Best overall		Donner 39-inch Electric Guitar with Case		SEE IT	It strikes the ideal harmony between advanced features and affordable pricing.
Best value		Epiphone Power Player Les Paul		SEE IT	Solid construction and excellent pickups make this a great guitar to grow into.
Best kit		Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster Bundle		SEE IT	Get everything you need to start playing in one convenient box.

Learning an instrument can be expensive, but a cheap electric guitar can provide a great place to start. In this case, “cheap” doesn’t mean “bad.” Many well-known guitar brands have specific budget- and beginner-friendly lines for players just starting out. These lines often share major characteristics and similar hardware of professional guitars in higher price brackets. A cheap electric guitar also means you won’t dump too much money into your new (and potentially fleeting) hobby if you decide that you’re not ready for the rockstar lifestyle. Shred some power chords—not the cash in your wallet—with the best electric guitars. 

• Best overall: Donner 39-inch Electric Guitar
• Best for beginners: Fender Squire Sonic Stratocaster Electric Guitar
• Best for metal: Jackson JS32 Dinky DKA-M Electric Guitar
• Best kit: Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster Limited Edition Bundle
• Best value: Epiphone Power Player Les Paul

How we chose the best cheap electric guitars 

We don’t mean to brag, but many of the PopSci Gear team know a thing or two about guitars. Although we’ve been in plenty of bands, we’ve also been beginners ourselves. We combined our personal experience with recommendations from professional music pals. We also heavily researched reviews from trusted sources to narrow our picks. To make sure each guitar was truly cheap, we capped prices at $300. Only one guitar on this list exceeds that range, but we had very good reason to make an exception, which we’ll explain.

The best cheap electric guitars: Reviews & Recommendations

From short-lived high school bands formed in garages to far-away travel gigs where you don’t want to bring your prized, expensive guitar on a budget airline, a cheap guitar can be a valuable addition to your guitar stand or rack. One of our choices should help you live out your rockstar dreams. 

Best overall: Donner 39-inch Electric Guitar

SEE IT

Specs

• Body: Solid alder, gloss polyester finish
• Scale length: 25.5 inches
• Fretboard: Laurel, 9.5-inch radius, 22 medium-jumbo frets
• Accessories: Gig bag, guitar strap, guitar cable

Pros

• Includes accessories
• Classic style
• Versatile single-coil and humbucker pickups

Cons

• Need proper set-up for long-term playability

The Donner DST-400 is the ideal vision for what we want in a cheap electric guitar. It’s budget-friendly, but its solid body and reliable production quality control allow it to last well past your early stages. It includes both single-coil and humbucker pickups to play a wide range of styles, and its classic design means it will never go out of style. It feels great to play and is ready to go right out of the box. 

It also includes basic accessories to get you started: A gig bag, a guitar strap, and a guitar cable. You’ll need to upgrade your amp after the beginner stages, but there’s no better deal than this Donner. 

Best for beginners: Fender Squire Sonic Stratocaster Electric Guitar

SEE IT

Specs

• Body: Poplar
• Scale length: 25.5 inches
• Fretboard: Maple, 9.5-inch radius, 21 narrow tall frets
• Accessories: No

Pros

• Well-built for price
• Feels good in hands
• Recognizable body

Cons

• Doesn’t come with accessories

The Stratocaster is one of the music scene’s most iconic and recognizable guitars. You’re in good company if you pick one up, too. Greats like Buddy Holly, George Harrison, and Jimi Hendrix have called the Stratocaster their choice guitar. Beginners can get in on the fun without shelling out too much cash with Fender’s Squire line, which gives you a reliable instrument made with low cost in mind. Its thin, lightweight body and matte neck feel good in your hands, and it has a similar feel and tone to more expensive Strats. Experienced players will hear the difference in pickups: This one comes with ceramic single-coil pickups, while a traditional Strat comes with alnico (short for aluminum, nickel, and cobalt) pickups. But to a newcomer, it’s a solid guitar that punches above its price point. 

Best for metal: Jackson JS32 Dinky DKA-M Electric Guitar

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Specs

• Body: Solid basswood
• Scale length: 25.5 inches
• Fretboard: Maple, 12” compound radius, 24 jumbo frets
• Accessories: No

Pros

• Big tone for low price
• Ready to play out of the box
• Quality construction

Cons

• A bit more expensive than our other choices

If you’re looking for a guitar that doesn’t cost much but shreds a lot, this is the one for you. The neck is comfortable even when playing fast, speedy passages and its lightweight body doesn’t drag you down over the course of a set. Its solid construction holds up well for years and years, and it’s another choice that plays above its price. It’s playable out of the box and sounds punchy and vicious. It’s more expensive than our other picks, but only by $100. We think its design made for shredding is worth that extra dough.

Best kit: Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster Limited Edition Bundle

SEE IT

Specs

• Body: Poplar
• Scale length: 25.5 inches
• Fretboard: Maple, 9.5-inch radius, 21 medium-jumbo frets
• Accessories: 10G amplifier, gig bag, instrument cable, tuner, strap, picks, and instructional DVD

Pros

• Comes with an instructional DVD
• Lots of bonus accessories
• Incredible price for what you get

Cons

• Reviews note some items from bundle are missing from order

This kit is a one-stop solution if you want to buy a guitar but don’t know where to start. The Fender Squire Affinity Stratocaster is the next price step up from the Sonic series, and the medium jumbo frets make for smooth playing. The amp is perfect for practicing at home, and the included instructional DVD means you don’t have to shell out cash for lessons. Some reviews note that their order arrived incomplete; the same reviews also noted that the seller is responsive and happily sends any missing items.

Best value: Epiphone Power Player Les Paul

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Specs

• Body: Mahogany
• Scale length: 22.73 inches
• Fretboard: Laurel, 12-inch radius, 22 frets
• Accessories: Gig bag, strap, picks, guitar cable

Pros

• Small scale
• Iconic guitar
• Stays in tune longer

Cons

• Not great for someone looking for longevity

The Les Paul is an iconic guitar named and created by Les Paul, a prolific jazz, country, and blues guitar player. The Les Paul guitar is one of the most versatile guitars. It can tackle rock, blues, and jazz and is perfect if you’re looking for a full and resonant sound. This one comes from Gibson’s Epiphone line, which is similar to Fender’s Squire line. It’s a great size for youths and makes for a great travel guitar for more experienced players. It has a comfortable neck and stays in tune longer compared to other student models. Plus, humbucker pickups make even the easiest of chords sound rich, warm, and heavenly. This is a guitar made with students in mind, so it might need to be replaced as the player grows. 

What to consider when buying the best cheap electric guitars

Not all axes are made the same. Here’s what to look for when shopping for the best cheap electric guitars. 

Scale length

Scale length is the distance between the nut of the guitar and the bridge. Shorter scales can be good for younger players who don’t have large enough hands for bigger instruments. A normal scale for a guitar is around 25 inches. However, guitars with a shorter scale have less string tension, which is a recipe for fret buzzing (when the note sounds “fuzzy” because you’re not pressing hard enough on the string) and intonation problems. 

The fret distance on a 25.5-inch scale guitar only differs about a thousandth of an inch from that of a 24.75-inch scale guitar. That may not sound like much, but the difference is noticeable for players. At the end of the day, it matters that the guitar feels right in your hands, and choosing the right scale helps with that. 

Pickups

Without pickups, your electric guitar would just be a quiet, terrible-sounding acoustic. These magnetic components sit under the strings and convert the vibrations from the strings into electrical current and eventually sound.

Single-coil and humbuckers (double coil) are the most well-known designs of pickups:

• Single coil: Brighter, crisper, work better with clean sounds, more note definition between strings.
• Humbuckers: Warmer, darker, work better with distorted sounds, less note definition between strings. 

Pickups generate two kinds of voltage:

• Passive: Generates voltage with magnets only. Guitars with passive pickups are generally cheaper and create more expression because they’re sensitive to the vibration of the strings. 
• Active: Generates voltage with weaker magnets that are supported by a preamp. Greater tonal clarity. They create more tonal consistency at different volumes.

Versatility

Different guitars generate different timbres (the quality of the note), which suit specific genres. You can always change the sound with the pedals on your pedalboard, but some tones come inherent to the guitar. A Fender Stratocaster is great for rock, pop, blues, jazz, punk, and heavy metal. A Gibson Les Paul is excellent for rock, country, pop, soul, and rhythm and blues.

Fretboard radius

The lower a fretboard’s radius, the more curve it has. Predictably, a higher number translates into a flatter fretboard. Why does that matter? It all goes back to how the guitar feels in your hands. Choosing a fretboard radius is based on preference. Some musicians think curved fretboards are better for chords, while others feel flatter fretboards help them with bar chords.

Player experience

You don’t need to look too deep into things like pickups if you’re a beginner. However, you can save more bang for your buck if you look for a guitar that’s great for beginners and can grow with you as you improve as a musician. The Donner 39-inch Electric Guitar is an example of a beginner-friendly guitar that’s cheap and won’t need to be replaced after a year or two of learning. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cheap electric guitars 

• Best overall: Donner 39-inch Electric Guitar
• Best for beginners: Fender Squire Sonic Stratocaster Electric Guitar
• Best for metal: Jackson JS32 Dinky DKA-M Electric Guitar
• Best kit: Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster Limited Edition Bundle
• Best value: Epiphone Power Player Les Paul

If you want to learn to play guitar but don’t want to spend a lot of money, consider a cheap electric guitar. They’re perfect for beginners who may not want to invest a ton of cash into a new hobby, or for those who want to learn guitar on a budget. Many guitar makers have specific, beginner-friendly lines that are easy on your wallet—just add a stand and a practice amp and you’re set. Now get to practicing, you rockstar. 

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 electric guitars for shredding in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Black Friday gets most of the credit when it comes to cheap TVs. This year, however, you can shop Black Friday deals comfortably from your home—and you don’t even need to wait until the leftovers get cold to do so. Snag an Amazon Fire TV for 45% right now before the Black Friday rush.

Amazon Fire TV 32″ 2-Series HD smart TV with Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote $109.99 (Was $199.99)

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If you don’t need 4K definition but still want to watch television sans cable, the Fire TV is for you. Its 720p resolution is just enough to see rich colors and contrast without the cost. All your favorite streaming apps, like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more, come together in one central hub and the Amazon Alexa Voice Remote to easily access it all. You also get six months of MGM+ for free with your Fire TV purchase—perfect for future winter movie nights and snowy stay-ins. If you need a recommendation, we’re fans of FROM, a binge-able and gripping drama about people who can’t escape a nightmarish town once they enter. It will leave you gripping your weighted blanket in suspense.

If 720p doesn’t seem satisfying to you, the 40-inch Amazon Fire TV 2-Series 4K UHD television is $179.99, 28% off its OG $249.99 price. It bumps up the resolution to 1080p—still not 4K quality, but noticeably more detailed than 720p. Both TVs are solid if you’re watching a lot of DVD or older Blu-ray content that has trouble filling up a 4K screen anyway.

We’ve gone from fighting over TVs in-store to hoping they don’t sell out before we click “add to cart.” The latter is just as frustrating as the former—skip the chaos altogether by acting now.

Here are more pre-Black Friday home theater deals we’re watching alongside the Thanksgiving parade:

• Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV $309.99 (Was $449.99)
• Amazon Fire TV 75″ Omni QLED Series 4K UHD smart TV $899.99 (Was $1,099.99)
• SAMSUNG 85-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90C Series Neo Quantum HDR+ TV $3,297.99 (Was $4,797.99)
• Sony OLED 55-inch BRAVIA XR A80L Series 4K Ultra HD TV $1,498 (Was $1,899.99)
• Sony 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X85K Series $898 (Was $998)
• TCL 65-Inch Q7 QLED 4K Smart TV with Google TV $632.79 (Was $999.99)
• SAMSUNG HW-Q60B 3.1ch Soundbar w/ Dolby Atmos $234.99 (Was $497.99)
• VIZIO 2.0 Home Theater Sound Bar with DTS Virtual:X $69 (Was $79.99)
• Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar with Bass Reflex Speaker $98 (Was $129.99)
• LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer $469 (Was $1,199.99)
• Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling 3D Home Theater Streaming Blu-Ray DVD Player with Wi-Fi $89.99 (Was $119.99)
• Sony BDP-BX370 Streaming Blu-ray DVD Player with built-in Wi-Fi $78 (Was $89.99)

The post Get big TV savings before Black Friday with 45% off an Amazon Fire TV appeared first on Popular Science.

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

You don’t need to wait until after Thanksgiving dinner to get incredible pricing on big-ticket items. Take this 49-inch curved gaming monitor at Amazon, which is a whopping 35% off.

LG 49-inch UltraGear DQHD (5120×1440) Curved Gaming Monitor $846 (Was $1,299.99)

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If you’re looking to completely immerse yourself, look no further. This 49-inch curved gaming monitor from LG gives you massive real estate. Combined with its VESA DisplayHDR 1000, that means brightness, color, and contrast for high-res gaming that feels real. A 240HZ refresh rate prevents pesky lag, and a four-pole headphone jack with DTX Headphone: X tech gives you a cinematic sound experience.

They say patience is a virtue; that may be true, but why not take advantage of a good deal when you see one?

Here are more early Black Friday gaming monitor deals:

• SAMSUNG 49″ Odyssey G93SC Series OLED Curved Gaming Monitor $1,299.99 (Was $1,599.99)
• SAMSUNG 24″ Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor $149.99 (Was $249.99)
• SAMSUNG 32″ Odyssey Neo G8 4K UHD Gaming Monitor $999.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• SAMSUNG 27″ Odyssey G7 Series WQHD (2560×1440) Gaming Monitor $499.99 (Was $699.99)
• SAMSUNG 32″ Odyssey G55A QHD Gaming Monitor $279.99 (Was $349.99)
• LG UltraGear UHD 32-Inch Gaming Monitor $739 (Was $1,299.99)
• Dell G2722HS IPS 27 Inch 165Hz Gaming Monitor $255 (Was $279.99)
• Dell S2721HS Full HD 1920 x 1080p, 75Hz IPS LED LCD Thin Bezel Adjustable Gaming Monitor $159.99 (Was $219.99)
• Acer K202Q bi 19.5-inch Professional HD+ (1600 x 900) Monitor $56.99 (Was $79.99)
• Acer KB272 Hbi 27″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) Zero-Frame Gaming Office Monitor $104.99 (Was $149.99)

The post Get an LG gaming monitor for 35% off at Amazon with this early Black Friday deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Alex Tech 10ft – 1/2 inch Cord Protector Wire Loom Tubing Cable		SEE IT	An easy-to-use option that keeps cords hidden.
Best for standing desks		Stand Up Desk Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray		SEE IT	Made for standing desks, so you know it works.
Best hub		Tessan Power Strip with Cable Management Box		SEE IT	Ditch the surge strip and go for something more discreet.

Most people don’t think about cable management for desks until cords get impossibly tangled. And, it doesn’t help that all cords and cables look the same—unplugging the wrong one could lead to an “Indiana Jones”-esque disaster cutscene in your office. Instead of running away from a boulder falling from the ceiling, you run to the surge strip to re-plug in the printer so you can spend the next five minutes waiting for it to turn back on. However, taking your desk from Medusa’s lair to something you’d find on life-hack TikTok is possible. The best cable management for desks will make your home office easier on the eyes and ensure that a snag doesn’t send your expensive computer equipment flying.

• Best overall: Alex Tech 10ft – 1/2 inch Cord Protector Wire Loom Tubing Cable
• Best for standing desks: Stand Up Desk Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray
• Best hub: Tessan Power Strip with Cable Management Box
• Best magnetic: Smartish Cable Wrangler
• Best for glass desks: Scandinavian Hub Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray
• Best clips: Gadgetklip Garden Clips
• Best budget: Newlan Reusable Cable Ties

How we chose the best cable management for desks

Many of us on the PopSci gear team currently work from home, having ditched a regular office cubicle long ago. Having a way to organize our cables and wires gives us more room for neat things to review. And, hiding the mess of cables prevents us from going crazy looking at tangles of wires. To find the best cable management for desks, we looked at critical reviews and peer recommendations, performed personal testing, and conducted heavy research into real-world user impressions. 

The best cable management for desks: Reviews & Recommendations

Our choices for the best cable management systems cover a wide range of budgets, functionalities, and can fit multiple kinds of desks. After searching far and wide, here are our favorite options and ideas for desk cable management.

Best overall: Alex Tech 10ft – 1/2 inch Cord Protector Wire Loom Tubing Cable

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A simple and effective cable management system that can be utilized in multiple ways.

Specs

• Material: Polyethylene
• Size: ½”-10 feet to ⅜”-25 feet
• Desk attachment: N/A
• Kind of cable management: Protective split sleeving

Pros 

• Can be combined with an under-desk organizer
• UL-recognized
• High operating temperature

Cons 

• Self-wrap can get loose at certain angles
• Keep out of the reach of animals

If you’re new to using cable management systems, or if you’re a seasoned cable management vet looking to up their set-up, this protective split sleeve is versatile enough to use alone or with an under-desk organizer. You can even use them to manage the few unsightly wires behind the soundbar or AV receiver in your home theater setup. You receive 10 feet of it for $8.99, making it incredibly price-friendly, and sizing goes from ½” diameter/10 feet long to ⅜” diameter and 25 feet long. They have a melt temperature of 446 degrees Fahrenheit and are recognized by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a consumer safety organization. What does this mean? You don’t have to worry about sitting near a potential fire hazard (like an overclocked gaming computer). Putting them around wires is easy: Fit the cables in the sleeve, cut off the excess, and you’re done. Plus, it’s easy to “split” wires thanks to the design—just separate the wire you want to take out of the bundle and let the sleeve self-wrap. Although the manufacturer says that it protects against kitty cats’ claws and teeth, we recommend keeping this sleeving away from animals just in case.

Best for standing desks: Stand Up Desk Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray

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Why it made the cut: This cable management system was built for stand-up desks and doubles as a modesty panel.

Specs

• Material: Alloy steel
• Size: 48” and 60”
• Desk attachment: Screws
• Kind of cable management: Under desk tray

Pros 

• Doubles as a modesty panel
• Comes with a 5-year warranty
• Sturdy

Cons 

• Won’t work on non-wood desks
• Can only attach using screws

Standing desks help with productivity. However, worrying about wires can mess with your ability to focus on the task at hand. Stress no more with the Stand Up Desk Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray. As the name suggests, it’s built specifically as cable management for standing desks. The tray can fit a surge strip and then some, and it doubles as a modesty panel. It’s incredibly sturdy, and the lip on the inside prevents cables and wires from spilling over when taking your standing desk sky-high. It’s worth noting that it only attaches using screws—you’ll have to flip your desk and have an electric screwdriver handy to make the process easier. It comes with a five-year warranty in case you’re not happy with your purchase. However, we think you, your knees, your focus, and your expensive electronics will thank you.

Best hub: Tessan Power Strip with Cable Management Box

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Why it made the cut: A surge strip, but make it discreet, have USB-A ports, and be wall-mountable.

Specs

• Material: Plastic, electronic component
• Size: 11.38 x 5.87 x 5.71 inches
• Desk attachment: N/A 
• Kind of cable management: Desk hub

Pros 

• Holds cables and chargers
• Great warranty
• Can fit large AC plugs

Cons 

• No USB-C ports

This hub is like a surge strip that hides the outlets with a plastic privacy hood. Unlike some surge strips, it comes with two USB-A ports so that you can save the four AC outlets for things with AC outlets. You can set it below or on your desk. If you’re looking to keep your desk area more clutter-free, you can even mount it to the wall. An angled flat plug keeps your second outlet open for another device. The only downside of this great hub is the lack of USB-C ports.

Best magnetic: Smartish Cable Wrangler

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Why it made the cut: Charging cables are an essential-but-disorganized tech accessory, but Smartish’s Cable Wrangler makes them easy to keep in line.

Specs

• Material: N/A
• Size: 3.24 x 3.24 x 1.3 inches
• Desk attachment: Rubber base
• Kind of cable management: On desktop

Pros 

• Small size
• Easy to move
• Grippy bottom

Cons 

• Only useful for charging cables

If charging cables are giving you trouble, Smartish’s Cable Wrangler is a great solution. The cable organizer has a magnetic top that’ll keep all your charging cables aligned and at the ready. It won’t work with larger cords, though. A big part of the Cable Wrangler’s appeal is its small size. You can easily pick it up and move it around on your desk when you’d like, but it won’t slip around on its own, thanks to a rubberized base. While the cords will attach to this organizer’s magnetic top, Smartish also includes magnetized “cable collars” to wrap around them to ensure an even stronger connection.

Best for glass desks: Scandinavian Hub Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray

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Why it made the cut: This no-drill option takes the focus off of a mound of wires and keeps the focus on your gorgeous glass desk. 

Specs

• Material: Carbon steel
• Size: 17 x 3.5 x 4.3 inches
• Desk attachment: Adhesive stickers or screws
• Kind of cable management: Desk tray

Pros 

• Designed to accommodate surge protectors
• Can attach to the wall
• Velcro straps are included for more organization

Cons 

• Can only be mounted on top of the desk using the adhesive option
• One size

Glass desks can handle an entire computer set-up—unfortunately, you can’t screw in an under-desk tray to organize your wires. With the Scandinavian Hub Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray, this no-drilling-holes problem comes with a solution for glass desks: adhesive stickers that allow you to attach the desk tray without damaging your table. You can even use the adhesive to mount it on a wall, making it a renter-friendly option. It’s roomy enough to accommodate a surge strip to prevent tripping. And, it comes with two velcro straps that allow you to bundle your cords for an even cleaner look. Although the tray comes in one size, you can purchase multiple and set them up however you’d like. If you do decide to switch up your set-up and get a wood desk, the set comes with a set of screws to attach it four other ways.

Best clips: Gadgetklip Garden Clips

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Why it made the cut: This simple clip can keep a tight grip on all of your cables.

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel and plastic
• Size: 6.02 x 3.11 x 1.73 inches
• Desk attachment: Clip-on
• Kind of cable management: Clips

Pros 

• Sturdy
• Can accommodate thicker cables
• Fun colors

Cons 

• Clips must be attached somewhere

If you’d like to organize the cables on your desk in the simplest way possible, Gadgetklip’s Garden Clips are a great solution. Don’t be put off by their name, these clips can be used to organize cables anywhere, but were designed to be durable enough to survive the elements. This is the most basic type of cable management: feed the cords through a clip, then clamp them to the side of your desk. The Garden Clips are large enough to keep hold of a bundle of power, networking, and charging cables, and you can continue threading more through them over time as your needs change. You’ll need a desk that’s thin enough for a clip to clamp onto, but that’s the only concern you should have with this cable organization tool.

Best budget: Newlan Reusable Cable Ties

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Why it made the cut: You don’t have to spend much to organize your cables with these simple, easy-to-use velcro strips.

Specs

• Material: Velcro
• Size: 7.48 x 4.4 x 0.5 inches
• Desk attachment: N/A
• Kind of cable management: Cable ties

Pros 

• Reusable
• Versatile
• Come in a large pack

Cons 

• Best for medium bundles of wire

Getting the cables around your desk doesn’t need to cost a fortune—in fact, you only need about $6 and some change to get started. These velcro reusable cable ties are flexible and versatile—you can use them to bundle a group of wires together, or you can use them to gather excess cable into a suitable length. You can also use them to keep rogue cables neat and tidy since they have a tendency to magically tangle when not in use. Using them with other cable management systems, like the ones above, can take your desk organization to the next level: For example, instead of letting your wire bundle flop around, stow them in an under-desk tray. Plus, you can use them anywhere. Got a guitar cable that you’re not using? Velcro strap! Holiday lights? Velcro strap! Colored pencils? Velcro strap! And, with 60 in a pack, you won’t feel guilty about using them all up or losing a few.

What to consider when buying the best cable management for desks

No one wants to hang a cable management tray and have it come tumbling down from the weight of your wires. The best cable management for desk systems are sturdy, easy to use, and can fit a variety of desks if you decide to change your set-up. Here’s what else you should know when shopping for cable management for your desk:

Amount and style of cables

If you’re trying to organize thicker cables like the ones that power your monitor or desktop, you’ll need stronger solutions, like trays, velcro straps, and protective sleeves. Something meant for smaller wires, like phone and laptop chargers, won’t stand a chance against something meatier. 

Office set-up

Where your desk is in your office will determine the best cable management system. A desk against the wall can hide a bundle of cables compared to one facing out or a workstation located in the middle of the room. A combo desk skirt and cable management sleeve can keep your set-up looking clean and wireless. If your desk is against the wall, you can better get away with a simple tray or protective sleeve. 

Desk style

Many cable management systems are installed with screws. This is perfect if your desk is made of wood or particle board. However, it’s harder—or almost impossible—to screw into a glass, plastic, or metal desk. If you’re in the latter camp, choose an option that uses strong adhesive strips to attach a tray to your desk. No holes and no hassle equals a bunch of happy cables and one happy customer (you). Additionally, some clamp onto the table part of your desk. Ditch these if your desk isn’t clamp-friendly. 

Budget

Cable management systems can start at $5 and go into the hundreds. Most casual cable management systems cap at around $75. If you don’t work with huge bundles of cables and wires, something from the $5-$75 range is perfectly suitable. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cable management for desks

• Best overall: Alex Tech 10ft – 1/2 inch Cord Protector Wire Loom Tubing Cable
• Best for standing desks: Stand Up Desk Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray
• Best hub: Tessan Power Strip with Cable Management Box
• Best magnetic: Smartish Cable Wrangler
• Best for glass desks: Scandinavian Hub Store Under Desk Cable Management Tray
• Best clips: Gadgetklip Garden Clips
• Best budget: Newlan Reusable Cable Ties

The best cable management for desks doesn’t have to be pricey. And they aren’t limited to one thing: you can mix and match different kinds of items to create a cable management system that works for you. From under desk trays to simple velcro straps, there are plenty of options to choose from. The best cable management for desks not only keeps your space organized but keeps you safe. It stops you from tripping over a cable and potentially wrecking your expensive equipment. And, if you have a standing desk or a glass desk, you don’t have to miss out on the organization fun—there are options for you. Now get arranging and assembling!

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 cable management for desks 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		Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair		SEE IT	First designed in 1979 by Norwegian Hans Christian Mengshoel and popularized by industrial designer Opsvik, this model was—and is—considered a game-changer in the world of ergonomic office chairs.
Best rocker		Sleekform Austin Rocking Kneeling Chair		SEE IT	This reinforced-plywood option has a 4-inch-thick seat cushion and memory foam knee pads, with a weight capacity of 265 pounds—and it rocks back and forth, of course!
Best budget		Office Star Ergonomically Designed Knee Chair		SEE IT	More expensive does not necessarily mean more ergonomically sound. You sacrifice aesthetics with this bargain model, but it gets the job done.

Human beings were not meant to sit at a 90-degree angle for eight-plus hours a day, and we weren’t meant to stand for that long either—but a kneeling chair can help. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), “A chair that is well-designed and appropriately adjusted is an essential element of a safe and productive computer workstation. A good chair supports the back, legs, buttocks, and arms while reducing exposures to awkward postures, contact stress, and forceful exertions.” At the most elemental level, kneeling chair benefits include taking pressure off your back by shifting your body forward, opening up your pelvic area, engaging your core muscles, and taking pressure off your spinal discs. (The name is a bit of a misnomer, as the chair doesn’t shift weight into your knees but rather your butt and shins.) As a result of that sloping, you could also see improvements to your breathing and digestion (by taking the pressure off your internal organs) and improved circulation. Here are our picks for the best kneeling chairs.

• Best overall: Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair
• Best with back support: DRAGONN by VIVO Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
• Best rocker: Sleekform Austin Rocking Kneeling Chair
• Best for short person: Posture Pro Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
• Best for tall person: Master Massage Ergonomic Steel Kneeling Chair
• Best budget: Office Star Ergonomically Designed Knee Chair

How we chose the best kneeling chairs

If you’ve ever gotten a seated massage, you’re acquainted with the general shape of kneeling chairs. Because they take pressure off your spine, kneeling chair benefits include that they can help improve posture and give you lumbar support. (On the downside, you won’t have much lower-body mobility when you’re in it, so if you’re at all claustrophobic—e.g., you dislike the feeling of your legs being stuck in place—this might not be the option for you, though you can and should play around with positions: one foot up, one foot down, ankles crossed, etc.). 

We vetted the available options on the market to make our recommendations for the best kneeling chairs. We researched the science on the detriments of sitting and considered OSHA’s guidance in this kneeling chair review. With that in mind, we looked at kneeling chairs that provided ergonomic design, options for a range of people of different sizes, adjustability, style, and price.

The best kneeling chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

When you first start using your knee chair, you might notice some discomfort, and that’s because you’re likely engaging muscles you don’t when you’re in a conventional office chair. These force you to sit up straight, which requires your abs, thighs, and lower back to engage. You may not be used to that. Eventually, you’ll be better for it, but as with any big change in life, there may be some growing pains! Any of our picks is a suitable introduction to the world of kneeling chairs.

Best overall: Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The original kneeling chair, this Scandinavian design has stood the test of time. It’s made with flexible wood and comes in a range of colors to suit any office.

Specs

• Material: Beech plywood, recycled polyester
• Dimensions: 14 inches D x 14 inches W x 28 inches H 
• Weight: 14.35 pounds

Pros

• Elegant design
• Time-tested 
• Lightweight

Cons

• Expensive

Though not the most important quality in a knee chair, this one is aesthetically pleasing in that classic Scandinavian way and comes in loads of colors. The wood design is simple, iconic, and lightweight, so you can easily move it from room to room, creating an ergonomic workstation wherever you go.

Best with back support: DRAGONN by VIVO Ergonomic Kneeling Chair

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: If you’re looking for additional support in a kneeling chair, this kneeling computer chair comes with a cushion for your back and has casters for easy movement.

Specs

• Material: Metal
• Dimensions: 13 inches D x 27.13 W x 21 inches H
• Weight: 23 pounds

Pros

• Provides back support
• Comes with wheels
• Ergonomic design

Cons

• Less stationary

This kneeling office chair is on casters, allowing you to roam without getting out of your chair. The knee-pad angles and the distance between the seat and knee pads are adjustable, so this posture kneeling chair is a more inclusive option than some others. There is a 250-pound weight capacity. Note also that it requires some simple assembly.

Best rocker: Sleekform Austin Rocking Kneeling Chair

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Why it made the cut: This posture-correcting chair is also designed with a soothing rocking motion and memory foam cushions for maximum comfort. 

Specs

• Materials: Reinforced plywood, fabric
• Dimensions: 28 inches D x 16 inches W x 22 inches H
• Weight: 14.7 pounds

Pros

• Rocking function
• Pads affix it to the floor 
• Cushions designed with memory foam

Cons

• No option for back support

A 20- to 30-degree seat-cushion slope is considered ideal for a kneeling desk (whereas a traditional computer desk is 90 degrees), and this chair hits right at 30, shifting weight into your sit bones to gently tilt you forward. The best part of a rocker is that the rocking motion can be a great distraction if you’re having trouble adjusting to your kneeling chair.

Best for short person: Posture Pro Ergonomic Kneeling Chair

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Why it made the cut: This affordable kneeling chair is designed for shorter people and comes with casters for easy mobility. 

Specs

• Material: Metal 
• Dimensions: 22.5 inches D x 18.25 inches W x 25.5 inches H
• Weight: 17.96 pounds

Pros

• Three adjustable height settings
• Comes with a three-inch-thick cushion
• Lockable casters
• Great price

Cons

• Not an option for big or tall people

This heavily cushioned, wheeling, ergonomic kneeling chair can sit as low as 13 inches off the floor. This adjustable kneeling chair has wheels for easy mobility and folds neatly at the end of the day.

Best for tall person: Master Massage Ergonomic Steel Kneeling Chair Posture

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Why it made the cut: With thick cushions for the seat and knees, this kneeling chair is ideal for massages and comes with a two-year warranty. 

Specs

• Material: Wood, alloy steel
• Dimensions: 17.5 inches D x 21 inches W x 28 inches H
• Weight: 16.5 pounds

Pros

• Six adjustable height settings
• Comes with wheels for easy transport
• Folds down for storage

Cons

• Plastic cushions

A steel base in this posture chair makes you feel secure as you sit, and mesh cushions keep you cool. The front-locking brake mechanism adds an extra layer of security. Remember: Your work surface is at the correct height when your elbow is at 90 degrees. Too low and you’ll hunch; too high and you’ll have to reach.

Best budget: Office Star Ergonomically Designed Knee Chair

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Why it made the cut: This serviceable kneeling chair takes care of all the basics at an affordable price. 

Specs

• Material: Metal
• Dimensions: 25.25 inches D x 17 inches W x 20.5 inches H
• Weight: 16 pounds

Pros

• Ergonomic design 
• Sturdy frame
• Affordable price

Cons

• Weight limit is 275 pounds

The key elements of a kneeling chair are here—pressure relief, a memory foam seat cushion, casters—but it does have some limitations. Its weight capacity is not particularly inclusive at 275 pounds, and the chair itself weighs 16 pounds, making it one you likely won’t want to schlep from room to room.

What to consider when buying the best kneeling chairs

The key to any great seating setup is variation. Eight hours on a kneeling chair is no better than eight hours on a regular desk chair. (Your legs, in particular, could cramp in the kneeling position.) Changing your position is key, so try to get into a rotation of sitting, kneeling, and standing throughout the day whenever possible. Here’s what else you should know when shopping for the best kneeling chairs.

Ergonomic design

Key factors in choosing the best ergonomic chair for you include height and adjustability. For example, your shins should rest comfortably on the leg pad, and not be squeezed or pinched, so read the measurements carefully to make sure you’ve picked a chair that’s compatible with your size and weight. The best kneeling chair is one that adjusts to you, not vice versa.

Because of the way a knee chair shifts you forward, a seatback isn’t necessary or recommended, but there’s also no harm in having one if it makes you feel more comfortable. The key is to use it sparingly when you need a break or if you have a medical condition that makes it difficult to maintain the sloped-forward position for too long without back support. It’s great for building stamina in terms of how long you can engage your core muscles to support you in the kneeling position, but there’s no shame in relaxing onto the backrest when you need to. Remember: The whole point of getting a kneeling desk chair is to help you feel better.

It might sound counterintuitive—or just complicated—to add rocking to the equation of a kneeling chair, but there are benefits to rocking out! Especially for fidgety folks, the subtle rocking motion can make sitting more comfortable, enhance blood flow, and possibly even help with focus and attention. If sitting still isn’t your thing, try this more active way to sit.

Size of user

If you’re looking for a kneeler for a child or someone smaller than average, the best features you can look for are tilt, knee-pad, and height-pad adjustability, because what’s comfortable for someone 4-foot-8 will differ from someone who’s only a couple of inches taller. (In fact, adjustability is a key factor no matter what kind of kneeling chair you’re buying, and no matter your height.)

There are kneeling chairs for big and tall users, but not enough of them. Until that changes, you’re often unfortunately left to decipher based on your measurements. Some things to keep in mind: the height of your desk and whether you have a long or short torso or long or short legs. All of those things factor into whether a particular kneeler is the best kneeling chair for you just as much as your weight does.

Price

What’s great about kneeling ergonomic office chairs is that there hasn’t been much innovation since the original design, and that’s because the basics don’t need improvement. Remember that the key elements of kneeling office chairs are that they give you lumbar support, alleviate back pain, and contribute to your overall ergonomic home office setup. Everything else—a rocking feature, a pretty design—is gravy. So you should be able to find an option that suits you at a reasonable price.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best kneeling chairs

• Best overall: Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair
• Best with back support: DRAGONN by VIVO Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
• Best rocker: Sleekform Austin Rocking Kneeling Chair
• Best for short person: Posture Pro Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
• Best for tall person: Master Massage Ergonomic Steel Kneeling Chair
• Best budget: Office Star Ergonomically Designed Knee Chair

If you end every workday with a big stretch and various involuntary noises that indicate your back is killing you, it’s time to change your chair. A kneeling desk is a great option for lots of people and worth working into your rotation. When you find the best kneeling chair for you, your neck, your back, your shoulders, and your six-pack will thank you.

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 kneeling chairs 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		YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle		SEE IT	A variety of sizes and mouthpieces mean you can build your best bottle.
Best with straw		Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid		SEE IT	An included silicon bumper protects from dings and dents.
Best 64 oz.		Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug		SEE IT	No refills are necessary with this easy-to-carry bottle.

The hottest accessory of the season (or maybe it’s the coolest, depending on the contents) is an insulated water bottle. Although that sounds a little zany to say in a world of Amazon and Etsy, the #emotionalsupportwaterbottle tag on TikTok has 45.1 million views, with hundreds of videos of people showing off their rotation of reusable water bottles—plural—in a variety of colors, sizes, and brands. Those looking for this level of attachment—something trustworthy and always at your side, much like an emotional support animal—often turn to insulated varieties, which can keep drinks frosty for hours sans condensation, making them perfect travel companions. The best insulated water bottles go the distance when it comes to keeping drinks icy in style, and here are our picks.

• Best overall: YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle
• Best sustainable: Klean Kanteen TKWide
• Best with straw: Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best for kids: Hydro Flask 12-ounce Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid
• Best with a filter: LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle
• Best 64 oz.: Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug
• Best budget: Igloo 36-ounce Vacuum-Insulated Bottle

How we chose the best insulated water bottles

As a former field hockey player and marching band kid, I know the importance of a water bottle that can go from class to sports practice to band rehearsal without breaking a sweat—literally. Although I was both an average athlete and slightly better musician, I can say with confidence that I’m a water bottle expert (hydration is very important to me, a water sign). Although my current hydration MVP is a pink 32-ounce Nalgene plastic water bottle I was excited to rescue from my college bookstore’s lost & found, I’ve had insulated water bottles from Yeti, Hydro Flask, Stanley, and Kleen Kanteen in my rotation. I also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted first-hand testing to separate the bad bottles from the rest of the bunch. The only thing we don’t like to keep bottled up at PopSci is our feelings on the best buys. 

How do insulated water bottles work?

One of the biggest reasons to opt for one of the best insulated water bottles and not something like the BPA-free Tritan plastic in my Nalgene bottle is the vacuum insulation—a small gap of air between the bottle walls to reduce conduction, keeping liquids hot or cold for several hours. Additionally, this also prevents the outer layer from sweating and causing water marks on some surfaces. Plastic may be durable and is less likely to dent in a fall, but it will warm up if left in a hot car. Beyond temperature retention, there are certain things to keep in mind when picking an insulated water bottle.

The best insulated water bottles: Reviews & Recommendations

These insulated water bottles will leave you feeling refreshed—hydration-wise and “this water bottle is a nice step-up from the other things I’ve used”-wise.

Best overall: YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle

SEE IT

Also available on Amazon

Why it made the cut: Throw it in your backpack and then throw it in the dishwasher—this bottle is meant to keep up with busy lifestyles. 

Specs

• Sizes: 12, 18, 26, 36, 46, 64 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature retention: 12-24 hours for iced drinks; 12 for hot
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with removable Chug Cap

Pros

• Tough
• Dishwasher safe
• Lots of mouthpiece accessories are available

Cons

• 5-year warranty
• A bit more expensive compared to other reusable water bottles

There was stiff competition to name the best overall water bottle. However, the Yeti Rambler takes home the top prize. It’s more durable than other contenders like Hydro Flask, and the powder coating has a great feel and grip to it. The bottle itself comes in a plethora of fun colors (with equally fun names like “Bimini Pink” and “King Crab”), and the number of accessories you can get for your bottle is astonishing. We think the included Chug Cap is a happy medium between wide-mouth ease and narrow-mouth accessibility; you can remove the Chug Cap for washing and ice insertion and put it back on for spillage-free sips. 

The handle on the bottle feels sturdy and is grabble—an important feature for slippy-fingered people like myself. Even the straw cap warrants major kudos—you don’t have to touch the straw part to flip it up, and the handle is offset, so you can sip without any logistical problems. Yeti advertises 12-24 hours for keeping iced drinks cold, but we think it can keep drinks cold for closer to 36 hours. Although the five-year warranty is great in theory, other comparable brands feature a lifetime warranty on their bottles. And, although the price is great in the long run, you can technically get an insulated water bottle that will last just as long (with more dings and dents) but is cheaper. However, we think Yeti is worth the investment.

Best sustainable: Klean Kanteen TKWide

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Why it made the cut: Insulated water bottles are already sustainable, but Klean Kanteen’s 90% post-consumer 18/8 stainless steel composition goes the extra eco-friendly mile.

Specs

• Sizes: 12, 16, 20, 32, 64
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature retention: 46-47 hours for iced drinks, depending on cap; 14 hours hot with cafe cap
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth

Pros

• Steel straw in twist mouthpiece is more luxurious and eco-friendly than plastic
• Twist cap straw design is stylish and prevents germs
• Innovative internal thread design
• Lots of accessory options

Cons

• Straw cap not recommended for hot liquids due to stainless steel straw
• Mouthpieces have more crevices than other bottles
• Handle could be more robust

If you thought your reusable water bottle was saving the planet, wait until you meet the Klean Kanteen TKWide line. The company states that 95 percent of its products will be made from recycled steel by 2023; however, the TKWide line is explicitly made from recycled steel right now. 

We love the innovative twist cap straw design, which hides the straw mouthpiece completely until use, meaning it’s only exposed to the world when you want it to be. The internal thread design uses a series of rounded bumps rather than a line of threads to create a better seal, keeping your drinks cooler for longer. There are multiple cap options available to turn your TKWide into a tumbler for iced coffee or transform it into athletic mode with the sport cap. If you’re looking for a bottle with a sleek handle, the TKWide metal loop cap is for you. It’s easy to snag with two fingers, but it might not be for you if you’re looking for something truly grabbable.

Best with straw: Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid

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Why it made the cut: A large, flexible handle, included silicon bumper, and leakproof design are all game-winning features.

Specs

• Sizes: 32, 40, 64 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature times: 24 hours cold; 12 hours hot
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with straw lid

Pros

• Large handle
• Included silicone bumper
• Leakproof 

Cons

• Reviews note pink bottle looks different in the product photo than in real-life

When looking for an insulated water bottle with a straw cap, we like to see some specific features: a durable handle that isn’t in the way of the straw itself; a ridge to easily flip up the straw so it doesn’t come in contact with sweaty or dirty hands; and a leakproof design. The Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid checks off all these boxes, with an included silicone bumper to prevent damage. A powder coating makes this bottle durable and easy to hold, and the large handle makes it easy to clip onto a backpack or carry around. 

These bottles are also cheaper than others on this list of a similar size—for example, a 32-ounce Hydroflask retails for $44.95, depending on where you purchase it. This bottle retails for $39.99, which is a steal considering it comes with a silicone bumper, which other companies sell separately. We think everyone is sleeping on this Japanese brand. If you’re looking for a serious step-up option, check out the Titanium Aurora Bottle from Snow Peak, a Japanese outdoors brand founded out of the snowy mountains that crafts elevated everyday items.

Best for kids: Hydro Flask 12-ounce Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This lightweight bottle has an included silicone boot for extra protection.

Specs

• Sizes: 12 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes 
• Temperature times: 24 hours for cold drinks
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth

Pros

• Perforated silicone boot for extra protection
• Kid-friendly features like a place to write a name
• Straw doesn’t need to be open all the way to take a sip

Cons

• Handle design not the most comfortable to hold
• Not leakproof

It was tough to choose between this and the Yeti Rambler Jr. as best for kids. However, the included silicon boot—which other companies sell as a separate accessory—and kid-specific features like a place to write their name edged it out. It’s also lighter than the Yeti Rambler Jr., clocking in at 9.6 ounces compared to 1 pound.

The straw doesn’t need to be opened all the way to take a sip, which is a blessing and a curse: it’s easier to drink out of, but it’s not leakproof. Additionally, the handle is out of the way from taking a sip but is a little uncomfortable to hold since it requires you to hook your fingers rather than allow for a full grab. The company does sell water bottle slings separately, which can keep everyone hands-free. If this bottle doesn’t tickle your kid’s hydration fancy, check out our other picks for the best kid water bottles.

Best with a filter: LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle

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Why it made the cut: Clean water is all around you with this fabulous filtered bottle.

Specs

• Sizes: 24 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes, only with filter and carbon capsule removed
• Temperature times: 24 hours cold; not recommended for hot liquids
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with straw mouthpiece

Pros

• Included carabiner
• Clean water anywhere
• Dishwasher safe

Cons

• One size only
• Heavy
• Doesn’t fit in standard cupholders

Finding clean water in the great outdoors is a struggle. Heck, even finding clean water in cities is difficult—looking at you, suss outdoor water fountain in the park. The LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle gets rid of this drinkable debacle thanks to its included Titan Renew and membrane microfilters, which protect against parasites, microplastics, chlorine, organic chemical matter, dirt, sand, and cloudiness, while also improving taste. 

Specifically, LifeStraw’s membrane microfilter removes 99.999999% of bacteria, 99.999% of parasites, 99.999% of microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness. It meets NSF 42 standard for chlorine reduction and meets U.S. EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites. This means you can also have access to clean water internationally. The carbon filter costs around $10 to replace, and the replacement two-stage membrane filter costs around $25. However, these filters only need replacing every 1,000 gallons—that’s a lot of lake water. Although it’s heavier than other insulated water bottles, doesn’t fit in standard cup holders, and only comes in one size, we think the benefits of clean water outweigh these cons. If you’re looking for a bottle with UV light filtering, consider the LARQ PureVis Bottle, which is also self-cleaning.

Best 64 oz.: Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug

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Why it made the cut: This jug is easy to carry and keeps drinks cold for hours, making it easy to drink more water.

Specs

• Sizes: 64 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature times: cold for 20 hours; 4 days with ice
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with straw lid

Pros

• Extra large moveable handle 
• Leakproof straw
• Insulated lid doubles as a cup

Cons

• Heavy when filled

Stanley Adventure Quencher travel tumblers are currently every TikTok drink girlie’s must-have item. A TikTok drink girlie is a person (girlie is gender neutral) who has at least three beverages on their person at once, one of them being some sort of chaotic Utah soda concoction or an iced coffee. Stanley makes a mean water bottle as well, and its 64-ounce Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug is our favorite. Unlike other jugs, which come with a narrower mouthpiece for chugging, this water bottle comes with a straw for easy sipping—no one wants to recreate the water-chair scene in Flashdance IRL, at least not unintentionally. 

Its temperature control is also unbeatable—four days with ice is a long time! The large, moveable handle allows you to carry the (objectively heavy) jug with ease. I have an older model of this jug with a fixed handle, and I’m debating swapping it out for this model. Although it won’t fit in your cupholder, you can throw it on the floor of your car without worrying about it tipping over—and if it does, you’re less likely to experience any spills.

Best budget: Igloo 36-ounce Vacuum-Insulated Bottle

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Why it made the cut: You don’t have to sacrifice quality for price with this bottle, which has the same cooling times and features as more expensive varieties. 

Specs

• Sizes: 26, 36 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature times: 48 hours cold; 12 hours hot
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth

Pros

• Ergonomic handle
• Great price for how long it can keep drinks cold
• Powder coating for durability

Cons

• Reviewers note the bottle leaking despite closing it tightly

If you’re looking for quality on a budget, look no further than cooler-aficionado Igloo. Although the company doesn’t sell any accessory mouthpieces—you’re kinda stuck with the wide mouth bottle with twist cap—you might be able to get away with finding an accessory cap from another company (which we are obligated to say, do this at your own risk). This bottle features similar specs as our best overall, the Yeti Rambler, at a fraction of the price. The products even have almost identical dimensions and handle shapes. Which is to say we love this bottle for the same reasons we love the Rambler: a powder coat finish for durability, an ergonomic handle, and lasting cooling power.

What to consider when buying the best insulated water bottles

Size: Insulated water bottles bring plenty of bounce to the ounce; the water bottles on this list range from 18 ounces all the way up to 64 ounces. Shop for a size based on your water intake. If you’re a frequent hydrator or athlete, you might want to consider a bottle that is 32 ounces and up. For on-the-go use, I personally enjoy a water bottle in the 24- to 32-ounce range—it’s not too small that I need to refill it constantly, but not a complete lug to haul around. However, I have a 64-ounce water bottle for the sole purpose of getting in my daily water intake without having to refill. Those looking for super-extra hydration should consider a gallon water bottle. Tiny tykes who don’t need that much water should aim for a 12-ounce bottle.

Dishwasher friendliness: You should wash your stainless steel water bottle after every use, regardless of what was in the bottle. Not all stainless steel bottles are dishwasher safe, however. Warm, soapy water and a sponge does the trick for bottles that require handwashing. If you have a bottle with a narrower opening or one that has hard-to-reach crevices—which equals a stinky, smelly, stainless steel bottle—look for a bottle brush or bottle-cleaning tabs to take care of the job. All of the bottles on our list are dishwasher safe.

Sip preferences: Wide-mouth water bottles are great if you want a cup-like sipping experience or want to throw in some ice hassle-free. However, you might get some spillage on your shirt and face in public, which is humbling, to say the least. A narrow mouth prevents that but is harder to load up with ice. A flip-up straw lets you sip your water as you please, but can be harder to chug based on the model. Companies often sell separate cap accessories to customize a sipping experience to your liking. 

Weight & durability: Stainless steel vacuum-insulated water bottles tend to be light and durable, thanks to 18/8 stainless steel, which refers to its elemental composition: 18% chromium and 8% nickel. However, there is still a possibility for dings during use since some bottles have a thinner outer layer of stainless steel compared to others. This makes them lighter in weight but more prone to dents. And, like phone screens, you never know if your bottle will survive a short fall on concrete or a 3-foot tumble down a mountain. 

Additionally, the bottle’s paint coating affects its durability. Powder-coated bottles are less prone to scratches and peeling than liquid-coated bottles. The powder coating also gives the bottle more grip, which prevents it from slipping out of your hands. Handles, slings, and silicon sleeves can add personality and keep your bottle ding-and-dent-free. 

Thankfully, you can allegedly fix a dented bottle with some hot and cold water or a hairdryer and dry ice. This is all to say that a bottle with a thicker outer layer and a powder paint coating will typically experience fewer dents. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best insulated water bottles

• Best overall: YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle
• Best sustainable: Klean Kanteen TKWide
• Best with straw: Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best for kids: Hydro Flask 12-ounce Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid
• Best with a filter: LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle
• Best 64 oz.: Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug
• Best budget: Igloo 36-ounce Vacuum-Insulated Bottle

Choosing the best insulated water bottle doesn’t have to dry out your spirit. You can find high-quality bottles to fit your liking and lifestyle across all price points. Handles, different mouthpieces, accessories, stickers, and fun colors can help you personalize your water bottle so it matches your personality. Hydration is essential, but who says it should be boring?

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.

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Halloween is exactly 20 days away. If you’re a procrastinator like me, you most definitely don’t have a costume yet and haven’t thought about treats or tricks. Stock up on decor items and grab a costume for extra cheap thanks to Amazon’s October Prime Day, which ends today.

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.

Rubie’s Adult Original Inflatable Dinosaur Costume $50 (Was $81.99)

SEE IT

Cause an uproar at the next Halloween party you attend with this T-Rex costume. Sure, we don’t know if dinosaurs actually ruled the Earth, but that doesn’t mean you can’t cause an uproar at the next Halloween party you attend with this T-Rex costume. Simply attach the battery, blow it up, step into it, and bam: You have an interesting, fun costume. Bonus points if you grab someone to dress up as Laura Dern or Jeff Goldblum in the OG Jurassic Park.

REESE’S Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Pumpkins, Halloween Candy Packs, 1.2 oz (36 count) $23 (was $28)

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You can be the hit of the block when it comes to trick-or-treat candy or you can eat them by yourself while binge-watching horror movies. Both are good options. Plus, you’re saving money, so it’s totally responsible.

Triumpeek Halloween Inflatable Cooler, 56″ Inflatable Jack-O’-Lantern Cactus Ice Bucket $17 (was $23)

SEE IT

OK, so this is technically a Halloween decoration, but I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t want to display this all year round. It’s perfect. I love him.

If a Late Cretaceous costume isn’t in the cards, here are more Halloween costumes and decor deals that you can snag during Amazon Prime Big Deal Days:

Costume deals

• Rubie’s Kid’s Baby Shark Costume with Sound Chip (Toddler) $18.96 (Was $33.19)
• Rubie’s unisex adult Mommy Shark With Sound Chip $33.51 (Was $43.99)
• Baby Shark Daddy Shark Adult Costume with Sound Chip $34.35 (Was $43.99)
• Rubie’s Costume Infant Noah Ark Lion Cub Romper $17.97-24.98 (Was $46.20)
• Rubie’s Beetlejuice Barbara Adult Mask $36.93 (Was 46.99)
• Rubie’s Men’s Beetlejuice Deluxe Costume $37.02-$43.48 (Was $48.99)
• Rubie’s Costume Men’s Beetlejuice Adam Mask $26.73 (Was $33.09)
• Rubie’s Baby Dapper DRAC Costume (Toddler) $15.15 (Was $22.99)
• Rubie’s Adult Full-Length Sheer Cape with Oversized Hood $20.39 (Was $23.99)
• Rubie’s Lt. Dangle Costume (Standard) $30.21 (Was $47.99)
• Rubies Inflatable Hippo Adult Costume $41.14 (Was $48.90)
• Rubies The Hobbit Gandalf Beard Costume Wig Kit $18.51 (Was $27)

Decor deals

• Zeuliuled Scary Eyeball Outdoor Lights $7.99 (Was $16.99)
• Caritty Pumpkin String Lights $11.67 (Was $13.88)
• OuMuaMua 5pcs Glow in the Dark Skeleton Black Cat Silhouette Lawn Signs $14.29 (Was $16.99)
• Dazzle Bright Purple Fairy String Lights, 4 Pack 20FT 60 LED Copper Wire $9.93 (Was $13.99)
• Creativity for Kids Big Gem Diamond Painting Kit $6.49 (Was $15.99)
• WYNK Blood Bags for Drinks, 10 IV Bags for Halloween Party Decoration $7.99 (Was $19.99)
• Coffin Letter Black Board With Spooky Emojis $27.95 (Was $44.97)
• E-Kong Solar Garden Lights Outdoor Halloween Decorations, 8 pack $33.98 (Was $45.98)
• UMIKU 8Pcs Witch Hat String Lights with Remote Control $15.29 (Was $17.99)
• SplashNSpray 127 PCS Halloween Window Clings $5.99 (Was $7.99)

Halloween candy and treats

• REESE’S Assorted Peanut Butter Candy Bulk Box, 44.1 oz (30 Count) $28 (was $36)
• Bulk Assorted Fruit Candy – Halloween candy Starburst, Skittles, Swedish Fish, SweetTarts, Sour Patch Kids, Haribo $22 (was $28)
• LaetaFood Halloween Candy Assortment – Sour Mix – Zotz, Smarties, Warheads, Sour Patch, Tongue Torchers, Fruit Chews $15.99 (was $19.99)
• Frito-Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks Variety Box, Mix of Cookies, Crackers, Chips & Nuts $18 (was $23)

Accessorizing other activities? Take a look at our lists of Big Deal Days discounts as well as bargain bin buys.

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 Get scary big savings on Halloween costumes and decorations thanks to 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.

Non-stick cookware is a kitchen favorite thanks to its ease of use, but you probably need to throw yours away. As soon as your nonstick cookware cracks, it begins to release “forever chemicals” called PFAS. Thankfully, Amazon Prime Big Deal Days gives you a chance to replace your old cookware with something infinitely less dangerous without spending a dangerous amount of money.

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.

Blue Diamond Cookware Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Ceramic Nonstick, 11 Piece Cookware Pots and Pans Set $99.99 (Was $199.99)

SEE IT

This cookware set includes 8-inch, 9.5-inch, and 11-inch frying pans; 2-quart and 2.5-quart Chef’s pans with lids; a 6-quart stock pot with lid; nylon slotted turner; and a solid spoon. The metal utensil-safe and Blue Diamond’s diamond-infused coating is five times harder and lasts 10 times longer than traditional nonstick pans. The pans are free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, and three-layer stainless steel bodies deliver even heating and incredible durability. They’re oven and broiler-safe up to 600°F and dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Durable glass lids allow for easy food monitoring and are oven-safe up to 425°F. Riveted stainless steel handles give you a secure and comfortable grip. They work on all stovetops, including induction.

Here are more cookware deals we think will go like hotcakes and it’s stuff that’s great for cooking them, too:

• OXO Good Grips 8″ and 10″ Frying Pan Skillet Set $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• OXO Good Grips 12″ Frying Pan Skillet with Lid $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• OXO Good Grips Pro 12″ Frying Pan Skillet $41.99 (Was $69.99)
• Blue Diamond Cookware Diamond Infused Ceramic Nonstick $85.99 (Was $129.99)
• GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 23 Piece Essential Kitchen Set $129.99 (Was $199.99)
• GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 16-Piece Kitchen Set $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 7″ and 10″ Frying Egg Omelet Pan Set $23.98 (Was $29.99)
• Ninja CW102RD Foodi NeverStick PossiblePan, Premium Set with 4-Quart Capacity Pan $79.99 (Ws $129.99)
• Paris Hilton Iconic Nonstick Pots and Pans Set $64.99 (Was $129.99)
• KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set, 4 Piece $78.99 (Was $109.99)
• Ayesha Curry Home Collection Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 9 Piece, Twilight Teal $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Nuwave 18/8 Stainless Steel Ultimate Cookware Set, Free of PTFE, PFOA, PFOS $47.99 (Was $79.99)
• GreenPan Chatham Prime Midnight Hard Anodized Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 8″ and 10″ Frying Pan $29.99 (Was $59.99)
• GreenPan Chatham Prime Midnight Hard Anodized Healthy Ceramic Nonstick, 5 Piece Cookware Pots and Pans Set $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Anodized Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 22 Piece Cookware Pots & Pans Set $349.99 (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 You should probably throw away your pans and replace them with these Prime Day deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Coffee first thing in the morning makes the world go ’round. If your drip coffee maker has seen better days, consider upgrading to a pod system for easy, breezy brewing. It’s never been easier to upgrade your kitchen counter with a new coffee machine, thanks to Amazon Prime Big Deal Days. This deal on a Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker is also one of the biggest sales we’ve seen. But hurry, Prime Day only runs through Oct. 11, and items change price/go out of stock quickly.

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.

Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Black $49.99 (Was $99.99)

SEE IT

Go from coffeeless to caffeinated in less than a minute with Keurig’s K-Compact Single-Serve coffee maker. Simply insert a pod, choose your desired cup brew size, and wait. A 36-ounce reservoir means you won’t need to refill the water tank constantly, and a removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs up to seven inches tall. If you’re a “did I leave the oven on before I left?” kind of person, this coffee maker includes an auto-off feature that turns it off two hours after your last brew, saving your energy and sanity levels.

Here are other sip-worthy coffee deals for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days:

• Keurig K-Iced Single Serve Coffee Maker, Gray $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Brushed Slate, 12 oz. Brew Size $94.99 (Was $189.99)
• Keurig K-Duo Plus Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker $133.14 (Was $229.99)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker, Machine Only, Black Matte Rose Gold $126 (Was $209)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Milk Frother, 5 ounces, Matte Black $175 (Was $249)
• Taylor Swoden Programmable Coffee Maker, 4-12 Cups Drip Coffee Machine $39.99 (Was $54.99)
• Krups Simply Brew Stainless Steel Drip Coffee Maker 5 Cup 650 Watts Coffee Maker $27.16 (Was $39.99)
• Braun KF9079SI Multiserve Coffee Maker, Stainless Steel $139.95 (Was $179.95)
• Braun Brew Sense Drip Coffee Maker, 12 cup, Black $79.96 (Was $129.95)
• KitchenAid KCM1208DG Drip Spiral Showerhead Coffee Maker, 12 Cup, Matte Grey $97.42 (Was $109.99)
• De’Longhi La Specialista Arte EC9155MB, Espresso Machine with Grinder $499.95 (Was $699.95)
• L’OR Barista System Coffee and Espresso Machine Combo by Philips, Black $109 (Was $159)
• Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ Espresso $233.99 (Was $349.99)
• Mr. Coffee Simple Grind 14 Cup Coffee Grinder $15.39 (Was $21.99)
• BRUVI The Bruvi Bundle Single-Serve Coffee System w/ 20 B-Pods + Premium Water Filter Kit $198 (Was $398)

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 Brew $45 in savings on this Keurig K-Compact single-serve coffee maker appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months. From personal experience, we know the toothbrush currently sitting on your bathroom counter is frayed, splayed, busted, and crusted. Amazon’s October Prime Big Deal Days—ending today—allow you to stock up on toothbrushes that will make your dentist smile the next time you go in for a cleaning.

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.

Oral-B Genius X Limited, Electric Toothbrush with Artificial Intelligence $99.99 (Was $199.99)

SEE IT

A tech-filled toothbrush is something you actually need. Artificial intelligence and motion sensors recognize your brushing style and give you personal coaching on brushing better. Hook it up to the Oral-B app to show you where you’ve missed and how long you’ve brushed for—perfect if your definition of two minutes before coffee is a little loose. Gum pressure control stops you from brushing too hard to protect your gums, and six cleaning modes help you get specific with how you would like to clean.

Here are more toothbrushes, hygiene, and beauty deals happening as part of Prime Day 2. It ends today, so snag a new toothbrush before the sale ends.

Oral care deals

• Oral-B iO Series 9 Electric Toothbrush with 3 Replacement Brush Heads, Rose Quartz $227.99 (Was $299.99)
• Oral-B iO Series 8 Electric Toothbrush with 2 Replacement Brush Heads, Violet Ametrine $161.44 (Was $249.99)
• Oral-B iO Series 8 Electric Toothbrush with 2 Replacement Brush Heads and Travel Case, Black Onyx $161.44 (Was $249.99)
• Oral-B Smart Limited Rechargeable Electric Powered Toothbrush, Rose Gold with 2 Brush Heads and Travel Case $79.99 (Was $129.99)
• Oral-B iO Series 5 Limited Rechargeable Electric Powered Toothbrush, Black with 3 Brush Heads and Travel Case $119.99 (Was $219.99)
• Oral-B Pro 5000 Smartseries Power Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush with Bluetooth Connectivity, Black Edition $54.99 (Was $99.99)
• Crest 3D Whitestrips, Professional Effects, Teeth Whitening Strip Kit, 44 Strips (22 Count Pack) $29.99 (Was $45.99)
• Crest 3D Whitestrips with Light, Teeth Whitening Strip Kit, 20 Strips (10 Count Pack) $39.99 (Was $69.99)
• Colgate Optic White ComfortFit Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light and Whitening Pen $37.95 (Was $64.99)
• Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth Whitening Pen $17.49 (Was $24.99)
• SmileDirectClub Fast Dissolving Teeth Whitening Strips $14.99 (Was $29.98)
• Virgin Forest 10 Pcs Soft Bristles Bamboo Toothbrush $6.99 (Was $12.99)

Beauty and personal care deals

• Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water $13.29 (Was $18.99)
• Mario Badescu Facial Spray $4.90 (Was $7)
• ELEMIS Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads $44.80 (Was $64)
• Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil $56 (Was $80)
• Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Anti Aging Night Face Oil $74 (Was $105)
• La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face $37.79 (Was $53.99)
• COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence $14.30 (Was $25)
• COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer $13.99 (Was $26)
• R+Co Dart Pomade Stick $16.10 (Was $23)
• LANEIGE Lip Glowy Balm $12.60 (Was $18)
• NuFACE Trinity Starter Kit $245 (Was $350)
• NuFACE Mini Starter Kit $154 (Was $220)
• TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream $16.10 (Was $23)

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 Prime Day beauty and personal care deals on Crest, Oral-B, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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

A garage is a perfectly acceptable place for storage, but sometimes your tools just need a little house of their own. If you’ve wanted to incorporate a shed or other form of outdoor storage into your backyard, consider now a great time to do so: Prime Big Deal Days gives you up to 30% of savings on Arrow Select, Handy Home, Keter Factory, and more.

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.

Handy Home Products Rookwood 10 X 8 Do-it-Yourself Wooden Storage Shed $1,318.70 (Was $1,899)

SEE IT

Harken back to the times of Sears catalog houses with this build-it-yourself shed from Handy Home. It has enough vertical storage for ladders, racks, shovels, and more, and its strong wood withstands wind and snow. Extra-large wide doors on galvanized steel hinges give you easy access, and it comes ready to paint out of the box. It comes with or without a floor for custom foundations, and you can even turn it into your own little office away from the house.

Here are more shed and outdoor storage deals happening this Prime Big Deal Days:

• Keter Manor 4×6 Resin Outdoor Storage Shed Kit $458.75 (Was $649.99)
• Keter Factor 6×3 Outdoor Storage Shed Kit $594.04 (Was $876.26)
• Keter Premier Tall Resin Outdoor Storage Shed with Shelving Brackets $322.04 (Was $379)
• KETER Patio Store 4.6 x 2.5 Foot Resin Outdoor Storage Shed $271.88 (Was $319.99)
• Arrow Classic Steel Storage Shed, 10×12, Sage Green $728.81 (Was $1,099)
• Arrow Classic Steel Storage Shed, 8×4, Sage Green $373 (Was $534.99)
• Arrow Select 6′ x 4′ Outdoor Lockable Steel Storage Shed Building, Sage Green $449.75 (Was $529.99)
• EAST OAK Outdoor Storage Shed, 4 x 3.4 FT Outdoor Storage Cabinet w/o Shelf $249.99 (Was $329.99)
• Handy Home Products Palisade 12×8 Do-it-Yourself Wooden Storage Shed with Floor $2,381.10 (Was $2,861.91)
• Handy Home Products Greenbriar 8X10 Do-It-Yourself Storage Shed with Floor $1,698.95 (Was $1,999)
• Handy Home Products Rookwood 10×12 Do-It-Yourself Wooden Storage Shed Brown $2,208.95 (Was $2,599)
• Handy Home Products Astoria 12×24 Do-It-Yourself Wooden Storage Shed Brown $3,653.95 (Was $4,299)
• Handy Home Products Manhattan 12×24 Garage Do-it-Yourself Wooden Storage Shed $4,206.45 (Was $5,499)
• Handy Home Products Braymore 10×12 Do-It-Yourself Wooden Storage Shed $2,115 (Was $2,489)
• Chery Industrial Outdoor Storage Shed 20x10FT $1,839.99 (Was $2,299.99)
• YardStash Bike Storage Tent $193.30 (Was $241.62)
• Grand Patio Indoor Outdoor 2-Door Wicker Storage Cabinet with Shelf $199.99 (Was $249.99)
• EAGLE PEAK 8×6 Portable, Heavy-Duty, Walk-in Pop-up Greenhouse $119.99 (Was $189.99)

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 Best Amazon Prime Day deals on sheds and outdoor storage—Keter, Arrow, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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

They say spring is the best time to clean, but we argue that fall is the best time to get your home into tip-top shape. Rainy autumn days and snowy winter nights mean you’ll spend a lot of time indoors—might as well make a mean cup of coffee and vacuum your entire place while snowed in. Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days—happening today and tomorrow—give you a chance to upgrade your appliances and vacuums so dust bunnies don’t have a chance to hibernate.

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.

Dyson V11 Plus Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Nickel/Purple, Large $469.99 (Was $799)

SEE IT

From stairs to pet hair, this vacuum tackles it all with ease. It offers an hour of run time, with a power trigger enabling you to use power only where you need it. A clear LCD screen shows power modes, maintenance alerts, and the remaining run time to the second. Speaking of cleaning modes, there are three of them for you to choose from. Whole-machine filtration traps 99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is perfect for sneezy pet parents. Seven included accessories, including a mattress tool and a low-reach adapter, let you turn this machine into a one-stop cleaning sidekick.

Check out these other home deals happening during Prime Big Deal Days:

Robovac deals

• iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum $499.99 (Was $999.99)
• Shark AV753 ION Robot Vacuum $129.99 (Was 229.99)
• eufy Clean by Anker, RoboVac G30 Hybrid+, 2-in-1 $289.99 (Was $429.99)
• eufy Clean X9 Pro CleanerBot with MopMaster $649.99 (Was $899.99)
• eufy Clean X8 Pro Robot Vacuum with Self-Empty Station $549.99 (Was $699.99)
• ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 Omni Robot Vacuum and Mop $899.99 (Was $1,099.99)
• ECOVACS DEEBOT X2 Omni Robot Vacuum and Mop $1,199.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• SAMSUNG Jet Bot AI+ Robot Vacuum Cleaner w/Object Recognition $999 (Was $1,299)
• SAMSUNG Jet Bot+ Robot Vacuum Cleaner w/Clean Station $546 (Was $799)

Upright vacuum deals

• Shark AW201 HydroVac Cordless Pro XL 3-in-1 Vacuum $199.99 (Was $300)
• Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum $159.99 (Was $199.99)
• Shark IZ362H Anti-Allergen Cordless Lightweight Stick Vacuum $199.99 (Was $349.99)
• eufy by Anker HomeVac H11 Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner $35.99 (Was $59.99)
• Kenmore DU5080 Bagless Upright Vacuum Lift Cleaner $169.99 (Was $199.99)
• Kenmore DU5092 Bagless Upright Vacuum Carpet Cleaner $179.99 (Was $219.99)
• Miele Triflex HX2 Sprinter Vacuum Cleaner $711.75 (Was $949)
• Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine $129.99 (Was $239.99)
• Hoover MAXLife Pro Pet Swivel Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner $132.99 (Was $209.99)
• Hoover Smartwash Automatic Carpet Cleaner $189.99 (Was $279.99)
• Hoover ONEPWR WindTunnel Emerge Pet Cordless Lightweight Stick Vacuum $226 (Was $329.99)
• LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner $167.99 (Was $239.99)
• SAMSUNG Jet 60 Flex Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner $189 (Was $299.99)
• SAMSUNG Jet 75 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner $279 (Was $399)
• SAMSUNG BESPOKE Jet AI Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner w/All-In-One Clean Station $799.99 (Was $999.99)
• SAMSUNG BESPOKE Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner w/ Clean Station $474.99 (Was $699.99)
• Samsung Jet 75 Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum, Grey $559 (Was $649)

Cookware deals

• Paris Hilton Iconic Nonstick Pots and Pans Set $64 (Was $129.99)
• GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 16 Piece Kitchen Set $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 23-Piece Set $129.99 (Was $199.99)
• Ninja Foodi NeverStick PossiblePan Set with 4-Quart Capacity Pan, Steamer/Strainer Basket, Glass Lid & Integrated Spatula $79.99 (Was $129.99)
• Ninja K32014 Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System $179.99 (Was $299.99)
• Lenox Blue Bay Flatware Piece Set, 20 Count, Metallic $135 (Was $149.95)
• OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set $41.97 (Was $59.95)
• OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Stainless-Steel Mixing Bowl Set, White $41.97 (Was $59.95)
• KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Frying Pans/Skillet Set $78.99 (Was $109.99)
• Ayesha Curry Home Collection Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Nuwave 18/8 Stainless Steel Ultimate Cookware Set $47.99 (Was $79.99)

Appliance and kitchen deals

• Oster Convection Oven $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• Oster Blender $69.54 (Was $109.99)
• Ninja BL770AMZ Mega Kitchen System $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Ninja CFP307 DualBrew Pro Specialty Coffee System $149.99 (Was $239.99)
• Miele CM5300 Coffee System $799 (Was $1,399)
• Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ Espresso $233.99 (Was $349.99)
• Mr. Coffee Simple Grind 14 Cup Coffee Grinder $15.39 (Was $21.99)
• NUWAVE Brio 8-Qt Air Fryer $98.79 (Was $129.99)
• Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo $169.99 (Was $199.99)
• GE Tilt-Head Electric Stand Mixer $149 (Was $299)
• GoveeLife Smart Electric Kettle Temperature Control $62.99 (Was $89.99)
• nutribullet Smart Touch Blender 1500W $83.99 (Was $139.99)
• BRUVI The Bruvi Bundle $198 (Was $398)

Air purifier and humidifier deals

• LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Home Large Room with HEPA Filter $174.99 (Was $249.99)
• LEVOIT LV600S Smart Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier $93.49 (Was $109.99)
• LEVOIT Smart Cool Mist Top Fill Humidifier $46.49 (Was $54.99)
• Nuwave Air Purifiers for Home Large Room Up to 1361 Sq Ft $110.49 (Was $129.99)
• Kenmore PM2010 Air Purifier with H13 True HEPA Filter $119.99 (Was $149.99)
• GoveeLife Smart Dehumidifier for Basement $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• GoveeLife 36″ Smart Tower Fan for Bedroom $62.99 (Was $89.99)
• GoveeLife Smart Humidifier for Bedroom $32.19 (Was $45.99)
• GoveeLife Smart Space Heater $34.99 (Was $49.99)

Digital picture frame deals

• Aura Carver 10.1″ WiFi Digital Picture Frame $143 (Was $179)
• Aura Mason WiFi Digital Picture Frame $179 (Was $199)
• Aura Mason Luxe WiFi Digital Picture Frame $229 (Was $249)

Pet products deals

• Fable Signature Dog Leash $38.40 (Was $48)
• FABLE Ceramic Dog Bowl $35.20 (Was $44)
• FABLE Extra Soft Dog Bed $87.20 (Was $109)

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 October Prime Day home deals from Shark, Ninja, Mr. Coffee, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The temperature is starting to drop, which means you’re about to spend more time in the great indoors. That may sound alluring to introverts (myself included), but looking at the same walls all the time can make you go a little stir-crazy. Thankfully, tools from 3M, DeWalt, and more are on sale as part of Prime Big Deal Days—happening today and tomorrow—to build up your home improvement arsenal.

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.

CRAFTSMAN 12 Gallon 6 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac $142.99 (Was $179.99)

SEE IT

Clean-up is the most tedious part of any DIY project—make it easy with a shop vac. This one from Craftsman holds 12 gallons of crust, dust, and crud, and even doubles as a leaf blower. It can suck up wet and dry messes and is incredibly maneuverable. A lid-mounted accessory caddy with hose management keeps everything in line so you don’t lose parts or trip over the hose.

Check out these other tool deals happening during Prime Big Deal Days:

Craftsman tool deals

• CRAFTSMAN Mechanics 135-Piece Tool Set $101 (Was $149)
• CRAFTSMAN Pliers, 8 & 10-Inch, 2-Piece Groove Joint Set $16.98 (Was $21)
• CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, 25-Foot $9.32 (Was $10.98)
• CRAFTSMAN Red Stripe General Purpose Wet/Dry Vac Replacement Filter and Wet Application Filter for 5 to 20 Gallon Shop Vacuums, 2-Pack $33.99 (Was $47.99)
• CRAFTSMAN CMXZVBE38758 2-1/2 in. x 13 ft. POS-I-LOCK Wet/Dry Vacuum Hose Kit for Shop Vacuums $28.59 (Was $33.80)

Ryobi tool deals

• Ryobi P601 One+ 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router $55.95 (Was $76.99)
• Ryobi P320 Airstrike 18 Volt One+ Lithium Ion Cordless Brad Nailer $114 (Was $149.95)
• Ryobi PSBCS02 ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact Light-Weight Cut-Off Tool $80 (Was $129.99)
• RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw $66.94 (Was $129.99)
• Ryobi P411 One+ 18 Volt 5 Inch Cordless Battery Operated Random Orbit Power Sander $66.65 (Was $79.99)
• RYOBI 12V Cordless Rotary Tool Kit $55.74 (Was $59.97)
• RYOBI ONE 18V Cordless 3 in. Variable Speed Detail Polisher/Sander $66.29 (Was $89.90)
• Ryobi R18PF-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Power File $74.95 ($99.99)
• RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver $42.75 (Was $59)
• RYOBI One+ P5231 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Orbital T-Shaped 3,000 SPM Jigsaw $67 (Was $79.97)
• RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill Kit with (2) 2.0 Ah Batteries, Charger, and Bag $122 (Was $144.90)
• Ryobi 18V Rotary Tool Station $49.98 (Was $69.99)
• RYOBI P135 18V One+ 6 Port Lithium Ion Battery Supercharger $84.99 (129.99)
• RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8-inch Impact Wrench $74 ($94.99)

Dremel tool deals

• Dremel 8250 12V Lithium-Ion Variable Speed Cordless Rotary Tool with Brushless Motor $125 (Was $149.99)
• Dremel 4000-2/30 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit $68.21 (Was $89.99)
• Dremel 4000-4/34 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit $78.65 (Was $99.99)
• Dremel Lite 7760 N/10 4V Li-Ion Cordless Rotary Tool $53.99 (Was $64)
• Dremel 4000-6/50-FF High-Performance Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft $120.31 (Was $149.99)
• Dremel Versa Cleaning Tool $46.69 (Was $54.99)
• Dremel Ultra Saw US40-04 Corded Compact Saw Tool Kit $98 (Was $129.99)
• Dremel 231 Portable Rotary Tool Shaper and Router Table $34.92 (Was $44.97)
• Dremel 726-01 Cleaning & Polishing Rotary Tool Accessory Kit with Storage Case $12.50 (Was $16.99)

3M tool deals

• 3M 8511HB1-C-PS Sanding and Fiberglass Valved Respirator, 10-Pack $20.88 (Was $29.99)
• 3M 8511PB1-A-PS Particulate N95 Respirator with Valve, 10-Pack $16.24 (Was $21.99)
• 3M Kids Hearing Protection, Hearing Protection for Children with Adjustable Headband, 22dB Noise Reduction $23.08(Was $29.99)
• 3M Kids Hearing Protection Plus, Hearing Protection for Children with Adjustable Headband, 22dB Noise Reduction Rating, Blue $22.26 (Was $26.19)
• 3M Pro-Protect + Gel Cushions Electronic Hearing Protector with Bluetooth Wireless Technology $56.61 (Was $80)
• 3M DBI/SALA Rollgliss 3327100 Rescue Unit, 2 Carabiner, 4-Feet Anchor Sling $1,194,25 (Was $1,650.13)
• 3M DBI-SALA EZ-Line 7605060 Retractable Horizontal Lifeline System $1,227.39 (Was $1,550)
• 3M 1113130 DBI-SALA ExoFit X300 Comfort Construction Positioning Safety Harness $417.99 (Was $540.85)

DeWalt tool deals

Here’s a larger list of DeWalt tool deals

• Dewalt DPG54-1D Protector Clear High-Performance Lightweight Protective Safety Glasses $3.37 (Was $9.59)
• DEWALT Heated Soft Shell Jacket Kit $179-$245.99 (depending on size, Was $229.52)
• DEWALT Hearing Protection Earmuffs $51 (Was $70.65)
• DEWALT Hearing Protection w/ LCD Display $43.99 (Was $59.99)
• Dewalt Thermal Insulated Grip Glove $10.63 (Was $12.49)
• Dewalt DPG82 Concealer Anti-Fog Dual Mold Safety Goggle $9.99 (Was $16.73)

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 October Prime Day tool deals from Ryobi, Craftsman, DeWalt, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Fall leaves are fun to jump into, but it’s an entirely different story when it rains and you’re left with a pile of soggy detritus that doubles as a five-star hotel for bugs. Stop the development of the bug hotel with up to 20 percent off Greenworks tools at Amazon.

Greenworks 7 Amp 160 MPH/150 CFM Single Speed Electric Blower $29.50 ($49.99)

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This lightweight leafblower produces a formidable 160 MPH wind speed to easily remove debris and dust from your yard and garage. There’s virtually no vibration for better handling and less fatigue compared to gas-powered leaf blowers. A cord lock prevents accidental unplugging, and a three-year warranty covers any factory-based problems.

Don’t let this deal blow away from you—take advantage of it before it disappears.

Here are more tool deals that will help make your yard the envy of the neighborhood:

• Greenworks 40V 24″ Cordless Hedge Trimmer, Tool Only $59.49 (Was $69.99)
• Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower + 40V Sweeper (150 MPH), 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $283.23 (Was $328.99)
• Greenworks 2000 Max PSI @ 1.1 GPM (13 Amp) Electric Pressure Washer $150.83 (Was $135.09)
• Greenworks 40V (185 MPH / 340 CFM / 75+ Compatible Tools) Cordless Brushless Leaf Blower / Vacuum, 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $202.49 (Was $249.99)
• Greenworks PRO 16-Inch 80V Cordless String Trimmer (Attachment Capable), Battery Not Included $143.65 (Was $169)
• Greenworks 40V 10″ Cordless Tiller / Cultivator, 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included $227.24 (Was $299)
• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit $99 (Was $179)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw $108 (Was $159)
• WILD BADGER POWER 26cc Weed Wacker $138.25 (Was $159.99)

The post Make fall cleanup a breeze with 20% off Greenworks tools at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

It’s pumpkin season. Usually, that means pumpkin-based baked goods, but we’re fond of including the vitamin-rich fruit (yes, pumpkin is a fruit) in smoothies and soups. Whip up them fast when you get a Vitamix blender on sale at Amazon.

Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender $289.95 (Was $349.95)

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You’re already saving on this blender, as it’s one of Vitamix’s cheaper models. Don’t discount its power, however. A 48-ounce container is perfect for making smoothies for everyone or just yourself. Yet you can still fit it under most kitchen cabinets. Variable speed control and pulse help you get the texture and consistency you’re looking for. A powerful, built-to-last motor lets you demolish the toughest of frozen fruits and veggies, with stainless steel blades that are resistant to dulling or bending.

Pumpkin season doesn’t happen all year, and neither does this deal—get it before it goes away and you have to hyper-fixate on a different seasonal item.

Here are more kitchen deals for pumpkin season and beyond:

• Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series Gold Label Smart Blender $599.95 (Was $699.95)
• A3500 Gourmet SmartPrep Kitchen System (White) $799.95 (Was $899.95)
• Vitamix, 64 oz A2300 Ascent Series Smart Blender $449.95 (Was $499.95)
• Instant Pot Vortex Pro Air Fryer, 10 Quart, 9-in-1 Rotisserie and Convection Oven $119.95 (Was $169.99)
• Instant Stand Mixer Pro, 600W 10-Speed Electric Mixer with Digital Interface $199.95 (Was $299.99)
• Instant Pot 6-in-1 Air Fryer and Indoor Grill $129.99 (Was $199.99)
• Instant Pot Electric Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart 1500W $149.95 (Was 229.99)
• Ninja CE251 Programmable Brewer, with 12-cup Glass Carafe $69.99 (Was $79.99)
• Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System $147 (Was $199.99)
• Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop $79.99 (Was $67.99)
• Nuwave Bravo XL Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven $161.49 (Was $189.99)
• Nuwave Brio 15.5Qt Air Fryer Oven $161.49 (Was $189.99)
• Nuwave Mosaic Induction Wok $169.99 (Was $199.99)
• NUWAVE Brio 8-Qt Air Fryer $110.49 (Was $157.99)
• Nuwave 6-quart Brio Digital Air Fryer $101.99 (Was $119.99)
• Nuwave Portable Blender $35.19 (Was $43.99)

The post Fall for this 20%-off Vitamix blender 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		HP Envy X360		SEE IT	This 15-inch 2-in-1 laptop is widely considered to be the best one HP has to offer.
Best for speed		Lenovo Chromebook C330		SEE IT	It’s a super-compact 2-in-1 with a screen/tablet section that’s not much larger than an iPad.
Best budget		Gateway Touchscreen 11.6 HD 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop		SEE IT	No frills, but easy on the wallet.

If you are in the market for both a new laptop and a new tablet, a 2-in-1 laptop will give you both in a single device. Think of all the benefits you’ll reap with a device that functions as both a full-fledged computer and a more casual tablet. All it takes is a snap or a rotation for it to go from one to the other. When you travel, you’ll only have to make luggage space for one device instead of two, and the best 2-in-1 laptops are also super-portable when you’re just running around town. If you’re heading out to do errands and want to take your work with you, just disconnect the tablet from the keyboard or flip the device and go.

With 2-in-1 laptops, you won’t have to worry about saving files to two different devices, and you only need one outlet and plug to charge both. Using them can also be a family affair. Adults get to do their work during the day and read in bed at night on the same PC, and the touchscreens make them kid-friendly. The little ones will also love the tablet component. The whole family can stay busy—and happy—with one of the best 2-in-1 laptops.

• Best overall: HP Envy X360
• Best convertible: Acer Chromebook Spin 311
• Best for Android users: SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9+
• Best with touchscreen: Dell New XPS 13
• Best for speed: Lenovo Chromebook C330
• Best budget: Gateway Touchscreen 11.6 HD 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop

How we chose the best 2-in-1 laptops

In order to find the best 2-in-1 laptops, we looked at user reviews and critical recommendations and performed heavy research. We also looked at past computer and laptop coverage to ensure all picks have specifications to tackle multiple browser windows, streaming, and workflow apps.

The best 2-in-1 laptops: Reviews & Recommendations

Buying a new laptop or tablet can be a stressful undertaking. With so many brands and models to choose from, how do you pick the one that best meets your needs? One of our picks should do just that.

Best overall: HP Envy X360

SEE IT

Specs

• RAM: 12GB
• Storage: 512GB
• Screen size: 15.6 inches
• Battery life: Almost 10 hours

Pros

• Large screen
• Long battery life
• Powerful specs

Cons

• Might be a little large for a commute

With its perfect 1080p high definition, expanded memory and storage, backlit keyboard, and powerhouse 3-cell lithium-ion battery (9 hours and 45 minutes of life), HP’s crowning achievement in 2-in-1 laptops offers a lot more than its relatively bargain-level price tag might suggest. Its convertible design allows it to switch from regular laptop to tent and tablet modes.

Best convertible: Acer Chromebook Spin 311

SEE IT

Specs

• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 32GB
• Screen size: 11.6 inches
• Battery life: 10 hours

Pros

• Portable
• Great for surfing the web
• Strong touchscreen

Cons

• Not good for beefier computing

Chromebooks give you access to more than two million Android apps available on Google Play, and this one’s IPS technology and antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass 6 touchscreen deliver maximum clarity and detail. It offers limited space compared to other models, but there’s a microSD slot for extra storage, should you need it.

Best for Android users: SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9+

SEE IT

Specs

• RAM: 12GB
• Storage: 512GB
• Screen size: 12.4 inches
• Battery life: Two days

Pros

• Long battery life
• Can control other Android devices with the tablet
• Water- and dust-resistant

Cons

• Keyboard sold separately

If you’re a big fan of Android apps, meet your match. With this 2-in-1, you’ll have access to all the apps you need without having to do any fancy finagling. Although it’s built mainly for use as a tablet, this model can easily expand into a laptop by attaching it to the separate S9+ keyboard.

Best with touchscreen: Dell New XPS 13

SEE IT

Specs

• RAM: 32GB
• Storage: 2 TB
• Screen size: 13.4 inches
• Battery life: 17 hours

Pros

• Loaded with features
• Blue light-reducing screen
• Thin

Cons

• Expensive

It may not be cheap, but this Dell 2-in-1 comes loaded with features, including a sleek aluminum design that’s six percent thinner than the market average, a 2.25mm HD webcam, Dolby Vision, a damage-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 6 screen, and an Eyesafe display that reduces harmful blue-light emissions. Just touch the power button and let it work its 2-in-1 magic.

Best for speed: Lenovo Chromebook C330

SEE IT

Specs

• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB
• Screen size: 11.6 inches
• Battery life: 10 hours

Pros

• Compact
• Boots up fast
• 10-point touch screen

Cons

• Reviews note poor customer service from Lenovo

Lenovo laptops boot up quickly, and you won’t have to wait more than a few seconds to get this one started. Its 10-point touch screen further ensures easy maneuverability. Although the RAM and storage meet only the minimum requirements for high efficiency, its compact price and size make it a top 2-in-1 pick.

Best budget: Gateway Touchscreen 11.6 HD 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop

SEE IT

Specs

• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB
• Screen size: 11.6 inches
• Battery life: 8.5 hours

Pros

• Portable
• Lots of ports
• Decent battery life

Cons

• Reviews note flaky Bluetooth

This one has fairly basic functionality with 4GB of RAM, and 64GB storage and is perfect for casual use. If you’re only looking to surf the internet and use Microsoft Word, then the specs are just enough to get the job done. Its fun blue color makes it stand out from the silver and black laptop pack, and its price is phenomenal.

Things to consider when shopping for the best 2-in-1 laptops

Of course, decisions must still be made when searching for the best 2-in-1 laptop. First, do you want a detachable or convertible device? Next, how do you want the touch screen to work? If you are using it as a tablet outdoors or while multitasking, this will become an especially crucial detail. Should you go with a Google Chromebook or a Windows device? The operating system will have a huge effect on the apps you’re able to use. Another question: How long does it take to boot up and complete tasks? Finally, how good is the sound and screen resolution? The gamers and movie buffs in your household will definitely want to know.

Should you go detachable or convertible?

The best 2-in-1 laptops come in two different forms: detachable and convertible. The former allows the screen to be completely detached from the keyboard for use as a tablet. That solves any bulk issues with one snap. Extra portability is obviously the biggest benefit of a detachable 2-in-1, and it gives you a lighter, more traditional tablet experience. Apple disciples take note: The brand has not yet entered the 2-in-1 market, but to get the 2-in-1 laptop experience with Apple, you can pair an iPad Pro with a smart keypad.

With convertible 2-in-1 laptops, the screen swivels or folds in different directions and at different angles while remaining attached to the keyboard. You can use it in regular laptop form manipulate it into an upside-down V shape, or bend the keypad back and face down to watch movies. If you want to read in bed or use it while in transit, you can bend it flat so that it functions as a tablet. The main drawback here is that if you can’t detach the keyboard, it will be bulkier than the average tablet.

In the end, the choice between detachable and convertible will come down to personal taste. Convertibles are best if you will be using the device primarily as a laptop, as they tend to be sturdier and have superior keyboards. If you’re frequently on the run and want to avoid bulk, a detachable 2-in-1 will probably be more suited to your lifestyle needs.

What about all your apps?

If you have favorite Android or iOS apps, not all of them might be available in a 2-in-1 that’s supported by Windows. Meanwhile, a Google Chromebook supported by Chrome OS will let you access all the Android apps in the Google Play Store. Still, remember, certain apps that were designed primarily for use with laptops might not work as well in tablet mode.

There are, thankfully, ways around the app and OS limitations. If you are part of the Windows Insider program, you can now run Android mobile apps on both your Windows 10 laptop and supported Samsung devices. You simply pin your favorite Android apps to the taskbar or the start menu of your laptop using the Your Phone app. Once accessible, you can use the apps without installing them on your laptop, even when they aren’t open on your phone. For now, this only works if you have a Samsung Galaxy phone, and it must be connected to the same WiFi network as your phone.

The main takeaway here is this: If you are very particular about your apps and how they work, the supporting operating system should be a major consideration. Even if you get the best 2-in-1 laptop that money can buy, you might want to hang on to your smartphone and keep it close … just in case.

How does the touchscreen work?

Most of us are accustomed to mouse-operated laptops, but touch screens have their place, particularly with tablets. Although they’re fairly straightforward, several variables should be considered when evaluating a touchscreen. If you’re outside in cold weather, will it respond to your fingers while you’re wearing gloves? Also, moist fingers won’t activate some screens, which might be frustrating if you’re in a wet situation and can’t immediately dry them.

Certain laptop activities require a mouse, but with Windows and Google both supporting touch screens, they’re not just for tablets anymore. A responsive touchscreen is an especially important 2-in-1 laptop feature if young children are using it since their fingers tend to be stickier than most. Smudges left by their fingerprints may not be your only touchscreen issue. Some apps, like File Explorer, were designed with a keyboard and mouse in mind, so they might not be as user-friendly when you access them in tablet mode.

If you go for a brand that allows you to use a stylus to input information, you’ll want to be sure it has palm-rejection technology. With that feature, the 2-in-1 will respond only to the stylus and not to another part of your hand that’s touching the screen.

How important is speed to you?

A traditional laptop will probably get the job done most efficiently when it comes to complicated tasks that require a graphics card, like video editing and gaming. If you’re a casual user and speed is key, you’ll get more mileage—and cover it a lot more quickly—with the best 2-in-1 laptop than you would with just a tablet. They do, after all, feature full PC operating systems and faster processors.

Speed does tend to vary among 2-in-1 laptops, so to be sure you get the fastest bang for your bucks, make a checklist: Does it take forever to turn on and off? How easy is it to open programs and apps? Can you do what you need to do efficiently without wasting time watching a spinning wheel?

One thing that will affect the speed in a major way is the memory (RAM) and storage capacity of your 2-in-1. Since computers tend to slow down as they begin to run out of memory and space, you should get one that can hold as much memory and storage as possible. Light casual users who won’t be storing their entire life on a computer can probably get by with 4GB of RAM and 250GB of storage, but to stay on the safe — and fast—side, you should go as high with both as your finances will take you.

Looks (and sound) matter

What good is a 2-in-1 if it delivers crappy sound and screen resolution? You should approach buying yours the same way you might approach buying a new television or speaker. The sound should be clear and crisp without requiring further amplification. Even the best 2-in-1 laptops won’t give you audio that’s as Hi-Fi as that of a cheap soundbar, but if you are going to be watching a lot of movies and videos online or playing music on iTunes or Spotify, you shouldn’t have to strain to hear what’s going on.

Keep this in mind when assessing sound: The fans that keep the best 2-in-1 laptops from overheating might interfere with the audio, so to offset any potential effect, at least 8GB of RAM/memory is recommended. High-quality multimedia demands that your device processes data at high speeds, so more firepower means better audio while listening to music or watching movies.

Alas, nothing you screen on even the best 2-in-1 laptops will give you movie cinema or even 55-inch TV gorgeousness, but high definition maximizes viewing pleasure. The base HD standard is 1920×1080, or 1080p, while many computers now ofter 4K. Some brands pack on features that allow users to approximate the cinematic experience more closely, but if you’re in the HD range, you’re already on your way.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 2-in-1 laptops

• Best overall: HP Envy X360
• Best convertible: Acer Chromebook Spin 311
• Best for Android users: SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9+
• Best with touch screen: Dell New XPS 13
• Best for speed: Lenovo Chromebook C330
• Best budget: Gateway Touchscreen 11.6 HD 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop

The best 2-in-1 laptops will do more for you than travel well. It’s great to have both your laptop and tablet in one place, but it’s even better if you don’t have to give up any of the benefits of having two separate devices. A number of brands are making 2-in-1 laptops with superior audio and visuals, and since Chromebooks run on the Google operating system instead of Windows 10, if you go with a Samsung Galaxy Chromebook or any other Chromebook model, you’ll be able to access your favorite Google Play Store apps with minimal hassle. All the music you want to listen to, the movies you want to watch, and the games you want to play are just a tap of a touch screen away.

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 2-in-1 laptops for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The temperature is dropping, so some mammals are getting ready to hibernate for the winter. Although humans don’t hibernate, we spend a lot of time in our homes when the weather starts getting cold. Make your home the perfect cozy bear den by saving $100 off a Shark robot vacuum at Amazon.

Shark AV993 IQ Robot Vacuum $199.99 (Was $299.99)

SEE IT

Don’t leave your blanket burrow with the help of this Shark robot vacuum. You can schedule whole-home cleanings on the Shark app or control it via your Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. When it’s done cleaning—or if it’s low on battery—the robot returns to its dock, recharges, and then picks up where it left off. It’s also a great robovac for pets, thanks to its XL-capacity dust bin, a self-cleaning brush roll, and a high-efficiency filter to capture dust, dander, and pet allergens.

If being indoors makes you restless, consider a regular ol’ stick vacuum that gets you up and moving. The Shark HZ602 Ultralight Pet Pro Corded Stick Vacuum is 35% off, down to $169.99 from $259.99.

To quote Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming.” Make sure you’re ready for it with a clean house to hibernate in.

Here are more vacuums and steam mops on sale to tidy up your nest:

• Shark S3501 Steam Pocket Mop Hard Floor Cleaner $59.99 (Was $89.99)
• Shark ZU503AMZ Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with Self-Cleaning Brushroll $169.99 (Was $229.99)
• Shark ION Robot Vacuum for Carpet AV751 $149.99 (Was $229.99)
• Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum $249.99 (Was $315.99)
• BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner $109.59 (Was $123.59)
• Dyson Outsize Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Nickel/Red, Extra Large $449.99 (Was $528.98)
• BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering $106.44 (Was $118.44)
• BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet, 35799, Upright Deep Cleaner $196.59 (Was $226.59)

The post Get ready for fall nesting with $100 off a Shark robot vacuum at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Owning a pair of AirPods has become a meme, with photosets with greyhounds and Kris Jenner indicating the wearer has a certain level of wealth, class, and style to rock the small white earbuds. You, too, can join the elite thanks to this AirPod deal at Amazon, which knocks the price of the latest editions of the AirPods Pro and AirPods by 20%.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Wireless Earbuds (Lightning) $199 (Was $249)

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For dedicated iPhone users, the sound quality and connection simplicity of AirPods is practically unmatched. You simply slip them out of their sleek, white case, and bam: Bluetooth connected, ready to blast your favorite party jams. Apple’s H2 chips give smarter active noise cancellation and more immersive spatial audio. The custom-built driver provides crisp, clear high notes, and deep, rich bass. The company is now offering the earbuds in a MagSafe charging case with USB-C at the same price if you’re making the full port shift, just like Apple.

If you’ve lost your current pair or your first-generation AirPods have seen better days, we think this deal gives you a good excuse to finally make the upgrade.

Here are more AirPods deals:

• Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones $479.99 (Was $549)
• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with Lightning Charging Case $99 (Was $129)
• Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with Lightning Charging Case $149.99 (Was $169)

The post Save 20% on Apple AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

There are plenty of songs about the month of September that you can stream through your speakers: Green Day’s “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” “September Gurls” by Big Star, and the GOAT “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire, to name a few. And all of them sound even better with a subwoofer from British hi-fi purveyor KEF to take over the bass and leave more headroom in your main drivers for all those classic melodies. Some additional low down on this great low-end: Act now, and you can take advantage of KEF’s SUBtember event—running until the end of the month, where you can snag the award-winning audio company’s Kube, KC62, or KF92 and get a free KW1 Wireless Kit—a $200 value—opening up not only your frequency reinforcement but where you can put your subwoofer without stringing cable(s) around the room. That leaves more space for the boom and to boogie.

If you’re looking for slappin’ bass in music, movies, and video game soundtracks, look no further than the Kube 10b, which features a custom-designed 10-inch woofer and 300-watt RMS amplifier to hit 24 Hz depths.

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The Kube 10b also includes an easy-to-use input and control panel on the back. Three placement settings—free-standing, in-cabinet, or corner—allow for peak-performing sound wherever they’re placed, and Intelligent Bass Extension (iBX) digital signaling gives you dynamic bass at any volume level. Recently experienced in a custom home theater by one of our editors, several Kube subwoofers working in tandem propagated wave after wave of bass, impressing him with the way each surge managed to be percussive, not just concussive.

If you’re looking to achieve rock concert-level sounds in your living room, check out the KEF KF92, which uses dual force-cancelling 9-inch woofers to achieve response down to 11 Hz and up to 110 dB. While that sounds like some intimidating rumble, this sub is designed for accurate, musical bass: each woofer is made up of an aluminum skin atop a paper cone for precise, dynamic tones.

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And if you’re looking for sonic depth without a deep footprint, choose the KEF KC62. You heard it here first: this is our top pick for a compact subwoofer. The dual 6-inch woofers in this easily integrated sealed compartment are a perfect complement to one of our top powered speakers, the LS50 Wireless II. Pair them (like in the almost realistically scaled photo above) and you have a customizable connected set-up that uses DSP to optimize enviable audio from any imaginable source in even the tightest spaces. Is overkill your big thrill? Add the KC62 to the LS60 wireless tower speakers and go full-on Maxell Man.

Speaking of September ending, the KEF SUBtember sale ends when spooky season begins, meaning you have five days to get your sound system ready for Halloween hits like Rockwell’s “Somebody’s Watching Me” or the 1977 “Suspiria” movie soundtrack by Goblin. The right sub will leave you shivering because everything sounds so frightfully good.

The post Wake up before the KEF SUBtember sale ends and get a free KW-1 Wireless Kit appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple is still running its back-to-school promotion, offering its education pricing even if you’re not a student. If you’ve been looking to upgrade your laptop, now is the best time to do it—emphasis on the “now,” since this promotion runs out in a week.

Apple 2020 MacBook Air Laptop M1 Chip, Silver $749.99 (Was $999)

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If you’re a Mac user and you don’t need to do processor-heavy tasks like photo and video editing, the 2020 Macbook Air with M1 chip is the laptop for you. Heck, it’s the laptop I use on the day-to-day and it runs Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Rush like a champ—a testament to the power of the M1 chip, which has some beef despite being at the baseline. We were impressed when it was first released, and we’re still impressed today. It’s the perfect laptop if just a regular person who needs a laptop to watch Netflix on the train and make a killer meme once in a while.

If you crave more processing power and screen real estate, you’re in luck. The 15-inch Macbook Air with M2 chip is on sale for $1,099—$200 off its regular price. The 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU slice through large files and videos like butter, which is perfect if you’re working on casual photography or just want to demolish every task.

The promo event ends Oct. 2, with the literal hundreds of dollars of savings with it. We meant it when we said you want to jump on it ASAP—you’ll be hard-pressed to find another deal like this that’s straight from Apple’s mouth.

Here are more Apple products on sale:

• Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro chip, 16GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, Space Gray $1,799 (Was $1,999)
• Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Max chip, 32GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, Silver $2,899 (Was $3,099)
• Apple 2023 15-inch MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip, 512GB, Starlight $1,299 (Was $1,499)
• Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) with M2 chip, 128GB, Silver $1,024 (Was $1,099)
• Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) with M2 chip, 128 GB, Space Gray $999 (Was $1,099)

The post This is your last chance to save $250 on a MacBook Air 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		NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo C7000		SEE IT	You can’t go wrong with this flexible modem-router that is compatible with multiple internet providers.
Best premium		NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V		SEE IT	Step up from the Xfinity-provided set-up with this approved third-party router.
Best budget		Motorola MG7315 Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo		SEE IT	A modem-router can be yours for around $100 with this affordable combo.

Signing up for Comcast’s Xfinity internet service presents you with two options: either rent a router for Xfinity or purchase your own. At first, it might seem smarter to go with the path of least resistance and get the Xfinity router; it’s going to work and is presented as pretty affordable per month. However, after doing a cost-benefit analysis, buying your own modem and router will be cheaper, especially if you’re going to be an Xfinity customer for many years. Router shopping can be costly and nerve-wracking, especially if you purchase the incorrect router and there’s a strict no-return policy. Leave the frantic searching to us: we’ve come up with this list of the best routers for Xfinity.

• Best overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem-Router Combo C7000
• Best gaming: TP-Link AC4000
• Best premium: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V
• Best for streaming: Motorola MG7700 Modem-Router Combo 
• Best budget: Motorola MG7315 Modem-Router Combo

How we chose the best routers for Xfinity

First, you need to identify what kind of router you want. Then, you need to verify that the router works with Xfinity. To come up with this list, we researched the wide diversity of manufacturer claims, model specs, peer experiences, and user impressions. We then made our top five picks.

The best routers for Xfinity: Reviews & Recommendations

The best routers for Xfinity solve pain points for consumers while adding to the user experience as a whole. Our recommendations focus on the best options that are relatively future-proofed but can work with older devices and technology.

Best overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem-Router Combo C7000

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Why it made the cut: This modem-router combo can handle up to 30 devices.

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: 800 Mbps
• WiFi Range: 1,800 square feet

Pros

• Wide range
• Future-proofed DOCSIS 3.1
• Fast download speeds

Cons

• Technical support for software is subscription-based
• No support for WiFi 6

This router was named best overall in our Spectrum routers round-up, and there’s a reason why it’s also the best overall for Xfinity. It covers 1,800 square feet, can handle up to 30 devices simultaneously, and is compatible with Xfinity plans up to 800 Mbps. It includes separate networks for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands, meaning you can organize your devices based on band level. You can plug in gaming consoles and computers to Ethernet thanks to four one-gigabit Ethernet ports, and can share storage with a connected device using the USB port. The router supports WiFi 4 and WiFi 5 but does not support WiFi 6, however. It features a WPA2-PSK security protocol, which is secure enough to protect your home without an enterprise authentication server—simply provide an 8- to 62-character-long passphrase to encrypt your network. And, it meets DOCSIS 3.1 specifications. It’s worth noting that it will take some time to see a return on your investment with the Nighthawk, but multiple reviews note that owners’ internet speed and performance were improved after setup, making the purchase worth it. There’s a reason Netgear routers are consistently among our favorites.

Best gaming: TP-Link AC4000

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Why it made the cut: This tri-band router is lightning-fast and has built-in security features.

Specs

• Modem combo: No
• Max speed: 800 Mbps
• WiFi Range: 3,000 square feet

Pros

• Can choose what devices go on each band
• High coverage area
• Alexa compatibility
• Make your own VPN server at home

Cons

• Reviewers note tech support could be improved

If you’ve got a modem and are searching for a pure router that will take on 4K streaming and PC gaming sans lag, look no further than the TP-Link AC4000, which is compatible with 800 Mbps Xfinity internet plans. Say goodbye to buffering thanks to MU-MIMO technology, which lets you connect more devices at once—perfect for setting up multiple consoles and a PC to WiFi. If you’d like to throw some wired connections into the mix, two 1 Gbps and two 2 Gbps Ethernet ports are there for your use. Tri-band capabilities allow you to customize which band—2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz—your device will communicate with. Keep your online activities secure with VPN capabilities and a free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare, which features antivirus, parental controls, and Quality of Service (QoS). You can even toggle certain controls with Alexa voice commands. If this gaming router doesn’t tickle your megabytes, check out more of our best gaming routers.

Best premium: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V

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Why it made the cut: This Netgear router provides reliable performance now and for the future.

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: 800 Mbps
• WiFi Range: 1,800 square feet

Pros

• Compatible with Xfinity Voice (VoIP)
• Supports up to 30 devices
• Shared storage drive

Cons

• Is an older model

This modem-router combo from Netgear is ideal for streaming in 4K, high-speed gaming, and fast downloads. It works with Xfinity internet plans up to 800 Mbps (even more theoretically), has a wide range of 1,800 square feet, and supports up to 30 devices. Unlike other routers on our list, this one features 2 VoIP ports, which allows you to route your calls over the internet—creating clearer voice calls, lowered costs, and higher scalability. The Netgear Nighthawk C7100V features DOCSIS 3.0 capabilities and includes two USB ports and four Ethernet ports. However, it is an older model, so not the best long-term investment.

Best for streaming: Motorola MG7700 Modem-Router Combo 

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Why it made the cut: This Xfinity-approved modem-router combo has all you need for quality internet quickly.

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: 800 Mbps
• WiFi Range: 2,000 feet

Pros

• Quick set-up
• Right speed for high-speed customers
• Xfinity-approved

Cons

• Connectvity issues in larger homes despite range

With its high-speed internet compatibility and four Ethernet ports for direct connection, you’ll have no problems surfing the web or streaming your favorite shows. Setup is quick: you just need to plug in a power cord and coaxial cable and follow a few simple steps to secure your connection. Plus, if you do run into any problems, your customer support tech from Comcast Xfinity will likely be at least somewhat familiar with the MG7700 and can give you some pro tips about working with the device.

The Motorola MG7700 works best in medium-sized homes, with those in large homes finding some trouble connecting in the far corners of their home. For these customers, the WiFi 6/DOCSIS 3.1 Motorola MG8725 might work better. The average person in the here and now, however, will find that the MG7700 will more than suffice.

Best budget: Motorola MG7315 Modem-Router Combo

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Why it made the cut: This modem-router combo is just under $100 and includes basic features for the fuss-free user. 

Specs

• Modem combo: Yes
• Max speed: 200 Mbps
• WiFi Range: 1,200 square feet

Pros

• Faster return on investment
• Easy installation
• Power Boost huge advantage

Cons

• No 5 GHz band
• Not future-proof

Do you live alone and need a router-modem combo that just gets the job done, no bells and whistles included? Check out the Motorola MG7315, which is compatible with Xfinity’s 200 Mbps service plan—perfect for web browsing, streaming, and light online gaming. This DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem and WiFi 4 router has four Ethernet ports for wired connections. Don’t let its single-band fool you: Its “Power Boost” technology reinforces the WiFi signal for quality gaming, streaming, and video conferencing. A vertical design makes for easy, discreet placement, and prevents overheating for longer product life. Although it doesn’t have any USB ports, it does feature four Ethernet ports for connecting devices directly to the internet. If you’re looking for a step-up option, check out the Motorola MG8702, which features dual-band tech, WiFi 5, and app control capabilities in a similar design.

What to consider when buying the best routers for Xfinity

Reviews, meeting at least the minimum requirements, and crowd-sourced reports can tell you a lot about the overall functioning of a router. Then smaller factors can help you pick once you’ve narrowed it down to a few choices.

Should I get a modem-router combo?

A modem connects you to the internet that Xfinity provides. A router lets your devices access the internet from around your house. A router serves little to no purpose without a modem. If you get a router but don’t have a modem, you will be stuck with a box offering you access, but access that’s the equivalent of opening a door and finding a brick wall.

This is why some reach for a modem-router combo: you get everything you need in a single piece of equipment. To avoid disappointment, be sure to check for compatibility, either from the manufacturer or from Xfinity’s website.

Speed

Routers are rated on the max speed they can deliver. Find the perfect internet speed for you, then buy a router that has a max speed above but not too above that speed (why pay for something you’re not using, after all). 

The next thing you’ll need to consider is DOCSIS, or “Data Over Cable Services Interface Specification.” This factor affects your speed by determining how well the internet can travel from the modem part of the combo to the router part.

There are two varieties of DOCSIS you’ll have to worry about: DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. DOCSIS 3.0 is capable of 200 Mbps upload speeds and up to 1 Gbps download speeds. DOCSIS 3.1 has 2 Gbps upload and 10 Gbps download speeds. 

WiFi standard

There are three WiFi standards you are likely to hear about while router shopping. From most to least common, they are WiFi 5, WiFi 6, and WiFi 6E. 

WiFi 5: This standard appears on most routers, and supports speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. It was first introduced around 2011.  

WiFi 6: We’ve written extensively about WiFi 6, but to sum up: WiFi 6 began in 2019 and can handle multi-gigabit internet speeds. It can also handle a much larger number of network devices at once, including smart light switches and smart speakers. WiFi 6 routers also have next-gen. security protocols, like WPA3, and an extended range.

WiFi 6E: WiFi 6E is newer than WiFi 6, with the E standing for “Enhanced.” Understanding WiFi 6E is important for future-proofing devices. If you want something to last for years, one of our picks for the best WiFi 6 routers should be more than enough.

Range

WiFi range is determined by the kind of router you’re using, the wireless protocol the router follows, and the space you’re in. 2.4 GHz WiFi routers can reach up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors and should be used if you’re looking for long-distance WiFi. Routers running on 5 GHz bands can reach around one-third of these distances since it uses narrower wavelengths—because of this, you should choose a 5 GHz router for speed, but only if your devices can be located nearer to your internet access point. Newer routers operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to reach greater distances and achieve maximum throughput for devices in closer proximity. 

Walls, electronic devices, and certain other materials in between your device and the router can weaken the signal (which is why we’ve put together a handy guide to WiFi extenders). 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best routers for Xfinity

• Best overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem-Router Combo C7000
• Best gaming: TP-Link AC4000
• Best premium: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V
• Best for streaming: Motorola MG7700 Modem-Router Combo 
• Best budget: Motorola MG7315 Modem-Router Combo

The best routers for Xfinity should accommodate your current internet plan but leave room to level up for faster internet speeds. VPN capabilities, Alexa compatibility, and app customization are a few add-ons that help you integrate other technologies into one device. At the end of the day, the best Xfinity router should make your life easier and worry-free from spotty internet.

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 routers for Xfinity in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

If the day-to-day slog is getting you down, consider playing a role-playing game like Disco Elysium, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and Baldur’s Gate 3, our current post-work game of choice. There’s something about fighting monsters, exploring a new world, and romancing chaotic neutral vampires that makes you forget about all the emails you’ve sent that day. If you’re looking to expand your setup past your gaming laptop, consider a monitor to give yourself some more real estate. Amazon has you covered on that front with deals on Samsung, Acer, and Philips gaming monitors.

Acer Nitro 31.5″ FHD 1920 x 1080 1500R Curved PC Gaming Monitor $169.99 (Was $229.99)

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This cheap gaming monitor already had a low price. Now, it’s even cheaper than before, thanks to its 26 percent markdown. The Acer Nitro Curved PC Gaming Monitor is a 31.5-inch, VESA-mountable monitor that sports a 144Hz refresh rate using the HDMI port, and a 165Hz refresh rate with Display Port. That equals no lag and smoother gameplay. AMD FreeSync Premium adds low frame rate compensation, which displays frames multiple times if your game’s frame rate drops below the monitor’s lowest supported refresh rate.

There’s no pause function when it comes to Amazon deals, so snag this one before it despawns.

Here are more Amazon gaming deals that unlock currency-saving achievements:

• Acer Nitro 27″ Full HD 1920 x 1080 PC Gaming IPS Monitor $139.99 (Was $179.99)
• Acer Nitro 23.8″ Full HD 1920 x 1080 PC Gaming IPS Monitor $109.99 (Was $149.99)
• Acer SB272U Ebiip 27″ WQHD 2560×1440 IPS Zero-Frame Gaming Office Monitor $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• Acer Nitro 24.5″ Full HD 1920 x 1080 PC Gaming Monitor $149.99 (Was $219.99)
• AOpen 24SA2Y Hbi 23.8″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) Zero-Frame Gaming Office Monitor $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• SAMSUNG 27-Inch CR50 Frameless Curved Gaming Monitor $179.99 (Was $229.99)
• PHILIPS Momentum 329M1RV 32″ 4K HDR 400 Gaming Monitor $799.99 (Was $899.99)
• Logitech G502 HERO High Performance Wired Gaming Mouse $39.99 (Was $79.99)
• TMY Mini Projector $65.58 (Was $99.99)
• Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard $44.99 (Was $79.99)
• Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard $35.99 (Was $44.99)
• JBL Quantum 910 Wireless Gaming Headset $224.95 (Was $299.95)
• JBL Quantum ONE-Over-Ear Gaming Headset with Active Noise Cancelling $209.95 (Was $299.95)

The post Save up to 25% on gaming monitors from Samsung, Acer, and more 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		Bissell MultiClean Wet Dry Vac		SEE IT	This sleek machine is perfect for small clean-ups or large wet messes.
Best mini		Armor All 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum		SEE IT	A small shop vac with powerful suction.
Best budget		Stanley SL18910P-3		SEE IT	This lower-priced option has what it takes to clean up any wet or dry mess.

More powerful than the average Hoover, more versatile than the typical Dyson, and tougher than your pet Roomba, a shop vacuum is a must-have for any household. These cleaning tools can suck up almost anything. But shop vacuums aren’t just for cleaning big construction messes. Even the average homeowner should include one in their armory of cleaning supplies. They can take on even the most hard-to-clean areas, like a fireplace or barbecue pit. A cordless shop vacuum is easily transported out to the car to vacuum impossible corners and crevices between the seats and is powerful enough to pick up the dirt, leaves, and even matted-down pet hair littering the floor of your car. Once equipped with the best shop vac, you can attack any mess thrown at you, whether it’s sawdust in the workshop, a mosaic of Goldfish crumbs under the kid’s car seat, or even the two inches of water flooding the basement.

• Best overall: Bissell MultiClean Wet Dry Vac
• Best powerful: Ridgid WD1450 Wet Dry Vac
• Best mini: Armor All 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum
• Best cordless: Milwaukee 0880-20 Wet Dry Vac
• Best budget: Stanley SL18910P-3

How we chose the best shop vacs

In short, the best shop vac can do just about anything. Sometimes referred to as bucket vacuums, these machines resemble little R2D2s. Used most often in construction, shop vacuums are durable enough to suck up dust, dirt, and most other debris found at a worksite. We looked at reviews, recommendations, conducted user testing, and performed heavy research while on the hunt for the best shop vacuum. We’ve also written plenty about the shop vac’s cousins, like upright vacuums, so we applied some of that knowledge here.

The best shop vacs: Reviews & Recommendations

Bear in mind that durability may come with unwieldiness. You might want to go all out with the most powerful shop vacuum you can find, but if a lightweight, portable shop vac is enough to handle the job, you’ll have an easier time maneuvering—not to mention, storing it when it’s not in use. Bigger might not be better, so tailor your choice to your needs. We chose five of the best shop vacs to crank up your cleaning game and have your space spotless in no time.

Best overall: Bissell MultiClean Wet Dry Vac

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Why it made the cut: This vacuum can power through wet or dry messes on multiple surfaces—you can even detail your car with it.

Specs

• Capacity: 6 gallons
• Weight: 16.1 lbs.
• Hose length: 6.5 ft.
• Power source: Corded electric

Pros

• Two-stage filtration
• Blower function
• Easy to move

Cons

• Loud

If you want a wet-dry shop vacuum that handles anything, the Bissell MultiClean vac covers all the bases. This versatile cleaning tool comes with a variety of features and functions, including a blowing function for clearing leaves or blowing up inflatables, a wet suction tool, and a toolkit of different brushes for vacuuming various surfaces and crevices. The tank is on wheels for easy movement while vacuuming, and its balanced body keeps it from tipping over when it’s pulled. This machine is sleek and easy to use for both small at-home messes and bigger shop cleanups.

Best powerful: Ridgid WD1450 Wet Dry Vac

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Why it made the cut: A six-horsepower motor and 14 gallons of storage let you vacuum your entire garage … and then some.

Specs

• Capacity: 14 gallons
• Weight: 25 lbs.
• Hose length: 6.8 ft.
• Power source: Corded electric

Pros

• Six horsepower motor
• Lots of storage capacity
• Easy to maneuver

Cons

• Expensive

This Ridgid shop vac’s 6-horsepower motor and top-notch dust filters make it one of the most powerful shop vacs on the market. Its 14-gallon tank makes it one of the larger models available, which is great if you have a big job and want to avoid frequent stops to empty the tank. Despite its size, this large shop vacuum is easy to maneuver thanks to its handled tank and a Tug-A-Long hose that stays locked in during use. Another perk? The powerful motor is made with noise-reducing technology, offering a quieter performance than other brands.

Best mini: Armor All 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum

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Why it made the cut: This little shop vac packs a powerful punch—good things sometimes come in small sizes.

Specs

• Capacity: 2.5 gallons
• Weight: 5.6 lbs.
• Hose length: 4 ft.
• Power source: Corded electric

Pros

• Wall mountable for storage
• Portable
• Easy to carry and transport

Cons

• Hose length shorter than others on our list

The Armor All 2.5-gallon Wet Dry Vacuum has a 2.5-gallon tank and weighs 5.6 pounds, so it’s light enough to transport out to your car for some detailing or give the couch a quick once over before guests arrive. It has an easy-to-carry handle and a 10-foot power cord to take advantage of its portability. The 2-horsepower motor in this mini shop vacuum strikes the perfect balance between lightweight and power.

Best cordless: Milwaukee 0880-20 Wet Dry Vac

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Why it made the cut: No cord or plug? That’s not a problem with this sturdy, compact shop vac.

Specs

• Capacity: 2 gallons
• Weight: 10.1 lbs
• Hose length: 6 ft.
• Power source: Battery-powered, cordless

Pros

• Washable HEPA filter
• Sturdy design
• Easy to carry

Cons

• Full charge only lasts 20 minutes

This highly rated, battery-powered shop vac is great for car detailing and ideal for travel or minor clean-ups. The design of this vac is different from the typical cylindrical tank—this one is rectangular and looks almost like a toolbox. The body is sturdy and doesn’t tip easily, and the box has a handle for easy carry. It yields a strong suction, and you can expect about 20 minutes of continuous use on one battery before needing to recharge.

Best budget: Stanley SL18910P-3

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Why it made the cut: This powerful, budget-friendly shop vac rivals its pricier counterparts.

Specs

• Capacity: 3 gallons
• Weight: 8 lbs.
• Hose length: 4 ft.
• Power source: Corded electric

Pros

• Washable and reusable filter
• Lots of included accessories
• Easy to carry

Cons

• No casters to move vacuum around

This Stanley shop vac has a 3-gallon tank and a 3-horsepower motor. With more capacity than mini shop vacs, this vac is performance on a budget. While it may not complete a job as quickly as one of the more expensive models with higher horsepower and a larger tank, this lower-priced option has what it takes to clean up any wet or dry mess.

What to consider when buying the best shop vacs

Shop vacs come in a variety of sizes and efficacy, so the biggest thing to consider is what kind of performance and capacity you’re looking for. Also, consider shop vacuum attachments: different nozzles may be available for cleaning small crevices or for sucking up that flooded basement, or you may need to buy adapters to use the inflation feature (no more manually blowing up giant pool floats!). You can get pretty creative using your shop vac. Here’s what else we recommend when shopping for a shop vac:

Wet dry shop vacs

What really sets shop vacs apart from regular vacuum cleaners is the wet vac feature. Many, if not most, shop vacuums can clear dry and wet messes, which is clutch in some of homeownership’s most difficult-to-handle situations. A wet-dry vac can clean up the jar of applesauce your toddler dropped in the middle of the living room. It can be shoved down the drain in your kitchen sink to retrieve a missing earring. And it can suck up all the water if—shudder—your basement is flooding. A wet-dry shop vac can remove unwanted water from your home, clean out a fish tank, unclog a drain—the list goes on. On top of this feature, many shop vacuums have a blowing function for added versatility—your leaf blower wishes it had that versatility.

Power

Shop vacuums come in a variety of sizes and levels of power, so the biggest thing to consider is what kind of performance and capacity you’re looking for. If you’re purchasing a vac for a construction business, you might want to consider at least a 12-gallon shop vacuum with the capacity to clean up larger, heavier debris.

Wall-mounted shop vacuums are powerful and offer excellent filtration and capacity, although their immobility can hold you back without an extra-long hose and fixtures to stretch your reach. When overall suction strength is your biggest concern, look for a machine with high horsepower.

Size

Shop vacuums aren’t just for big industrial messes. A small shop vac can be a lifesaver for smaller jobs, like crumbs and pet hair. These lightweight micromachines come as small as 1.5 gallons.

The one caveat to mini shop vacs is that the size and weight may come at the expense of suction, as the small body doesn’t allow for a more powerful motor. We looked for a model that brings the most power in relation to its small size.

Battery-powered vs. electric

While most shop vacuums are electric, battery-powered vacs are also available. The electric shop vacs will provide more power for a longer duration of time. Still, a battery-powered vac has the upside of being portable and usable even when you don’t have access to a reliable power source.

On the downside, the batteries don’t last very long, and you’ll be stopping to recharge frequently. Electric shop vacuums will be better for long jobs, like clearing out a flooded basement, but a battery-powered vac is perfect for a quick and easy pickup. Some users recommend them for cleaning up during a long road trip.

Budget

Shop vacuums are by nature powerful and versatile, so even a less expensive model will complete a job better than a regular vacuum. The mini vacs are the least expensive models, but you can get a more mid-sized shop vac with a larger tank and more powerful motor at a reasonable price.

A mid-sized shop vacuum, even a cheaper model, ensures you’re ready for whatever small disaster hits your home. For minor floods, clogs, home workshop messes, spills, or pet cleanup (have you ever wished for an easier way to clean the kids’ hamster cage?), a simple budget shop vac will have your home spotless.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best shop vacs

• Best overall: Bissell MultiClean Wet Dry Vac
• Best powerful: Ridgid WD1450 Wet Dry Vac
• Best mini: Armor All 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum
• Best cordless: Milwaukee 0880-20 Wet Dry Vac
• Best budget: Stanley SL18910P-3

A shop vacuum is a versatile piece of equipment—the cleaning equipment you never knew you needed. They provide a quick and easy way to clean up the messes you once thought were impossible. Make a list of the features that are most important to you—Do you want them to be portable? Is power the biggest factor? Do you need a shop vac for a car?—and determine which is the best shop vac for you. It’s hard to go wrong, and many affordable options are available. This is a purchase you won’t regret. Happy cleaning!

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 shop vacs 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		Garmin inReach Mini GPS		SEE IT	This tough communicator is perfect for outdoor camping trips.
Best for international travel		Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 Satellite Phone		SEE IT	Flat rate calling charges are included with this satellite phone, saving you money on your post-trip phone bill.
Best budget		ZOLEO Satellite Communicator		SEE IT	This sub-$200 option includes Iridium satellite connection just like higher-end models.

Harnessing a satellite phone connection can provide you with communication anywhere globally. Using a satellite allows you to keep in touch with friends and family, whether you’re hiking in remote areas, sailing, flying, or just want to be prepared in case of a natural disaster. While cellphones and smartphones provide connections in major cities and towns, they’re dependent on terrestrial towers. In case of a natural disaster, cellphone networks can be overloaded or subject to structural damage. With one of the best satellite phones, your connection is dependent on satellites in space, so after a disaster or even if you’re traveling to the far corners of the Earth, you’ll be able to stay connected. 

Satellite phones can be used for voice calls, text messaging, and even basic emails to keep in touch. They allow for emergency preparedness by issuing SOS distress signals, GPS locations, directions, and emergency weather alerts. Some sat phone packages come with a satellite-based WiFi hub that will allow for your smartphone to work in locations that don’t have cellphone connections. Some satellite phone packages even allow for broadband access to the internet. To compare phones and determine which is right for you, we’ve selected some of the best satellite phones on the market to keep you safe and connected.

• Best overall: Garmin inReach Mini GPS
• Best satellite messenger: Spot X with Bluetooth 2-Way Satellite Messenger
• Best for international travel: Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 Satellite Phone
• Best bundle: Iridium GO! Standard Package
• Best budget: ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

How we chose the best satellite phones

When venturing off the beaten path, communication can mean the difference between smooth sailing and a rough misadventure. We looked at critical reviews and user recommendations, consulted outdoor enthusiasts and experts, and conducted heavy research to find the best satellite phones—because there’s comfort in knowing you can always call home.

The best satellite phones: Reviews & Recommendations

The best satellite phones can do everything from traversing craggy ledges and vast green hillsides to phoning home while traveling internationally. The following are our picks that will keep you in touch wherever you go.

Best overall: Garmin inReach Mini GPS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This satellite communicator is portable and packed with features, like interactive SOS calling, to ensure safety anywhere in the world.

Specs

• Connectivity technology: Bluetooth, ANT+
• Battery life: 50 hours in default tracking mode; 20 days in power-saving mode
• Battery power: Internal rechargeable lithium battery
• Dimensions: 2 x 1.3 x 3.9 inches

Pros

• Portable
• Fast access to SOS
• Lots of battery power

Cons

• Satellite subscription required for use

Makers of top-tier hiking watches, Garmin knows GPS devices and what adventurers need. This handy mini GPS Garmin satellite phone is perfect for packing with your tent on outdoor camping trips. This satellite communicator lets you send two-way text messages using the Iridium satellite network. It is compatible with other handheld devices, and you have unlimited access to maps and aerial images through the Garmin Earthmate app to support your trip safely. Plus, it’s water-rated to IPX7 and impact-resistant, meaning it’s just as tough as your next uphill climb. Sending out an SOS message is easy thanks to 24/7 access to the GEOS emergency response team. A satellite subscription is required for use.

Best satellite messenger: Spot X with Bluetooth 2-Way Satellite Messenger

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This simple messenger allows you to send pre-programmed messages and your GPS location to loved ones.

Specs

• Connectivity technology: Bluetooth, USB
• Battery life: 10 days
• Battery power: 1 Lithium polymer battery
• Dimensions: 2.9 x 0.94 x 6.54 inches

Pros

• Easy to use
• SOV capabilities
• Spot Mapping app gives those at home peace of mind

Cons

• Must pay for a year of activation

Stick to the basics and stay safe with this simple satellite GPS messenger. Connect with friends by sending coordinates and pre-programmed messages via satellite and stay safe in case of emergency with GPS locators and SOS signals. It also includes Save Our Vehicle (SOV) request capabilities and a track button to send and save your location. Those at home can look at your location and progress using the SPOT Mapping app. Be aware that you’ll need to pay for a year of activation in order to use this device. 

Best for international travel: Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 Satellite Phone

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Tons of battery life and dust, splash, and shock resistance mean this sat phone is reliable and tough.

Specs

• Connectivity technology: Bluetooth
• Battery life: eight hours of talk time; up to 160 hours on standby
• Battery power: Lithium-ion
• Dimensions: 10 x 9 x 4 inches

Pros

• Easy to set up and activate
• Comes unlocked for compatibility with multiple service providers
• Lots of coverage area

Cons

• Better for traveling than hiking
• Typing on phone is tedious

The Isatphone is backed by the Inmarsat satellite network and is a good option for international travel. Additional features include GPS and SOS capabilities. Activate its included Bluetooth connection to use it hands-free. It’s preloaded with eight hours of talk time, up to 160 hours on standby, and comes with chargers, cables, and adapters. The phone is also dust, splash, and shock resistant, meaning you don’t have to worry about breaking it while out and about on your international adventure.

Best bundle: Iridium GO! Standard Package

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This bundle includes tons of adapters—no dead batteries here.

Specs

• Connectivity technology: Bluetooth
• Battery life: 5.5 hours of talk time; 15.5 hours of standby
• Battery power: Lithium-ion
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 3.2 x 1.25 inches

Pros

• Lots of adapters
• Prepaid SIM card included
• Simple user interface

Cons

• Expensive

This ready-to-use satellite communicator connects to the Iridium global satellite network, which includes 66 operating satellites. A prepaid SIM card with 1,000 minutes of talk time, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, travel and car chargers, international adapters, and even a convenient carrying case are all included in the bundle. The Iridium GO! satellite communicator also connects to the Iridium GO! app to connect five separate devices sans wires. And it’s dust-proof, shock-resistant, and jet-water resistant. Carry it in your travel backpack or mount it in a car.

Best budget: ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This flexible device lets you connect to a satellite for less than $200—a steal compared to other satellite communicators.

Specs

• Connectivity technology: Bluetooth
• Battery life: 200 hours
• Battery power: Lithium-ion
• Dimensions: 3.58 x 2.6 x 1.06 inches

Pros

• Flexibility in using satellite, WiFi, or cellular
• Iridium satellite network access
• Required monthly subscription is less than $100 for cellular, WiFi, and SOS messaging

Cons

• Monthly subscription required

Zoleo created a small rugged device with all the essentials for keeping you safe in remote locations. Highly rated by many outdoor editors, this device allows you to use the Iridium satellite network, WiFi, or cellular service, depending on what’s available. A monthly subscription is required with cost-level options, depending on your needs.

What to consider when buying the best satellite phones

While satellite phones won’t replace your smartphone for everyday use, they step in and offer communication solutions for use when cellphone service isn’t possible. Sat phones are designed for international travel—but always check the countries’ policies ahead of time: is access allowed while off-the-grid camping and hiking or for use on boats or on recreational aircraft? The best satellite phones are designed with off-the-grid use in mind and should be rugged, waterproof, and durable. 

While connections are possible in all remote locations, the ability to receive signals can be hindered by buildings, roofs, shelters, or heavy tree coverage. Many manufacturers have solved this issue and offer packages that are designed to include antennas to use on the outside of structures or buildings, vehicles, boats, or even in the cockpit of an airplane. 

Use case

If you want to stay safe and connected when setting out for off-the-grid outdoor adventures, you will need a small, lightweight satellite phone that’s set up to offer all the features you need to stay safe. The best satellite communicator for wilderness adventures will be rugged, waterproof, and allow for easy messaging and an SOS distress call in case of emergency. 

Choosing a satellite communicator made for outdoor adventures means you’ll also have access to useful extra features. Companies like Garmin offer top-of-the-line GPS support, extra maps, topographic information, and safety advice for all types of rough terrain. Better brands offer excellent customer support as well as handy online resources.

Messaging vs. calling

When you travel or go on outside adventures, having a fully loaded SAT phone may not be necessary. Opting for a more basic satellite communication solution also means saving money. You’ve already got a smartphone—what you need is another layer of communication safety outside the cellphone zone. If you want to keep it simple, consider a satellite GPS messenger. These devices allow you to send messages to family and friends, letting them know you are safe, and also have important extra safety features like GPS location and SOS signals.

Text & voice calling bundles

The best satellite phone bundle will not only include a reliable, durable, easy-to-use phone, but it should also offer voice calling, text messaging, and email messaging. The best phones include a reliable large global network with 24/7 technical support. Packages should include all you need to use and get going without any additional purchases.

Helpful features to look for include different power adapters that allow for use in locations throughout the world. The best sat phone bundles also give you flexibility. You should be able to choose between a monthly plan or a prepaid SIM card—if you only use the phone a few months out of the year, you’re not stuck with a large monthly payment. 

International travel

Sat phones are a smart solution when traveling outside your home country. (Be sure to check the policies of the country you’re visiting before bringing one: They’re illegal in some places.) The best satellite phone for international travel is easy to set up and comes with a prepaid SIM card. That gives you the peace of mind that you can use the phone quickly no matter where you are without worrying about cellphone carriers or reception. Look for phones that offer reliable voice and call connectivity, as well as emergency signals. International travel often takes you to places where you can’t be sure what to expect, and a sat phone offers safety and protection, along with the security of knowing that you won’t be unreachable.

Budget

If satellite phone cost is a factor, consider a more basic satellite communication device. Fully loaded satellite phones can set you back around $1,000, not to mention the extra cost of SIM cards or monthly service plans. Economical solutions keep communication basic but also require a monthly subscription for service. 

The best budget satellite communicator allows you to text and receive texts, and some even offer apps that allow your phone to access the satellite WiFi network. Always look for added emergency features such as SOS alerts and GPS coordinates.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best satellite phones

• Best overall: Garmin inReach Mini GPS
• Best satellite messenger: Spot X with Bluetooth 2-Way Satellite Messenger
• Best for international travel: Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 Satellite Phone
• Best bundle: Iridium GO! Standard Package
• Best budget: ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

The best satellite phones will allow you to roam around the globe and stay connected. With rugged, waterproof designs, these phones can follow you on any adventure by land, sea, or air. Connect with a prepaid SIM card, or with a monthly plan to keep safe and communicate no matter where you are. In case of emergency, sat phones will send SOS signals and GPS coordinates to make sure you return home safe. Compare phones, then get shopping.

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 satellite phones of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The temperature is dropping to a Goldilocks-esque perfect degree—not too cold, but not too hot. That means one thing: it’s time to get cozy while you make some s’mores and enjoy a cold beverage around a hot fire. And you can make that vibe easier to access with $200 off a Solo Stove portable fire pit at Amazon.

Solo Stove Yukon Portable Fire Pit with Stand $399.98 (Was $609.99)

SEE IT

The Solo Stove Yukon is the company’s largest smokeless fire pit, coming in at 27 inches in diameter and 17 inches in height. It’s not the latest Solo Stove Yukon—that would be the Yukon 2.0—but its previous iteration has the same superior airflow and smokeless action as its updated cousin. It also lacks a removable ashtray, but it’s not a dealbreaker if you don’t mind doing a little extra work to dispose of them. We love this brand of portable fire pits and feel it will ignite your passion for evenings outdoors.

No campfire is complete without some quality tunes, of course. Play some campfire hits from the JBL Go 3, which is 20% off. It’s waterproof, dustproof, and packs a big punch despite its compact size—perfect for making all those rustic Americana guitar tones melodic as they are mournful.

Get this deal before it blows out—not all fires can last forever.

Here are other deals we’re falling for:

• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 2 Max $1,699 (Was $2,299)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 1300 $769 (Was $1,099)
• EF ECOFLOW 110W Portable Solar Panel $199 (Was $299)
• BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC180 $799 (Was $1,099)
• Jackery Solar Explorer 1000 and 1xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panel $1,089 (Was $1,398)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 $229 (Was $279)
• Bose Portable Smart Speaker $349 (Was $399)
• Anker Soundcore 24-Hour Playtime Bluetooth Speaker $31.99 (Was $35.99)
• Soundcore Anker Motion Boom Plus IP67 Outdoor Speaker $159.99 (Was $179.99)
• Greenworks 24V 6″ Brushless Pruning Saw/Mini Chainsaw $135.99 (Was $159.99)
• Greenworks 80V (170 MPH / 730 CFM / 75+ Compatible Tools) Cordless Brushless Axial Leaf Blower, 4.0Ah Battery and Rapid Charger Included $286.99 (Was $349.99)
• Greenworks 40V 21″ Brushless (Smart Pace) Self-Propelled Lawn Mower, 2 x 4Ah USB (Power Bank) Batteries and Charger Included $450.49 (Was $529.99)
• Greenworks 40V Cordless String Trimmer and Leaf Blower Combo Kit $150.99 (Was $189.99)
• Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle with Cover $89.99 (Was $139.99)
• Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill $149 (Was $199)
• Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill $121.44 (Was $199)
• PIT BOSS PB2BSPD Sportsman Tabletop Portable Gas Griddle, 2 Burner, Black $169.15 (Was $249.99)

The post Cozy up to $200 in savings on this Solo Stove portable fire pit at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

September means it’s new iPhone and Apple Watch time. However, not every Apple Watch model is rugged enough for adventuring, and the activity-minded Apple Watch Ultra sports a hefty price tag. And those products may not have the aesthetic or depth of multisport functionality you want. Thankfully, a different watch company has something to announce in September: Garmin celebrates its 34th birthday with up to $200 in savings on its fitness watches at Amazon.

Garmin epix Gen 2 $689.95 (Was $899.99)

SEE IT

The Garmin epix (Gen. 2) is one of our favorite Garmin watches thanks to its AMOLED screen that shines through on even the brightest of lakeside sunny days. You can get from 42 hours to 16 days of battery power depending on your settings, and more than 30 built-in sports apps mean you get golf course maps and ski resort charts right from your wrist. 24/7 health monitoring lets you track oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiration, and more, and you can even use it to pay for a post-hike beverage with Garmin Pay contactless payments built-in. Talk about smart and sporty.

Samsung also has its wearables on sale on its website and at Amazon. We’re eyeing this Galaxy Watch 5, which lets you leave your phone behind and still take calls, send texts, and play music.

Here are more smartwatch deals we’ve mapped out:

• Garmin Instinct $172.05 (Was $249.99)
• Garmin vivoactive 4 $189.99 (Was $329.99)
• Garmin Forerunner 45s $129.99 (Was $169.99)
• Amazfit Bip 3 Smart Watch $53.99 (Was $59.99)

The post It’s time to save $200 on Garmin’s best smartwatch at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

It’s not technically fall yet—that happens on Sept. 21, if you’re a season purist—but pumpkin things are already on the shelf. If you can’t beat them, join them. Thankfully, KitchenAid has its mixers, attachments, and kitchen products on sale so you can get to making apple crisp, pumpkin rolls, banana nut muffins, and more.

KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer K45SS, White $279.99 (Was $329.99)

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KitchenAid mixers are synonymous with baking in the kitchen, and for good reason. They often last for 10-15 years with proper use and maintenance, and you can find replacement parts so you don’t have to ditch the entire appliance when something goes awry. Add any one of the company’s many attachments, and you turn your machine into an entirely new product. We love the five-piece pasta kit, which includes a pasta roller, fettuccine cutter, spaghetti cutter, lasagnette cutter, capellini cutter, and a cleaning brush. If extra attachments aren’t your jam, you’ll be happy with the included C-shaped dough hook, flat beater, and six-wire whisk attachments. You’ll be making the best meringues, cakes, and pies on the block.

This is a limited-time deal, and we’re not sure when it will end—better to snag it now than wait and potentially miss the deal.

If you’re looking for more KitchenAid accouterments, here’s what else is on sale:

• KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer-Black Matte $299.95 (Was $379.99)
• KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield, Contour Silver $379.99 (Was $459.99)
• KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer with Double Flex Edge Beater, Contour Silver $549.95 (Was $599.99)
• KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachment Shave Ice $74.95 (Was $99.99)
• KitchenAid Variable Speed Corded Hand Blender, Empire Red $49.99 (Was $59.99)
• KitchenAid 3-Piece Pasta Roller & Cutter Set $149.95 (Was $199.97)
• KitchenAid Fresh Prep Slicer/Shredder $44.96 (Was $59.99)
• KitchenAid Metal Food Grinder Attachment, Silver $74.95 (Was $99.99)
• KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment Stand Mixer, 2 Quart, White $69.95 (Was $99.99)
• KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Food Chopper, Contour Silver $44.99 (Was $59.99)
• KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachment Food Grinder $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• KitchenAid Spiralizer Plus Attachment with Peel, Core and Slice, Silver $99.95 (Was $149.99)

The post Save 15% on a KitchenAid stand mixer at Amazon for fall baking and cooking appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Thanksgiving brings Black Friday deals, but there’s a lesser-known fall shopping holiday that yields equally large savings: Labor Day. This past weekend honors and celebrates the American labor movement and happens to coincide with the biggest mattress sales of the year. Don’t ask us why that’s so—maybe so workers can get a good night’s sleep, as they deserve—but hey, a deal is a deal. However, a mattress isn’t just a mattress, so we scoured the internet for last-minute post-Labor Day mattress deals because a hard day’s work means you should get a great night’s sleep.

Casper Sleep Element Mattress, Queen, Grey $505.75 (Was $595)

SEE IT

Casper’s Element line is perfect for sleepers looking for support and cooling. A layer of AirScape perforated foam helps circulate air so you don’t get too hot at night, and a durable base prevents sinking and sagging for full-body support. This mattress—and every Casper mattress—is made from up to 121 recycled bottles, meaning you can truly rest easy knowing you’re having less impact on the Earth and your joints. Casper mattresses get delivered to your doorstep, so you don’t need to rent a truck to bring home a new mattress. And a 100-night trial and free returns means it won’t be a nightmare to give back if you don’t love it.

You can only advertise a Labor Day sale for so long, so definitely snag a mattress if you missed out on the major deals over the weekend. You’ll have to wait an entire year otherwise.

Here are other Labor Day mattress sales that are still ongoing:

• ZINUS 12 Inch Cooling Copper ADAPTIVE Pocket Spring Hybrid Mattress $298 (Was $385)
• ZINUS 8 Inch Foam and Spring RV Mattress $197.80 (Was $350)
• ZINUS 1.5/2/3/4-inch Swirl Gel Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper $32.90 (Was $59)
• Serta-iComfortECO S20GL Plush 13.25″ Queen Hybrid Smooth Top Mattress $1,599 (Was $1,999)
• Serta-7 inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Queen Size $283.99 (Was $399)
• Avenco California King Mattress 12 Inch, Hybrid Mattress Cal King $282.69 (Was $349.99)
• Flash Furniture Dream 12-Inch Hybrid Mattress in a Box, Full $209.99 (Was $273)
• PrimaSleep 10-Inch Wave Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress | Gray, Queen $228.95 (Was $259.99)
• NapQueen 6 Inch Full Size Mattress $165 (Was $179)
• NapQueen 6 Inch Innerspring Full Medium Firm Mattress $104.99 (Was $189)
• EGOHOME 12 Inch Queen Copper Gel Cooling Memory Foam Mattress $269.99 (Was $299.99)
• Coyuchi: Extra 20% off with the code EXTRA20
• Brooklyn Bedding: 30% off sitewide with the code LABORDAY30

The post These Labor Day mattress sales from Casper, Serta, and Zinus aren’t over—yet appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Solar generators are an excellent, energy-efficient way to power your home during a power outage or your RV while camping. And one of the best from Jackery—who we’re fans of, for good reason—is a whopping $500 off at Amazon.

Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 2000 Plus $1,869 (Was $2,399)

SEE IT

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus can power current-hungry devices at up to 6000w, so even if you want to power a welder, you can. The battery will only last you about a half-hour doing this (we tried it), but it does work, and that’s more than many other models can say. We tested the Explorer 2000 Plus after a storm disrupted power—It kept our router running for several hours to maintain connectivity. You can power it even longer by daisy-chaining extra external batteries or connecting optional solar panels. The switch to lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePo4) means this unit will last a long time before the battery degrades beyond its usable range. The company claims it will take 4,000 cycles before the battery life degrades to 70 percent—that’s a long time.

If you’re looking for something more compact to power smaller appliances, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 can power a mini cooler for nine hours and a laptop for 30 hours.

Don’t wait until you’re already out of power to take advantage of this deal—start preparing for an outage by snagging a generator.

Here are a few other powerful portable generator deals:

• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus with 1X200W Solar Panel $2,519 (Was $2,799)
• Goal Zero Yeti 6000X + 2 Ranger 300 Briefcase Solar Panels $5,444.75 w/ $1,250 clickable coupon (Was $6,694.75)
• UGREEN Solar Generator PowerRoam 1200 Portable Power Station with 200W Solar Panel $799 (Was $1,249)
• BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB3A, 268Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $209 (Was $349)
• BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200P, 2000Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $1,199 (Was $2,399)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station 3600Wh $2,899 (Was $3,499)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 $188 (Was $208.99)
• EF ECOFLOW RIVER Pro Portable Power Station 720Wh $479 (Was $649)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator RIVER 2 Pro 768Wh Portable Power Station & 160W Portable Solar Panel $699 (Was $899)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 2, 1024Wh $799 (Was $999)
• Anker 535 Solar Generator, Powerhouse 512Wh with 100W Solar Panel $587.99 (Was $799.99)
• Anker SOLIX F1200 Portable Power Station, PowerHouse 757 $899.99 (Was $1,399.99)

The post Save up to $500 on Jackery power stations at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

School is back in session, meaning a pair of noise-canceling headphones is beneficial for ultimate studying focus in the library or for finding some peace while the youngins play a little too ferociously with their Barbies. One of our favorite Bose earbuds—which are more low-profile compared to on-ear or over-ear headphones—are $50 off on Amazon.

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $249 (Was $299)

SEE IT

Per our review, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II “hold the undisputed ANC championship belt.” That’s perfect for noisy commutes, social portions of the library that are a little too social, and moments where you just want to be engrossed in the fantasy world of your audiobook. A selection of exchangeable silicon ear tips (S, M, L) and stability bands help you avoid a loose fit for running after the bus. IPX4 splash- and sweat-resistance keeps your earbuds protected in case you get caught in the rain/take a run). And a battery life of six hours in the ‘buds plus three additional charges (24 hours) in the case means long flights are covered. 9mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.3 (supporting the SBC/AAC codecs) give you smooth tunes without forgoing all textured transitions.

In case a pair of cans is more your jam, Bose has those on sale, too. The QuietComfort II’s over-ear cousins, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones, are down to $279 from $329. If you’re looking for something that looks a little more sleek with the same powerful ANC capabilities, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are on sale for $299, down from $379. We took this particular pair to a hardcore show and were able to make a phone call—yet another testament to the power of Bose’s ANC tech.

These deals are part of the company’s Bose Week promotion, so grab them before the week ends. You can get more information on the sale at the Bose website.

Here are more audio deals to tune in to:

• Bose Smart Soundbar 900 $699 (Was $899)
• Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Portable Speaker $129 (Was $149)
• SHOKZ OpenRun Mini $99.95 (Was $129.95)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 2 Pro $177.99 (Was $229.99)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds Live $69.99 (Was $149.99)
• JBL Bar 9.1 – Channel Soundbar System with Surround Speakers $699.95 (Was $1,199.95)
• Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones $278 (Was $349.99)
• Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones $348 (Was $399)
• Sony HT-A3000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar $498 (Was $699.99)
• Sony HT-A5000 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos Sound Bar $798 (Was $999.99)
• Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Sound Bar $998 (Was $1,399.99)
• Sony LinkBuds S Wireless Noise Canceling Earbuds $128 (Was $199.99)
• Sony SRS-XG300 X-Series Wireless Portable-Bluetooth Party-Speaker $198 (Was $349)

The post Our favorite noise-cancelling Bose earbuds are $50 off 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		Smartwool Everyday Spruce Street Crew Sock		SEE IT	Keep your feet dry and warm on everyday adventures.
Best for hiking		Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Sock		SEE IT	Like the name suggests, these socks can go from mountain to river and back.
Best for cycling		GripGrab Regular Cut Merino Cycling Socks		SEE IT	Thin enough to ensure an effient pedal stroke sans sweat.

Wool socks aren’t just for skiing or extreme cold weather situations. Combined with other materials, they can be incredibly durable, moisture-wicking, and fast-drying—all of which are incredibly important if you’re an athlete or hiker and wear shoes all day. However, wool socks can also provide everyday comfort to those who have incredibly sweaty feet. Although you might picture wool socks as thick and bulky, most are far from it. In fact, wool socks and “regular” socks are practically indistinguishable from each other. The best wool socks combine style, longevity, and comfort—because nothing as small as a sock should cause a big hassle. 

• Best overall: Smartwool Everyday Spruce Street Crew Sock
• Best for hiking: Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Sock
• Best for cycling: GripGrab Regular Cut Merino Cycling Socks
• Best for work: Dickies Men’s Dri-Tech Work Crew Socks
• Best for winter: HOT FEET Mens Active Work and Outdoors Hiking Socks
• Best budget: Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks

How we chose the best wool socks

I was #blessed with my dad’s sweaty feet, and I am a perpetually damp person. All of this is exacerbated by too much caffeine, very stressful boss battles, and the wrong kind of polyester. In fact, my hands are a little sweaty right now as I type this. The hyperhidrosis diagnosis remains unknown, but I do know one thing: what fabrics to wear to remain easy, breezy, and beautiful. Wool is just one of the many textiles I trust. 

With my perspiration propensity in mind, I gathered peer recommendations, looked at critical reviews and consumer impressions, performed personal testing, and conducted heavy research to find the best wool socks. No sheep were harmed in the making of this review.

The best wool socks: Reviews & Recommendations

Just like the Merino sheep they come from, no two pairs of wool socks are alike. The best wool socks are soft, durable, reliable, and machine washable. Here’s what made the cut:

Best overall: Smartwool Everyday Spruce Street Crew Sock

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Why it made the cut: An everyday sock that packs incredible performance power thanks to its primarily wool blend.

Specs

• Material: 52% Merino wool; 42% nylon; 2% recycled nylon, 4% elastaine 
• Machine washable: Yes
• Height: 8 inches
• Cushion: Zero cushion

Pros

• Secure fit
• Durable
• Comfort welt

Cons

• No cushion

If you’re looking to up your sock game, look no further than the Everyday Spruce Street Crew Socks from Smartwool, who claims they were the first outdoor company to make performance merino wool ski socks. Although not meant for skiing, these Smartwool socks hold up on the day-to-day and make your feet feel like a champion. Reliable and fashionable, these socks are durable thanks to Shred Shield technology that prevents your toes from ripping a hole in your sock, a la that one scene in Alien. A comfort welt helps them stay put, and the merino wool, which is ZQ-certified (an animal welfare and environmental standards audit), has all the benefits sans carbon footprint. 

Although the top pick is a crew height with no cushion, the company has plenty of other shoppable socks, both showy and sensible, like the targeted cushion ankle socks for running combo shown above. And our assistant managing editor loves his Bike Zero Cushion Ankle Socks, Run Targeted Cushion Low Ankle Socks, and Hike Full Cushion Lolo Trail Crew Socks, using Smartwool’s numerous options to customize his cushioning and coverage for a variety of activities.

Best for hiking: Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Sock

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Why it made the cut: Fine-gauge knitting gives this sock incredible durability—just like the name suggests.

Specs

• Material: 66% merino wool; 32% nylon; 2% lycra; spandex
• Machine washable: Yes
• Height: 6 inches
• Cushion: Full

Pros

• Feels like you’re not wearing a sock.
• Company dedicated to sustainability
• Full cushion for shock absorption 

Cons

• Socks can get fuzzy after washing

These socks have a lot to live up to coming from a company name like “Darn Tough.” Thankfully, these socks are truly darn tough. This sock is made using fine-gauge knitting and includes an undetectable seam for an invisible feel that’s obviously built to last. A performance fit means no slipping, bunching, or blisters while keeping your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This full-cushion, boot-height sock has a lifetime warranty—there aren’t that many brands that can say the same. Additionally, the company uses Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)-certified merino wool in all of its products and incorporates recycled nylon—it’s currently looking for a recycled spandex alternative. This means you can rest easy that your socks came from happy sheep and were made with a limited impact on the environment.

Best for cycling: GripGrab Regular Cut Merino Cycling Socks 

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Why it made the cut: Made specifically for cycling, these tall socks have the right amount of cushion to make hours spent in cycling shoes more comfortable.

Specs

• Material: 52% merino wool, 25% polyamide, 20% polyester, 3% elastane
• Machine washable: Yes
• Height: 8 inches
• Cushion: Light

Pros

• Odor-resistant
• Versatile
• Comfortable

Cons

• Might be too light for colder rides
• Expensive

A great pair of cycling socks isn’t just a fashion statement. The socks keep you comfortable as you ride. A three-pack will cost you $54.99, but we think it’s worth it as a specialty sock. The light cushioning isn’t bulky and is in all the right places. The toe seam is practically invisible, and the cuff at the top doesn’t dig into your calves—a major problem with cyclists with thick calves from all the leg work. The balance of merino and synthetic fibers makes this sock durable with just enough of the wool benefits. It also looks classy—no one would know it’s a cycling sock unless you told them. However, reviews note that it’s better suited for warmer rides.

Best for work: Dickies Men’s Dri-Tech Work Crew Socks

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Why it made the cut: These heavy-duty wool socks come in a bundle to keep your feet dry every day of the week.

Specs

• Material: 48% polyester, 25% wool, 20% acrylic, 5% nylon, 2% spandex
• Machine washable: Yes
• Height: 6 inches
• Cushion: Full

Pros

• Thick but lightweight
• Reinforced heel and toe
• Arch compression

Cons

• Not as soft compared to other socks
• Might not fit smaller feet

Some jobs require steel-toed shoes, which can be tough on your feet. These wool-blend socks from Dickies regulate your foot temperature. Added Dri-Tech fights sweat for dry feet. Cushioning in the leg and foot allows for all-day comfort in constricting shoes and steel-toed boots. Compression at the arch provides support, while a special heel lock keeps the socks in place. Ventilation channels provide extra air circulation and moisture control. Also, they come in a bundle, which means you can save on getting more than one pair for work.

Best for winter: HOT FEET Mens Active Work and Outdoors Hiking Socks

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Why it made the cut: These thick socks are extra cozy thanks to a thermal wool blend that won’t make your feet sweat.

Specs

• Material: 62% polyester, 20% wool, 15% nylon, 3% spandex
• Machine washable: Yes
• Height: 6 inches
• Cushion: Full

Pros

• Reinforced heel and toe
• Moisture wicking
• Versatile

Cons

• Have a tendency to fall down

If you don’t want to get a pair of heated socks or to size your shoes for heated insoles, consider these a great option. You can throw them on for lounging around the house or ski lounge, or take them outside under your favorite boots. A stretchy ribbed cuff keeps the socks in place without digging into your leg, and reinforced heels protect your feet. Also, moisture-wicking means they’ll stay dry in your ski boots. The socks are thicker, so you won’t have to worry about blisters or cold feet.

Best budget: Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks 

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Why it made the cut: You don’t have to break the bank for a soft, warm pair of wool socks that are great for lounging or adventuring.

Specs

• Material: 80% Merino wool, 15% polyester, 4% nylon, 1% spandex
• Machine washable: Yes
• Height: 6 inches
• Cushion: Full

Pros

• Primarily wool construction
• Bundle pack
• Fuzzy on the inside

Cons

• Heels and balls of feet wear out fast
• Run large

If you’re looking for knit socks that aren’t expensive, look no further than this bundle-pack from Alvada. A reinforced heel and toe area allow for more durability and keep your feet blister-free. Arch compression provides support and stability, and full cushion padding gives you extra protection. Say goodbye to stinky feet thanks to ventilation channels that allow for more airflow and breathability. Plus, the socks have a great balance of wool and synthetic fibers to keep your feet dry. They wear out more than higher-priced socks and run large, but you can’t beat the price.

What to consider when buying the best wool socks

Unlike the scratchy, itchy ragg wool that makes up your mom’s sweaters from the ’80s, most wool socks are made of merino wool. This soft, thin fiber comes from Merino sheep and is known for its natural properties: It regulates body temperature, wicks moisture, and prevents odors sans bulk. It’s usually combined with other materials like polyester, nylon, cotton, and spandex for the right balance of the good stuff. Here’s what else you should know when searching for the best wool socks:

Use

A wool sock made for everyday wear is going to perform differently than a crew sock built for cycling. The same goes for those meant for hiking, running, and hunting. When you’re going to wear the sock also matters. A thinner ankle sock is going to be more comfortable than a thick crew sock in the hot, hazy throes of summer. Think about what activity your socked feet will have to endure and shop accordingly. 

Cushion

Cushioning helps prevent blisters and acts as a buffer against the shoe. Wearing a sock with low cushioning with a tough hiking boot leads to major discomfort—and you’ll have to give up halfway up the mountain. Look for a pair of wool socks with more cushioning in the toe, heel, and ankle area if you’re going to wear boots. Likewise, you can get away with less cushioning if you’re wearing extra comfy sneakers with your socks. 

Height

A tall wool sock prevents your tall hiking boots from rubbing against your calf. It also protects your legs from any nasty, gnarly brush or bugs you encounter. If you’re looking to air out your legs because you’re simply walking down the street and not fending off random detritus, choose an ankle-height or no-show sock. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wool socks

• Best overall: Smartwool Everyday Spruce Street Crew Sock
• Best for hiking: Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Sock
• Best for cycling: GripGrab Regular Cut Merino Cycling Socks
• Best for work: Dickies Men’s Dri-Tech Work Crew Socks
• Best for winter: HOT FEET Mens Active Work and Outdoors Hiking Socks
• Best budget: Alvada Merino Wool Hiking Socks

Wool socks can ease feet during your next big adventure but are functional enough to be worn every day. Although “wool” tends to conjure images of a shoulder-pad clad, gaudy, itchy, eau de mothball sweater that has haunted many a closet and clothing rack, the best wool socks are far from that. Our top picks, from brands like Smartwool, are soft, dependable, and practically indistinguishable from cotton socks. However, they’re more breathable and naturally antimicrobial, keeping your feet dry and your spirits high. Say goodbye to stinky, sweaty feet and hello to sheep-sponsored pleasurable podiatry.

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 wool socks of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

If you were holding out on getting the latest The Legend of Zelda title because of price, today is your lucky day: A copy can be yours for just $50 on Amazon, around $20 off its regular $69.99 pricing.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom $48.95 (Was $69.99)

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As someone who owns and has played this game … you are definitely missing out if you don’t. You’ll find great joy in learning the new game mechanics and diving into the plot—literally, you’re skydiving in this game. You don’t even need to play Breath of the Wild, its predecessor, to appreciate the story and gameplay (although your playthrough will be much more informed if you do). Did we mention that both games feature a hot fish prince?

If you’re familiar with the franchise, you know the drill. But if you don’t: Zelda is in trouble. Ganon/Ganondorf* is up to no good. It’s up to Link, the Hero of Time, thee Hylian Champion, to defeat Ganon(dorf) and his monstrous cronies to stop darkness from descending over Hyrule and save Zelda.

*Ganon is the god; Ganondorf is Ganon in human form. You’re welcome.

Of course, you’ll need a Switch console to play the game. For bang for your buck, we prefer the OG model over the Switch Lite or OLED version, but all are venerable options if you play primarily handheld. And, if you’re typically a digital game-only person, you might want to put preferences aside for now: only the physical copy of the game is on sale.

This deal is sure to disappear, much like Zelda in almost every iteration of the franchise. She returns by the end of the game, but we’re not sure if this deal will reappear, even after a long, arduous journey, so grab Tears of the Kingdom to avoid shedding tears of frustration.

Here are other gaming goodies on sale, and it’s not a secret to everybody:

• Save $150 when you bundle a Sony TV and PS5
• PXN P50L Wireless Switch Pro Controller $17.99 (Was $32.99)
• PXN 9607X Wireless Switch Pro Controller $21.99 (Was $32.99)
• PXN Wireless Switch Controller for Switch/Lite/OLED, iOS (16 Version Only) $17.99 ($32.99)
• 12-in-1 Switch Sports Accessories Bundle for Nintendo Switch Sports $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• JBL Quantum 400 $59.95 (Was $99.95)
• Mosahall Switch Game Case Holder with 24 Cartridge Slots and 24 Micro SD Card Storage $12.99 (Was $15.99)
• Klipdasse Charging Dock Compatible with Nintendo Switch & Switch OLED Model $14.39 (Was $17.99)
• Orzly Steering Wheels for Nintendo Switch & OLED Joy-cons $15.29 (Was 16.99)
• SOMIC G951S Green Gaming Headset with Microphone for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, PC $31.99 (Was $59.99)

The post Get slashed savings on The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom 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		Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light		SEE IT	Plenty of brightness and sound settings make it easier to wake up refreshed.
Best that doubles as a lamp		Loftie Lamp		SEE IT	Decor or sunrise alarm? You get to decide with this modernist light.
Best budget		hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock		SEE IT	You don’t need to pay much for a quality sunrise alarm clock.

Using the sunrise as an alarm clock has roots in classical yoga theory and is thought to improve mood. Additionally, waking up with the light can balance your body’s internal clock. However, it’s not always easy to depend on the sun to wake you up, especially on cloudy days, during falls and winter, or if you’re a serial snoozer who needs to be dragged out of bed and thrown into a bucket of cold water in the mornings just to be half-roused. The best sunset alarm clocks help you rise easily for more productive and relaxed mornings.

• Best overall: Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light
• Best with sound machine: Hatch Restore
• Best that doubles as a lamp: Loftie Lamp
• Best without an app: JALL Wake Up Sunrise Alarm Clock
• Best budget: hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock

How we chose the best sunrise alarm clocks

Simulating the sunrise is no easy task. To find the best sunrise alarm clocks, we looked at critical reviews and peer recommendations, compiled our personal experiences and other user impressions, and conducted heavy research. We also looked into factors like budget, additional features, app connectivity, and variety of sounds to find something that fits as many lifestyles and kinds of sleepers as we could account for. You won’t get the best use out of your wake-up light if you don’t like using it. 

I hate to brag, but I am a perfect test subject for this story: I’m a heavy sleeper who is prone to snoozing too much, so I know a thing or two about creative, sometimes aggressive alarms. Getting up out of bed can be challenging, especially when you live in one of the cloudiest cities on the East Coast, as I do. Besides being a very capable and willing human guinea pig wanting to have a cute little morning routine, I’ve also covered gadgets for Gear Patrol and PopSci, among others. 

The best sunrise alarm clocks: Reviews & Recommendations

Camus said we must imagine Sisyphus happy with his Sisyphean tasks, and if you’re going to spend the day doing the same cursed task, the best alarm clocks can help you wake up on the right side of the bed. From ones with relaxing waterfall sounds and built-in mediation practices to ones that blend in with your decor, here are our bright picks.

Best overall: Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light

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Why it made the cut: With more than 20 brightness options and a no-frills construction, better days are ahead with this customizable, easy-to-use alarm clock.

Specs

• Dimensions: 6″D x 10″W x 10″H
• Bluetooth connectivity: No
• Light options: 20
• Wake-up sounds: 5

Pros

• Plenty of brightness settings to choose from 
• Fall asleep settings
• Doubles as a lamp

Cons

• Can only choose from natural wake-up sounds, no regular alarm sounds
• Might not fit on smaller nightstands

Good morning sunshine, the Earth says hello … when you wake up with the Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light. Choose from more than 20 brightness settings and five nature-inspired wake-up sounds to customize the kind of light and sound you want to rouse you out of bed. If waking up to music is more your jam, it includes a built-in FM radio. If you must snooze, simply tap the clock, which also doubles as a bedside lamp. The automatic dimmable display—and lack of cellphone connectivity, which can cause scroll temptation—helps you block out extra light to get deep ZZZs. It can also help you fall asleep, thanks to built-in settings that let you know when it’s time to call lights out. If you’re looking for a Philips sunrise alarm clock with more bells and whistles, check out the company’s SmartSleep Connected Sleep and Wake-Up Light, which includes an app that allows you to track your sleeping for data-driven dreams. At 10 inches high and wide, it might take up your entire nightstand. However, you’re guaranteed to see the light with an alarm clock like this. Decorate accordingly.

Best with sound machine: Hatch Restore

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Why it made the cut: Built-in soundscapes, stories, and mind/body exercises can help calm your racing thoughts. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 2.75”D x 7.5″W x 5.75″H
• Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
• Light options: Yes, number depends on membership
• Wake-up sounds: Yes, number depends on membership

Pros

• Thin profile
• Helps with keeping a nighttime routine
• Rich with features

Cons

• Device requires WiFi and Bluetooth

Remember getting a solid night of sleep as a child after nighttime reading? Recreate that deep, luxurious sleep with the Hatch Restore 2. It includes plenty of light options, stories, soundscapes, and can even help you maintain a nighttime routine: you can program up to 10 steps in the app to help you fall asleep. You can adjust the light brightness, color, and sleep sound for each step. This is incredibly useful if you have a hard time winding down, or you accidentally get caught up in yet another episode of Love Island … again. The Hatch Sleep Membership is $9.99 per month, which gives you even more sounds, colors, and stories to choose from. The device requires WiFi and Bluetooth to use—if you don’t have access to either, you might have to skip this clock.

Best that doubles as a lamp: Loftie Lamp

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Why it made the cut: Made with aesthetics in mind, you can’t even tell it’s specifically for waking you up. 

Specs

• Dimensions:  9”D x 11.5”W x 16”H (With shade)
• Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
• Light options: Yes
• Wake-up sounds: No

Pros

• Adjustable brightness
• Doubles as a reading light
• Blends into decor

Cons

• Wi-Fi connection needed for use
• Need a separate device for alarm sounds

The Loftie Lamp looks like a regular lamp at first glance. However, when combined with the intuitive Loftie app, it turns into a sunrise alarm clock that blends into your decor. Adjust the brightness in the app or by using the light intensity controls on the back. You can also use the lamp for sunset wind-downs: the light that crawls up the top of the lamp to wake you in the morning fades and recedes back to the base toward nightfall to alert your body that it’s time for sleep. If you’re looking to add breathwork, wind-downs, and light-and-sound wakeups, pair the Loftie Lamp with the Loftie Clock—it’s sleek, stylish, and adds more traditional alarm features compared to the Loftie Lamp alone. 

Best without an app: JALL Wake Up Sunrise Alarm Clock

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Why it made the cut: Keep your phone away from your sleeping area with this standalone sunrise alarm clock that doesn’t need an app to operate. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 3.5”D x 7.2”W x 7.2”H  
• Bluetooth connectivity: No
• Light options: Yes, 20 levels of adjustable brightness, 7 colors available
• Wake-up sounds: Yes, 7 sounds to choose from

Pros

• Features a traditional alarm clock beep sound
• Standalone operation
• Can set two different alarms to go off

Cons

• Can’t program for certain days of the week

Many sunrise alarm clocks include an app to control alarm settings and brightness. However, if the thought of connecting yet another thing to your phone makes you violently ill, consider the JALL Wake Up Sunrise Alarm Clock, which is solely operated manually. Along with wake-up sounds, it includes a stand alarm beep—perfect for heavy sleepers who need a bigger push to get out of bed. Use it as a reading lamp or nightlight to unwind before bed, or choose between seven color options that allow you to set the vibe. You can also change the brightness of the display to ensure you get a good night’s sleep. 

Best budget: hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock

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Why it made the cut: You don’t have to break the bank to get up at the crack of dawn with this multipurpose clock. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.1”D x 7.4”W x 7”H  
• Bluetooth connectivity: No
• Light options: Yes, 7 color options and 10 brightness settings
• Wake-up sounds: Yes, 7 options

Pros

• Great for the price
• No app (if that’s your jam)

Cons

• Unable to dim the colored lights
• No app (if that’s your jam)

The hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock is probably the cheapest sunrise alarm clock on the market. But don’t let its low price fool you—it’s packed with features similar to more expensive clocks, like a dimmable display and different color options. And, like other choices on our list, you can use it as a reading, night, or mood light. Sound options include a regular alarm beep, bird noises, a lullaby, and ocean waves, making it a great sunrise alarm clock for kids. The snooze button is easy to find, and it doesn’t need app connectivity for use. However, if you were looking for app connectivity, you’ll sadly not have it with this alarm clock. Overall, the hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock has features seen in pricier alarm clocks at an un-pricey cost.

What to consider when buying the best sunrise alarm clock

Everyone wakes up differently—it’s important to find one that suits your sleep pattern and habits, so you don’t find yourself sleeping through your alarm.

Why a sunrise alarm clock?

Light can affect your circadian rhythm, sleep, and mood. Too much blue light from our phones and computers can keep us up at night, caught up in a scroll that feels like an ouroboros. Too little light from changing seasons can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Those affected by SAD use happy lamps to help cure those winter blues.

The sleep-wake cycle is determined by your circadian rhythm—the mental, behavioral, and physical changes that happen throughout a 24-hour cycle. And your circadian rhythm is happiest when it gets lots of natural light. 

So if artificial light is semi-bad and real light is very good … why a sunrise simulator alarm clock? The light coming from the clock is different than the kind you get staring endlessly into your phone or computer. Usually, sunrise alarm clocks include white or yellow LED lightbulb that leans toward the warmer side of the light spectrum, which is around 100-300 lux. By gradually getting brighter over a 15- to 60-minute timespan, the light tricks your body into thinking that you’re experiencing the real sun, making it easier to wake up. Which, as mentioned earlier, makes your circadian rhythm extra happy despite the slight deception. 

App & Bluetooth connectivity

Some smart sunrise alarm clocks have included apps and Bluetooth connectivity to adjust settings and control the alarms from your phone. This feature is especially useful if you forget to turn off your alarm when preparing to sleep over at a paramour’s house. However, if you’d like to stay as far away from your phone as possible when it comes to sleep, consider one that doesn’t have those particular bells and whistles.

Sounds & light

The abrupt shift from dead sleep to awake can be disorienting and make us more prone to hit “snooze” when our alarm goes off. The sounds should be gentle enough to make waking up easier, but loud enough to hear. Similarly, the sunrise part of the sunrise alarm clock should be bright enough to wake you up. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best sunrise alarm clocks

• Best overall: Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light
• Best with sound machine: Hatch Restore
• Best that doubles as a lamp: Loftie Lamp
• Best without an app: JALL Wake Up Sunrise Alarm Clock
• Best budget: hOmeLabs Sunrise Alarm Clock

The best sunrise alarm clocks can help you wake up with the chickens—you might even beat the rooster crowing. Although they are more expensive than their sound-only counterparts, what you get health-wise is worth their price. You can help regulate your circadian rhythm, beat the winter blues, and have more productive mornings with the best sunrise alarm clocks. If you’re not a morning owl, we hope at least one of our choices can help you become one.

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 sunrise alarm clocks of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Modern humans multitask. “Kill two birds with one stone” is one of the most popular adages of our time because we’re often always doing two things at once. Brushing your teeth while rounding up the kids? Listening to a podcast on the treadmill? Upgrading your TV when you buy a PlayStation 5 at Amazon? They all count.

Sony OLED 55-inch BRAVIA XR A80L Series 4K Ultra HD TV with Playstation 5 Console $1,847.99 (Was $2,399.98)

SEE IT

If you’re looking for a TV that will make the games on your new console shine, look no further than the BRAVIA XR A80L. A Cognitive Processor XR gives you dynamic contrast, detailed blacks, natural colors, and high peak brightness. It makes pretty pictures and is pretty smart too, thanks to built-in Google TV and support for Apple AirPlay and Alexa. A Game Menu lets you put gaming picture settings in one place, and features like Auto Genre Picture Mode optimizes your PS5 graphics. You’ll really feel the future nature apocalypse setting of Horizon: Forbidden West. The bundle deal applies to X90L series: 55”/65”/75”/85”; A80L series: 55”/65”/77”/83”; and X93L series: 65”/75”/85”.

If you’re just looking for a TV, the LG QNED80 Series 86-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV is 29% off, bringing the price down from $2,799.99 to $1,996.99. The a7 AI Processor Gen6 uses AI to detect what you’re watching to improve picture and sound quality, making it perfect for gaming or streaming.

If you’re looking to turn your TV smart, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a whopping 51% off, down to $26.99 from $54.99. It’s 40% more powerful than the Fire TV Stick 4K, which is $49.99. More power for less? The math adds up for us.

The Sony TV and PlayStation 5 bundle deal ends Sept. 4, so take advantage of it before back-to-school season.

Here are other television deals at Amazon we’re watching:

• Sony 85-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X77L Series $1,298 (Was $1,499.99)
• Sony A90J 65-Inch TV: BRAVIA XR OLED 4K Ultra HD Smart Google TV $2,198 (Was $2,999.99)
• Sony 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X80K Series $798 (Was $899.99)
• INSIGNIA All-New 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $219.99 (Was $349.99)
• INSIGNIA 43-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $159.99 (Was $299.99)
• Toshiba 75-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $529.99 (Was $799.99)
• Toshiba 32-inch Class V35 Series LED HD Smart Fire TV (32V35KU, 2021 Model) $89.99 (Was $99.99)
• Amazon Fire TV 55″ Omni QLED Series 4K UHD smart TV $429.99 (Was $599.99)
• Amazon Fire TV 43″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV $239.99 (Was $369.99)

The post Save $150 when you bundle a Sony TV and PS5 during Amazon’s back-to-school sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We know you’re not reading any of the books in your TBR (to be read) pile any time soon. Please don’t feel bad; neither are we … because thanks to Barnes & Noble’s Book Haul sale, we’ve added stacks of deeply discounted new releases, audiobooks, ebooks, and even a Nook eReader.

Nook GlowLight 4e $89.99 (Was $119.99)

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Great for subway commutes and reading on the couch, the Nook GlowLight 4e is an excellent small tablet for first-time eReader buyers and those who have been around the eBook block. 8 GB of storage gives plenty of room for your digital library. The paper-like display is glare-free and has an adjustable front light, making reading easy on a bright beach or in a dark airplane. You can use physical buttons or a finger swipe to turn the page, and the Nook reading app makes it easy to put down your Nook and pick up where you left off on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. The battery life is the best part: You get weeks of reading time on a single charge.

This deal ends Sept. 4, giving you around two weeks to decide if you want to read the TBR pile or add more titles to it. As someone who has read a Twilight book in a day, I believe in you.

Here are some reads we recommend picking up during the Book Haul:

Hardcover

• Taste: My Life Through Food, Stanley Tucci $14.50 (Was $29)
• The Climate Book: The Facts and the Solutions, Greta Thunberg $15 (Was $30)
• Pageboy: A Memoir, Elliot Page $14.99 (Was $29.99)
• Stella Maris, Cormac McCarthy $13 (Was $26)
• My Last Innocent Year: A Novel, Daisy Alpert Florin $13.99 (Was $27.99)
• I’m No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts: Mini-Meditations for Saints, Sinners, and the Rest of Us, Kristin Chenoweth $11.49 (Was $22.99)
• The Things We Make: The Unknown History of Invention from Cathedrals to Soda Cans, Bill Hammack $13.49 (Was $26.99)
• Alexandra Petri’s US History: Important American Documents (I Made Up), Alexandra Petri $13.97 (Was $27.95)
• Good Eats: The Final Years (B&N Exclusive Edition), Alton Brown $20 (Was $40)
• The Big Reveal: An Illustrated Manifesto of Drag, Sasha Velour $22.50 (Was $45)
• Seinfeld: The Official Cookbook, Julie Tremaine, Brendan Kirby $17.49 (Was $34.99)
• Martha Stewart’s Very Good Things: Clever Tips & Genius Ideas for an Easier, More Enjoyable Life, Martha Stewart $15 (Was $30)
• Birdgirl: Looking to the Skies in Search of a Better Future, Mya-Rose Craig $14 (Was $28)
• If It Sounds Like a Quack…: A Journey to the Fringes of American Medicine, Matthew Hongoltz-Hetling $14.50 (Was $29)
• Nowhere Left to Go: How Climate Change Is Driving Species to the Ends of the Earth, Benjamin von Brackel, Ayca Turkoglu (Translator) $13.47 (Was $26.95)
• Rap Capital: An Atlanta Story, Joe Coscarelli $14.99 (Was $29.99),

eBook

• The Queen’s Gambit, Walter Tevis $9.99 (Was $19.99)
• The Lost Daughter, Elena Ferrante $8.99 (Was $17.99)

Audiobook

• The Mother of All Degrassi: A Memoir, by Linda Schuyler, narrated by Robin Siegerman $9.99 (Was $19.99)

The post Get 50% off some darn great reads with Barnes & Noble’s Book Haul sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Will back-to-school leave you an empty nester? Or will it leave you as the one who flew that nest and now needs to build things on their own? Regardless of your roost, Amazon has you covered on tools for DIY-ing or assembling a particle board desk with this DeWalt deal.

DeWalt 20V MAX Battery, 6 Ah, 2-Pack $164.20 (Was $289)

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If you already have a litany of DeWalt power tools and are simply looking for more run time, look no further than the DeWalt 20V MAX Battery, which provides double the capacity of a standard battery pack and fully charges in under 90 minutes. A 3-LED fuel gauge system means you can check out how much charge you have left. And, this battery has no memory and virtually no self-discharge for less downtime and more drillin’. It’s perfect for higher-demand tools like demo hammers, grinders, and impact drivers.

We’ve seen stock fluctuate on DeWalt tools, meaning you should snag that polisher you’ve been eyeing before some car dad gets their motor-oil-covered hands on it. Your ride deserves to be the shiniest, dang it!

You can check out the entire list of DeWalt tools on sale, but here are some that catch our eye:

• DEWALT 20V MAX Jobsite Fan, Cordless, Portable, Bare Tool Only (DCE512B) $99 (Was $169)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and Charger, Yellow/Black (DCK240C2) $159 (Was $239)
• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit, Compact, 1/2-Inch (DCD771C2), Dewalt Yellow $99 (Was $179)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 460 MWO Engine, 0-50 Degree Bevel Capability, Bare Tool Only (DCS391B) $99 (Was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw $99 (Was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench $186.30 (Was $279)
• DEWALT Table Saw, 10 Inch, 32-1/2 Inch Rip Capacity $549 (Was $669)

The post Save up to $100 on DeWalt tools for fall DIY-ing at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Are you someone who has managed to bring a cactus to its untimely end? Does a pothos quiver in your presence? If you’re known as the Green Reaper amongst your friends and fauna, jump on this chance to get a deeply discounted AeroGarden—available at a whopping 55% off for a limited time—to do the watering work for you.

AeroGarden Harvest Hydroponic Indoor Garden $75 (Was $164.95)

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This hydroponic garden—which uses water instead of soil to house your plants—makes growing herbs easy. It includes six seed pods: Genovese basil, curly parsley, dill, thyme, Thai basil, and mint. You can also purchase pods that grow salad greens and red heirloom cherry tomatoes if you want to change up what’s in your garden. There’s practically no mess thanks to the distinct lack of soil, and the easy-to-read control panel lets you know when to add water and plant food. You don’t even need to worry about your little plant babies getting light—the unit turns the 20-watt LED lights on and off. You’ll have herbs, flowers, and even veggies in your home year-round in no time. Soon, you’ll dream of seedling starter trays and raised garden beds.

So you’ve proven yourself a capable farmer, but what about your cooking skills? Turn those veggies and herbs into a delicious meal with a Char-Broil 22652143 Edge Electric Grill—which will only cost you $499, 38% off from its $799.99 regular price. Stick some of that basil in your meat mix for the best burgers in the neighborhood.

However, these deals aren’t perennial; we don’t know if they will return next year or even tomorrow, so hurry and take advantage of the sale before it withers away.

Here are other gardening and outdoor deals that are growing on us:

• AeroGarden Harvest Elite with Gourmet Herb Seed Pod Kit $105.50 (Was $205.95)
• AeroGarden Stem Grow Light for Indoor Plants $34.55 (Was $51.93)
• Costa Farms Live Little Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree $19.76 (Was $29.99)
• Plants for Pets 12-Pack Live Houseplants $32.98 (Was $40.84)
• Karcher K1700 1700 PSI 1.2 GPM TruPressure Electric Pressure Washer $129.99 (Was $189.99)
• Flash Furniture Savannah Poly Resin Wood Adirondack Rocking Chair $212 (Was $341)
• Flash Furniture 28” Round Glass Metal Table with Gray Rattan Edging and 2 Chairs $92 (Was $115.59)
• OLLE Galvanized Raised Garden Beds $219.99 (Was $299)
• Tiki Island King Lanai Garden Torch, Silver $20.79 (Was $25.99)

The post Grow greens while saving some with an AeroGarden at its lowest-ever price on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Back to school is almost here, meaning it’s time to pull out the blazers, trousers, and coats for professor-inspired, college-core, dark academia drip. Nothing says, “I am an adjunct at a New England college and also the mysterious protagonist in a romance novel,” quite like a really nice watch. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend much to put the cherry on top of your literary cosplay cake with up to 50% off Citizen, Timex, and Bulova watches at Amazon.

Tissot T-Sport PRC200 Chronograph Mens Watch-Stainless Steel, Grey $221.99 (Was $595)

SEE IT

On sale for a massive 63% off, the Tissot T-Sport PRC200 Chronograph Mens Watch features a thin, 42-millimeter 316L stainless steel case and sleek light and dark grey band. You get Arabic numbers and thick stick indices on the face, with the typical chronograph watch subdials. Don’t let its stylish face fool you: it’s water-resistant up to 20 bars of pressure and includes a diver extension closure to fit over a wetsuit if you wish. You might want to save it for swimming laps, as it’s not made for diving or snorkeling.

If you’d rather channel Jedi Knight, Citizen’s Star Wars-inspired watches are back in stock. You sold them out the first time we wrote about them, so now is your chance to get your hands (or hand, in Luke Skywalker’s case) on one.

Citizen Eco-Drive Star Wars Men’s Watch, Stainless Steel with Orange Leather strap, Rebel Pilot, Silver-Tone, 44mm $244.41 (Was $395)

SEE IT

We love the “May the Force be with you” engraving on the back of this watch, along with symbols—a helmet and an X-Wing fighter—that show you’re part of the Rebel cause. Even better, it’s 38% off.

These are the Citizen x Star Wars watches you’re looking for:

• Citizen Star Wars ANI-Digi Quartz Watch $340 (Was $395)
• Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Star Wars Death Star Black IP Stainless Steel Watch $335.75 (Was $395)
• Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Star Wars Millennium Falcon Stainless Steel Chronograph Watch $297.50 (Was $375)
• Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Star Wars Mandalorian Watch $232.03 (Was $375)
• Citizen Quartz Star Wars Men’s Watch, Stainless Steel $300 (Was $375)
• Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Star Wars Chewbacca Black IP Stainless Steel on Brown Leather Strap $200.91 (Was $325)
• Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Star Wars Force Awakening Watch $237.50 (Was $295)
• Citizen Eco-Drive Men’s Limited Edition 40th Anniversary Star Wars Bespin Watch $262.50 (Was $375)

And here are more watch deals that are not a trap:

• Bulova Men’s 3-Hand Calendar Date Quartz Watch, Patterned Dial, 38mm $151 (Was $295)
• Timex Men’s Expedition Grid Shock 50mm Watch $45.12 (Was $83.30)
• Fossil Minimalist Men’s Watch $71.94 (Was $150)
• Tissot Mens Tradition 5.5 316L Stainless Steel case Swiss Quartz Watch $171.24 (Was $450)
• Citizen Men’s Sport Casual Garrison 3-Hand Day/Date Eco-Drive Watch $276.25 (Was $425)
• Bulova Men’s Classic Stainless Steel Six-Hand Chronograph Quartz Watch $226.24 (Was $375)
• Fossil Everett Men’s Watch $88.29 (Was $190)
• Fossil Machine Men’s Watch $76.50 (Was $160)
• Bulova Men’s Classic American Clipper 3-Hand Automatic Leather Strap Watch $237 (Was $395)

The post Update your fall wardrobe with up to 50% off Citizen, Timex, and Bulova watches at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

August’s back-to-school rush makes it a beautiful time for those looking for great-sounding deals. If you’re hankering for some new earbuds to make the walk to an 8 a.m. biology lecture more joyful—or you’re a parent that wants to listen to podcasts while waiting for afterschool activities to end—Amazon has you covered with 25% off personal audio products from 1MORE, Anker, Sony, and more.

1MORE PistonBuds Pro Hybrid Active Noise Canceling Wireless Earbuds $49.99 (Was $69.99)

SEE IT

The 1MORE PistonBuds Pro Hybrid Active Noise Canceling Wireless Earbuds are 27% off on Amazon, and their impressive features punch above their price point. They include hybrid active noise canceling tech that cancels up to 38 dB of sound. A 10-millimeter dynamic driver gives you bright vocals, well-balanced outputs, and clarity across frequency ranges, while the AAC Bluetooth codec allows premium sound on iOS devices. Twelve studio-grade EQ settings made by Sonarworks give you sound recommended by 45 Grammy sound engineers for genre-specific listening. Calls are also clear thanks to four microphones and built-in deep learning AI. They’re also available on the 1MORE website for the same price.

Here are other 1MORE you can grab before the deal ends Aug. 20:

• 1MORE Aero Wireless Earbuds $82.49 (Was $109.99)
• 1MORE SonoFlow Active Noise Cancelling Headphones $85.50 (Was $99.99)
• 1MORE Omthing AirFree Buds $29.99 (Was $39.99)
• 1MORE ComfoBuds Mini Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds $80 (Was $99.99)
• 1MORE SonoFlow Active Noise Cancelling Headphones $85.50 (Was $99.99)
• 1MORE PistonBuds Bluetooth Headphones $24.99 (Was $39.99)
• 1MORE Quad Driver in-Ear Earphones Hi-Res High Fidelity Headphones $99 (Was $129.99)
• 1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear Earphones Hi-Res Headphones $54.99 (Was $68.59)
• 1MORE Piston Fit in-Ear Earphones $11.99 (Was $19.99)
• 1MORE SonoFlow Active Noise Cancelling Headphones $85.50 (Was $99.99)

Here are more headphones, earbuds, and speakers on sale at Amazon:

• Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones, Over-Ear Headphones $279 (Was $329)
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $249 (Was $299)
• Sony WH-XB910N Noise Cancelling Headphones $148 (Was $249)
• Sony WF-C700N Truly Wireless Noise Canceling in-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones $98 (Was $119.99)
• Sony-INZONE H7 Wireless Gaming Headset $148 (Was $229.99)
• Sony-INZONE H9 Wireless Noise Canceling Gaming Headset $248 (Was $299.99)
• Sony-INZONE H3 Wired Gaming Headset $78 (Was $99.99)
• Sony SRS-XB100 Wireless Bluetooth Portable Speaker $48 (Was $59.99)
• Sony SRS-XG300 X-Series Wireless Portable-Bluetooth Party-Speaker $198 (Was $349.99)
• Sony SRS-XV800 X-Series Wireless Portable Bluetooth Karaoke Party Speaker $548 (Was $649.99)
• Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones $44.99 (Was $59.99)

The post Beat the back-to-school beat with 25% off earbuds and more 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		Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker		SEE IT	This 113dB alarm is sure to wake you up.
Best without waking roommates		Shock Clock 2		SEE IT	Wear your sleep on your sleeve and unlearn your snoozing habit.
Best budget		Peakeep Twin Bell Alarm Clock		SEE IT	Loud, cute, and cheap.

You can’t just use an alarm clock when you’re a heavy sleeper. You need one that is the sonic equivalent of getting dragged out of bed and thrown into a cold pond of water. It can’t be too loud, however, since you most likely have neighbors or roommates who you want to be respectful of. We’re not expecting you to be the most bright-eyed and bushy-tailed person in the room first thing in the morning—we just want you to not miss a meeting because you slept through your phone alarm again. Fall and winter can be particularly challenging for deep sleepers, and snoozing repeatedly may provide short sleep satisfaction but leaves you drowsy during the day. The best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers will get you up and at ’em to get started on your day.

• Best overall: Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker
• Best vibrating: Roxicosly Vibrating Alarm Clock for Heavy Sleepers
• Best without waking roommates: Shock Clock 2
• Best for very heavy sleepers: CLOCKY Alarm Clock on Wheels
• Best budget: Peakeep Twin Bell Alarm Clock

How we chose the best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers

I’m a heavy sleeper who is prone to snoozing too much. I have had full conversations with people in my sleep without remembering them and have missed many a nighttime raging summer storm. Besides being a very capable and willing human guinea pig, I’ve also covered life-hack gadgets for Gear Patrol and PopSci, among others. With that in mind, I combined personal experience with critical reviews, peer recommendations, and user impressions in our quest for the best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers.

The best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers: Reviews & Recommendations

It’s time to admit and accept that even the best app and phone alarm may not be enough for some to get out of bed. And that’s okay—there are plenty of people who struggle with waking up. Here is what we found in our search for the most effective alarm clocks for heavy sleepers. 

Best overall: Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Nothing wakes you up like a serving of 113 decibels with a side of vibration and strobes.

Specs

• Dimensions: 10.23 x 20.46 x 15.35 inches
• Display type: Digital
• Wake-up method: Alarm, vibration
• Power source: AC adapter with battery back-up

Pros

• Combines loud noise with vibration
• Adjustable display dimmer
• Red flashing strobe lights

Cons

• Will wake up others in the house

If the Sonic Bomb doesn’t wake you, you might need to talk to a doctor. The alarm rings at a pounding 113dB max—that’s just as loud as a rock concert (though volume/duration are adjustable if you’d not quite ready for an arena-level alert). If you’re looking for a relaxing sunrise alarm, this is not it: Red strobes nail in the point that you need to wake up. If you need another layer of rousing, the Sonic Bomb comes with a bed shaker that can be placed between your mattress and box spring or under a pillow for some classic shake-til-awake. And trust us: the vibrations are intense and difficult to sleep through. You can even record a personalized message to your sleepy morning self to wake up. An adjustable display dimmer makes it so you sleep soundly when the lights are off since excess light can make it harder to sleep. If you are looking for a heavy-duty alarm clock that combines multiple ways to wake up, this is it.

Best vibrating: Roxicosly Vibrating Alarm Clock for Heavy Sleepers

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Why it made the cut: Choose from standalone vibration or wake up with an alarm-bed shaker double whammy. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 6.82 x 1.5 x 3.39 inches
• Display type: Digital
• Wake-up method: Alarm, vibration
• Power source: AC outlet with a backup battery

Pros

• Large digital screen
• Built-in USB-A port
• Four levels of volume

Cons

• Vibration shakes entire bed

I personally have very clear memories of my mom walking into my room to shake me awake. But I am a grown adult who lives by herself four hours away from her childhood home, so I can no longer rely on a parent to wake me up. The Roxicosly Vibrating Alarm Clock can be your parental stand-in if you are in the same boat. Simply place the disk-like vibrating bed shaker between your mattress and box spring or under your pillow, set your alarm, and enter a borderline coma. You can choose between bed shaker, an alarm, or a combo to wake you from your deep sleep. And the vibrating disk has a 71-inch cord, meaning you have enough room to place the alarm clock far enough to walk to turn it off. All that’s missing from this alarm clock is a warm hug and scrambling to find a Mother’s Day card.

Best without waking roommates: Shock Clock 2

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Break your snooze habit with this wristband that wakes you up silently with a sequence of vibrations or zaps. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 6.81 x 4.65 x 1.46 inches
• Display type: N/A
• Wake-up method: Vibration
• Power source: Battery

Pros

• Connected app with sleep tracking
• Helps break the habit of snoozing
• No snooze

Cons

• Very powerful at even 50 percent power

If you’re a heavy sleeper but live in group housing—whether with your family or roommates—multiple loud alarms can cause some divides. Since it’s a shared space, you want to be as respectful as possible, especially when it comes to not interrupting people’s sleep. Maybe you’ve tried the haptic alarm on your Apple Watch, but it’s not enough. Enter the Shock Clock, which uses vibrations, zaps, or beeps to wake you up. And, this thing has no snooze—the only way to turn it off is by completing some jumping jacks, solving a puzzle or riddle, or taking a picture of a QR code in another room—talk about getting up and staying up. Despite being a heavy sleeper, go easy on the Shock Clock settings when getting used to it. It’s very powerful, and getting zapped at 100 percent … is intense. Trust us. But, if you’d like to free yourself from the snooze overlords without making too much of a ruckus, you’ll be Pavlov’d by the Shock Clock.

Best for very heavy sleepers: CLOCKY Alarm Clock on Wheels

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Why it made the cut: You can only snooze once with this alarm clock, which jumps from your nightstand and rolls around if you don’t shut him off.

Specs

• Dimensions: 5.25 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches
• Display type: Digital
• Wake-up method: Alarm, movement
• Power source: 4 AAAA batteries (not included)

Pros

• Limited times to snooze
• Gets you out of bed
• Durable

Cons

• Annoying

Much like McGruff the Crime Dog, sometimes you need a cartoon character to motivate you. Meet Clocky, a crazy little guy who entered this world in 2006 thanks to Gauri Nanda, who was attending MIT at the time. Her plight is similar to many heavy sleepers: snoozing too many times or sleeping through alarms or missing classes. You’re only allowed to snooze once with Clocky. If you don’t shut him off before shutdown, he will leap up to 3 feet from your nightstand and roll away, leaving you to catch him. This gets you out of bed and will keep you out of bed. If you are especially not a morning person—and waking you up is like poking a sleeping bear—you can disable Clocky’s wheels and use it like a regular alarm clock so you don’t smash it into the wall out of anger when it rolls away. He is durable, but don’t push his limits … or yours.

Best budget: Peakeep Twin Bell Alarm Clock

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Take it old school with this alarm clock that features an analog face with a classic loud bell. 

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.5 x 2 x 6.25 inches
• Display type: Analog
• Wake-up method: Alarm
• Power source: Battery

Pros

• No snooze
• Loud
• Aesthetically pleasing
• No ticking sounds

Cons

• No snooze

Being a heavy sleeper is painted in … not the best light. Bed head? A pool of spit? Snoring? The slander must stop! Those who can’t wake up deserve to have some aesthetic representation: think nightcap-dressing gown-Honk shoo mimimimimi-Sleepy Time tea vibes. Enter the Peakeep Twin Bell Alarm Clock. This alarm clock doesn’t use vibration to get things going—just the power of a loud bell and the heightened stakes of not having a snooze button. Setting the alarm is just a knob turn away. The clock face glows in the dark, and there’s no ticking for a peaceful sleep. If you really need to check the time at night, just hold the light button in the back. It’s cute, it’s cheap, and it’s loud. What more could you want in an alarm clock?

What to consider when buying an alarm clock for heavy sleepers

Why are people heavy sleepers? It all depends on genetics, lifestyle, and potential for sleep disorders. One study found that those with busier brains were more likely to sleep through loud noises. If you’re unphased by a storm while you sleep, or you’re someone who simply can’t wake up despite multiple phone alarms, there’s a good chance you’d benefit from an alarm clock for heavy sleepers. Here are the basics of finding a heavy-duty alarm clock:

Snooze no more

Heavy sleepers will know the pain of reaching to hit snooze, turning off the alarm clock completely, and waking up at 11 a.m. feeling like they traveled through another dimension and back. Slamming the snooze button is bad for your health. Plus, the sad truth is you’re not getting much quality sleep in that extra nine minutes. On top of taking steps to improve your sleep hygiene, the best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers will make it harder to turn off the alarm accidentally and stop the snooze cycle in its tracks with loud noises.

Sounds and vibrations

Lighter sleepers can get away with using a sunrise alarm clock, which mimics the sun’s rising to alert your body to wake up. However, heavy sleepers might not be phased by light alone. An especially loud alarm clock, a wearable that vibrates you awake, and bed-shaking capabilities are features to look for in the best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers. Others would consider these alarms annoying, but you must bring out the big guns if you’re a hard sleeper.

Brainwork

Giving your brain some exercise when you wake up can give you that extra little oomph to get to the kitchen and turn on the coffee machine. Alarms that make you move or complete a problem to turn them off get you out of bed, which makes it easier to start your day. Some crazy alarm clocks for heavy sleepers even zoom off your nightstand, making you have to chase them down to turn them off.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers

• Best overall: Sonic Bomb Dual Extra Loud Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker
• Best vibrating: Roxicosly Vibrating Alarm Clock for Heavy Sleepers
• Best without waking roommates: Shock Clock 2
• Best for very heavy sleepers: CLOCKY Alarm Clock on Wheels
• Best budget: Peakeep Twin Bell Alarm Clock

If you’re a person who needs to move a mountain to rise and shine, consider an alarm clock for heavy sleepers, which takes extra measures to get you awake. Whether through a loud alarm, bed shakers, or a vibrating wristband that makes you do jumping jacks to turn it off, there are plenty of options to prevent sleeping through another alarm. The best alarm clocks for heavy sleepers can help pull the throttle on your day sans hiccups. Your circadian rhythm will thank you.

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 alarm clocks for heavy sleepers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We’ve hit August (insert that one Tuck Everlasting quote about August), which means it’s way too hot to use the oven. However, the heat doesn’t stop any cravings for french fries, dinosaur nuggets, and mozzarella sticks. Counter space is also an issue—whether you’re an adult in a studio apartment or buying for a college kid who doesn’t have a kitchen. Solve your cooking dilemma without sacrificing space with this Ninja mini air fryer, on sale for 50% off on Amazon.

Ninja AF080 Mini Air Fryer $39.99 (Was $79.99)

SEE IT

Don’t let this air fryer’s small size fool you—it can fit up to one pound of french fries, 10 taquitos, and not one, but two Hot Pockets. If you’re looking for scientific measurements, that’s two quarts-worth of space. Regardless, that’s plenty of room to make a post-night-out midnight snack. The basket is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning, and the cooking basket and crisper plate include a nonstick coating so crumbs don’t overstay their welcome. Plus, you don’t have to worry about waiting near your air fryer while your food is cooking: You get alerted when your food is done.

You won’t get alerted when this deal is done, so snag it before other parents, college kids, and new apartment tenants.

Here are more home & kitchen deals perfect for minimalist spaces and max savings:

• Ninja CFP201 DualBrew System 12-Cup Coffee Maker $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Ninja C33000 Foodi NeverStick Premium 3-Piece Cookware Set $109.99 (Was $169.99)
• Ninja C53300 Foodi NeverStick Premium 3-Piece Cookware Set with Glass Lid $139.99 (Was $179.99)
• Keurig K-Mini Plus Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, Misty Green $79 (Was $109.99)
• Famisworths Hot and Iced Coffee Maker for K Cups and Ground Coffee $60.79 (Was $89.99)
• Famiworths Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground Coffee $46.99 (Was $72.99)
• Mueller Pro Series Vegetable Chopper, Heavy Duty Onion Chopper with Container $15.98 (Was $19.86)
• iRobot Roomba i4 EVO (4150) Wi-Fi Connected Robot Vacuum $209.99 (Was $364.99)
• BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner $299.99 (Was $419.99)
• BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner $369.98 (Was $449.99)
• Honeywell HPA100 HEPA Air Purifier for Medium Rooms $81.99 (Was $154.99)
• Honeywell HPA200 HEPA Air Purifier for Large Rooms $139.99 (Was $219.99)
• Bissell, 2747A PowerFresh Vac & Steam All-in-One Vacuum and Steam Mop $129.99 (Was $185.39)

The post Save big on a mini Ninja air fryer that’s 50% off on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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We are in the hot throes of summer, with a splash in cooling chlorinated water the rare respite. However, your pool might look less poetic and placid with bugs and leaves occupying it—and they didn’t even pay for a pass to dive in! Suck up those freeloaders of nature with 30% off an AIPER Seagull Plus Cordless Pool Vacuum at Amazon.

AIPER Seagull Plus Cordless Pool Vacuum $279.99 (Was $399.99)

SEE IT

This rechargeable pool vacuum is one of our favorite pool vacuums and is so decked out in high-tech features that it barely requires your help to get the job done. Equipped with four motors and a gyroscope, the Aiper Seagull Pro cleans up to 3,200 square feet in the three hours of battery power it gets from each charge. This cordless model’s internal gyroscope provides smart navigation that allows the Seagull Pro to map the floor and walls of a pool. The powerful motors offer 130GPM (gallons per minute) of suction while bottom brushes sweep out leaves, dirt, and other debris. The Seagull Pro also cleans walls and the waterline and it’s programmed to stop near a pool wall when the battery starts to drain. Plus, it only takes 1.5 hours to charge up. Essentially, all you have to do is drop it in the pool and watch it do all the work.

If you’re looking for an even cheaper option, the AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is 40% off—down from $299.99 to $179.99—and includes many of the same features as the Seagull Pro. It runs for 1.5 hours and has the same cordless capabilities as its Pro sibling. Nice!

Take advantage of this deal before it dries up—just like your pool when September hits.

Here are more refreshing pool, patio, and hot tub deals:

• (2023 Upgraded) AIPER Cordless Handheld Pool Vacuum $135.99 (Was $169.99)
• INTEX C1500 Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools $90.20 (Was $149)
• Pool RX 332001 PoolRX+ Booster Blue Swimming Pool Algaecide $31.80 (Was $39)
• Jack’s Magic Step Stuff $32.80 (Was $44)
• INTEX 28433EP PureSpa Bubble Massage Deluxe Inflatable Spa $555.50 (Was $655.50)
• PoolRX+ spa Unit 100-400 gallons $12.50 (Was $14.75)
• Robelle 1410M Chlorine Tabs Pool Sanitizer, 10-Pounds $81.70 (Was $95.39)
• Spa Choice 472-3-1001-04 Metal Free for Spas and Hot Tubs (4 Pack), 1 pint $39 (Was $44.99)
• Blue Torrent BS 41076 Commercial Backwash Hose for Swimming Pools $32 (Was $37.79)
• SunHeater Solar Heater, Includes Two 2’ x 20’ Panels (80 sq. ft.) $291.80 (Was $367.65)
• Pool Mate 3824-PM Black Mesh Winter Pool Cover for Round Above Ground Swimming Pools, 24-ft. $104.80 (Was $129.99)
• Blue Wave NL501-40 Heavy Gauge Cover Round Unibead Steel Wall Swimming Pool Liner, Pebble Cove $264.30 (Was $321.14)
• Pool Mate 6028-4-PM 20-Year Premium Winter Round Above-Ground Pool Cover, 28-ft, Sand $197.60 (Was $229.99)
• Robelle 471625-4 Rip-Shield Olympus for Oval Above Ground Swimming Pools 16 x 25-ft. Oval Pool, $95.50 (Was $108.17)
• Sunnyglade 9′ Patio Umbrella Outdoor Table Umbrella with 8 Sturdy Ribs (Blue) $47.93 (Was $64.99)

The post Get $100 off the best pool vacuum at Amazon and clean out bugs, not your savings appeared first on Popular Science.

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If you’re moving and looking for things to offload or acquire, a couch is one of the most sought-after furnishings—a furnishing you might need to clean. A compact carpet and upholstery cleaner can help you get the most bang for the buck, whether you’re looking to sell for top dollar or buy cheap and refurbish. And you can save 100 bucks on a Tineco carpet and upholstery cleaner on Amazon.

Tineco CARPET ONE Spot Essentials Smart Cordless Carpet and Upholstery Spot Cleaner $266.90 (Was $399)

SEE IT

Say goodbye to bending and scrubbing with the Tineco CARPET ONE Spot Essentials Smart Cordless Carpet and Upholstery Spot Cleaner. Its iLoop smart sensor technology allows you to set the device down to scrub and remove tough stains. It also adjusts roller speed and water flow depending on the stain and will turn blue when the area is clean, saving you water and time. It’s also self-cleaning and can run for 25 minutes wirelessly, meaning you don’t have to search for an outlet.

Just like that couch you once lusted for that was quickly snatched on the secondhand marketplace, this deal will be gone before you know it—snag it at a comfortable price before it’s too late.

Here are other vacuum deals we think don’t suck:

• Shark AV2501S AI Ultra Robot Vacuum $329.99 (Was $549.99)
• Shark IZ483H Vertex Cordless Stick Vacuum with DuoClean PowerFins $299.99 (Was $499.99)
• Bissell, 2747A PowerFresh Vac & Steam All-in-One Vacuum and Steam Mop $129.99 (Was $185.39)
• BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus, 3588F, $278.10 (308.99)
• BISSELL CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum $53.99 (Was $59.99)
• BISSELL CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum $69.99 (Was $79.99)
• Lefant N3 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $283.49 (Was $999.99)
• Lefant M210 Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner $104.99 (Was $499.99)
• SAMSUNG Jet 75 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner $261.49 (Was $399)
• Eureka NEC180 RapidClean Pro Cordless Stick and Handheld Vacuum Cleaner $139.49 (Was $154.99)
• eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner $79.19 (Was $87.99)
• Kenmore 10701 Pet-Friendly Lightweight Bagless Compact HEPA Canister Vacuum with Pet Turbine Brush $129.99 (Was $149.99)
• Kenmore 81214 200 Series Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaning Tools, Orange $209.99 (Was $249.99)
• Kenmore BU4018 Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up Carpet Cleaner $149.99 (Was $169)

The post Get your sofa in tip-top shape with $100 off this upholstery cleaner 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		Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw		SEE IT	This user-friendly chainsaw is practically maintenance-free.
Best small		Worx WG322		SEE IT	Powerful chainsaws can come in small sizes—take this one from Worx.
Best budget		Oregon CS1500		SEE IT	Simply take this pre-assembled chainsaw out of the box to use.

A chainsaw is one of those invaluable power tools that you find yourself using more often than you might have expected. Sure, it will cut down a tree, but it can do even more to make your life easier. Trimming overgrown hedges, wayward tree branches, or landscape timbers; cleaning up storm damage; and doing demolition before a remodeling project are just a few of the times when a chainsaw could be the best tool for the job. And chainsaws are not always heavy, loud, or gas-powered. Big, powerful gas saws have their place, to be sure, particularly for long days cutting up big logs out in the woods. But there are many times when a clean, quiet electric saw would be a better choice, like when you only want to trim a few branches around the yard. Read on as we consider the qualities that go into a quality pick and see our best chainsaws for various uses.

• Best overall: Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw
• Best battery life: CAT 60V Max Chainsaw
• Best gas: ECHO CS-590-20 Timber Wolf 
• Best cordless: Greenworks G-MAX 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw
• Best small: Worx WG322 
• Best budget: Oregon CS1500

How we chose the best chainsaws

We looked at critical reviews and user recommendations, then performed heavy research (and some heavy chores) to narrow down our list of the best chainsaws. We considered important factors—like size, weight, fuel source, max cutting diameter, and bar length—to curate a list of the top chainsaws that can cut through various shrubs and trees for ultimate usability.

The best chainsaws: Reviews & Recommendations

These top-rated chainsaws are a cut above the rest—pun intended. From cordless options to electric and gas-powered varieties, the best chainsaw is perfect for you and your backyard needs (like clearing anything standing between you and an above-ground pool). Read on to find sharp chainsaws at a smart price.

Best overall: Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 15.3 lbs
• Bar length: 16
• Maximum cutting diameter: 24 inches

Pros

• Responsive throttle
• Flexible battery system
• Chain is easy to install and adjust
• Self-lubricating chain
• Relatively quiet considering its power

Cons

• Works with two batteries, so you’ll want to charge both