Every year, the tech world briefly gives up on its New Year’s resolutions and descends upon Las Vegas for a week of new gadgets, tech demos, 15,000 steps-on-average days, and multiple happy hours at night. It’s the Consumer Electronics Show, acres of tech demos spread out across the Convention Center and throughout the Strip. This year, we had PopSci staffers on the floor and watching from afar to single out the best, most innovative, and coolest products making their debut. Here’s our best of what’s next, some of which are favorites just hitting the market and some that won’t get to store shelves for months or even years.

A single device that offers multiple wellness insights: Withings BeamO

For some of us, Kylie’s song-of-the-summer “Padam Padam” has been in our ears for months, so heartbeats have been on our minds. Withings’ newest BeamO multiscope combines a thermometer, electrocardiogram, oximeter, and stethoscope into one device to provide more info for yourself and your telehealth visit. BeamO takes its readings using different sensors. Photoplethysmography (PPG) and electrodes along its side give you blood oxygenation, heart rate, and ECG readings simultaneously, while a thermo sensor combined with an infrared beam allows for contactless temperature readings. A Piezoelectric disc captures chest or back acoustic sound waves for precise heart and lung measurements. Best of all, you get a check-up of your body temperature, heart, and lung health at the same time in under a minute. You can also track your temperature and heart rate over time by syncing the device with the Withings app. The BeamO will be available for $249.95 in June 2024 following FDA clearance for its ECG capability.

A fitness tracker, emphasis on the fit: Garmin HRM-Fit

Garmin has made a heart rate monitor for women. Before you go “gendered thing is dumb,” hear us out: This device’s placement helps capture more accurate heart rate and training data and is made for comfort. It attaches to the bottom band of medium- and high-support sports bras and can be used while running, cycling, strength training, and in HIIT classes. Instead of rooting around under your shirt to adjust your heart-rate monitor, simply clip on and go, sending real-time data to compatible devices and running dynamics on a compatible Garmin smartwatch. It comes with one year of battery life and retails for $149.99.

Proof that it takes two to make a thing go right: ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid

I’m on the laptop, I’m on the tablet, I’m on the combination laptop and tablet. It’s Lenovo’s new AI-powered, two-piece computer. Yes, you can physically separate the keyboard (which houses its own discrete Intel processor, graphics card, and ports) from its display and run them independently. Even more interesting is that in this configuration, the base runs Windows 11 while connected to your favorite monitor, while the slim 1.7-pound screen runs Android off a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chip. When the two are connected, they’re a single Windows-based laptop with a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display, Intel Core Ultra processor, and more. This truly two-in-one device managed to stand out even debuted alongside such fun proof-of-concept ThinkBooks as one featuring an external e-ink display.

A secure door for the pets you adore: Pawport

Pets are some of our most-loved family members. And we want to make them as happy all the time as they make us. That doesn’t man we can always be there to open the door for them, however, and they still haven’t grown thumbs. The other option to help them access the yard as they please/need is pet doors, but they’re impossible to keep secure—until now. Pawport announced its motorized pet door and app, with the former being ready to preorder. The door itself looks sleek and stylish and attaches to existing pet door frames. It also comes with a lightweight tag for your pet. The tag connects to the door and only opens when your pet is nearby. Pet parents can track their precious pooches, remotely manage doors, and set up access schedules for multiple pets through the Pawport app.

A projector with a wide range of theater-level specs: XGIMI HORIZON Max 4K projector

Immersive experience enthusiasts XGIMI debuted what the brand calls its brightest display to date—3,100 lumens of brightness, to be exact. The HORIZON Max is practically a movie projector in your own home. It’s IMAX Enhanced certified, making it the first long-throw smart projector to meet IMAX quality standards. You get a 1.90:1 aspect ratio and DTS:X immersive sound at home. It also includes XGIMI’s new ISA (Intelligent Screen Adaption) 5.0 tech, which combines software and hardware to make utilizing your walls easier. A fully automated motorized gimbal locates the best projection position on the wall and remembers specific settings on certain walls, giving you more control and flexibility on what you want to project (T-800esque stand pictured above not included). The HORIZON Max also incorporates Dual Light 2.0, a new XGIMI system that integrates a Triple laser for a larger color range and a phosphor light to negate perfections created by the Triple laser. Movie nights have never looked better.

For when slow and low is the tempo: GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker

GE has seemingly done the impossible by making food smoking an indoor activity. Its Profile Smart Indoor Smoker allows you to get the same results as an outdoor smoker without tripping a smoke alarm. In fact, running it for three hours in a one-bedroom apartment felt akin to lighting a stick of incense. Our testing proved that this appliance wasn’t just smoke and mirrors, and what’s more, you can actually order the indoor smoker right now with delivery later this month. While this Smart Indoor Smoker runs on wood pellets, the smoke is turned into hot air, which circulates in the smoker’s chamber to impart a smokey flavor. The spent pellets are automatically dropped into a water bath, which prevents them from producing even more smoke. Plenty of products at CES are proof-of-concepts that go up in smoke before they get to market, but this is a unique cooking tool you can start using very soon.

Proof that it takes two to make it outta sight: ASUS Zenbook Duo (UX8406)

The Zenbook Duo UX8406 is the latest laptop in ASUS’ double-screen laptop, and this generation has taken performance to a whole new level. Both displays are now OLED, support Dolby Vision HDR, and 120Hz refresh rate. A Bluetooth keyboard can be attached magnetically to the laptop but is not required as the bottom display can function as a touch-sensitive keypad. Independent spaces across both screens can be configured (place it as a tent to let the kids watch something on one side while you work on the other), and the laptop senses when you configure it vertically or horizontally and adjusts accordingly. ASUS says it’s using AI functionality built into Intel’s Core Ultra line of processors. You can spec the laptop with up to 32GB of RAM, a 2TB SSD, 3K resolution displays, and the Intel Ultra 9 Processor 185H. Unlike most laptop makers, ASUS opted to pack as many ports as possible into its portable machine, including a USB-A port. While OLED screens are making their way into many of ASUS’ 2024 laptops all the way to portable, foldable displays, this dual-screen design of the Zenbook Duo UX8406 makes it one of the most innovative laptops from any manufacturer.

A connected lock offering more than face value (but it values that too): Lockly Visage

Smart locks are nothing new, but Lockly’s Visage is an improvement in many ways over earlier generations of this technology. First, it’s significantly smaller (35% more compact internally, in fact) than Lockly’s other locks, and it supports both Matter—the interoperable smart home standard—and Apple’s HomeKit. In fact, iPhone and Apple Watch owners can unlock the Visage with their devices rather than a key, fingerprint, or passcode. In addition, the built-in WiFi connectivity will allow you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere in the world using Lockly’s app on iOS and Android. Thankfully, no additional hub is required to connect the Visage to your home network. The big addition you’re, well, looking at is facial recognition on approach for seamless entry (hence the product’s name). Lockly says the Visage will launch this summer.

A television you can see through: LG Signature OLED T Transparent 4K TV

Designers often go to ridiculous lengths to try and hide TVs—anything to avoid the dreaded big, black rectangle in the middle of a carefully curated space. We assume those people are huge fans of LG’s new Signature OLED T 4K TV, which all but disappears when it’s turned off. The 77-inch TV offers high-end features you’d expect from an LG Signature series, including the fully wireless connectivity to which we awarded a Best of What’s New badge in 2023. The tech relies on MicroLEDs in order to work as a normal TV when it needs to, then go translucent at the press of a button. The panel has an always-on mode that can show art or other images without the bright backlight. Samsung showed off a similar technology based on its own MicroLED tech, so if you like clear TVs, this was a banner year for you. 

A smartphone camera stand that follows you as you move: Belkin Auto Tracking Stand Pro

Maybe you’re an aspiring creator who spends tons of time begging your friends to hold a camera while you film. Or maybe you just like to walk around your bedroom during FaceTime sessions. Belkin’s rotating phone mount syncs up with an iPhone (version 12 or later) and rotates up to 360 degrees to automatically keep you in view of the camera. It can even tilt up and down up to 90 degrees. It moves silently, so you won’t hear the motors whirring in your audio, and it syncs with Apple’s DockKit system for deep integration with iOS. The mount attaches via MagSafe, so it’s simple to snap your phone into the cradle and film for up to five hours, thanks to the device’s built-in rechargeable battery.

An AI-powered way to get up close and personal with the night sky: Celestron Origin Intelligent Home Observatory

Don’t call it a telescope. Celestron calls the Origin “the first intelligent home observatory.” Like a typical telescope, you’ll find traditional glass optics occupying the Origin’s tube. Specifically, Celestron has equipped it with a high-end Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) f/2.2 optical system, which provides a super-bright and wide field of view that’s excellent for astrophotography. Rather than a typical eye-piece, this system relies on a Sony CMOS imaging sensor backed by ample AI computing power to provide clear images of objects in space with very little learning curve. The Origin takes remote commands from a connected mobile app and automatically locates objects. You can set it up and schedule it to take images of an object at a specific time so you can look at celestial wonders from the comfort of your living room or wake up to a whole batch of NASA-worthy images it captured while you were asleep. That’s our kind of stargazing.

Binoculars that can identify wildlife using AI: Swarovski Optik AX Visio

Was that a yellow-crested warbler or a San Jose duckling? Well, it was probably neither because we made up both species. If you want actual help identifying birds and other wildlife, Swarovski’s new $4,800 AI-powered binoculars can help. They feel almost like a regular pair of binos with 10x magnification and a 32mm objective lens diameter. A third set of optics running up the middle, however, contains a digital sensor that can capture images and videos of wildlife as you observe it. Connect the AX Visio to Swarovski’s app to share images or get more information about the animals in the frame. It’s like having a little birding expert in your pocket. 

Proof that it’s hip to be square: Samsung Music Frame

Samsung has taken its Frame smart TV concept and applied it to speakers with its new Music Frame, a customizable Bluetooth speaker disguised as a 12.9 x 12.9 picture frame. It features two built-in woofers, two tweeters, two mid-range drivers, intelligent audio processing, and can operate as a standalone stereo wireless speaker. The frame can also pair with Q-Symphony-compatible Samsung TVs and soundbars to expand virtual surround when placed to the left/right of the screen or provide true rear channels from the side/back. You can hang it on the wall or use its built-in stand to place it on a table. We have the company’s transducer development for thin flatscreens (much like the latest 8K flagships) to thank for the frame’s surprising bass whether mounted free or flush. Unlike other smart frames, however, it doesn’t include a display; you’ll have to provide your own printed photos.

A whole-home battery backup system: EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra

We’re big fans of EcoFlow’s portable power stations and solar generators. Now, the company has created a backup battery that’s burly enough to bolster a whole house during a blackout. The numbers are impressive. It offers a 6kWh capacity with a 7200W output, which is enough to run a small home on its own. The stackable battery packs easily chain together in order to expand capacity to your specific needs. It can expand all the way up to 90kWh of storage, which will power a house for a month on a full charge. It connects to a home via EcoFlow’s new Smart Home Panel 2, which can seamlessly and automatically switch from mains to battery power during an outage or during peak hours when energy costs jump. The DELTA Pro Ultra offers 5.6kW of solar input to draw and store juice quickly, even when the grid isn’t available.

Earbuds to help get you in the zone and tell you which zone that is: Sennheiser MOMENTUM Sport

Sennheiser plus Polar have their finger, no ear canal, on the pulse of fitness wearables. Sennheiser announced its MOMENTUM Sports earbuds, which use integrated biometric in-ear sensors to measure heartbeat and body temperature. The body is particularly concerned with keeping brain temperature regulated, so the ear is the best non-invasive place for measurements, and the sensors block light so readings are more accurate. As for the IP55 earbuds’ ergonomic shape, it comes from research by Sennheiser’s parent company, Sonova, which specializes in hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other medical audio products. But make no mistake: these earbuds still offer hi-fi Sennheiser sound (as do the simultaneously announced MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 audiophile earbuds), with an all-new 10mm transducer and an acoustic relief channel that minimizes noise, breathing, and other body-made noises. Finally, your huffing and puffing won’t wreck your gym jams. The MOMENTUM Sport’s photoplethysmography (PPG) data connects and integrates with many popular sports devices and apps, such as Apple Watch/Health, Garmin Watch/Connect, Strava, Peloton, and more. The earbuds will be available in April 2024 for $329.95.

Simple cooking through advanced features: Summit FS38X Smart Grill

Some purists may scoff at the idea of a large, full-color touchscreen on a grill. Those people are killjoys who have never had the pleasure of perfectly cooked burgers they didn’t have to babysit. Weber’s new Summit-series smart grill relies on the company’s SmartControl platform, which simplifies the grilling process. It allows the grill to take commands via the mobile app for pre-heating and scheduled cooking. It alerts you when the grill hits temperature, guides you through the cooking process with both direct and indirect heat, and lets you know when the food is done cooking. A clever gas management system carefully controls how much fuel goes to each burner during a cook so it can keep meticulous temperatures throughout the chamber, even if you’re the kind of nosey person who can’t keep the lid closed for more than five minutes.

A place to recharge your body and devices: Jackery Solar Generator for Rooftop Tent

One of the themes of CES 2024 was the presence of smart robotic gadgets that can tackle tasks as disparate as window washing, lawn mowing, snow plowing, and even harvesting solar energy. So, while Jackery’s roving Mars Bot with its retractable solar wings caught our eye as we walked the floor, it was a more traditional overlanding accessory that really caught our attention: The Jackery Solar Generator for Rooftop Tent—a truck-mounted tent has its own 1000W solar array, which is connected to an included 1264Wh portable power station. A single button unpacks the tent, which is angled to catch as many of the sun’s rays as possible. Jackery says this system can power your gear and keep you off the grid for up to two weeks. The company says its power supply is made from an aluminum-magnesium alloy and carbon fiber, so it can survive in low temperatures (up to -43 degrees Fahrenheit) and be used in elevations up to 5,000 meters of altitude. The solar array can then be easily folded down to travel safely.

A remote cam with an absurd range: Adobe Edge Security Camera

Most wireless security camera signals only reach maybe 100 feet, typical of a WiFi connection. This camera from Adobe Systems (not the company that makes Photoshop) has a range of roughly 1.5 miles. That means it can go basically anywhere on a property and still capture and transmit a clean, high-quality signal. The shell offers an IP67 toughness rating so that it can survive outdoors. Plus, the 6,000 mAh battery inside is good for almost an entire year before it needs recharging (depending on circumstances, of course). Even with all that toughness, it still offers smart features like object and face recognition in an effort to send you notifications with as much info as possible. That also means fewer false alarms every time a raccoon and his buddies go strutting by.

A TV that’s a bright purchase for those with sun-soaked rooms: Hisense 110UX 

Hisense continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with the mini-LED 110UX, its latest 110-inch 4K screen. Its main attraction is 10,000 nits and 40,000 backlight zones, which allow it to control the brightness of sections of its QLED-Quantum Dot screen and minimize backlight bleed to the point that black levels will be nearly indistinguishable compared to an OLED. Similarly, the 110UX covers 95% of the BT.2020 color palette, resulting in vivid but accurate color representation, especially when viewing HDR content. The company touts this ULED X TV’s processor, which it says uses AI to automatically calibrate its contrast and color depth on a per-scene basis. Hisense also focused on the TV’s audio system by offering a native 4.2.2 speaker arrangement inside the TV itself, along with Dolby Atmos Flex Connect support. If nothing else, Hisense’s 110UX continues to push the LED TV market forward and proves OLED isn’t the only screen technology worth paying attention to.

A personal assistant to use your smartphone for you: Rabbit R1

This isn’t a phone. It’s a $199 AI-powered device that’s basically designed to use your phone for you. The idea behind the Rabbit R1 isn’t easy to grasp. It’s a piece of hardware with machine-learning capabilities that acts as a conduit between you and your phone. It doesn’t run apps, but rather, it works with apps that live on your phone itself. You ask the Rabbit R1 to perform a task, and then it navigates the necessary apps on your phone to do so without requiring you to actually futz with your smart device. It learns your most common tasks and streamlines your everyday processes in an effort to make you more efficient and keep your phone out of your hand. The device is already a runaway hit–the company says it sold more than 10,000 of the devices via pre-order on the very first day, then another run of 10,000 on top of that. We’re not fully sold yet—lots of the functionality seems like it could ironically exist within a smartphone app. But it’s a very compelling piece of hardware, and we’re looking forward to seeing where it lands in the gadget landscape.

The first thing we’d buy if we won the lottery: Sonus faber Suprema + McIntosh MC2.1KW Monoblock Power Amplifier

Sure, CES is full of flying taxis and cars that drive sideways and robots, robots, AI, robots … but we’re still years and years off from the Jetsons (and should be worried we’re closer and closer to SkyNet). Sometimes, instead of concentrating just on what’s next, we like to concentrate on leaning back and just being present. So, if we wanted to make a statement purchase right now, it would be Sonus faber’s Suprema loudspeaker system powered by McIntosh’s MC2.1KW Monoblock Power Amplifiers—$1 million and hundreds of pounds of rapture you can see above. Both multi-component suites celebrate each company’s respective anniversary: McIntosh’s 75th and Sonus Faber’s 40th. And, together, they created a wild audiophile EDM festival to showcase the four 15-inch woofers’ ability to push air down to 16Hz. (Inside the room, the 2.2 system hit 96 dB of pristinely clean, U4IA-inducing extension, per an Apple Watch Ultra). They’re packed with more tech than we can run down here, but all you need to know is that, based on just one listening session drawing only 200 of the available 2,000 watts of power, you could put on Wagner to Metallica to “Who Let the Dogs Out,” and we’d be so into it we wouldn’t even care when the Terminators kicked in the door.

It’s not a DJ controller, but it will let you dial in a hot mix: Impulse Induction Cooktop

Impulse has gone all out with its $5,499 induction cooktop, which it says delivers “premium performance” to match its cost. The four-burner 30-inch cooktop fits in most standard countertops and works on a 120V outlet or a low-current 240V circuit, so it doesn’t require electrical upgrades. It features four temperature adjustment knobs, while a gigantic screen in the middle of the cooktop shows each burner’s current temperature and energy usage. Each burner tops out at 10kW, which Impulse says is enough power to boil a liter of water in 40 seconds. Most notably, this cooktop works by charging an internal battery while it’s plugged into your wall and running the burners on that to reduce the strain on the grid during peak energy usage times. So you can cook healthy meals while being healthier for the planet. Reservations are available now and require a $249 deposit, and Impulse says the cooktop may qualify for federal rebates and credits by the time it ships in Q4 of this year.

Earbuds with less weight and more clarity: xMEMS silicon-based microspeakers

If there’s one thing CES is about, it’s 180,000 people (+/- 10,000) giving or getting an earful about what’s supposedly the latest and greatest technology, whether they like it or not. But getting an actual earful of “micro-electrical mechanical systems” was far more pleasant than it sounds. These solid-state drivers flex minutely but rapidly to create sound pressure, allowing earbuds to shed the weight and space requirements of voice coil-driven mechanisms. However, the xMEMS setups currently on the market (by Creative Labs and Noble Audio, among others) currently use a hybrid setup with a dynamic driver for low end output purposes. A prototype showcased in the developers’ suite, though, showed the potential of the next ultrasonic generation of MEMS drivers, with the current design’s lighting-fast transients and midrange clarity but fleshier (30x-40x) bass that’s impactful yet controlled. This full-range “Cypress” speaker is a development that could greatly benefit ANC wireless earbuds in the future.

A hairdryer that saves energy and your hair: L’Oreal Airlight Pro

L’Oreal has come for Dyson and Shark with its new AirLight Pro. Conventional hair dryers rely on air flowing over thermal coils to turn damp tresses into smooth locks. This creates a hairy situation: That heat can damage your hair over time unless you’re using a really good heat protectant. L’Oreal’s AirLight Pro takes a page from Dyson and uses a high-speed motor for faster hair drying while adding infrared tech to the mix. This dries water on the hair surface and prevents internal moisture loss in the strand. All this tech combined dries hair faster and uses 31% less energy. We plan to untangle the experience in a future feature.

An audio all-in-one offering one for all: FiiO R9

And now we come to the most CES of all the products on this list: a gadget made of gadgets. The FiiO R9 is the perfect desktop centerpiece for the modern “music-first” audiophile, the voracious consumer of high-resolution digital sounds. A Snapdragon 660 chip running a 6-inch HD screen on a custom build of Android 10 (soon to be upgraded to 12), it’s a smartphone without the phone but one that bypasses Android SRC restrictions to allow all streaming services—and you can load any/all apps—to avoid downsampling. Got files? Need streamlined access to your sources? Play them off MicroSD, through USB-C, via HDMI ARC, with OPTICAL/COAX, or broadcast over WiFi (Roon Ready) or Bluetooth 5.0 (AAC/SBC/aptX/aptX HD/LDAC/LHDC). No matter what, the balanced ES9038PRO DAC*2 can handle it and then feed it to the THX AAA 788+ amp to draw on 7300mW per channel at 32 ohms, with five levels of gain—enough adjustable output to drive basically any headphone/IEM. And, on top of all that, it’s shiny. And it’s available soon for $1,499. Just for fun, use the R9’s outputs to record an actual mixtape from all these converging channels and pick up the upcoming FiiO CP13 cassette player for that extra dose of retro cool.

The post The best new gadgets and tech from CES 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Samsung T7 Shield		SEE IT	This excellent drive is a staple with PopSci staffers.
Best for speed		Samsung T9 SSD		SEE IT	It’s not rugged, but it’s twice as fast as some competitors.
Best budget		Crucial X8 Portable SSD		SEE IT	The 1TB version starts at just $59. That’s a steal.

Portable SSDs (short for solid state drives) hold onto large portions of your digital data to keep your computer’s internal drive clean and tidy. These pint-sized SSDs typically offer faster transfers, longer lifespans, and smaller form factors than their traditional hard drive counterparts. As price-per-gigabyte has dropped in recent years, these devices have become more accessible to casual users. That’s great news for photographers, video shooters, and anyone else who wants to carry a lot of digital stuff with them at all times. We’ve rounded up the best portable SSDs for every type of user.

• Best overall: SAMSUNG T7 Shield
• Best splurge: LaCie Rugged SSD Pro Solid State Drive
• Best budget: Crucial X8 Portable SSD 
• Best for speed: SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD
• Best for gamers: Western Digital P50 Game Drive SSD

How we chose the best portable SSDs

As a part-time professional photographer and increasingly less crappy video maker, I regularly rely on portable SSDs to hold the high-res photos and video on which I’m working. I’ve used models from just about every brand and generation. While I have my personal favorites, I realize everyone has different needs. This list emphasizes models that fit specific user needs, such as gamers, high-end pros, and typical users. Most of the options on this list offer some kind of ruggedization because device failure sometimes means data loss, and that’s very bad. It’s worth spending extra upfront to get something burly. Ultimately, this list results from personal experience, editorial reviews, user feedback, spec comparisons, and brand reputation. 

You’ll notice that SanDisk’s portable SSDs aren’t on this list at the moment. The company had some data loss issues with its popular models, and we haven’t had time to test the new ones thoroughly yet. The company claims the problems have been solved, and it seems as though that’s the case, but we’re reserving judgment for a while to make sure.

The best portable SSDs: Reviews & Recommendations

While it’s tempting to just go grab the fastest device with the most capacity, that’s probably not the best bet for most people. Here are some specific suggestions for different types of users. We recommend checking out all of the options before purchasing because features and uses often overlap.

Best overall: SAMSUNG T7 Shield

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB
• Sequential read/write speeds: 1,000/1,050 MB/s
• Size: 3.39 x 2.24 x 0.49 inches
• Weight: 3.5 ounces

Pros

• Suitably fast transfer speeds
• IP65 ruggedization for solid protection
• Easy to fit in a small pocket
• Comes with both USB-C and USB-A cables in the box
• Color options are attractive without looking flashy

Cons

• Cable is a little short
• USB-C connection can come loose if jostled

This is the storage device that I use in my everyday work life. I’ve had several of these over the past year or so and I find that they offer the best mix of ruggedness, performance, price, and portability. 

Each little device is IP65 certified, which means it can withstand serious moisture, dust, and impacts. It’s also crush-proof, which can be important if you ever lug a drive around in a heavy bag or even your pocket. The USB 3.2 Gen 2 connection offers sequential read and write speeds up to 1,000 MB/s and 1,050 MB/s, respectively. That’s plenty fast for editing high-res video footage directly off the device, as long as your computer has the correct connectivity. I currently use the MacBook Pro M3 Max (and we definitely recommend these as external drives for Mac), but most current-gen computers above $500 should be compatible. 

The drive doesn’t have an integrated connector. Instead, it has a USB-C port on the edge. The box includes both a USB-C and USB-A cable, so it’s ready to attach to basically any computer immediately. The USB on the device itself can come loose if you move the drive around a lot, but I never had it become an issue during real-world usage. 

It’s not the cheapest option per-gigabyte when it comes to storage, but it’s also not as expensive as some of the other rugged options available at the moment. These also often go on pretty steep discounts when shopping holidays such as Black Friday roll around, so keep an eye on the price as you go.

Best splurge: LaCie Rugged SSD Pro Solid State Drive

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB
• Sequential read/write speeds: 2800MB/s
• Size: 1.44 x 3.52 x 5.71 inches
• Weight: 3.5 ounces

Pros

• Screaming fast read/write speeds thanks to the Seagate NVMe SSD inside
• IP67 ruggedized
• Five-year warranty
• Pro aesthetics
• Data recovery service included in warranty

Cons

• Wildly expensive

If you’re familiar with LaCie drives, you’re probably used to seeing them sporting bright orange rubber bumpers around them. This device offers a similar form factor but has an all-black rubberized exterior instead. The case is IP67 rated, so it’s water-resistant, dust-resistant, and rugged enough to endure a drop from above your head. It’s even crush-resistant enough that driving a car over it likely wouldn’t break it. 

It’s what’s inside that makes this drive so fast (and expensive), however. The Seagate NVMe SSD drive inside can read and write speeds up to 2,800 MB/s. Of course, you’ll need a ThunderBolt 3-equipped computer that can handle that kind of transfer speed, but it’s nice to know the drive will never be your bottleneck. 

If you’re working on 8K footage, slow-motion, or other high-end cinematic file types, the extra speed might be useful. If you’re just doing basic creative work, a slower drive likely won’t trip you up much, if at all. Still, if you’re a professional, the investment may be worth it for the five-year warranty, which includes data recovery if something happens. 

Best budget: Crucial X8 Portable SSD 

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB
• Sequential read/write speeds: 1,050 MB/s
• Size: ‎4.33 x 0.45 x 2.09 inches
• Weight: 3.5 ounces

Pros

• Very cheap
• Relatively fast compared to HDDs at its price point
• Pocketable
• Somewhat rugged

Cons

• No IP ruggedness rating like some other pricier models
• Speed isn’t as consistent as others

You can still get speedy storage on a tighter budget. This pocket-friendly drive manages a very solid 1,050 MB/s both read and write speeds over a USB-C connection. If you’re looking for the best value, the 1TB model is just $60, and the top-end 4TB model is just $199. That includes a USB-C cable in the box. 

The drive itself is relatively unremarkable. You don’t get much in the way of security features, but not everyone really needs that. The case is somewhat ruggedized, but it lacks the formal IP rating you’ll get with a more expensive model. Ultimately, this is a great option for people who don’t need top-end performance or simply want a cheaper backup to their backup for extra redundancy. If you’re thinking that sounds neurotic, you’re right and I’m totally guilty of it.

Best for speed: SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB
• Sequential read/write speeds: 1,950MB/s and 2,000 MB/s
• Size: 3.5 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
• Weight: 4.3 ounces

Pros

• Fast read and write speeds for cheaper than NVMe models
• Very understated design fits easily in a pocket
• Box includes two cables, USB-C and USB-A
• Drop-tested from just under 10 feet

Cons

• Not water-resistant
• More expensive than budget-oriented drives

If you don’t mind trading toughness for speed, this is an excellent storage device from Samsung. It reads and writes at up to 1,950 MB/s and 2,000 MB/s, respectively, which means it can handle 4K video at 60 fps, including Apple ProRes from the latest iPhones. 

It has a design similar to the older model Samsung T-series drives, which were also pretty excellent. The T9 isn’t water-resistant, but it is drop-resistant from just under 10 feet, so if you’re just lugging files and footage between home, the office, and a studio, toughness shouldn’t be an issue. 

Best for gamers: Western Digital P50 Game Drive SSD

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB
• Sequential read/write speeds: 2,000 MB/s
• Size: 4.65 x 2.44 x 0.55 inches
• Weight: 4.1 ounces

Pros

• Super-fast NVMe memory helps reduce load times and lag
• Aesthetic appearance
• Higher capacities store tons of games
• Compatible with the Xbox Series X, PS5, and PCs

Cons

• Expensive per gigabyte

This SSD takes aim squarely at the gaming crowd. Modern consoles and gaming PCs demand wide-open bandwidth, which this small device provides. Tucked inside a rugged aluminum case, this NVMe SSD can plug-and-play with the popular current-gen consoles and gaming PCs and laptops alike. You likely won’t notice any performance differences between playing off the drive and keeping games on the console’s built-in storage. Not every drive will work with consoles, so it’s nice to know this one is easy to install and set up without having to worry about compatibility.

Things to consider when shopping for the best portable SSDs

Ruggedization

These are portable devices, and many terrible things can happen to a piece of electronics in the depth of a backpack. Only a few of these options come with a full-on IP rating, typically suggesting moisture, dust, and pressure resistance. Some drives are hardened against falls but can’t resist the elements. Be sure to check out the specs and consider where you’re taking the drive before committing. 

Capacity

I have never once been sorry that I bought the bigger version of a digital storage product. The extra space will make the device cost more upfront, but it will also likely be useful for longer with more storage space. Of course, it pays to know your own habits. If you’re just moving around Word files and a few photos, don’t waste money on a big 4TB storage device.

Transfer speeds

If you’re working with high-res images or videos, you want as much speed as you can afford. Common devices top out around 1,000 MB/s, which is fine for most photo and video editing unless you’re pushing it. You’ll want something faster if you’re working with very high-def content. The same goes for a drive you want to work with a video game console. Games can hog up just as much bandwidth as creative apps, sometimes more.

Security features

Some storage devices come with built-in security features like password locking, encryption, and even data recovery in case of a loss. These are typically some of the first things to go when you get into cheaper drives. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best portable SSDs

• Best overall: SAMSUNG T7 Shield
• Best splurge: LaCie Rugged SSD Pro Solid State Drive
• Best budget: Crucial X8 Portable SSD 
• Best for speed: SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD
• Best for gamers: Western Digital P50 Game Drive SSD

A portable SSD could be handy even if you’re not a professional content creator or avid gamer. It’s great to lug around files that are too big to keep in the cloud or on your computer’s hard drive. It’s also a great way to back up your stuff on-the-go thanks to super-fast transfer speeds. If you’re currently lugging around an external drive with a spinning HDD inside, it’s time to upgrade to one of the best portable SSDs.

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.

Thanks for reaching out. I’ve gotten a pretty wild response to this call out and it’s been amazing so it’s going to take me a while to sort through all of these awesome new (to me) writers. We’re on a rolling assignment schedule that happens quarterly, so I’m going to keep everyone in our database with their strengths and areas of expertise and reach out if we have a fit. Thanks again for taking the time and it’s great to meet you!

The post The best portable SSDs for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Brother MFC‐L8905CDW Business Color Laser All‐in‐One		SEE IT	A robust set of features and highly efficient printing make this a worthy investment.
Best for shipping		Rollo Wireless Shipping Label Printer		SEE IT	This thermal printer makes quick work of shipping labels for all common services.
Best budget		Canon Image Class D570 Monochrome Laser Printer		SEE IT	At less than $150, this printer offers a surprising set of features.

Printers for small businesses aren’t exciting, but they still provide several essential functions. Maybe it’s printing contracts or making copies of essential documents. Or maybe you just need a simple, efficient solution to print a ton of shipping labels for your Etsy or eBay business. The best printers for small businesses offer all the features you need without requiring much upkeep or tons of expensive ink. 

• Best overall: Brother MFC‐L8905CDW Business Color Laser All‐in‐One Printer
• Best budget: Canon Image Class D570 Monochrome Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier
• Best for shipping labels: Rollo Wireless Label Printer
• Best for high-volume printing: Brother Monochrome Laser Multifunction All-in-One Printer
• Best wide-format: Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner

How we chose the best printers for small businesses

In addition to my editor position here at Popular Science, I have run several small businesses over the years, all of which required a tedious amount of scanning, printing, and even the occasional fax. To pick the best printer for small businesses, we narrowed the selections to models that can handle high-volume printing with quick page-per-minute ratings. We also prioritized models with robust wireless and networking features to support multiple users. The price of ink replacement, reliability, and feature set also influenced our decision. We ultimately started with a field of more than 30 printers and narrowed it down to these choices based on features, spec comparisons, editorial reviews, user feedback, and personal experience. If you’re working out of your house, you might want to check out our list of the best home office printers for some tamer options.

The best printers for small businesses: Reviews & Recommendations

If you have a small business, you’ll have to print something out at some point, so you might as well be prepared. Here are some recommendations for specific use cases, but we recommend checking all of them out to find the right model for your needs, whether you’re an office full of Macs or Windows machines.

Best overall: Brother MFC‐L8905CDW Business Color Laser All‐in‐One Printer

SEE IT

Specs

• Printer type: Color laser
• Pages per minute: 33 ppm color or black-and-white
• Ink cartridge replacement cost: $119 black and $64 color for up to 9,000 pages

Pros

• Large touchscreen for standalone operation
• Fast printing at 33 ppm
• Color and black-and-white compatible
• Scanning and copying features
• Scanner can turn paper documents into Microsoft Office documents compatible with Word or Excel

Cons 

• Expensive upfront cost
• Large footprint

It’s hard to spend a lot of money on a printer, but it’s worth it in the long run if you plan to do a lot of printing. This is basically a miniaturized version of the monster printers found in big offices. It can scan and copy documents thanks to an auto-feed 250-sheet paper tray that’s expandable up to 1,300 pages with optional accessories. While it can spit out copies of scanned documents, it can also automatically convert them into digital files compatible with Microsoft Office programs like Excel and Word. 

From a printing standpoint, this is a full-fledged laser printer that can pump out both color and black-and-white prints at up to 33 ppm. That’s solid for a laser printer and obliterates what most inkjets can offer. Built-in WiFi allows for easy wireless printing, and it’s compatible with smartphones via an app so that it can print from a mobile device. 

Black toner cartridges cost roughly $119 (if you get the first-party ink, which we recommend) and produce about 9,000 printed pages on average. You may not use the color printing features as much as the simple monochrome printing, but it’s nice if you need to make a flyer or a financial report. Color prints come out just as fast as black-and-white ones, which is a nice feature.

This printer may be overkill if you’re just one person running a tiny business with occasional printing needs, but if you do a ton of printing, you’ll appreciate the speed, reliability, and ample features that come with a machine like this. Take note, however, that it’s a large printer, so you might want to pick up an extra sturdy computer desk if you’re going to keep it close.

Best budget: Canon Image Class D570 Monochrome Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier

SEE IT

Specs

• Printer type: Monochrome laser 
• Pages per minute: 28 ppm
• Ink cartridge replacement cost: $64 for up to 2,400 pages

Pros

• Prints and copies at up to 28ppm
• Built-in scanner is a nice touch at this price point
• LCD screen shows status and settings
• Wireless connectivity
• Black color makes it look less nerdy than others

Cons 

• Genuine toner can be pricey

Sometimes, you just need to print out some basic black-and-white pages. You don’t need a monster of a machine to do that. This sub-$150 printer can pump out up to 28 black-and-white pages per minute from its 250-page tray. It has a built-in scanner on top, but it’s a basic flatbed, and you’ll need to scan each page independently if you want to make copies. 

The all-black design makes it look less like drab office equipment than some of its competition. Each replacement cartridge is good for roughly 2,400 pages and costs $64, which makes the cost per page higher than other options on this list. That’s offset by the lower up-front cost and works well for businesses with less rigorous printing needs. 

Built-in WiFi comes as something of a surprise for a printer this cheap. You can print from a computer, but this printer will also talk to smartphones through various popular apps and protocols. This cheap model really does most of what a typical small business needs at a very low price.

Best for shipping labels: Rollo Wireless Label Printer

SEE IT

Specs

• Printer type: Thermal
• Pages per minute: N/A
• Ink cartridge replacement cost: $19 for 500 labels

Pros

• Integrates with many online selling platforms
• Small form factor
• Fast printing
• Cheap substrates
• Built-in templates for popular label types

Cons 

• Expensive up-front cost

This thermal printer is designed specifically for creating shipping labels with maximum efficiency. It requires a relatively hefty upfront cost, but 500 labels only cost roughly $20. And because it uses thermal printing technology, it never needs ink replacement.

The Rollo platform integrates with popular online selling platforms like eBay, so you can quickly create a label and ship things off. The printer handles everything, including automatic scaling, to ensure the label fits on the sticker without falling off the edge and losing important data. It’s quick, reliable, and cheap to operate, essential for a printer like this. Plus, it prints easily from any mobile device if you want to run your eBay empire from an iPhone or Android handset.

Best for high-volume printing: Brother Monochrome Laser Multifunction All-in-One Printer

SEE IT

Specs

• Printer type: Monochrome laser
• Pages per minute: 42 ppm
• Ink cartridge replacement cost: $99 for up to 8,000 pages

Pros

• 42 ppm print speed
• 300 sheet tray can expand up over 1,300 with optional accessories
• Color touch screen
• Mobile printing
• Can scan directly to cloud services like Google Drive and Evernote

Cons 

• Automatic two-sided printing not available with copying or scanning

If you’re a lawyer, publisher, or some other business that requires a lot of printing, you want a fast, monochrome laser model. This Brother fits the bill. It can pump out black-and-white prints at up to 42 ppm, depending on the content. It pulls paper from a 300-page tray, but you can expand the capacity beyond 1,300 with optional accessories. 

A 50-sheet multi-purpose tray enables bulk copying and scanning. This machine is a multi-tasker, so you can scan documents while a print job is in progress. The built-in 3.7-inch touchscreen makes it easy to navigate functions and settings without a phone or computer.

While the standard cartridge will print between 2,000 and 3,000 pages, the roughly $100 drum version can print up to 30,000 pages. 

Best wide-format: Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner

SEE IT

Specs

• Printer type: Inkjet
• Pages per minute: 9 ppm color and 17 ppm black-and-white
• Ink cartridge replacement cost: $18 black, $37 color

Pros

• Bottles of ink provide much cheaper per-print cost than cartridges
• High-quality color images
• Supports large paper big enough for flyers and posters, up to 11” x 17”
• Copy, scan, and fax functionality

Cons 

• Much slower than lasers
• Touchscreen display is just OK

Some businesses require printing beyond simple black text on an 8.5” x 11” sheet. This large format printer supports paper up to 11” x 17”, which makes it great for printing small posters or flyers. The inkjet printing technology offers much higher image quality and color fidelity than laser, which offsets the much slower print times. 

Rather than requiring wasteful cartridges, Epson’s wide-format work printer draws ink from bottles, and this drops overall print cost to around $0.01 per page compared to up to $0.20 in cartridge-based models. 

In addition to its printing capabilities, this large-format all-in-one can also copy, scan, and even fax. The full-color touchscreen is just OK for navigating settings and menus, but the printer itself is compatible with a wide variety of computer and smartphone-based printing platforms, so you may not need to use the display very often anyway.

Things to consider when shopping for the best printer for small business

Every business is different, so printing needs can vary quite a bit. Some may require the occasional contract or shipping labels, while others chew through reams of paper every month. Here are some things to consider before plopping down that corporate card:

Ink and toner cost

When it comes to small businesses, every cent matters, even if we’re talking about pennies per print. Laser printers typically offer much cheaper per-page pricing, with toner cartridges lasting thousands of pages before they need replacing. Black-and-white laser printers typically offer the best value, and opting for high-capacity versions of the replacement cartridges typically drops the unit price as low as it will go. Inkjets typically provide much better overall image quality if you want to print photos, graphics, or color in general. But, the price-per-print is generally much higher. 

While many companies offer third-party options for ink and toner refills, it’s worth noting that they won’t always work. Printer manufacturers can be fairly litigious about ensuring users buy first-party replacements. Consider the cost of first-party ink when you’re making a purchase because it may end up being your only option. 

All-in-one features

Unless you already have a scanner or access to a copier, we recommend an all-in-one printer for most small businesses. Sure, you can “scan” images with your phone, but it’s nowhere near as fast as simply using an all-in-one. And time is important when it comes to running a business. You may be able to save some money by keeping the all-in-one features basic. For instance, a machine that only makes single-sided copies will likely be cheaper than one that does automatic two-sided copying. You also don’t typically need a really high-res scanning option as text is fairly easy to copy without tons of pixels.

Wireless connectivity and networking features

If you’re working on your own, you may not even need wireless connectivity. Most current printer models offer built-in WiFi for wireless printing so you likely won’t save much money by omitting it. If you’re working in a small office with several people working on the same router, you want to ensure you get a printer with robust networking features, especially when it comes to security. Some high-end models (like our best overall pick) allow for NFC badge recognition to ensure only authorized users are making prints from the machine.

Paper compatibility

Just about any desktop printer can handle typical 8.5” x 11” letter-sized paper, but that’s just the beginning. Some models offer much more robust options when it comes to printing labels, invitations, books, and any number of other deliverables. Make sure the model you choose can handle all the tasks you need. A dedicated label printer is great, but it won’t print a manuscript. And a typical laser printer may not be able to handle those nametags you wanted to have for the next office mingler.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best printers for small business

• Best overall: Brother MFC‐L8905CDW Business Color Laser All‐in‐One Printer
• Best budget: Canon Image Class D570 Monochrome Laser Printer with Scanner and Copier
• Best for shipping labels: Rollo Wireless Label Printer
• Best for high-volume printing: Brother Monochrome Laser Multifunction All-in-One Printer
• Best wide-format: Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner

Printers aren’t exciting to buy. But they’re still frustratingly necessary for many business tasks. If you’re going to get one, you might as well get one that fits your exact needs. You don’t want to spend hours standing around while you wait for prints. And you don’t want to drop more than $600 for a printer with tons of features you’ll never need. The best printers for small business offer quick, reliable performance just when you need it. 

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 printers for small businesses to maximize productivity in 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Your computer is naked without some solid accessories, and right now Best Buy has Logitech webcams, keyboards, and more for up to $50 off with shipping available in time for Christmas. You can look better on Zoom calls and type on a keyboard totally devoid of Hot Cheeto crumbs for 2024.

Logitech-Brio 500 1920x1080p Webcam with Privacy Cover $99 (was $129)

SEE IT

This is a sweet spot in the Logitech webcam lineup. This $99 camera offers light correction, automatic framing, a built-in physical privacy cover, and a powerful microphone array that picks up your voice, but not your dog coughing in the background of your calls. It offers 1080p resolution, which is solid for maximizing image quality without seriously taxing your internet bandwidth.

More Logitech Webcam deals

• Logitech – Brio 300 1920x1080p USB-C Webcam with Privacy Shutter $49 (was $59)
• Logitech – 4K Pro 4096 x 2160 Webcam with Noise-Canceling Mic $149 (was $199)
• Logitech – C920s Pro 1080 Webcam with Privacy Shutter $59 (was $69)
• Logitech – C270 720 Webcam with Noise-Reducing Mics $25 (was $30)
• Logitech – C922 Pro Stream 1080 Webcam for HD Video Streaming $79 (was $99)
• Logitech – Brio 100 1080p Full HD Webcam for Meetings and Streaming $29 (was $39)

Logitech keyboard deals

• Logitech – MX Mechanical Mini for Mac Compact Wireless Mechanical Clicky Switch Keyboard for macOS/iPadOS/iOS with Backlit Keys $125 (was $149)
• Logitech – K400 Plus TKL Wireless Membrane Keyboard for PC/TV/Laptop/Tablet with Built-in Touchpad $19 (was $28)
• Logitech – POP Keys Wireless Mechanical Tactile Switch Keyboard for Windows/Mac with Customizable Emoji Keys – Blast Yellow $69 (was $99)
• Logitech – POP Keys Wireless Mechanical Tactile Switch Keyboard for Windows/Mac with Customizable Emoji Keys – Daydream Mint $69 (was $99)
• Logitech – POP Keys Wireless Mechanical Tactile Switch Keyboard for Windows/Mac with Customizable Emoji Keys – Heartbreaker Rose $79 (was $99)
• Logitech – MX Keys Mini TKL Wireless Bluetooth Scissor Keyboard with Backlit Keys $89 (was $99)
• Logitech – Folio Touch Keyboard Folio for iPad Air 10.9″ (5th & 4th Generation) with Precision Trackpad $84 (was $159)
• Logitech – Combo Touch Keyboard Folio for Apple iPad Pro 12.9″ (5th & 6th Gen) with Detachable Backlit Keyboard $188 (was $229)
• Logitech – Combo Touch iPad Pro Keyboard Folio for Apple iPad Pro 11″ (1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Gen) with Detachable Backlit Keyboard $161 (was $199)
• Logitech – Combo Touch Keyboard Folio for Apple iPad Air 10.9″ (5th & 4th Gen) with Detachable Backlit Keyboard $141 (was $199)

Logitech headset deals

• Logitech – Zone Vibe 125 Wireless Over-the-Ear Headphones with Noise-Canceling Microphone $99 (was $129)
• Logitech – Zone Vibe 100 Bluetooth Over Ear Headphones with Noise-Cancelling Microphone $79 (was $99)

The post Save up to $30 on some of Logitech’s most popular webcams and keyboards at Best Buy appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Maybe you’re the type to blast Christmas carols the second Halloween is over. Or, maybe you’re the kind of person who blasts Slayer out the window when carolers come around with their pesky holiday cheer. Either way, Amazon’s current deals on Bose speakers can save you some cash. These discounts include a huge swath of the Bose lineup and even offers a few deals that are cheaper than they were on Black Friday.

NEW Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $299 (was $349)

SEE IT

This is a great option if you want fantastic noise-canceling with balanced sound and long battery life. These have become standard issue for frequent travelers because of their ability to block external sound from hitting your ear drums. Plus, the plush ear cups and headband padding make them comfortable to wear over long stretches. If you’re traveling far this holiday, these will be your best friend.

• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, Black $199 (was $279)
• NEW Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones limited edition green $299 (was $349)
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II, White $199 (was $279)
• NEW Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds $279 (was $299)
• NEW Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with Spatial Audio $379 (was $429)
• NEW Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with Spatial Audio white $379 (was $429)
• NEW Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Portable Speaker, green $119 (was $149)
• Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker, black $119 (was $149)
• Bose SoundLink Revolve (Series II) Portable Bluetooth Speaker $159 (was $219)
• Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker $99 (was $119)
• Bose Portable Smart Speaker $349 (was $399)
• Bose Smart Soundbar 600 with Dolby Atmos $449 (was $499)
• NEW Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar With Dolby Atmos $799 (was $899)
• Bose Music Amplifier $599 (was $699)

The post Grab these Bose deals on speakers and headphones to drown out holiday gatherings appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Kindle Oasis		SEE IT	If you’re looking for a feature-rich eReader, read no further.
Best for PDF		Kindle Paperwhite		SEE IT	This eReader offers one of the easiest-to-read screens you’ll find.
Best budget		Kobo Nia		SEE IT	Get all the basics—and more—for under $110.

An eReader is more than a convenient way to carry an entire collection of James Paterson novels onto an airplane. Today’s eReader screens are stunning, with sharp text that looks just like real ink and paper. These displays separate eReaders from tablets, making them the best way to read digital books. Modern eReaders are friendly and inviting. They encourage reading and provide services and apps you won’t find on traditional smartphones and tablets. With the best eReaders, you’ll access books, audiobooks, magazines, and more in a format dedicated to useability and your eyes.

• Best overall: Kindle Oasis
• Best for kids: Kindle Kids
• Best for seniors: Amazon Kindle
• Best for PDFs: Kindle Paperwhite
• Best for manga: Kobo Sage
• Best for library books: Kobo Clara 2E
• Best for students: Kindle Scribe
• Best color eReader: BOOX Note Air 3 C
• Best Kobo eReader: Kobo Libra 2
• Best budget: Kobo Nia

How we chose the best eReaders

The writers and editors working on this article have spent thousands of hours reading on paper books and electronic devices. We’ve felt the sting of tired eyes and are glad to leave the world of papercuts behind. 

Taking a critical look at eReaders starts with display clarity. These devices are designed for easy reading, and the best of the bunch must have an impressive, crisp look as close to analog ink and paper text as possible. 

Most eReaders on the market offer similar stats for battery life and storage space, so we focused on the factors that separate the readers—namely screen lights, screen size, and file options. An eReader must be as easy to see as it is to navigate, and generic budget-priced eReaders are notoriously clunky with interfaces that look more like a calculator screen than a soothing, inviting digital library. We ran through the eReader menus, checking for speed and intuitiveness. If we hit a roadblock and had to click the “help” function to figure out what to do, it was a big red flag for casual readers. 

Lastly, we considered price. Devices over $250 must have something special to offer (like a color display), or why spend the money? And devices less than $70 seem sketchy from the start and will likely crash regularly. 

The best eReaders: Reviews & Recommendations

Today’s eReaders are sophisticated tablets capable of displaying text and images in a wide variety of eye-friendly ways. But with so many eReaders on the market, finding the device that suits your needs and reading habits can be difficult. Do you want an eReader with a clean, simple interface? Do you want an eReader with a lot of file options? Do you want an eReader for teens or younger children? One of the choices below should check all your boxes so you can spend more time ereading and less time searching the internet for the best eReaders.

Best overall: Kindle Oasis

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Amazon’s newest Kindle Oasis eReader is the best eReader overall because it adds even more lighting options for a variety of color temperatures and displays crisp text on a big screen ideal for tired and weary eyes. 

Specs

• Screen size: 7-inch screen 
• Waterproof: Yes
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: 25 LED lights
• Storage: 8 or 32 GB

Pros

• Big, beautiful screen
• More LED lights than any other eReader
• Controls feel great

Cons

• No speaker or headphone jack (Bluetooth headphones only)
• Price is steep
• Not a huge upgrade from the previous Oasis eReader

The latest Kindle Oasis might be the best eReader overall. The screen is bigger than the standard 6-inch display of most Readers, with a resolution of 300 ppi (pixels per inch)—the sweet spot for crisp text. And the new LED lights can be automatically adjusted to suit your eyes and environment. The result is a stunning display that looks just as good in a dark room as on a sunny beach. 

The Oasis is not cheap, costing twice as much as a Kindle Paperwhite. The bigger, brighter screen is worth the money if you spend a lot of looking at screens, and the physical controls make it the best Kindle if you prefer a more tactile experience. Page-turning is instant; even switching from book to menu screen is done with surprising speed and smoothness. Highlighting passages is also fast and simple. 

Audiobook fans will need to provide their own Bluetooth speakers or true wireless earbuds, as there is no speaker or headphone jack on the device. But if you want a device to listen to audiobooks, your smartphone is probably better equipped for the job. At just under $250 for the 8 GB version, this luxury Kindle is for serious readers who want the best design for a professional, high-quality text-based experience. 

Best for kids: Kindle Kids

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet has a colorful rubber case and reinforced body that makes this an easy pick as the best eReader for kids. 

Specs

• Screen size: 6-inch screen 
• Waterproof: No
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: Yes; 4 LED
• Storage: 16GB

Pros

• Long-lasting battery
• Amazon Kids+ subscription
• Two-year warranty

Cons

• Expensive for a kid-themed gadget

Finding an eReader that’s kid-proof can be tough, but Amazon has made it easier by introducing the Kindle Kids, a more child-friendly version of its entry-level eReader. On a technical level, the Kindle and Kindle Kids are identical. Both have a six-inch 300ppi e-ink display, four LED backlights, and a battery that can last for weeks at a time without needing to be plugged in.

The difference is that Amazon offers the Kindle Kids with a case, a two-year warranty, and one year of access to its Kids+ subscription service. Kids+ functions similarly to Amazon Kindle Unlimited: Children get unlimited access to a library of age-appropriate titles, which they can download and read at their leisure. Major titles that are available via Kids+ are the entire Chronicles of Narnia, Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Harry Potter series. This service costs $4.99 per month, so getting a free year cuts the Kindle Kids’ up-front cost in half.

The Kindle Kids also has friendly features like Word Wise, which shows synonyms and definitions above difficult words, and Vocabulary Builder, which allows kids to highlight words they don’t know and create flashcards from them. These features allow children to build their reading skills independently rather than asking an adult. The Kindle Kids is pretty pricey as far as kids tech goes, but it’s less expensive (not to mention distracting) than most tablets.

Best for seniors: Amazon Kindle

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The iconic Amazon Kindle is still one of the best eReaders for any age, but seniors will especially love the reading light, the user-friendly text options, and the low price. 

Specs

• Screen size: 6-inch screen
• Waterproof: No
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: 4 LEDs
• Storage: 16 GB

Pros

• 4-week battery life when used for 30 minutes a day
• Affordable
• Simple design with no screen clutter
• Robust text size, spacing, and style options

Cons

• Front lights not as bright or bigger than others on this list
• No video features

The Amazon Kindle has come a long way since the first generation of eReaders. The most recent model added front lights for easy reading in the dark. The e-ink screen looks great even in sunlight, and the fonts can be adjusted to suit the reader’s needs, making it the best eReader for seniors. 

Seniors will love the simplicity of the basic Kindle. The menu screens are barebones, and browsing the library is straightforward. Buying books is also a breeze, but make sure the readers understand how it works before they unknowingly rack up thousands of dollars in John Grisham debt.  

The Amazon Kindle can also be used as an audiobook player, and a subscription to Audible makes listening to books cost-effective. But there is no internal speaker, so you need some noise-canceling Bluetooth earbuds (or a wireless speaker if you’re in a quiet place). We wish the screen were a bit bigger, as some seniors will still have trouble seeing the 6-inch display even when the size of the text is blown up. The next biggest Kindle size would be the Oasis, an upscale device that costs more than double the price of the standard Kindle. Save your money and stick with the affordable option. 

Best for PDFs: Kindle Paperwhite

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Why it made the cut: The Amazon Paperwhite is not only thin, it has enough storage to load up thousands of PDFs, and the little eReader has no problem displaying PDFs on its gorgeous e-ink screen. 

Specs

• Screen size: 6.8-inch screen
• Waterproof: Yes
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: 17 LEDs
• Storage: 8 or 16 GB

Pros

• Easy to add and read PDFs without lag
• Lightweight and thin enough for pockets
• Screen looks good even in sunlight

Cons

• Can’t read every file format, such as EPUB
• Easy to lose
• Must connect to a computer for file transfer

The Kindle Paperwhite represents a sweet spot for readers with a bit more cash to spend on an Amazon eReader for a few noticeable creature comforts. The 6.8-inch, 300 ppi screen may not seem like a huge improvement over the base model’s 6-inch display, but that extra fraction of an inch actually translates into more words on screen and fewer page turns during each reading session. That translates into thousands or even millions fewer turns over the device’s lifespan. The screen is still exceptionally sharp and clear—there’s just more of it (as I go into in my full detailed review).

The Paperwhite relies on 17 LEDs for its illumination, compared to just four in the standard Kindle. You can also adjust the color temperature of the Paperwhites LEDs to give either warm or cool tones.

For readers who want to consume their literature (or pulp) in the bath or at the beach, the Paperwhite’s IPX8 rating allows it to survive full submersion in fresh water (up to an hour) or seawater (up to three minutes). The standard Kindle doesn’t offer any real weatherproofing.

The Paperwhite generally offers a fairly great reading experience. The pages turn quickly, the navigation has been streamlined from previous versions, and it finally offers USB-C charging. Hence, you’re one step closer to finally recycling all those old MicroUSB cables.

I personally opted for the ad-supported version, which shows advertisements on the lock screen in exchange for a $20 discount on the device itself. That may not be worth it for you if your brain hasn’t become as hopelessly desensitized to ads as mine has.

Best for manga: Kobo Sage

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Why it made the cut: The Kobo Sage can handle just about every file format you want, a huge plus for Manga readers whose taste goes beyond Amazon’s limited offerings. And the big display makes art and text look great.

Specs

• Screen size: 8-inch screen
• Waterproof: Yes
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: Yes; LEDs unknown
• Storage: 32 GB

Pros

• Big 8-inch screen
• Looks good in wide landscape mode
• Supports multiple file formats
• Nice, tactile buttons for easy page-turning

Cons

• Buttons can feel a little slow
• Black and white only
• Expensive

Japanese graphic novels (manga) come in every genre imaginable from a wide variety of sources, so you’ll want an eReader that can handle every type of file format to read it all. The Kobo Sage’s large e-ink screen makes black-and-white manga look great, almost as good as physical paper. And holding the Kobo Sage sideways in landscape mode adds to the feeling of reading a real graphic novel. 

The Kobo Sage is the best eReader for manga because it can read comic book files CBZ and CBR, plus ebook files EPUB, EPUB3, MOBI, FilePub, and PDFs. Navigating through a comic is easy, thanks to the side buttons. And the front lights allow for nighttime reading. It’s also waterproof for those who love to read at the beach or pool.

The biggest drawbacks are the price and the lack of color. For reading colorful American comics, you’ll be better off with a standard tablet like an iPad. However, this eReader does look better in sunlight than the glossy screen of an iPad. And manga fans will love the Koba Sage, even with the limitations. 

Best for library books: Kobo Clara 2E

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Why it made the cut: For accessing and reading library books, the Kobo Clara 2E has a seamless interface with the library app Overdrive. If you love the library, this ebook reader gives you access to near-limitless free books. 

Specs

• Screen size: 6-inch screen
• Waterproof: Yes
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: Yes; LEDs unknown
• Storage: 16 GB

Pros

• Comes ready for Overdrive library app
• Great screen looks like a real book
• A lot of text and display options

Cons

• Title offerings may be limited based on what your local library has available
• No cloud storage or syncing to other devices

OverDrive and its Libby app make it easier than ever to borrow books from your local library, and the Kobo Clara 2E eReader is the best eReader for library books. Sure, the Kindle can also link up to OverDrive and Libby, but if the library has a book incompatible with the Kindle, you’re out of luck. Kobo eReaders are better suited for displaying a variety of file formats. 

Simply search for your library in the app or the online OverDrive website, plug in your library card info, and you’ll be set. The Kobo Clara 2E is ready to borrow books from your library of choice … assuming your library participates in the OverDrive program. (Most libraries do, and more are added every month.) 

Besides the library functionality, the Kobo Clara 2E is a big improvement over older Kobo products. The display is crisper, and the touchscreen is responsive. Kobo may lack the streamlined UX design of the sleek and simple Kindle, but you’re getting more options and greater freedom to buy, borrow, and read the books of your choice. 

Best for students: Kindle Scribe

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Why it made the cut: An easy-to-use interface and note-taking abilities mean you can use this eReader in and out of class.

Specs

• Screen size: 10.2-inch screen
• Waterproof: No
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: 35 LEDs
• Storage: 16, 32, or 64 GB

Pros

• Big, beautiful display
• High refresh rate
• Easy-to-use interface

Cons

• Expensive
• Only available with a stylus

The Scribe is Amazon’s first big-screen Kindle in over a decade, and this return to form should be welcomed by digital readers everywhere. The Scribe’s 10.2-inch display has the same 300 ppi screen density as its smaller siblings, making text look as crisp as ever. The screen also refreshes at the same rate, which means you can turn pages quickly without seeing long-lasting artifacts from the previous one on your screen. 

Similarly, the Scribe has the same intuitive, gesture-based user interface as other Kindles, so you’ll be right at home if you’re familiar with any of Amazon’s eReaders. If you already have a collection of Kindle books, they’ll be available on the Scribe from the moment you first activate it, which is very helpful. 

If all you want is a big-screen Kindle, you’re in luck: The Scribe gets full marks in this regard. Unfortunately, Amazon designed this eReader with a secondary purpose: note-taking. The Kindle Scribe is bundled with a basic or premium stylus, depending on how much you pay. Tapping the screen with your stylus allows you to create digital, handwritten notes, which you can refer back to later. You can annotate e-books and PDFs synced to your Kindle Scribe or create original notes on a blank canvas that can be accessed through the cloud. 

Annotation on the Kindle Scribe works well enough, but it feels like this feature should be optional rather than mandatory. A Kindle Scribe with 16GB of storage and the Basic Pen runs costs $340. That’s tough to swallow if you don’t see yourself using the Scribe to write very often, if at all. A $300 basic Scribe with no pen would be easier to recommend. Still, if you have a library of Kindle books and want a large-screen eReader, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Best color eReader: BOOX Note Air 3 C

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Why it made the cut: While color e-ink technology is still in its infancy, the BOOX Note Air 3 C eReader is leading the pack with a good color display and responsive touchscreen, making it the best of this limited marketplace. 

Specs

• Screen size: 10.3-inch screen
• Waterproof: No
• Resolution: 150 ppi
• Front light: Yes; LEDs unknown
• Storage: 64 GB

Pros

• Paper-like texture
• Handles all standard file types
• Stylus is good for taking notes

Cons

• Costs as much as an iPad but does less

Color e-ink displays are still a niche technology, but the BOOX Note Air 3 C is the best option yet, thanks to BOOX’s continued investment in improving its displays. Besides its display, the big differentiator with this eReader is that it runs Android, a much more capable operating system than the one found on Kindles and Kobos. You can download apps to read books from different digital libraries and even browse the web. The tradeoff is that e-ink displays don’t refresh information nearly as quickly as an LCD screen on your phone or tablet, so the experience will be a lot more limited.

The Kaleido 3 color screen of the BOOX Note Air 3 C uses light filtering to create colors, not actual color microcapsules. You’re looking at monochrome microcapsules through a layer of filters to create color. This latest generation of the technology has 30% better color saturation and 50% more pixels per inch than the one used on previous Boox tablets. The BOOX Note Air 3 C is capable of displaying up to 4096 different colors, which will cover many of the hues and shades of primary colors. If you’re expecting the vividness of an Android or Apple tablet, you will be disappointed, but it’s still really impressive for an eReader. 

As a regular, black-and-white eReader, the BOOX Note Air 3 C does a good enough job, but you’re paying extra for the color functionality. If you’re not interested in the color, there’s not much else this eReader offers that you can’t find in cheaper devices like the Kindle or the Kobo products. The only other benefit of this device is the stylus; it’s responsive and a good eReader for annotations and jotting notes. The color ink Kaledio 3 technology was introduced recently, and it’s the cream of the crop in terms of color variety and speed. We don’t know when or if color e-ink will ever be perfected, so this is the best color eReader of the bunch as of now and the best splurge. 

Best Kobo eReader: Kobo Libra 2

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Why it made the cut: The Kobo Libra 2 is the best Kobo eReader and the biggest Kindle competitor on the market, with a stunning display and responsive controls worthy of any digital bookworm.

Specs

• Screen size: 7-inch screen
• Waterproof: Yes
• Resolution: 300 ppi
• Front light: Yes; LEDs unknown
• Storage: 32 GB

Pros

• Physical page-turning buttons
• Bright screen in the dark
• Text looks fantastic

Cons

• Not as user-friendly as Kindle
• Feels a bit slow

The Kobo Libra 2 is the company’s flagship device, the best Kobo eReader for casual reading or intense studying. It feels good in your hand, not like a cheap, knock-off product you buy at a drugstore. Page-turning feels great, and while the touch screen is nice, the buttons are nicer. We wish more eReaders offered the tactile feel of real, physical controls.

The 32 GB internal storage is massive and has enough room for about 24,000 books. The adjustable screen light is a great addition to the Kobo eReaders and can be used to pick the perfect amount of illumination for night readers. 

Browsing the Kobo library is simple, though not as intuitive as the Kindle store. But the Kobo does support more file types than the Kindle, which is a plus for those who love EPUB books. And the Kobo Libra 2 easily connects to your local library through OverDrive. 

Best budget: Kobo Nia

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Why it made the cut: Access to ad-free reading and flexible file access is only a little over $100.

Specs

• Screen size: 6-inch screen
• Waterproof: No
• Resolution: 212 ppi
• Front light: Yes; LEDs unknown
• Storage: 8 GB

Pros

• Thin and lightweight
• Glare-free screen
• Connects to OverDrive

Cons

• Syncing issues
• Not waterproof

Technically, this eReader costs around $10 more than the base model of the Amazon Kindle. However, on-screen ads are a different price to pay if you want that sweet $99.99 Kindle. You’ll have to fork over $119.99 to enjoy your books sans lock screen advertising. Enter the Kobo Nia, a little less expensive than the adless Kindle with more flexibility. You can download EPUB and PDF files or connect this eReader to OverDrive to easily access books from your local library. And, with the Kobo Desktop App, syncing your library has never been easier. You may not be able to read it in the bathtub or at the beach (it’s not waterproof), but you can enjoy it in your own backyard thanks to the glare-free screen.

Another downer? Unlike the Sage, Libra 2, and Clara 2E—which come with ComfortLight PRO to adjust brightness and color temperature—the Nia has plain ol’ ComfortLight, which allows you only to change the brightness.

My Kobo Nia can be stubborn: it occasionally forgets my WiFi network, and I’ve had problems syncing my device with the Kobo Desktop App. Both problems have easy fixes: I re-enter my WiFi password or turn the device on and off; I use Adobe Digital Editions to get the EPUB files and put them on the eReader locally. As someone who refuses to see ads on a device I already paid money for, it’s a minor problem I’m willing to deal with.

What to consider when buying the best eReaders

With advances in e-ink tech and touch screens, the problems of first-generation eReaders are all but gone. There are no more weird visual artifacts and lag when turning a page. You won’t need to struggle with dark screens that are impossible to see at night. And unlike the early 2000s, you have more than one or two eReaders to choose from.  Here’s what to know when starting a new chapter with your eReader adventure:

The benefits of reading on an eReader over a tablet

Tablets have become affordable options for casual computing. So why would you need a separate eReader when your tablet (or phone) can access all the popular ebook apps? In a word: Readability. As colorful and bright as LCD tablet screens have become, grayscale e-ink displays are gentler on the eyes. The gray contrast lets the eye relax and focus on the text. And because eReaders are made for books, the page-turning controls are more responsive and text options are more varied than tablets and smartphone apps. Plus, eReaders are generally smaller and more travel-friendly than tablets.  

Grayscale vs. color displays

Most eReaders only display text and images in simple monochromatic grays. While there are a few color eReaders available, the technology of color e-ink has yet to be perfected. In the past few years, Kaledio has led the way for color eReaders like the BOOX Note Air 3 C, and the results are pretty good—but not great. The color of these eReaders is dull, like a photo viewed through sunglasses. And when you look at the screen from certain angles, the color all but vanishes. This is fine for reading some books and PDFs, but those looking for slap-you-in-the-eye colors are better off with a full-color iPad or Microsoft Surface tablet.

Supported file types

Amazon’s line of Kindles loves the proprietary AZW file type, but they can also handle PDFs, MOBI, standard doc files, and more. However, Kobo eReaders are versatile and can digest more types of saved files. Kobo has more options if you want to access a wide variety of books and comics. The downside: Not all file types will work as smoothly as the standard PDF and EPUB files. When moving files over to the eReader, some formatting may shift. This isn’t a deal-breaker but can impact the reading experience. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best eReaders

• Best overall: Kindle Oasis
• Best for kids: Kindle Kids
• Best for seniors: Amazon Kindle
• Best for PDFs: Kindle Paperwhite
• Best for manga: Kobo Sage
• Best for library books: Kobo Clara 2E
• Best for students: Kindle Scribe
• Best color eReader: BOOX Note Air 3 C
• Best Kobo eReader: Kobo Libra 2
• Best budget: Kobo Nia

Digital books are more than a fad. And an eReader with a gorgeous e-ink display helps you get the most out of your reading experience. They have come a long way since the days of built-in keyboards and glitchy page-turning lag. These sleek, simple readers are gentle on the eyes and fast on the fingers. With the best eReaders, staying up to date on reading is as easy as tapping a screen. 

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 eReaders in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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THE GEORGE EASTMAN MUSEUM in Rochester, New York, is, like most museums, full of historically significant and wonderfully nerdy objects. The museum’s namesake, George Eastman, founded the Eastman Kodak company at the turn of the 20th century and revolutionized photographic film in 1888 in a way that made photography accessible to the general public, so they would no longer be forced to sit in front of a professional or learn complex chemistry. He died in 1932, but the museum was founded in 1947. The collection now contains authentic Ansel Adams prints, a number of very rare (and extremely flammable) early-20th-century nitrate cinema film reels, and a smattering of cameras and photographic accessories from way before digital photography. The true treasures, however, live in the subbasement, in the technology collection.

Descend three flights of stairs in the middle of the atrium and you’ll find yourself in a time capsule of offices adorned in the same turquoise-and-pink color scheme you’d find in an early-’90s Taco Bell. From there, pass through a double-door climate lock into one of the world’s most comprehensive and impressive collections of photography and cinema gear, with more than 10,000 cameras and 20,000 objects in total. 

Curator of technology Todd Gustavson has been in charge of the collection since it moved into its current home in 1989 (hence the interior design choices). Many of the pieces came directly from Kodak’s former technology archive in the basement of the Eastman House. Since then, new additions have come from private gifts, public auctions, and even eBay. Gustavson gave us an opportunity to see some of the most intriguing, historically significant, and just plain weird pieces in the archive.

↑ The space itself boasts a roughly 5,000-square-foot main floor, as well as an elevated 3,000-square-foot mezzanine that was added in the early 2010s. It’s kept at 62 degrees with 45 percent humidity. That climate strikes a balance that’s dry enough to prevent fungus from growing but moist enough to prevent dry rot and keep the lubricating oil in the cameras from turning to sticky tar. A two-story motorized storage system holds thousands of cameras on trays in a revolving carousel. It’s like a massive vending machine full of photography gear. 

↑ In 1888, George Eastman released roughly 5,000 units of the original Kodak camera with a clever slogan: “You press the button, we do the rest.” The camera cost $25 at the time (roughly $800 in 2023 dollars) and came preloaded with enough film for 100 shots. Once the film was exposed, customers would return the camera to a shop to get their prints and a reload of film for $10, roughly $300 in today’s money. It was a revolutionary concept that brought about the age of snapshot photography by drastically simplifying the process.

↑ You’ve likely seen box cameras at antique stores and estate sales, as hundreds of models hit the market in the years after the original Kodak debuted. The Eastman collection contains hundreds of them spanning decades. Some are wood, while others are made of cardboard or a type of plastic called Bakelite, which was popular approaching the middle of the 20th century. The two small boxes with K’s neatly cataloged in the top left are extremely rare early rolls of Kodak film that would be the centerpiece of a typical camera collection. 

↑ This Scovill Manufacturing Company camera doesn’t have a lens or a shutter mechanism, but it holds a special place in both photographic and scientific history. It’s one of 24 cameras that Eadweard Muybridge used in the 1880s during his endeavors to capture animal locomotion. A horse would trigger a tripwire attached to each camera’s elaborate shutter mechanism as it sped by to capture a sequence of images. Presented in rapid succession, the glass plates would create the illusion of continuous motion. This process laid the groundwork for the original motion pictures. The Eastman collection actually has three of these. 

↑ This drawer contains numerous examples of shutter mechanisms from various Kodak cameras produced roughly a century ago. The shutter is the mechanical part of the camera that opens and closes in order to control how much light comes in and hits the film, and Kodak kept an example of every version of its devices in order to track the technology as it advanced. Each has its original label with part numbers and patent info. 

↑ The Ticka is just one of several watch-shaped cameras that the Eastman Museum has in its collection. The boxes to either side of the camera contain the film that was sold with it. The camera itself doesn’t have a traditional viewfinder to look through, so photographers would look down at the watch face. The hands form a V that represents the lens’s angle of view. Anything within that angle would show up in the photo. 

↑ While the Kodak represented the genesis of modern photography, the Brownie also played a crucial role. It debuted just 12 years after the original Kodak, but its $1 price tag ($36 in modern money) was a fraction of what the original Kodak cost. Kodak made dozens of versions of the Brownie, many of which you can still find out in the world right now. This original Brownie packaging gives a rare view of how the camera would have appeared on the shelf in the shop in the early 1900s. The Brownie Number 2 uses 120 roll film, a size that’s still available today.

↑ There are roughly half-dozen Talbot Romain gun cameras left in the world. This is a fully functioning tintype camera. The tiny sensitized sheet went into the top of the barrel. Once the photographer took the photo, the plate would go into the small tank on which the camera rests for processing. The unique shape wasn’t essential to its function, but it did help photographers on the street lure in potential customers, who would walk away with a tiny tintype print once they had paid for their portrait. 

↑ This early Technicolor camera debuted in the early 1930s and shot the same image to three strips of black-and-white negatives at once through a prism. Cyan, yellow, and magenta filters made each roll of film sensitive to a specific part of the visible spectrum. Once the footage was shot, each roll was dyed a specific shade. When combined, they would create a full-color image. The technology collection includes a pair of these cameras that were used in the cinematography of some of the most iconic movies ever made, including The Wizard of Oz, Gone With the Wind, and even Star Wars. 

↑ This massive Graflex camera would have been right at home in the stands at a baseball game in the 1940s or ’50s. It’s an SLR, just like the relatively tiny Nikon F sitting next to it in the photo, just on a much larger scale. Moving the lever on the right of the camera would move the entire lens back and forth on a track to focus. Photographers could set stops along the focus path for specific distances so they could switch focus between bases in a hurry as the action unfolded. 

↑ This magnesium flash bomb stands nearly 6 feet tall and spends most of its time zip-tied to a support beam in the museum’s collection, even though all the flammable material has long been removed. The US armed forces used these in the 1930s for aerial reconnaissance. They would descend on a parachute, and at roughly 500 feet, the magnesium powder would ignite, creating enough light to illuminate the ground so aerial photographers could capture images that would otherwise be unobtainable.

↑ Back in 1923, Leica produced just 22 prototypes as a trial run in the camera business. Roughly 12 of them have survived, many of which reside in private collections and all of which would fetch millions of dollars at auction. This is serial number 109 of the original production run. Number 105, which belonged to inventor Oscar Barnack himself, sold for $15 million back in 2022. The Eastman’s still works. 

↑ Pilots in WWI didn’t have advanced simulators in which to practice dogfighting. Instead, they could use the Eastman Machine Gun camera, which was styled after a Lewis machine gun. Gunners could load a roll of common 120 film and then aim it just like a real gun. Once the film was processed, pictures with the enemy plane centered in the frame would be considered hits. It was a cheaper, safer way to practice than using live rounds. 

↑ Originally built as a backup camera for NASA’s Skylab space station in the 1970s, this rig found its use with the US Forest Service. Its six-camera array allowed aerial photographers to load six different kinds of film at once. The Forest Service used it to monitor the health of the landscape from above. It has six lenses, each with an independent film back so researchers could load several kinds of film all at once. The rig could shoot color, high-contrast black and white, and infrared all at the same time to observe different aspects of the scene.

↑ There are several cameras very much like this Lunar Hasselblad sitting on the surface of the moon right now. It doesn’t look all that different from a typical 500 EL you’d find here on Earth, but it has a few astronaut-friendly modifications. The extra-large film back held far more shots than a typical roll, and the oversize handle on the dark slide (a simple piece of metal that blocks light when the camera isn’t in use) is big enough that astronauts could grab it with their bulky gloves. 

↑ In the mid 1960s, NASA sent a lunar orbiter exactly like this one (this is a spare that was ready for flight, but never needed) to photograph and catalog the entire surface of the moon in preparation for the 1969 landing. The module had two lenses: a wide-angle and a telephoto. It shot bimat film, which it developed and dried inside the device itself. It then made a scan of the image, which it beamed back to Earth in the form of a TV signal. The resulting images have some light and dark horizontal banding, but ultimately make up what’s still one of the most complete and detailed maps of the moon’s surface to date. 

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The post Inside look: This vault holds the world’s greatest collection of historic cameras appeared first on Popular Science.

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Black Friday is over and you’re probably back at work. But, stop replying to those tedious emails and go catch some Cyber Monday deals. This is the biggest day of the year for e-commerce, and for good reason. It’s a last chance for retailers to blow out desirable products at excellent prices that you won’t see again until well into next year. So, put an Excel spreadsheet on your screen, fire up your smartphone browser, and go get the rest of your holiday shopping done.

TV deals

• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900C Mini-LED Quantum HDR Smart TV $3,297.99 (was $4,997.99)
• SAMSUNG 77-Inch Class OLED 4K S95C Series Quantum HDR Smart TV $3,597.99 (was $3,997.99)
• Sony OLED 65-inch BRAVIA XR A80L Series 4K Ultra HD TV $1,698 (was $1,798)
• Sony 65 Inch Mini LED 4K Ultra HD TV X93L Series BRAVIA XR Smart Google TV $1,598 (was $1,698)
• LG C3 Series 55-Inch Class OLED evo $1,296 (was $1,799)
• LG C3 Series 65-Inch Class OLED evo $1,596 (was $1,999)
• LG QNED80 Series 86-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV $1,696 (was $1,969)
• LG 75-Inch Class UR9000 Series Alexa Built-in 4K Smart TV$796 (was $926)
• Amazon Fire TV 32″ 2-Series HD smart TV with Fire TV $109 (was $199)
• Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni QLED Series 4K UHD smart TV, Dolby Vision $589 (was $799)
• Amazon Fire TV 75″ Omni QLED Series 4K UHD smart TV $879 (was $1,099)

Kitchen deals

• Instant Stand Mixer Pro, 600W 10-Speed Electric Mixer with Digital Interface $179 (was $299)
• Instant Cold Brew Electric Coffee Maker $42 (was $59)
• Instant Pot 10-Quart Air Fryer $76 (was $149)
• Instant Pot 6 Quart Air Fryer Oven $59 (was $119)
• Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker $69 (was $129)

Personal care deals

• Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager with Soothing Heat $36 (was $69)
• Nekteck Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine with Soothing Heat, Deep Kneading Therapy, Air Compression $63 (was $79)
• Nekteck Foot Massager with Heat, Shiatsu Heated Electric Kneading Foot Massager Machine $39 (was $49)

Solar generator and portable power station deals

• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery $199 (was $279)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 $349 (was $499)
• Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station, Solar Generator $899 (was $1,699)
• Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station $649 (was $1,099)

Home decor deals

• Govee 100ft LED Strip Lights, Bluetooth RGB Christmas LED Lights with App Control $14 (was $25)
• Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights $57 (was $99)
• Govee RGBIC Neon Rope Lights for Desks $89 (was $129)

Water bottle, mug, and cooler deals

• YETI Rambler 16 oz. Colster Tall Can Insulator for Tallboys & 16 oz. Cans $15 (was $30)
• YETI Rambler Gallon Jug, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with MagCap $91 (was $130)
• YETI Rambler 16 oz Stackable Pint, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with MagSlider Lid $22 (was $30)
• Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Straw Lid $35 (was $49)
• Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler with Handle Stainless Steel Double-Wall Vacuum Insulated $33 (was $45)
• Hydro Flask Tote – Reusable Cooler Lunch Travel Bag $56 (was $75)
• BrüMate Pour Over 20oz Insulated Travel Coffee Mug $35.99 (was $44.99)

Awesomely nerdy deals

• LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Express – Collectors’ Edition 76405, Iconic Replica Model Steam Train $350 (was $500)
• YubiKey phishing-resistant USB-C hardware identity authentication BOGO

Personal audio deals

• JBL Tune Buds – True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Black), Small $49 (was $99)
• Jabra Elite 8 Active Sports ANC Bluetooth Earbuds $134.99 (was $199)
• Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless ANC Dolby Atmos Earbuds $189.99 (was $249.99)
• SHOKZ OpenRun Pro – Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones $124.95 (was $179.95)
• EarFun Air Pro 3 Bluetooth 5.3 aptX Adaptive ANC Earbuds $55 (was $82)
• Vibes High-Fidelity Invisible Earplugs $21.71 (was $33.99)
• Loop Experience Plus Earplugs, 18 or 23 dB noise reduction $35.51 (was $44.95)

Hard drive and portable SSD deals

• Seagate Storage Expansion Card 2TB Solid State Drive $229 (was $279)
• SanDisk 2TB Portable SSD – Up to 800MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 $89 (was $135)
• Crucial X10 Pro 4TB Portable SSD – Up to 2100MB/s Read, 2000MB/s Write $209 (was $311)

Space heater and heated clothing deals

• Lasko Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater for Large Rooms, with Adjustable Thermostat $59 (was $79)
• ORORO Men’s Soft Shell Heated Jacket with Detachable Hood and Battery Pack $109 (was $160)
• ORORO Women’s Slim Fit Heated Jacket with Battery Pack and Detachable Hood $109 (was $160)
• ORORO Heated Gloves for Women and Men, Rechargeable Heated Motorcycle Gloves $89 (was $149)

DNA test kit deals

• AncestryDNA + Traits Genetic Test Kit $49 (was $119)
• Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry $69 (was $99)

Camping accessories deals

• CLIQ Portable Chair – Lightweight Folding Chair for Camping $84.99 (was $129.99)
• LifeStraw water purification products $9.99 – $49.95 (was $19.95 – $64.95)
• Vasque winter hiking boots

The post 50+ editor-approved Cyber Monday deals that don’t suck appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Society spends a large chunk of its time trying to convince you that you need to spend all your money on fancy things. That’s especially true around Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping holidays. In truth, you probably don’t really need anything on this list. But, if you’re going to drop serious cash on a splurge item before the new year, you might as well save at least some money. Here are some seriously high-end and luxury items that are actually discounted for Cyber Monday. Bring money.

LG C3 77-inch OLED TV $2,496 (was $3,499)

SEE IT

The big TV is a quintessential shopping holiday staple and this is one of the best you can get. It’s an OLED, so the color and contrast are phenomenal. Plus, it relies on LG’s OLED Evo tech in order to reach brightness levels its predecessors couldn’t come close to. You can save money by going smaller, but that’s not what this list is about. Go big and then ship to home and enjoy that purchase. That’s our motto for 2024. (Want to go even bigger? Samsung has an 85-inch 8K QLED screen that will only set you back $5,497.99 if you act fast.)

More really expensive stuff that’s slightly less expensive because of Black Friday:

• KEF LS60 Wireless Tower Speaker System $4,999 (was $5,999)
• Focal Utopia 2022 flagship open-ear headphones $3,999 (was $4,999), plus a Naim Uniti Atom Music Headphone Edition streaming player/amp to drive them $3,039 (was $3,799)
• Sennheiser IE 600 Audiophile Earphones $499 (was $699)
• Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer $899 (was $999)
• Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera $2,999 (was $3,899)
• Traeger Ironwood XL Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WiFi and App Connectivity $1,799 (was $1,999)
• Husqvarna 967852945 18V Automower 430XH Lithium-Ion 0.8 Acre Cordless Robotic Lawn Mower Kit (5 Ah) $1,749 (was $2,499)
• Jackery Explorer Kit 6000, Explorer 2000 Plus and 2X PackPlus E2000 Plus Expandable Battery $3,999 (was $5,299)
• Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine with Grinder $1,199 (was $1,499)
• Segway Ninebot SuperScooter GT1P/GT2P $2,699 (was $3,999)
• SAMSUNG 55″ Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen 4K UHD 1000R Curved Gaming Monitor $1,999 (was $2,999)
• Alienware Aurora R15 Gaming Desktop – AMD Ryzen 7-7700X, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070Ti GDDR6X $1,949 (was $2,499)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 9-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger $569 (was $949)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ Self-Emptying & Auto-Fill Robot Vacuum & Mop $999 (was $1,399)
• Vitamix Propel Series 750 Blender,Black $399 (was $629)
• Garmin Approach R10, Portable Golf Launch Monitor $499 (was $599)
• Dyson Airwrap $479 (was $599)
• HexClad Hybrid Nonstick Frying Pan, 12-Inch $159 (was $199)
• KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, Cast Iron $499 (was $599)
• ASUS ROG Azoth 75% Wireless DIY Custom Gaming Keyboard $199 (was $249)
• SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Bassinet $1,101 (was $1,695)
• Logitech G923 Racing Wheel and Pedals $279 (was $399)
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool™ HP07 Air Purifier, Heater, and Fan $549 (was $749)

The post 20+ luxury items that are less pricey for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

A solar generator is a sizable investment, but can really save you in a pinch. These portable power stations store enough juice in their built-in batteries to keep your devices, appliances, and anything else that requires electricity going when the grid isn’t an option. Cyber Monday has brought some of the deepest discounts we’ve ever seen on brands like Bluetti, Jackery, Anker, and Ecoflow, so we’ve collected the best Black Friday deals on solar generators we’ve seen so far.

Anker SOLIX C1000 Portable Power Station, 1800W Solar Generator $649 (was $999)

SEE IT

This is Anker’s newest portable power station, and it’s cheaper than we’ve ever seen it for Black Friday. The super-fast battery charges to 100 percent from zero in just under an hour so that it can be ready on short notice. It offers six full-sized outlets (with ground), two USB-C ports, and two USB-A ports for powering devices. That’s more than you’ll find on many similar models. Plus, the internal battery has enough juice to charge an iPhone nearly 100 times or keep a camp light going for up to 60 hours.

• Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station, PowerHouse 767 and 760 Expansion Battery $2,399 (was $2,999)
• Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station, PowerHouse 767 and 760 Expansion Battery, with 3×200W Solar Panels $3,399 (was $4,599)
• Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station, PowerHouse 767, 2400W Solar Generator $1,399 (was $1,998)

Jackery solar generator deals

• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus 200W, 2042Wh LiFePO4 Battery $1,959 (was $2,799)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus Kit, Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station +1xExpandable Battery + 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $1,899 (was $2,399)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000, 1002Wh Capacity with 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $899 (was $1,699)
• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus 400W, 2042Wh LiFePO4 Battery 3000W Output $2,259 (was $3,299)
• Jackery Solar Generator Explorer 500, 518Wh Portable Power Station $599 (was $799)
• Jackery Solar Generator 3000 PRO 400W, 3024Wh Power Station with 2x200W Solar Panels $2,499 (was $3,999)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery $154 (was $239)
• Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator, 1264Wh Portable Power Station with 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $1,189 (was $1,699)
• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO 2160Wh Capacity with 1XSolar Panel SolarSaga 200W $1,349 (was $2,399)
• Jackery Explorer 2000 PRO Portable Power Station $1,189 (was $1,899)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1500 PRO 200W, 1512Wh Power Station with 1x200W Solar Panel $1,499 (was $2,099)
• Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station, 1002Wh Capacity $649 (was $1,099)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery $199 (was $279)
• Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus Portable Power Station with 40W Book-sized Solar Panel $319 (was $399)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000, 1002Wh Capacity with 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $899 (was $1,649)

Ecoflow solar generator deals

• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA 2 Max 2048Wh With 400W Solar Panel $1,998 (was $2,998)
• EF ECOFLOW RIVER 288Wh Portable Power Station $199 (was $349)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel $899 (was $1,649)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator RIVER 2 Pro 768Wh LiFePO4 Battery with 220W Solar Panel $729 (was $999)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station 3600Wh DELTA Pro $2,399 (was $3,599)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA Max (2000) 2016Wh with 220W Solar Panel $1,399 (was $2,399)
• EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 Max Solar Generator 512Wh Long-life LiFePO4 Portable Power Station& 160W Solar Panel $579 (was $919)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 1300, 1260Wh Solar Powered Generator $709 (was $1,099)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator 120V/3.6KWh with 400W Portable Solar Panel $2,899 (was $4,799)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA 2 Max 2048Wh With 400W Solar Panel $1,998 (was $2,998)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER mini, 210Wh Backup Lithium Battery $169 (was $349)
• EF ECOFLOW 240V/7200Wh Home Battery Backup: 2 DELTA Pro with Double Voltage Hub, Lifepo4 Power Station, 7200W Electric Generator $4,699 (was $6,599)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generators, DELTA 2 Portable Power Station with 2PCS 100W 12V Solar Panels $829 (was $1,299)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel, LFP(LiFePO4) Battery $899 (was $1,649)

Bluetti solar generator deals

• BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200MAX, 2048Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $1,299 (was $2,159)
• BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB3A, 268Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $198 (was $349)
• BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC180, 1152Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $649 (was $999)
• BLUETTI Solar Generator AC200MAX with 350W Solar Panel Included $1,899 (was $2,799)
• BLUETTI Solar Generator AC300&B300 3072Wh Expansion Battery with 3 PV200 200W Solar Panel Included $3,899 (was $4,199)
• BLUETTI Solar Generator EB70S with PV200 Solar Panel Included $839 (was $1,098)
• BLUETTI Solar Power Station AC300 & B300 Expansion Battery, 3072Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $2,299 (was $2,999)

Ugreen solar generator deals

• UGREEN Portable Power Station PowerRoam 2200, 2048Wh LiFePO4 Power Station $1,399 (was $1,999)
• UGREEN Solar Generator PowerRoam 1200 Portable Power Station with 200W Solar Panel Included $749 (was $1,249)

The post Powerful Cyber Monday deals: Solar generators from Jackery, Anker, and more up to 50% off appeared first on Popular Science.

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

This Cyber Monday deal hits pretty close to my heart. My car’s battery decided to give up the ghost at a very inconvenient time and location just last week. It was cold. I was late. Cellphone service was bad. Luckily, I had the jump starter I bought last Black Friday with me, and it got me going so I could get home. Right now, Amazon has several jump starters on sale for Cyber Monday and, while it may not be as exciting as a new pair of AirPods or a heated coffee mug, you’ll certainly be glad to have one when you need it.

NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000A UltraSafe Car Battery Jump Starter $79 (was $125)

SEE IT

This 12V pack retails for $125 and regularly sells for just over $100, so you’re saving yourself at least $20 here. It has enough oomph inside to jump-start a 6.0L gasoline engine or a 3.0L diesel. In addition to its car resurrection skills, it’s also a portable battery pack that can charge devices like your phone. A built-in flashlight has several modes, including one that flashes SOS in Morse code in case you’re really in a jam. The whole thing is IP65 rated so you can use it in the bad weather when you really need it. After last week’s little misadventure with my battery, I’m grabbing one for my wife and daughter as well.

Portable Car Jump Starter with Air Compressor, YaberAuto 150PSI 3000A Car Battery Jump Starter (9.0 Gas/8.0L Diesel) $79 (was $219)

SEE IT

This powerful bank adds another useful element into the equation: a 150psi compressor. That means, in addition to starting almost any engine and providing illumination from its built-in flashlight, it can fill tires, basketballs, and whatever else needs a boost of air when you’re on the road.

More car jump-starter Cyber Monday deals

• NOCO Boost HD GB70 2000A UltraSafe Car Battery Jump Starter, 12V Battery Booster Pack, Jump Box, Portable Charger and Jumper Cables for 8.0L Gasoline and 6.0L Diesel Engines $159 (was $199)
• NOCO Boost X GBX155 4250A 12V UltraSafe Portable Lithium Jump Starter, Car Battery Booster Pack, USB-C Powerbank Charger, and Jumper Cables for Up to 10.0-Liter Gas and 8.0-Liter Diesel Engines $295 (was $439)
• NOCO Boost X GBX75 2500A 12V UltraSafe Portable Lithium Jump Starter, Car Battery Booster Pack, USB-C Powerbank Charger, and Jumper Cables for up to 8.5-Liter Gas and 6.5-Liter Diesel Engines $199 (was $249)
• NEXPOW Car Jump Starter,Car Battery Jump Starter Pack 1500A Peak Q10S for Up to 7.0L Gas and 5.5L Diesel Engine $47 (was $89)
• BUTURE Car Battery Jump Starter 2500A Jump Box (8.5L Gas/8.0L Diesel), Portable Car Starter Battery Pack with Extended Smart Jumper Cables $54 (was $139)
• AstroAI Car Jump Starter, 2000A 12V 8-in-1 Battery Jump Starter, Up to 7.0L Gas & 3.0L Diesel Engines $49 (was $87)

The post You need one of these car jump starters on-sale for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Holiday lights are fun, but keeping them up all year round can bring about the judgy comments from friends and visitors. Govee smart lights, however, allow you to keep festive illumination around your space all year with no fear of judgment. They make everything from behind-the-TV lights to improve your binge-watching experience to outdoor illumination and simple LED light strips. Right now, Amazon has Govee smart lights up to 44 percent off for Cyber Monday. Fight off those winter blues with some saucy red lights.

Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights $57 (was $99)

SEE IT

This ample kit gets you 96 total feet of RGB bulbs that you can program to show up to 16 million colors in 47 different program modes. So, decorate the outside space at your home for the holidays with red and green bulbs. Then, once the holidays are over, switch them over to white (or whatever color you want). They’re IP65-rated against the elements, so you can leave them up in the weather without worrying about them. This is a great, easy, and now affordable way to upgrade your outdoor space.

More Govee smart lighting deals

• Govee RGBIC Floor Lamp, LED Corner Lamp $59 (was $99)
• Govee 100ft LED Strip Lights $15 (was $25)
• Govee Curtain Lights $89 (was $129)
• Govee Envisual TV LED Backlight T2 with Dual Cameras $79 (was $139)
• Govee Envisual TV Backlight T2 with Dual Cameras $109 (was $159)
• Govee Smart LED Light Bars $35 (was $50)
• Govee Glide Hexa Light Panels $99 (was $179)
• Govee RGBIC Gaming Light Bars H6047 with Smart Controller $49 (was $89)
• Govee Outdoor Spot Lights, Christmas Decoration $49 (was $89)
• Govee RGBIC Gaming Lights, 10ft Neon Rope Lights Soft Lighting for Gaming Desks $49 (was $89)
• Govee Outdoor String Lights H7020, 48ft RGBIC Halloween Lights Outdoor $48 (was $69)
• Govee WiFi Outdoor LED Strip Lights Waterproof $47 (was $67)
• Govee Outdoor Spot Lights, Christmas Decoration, IP65 Waterproof Uplight Landscape Spotlights $118 (was $165)
• Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights M1 with Matter, 6.56ft WiFi LED Lights $39 (was $59)
• Govee Outdoor Pathway Lights $109 (was $169)
• Govee RGBIC Neon Rope Lights for Desks, 16.4ft LED Gaming Desk Lights $89 (was $129)

The post Our favorite smart lighting from Govee is up to 44% off for Cyber Monday at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We’re huge fans of solar generators around here. Yes, they’re an investment, but they can really come in handy when the power goes out or you head out into the wilderness. Jackery regularly tops our lists of the best solar generators and portable power stations because the company builds sturdy, powerful, reliable products that excel in our hands-on tests. Amazon has a bunch of fantastic Jackery deals for Cyber Monday right now, but they’ll only last as long as they’re in stock, so grab one to ensure your back-up power will last.

Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station $899 (was $1,699)

SEE IT

While Cyber Monday is notorious for fake deals that only offer a discount on jacked-up prices, that’s not the case here. This 1800W charger typically actually sells for more than $1,600, which makes this nearly half-off the regular price. It offers a total of eight outputs, including three typical outlets, two USB-A, two USB-C, and a 12V DC port for RV travelers. With this much power stored up, it can charge an iPhone more than 60 times. Plus, it can run a TV for up to 17 hours, and power all sorts of tools if you’re using it on a work site. It’s super-versatile and weighs less than 40 pounds, which makes it very easy to lug around thanks to the super-sturdy built-in handle.

More Jackery portable power station and solar generator deals

• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery $154 (was $239)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery $199 (was $279)
• Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus Portable Power Station with 40W Book-sized Solar Panel $319 (was $399)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500, 518Wh Outdoor Solar Generator Mobile Lithium Battery Pack $349 (was $499)
• Jackery Solar Generator 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery with 1XSolar Panel SolarSaga 100W $419 (was $499)
• Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus Portable Power Station with 1X SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel $439 (was $579)
• Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station $649 (was $1,099)
• Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station,1264Wh Solar Generator (new version) $899 (was $1,199)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000, Explorer 1000 and 1xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panel $899 (was $1,289)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000, 1002Wh Capacity with 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $899 (was $1,649)
• Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator, 1264Wh Portable Power Station with 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $1,189 (was $1,699)
• Jackery Explorer 2000 PRO Portable Power Station $1,199 (was $1,899)
• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO 2160Wh Capacity with 1XSolar Panel SolarSaga 200W $1,349 (was $2,399)
• Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Kit, Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station +1X PackPlus E1000 Plus Expandable Battery $1,599 (was $1,999)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 2000 Plus $1,659 (was $2,159)
• Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus Kit, Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station +1xExpandable Battery + 2xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panels $1,899 (was
• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus 200W, 2042Wh LiFePO4 Battery 3000W Output, Portable Power Station with 1X200W Solar Panel $1,959 (was $2,799)
• Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus 400W, 2042Wh LiFePO4 Battery 3000W Output $2,259 (was $3,299)
• Jackery Solar Generator 3000 PRO 400W, 3024Wh Power Station with 2x200W Solar Panels $2,499 (was $3,999)
• Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro Solar Generator + Manual Transfer Switch, 3000W Portable Power Station with 2 * 200W Solar Panels $2,699 (was $4,199)
• Jackery Explorer Kit 4000, Explorer 2000 Plus and 1X PackPlus E2000 Plus Expandable Battery $2,699 (was $3,799)
• Jackery Explorer Kit 4000 Plus, 2X Portable Power Station Explorer 2000 Plus $3,399 (was $4,299)
• Jackery Solar Generator 4000 Kit, Explorer 2000 Plus and 1X PackPlus E2000 Plus Expandable Battery with 2X200W Solar Panel $3,399 (was $4,999)
• Jackery Explorer Kit 6000, Explorer 2000 Plus and 2X PackPlus E2000 Plus Expandable Battery $3,999 (was $5,299)

The post These limited Cyber Monday deals have Jackery generators at their lowest prices of the year appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We’re big fans of soundbars here at PopSci. They’re a simple and often-affordable way to seriously upgrade your TV’s sound. Right now, Amazon has pretty absurd deals on JBL soundbars, including $300 off one of our favorites. That’s half-price. Stop reading and go get it.

JBL Bar 5.1 – Soundbar with Built-in Virtual Surround, 4K and 10″ Wireless Subwoofer $299 (was $599)

SEE IT

This high-end soundbar offers 5.1 surround sound performance thanks to JBL’s clever beam-forming technology, which can chuck sound around the room with impressive accuracy. The 10-inch wireless subwoofer connects easily and booms when you want it to. It supports all sorts of wireless technology, like Bluetooth and AirPlay 2, for playing music. Plus, it looks slick, so you won’t want to hide it in your entertainment center.

More Black Friday soundbar deals

Some of these soundbars are literally half-price, so if you see something you want, grab it because it will probably sell out before Cyber Monday rolls around.

• SENNHEISER AMBEO Max 5.1.4 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X $1,699.95 (was $2,499.95)
• Sennheiser AMBEO Plus Virtual 7.1.4 Soundbar $999 (was $1,495)
• Sennheiser AMBEO Subwoofer wireless reinforcement w/ 8″ woofer & response down to 27 Hz $499 (was $699)
• JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass (MK2): 2.1 Channel Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer $199 (was $299)
• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, 2.0 speaker with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, Bluetooth connectivity $99 (was $119)
• SAMSUNG HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar w/DTS Virtual X, Subwoofer Included $137 (was $197)
• VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar $79 (was $119)
• Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar With Dolby Atmos $799 (was $899)
• Bose TV Speaker – Soundbar for TV $199 (was $279)
• Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar $199 (was $398)
• SAMSUNG HW-B650 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1 DTS Virtual:X $207 (was $399)
• VIZIO M-Series 2.1 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos $119 (was $179)
• Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Built-in subwoofer $198 (was $399)
• SAMSUNG HW-S60B 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby Atmos $197 (was $347)
• Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar $149 (was $249)
• Denon DHT-S217 Sleek Home Theater Soundbar $149 (was $249)
• LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer S40Q $126 (was $196)
• LG S75Q 3.1.2ch Soundbar with Dolby Atmos $296 (was $599)

Want a complete wireless surround sound system? We love the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 10″ Wireless Subwoofers, and it’s only $1,399 (usually $1,899).

Interested in building a more traditional multi-component surround system or stereo listening station? Check out these other amazing speaker deals before they’re gone.

The post These deep soundbar discounts are still live, but won’t be for long appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Sure, you could buy a bunch of gifts for everyone you know this holiday season. Or, you could buy yourself an awesome 3D printer and manufacture everyone’s gift. Imagine marching into your boss’s office and plunking down a tiny statue of yourself. Or treating your mom to a tiny car spoiler she can attach to the back of her Crocs. It’s all possible and you can save money by taking advantage of these 3D printer Black Friday deals.

If you need help choosing a printer, check out some of our helpful guides including the best 3D printer for beginners and the best 3D printer under $1,000.

Anycubic 3D Printer Kobra 2 Max $499 (was $699)

SEE IT

This is a 3D printer you can grow into. It offers a total print size of 17.7 x 15.7 x 15.7 inches, which allows for all sorts of extra-large creations. You can churn out masks, lightsabers, or pretty much anything your heart desires. This model does come with a bit of a learning curve, but it’s a great machine if you don’t mind putting some work into it.

Creality 3D printer deals

• Official Creality Ender 3 Max Neo 3D Printer $269 (was $359)
• Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer $168 (was $232)
• Creality Official 3D Printer Ender-5 S1 $355 (was $549)
• Official Creality Ender 5 S1 3D Printer $320 (was $579)
• Creality K1 Max 3D Printer $743 (was $1,099)
• Creality CR 10 SE 3D Printer $359 (was $499)
• Creality Official 3D Printer Ender-5 S1 $355 (was $549)
• Creality Resin 3D Printer HALOT-MAGE PRO $503 (was $629)
• Creality K1 3D Printer $415 (was $519)
• Creality 3D Printer Ender 3 S1 Plus with CR Touch Auto Leveling $399 (was $499)

Anycubic 3D printer deals

• ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M5s 12K Resin 3D Printer $429 (was $719)
• ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer $159 (was $289)
• ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M5s 12K Resin 3D Printer $429 (was $719)
• ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Kobra 2 Neo $159 (was $279)
• Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro 3D Printer $279 (was $449)
• ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer $159 (was $289)
• ANYCUBIC Resin 3D Printer, Photon Mono 2 3D Printer $149 (was $249)
• ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 2, Resin 3D Printer $149 (was $269)
• Anycubic Kobra Max 3D Printer, Large 3D Printer with Auto Leveling $419 (was $699)
• ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X2 Resin 3D Printer $229 (was $369)

Anker 3D printer deals

• AnkerMake M5 3D Printer $499 (was $799)
• AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer $319 (was $399)

Elegoo 3D printer deals

• ELEGOO Resin 3D Printer Mars 3 MSLA 3D Printer $119 (was $224)

Flashforge 3D printer deals

• FLASHFORGE 3D Printer Adventurer 3 Pro with Glass Heating Bed $319 (was $399)

Bambu Labs 3D printer deals

• Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer $849 (was $949)
• Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D Printer $1,049 (was $1,199)
• Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D Printer $1,299 (was $1,299 (was $1,449)
• 30% OFF 4+ Rolls, 40% OFF 8+ Rolls on PLA Basic, PLA Matte, PETG Basic, ABS
• 20% OFF 4+ Rolls, 30% OFF 8+ Rolls on all other filaments

The post Shop these Black Friday 3D printer deals and print all your holiday gifts appeared first on Popular Science.

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Few things help you work out a sore muscle quite like a percussion massager. These little machines beat your body up in the best way possible to increase blood flow and accelerate recovery. They’re great for before bed, after the gym, or when the muscle next to your shoulder blade won’t stop twitching because you’ve been sitting at your desk writing about Black Friday deals for 20 hours straight and your body is slowly atrophying into a hunched mass of sinew. That last one might just be us. Still, these are great deals from two of the biggest companies in the space.

TheraGun Prime $189 (was $299)

SEE IT

This mid-level massage gun from Therabody comes with four high-quality attachments and a deep app integration that helps guide you through a variety of massage treatments. I’ve been using the upgraded TheraGun Elite version for a few weeks now, and the bedtime routine is pretty much essential for me (our editor’s family swears by the flagship PRO Plus after running and/or soccer matches). It has customizable programs and speeds depending on how intense you want your percussion to get. This is a somewhat advanced model, but the app provides excellent instruction for beginners so you can grow into it.

More Therabody massager deals

• TheraGun Pro $349 (was $499)
• TheraGun Mini Massage Gun $149 (was $199)
• TheraFace PRO Microcurrent Facial Device $319 (was $399)
• Therabody Wave Series Wave Roller $99 (was $149)
• Therabody Wave Series Wave Duo $79 (was $99)
• Therabody Wave Series Wave Solo $59 (was $79)

Hyperice percussion massager deals

• Hypervolt 2 Pro $259 (was $329)
• Hypervolt 2 $159 (was $199)
• Hypervolt Go 2 $99 (was $129)
• Hyperice Venom Go – Advanced Heat + Vibration Wearable $99 (was $129)
• Hyperice X – Advanced Contrast Therapy $349 (was $449)
• Hyperice Normatec 3 – Recovery System $699 (was $799)
• Vyper 3 – High-Intensity Vibrating Foam Roller $159 (was $199)

The post Shop percussion massagers at Amazon for Black Friday and get up to 40% off appeared first on Popular Science.

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Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-fledged construction worker, you don’t want to miss Amazon’s huge sale on DeWalt power tools. The deals cover just about everything DeWalt makes, from tool kits and accessories to extra batteries. You can never have enough batteries. Here are the deals worth checking out. Then go get busy on that to-do list.

DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 4-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with Battery and Charger $399 (was $649)

SEE IT

If you’re just starting your power tool collection, this is a great place to begin. Here’s everything you get for $400. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a job around the house you can’t accomplish with this kit.

• 20V MAX* 1/2 in. Cordless Drill/Driver
• 20V MAX* 1/4 in. Cordless Impact Driver
• 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw
• 20V MAX* 6-1/2 in. Cordless Circular Saw
• 20V MAX* XR® Brushless 3-Speed Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool
• 20V MAX* 2.0Ah Battery
• 20V MAX* 4.0Ah Battery
• Charger
• Kit Bag

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and Charger $129 (was $239)

SEE IT

This would be a pretty wild deal with one battery, but this kit includes two and a charger. You get both a 20V drill and a 20V impact driver, both of which should last you years with regular simple maintenance. This is a steal. Buy the kit, give one tool as a gift, and keep the other for yourself.

More DeWalt power tool deals

• DEWALT IMPACT READY FlexTorq Screw Driving Set, 40-Piece and Cordless Impact Driver Kit $99 (was $208)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill and Impact Driver, Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and Charger $299 (was $409)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 4-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger $199 (was $339)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and Charger $129 (was $249)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Multi-Tool Kit, Oscillating Tool, 6-Speed $129 (was $269)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Combo Kit, Compact 4-Tool $249 (was $469)
• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit, Compact, 1/2-Inch (DCD771C2) $99 (was $179)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade, 460 MWO Engine $99 (was $159)
• DEWALT 8V MAX Cordless Screwdriver, Gyroscopic, Rechargeable, Battery Included $69 (was $94)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/2″ High Torque Impact Wrench $169 (was $265)
• DEWALT Line Laser, Self-Leveling, Cross Line, Red Beam $129 (was $209)
• DEWALT Flooring Knee Pads with Gel $15 (was $22)
• DEWALT 8V MAX Cordless Screwdriver Kit, Gyroscopic, 2 Batteries $79 (was $119)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,000 Blade Speed, Cordless $99 (was $205)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, 3,000 Blade Speed, Cordless, LED Light $99 (was $205)
• DEWALT Line Laser, Self-Leveling, 3-Beam $174 (was $289)
• DEWALT Laser, 5-Beam $166 (was $264)
• DEWALT Rotary Laser Level Kit, Indoor/Outdoor Survey Laser Transit $448 (was $639)
• DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Single Bevel, Compound $229 (was $355)
• DEWALT Table Saw for Josites, 8-1/4 Inch, 15 Amp $299 (was $415)

DeWalt Mechanics Tool set deals

• DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set, 142-Piece, 1/4 & 3/8″ Drive, MM/SAE $99 (was $155)
• DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, SAE and Metric, 1/2, 1/4, 3/8 Drive Sizes, 192-Piece $154 (was $277)
• DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, Includes Ratchets, Drill Bits and Anti-Slip Screwdriver, 84 Piece $56 (was $69)
• DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, 1/4″ & 3/8″ & 1/2″ Drive, SAE/Metric, 205-piece $117 (was $183)

DeWalt tool accessory deals

• DEWALT FlexTorq Impact Driver Bit Set, 40-Piece $21 (was $39)
• DEWALT 3/8 DRIVE, SAE & MM HEX SOCKET SET, 12PC $49 (was $69)
• DEWALT Screwdriver Bit Set, Magnetic Drive Guide $9 (was $14)
• DEWALT Screwdriver Bit Set with Tough Case, 45-Piece $13 (was $24)
• DEWALT Impact Socket Set, SAE, 1/2-Inch, 10-Piece $31 (was $65)
• DEWALT Impact Socket Set, Combination, SAE/MM, 3/8-Inch Drive, 42-Piece $99 (was $106)
• DEWALT 10-Inch Miter / Table Saw Blades, 60-Tooth Crosscutting & 32-Tooth General Purpose $37 (was $59)

DeWalt tool organizer deals

• DEWALT Professional Tool Belt Organizer With Suspenders and 25 Pockets
• DEWALT DG5543 16 in. 33 Pocket Tool Bag, Black $34 (was $69)

The post Shop massive Black Friday deals on DeWalt tools and accessories appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Black Friday on the internet is a mine field. There are tons of deals out there that barely save you any money and try to sell you junk. We’re spending the weekend sorting through all of the deals in an effort to find the real savings. We’ll be updating this list throughout the post-Thanksgiving weekend, but deals will sell out. So, if you see something you want, grab it before it’s gone and you’re paying full price like a sucker.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging $189 (was $249)

SEE IT

AirPods have taken the TV’s place as the perennial Black Friday product. This is the newest model of the AirPods Pro. They offer all the same noise-canceling and Spatial Audio features, but they charge via USB-C. So, if you have an iPhone 15, you can officially chuck out all of your Lightning charging cables. That’s something to celebrate.

Apple deals

• ​​Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds, Bluetooth Headphones $139 (was $169)
• Apple AirTag 4 Pack $79 (was $99)
• Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 41mm] Smartwatch with Silver Aluminum Case $329 (was $399)
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case $179 (was $249)

Solar generator deals

• Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station, Solar Generator $899 (was $1,699)
• Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station $649 (was $1,099)

Fitness deals

• Save up to 57 percent off Hydroflask water bottles and containers at Amazon
• TheraGun Mini Massage Gun $149 (was $199) 
• Save up to $500 on Quietkat electric bikes and cycling accessories
• 23andMe personal DNA tests $99 (was $229)
• Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar $699 (was $899)
• Garmin quatix® 7 Standard Edition, Marine GPS Smartwatch $399 (was $599)
• Garmin fenix 7, adventure smartwatch $449 (was $649)
• Original Peloton Bike $1,095 (was $1,445)
• Hypervolt 2 percussion massager $159 (was $199)

TV deals

• LG C3 OLED 55-inch TV $1,298 (was $1,799)
• LG C3 OLED 65-inch TV $1,596 (was $1,999)
• Sony 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X80K Series $699 (was $899)
• Roku – 55″ Class Plus Series QLED 4K Smart RokuTV $379 (was $499)
• Hisense 50-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV $239 (was $449)
• Hisense 55-Inch Class U6 Series ULED Mini-LED Google Smart TV $348 (was $579)
• Hisense 65-Inch Class U6 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV $498 (was $749)
• Hisense 55-Inch Class U7 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV $673 (was $799)
• Hisense 65-Inch Class U7 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV $699 (was $1,079)
• Hisense 75-Inch Class U7 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV $899 (was $1,499)

Personal electronics deals

• Kindle Paperwhite (8 GB) $119 (was $139)
• Original Kindle $79 (was $99)
• Kindle Oasis $179 (was $249)
• SHOKZ OpenRun Mini headphones $89 (was $129)
• JBL Go 3: Portable Speaker with Bluetooth $29 (was $49)
• JBL Clip 4: Portable Speaker with Bluetooth $45 (was $79)
• NEW Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $379 (was $429)
• beyerdynamic PRO X M70 Professional Front-Addressed Dynamic Microphone $99 (was $249)
• beyerdynamic Amiron home high-end stereo headphone $209 (was $449)
• Anker Prime Power Bank 200W, 20,000mAh Portable Charger $129 (was $184)

Gaming deals

• HyperX Cloud II Wireless -Gaming Headset $99 (was $149)
• HyperX Cloud II – Gaming Headset $49 (was $99)
• SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless HyperMagnetic Gaming Keyboard $174 (was $249)
• SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless – Super Light Gaming Mouse $49 (was $99)
• PlayStation 5 Console Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Bundle $499 (Was $559.99)
• BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller for iPhone (Lightning) $69 (was $99)

Home goods deals

• IRIS USA WOOZOO™ Air Purifiers with H13 True HEPA Filter $199 (was $299)
• IRIS USA High Power Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner $99 (was $149)
• Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights, RGBIC Warm White 96ft $57 (was $99)
• Govee smart lights are up to 50 percent off at Amazon
• Dreo Space Heaters for Indoor Use $39 (was $49)
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool™ Gen1 HP10 $449 (was $599)
• LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Allergies Pets Hair $84 (was $99)

Travel deals

• Save up to 30 percent off Monos carry-on bags and luggage

Black Friday deals for your car

• NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000A UltraSafe Car Battery Jump Starter $79 (was $124)
• NOCO Boost HD GB70 2000A UltraSafe Car Battery Jump Starter $159 (was $199)

Computers and computer accessories

• Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS224+ (Diskless) $254 (was $299)
• Acer Predator Helios 16 Gaming Laptop | 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700HX | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 $1,329 (was $1,649)
• Acer Nitro 5 AN515-58-525P Gaming Laptop |Core i5-12500H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 $599 (was $799)
• ASUS 2023 Vivobook 16X Laptop, 16” WUXGA, Intel Core i9-13900H CPU, NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4050 $999 (was $1,199)
• ASUS 2023 Vivobook Go 15 Laptop, 15.6” FHD Display, AMD Ryzen 5 7520U Processor $409 (was $549)
• HP 15 inch Laptop, HD Display, AMD Ryzen 5 5500U $339 (was $499)
• AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler $139 (was $309)

Kitchen deals

• IRIS USA 3 Qt. 8-in-1 Multi-function easy healthy Pressure Cooker $129 (was $199)
• De’Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine + Advanced Adjustable Milk Frother $200 (was $249)
• Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, Brushed Stainless Steel $319 (was $449)
• Breville BJB615SHY the 3X Bluicer Blender & Juicer in one $149 (was $299)
• Breville 3X Bluicer Pro Blender & Juicer, Brushed Stainless Steel $199 (was $399)
• CAROTE 11pcs Pots and Pans Set $59 (was $139)
• Nugget Countertop Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Pellet Ice $189 (was $259)
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer $239 (was $379)
• COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky $135 (was $159)

Grill deals

• Traeger Grills Pro Series 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker $599 (was $699)
• Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 Wood Pellet Grill $849 (was $999)
• Traeger Ironwood Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker $1,599 (was $1,799)
• Traeger Ironwood XL Wood Pellet Grill $1,799 (was $1,999)

Routers and networking gear

• TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi System (Deco S4) $99 (was $149)
• ARRIS Surfboard G36 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem $229 (was $339)
• TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX55 Pro) $109 (was $149)
• TP-Link WiFi 6 Internet Gaming Router $249 (was $349)

The post Shop 75+ Black Friday deals you might actually want appeared first on Popular Science.

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Espresso and cappuccino are both phenomenal, but they can become a pricy habit. Right now, Amazon has this De’Longhi Cappuccino and Espresso machine for 42 percent off of its normal $207 price. This isn’t a fake, inflated, deal, either. It regularly sells for $169 on a typical day.

De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine $119 (was $207)

SEE IT

This slick machine can pull one or two shots at a time and then froth milk perfectly to finish off your caffeine-laden drink. It has a compact footprint so it won’t take up a ton of room on your counter. Plus, the stainless steel surfaces are easy to wipe clean once you’re done brewing. This thing will save you a ton of money in the long run now that Starbucks charges nearly $5 for a humble Americano.

More De’Longhi coffee and espresso machine deals

• De’Longhi Magnifica Evo with LatteCrema System, Fully Automatic Machine Bean to Cup Espresso Cappuccino and Iced Coffee Maker $599 (was $899)
• De’Longhi EC9255M La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine with Cold Brew $549 (was $749)
• De’Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine + Advanced Adjustable Milk Frother $200 (was $249)
• De’Longhi Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine $129 (was $199)
• Dinamica Espresso Machine, White – Automatic Bean-to-Cup Brewing $749 (was $799)
• De’Longhi EC9665M La Specialista Maestro Espresso Machine $1,100 (was $1,399)

The post Go grab this deeply discounted De’Longhi Espresso machine for just $119 for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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Bird photography is hard. It can require years of practice, expensive equipment, and endless patience. We don’t have any of those, so we really like the Bird Buddy, which puts a camera in a feeder that brings your avian models to you. Usually $279, this clever contraption is just $209 right now at Amazon for Black Friday—making it something for the birds, even if the discount is anything but. It’s a phenomenal gift and a gateway to a whole new hobby.

Bird Buddy Bird Feeder Camera $209 (was $279)

SEE IT

The Bird Buddy took home the best overall title in our list of the best bird feeder cameras. Setup is simple: Just mount the feeder, connect it to the app, fill it with food, and get ready to observe some birds. The camera is smart so it can recognize what kind of feathered friends it sees while they feed. It will automatically capture images of the birds and catalog them so you can look at your avian visitors later. It can even send live alerts to your phone when birds arrive so you can watch in real-time.

Even if you’re not the biggest birding fan, this is a super cool way to see nature from an up-close view that would otherwise be impossible.

Once you’ve ordered your Bird Buddy, go check out our big list of the Best Black Friday deals to kill time before it arrives.

The post The best bird feeder camera is cheaper than ever at Amazon for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We’re big fans of Bambu 3D printers here at PopSci. Right now, the company is offering up to $160 off its excellent machines, in addition to bulk discounts on filament if you buy four, eight, or more rolls. Bambu’s printers are fast, accurate, and exceptionally easy to use pretty much right out of the box. Whether you’re an experienced printer or you’re just looking to print your very first lobster with the head of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Bambu can crank it out.

Bambu Lab P1P 3D Printer $539 (Was $699)

SEE IT

It takes only fifteen minutes to go from taking the P1P out of the box to making your first print. If you’ve ever tried to put together another brand’s 3D printer, you know that’s a pretty impressive feat. This speedy printer cranks out high-quality prints in a hurry with help from creature comforts like automatic bed leveling and vibration compensation to prevent imperfections that pop up from the motion of the extruder. This is a great 3D printer for beginners, but it’s more than capable of churning out high volumes of high-quality work.

More Black Friday deals from Bambu Labs:

• Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer $849 (was $949)
• Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D Printer $1,049 (was $1,199)
• Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D Printer $1,299 (was $1,299 (was $1,449)
• 30% OFF 4+ Rolls, 40% OFF 8+ Rolls on PLA Basic, PLA Matte, PETG Basic, ABS
• 20% OFF 4+ Rolls, 30% OFF 8+ Rolls on all other filaments

The post Bambu Labs Black Friday deals: Some of the best 3D printers and filaments are up to $160 off appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Scoring a deal like a current-gen iPad for $100 used to require serious Black Friday commitment. You’d have to wait outside the store in the cold and hope to grab one without getting trampled in the rush. Now, you can get a 10th-gen iPad (the current model) for just $349 from Amazon delivered straight to your door. That’s $100 off the regular price, no matter which color you pick.

Apple iPad (10th Generation) 10.9-inch iPad $349 (was $449)

SEE IT

This is the most recent version of the vanilla iPad. It’s still compatible with the cheaper first-generation Apple Pencil, but it offers a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, as well as Touch ID for logging into the device and making payments. It sports the newer design with squared edges, which I personally like much better than the older look. This is the cheapest price I have ever seen on a non-refurbished model, so jump quickly before the color you want sells out. Clearly, you should get yellow.

The post Save $100 on the base model iPad before it sells out for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Even serious photographers can appreciate just how fun Instax instant film cameras make photography. Right now, Amazon has one of the most stylish Instax cameras on sale for more than 30 percent off. These deals always go really fast because the TikTok crowd loves an instant photograph. So, if you want one at this price, don’t sleep.

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 – Instant Film Camera $89 (was $129)

SEE IT

This unique-looking camera shoots Instax Square film, which embraces a square 1:1 aspect ratio that’s close to what the original square-ish Polaroids from the past used. This camera offers a simple point-and-shoot process that emphasizes flash and mimics the truly old-school style from decades ago. But the lens is sharp and the photos are surprisingly detailed, so it’s a hit at any party to which you bring it (and potentially too detailed for anyone who wakes up the next day having overindulged).

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera $59 (was $76)

SEE IT

If you want an even cheaper overall Instax experience, this is the way to go. This camera offers the same point-and-shoot experience, but it spits out Instax Mini prints, which are smaller and cheaper than their square counterparts.

More Fujifilm Instax Black Friday deals

• Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera $69 (was $79)
• Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Smartphone Printer $89 (was $99)
• FUJIFILM Instax Square SQ1 Instant Camera $107 (was $119)

The post Save up to 31% on Fujifilm Instax instant film cameras during Amazon’s Black Friday sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Amazon’s Black Friday sale is already in full swing, and you can save huge amounts on DeWalt tools before the turkey even hits the table (though we’d recommend a different type of tool for carving it). The sale touches on just about every corner of the DeWalt tool world, from huge socket sets to replacement batteries and bread-and-butter power tools. Here are some of the stand-out deals if you’re ready to retool the storage shed arsenal. These tend to sell out quickly, though, so don’t wait if you see something you want.

DEWALT 20V MAX Drill And Grinder Kit, Power Tool Set, 2 Batteries and Charger Included $269 (was $349)

SEE IT

Buying tools individually is fine, but bundling them together can really save you some cash. This kit includes a powerful drill, a burly grinder, and a pair of batteries to keep them running until the job is done. You also get a carrying bag to bring them to and from the worksite.

DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, SAE and Metric, 1/2, 1/4, 3/8 Drive Sizes, 192-Piece $154 (was $277)

SEE IT

With 192 pieces, this is like a sturdy stocking already stuffed with other gifts. This set includes all the familiar sizes of sockets that you could need. You also get three ratchets, a full run of hex keys, and extenders for reaching tough spots. This is one of the best tool gifts you can give and it’s heavily discounted, so snatch it up quick—don’t screw it up so you can screw more in.

DeWalt battery deals

• DEWALT 20V MAX Battery Pack, 3.0-Ah, 2-Pack $97 (was $209)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Battery Pack with Charger $89 (was $179)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Battery, 5 Ah, 2-Pack $145 (was $259)

DeWalt tool deals

• DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Oscillating Tool Kit, 3-Speed $99 (was $219)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench Kit $279 (was $325)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill, Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit $149 (was $229)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum $129 (was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw $99 (was $159)
• DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Single Bevel $229 (was $359)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw $129 (was $205)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver, 1/2 Inch, 2 Speed $99 (was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Random Orbit Sander Kit $126 (was $249)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Heat Gun, Cordless, Up to 990 Degrees $97 (was $148)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Orbital Sander $90 (was $179)
• DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set, 168-Piece $119 was $154)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade $99 (was $159)
• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit $99 (was $179)
• DEWALT Table Saw for Josites, 8-1/4 Inch, 15 Amp $299 (was $419)
• DEWALT Miter Saw, 12 Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound $399 (was $639)
• DEWALT Mechanic Tool Set, 247-Piece, 1/4 in., 3/8 in. and 1/2 in. Drive $154 (was $181)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Ratchet Set $249 (was $349)
• DEWALT 20V/12V MAX Laser Level, 3 x 360, Green, Bare Tool Only $355 (was $609)
• DEWALT Planer, Thickness Planer, 13-Inch, 3 Knife for Larger Cuts, Two Speed 20,000 RPM Motor $569 (was $719)
• DEWALT Laser, 5-Beam (DW085K) , Black $166 (was $264)
• DEWALT 12V MAX Laser Level, Cross Line Laser, Red $217 (was $309)

The post Save up to 50% on DeWalt power tools, batteries, and kits during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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

If you’re traveling for the holiday, there’s probably still time to order these fantastic Bose noise-canceling headphones for the trip. Starting at just $200, Amazon has deep discounts on some of the best noise-canceling over-the-ear and earbuds on the market. These are the lowest prices we’ve seen on some of these models, and you likely won’t get any better discount if you wait until after Turkey Day.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones $199 (was $329)

SEE IT

This is the bread-and-butter Bose model. They have a slick, traditional design, powerful drivers, and some of the most effective active noise canceling you’ll ever experience. The customizable EQ allows you to tweak their performance to your liking and each battery charge provides up to 22 hours of listening. These are our choice for the best headphones for work since they fit better and feel less sweaty than the still-excellent Sony WH-1000XM5 (which also happens to be on sale for $328 if you prefer them).

More Bose headphones deals during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale:

• NEW Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $249 (was $349)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds $249 (was $299)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with Spatial Audio $379 (was $429)

More headphone deals from other great brands:

• JBL Tune 660NC: Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Active Noise Cancellation $49 (was $99)
• JBL Tune 710BT Wireless Over-Ear – Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone $39 (was $79)
• JBL Tune 510BT: Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Purebass Sound $24 (was $49)
• Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless Noise Canceling Earbud Headphones $128 (was $199)
• Sony WF-C700N Truly Wireless Noise Canceling in-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones $88 (was $119)
• Sony SRS-NB10 Wireless Neckband Bluetooth Speaker $98 (was $149)
• Google Pixel Buds A-Series – Wireless Earbuds $59 (was $99)

If your vibe is more wireless speaker systems and flagship headphones, check out these amazing early Black Friday audiophile deals.

The post Get Bose noise-canceling headphones for their lowest prices ever during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Whether you’re a certified gourmet or you struggle not to burn your Hot Pockets, a smart oven can seriously upgrade your kitchen situation. Right now, the Breville Smart Ovens are at their cheapest prices of the year. That means you can save money and have this baby all set up before Thanksgiving. Your leftovers will thank you.

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro $319 (was $449)

SEE IT

This is our pick for the best smart oven and for good reason. It can air fry, bake, broil, and do pretty much anything else you could want out of a single kitchen appliance. It has plenty of room inside, so you could even cook a small turkey if you wanted. It’s one of the best kitchen appliances we’ve ever tested.

If you don’t need the top-of-the-line Pro model (though we really like it), you can get other Breville Smart Ovens even cheaper.

• Breville Mini Smart Toaster Oven $127 (was $199)
• Breville Compact Smart Toaster Oven $151 (was $199)
• Breville Smart Oven Toaster Oven $215 (was $269)
• Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven $223 (was $299)
• Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Toaster Oven $279 (was $379)

WHALL Toaster Oven Air Fryer, Max XL Large 30-Quart Smart Oven $139 (was $569)

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If you’re looking for a pro-grade smart oven/air fryer, you can’t beat a more than 70 percent discount on this Whall model. It can accommodate up to a seven-pound chicken and it has 11 different cooking modes to choose from. This is a wild deal on a great oven.

More smart oven and air fryer deals from Amazon

• Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven with FlexDoor $279 (was $349)
• Ninja SP351 Foodi Smart 13-in-1 Dual Heat Air Fry Countertop Oven $273 (was $379)
• Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo Pizza Oven $799 (was $999)
• Tovala Smart Oven Pro, 6-in-1 Countertop Convection Oven $189 (was $299)
• Tovala Smart Oven, 5-in-1 Air Fryer Oven Combo $199 (was $249)
• GE Profile Smart Oven with No Preheat $298 (was $449)

The post The best smart ovens and air fryers are at their lowest prices of the year before Black Friday at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best for pros		Nikon Z8		SEE IT	The Z8 offers impressive specs across the board for pros.
Best APS-C		Fujifilm X-T5		SEE IT	It’s simply a fun and fantastic camera to shoot with.
Best low-light		Nikon Z6 II		SEE IT	NIkon’s Z6 II excels when the light gets dim.

If you have been paying attention to the camera market over the last decade, you’ve noticed mirrorless cameras overtaking DSLRs as the most dominant category in interchangeable-lens cameras. While Canon, Nikon, and Pentax still sell plenty of DSLRs, more than a half-dozen companies—including Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and Sony—are fully committed to their mirrorless systems. The market has expanded so much that there are now mirrorless cameras for every type of shooter, from the video-focused to the photography purist. No matter what you are looking for, the best mirrorless camera will help you get the shot.

• Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for pros: Nikon Z8
• Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1 
• Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
• Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony A7C
• Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best budget: Canon EOS R100

How we chose the best mirrorless cameras

We have been writing about and reviewing cameras for decades and have personally used most of the major cameras released in recent years. This list is a result of extensive hands-on testing, market research, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons. While the mirrorless market has grown substantially in recent years, there are still only a handful of companies making the cameras that you really want to buy. We looked at the entire mirrorless camera landscape and chose the models that best fit the needs of different kinds of shooters. 

Best mirrorless cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

The options for mirrorless cameras have expanded to include something for just about every situation you may find yourself in. Whether you want a compact, budget-friendly vlogging camera, a professional-level, high-resolution beast, or something in between, there is a mirrorless camera that will work for you.

Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 45 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.62 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.84 x 3.46 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor
• Articulated screen
• Up to 8 stops of stabilization with some lenses
• Advanced video features

Cons

• Expensive

Although it’s a little pricey, the full-frame Canon EOS R5 delivers excellent stabilization. You’ll get up to 8 stops in combination with some Canon IS lenses. Other impressive parameters include speedy (and accurate) autofocus and tracking thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system. It’s dust and water-resistant to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography and comes equipped with dual memory card slots, including a CFexpress. This is essentially the mirrorless version of Canon’s stalwart 5D DSLR line. As a result, it can handle just about anything a pro photographer could need it to do in a relatively compact body.

If you don’t need the 45-megapixel resolution and super-high-res video chops found in the R5, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers much of the same in terms of focusing and stabilization with a more reasonable 24.2-megapixel resolution and matching SD card memory slots. You can read more about the R6 Mark II in our full review.

Best for pros: Nikon Z8

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Specs

• Resolution: 45.7 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B/XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 4.7 x 3.3 inches

Pros 

• Fantastic image quality
• Offers lots of on-body controls
• Fast burst shooting
• High-quality video

Cons

• No mechanical shutter
• A bit difficult to get right now

The Nikon Z8 is essentially the Z9 in a more compact and affordable package. It’s $1,300 less than the flagship Z9 yet features the same sensor, processor, and autofocus capabilities. And it weighs more than half a pound less than the Z9. Of course, that’s in part because the Z8 lacks a built-in vertical grip, but the more compact form factor makes it an ideal choice for videographers or those who prioritize weight in their setup. 

The Z8 is a true hybrid camera with impressive specs and features across the board. It’s capable of 8K 60p 12-bit raw recording internally in the N-RAW format. You can record at 8K 30p for roughly two hours continuously. And it offers 4K 120p for slow-motion footage. 

The 45.7-megapixel sensor results in excellent image quality for photos. And if you like a still from a video clip, you can grab 33-megapixel stills from 8K footage or 11MP stills from 4K footage. The Z8’s autofocus is also superb, with accurate and fast subject detection and tracking. 

Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1

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Specs

• Resolution: 50.1 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.07 x 3.81 x 2.74 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor for superb detail
• Advanced and impressive autofocus
• Fast burst shooting
• Plenty of tactile controls

Cons

• Expensive

The Sony a1 is a camera built for those who want serious performance from their camera. The specs are impressive across the board. It offers a 50.1-megapixel sensor with stacked back-illuminated design and integrated memory. That sensor allows for 15 stops of dynamic range and the ability to capture tons of detail from a scene. It also handles noise extremely well, so you can get away with higher ISOs.

One area that the a1 really shines is burst shooting. It’s capable of up to 30 full-sized raw frames per second with the electronic shutter. That’s faster than just about everything available at that quality. The autofocus is equally impressive. It’s extremely fast and accurate, and it can focus down to -4 EV, so you can shoot in dark situations and still use autofocus. 

The a1’s electronic sensor is able to read out at a whopping 1/260th second, which allows you to sync a flas at up to 1/200th second. And, with the mechanical shutter, you can sync flash up to 1/400th second without relying on a high-speed sync. It’s an ideal camera setup for studio photographers and sports photographers alike. And with the 8K 30p and 4K 120p video, it makes for an excellent tool for videographers or hybrid shooters as well.

If the burst shooting isn’t as important to you as resolution, the Sony a7R V offers an impressive 61 megapixels, resulting in truly stunning image quality even for the most serious pixel peepers. The a1 produces massive files, though, so be sure to have hard drives ready.

Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.5 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B / XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.3 x 4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

• Superb image quality overall, but especially in low-light
• Intuitive controls and menu systems
• Compact
• Exemplary metering system

Cons

• 24-megapixels may feel a little low for some shooters

The well-rounded, full-frame Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera is equipped with great still and video features. Its low light capabilities range from minimal image noise at high ISOs and, critically, excellent low light AF—down to -4.5EV, one-stop lower than its Z6 predecessor. That means it can focus in the moonlight—even when it’s less than a full moon. As a bonus, the Nikon Z6 II is equipped with a special low-light autofocus mode that takes its capabilities an additional two stops, providing a good balance between minimal levels of image noise and effective autofocus in very low light.

The Sony A7S is another solid option, especially if you shoot a lot of video or you don’t need a ton of megapixels. The 12-megapixel resolution seems paltry to many still photographers, but that low resolution comes with extremely clean high-ISO images.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1

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Specs

• Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches

Pros 

• Compact and lightweight
• Excellent stabilization
• Good in-camera audio
• Superb autofocus abilities

Cons

• Low resolution isn’t great for photography
• Single SD card slot

The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame mirrorless camera tailored to serious vloggers and content creators. Unlike its smaller sibling—the ZV-1 II—the ZV-E1 is an interchangeable lens camera, allowing you to choose from the vast selection of Sony and third-party lenses available for E-mount. Despite the full-frame sensor, the camera is very compact and lightweight, weighing only slightly over a pound, making it easier to hold even if you are filming yourself. 

The ZV-E1 is capable of 4K 120p video or full HD up to 240p. The Cinematic Vlog setting makes it easy to create cinematic footage with a single touch, putting controls such as aspect ratio,  frame rate, look mode, mood, and AF modes on one screen. The 5-axis optical image stabilization is highly effective. And when you need even more stabilization, the dynamic active mode stabilization utilizes AI recognition and tracking to crop footage automatically to keep focus on the subject. 

As we’ve come to expect from Sony cameras, the ZV-E1’s autofocus abilities are very advanced. It offers Multiple Face Recognition to track multiple people in a single frame, and the Product Showcase Setting makes it easy to switch focus between a product and subject. The main downside to this camera is the 12.9-megapixel sensor. While the 12.9-megapixel sensor could be limiting in terms of still photos for some, for professional vloggers, this camera is the best choice at the moment.

If you are a vlogger who doesn’t want to fuss with lenses or spend so much on a camera, the ZV-1 II is the next best thing. It features a built-in 18-50mm equivalent lens with 4K 30p video and plenty of content creator-specific tools.

Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony a7C

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 4.9 x 2.8 x 2.4 inches

Pros 

• Compact form factor fits in camera rigs
• Flip-around screen makes for easy vlogging
• Advanced autofocus tracking with nearly 700 AF points
• 4K and 1080p footage at high bitrates

Cons

• No viewfinder might be a downside for hybrid shooters
• No 4K at 60 fps

Size and weight matter when you’re holding a camera pointed at yourself all day long, and Sony’s A7C is one of the most compact full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market. It has everything a vlogger needs, including 4K capture, a screen that flips forward so you can monitor your shot in real time, and a microphone jack for accessories. It also offers advanced autofocus that keeps you or your subject in focus without much fuss on your end. 

The small, rectangular form factor makes attaching gimbals and other filmmaking equipment easy. That comes in handy when you’re trying to maximize your production value and have viewers slamming those like and subscribe buttons on YouTube. There isn’t an electronic viewfinder, which makes it a bit harder to use in bright sunlight, but video is rarely shot while looking through a viewfinder anyway. 

Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5

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Specs

• Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor results in lots of details
• Capable of up to 20 fps
• 6.2K maximum video resolution
• Excellent feel to the controls

Cons

• Viewfinder feels small compared to full-frame models

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a truly fantastic camera. In fact, one of our editors calls it one of the most enjoyable cameras he’s ever used. It offers lots of tactile controls, including an ISO dial and physical switch for shutter drive modes. These keep you from digging into menus nearly as often as other cameras. The body feels like a small SLR, including a physical dial for shutter speed, which makes the camera feel like an analog one. 

Fujifilm built the camera around a high-resolution 40.2-megapixel sensor that does a great job of grabbing lots of detail from a scene. It comes with Fujifilm’s excellent film simulation modes, which could save you time when it comes to throwing it up on a monitor and editing. And the autofocus is responsive and accurate.

While the camera is primarily for still shooters, there are plenty of impressive features for video creators. For example, it can shoot up to 6.2K 30p video or oversampled 4K footage. And it offers plenty of video capture formats, including F-LOG2 and Apple ProRes Raw.

Best budget:  Canon EOS R100

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Image stabilization: None
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
• Weight: 12.6 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

• Extremely compact and lightweight
• Affordable
• Compatible with all RF lenses
• 4K 24p video

Cons

• Fixed rear display
• No touchscreen functionality

The Canon EOS R100 is a relatively new release that happens to be the most affordable camera in Canon’s R line yet. It’s also the smallest, weighing just 12.6 ounces with the battery and memory card. Despite the small size and affordable price, it has a lot to offer. For starters, the 24.1-megapixel sensor will provide image quality on par with the M50 Mark II. But you get the benefit of RF lenses, as well as EF lenses with an adapter. That opens up a lot of possibilities for glass.

The R100 is capable of cropped 4K 24p video or full HD at 60p. It utilizes Dual Pixel AF with 3,975 autofocus points and supports subject detection and Eye Detection AF. And Eye Detection works even when the subject is further away for full body shots. Unfortunately, the rear screen is fixed, meaning it can’t be flipped around for selfies or vlogging, and it isn’t a touchscreen. But, for the price, the R100 is hard to beat for those wanting a casual yet capable camera. 

What to consider when shopping for the best mirrorless camera

Choosing the best mirrorless camera for you depends on your needs. Are you looking for a mirrorless camera for beginners or something more specialized? Buying something below or at your level may hinder your development as a photographer or videographer when you outgrow its features. However, buying a pricy pro body may clutter up your shooting experience with features you’ll never even use. We’ll take a look at some of the parameters that will help you make the best choice.

In-body image stabilization

Image stabilization, which is available in some cameras and lenses, goes by different acronyms and names across brands—VR (vibration reduction), OIS (optical image stabilization), and SteadyShot, to name a few. Image stabilization senses the movement of the camera while you’re taking the picture and makes adjustments—either in the camera or in the lens or both—in order to counteract that shake and prevent blurry photos. It can also help smooth out video when shooting handheld. 

Many mirrorless cameras offer IBIS (in-body image stabilization). One of the great things about IBIS is that, by default, every lens you use is image-stabilized, which is like an instant upgrade to your current non-IS lenses. As a bonus, IBIS and IS lenses can often work together to deliver even greater levels of stabilization.

Image stabilization is measured in steps or exposure stops. Put simply, each step or stop of IS decreases the shutter speed needed to maintain a blur-free image. Obviously, the more stops, the better when you’re shopping for a mirrorless camera with IBIS. It’s important to realize, however, that some of those numbers reflect a combination of in-body stabilization and lens stabilization to get the maximum effect.

Low-light performance

Photographers often encounter low-light situations where the choices are either to boost the ISO and risk image noise, miss the shot, or use a flash. The latter isn’t always the best option, especially if you want to capture the scene’s ambiance, or flash is prohibited. Keep in mind that most mirrorless cameras do not have built-in flash anyhow; rather, they have a hot shoe to attach an external flash.

Flash aside, there are three basic elements of low-light photography to consider. First, full-frame cameras are typically better at low-light photography since their larger sensor size gathers more light. You also need to consider how well the camera keeps image noise at bay while maintaining good detail and sharpness and whether the camera’s autofocus can function well in low light. The latter is measured as minus “x” EV.

Low-light performance will be key to getting the shots you want if you frequently shoot indoors—whether at parties or indoor sporting events. And even if you shoot outdoors, higher ISO settings can come in handy for capturing fast action like sports, which requires extremely short shutter speeds to freeze motion. Higher ISO does result in higher noise levels, but you can improve noise with a laptop and some time editing.

Video

While you can vlog or record video with pretty much any mirrorless camera, there are features that make vlogging easier and combine to deliver the best footage possible. Two key features in a mirrorless camera for video are an articulated LCD and a microphone jack. The former lets you flip the LCD out and away from the camera to view yourself as you’re filming. At the same time, an external microphone can be mounted on the camera’s hotshoe without blocking the LCD. In-body image stabilization is ideal since it steadies the shot regardless of what lens you use and can help steady video when handholding the camera.

In the end, vlogging doesn’t always require 4K resolution, but it’s always better to have the option if and when you need it.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best mirrorless cameras

• Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for pros: Nikon Z8
• Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1 
• Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
• Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony A7C
• Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best budget: Canon EOS R100

Shopping for the best mirrorless camera is really a personal issue. It’s important to think about what kind of images or videos you want to capture and then find the features that make it possible—whether it’s low light, video for vlogging, or action shots. Don’t be fooled into thinking you need the latest and greatest to make the best decision. There are plenty of solid options at various price points, including budget models.

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 mirrorless cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower		SEE IT	A reliable and heavy-duty pick to handle serious winter conditions.
Best electric		Snow Joe Electric Blower		SEE IT	Skip the hassle of maintenance and choose sustainably with this electric, yet high-powered option.
Best budget		Greenworks 13 Amp 20-inch Corded Snow Thrower		SEE IT	Save your money while still clearing snow effectively.

When the weather is nice, a snow blower sounds like a luxury. When there’s a foot of snow covering your driveway and you have to be at work soon, you’ll be truly glad you invested in some mechanical help for clearing all that pesky white stuff. While your small walkway or porch might only need a quick shovel (as long as you do it safely), in some places the task of hauling snow over your shoulder can be nothing short of back-breaking (or heart-killing). With the right snow blower, you can clear your driveway, street, or sidewalk in a matter of minutes without much more effort than pressing a button or pulling a cord. However, picking the right one can feel a little overwhelming. Luckily, we’re here to take the guesswork out of snow removal.

• Best overall: PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower
• Best gas-powered: Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Two-Stage Blower
• Best full-sized electric: EGO Power+ SNT2112 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Snow Blower
• Best compact electric: Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower
• Best compact: Ariens 18S 18-in Single-stage Push with Auger Assistance Gas Snow Blower
• Best two-stage: Briggs & Stratton Dual-Stage Snow Blower
• Best budget: Greenworks 13 Amp 20-inch Corded Snow Thrower

How we chose the best snow blowers

When selecting the best snow blowers to make winter storms a whole lot more bearable, we reviewed each unit’s cost, power source, reviews, and displacement to select only the best products. We considered over 40 products and 10 brands to ultimately narrow it down to this list of the best six. Our final range includes blowers designed for different climates—as those who only need to clear a few inches won’t need the same kind of power as those who get hit with more serious snowfall. Whether you’re on a budget or want a high-end option with plenty of bells and whistles, we’ve included a product pick for you.

The best snow blowers: Reviews & Recommendations

Snow blowers aren’t just for locations with frequent blizzards. These machines can assist in clearing everything from a dusting to a blizzard. It all depends on what you need and how much you want to spend.

Best overall: PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This powerful two-stage pick offers chute control, multiple speed settings, and a four-cycle engine to get through any storm.

Specs

• Power source: Gas
• Engine displacement: 212 cubic centimeters
• Throw distance: 40 feet

Pros

• Steel auger cuts through snow
• 8 total speeds
• Non-slip treaded tires

Cons

• Heavier design

This snow blower is a reliable, durable, and powerful machine equipped to clear most snowfalls. The gas-powered, two-stage blower beats electric and one-stage models when it comes to forcing, and the steel auger slices through even heavy or icy snow buildup to provide a 24-inch wide, 20-inch deep clearing capacity. The PowerSmart has an energetic 212cc engine, 13-inch-height tires to dig deep into terrain, 180 degrees of chute control (with a 40-foot throw), and eight total speeds (six forward, two reverse), giving you a range of options to choose from when clearing your unique driveway, sidewalk, or street.

Best gas-powered: Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Two-Stage Snow Blower

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Why it made the cut: This gas-powered pick can cut through even the most abominable snow buildup with snow blows of up to 50 feet.

Specs

• Power source: Gas
• Engine displacement: 306 cubic centimeters
• Throw distance: 50 feet

Pros

• Dual belts for more power
• Auto-turn steering
• All steel frame for durability

Cons

• If not maintained well the steel can rust

Save yourself the hassle of making pass after pass after pass with this powerful Ariens snow blower. Capable of clearing a 30-inch-wide path and cutting through 21 inches of piled-up snow, this two-stage snow blower will make quick work of even the most sprawling driveways. Auto-turn steering also means no tricky levers or triggers to manipulate—just press the electric push button and start carving. The dual belt system also allows your engine to output more power where it matters, so clearing even heavy snowfall can be a breeze.

Best full-sized electric: EGO Power+ SNT2112 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Snow Blower

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Specs

• Power source: Battery
• Throw distance: 40 feet

Pros

• Strong steel auger
• Comes with extra batteries
• Quieter than many gas-powered models
• Low vibration
• Extremely easy to start

Cons

• Not self-propelled

Electric snow blowers used to be wimpy machines that could barely handle a dusting. That’s no longer true and EGO’s powerful snow moving machine is proof. It comes with a pair of batteries and a dual-outlet charger so you can keep them both ready to go for when the snow falls. It’s electric, so it starts very quickly and easily with no cord to pull. Once it’s running, it’s noticeably quieter than its gas-powered pals.

Up front, a steel auger chops through snow and ice with aplomb. It measures 21 inches wide, which is wide enough to make quick work of a full-sized driveway, but still nimble enough to clear narrow walkways and other paths. Two charged batteries provide enough power to clear a 12-car driveway of eight inches of snow. If you want a simple, effective way to move snow without a ton of maintenance or effort, this is a great option. It’s not self-propelled, so you’ll have to push it, but the auger is so good at its job that it won’t be a heavy lift.

Best compact electric: Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower

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Why it made the cut: Simply charge up and get snow blowing with this eco-friendly-meets-affordable pick, which clears an impressive amount of snow despite its lightweight and compact design.

Specs

• Power source: Corded electric
• Engine displacement: 840 lbs/min
• Throw distance: 25 feet

Pros

• Affordable
• Sustainable
• Lightweight design

Cons

• Not suited for large driveways

Powered with a rechargeable 100-volt, 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery, this electric snow blower can clear a path that’s 22 inches wide and 13 inches high. This model comes with a battery and charger, but you can add an additional battery (sold separately) if thirty minutes of run time isn’t enough. And with dual 5-Watt LED lights, you’ll be able to see where you’re going even when the sun is down. Unlike gas models, the Snow Joe requires no maintenance, so your snow blower won’t malfunction if it goes untouched for months in the garage. Despite its more compact size, this pick can also move 840 pounds of snow per minute, making it a workhorse worthy of a try.

rounded option.

Best compact: Ariens 18S 18-in Single-stage Push with Auger Assistance Gas Snow Blower

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Why it made the cut: There aren’t many compact gas-powered snow blowers out there, but this is a very solid option.

Specs

• Power source: Gas
• Engine displacement: 99cc
• Throw distance: 10 feet

Pros

• One of just a few gas-powered compact models
• Clever blade design gets all the way to the driveway
• Easy to start with one or two pulls
• High-visibility color

Cons

• Heavier than electric models
• Max snow clearing height of six inches so not for heavy storms

You won’t find many gas-powered compact snow blowers out there anymore with so many electric models to choose from. But, if you’re keeping a snow clearing machine at a camp or area with inconsistent access to electricity, then a petrol-powered machine may be the way to go. This 18-inch wide machine has a 99cc engine inside and a 12-inch intake height. It’s only meant to clear six inches of a snow at a time, so you’ll have to go out and clear regularly if you get a storm with more accumulation than that. But, this machine starts easily, runs relatively quietly (at least compared to other gas-powered blowers), and maneuvers deftly. Its clever auger blade design allows it to get all the way down to the bare driveway without leaving scrapes or marks or getting damaged if it hits an errant rock.

The chute turns a full 210 degrees, so you can throw snow wherever you want it as you move along. That comes in handy if you have a driveway with a lot of vehicles or picky neighbors who don’t allow your snow to touch their precious lawn.

Best two-stage: Briggs & Stratton Dual-Stage Snow Blower

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Why it made the cut: This high-quality option has a powerful motor and two-stage design to tackle the heaviest snowfalls.

Specs:

• Power source: Gas
• Engine displacement: 208 cubic centimeters
• Throw distance: Up to 40 feet

Pros

• Easy electric push start
• Heated hand grips
• Non-slip treaded tires

Cons

• Heavier design

This powerful gas two-stage snow blower can easily tackle snowfalls that are up to 20 inches and move 208 cubic cm of snow, making it one of the best machines to clear areas hit with serious snowfall. While considerably more expensive than the other options in the article, this gas snow blower will cut through just about anything you put in its way and you give total control over where it ends up. The dual-trigger steering also allows you to cut tight turns and clear snow precisely, which ultimately makes for a faster process overall.

Best budget: Greenworks 13 Amp 20-inch Corded Snow Thrower

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Why it made the cut: Snowblowers tend to be quite the investment, but you don’t have to spend a ton to save time clearing drifts—this Greenworks pick has quite the power, despite its more compact size and affordable pricing.

Specs:

• Power source: Corded electric
• Clearing depth: 10 inches
• Throw distance: 20 feet

Pros

• Affordable pick
• Lightweight design
• Easy electric start

Cons

• Requires extension cord

If you live somewhere that only sees light, sporadic snowfall, there’s absolutely no reason to shell out big money on a snow blower with features you don’t need. This Greenworks electric snow blower will clear a path that’s 20 inches wide and 10 inches deep. Since it’s AC-powered, you’ll never run out of juice as long as you can reach an outlet. Convenient to store and easy to start, this is a great snow thrower if you don’t want to spend too much money. It’s also a great model to buy for any elderly people you may help care for since it’s light enough to handle without too much effort.

What to consider when buying the best snow blowers

They say that every snowflake is unique, and snow blowers are no different. Depending on your individual needs, you may want a fairly no-frills device or the latest technology. Check out these five things to consider before buying the best snow blower, and then let the snowfall where it may. And while you’re outfitting yourself to tackle those drifts, check out our roundups of the best snow boots, heated socks, heated insoles, heated vests, and winter hats to help you get the job done more comfortably (and when you get back inside, grab your heated slippers).

For long driveways and big clean-ups, power your snow blower with gas

Generally speaking, gas-powered snow blowers tend to be more powerful than even the best electric models. So, if you have to clean up a long driveway or city block, you’ll probably want your snow blower to run on gas.

Gas models do have their downsides: for example, you’ll need to change the oil from time to time and make sure that you’re using the right type of gasoline. Other upkeep will include changing or cleaning the filters as needed and occasionally replacing a burnt-out spark plug. However, when the inches start piling up, the maintenance a gas-powered snow blower requires will be more than worth it.

For convenience and ease of use, there’s no beating an electric snow blower

In addition to being more environmentally friendly than their gas-powered counterparts, electric snow blowers are easier to use and require less upkeep. Depending on the model, all you’ll need to do is plug them in (or charge the battery) and you’ll be ready to go.

Unfortunately, electric snow blowers tend to be less powerful than gas-powered ones, so if you have a huge amount of snow to clear, you might find yourself making multiple passes or cursing when the battery runs out. “Less powerful” doesn’t mean “not powerful,” though, and a well-made electric model might be exactly what you’re looking for provided the conditions you’ll be using it in aren’t terribly inclement. There are truly burly electric models on the market, but expect to fork over a pretty penny for them. Some cost $2,000 and up.

A two-stage snow blower is the best choice for clearing large areas and really deep snow

If you live in an area that gets pummeled with snow, a one-stage snow blower just isn’t going to cut it. The difference between a one-stage and two-stage snow blower comes down to how much heavy lifting the “auger” (the part that sucks up the snow) is being asked to do—and in a one-stage model, it’s being asked to do everything.

Put simply, in a one-stage model, the auger sucks up the snow and spits it out, while in a two-stage model, the auger only has to suck it up while another part (the “impeller”) is responsible for blowing it somewhere else. If you’re looking to clear more than 8 inches of snow, a two-stage model is the only type that will get the job done. Electric models are all one-stage, so if you live in a place that gets lots of snow, a gas-powered, two-stage model is a must.

The best snow blowers will come with a few bells and whistles

Not all snow blowers are built equally and picking one with some extra features can save you a lot of time and frustration. For example, if you can’t wait for the sun to come out to clear a path to your car, you’ll definitely want to consider a snow blower with a built-in light. Want more control over where the snow you throw lands? Some models come equipped with remote chute control, so you don’t make another mess cleaning up the first one.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best snow blowers

• Best overall: PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower
• Best gas-powered: Ariens Deluxe 30-inch Two-Stage Blower
• Best full-sized electric: EGO Power+ SNT2112 21-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Snow Blower
• Best compact electric: Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower
• Best compact: Ariens 18S 18-in Single-stage Push with Auger Assistance Gas Snow Blower
• Best two-stage: Briggs & Stratton Dual-Stage Snow Blower
• Best budget: Greenworks 13 Amp 20-inch Corded Snow Thrower

The best snow blowers vary widely in price, power, and performance. Depending on your needs, features like LED lighting and remote chute control can be extremely helpful or totally superfluous. Bottom line: the best snow blower is the one that’s suited to your area’s weather conditions and the amount of area you’ll need to clear. Think gas-powered and two-stage models for blizzard-prone climates, and smaller electric units for more fair-weather locales.

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 snow blowers 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 solar generator		Jackery Solar Generator 1000		SEE IT	Harness the power of the sun to keep your devices and appliances juiced with this portable generator.
Best for hydration		Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid		SEE IT	Keep water ice-cold all day long while reducing plastic waste.
Best for students		Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook		SEE IT	This smart notebook lets users save their scribblings to the cloud, then erase and start all over again.

It’s a great feeling when you give a gift that delights a loved one—and it probably means that you scoured through plenty of ideas before landing on a true winner. But while gift-giving can be fun, knowing the impact these new products can have on the environment can take some of the holiday spirit out of shopping. Though any new product will contribute to emissions due to its manufacturing and shipping processes, these environmentally friendly options can help cut down on waste and carbon footprint. From replacing single-use plastics like water bottles and coffee cups to going green by riding a bike to work, these are our picks for sustainable gifts that are a must-have for anyone who wants to help the planet. 

• Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker
• Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug
• Best for students: Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook
• Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter
• Best compost bin: Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-Fill Compost Bin Food Waste Caddy
• Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle
• Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
• Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Towels
• Best for new cooks: The Everlasting Meal Cookbook: Leftovers A-Z
• Best for home cooks: The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook: 500 Inspired, Flexible Recipes for Eating Well Without Meat
• Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Acaciaware Set
• Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can
• Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags
• Best for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers
• Best for hydration: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best reusable straws: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws
• Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers
• Best slippers: Glerups Wool Slip-On Leather Slippers
• Best for puzzle lovers: Party Fowls Trick Puzzle
• Best for music lovers: House of Marley Champion True Wireless Earbuds
• Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag
• Best for neat freaks: Me Mother Earth Quick Dry Diatomaceous Stone Bath Mat
• Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush
  

Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker

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Pod coffee makers aren’t typically known for being sustainable (or providing delicious brews), but the Bruvi Coffee Maker is aiming to change that. Its pods—which pack in 40 percent more grinds than typical competitors—are a curated selection from around the globe. You can select from coffee, tea, espresso, Americanos, espresso, and cold brew in 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, or 12-ounce sizes. And when it comes to sustainability, the pods can also biodegrade 84 percent in an anaerobic environment in less than two years, according to the company’s testing, unlike plastic pods. Plus, you can use the Bruvi app to remotely ensure the WiFi-ready IoT brewer has the coffee ready in the morning and automatically reorder favorite blends. For more options, check out best coffee makers.

Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug

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We’re not immune to the appeal of a specialty latte or coffee while on the go, but those quick trips to your local cafe quickly add up. Globally, 16 billion paper cups hit the waste bins each year, which equates to roughly 6.5 million trees cut down and four billion gallons of water wasted. It’s also a common misconception that your coffee cup can be tossed in the recycling—paper cups are lined with a plastic moisture barrier called polyethylene, which actually contaminates the other recyclables in your bin.

The simple solution to limiting your own personal waste? A reusable travel mug. The YETI Rambler comes in 30 different colorways, is BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and has an insulated design to keep your beverage at the desired temperature for longer (take that, paper cups). Not to mention that many coffee shops give you a small discount for bringing your own mug as an incentive to help our planet.

Best for students: Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook

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Your favorite student can take notes or draw but save paper with the Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook. This 6-inch by 8.8-inch, 36-page digital notebook works with an app to save your notes and drawings to the cloud, should you wish. The set comes with a pen for your scribbling and a cloth to wipe the page clean when you’re finished. Plus, it’s got the traditional spiral rings of a notebook for the classic experience, comes in executive and letter versions, and is available in 16 fun colors and patterns.

Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter

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Composting is good for the Earth, but it can take months for food scraps to decompose into soil in the backyard. But with the Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter on the counter, users can turn the remnants of dinner into nourishing feed for plants in a matter of hours with the touch of a button. This unobtrusive appliance also serves as an odor-free compost bin and lets users cut down on what they send to the landfill and pay for fertilizer.

Best compost bin: Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-Fill Compost Bin Food Waste Caddy

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We’ve all had that bag of spinach rotting in the back of our fridge, or berries that sprout mold after just a few short days. While your instinct might be to toss them in the garbage, composting provides a more sustainable way to dispose of food. As food scraps and garden waste account for almost 30 percent of our garbage, starting your own compost bin reduces your overall waste stream and cuts down on methane emissions produced by organic decomposition in landfills. 

Our pick for the best compost bin to get you started? This pick reduces the peskiest part of composting—the smell. The ventilated design allows air to circulate through, which results in less moisture and odors. It also features a replaceable odor filter to trap any potential smells, a polypropylene body for easy cleaning, and a flip-top lid with a wide opening,

Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle

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Cars represent the greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, contributing almost 30 percent of the country’s total emissions. Riding a bicycle is one of the only modes of transportation that requires no fossil fuels or pollution.

This fixed-gear bicycle from 6KU is perfect for cruising through most towns and cities, as it maintains speed to make riding simpler. While this sustainable gift is more of an investment than some other options, a high-quality bicycle is a functional pick that can be used for years to come—and as far as commuter road bikes go, this one is on the affordable end.

Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000

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Whether you’re on a long camping trip or setting up lights in your backyard, a portable generator is an eco-friendly way to power up devices without resorting to a gas-guzzling generator. Not only is the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 significantly more portable than its gas counterparts, but it also saves money in the long run, as you won’t need to continue buying gas for refueling. 

With 1,000 watts, a topped-off power station can run even large appliances like refrigerators, TVs, and electric grills. While many people might turn to solar generators for journeys off the grid (i.e., camping, road trips), you can also use the Jackery Solar Generator to power your outdoor appliances, like Christmas lights, electric heaters, and electric lawnmowers. Simply set up the solar panels (some included here, more sold separately) facing the direction with the most sun and plug in your tech. And if you like this idea but want more options, we’ve got the best solar generators coverage, well, covered.

Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Temescal Organic Towels

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Moving into a new home is exciting but also a big expense. Treat some new homeowners to a gift that will last: Coyuchi’s Temescal Organic Towels. Hand-woven from organic cotton in Turkey, these towels are both plush and lightweight, with ribbing for extra drying power. The six-piece set includes two bath towels, two washcloths, and two hand towels. It’s available in four rich colors (Alpine White, Deep Ocean, Terra, and Shadow), plus an undyed version that will go well in any bathroom. This set is also certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for extra peace of mind. 

Best for new cooks: The Everlasting Meal Cookbook: Leftovers A-Z

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Cooking from home is an excellent way to save money and know exactly what’s in the food you’re eating. But for new cooks, the prospect of whipping the disparate ingredients in the fridge and cabinets into a tasty meal can be daunting. Fortunately, The Everlasting Cookbook: Leftovers from A to Z provides a comprehensive guide to combining everything from a leftover burrito to aging scallions to even potato chip crumbs into something delicious. Written by award-winning cookbook author Tamar Adler, The Everlasting Cookbook features more than 1,500 recipes with beautiful illustrations that show how even those last few black olives in the jar can transform into a work of art.

Best for home cooks: The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook: 500 Inspired, Flexible Recipes for Eating Well Without Meat

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Speaking of vegetables, if someone you know could use some inspiration to get three to five servings a day, consider The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook. With 500 recipes developed by America’s Test Kitchen, this book also provides a primer on plant-based eating and includes a section of gluten-free recipes. Everyone from vegans to people just exploring meat alternatives and looking to get more veggies on their plate will find plenty to like in these easy, budget-friendly recipes that draw on culinary traditions from around the globe.

Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Acaciaware Set

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The USDA recommends three to five servings of vegetables each day, and that should include some leafy greens. This wonderful 12-inch round bowl comes with two servers, all made from natural acacia wood. Fill it up with some nice field greens, or just live the dream of making an all-crouton salad. Just don’t put it in the microwave or dishwasher because that will ruin the wood. Round out your table with more of the best serving bowls.

Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can

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Whether your giftee is a new plant parent or has a green thumb, they will certainly appreciate the utility of a good watering can. This one-gallon steel container is both practical and decorative and can be used on indoor and outdoor plants alike. And not only is this can designed to endure, but the steel can also be recycled. The double handle makes it easy to manage, even when it’s totally full of liquid. We recommend using water and not energy drinks.

Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags

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Living sustainably can be challenging when you’ve got a family to feed 365 days a year. Nordic by Nature’s Reusable Sandwich Bags make it a little easier. The set comes with four bags: two large, one medium, and one small in a pretty floral pattern that zips closed. They’re free of toxic chemicals such as BPAs and lead and they come at an affordable price. Plus, cleanup is super easy: just toss them in the dishwasher.

Best for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers

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There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a kid opening a brand-new toy. But as kids grow and change interests, over 80 percent of these new toys will ultimately end up in the trash. And as 90 percent of toys are made of plastic, these playthings will stay in our environment for over 450 years after they’re discarded. 

So—how can you give your kiddo a new gift that won’t further contribute to our climate crisis? The best option is toys made of biodegradable materials like wood, silicone, or recycled fabric. While these toys still produce emissions, once discarded they will have less dire impacts on the environment. This 39-piece polished beach wood train set allows your kid to create a variety of paths using the curved and flat tracks, and the bridge, people, engine, car, and hauler will keep them playing for hours. Ultimately, your little one will thank you for looking after their future planet. 

Best for hydration: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid

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Globally, 1 million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, 1.3 billion bottles every day, and 481 billion plastic bottles every year. With only 20 percent of plastic successfully recycled and reused, the best alternative to cutting down on your consumption and carbon footprint is investing in a reliable, reusable water bottle.

And if you’re searching for a nearly indestructible, BPA-free, phthalate-free, stainless steel bottle that will keep H20 chilled all day long, the Hydro Flask is a reliable favorite. You can toss it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning without worrying about the powder coating getting damaged.

Best reusable straws: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws

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From restaurant booths to drive-through coffee shops, single-use plastic straws are a ubiquitous part of daily life for many Americans—with an approximated 500 million straws used in the United States each year. And with a lifetime of 200 years, this relatively small piece of our daily waste adds up. While straws account for less than one percent of the plastic waste in our oceans, taking small measures to reduce your impact can add up. Though compostable straws are a step in the right direction, reusable straws are the best way to cut down on production and landfill waste. They are a staple in most sustainable gift guides.

This set of stainless steel straws from StrawExpert can last a lifetime—with enough sizes and shapes to suit any kind of tumbler or cup. The 10.5-inch straight and bent straws fit up to 34-ounce tumblers, while the regular 8.5-inch straws are great for 16- to 20-ounce water bottles or mugs. And if you hate the feeling of metal on your teeth, these straws also come with a small silicone mouthpiece for added comfort. 

Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers

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For a person that just any footwear won’t do, consider KOIO Men’s Sneakers. Handmade in Tuscany, these kicks combine buttery Italian leather with recycled rubber soles that use up to 40 percent recycled materials. The hand-painted trim also provides a sleek look. Available in more than 30 colorways, these laced low tops are also water-resistant and come with a removable insole for extra comfort. The recycled foam and rubber insoles also make them perfect for all-day wear. We highly recommend checking out the boot, sneaker, and slip-on options for both men and women.

Best slippers: Glerups Wool Slip-On Leather Slippers

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The Danish are well-known for their appreciation of coziness. So it’s no surprise that these comfy, rustic slippers are made by Glerups, a company based in Denmark. It all began in 1993 when the co-founder started making felt boots as a hobby from the wool of her Gotland sheep for friends and family. Now, Glerups makes a line of slip-ons, shoes, and boots using natural textiles and dyes and designed for comfort. Plus, the company practices regenerative agriculture and recycles its wool and leather. So, if your giftee isn’t into bunny slippers, these Glerups slip-ons are unisex and available in seven muted colors (gray, charcoal, cranberry, petrol, red, blue, forest).

Best for puzzle lovers: Party Fowls Trick Puzzle

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This head-scratcher of a jigsaw puzzle features some tricky chickens. At 1,000 pieces and 20 by 27 inches, the Party Fowl Trick Puzzle is a project. But your puzzle lover will also be in for a surprise, as the final product doesn’t exactly match the box. It’s all in good fun, and you can also feel good about this purchase, as the puzzle is made of 100 percent recycled chipboard and paper.

Best for music lovers: House of Marley Champion True Wireless Earbuds

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Made by a company inspired by the late singer, these wireless earbuds provide up to 28 hours of high-quality audio on a single charge and feature a microphone for hands-free calls. Designed for a snug fit, these earbuds are also made from sustainable materials, including bamboo, environmentally-friendly silicone, and natural wood fiber. And they’re sweat- and water-resistant, which also makes them great for fitness lovers.

Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag

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We’ve all got a handful of essentials we need to take with us, but hauling a pocketbook or tote everywhere can be a hassle, while traditional fanny packs can scream tourist. Troubadour’s Sling Bag elegantly bridges the divide, with a sleek bag that can fit your phone, wallet, charger, water bottle, keys, sunglasses case, and more. Made from recycled plastic, it’s waterproof and comes with a cleanable anti-microbial lining. Plus, the shoulder strap comes with a magnetic buckle that you can easily adjust for maximum utility.  

Best for neat freaks: Me Mother Earth Quick Dry Diatomaceous Stone Bath Mat

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Say goodbye to soggy bath mats! The lucky recipient of the Me Mother Earth Quick Dry Stone Bath Mat won’t have to step over puddles on the bathroom floor anymore. It’s made from diatomaceous clay, which is derived from fossilized algae and is the same material used in swimming pool filters. This 6.4-pound, non-slip stone mat is capable of absorbing 150 percent of its weight within seconds (and it’s fun to watch wet footprints disappear). Plus, it’s easy to clean with soap, water, and vinegar.

Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush

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Oral health can provide a window into someone’s overall well-being; for example, periodontitis has been linked to the development of diabetes, according to the World Health Organization. Fortunately, good oral hygiene goes a long way. So why not help a loved one ditch the plastic toothbrush for some cutting-edge teeth technology? The SURI Electric Toothbrush uses 33,000 sonic vibrations a minute to deep clean teeth between dental checkups. The body of the device is made from aluminum and slim enough to fit into a travel pack. And it comes with plant-based replaceable heads, so there’s no need to get a new brush every time they visit the dentist.

Final thoughts on sustainable gifts

Our sustainable gift guide allows you to keep the holiday spirit of giving while staying environmentally conscious. Whether you’re trying to send a hint to the aunt who gets a to-go coffee every day or you’re in search of a plastic-free present for the kid in your life, these picks are a gift to your loved one and our planet.

The post Sustainable gift guide: 20+ gifts that keep on giving appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Black Friday has grown way beyond a single day at this point. It’s Nov. 8 and Walmart has just dropped the majority of its big Black Friday deals, many of which are only available online. The sales include everything from TVs and headphones to blenders and heated blankets. Here are some of the true standout deals. These only last as long as the stock, though, so be sure to jump on any deal you see before it sells out.

Walmart is also currently offering a year of its Walmart+ subscription for just $50, down from $100. The subscription gets you free shipping on Walmart orders, a subscription to Paramount+ streaming, early access to discounts, scan-and-go checkout in stores, and more. If you shop at Walmart with any regularity, this is a very solid deal.

Hisense 75″ Class R6 Series 4K UHD LED Roku Smart TV – 75R6030K $398 (was $649)

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Nothing says Black Friday like a giant TV with a tiny price. This 4K Hisense TV includes the Roku operating system, so you don’t even need to buy a streaming stick to go with it. For this price, you can stick some legs on it and make it the fanciest coffee table around.

Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless in-Ear Headphones $29 (was $98)

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Most $29 true wireless earbuds barely work and come from brands that you’ve never heard of. These Sony true wireless earbuds usually cost $100 and perform way above anything else you’ll find at this super-cheap price.

Gotham Steel Pro Cookware Set Hard Anodized Pots and Pans Set PFOA Free Dishwasher Safe Cookware Set $99 (was $229)

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Did you know that cooking on damaged non-stick pans is a horrible idea for your body and the planet? This hard-anodized set is just $100 during Walmart Prime Day so you can re-stock your whole cabinet with fresh, new, slippery pots and pans.

Tool deals

• HART 20-Volt 4-Tool Battery-Powered Combo Kit, (2) 1.5Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries $98 (was $179)
• Pulsar 12,000W Dual Fuel Portable Generator in Space Gray with Electric Start, G12KBN $749 (was $999)
• HART 6 Gallon 5 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vacuum with Bonus Car Cleaning Kit $39 (was $99)
• HART Multiple Drive 270-Piece Mechanics Tool Set, Chrome Finish $98 (was $229)
• PowerSmart 40V 21” Single Stage Cordless Snow Blower, Battery and Charger Included $279 (was $369)
• SENIX 16-Inch 46 cc 4-Cycle Gas Powered Chainsaw, Oregon Bar and Chain $149 (was $179)
• Worx WO7131.1 40V Power Share 20″ Cordless Snow Blower with Brushless Motor $399 (was $639)
• VEVOR Electric Pressure Washer, 2000 PSI $103 (was $122)

Electronics and home theater deals

• onn. 50” Class 4K UHD (2160P) LED Roku Smart TV HDR $148 (Was $279)
• Sony 65” Class BRAVIA XR A90J 4K HDR OLED TV Smart Google TV XR65A90J $1,398 (was $2,198)
• Skullcandy Hesh ANC Noise Canceling on-Ear Wireless Headphones $49 (was $119)
• Apple AirPods with Charging Case (2nd Generation) $69 (was $129)
• Apple Watch Series 9 GPS 45mm Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band $379 (was $429)
• Acer Nitro 27″ 1500R Curved WQHD (2560 x 1440) Gaming Monitor, 170Hz ,1ms, Black, ED270U P2bmiipx, $145 (was $229)
• MSI GF63 15″ Gaming Laptop, 144Hz FHD, Intel i5-11400H, NVIDIA RTX 3050, 16GB DDR4, 512GB SSD, Win11 $479 (was $629)
• Lenovo Ideapad 1 15.6″ FHD Laptop, AMD R3 7320U, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Blue, Windows 11 $249 (was $339)
• Sony PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller – Midnight Black $49 (was $69)
• PlayStation 5 Disc Console – Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Bundle $499 (was $559)
• Skullcandy Barrel Party Speaker Xt $79 (was $169)
• SAMSUNG B-Series 4.1.CH Soundbar & Rear Speakers with Subwoofer $139 (was $239)
• Roku Ultra LT Streaming Device 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision/Dual-Band Wi-Fi® with Roku Voice Remote $34 (was $80)
• Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Camera with RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens $619 (was $799)
• Sony a7III Full Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera $1,364 (was $1,999)
• DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo with RC Remote 4K HDR Portable Drone $704 (was $798)

Kitchen and home deals

• Keurig K-Express Essentials Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker $35 (was $59)
• Ninja Professional Blender 72 oz.* XL Total Crushing Pitcher, 1000 Watt Power $55 (was $99)
• Gourmia 7 QT Digital Air Fryer with 12-One Touch Presets $35 (was $79)
• Shark Cordless Pro Stick Vacuum Cleaner with Clean Sense $198 (was $299)
• KitchenAid Classic Japanese Steel 12-Piece Knife Block Set with Built-in Knife Sharpener $39 (was $99)
• Hoover Wind Tunnel XL Pet Bagless Upright Vacuum $68 (was $149)
• eufy Clean L50 SES with 60 Day Self-Empty Station, Multi-floor Cleaning $198 (was $499)
• Beautiful 2 qt Slow Cooker Set, 2-Pack $15 (was $40)
• Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner $69 (was $98)
• Tineco iFloor 2 Max Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner and Hard Floor Washer $99 (was $199)
• TaoTronics Air Fryer | 1700W 14.8 Quart | 9 in 1 Air Fryer Oven $69 (was $115)
• Costway Tilt-Head Stand Mixer 7.5 Qt 6 Speed 660W with Dough Hook $95 (was $179)
• Emerald Air Fryer 1800 Watts $47 (was 72)
• Costway Refrigerator Small Freezer Cooler Fridge Compact 3.2 cu ft. $189 (was $379)
• Airtight Food Storage Containers Set, Vtopmart 32pcs Plastic Kitchen and Pantry Organization Canisters $35 (was 70)
• Maxkare 50″ x 60″ Electric Heated Blanket with 6 Heating Levels & 1-5H Auto-off $29 (was $79)

The post Walmart started Black Friday early. Here are the best deals on tools, electronics, and more. appeared first on Popular Science.

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best smart light bulbs		GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs		SEE IT	Control the state, luminocity, and color of your lights for under $25.
Best speaker		JBL Authentics 300		SEE IT	Get the best sound you can from this portable smart speaker.
Best smart lock		Schlage Encode Plus		SEE IT	Never worry about whether you door was locked or unlocked ever again.

Google wasn’t the first company to jump on the digital assistant bandwagon—that title belongs to Amazon’s Alexa. In recent years, however, Google has made serious strides in smartening up its Assistant platform. Back in 2014, Google dropped a hefty $3.2 billion to buy smart-home company Nest. Since then, Google has roped more and more of its smart-home gear under the Nest umbrella. You can now get native Nest thermostats, smart speakers, cameras, and more. Beyond that, many manufacturers have adopted support for Google’s ecosystem. While you can get truly wild with smart-home customization, you have to start by building a foundation. We’ve put together this list of Google Assistant-compatible devices that will set you on your way toward a fully connected and automated home. 

• Best smart thermostat: ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor
• Best smart light bulbs: GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulb
• Best smart light switch: Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200
• Best smart-home hub: Nest Hub Max Smart Display
• Best smart lock: Schlage Encode Plus
• Best smart doorbell: Google Nest Doorbell (Battery)
• Best speaker: JBL Authentics 300
• Best robot vacuum: Narwal Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop
• Best smart outlet: Leviton Decora Smart Outlet
• Best smart plugs: GE CYNC Indoor Smart Plug
• Best TV: Hisense U8K

Best smart thermostat: ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor

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Ecobee’s New Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor has all the features you’d expect: remote access, scheduling, and voice control via Google Assistant. Its standout feature is ecobee’s temperature sensor, which will continuously send information back to the thermostat. If you live in a single-zone home with multiple floors, there’s a good chance a back room will be significantly warmer or cooler than the rest of the house. Using this Google Assistant-compatible smart thermostat will ensure it’s comfortable by running your HVAC system until it’s at your preferred temperature. Ecobee offers room sensors as a standalone accessory if you have heating or cooling issues in multiple parts of your home.

Best smart light bulbs: GE CYNC Smart LED

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GE’s CYNC smart light bulbs are a good entry point into the Google smart-home ecosystem because of their low cost and utility. These bulbs can be screwed into any standard-sized light fixture and can be set up within minutes using GE’s Cync app on iOS and Android. No hub is required to set up or manage these light bulbs. Once the smart light bulbs are installed, you can control them using the Google Assistant on your phone or appropriate smart speaker. You can turn the bulbs on and off, dim them to your preferred luminosity, and even have them change color to adjust the mood of your room. You’ll even be able to turn these light bulbs on remotely, so you don’t walk into a dark house when you return from work or school.

Best smart light switch: Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200

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If you’re happy with your existing light bulbs, you can install a smart light switch instead. This will require replacing an existing light switch, so call an electrician if you’re uncomfortable taking on this project for yourself. Once installed, you can use Google Assistant to control any light bulbs connected to this receptacle. You’ll need a neutral wire in your wall for this light switch to work, and it won’t be able to control a fan, which may pose a problem depending on your setup. The benefit to installing a smart light switch over switching out bulbs is its lower cost and saving you the hassle of installing bulbs in harder-to-reach areas.

Best smart-home hub: Nest Hub Max Smart Display

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The Nest Hub Max Smart Display is an excellent smart-home hub because of its multifunctionality: It can be used to video chat with friends, stream videos from YouTube or Netflix, play music from Spotify, and even get directions using Google Maps. The latter is helpful at home as it can help you choose which route to take before you head out the door. You can also set the Nest Hub Max to show notifications when certain smart security devices are triggered. Google offers the Nest Hub in multiple sizes, but we like the Max in particular because of its 10-inch display, which makes text easier to read, video more pleasing to look at, and its interface easier to swipe through. All of its core features are accessible through Google Assistant, so you may end up using its touch screen less than you’d expect.

Best smart lock: Schlage Encode Plus

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Schlage’s Encode Plus saved you the stress of wondering, “Did I lock the door when I left?” on your way to work or the airport ever again. The WiFi-connected smart lock can be locked and unlocked from anywhere in the world—helpful if you’d like to let a neighbor in without giving them a key—so you can check its state at any time. If you’re home, you can unlock the door using Google Assistant if your hands are full. We like the Encode Plus because it can be unlocked using an app, passcode, or key. If you have a family member who’s less tech-savvy, the utility of having a key as a backup option cannot be overstated. Schlage allows you to generate up to 100 unique codes, so trusted people can enter your home without needing to contact you every time. Installing this smart lock requires you to dismantle your door’s deadbolt, which can be done by yourself or a local handyperson. This is a battery-powered smart-home device, and you’ll need to replace its AA batteries every six months or so (you can also opt for rechargeables).

Best smart doorbell: Google Nest Doorbell (Battery)

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A smart doorbell is the ultimate complimentary device to a smart lock as it’ll allow you to see who’s approaching your home before they try to get inside. The Google Nest Doorbell allows you to get a live feed of what’s happening in front of your house at any time from any place. Your phone will receive a notification each time the bell is rung or if its motion sensor has been triggered. You can communicate with the person at your door thanks to this doorbell’s integrated speaker and microphone system. If you pay for an optional Nest Aware subscription, the doorbell will create a recording when its motion sensor is triggered and save that clip in the cloud. The camera built into the Google Nest Doorbell can record HD footage with High Dynamic Range and has a nighttime camera to capture clear footage once it gets dark. We’ve opted to recommend the battery-powered version of this video doorbell, which will need to be charged roughly every six months because it can be installed without existing wiring.

Best speaker: JBL Authentics 300

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The JBL Authentics 300 speaker blew us away during our tests earlier this year, and you can turn it into a smart speaker using Google Assistant. By configuring the Google Assistant in JBL’s mobile app, you’ll be able to control the speaker’s core functions using your phone. You can adjust the volume, play music from your favorite streaming service, control other smart-home accessories, or even get quick answers to questions. Google Assistant support is why the Authentics 300 qualifies for this story, but its sound is why we selected it from a sea of other options. We were consistently impressed by the quality of its sound at every volume level, regardless of the genre of music we were listening to. It doesn’t hurt that the speaker looks gorgeous in person and is built like a tank, so you won’t have to worry about it getting damaged.

Best robot vacuum: Narwal Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop

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What if you could clean your floors without having to do so much as touch your smartphone (much less a mop or broom)? Nawal’s Freo allows you to turn that Fantasia-like fantasy into a reality. Once the robot vacuum is connected to your home’s WiFi network using Narwal’s iOS or Android app, you can connect it to Google Assistant, allowing you to start a cleaning using your voice. The Freo is a vacuum-mop combo, which means it can perform two core cleaning functions depending on the dirtiness and composition of your floors. The vacuum uses AI to assess the dirtiness of your floors and will adjust the intensity of its cleaning in real-time.

It can also map the layout of the area it’s in to clean in the most efficient way possible, even around the perimeters and in corners. Once it’s done cleaning—or it senses that its brushes are too dirty—the Narwal will automatically return to its charging station to deposit refuse into a dirty water tank built into the base. This reduces the amount of contact you’ll have to make with the dirt and cuts down on its maintenance.

Best smart outlet: Leviton Decora Smart Outlet

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If you don’t mind a DIY project (or know a good electrician), Leviton’s Decora Smart Outlet is an excellent Google Assistant-compatible smart-home device. It has all the functionality of a smart plug, but it’s built into your home, so you don’t have a gadget protruding from your walls. Once installed, you can control any device connected to this wall receptacle. Your control is limited to turning the device on or off, but that can be very helpful if you’d like to set a gadget on a timer or double-check whether an appliance or other tool was turned off before you left the house. Each of the plus built into Leviton’s Decora Smart Outlet can be controlled independently, which gives you the functionality of two smart plugs.

Best smart plugs: GE CYNC Indoor Smart Plug

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If you don’t want to mess around with your outlets (or rent instead of own), GE’s SYNC Indoor Smart Plug is the right solution. It has all the functionality of the smart outlet we’re recommending but in a portable plug that you can connect anywhere in your home. The biggest benefit to choosing a smart plug over a smart outlet (beyond not having to think about wiring) is the ability to move it around. You can use this device to turn holiday lights on and off using your voice during the holiday season, but keep it connected to a lamp in an entirely different room the rest of the year.

Best TV: Hisense U8K

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If you want a smart home theater system, Hisense’s U8K should be at the heart of it. The 4K TV runs Google TV and has access to the Play Store, which allows you to download streaming apps directly to your set rather than connecting a standalone media streamer. The most popular streaming services (think YouTube and Netflix) come preloaded on the TV and can be accessed by pushing a dedicated button on its remote. Another button on the U8K’s remote has a glyph of a microphone and allows you to access the Google Assistant to open apps, adjust settings, and answer your questions.

It’s helpful to use Google Assistant in this way because it can save you time. Asking to watch a particular show on a particular service is more convenient than pushing a bunch of buttons and navigating through different interfaces. As a 4K TV, the Hisense U8K is one of the best you can get in 2023, regardless of its compatibility with Google’s smart-home platform. It has a 144Hz refresh rate, support for Dolby Vision IQ HDR, dedicated gaming mode, and multiple HDMI 2.1 ports. Whether you love watching movies and TV shows or playing games, you won’t be disappointed.

Final thoughts about building the best Google smart home

• Best smart thermostat: ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor
• Best smart light bulbs: GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulb
• Best smart light switch: Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200
• Best smart-home hub: Nest Hub Max Smart Display
• Best smart lock: Schlage Encode Plus
• Best smart doorbell: Google Nest Doorbell (Battery)
• Best speaker: JBL Authentics 300
• Best robot vacuum: Narwal Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop
• Best smart outlet: Leviton Decora Smart Outlet
• Best smart plugs: GE CYNC Indoor Smart Plug
• Best TV: Hisense U8K

Google’s smart-home platform has come a long way in recent years, and Google Assistant is one of the best ways to control your home at the moment. If you’re trying to build the best Google smart home, make sure to get devices that are natively compatible with Google Home, so you don’t have to go hacking them together. And feel free to make really funny routines for yourself. I suggest having it blast Slayer and turn on the ceiling fan whenever you say, “Good morning.” It’s a fun way to wake up.

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 Google smart-home starter kit appeared first on Popular Science.

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The 14-inch Apple MacBook Pro M3 Max on my desk has been cranking as hard as it can for six hours. It’s running Adobe Lightroom’s AI noise-reduction algorithm on a batch of 3,000 images, each of which is a 45-megapixel raw file from a Canon R5. It’s an unreasonable task, but I needed something to make this machine sweat. Until now, the M3 Max chip has shrugged off everything from high-res video editing to simple 3D rendering (my skills prevent me from creating anything too complicated). And this batch processing is something I wouldn’t even attempt with my trusty M1 Pro MacBook Pro that, up until now, felt totally sufficient. But, the M3 series MacBook Pros represent a big jump from the M1s. Apple continues to prove that its proprietary silicon can really scream.

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Overview

• Apple hasn’t changed the design much on its 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros, but each comes with the powerful M3-series chips now.
• The 14-inch model offers the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips. The 16-inch machines only offer the more powerful M3 Pro and M3 Max configurations. 
• Our test unit is a 14-inch model with an M3 Max chip, 16 CPU cores, 64GB shared memory, and 2TB storage, which is basically fully upgraded and retails for $4,299. 
• The new Space Black color resists fingerprints and, frankly, looks sick.

Pros

• M3 chips show a tangible speed boost over the previous generations
• New M3 architecture supports ray tracing and mesh shading for improved graphical performance
• The new finish looks excellent and resists fingerprints
• Screen is still fantastic
• Trackpack is still leaps and bounds better than everyone else’s
• Even the 14-inch still offers a built-in card slot
• Maxed-out configurations can now go to 16 CPU cores and 128GB shared memory

Cons

• Still impossible to upgrade the hardware after purchase
• It’s a bit pricey to start, but the cost skyrockets as you add upgrades
• Space Black finish might show scratches more in the long run

Verdict

Every generation of the M-powered MacBook Pro has impressed us, and the M3 is no exception. We tested a very well-equipped 14-inch M3 Max configuration, and it smoked every single test we threw at it. These machines are expensive, but they’re beautifully designed, surprisingly efficient, and brutally powerful. This is the best laptop on the market right now. 

Apple MacBook Pro M3 Max design

If you’re familiar with the M2-powered 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros, there are really very few surprises here save for one: The new Space Black finish offers a darker hue than was previously available. Apple claims it’s better at resisting fingerprints than its lighter counterparts, and that proves true in the real world. The dark finish also just looks sick. 

The rest of the features haven’t changed much. Both screens are Liquid Retina XDR displays, mini-LED panels that don’t offer touch support but provide 1 billion colors with Display P3 for extremely beautiful and accurate images. The 14-inch model offers a 3024 x 1964 resolution (254 pixels per inch), while the 16-inch goes up to 3456 x 2234. Both versions offer adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, what Apple calls ProMotion, and fairly exceptional brightness—600 nits SDR, up to 1600 XDR—that makes them totally usable in bright outdoor environments.

MacBook Pro M3 Max build options

There is a little variability in the 14-inch models that you should consider before making a purchase. The version with the vanilla M3 chip caps out at 24GB of memory and 2TB of built-in storage. It also offers just two Thunderbolt/USB-C 4 ports, capable of up to 40Gb/s transfer speeds and DisplayPort support. The M3 Pro and M3 Max models pump the total Thunderbolt port count up to three and drastically increase the rest of the upgrade options. The M3 Pro and Max offer up to 16 CPU cores, 40 GPU cores, 8TB of built-in storage, and 128GB shared memory. The extra power is an obvious reason to upgrade, but the extra Thunderbolt port is pretty key, too. I have all three ports typically filled when working at my desk, and going down to two would be annoying. 

The 16-inch version doesn’t offer a vanilla M3 option at all. It’s only available with the Pro and Max chips. I work on a 16-inch MBP every day, and switching to the smaller 14-inch screen for this review did feel like an adjustment. In a machine with this much power, I’d prefer as much screen as I can get, but I’m also mostly editing photos and videos, both of which put screen real estate at a premium.

MacBook Pro M3 Max performance

As stated above, we tested a very burly spec of the 14-inch model. We’re running the M3 Max chip with 16 CPU cores and 64GB built-in storage. That pushes the price of our test rig up to around $4,200. That’s expensive, for sure, but it delivers performance to justify the investment. 

I only ran minimal benchmarking in the form of Cinebench, and the M3 Max machine scored in the same neighborhood as enterprise-grade, Threadripper–powered workstations. I was expecting it to score highly, but I didn’t think it would go quite that high. 

Photo-editing test

For real-world tests of Apple’s hardware-accelerated media engine claims, I started with some tasks from my typical real-life workflow. I dumped 3,000 raw photos from a Canon R5 into Adobe’s famously resource-intensive image editing software, Lightroom Classic. I spend hours every week in this program, so I’m very familiar with how it typically runs on my mid-level 16-inch M1-powered MacBook Pro. The M3 Max screamed through the images, instantly rendering full-res previews, whereas my M1-powered machine takes a solid second (sometimes more during long editing sessions) for the high-res preview to snap into view. All that speed literally allows me to change my workflow slightly by having the original images load immediately instead of working with the JPEG preview files during the sorting process. This may be too in the weeds for non-photo nerds, but I think that makes it appropriate as an example. These machines are overkill for many people, but that power can make a big difference for users who can put it to good use. 

Even flipping quickly through images in Lightroom, I couldn’t choke the machine. So, I set it up to do the arduous task of applying Adobe Lightroom’s AI-powered noise reduction algorithm to the entire 3,000-image collection. This is a notoriously brutal process in terms of resource consumption. Ultimately, the whole process took in the neighborhood of 10 hours. That’s a long time, but consider that it’s an hour shorter than the M2 Max-powered Mac Studio claimed it would take. Also, whenever I tried the same with my M1 Pro machine, the dialog would hang, and I couldn’t even start the process. In short, the M3 Max is a monster. 

Video editing test

Since my photography workflow didn’t phase the M3, I moved on to video editing. I use Final Cut for my editing, and I fed the M3 Max some 8K footage captured with the same Canon R5. Again, the results were impressive. Because Final Cut comes directly from Apple, it’s designed specifically to take advantage of Apple silicon. Scrubbing through 8K footage and rendering clips certainly taxed the system enough to get the fans going, but it barely stuttered. I imagine a system with less shared memory wouldn’t glide through UHD footage so gracefully, but that’s why I recommend getting as much shared memory as you can when you buy one of these machines. You can’t upgrade later, and it makes a big difference. In fact, the 8GB starting point for the vanilla M3 model actually seems a little silly here in 2023.

Gaming test

I’m admittedly not the biggest gamer in the world, but I did fire up Baldur’s Gate 3 just to see how the machine handled a heavy AAA title. Predictably, I could run the game on high-quality settings and still get solid framerates. Again, it got the fans spinning, but it rarely stuttered. This is the first time we’re seeing ray tracing and mesh shading natively from the MacBook Pro, and Apple seems very bullish on the machine’s gaming capabilities. While you’re almost certainly not buying this primarily as a gaming PC replacement, it is nice to know it can run pretty much anything at a decent frame rate should you want to take a break from work.

Battery power

I squeezed nearly two full work days worth of juice out of a single charge while writing articles, checking emails, and working in the CMS. Apple claims the more powerful 14-inch models can get up to 18 hours on a single charge, and that actually seems to ring true in the real world. The 16-inch model promises up to 22 hours thanks to its larger battery, and I wouldn’t be surprised if that were close to the real-world number as well. Despite all the power inside these machines, they run exceptionally efficiently thanks to Apple’s new tech, which ramps the power up and down to meet the specific needs of the task you’re doing. 

Simple web browsing doesn’t require that much oomph, so the MacBook Pro will prioritize efficiency. Once you turn to more resource-intensive tasks, it ramps up the power. This isn’t a new concept by any means, but Apple does it very, very well. 

The rest of the MacBook Pro M3 Max experience

The machine comes with a MagSafe 3 power cable and a burly power block that varies between 70 and 96 watts, depending on the 14-inch configuration you get. The 16-inch model comes with a massive 140W brick. I’m glad the MagSafe cable is back, but I personally just keep my computer plugged into a USB-C monitor most of the time when I’m sitting at my desk, which also charges the laptop. I definitely still appreciate the built-in SDXC card reader, even though it weirdly sometimes takes a few tries of plugging in the card before the computer recognizes it. I have also never used an HDMI cable, personally, but it likely comes in handy for some users. I’d definitely trade it for one more Thunderbolt port, but that’s my personal preference. And there’s still a 3.5mm headphone jack if you want consistently higher-fidelity listening than you can get from wireless but don’t want to deal with an external audio interface.

So, who should buy the M3-powered MacBook Pro?

If you’re a typical computer user who checks email, watches YouTube, surfs the web, and does the occasional photo edit, then the MacBook Air is probably still the right call for you. Apple really has put the “Pro” back in MacBook Pro since the M-series chips debuted. If you regularly work in resource-greedy programs like photo- and video-editing programs or 3D-modeling environments, that’s when the MBP shines. 

As for configuration, the vanilla M3 option is relatively affordable with a $1,599 starting price, but the spec is disappointing. You might be better off looking for a more powerful M2 Pro or even an M1 Pro machine for the same price. 

Get as much shared memory as possible because it will have a direct effect on your performance, and you can’t upgrade it later. And when it comes to size, it’s really a personal preference. I still prefer the 16-inch machine, but it weighs a bulky 4.7 pounds compared to 3.5 pounds for the 14-inch. 

This isn’t the best laptop for most people, but it is the best laptop I’ve ever used. If you already have an M2 Pro or M2 Max, the nominal (but still tangible) speed bump probably isn’t worth the cost. If you’re coming from an M1 chip or, heaven forbid, an Intel Mac, it will make a huge difference.

Honestly, the Apple MacBook M3 Max might be a bit overkill even for me. But I never mind having some headroom for even greedier programs and media files coming down the road. These megapixels aren’t getting any smaller.

The post Apple MacBook Pro M3 Max review: The best laptop gets a power-up appeared first on Popular Science.

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Power tools work best when you buy everything in one system. They’re simple to replace if they break, and the batteries work across everything you own. Right now, Amazon has this DeWalt kit with 10 power tools, two batteries, and two carrying cases for just $549, down from its retail price of $1,049. The lowest we’ve seen this set go for is $829—talk about savings.

DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 10-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger $549 (was $1,049)

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This kit includes basically everything your tool bench could need when it comes to power tools. Everything works on the same powerful 20V batteries, so any extras you buy will work in every single tool. Here’s what you’ll find in the package:

• DCD771 drill/driver (for drilling holes)
• DCF885 impact driver (for driving screws)
• DCE100B blower (for clearing leaves and dirt)
• DCL040 light (for making shadow puppets)
• DCR006 Bluetooth speaker (for blasting Skynyrd while you work)
• DCS355B oscillating tool (For odd cuts)
• DCG412B grinder (for making things smooth or cutting off stubborn bolts)
• DCS391B circ saw (for making long and straight cuts)
• DCS380B recip saw (for destroying stubborn objects)
• DCB112 charger
• DCV517, Batteries(2)

While you’re at it, pick up an extra set of high-capacity 20V batteries for $149 (down from $259) to power everything. You’ll be hosting your own HGTV show in no time. Just make sure to bring your freshly cleaned flannel shirt and your Canadian accent.

The post Get this DeWalt kit with 10 power tools and two batteries for $500 off at Amazon before Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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Black Friday is looming, but there are already some truly absurd deals out there if you know where to look. Both Amazon and Lowe’s have massive mechanics tool sets on sale for their cheapest prices ever. These make great gifts and often sell out, so don’t hesitate if you’re thinking about buying one.

DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, SAE and Metric, 1/2, 1/4, 3/8 Drive Sizes, 192-Piece $154 (was $277)

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If you never want to buy a socket set ever again, then this is a good place to start. The sturdy carrying case includes three 72-tooth ratchets, more than 150 sockets, and a full run of hex keys. Dominick Toretto would let you work on his 10-second car with these.

Kobalt 277-Piece Standard (SAE) and Metric Polished Chrome Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case $99

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If you’re looking for something even more versatile, this 277-piece set from Kobalt offers multiple ratchets, a full set of sockets, hex keys, and 82 screw-driving bits. The whole thing comes in a very nice, layered case that makes pieces easy to locate. This is a perfect gift for just about anyone. It doesn’t have a “regular” price since Lowe’s put this kit together specifically for the season, but comparable sets sell from well over double this price.

DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 10-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger $549 (was $1,049)

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If you’re in need of some power tools, Amazon currently has this kid of 10 DeWalt tools with two 20v batteries for a ridiculous price that’s half of retail. This sale has been going for a little while, though, so it likely won’t last that much longer.

More tool kit deals from Lowe’s and Amazon

• DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set, 204-Piece, 1/4″ & 3/8″ & 1/2″ Drive $219 (was $258)
• CRAFTSMAN 262-Piece Standard (SAE) and Metric Combination Polished Chrome Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case $149 (was $279)
• CRAFTSMAN Versastack 71-Piece Standard (SAE) and Metric Combination Polished Chrome Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case $50 (was $75)
• CRAFTSMAN 230-Piece Standard (SAE) and Metric Polished Chrome Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case $129 (was $219)
• CRAFTSMAN 206-Piece Standard (SAE) and Metric Combination Polished Chrome Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case $99

The post Grab ridiculously cheap mechanics tool sets before Black Friday at Amazon and Lowe’s appeared first on Popular Science.

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Cooking at home can be really rewarding, especially when it means an opportunity to buy and play with a bunch of shiny new tools. Right now, Amazon is blowing out some of its most popular KitchenAid cooking tools for up to 30 percent off. Here are some of the devices worth picking up before it’s time to fire up those gingerbread people.

KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer $269 (Was $329)

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The classic KitchenAid stand mixer is an essential tool for anyone who takes baking seriously. Right now, Amazon has the most affordable model for the cheapest we have seen all year—that includes Prime Day. It comes with 10 speeds and a super-durable motor that will last years and years with just a little maintenance. A port on the head makes it compatible with a slew of cool attachments, all of which are also on sale at Amazon right now. They include a meat grinder, a noodle press, and even an ice shaver. You can have a burger, spaghetti, and ice cream for dinner like a totally normal adult.

More Kitchen-Aid cooking tool deals:

• KitchenAid Variable Speed Corded Hand Blender $44 (was $59)
• KitchenAid KFP0718BM Food Processor, 7 cup $69 (was $99)
• KitchenAid KFC3516ER 3.5 Cup Food Chopper $44 (was $59)
• KitchenAid 5 Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer $39 (was $59)
• KitchenAid Cordless 7 Speed Hand Mixer $79 (was $99)
• KitchenAid Blade Coffee and Spice Grinder Combo Pack $44 (was $59)
• KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry $189 (was $219)
• KitchenAid KEK1222PT 1.25-Liter Electric Kettle $79 (was $89)
• KitchenAid KCM5912SX Cold Brew Coffee Maker 38 Ounce Brushed Stainless Steel $109 (was $139)
• KitchenAid K400 Variable Speed Blender with Tamper $209 (was $299)
• KitchenAid Precision Gooseneck Digital Kettle $129 (was $159)
• KitchenAid Cordless Variable Speed Hand Blender with Chopper and Whisk Attachment $129 (was $159)

The post Slice up to 30% off KitchenAid mixers and more with this early Black Friday sale at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung’s screens get a lot of attention, but what’s a vivid image without equally detailed sound? The HW-Q900C is the simplest soundbar option at the high end of Samsung’s lineup. This 7.1.2 system provides effective surround sound, punchy bass, and some of the clearest dialog we’ve heard with just one soundbar and a wireless subwoofer. It sets up simply and performs admirably, especially if you’re connecting it to a Samsung TV. But, with so many options out there, is it worth your precious media console real estate?

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Overview

• This is Samsung’s flagship soundbar that ships with a remote and a subwoofer, no satellite speakers.
• The subwoofer connects wirelessly, so it only requires a power cord.
• Q900C attaches to a TV using HDMI (two inputs and one output) or infrared.
• Wireless connectivity includes Apple AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth 5.

Pros

• Excellent overall sound quality
• Some of the best dialog performance we’ve heard
• Very easy setup
• Impressive surround sound performance 
• Fills a big room
• Provides plenty of volume
• Rumbly bass

Cons

• Some niche features only work with a Samsung TV
• Big
• Pricey

Verdict

This high-end component provides some of the best sound we’ve heard out of a soundbar, especially considering that it doesn’t require any satellites (though you can add rear satellites if you want after the fact). This is a worthy upgrade, especially if you have a modern Samsung TV that can take advantage of the extra features. 

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar build

Samsung offers two higher-end soundbar setups: the HW-Q910C, which features the same soundbar and subwoofer as the HW-900C but packaged with wireless Left/Right rear speakers, and the HW-Q990C, that same soundbar and subwoofer but with a pair of wireless satellites with height channels to make it an 11.1.4 configuration. That makes the HW-Q900C a simplified flagship, which is ideal for users who may have a slightly smaller room or don’t need maximum surround sound effects. 

The bar itself, 17 pounds of mostly sturdy metal with hexagonal angles, houses nine speakers in a 7.1.2-channel arrangement powered by 246 watts of built-in amplification. The bar is 48 inches long, which makes it just about as wide as my 65-inch TV, so it’s not a small device (though there are even heftier all-in-one soundbars out there). The 25-pound subwoofer is also somewhat chunky, but it contains an 8-inch woofer powered by a 200-watt amp. 

The box includes a mounting kit and the necessary hardware to put the soundbar up on a wall. I didn’t install it on my wall (I swap out soundbars too often to mount them), but it uses very standard and simple hardware that should be simple to install. 

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar setup and design

Setting up the Samsung HW-Q900C is refreshingly simple. The bar sports two HDMI inputs (plus one HDMI out) and an infrared input. The ports don’t support HDMI 2.1 and, therefore, can’t passthrough 4K @ 120Hz. Still, they can handle 4K with HDR10 and HDR10+ and are eARC compatible, so if you’ve got a flagship gaming TV (like Samsung’s own OLED 4K S95C or NEO QLED 8K QN900C), you can just connect your console and soundbar directly to the screen and the setup is extremely simple right out of the box.

I’m testing an LG TV at the moment, and the HW-Q900C immediately worked well with the LG remote without finagling. If you want to stop there, you can with the setup, but more advanced users can dig into tuning and calibrating with the Samsung SmartThings app, and Samsung TV owners can use the automatic SpaceFit Sound Pro option.

Setting up the subwoofer requires little more than plugging it into the wall. It connects wirelessly and instantly. From opening the box to watching a movie (with basic setup), it took me less than 10 minutes. If you plan to tweak and go through the auto calibration, plan for roughly an hour.

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar performance

Simply put, the Samsung HW-Q900C is one of the overall best-sounding soundbars I’ve heard. It’s solid for streaming music, even though it’s eclipsed in tunefulness by more purpose-built bars like the Sonos Arc, so if you’re ready to take a deep dive into spatial audio, consider that with the Sonos Era 300 speakers. The HW-Q900C, however, is excellent for watching movies and TV shows, in large part because of its ability to render dialog. During testing, I fired up a MAX stream of the woefully awful but sonically dramatic Jason Statham movie Meg 2: The Trench. Despite its nonsensical plot, the movie has a persistent bass rumble that ebbs and flows throughout the movie as the characters putter around under the sea. That lets me hear how granularly a system can modulate that low end while monitoring how well the actor’s voices cut through. The Samsung, aided by adaptive room correction and Active Voice Amplifier (AVA) processing, did outstanding in both cases. 

The subwoofer, with its “acoustic lens” design for deeper extension in a slimmer enclosure, provides true boominess when required for explosions and punchy impacts while deftly producing subtler ripples that add essential mood and ambiance to a movie. 

The HW-Q900C supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound technologies, and it offers an impressively immersive sound considering its lack of stand-alone satellites. Up-firing speakers and the soundbar’s 48-inch width give it physical advantages compared to smaller units. I fired up a Blu-ray player to watch my old standby testing movie, Alien on 4K disc, and found that the surround sound performance was excellent overall. Alarms blared behind my head, and that weirdly wet alien noise sounded like it could have been coming from anywhere in the room. 

I was similarly impressed with the sonic presence in less action-oriented movies. The Wolf of Wall Street, streamed in 4K with Dolby Atmos on Netflix, made the dialog sound as clear and crisp as it ever has. The high-end performance allowed me to keep the volume relatively low while keeping the dialog perfectly intelligible. That’s a big win.

Q900C sound modes

Switching between modes is relatively simple with the included remote, but the display on the front of the bar itself is very low-res and scrolls like the Lotto sign in the window of a bodega. It gives you an idea of what mode you’re in, but digging into the SmartThings app makes it simpler. If you go through the process of calibrating the system to your room, you likely won’t flip through the modes very often anyway. 

The gaming mode is one exception, as it emphasizes the directionality of the sounds to keep you aware of what’s happening around you as you game. Using it with a PlayStation 5, I could appreciate the difference.

Music performance

I’m not a huge fan of soundbars for music playback in general, but the HW-Q900C is perfectly capable. I listened to everything from the sad, twinkly Fiona Apple cover of the Beatles’ “Across the Universe” to the ruthlessly bombastic metalcore “Overthrone” by Judiciary. The bass comes across a bit strong, but the clean highs prevent things from falling into “muddy” territory. 

The real draw for playing music on the HW-Q900C is its simple connectivity. It easily connects via Bluetooth (the SBC codec) or Apple AirPlay 2 via WiFi (the far-preferable method). The soundbar also includes Alexa voice control, so if you use a compatible service, you can just ask the virtual assistant to play your music for you. 

Special features for Samsung users

Samsung would love for you to buy a 2022/2023 Samsung TV to go with your fancy new soundbar, and the company has added some exclusive features to make them more enticing. The Q-Symphony feature allows the HW-Q900C to work in concert with the TV’s built-in speakers to center and sync audio even more tightly to the on-screen action. Current Samsung TVs can also send a Dolby Atmos signal over Bluetooth to the soundbar for a wireless connection (though Q-Symphony requires a wire). That’s very handy, but also probably not worth basing your entire TV choice on. 

So, who should buy the Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar?

The Samsung HW-Q900C currently retails around $1,000, which puts it in the high-end category. But, with excellent surround sound performance, clear bass, and some of the best dialog reproduction I’ve ever heard, it’s a Dolby Atmos soundbar worth the investment if you can swing it. Some more advanced users may prefer the upgraded Q990C with its more immersive wireless surround sound system. Still, Samsung’s bar and subwoofer combo had absolutely no problem filling my very average-sized suburban living room on its own. If you’re already using a newer Samsung TV and can access the extra features of the pairing, it’s an even better value. 

Ultimately, this is a great pick for anyone looking for a high-performance setup that doesn’t take up much space or require a lot of setup. Just plug it in, fire up Meg 2: The Trench, and let the great sound drown out the plot holes.

The post Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar review: A standout standalone sound system appeared first on Popular Science.

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Cold weather is coming, and your car isn’t excited about it. Low temperatures are brutal on batteries, so you may get stuck with a vehicle that won’t start. Right now, this DeWalt power bank jump starter is $127, which is 30 percent off of its regular $182 sale price. It’s not every day you can save money on a device that may someday save you back.

DEWALT DXAEJ14 Digital Portable Power Station Jump Starter – 1400 Peak Amps with 120 PSI Compressor $149 (was $181)

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This battery pack has enough peak power output to jump-start vehicles with up to V8 engines. Plus, it works in the cold, which is when batteries tend to act up the most. A built-in USB port allows it to double as a portable charger to keep your devices powered if they die. Plus, it has an integrated compressor, so it can fill a leaking or under-inflated tire without finding a gas station. This is an essential piece of emergency gear for any car, especially if you’re going to be driving in cold weather.

More deals on car starters and trickle chargers

As the cold weather approaches, your car’s battery needs more and more love. Here are some devices Amazon has on sale to keep your car starting and running like it should:

• MOSTOOL M6 3000A Peak Car Battery Jump Starter Battery Pack $69 (was $169)
• DSUSMA Car Jump Starter, 2500A Jump Starter Battery Pack $45 (was $99)
• GOOLOO S4 4 Amp Car Battery Charger Automotive, 6V/2A 12V/4A Smart Trickle Charger Maintainer with Supply Mode $29 (was $59)
• HULKMAN Sigma 5 Battery Trickle Charger, 5A 6V/12V Automatic Smart Car Battery Charger $55 (was $99)
• Schumacher SL1639 Lithium Portable Power Pack and 1000A 12V Jump Starter $77 (was $119)
• YONHAN Battery Charger 10-Amp 12V and 24V Fully-Automatic Smart Car Battery Charger $23 (was $35)
• Schumacher SC1410 6V/12V Two-Bank 2A Battery Charger/Maintainer $63 (was $79)
• Schumacher SC1445 250/50/25/10 Amp Manual Wheel Charger with Engine Start $150 (was $175)

The post This DeWalt jump starter belongs in your car’s emergency kit, and it’s 20% off pre-Black Friday 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		Herman Miller Aeron Chair		SEE IT	Set your recline range at one of three postures with the specially designed tilt limiter.
Best eco-friendly		Steelcase Karman		SEE IT	This sleek chair is made from recycled materials and a breathable proprietary mesh.
Best for big and tall		Steelcase Gesture		SEE IT	This highly adjustable chair can support up to 400 pounds.

The first office chairs originated around the middle of the 19th century when workers began spending long hours sitting at desks, which required special features not found on other chairs at the time. Today, office chairs have become a staple of modern life in corporate settings and at home. Unfortunately, this is not a sustainable way to work for many people. Ergonomics has been an essential consideration in furniture since the 1970s, and modern-day office chairs are designed with safety and health in mind, which often results in increased productivity. If you’ve been aching for a comfortable chair, literally, it’s time to shop for a designated workstation. We’ve hand-selected some of the best office chairs to get you started.

• Best overall: Herman Miller Aeron Chair
• Best ergonomic: Flexispot Exclusive Ergonomic Chair (C8)
• Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair
• Best for big and tall: Steelcase Gesture
• Best for back pain: Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair
• Best for long hours: Branch Ergonomic Chair
• Best upholstered: Art Leon Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair
• Best modern design: Laura Davidson SOHO Chair
• Best budget: BestOffice Home Office Chair

How we chose the best office chairs

When evaluating the best chairs for the office, the most obvious thing to remember is that there is no “one size fits all” approach, as anyone with a passing knowledge of the story Goldilocks and the Three Bears can probably tell you. One person’s lumbar support could be another person’s backache waiting to happen, so we assessed a wide variety of office desk chairs to meet a range of needs. All in all, we researched no less than five or six dozen chairs before deciding on the list that made the final cut.

Some of the features we homed in on for these computer chairs were basic comfort, ease of use, versatility, cost, easy assembly, style, and overall design. While some of the best chairs for office may come with all of the bells and whistles, they may not always be the most cost-efficient or aesthetically pleasing options. However, those who are serious about their home office setup or who work long hours may want the very best executive office chair that fits their budget.

The best office chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

The best home office chairs today have features such as adjustable seats and heights, armrests, and back supports. These features help to prevent repetitive stress injuries, back pain, and other aches and discomforts associated with long periods of sitting, and our selections reflect those benefits.

Best overall: Herman Miller Aeron Chair

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Why it made the cut: Since its introduction in 1994, this classic Herman Miller office chair has evolved and been updated to enhance the modern workplace experience.

Specs

• Materials: Recycled materials
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 41 pounds

Pros

• Adjustable recline for three postures
• Fully adjustable arms
• Comes in three different sizes

Cons

• Headrest not included and sold separately

For over 25 years, the Herman Miller Aeron Chair has been the gold standard for office furniture with its classic, ergonomic design. The latest version of the Aeron has been fully remastered with many premium design features to better support modern office workers with an adjustable range of motion for leaning forward or reclining back.

The tilt limiter function, for instance, allows you to set the recline range at one of three postures, while tension control lets you adjust the amount of effort needed to recline comfortably. In addition, the chair’s armrests adjust from a height of 6.8 to 10.8 inches above the seat, slide back and forth over a range of 2.5 inches, and pivot between 15 degrees outward and 17.5 degrees inward for a fully customizable fit. Yet, the chair is still available in three sizes to accommodate even people six feet or taller.

For lumbar support, two individual pads flex independently and adjust to fit the spine curve, though some customers feel that it could use even more support. Another minor gripe is that the headrest is sold separately even with the hefty price tag, which might be a dealbreaker for those who are already concerned about making the pricey investment. But it fits the bill if you’re on the hunt for black office chairs.

Best ergonomic: Flexispot Exclusive Ergonomic Chair (C8)

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Why it made the cut: This comfortable chair is designed for maximum adjustability and comes with a headrest to support your neck and head.

Specs

• Materials: PU soft plastic; aluminum alloy base
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 45.2 pounds

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Mesh back and seat allows for lots of airflow
• Adjustable height, headrest, armrests, and back
• Smooth caster (wheel) motion

Cons

• Mesh seat may not be as comfortable as a cushion
• Armrests feel cheap compared to the rest of the chair
• Bottom/space between armrests may be slightly narrow for users with wide hips
• Seat material easily traps lint

Flexispot’s flagship office chair is Ergonomic Chair Pro (OC14). This all-mesh offering comes in four colors, features a sturdy aluminum base, and boasts an adjustable height and many adjustable parts. The OC14 is simple to assemble (it took about 30 minutes).

Cool air easily flows through this chair’s material, which Flexispot calls “high elasticity filament,” making it comfortable to sit in for long periods of time when combined with the ergonomic design. The chair itself has a tilt range of up to 30 degrees to get comfortable sitting back with a foot hammock or practicing perfect posture. The headrest, which is made of the same material as the rest of the chair, is quite comfortable and slightly contorts to support the head and neck.

One of the most surprisingly loved features of OC14 owners is the wheels. They’re larger than many stock options that come with other chairs and are particularly quiet, especially on a short carpet or rug. Flexispot has also designed the FlexiSpot Comhar Pro Standing Desk Q8, which goes well with this chair. You can find it in our guide to the best standing desks.

Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair

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Why it made the cut: Made by one of the top names in office chairs, Steelcase’s new Karman chair is inspired by the cosmos and is made from recycled materials and a proprietary textile that responds the shape of users’ bodies.

Specs

• Materials: Intermix mesh, aluminum
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 29 pounds

Pros

• Made from recycled materials 
• Sleek design
• Lightweight
• Comfort adjustment dial added

Cons

• Lumbar support is a separate purchase
• Supports less weight capacity than other ergonomic chairs

Steelcase’s Karman Chair is inspired by the weightlessness of the Kármán Line, where the Earth’s atmosphere meets space. The chair is designed with sustainability in mind. At 29 pounds, this chair is lighter than many options on the market. It is made from 25 percent recycled and 75 percent recyclable material. And the proprietary mesh material in this offering combines yarn and filaments together to create a weave that responds to your body. 

The Karman features a mechanism that automatically senses your weight to provide the right support for your back when you recline. It also boasts a new comfort dial that adjusts the tension by up to 20 percent. Users can also customize the chair when ordering, choosing between height adjustability, 4-way adjustable arms, or an armless model. You can also purchase a cushion for extra lumbar support for an extra $57. Design enthusiasts will also appreciate the ability to choose between 13 colorways and several frame finishes.

Best for big and tall: Steelcase Gesture

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Specs

• Materials: Polyester with foam padding
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 70 pounds

Pros

• Accommodates a range of body shapes and sizes
• Supports up to 400 pounds
• Highly adjustable
• Versatile arms that won’t cut into legs

Cons

• Expensive

If you spend most of your life sitting at a desk (like so many people do), it’s worth investing in a chair that will treat your body correctly. The Steelcase Gesture comfortably supports up to 400 pounds and has a maximum seat height of 21 inches. It can support bodies of any size. What’s more, this high-back chair features highly adjustable arms, which aren’t attached at the front of the seat, so they won’t dig into your thighs if your legs sit far apart (a problem with many other big-and-tall chairs). 

The seat cushion on this tall office chair has air pockets inside for ideal support and squishiness. Plus, the cushions are softer around the edges, so they flex under your legs, put less pressure on the muscles, and encourage blood flow. The back of the chair has a patented flexible panel that mimics the ideal shape of the spine to encourage sturdy posture. The headrest also encourages a more upright position to prevent slouching. Yes, the Steelcase Gesture is expensive, but it will treat your body how it deserves to be treated. Find more options in the best big and tall office chairs.

Best for back pain: Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair

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Why it made the cut: For all-around comfort, you can’t beat the best ergonomic office chair. This mesh construction office chair provides four supporting points at the head, back, hips, and hands.

Specs

• Materials: Mesh
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 41 pounds  

Pros

• High-quality breathable mesh construction
• Adjustable flip-up armrests
• Smooth and quiet rolling caster wheels

Cons

• Doesn’t suit tall people as well

You’ll sit comfortably and work efficiently for hours in the Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair, which provides four supporting points at the head, back, hips, and hands, along with proper lumbar support. For added relief, the headrest, back, and seat are all constructed of breathable, high-quality mesh that won’t overheat and will keep you cool even in the middle of summer.

But perhaps the most popular feature of this back supportive chair is the fully adjustable, foldable armrests that can change height at the press of a button or flip to slide easily under any desk or table. The tilt function is also adjustable from 90 to 120 degrees, which is perfect for anyone from gamers to those who regularly spend long hours behind a desk. As a bonus, the smooth caster wheels are quiet and won’t cause damage to wooden floors.

The manufacturer’s description states that the chair is suitable for people from 5’5″ to 6’2″ in height. However, some taller users have found that the alignment of the headrest is awkward or that it doesn’t fold back far enough, so you don’t bump the back of your head. That’s an easy fix, though, as the headrest can be removed if it doesn’t work to your liking. And once you’re done, you can sink into one of the best massage chairs.

Best for long hours: Branch Ergonomic Chair

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Why it made the cut: Those looking for an office chair that provides plenty of ergonomic support while also looking good will appreciate the versatility of this chair.

Specs

• Materials: Aluminum base, nylon mesh
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 35 pounds

Pros

• Provides backrest for lumbar support
• Elegant design
• Comes in customizable color combinations

Cons

• Headrest is an added-on cost

Lumbar support may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of sleek Italian design. But Branch’s Ergonomic Chair incorporates both comfort and elegance, which is important when you’re spending most of your day in the home office. You can adjust the armrests, height, tilt, and seat depth to get the perfect fit. It also comes with a lumbar cushion for extra support that you can remove. 

The swivel chair is designed with an aluminum base that can support people from 5’2″ to 6’2″ and can accommodate up to 275 pounds. The backrest is made of nylon, which is flexible and breathable and makes it a great option if you’re searching for mesh office chairs. The Branch Ergonomic Chair also comes in three colors—black, gray, and light blue—and your choice of a black or white frame. To find out more, read a full Branch Ergonomic Chair review.

Best upholstered: Art Leon Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair

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Why it made the cut: This mid-century modern swivel chair works perfectly as either an office chair for working behind a desk or an accent chair for curling up with a good book.

Specs

• Materials: Faux leather
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 33.5 pounds

Pros

• Caster-free design won’t scratch your floor
• Comfortable handrail-style armrests
• Wooden swivel legs rotate 360 degrees

Cons

• Too small for some

Those who prioritize style and comfort equally will appreciate this Art Leon Mid Century Modern Accent Chair, which pairs an eye-catching, mod design with firm, well-cushioned, and ample seating. This comfy chair is also the perfect option for small offices and tight spaces. The sleek, handrail-style armrests curve down to fit under most desks yet are sturdy enough for pushing yourself up out of the seat.

Four sturdy oak legs extend outward from the swivel base that spins a full 360 degrees. Unlike most modern office chairs, this small office chair doesn’t have caster wheels. It’s a safer option for people with small kids and pets since there’s no worry about tiny hands, feet, paws, and tails accidentally getting rolled over.

Some customers love that this accent chair is roomy enough to curl up in or sit cross-legged, while others on the larger side find it a bit dainty or cramped for their tastes. Another slight downside is that a handful of users have complained about the faux leather having a chemical odor. However, the scent seems to dissipate on its own after a few days or faster if sprayed with a linen freshener such as Febreze.

Best modern design: Laura Davidson SOHO Chair

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Why it made the cut: This sleek chair comes in 20 colors and supports good posture.

Specs

• Materials: Vinyl
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 30 pounds

Pros

• Aluminum base supports 400 pounds
• Durable, heat-embossed ribbing
• Comes in 20 bright, fun colors

Cons

• Vinyl faux leather not very breathable

The sleek Laura Davidson SOHO Office Chair almost does too good of a job at maintaining your posture because try as you might, it makes slouching nearly impossible. The supportive chrome steel frame and leatherette seat help support your back, with heat-embossed ribbing at least three times more durable than competitor products that use cheaper stitching.

Unlike some office chairs that have a low weight threshold, the extra-strength aluminum base not only looks great but supports over 400 pounds. Plus, the polyurethane rolling casters work great on various surfaces, including hardwood floors and low pile carpet, but without the risk of scratching or damage. With 20 bright, eye-catching colors, these cute office chairs look great in a home office or study.

This chair may not be the best for warmer climates as the faux vinyl leather is not very breathable and may become uncomfortable at higher temperatures. In addition, a few customers have noted that the arms can be difficult to screw on and need frequent tightening, but they can also be removed entirely if that becomes a recurring and bothersome issue. Another modern option that can work is one of the best kneeling chairs.

Best budget: BestOffice Home Office Chair

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Why it made the cut: If you don’t mind a narrow seat, this budget office chair boasts an attractively affordable price tag with standard features and basic lumbar support.

Specs

• Materials: Mesh, metal base
• Furniture base: Swivel
• Weight: 19 pounds

Pros

• Affordable for a range of budgets
• Easy to install and assemble
• Ergonomic nylon mesh lumbar support

Cons

• Seat is too narrow for wider hips

If you’re looking for cheap office chairs, you could do worse than the BestOffice Home Office Chair, which has a price tag that can get nearly anyone on board. Constructed from a high-density sponge cushion, this chair provides comfortable seating and ergonomic nylon mesh for optimal lumbar support and 360-degree rolling wheels.

Though the chair arrives unassembled, it comes with all the hardware and necessary tools to put it together and can be set up easily in about 15 minutes. All parts and accessories have passed tests with the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association for quality materials.

Even though the mesh chair can support up to 250 pounds, it may be a better option for smaller adults, kids, and teens, as some customers have found it to be a tight fit. Some people also find that the armrests are too low, and combined with the narrow seat, the arms may bump uncomfortably on your legs and hips. But for the price, it’s hard to beat. For other options, here’s our roundup of the best affordable gaming chairs.

What to consider before buying an office chair

When looking for a good office chair to add to your home workstation, there are a few basic things to consider:

Space

First, do you have a dedicated home office, or will you be working in another room in your home? If you have to set up your workspace in a dining room, living room, or bedroom, you may want to consider an office chair that’s comfortable but fits seamlessly into your home decor or has multi-functional use.

Ergonomic design

But if you do happen to have a dedicated office space, you might decide to invest in a high-performing or ergonomic office chair. This also holds true for gamers who spend long hours in front of their computer screen and need an office chair that won’t give them neck or back pain. Posture is another consideration. If you tend to slouch, you won’t be doing your back any favors by choosing an office chair that reinforces negative habits.

Size

Unfortunately, big and tall people may find that shopping for a comfortable office chair can be challenging. It’s a good rule of thumb to check a chair’s weight and size limits before committing. Otherwise, you may find that your new chair is uncomfortable or impractical for everyday use. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best office chairs

• Best overall: Herman Miller Aeron Chair
• Best ergonomic: Flexispot Exclusive Ergonomic Chair (C8)
• Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair
• Best for big and tall: Steelcase Gesture
• Best for back pain: Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair
• Best for long hours: Branch Ergonomic Chair
• Best upholstered: Art Leon Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair
• Best modern design: Laura Davidson SOHO Chair
• Best budget: BestOffice Home Office Chair

Our top pick for the all-around best office chair is the Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair. Though not the most high-end model on this list—that would be the Herman Miller Aeron Chair, which is an excellent option for those with the means—we love the ergonomic feel of the Gabrylly chair paired with its sleek, versatile design. It also comes with a price point that’s not unreasonable when compared to similar models.

For those looking for a stylish, comfortable design, we’ll give a shoutout to the Art Leon Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair. It’s an outstanding value for those living and working in small spaces or apartments, as it can be used not just as an office chair but as an accent chair, dining chair, reading chair, and more.

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 office chairs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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It’s perfect DIY weather outside right now. The fall is an awesome time to check things off of that stagnant to-do list, and these Ryobi tools seeing deep discounts at Amazon can help. Whether you need a couple extra batteries or a full new kit of power tools, you can save more than 30 percent on some of these early Black Friday Ryobi deals. Here are some handy deals worth your time:

• Ryobi PBP005 ONE+ 18V Lithium-Ion 4.0 Ah Battery $41 (was $64)
• RYOBI – ONE+ 18V Lithium-Ion 1.5 Ah Battery – PBP002 $27 (was $49)
• Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V 1.5ah Lithium Ion Battery with Onboard Fuel Gauge PBP002 $27 (was $37)
• RYOBI ONE+ 18V HIGH Performance Lithium-Ion Compact Battery PBP003 $35 (was $49)
• Ryobi PBP2005 ONE+ (Plus) Battery 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 4.0 Ah Compatible with Over 225 18V ONE+ Tools (2-Pack) $78 (was $98)
• RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver (Tool Only) PCL206B Black Green $41 (was $59)
• RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Hybrid WHISPER SERIES 7-1/2 in. Fan  $60 (was $99)
• Ryobi 18V 5-1/2″ Circular Saw $43 (was $65)
• RYOBI PSP01B ONE+ 18V Cordless Handheld Sprayer $17 (was $34)
• RYOBI ONE+ 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Mister with 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included $58 (was $134)
• Ryobi P601 One+ 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Fixed Base Trim Router $51 (was $76, no battery included)
• Ryobi P2900B ONE+ 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Grass Shear and Shrubber $72 (was $109, no battery included)
• Ryobi P360 18 Volt Lithium Ion One+ 3/8 – 1 1/2 Inch Crown Stapler $169 (was $199)
• RYOBI P135 18V One+ 6 Port Lithium Ion Battery Supercharger $84 (was $129)
• Ryobi Green Wide Mouth Collapsible Genuine OEM Contractor’s Bag w/ Full Top Single Zipper Action and Cross X Stitching $15 (was $30)
• RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 6 in. Two Speed Random Orbit Buffer $38 (was $48)
• Ryobi P320 Airstrike 18 Volt One+ Lithium Ion Cordless Brad Nailer $114 (was $149)
• RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw $84 (was $129)
• Ryobi One P505 18V Lithium Ion Cordless 5 1/2″ 4,700 RPM Circular Saw $44 (was $48)
• RYOBI P344 18V ONE+ 3/8-inch 4-Position Lithium Ion Compact Rotating Power Ratchet $71 (was $81)
• Ryobi P401 18V Corner Cat Finishing Sander RT $42 (was $66)
• Ryobi P411 One+ 18 Volt 5 Inch Cordless Battery Operated Random Orbit Power Sander $67 (was $79)
• Ryobi 18V Multi Tool $58 (was $79)

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Adding a soundbar to your TV is a quick and easy way to seriously upgrade your content-watching experience. You typically don’t need to run a bunch of speakers around your house. They’re easy to set up and install. Plus, right now, Amazon has some of our favorite models for several hundred dollars off, including one sale that ends very soon.

• Sony HT-A5000 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos Sound Bar Surround Sound Home Theater with DTS:X and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping $698 (was $999)
• Polk Audio Signa S4 Ultra-Slim Sound Bar for TV with Wireless Subwoofer, Dolby Atmos 3D Surround Sound $299 (was $399)
• Nakamichi Shockwafe Pro Bluetooth 7.1.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with 10″ Wireless Subwoofer $699 (was $899)

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It wasn’t too many years ago that an 86-inch TV wasn’t just expensive; it was almost impossible to get. Right now, however, Best Buy has the LG 86” Class UR7800 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV for just $899. That’s $100 cheaper than you can even get at the big price club stores that require an annual subscription. That’s a lot of TV for not a lot of money.

LG 86” Class UR7800 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $899 (was $1,249)

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This TV is a very solid deal even for its retail price, but at $899, it’s an absolute steal. It offers full 4K resolution and a powerful image processor to upscale all your older content into UHD. You get three HDMI ports, full HDR compatibility, and LG’s own WebOS operating system. It’s not the latest and greatest, but it’s huge, bright, and offers Filmmaker Mode to help movies look exactly as their directors intended. Imagine hanging this on your wall and watching Suits while all those other suckers battle it out for TVs on Black Friday.

More TV deals

• Toshiba – 65″ Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $369 (was $529)
• TCL – 65″ Class Q5 Q-Class 4K QLED HDR Smart TV with Google TV $399 (was $599)
• Samsung – 75″ Class TU690T Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV $629 (was $749)
• LG – 65″ Class C3 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,599 (was $2,499)
• LG – 77″ Class C3 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $2,499 (was $3,499)
• Samsung – 65″ Class S90C OLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $1,599 (was $2,599)
• LG – 65″ Class B3 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,299 (was $2,399)
• LG – 65” Class UQ70 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $449 (was $599)
• Samsung – 65” Class Q80C QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $1,199 (was $1,499)
• Samsung – 65″ Class Q60C QLED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $849 (was $999)
• Hisense – 75″ Class A6 Series LED 4K UHD HDR LED Google TV $499 (was $649)

The post Get an 86-inch 4K LG TV cheaper than ever with Best Buy’s early Black Friday deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand		SEE IT	This sturdy and stylish option has a traditional design and comes in multiple finish options
Best with mount		Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby TV Stand		SEE IT	Elevate your TV without the need to drill into the wall.
Best fireplace		Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace		SEE IT	A realistic fire effect to add a cozy element to your home.

Many people choose to mount their TV on the wall, which is a fine solution with some drawbacks that can be solved using a TV stand. With a wall mount, it can be hard to get behind the panel to plug things in. And not everyone can just go drilling into the wall to hang a mount and a heavy TV, especially if they’re renting. Luckily, TV stands provide an elegant solution. These crucial bits of living room furniture hold your TV and all the important stuff that goes with it, from streaming boxes to gaming consoles. You need to choose the correct TV stand for your setup, though. Picking the right size, material, storage solution, and style can all have a serious impact on your ability to enjoy the best seats in your house. This guide will help walk you through the process of choosing from the best TV stands for your space, whether you’re hoarding set-top boxes or you’re a die-hard minimalist. 

• Best overall: Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand
• Best for gamers: Bestier 70-inch Entertainment Center
• Best with mount: Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby TV Stand
• Best fireplace: Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace
• Best for 75-inch TV (and bigger): Walker Edison Englewood Mid Century Modern 2-Door
• Best easel-style: VIVO Artistic Easel
• Best solid wood: Simplihome Redmond
• Best value: Zinus Modern Studio Collection TV Media Stand

How we chose the best TV stands

We surveyed dozens of different models looking for TV stands that offered the right mix of value, style, and durability. This list represents a wide swath of looks, materials, and sizes to try and accommodate most spaces. We have collectively spent hundreds of hours putting together flat-pack furniture, so ease of assembly is important as well. If it can’t go together with our relationships, thumbs, and mental well-being intact, it can’t go on the list.

The best TV stands: Reviews & Recommendations

TVs have gotten absolutely massive in recent years, with 55- and 65-inch models starting to feel slightly small compared to the massive 75- and even 85-inch behemoths out there on store shelves. Supporting those pricy panels is crucial. Here are our picks if you’re looking for a new home for that Samsung 8K TV (and maybe a matching soundbar):

Best overall: Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand

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Why it made the cut: Walker Edison’s Wren Classic TV stand features adjustable shelves and comes in multiple sizes and a wide range of finishes. 

Specs

• TV Capacity: Up to 65 inches
• Material: MDF
• Width: 58 inches
• Height: 24

Pros

• Wide finish selection
• Multiple sizes available
• Universally appealing aesthetic
• Includes cord management ports on each shelf

Cons

• No enclosed storage

The Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand has an appealingly simple design and can accommodate TVs as large as 65 inches. It’s made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF), an engineered wood that offers excellent stability at a lower price point than traditional hardwoods. The durable laminate finish comes in a variety of styles to suit varying aesthetics, including Rustic Oak, Dark Walnut, Whitewash, and Reclaimed Barnwood.

Two adjustable shelves allow for customization based on your electronics and accessories, and each features cord management ports so your wires stay organized and out of sight. The top surface has a maximum weight capacity of 150 pounds, while each shelf can support an additional 30 pounds.

The stand’s total dimensions are 23.38 by 15.75 by 58 inches. There’s also a larger size of this model available with an 80-inch width to accommodate larger TVs. Assembly is required, and instructions are provided by the manufacturer.

Best for gamers: Bestier 70-inch Entertainment Center

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Why it made the cut: There’s plenty of room for lots of streaming boxes and gaming consoles, but the built-in RGB LED lighting helps set the gaming mood. 

Specs 

• TV size: Up to 70 inches
• Material: Particle and metal
• Width: 63 inches
• Height: 22 inches

Pros

• Accepts large TVs
• Lots of storage space
• Built-in RGB lighting
• Tempered glass shelves

Cons 

• Pressboard construction
• No front doors to conceal gear when not in use

You can’t have a piece of gaming-specific gear without adding RGB lighting. That maxim stays true with this 63-inch wide TV stand. It has LED strips inside the cabinet that can show off seven different colors and vary between 22 different display patterns. So, if you’re a streamer and you’re looking to create the perfect ambiance for your flagship flatscreen, this is a great way to do it without having to DIY your own solution. The lights even come with their own remote to control the display. 

As for the TV stand itself, it’s made of sturdy pressboard, but the shelves are made of tempered glass to allow the light to travel through them. There are five individual compartments, one vertically oriented space in the middle with two stacked horizontal shelves on each size. There are no doors to close in front of all your devices, so you can show them off even when you’re not playing. 

Cord holes in the back of the unit allow you to easily snake power cables through without creating a cluttered look. The carbon cellulose surfaces are smooth to the touch and relatively durable in case you spill a drink on it in the heat of the moment. 

Best with mount: Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby TV Stand

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Why it made the cut: Our pick for the best TV stand with a mount, an integrated stand lifts to a 58-inch TV above the surface to make room for a soundbar or elaborate action figure arrangements.

Specs 

• TV size: Up to 60 inches
• Width: 58 inches
• Height: 24 inches
• Material: MDF

Pros

• Attractive composite surface
• Fits big TVs
• Integrated mount
• Spacious shelves

Cons 

• No doors on the front
• Limited finish options

If you want the look of a wall-mounted TV without having to drill into your drywall or plaster, this is the TV stand you’re looking for. It’s 58 inches wide, so you can sit a TV on top of the unit as normal if you want to. It has a capacity of up to 150 pounds. Add the integrated mount, however, and the TV can sit above the surface and away from the wall. That leaves room beneath the TV to accommodate extra set-top boxes, speakers, or a soundbar. 

That extra room up top augments an already spacious interior. There are two compartments, each with its own adjustable shelf, so they’re customizable depending on your setup. Each compartment has a cable port in the back, so it’s simple to hide wires out of the way. It’s not solid wood, but it is built to last, and it’s simple to tether to the wall so it doesn’t tip over.

Best fireplace: Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace

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Why it made the cut: The included 23-inch wide fireplace display augments built-in LED lighting so you can set any mood you want, from romantic to gamer circus.

Specs 

• TV size: Up to 70 inches
• Material: MDF, particle board
• Width: 64.75 inches
• Height: 24.875 inches

Pros 

• Holds large TVs
• Built-in fireplace display (not real fire)
• Heats rooms up to 400 square feet
• LED lighting
• Each compartment has three shelves

Cons 

• Limited storage space
• Not a real fireplace

Fireplaces are another luxury that not every home can accommodate. An easy pick for the best fireplace TV stand, this sturdy TV stand has a 23-inch fireplace display that creates a realistic fire effect while an electric heater pumps warmth out into a room up to 400 square feet. It can’t replace a real fireplace, but it also won’t involve major home renovations, regular cleanings, or the threat of melting that PS5 you waited so long to get. If you just want the fire or heat effects, they’re both available independently, too. 

The stand itself can hold up to a massive 70-inch TV. The storage underneath offers three shelves on each side. Because the fireplace display takes up space, you don’t have as much room in the storage compartments as you would on other models, so make sure you’re cool with that trade-off before taking the leap. 

Best for 75-inch TVs: Walker Edison Englewood Mid Century Modern 2-Door

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Why it made the cut: The attractive design masks the fact that it’s 70 inches wide and plenty big enough to support TVs all the way up to 80 inches. 

Specs 

• TV size: Up to 80 inches
• Materials: MDF
• Width: 70 inches
• Height: 15 inches

Pros

• Attractive design
• Sturdy construction
• Doors to obscure storage when not in use
• Large capacity

Cons 

• Short
• Legs allow for stuff to roll underneath

This extra-long TV stand looks like something Don Draper might put in his apartment. It has a slack, minimal design with doors on each of the two side cabinets to obscure your devices. The center shelf is exposed, so you can keep your best-looking consoles or a basket in there if you want to get fancy about it.  

Despite its relatively skinny (and handsome) legs, it can support up to 150 pounds. Combined with its length, that makes this a solid option for massive TVs. It stands 24 inches tall, too, which is important if you’re watching a massive set. Get too tall of a TV stand and you’ll be looking up to see the whole screen, which is annoying. 

There are four different color options, so you can choose exactly which one matches your home vibe. 

Best easel-style: VIVO Artistic Easel

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Why it made the cut: The VIVO Artistic Easel TV stand simply consists of a slim, tripod-style mount that is both subtle and sturdy.

Specs

• TV Capacity: Up to 65 inches
• Material: Wood, steel
• Width: N/A
• Top surface weight capacity: 77 pounds

Pros

• Swivels 360 degrees
• Adjustable height

Cons

• Limited weight capacity

Make your flatscreen look like a work of art with this VIVO Artistic Easel stand. It’s designed to look like an artist’s easel and elevates your TV without taking up much floor space or causing visual clutter. Because of its small footprint, it’s a perfect choice for those with small living rooms, as it can easily be tucked in a corner. The height is adjustable, and the stand swivels 360 degrees so you can get the perfect viewing angle no matter where you’re sitting.

It’s best suited for TVs ranging from 45 to 65 inches and can support a maximum weight of 77 pounds. There’s even a cable management system in the legs, meaning your cords and wires will be neatly tucked out of view. The stand is made from a combination of steel and solid wood and comes in either a light or dark finish.

Best solid wood: Simplihome Redmond

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Why it made the cut: With four cabinets, two drawers, and a pair of shelves, this wood TV stand gives off a retro entertainment center vibe that we love.

Specs 

• TV Capacity: Up to 80 inches
• Material: Pine with plywood
• Width: 72 inches
• Height: 26 inches

Pros 

• Lots of storage
• Doors to hide items when not in use
• Very sturdy
• Seven color options

Cons

• Heavy
• Design may feel dated to some

Entertainment centers once ruled the land. Your living room wasn’t complete until it was equipped with a massive wooden piece of furniture that housed your TV and everything that went with it. This 72-inch TV stand evokes that era. The storage areas have doors to hide what’s inside. There are four cabinets with adjustable shelves, as well as a pair of drawers in the middle. They all have doors with recessed panels for an old-school look. There are also two uncovered shelves directly underneath the top surface. 

There are seven colors to choose from when you’re picking your finish, all of which involve stained pine wood material. The hardware is made of handsome brass, and the doors shut magnetically, so they don’t randomly kick open when you don’t want them to. 

Best budget: Zinus Modern Studio Collection TV Media Stand

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Why it made the cut: This minimalist TV stand from Zinus comes at an affordable price but has a 100-pound weight capacity due to its sturdy steel frame.

Specs

• TV Capacity: 32 inches
• Material: Steel frame
• Width: 40 inches
• Height: 18 inches

Pros

• High weight capacity
• Sleek, modern design
• Excellent value

Cons

• Minimal storage
• Not suitable for large TVs

While some households require a large media console with plenty of storage, others simply need a flat surface for their TV to fit on. This Zinus Modern Studio Collection TV Media Stand is streamlined and perfect for small spaces because of its compact design. Despite its sleek aesthetic, there is an additional shelf for storage. While the design looks simple, the stand features sturdy steel framing that provides a 100-pound weight capacity.

The stand’s total dimensions are 40 by 17 by 18 inches, and assembly is easy; all the necessary tools come in the package. Choose from two colors: Red Mahogany and Espresso. This stand’s design provides a minimalist look for modern homes and due to its open shelving, has an airy feel. There’s also an option to purchase a matching side table for a more cohesive look in your living room.

Things to consider before buying the best TV stands

You must know your home and your TV before pulling the rip cord and buying a stand. Here are some things to consider:

Materials

Most of the easily shippable stuff you’ll find online is made of material like MDF or particleboard. These materials sometimes get a bad name because they aren’t as durable as real wood, which is true in a way but not in others. They typically include laminate exteriors, which are good at resisting marks and damage from liquid. 

You can, of course, go with various types of wood, but it comes with its own issues, like a need to be polished and a predilection for dings. 

Dimensions

It should go without saying, but your TV stand needs to actually fit in your house and where it’s best to place your TV. Get a good, solid measurement before you pull the trigger so you know for sure that your new furniture has a snug place to go. If your TV is huge, you want something that’s wide enough for the feet to sit comfortably on the surface, but you also don’t want it too tall to throw the center of the screen above your eyeline when you’re sitting on the couch. 

Storage type

Modern gaming consoles are extremely chunky, so if you want to park that PS5 or Xbox Series X inside your new TV stand, ensure it will fit and the shelves can handle its weight. You’ll also want to decide whether or not you want doors in front of your cabinets to hide your shameful mess of game cases and controller charging cables when you’re not playing or watching content. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best TV stands

• Best overall: Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand
• Best for gamers: Bestier 70-inch Entertainment Center
• Best with mount: Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby TV Stand
• Best fireplace: Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace
• Best for 75-inch TV (and bigger): Walker Edison Englewood Mid Century Modern 2-Door
• Best easel-style: VIVO Artistic Easel
• Best solid wood: Simplihome Redmond
• Best value: Zinus Modern Studio Collection TV Media Stand

You have a nice place to sit when you watch content; that amazing new OLED TV deserves the same. It may not seem like an important decision, but the TV stand can set the tone for your entire living room. It stores your important stuff, hides your wires, and holds up our good pal, the TV. By taking a few minutes to really consider your options, you can make an informed decision and get the best TV stand for your home. 

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.

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We had a great time checking out the Oct. 14 solar eclipse, but the next one that’s visible here in the U.S. won’t be until April 2024. Lots of interesting things will be happening in the sky between then and now, and you’ll need a good telescope to check them out. Right now, Amazon has substantial discounts on Celestron x PopSci telescopes that were already a solid value. There are three different options currently available depending on your star-gazing needs. Then, when the next eclipse rolls around, you can buy a dedicated solar eclipse filter and get a better look than all those jealous people with their (still pretty cool) pinhole cameras.

Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 5” Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $498 (was $599)

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This is the biggest and most powerful scope in the Celestron x PopSci lineup, and it’s just over $100 off right now. Its five-inch aperture and high-end coatings provide a clear, low-aberration image of the night sky. More importantly, it’s compatible with the Celestron app, which can help you find cool things going on in the sky above you and then help you locate them with your scope so you don’t have to go blindly hunting around the heavens. That’s especially important with a scope this powerful.

Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 100AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $269 (was $349)

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This 100mm refractor provides a very solid field of view for astrophotography. It’s light and easy to move around, and it’s compatible again with Celestron’s app to guide you around the night sky. Plus, the integrated hood helps combat errant light from hitting the front element of the scope and causing image-ruining glare.

Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope $151 (was $239)

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This model is meant specifically for beginners, and the price makes it very appealing with this discount. The short tub provides a relatively loose view of celestial objects, so beginners won’t get frustrated trying to find specific areas. Plus, the short tube design keeps it small and light, so this is a great scope to keep as a backup for quick jaunts out into dark sky country without lots of gear.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Popular Science has teamed up with Celestron on a line of products. We do earn a commission on its sales—all of which helps power Popular Science.

The post Save up to $101 on a Celestron x PopSci telescope with this post-eclipse sale at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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