99)
• SAMSUNG T35F Series 27-Inch FHD 1080p Computer Monitor, $128.69 (Was $219.99)
• SAMSUNG S80A Computer Monitor, $234.49 (Was $270.48)
• SAMSUNG Odyssey Neo G8, $999.99 (Was $1,499.99)

The post Get Amazon’s biggest, fastest tablet for its lowest price ever appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Logitech MX Master 3S		SEE IT	A dedicated thumbwheel and controls above the rest offer superior flexibility while demanding little hand movement.
Best trackball		Logitech ERGO M575		SEE IT	This mouse allows users precise control of their cursor without the need to move the mouse using their wrist and arm.
Best budget wireless		Microsoft Sculpt		SEE IT	If you comfort on a budget, Microsoft’s Sculpt will fit the bill.

Whether you spend long hours at a computer each day or only sit to check emails intermittently, the likelihood of developing joint discomfort, carpal tunnel, and other wrist-related disorders increases with every minute spent at the desk, which is why you need to use an ergonomic mouse. Finding the best ergonomic mouse for your personal setup will mitigate the common causes of these problems by allowing your wrist and hand to maintain a more natural position while working to decrease tension in the tendons and nerve pathways of the area. Because all activities that require repetitive hand movements and unnatural hand positions risk causing inflammation to the sensitive areas of the hand, long-term ailments like tendonitis and arthritis are extremely common in office settings.

While this effect can be offset by good practices and preventative measures—like stretching, massaging, and muscle rest—it is just as important to use ergonomic office accessories to tackle the underlying cause of these issues. Users currently experiencing these symptoms and those looking to prevent them can all benefit from using well-designed computer accessories. From a vertical mouse to a trackball mouse and everywhere in between, we’ll break down some of the features of the best ergonomic mice on the market that will benefit any user’s well-being.

• Best overall: Logitech MX Master 3S
• Best for gaming: Razer Viper V2 Pro
• Best vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech Lift Vertical Wireless Mouse
• Best horizontal: Cherry MW 8C Ergo
• Best trackball: Logitech ERGO M575
• Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming Mouse
• Best budget wireless: Microsoft Sculpt

How we chose the best ergonomic mice

When looking for the best ergonomic mouse for particular needs, we factored in the specific activities you’d use it for, whether gaming, photo editing, general productivity, or a mix of uses. Existing hand and wrist issues, budget, space, and equipment sharing were also important considerations to keep in mind. For the vast majority of users, an ergonomic mouse that most resembles a traditional mouse both in form factor and usage will be the easiest to adjust to and the easiest to learn.

The benefits of ergonomic mice tend to increase as the form factor shifts away from conventional designs, with some involving sideways, or “vertical” designs that require a click movement that’s closer to pulling a trigger than pushing a button. With this in mind, we researched and tried firsthand designs that split the difference between fully vertical and traditional so you can find your perfect balance of familiarity and versatility. We sit at our desks far too much, scrolling through the internet to find the latest, greatest products, so we are deeply invested in tech that can ease wear and tear on our bodies.

The best ergonomic mouse: Reviews & Recommendations

The best ergonomic mouse overall will feature a shape that allows the hand to fall naturally over the surface of the mouse instead of requiring the palm to tilt down and back toward the user, which will take pressure off the tendons in the wrist. A design that offers a dedicated, expanded grip area for users’ thumbs can add greatly to ergonomic benefits as well. You should also look for traditional features, like dedicated scroll wheels that are easy to access with minimal finger movement required and wireless connectivity to allow a full range of desktop motion when needed. Pair one of the mice below with a properly ergonomic desk and chair setup, and your body will immediately thank you for investing in its health.

Best overall: Logitech MX Master 3S

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Specs

• Wireless: Yes
• Weight: 5 ounces
• Price: $99.99

Pros

• Thumb rest
• Extra programmable buttons
• Ultra-responsive scroll wheel

Cons

• Price

We’re big fans of Logitech accessories in general, and the Logitech MX Master 3S is the best ergonomic mouse overall thanks to its comfortable hybrid design, flexibility, and a multitude of productivity-enhancing features. Its battery lasts up to 70 days on a single charge and offers around three hours of use from one minute of charging. A dedicated thumbwheel and controls above the thumb rest offer superior flexibility while demanding little hand movement, and it’s ready to use with multiple operating systems.

This mouse may look intimidating, but it feels immediately natural in the hand. The MX Master 3S buttons are extremely quiet—so much so that we can wholeheartedly recommend this mouse for office use—and the scroll wheel moves along with satisfying, incremental clicks. Initially, we didn’t know what to make of the thumb wheel but found it incredibly useful when working in image editing applications, which is when horizontal scrolling was most helpful. You need this mouse if you work in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.

One of the MX Master 3S’ most convenient features is the ability to pair it with up to three Bluetooth devices. A button on the bottom of the mouse lets you switch between connections, but it will never get pressed accidentally as you’re mousing around. We could use the mouse with both our personal and work laptops and switch between them without a hitch. While testing this mouse, the biggest surprise was the usefulness of Logitech’s Logi Options software, which allows us to designate a specific function to the mouse’s scroll wheel click and side buttons. Accessing core system features without taking our hand off the mouse was a huge time saver.

Logitech’s MX Master 3S is an ergonomic triumph, but it’s such a powerful, precise instrument that we could recommend it to anyone looking for a wireless mouse for creative work.

Best for gaming: Razer Viper V2 Pro

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Specs

• Wireless: Yes
• Weight: 1.87 ounces
• Price: $128.20

Pros

• Ambidextrous
• 30k optical sensor
• Lightweight

Cons

• Price

An ergonomic mouse is a must-have accessory for gamers because playing online matches requires constant movement and clicking, which can cause RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) if done with the wrong tool. Razer’s Viper V2 Pro is small, light, and designed to use with either hand. If you’re a left-handed person using a mouse designed for right-handed people, you may feel discomfort regardless of what you use your computer for.

We like the ergonomic benefits of the Viper V2 Pro, but it’s also a beast on the performance front. The mouse’s optical sensor is incredibly precise and allows the mouse to be used on any surface. Many gamers shun wireless peripherals because of latency (lag) between their actions (movement, button clicks) and what’s represented on screen. Still, Razer says its mouse can communicate with your computer 25% faster than the competition. If you’re still worried about latency, plug the Viper V2 Pro into your computer with the included USB cable. Additionally, the mouse can run for over 80 hours per charge, which is helpful if you often game and forget to plug it in.

Razer has a solid track record of making incredibly compelling accessories for gamers, and it’s made sure that the Viper V2 Pro mouse is efficient and comfortable to use for everybody. If you’re partial to wireless accessories but think you can’t use them for gaming, this mouse is an even better choice.

Best vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech Lift Vertical Wireless Mouse

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Specs

• Wireless: Yes
• Weight: 4.4 ounces
• Price: $64.44

Pros

• Thumb rest
• Bluetooth and receiver wireless options
• Programmable side buttons

Cons

• Shape may not be for everyone

While members of the PopSci staff have previously lauded the Logitech Lift, I’d never tried a vertical mouse until testing this one and was initially apprehensive about trying a pointing device so differently shaped than the one I’ve been used to for over 20 years. It turns out my fears were unfounded, as the Logitech Lift was immediately intuitive—and more importantly comfortable—to use.

Logitech allows you to pair the Lift to your PC or Mac over Bluetooth or a USB-A adapter stored in the mouse’s battery compartment so you don’t lose it. I opted for Bluetooth, and the mouse was immediately recognized by my MacBook Pro. What struck me about the Lift was how natural it felt under my hand. Its thumb rest cradles my thumb, while my pointer and index fingers fall immediately onto the right and left click buttons. My thumb could easily reach the Lift’s two side buttons without much movement, while reaching the scroll wheel with either my pointer or index finger was just as simple. There was no learning curve to using this mouse; if anything, going back to a “normal” one felt foreign.

The Lift’s scroll wheel isn’t as smooth as the one on Logitiech’s MX Master 3S featured above, but it was ultra responsive. I never scrolled too far while using this mouse. Similarly, all four of its buttons worked 100% of the time, with nary a misclick in sight. It’s important to note that the mouse’s side buttons—located by the thumb rest—make louder clicking sounds than the comparatively soft top buttons. Neither set sounds annoying, but it’s something to consider. Clicking in the mouse’s scroll wheel button actually produces a sound that’s somewhere in between sound-wise.

A big part of the Logitech Lift’s appeal is customizing its buttons using the company’s LogiOptions+ software, available on both macOS and Windows. The app allows you to customize the Lift’s side and scroll wheel click buttons. I immediately customized the mouse’s side buttons to shift between virtual desktops and used the mouse click button to engage Mission Control, which shows all the active windows on my current virtual desktop. These customizations save me precious seconds dozens of (if not over 100) times daily and are essential for maintaining my productivity.

If you’ve wanted to give vertical mice a chance, Logitech’s Lift will ease you into using this type of pointing device. Its comfort, customizability, and overall performance make it an excellent choice for any desktop. Better still, a left-handed version is available so everybody can use it.

Best horizontal: Cherry MW 8C Ergo

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Specs

• Wireless: Yes
• Weight: 4 ounces
• Price: $49.99

Pros

• Thumb rest
• Bluetooth and receiver wireless options
• Programmable side buttons

Cons

• Software incompatible with MacOS
• Clicky buttons may be too loud for some

There’s a lot to like about Cherry’s MW 8C Ergo, and it has feature parity with many of the other ergonomic mice we’re recommending—if you’re running Windows. Physically, the horizontal mouse has a gentle curve, with a shape that will be instantly recognizable to most people. The big differences here are the mouse’s thumb rest and arched top, which make it comfortable to use for extended periods.

Setting up the MW 8C Ergo was a simple affair. The company allows you to pair the mouse to your computer with either a USB adapter stashed in a hole on its underside or via Bluetooth. I always opt for Bluetooth, and my MacBook Pro saw the mouse within a few seconds. With a single click, the two devices were connected. Once paired, I used the MW 8C Ergo to help complete my daily work of scrolling through websites and opening and switching between different applications—from word processors to image-editing software.

The mouse felt comfortable to hold, with the thumb rest providing ample space for my thumb and my pointer and middle fingers draped over the right and left click buttons. The thumb rest also provided easy access to the MW 8C Ergo’s side buttons—more on that in a little bit. In general, I found this mouse’s scroll wheel to feel and perform well; I never scrolled too far because it clicked at regular enough intervals that I could stop at the exact point I wanted to. All of this mouse’s buttons make a pronounced clicking sound, which could be a pro or con, depending on your preferences.

Overall, I found the MW 8C Ergo’s build quality and performance to be on-par with other ergonomic mice I tested, which is great considering its lower price. Unfortunately, my issues with this mouse have to do with its software, which is Windows only. I run macOS on my personal and work computer, so I could not install Cherry’s Keys utility, which is required to customize the mouse’s side buttons. This meant I couldn’t make the MW 8C Ergo a seamless part of my workflow. This won’t be an issue if you run a Windows machine, but macOS users should be aware. With that caveat aside, Cherry’s MW 8C Ergo is a performant, inexpensive wireless ergonomic mouse.

Best trackball: Logitech ERGO M575

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Specs

• Wireless: Yes
• Weight: 5.11 ounces
• Price: $49.99

Pros

• Trackball
• Customizable buttons
• Made from sustainable materials.

Cons

• May take some time to adapt to

A trackball mouse allows you to move your computer’s cursor by rotating a ball on its thumb rest instead of physically moving the mouse. This allows you to use the M575 ERGO on small desks, airplane tray tables, or anywhere there’s little space. This style of mouse isn’t for everyone—especially if you’d like to actually rest your thumb on a flat surface—but worth considering if you’re experiencing strain on your middle and pointer fingers.

The mouse itself is shaped in such a way that your pointer and middle fingers will fall naturally on top of the mouse’s right and left click buttons. The ERGO M575’s auxiliary buttons are located on the left side of the left click button, where they can be easily accessed by your middle finger.

The ERGO M575 shares a lot of features with the other Logitech ergonomic mice we’re recommending, including support for Logi Options+, which allows you to customize the actions of its auxiliary buttons. It can be connected to your computer wirelessly using the included USB receiver or over Bluetooth, and runs on a single AA battery. Additionally, the ERGO M575 mouse is made in part from recycled plastics, which is great if you’re trying to make your work setup more sustainable.

Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming Mouse

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Specs

• Wireless: No
• Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Price: $16.99

Pros

• Programmable LEDs
• Customizable buttons
• Price

Cons

• Less convenient to use than wireless mice

This wired gaming mouse from Lizsword is the best wired ergonomic mouse we could find, especially given its sub-$20 price tag. Advanced features like the ability to change the mouse’s sensitivity using a physical button instead of software, built-in LEDs, and additional customizable buttons make it a great overall pick if you don’t mind a mouse that needs to be plugged in at all times. That one annoyance comes with the benefit of never needing to charge the mouse or worrying about its battery level if you take it traveling. If you’re only going to use your ergonomic mouse at a desk, there’s no real downside to choosing a wired one instead of going wireless besides convenience.

Ridges on the sides of the mouse make it easier and more comfortable to grip, while protruding side buttons are easy to find and hit without looking down. Lizsword says its mouse’s right and left click buttons can be pressed over five million times without showing signs of degradation. The company also provides software that allows you to change the function of each of this mouse’s buttons to make it easier to use. You also have the option to change its sensitivity this way. If you prefer to use wired accessories or want to save a few bucks, this is the ergonomic mouse to get.

Best budget wireless: Microsoft Sculpt

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Specs

• Wireless: Yes
• Weight: 5.47 ounces
• Price: $37.28

Pros

• Curved design
• Thumb rest
• Price

Cons

• Size

Microsoft has been at the forefront of the ergonomic computer accessory revolution for years, and its Sculpt mouse continues that tradition. The wireless mouse has a thumb scoop on the side and a moderately sloped surface, making it the best ergonomic horizontal mouse on the market. A dedicated button offers Windows users quick access to the Start menu, and it connects to users’ systems via an included USB transceiver. USB receivers are more cumbersome than using a mouse that connects via Bluetooth, but it’s still easier than using a mouse with a cable.

The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse runs off of two AA batteries (might we recommend rechargeable ones) and offers a battery life of up to 12 months before needing replacement. Importantly, the mouse works with both Macs and Windows computers despite it being made by Microsoft. Our only minor qualm with Microsoft’s ergonomic mouse is its small size, which may make it a little difficult to use if you’ve got bigger hands. If that isn’t a concern, or you’d like a mouse that’s ultra-affordable, this is a solid choice.

What to consider when shopping for the best ergonomic mouse

There are dozens of factors to consider when judging ergonomic tech accessories because everybody’s definition of comfort is slightly different. We can’t account for the size of your hand or wrist sensitivity but we have considered how most people use mice for work and play.

Gaming performance

Even outside the realm of ergonomic computer accessories, gaming mice are set apart from traditional computer mice by using designs that favor comfort, precision, and speed, especially over longer periods of use.

When choosing an ergonomic gaming mouse, it’s not uncommon to find designs with a wealth of easy-to-access onboard programmable buttons that allow users to bind specific functions or actions to their specialized mouse. This extended functionality is miles ahead of that offered by traditional mice and has beneficial applications in gaming as well as graphic design, media editing, and more. High-speed, low-latency responsiveness, and wireless connectivity are key features to look for in the best ergonomic gaming mice to ensure that every small movement made translates accurately and precisely to the screen. For users looking to customize their PC gaming rig’s visual design fully, it’s also important to seek out an ergonomic gaming mouse that includes customizable chroma lighting to ensure a proper match to the rest of their computer accessories.

Vertical orientation

Arthritis is an ailment as unsavory as it is common. It usually begins due to—or is exacerbated by—repetitive movements that can include typing on a keyboard or scrolling with a mouse. The best ergonomic mouse for arthritis will allow users to keep their fingers, hand, and wrist in a position that minimizes joint stress, thereby decreasing the likelihood of contributing to joint swelling and worsening symptoms. Left untreated or unaddressed, arthritis-related swelling in the wrist can lead to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, which can contribute to numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers.

When looking for an ergonomic mouse for arthritis, choose a vertical mouse model that allows the hand and wrist to sit in a natural position, angled with the pinky finger closer to the desk surface. Doing so will decrease twisting in the joints and ligaments and reduce pressure in the forearm and wrist area, as well as limit the overall muscle use required for mouse movement. Look for a model that includes a thumb rest, too, as it will encourage and contribute to maintaining a more neutral resting position overall.

Horizontal orientation

In the world of computer accessories, the term “horizontal mouse” refers to the orientation of the user’s palm, which is why most traditional computer mice are classified as horizontal mice. The best ergonomic horizontal mouse will take some of the benefits of vertical mice and split the difference with traditional designs, allowing users to enjoy some, but not all, of the perks of an ergonomic model. Remember that a horizontal orientation will always put some measure of stress on the wrist and forearm, so a horizontal mouse isn’t a good choice for users with existing wrist, hand, and arm issues.

The vast benefits of choosing an ergonomic horizontal mouse are apparent when productivity and flexibility are the primary goals. Because of the design parallels to traditional computer mice, an ergonomic horizontal mouse will feel familiar in users’ hands, making it a good choice for office environments where there will be equipment sharing. No practice is required to use an ergonomic horizontal mouse, so users can simply sit down and begin enjoying a relatively more comfortable experience with no delay.

Trackball support

Trackball mouse designs have long been popular alternatives to traditional computer mice thanks to the intrinsic ergonomic benefits of the design. The best trackball mouse, such as the Logitech ERGO M575, requires no wrist movement whatsoever, opting instead to allow users to control the cursor with minute movements of the fingers or thumbs by freely rolling the trackball in its place. By eliminating the need for wrist and arm movement on the desktop, the likelihood of developing or exacerbating wrist and arm problems through use of a trackball mouse is very low.

When looking for the best ergonomic mouse with a trackball, find a design that combines a vertical tilt or pitch for the users’ hand to lay comfortably while clicking and a model with a removable and cleanable trackball for added longevity and flexibility. The limited movement requirements of a trackball mouse have benefits beyond the users’ wrists and hands, allowing these models to be used in especially cramped desk environments and making them a flexible option for productive work in almost any location.

Price

You don’t have to spend an unreasonable amount to enjoy the benefits of an ergonomic mouse, but there are a few sacrifices in design and flexibility that you’ll have to keep in mind if you’re looking to save money on these office accessories. More advanced features like trackball functionality and wireless connectivity drive up the price of ergonomic mice considerably, so you’ll most likely have to opt for a design that keeps you tethered to your computer via cabling and that requires some measure of wrist and arm movement. The best cheap ergonomic mouse will typically provide users with a horizontal design that allows the fingers and hand to fall naturally over the top of the mouse with limited arching or angling of the wrist. If you’re already suffering from symptoms of arthritis or carpal tunnel, it only makes sense to spend a little extra on a trackball or vertical design. Still, if you’re looking for a low-impact and easy-to-use ergonomic mouse on a budget, there are plenty of options for users like you.

FAQs

Final thoughts on choosing the best ergonomic mouse for you

• Best overall: Logitech MX Master 3S
• Best for gaming: Razer Viper V2 Pro
• Best vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech Lift Vertical Wireless Mouse
• Best horizontal: Cherry MW 8C Ergo
• Best trackball: Logitech ERGO M575
• Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming Mouse
• Best budget wireless: Microsoft Sculpt

Finding the best ergonomic mouse for your desk will make a significant positive impact on the long-term health of your body by limiting tension in the joints and ligaments of your hand, wrist, and forearm. If you have existing carpal tunnel or arthritis, go with a vertical mouse that doesn’t have a trackball. A horizontal mouse is the best choice for gaming and overall flexibility. In contrast, a trackball mouse is a perfect choice for a desk with limited space or users with limited arm mobility.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best ergonomic mouse in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Apple AirPods Pro 2		SEE IT	Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 offer the best balance of sound, battery life, comfort, and extra features.
Best noise cancellation		Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II		SEE IT	The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II will become the most indispensable gadget for your plane trips or commute.
Best budget		EarFun Air Pro 3		SEE IT	EarFun’s Air Pro 3 earbuds offer better sound than we’d expect from a pair that cost well under $100.

If you’re wondering just how broad the personal audio market has become, consider the vast world of earbuds, ranging from less than $25 to well over $1,000. While wired earbuds still exist, True Wireless (TWS) earbuds have become the most popular option, thanks to improvements in micro-sized receivers that can deliver huge sound. Bluetooth technology has evolved to the point it can all but guarantee seamless connections, while an array of microphones and sensors help keep music and conversations clear. That means TWS earbuds are no longer a luxury item made by a select few companies. Yet there are still times when a wire is the way to go. Whether you’re an audiophile or a devout Apple enthusiast in the market for sports or gaming earbuds, we’ve compiled what you need to know to find the best earbuds that’ll match your needs.

• Best overall: Apple AirPods Pro 2
• Best noise-cancelling: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
• Best for multiple devices: Technics EAH-AZ80
• Best for comfort: Jabra Elite 10
• Best for custom sound: Denon PerL Pro
• Best battery life: beyerdynamic Free BYRD
• Best for sustainability: House of Marley Redemption ANC 2
• Best for gamers: ASUS ROG Cetra
• Best for working out: Apple Beats Fit Pro
• Best planar-magnetic earphones: 7Hz Timeless AE
• Best budget: EarFun Air Pro 3

How we chose the best earbuds

There are nearly infinite earbuds available—models of all shapes, sizes, and price points—so we relied on hands ears-on testing to determine the best ones currently available. Our tests helped us determine the best earbuds for several specific use cases, like gaming or podcast listening, and let us single out pairs that performed best when using key features like active noise cancellation. Audio quality was paramount when making our selections, so each earbud you see below passes our sound quality tests regardless of how much money you spend.

The most discerning listeners will be able to pick up the subtle improvements on more premium pairs, but each set of earbuds will sound great if you open up a streaming app, find the music you’re looking for, and hit play. Our focus has mostly been on TWS types, which have become the dominant style in recent years, popularized in the mainstream by Apple’s AirPods. The convenience of these earbuds is undeniable, and current-generation pairs from well-known audio companies and newcomers alike offer incredible sound for their size. But we threw in some other options, too. There’s no shortage of new and exciting earbuds, but these are the best ones you can get today.

The best earbuds: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re heading out for a trail run, on an open-world quest, or need to get locked in a work groove, you can get a pair of earbuds to suit your needs. And you can find them below, where we’ve collected some of the best options for any purpose and across every price point.

Best overall: Apple AirPods Pro 2

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 6 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX4
• Microphones: Yes (3)

Pros

• Well-balanced sound
• Solid battery life
• Compatible with Spatial Audio
• Updated case with “Find My” support

Cons

• Best technical features only work when connected to Apple devices

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro—colloquially known as AirPods Pro 2—are the best earbuds you can get in 2023; there, we said it. The latest version of Apple’s true wireless earbuds feature appreciable improvements in audio quality, active noise-cancelling performance, Spatial Audio support, and they come in an updated case with genuinely useful features. In short, it’s the total package, and it should be the default choice for many, especially if you use Apple devices.

In our first impressions, and continued tests conducted over several months of frequent use, the AirPods Pro 2 consistently impressed. The earbuds don’t have a totally flat frequency response, but Apple’s sonic sculpting—a little extra boost to the bottom end and slightly raised mids—doesn’t make songs sound unnatural or artificial. Music with a lot of low-end sounds extra full without bass distortion, while live music, pop, rock, and jazz benefit from Apple’s tweaks. We never found ourselves wanting to muck around with a digital multiband EQ. Apple did the research to determine what would sound good to most people, and it mostly stuck the landing.

The original AirPods Pro earbuds were lauded for bringing premium active noise cancellation to earbuds, and the second generation brings several improvements in this area. The AirPods Pro 2 could block out far more ambient noise—keys being typed, birds chirpings, footsteps—and loud sporadic noises like a New York City subway car clattering on the tracks. It’s not the best active noise cancellation we’ve experienced in a pair of earbuds, but it’s not too far off.

Apple says the AirPods Pro 2 earbuds get up to six hours of playtime per charge, with an extra 24 hours thanks to its battery case. That’s mostly been true in our experience, though keeping active noise cancellation enabled all the time did drain the earbuds more quickly. With one or two 15-minute breaks, you should be able to get through an entire international flight with the AirPods Pro 2’s ANC turned on. If you work in an office, coffee shop, or at home with another people, the active noise cancellation should be sufficient to create a reasonable buffer between you and the outside world.

One of the big bets with the original AirPods was support for Spatial Audio, a type of binaural surround sound you can take on the go. The technology was impressive, if unproven, but Apple has spent the past few years coaxing artists to re-release classic albums or release new ones with a Dolby Atmos mix. The library for surround sound music on Apple Music has exploded, and the AirPods 2 let you take full advantage of it—though if you want the true Dolby Atmos experience, you’ll need to pony up for an Apple TV and surround sound speaker system.

Spatial Audio tracks on the AirPods 2 do sound more immersive than their stereo counterparts, especially if you enable head tracking, which will automatically pan music based on how your head is turned to recreate the experience of listening to music on speakers. Spatial Audio mixes are still hit or miss, but at least there’s a variety of music to choose from. Apple offers a way to personalize the Spatial Audio experience by taking pictures of your face and ears, but we didn’t notice a big difference and performance.

One of Apple’s most unexpected updates to the AirPods Pro 2 was changing its case. The new case has a larger battery, lanyard loupe, and support for “Find My,” which allows you to track the location of your AirPods 2 case in case the earbuds get lost. A built-in speaker can play a chime, making it easier to find. These welcome improvements make a tangible difference in the earbuds’ overall usability. Sometimes it boils down to nice things being nice.

The only potential downside to using the AirPods Pro 2 is that they’re designed to work best with Apple’s other gear, so if you don’t have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you’ll get a slightly worse experience. The AirPods Pro 2 will still sound the same and have identical active noise-cancelling performance, but features like instant pairing are absent. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you live in the Windows and Android world.

Are the AirPods Pro 2 the best-sounding earbuds? No. Are they the best active noise-cancelling earbuds? No, but by offering a great technical and audio experience, they’re the most well-rounded pair. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and we can’t imagine anyone complaining about this pair of earbuds.

Best noise-cancelling: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

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Why it made the cut: Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II have the most-efficient noise cancellation of any earbuds we’ve ever tested—to an almost eerie extent.

Specs 

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 6 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX7
• Microphones: Yes (4)

Pros

• Best-in-class noise cancellation
• Four microphones per bud
• Bose app is actually helpful

Cons

• Only three pairs of eartips are included

Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II are actually kind of scary. Their active noise cancellation was so effective that sounds I used to test it, like clapping my hands, didn’t produce an audible sound. The difference between what I was seeing and hearing was actually jarring. At some points, the only thing I could hear and feel was my heartbeat, a unique experience compared to my experience with other ANC earbuds. I’m not alone; our associate managing editor was also impressed while commuting with them on the New York City subway.

The reason for this incredible active noise cancellation? Each bud has two microphones instead of one. The mics are located above and below each bud’s ear tip, which also improves your vocal quality while taking calls. This hardware is tightly integrated with Bose’s custom processor, which continually adjusts to filter frequencies with laser precision. This performance comes in a pair of earbuds that’s roughly a third smaller by volume compared to the first-generation pair and comes in a dramatically smaller case.

If you don’t want to experience the full isolation chamber-like experience the QuietComfort Earbuds II can offer, you can adjust their active noise cancellation via Bose’s mobile app, which is better than you’d expect. The app walked us through the earbud’s initial pairing process and made it easy to switch between quiet and aware—noise cancellation and transparency modes, respectively—and allowed us to set two custom modes based on our personal preferences. We opted to create a “home” mode with active noise cancellation at 100%, allowing us to experience the earbuds’ true potential.

On the audio side, Bose updated the QuietComfort Earbuds II with 9mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.3 with support for the SBC/AAC codecs. We liked how the earbuds’ sounded out of the box and didn’t need to futz around with the digital EQ in Bose’s app—though we were pleased it was present. We could hear each instrument in complex arrangements, even while listening to lossy audio with ANC on. Subtle sounds—like the piano on “Smog Eyes” by Warne Marsh— were as present as prominent ones, a true feat. The earbuds could have heavy-handed treble on occasion, but that had to do with how certain tracks were mastered rather than a technical deficiency on the earbuds themselves.

There’s no shortage of excellent active noise-cancelling earbuds, but the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II currently reign supreme.  

Best for multiple devices: Technics EAH-AZ80

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 7 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX4
• Microphones: Yes (8)

Pros

• Smooth multi-point pairing
• Four microphones per ear
• Compact size
• LDAC support

Cons

• Cost

Technics may be most synonymous with club turntables thanks to its legendary SL-1200 (now 1210MKII), a deck used worldwide by DJs. Still, music listeners (rather than performers) should immediately acquaint themselves with the company’s new EAH-AZ80 earbuds. Their marquee feature is triple multipoint pairing—the ability to keep the earbuds connected to three devices simultaneously—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We’ve had the opportunity to test the earbuds for a couple of weeks, and they’ve become the top pair we’ve tried in 2023.

Let’s start with their multipoint pairing, which works astonishingly well. After pairing the earbuds to a couple of devices, they would automatically connect to both as long as they were within range. If I paused music on the first device, I could hit play on the second, and the audio would immediately start to play. The same was true when I threw a third device into the mix—to be clear, I approach any Bluetooth earbuds multipoint pairing with skepticism, and no earbuds claim to work with three devices. This is very difficult to pull off technically, and the only earbuds that have done it as well are Apple’s AirPods 2. But Apple’s top-tier earbuds only support seamless multipoint pairing when connected to the company’s other devices. The EAH-AZ80s can be multipoint paired with any gear regardless of its operating system.

On the active noise cancellation front, these earbuds stand above the AirPods Pro 2 but not quite at the level of QuietComfort Earbuds II. They blocked out almost—but not quite—as much sound as the latter. Commuters and travelers can turn to Technics earbuds for excellent ANC performance, aided by a generous seven sizes of eartips, and it’s up to most of the rest of the audio industry to play catch up. As for how others can hear you through ambient noise, eight high-sensitivity MEMS mics plus advanced noise reduction capture and transmit your voice clearly. Surprisingly, Technics went from off our consumer earbud radar to near the top, but that’s how good the EAH-AZ80s have performed in our tests.

While we were pleased with the earbuds’ technical features, we were blown away by how good the 10mm free-edge drivers (housed in a custom acoustic chamber) sound. Rich bass, smooth as silk midrange, and clear highs were present each time we hit play. It didn’t matter if we were listening to Miles Davis’ “Kind Of Blue” for the umpteenth time or catching up with the latest Dawes album released earlier this year; the EAH-AZ80s would continue to reveal new sounds during repeated listenings. These are reference-grade Bluetooth earbuds, especially if you’re using one of the few devices that support the LDAC codec (either a small selection of Android smartphones or a dedicated digital audio player), which offers near-lossless audio quality streamed wirelessly. Pro tip: Choosing “Treble+” or “Dynamic” in the Technics Audio Connect app’s Sound Enhancement panel really ramps up the captivating clarity by reducing some midbass mud. With the right setup and audio files, these earbuds will wow.

All of this performance comes at a cost, and while the EAH-AZ80s aren’t the most expensive earbuds out there, they’re a sizable investment. However, if you regularly bounce between different devices, stream high-resolution audio, prefer smaller earbuds, or can appreciate any combination of the three, we can’t see how these earbuds would let you down.

Best for comfort: Jabra Elite 10

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 6 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IP57
• Microphones: Yes (6)

Pros

• Near-perfect fit
• Solid multipoint pairing
• Easy on the ears
• Built with Dolby Atmos head tracking support

Cons

• Occasionally auto muting during calls

Comfort often takes a back seat as companies race to make longer-lasting, better-sounding, more technically advanced earbuds. Thankfully, Jabra’s Elite 10 earbuds prove you can have comfortable in-ear headphones without any major sacrifices. We’ve had the opportunity to test the Elite 10s for a few weeks, and they’ve quickly become an all-time favorite because, unlike several competitors, the oval EarGels (derived from 62,000 ear scans, according to the company) provided stability, but the shells never created hot spots or excess ear-canal pressure. And this unobtrusive fit gave us the time to appreciate fully all their other features.

The Jabra earbuds immediately paired to our first device over Bluetooth right out of their case and never lost their connection. This was true even if we left our phone or computer in one room and walked several feet away to the next one. The Elite 10s support multipoint pairing out of the gate, a feature only added later to Jabra’s previous-generation earbuds, and we found switching between connected devices very seamless. The Elite 10s will scan the area for previously connected devices and let you know whether one or two are connected. In our experience, pausing audio on one device and playing something completely different on another worked seamlessly. These earbuds have six microphones, which yields two big benefits. The first is call quality; we wore these earbuds on multiple video chats, and none of the participants complained about hearing a soft or muffled voice (though the Elite 10s did automatically mute us a couple of times, which required us to push a button on either bud to unmute).

The main purpose of the Elite 10s six-microphone system is advanced active noise cancellation. These earbuds block out an incredible amount of noise, easily on par with the performance from Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, though not quite as good as the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. Subway noise, air conditioners, footsteps, and keyboard typing all faded into the background as we listened to music at roughly 50%. The type of noise in your environment and preferred music genre will impact your experience. Still, we came away from our time with the Jabra Elite 10s convinced the company is making a serious attempt at creating world-class earbuds.

All of these technical and design features are impressive and important, but the Elite 10’s audio quality blew us away, given their sub-$300 price. We couldn’t find fault in their punchiness while listening to music from any genre at any volume level, whether active noise cancellation was enabled or not. All the hallmarks of great audio were there: Deep bass, clear-but-not-shimmery highs, and a lot of midrange response. Live acoustic tracks, crunchy garage rock, hard bop jazz, you name it and the Elite 10s will handle it. The mixture of Jabra’s tuning and the earbuds’ relatively large 10mm drivers delivered the goods.

Jabra has touted the Elite 10’s Dolby Atmos support, and while the quality of its head tracking is impressive, this feature never really clicked with me. We appreciate Jabra taking a forward-looking approach—albums are being released or reissued with Dolby Atmos mixes weekly through several major streaming services—but stereo (or mono!) remain our go-to formats for on-the-go music listening. If you’re the type of music listener who enjoys listening to Dolby Atmos audio on a home theater system, though, the Elite 10s deserve serious consideration thanks to their solid translation of the format.

If you listen to music for hours each day or need earbuds that won’t annoy year ears while you take conference call after conference call, we have to give Jabra’s Elite 10 the top spot.

Best for custom sound: Denon PerL Pro

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX4
• Microphones: Yes (8)

Pros

• Custom audio profiles really work
• Top-notch sound quality
• Support for the aptX Lossless codec

Cons

• Price

Audiophiles who patiently waited to see what Denon did with Nura’s technology after the Australian company’s acquisition in summer 2023 will be rewarded with the new PerL Pro earbuds. The buds’ key feature is the ability to walk you through a two-minute audio scan (now called Masimo Adaptive Acoustic Technology, or AAT), which tests your ears’ sensitivity to different frequencies. This process is completely hands-off and done through Denon’s Headphones app, which is available on iOS and Android. Once a profile has been created, you can toggle it on and off through either an app or by linking it to a shortcut activated by tapping one of the disc-shaped ‘buds. (This is the Personalized Listening that makes up the PerL in the name.)

If you’ve struggled with hearing loss or sensitivity to sounds in certain frequencies, these earbuds may well be a revelation. In our experience, creating a profile went smoothly, and we appreciated the ability to create up to three of them if you feel that Denon didn’t get things quite right the first time. Be mindful that you’ll need to wear the correctly sized ear tips during the scan for the best results. And the result? Music did, in fact, sound better when our custom sound profile was enabled, and the difference was especially stark when toggling it on and off during the same song.

In our case, the PerL Pro earbuds determined that our ears could use a lot more low-end, which it amply supplied without going overboard. Other sound differences were more subtle but perceptible after listening to music with it turned on for an extended music listening session and then turning it off. We can’t fault the PerL Pro earbuds for their execution of this technology, but we didn’t always opt for it. We knew that their sound, while tailored to our ears, was digitally manipulated. This likely won’t bother you, but it’s something to remember if you tend to be an audio purist who resists the temptation of playing around with an EQ.

The good news is that the PerL Pro earbuds sound fantastic in their natural state. Denon took the time to build their buds with best-in-class components and support for the latest technical standards, including Bluetooth 5.3 and the SBC, AAC, and aptX/aptX Adaptive/aptX Lossless codecs. You’ll need a supported Snapdragon Sound device to use all the aptX codecs, and the Lossless tier (which purports to transmit CD-quality sound) is in very few easily procured devices outside ASUS flagship smartphones. Still, it’s good to know they’re there. Our testing, which included watching videos on YouTube, streaming lossless and lossy music on Apple Music, and various podcasts, all yielded positive results throughout the earbuds’ eight-hour battery life—so much so that we used up the 32 extra hours in the charging case enjoying albums and authors.

Audio artifacts like sibilance and low-end distortion were nowhere to be found, even at high volumes. The PerL Pros’ sound profile isn’t exactly neutral, but their 10mm Ultralow-distortion triple-layer titanium diaphragm dynamic drivers offer a vivid presentation. The whole point of these earbuds is to listen to a custom-made profile designed to fit the needs of your ears, so it’s unsurprising they’re ready for any listening tests. A trusted name in AV receivers that can handle any dynamic swings thrown at them, Denon’s focus on sonic quality is commendable, and its earbuds’ signature sound (with Dirac Virtuo processing thrown in for spatial audio) is addictive. However, we did find the PerL Pro’s ANC performance a little lacking for their price. It’s not that these earbuds are bad at blocking noise—quite the contrary—but we’d expect more adaptive, effective performance at their $350 price. Subway car noises were still slightly audible while riding on the train while listening to music at 50% volume, for instance.

Still, if you want earbuds guaranteed to sound rich and ready for any genre, Denon’s PerL Pros are easy to recommend. We look forward to making new profiles as Denon’s software continues to improve and feel good knowing custom earbud tuning is just a couple of taps away.

Best battery life: beyerdynamic Free BYRD

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 11 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX4
• Microphones: Yes (2)

Pros

• Incredible battery life
• Bundled with eight sets of ear tips
• Phenomenal fit

Cons

• They stick out from your ears

Beyerdynamic has been a part of the audio world for decades, impressing us with its mixing headphones, among others, but its latest long-lasting earbuds took us by surprise. While we were pleased by the Free BYRD’s sound and fit, its 11-hour battery life (eight if you leave active noise cancellation off) is in the top tier of true wireless earbuds. If you toggle ANC on and off regularly, you should have no problem getting nine hours of music playback before popping them back into their case. If you do somehow run out of juice during a single listening session, the Free BYRD’s case offers an hour of music playback off a 10-minute charge.

Most true wireless earbuds last roughly five to six hours with ANC turned on—the extra two hours offered by the Free BYRDs make a huge difference on a transatlantic flight, where tuning out the whirring sound of an engine can make the difference between sleep and misery. The Free BYRDs’ battery life is impressive, but it’s not the only reason they’ve made the cut. We were also very taken by the earbuds’ noise cancellation, which only comes up short when compared to the QuietComfort Earbuds II.

While the Free BYRDs didn’t produce the same eerie isolation chamber-like effect as Bose’s earbuds, they did block out a significant amount of noise. When listening to music at 80%, only the loudest sounds—think a sudden, expected clang, or jackhammer on the street—could pierce the bubble. One of the reasons for this impressive performance was that Beyerdynamic includes eight pairs of eartips in the box, so you can find the ones that fit your ears perfectly.

A tight seal around your ear is essential to getting good active noise-cancelling performance, and the Free BYRDs pass that test with flying colors. A tight seal can put unwanted pressure on the inside of your ear, but that was never the case with these earbuds. Another upside: The earbud seal was so tight we could headbang to our heart’s content without the risk of them falling out.

Concerning audio, the Free BYRDs’ 10mm dynamic drivers produced sound on par with our top-rated earbud pick, the AirPods Pro 2. They support SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codecs in their Bluetooth 5.2 container. In our tests, which included listening to music from different genres and spoken word audio like podcasts and audiobooks, the Free BYRDs never skipped a beat. Everything we listened to sounded surprisingly natural, which is particularly great when listening to people speaking.

Punchy bass, midrange clarity, and never-crispy treble are always a winning combination, as they are here. The sound was so good we never thought about mucking with the digital EQ in beyerdynamic’s MIY app. You can run through a hearing test in the app to tune these earbuds based on how sensitive your ears are to different frequencies, but this is entirely optional. We can’t imagine anyone being upset with the way the Free BYRDs sound out of the box.

You should be aware of the guitar pick-like shape of these earbuds, which makes them protrude from your ears. It’s not that you look silly wearing the Free BYRDS, but they will look different than most modern earbuds. That’s a small price to pay for their great sound, solid active noise cancellation, and exceptional battery life.

Best for sustainability: House of Marley Redemption ANC 2

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 6 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX5
• Microphones: Yes (2)

Pros

• Made from sustainable materials
• Fast charging support
• Surprisingly good fit

Cons

• Lackluster app

With the Redemption ANC 2 earbuds, House of Marley has made bedfellows out of technology and sustainability without any major concessions. These earbuds—case and all—are made (in part) from a mix of solid bamboo, natural wood fiber composite, and recycled plastics.

In our tests, choosing these materials didn’t impact the Redemption ANC 2s sound, fit, or noise cancellation performance, which is especially impressive considering their relatively low price. They even beat some of our favorite earbuds in the durability department due to their IPX5 rating, which will protect them from damage by sweat or splashes of water—getting caught running in a rainstorm won’t spell trouble. This feature is especially welcome because the Redemption ANC 2 earbuds’ fit is so good that we can easily recommend them for working out. Running and jumping couldn’t dislodge them from our ears.

Active noise cancellation is the namesake feature of these earbuds, and we were pretty pleased with their performance in this area. They aren’t at the level of our more premium earbud recommendations, but that’s to be expected given their sub-$160 price. The earbuds effectively blocked keyboard typing and footsteps, but loud noises like car horns could still be heard prominently. They may not be the best choice for airplane flights, but the Redemption ANC 2s are perfectly suited for office use.

Our experience with the earbuds’ sound was similarly satisfying. We could detect a difference in clarity when comparing the Redemption ANC 2s directly to the AirPods Pro 2 or QuietComfort Earbuds II, but that didn’t dampen our enjoyment of listening to music. If you get these earbuds, you’re not going to be disappointed by the way they sound unless you veer toward audiophile hardware, in which case the Redemption ANC 2s aren’t targeted at you. There was some muddiness in the low end and some sibilance at the high end, but overall the earbuds produced a pleasing sound. You can mitigate some of these audio abnormalities by tuning the EQ in House of Marley’s app, but we were disappointed by how barebones this software was.

Despite this setback, we feel comfortable recommending the House of Marley ANC 2s to anyone who takes the sustainability of their technology seriously. You’ll end up with a good-sounding, great-fitting set of relatively inexpensive true wireless earbuds with a fair lower environmental impact than most gadgets.

Best for gamers: ASUS ROG Cetra

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 5.5 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes (Hybrid)
• IP rating: IPX4
• Microphones: Yes (2)

Pros

• Virtual 7.1 surround sound
• Case has an LED
• Price

Cons

• Not the fullest ANC
• So-so audio quality for music

ASUS’ ROG Cetra is a pair of budget-priced true wireless earbuds with features designed for gamers—provided you use the company’s Armory Crate software. One advantage of the ROG Cetras is that the earbuds fit into a hardware ecosystem. ASUS has desktops, laptops, mobile gaming handhelds, controllers, and these earbuds are designed to fit in. Their case has a pleasing rounded-off shape, and opening it reveals an LED—a trademark of PC gaming rigs.

The earbuds themselves feel comfortable to wear and get solid battery life for a pair that costs under $100. We didn’t find ourselves reaching for a charger more than twice a week during our tests, which is on par with earbuds that cost three times the price. The biggest difference between the ROG Cetras and their premium counterparts is noise cancellation. These earbuds support hybrid noise cancellation, which uses external and internal feedforward/feedback mics but isn’t fully effective at blocking noise. Light background sounds would fade away, but moderately loud ones remained audible.

A big draw for gamers who use ASUS Armoury Crate software is the ability to activate the low-latency gaming mode and use these earbuds to create a virtual 7.1 surround sound environment. The effect wasn’t as impressive as Spatial Audio on the AirPods Pro 2, but we could hear some additional separation when the settings were correct. The experience varied from game to game, and ASUS can’t control the sound mixing of each title, so your experience may vary.

We’re recommending these earbuds to gamers because they were designed with this use case in mind. Chiptune music from older and indie games, or explosions and dialogue from newer ones, sounded pretty good, but the ROG Cetra’s 10mm drivers weren’t tuned for music, which didn’t sound very clear. Nuances we could hear with higher-end earbuds were gone on the Cetras, and it was more difficult to discern sounds across different frequency ranges. If you need a pair of inexpensive earbuds to pair with your portable gaming machines, these are a solid pick, but music lovers should look at our other recommendations.

Best for working out: Apple Beats Fit Pro

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: 6 hours single-charge; 24 hours with case
• Active noise cancellation: Yes
• IP rating: IPX4
• Microphones: Yes

Pros

• High-performance active noise canceling in a compact earbud design
• Secure design stays in ear when running or working out
• Compatible with dynamic head tracking on iOS devices
• Includes pocket-sized travel case and three eartip options

Cons

• No wireless charging
• iOS device required for full functionality
• Not protected against water immersion
• No multipoint pairing

We’ve thoroughly reviewed the Apple Beats Fit Pro, and they’re the best for working out thanks to their sound quality, movement-friendly design, and fantastic iOS compatibility. They contain the same proprietary H1 chip found in Apple’s AirPods, enabling near-instantaneous pairing, steady, reliable connections to iOS devices, and battery life optimization. Like AirPods, the Beats Fit Pro earbuds are also fully compatible with iOS head-tracking and Spatial Audio features for simulated surround sound and immersive media listening. Their inclusion of active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes make them equally useful on the road and at the gym. We also love the range of colors these buds come in, particularly their unique skin tone range.

The Beats Fit Pro earbuds are designed to sit securely in your ears using small rubber wings that rest comfortably against your outer ear along with three sets of variously sized ear tips. A quick optional setup step uses the earbuds’ onboard microphones to test your fit for sound leaks. Once your optimal fit is achieved, the Beats Fit Pro can endure almost every exercise imaginable—from running to rowing—without budging. The earbuds’ conveniently pocked-sized charging case brings their total battery life to around 24 hours. While it would be nice to see wireless charging in a product with this price tag, we appreciate that the case is chargeable via USB-C rather than Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector.

If you work out regularly and are an iPhone user, you’d be seriously hard-pressed to find a better in-ear option because of the snug fit, balanced sound, and seamless iOS connectivity. If you’re sold on the Beats features but are looking for an option with earhooks, the Powerbeats Pro earbuds are also a solid choice.

Best planar-magnetic earphones: 7Hertz Timeless AE

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Specs

• Style: Wired
• Type: Closed-back earphones
• Frequency Response: 5Hz – 40kHz
• Impedance: 14.8 ohm
• Sensitivity: 104dB
• Weight: 5.5 grams (each earpiece)

Pros

• Very well-tuned, balanced sound
• Full of detail
• Good bass performance

Cons

• Unusual shape 
• Limited soundstage

Unlike dynamic and balanced armature drivers, which comprise most earbuds, planar magnetics feature larger, thinner membranes—contributing to lighting-quick low-distortion transients but often require more voltage to drive. Luckily, the technology has evolved so that planar earphones are no longer expensive unicorns. Still, there has rarely been such a well-tuned option at such an affordable price. The magic of the 7Hertz Timeless AE lies in the tuning of its 14.2mm drivers (powered by double-sided N52 magnet arrays), updated to provide deeper, more impactful bass and smoother treble for hours of easy listening. It’s a warmer sound that delivers an enjoyable amount of detail, combining to make these earphones a well-balanced buy at $249. If you’re into wired earphones and want ones that don’t skimp on the bass, the 7Hz Timeless AE is an impeccable balance of price and performance. The Timeless isn’t perfect, however. It breaks the mold with the divisive, quarter-like shape of its earpieces. You’ll either be ambivalent about the shape or outright hate the shells—there doesn’t seem to be much in between.

And suppose you’ve got $1,500 and want something exclusively yours. In that case, the Campfire Audio Supermoon is an in-ear monitor featuring 14mm, 2-micron-thick planar drivers in solid-body enclosures custom-molded to your ear canals. The bass is textured but controlled, the midrange is dynamic, and the treble is honest (which can be a good or bad thing, depending on the recording). Planar IEMs are really coming into their own.

Best budget: EarFun Air Pro 3

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Specs

• Style: True wireless
• Battery life: Up to 9 hours
• Active noise cancellation: Yes (Hybrid)
• IP rating: IPX5
• Microphones: Yes (6)

Pros

• Bluetooth 5.3—with support for SBC, AAC, aptX adaptive, plus LE Audio & LC3
• Multipoint connectivity
• 45-hour playtime: 9 hours + 36 hours with wireless-compatible charging case
• Delivers insane performance:price ratio

Cons

• ANC, while good, isn’t going to match premium earbuds
• Mics can pick up wind
• Volume can seem low with some devices
• Not going to rival the sonic separation of earbuds that cost 3x as much (but they cost 3x as much)

There’s cheap, and then there’s a bargain, and the two shouldn’t be confused. The EarFun Air Pro 3 is the latter: budget TWS earbuds that pack ridiculous features and value for $79 (less with regular discounts). Stemmed earbuds in the style of their namesake (the AirPods, natch), the Air Pro 3 earbuds feature active noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.3, six mics, 9 hours of battery life, touch controls, multipoint connections, and more in a classic, comfortable ergonomic form factor. If you like the idea of AirPods but not the price, especially if you want that type of earbuds for an Android device, the Air Pro 3 is a top pick.

Bluetooth 5.3—with support for SBC, AAC, aptX adaptive, plus LE Audio & LC3—delivers a low-power, stable signal to feed the 11mm wool composite dynamic drivers higher-bitrate content. Bass is the standout frequency band, punchy without being paunchy, but its confident strut is nicely balanced by fleshy midrange and bright highs. And QuietSmart 2.0 hybrid active noise cancellation up to 43dB ensures you can enjoy that richly appointed range; it’s not Bose-level ANC but proves more than efficient. Plus, there’s a graphic EQ-enabled app to tweak settings and coax clarity. While imaging isn’t the best, and they’re not the most compact, the EarFun Air Pro 3 earbuds are great if you want to take some fun thump on your commute and they are the budget ANC earbuds to beat, particularly for fans of modern bass-heavy genres.

What to consider when shopping for the best earbuds

From a secure fit to fabulous sound, the best earbuds can provide what you need. Here are the main things to consider when shopping: 

How can I ensure a good fit?

TWS earbuds have become so popular, in part, because companies have been able to develop earbuds that won’t fall out. The best wireless earbuds include ear tips (typically sized S, M, and L, but sometimes including middle sizes like SM or ML) that fit snugly and comfortably in the canal of your ear. Some models offer flexible wings or fins that fit the concha and make the earbuds feel locked in place, while others come with hooks or malleable wires that curl over your ear to secure things. Deciding on the best design is a personal choice but, thankfully, many models come with multiple ear tip options—most often a mix of silicone (better for quick insertion/removal) and foam (better for isolation)—to give you a good chance of finding a fit that’s right for your ears. 

What if I might get caught in the rain?

The best earbuds offer some water resistance, and you can even find waterproof earbuds. The way to determine how your electronics can cope with environmental intrusions is by checking the Ingress Protection, or IP, rating—two numerals that indicate resistance to liquids and dust. Earbuds can go all the way up to an IP68 rating—meaning they can be fully submerged in over 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without damage, and won’t be heard by a tumble into the sand at a beach. If you live in a wet climate or work up a prodigious sweat on the treadmill, look for models with higher water-resistance ratings. But if you just need earbuds that can withstand a little drizzle or a few drops of sweat, an IPX4 rating could suffice. Many charging cases for the best wireless earbuds offer their own amount of water and dust protection. However, some of the best budget wireless earbuds sacrifice that added security to reduce costs.  

What if I’m a music-first type? 

TWS earbuds can work for audiophiles. The best earbuds have high-resolution receivers, digital audio converters, custom-tuned drivers, and amplifiers that combine to deliver sound replicating the original recording as closely as possible. Look for the newest 5.2 or 5.3 versions of the Bluetooth protocol with support for codecs (the digital format that compresses and transmits the sound) that match your device to your earbuds. Everyone supports SBC, but Apple prefers AAC, Sony promotes LDAC, and Android devices are likelier to support aptX/aptX HD/aptX adaptive/aptX Lossless. And these various formats operate at varying bitrates, from basic to high-resolution, with the top of the scale minimizing the lossy properties of compression.

Additionally, information like frequency response can tell you how well the earbuds reproduce low tones to high notes—20Hz to 20kHz is the baseline from which to expand—while the maximum decibel output tells you its capability. At the end of the day, the surest test is to see how the buds sound in your ears, but some of the best earbuds offer detailed EQ customization that almost ensures they’ll play music tailored to your tastes. And if you’re looking for the purest signal, it’s always going to come wired.  

What if I need some peace and quiet?

Almost all earbuds provide some amount of passive noise isolation, which means that they are designed with snug-fitting tips that can mute the outside world. Many of the best earbuds, however, offer active noise cancellation (ANC), which means microphones measure surroundings and speakers emit sound waves to neutralize the ambient noise in your environment—the effect makes listeners feel like they are in a cocoon of silence (though some users report a pressurized sensation). Some high-end earbuds step it up to adaptive noise-canceling, which adapts the noise-canceling algorithm based on the sound levels/types or location, and this is often accompanied by a transparency mode, which lets in (and sometimes amplifies) ambient sound when you want to listen to music but also need to hear external announcements, the traffic coming up behind you, etc.    

Yeah, what if I still have devices with a headphone jack?

If you’re an audiophile needing the most full-spectrum sound or a gamer needing the lowest lag, or maybe you’re just traveling and want to plug into the in-flight entertainment, shop for the best wired earbuds. While Bluetooth 5.0 should provide a fairly seamless connection, the only way to entirely eliminate lag or frequency response loss is to plug in—although the best Bluetooth earbuds limit these shortcomings to the point where most users can’t even notice it.

What if I’m taking a lot of calls?

If you want to talk to your helpful virtual assistant or want to handle work calls with your staff, you’ll need earbuds equipped with microphones (and if the earbuds have features including ANC, it’s safe to assume there are mics to spare). Beamforming microphones will focus on your voice rather than the sounds around you, while cheaper microphones may mean your listener will get lost in the chatter if you’re in a busy place. Earbud microphones are typically protected by fabric designed to limit wind noise, but if you have the buds in an amplifying mode rather than a noise-canceling mode, you may find the wind distracting.     

What if I need my earbuds to last all day?

Earbuds offer playtimes anywhere from a couple of hours to the length of a workday. Charging cases add additional hours—or even days—of battery life before needing to be plugged back in (typically with a USB-C connection). While average earbud life is anywhere between four and eight hours, recharging them typically takes 1.5 hours to 3.5 hours. And many of the best earbuds offer quick-charging options that let you gain an hour or so of playtime in a tiny fraction of that time.   

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best earbuds

• Best overall: Apple AirPods Pro 2
• Best noise-cancelling: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
• Best for multiple devices: Technics EAH-AZ80
• Best for comfort: Jabra Elite 10
• Best for custom sound: Denon PerL Pro
• Best battery life: beyerdynamic Free BYRD
• Best for sustainability: House of Marley Redemption ANC 2
• Best for gamers: ASUS ROG Cetra
• Best for working out: Apple Beats Fit Pro
• Best planar-magnetic earphones: 7Hz Timeless AE
• Best budget: EarFun Air Pro 3

In many ways, the best earbuds are earbuds that you don’t even think about. They fit in your ear without coming loose and they deliver a sound quality as good as live music. Still, shopping for the best earbuds leaves you with much to consider. Set your price point and go from there. Then, determining whether you need features like ANC, transparency, low latency, and customizable sound depends on how you plan to use them and the sharpness of your ear. With the array of earbud options available, you can definitely find the best earbuds for you. Here’s to making a sound choice.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best earbuds in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Nobody wants to think about car accidents or break-ins, but the truth is it’s better to be safe than sorry. That’s why we always recommend driving with a dash cam. Having HD footage of the event can be extremely helpful, whether you’re reviewing it yourself because something feels off or you have to hand it over to the authorities. And getting better footage at a better price is our deal of the day.

Vantrue N2 Pro Uber Dual Dash Cam $118.98 (Was $199.99)

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Vantrue’s N2 Pro Uber Dual Dash Cam pulls double duty, with cameras facing outward and inward to record 1080P video of what’s happening inside and outside your car simultaneously. If you disable the front-facing camera, the rear-facing one can record video in 2.5K instead of 1080p HD. The footage is stored on a MicroSD Card—we recommend getting a 256GB-sized one to ensure you have enough room for several hours of footage. You can view your recordings on the camera or plug it into a computer using a USB-C cable and transfer them to a PC or Mac.

The dash cam is attached to a suction cup, allowing you to install it in the most convenient location for you. It’s powered by connecting a USB-C cable to both the dash cam and a power adapter that fits in your car’s cigarette lighter; both accessories are included. If an incident happens when you’re out of your car, you’ll be happy that this dash cam has a 24-hour parking monitor mode, which will record 10 seconds of footage if its motion sensor is triggered. Similarly, the N2 Pro Uber Dual Dash Cam has a night mode, so you can be sure your footage is clear after the sun goes down.

If you’d like a little extra security in your car—both as a deterrent and potential source of evidence—Vantrue’s N2 Pro Uber Dual Dash Cam is a great deal.

Summer is almost over, but the savings aren’t, so dash to save on these other great deals:

• Vantrue E3 3 Channel 2.7K WiFi Dash Cam, $229.99 (was $359.99)
• Nexar Beam GPS Dash Cam, $169.95 (Was $189.95)
• mophie Powerstation Go Rugged AC, $87.34 (Was $149.95)
• Vyncs GPS Tracker for Vehicles, $74.99 (Was $89.99)
• MORNYRAY Waterproof Car Cover, $29.57 (Was $36.96)
• AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge, $11.99 (Was $15.99)
• Klipsch Heritage Wireless The One II, $179.95 (Was $299)
• Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip, $1,234 (Was $1,299)
• Blink Video Doorbell, $38.99 (Was $59.99)
• Blink Outdoor (3rd Gen), $89.99 (Was $179.99)
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, $249 (Was $299)
• Bose TV Speaker, $219 (Was $279)
• Edifier G2000 Gaming Computer Speakers, $84.99 (Was $109.99)

The post Save $81 on Vantrue’s always-on HD dash cam at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Earbuds have come a long way in the audio and noise-canceling departments, but True Wireless sets still struggle to keep up when it comes to battery life because of their ultra-small design. Beyerdynamic’s Free BYRD earbuds buck that trend, offering up to eight hours of music playback with active noise cancellation enabled and 11 hours if the setting is turned off. That’s enough time to make it through a cross-country or transatlantic flight without popping the buds into their charging case, which can fully top them up twice.

beyerdynamic Free BYRD $179 (Was $229)

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The Free BYRDs have held their own well enough to be included in our guide to the best earbuds, joining the ranks of Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II. Our reviewer found the buds’ battery life to be their standout feature but was also impressed by the level of noise cancellation performance and overall audio quality. They found that listening to music at a volume level of roughly 80% would block out all but the most jarring, loud noises. This means consistent noises like the whirring of an airplane engine or screeching wheels on a train or bus shouldn’t penetrate them.

On the audio front, the Free BYRDs support the most common audio codecs and pump out well-balanced sound through their 10mm dynamic drivers. It doesn’t matter which genre of music you prefer—or if you like podcasts and audiobooks the most—you’ll have a good experience with these earbuds. Our tests found them to sound natural, with no artificially boosted lows, mids, or highs, either. If you’re looking for an earbud upgrade that keeps you from reaching for the charger daily, don’t miss this deal on beyerdynamics’ Free BYRDs.

Hear are some other deals you should vibe to:

• AirPods (3rd Generation), $149 (Was $169)
• AirPods Pro 2, $219 (Was $249)
• House of Marley Redemption ANC 2, $135.99 (Was $169.99)
• House of Marley Positive Vibration Frequency Headphones $79.99 (Was $99)
• Beats Fit Pro, $159.99 (Was $199.95)
• Beats Solo3, $129 (Was $195.95)
• Linsoul 7HZ Timeless AE, $259 (Was $299)
• Sony LinkBuds S, $128 (Was $199.99)
• Sony WF-C700N, $98 (Was $119.99)
• Jabra Elite 4, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Jabra Elite 7, $104.99 (Was $179.99)
• Technics EAH-AZ60-S, $130.55 (Was $227.99)
• Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX, $333.06 (Was $399)

The post Our favorite long-lasting noise-cancelling earbuds are cheaper than ever on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Fall may be imminent, but summer is still in full swing and a great speaker will make you a better party host wherever you are. Plus, a new pair of headphones can help you enjoy your favorite tunes when nobody’s around. Right now, you can score deep discounts on headphones and speakers from JBL, Sony, and Jabra at Amazon, and we found the best deals of the bunch.

Sony SRS-XG500 $328 (Was $499)

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You still have plenty of time to get outside and enjoy some great music while you grill, play pickleball, or just lay in the sun like a lizard. And Sony’s SRS-XG500 is the Rolls-Royce of portable Bluetooth speakers, available now at a Honda price thanks to a $171 discount on Amazon. This party speaker can jam for up to 30 hours on a single charge. Programmable LEDs around its drivers pulse along with your music to create a cool visual element. And an IP66 durability rating ensures that it’s virtually impervious to damage from dust and water. The chunky integrated handle makes it easier to carry—the speaker still weighs 12.3 pounds, so be mindful of that if you’re planning on taking it a long distance.

The SRS-XG500’s huge integrated battery can also double as a portable power bank (courtesy of two USB-A ports on the back). When you’re not charging gadgets, you can plug in a flash drive into one of those inputs to play digital audio files. You can even use the SRS-XG500 as a karaoke machine thanks to a 1/4-inch audio input. While the speaker will sound excellent on your own, you can pair it with other Sony speakers using the Party Connect feature, which will play the same music in multiple places. It’s an investment, but Sony’s SRS-XG500 is worth it—especially at this price.

Other good-sounding deals:

• JBL Vibe 200TWS, $29.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Flip 6, $89.95 (Was $129.95)
• Jabra Elite 7, $109.99 (Was $179.99)
• Jabra Elite 4, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Sony SRS-XB13, $34.99 (Was $59.99)
• JBL Tune 510BT, $34.99 (Was $49.95)
• Sony WH-CH720N, $98 (Was $149.99)

Want to come back inside to clean floors? Pick up a Roomba j7+ self-emptying robot vacuum while it’s available for just $529 (normally $799), just one of several iRobot limited-time deals.

The post Save on JBL, Jabra, and Sony headphones and speakers on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro		SEE IT	Breville’s smart oven has actual smart home functionally that doesn’t futz with its ability to cook.
Best smart oven air fryer		Ninja DCT401		SEE IT	This smart oven’s dual-door design isn’t just a flashy gimmick.
Best budget		NuWave Bravo XL		SEE IT	The NuWave Bravo XL is big, powerful, inexpensive and has some really handy features.

Smart ovens simplify and speed up cooking. These convenient countertop ovens feature cooking modes that make them highly versatile, including air frying, reheating, dehydrating, and even steaming. You’ll also find units with extra “smart” features to save you time, like the ability to reorder food as you use it or digital thermometers that alert the oven to turn off when a dish is done. In other words, the best smart ovens can help a lot in the kitchen if you find one that fits your cooking workflow. 

• Best smart oven: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
• Best with subscription: Tovala Smart Oven
• Best smart countertop oven: Brava Smart Oven
• Best smart convection oven: Wolf Gourmet Elite
• Best smart toaster oven: Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven
• Best smart wall oven: Samsung 30-inch Built-in Single Wall Oven
• Best smart microwave oven: TOSHIBA ML-EM34P Smart Countertop Microwave
• Best smart oven air fryer: Ninja DCT401
• Best compact: Our Place Wonder Oven
• Best budget smart oven: NuWave Bravo XL

What is a smart oven?

Though it sounds catchy, “smart oven” is a somewhat nebulous term. Smart ovens are multifunctional cooking devices that can heat food in many different ways. Whereas a toaster oven may be able to bake and broil, a smart oven may also feature convection-based heating, microwaving, or other techniques specific to certain kinds of foods. Many also have features that allow you to monitor and/or control your cooking more easily throughout the process.

Though there are full-size ovens that replace a stovetop or wall oven, many companies and home cooks use the phrase to refer to countertop ovens, so that’s what this list covers. These smaller convection ovens offer the benefit of often heating up faster than stovetop and wall ovens. It might be best to consider these as amped-up toaster ovens or more versatile air fryers. (That said, we threw an appliance-sized oven in there, just in case.)

Despite invoking the “smart” motif popularized by smart home devices like security systems and speakers, connecting to WiFi or a smart home ecosystem is not a core feature among countertop smart ovens. Ironically, it is more common among full, appliance-size smart ovens.

How we picked the best smart ovens

I’ve tested and reviewed kitchen and home products for five years for sites like Business Insider, Tom’s Guide, and Reviewed. To choose the best smart ovens, we thoroughly researched and considered approximately 50 different models, including popular options like the June Smart Oven, Brava Smart Oven, Tovala Smart Oven, and WLabs Smart Oven. To find the best, we considered each design’s physical size, capacity, power, temperature range, and additional helpful features, like WiFi connectivity and digital thermometers. Of course, we weighed each oven’s feature set against its price to see which ones offered the best value.

The best smart ovens: Reviews & Recommendations

With smart ovens becoming so popular, there are more options to choose from than ever before. You’ll have your choice of brand, with different oven sizes, features, and price points. Having lots of options is great, but it can make finding the right option a challenge. Our selections for the best ovens span seven categories and a wide range of culinary needs. Whether you’re looking for a smart microwave, a smart air fryer, or the most versatile smart oven, there’s something for everyone.

Best smart oven: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

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Why it made the cut: The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro features a compact design and 10 smart cooking functions.

Specs 

• Dimensions: 21.5 x 17.5 x 12.7 inches
• Weight: 38 pounds 9 ounces
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Toast, bagel, bake, air fry, broil, roast, pizza, cookies, proof, reheat, slow cook, keep warm, dehydrate
• Wattage: 1800W
• Price: $319.95

Pros 

• Smart features encourage you to cook
• Large LCD display is easy to read
• 13 cooking functions

Cons

• Expensive

Of all the smart ovens we’ve tested, Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is the one that truly lives up to its name. This smart oven works with a companion app that can send you alerts when the oven is preheated and let you know how much time is left on your cook. Having this information at a glance is helpful, and I checked the app often during longer bakes—looking at you, banana bread.

The front of this smart oven is packed with dials and buttons, which may give the impression that it’s complicated to use. We never found this to be the case. Each knob serves a single important function—cook time, temperature, setting select—while buttons handle standard functions like turning on the oven’s light or changing the temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius. It’s a lot easier to have these functions mapped to a physical knob or button rather than a touchscreen, in our experience.

Regarding performance, Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro worked flawlessly. French fries, croissants, the aforementioned banana bread, and anything else we put inside came out correctly without any intervention. Eventually, we began trusting this smart oven as much as our full-sized oven—which it could easily replace for most functions.

One of the problems with kitchen tools is that we buy them intending to cook more but often never use them to their full potential—if at all. The Breville Joule App (available on iOS and Android) is packed with step-by-step recipes courtesy of the team at ChefSteps. The site’s staff sweats all the small details, so their recipes always turn out. Many ovens come with a physical recipe book that’s easy to lose or cast aside, but you’ll spend enough time within the Breville Joule app that one of them will likely catch your eye.

Many smart ovens don’t live up to the promise of that lofty adjective—this one is an exception to that rule.

Best with subscription: Tovala Smart Oven

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Why it made the cut: For the ultimate convenience, you can order chef-prepared meals through a subscription service developed to be cooked in this smart oven. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 12.32 inches D x 18.5 inches W x 11.75 inches H
• Weight: 24.9 pounds
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Air fry, steam, bake, broil, reheat and toast
• Wattage: 1525W
• Price: $269.99

Pros

• Six cooking settings, including air fryer and convection oven
• Programmable with more than 100 presets 
• Option for affiliated meal service subscription 

Cons

• Smaller cooking space

Tovala’s smart oven comes equipped with six cooking modes: air frying, steaming, baking, broiling, toasting, and reheating. But what sets this option apart is what you can pair with it. The company has a subscription service called Tovala Meals that allows users to order chef-prepared meals through their smartphones (for a separate fee). You get a $50 credit for three to five meals with the purchase, but the subscription service is separate. 

The app also comes with more than 100 presets and allows users to scan popular foods for cooking instructions that are transmitted to the countertop oven. The oven also features a basket for air frying and a sheet pan, though some users have noted that the cooking space is smaller than they would like.

Best smart countertop oven: Brava Oven Starter Set

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Why it made the cut: The small but mighty Breville Mini Smart Oven with Element IQ can toast four slices of bread and cook an 11-inch pizza with minimal counter space.

Specs

• Dimensions: 17.3 x 16.4 x 11.3 inches
• Weight: 54 pounds, 14 ounces
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Toast, slow cook, reheat, dehydrate, rice cook
• Wattage: 1800W
• Price: $1,295

Pros

• Ten preset functions
• Multiple heating zones
• Growing recipe list

Cons 

• Price

Once you get over the initial sticker shock of Brava’s smart oven, you can begin to understand why it’s the most powerful, versatile option for serious home cooks. The oven has 10 functions and can be controlled via a touchscreen atop the oven or through Brava’s mobile app. You can also use the screen and app to cycle through a growing list of recipes, searching for ones that feature a certain ingredient or fit under the restrictions of a particular diet. Part of the Brava’s appeal is its ability to adjust the intensity of its heat in three different zones, so sets of ingredients that cook at different rates will be finished simultaneously. This means you’ll need to be cognizant of where you’re putting inertness on its tray, or else you risk having over or undercooked food. This shouldn’t be an issue, but it’s something to consider.

We recommend the Brava Smart Oven because of its consistent performance, made possible by its heating elements, which can reach their maximum temperature in seconds. We made s’mores, and they went from raw ingredients to ready-to-eat in about three minutes. Any home cook who values their time will appreciate what this smart oven offers. On the other hand, it also has some fun, techy extras, like cameras that allow you to monitor your food as it cooks. The Brava Smart Oven is the most interesting, fully-featured item in its category. Still, its high price may make it hard to justify unless you’re making a serious kitchen upgrade.

Best smart convection oven: Wolf Gourmet Elite

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Why it made the cut: Wolf Gourmet’s Elite smart oven is one of the best-constructed kitchen tools we’ve ever used, and the results speak for themselves.

Specs

• Dimensions: 22.4 x 16.7 x 12.5 inches
• Weight: 46.6 pounds 
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Proof, warm, roast, bake, broil, toast/bagel
• Wattage: 1800W
• Price: $749.95

Pros 

• Ample cooking space
• Premium look and feel
• Comes with a lot of accessories

Cons 

• Price

Let’s get one thing out of the way: This smart oven was designed for home chefs looking to create their dream professional kitchen, and its price reflects that reality. That said, we can’t imagine a single serious home cook that would be disappointed by the machine. Every detail—from how the oven door opens to the click when cycling through settings—feels premium. The Elite oven looks simple compared to many of our other recommendations, but focusing on usability is necessary for this type of device.

We couldn’t find any fault with how Wolf Gourmet’s Elite performed. There was enough space to roast an entire chicken or reheat leftovers and sides simultaneously. The oven’s temperature probe—one of many accessories Wolf Gourmet includes—made it easy to assess meat’s doneness without poking at it or relying exclusively on visual and recipe clues.

The Wolf Gourmet Elite is a premium piece of kitchen gadgetry, and it’s only worth the investment if you’re set on replacing your full-sized oven for day-to-day baking and cooking. If you’re not cooking for a big crowd frequently, this countertop oven will likely become the workhorse of your kitchen.

Best smart toaster oven: Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven

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Why it made the cut: With space for nine slices of bread and “always even” toasting, the Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven speeds up breakfast and lunch quite a bit.

Specs

• Dimensions: 11.42 x 16.93 x 20.87 inches
• Weight: 32 pounds 
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Bagel, waffle, pizza, sandwich, roast, dual cook
• Wattage: 1800W
• Price: $299.99

Pros 

• “Always even” toast control
• Comes with pizza stone, cooking racks, baking and broiling pan
• 15 cooking functions for versatile, precise cooking

Cons 

• Extremely heavy
• Expensive

Most ovens can serve as a toaster, but the Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven puts toasting first. It can heat up to nine pieces of bread at a time and features unique cooking functions for sandwiches and quick convection cooking. When toasting bread, the Chef’s Convection Toaster has a feature called “always even” toast control, which allows you to tune your toaster based on what shade of golden brown you prefer. It’s a level of granular control you won’t find on most toasters or smart ovens.

Though its toasting duties come first, the Chef’s Convection Toaster works well as a general smart oven, too. Its 15 cooking functions make it one of the most versatile ovens. It also has more accessories than your typical smart oven, including a pizza stone, two cooking racks, and an enamel baking and broiling pan. With its 0.95-cubic-foot capacity, it’s a larger oven that can cook a pizza or a whole chicken. While it does cost more than our top pick, the Breville Smart Oven Pro, this oven’s toasting precision makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking for an oven that truly doubles as a quality toaster. 

Best smart wall oven: Samsung 30-inch Built-in Single Wall Oven

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung 30-inch Built-in Single Wall Oven features a large capacity, WiFi compatibility, and intuitive digital controls.

Specs

• Dimensions: 28 3/16 x 29 ¾ x 26 ⅝ inches
• Weight: 130 pounds 
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Bake, broil, keep warm, bread/proof
• Amperage: 20 amperes
• $1,299

Pros 

• 5.1-cubic-foot capacity
• Full-touch display for easy use
• Pairs with the SmartThings App for control from your phone

Cons 

• Expensive, especially compared to traditional built-in ovens
• Black stainless steel finish costs nearly $100 more than stainless 

Unlike most of the ovens on our list, the Samsung 30-inch Built-in Single Wall Oven is a conventional oven rather than a secondary appliance made to sit on your counter. By connecting it to WiFi, you can control the oven with your phone via Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem. That means you can preheat your oven or adjust its temperature from another room.

We also appreciate that it’s Americans with Disabilities Act compliant, meeting certain specifications around maximum high-forward reach for controls, one-handed controls, and safety measures without tight grasping or twisting. These specifications make it possible for anyone to use the oven.

Unsurprisingly, the exceptionally well-made smart oven with connected features costs considerably more than a traditional wall oven. Compared to other smart wall ovens, however, it isn’t poorly priced. Meanwhile, Samsung’s WiFi connectivity, self-cleaning options, and ADA compliance set it apart from most competitors.

Best smart microwave oven: TOSHIBA ML-EM34P Smart Countertop Microwave

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Why it made the cut: Smart features allow you to create presets and activate all of the features of this WiFi-enabled microwave.

Specs 

• Dimensions: 16.6 x 20.4 x 12.4 inches
• Weight: 35 pounds 
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Popcorn, Kitchen timer, Eco mode
• Wattage: 1100W
• Price: $143.99

Pros 

• Pairs with Alexa for easy voice operation
• Powerful
• Affordable

Cons 

• Requires an external Alexa device for voice commands
• Not as powerful

Toshiba’s ML-EM34P offers an updated approach to microwaving food. Instead of cooking preset buttons, you can press a button to ask Alexa to operate the microwave with commands like, “Reheat 8 ounces of rice.” You need an external Alexa device to use those commands, but you also have the option to operate it using an app if you don’t have one yet.

At $179.99, this 1.3-cubic-foot capacity microwave is right in the middle of the pack price and size-wise, but it has features our other recommendations lack. Our only complaint is that at 1100W, it’s a little less powerful than some of the larger ovens. That’s par for the course for a microwave, but something to consider.

Best smart oven air fryer: Ninja DCT401

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Why it made the cut: The Ninja DCT401’s dual-door design is no gimmick—it’s genuinely useful.

Specs 

• Dimensions: 16.39 x 21.5 x 13.26 inches
• Weight: 31 pounds 
• Noteworthy cooking modes: Dehydrate, air fry, air roast, whole roast, pizza
• Wattage: 1800W
• Price: $329.99

Pros 

• Can cook multiple dishes simultaneously
• Compact design
• Easy to use

Cons 

• May be too small for some applications

We’re generally wary of kitchen gadgets built around a fancy-looking design. It’s easy for a company to choose style over substance to catch your eye while compromising performance. Thankfully that isn’t the case with Ninja’s DCT401.

This is the only smart oven with two doors, a niche feature you’ll only see in a handful of full-sized ovens. Pushing a button on the handle will open the top door, while pulling the handle without the button will open both. It’s an incredible-looking party trick, but once you get over the “oohing” and “ahhing,” you’re in for the real treat. The DCT401’s chambers can be operated independently, meaning you can set their time and temperature individually.

If you’re cooking protein as your main dish and starchy vegetables as your side, you can time your recipes so that they finish simultaneously. Dual-chamber air fryers have been around for a bit, but this is the first time we’ve seen that concept in a smart oven, and we hope the trend continues to grow. The 401 was smart enough actually to heat both chambers appropriately, and the recipes we tried turned out. Now, the downside to this oven is that Ninja had to split up the vertical space of this smart oven into two sections. This means you won’t be able to cook as much in the bottom as in a single-chamber smart oven.

We think this tradeoff is worthwhile given the feature you’re getting, but it’s something to consider if you plan to rely more on a countertop appliance than your full-sized oven. We’d argue that the Ninja 401’s design is more efficient for many applications and could replace a pair of appliances rather than just one. All you need to know is that this smart oven isn’t just a flashy-looking tool; its performance matches its pretty face.

Best compact: Our Place Wonder Oven