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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So you’ve cleaned up your house after all that rain, only to find that the musty smell continues to linger. An air purifier for mold can help. Thankfully, our favorite one is on sale at Amazon an less than $200.

PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier $154.99 (Was $229)

SEE IT

If you’re looking for an air purifier that covers a massive area and picks through particles with a fine-toothed comb, look no further than the PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier. It covers 1,115 square feet and comes with a HEPA 14 filter that’s 10 times more powerful than HEPA 13. It’s third-party lab tested and certified, and was developed by scientists and virologists at Harvard, MIT, Johns Hopkins, and Oxford universities. This is pretty much a hospital-grade air purifier that’s a fraction of the cost.

Here are more air purifier deals to help you breathe easily:

• LEVOIT Viral 100 Air Purifier $99.99 (Was $119.99)
• Levoit Vital 100S Air Purifier $109.99 (Was $139.99)
• LEVOIT H128 Air Purifier $39.94 (Was $49.99)
• LEVOIT Core 200S Air Purifier $76.48 (Was $89.99)
• Coway Airmega AP-1512HH(W) True HEPA Purifier $174.61 (Was $229.99)
• BLUEAIR Blue Pure 511 Air Purifier $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• BLUEAIR Blue 311 Auto Air Purifier $199.99 (Was $249.99)
• BLUEAIR Mini Portable Air Purifier $59.99 (Was $69.99)
• BLUEAIR Blue Pure 211i Max Air Purifier $273.99 (Was $349.99)
• GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier $39.99 (Was $49.98)
• Pure Enrichment PureZone Air Purifier $79.98 (Was $129.99)
• Kenmore PM3020 Air Purifiers with H13 True HEPA Filter $149.99 (Was $169.99)
• GermGuardian Wi-Fi Bluetooth Smart Voice Control Air Purifier $148.49 (Was $289.99)

The post Our favorite air purifier for mold is 32% off at Amazon—snag it today appeared first on Popular Science.

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Things are looking stormy and damp across the United States. If you’re one of the 300,000-plus people without power right now, you’re probably regretting not snagging a generator for your home beforehand. Thankfully, there’s no time like the present: This Jackery Solar Generator is 30 percent off at Amazon, and even comes with a solar generator so you can keep it charged.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000, Explorer 1000 and 1xSolarSaga 100W Solar Panel $899 (Was $1,289)

SEE IT

This Jackery power station can draw a full charge from solar panels in eight hours or 5.5 hours if charged via an AC outlet. It can charge an electric grill for 50 minutes, a mini cooler for 48 minutes, and a coffee maker for 88 minutes—important if you need caffeine to run around the house and bring everything online again. You can also save 41 percent on the standalone generator.

If you’re looking for a little more juice, the Jackery Explorer 2000 PRO is $200 off. It’s a great backup power source for people who live in blackout-prone areas or on an off-grid worksite and is light enough for road trippers and van-lifers.

Here are more generators on sale to bring some light into your life:

• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 3000 Pro $2,299 (Was $2,799)
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 $349 (Was $529.99)
• Anker 535 Solar Generator, Powerhouse 512Wh with 100W Solar Panel $559.99 (Was $799.99)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator 120V/3.6kWh DELTA Pro with 2x220W Portable Solar Panel $2,999 (Was $3,698)
• EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator RIVER Pro 720Wh Portable Power Station with 160W Solar Panel $699 (Was $829)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station 3600Wh DELTA Pro $2,599 (Was $3,299)
• Anker 535 Portable Power Station, 512Wh Solar Generator $349.98 (Was $499.99)

The post Save 30% on a powerful Jackery solar generator before the next blackout appeared first on Popular Science.

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There’s nothing like gathering around a fire when it’s cold outside. However, not everyone has the space or means to indulge in a full-blown firepit. Solo Stove’s Mesa XL is a perfect pick for bringing some heat to your porch or patio. Even better, it’s currently 40% off at Amazon.

Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit with Stand $89.99 (Was $149)

SEE IT

We loved Solo Stove’s Bonfire 2.0 smokeless fire pit and the company’s Pi Prime Pizza Oven, so we feel comfortable recommending the company’s mid-sized tabletop fire pit. The Mesa XL is slightly larger than the itty-bitty Mesa, giving you a longer burn time with the same portability. A Dual Fuel grate lets you choose between wood or pellets, and its 360-degree airflow gives you hot flames no matter what kind of fuel you choose. To light, simply place your fuel, light your firestarter, and wait. If you have a small balcony or backyard area, this pint-sized pit fits wonderfully on a small table.

Here are more deals that will make you feel warm:

Space heaters

• Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Tower Space Heater $49.99 (Was $69.99)
• Lasko Oscillating Ceramic Space Heater $34.99 (Was $49.99)
• GoveeLife Smart Space Heater Max for Indoor Use $119.99 (Was $149.99)
• Govee Electric Space Heater $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater, 1500-Watt, Cherry $99.99 (Was $129.99)
• Dreo 15-Inch Portable Heater with 70° Oscillation $59.49 (Was $69.99)
• Dreo Space Ceramic Indoor Heater $59.99 (Was $74.99)

Heated clothing

• ANTARCTICA GEAR Women’s Heated Vest $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• ANTARCTICA GEAR Heated Jacket for Men and Women $95.99 (Was $149.99)
• iHood Women’s Heated Puffer Jacket With 12V Battery Pack $99.99 (Was $169.99)
• iHood Men’s Heated Jacket With 12V Battery Pack $99.99 (Was $169.99)
• Venustas 12V Men’s Dual-Control Heated Canvas Jacket with Battery $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• ORORO Men’s Heated Vest with 90% Down $143.98 (Was $199.99)
• SNOW DEER 2023 Upgraded Rechargeable Electric Heated Socks $63.99 (Was $79.99)

Heated blankets

• Bedsure Soft Ribbed Flannel Heated Blanket $43.98 (Was $64.99)
• Westinghouse Electric Throw Blanket $47.99 (Was $59.99)
• Serta Luxuriously Soft Plush Electric Blanket, King $90.64 (Was $129.99)
• Serta Heated Blanket-Reversible Fleece to Sherpa Electric Blanket $110.39 (Was $137.99)
• Comfort Spaces Luxury Microplush Electric Wrap Blanket $37.99 (Was $49.99)
• Sunbeam Royal Luxe Microplush Reverse Sherpa Heated Electric Blanket, Queen $99 (Was $111.61)

The post Bring the fire to your home with 40% off a Solo Stove Mesa XL appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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Best non-alcoholic aperitif		Ghia		SEE IT	Inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture, Ghia is herbaceous and perfectly bitter.
Best canned alternative cocktails		Flyers Cocktails		SEE IT	Cocktail mainstays are made with CBD to give you a relaxing buzz without any next-day remorse.

Between bottles at family dinner(s) or popping Champagne at New Year’s, it’s hard for someone looking for a little non-alcoholic fun to kick off a year of healthier habits. “Liquid courage” and social lubricant, alcohol tends to be everyone’s favorite coping mechanism during the holiday season and gatherings in general, whether when first introduced to the extended family, dealing with distant relatives you’d rather remain removed, or being surrounded by friends of friends. Hence, the growing popularity of Dry January and the opportunity to learn that there are better, healthier ways to cope. Moderation can improve your mental health, lower blood pressure, and, best of all, prevent a dreaded hangover and related hang-xiety … and maybe an argument or two with strangers. Instead of snagging another lazy, hazy IPA out of the fridge, consider an NA beer or alternative spirit. Even better, the best non-alcoholic drinks are proof of the deliciousness of zero-proof that can be enjoyed as new year’s recompense transitions into sober spring and beyond.

Note: If you have moderate to severe alcohol use disorder, please see a healthcare provider before withdrawing, as it can be quite dangerous to detox at home by yourself.

• Best NA beer sampler: Athletic Brewing Co. Craft Non-Alcoholic Beer
• Best NA stout: Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer
• Best NA import beer: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0
• Best with CBD: Day One Sparkling Water
• Best aperitif: Ghia 
• Best tequila alternative: Optimist Botanicals Smokey
• Best gin alternative: Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus
• Best whiskey alternative: Ritual
• Best botanical spirit: Wilderton Botanical Spirit
• Best value: Dhōs
• Best celeb-made non-alcoholic botanical beverage: De Soi
• Best bundle: Seedslip
• Best mood lifter: Crisp & Crude
• Best canned alternative cocktails: Flyers Cocktails 
• Best bottled mocktails: DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve
• Best NA wine: Surely Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose
• Best wine alternative: Proxies

How we chose the best non-alcoholic drinks

I had my own Dry January journey in 2021, after years of problematic college drinking habits and at-home COVID-19 happy hours. I ended up extending it until the middle of February. Instead of a month of regrets and voicing my displeasure of imposing a personal Prohibition—like some other “low to no” participants—I realized, simply put, that alcohol can be bad and getting drunk is dumb. Now, I am a self-proclaimed “beverage girlie” and lead a damp lifestyle: I don’t keep alcohol in my home but will enjoy a beer after improv. I also won’t shut up about how moderation is great. My partner doesn’t drink at all, so we’re always on the hunt for a bubbly, crisp, cold NA bev to sip on during dinners or concerts.

I’ve also reported on beverages in the past for Gear Patrol and have a fridge stocked with Diet Coke, Limoncello La Croix (the best flavor, fight me), and my favorite NA beers. We also consulted Dry Atlas, a non-alc database, for picks.

The best non-alcoholic beverages: Reviews & Recommendations

Going for an NA beer or alternative spirit is just like a vegetarian or vegan going for a meatless chik’n patty or Impossible Burger: you’re simply enjoying a just-as-tasty substitute for something you don’t want to ingest for personal or health reasons. One of these will level up your seltzer or become your innocuous favorite to enjoy while eating takeout and watching Love Island.

Best NA beer sampler: Athletic Brewing NA beer 

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Why it made the cut: This NA beer tastes as nuanced as its boozy counterpart without post-six-pack regrets.

Specs

• Milliliters: 12 fluid ounces (or 355 ml) per can
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Beer
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Tasty
• Gluten-free
• Made of clean and natural ingredients

Cons

• Might not be able to be consumed if you’re pregnant

If a fresh, cold one is more your style, Athletic Brewing has your back with its NA brews. They don’t have a bready aftertaste like other NAs; in fact, they are some of the best-tasting NAs you can buy, with the company racking up plenty of awards over the years. This 24-pack can fill the fridge so everyone can crack open one outside without the mood threatening to be cracked when too many full-strength brews make tongues loose.

Best NA stout: Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer

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Why it made the cut: An Irish classic gets a non-boozy touch without sacrificing quality.

Specs

• Milliliters: 14.9 millimeters per can
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Beer
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Guinness taste without the alcohol
• Pours like a real Guinness
• Tasty

Cons

• Heavy beer
• Might scare some who are sober because of the realistic taste

NA beer can sometimes taste like carbonated bread instead of a bodied, complete fizzy beverage. That is not the case with Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer, which tastes like its malty cousin. If you’re sober and in recovery, the realistic taste of NA Guinness might make you feel like you’ve seen an ex walk into a room—ignore this one if that would make you uncomfortable, which is what you would also do when seeing your ex walk into a room. This tasty, dark beverage is a reliable choice (unlike your ex!) if you’re looking for a stout without stout regrets.

Best NA import beer: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0

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Why it made the cut: Evoke the Amalfi Coast with a light Italian lager that’s refreshing and full-bodied.

Specs

• Milliliters: 330 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Beer
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Light and refreshing
• Full-bodied
• Tasty

Cons

• Potentially too-close to comfort beer taste

Sometimes you need a light international beer akin to a Stella or a Heineken. We’re personal fans of Peroni, a light Italian lager that screams “warm summer breeze and riding a Vespa.” However, maybe you’re the person driving the Vespa and can’t imbibe a lovely Peroni? Enter Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0, which, for an NA lager, is incredibly full-bodied (read: not watery). It tastes like its Peroni Nastro Azzurro boozy cousin, which might cause you to do a double-take at the label, but for those hoping to hop on a Vespa or behind the wheel of a Fiat, the Nastro Azzurro 0.0 is a solid choice.

Best with CBD: Day One Sparkling Water

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Why it made the cut: This refreshing, no-cal beverage is infused with CBD to promote relaxation.

Specs

• Milliliters: 12 fluid ounces (355 milliliters)
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Canned sparkling water
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: CBD

Pros

• Infused with 20 milligrams of CBD
• Comes in grapefruit, lemon, and lime flavors
• Zero calories
• Made with natural ingredients

Cons

• Pricey for sparkling water

Looking for a pick-me-up that doesn’t pack any calories? Consider Day One Sparkling Water. This canned beverage is infused with 20 milligrams of CBD, also known as cannabidiol, a chemical found in the Cannabis sativa plant known for its ability to promote relaxation without getting you high. Day One’s sparkling water is available in grapefruit, lemon, and lime flavors and doesn’t have any sugar or calories.

Best non-alcoholic aperitif: Ghia 

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Why it made the cut: This twist on a traditional aperitif is tasty and can be consumed on its own or mixed.

Specs

• Milliliters: 500 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Aperitif
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: Some adaptogens (lemon balm; rosemary)

Pros

• Tasty
• Versatile
• Makes you feel sophisticated and fancy

Cons

• Small bottle compared to others on this list

Inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture—think Campari and Amaro over finger food before 9 p.m. dinner in a bustling Milanese café—Ghia is light, dry, and the right amount of bitter. Drink it on its own or combine it with a mixer of your choosing for a spritz or cocktail. If a bottle seems like too much of a commitment, check out Ghia’s transportable cans that add lime, salt, and ginger to the OG Ghia aperitif.

If you’re already a Ghia fan and looking for something in the same vein, try Figlia—both have similar ingredients (white grape juice, rosemary extract, and elderflower, for example), but we love this NA aperitif’s earthiness thanks to clove and chamomile extract. Figlia, like Ghia, also sells spritz-in-a-can for on-the-go sips.

Best tequila alternative: Optimist Botanicals Smokey

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Why it made the cut: A mezcal-like sipper that is smokey and makes for a perfect mocktail margarita.

Specs

• Milliliters: 500 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Designed to use mixed like a premium spirit
• Lots of body
• Spicy

Cons

• Not that many fluid ounces compared to others on this list

This botanical spirit has woody, floral, and bitter notes, and is designed to be mixed like a premium spirit. This one specifically drinks like smooth tequila or mezcal. Mix it with your favorite ginger ale and garnish with a jalapeno slice or an orange peel for a scrumptious sipper sans alcohol. However, each bottle is only 16.9 fluid ounces, meaning you’ll have to be cognizant of how much you use before running out.

We also recommend Clean Co.’s CleanT—not only is it a lovely substitute in a margarita or paloma, it pairs lovely with Winderton Lustre (more on that later).

Best gin alternative: Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus

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Why it made the cut: You’ll feel good the next day after drinking this gin alternative, thanks to its lack of alcohol and the company’s dedication to protecting the South African Cape Floral Kingdom.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Proceeds go to wildlife conservation
• No artificial flavors
• Feels sophisticated

Cons

• Those looking for an exact gin dupe will be disappointed

Skipping alcohol doesn’t mean you have to skip out on delicious flavor. Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus is inspired by South Africa’s Floral Kingdom, one of the world’s most diverse habitats. It’s infused with familiar citrus flavors, like orange, grapefruit, and grapefruit along with ginger, fennel, and pepper that give this concoction a subtle savory kick. Other notes, such as the mandarin naartjie and bucchu, are native to South Africa. And with no sugar and zero calories, you can swirl this botanical gin substitute into your seltzer as a pick-me-up any time.

Best whiskey alternative: Ritual

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Why it made the cut: Have a better boulevardier with this whiskey alternative that’s highly rated by restaurant professionals.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Heat on the tail end—just like whiskey
• Rated highly by professionals
• Soft and round flavor profile

Cons

• Those looking for a straight whiskey dupe will be disappointed

This whiskey alternative is rated 85/100 Silver by the Beverage Testing Institute, a spirits research & review company. This makes it the highest-reviewed alcohol-free whiskey alternative. The numbers don’t lie! Vanilla and oak overtones mingle with notes of stone fruit and a little kick of heat at the end. Although it’s not meant to be sipped straight, you can use it to make an almost-NA Boulevardier or safer whiskey sour. We’re also fans of NKD LDY’s whiskey alternative, which is smoky and has the whiskey taste without the regret.

Best botanical spirit: Wilderton Botanical Spirit

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Why it made the cut: Each flavor is unique and delicious—probably the best we’ve tasted.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml.
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Bittersweet Aperitivo a Campari dupe
• Unique in their own way
• Versatile

Cons

• Expensive
• Not a straight dupe for gin or whiskey

Wilderton’s line of botanicals is a loving homage to spirits like Campari, whiskey, and gin. In fact, their Bittersweet Aperitivo is a spot-on dupe, taste-wise, to Campari or Aperol, making it a great choice if you’d like to make your spritz even lower in ABV. Earthen—with cardamom, white peppercorn, and pine-smoked tea—is rich and spicy and even leaves a bit of heat when you’ve put down your glass and returned to the conversation. Lustre is a dreamy, citrusy blend of bitter orange peel, tarragon, lavender, and coriander that pairs great with tonic or soda water for a crisp mocktail in the garden.

Best value: Dhōs

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Why it made the cut: Refresh your bar with spirits that contain organic ingredients.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml.
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Less than $80 for three bottles
• Made by a well-established distillery
• The cheapest bottle on this list

Cons

• Bundle subscription includes all three flavors—a bummer if you’re looking for multiples of the same flavor

Practicing moderation doesn’t mean sacrificing pleasure; distillers don’t have to forego flavor to achieve alcohol alternatives. These are the immediate takeaways after sampling the Dhōs non-alcoholic spirit/liqueur lineup—made in a three-step process using natural pesticide-free ingredients. Cooked up at an organic farm and distillery in Sheridan, Ore.—also home to Ransom Spirits, known for reviving Old Tom Gin and making whiskeys and vermouth—the mindful mixtures come in colorful stopper-topped bottles with small batch silhouettes and make for captivating (and keto-friendly) cocktail counterparts. Gin Free is savory, herbaceous, and refreshing—redolent of juniper and lime backed by a peppery note. It’s warm and spicy upon first sip, almost gingery, but turns cool thanks to a cilantro and peppermint component. Want to transition from gin & tonic to an NA Negroni? Mix Gin Free with Bittersweet, which carries over a hint of mint threaded through a sunset-colored elixir of rhubarb, pithy pink grapefruit, flamed citrus peel, and monk fruit. Or add it to soda water for a friendlier spritz. Orange, meanwhile, presents a melange of blood orange and vanilla with a dash of cayenne and coriander. It’s a great replacement for triple sec in off-dry “margaritas” but makes for a creamy, dreamy mocktail on its own with soda water, tonic, ginger ale, and more. Offered for $10 less than competitors on average, Dhōs is a premium product without a top-shelf price tag.

Best celeb-made non-alcoholic bubbly botanical: De Soi

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Why it made the cut: Each flavor is fine, fresh, and fierce—this bubbly mocktail has it on lock.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Bubbly craft cocktail
• Alcohol or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: Adaptogens like reishi, ashwagandha, L-theanine

Pros

• Crisp and carbonated
• Darn tasty
• Adaptogenic for a little healthy buzz at the party

Cons

• Those who hate tart things may not enjoy these mocktails

Katy Perry is known for hits like “Teenage Dream” and “Hot N Cold,” but did you know she is also in the health and wellness biz? Not only is she an investor in apple cider vinegar giant Bragg Live Food Products, but she co-founded De Soi, an adaptogen aperitif company, in 2022. Golden Hour (shown here) is made with maca and L-theanine for relaxation and is great for making mocktail mules and a non-alcoholic spritz. Champignon Dreams is a bitter, earthy reishi and passion flower spirit for negroni or old-fashioned lovers. Purple Lune mixes ashwagandha, tart cherry, and botanicals to give the feel of a nightly glass of red. If bottles aren’t your style, De Soi also sells its three flavors in cans. All flavors have a tart bite—if that’s not your jam, stick to something sweeter.

Best bundle: Seedslip

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Why it made the cut: A delicious bundle means you can experiment and explore, all while saving some cash.

Specs

• Milliliters: 700 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Allergy-friendly
• High-quality ingredients
• Versatile

Cons

• Expensive

If you’re looking for a bundle package, look no further than this one from Seedlip. It includes Seedlip Grove 43 (a citrusy, ginger, and lemongrass spirit), Seedlip Spice 94 (a waltz between allspice, cardamom, and grapefruit), and Seedlip Garden 108 (an herby promenade of peas, rosemary, and thyme). They are best served with ginger ale and a citrus peel garnish—perfect for breaking out the fancy glasses sans next-day guilt.

Best mood lifter: Crisp & Crude

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Why it made the cut: These keto-friendly, gluten-free mocktails are infused with terpenes and safe to drink while pregnant.

Specs

• Milliliters: 8.45 fluid ounces per can (250 milliliters)
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Canned cocktail
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: Botanical terpenes

Pros

• Tasty
• Dietary friendly
• Pre-mixed

Cons

• Expensive
• Only available in cans

These NA craft cocktails are made with botanical terpenes extracted from plants, fruits, and roots for calmness, creativity, and relaxation. You can purchase each flavor individually, but we’re fans of the variety pack that includes four cans of its three flavors: Paloma Daydream (a salty, woody grapefruit drink with Space Queen terpenes); Gold Fashioned (bitter orange, zesty dandelion, and Chocolate Thai terpenes); and Mellow Mule (ginger, citrus, and mint with Pineapple Express terpenes). Leave the joint at home and pass around a can of this instead.

Best canned alternative cocktails: Flyers Cocktails 

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Why it made the cut: These canned mocktails are inspired by bar favorites and feel just as fancy to imbibe.

Specs

• Milliliters: 237 ml or 8 fluid ounces
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Canned cocktail
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: 20 milligrams of CBD

Pros

• Pre-mixed
• Cocktail-inspired
• Feels fancy

Cons

• Only available in cans, which are small

These sparkling, non-alcoholic drinks are made with 20 milligrams of CBD and are inspired by cocktail menu mainstays. BKLN Gold is reminiscent of an American Bourbon cocktail thanks to its oakiness, spice, and smooth vanilla. Tokyo Marg is a citrusy Yuzu sparkler with a touch of heat. Our favorite, however, is the Sydney Spritz Highball: a bold, herbaceous blend of citrus zest, mandarin orange, and bitters.

Best bottled mocktails: DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve

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Why it made the cut: A fizzy mocktail is a screwcap undoing away with DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml bottle
• Spirit, beer, or wine: N/A
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Tasty
• Zero-effort
• Good for those with dietary needs

Cons

• Could use some more carbonation

If you’re looking for a not-so-stiff drink after work but don’t have the brainpower to create something new, take the guesswork out of mixology with these pre-mixed mocktails from DRY. They come in three flavors: Lavender 75, a botanical boozeless take on a French 75; Rose Soleil, a Provence Rose-style beverage with touches of strawberry, rose, and oak; and Spiced Pear, which blends ripe pears with vanilla and cardamom. We also love the company’s line of sparkling water that makes for a great mixer. Although the Botanical Bubbly Reserve flavors could use some more carbonation, they taste like a craft concoction you would find at the bar without the craft concoction price.

Best NA wine: Surely Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose

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Why it made the cut: Get all the wine taste without the next-day regrets from drinking the entire bottle.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Wine
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Delicate body
• Friendly to specialty diets
• Great dupe

Cons

• Pregnant people may not be able to drink it due to low alcohol content

Some NA wines include fruit juice, but if you’re looking for something that screams more wine glass and less Welch’s, Surely’s line of dealcoholized wines is for you. It’s aged in the barrel just like its boozy counterpart, but then the alcohol is removed. The final product is a dry, full-bodied sparkling rose that pairs well with seafood and dessert—just like what someone would find at a liquor store. Coupe glasses sadly not included.

In case you’re looking to expand your NA wine palate, we also are fans of Joyus. For those looking for something that’s on the floral side, look no further than Starla’s NA sparkling rose.

Best wine alternative: Proxies

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Why it made the cut: As the name implies, Proxies is an homage to the wine experience while setting itself apart from its boozy cousin.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Wine
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Tasty
• Has a similar look and mouthfeel to alcoholized wines
• Safe for pregnant people to drink

Cons

• Some flavors can come off as too juice-like

Wine alternatives tend to taste like fancy grape juice. Although that’s not a bad thing, sometimes it’s more enjoyable to drink something that tastes like it came from Napa Valley and not from a toddler’s sippy cup. Proxies—vinegar giant Acid League’s wine alternative brand—uses wine grapes, tea, vinegars, and other fruit for its enchanting wine-inspired blends. Blanc Slate is reminiscent of a Sauvignon Blanc, and Red Ember is all body without the bite. Red Clay is probably the most “wine-like,” with its velvety mouthfeel and lingering pucker. Although you can’t get single bottles, the company’s sets let you explore to find new favorites, then stock up on the ones you love.

What to consider when buying the best non-alcoholic beverages

Non-alcoholic beverages are a great way to get the ritual feel of making a cocktail or pouring a glass of wine sans alcohol. You can find them online or at your local liquor store—in my experience, NA beers have their small section in the beer aisle; NA wines are housed by the bartending accessory or mixer section. If you’re lucky, you might have an NA bottleshop in your neighborhood—like Spirited Away in NYC and The Open Road in Pittsburgh—that you can peruse IRL or that offers to ship and delivers right to your door. Here’s what you should know before making your pick.

NA vs. alternative spirit

NA is short for non-alcoholic. Most beverages with the NA moniker—like beer, wine, and liquor—are made like their alcoholic counterparts. However, they don’t ferment or go through a process that removes the alcohol from a finished, alcoholic product. The result is a beverage with less than .5% alcohol by volume (ABV), which can be labeled as “non-alcoholic” per the FDA. According to the FDA, those who are pregnant should go for a truly zero-alcohol beer or spirit to prevent birth defects, according to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG).

This is where alternative spirits come in. They are made of herbs, vinegars, juices, and more to give off the vibe of a standard alcoholic spirit. An alternative wine will not taste exactly like Cabernet Sauvignon, but it will offer a similar mouthfeel and body. A botanical gin-like spirit will include juniper or pine to replicate the notes of its alcohol-included cousin.

Adaptogens, nootropics, and CBD

If you’d like a little extra jazz in your drink, consider ones with adaptogens or CBD. Adaptogens like ashwagandha and L-theanine are used in herbal medicine to help the body return to homeostasis, or the body’s state of natural balance. The science is a bit nebulous, so don’t expect them to fix your problems. Nootropics have a similar effect as adaptogens: they claim to boost mood and improve cognition but are scientifically hazy.

Animal studies, self-reports, and research in people suggest that CBD, or cannabidiol, can help with anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain without the “high” from THC. If you’re looking for something to sip on to unwind after a long day, a CBD-infused beverage is perfect—just make sure it’s coming from a reputable source that posts third-party lab results on their site.

Storage

Unlike your typical bar cart, you’ll need to refrigerate most—if not all—non-alcoholic spirits since they don’t have the high-alcohol content to keep them shelf-stable. If you don’t have the refrigerator space for your bounty of friendly spirits, consider one of the best beverage coolers.

Mixers

You have your spirits and such to make a mocktail—but where do you start? Of course, you can always go for the classic tonic or soda water touch, but the world is your oyster when it comes to mixers. Try Tangerine La Croix with Abstinence Spirits’ Cape Citrus for a citrusy play on a gin soda; Blood Orange Carrot Ginger-flavored Health-Ade Kombucha mixes great with Wilderton’s Lustre; and doesn’t Waterloo’s blackberry lemonade seltzer sound heavenly with Ritual’s alternative whiskey? You can even opt for a pre-made drink mix—espresso martinis, anyone?

Safety

There are only two substances that you can die from unsafe withdrawal: barbituates and alcohol. Quitting cold turkey is OK if you or someone you know does not struggle with alcohol use disorder. Otherwise, supervised alcohol withdrawal is the safest since alcohol withdrawal can lead to seizures, delirium tremens, and death if untreated or improperly executed. Also, consult with a doctor before stopping use—they can help decide if you or someone you know should complete your withdrawal in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best non-alcoholic drinks

• Best NA beer sampler: Athletic Brewing Co. Craft Non-Alcoholic Beer
• Best NA stout: Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer
• Best NA import beer: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0
• Best with CBD: Day One Sparkling Water
• Best aperitif: Ghia 
• Best tequila alternative: Optimist Botanicals Smokey
• Best gin alternative: Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus
• Best whiskey alternative: Ritual
• Best botanical spirit: Wilderton Botanical Spirit
• Best value: Dhōs
• Best celeb-made non-alcoholic bubbly botanical: De Soi
• Best bundle: Seedslip
• Best mood lifter: Crisp & Crude
• Best canned alternative cocktails: Flyers Cocktails 
• Best bottled mocktails: DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve
• Best wine: Surely Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose
• Best wine alternative: Proxies

Non-alcoholic beverages—including NA beer and wine, wine alternatives, botanical spirits, and more—are a great way to moderate your drinking during Dry January and beyond. Abstaining from drinking completely, cracking open a euphoric seltzer after drinking a Manhattan, or sticking to a mocktail during a pregame can help you re-evaluate your drinking habits. And let’s be real: the best non-alcoholic drinks are just plain tasty. Plus, your sober friends—weary from having soda, seltzers, and plain water as the only option at restaurants or functions—will appreciate that you have fun, craft non-alcoholic options available at your next backyard shindig.

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 17 best non-alcoholic drinks of 2024, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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According to a Forbes Health survey, improving fitness is one of the most common resolutions people make. Between unspoken gym rules and getting new gear, it can be daunting—monetarily and personally—to get into the gym spirit. Thankfully, our favorite protein powder for beginners is 30% off at Amazon.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder $29.39 (Was $41.99)

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Here are more supplements and powders to add to your well-being arsenal:

Protein powders

• Garden of Life Organic Vegan Vanilla Protein Powder 22g Complete Plant-Based Raw Protein $32.39 (Was $46.99)
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Supplements

• Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine $18.99 (Was $24.99)
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• Renew Life Women’s Probiotic Capsules $23.10 (Was $44.99)
• Nature’s Way CalmAid Softgels with Silexan Lavender Oil $8.22 (Was $14.29)
• Nature’s Way Alive! Men’s 50+ Daily Ultra Potency Complete Multivitamin $15.89 (Was $29.99)
• Osteo Bi-Flex Triple Strength with Vitamin D Glucosamine Chondroitin Joint Health Supplement $20.01 (Was $48.17)
• Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3, Immune and Bone Support $10 (Was $20.14)
• Garden of Life Organics Kids Gummy Vitamins $19.97 (Was $34.99)

The post More gains, less investment: Our favorite protein powder for beginners is 30% off at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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I prefer the word “intention” over “resolution” for goal-setting at the beginning of the year. For me, it conjures more mindfulness and less emotional self-flagellation. My New Year intentions include reducing my caffeine intake and upping my yoga output. Instead of making an entire pot of coffee—which tempts pouring another cup—try a single-serve coffee maker, like this Keurig that’s 47% off at Amazon.

Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker $79.99 (Was $149.99)

SEE IT

Choose from a 6-, 8-, 10-ounce pour to get the perfect strength for your mornings or afternoons. Its large 48-ounce water reservoir lets you brew more than 6 cups, and an auto-off feature shuts down your machine after two hours. All you need to do to get a perfect cup is select a pod and your brew size.

Here are more coffee deals to fuel your good intentions:

• De’Longhi La Specialista Arte EC9155MB, Espresso Machine with Grinder $499.95 (Was $699.95)
• De’Longhi EC9255M La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine with Cold Brew $549.95 (Was $749.95)
• De’Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine $699.95 (Was $899.95)
• Ninja CE251 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer with Permanent Filter $69.99 (Was $79.99)
• Hamilton Beach Programmable Coffee Maker $39.99 (Was $49.99)
• Mr. Coffee Coffee Maker with Auto Pause and Glass Carafe $34.99 (Was $39.99)
• Hamilton Beach 15 Bar Espresso Machine $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• Cuisinart DCC-1400 Brew Central 10-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker, Silver (Renewed) $69.99 (Was $87.99)

The post Perk up with a perk: 47% off a Keurig K-Classic coffee maker at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

While not everyone enjoyed a white Christmas, no flakes by December doesn’t always mean no winter wonderland. Many years, there’s a good chance the first major snow will happen sometime in the New Year. And that time for the East Coast might be a big winter storm this weekend. It’s this unpredictability that makes a generator a purchase for all seasons. Luckily, Jackery—who makes some of our favorite solar generators—is offering its fantastic Explorer 2000 PRO portable power station for a whopping 37% off.

Jackery Explorer 2000 PRO Portable Power Station $1,199 (Was $1,899)

SEE IT

According to our review, this generator is a great backup power source for people who live in blackout-prone areas or on an off-grid worksite. It’s also light for road trippers and van-lifers. It’s extremely user-friendly, and output ports ensure you can plug in a wide range of devices and electrical equipment. Its functions are highly intuitive, and the digital display is easy to understand. Like other Jackery generators, the Explorer 2000 PRO is incredibly durable, too.

Here are more inclement weather must-haves that are on sale:

Generators

• BLUETTI Solar Generator AC180 with PV120 Solar Panel $838 (Was $1,198)
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 $179 (Was $299)
• EF ECOFLOW 160 Watt Portable Solar Panel for Power Station $239 (Was $1,199)
• Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 6600 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator $599 (Was $729)

Power tools

• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit $99 (Was $179)
• Greenworks 80V 18″ Brushless Cordless Chainsaw $297.49 (Was $349.99)
• Greenworks 40V 8″ Polesaw + Pole Hedge, 2.0Ah Battery $186.99 (Was $219.99)

Snow blowers

• PowerSmart PS21 Single-Stage Gas Snow Blower $329.98 (Was $369.99)
• Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Walk-Behind Snow Blower w/ Dual LED Lights, 22-inch, 15-Amp $138.38 (Was $249)
• Earthwise SN74018 Cordless Electric 40-Volt 4Ah Brushless Motor, 18-Inch Snow Thrower $262.50 (Was $349.99)

Snow shovels

• AstroAI 39″ Folding Snow Shovel for Car $27.89 (Was $30.99)
• Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution 20-Inch, Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel w/ Spring Assisted Handle + Impact-Resistant Blade $29.99 (Was $39.99)
• The Snowplow “the Original Snow Pusher” 24″ Wide Model 50524 $50.99 (Was $72.99)

The post Prepare for any storm ahead with 37% off this Jackery solar generator appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		DynaTrap DT1050 Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap		SEE IT	Three-way protection keep your patio protected from pesky pests.
Best portable		stafi Bug Zapper		SEE IT	Take it to games, on camping trips, or just keep it in your car for when you need it.
Best budget		PIC Mosquito Repelling Coils		SEE IT	Stop mosquitos from entering your yard in the first place with these svelte, stylish coils that burn like incense.

Mosquitos aren’t just pesky pests. They can carry malaria, West Nile Virus, Zika, and more. It can be discouraging to spend time outdoors if you know you’ll be covered in itchy, red bites by the end of the night. Plus, entertaining isn’t easy when you’re thinking about what uninvited six-legged guests could bring to your party. You don’t need to douse yourself in smelly, sticky bug spray or rely on citronella torches or candles. A mosquito trap is a great non-toxic way to capture these nasty buggers. All you have to do is place it and proceed with what you are doing. Some traps even blend seamlessly with your outdoor decor, while others stylishly and covertly cover the indoors. The best mosquito traps allow you to be comfortable in all your home spaces.

• Best overall: DynaTrap DT1050 Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap
• Best for outdoors: DynaTrap Large Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap
• Best indoor: Katchy Indoor Insect Trap
• Best wall-mounted: BLACK+DECKER Fly Traps for Indoors
• Best portable: stafi Bug Zapper
• Best budget: PIC Mosquito Repelling Coils

How we chose the best mosquito traps

I am a huge baby when it comes to getting bit by mosquitos. “Being itchy” is my least favorite state to be in. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how to stop the bites in the first place. Mosquito traps remain one of the easiest ways to accomplish that. To find the best mosquito traps, we looked at important features like portability, ease of use, coverage area, type, and if it could work indoors and outdoors. We also looked at reviews and recommendations and performed heavy research to whittle down our choices.

The best mosquito traps: Reviews & Recommendations

No one likes a party-crasher, especially if they suck your blood and carry disease. One of our choices should help you keep the guest list to a manageable number and stop mosquitos from wrecking the vibe. There’s only so much a portable party speaker can do.

Best overall: DynaTrap DT1050 Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: UV light, TiO2 coated, fan
• Indoor or outdoor: Both
• Coverage area: 1/2 acre

Pros

• Quiet
• No propane required
• Doubles as a lamp

Cons

• Reviews note bulb life isn’t as long as advertised

The DynaTrap uses not one but three-way protection against mosquitos and other flying insects. The UV light provides warmth and a glow irresistible to bugs, and its durable titanium dioxide coating creates a carbon dioxide trail. A quiet fan then sucks the mosquitos in at the end of the rainbow and contains them. We also love its stylish design—at first glance, it looks just like a regular outdoor sconce, but a closer look reveals it’s a trap. Each trap covers 1/2 acre, and you can use it indoors. Plus, it’s easy-to-use: simply twist to turn it on and off. Make sure to place it 20-40 feet away from where you’re sitting so you don’t get caught up in armageddon. It won’t attract honeybees and other insects important to the ecosystem (#savethebees).

The company advertises that the bulb lasts up to four months, but multiple reviews state that it must be replaced once a month. If that’s no problem for you, you’ll enjoy the peace the DynaTrap brings.

Best for outdoors: DynaTrap Large Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: UV light, TiO2 coated, fan
• Indoor or outdoor: Both
• Coverage area: One acre

Pros

• Quiet
• All-weather construction
• Large coverage area

Cons

• Expensive
• Bulb difficult to change

Forgive us for putting two traps from the same brand back-to-back, but trust us that this is the best choice for an outdoor mosquito trap. It’s beefy and covers an acre of land—perfect if you live on a large property and have a lot of bugs to catch. And it comes in multiple colors to match your outdoor vibe. It has the same foundations as the mid-sized DynaTrap—three-way protection, quiet vacuum, no propane—and is durable for use in all weather conditions. The bulb shape is different and lasts longer compared to the mid-sized Dynatrap. However, reviews note that it’s difficult to change this particular bulb.

Best indoor: Katchy Indoor Insect Trap

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: UV light, vacuum, glue trap
• Indoor or outdoor: Indoor
• Coverage area: 200 square feet

Pros

• Easy to replace sticky pads
• Long cord
• Keeps other outlets open

Cons

• Sticky pads could be stickier

Keep your outlets open with this stylish indoor trap on your countertop. The 40-inch cord also lets you customize the placement versus “nightlight”-style traps glued to your outlet. It uses three methods to attract and trap mosquitos: A UV light lures them in, the vacuum fan captures them, and the sticky pad prevents them from escaping. They also capture fruit flies, gnats, and other small bugs. It’s incredibly easy to use: Simply turn it on and let it work its magic. You can adjust the settings between standard and low to save energy when you’re not home. The reviews note that the included sticky pads could be stickier, but they are easy to change when it’s time to switch them out.

Best wall-mounted: BLACK+DECKER Fly Traps for Indoors

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: UV light, glue trap
• Indoor or outdoor: Indoor
• Coverage area: 1,500 square feet

Pros

• Easy to install
• Pre-installed glue traps
• Doubles as a nightlight

Cons

• Not aesthetic
• No off switch

If you’re not into zappers, chemicals, or vacuums, this sconce-like trap uses light and a sticky trap to lure and capture mosquitos. This trap covers up to 1,500 square feet and can be used in covered outdoor spaces. It comes with three sticky board replacements, so you don’t have to wait around for a new set to come in. All you have to do is set it up and watch as the bugs meet their end. The trap also doesn’t come with an off-switch, and it’s not portable. It’s also a little (for lack of a better term) ugly, but if design isn’t top of mind and you just want something that works well, you won’t have a problem with this wall-mounted trap.

Best portable: stafi Bug Zapper

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Zapper
• Indoor or outdoor: Indoor and outdoor
• Coverage area: 20 feet

Pros

• Day and night sensor
• Rechargeable
• Waterproof

Cons

• Difficult to clean

Not everyone has the desire to hang up a mosquito trap. There are also moments in life, like youth baseball, football, and camping, where no mosquito traps are set up in the first place. BYOT (bring your own trap) with this stafi bug zapper, which can be placed on a table or hung on a nearby hook. It’s IP66 waterproofed, making it perfect to take along on a camping trip. You can place this zapper on a table, and it’s also rechargeable. It’s a little difficult to clean, however. You get 16 hours of power on one charge, and it doubles as a regular lamp, which makes the elbow grease worth it. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly pick. It’s also 10 inches tall, making it truly portable. No more missing the game to put on bug spray.

Best budget: PIC Mosquito Repelling Coils

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: N/A
• Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor
• Coverage area: 10 feet

Pros

• Easy to use
• Stylish
• Long-lasting

Cons

• Fragile
• Only repels

It was difficult to find a budget-friendly pick that was high-quality. When we found out about these repelling coils, we knew they had to be included in the list. Compared to giant citronella candles (which might not even work), these coils are svelte and stylish, and you get a pack of 40 for $20. That comes out to around $2 per coil. They remind us of incense, have 10 feet of coverage per coil, and last for 5-7 hours. You need to pay attention to wind direction and not breathe in the smoke it emits, but it’s a great first-step option or addition to a mosquito trap.

What to consider when buying the best mosquito traps

Most traps use UV rays to attract mosquitos. The light is paired with an interior sticky trap, voltage grid, or vacuum to bring them to their end. Some also use carbon dioxide (which we breathe out) and heat to mimic humans and animals. If you don’t love the ethics of killing mosquitos, consider planting lemongrass, citronella grass, lavender, or basil. These herbs and plants are all-natural insect repellents. If you don’t have any qualms about this, here is what to consider when shopping for a mosquito trap:

Type

• Electric: These traps use electricity to zap bugs if they get too close. It’s just like that one scene in A Bug’s Life.
• Heat: Mosquitos are attracted to our body temperature. These traps use propane as a heat source and carbon dioxide to mimic exhalation. They’re best for large populations of mosquitos. 
• UV light: Mosquitos are attracted to light. This is used as an attractant over repellent or exterminant. UV light, in tandem with a propane and carbon dioxide trap, is incredibly effective.
• Sticky traps: Some traps include a sticky section that ensures the mosquitos don’t change their mind and escape. They’re non-toxic and easy to throw out.
• Water: Water is a breeding ground for mosquitos, but you can poison their well with Mosquito Bits. It’s also non-toxic to other animals, meaning you don’t have to worry about accidentally dumping chemicals into the ecosystem.

Efficacy and range

Not all traps last equally or have the same area of coverage. Sticky traps, for example, need to be replaced once a month. Others can last for months of continuous use. Some need to be charged, and some need to be plugged into an outlet to work. Check your surroundings and ensure you have outlets, hooks, or stands to make your trap of choice work.

Ease of use

Setting up some traps is as easy as plugging and going. Others require more maintenance, like replacing sticky panels or cleaning the vents and openings. Some traps require that you change an entire propane tank. Mosquitos are already a pain; choose an option that’s painless for you and your needs.

Portability

You can wall mount a mosquito trap so it guards the area for the entire summer season. You can also buy a tabletop trap to take with you on camping trips and to friend’s houses. If you’re looking for an indoor trap, you run into outlet and space problems. Double-check if your trap is meant to be stationary or moveable before clicking “add to cart.”

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best mosquito traps

• Best overall: DynaTrap DT1050 Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap
• Best for outdoors: DynaTrap Large Mosquito & Flying Insect Trap
• Best indoor: Katchy Indoor Insect Trap
• Best wall-mounted: BLACK+DECKER Fly Traps for Indoors
• Best portable: stafi Bug Zapper
• Best budget: PIC Mosquito Repelling Coils

Outdoor parties are fun—especially when no bugs are buzzing around. Mosquitos aren’t just annoying—they can also carry diseases affecting you, your animals, and your loved ones. Keep mosquito randos out with a trap that works. Whether with light, glue, or a vacuum, you can rest assured that the best mosquito traps will vanquish these pesky pests to their demise.

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 6 best mosquito traps 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		Schott Zwiesel Vervino All-Purpose Wine Glasses		SEE IT	Red, white, and every varietal in-between, this glass makes every wine shine.
Best stemless		Mikasa Cheers Stemless Wine Glass		SEE IT	No stem? No problem, with these stylish glasses.
Best budget		Libbey Signature Kentfield Estate All-Purpose Wine Glasses		SEE IT	A cheap—and dishwasher friendly—choice.

Quality wine glasses will upgrade the taste, aesthetics, and enjoyment of your wine experience. There are wine glasses tailored to specific wine varieties, such as Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, as well as more versatile all-purpose wine glasses. Traditionally, most wine glasses are stemmed, but stemless glasses have become very popular in recent years as they offer a more casual, modern approach (and, practically speaking, can be less likely to be knocked over). Both crystal and glass options are available at varied price points (crystal being more expensive) and, when accompanying a commemorative bottle, they can make an excellent wedding or anniversary gift. Of course, you don’t have to reserve all of life’s little luxuries for a special occasion; the best wine glasses help you have an expertly crafted experience at any time.

• Best overall: Schott Zwiesel Vervine All-Purpose Wine Glasses
• Best for white: Zalto Denk’Art White Wine Glasses
• Best for red: Riedel Heart to Heart Cabernet Sauvignon Glasses
• Best for sparkling wine: Kate Spade New York Rosy Glow 2-Piece Champagne Saucer Set
• Best stemless: Mikasa Cheers Stemless Wine Glass
• Best budget: Libbey Signature Kentfield Estate All-Purpose Wine Glasses

How we chose the best wine glasses

I’ve covered non-alcoholic beverages before because putting something into a fancy glass is for everyone. Even if you don’t drink wine, it’s fun—and even incredibly popular right now—to drink something that’s not wine out of a wine glass. But for the wine drinkers, we considered glass shapes for specific varietals, different stem options, and prices in our considerations. We also looked at user reviews and peer recommendations and performed heavy research to narrow down our picks.

The best wine glasses: Reviews & Recommendations

No matter if it’s boxed, bottled, bottom-shelf, or topflight, these wine glasses make each sip taste like heaven.

Best overall: Schott Zwiesel Vervine All-Purpose Wine Glasses

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.1 x 9.1 inches
• Number in set: Six
• Dishwasher safe?: Yes

Pros

• Crystal
• Thin lip
• A great number of glasses for the price

Cons

• Still need to be careful if washing in the dishwasher

Crafted in Germany, this set of six Schott Zwiesel glasses features a thin-walled bowl, fine stem, and wide foot made from lead-free Tritan crystal—a technology using titanium and zirconium for brilliance with added strength. Although delicate, these 9.1-inch, 23.2-ounce wine Schott Zwiesel glasses have reinforced breakage-prone zones and they hold up to the dishwasher and are chip, scratch, and stain-resistant. They’re perfect for reds, whites, and sparkling wines.

Best for white: Zalto Denk’Art White Wine Glasses

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 3.2 x 9.1 inches tall
• Number in set: Two
• Dishwasher safe?: Yes

Pros

• No lead
• Thin lip
• Also great for sparkling wines

Cons

• Expensive

This set of two crystal glasses is hand-blown and feather-light, made without lead. Each glass is 9.1 inches tall, 3.2 inches wide, and holds 400ml. The shape is designed with all white wine varietals (including sparkling) in mind, and a thin lip assures each sip arrives undeterred. They’re delicate stemware for delicate wines, and therefore, care should be taken with handling, but the glasses are, in fact, dishwasher safe.

Best for red: Riedel Heart to Heart Cabernet Sauvignon Glasses

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.09 x 9.72 inches
• Number in set: 2-8
• Dishwasher safe?: Yes

Pros

• Dishwasher safe
• Good value for money
• Large volume

Cons

• Reviews note they can come in broken

Available in sets of two, four, or eight, these Riedel picks come from a manufacturer that helped pioneer the development of glasses tailored to varietals, such as this Heart to Heart series. These diamond-shaped Cabernet Sauvignon (Bordeaux) glasses are machine-blown fine crystal 9 ¾ inches tall with a capacity of 28 ¼ ounces. This well-known, well-respected, dishwasher-safe product has great customer reviews for a reason.

Best for champagne: Kate Spade New York Rosy Glow 2-Piece Champagne Saucer Set

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 6.5 inch
• Number in set: Two
• Dishwasher safe?: No

Pros

• Rose gold and zinc alloy stem give bubbles a fun pink-metallic tint
• Adds a dose of glam to your glasses/gathering

Cons

• Wide, so take up more cabinet/bar space
• Delicate (but isn’t all glass)
• Expensive for a set of two

A nigh-perfect wedding gift, these elegant champagne coupes by Lenox—complete with sturdy metallic stems, topped with a pinkish strip—have flair without being ostentatious. That said, they are a different experience than drinking from champagne flutes. A flute will hold the wine’s carbonation and chill longer, making it a more visual and tactile experience. A coupe, meanwhile, lets off more aroma as the CO2 dissipates and your hand warms the bowl, giving you insight into the base wine, not just the bubbles. For these reasons, coupes are more typically used for sparkling wine-based cocktails and when you really warm to savor the taste, not just the texture of the champagne. However, if you’re looking to make and/or celebrate special memories, these are perfect for any host and toast that calls for a little sparkle.

Best stemless: Mikasa Cheers Stemless Wine Glass

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 2.5 x 5 inches
• Number in set: Eight
• Dishwasher safe?: Yes

Pros

• Dishwasher-safe
• High-quality etching
• Great for other kinds of drinks

Cons

• Fragile

These stemless glasses are a great choice to bring festive flair to parties. The glass is mostly clear, but the walls offer a variety of whimsical etched patterns making it slightly easy to find your glass when in social settings. Each all-purpose glass holds 17 ounces and is produced from traditional glass, making them great for cocktails, soft drinks, juices, etc., but it’s best to handwash them. A set of eight is less than $65.

Best budget: Libbey Signature Kentfield Estate All-Purpose Wine Glasses

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 3.37 x 9 inches
• Number in set: Four
• Dishwasher safe?: Yes

Pros

• Great price
• Dishwasher-safe
• Good clarity

Cons

• A little delicate

These all-purpose wine glasses hold 16 ounces or 26 ounces, depending on what you buy, allowing plenty of room for swirling and sipping your favorite wines. They have a traditional 9-inch height (perfect for dishwashers) and are constructed with a ClearFire formula for enhanced clarity and strength. BPA-free, lead-free, and reasonably priced, these glasses are available four for under $45 and bring class to casual gatherings.

What to consider when buying the best wine glasses

Wine glasses have come a long way. Wine drinking dates back to ancient civilizations, with glasses used in Ancient Egypt as early as 1500 BC. An integral part of religious practices and secular indulgence all over the world, the art of glassware has been perfected for hundreds of years. 

The Roman invention of glassblowing allowed for major advances. Europe has a long history of expertise in glassmaking, with Venice/Murano being the center of production. By the late 1600s/early 1700s, much of the fine European glassware was made using a mixture of minerals, including lead oxide, which led to it eventually being known as lead crystal. Adding lead oxide helped prevent cracking and created a more reflective surface. Of course, modern times have resulted in some changes. While a drinking glass made with lead is unlikely to cause any harm to the body, it is still not recommended to drink from, and lead crystal could cause damage to the body if it were used for something like a decanter, where the liquid would sit longer, and lead would have the potential to seep in. With concerns over lead safety, these are lead-free crystal and offer the same delicate elegance, brilliance, and durability that antique lead crystal offers, but without any potential issues. 

Look for high-quality glass or lead-free crystal glass, which now uses barium oxide, zinc oxide, or potassium oxide in place of lead oxide. Much of the glassware still made in Europe is light in weight while remaining high in clarity and brilliance. Many crystal glasses are even durable enough to be dishwasher safe. Shapes and sizes have changed in popularity over the years, so ornate, carved crystal is not in fashion. The world’s finest restaurants and sommeliers instead recommend an elegant glass large enough to swirl and enjoy your wine’s clarity, bouquet, and flavor.

White wine glasses

White wines are delicate and aromatic and also served chilled. Due to these factors, you’ll find that white wine glasses have a longer stem than reds to reduce warming the wine with your hand. Most white glasses will also be smaller with shorter bowls, as a narrow bowl will concentrate its qualities, allowing the drinker to enjoy the perfume better. 

If you are trying to buy a white wine glass with a specific grape varietal in mind, keep in mind subtle differences. Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, and Dry Rieslings are considered higher in acid and prefer a smaller bowl than less acidic, more full-bodied wines like Chardonnay.

Great options are available in both stemmed and stemless designs. White wine stemless styles will typically be smaller than reds, as the wines do not need to breathe like reds to show their characteristics. Some people argue that stemless glasses might unwittingly warm the white wine, but for most average wine enthusiasts, it shouldn’t be a problem. If you want to get fancy with it, consider a beverage cooler to keep your bottles at the perfect temperature.

Red wine glasses

There’s research that says a daily glass of red may be good for lowering cholesterol and heightening heart health, so if you’re going to add a nightly ritual to your life, you might as well make it as pleasing as possible. Red wines can be full-bodied, medium-bodied, and light-bodied, but all benefit from taking in oxygen to the glass, known as “breathing.” Red wine will display more aroma and flavor when it is given space, which is why the best red wine glasses have larger bowls than white wine glasses. Also, the rims of red glasses are wider to allow this oxygen to reach the wine (and any aggressively earthy, oaky aromas to blow off). 

To tailor your glass to your favorite varietal, consider the body of the reds you like the best. The taller, more narrow red glasses are designed specifically for tightly wound and unctuous reds that need their acidity wrangled, directing Cabernet Sauvignon- and Zinfandel-based wines to the center of the tongue. While the more rounded glasses are often for medium and light reds with more delicate scents that need to linger, the wide mouths coat the tongue. These differences may sound subtle, but they can play a major role in fully enjoying your favorite red wines.

All-purpose wine glasses

It’s important to note that if you are the type of wine enthusiast who enjoys it all, there is no reason to have grape-specific glassware. The best all-purpose glasses will work with any type of wine. By taking the middle ground in terms of size and shape, they become a versatile glass that won’t ruin the experience of either white, red, or rosé. The truth is the subtle nuances between varietal-focused glasses are just that—subtle—and most casual wine drinkers wouldn’t notice the difference that much. 

As with any good wine glass, the best all-purpose options, also known as universal wine glasses, will be made with care, with quality glass or lead-free crystal that offers brilliant clarity. The uniformity of universal glasses will also offer space savings in your cabinet.

Stemless glasses

Stemless wine glasses are attractive, well-balanced, and comfortable to hold in your hand. Stemless glasses can come in the same varietal-specific (or universal) bowl shapes as traditional stemware, but losing that stem gives these an air of modernity and helps make the occasion more casual. Stemless glasses can be a smart option for parties as they are less likely to tip over when carried around and placed on various surfaces. 

Some enthusiasts complain that stemless glasses are subpar because holding the glass with your hand will adversely change the temperature of the wine and, therefore, adversely affect the taste of the wine. For most people, this is so slight that it is a non-issue (and, besides, wines first served at proper cellar temperature evolve pleasingly in the glass as they warm). Stemless wine glasses are familiar to hold and come in a variety of styles and designs. They can bring sophistication without feeling fussy or fancy.

Shape and budget

When shopping for budget glasses, opting for an all-purpose design to handle any type of beverage makes sense. Typically, an all-purpose style is a Bordeaux shape, an elegant glass with a long stem that also features a slightly tapered rim (it’s a style that can also be found in stemless glasses, depending on your preference). Not only will this shape work to enhance the flavor (from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz to Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and rosé), it is a timeless look that will work for many years to come and coordinate with any style of dinnerware.

On a budget, you can expect to find factory-made glass options as opposed to handblown crystal. Look, however, for glass made with thinner walls for enhanced clarity, as well as laser-cut rims for chip-resistant edges. The best budget glasses will be dishwasher-safe, lead-free, and BPA-free for your health and safety.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wine glasses

• Best overall: Schott Zwiesel Vervine All-Purpose Wine Glasses
• Best for white: Zalto Denk’Art White Wine Glasses
• Best for red: Riedel Heart to Heart Cabernet Sauvignon Glasses
• Best for sparkling wine: Kate Spade New York Rosy Glow 2-Piece Champagne Saucer Set
• Best stemless: Mikasa Cheers Stemless Wine Glass
• Best budget: Libbey Signature Kentfield Estate All-Purpose Wine Glasses

The perfect wine glasses will suit your lifestyle and enhance the experience of enjoying your specific preferences (or just enjoying the entertaining experience). Whether you are looking for a receptacle designed to enhance the flavor of your favorite bottle or a simpler all-purpose style wine glass, there are plenty of beautiful wine glasses on the market to choose from, as we’ve shown. 

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 wine glasses for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Christmas is in five days. You still don’t know what you’re going to gift to your dad/father-in-law/child in the family/college-age sister who is home for winter break. Enter the cordless drill. Dad and father-in-law will appreciate their new toy, it’s objectively funny to gift a power tool to a child, and you’re doing a favor to college-age sister who will need a power drill in the future. This drill and driver kit from DeWalt is 45% off and will arrive tomorrow with Prime shipping. You’re welcome.

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit $99 (Was $179)

SEE IT

This Dewalt drill has a compact and lightweight design that fits into tight areas. A high-performance motor delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO) of power that can help you put together a shelf or build a shed. A high-speed transmission with two speeds (0-450 and 1,500 rpm) lets you use it for a range of fastening and drilling applications. Nothing says “timeless gift” like a good drill.

Here are more tool deals to gift for the entire family:

• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum, Tool Only $118.07 (Was $159)
• DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set, 142-Piece $99 (Was $155)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill, Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit, 2-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set $149 (Was $229)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Orbital Sander $86.14 (Was $179)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw $99 (Was $159)
• DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, SAE and Metric, 1/2, 1/4, 3/8 Drive Sizes, 192-Piece $154.99 (Was $277.99)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch Blade $99 (Was $159)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Heat Gun $98.21 (Was $148.01)
• DEWALT Screwdriver Bit Set and Drill Bit Set $44.98 (Was $65.99)
• DEWALT Mechanic Tool Set, 247-Piece $154.99 (Was $181.99)
• DEWALT Table Saw for Josites $299 (Was $419)
• DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw $124.99 (Was $205)

The post If you’re stumped for gifts, this DeWalt drill/driver kit is 45% off at Amazon and ships before Christmas appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Not to generalize coffee people, but the Venn diagram of “people who drink a lot of coffee” and “people who tend to procrastinate” is almost a circle. If you still haven’t finished shopping, this Nespresso machine is under $100 and will arrive in time for Christmas.

Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi

SEE IT

You can brew 5-, 8-, or 12-ounce coffee—on top of single- and double-shots of espresso—with this tiny machine. If your house is split on #teamicedcoffee or #teamhotcoffee, you can brew hot or over ice. All you have to do is pop in a VertuoLine capsule, press the button, and wait for the smooth, liquid gold to finish dispensing. Nespresso capsules are also completely recyclable through its site.

Here are more Nespresso machines on sale:

• Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, 5 Fluid Ounces, Grey $110 (Was $159)
• Nespresso Vertuo POP+ Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, Titan $99.95 (Was $149.95)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, 60 fluid ounces, Ink Black $127.46 (Was $169.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, 5 Cups, Chrome, with Milk Frother $192.99 (Was $269.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi, White $134.24 (Was $179)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, Matte Black $164.96 (Was $219.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville with Milk Frother, 18 ounces, Light Grey $172.46 (Was $229.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi with Aeroccino Milk Frother, White $171.74 (Was $229)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, 8 ounce, Grey $127.46 (Was $169.95)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville with Milk Frother, Titan $187.46 (Was $249.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker, 1597 ml, by De’Longhi, Graphite Metal $153.30 (Was $219)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, 5 fl.oz. Cherry Red $115.99 (Was $169)
• Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi, 60 ounces, Titan $137.99 (Was $199)
• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, Light Grey $134.24 (Was $179.95)
• Nespresso Lattissima One Original Espresso Machine with Milk Frother by De’Longhi, Shadow Black $299.25 ($399)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, 8 Ounces, Black $149.25 (Was $199.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Single Serve Coffee Maker, Espresso Machine, BVE850BSS-Brushed Stainless Steel, Medium $562.46 (Was $749.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, 5 Cups, Black $202.46 (Was $263.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, 5 Cups, Matte Black $202.46 (Was $269.95)
• Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Aeroccino Milk Frother, Cherry Red $164.24 (Was $219)
• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville, Cherry Red, 1.1 Liters $134.25 (Was $179.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, 1597 milliliters, Silver $164.25 (Was $219)
• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville with Milk Frother, 1.1 liters, Cherry $171.74 (Was $229.95)
• Nespresso Lattissima One Original Espresso Machine with Milk Frother by De’Longhi, Silky White $279.30 (Was $399.95)
• Nespresso Lattissima Pro Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Milk Frother, Silver $454.30 (Was $649)
• Breville Nespresso The Creatista Pro, Brushed Stainless Steel BNE900BSS, Small $637.46 (Was $849.95)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi, Shiny Red $153.30 (Was $219)
• Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi with Milk Frother, 1100 ml, Shiny Red $201.75 (Was $269)
• Breville Nespresso Creatista Plus, Black Truffle $487.46 (Was $649.95)

The post This Nespresso machine is a perfect last-minute gift. Get it 34% off 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 for record collectors		Audio-Technica Sound Burger Portable Bluetooth Turntable		SEE IT	Gift vinyl history and new nostalgia this season.
Best nugget ice maker		GE Profile Opal 2.0		SEE IT	The “good ice” is a few scoops away when you gift this countertop ice maker.
Best mega-viral product		Solo Stove Ranger 2.0		SEE IT	We’ve been Solo Stove stans forever, even before Snoop Dogg partnered with the company.

The internet has changed the way we shop. You don’t need your wallet to purchase a pair of pants, and window shopping involves more tabs than peering through glass panes. Now, we’re more likely to buy something we see on social media versus not. According to TikTok, people are 1.4 times more likely to purchase something they saw on the app versus other platforms. And, plenty of things in 2023 took the internet by storm. If you’re shopping for a trendsetter—or finally seeing what the hype is all about—these viral gifts will come to your doorstep before Santa comes to town and help family and friends keep it reel for real in 2024.

• Best for record collectors: Audio-Technica Sound Burger Portable Bluetooth Turntable
• Best water bottle: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best nugget ice maker: GE Profile Opal 2.0
• Best LEGO set: LEGO Icons Flower Bouquet
• Best spin scrubber: SCRUBTASTIC Electric Spin Scrubber
• Best kitchen gadget: Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper
• Best mega-viral product: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0
• Best for her: Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set
• Best neck fan: TORRAS Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan
• Best for bird-watching: BIRD BUDDY Original Smart Bird Feeder

Best for record collectors: Audio-Technica Sound Burger Portable Bluetooth Turntable

SEE IT

From waiting for Anthony Fantano‘s reviews with bated breath to finding new gems from Locked Groove‘s massive collection, vinyl collection TikTok is a hub of tunes and bops you wouldn’t find otherwise. Gift a piece of vinyl history with Audio-Technica’s Sound Burger portable Bluetooth turntable. First introduced in the ’80s, this fan favorite returned in 2022 with major fervor. It’s easy to set up and use: Simply unscrew the tonearm fixing screw, connect the Sound Burger to your Bluetooth speaker, pop your record on (we’re enjoying Into It. Over It.’s “15 Years” here), and go on a nostalgia trip. If you already have a turntable under $500 and a pair of speakers, consider the Sound Burger a sub-$200 gift that will get the audio nerds arguing. (And gift them, or you, a subscription to Vinyl Me Please, while you’re at it.)

Best water bottle: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

SEE IT

The Stanley Quecher won’t come in time for Christmas; the Owala FreeSip, which rose in popularity this year, does. You can choose to chug or sip thanks to its FreeSip spout, and it keeps drinks cold for 24 hours. The wide mouth easily accommodates a handful of ice cubes and makes cleaning seem like less of a chore. A push-to-open lid protects the spout from your own germy hands, and the carrying loop doubles as a lock, so you don’t have accidental spills if you throw it into your bag or backpack. It’s our favorite water bottle for the gym, but it’s majorly giftable.

Best nugget ice maker: GE Profile Opal 2.0

SEE IT

If you stumbled on #watertok, you’d know that pebble ice is the ice du jour of the internet. Nugget or pebble ice cools more evenly and rapidly than ice cubes. The GE Profile Opal 2.0 is our favorite smart ice maker. You can control it via phone, or it can be connected to your voice assistant of choice. Its stainless steel construction is premium, and little touches, like having a water tank that can be detached from the side of the machine to be refilled more easily, make a big difference in how easy it is to use. Additionally, the Opal 2.0 makes nugget-shaped ice rather than hollowed-out bullet-shaped cubes. If the GE Profile Opal 2.0 didn’t have smart features, it’d still be one of the most premium ice makers we could recommend for gifting.

Best LEGO set: LEGO Icons Flower Bouquet

SEE IT

If you’re doing last-minute shopping for the crafty person in your life, there’s no better craft to do than building a Lego set. This one is under $100 and adds quirky charm to anyone’s home. It’s an alternative to real flowers, and the flower has posable petals and leaves, along with adjustable stem lengths. Your loved one will appreciate the chance to let their creativity bloom.

Best spin scrubber: SCRUBTASTIC Electric Spin Scrubber

SEE IT

#Cleantok is one of the most relaxing corners of the internet. There is something about a dirty thing becoming sparkling and shiny that inspires us to clean up our own messes. The shower is the most difficult thing to get clean, thanks to grout crevices and having to bend over to clean the bottom of the tub/shower floor. This electric scrubber has an adjustable handle, three interchangeable heads, and is rechargeable. Please make sure your loved one doesn’t create a hazardous cleaner concoction.

Best kitchen gadget: Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper

SEE IT

If your pal hasn’t sharpened up their knife skills, this chopper lets them cube cheese, shred carrots, and dice onions with ease. The included container is perfect for storing or keeping your Mirepoix ingredients together before throwing them into a cast iron Dutch oven. There’s also something satisfying about slamming a fist down on the lid. Our executive editor was influenced to buy it and highly recommends it: “I suck at making sandwiches,” Stan says. “The lettuce is too chunky, the tomatoes are lopsided, and the pickles drag everything out of the sandwich when I take a bite. I figured I could either spend my entire paycheck at Jersey Mike’s every week or jump on the chopped sandwich trend. It’s a little tricky to clean, but the sandwiches really are great.” You’ll have to change your friend’s contact name to “New Jersey Michael” after gifting this chopper.

Best mega-viral product: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0

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This one technically *might* come after Christmas. But, based on Solo Stove’s smart marketing campaign with Snoop Dogg, we’d be remiss to exclude this product that had a viral moment off of TikTok. It’s one of our favorite smokeless fire pits (we’ve had a Solo Stove stan Stan forever), and they make for a great gift for the grandparents. Snoop Dogg is celebrating the holiblaze and you can too sans smoke with the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0.

Best neck fan: TORRAS Coolify Portable Air Conditioner Neck Fan

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It may be cold outside, but we all know the time to buy things for spring and summer is now when it’s the off-season. This Coolify neck fan comes with a built-in ceramic semiconductor radiator that provides air conditioning. It also features a fan with a motor that operates at a speedy 500 rpm, blowing cool air out and up to your face through 36 vents. At just .77 pounds, it’s lightweight and has a sleek design. The included lithium-ion battery charges in about 2.5 hours and lasts up to 4 hours in cooling mode and up to 8 hours in fan mode. It’s on the pricey side, but having an air conditioner at all times? Major upgrade, if you ask us.

Best for bird-watching: BIRD BUDDY Original Smart Bird Feeder

SEE IT

If you’re shopping for a birding buddy or someone who wants to channel their inner Mary Poppins, we absolutely adore this smart bird feeder. You won’t need a pair of binoculars to see feathered friends thanks to a removable camera that automatically snaps photos. Its app alerts you to visitors and can identify more than 1,000 bird species. You can mount the feeder in many different ways, and there’s very little assembly required. Maybe your pal can train some crows while they’re at it.

The post The best last-minute internet gifts for the TikTok lover in your life appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		AirPods Pro 2		SEE IT	Apple’s earbuds always impress.
Best camera		GoPro HERO11 Black Mini		SEE IT	This pint-sized camera captures king-sized photos and video even underwater.
Best for DIY		Cricut Joy Xtra		SEE IT	Cricut’s latest machine is the ideal gift for the maker in your life.

We get it. Holiday gift-giving season is at its peak, and it’s moving quickly. Don’t worry, procrastinators. There’s still time to get something great for the people around you (or yourself; we won’t judge) and have it wrapped and ready without anyone being the wiser. To help get you started on finishing your shopping, we’ve collected gifts across every category and price point and labeled them to make finding just the right thing that much easier. Be warned: These gifts are great but will likely sell out (or see their delivery date slip), so act fast.

Best camera that can go anywhere: GoPro HERO11 Black Mini

SEE IT

If your gift list includes someone who loves to travel, they should include the ultimate adventure camera. Weighing in at just 4.7 ounces, this miniaturized version of the rugged GoPro HERO11 Black camera still sports some truly high-end features. It can pull down 4K or even 5.3K footage, depending on how much resolution you want (and how much space you have on your memory card). GoPro’s robust mounting system and accessory selection allow the camera to go just about anywhere. It easily attaches to a bike helmet, a car door, a tripod, or even your dog. Built-in HyperSmooth 5.0 tech makes every video look like it was shot with a high-end stabilizer, even if you’re using an accessory like the new Extension Pole + Waterproof Shutter Remote accessory to capture some truly unique and otherwise impossible angles. Plug the camera in to charge, and it can automatically upload footage to the cloud while automatically creating a highlight video of the adventure; no editing skills necessary.

Best for movie nights: Popsmith Starter Bundle

SEE IT

If popcorn is the preferred snack of the household, consider Popsmith the harbinger of puffy stuff that rivals movie theater fare. The Popsmith Starter Bundle gives you a luxe popcorn popper and 10 ready-to-make popcorn kits—five each of the Oh Sooo Buttery and Sweet n Salty Kettle Corn mixes—to make as much popcorn as you want. You’ll have to be a little careful when using the Kettle Corn mix so the sugar doesn’t burn, but making it is easy: Simply dump the pre-measured package (which includes coconut oil, seasoning, and kernels) into the popper over medium-high heat, spin the handle clockwise, and wait until the popping fades. You’ll have enough popcorn to split among four people. You can reorder your favorite popcorn mix when you’re done, or you can buy kernels in bulk to perfect your own at-home recipes. The popper is dishwasher-safe, making clean-up just as easy.

Best for music lovers: AirPods Pro (2nd gen.) with USB-C

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What can we say, if you’re shopping for a last-minute gift this holiday season, the AirPods Pro 2 should be at the top of your list. They’re our pick for the best wireless earbuds due to their audio fidelity, active noise cancellation support, battery life, and comfort. They work best when paired to Apple devices, but will still work well with Android phones and Windows computers. Better still, these earbuds have been discounted by $50 for a limited time during the holidays, so pick up a pair now before they jump pack up in price.

Best for tea drinkers: Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Tea Kettle

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Fellow’s electric kettle is a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves tea, coffee, or wants to expedite cooking tasks like rehydrating dried vegetables. This kettle has an immaculate, minimalist design, but its understated look belies its impressive technical features. You can set the kettle to a precise temperature, which is displayed on an LCD screen on the kettle’s base. Additional features include the ability to set a stopwatch to fully extract the flavor of your tea and coffee, which is helpful for those who use expensive leaves and beans, respectively. This countertop appliance has a place in almost any kitchen, and the person you gift it to will wonder how they did without one for so long. Know somebody who wants to take pour-over control to the pinnacle? Invest a bit more in the Fellow Stagg EKG Pro Studio Electric Gooseneck Kettle.

Best for pizza enthusiasts: Ooni Volt

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What’s better than a pizza oven that allows you to make pizzeria-quality pies at home? One that can be used whether it’s sunny, rainy, snowy, or anything in between. The Ooni Volt is the company’s first electric pizza oven, the ultimate gift for aspiring pizzaiolos. The oven can reach temperatures of up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit (most conventional ovens top out at either 500 or 550) and has heating elements above and below the pizza stone to ensure even cooking. Dials on the front of the Ooni Volt make it easy to adjust its temperature, bias heat to the top or bottom heating element, or set a cooking timer. When the Volt is at its maximum temperature, you can cook a twelve-inch Neopolitan pizza in under two minutes. Little design touches, like a clear pane on the front door that allows you to monitor your cook, ensure you’ll always get excellent results.

Best for leftover lovers: Anyday Everyday Set

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There’s “microwave-safe” cookware and then there’s the Everyday Set from Anyday. The frosted glass cookware is dishwasher safe, freezer safe, non-toxic, and comes in multiple sizes, which is why we’re inclined to jump in with both feet and gift the Everyday set. We’ve been pleased not only by how well this cookware performs—our from-scratch and reheated microwaved foods have never been cooked so consistently—but by how each size is perfect for different applications. The home cook with this set will be able to make everything from a full pot of rice to a small chicken completely in the microwave. The company’s website offers a bevy of new recipes for the microwave skeptic, too, in case you’re shopping for a skeptic.

Best for cast iron curious cooks: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Skillet

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The classic. The thing you want your grandmother to pass down to you. Get it today and, every time you use it, the seasoning will just get more set, making it increasingly nonstick. Unlike a normal pan, cast iron pans have superior heat retention and no weak spots that produce uneven heating. While cast irons are a kitchen essential, seasoning them can be a stressful process—so this Lodge option comes pre-seasoned so you can get cooking right away. Use it to sear, saute, bake, broil, braise, fry or grill. From Dutch pancakes to cast iron pizzas, the possibilities are endless.

Best for pasta makers: MARCATO Atlas 150

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If you’re shopping for someone interested in making homemade pasta, our only gift recommendation is the MARCATO Atlas 150. Made in Italy from steel and colored aluminum, the machine feels solid in the hand, and is designed to last a lifetime. The hand-crank pasta maker comes with a clamp to hold it steady, and a pair of blades to cut thick and thin noodles. The Atlas 150 can be used to make pasta sheets between .19 and .020 thick, which means it’s suitable for making any well-known pasta shape, including lasagna sheets. Using the Atlas 150 will require some elbow grease—unless you generously gift them a drive motor, too—but the results will be well worth it. Once they start making homemade pasta, it’ll be hard for them to go back to a box.

Best for cooks in small kitchens: Kuhn Rikon 4th Burner Pot

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Kuhn Rikon’s 4th Burner Pot was specifically designed to be used on the smallest burner found on a stovetop. If you’re shopping for a home cook who cares about efficiency, this gift will please them immeasurably. The pot comes with a steam basket, which can also be used to boil smaller vegetables or thick pasta (think rigatoni) and easily lift them out of boiling water. Small touches, like the covering on the top and side handles that make both parts grippier are especially nice touches. We guarantee the chef in your life doesn’t have this tool in their arsenal, and they’ll immediately begin figuring out the most efficient ways to use it.

Best for fermenters: Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit

SEE IT

A fermenting kit can add delicious elements to your kitchen. Whether it’s a crispy pickle with a sandwich, kimchi in a noodle bowl, or sauerkraut with German sausage, it’s surprisingly easy to make these aged eats from home. One of the beauties of pickling is that there’s not a ton of prep upfront, and then you check the lid for a few days, and voila: impressive homemade pickled delicacies. This is a perfect gift for the culinary-inclined and will last them for years. Check online for recipes, then mix it up once you’ve mastered the basics.

Best for new iPhone owners: CASETiFY Impact Ring Stand Case for iPhone 15 Pro

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If you know someone on your list who is getting Apple’s latest and greatest phone, you should gift them a protective case to go with it. CASETiFY’s Impact case is the full package: Its unique design will help their phone stand out, with reinforced corners, 6.6-foot drop protection, and compatibility with MagSafe. Its coolest feature is its integrated stand, which lets you prop your phone up by pulling out the rim around its camera, which folds out. This stand will make it easier for the person you gift it to watch videos, make and take video calls, or keep up with live events while their hands are full.

Best for audiophiles: Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5

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Audiophiles can be hard to shop for if you’re not into the hobby yourself, but this year our gift recommendation is simple. It’s hard to describe just how good Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A5 sounds without seeming hyperbolic. The portable speaker was excels from its industrial design—including a sustainable design that allows pieces to be swapped out if one breaks—to B&O’s latest amp and drivers. The Beosound A5 delivers room-filling sound that’s on-par with many premium at-home speakers we’ve tried, except that you can grab its wooden handle and take it anywhere. Smart features like support for Wi-Fi connectivity and AirPlay 2 are technical cherries on top of a great-sounding cake. In its category, Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A5 is peerless.

Best for aspiring bakers: Falcon Enamelware Bake Set

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Falcon’s five-piece Enamelware Bake Set is a great gift for a baker who wants to up their brownie, mac & cheese, crumble, buckle, or crisp game. It’s comprised of: one 1 x 14½-inch bake pan, one 1 x 13⅜-inch bake pan, one 1 x 12¼-inch bake pan, and a pair of 2 x 7⅞-inch pie dishes. Each piece is made from dishwasher safe, freezer-friendly, ceramic-covered steel. This bakeware can be used safely in ovens set up to 530 degrees fahrenheit, but is not suitable for microwaves. One of our favorite aspects of this set is that each piece fits neatly within the others, which makes them easy to store and grab. Anyone who wants a fully equipped but clutter-free kitchen will love this gift. It’s even available in three colors: white with a blue rim, pillarbox red, and pigeon grey, so you can find one that matches their style.

Best for language lovers: Vasco V4 Language Translator Device

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Traveling to a new country can be intimidating if you don’t know the language, but Vasco’s V4 can solve that problem once and for all. The device, which looks like a smartphone, can translate between 108 languages by speaking into it. Translations will be displayed on its five-inch display. You can also get text and photo translations in 90 and 108 languages, respectively. The V4 works over WiFi but can connect to cellular satellites in roughly 200 countries. Cellular connectivity is free for the device’s lifetime, so there’s no monthly or one-time fee you have to pay while traveling. Vasco says the V4 is dust-proof, shock-proof, and water-resistant, so it should hold up in the face of minor accidents. The company says it can last for roughly five days per charge, but the amount you get will be dependent on how often you use it.

Best for meal preppers: Souper Cubes

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We all know at least one person who likes to think ahead and always have a meal ready in advance. Do them a favor and gift them a set of Souper Cubes. The silicon containers have four 250mL (roughly 1.1 cup) cavities, which can be used to store liquid or solid ingredients to be deployed at a moment’s notice. Your giftee could use two of the molds for soup, and leave the other two for flavorful toppings. Pre-shredded vegetables and cheese separated in their own sections could be defrosted and deployed during an at-home taco night. The Souper Cubes are an excellent gift for the efficient home chef, or someone who would like to like to cook at home more often but finds themselves running out of time.

Best for bread bakers: Emile Henry Modern Bread Cloche

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If the person you’re shopping for this holiday season isn’t interested in using an appliance to bake bread, we have the solution: Emile Henry’s Modern Bread Cloche. This two-piece ceramic baking dish creates the perfect baking environment for an artisan loaf by tightly surrounding it with radiating heat. Additionally, using this Cloche won’t require a baker to carefully lower their dough into a too-hot-to-touch preheated Dutch oven. When the loaf is done, the top piece can be easily removed to unveil the loaf, while the bottom piece of the Cloche features a textured pattern, which prevents bread from sticking to it. Whether they’re making dough by hand, stand mixer, or machine, Emile Henry’s Modern Bread Cloche will make sure each loaf they’ve proofed comes out perfectly.

Best for cookie makers: Silpat Half Size Nonstick Baking Mat

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Silpat’s nonstick baking mats are legendary for their durability and the ability to keep even the stickiest substances—looking at you molton hot sugar leaking cinnamon buns—from sticking or leaving a mark. This two pack of half-sized baking mats is designed to fit perfectly inside a pair of 13- x 18-inch baking sheets. These mats can withstand temperatures up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, and only need to be lightly rinsed with water to clean. A baker who’s tired of tearing off sheets of parchment paper each time they bake, which can be especially tedious during long baking sessions, would be thrilled to receive these Silpat Baking Mats as a gift.

Best for breakfast lovers: Made In Carbon Steel Griddle

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Need a gift for someone who wakes up every morning ready to make bacon and eggs? MadeIn’s Carbon Steel Griddle, which is long enough to fit across two burners, has a large surface area for bacon, eggs, french toast, pancakes, and other breakfast delights. Its carbon steel construction is pre-seasoned and naturally nonstick, and its sides are tilted inward to catch grease and keep your kitchen clean. You can use this griddle on gas, induction, and electric cooktops. While we’re recommending this for folks who love breakfast, it’s just as useful for making smash burgers, sauteed vegetables, and plenty of other savory delights.

Best for ice cream wizards: Ninja Creami

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The Ninja Creami is the only gift you should consider for someone who loves ice cream. The set-it-and-forget it nature of the Creami allows you to make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, Italian ice, and other frozen treats with minimal intervention. After freezing the ice cream base in the included pint container overnight, you stick it into the Creami, hit one button, and the machine takes care of the rest. Blades will churn the ice cream to the correct consistency based on the frozen treat you’ve selected. You have the option to pause midway through to fold in mix-ins, but beyond that all you have to do is wait for the machine to do its job. This deluxe package comes with a pair of XL-sized prints, each of which holds 24 ounces of ice cream. Additional XL pints can be purchased separately if you want a constant supply of ice cream.

Best for fancy home cooks: Breville Joule Turbo

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Breville’s Joule Turbo is the latest model in the company’s successful sous vide line, and it succeeds in solving the biggest issue with this style of cooking: the time commitment. The Turbo modulates the temperature of the water bath rather than keeping it at a set temperature to dramatically reduce the cook time of certain dishes. You still get all the benefits of sous vide cooking, including getting consistently perfect results with little to no fuss, just more quickly. The amount of time you’ll save will vary based on what’s being cooked, but some cook 50 percent faster. The home chef who “already has everything” will undoubtedly love this kitchen upgrade.

Best for sleep lovers: FluffCo Down Feather Pillow

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If you know someone who can’t wait to get a full eight hours of sleep every night, upgrade their experience with FluffCo’s Down Feather Pillow. Filled with premium duck down wrapped in cotton, its balance of softness and firmness will appeal to side and back sleepers alike. This pillow comes with its own pillow protector, but the person you gift it to can even get the pillow dry-cleaned to keep it in like-new condition if they’d like to do without. This is the type of practical gift anyone on your list would appreciate.

Best for conscientious concertgoers: Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs

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Buying surprise concert tickets for someone can get dicey—even if you know they love the artist, it’s hard to make sure their calendar is and will remain open before they get the gift. Or that they won’t just buy tix themselves. But something you can do is improve every concert experience with reusable earplugs. Low-profile, with a carrying case and multiple sizes of eartips (just like your favorite wireless earbuds), the Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs use an attenuating filter in the central sound tube to reduce harmful sound levels by 22dB without muffling what is heard. This improves everything from performances to weird conversations in the bathroom line. These earplugs may only cost $30 (stash an extra pair in the car for yourself or a forgetful friend), but someone preserving their hearing is a priceless gift that keeps on giving.

Best for handy people: Leatherman Super Tool 300

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If you’re searching for the best bang-for-your-buck gift for the person in your life who spends their time fixing things or tackling DIY projects, you can’t beat Leatherman’s Super Tool 300. Its name may seem hyperbolic, but the multitool has 19 functions, ranging from cutting and slicing to measuring and plying. It’s made from stainless steel, which is a durable material that won’t bend or crack in the middle of the job. Leatherman’s 25-year warranty doesn’t hurt either. Part of the fun of this gift will be hearing about all the ways your giftee uses it over time, which is especially exciting because the Super Tool 300 encourages creativity through its multi-functionality.

Best for the couch potato: The Comfy Wearable Blanket

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The Comfy looks ridiculous, but any semblance of pretension melts away whenever one puts it on. This is basically a blanket masquerading as a one-size-fits-all oversized hoodie. The Comfy is probably best recommended for at-home use, but it’s well worth a look if you’re shopping for someone who wants to binge-watch shows all winter without freezing. The Comfy’s sherpa inner lining and microfiber outer lining are soft to the touch, which makes it easy to wear for hours at a time, while the centered pouch gives one a place to put their hands. The Comfy is objectively ridiculous, but it’s also ridiculously warm.

Need something that can be worn or laid on the ground as a blanket? The Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho features compressible eraLoft insulation that’s water resistant and lightweight without sacrificing warmth. When worn, it offers a barrier against wind and rain, while also offering a barrier against the cold hard ground when spread out.

Best for someone who needs a lighter layer: Jack Wolfskin Men’s Routeburn Pro

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Jack Wolfskin’s Routeburn Pro will keep the person you gift it to toasty all season long without adding the weight and bulk commonly associated with Winter jackets. That’s because it uses a material technology called Texashield, which offers excellent insulation, wind resistance and water resistance in a thin layer. It’s even breathable, so there’s little chance of your giftee accidentally overheating if they’re exerting themselves while shoveling. We’ve worn this jacket ourselves, and in our tests it did an excellent job protecting us from harsh winds without making sitting down in a New York City subway seat a major inconvenience.

Best for campers and commuters: Hydro Oasis 128 oz Insulated Cup

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Hydro Flask’s Insulated Cup is a double-insulated stainless steel mug made from proprietary materials that allow it to keep beverages hot for several hours without requiring any fancy technology. The cup is available in over a dozen colors and three sizes, but we’re partial to the 16-ounce option as it’s the equivalent of a medium-sized coffee or tea from popular cafes. The leakproof lid creates a tight enough seal that Hydro Flask’s Insulated Cup can be stored in a bag or purse without spilling all over the place. The icing on the cake is that this mug can be cleaned in a dishwasher. (Does your gift recipient need some summer hydration help as well? We have lots of insulated water bottles we recommend.)

Best for e-nthusiastic e-readers: Amazon Kindle

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We all know someone trying to read more, so what better gift to give them than a Kindle? The device has a 6-inch display that’s similar to that of a paperback, has enough storage to hold hundreds of books, and can last several weeks on a charge. The Kindle is a better device for reading than a smartphone or tablet because its e-ink screen will diffuse light rather than create a glare. This display is also easier on your eyes, which is helpful during late-night reading sessions.

Best for battery life worriers: Anker 20,000mAh Portable Charger

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Battery packs are a dime a dozen, but Anker’s latest one bests them all. The 20,000mAh power bank has an integrated USB-C cable, so you’ll never have to worry about leaving your cord at home. It also has a USB-C PD port and USB-A port, which allows it to charge three devices simultaneously. At 20,000mAh, the battery pack can fully charge a smartphone once, and is powerful enough to fast charge a tablet at 22.5W. The most clever part of this battery’s design is that its integrated cable can be used to plug it into a charger to recharge. This is a fantastic gift for travelers, or that one friend who’s phone battery always dies halfway through a night out.

Best for sustainable shoppers: Nook Theory Reusable Insulated Grocery Bag

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Sometimes the smallest gifts can make the biggest impact, and that’s certainly the case with Nook Theory’s Reusable Insulated Grocery Bags. Large enough to accomodate enough produce, cans, meat, and dairy for the a single person’s weekly shopping list, the bag also impresses with its insulation (which keeps cold foods cool and hot foods warm) and understated look. Side pockets can accommodate reusable water bottles, while the sturdy bottom prevents it from tipping over or collapsing in on itself as you begin to pack it. If you’re shopping for someone who’s resolved to make 2024 the year they go green, this is a great gift to help give them a nudge.

Best for your friend who doesn’t drink: Figlia Fiore

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Bring the lushness of an Italian garden to your friend’s home with the Figlia Fiore nonalcoholic aperitivo. It’s floral, aromatic, and bitter, and also contains all-natural ingredients, juices, and no artificial colors and sugars. It’s also one of our favorite nonalcoholic beverages. Drink it over ice with an orange peel or with seltzer.

Best for your California sober friend: PAX Plus vaporizer

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If your friend likes to “garden,” the PAX Plus Vaporizer is like a super-powered shovel that makes it easy to … tend to their greenery. It uses conduction heating to heat the THC off the bud, giving you a smokeless experience that’s easier on your lungs. It’s super intuitive to use, and it’s also super discreet. Should you use it immediately at the holiday gathering? You could if you wanted to. You can also get it personalized for an extra $20 to make this gift extra-special.

Best hair care set: Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Care Set 

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If you have a long-haired lover in your life, this haircare bundle will make them feel like they walked out of the salon after every hairwashing day. It’s perfect for oily, dry, and damaged hair, and it’s sulfate-free. Basil leaf removes build-up and impurities, Moringa strengthens hair and prevents damage, and ylang-ylang smoothes frizz and adds shine. It’s like skincare for your scalp. Speaking off …

Best for dry hands and noses: selfmade Secure Attachment Comfort Serum and Corrective Experience Comfort Cream Comfort Zone bundle

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I (Amanda Reed, hi) absolutely love this bundle. The serum is perfect by itself as a primer or layered under or over lotion for a boost of hydration, and the Comfort Cream smells incredible. The Comfort Cream—which I use all over my body—doesn’t feel greasy when it dries down, making it perfect for when you want to throw on some skinny jeans after lotioning your legs. Both harness the power of hyaluronic acid, marine algae, and squalene to keep your skin barrier healthy.

Best for tired feet: Comrad Knee High Compression Socks

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Compression socks are great if your friend experiences foot swelling or overall leg pain. These from Comrad are comfortable and stylish and come in all kinds of heights, including ankle, crew, and no-show. They also come in wide-calf sizing, so your sporty friend who makes big leg gains can get in on the compression sock benefits.

Best for people with cold feet: Heat Holders Thermal Socks

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When you’re cold, it makes sense to heat yourself from the bottom up, which is why everyone should have a pair (or six) of thermal socks. Heat Holders socks are made out of yarn that’s been developed in-house and knitted to hold in warm air without cutting off your circulation. Yes, the socks will add some bulk to one’s feet, but that’s kind of the point. Nobody wants sweaty feet, but that shouldn’t be an issue since the yarn Heat Holders automatically wicks away moisture. The company says its socks are over seven times warmer than traditional cotton pairs, which is reason enough to stuff them in a stocking. Don’t have cold feet about getting these, and you won’t have cold feet getting outside. (And if you really want to take it to the next level, there are always battery-powered heated socks, insoles and slippers.)

Best for the far-away friend: Homesick Candles

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Made of scented soy wax, these hefty and highly specific candles burn for 60 hours, leaving your room with an aroma of home. Visit the Amazon store to browse their entire collection, which includes city, state, and specialty candles. Washington, my home state, is “the scent of soft downpours, steeped Earl Grey tea, and mild hints of cedar and patchouli,” while my current city, New York, promises “spring days in Central Park, fine department stores, and concrete capture the energy of the greatest city on Earth.” Ha.

Best for frequent flyers: MLVOC 100% Pure Memory Foam Neck Pillow

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Sleeping in coach can be super uncomfortable, and those tiny pillows most airlines provide don’t help. A frequent traveler can always use a pillow to rest on, particularly when stuck waiting forever at the departure gate. If they don’t want to lug one of the memory-foam headrests on their bed at home through airports, a neck pillow will be a good substitute in a pinch. This travel pillow is curved to fit your neck and stop your head from falling forward while you’re drifting off into dreamland. It comes with a sleep mask and earbuds to ensure a comfortable slumber.

Best for gadget-carrying globetrotters: Safest Travel Adapter Kit

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There are few inconveniences of international travel more frustrating than arriving in a new country and not being able to use your electronics in your hotel or Airbnb because the plugs won’t fit into the wall outlets. This travel adaptor kit has six different adaptors that cover pretty much the entire globe, as well as a main unit that can accommodate two USB and two plug items so you can use one kit to power four different devices. The adapters fit into an opening in the main unit. Surge protection and a voltage indicator protect your electronics from unexpected acts of electricity, and it’s usable with most kinds of electronics, as long as the devices are dual voltage. A travel pouch keeps everything in one place, and the set is lightweight, so it won’t add much bulk to carry-on luggage.

Best for luggage locators: Apple AirTag

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Apple developed AirTags to help you track down lost items in your couch, house, and beyond, and this is particularly handy for travelers whose luggage has gone missing. The small tracker can fit into any small pocket and will allow you to track your luggage as it moves from one place to another (or doesn’t). Apple hardware is often locked down to their platform, but not in this case: The AirTag can be set up and managed with Apple or Android devices.

Best for tent campers: Kelty Late Start 2P

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For those wanting a tent that will protect them no matter the conditions, Kelty’s Late Start 2P is our top choice. This two-person tent—single and four-person models are also available—is made from lightweight but durable polyester fabrics that provide ample coverage from the rain without inhibiting constant airflow. The tent’s pair of pre-bent stakes make it easy to set up and break down the tent, and every piece folds down enough that it fits in an easy-to-carry pouch that resembles a rolled-up sleeping bag. If you’re shopping for a camper but don’t know where to start, a brand-new tent is the right place to start.

Best for comfortable campers: Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree 550 Down Fill Sleeping Bag

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If you’re shopping for someone looking to extend the camping season as far as possible, they’ll be thrilled with this sleeping bag from Kelty, which is designed to keep folks toasty in temperatures as low as 20 degrees. The duck-down-insulated sleeping bag has a trapezoidal shape that tapers down at the bottom and insulates heat far more effectively than the more familiar rectangular sleeping bag. Kelty offers the Cosmic 20 in three sizes: small, regular, and long, which can accommodate campers up to 5.6 feet, 6 feet, and 6.6 feet, respectively. Each sleeping bag has the same features, but make sure to get the one that’s best suited for the camper in your life.

Best for beach beverage drinkers: YETI Tundra 35 Cooler

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YETI’s coolers are some of our favorites and have earned a stellar reputation due to their extreme “bear-proof” durability and ability to keep food cold for several hours (if not days) thanks to their insulation and heavy-duty rubber locks. We recommend the YETI for keeping your drinks cold during a multi-day camping trip or for preserving perishables during the initial period of a camping trip. YETI says this cooler’s 35L capacity can hold 20 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-beverage ratio. The box-like shape of YETI’s cooler makes it easy to transport, and its side handles make it surprisingly comfortable to carry.

Best for backyard upgraders: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

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If you’re shopping for someone who’s into glamping and/or extremely concerned about the very real issue of wildfires, or who just likes to host backyard hangs year-round, Solo Stove’s Bonfire 2.0 is the fire pit we recommend. It was designed to be “smokeless,” meaning a continuous flow of air, and an intelligently placed ash pan, prevent tons of smoke from billowing out of it constantly. There’ll still be some smoke, but not enough to make your eyes water, which means campers can sit closer to it (but not too close) to enjoy its warmth. Solo Stove addressed our one complaint with the original Bonfire by making this model’s ashtray easily removable, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Best for efficient travelers: TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

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Every traveler needs a good backpack regardless of whether they’re adventuring through land, air, or sea, and we highly recommend the Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe from Timbuk2. Its shoulder straps are well padded, which makes it easy to carry for extended periods of time, and there are plenty of pockets for a laptop, tablet, chargers, accessories, snacks, and anything else you might need to bring with you. We’re also pleased that backpack is largely made from recycled materials without sacrificing durability.

Best for techies who drink coffee and tea: Ember Travel Mug

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Ember’s 12-ounce Travel Mug can keep beverages between 120 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit for up to three hours thanks to a seven-sensor heating system and built-in battery pack. One can set the mug’s temperature through an app or by using its touch-sensitive display. Ember bundles its Travel Mug with a coaster, which doubles as a wireless charging pad. The mug will keep beverages warm continuously when it’s on the coaster, which is great for anyone who works at a desk. And it will warm your heart to know there are also options if you’re looking for a more “traditional” 14-ounce or 10-ounce coffee mug (also available in metallic finishes) or 6-ounce espresso cup.

Best for cold morning haters: Bedsure Heated Blanket

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Bedsure’s Heated Blanket is an essential gift for anyone who wants to make it through the winter without being tempted to reach for the thermostat. The flannel blanket’s heating coils are arranged to provide even heating, and a large controller lets you adjust their intensity between 104 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit. If one falls asleep with the blanket on, the heating coils will automatically shut off after three hours to prevent overheating. Surprisingly, Bedsure’s Heated Blanket is machine washable, so it can be kept clean without a big hassle. The only difficult decision will be whether to get this blanket in a single-person throw size or one that covers the entire bed.

Best for winter sports lovers: Stio Men’s Figment Jacket

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Wearing heavy clothing while skiing or snowboarding is inadvisable as it can make it more difficult to move, but that doesn’t mean you should leave your favorite outdoor sportsperson in the lurch this holiday season. Instead, go the extra mile and gift them a Figment Jacket from Stio. The thin jacket is impossibly warm thanks to the company’s use of durable, sustainable materials, including recycled polyester and custom-made PeakProof™ fabric, which keeps moisture from getting through. Well-positioned pockets make it easy to store and grab gear while you’re in the middle of a long run, while durable zippers make sure those pockets stay closed unless you want them opened. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles, the Figment Jacket is the type of gift someone will appreciate each time they hit the slopes. If you’re shopping for someone who also needs an everyday jacket, we can also recommend Stio’s Saratoga Shearling Jacket.

Best for cold sleepers: Double Stitch Cotton Jacquard Quilt Set

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It can be hard to fall asleep in a room that’s too cold, especially if you’ve got poor circulation, but that’s exactly what Double Stitch’s Cotton Jacquard Quilt Set prevents. The items in this set are made from 100% BCI-certified cotton that’s both soft smooth and 60% recycled materials. It’s even naturally vegan and allergen free. We were able to try this set out for ourselves, and can attest to both its comfort and ability to keep cool sleepers toasty all night long. The only downside to this set is that they may make it more difficult to get out of bed in the morning.

Best for perpetually cold commuters: Kühl Stretch Voyagr Insulated Jacket

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Kühl’s name is ironic because the company’s Stretch Voyagr Insulated Jacket will keep the person you gift it to toasty until spring. The jacket is made from polyester but has spandex in the lining, which offers a little bit of give. Its five pockets give you places for your hands and belongings, and we’re especially fond of its internal security pocket, which is a must-have if you don’t want to keep your wallet or phone in your pants pocket. If you get caught in inclement weather unexpectedly, you’ll immediately appreciate this jacket’s hood, which actually stays on your head while it’s engaged instead of immediately slipping off. If you want to match this gift with a couple of other hot pieces of apparel, Kühl’s Hot Ryder pants and a Kühl Flannel shirt are also safe bets.

Best for people who needs more heat: Ostrichpillow Heatbag

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If your friend constantly talks about getting a dog that will double as a warm cushion in the winter months, but their landlord doesn’t allow pets, gift them the next best thing. Ostrichpillow’s Heatbag is literally a squishy, energy-radiating pillow your friend can put their arms around. It won’t bark or wag its tail when they come home, but its clay interior can be reheated an unlimited number of times. Plus, it’s soft to the touch, and its memory foam shell will help conform to every weird sleeping position they adopt. The bag can also be used for physical therapy—heat it in the microwave and place it on sore muscles or strained joints for slow relief.

Best for the person who is still complaining they’re cold after all those cold gift suggestions: ORORO Heated Down Scarf

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If your friend is still talking about how they’re cold, this heated down scarf from ORORO combines the temperature regulation of down feathers with the immediate comfort of heated elements. It’s sleek, discreet, and stylish. You can wear it with a heated jacket or without. Judging by how cold your friend is, we will go with the heated jacket-heated scarf combo.

Best for on-the-go audiophiles: iFi xDSD Gryphon

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Those new ‘cans can’t showcase their best without proper power, which can be difficult to get on the go … difficult, that is, if someone doesn’t have the iFi xDSD Gryphon. The magic of the Gryphon lies in its versatility, which more than justifies its $599 price. You can cut the cord and use it, when fully charged, for up to 8 hours on the go with Bluetooth streaming over SBC, AAC for iOS, and up to 96kHz using LDAC, LHDC/HWA, or aptX HD/Adaptive on Android devices. Or you plug it in via USB, Coax, or Optical and ensure that no audio bit gets adulterated by wireless compression. Once you’re listening, you can enhance bass and/or upper midrange presence, as well as soundstage with iFi’s innovative XBass II and XSpace analog enhancements. Connected to your PC over USB-C, it will act as an external soundcard, eliminating the need for a dedicated desk setup—perfect with headphones and, when the Gryphon accepts a digital source, ports on the back can even be used to feed an external amp or powered monitors. The tremendous 1000mW @ 32 ohms of power on offer over its balanced connection also means this DAC can drive even very demanding headphones. The single-ended connection is much more limited at 320mW but is still enough to drive the vast majority of cans available today. And if you’re a fan of sensitive in-ear monitors (IEMs), don’t worry. The Gryphon also offers an iEMatch mode (assignable to either output) to prevent hiss from invading your favorite tracks, while maintaining dynamics.

Looking for something more pocketable but still powerful? The GO bar is a $329 32-bit/384kHz USB-C DAC/amp that offers 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm outputs with 475mW max. into 32 ohms​/7.5V max. into 600 ohms, as well as support for selectable filters, iEMatch, XBass+, XSpace, DSD256, MQA, and more.

Got a pair of corded in-ear monitors and prefer to go wireless? The iFi GO Pods pack much of the same codec support and compatibility as the xDSD Gryphon in two high-output rechargeable ear loops, turning any IEMs—thanks to exchangeable connectors—into “true wireless” earbuds.

Best for console gamers: Nintendo Switch

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

Best For Nintendo Switch owners: PNY XLR8 512GB Gaming Class MicroSD Card

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The Nintendo Switch is still our go-to game console recommendation due to its hybrid design and deep library of first- and third-party games. Our only real complaint is that the system only ships with 32GB of onboard storage for digital games. You can solve that issue with PNY’s XLR8, a 512GB MicroSD card designed with gaming in mind. With read and write speeds of 100 and 90MBps, respectively, you should see no difference in performance when digital games are downloaded onto this card. Better yet, you’ll still have access to the Nintendo Switch’s onboard storage and can pop in this MicroSD card with no tools. If you are holiday shopping for someone constantly deleting and re-downloading digital games, this can solve the issue once and for all.

Best for PlayStation 5 owners: SAMSUNG 990 PRO SSD (4TB)

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Know a PlayStation 5 gamer who loves digital games but is always out of storage? A 4TB Samsung 990 PRO SSD should solve that problem for a good long time. They’ll be able to quadruple their console’s internal storage capacity in about fifteen minutes with the help of a Phillips head screwdriver. Samsung’s SSD is fast, reliable, and has worked flawlessly in our tests. The latest premium PlayStation 5 games like Spider-Man 2 never hitch up or take longer than usual to load. We’d go so far as to say this high-capacity SSD is the best PlayStation 5 accessory you can get.

Best for comfortable couch gamers: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller

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

Best for portable PC players: ASUS ROG Ally

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

Best for console gamers and cinephiles: Samsung S95C OLED

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

Best for nostalgic typists: 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard

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Gaming keyboards are nothing new, but 8BitDo’s Retro Mechanical Keyboard is more than just a nostalgia trip. The mechanical keyboard’s color scheme is themed after the original Nintendo Entertainment System, complete with red “B” and “A” buttons. But Windows users can use 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software 2 to customize its function row and other buttons to your liking. If you’re playing games, changing these macros can help give you a leg up—or stay competitive in popular titles. MacOS users won’t be able to use Ultimate Software 2, but that platform isn’t known for gaming. That said, the keyboard’s stock functions are completely compatible with the Mac. This keyboard can be connected to your computer in three ways: with a USB cable, over Bluetooth, or using the included 2.4GHz USB dongle. If you’d like the best-looking mechanical gaming keyboard around, this is it. If you’d like a keyboard with a slightly more modern design, SteelSeries’ Apex 3 has most of the same other features as its higher-end models for under $50. We’ve got other picks if you’d like even more options.

Best for online gamers: Logitech G PRO X

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

Best for smartphone gamers: Backbone One

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

Best for gamers with limited space: GEEKOM Mini PC

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

Best gaming laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16

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

Best for streamers: Elgato HD60 X

SEE IT

Elgato’s HD60 X simplifies the complicated process of getting console game footage onto your PC for editing or live streaming. The unassuming puck has HDMI ports and a USB port, which is all you’ll need to connect your console to a computer. The HD60 X can capture 1080p60 HDR10 or 4K30. It’s compatible with all current-generation game consoles and Windows PCs. If ever there was a great gaming stocking stuffer, this is it.

Best for podcasters: SteelSeries Alias

SEE IT

It’s almost impossible to build an online audience for game streams without talking to them while you play, which is why SteelSeries’ Alias microphone is such an excellent gift for gamers. The microphone connects to a computer over USB, and LEDs on the mic itself will let you know whether your levels are peaking if you’re not monitoring your sound, and a knob on its front side allows you to quickly adjust your gain. This microphone is designed to work with SteelSeries’ Sonar software, which lets you adjust innumerable audio settings to get your voice sounding just right. A more budget-friendly USB alternative is Sennheiser’s Profile USB Microphone, which doesn’t match up to the Alias feature-for-feature but will make streamers sound better than their laptop mic would. Feeling spendy enough to assemble a broadcast-quality rig complete with external interface but unsure where to start? You could pick up one of our top breakout boxes and a microphone for vocals or bump up to the SteelSeries Alias Pro, which comes with its own.

Best for DIY enthusiasts: Cricut Joy Xtra

SEE IT

Cricut’s machines have become a phenomenon due to their power and ease of use, allowing anyone into DIY to customize cups, create stickers, personalize clothes, and much more. The Joy Xtra packs the power of Cricut’s larger units into a far more apartment-friendly size, which will make it much more accessible to even more makers. Once you create your design using Cricut’s easy-to-use digital tools, you can print it on over 50 materials. This includes cardstock for DIY holiday cards, poster board for projects, Iron-On for custom shirts, and even photo paper. The magic of the Cricut Joy Xtra is that it does most of the precise work for you, which makes it an incredible gift for the creative person in your life who’s ready to get more into making in the new year.

To recap …

• Best for movie nights: Popsmith Starter Bundle
• Best for music lovers: AirPods Pro 2
• Best for tea drinkers: Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Tea Kettle
• Best for pizza enthusiasts: Ooni Volt
• Best for leftover lovers: Anyday Everyday Set
• Best for cast iron curious cooks: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Skillet
• Best for pasta makers: MARCATO Atlas 150
• Best for cooks in small kitchens: Kuhn Rikon 4th Burner Pot
• Best for fermenters: Masontops Complete Mason Jar Fermentation Kit
• Best for new iPhone owners: CASETiFY Impact Ring Stand Case for iPhone 15 Pro
• Best for aspiring bakers: Falcon Enamelware Bake Set
• Best for meal preppers: Souper Cubes
• For language lovers: Vasco V4 Language Translator Device
• Best for bread bakers: Emile Henry Modern Bread Cloche
• Best for cookie makers: Silpat Half Size Nonstick Baking Mat
• Best for breakfast lovers: Made In Carbon Steel Griddle
• Best for ice cream wizards: Ninja Creami
• Best for fancy home cooks: Breville Joule Turbo
• Best for sleep lovers: FluffCo Down Feather Pillow
• Best for concertgoers: Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs
• Best for handy people: Leatherman Super Tool 300
• Best for couch potatoes: The Comfy Wearable Blanket
• Best for campers and commuters: Hydro Oasis 128 oz Insulated Cup
• Best for e-nthusiastic e-readers: Amazon Kindle
• Best for battery life worriers: Anker 20,000mAh Portable Charger
• Best for sustainable shoppers Nook Theory Reusable Insulated Grocery Bag
• Best for your friend who doesn’t drink: Figlia Fiore
• Best for your California sober friend: PAX Plus vaporizer
• Best hair care set: Act+Acre Cold Processed Hair Care Set 
• Best for dry hands and noses: selfmade Secure Attachment Comfort Serum and Corrective Experience Comfort Cream Comfort Zone bundle
• Best for tired feet: Comrad Knee High Compression Socks
• Best for people with cold feet: Heat Holders Thermal Socks
• Best for the far-away friend: Homesick Candles
• Best for frequent flyers: MLVOC 100% Pure Memory Foam Neck Pillow
• Best for gadget-carrying globetrotters: Safest Travel Adapter Kit
• Best for luggage location: Apple AirTag
• Best for tent campers: Kelty Late Start 2P
• Best for comfortable campers: Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree 550 Down Fill Sleeping Bag
• Best for beach beverage drinkers: YETI Tundra 35 Cooler
• Best for backyard upgraders: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
• Best for efficient travelers: TIMBUK2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe
• Best for techie coffee and tea drinkers: Ember Travel Mug
• Best for cold morning haters: Bedsure Heated Blanket
• Best for winter sports lovers: Stio Men’s Figment Jacket
• Best for cold sleepers: Double Stitch Cotton Jacquard Quilt Set
• Best for perpetually cold commuters: Kühl Stretch Voyagr Insulated Jacket
• Best for the person who needs more heat: Ostrichpillow Heatbag
• Best for the person who is still complaining they’re cold after three cold gift suggestions: ORORO Heated Down Scarf
• Best for on-the-go audiophiles: iFi xDSD Gryphon
• Best for family fun: Nintendo Switch
• Best for Nintendo Switch owners: PNY XLR8 512GB Gaming Class MicroSD Card
• Best for PlayStation 5 owners: SAMSUNG 990 PRO SSD (4TB)
• Best for comfortable couch gamers: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller
• Best for portable PC players: ASUS ROG Ally
• Best for console gamers and cinephiles: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best for nostalgic typists: 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard
• Best for online gamers: Logitech G PRO X
• Best for smartphone gamers: Backbone One
• Best for gamers with limited space: GEEKOM Mini PC
• Best for productive gamers: ASUS ROG Strix G16
• Best for streamers: Elgato HD60 X
• Best for podcasters: SteelSeries Alias
• Best for DIY enthusiasts: Cricut Joy Xtra

The post 50+ last-minute gifts to get everyone on your list ready 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 papers		Blazy Susan High Roller Kit		SEE IT	This 8-meter roll lets you customize the size of your rolling papers.
Best splurge		Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid		SEE IT	Gift the Rolls-Royce of cannabis accessories this year.
Best water pipe		Marley Natural Water Pipe		SEE IT	Borosilicate glass and black walnut wood combine for a classic and durable piece.

Not everyone who enjoys taking the edge off holiday hysteria likes—or wants—booze as a present. More than 55 million adults consume cannabis—so this guide is for when that person you’re gifting for happens to be one of them. Not only will giving something from this selection of the best cannabis accessories make others green with envy, but they might also invite you on the cousins walk to test it out. 

• Best papers: Blazy Susan High Roller Kit
• Best infused drink: Flyers THC Pack
• Best grinder: Santa Cruz Shredder 3-Piece Herb Grinder
• Best vaporizer: Pax Plus
• Best rolling tray: Blazy Susan Hemp Plastic Rolling Tray
• Best splurge: Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid
• Best handheld for controlled dosing: Omura Series X Complete Bundle
• Best preroll holder: Sackville & Co. Keychain Holder
• Best for on-the-go: The Clinger
• Best air purifier: LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier
• Best set: RAW Rolling Tray Combo
• Best pipe: Sackville & Co. Crystal Ball Pipe
• Best water pipe: Marley Natural Water Pipe
• Best lighter: BIC Classic Lighter 10-Pack

Best papers: Blazy Susan High Roller Kit

SEE IT

This isn’t your usual pack of papers and filter tips. This convenient package from Blazy Susan lets you choose the size of your papers every time you roll: simply pull your preferred length from the 8-meter roll to make a personal joint or one meant to be shared among friends. The kit also comes with a full set of perforated filter tips since no one wants to hit a slobbery, damp joint. Blazy Susan also makes our favorite cones that hardly canoe. The shorty size is perfect for a solo sesh, and the 98-millimeter size is great for groups.

Best infused drink: Flyers THC Pack

SEE IT

Get the sophistication of a craft cocktail minus the next-day hangover with this trio pack that includes three sophisticated sippers: Sparkling Ol’ Fashioned, equal parts smokey and sweet; Sparkling Margarita, a fresh citrus drink with a little kick; and Sparkling Spritz, bitter in the best way with a lovely touch of mandarin orange. Each can contains 5 milligrams of hemp-derived THC, which is just enough to make you giggle without wanting to fall asleep.

Best grinder: Santa Cruz Shredder 3-Piece Herb Grinder

SEE IT

Switching to another grinder is hard once you’ve used the Santa Cruz Shredder. It’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum with an anodized, scratch-resistant finish for a longtime grind. Its 45 sharp teeth give you an even, fluffy grind. There’s even an included scraper. Although we love this basic 3-piece design, it also comes in a biodegradable hemp material and a two-piece design. This Leune credit card grinder is another great portable option, under $10, and stylish.

Best vaporizer: Pax Plus

SEE IT

Vaporizing cannabis can be less harsh on your lungs—and less smelly—than inhaling smoke from a joint or water pipe. The Pax Plus uses conduction heating to give a hearty hit in a small, discreet package. The Pax Plus has a .5-gram capacity and an included concentrate insert, expanding your options when it comes to strain sampling. If you’re gifting to someone who mostly consumes flower, the Pax Mini might be a better option. It has the same battery life and heat time with a slightly smaller capacity and price tag. 

Best rolling tray: Blazy Susan Hemp Plastic Rolling Tray

SEE IT

This 100% biodegradable rolling tray has spots for a grinder, lighter, and a pack of papers. A valley in the tray keeps all your material in a central spot, and a funnel-like open corner helps make clean-up less messy (we’ve all struggled to get extra herb back into the grinder after rolling). It’s a major step up from basic metal rolling trays. But if you go with a metal tray, you should still stick to Blazy. 

Best splurge: Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid

SEE IT

The Storz & Bickel Volcano is the Rolls-Royce of tabletop vaporizers. At $699, this may be out of the price range to work as a White Elephant gift, unlike many of our choices, but it is perfect for the high-end cannabis consumer in your life. You can inhale through the classic valve balloon or through the new hookah-like tube kit. It heats up in two minutes, and the controls are easy to use and see. It’s even Bluetooth-equipped to control it via the S&B App for Android (sorry iOS users). If you know someone collecting the best-of-the-best cannabis accessories, this can be their centerpiece.  

Best handheld for controlled dosing: Omura Series X Complete Bundle

SEE IT

For the eco-conscious, paper straws are figuratively hot. For the toke-conscious, paper straws are also literally hot, thanks to the Omura Series X vaporizer. It’s a discreet, combustion-free handheld that heats “Flowersticks” you pack with dry herb (fill system included in the bundle) for a personal smoke(less) session. Each Flowerstick is FSC-certified rainforest-friendly paper and 100 percent compostable—stats that can make you feel good while all the cannabinoids and terpenes freed during a three-minute roast make you feel good. Not only are the Flowersticks better for the environment and your mood, but they also allow you to control your intake; if one ain’t enough fun, two could do. And, because your mouth never touches the vaporizer itself, it’s perfect for the lonely stoner who seems to free his mind at night and a more hygienic system to share with friends (and/or family).

Best preroll holder: Sackville & Co. Keychain Holder

SEE IT

Stop joints from getting crushed on the go with this aluminum joint holder from Sackville & Co., which is discreet, stylish, and minimalist. Simply slip your preroll into the case, close the cap, and attach it to your keys. It has room for one regular-sized joint and two minis. No one will be able to sniff out the green on you.

Best for on-the-go: The Clinger

SEE IT

Is your gift receiver always asking for a lighter or rooting around their bag, pockets, or glove compartment for one? This smell-proof, crush-proof holder can hold one joint and hugs your lighter so it will never feel alone or lost.

Best air purifier: LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier

SEE IT

Smoking indoors can leave a lingering smell on your couch cushions and make your apartment a hazy, musty mess. Stop smells before they even happen by running this air purifier before, during, and after sesh time. Its touchscreen is responsive, and we love the quiet night feature, so you don’t even hear it purifying the air. If you really want to play it safe, spray some odor-eliminator spray when you’re done.

Best set: RAW Rolling Tray Combo

SEE IT

This set comes with a rolling tray, two packs of 1 1/4-inch rolling papers, two packs of RAW Original tips, a RAW rolling machine, and a joint travel tube. You also have a choice of small or large tray to gift adequately. This is a great gift for cannabis consumers of all levels, because no one ever complained about having too many papers.  

Best pipe: Sackville & Co. Crystal Ball Pipe

SEE IT

Move past the bowl pipes with this spherical stunner from Sackville & Co. It’s made of colorful borosilicate glass, making it beautiful and functional. It’s meant to be displayed proudly on a coffee table or bookshelf, thanks to its matching glass cradle.

Best water pipe: Marley Natural Water Pipe

SEE IT

For those with a water pipe on their wishlist, gift them a stylish one from Marley Natural. Borosilicate glass gives it strength, and sustainably sourced black walnut gives it beauty. It has removable sections for easy cleaning, and an ice catcher lets you pull cooler vapor. Regardless, your hits will be smooth thanks to its 5-hole downstem. 

Best lighter: BIC Classic Lighter 10-Pack

SEE IT

Make it up to your friend for all the lighters you’ve pilfered off them with this colorful 10-pack from BIC. If you’re really trying to call it even, snag them this classy silver Clipper refillable and reflintable lighter.

The post The best cannabis accessories to celebrate the holiblaze appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Whisker Feeder Robot		SEE IT	App control lets you view food level and monitor feeding habits.
Best for wet food		Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder		SEE IT	Keep wet food cold with an internal cold pack.
Best budget		PETLIBRO Air Automatic Cat Feeder		SEE IT	This value pick keeps it simple.

If your cat can’t get enough of its crunchies, an automatic cat feeder can help. They make it easy to maintain moderation—you’re giving your feline friend an exact amount of food—and they keep your pet on a consistent feeding schedule. They also stop other pets in the house from eating their food. If you own more than one cat, consider an automatic car feeder with two bowls to create healthy habits for the entire household. Some have apps that let you control it from far away, and others let you record a sweet message for your cat while you’re out. Although most pet feeders are designed to dispense dry food, it’s possible to feed your cat wet food without being in the kitchen for feeding time. And, others only open when a pet’s microchip or RFID tag is in close range. The best automatic cat feeders can help keep your cat full, happy, and healthy.

• Best overall: Whisker Feeder Robot
• Best high-capacity: faroro 7L Automatic Cat Feeder
• Best for multiple cats: PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Food Dispenser for Two Cats
• Best for wet food: Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder
• Best for keeping dogs out: Sure Petcare-SureFlap-SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder
• Best value: PETLIBRO Air Automatic Cat Feeder

How we chose the best automatic cat feeders

We looked at bowls with smart features, that accommodated multiple kinds of cat food, and that held at least a week’s worth of food in the hopper. We also ensured the bowls were stainless steel or looked to see if you could swap out a plastic bowl for a stainless steel one. Cats can develop feline acne from the bacteria that can linger in a plastic bowl. Although we can pop any zits we get, cats can’t. Feline acne is itchy, which makes a cat scratch their chin even more, exacerbating the problem. Most cases of cat acne are mild, but as a fellow cat parent with a cat that has both mild feline acne and mild feline asthma, I know that any new bump or crust leads to frantic web searching that convinces you your cat has an autoimmune issue and/or cancer. One bowl change is worth the time saved not Googling “cat bump on chin help.”

The best automatic cat feeders: Reviews & Recommendations

Cats require a lot of work, playtime, and pets to be their best. Food and treats are major pieces in the puzzle of keeping your pet healthy and happy. One of our picks should help your cat get the nutrients they need at the right time, sans overindulging.

Best overall: Whisker Feeder Robot

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 32 cups
• App connectivity: Yes
• Number of pets it feeds: One
• Serving size dispensed: 1/2 cup of pet food in 1/8-cup increments

Pros

• App connectivity
• Lots of customization
• Back-up battery

Cons

• Non-stainless steel bowl

Give your cat the right amount of time, every time, with this automatic cat feeder that comes from the makers of the Litter-Robot. You can feed your pet from anywhere by using the Whisker app (for iOS and Android), and you can track your pet’s eating habits with its history feature. Anti-jam tech and food backup detection prevent missed meals, and a model with a battery backup keeps your pet’s eating times on schedule even when the power is out. A chew-resistant power cord and removable parts make it especially pet-friendly.

Although the bowl is BPA-free, feline acne is a risk. You can remove the bowl and replace it with a stainless steel one, but it’s an added cost for an already expensive automatic cat feeder.

Best high-capacity: faroro 7L Automatic Cat Feeder

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 30 cups
• App connectivity: No
• Number of pets it feeds: One
• Serving size dispensed: 5-10 grams

Pros

• High capacity
• Voice recording
• Can feed an adult cat for 35 days

Cons

• Non-stainless steel bowl

Lugging around a large bag of cat food is less than desirable. Thankfully, you only need to fill this automatic pet feeder every 35 days. You can set it up so you feed your pet 1-5 meals per day with 1-39 portions per meal. Each portion is 5-10 grams, so you might have to do some math to ensure your cat is getting the right amount of food daily. A dual power supply means your pet’s feeding schedule won’t get thrown out of whack if the power goes out. The food hopper and bowl can be removed for cleaning. Our favorite feature is the included voice recording, which records a 10-second message to your pet. The bowl is, unfortunately, plastic, meaning you risk feline acne.

Best for multiple cats: PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Food Dispenser for Two Cats

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 5 liters
• App connectivity: No
• Number of pets it feeds: Two
• Serving size dispensed: 2 teaspoons

Pros

• Adjustable meal splitter
• Stainless steel bowls included
• Reliable

Cons

• Portion sizes take time to figure out

A cat feeder for two cats ensures each cat gets the correct portion simultaneously. This is perfect for a household where your felines fight over who gets fed when, and how much. The LCD display is set at a 45-degree angle, so it’s easy to view, and an option to record a 10-second message makes your cat feel like you’re home. The adjustable meal splitter has a three percent dispensing tolerance, making mealtime equal. Crunchies stay crunchy thanks to four layers of sealing, which also ensures other pets don’t steal from the hopper. An infrared sensor checks the food outlet and stops dispensing if it’s blocked. The feeder can accommodate dry, freeze-dried, mixed, and air-dried food up to 15 millimeters in size.

You might have to do some math to figure out portion sizing. The PETLIBRO can feed 1-6 meals daily and up to 50 portions each meal (each portion is two teaspoons). The company recommends feeding your pet 3-4 meals a day. For example, if your cat needs 1/2 cup of food a day, that equals six portions spread out over three meals.

Best for wet food: Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 34.5 ounces total
• App connectivity: No
• Number of pets it feeds: One
• Serving size dispensed: 11.5 ounces

Pros

• Bowl is dishwasher-safe
• Comes with built-in icepack
• Easy to set-up

Cons

• Only holds three servings
• Stainless steel bowls sold separately

Wet food helps your cat ingest more water and makes it easy for toothless cats to get their daily nutrients. How do you pre-portion and serve what is essentially chunky goop out of an automatic cat feeder? The answer is a circular feeder with a built-in ice pack that reveals the food instead of dispensing it. The cover and bowl are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe. A battery status indicator lets you know when it’s time to change the batteries, and a small digital screen shows you the current time and scheduled feeding times. It comes with a plastic bowl (boo), but stainless steel bowls are sold separately (yay).

Best for keeping dogs out: Sure Petcare-SureFlap-SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 13.5 fl. oz.
• App connectivity: No
• Number of pets it feeds: One
• Serving size dispensed: N/A

Pros

• Doesn’t automatically refill
• Collar tag included
• Included training mode

Cons

• Expensive

If the dog or other cat is a food thief and nothing seems to keep them out/away from the feeders, a microchip feeder can put a stop to stolen noms. This feeder only opens with a registered pet’s microchip or with an RFID collar tag. Each slice of the feeder holds 13.5 fl. oz. of wet or dry food, and a neoprene seal on the lip keeps food fresh. It works with 9-, 10-, and 15-digit microchip numbers, or you can attach the included RFID tag to their collar. Although it doesn’t refill the food for you, it is the best way to keep food away from the wrong pets. Finally, some peace in your multi-pet home.

Best budget: PETLIBRO Air Automatic Cat Feeder

SEE IT

Specs

• Capacity: 2 liters
• App connectivity: Yes, available in a separate model
• Number of pets it feeds: One
• Serving size dispensed: 1 1/2 cup

Pros

• Holds a week’s worth of food
• Included stainless steel bowl
• Refill light

Cons

• Portion sizes take time to figure out
• Small capacity

You don’t need to spend much to get a great automatic cat feeder, especially if your cat is a smarty-pants who can open doors. The press-to-lock button keeps your cat out of the food tank, and a control panel cover prevents accidental button presses. It runs on D-cell batteries or wall power, with a 180-day battery life for consistent power. A low-food indicator lets you know when it’s time to refill, and it also flashes for food jamming and when the battery is low. A WiFi option lets you control the feeder via the PETLIBRO app (for iOS and Android). Like our multiple cat pick, you have to do some math to get your portion sizes right with this value pick. It’s good to flex your brain muscles, right?

What to consider when buying the best automatic cat feeders

Overfeeding your cat is currently a major problem. Sixty percent of cats in the U.S. are considered overweight, and some repercussions come with that. The more your cat eats, the more they poop, but the less nutrients they absorb. It can also change their gut microbiome, affect their longevity, and lead to diabetes and chronic inflammation. An automatic cat feeder prevents your cat from overeating (which they will do when allowed) by portioning and serving the correct amount of food. Here’s what you should consider when choosing the best option for your pet.

Bowl material

Plastic bowls can harbor bacteria that can give your cat feline acne. Even ceramic isn’t the best material for cat bowls. Look for something made of stainless steel, which is non-porous, dishwasher safe, and easy to clean. Plus, they don’t break or chip like plastic and ceramic bowls.

Voice recording

Some automatic cat feeders let you record your own voice, which keeps your cat happy when you’re not home and makes your feeder seem less robotic. This is especially great if your cat is a little timid. Some automatic pet feeders come with a training mode to help cats adjust to eating out of an automatic feeder.

Cat’s weight and portion size

Each individual cat has different dietary needs, but generally, they need 1/3-1/2 cup of food per day, depending on your cat’s weight. Automatic cat feeders divvy out portions at a specific time for meal time, and you’ll have to do the math on what portion size you should choose. Talk to your vet before changing your cat’s feeding schedule.

Smart features

Smart features help you control your pet feeder from your phone, which is great if you’re not home to ensure the feeding time is happening as planned. Some apps include tracking to see how much your cat has eaten. Smart features are worth the money if you’re looking for some added bells and whistles. (And if you’re as curious as a … cat you can always install a WiFi-connected pet camera to find out how things are going while you’re not home.)

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best automatic cat feeders

• Best overall: Whisker Feeder Robot
• Best high-capacity: faroro 7L Automatic Cat Feeder
• Best for multiple cats: PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Food Dispenser for Two Cats
• Best for wet food: Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder
• Best for keeping dogs out: Sure Petcare-SureFlap-SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder
• Best value: PETLIBRO Air Automatic Cat Feeder

An automatic cat feeder times out your cat’s feeding schedule so they don’t eat all their allotted dry food and yell at you for more. Some have smart capabilities that let you control the feeder from your phone, and some let you leave your pet a sweet voice message. Multi-pet options let you manage feeding time with two-plus voracious velociraptors, and you can even snag one that uses your pet’s microchip to get access to food. Your cat will be happy about the food waterfall, and you’ll feel better about the amount you’re giving them.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best automatic cat feeders for 2024 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Gifting someone a car detailing service or house cleaning is an easy way to make someone’s day. Make their entire year with a iRobot Roomba s9+ and Braava Jet m6 bundle that can give them shiny floors and fluffy carpet every day.

iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum & Braava Jet m6 (6112) Robot Mop Bundle $899 (Was $1,249)

SEE IT

This dynamic duo teams up to vacuum, then mop, automatically in sequence, making your floors clean without having to think about robot deployment. You don’t have to worry about disposing of what your vacuum sucks up; the s9’s base disposes of dirt when the vacuum docks and can hold up to 60 days’ worth of grime. The vacuum also has a high suction power and three-stage cleaning so the deepest debris and pet hair can’t escape. The Braava jet m6 mops as thoroughly as you do, but it can get under furniture, which your aging adult knees cannot accomplish. Both the s9 vacuum and Braava m6 mop can deep clean around corners and edges, and both learn the layout of your home so you don’t have to worry about staging a robovac rescue mission.

Here are more Roomba deals that will clean up at your family’s gift exchange:

• iRobot Roomba 692 Robot Vacuum $159.99 (Was $269)
• iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum and Mop $348.99 (Was $549.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j5 Robot – 2-in-1 Vacuum with Optional Mopping $299 (Was $599.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop $498.99 (Was $799.99)
• iRobot Braava Jet M6 (6110) Ultimate Robot Mop $299 (Was $449.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop $699 (Was $979)
• iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO (3550) Robot Vacuum and Braava Jet m6 (6113) Robot Mop Bundle $499 (Was $899.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ Self-Emptying & Auto-Fill Robot Vacuum & Mop $999 (Was $1,399)
• iRobot Roomba j9+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum $699 (Was $899)

The post Save $350 on a Roomba robovac and mop bundle and get it before Christmas appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer		SEE IT	A simple thermometer that’s perfect if you don’t need bells and whistles.
Best smart		Frida Baby Infrared Thermometer		SEE IT	Use it to read forehead, ear, or baby bottle temperatures.
Best budget		Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer		SEE IT	A simple thermometer that costs less than $10.

When you have the sniffles, a thermometer can determine if you have a fever or not. If you’re thinking, “I can just wait for this alien hot-cold feeling to pass,” you might want to reconsider your stance. Having a fever can be fatal. If your fever is higher than 105°F, get thee to an emergency room. Anything higher than that could lead to brain damage, seizures, and shock—all those are way more bothersome than a sore throat and runny nose. You should schedule a telehealth appointment or quick visit to your healthcare provider otherwise. From COVID-19 to flu season to a regular cold, tracking your temperature can determine if you’re getting better. Your body turns itself into a furnace to smoke out the virus and activate your immune response; if your body temperature returns to normal, it most likely means the meds you’re taking are working. Monitoring your temperature can indicate the beginnings of sickness even if you feel fine. The best thermometers can help you start preventative measures to beat your cold faster or track your temperature for peace of mind.

• Best overall: Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer
• Best infrared: iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer Infrared Digital Thermometer
• Best ear: Braun ThermoScan 7–Digital Ear Thermometer
• Best for kids: Frida Baby Infrared Thermometer
• Best smart: Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer
• Best budget: Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer

How we chose the best thermometers

Going to the nurse’s office in elementary school was a treat. You got to lay on the cold vinyl lounges that smelled and felt like diner benches and get some peace and quiet. Did I love the taste of the thermometer cover? No, nor did I enjoy getting the underside of my tongue prodded. My temperature was rarely ever high enough to get sent home, but I could have used a thermometer there (and maybe Ferris Bueller’s acting skills) to get some extra sick days in. To pick our favorite thermometers, we looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted testing so any child reading this can get the chances I didn’t to stay home from school.

The best thermometers: Reviews & Recommendations

Being sick sucks. Getting a reading on how sick you are—or how sick you’re going to be—can give you a chance to order some electrolytes and ruminate on what your illness binge-watch will be. (We’re fans of Love Island, the OG Brit version only).

Best overall: Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer

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Specs

• Weight: 1.76 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.5 x .5 inches
• Power source: Battery-powered
• Reading area: Mouth, rectum, underarm

Pros

• Easy to read
• Accurate
• Versatile

Cons

• Cover hard to remove to replace batteries

This Vicks thermometer gives accurate readings in less than 10 seconds to get results quickly. Its memory feature recalls and displays the last temperature taken, and its screen color signifies temperature. You’ll get a green display for a normal temperature, yellow for elevated temperature, and red for high temperature. A flexible tip makes it perfect for all ages, and you can take oral, rectal, and underarm readings. It’s waterproof, easy to clean, and it’s BPA-free. This gentle and fast thermometer is perfect if you’re looking for a well-designed thermometer that’s spot-on.

Best infrared: iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer Infrared Digital Thermometer

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Specs

• Weight: 4.59 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.39 x 1.54 inches
• Power source: Battery-powered
• Reading area: Forehead

Pros

• Perfect for maintaining distance to take temperatures
• Fast
• Intuitive

Cons

• Not as accurate as other choices

If getting up close with someone who could carry a communicable illness makes you shiver, get a temperature from a safer distance—and without having to unmask—with an infrared thermometer. Simply hold the thermometer around an inch from the forehead, hold the button, and wait just one second to get the temp. The thermometer sensor collects more than 100 data points per second, while environmental sensors work to keep outside factors from affecting the reading. It’s not as accurate as other thermometers, but it’s perfect to get everyone’s temperature before an inside gathering. An easy-to-read, extra-large LED display works in darkness, and the device vibrates when it’s done. No more beeps. You can use it on babies and the elderly, making it a do-all forehead thermometer.

Best ear: Braun ThermoScan 7–Digital Ear Thermometer

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Specs

• Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 2.1 inches
• Power source: Battery-powered
• Reading area: Ear

Pros

• Disposable lens filter included
• Age precision technology
• Beep and light confirms proper positioning

Cons

• Expensive

If you’re looking for an ear thermometer, the Braun ThermoScan has features that make it a great choice for the entire family. Age-adjustable fever guidance helps you decide if you should make a trip to UrgentCare or not, and a color-coded display makes interpreting results easy. It comes with a pre-warmed tip that helps with accuracy (cooler tips result in lower temperatures), and disposable lens filters make things hygienic. A light and a beep confirm proper positioning so it’s used correctly. It’s a splurge, but we think it’s well worth it.

Best for kids: Frida Baby Infrared Thermometer

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Specs

• Weight: 4 ounces
• Dimensions: 3 x 1 inches
• Power source: Batteries
• Reading area: Forehead, ear

Pros

• 3-in-1
• Large memory
• Sound and color alerts

Cons

• Results not as accurate

Kids are hard to wrangle and a little cranky when they get sick. Make it easier for the whole family with the Frida Baby infrared thermometer. It can take temperatures from the forehead, room or bottle, and ear. Color-coded fever alerts allow you to quickly assess results, which come in 1 second. You can also choose if you want sound alerts as well. Its memory stores 40 previous temperatures, and a storage pouch keeps your thermometer protected from dust and debris. It’s not as accurate as other kinds of thermometers, but it is a great option to quickly and painlessly take a child’s temperature.

Best smart: Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer

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Specs

• Weight: 2.4 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.7 inches
• Power source: Battery
• Reading area: Mouth, underarm, rectum

Pros

• Accurate
• Reliable
• Fast

Cons

• Doesn’t adjust temperature with age

Synced to your phone via Bluetooth, this thermometer enables all kinds of data tracking and sharing. Someone in the home can take a reading, and another guardian can get a notification of the reading results. The app syncs up fast, and you can keep multiple profiles to temp track the entire family. The app also lets you make a timeline of fever readings, med administering, and naps. This makes it easy to relay a child’s symptoms to a healthcare provider. You can use it orally, rectally, or via the underarm, and it only takes less than eight seconds to get a reading back. A large lighted display makes it easy to read temperatures, and a bendable tip makes it comfortable to get a temperature. The app turns your thermometer into your own nurse at home but doesn’t adjust for temperature differences between ages. Some reviews note having problems syncing the thermometer with the app.

Best budget: Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer

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Specs

• Weight: .37 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.93 x .76 inches
• Power source: Battery operated
• Reading area: Mouth, underarm, rectum

Pros

• Cheap
• Fast

Cons

• You get what you pay for
• Hard to see temperature on small display

The value thermometer has multiple features found on higher-priced thermometers. It recalls your last reading, and it beeps when reading is complete. It takes about 10 seconds to read temperatures, and you can use it in your mouth, rectum, or underarm. The LCD display is a little small and can be hard to read, but there’s nothing a little head tilt can’t fix. It switches in between Celcius and Fahrenheit, and it’s easy to clean. You get a durable, hard plastic case to store it when not in use. It’s small enough to stow away in a first-aid kit, and cheap enough that you can buy more than one without breaking the bank.

What to consider when buying the best thermometers

As we’ve been taught by our parents, teachers, and guardians, it’s unwise to go around sticking just about anything in your mouth. Thermometers are the rare exception. Here’s what you should know before putting one into any of the orifices in your body.

Type of thermometer

There are three kinds of thermometers: contact thermometers, where electronic sensors record body temperature; remote thermometers, which don’t require skin contact for a reading; and mercury thermometers, where the toxic element is encased in glass. Mercury thermometers aren’t typically used because they can break and cause a hazard.

Your thermometer should have a way to read it and a way to take the temperature. You can also find bonus features like a large display for easy reading, a beeping alert when the thermometer is done reading the temperature, or an on/off button.

Reading location

You can take temperatures from many areas of the body. We’ve outlined some of the most popular locations:

• Rectal: Taking temperatures with a rectal thermometer will give you the most accurate result, which is important for infants. However, it can be uncomfortable to take someone’s temperature rectally. You also want to ensure the rectal thermometer is kept far away from the oral thermometers in your home—you wouldn’t want to get them mixed up.
• Oral: Oral temperature readings are generally pretty accurate but not as accurate as rectal thermometers. You need to take 15 minutes after eating or drinking to take an oral temperature—your hot, healing soup could affect the reading. For those suffering from a stuffy nose, keeping your mouth closed long enough to get an accurate reading can be a challenge.
• Armpit: Taking a reading from an armpit is great if you can’t take temperatures orally. They’re not the most accurate. You can use the same kind of thermometer for rectal and oral readings for armpit readings, but we recommend keeping an armpit thermometer an armpit thermometer. If you’ve just taken a shower or bath, or if you’ve been in/under multiple layers, wait 20-30 minutes before taking the reading. You have to take your shirt off and tuck the thermometer under your armpit to get a reading.
• Temporal artery: Forehead thermometers use an infrared scanner to measure temperature. It works quickly and is painless to do. However, it’s expensive and less accurate than a contact thermometer. User error, direct sunlight, sweat, and cold weather can affect readings.
• Ear: Tympanic thermometers use an infrared beam to take the temperature from your ear canal. Tympanic thermometers are quick and comfortable to use. They aren’t recommended for newborns. Earwax and the shape of your ear canal can affect the accuracy of the reading.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best thermometers

• Best overall: Vicks ComfortFlex Digital Thermometer
• Best infrared: iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer Infrared Digital Thermometer
• Best ear: Braun ThermoScan 7–Digital Ear Thermometer
• Best for kids: Frida Baby Infrared Thermometer
• Best smart: Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer
• Best budget: Boncare Digital Oral Thermometer

A thermometer can accurately read your body temperature to see where you’re in your #healing journey. Pushing yourself while sick isn’t good for you or the people around you: We’ve learned by now that you should not go to work sick (and you should mask up if you do) or risk turning the office party into a superspreader event. We welcome you to languish, lounge, and watch all the trashy television you’d like; just take your temperature occasionally to ensure you’re on the road to recovery.

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 thermometers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Your loved ones include crying babies, precocious toddlers, and aunts who love to shout when they talk. You absolutely love them very much and enjoy this time of year to spend more time with them, but sometimes it’s OK to enter your own private paradise when the holiday gathering ends. These Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are $100 off and are some of our favorite noise-canceling headphones.

Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $249 (Was $349)

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These festive green headphones let you shut off the outside world and distractions with some of the best noise-canceling tech available. They also include an Aware Mode that lets you be more in tune with your surroundings thanks to a built-in microphone array. High-fidelity sound and adjustable EQ let you control the bass, mid-range, and treble frequencies for perfect sound. 24 hours of battery life on a single charge lets you rock out all day; if you do need to recharge, a 15-minute charge gives you 2.5 hours of additional play time.

Here are more headphone deals for rockin’ around your Christmas tree:

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $379 (Was $429)
• JBL Tune 510BT Wireless On-Ear Headphones $24.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Tune 710BT Wireless Over-Ear $39.95 (Was $79.95)
• Beats Studio Buds + $119.99 (Was $169.95)
• Beats Studio Pro $179.95 (Was $349.99)
• Sony WH-1000XM5 $328 (Was $399.99)
• Sony WH-1000XM4 $228 (Was $349.99)
• Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Canceling Earbuds $248 (Was $299.99)

The post Give the gift of peace this holiday with Bose noise-canceling headphones for $100 off appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Buying refurbished products over new ones is a great way to save money and help the environment. Instead of letting a perfectly good product sit in a landfill, you’re giving it a second chance. Even better, refurbished products work just as well as new ones, and sometimes even better. Plus, you still get an excellent warranty. If you’ve eyed a Vitamix blender but can’t afford the cost, consider this refurbished Vitamix Explorian Blender at Amazon.

Vitamix Explorian Blender with Programs, 64 oz. (Refurbished) $199.95 (Was $349.95)

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This Vitamix Explorian Blender is perfect for smoothie aficionados and chefs alike. A professional-grade blender is an all-purpose tool that can make quick work of soups, salsa, margaritas, and more. This 64-ounce device has 10 settings that allow it to double as a food processor. And it’s dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is also a cinch. 

Here are more refurbished deals for more new-to-you thrills:

• Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, Midnight Blue, Limited Edition $239.99 (Was $299)
• JBL Flip 6 $82.99 (Was $97.49)
• SHARK HyperAir IQ Hair Dryer $109.95 (Was $197.81)
• Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones $159.99 (Was $205)
• eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11S (Slim) $109.99 (Was $115.81)
• Ninja NC300 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker $230.98 (Was $255.42)
• Ninja Air Fryer, 1550-Watt Programmable Base for Air Frying $84.99 (Was $99.99)
• Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer $219.99 (Was $349.99)
• Blink Mini $19.99 (Was $34.99)
• Nintendo Switch – OLED Model w/Neon Red & Neon Blue Joy-Con $314.99 (Was $349.99)
• Owlet Dream Sock $209.99 (Was $249)

The post Save $150 on a refurbished Vitamix blender that’s practically brand-new at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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You can debate Die Hard being a holiday movie all you want (it’s not, and I will die on this hill), but sometimes, you just have to shut up since you can’t put up at the family party. Or, you can achieve peace by putting on anything else (Home Alone, A Christmas Story, Elf, even Gremlins). Maybe we shouldn’t project our feelings on the festivities, but that doesn’t mean we can’t project something far more fun. Holiday movies can bring the family together, whether it’s a Rankin/Bass classic or a Hallmark feel-good fodder. Watch it on your own wall, or your family’s or a friend’s, with these projector deals at Amazon.

XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro 1080P Portable Projector $509.99 (Was $599)

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Bring the Hollywood premiere to your own home with this 400-lumen projector that you can fit easily in a bag or hand. Two 8W speakers that are compatible with Dolby Audio give you realistic sound, and automatic keystone correction lets you get in focus faster. It’s perfect for weekly Bachelor watch parties with the crew or a super Super Bowl shindig.

Here are more projector deals we’re watching out for:

• XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K Projector $1,099 (Was $1,199.99)
• XGIMI HORIZON Ultra 4K Projector $1,599.99 (Was $1,699)
• XGIMI HORIZON 1080p FHD Projector $849 (Was $1,099)
• XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector $599 (Was $649)
• NEBULA by Anker Capsule 3 Laser 1080p, Mini Smart TV Projector $579.99 (Was $799.99)
• NEBULA by Anker Mars 3 Outdoor Portable Projector $799.99 (Was $1,099.99)
• NEBULA by Anker Cosmos Laser 4K Projector(Upgraded) $1,499.99 (Was $1,999.99)
• ViewSonic X2000B-4K Ultra Short Throw 4K UHD Laser Projector $1,798.75 (Was $2,399.99)

The post Watch your favorite holiday movies on a “big screen” with this XGIMI projector deal 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		Parachute Home Brushed Cotton Sheet Set		SEE IT	Soft, luxurious, and built to last.
Best organic		Delilah Home Sustainable Living 100% Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set		SEE IT	Resort-quality sheets you can feel good about.
Best budget		California Design Den 6 Piece Sheet Set		SEE IT	Get a 400 thread count for $50.

Cotton sheets are the everyman of bedding fabric. They’re breathable—perfect for those who run hot when they sleep—and low maintenance. All you have to do is throw them in the wash to clean, and they hold up twice as long compared to other fabrics. And, since cotton is a natural material, you don’t have to worry about it rotting away in a landfill for years and years. You can also get recycled cotton sheets to feel better about your bedding purchases. You can also get a little crazy with cotton fabric: Flannel, sateen, percale … there are endless ways to turn cotton into something even more dreamy than before. Cotton bedding also comes in many shapes, sizes, and patterns, so you can change your bedding as you get older without losing on comfort and snuggliness. They’re also versatile for multiple seasons. The best cotton sheets are fit for a king—or queen … or twin—and you’ll find them here.

• Best overall: Parachute Home Brushed Cotton Sheet Set
• Best flannel: Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheet Set
• Best organic: Delilah Home Sustainable Living 100% Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set
• Best for hot sleepers: Linen Home Store 100% Cotton Percale Sheets
• Best budget: California Design Den 6-Piece Sheet Set

How we chose the best cotton sheets

I am #teamtopsheet. A top sheet is perfect for nights when you’re running warm but you want something covering you. Through college and adulthood, I’ve wrestled with many a fitted sheet. This passion for a piece of fabric—and overcoming adversity by putting on a fitted sheet correctly—makes me uniquely qualified to test this topic. Do those little labels with “BOTTOM RIGHT” emblazoned on them make a difference? What amount of bonus material is needed to fit over a mattress topper? As a very serious journalist covering hard-hitting topics like water bottles, sex toys, and bongs (which could all be considered sleep accessories of a sort), it’s important to not let a sleeping dog lie. If you’re not comfortable in bed, there’s no way you’re getting a good night’s sleep. To find the best cotton sheets, I looked at user reviews and critical recommendations and tested options myself. This sleeping dog laid down a bunch to give you the dirt skinny, but she definitely doesn’t lie about her favorite cotton sheets.

The best cotton sheets: Reviews & Recommendations

So you’ve got a luxurious new mattress, but do you want your raw body touching it … touching the duvet? Exactly. We’re not giving you any bull-sheet when it comes to our picks for the best cotton sheets. Pop some melatonin—but not too much—and read on.

Best overall: Parachute Home Brushed Cotton Sheet Set

SEE IT

Specs

• Included in set: 1 fitted sheet, 2 pillowcases
• Sizes: Full, Queen, King, California King
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Soft
• Ages like fine wine
• Breathable

Cons

• Top sheet is a $100 add-on
• Fitted sheet has lots of excess fabric
• Expensive

I realized I got these sheets in “college boy navy blue” (called “Dusk” on the Parachute website) after putting them on my IKEA mattress. However, the Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set is the antithesis of the scratchy, thin, sad sheets adorning the stained mattresses of college-aged men. Jokingly calling them “college boy navy blue” also feels wrong—a tinge of gray makes them feel undoubtedly more grown up.

The cotton is breathable, the sheets are oh-so-soft, and the weave feels thick and sturdy. It feels like I’ve reclaimed something from my sordid alcohol-fueled, anti-depressant-less, not-in-therapy college romps. These have quickly become the No. 1 sheet set in my rotation, and I’d purchase them again in Mist—a light blue-grey—in a heartbeat.

The elastic on the fitted sheet fit perfectly, but there was excess material. The top sheet was also large. It felt more like a Queen-sized set but was indeed a Full (I double-checked). This is perfect if you have a tall, plushy mattress topper, but I prefer a more fitted look compared to the lived-in looseness the Parachute sheets provided. It’s not a deal breaker, but it is something to note.

Although they’re worth the price, this Parachute set is expensive. I received two pillowcases, a top sheet, and a fitted sheet. This basic Full set (2 pillowcases, 1 fitted sheet, and 1 $100 top sheet add-on) comes out to $269—a pretty penny for something that encounters sweat, spit, and skin dust nightly. That cost adds up if you buy multiple sets to swap in and out. However, considering this set will last me years and exceed its cost per use quickly, the money math works out.

Best flannel: Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheet Set

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Specs

• Included in set: Two pillowcases, 1 fitted sheet, 1 top sheet
• Sizes: Twin, full
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Made of organic cotton
• Thick, weighty 6-ounce flannel
• Made of recycled cotton

Cons

• Expensive

Crawling into bed on a cold winter’s night and feeling your skin touch crisp, cool sheets is … not ideal. Bring your inner hipster and/or lumberjack into your bed with flannel sheets that keep you cozy when the temperature drops. This set from Coyuchi is weighty 6-ounce flannel and made from 100 percent organic cotton. You get two pillowcases, a fitted sheet, and a top sheet for slightly less than the Parachute set. A former/fallen PopSci Gear desk member (may he rest in peace) is a Coyuchi stan and vouches for their masterful quality and utmost coziness. If you’re looking to get that sweet, sweet Amazon two-day shipping on these bad boys, you’ll be limited in your size and color choices. Thankfully, there are more size and color options on the Coyuchi website.

Best organic: Delilah Home Sustainable Living 100% Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set

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Specs

• Included in set: Two pillowcases, top sheet, fitted sheet
• Sizes: Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Lots of sizes
• GOTS certified

Cons

• Thin
• Limited shade range

If you’re looking to bring the hotel sheet feel into your own home while getting peace of mind about where your cotton came from, look no further than this set from Delilah Home. It’s made from 100 percent organic cotton and is GOTS-certified. Crawling into bed every night felt like I was back in a hotel room at the ADERO in Scottsville, Arizona, cocooned in cotton that was warm where my body was and perfectly chilled everywhere else.

However, they are thin compared to other sheet sets. Although the 300 thread count feels absolutely luxurious, I could see my well-worn, beloved pillow and mattress topper through my pillowcase and fitted sheet which … is far from luxurious. There’s also a limited shade range. If you are a fan of white, beige, and gray, you will find exactly what you like with these sheets. If you’re looking for resort quality with organics in mind, this set from Delilah Home couldn’t be more of a perfect choice.

Best for hot sleepers: Linen Home Store 100% Cotton Percale Sheets

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Specs

• Included in set: Two pillowcases, top sheet, fitted sheet
• Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Keeps you cool and dry
• Luxurious feel
• QA tested

Cons

• Wrinkle easily
• Reviews note they’re a little scratchy

Percale is a fabric where the yarn is woven one-over-one (one thread over, one thread under). This results in a closer weave that’s more durable and feels like it came right from a resort laundry room. It’s also cool to the touch. Hot sleepers will appreciate this crispness, especially when moving their leg or arm to another part of the bed. Combined that with the breathability of cotton and you have a bed set that keeps you comfortable and dry. Linen Home Store also tests their sheets for pilling, shrinkage, thread count accuracy, and color fastness. The set you get is been inspected by someone on Linen Home Store’s quality assurance team, meaning you get the same quality every time you buy. And, at $65, with more than 40 color options available, it’s easy to get multiple sets for all beds in your home. You do sacrifice some quality for price—reviews note they wrinkle easily and are a little scratchy—but there’s nothing the best washer-dryer sets and a dryer sheet can’t fix.

Best budget: California Design Den 6 Piece Sheet Set

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Specs

• Included in set: Four pillowcases, 1 top sheet, 1 fitted sheet
• Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
• Machine washable?: Yes

Pros

• Durable
• Cheap
• High level of craftsmanship

Cons

• Not for those with this mattress toppers

These 400 thread count sheets from California Design Den are made with 100 percent cotton, come with four pillowcases (compared to two, like every other option on this list), and only cost $50. Almost all reviews praise them for their durability, feel, craftsmanship, and how they exceeded their expectations. Deep pockets on the fitted sheet give plenty of room for tall mattress toppers, and head or foot side indicators (not included on most options on our list) make putting on the fitted sheet less of a struggle. Their price, combined with their quality and color options, puts this pick in our top picks and packs. However, although they’re advertised as being deep pocket, they run a little taut.

What to consider when buying the best cotton sheets

We’ve learned a few things from our sleep coverage. And one of those things is the importance of a good set of bed linens. Sleep is the Here is what you should know when shopping for the best cotton sheets:

Thread count

Thread count refers to the number of threads/yarns in a square inch of fabric. A higher thread count means the threads are thinner, and more can fit into one square inch. A higher thread count doesn’t mean higher quality, however. For example, linen—another fabulous bedding material, which we’ll get into later—has a lower thread count because the fibers are naturally thicker. Look for something in the 200-600 range. Any higher, and you’re most likely dealing with synthetics, which aren’t as breathable as cotton, linen, bamboo, or hemp.

Material and weave

Instead of focusing on thread count, make material and weave your number one priority. Cotton and linen are some of the finest sheet materials, but bamboo and hemp sheets have held their own. Here are more details on some common weaves for cotton sheets

• Percale: Cotton fabric that’s tightly woven in a plain square weave pattern; is crisp and cool to the touch; has a matte finish; incredibly breathable and moisture-wicking; gets softer every wash.
• Sateen: Made using a satin weave (one thread over, four threads under); silky-soft; lustrous; warmer and more insulating; more wrinkle-resistant.
• Brushed cotton: Made in a plain weave square pattern but finished with special brushing on one side to fluff up the surface; light insulation.
• Flannel: Made in plain or twill weave, depending on product; Brushed on both sides for softness and insulation.
• Jersey: Knit (made from one thread); like wrapping yourself in a t-shirt; soft; great for cold sleepers; stretchy; wrinkle-resistant.

Size

This one seems self-explanatory, but buying the proper sheet size is important. If it’s too small, it could pop off the bed; too large, and you’ll feel your sheets move with you as you toss and turn. If you’re worried a mattress topper will mess with your sheets, consider an option with deep pockets. The industry standard pocket is 7-12 inches. Deep pocket sheets are 14-20 inches deep.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cotton sheets

• Best overall: Parachute Home Brushed Cotton Sheet Set
• Best flannel: Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheet Set
• Best organic: Delilah Home Sustainable Living 100% Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set
• Best for hot sleepers: Linen Home Store 100% Cotton Percale Sheets
• Best budget: California Design Den 6 Piece Sheet Set

Cotton sheets combine breathability, durability, and versatility for bed linens for all kinds of sleepers, hot or cold. A higher thread count doesn’t equal quality. Cotton sheets often have a thread count of 200-600. With proper care, rotating, and laundering, your cotton sheets can last for years.

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 cotton sheets of 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best 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

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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

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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

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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.

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

Spilled wine, crushed crackers, and a pet stain caused by too much excitement are a pain to clean up during the holidays. You don’t want to scrub the floor or carpet in your holiday best, after all. It makes a great gift for the yardsale chair restorer, the parent of a messy pet, or the guardian of a very sloppy child. Amazon has you covered for every spill, crumb, and puddle that decks your halls with 28% off the Bissell Little Green carpet cleaner.

BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner $89 (Was $123.59)

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Remove pet spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and more with the Bissell Little Green carpet cleaner. It’s lightweight and portable, but don’t let that fool you: A 48-ounce tank lets you clean plenty of upholstered surfaces without having to refill. The included Spot & Stain formula can remove tough stains like grease, wine, and coffee. This model comes with a HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose tool and Spraying Crevice tool to get a better clean.

Here are more deals to help clean up after holiday hangouts:

• BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Reach Full-Size Vacuum Cleaner $99.99 (Was $139.04)
• BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Wet Dry Vac $269.99 (Was $349.99)
• BISSELL SurfaceSense Allergen Lift-Off Pet Upright Vacuum $179.99 (Was $299.99)
• iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum $159 (Was $274.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop $498.99 (Was $799.99)
• iRobot Roomba j9+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum $599 (Was $899)
• iRobot Braava Jet M6 (6110) Ultimate Robot Mop $299 (Was $449.99)
• Shark LA702 Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum $299.99 (Was $379.99)
• Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with Crevice Tool $249.99 (Was $315.99)
• Levoit Cordless Vacuum Cleaner $139.98 (Was $199.99)
• Kärcher-VCN 3 Cordless Stick Vacuum $149.77 (Was $259.99)

The post Clean up holiday messes with almost 30% off the Bissell Little Green carpet and upholstery cleaner at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Losing a wallet and/or keys is a humbling experience. You tear through your home, lifting things up and putting them down, only to realize that they were in a hoodie pocket this whole time. As if! And you’re not alone in this ritual, which is why trackers make great gifts to yourself or someone you love. They help keep track of those everyday carries—along with all the new tech and toys someone snagged for Black Friday/Cyber Monday—and can be the perfect stocking stuffer thanks to this Tile Bluetooth tracker deal at Amazon.

Tile Starter Pack (Mate/Slim) $29.49 (Was $54.99)

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Tile’s Mate and Slim help you find two of the most important things to have on your person: your keys and your wallet. Use the Tile app (For iOS and Android) to ping your Tile when it’s in range, or ask your smart home device to find it for you. You can also view its location on a map and add your contact information to the Tile Network so someone can contact you if they find your lost item. It has IP67-rated water resistance in case it faces a quick dip in a puddle.

Here are more Tile deals you’ll find enticing:

• Tile Performance Pack 2-pack (1 Pro, 1 Slim) $47.99 (Was $64.99)
• Tile Sticker 1-Pack $19.99 (Was $29.99)
• Tile Mate 1-Pack (Black) $16.49 (Was $24.99)
• Tile Slim 1-Pack $20.49 (Was $34.99)
• Tile Mate 2-Pack $34.99 (Was $47.99)
• Tile Pro 2-Pack (Black/White) $43.99 (Was $59.99)
• Tile Mate 3-Pack $52.49 (Was $69.99)
• Tile Pro 1-Pack $24.99 (Was $34.99)
• Tile Sticker 2-Pack $37.99 (Was $54.99)

Prefer Apple native tech? AirTags aren’t as deeply discounted right now, but they are equally handy.

The post Keep track of your keys, wallet, and other Cyber Monday purchases with up to 46% off Tile trackers appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The holidays are stressful. Good thing having sex and/or masturbating reduces stress and helps you sleep. So drop what you’re doing and get on the gift of getting off with these Cyber Monday sex toy deals at Amazon.

Womanizer OG $159.99 (Was $199)

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Our best overall sex toy pick, the Womanizer OG has lots of intensity levels, can be used for clitoral stimulation or on your G-spot, and its Smart Silent tech keeps things discreet. The Womanizer OG takes all that is good in a bullet vibrator and all that is good in a clitoral stimulation toy and combines it into a versatile, wunderbar vibrator that you can use on multiple erogenous zones. Twelve levels of Pleasure Air intensity and three vibration modes separately can lead you to all kinds of new highs. You’ll want to buy it over and over and over until the neighbors complain … about all the packages on the porch.

Lubricant deals

• selfmade Intimacy Serum $14 with 50% off coupon
• Nécessaire The Sex Gel $20 (Was $25)
• Hello Cake Toy Wonder $15.19 (Was $18.99)
• Playground Date Night, Natural, Water-Based Personal Lubricant $20 (Was $25)
• Playground Mini Escape, Natural, Water-Based Personal Lubricant $20 (Was $25)
• Playground Love Sesh, Natural, Water-Based Personal Lubricant $20 (Was $25)
• Hello Cake Silicone Lube $14.40 (Was $18)

Toy deals

• We-Vibe Chorus Couples Vibrator $167.20 (Was $199)
• Womanizer Wave 2in1 Stimulation Showerhead $95.20 (Was $119)
• Womanizer Starlet 2 $39 (Was $49)
• Hello Cake Male Stroker Dual Entrances $15.98 (Was $19.98)
• Hello Cake Spin Stroker $44.80 (Was $56)
• Hello Cake Flutter Vibe $27.98 (Was $34.98)
• Hello Cake Buzzy Butt $29.98 (Was $31.99)
• Hello Cake Pretty Big Dil $22.40 (Was $28)
• Hello Cake Oral Stroker $15.98 (Was $20)
• Hello Cake Tush Pops $25.60 (Was $32.99)
• Hello Cake Little Sucker $23.98 (Was $29.98)
• Hello Cake Little Massager $23.99 (Was $29.99)
• Hello Cake Silicone Penis Ring $18.39 (Was $22.99)
• Hello Cake Vibrating Stroker $23.98 (Was $29.98)
• Hello Cake Vibrating Cock Ring $28.79 (Was $35.99)

The post Sneak away for some arousing browsing … of the best Cyber Monday sex toy deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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The holidays are filled with lots of green things. Pine trees. Holly. Mistletoe. The holidays can also be stressful, leading us to indulge in a different bit of greenery to relax. Our favorite vaporizer from PAX is $90 off so you can toke it and have some green of the currency kind left in your pocket.

PAX Plus Vaporizer $180 (Was $250)

SEE IT

The PAX Plus is a cannabis essential and one of the easiest to use. Simply click the top once, wait until the purple light turns green, and inhale. You won’t have to worry about temperature either—the PAX Plus will cool down when not in use and heat up when it’s picked back up. It also comes with a concentrate chamber to enjoy the wax, shatter, or budder of your choice. 

More cannabis deals

• Omura Series X Complete Bundle w/ X1 Vaporizer, Home Fill System and 4 Flowerstick packs $112.99 (Was $169.99)
• LEVO C-Large Batch Herbal Oil Infusion Machine $199 (Was $249)
• Viking Factory Large Wooden Box Tray Set $27.99 (Was $39.99)
• Storz & Bickel Volcano Classic $359.25 (Was $479)
• PuffCo Peak $199 (Was $269)
• Blazy Shorty Pink Pre-Rolled Cones $13.22 (Was $16.50)
• Dad Grass Tincture Trio Bundle $179 (Was $195)
• ZIG-ZAG–Terpene-Infused Hemp Cones $15.88 (Was $19.85)
• ZIG-ZAG-Natural Hemp Wraps $12.61 (Was $16.88)
• Raw Unrefined Classic 1.25 1 1/4 Size Cigarette Rolling Papers, 50 Count (Pack of 6) $6.50 (Was $9.99)
• RAW Natural Unrefined Pre-Rolled Filter Tips-1 Bag of 200 Tips $8.44 (Was $12.99)

The post Save $70 on a Pax Plus Vaporizer with this post-Cyber Monday deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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The sun is setting earlier, giving you a longer chance to get a view of the night sky. You can see stars, planets, meteors, and more with this Celestron telescope deal at Amazon for Cyber Monday.

Celestron-AstroMaster 114EQ Newtonian Telescope-Reflector Telescope for Beginners $199.96 (Was $319.95)

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This telescope is great for older kids who want to learn more about the sky or someone with a budding interest in the stars. It’s just as user-friendly as it is powerful, and the package includes 2 eyepieces (20mm and 10mm), a full-height tripod, and a StarPointer red dot finderscope. You also get a free download of Starry Night, a software program that helps you learn about what’s in the atmosphere. I’ve personally seen the moon through a telescope and it is indeed super, super, super cool.

• CELESTRON StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $298.99 (Was $479.95)
• Celestron-NexStar 127SLT Computerized Telescope $492.79 (Was $699.95)
• Celestron-NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope $518.16 (Was $639.95)
• Celestron-PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope $132.58 (Was $219.95)
• Celestron-70mm Travel Scope $72.07 (Was $109.95)
• Celestron-AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope $126.65 (Was $189.95)
• Celestron-PowerSeeker 50AZ Telescope $47.99 (Was $63.95)
• Celestron–StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $319.99 (Was $469.95)
• Celestron-AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope $239.20 (Was $349.95)
• Celestron-50mm Travel Scope $50.96 (Was $74.95)
• Celestron–76mm Signature Series FirstScope $52.94 (Was $71.95)

If you’re thinking to yourself, “How can I support one of my favorite 151-year-old brands while fulfilling my desire to own a telescope of my own?”, it’s your lucky day. Our telescope, made in collaboration with Celestron, is up to $100 off this Cyber Monday.

POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope $149.95 with coupon (Was $239.95)

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This telescope under $500 is a beginner-friendly model with an even friendlier price. 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.

• Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 100AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $269.95 with coupon (Was $349.95)
• Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 5” Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope $499.95 with coupon (Was $599.95)

The post This editor-approved telescope is 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.

Appliances make for excellent gifts around the holidays. Need to impress the in-laws you’re meeting for the first time? Here is a nice immersion blender! Is there a White Elephant around the corner? Three words: Hot dog toaster. You can always get something for yourself, too. No matter whose kitchen and home game needs upgrading, you can find the perfect gift with these steep Shark and Ninja deals at Amazon for Cyber Monday.

Ninja GR101 Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle $79.99 (Was $139.99)

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Bring the barbecue inside with this grill-griddle combo that would make George Foreman envious. It can reach up to 500 degrees and its perforated mesh lid eliminates smoke and reduces splatter. The removable grill and griddle plates are easy to clean, and the mesh lid is dishwasher safe. It’s a great investment since a Big Mac is $7 now.

• Ninja CFP301 DualBrew Pro Specialty 12-Cup Drip Maker with Glass Carafe $149.99 (was $229.99)
• Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System $179.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ninja DCT401 12-in-1 Double Oven $249.99 (Was $329.99)
• Ninja C59500 Foodi NeverStick Premium 10-Piece Cookware Set $279.99 (Was $379.99)
• Ninja CFN601 Espresso & Coffee Barista System $179.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ninja OO101 Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven $399.99 (Was $600.95)
• Ninja DCT451 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven $249.99 (Was $349.99)

Shark WD201 HydroVac Cordless Pro XL 3-in-1 Vacuum, Mop & Self-Cleaning System $199.99 (Was $359.99)

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This cordless 3-in-1 device vacuums, mops, and cleans itself. You can use it on hard floors, area rugs, tiles, and laminate. The included multi-surface concentrate eliminates and prevents odors. The water tank is designed to separate liquid from solids to quickly and easily empty the tank. And placing the HydroVac on its dock after every use activates self-clean mode so you don’t even have to think about it.

• Shark IZ361H Pet Plus Anti-Allergen Cordless Stick Vacuum $199.99 (Was $329.99)
• Shark HP232 Clean Sense Air Purifier MAX with Odor Neutralizer Technology $189.99 (Was $299.99)
• Shark HP102 Clean Sense Air Purifier $129.99 (Was $179.99)
• Shark IW1111 Detect Pro Cordless Vacuum $259.99 (Was $379.99)
• Shark RV2310AE Matrix Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum $299.99 (Was $499.99)

The post Don’t wait to save 40% on Shark vacuums and Ninja kitchen gear 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 travel means your family’s germs have a chance of making themselves home when the celebration is over. Amazon has deals on air purifiers from our favorite brands this Cyber Monday to obliterate unwelcome microscopic company so you can focus on reuniting with your loved ones.

PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier $154.99 (Was $229)

SEE IT

Our favorite air purifier for mold, the PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier covers a massive 1,115 square feet and includes a powerful HEPA 14 air filter, which is ten times more powerful than HEPA 13. What you get is a hospital-grade air purifier under $200 that removes 99.99% of fine particles down to .1 microns in size. Mold? Other things in the air that cause allergies? Sorry, you won’t find any here. It’s third-party lab tested and certified, meaning you’re getting a scientifically-developed air purifier from scientists and virologists at Harvard, MIT, Johns Hopkins, and Oxford universities that are backed up by other scientists. You can also get a two-pack to put one in the bedroom and another in the living room.

BLUEAIR deals

• BLUEAIR Pure Mini Max $49.99 (Was $69.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 211i Max $243.92 (Was $349.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 211+ Auto $288.99 (Was $339.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 311i Max $159.99 (Was $229.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 311i+ Max $203.92 (Was $299.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 411a Max $97.99 (Was $139.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 411i Max $118.99 (Was $169.99)
• BLUEAIR Pure 511 $69.99 (Was $99.99)

Levoit deals

• LEVOIT Core Mini Air Purifier $39.99 (Was $49.99)
• LEVOIT Core 200S Air Purifier $76.49 (Was $89.99)
• LEVOIT Core 300 Air Purifier $84.99 (Was $99.99)
• LEVOIT Core 400 Air Purifier $186.99 (Was $219.99)
• LEVOIT Vital 100S Air Purifier $109.99 (Was $139.99)
• LEVOIT 200S Air Purifier $159.99 (Was $189.99)

Molekule deals

• Molekule Air Mini+ $249.99 (Was $359.99)
• Molekule Air Pro $649.99 (Was $1,014.99)

NuWave deals

• Nuwave OxyPure Smart Air Purifier $499.99 (Was $599.99)
• Nuwave Air Purifier for Large Room $616.24 (Was $724.99)
• Nuwave OxyPure ZERO Smart Air Purifier $339.99 (Was $399.99)
• Nuwave Portable Air Purifier $117.29 (Was $137.99)
• NuWave OxyPure ZERO E500 $297.48 (Was $349.99)
• Nuwave Oxypure Air Purifier $89.99 (Was $119.99)

Miscellaneous deals

• Germ Guardian Air Purifier with HEPA 13 Pet Filter $119.87 (Was $264.99)
• PHILIPS Air Purifier 800 Series $89.99 (Was $139.99)
• VEVA Air Purifier Large Room $79.99 (Was $166.99)
• Shark HP102PK2 Clean Sense Air Purifier for Home $249.99 (Was $377)

The post Editor-approved: This air purifier is at its lowest price of the year 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.

According to the ASPCA, 6.3 million pets are adopted each year. Chances are that your dog or cat could be a strange amalgamation of different breeds. Find out your pet’s ancestry with these pet DNA tests, on sale at Amazon for Black Friday.

Wisdom Panel Complete: Comprehensive Cat DNA Test Kit $90.99 (Was $129.99)

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This test identifies more than 70 breeds and populations. For your cat’s health, the company runs 45 genetic health tests to see if they are at risk for any genetic conditions. If you’re curious about why your cat looks the way they look, Wisdom Panel also runs more than 25 trait tests to track down where they got their physical features. There’s also a version for dogs if you want to test your pooch.

• Basepaws Cat DNA Test Kit 2 Pack- Comprehensive Breed $142.50 (Was $208)
• Basepaws Dog DNA Test $71.20 (Was $89)
• DNA My Dog Essential Test–Breed ID Test $61 (Was $79.99)
• Embark Breed & Health Kit-Dog DNA Test $127 (Was $199)
• Embark Breed Identification Kit $99 (Was $129)
• Orivet Genopet Dog DNA Test $75.95 (Was $94.94)
• Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry $69 (Was $99)
• Koko DNA Test for Dogs Advanced $90.99 (Was $129.99)

In case you’re curious about your own DNA, here are some test kits for humans:

• 23andMe Ancestry Service-DNA Test Kit with Personalized Genetic Reports $79 (Was $119)
• 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service $99 (Was $229)
• 23andMe+ Premium Membership Bundle $129 (Was $299)
• AncestryDNA Genetic Test Kit $59 (Was $99)
• AncestryDNA Genetic Test Kit + 3-Month Ancestry World Explorer Membership $109 (Was $149)
• tellmeGen Advanced DNA Test $69.99 (Was $123)

The post Shop pet DNA kits at Amazon for Black Friday and find your dog or cat’s origin story appeared first on Popular Science.

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

LEGOs aren’t just for kids anymore. With complex, masterful builds for a bouquet of flowers, a bonsai tree, and even the London skyline, you can do something with your hands that’s not scrolling through TikTok on your phone for hours. With these sets, you get a piece of decor that you painstakingly built yourself. You can get into a new hobby without going bankrupt with these LEGO Black Friday deals at Amazon.

LEGO Star Wars Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing Fighter $32.39 (Was $49.99)

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If you are a Luke Skywalker fan, you’ll appreciate this set with an X-Wing Fighter you can build for Luke himself, Princess Leia, General Dodonna, and R2-D2. The set comes with step-by-step, illustrated instructions so it feels less like building Ikea furniture.

More building blocks of a LEGO collection

• LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Express–Collectors’ Edition 76405 $349.99 (Was $499.99)
• LEGO Star Wars Tenoo Jedi Temple $27.99 (Was $39.99)
• LEGO Icons Santa’s Visit $92.99 (Was $99.99)
• LEGO Ideas BTS Dynamite $64.99 (Was $99.99)
• LEGO Friends Sea Rescue Boat $55.99 (Was $79.99)
• LEGO Friends Newsroom Van $21.99 (Was $29.99)
• LEGO Monkie Kid: Monkie Kid’s Cloud $40.99 (Was $59.99)
• LEGO Icons Bonsai Tree Building Set $39.99 (Was $49.99)
• LEGO Icons Flower Bouquet $47.99 (Was $59.99)
• LEGO Architecture London Skyline Collection $32.55 (Was $39.99)

And here are some Playmobil playsets

• Playmobil Scooby-DOO! Mystery Machine $31.99 (Was $64.99)
• Playmobil Large Farm $107.23 (Was $129.99)
• Playmobil Spinosaurus $64.30 (Was $69.99)
• Playmobil Farmhouse with Outdoor Area $59.50 (Was $69.95)
• Playmobil Recycling Truck-2023 Version $26.99 (Was $39.99)
• Playmobil Dino Rise T-Rex: Battle of The Giants $43.40 (Was $89.99)

The post Shop the best LEGO and Playmobil Black Friday deals at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The holidays are a stressful time. There are too many people coming in and out of your home, bringing their own personal crust and dust that you’re left to clean once they leave. Thankfully, Amazon is already offering Roomba robovacs up to 42% off before Black Friday to lend you a valuable hand to vacuum the floors—some even mop, too.

iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ Self-Emptying 2-in-1 Robot-Vacuum with Optional Mopping $499 (Was $799)

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The iRobot Roomba j5+ has the same vacuum tech as the company’s j7+ robovac (currently sold out) but with more flexibility. You can choose to only run the vacuum, or you can vacuum and mop with a quick bin swap. The j5+ also avoids obstacles like pet waste and cords to prevent a robovac-adjacent accident and empties itself for up to 60 days. You can control it via the iRobot Home app (for iOS and Android) or with Amazon Alexa and Siri.

Here are more Roomba deals that won’t suck all the money out of your bank account:

• iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum $159 (Was $274.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum and Mop $349 (Was $479.75)
• iRobot Roomba Combo i5 Robot Vacuum & Mop $229 (Was $349.99)
• iRobot Braava Jet M6 (6110) Ultimate Robot Mop $299 (Was $449.99)
• iRobot Roomba Combo j5 Robot $348.99 (Was $599.99)
• iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum & Braava Jet m6 (6112) Robot Mop Bundle $899 (Was $1,249)
• iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO (3550) Robot Vacuum and Braava Jet m6 (6113) Robot Mop Bundle $598.99 (Was $899.99)

The post Shop Roomba deals at Amazon this Black Friday and save up to 42% appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Black Friday is the time to get a big deal on a pair of pricey headphones you’ve lusted after for months. You can get up to a whopping 51-percent off Beats headphones at Amazon before Thanksgiving with this Black Friday deal at Amazon.

Apple Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones $169.95 (Was $349.99)

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Get up to 40 hours of total battery life with the Apple Beats Studio Pro headphones. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency modes let you choose how to listen. Lossless audio and three built-in sound profiles let you customize what you want to hear. They also pair with a single touch for Android and Apple products.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones $328 (Was $399.99)

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The Sony WH-1000XM5—the leveled-up cousin of the Sony WH-1000XM4—is also on sale for $328, down from $399.99. That’s the lowest price we’ve seen it, and you’d be remiss not to snag one of the best Bluetooth headphones out there.

Here are more headphone deals from Sennheiser, Bose, and more you should tune into:

• Apple Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds $149.95 (Was $249.95)
• Beats Studio Pro with AppleCare+ for Headphones (2 Years)-Black $194.95 (Was $378.99)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 650 $279 (Was $499.95)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones $149.95 (Was $229.25)
• Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones, Over-Ear Headphones $199 (Was $329)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds $249 (Was $299)
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $199 (Was $279)
• JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless Headphones-Black, Small $29.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Tune Flex-True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Black), Small $49.95 (Was $99.95)
• SHOKZ OpenRun Mini-Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones $89.95 (Was $129.95)
• Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone, Black $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Marshall Minor III True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, Black $89.99 (Was $129.99)
  

The post Shop headphones from Beats, Sony, and more during Amazon Black Friday and save up to 51% appeared first on Popular Science.

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Shopping for the person in your life who longs for tresses that would make Fabio envious? We love the Dyson Airwrap for that. It provides salon-worthy curls at home and the patented Coanda airflow gently dries hair for less damage compared to other heat tools. It went out of stock for a bit after blowing up on TikTok, but the price has discouraged some from hitting “add to cart.” It’s $100 off for Black Friday at Amazon, meaning the love in your life can finally get the show pony hair they’ve wished for.

Dyson Airwrap $499 (Was $599.99)

SEE IT

The Dyson Airwrap is a drawer’s worth of tools in one handy device. It includes attachments to curl, shape, dry, and hide flyaways. The round brush is our personal favorite attachment since it gives us Cindy Crawford-esque bounce and shine.

Here are more Black Friday Dyson deals at Amazon:

Dyson vacuum deals

• Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner $299 (Was $359)
• Dyson V11 Cordless Stick Vaccum, Large, Nickel/Blue $349 (Was $569.99)
• Dyson V11 Extra Cordless Vacuum Cleaner-Nickel/Red, Large $419.99 (Was $599.99)
• Dyson V11 Plus Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Nickel/Purple, Large $499.99 (Was $719.99)
• Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Purple/Purple, Large $748.99 (Was $949.99)

Dyson air purifier and fan deals

• Dyson Cool Tower Fan AM07, White/Silver, Large $249.99 (Was $369.99)
• Dyson Hot+Cool AM09 Jet Focus heater and fan, White/Silver $299.99 (Was $469.99)
• Dyson Hot+Cool Fan Heater AM09 Black/Nickel, Large
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Gen1 HP10 $449.99 (Was $599.99)
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP07 Air Purifier, Heater, and Fan-White/Silver, Large $549.99 (Was $749.99)
• Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04 $799 (Was $999.99)
• Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Link Purifier Heater Fan HP02 $440.99 (Was $629.99)

Dyson hair styling tool deals

• Dyson Hair Straightener $399.99 with $100 off coupon (Was $499.99)
• Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $299.99 (Was $399.99)

The post Shop at Amazon for Black Friday and get $100 off the incredibly giftable Dyson Airwrap appeared first on Popular Science.

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

We know that going to the gym is going to be on your New Year’s resolutions list. Working out is great for endorphins and getting your heart rate up, but leaving your house in the dark, cold early morning or equally dark, cold evening is a bummer, to say the least. Bring the gym to your place with this massive Black Friday deal on Echelon, Peloton, NordicTrack, Hydrow Rowing, and other exercise equipment at Amazon.

Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike $359.99 (Was $999.99)

SEE IT

You get a free 30-day trial of Echelon Premiere with this bike, giving you access to 3,000 live and on-demand classes on the Echelon Fit app (for iOS and Android). This bike was built with performance and comfort in mind, with ergonomic handlebars and six seat position levels. The tablet mount flips 180 degrees so you can get a gym membership worth of workouts in one piece of equipment.

• Echelon EX-15 Smart Connect Fitness Bike $399.99 (Was $500)
• Echelon EX5-S Smart Connect Fitness Bike $699.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• Echelon Fitness Stride Auto-Fold Smart Treadmill $999.99 (Was $1,299.99)

Peloton deals

• Original Peloton Bike $1,095 (Was $1,445)
• Peloton Bike+ $1,995 (Was $2,495)
• Peloton Guide AI-Powered Personal Strength Training Device For Your TV $95 (Was $195)
• Peloton Altos Cycling Shoes for Bike and Bike+ $101.50 (Was $145)
• Peloton Bike Mat $45 (Was $75)

Hydrow deals

• Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine with 16″ HD Touchscreen $1,445 (Was $1,895)
• Hydrow Rowing Machine with Immersive 22″ HD Rotating Screen $1,745 (Was $2,945)
• Hydrow Multi-Use Workout Mat $68 (Was $80)

NordicTrack deals

• NordicTrack T Series 8.5S $1,290 (Was $1,599)
• NordicTrack T Series 6.5S $679 (Was $799)

XTERRA deals

• XTERRA Fitness Folding Exercise Bike $110.49 (Was $179.99)
• XTERRA Fitness UB120 Upright Bike $66.49 (Was $97.99)
• XTERRA Fitness Dual Action Air Bike $419.99 (Was $499)
• XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill $314.99 (Was $393.78)
• XTERRA Fitness TR260 Folding Treadmill $491.50 (Was $578.24)
• XTERRA Fitness WalkSlim Treadmill $509.99 (Was $599.99)

The post Shop the best fitness gear during Amazon Black Friday with up 64% of savings appeared first on Popular Science.

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