Need a fast, reliable way to connect all of your gear to the Internet? A three-pack of eero 6+ mesh WiFi routers has returned to its lowest price ever for Cyber Monday. The routers were designed to blanket an area of up to 4,500 square feet with a fast, reliable, and stable connection to the Internet. It’s this extreme range (amongst other technical feats) that landed these routers a spot on our guide to the best WiFi routers.

Amazon eero 6+ mesh Wi-Fi system $194.99 (Was $299.99)

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With speeds of up to 1Gbps, and the ability to connect over 75 devices to the Internet simultaneously, this mesh WiFi system will solve any lingering WiFi issues you may have for good (and this Cyber Monday deal will help deal with any price issues you might have). One router has to be connected to your ISP-supplied cable modem with an Ethernet cable, but the others can be placed anywhere there’s an outlet. This flexibility is especially helpful if you live in a large home, and don’t want to string Ethernet cables through your walls. If you’re having trouble with a spotty home Internet connection, this is the best Cyber Monday deal we can recommend.

Here are more Cyber Monday Eero deals

• Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System, $399.99 (Was $549.99)
• Amazon eero 6 dual-band mesh Wi-Fi 6 extender, $64.99 (Was $79.99)
• Amazon eero Pro 6 mesh Wi-Fi 6 router, $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Amazon eero 6 mesh Wi-Fi system, $159.99 (Was $199.99)
• Amazon eero mesh WiFi router, $44.99 (Was $69.99)
• Amazon eero Beacon mesh WiFi range extender, $49.99 (Was $99.99)

The post Save $105 on an eero mesh network for Cyber Monday and kiss your WiFi woes goodbye appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Apple doesn’t discount its own hardware, and although the company is currently holding a Black Friday promotion in which you get gift cards toward a future purchase, there are deals out there that save you money immediately. We’ve scoured the web to find the best Black Friday discounts on Apple hardware, and have come up with a surprising amount of deals. If you’ve been holding off on getting a new piece of gear for the right price, now is the time to shop. We wouldn’t be surprised if many of these items sell out before the day is done.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) $189.99 (Was $249)

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Apple’s AirPods 2 are the company’s latest true wireless earbuds, and they’re down to their lowest price ever on Black Friday thanks to a $60 discount. The earbuds support active noise cancellation, are IPX5 water-resistant, and last up to six hours per charge. Their included battery case can fully recharge them four times. These earbuds support Spatial Audio, which means they can decode music and movie soundtracks with a Dolby Atmos mix and give you the feeling of listening to music in surround sound on speakers. This feature works shockingly well. Additionally, the processor in each earbud optimizes and adjusts its sound in real-time, so you always get the best EQ setting. No true wireless earbuds are as good for all-around use as the AirPods Pro 2, and this discount makes them even easier to recommend.

AirPods deals

• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $79.99 (Was $129)
• Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) $139.99 (Was $169)
• Apple AirPods Max $449.99 (Was $549)

MacBook deals

• 15-Inch M2 MacBook Air $1,049 (Was $1,299)
• 13-Inch M1 MacBook Air $749 (Was $999)
• 16-Inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro $2,299 (Was $2,499)

iPad deals

• iPad (9th Generation) $249.99 (Was $329.99)
• iPad (10th Generation) $349 (Was $449)
• iPad Air $649.99 (Was $749.99)
• 11-Inch iPad Pro $849 (Was $899)
• 12.9-Inch iPad Pro $1,139 (Was $1,199)

HomePod deals

• HomePod Mini $94.99 (Was $99.99)
• HomePod (2nd Generation) $284.99 (Was $299.99)

Mac Mini deals

• M2 Mac Mini $499 (Was $599)
• M2 Pro Mac Mini $1,234.05 (was $1,299)

Mac Studio deals

• M2 Max Mac Studio $1,899.05 (Was $1,999)
• M2 Ultra Mac Studio $3,799.05 (Was $3,999)

Apple Watch deals

• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS) 41mm $349 (Was $399)
• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS) 45mm $379 (Was $429)
• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS + Cellular) 41mm $699 (Was $749)
• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS + Cellular) 45mm $749 (Was $799)
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular) 49mm $739 (Was $799)

Need a monitor for that Mac Mini? Samsung has gaming flagships on sale.

Looking for more affordable audio? These headphones and earbuds are all under $100.

The post You can still get the best Apple products at the best prices … if you act fast appeared first on Popular Science.

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

I spend a lot of time in front of screens. And, in 2023, a lot of that time was in front of Samsung screens. They’re a favorite of the whole office, really, because Samsung truly makes a monitor or TV to suit every conceivable space and activity—from affordable standouts to straight-up statement pieces. And the best is even better priced during Black Friday on Amazon. The following are a few of our favorites:

SAMSUNG 34″ Odyssey OLED G8 Curved Gaming Monitor $899 (was $1,499)

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We call it the Helm, like in Star Trek, because it really feels like you’re navigating the farthest expanses of websites and spreadsheets. It’s where my wife sits doing much of her work, intently plotting her output as I stare longingly—No. 1 wishing he had the conn. It’s the 34-inch OLED G8 curved USB-C monitor, and it was supposed to be mostly for me … but you know how that goes. When I can use it, it’s possibly the biggest boost to efficiency I’ve ever set up, as the value in laying out every conceivable window and document I need for immediate reference on the 21:9 panel cannot be oversold. I’d have two of these monitors if I had more space and budget—don’t be like me, have your own cockpit! I love how the curvature makes everything so immersive but also ergonomic. I feel no pain, only pleasure, as I absorb the full Ultra WQHD resolution of new product images and promo videos, Slack in one quadrant and CMS in another. The OLED screen delivers rich color and true blacks (though, like all OLED panels, it performs best away from bright light, so consider your placement carefully). And did I mention the mini-HDMI/DisplayPort connections, 175 Hz refresh rate, and 0.03ms response time are great for gaming? But so are many Samsung monitors, including:

• SAMSUNG 55″ Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen 4K UHD 1000R Curved Gaming Monitor $1,999 (was $2,999)
• SAMSUNG 57″ Odyssey Neo G9 Dual 4K UHD Quantum Mini-LED Curved Gaming Monitor $1,999 (was $2,999)
• SAMSUNG 49″ Odyssey OLED G9 G95SC Series Curved Smart Gaming Monitor $1,199 (was $1,799)
• SAMSUNG 49″ Odyssey G93SC Series OLED Curved Gaming Monitor $999 (was $1,599)
• SAMSUNG 49” Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor, 1000R Curved Screen, QLED $899 (was $1,399)
• SAMSUNG 32” Odyssey G7 Series WQHD (2560×1440) Curved Gaming Monitor $499 (was $799)
• SAMSUNG 27″ Odyssey G7 Series WQHD (2560×1440) Gaming Monitor, 240Hz, Curved $469 (was $699)

SAMSUNG 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900C Mini-LED Quantum HDR Smart TV $3,297.99 (was $4,997.99)

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If you pay more, you surely want to see more. And with Samsung’s flagship QN900C QLED 8K TV, you most certainly do. Its nigh-invisible bezel, what Samsung calls its Infinity Screen, is immediately striking and makes you feel like you’re completely immersed in the image. And the image itself, well, is brighter and more vivid than any TV you’ll encounter. With 33 million pixels, nearly 2,500 nits in HDR, brilliant color and contrast, and impeccable upscaling, the QN900C conveys the ultimate expression of any content in any environment, even the kind of bright room that neuters an OLED panel. The internal sound is even surprisingly radiant (though we always recommend investing in a soundbar/surround sound system if it’s within your budget—which it may be during Black Friday). As for Game Mode, the four HDMI 2.1 ports—with variable refresh rates (VRR), up to 144 Hz, and auto low-latency mode (ALLM)—mean you can enjoy all the 4K/120fps goodness of next-gen. consoles, like the Spider-Man 2 PlayStation 5 I’ve been testing, with zero distractions or frustrations. If you can afford to be future-proofed, you can’t afford to miss this TV at this price.

• SAMSUNG 85-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900C Series Mini LED Quantum HDR Smart TV $5,497.99 (was $5,997.99)
• SAMSUNG 75-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900C Series Mini LED Quantum HDR Smart TV $4,497.99 (was $4,999.99)
• SAMSUNG 77-Inch Class OLED 4K S95C Series Quantum HDR Smart TV $3,597.99 (was $3,997.99)
• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class OLED 4K S95C Series Quantum HDR Smart TV $2,397.99 (was $3,297.99)
• SAMSUNG 75-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90C $2,397.99 (was $3,299.99)
• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90C $1,697.99 (was $2,797.99)
• SAMSUNG 75-Inch Class QLED 4K The Frame LS03B Series $1,997.99 (was $2,997.99)
• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class QLED 4K The Frame LS03B Series $1,597.99 (was $1,997.99)

Loyal to another brand? They have some more equally deep discounts:

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

Need something to play so you can show off all those pixels? Shop these great 4K Blu-ray deals.

The post Shop Samsung’s best OLED and QLED Black Friday TV deals now appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		MacBook Pro with M3		SEE IT	The MacBook Pro with M3 offers the best performance of any laptop in Apple’s lineup.
Best gaming		Asus ROG Zephyrus G14		SEE IT	The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 delivers excellent gaming performance while balancing power and portability.
Best budget		Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus		SEE IT	The IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus delivers better performance and design than the price tag suggests.

A 14-inch laptop strikes an excellent balance between portability and usability; it’s not too big or too small while offering the right amount of power without feeling cumbersome. These devices offer excellent mobility and require less desk space, making them an ideal choice for those who work at home and on the go. Compared to 13-inch laptops, which prioritize portability over all else, the 14-inch form factor provides screen real estate to really dig into work, study, and entertainment. The size is also a sweet spot for those seeking high performance for things like gaming without the bulk that comes with larger models. The best 14-inch laptops often strike a nice balance of price, performance, and battery life without making significant compromises, making our selection full of attractive choices for a broad range of users who want versatility from their machines.

• Best overall: MacBook Pro with M3
• Best design: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 
• Best gaming: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
• Best value: Asus Zenbook 14X
• Best 2-in-1: Lenovo Yoga 9i
• Best budget: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus

How we chose the best 14-inch laptops

I’ve used a 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M1 chip for over a year. I chose it because it offers the best balance of size, performance, and portability, perfectly suiting my needs for everyday tasks and creative projects, whether I’m working from home or at a coffee shop. Before settling on a 14-inch laptop, I used a 13-inch model that always felt a bit too compact; I soon realized I was missing the more expansive keyboard and immersive screen. My experience using various laptops and over a decade of writing about these machines has given me valuable insight into what to look for when choosing a new laptop. To find the best 14-inch laptops, I drew from my expertise and prior coverage on Popular Science, honing in on factors like performance, design, portability, battery life, and affordability. 

The best 14-inch laptops: Reviews & Recommendations

The 14-inch laptop is in that Goldilocks zone where size, performance, and usability exist in perfect harmony. If you’ve always felt like 13 and 15-inch models weren’t quite your jam—I’m there with you—the laptops in this guide should be a better fit (pun intended). Some of the best models currently available are 14 inches, including the best Windows laptops and the brand-new MacBook Pro with an M3 chip. Our list of the best 14-inch laptops will highlight the best models available and illustrate why this size is a popular choice.

Best overall: MacBook Pro with M3

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Specs

• Processor: Apple M3 with 8-core CPU 
• GPU: Apple M3 10-core GPU
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Connectivity: MagSafe 3, 2 Thunderbolt 3, HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack, SDXC

Pros

• Fantastic performance
• Beautiful high-resolution display
• Ample ports

Cons

• Starts with 8GB of RAM

The MacBook Pro with M3 is Apple’s newest flagship laptop and the company’s best for creative work. In his review, our executive editor, Stan Horaczek, said it’s the best laptop he’s ever used, praising the performance of the M3 chip and all-day battery life. Horaczek said the machine could complete tasks he wouldn’t even attempt on his M1 MacBook Pro—a testament to the M3 chip’s incredible power, especially when editing graphics, photos, and videos. This means the laptop, much like most MacBooks, is an excellent choice for both creatives like video or photo editors and business people alike (and you can always add an external monitor if your content demands it).

The M3 chip in the MacBook Pro features an 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. It comes standard with 8GB of RAM but is configurable up to 24GB. Meanwhile, the stock option has 512GB of storage and is configurable up to 2TB. A six-speaker sound system offers excellent audio performance, and the 3024 x 1964 resolution ProMotion display looks incredible, with support for 1,600 nits of peak brightness. The laptop also features a spacious backlit keyboard with Touch ID and an expansive trackpad that supports multi-touch gestures. It’s thicker than Apple’s MacBook Air at 0.61 inches but is relatively light, weighing 3.4 pounds.

Best design: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 

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Why it made the cut: The Surface Laptop 2 offers powerful performance, AI smarts, and a long-lasting battery in a unique convertible design.

Specs 

• Processor: Intel 13th Generation Core i7
• GPU: Intel Iris Xe, NVIDIA RTX 2000, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
• RAM: 16GB-64GB
• Storage: 512GB-2TB SSD
• Connectivity: 2 Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, microSD, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Beautiful convertible design
• 120Hz screen refresh rate
• Surface Slim Pen 2 support

Cons

• Poor battery life

With a unique pull-forward touchscreen display and an ultra-premium aluminum build, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 features a stellar design. While the original model was ultimately a disappointment—it was way underpowered—the sequel features a more powerful processor and includes a number of upgrades that really elevate the experience. It can also be configured with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, allowing it to play newer AAA titles on higher settings.

Compared to the original model, the Studio 2 also includes a redesigned trackpad, support for Dolby Vision HDR, more ports, and a 120Hz refresh rate display. The primary purpose of Microsoft’s laptop, though, is to create content. Bringing the display forward gives you a canvas to draw, draft, and edit photos and videos. Unfortunately, the Pen comes separately, so you’ll have to spend more to really push the Studio 2 to its limits. 

Best gaming: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14

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Specs: 

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 9
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512 GB SSD
• Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, 2 USB-A 3.2, 2 USB-C

Pros

• Thin and lightweight for a gaming laptop
• Excellent battery life
• Capable of playing the latest AAA titles on high settings

Cons

• 720p web camera

The ROG Zephyrus G14 from Asus delivers fantastic performance without compromising on portability or battery life. This gaming laptop features a 14-inch 165Hz QHD display for smooth animations. It has an AMD Ryzen 9 processor, giving you plenty of power for gaming, Zoom calls, and other intensive tasks. The real star is the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 dedicated graphics, which can handle the latest AAA titles, including Bethesda’s Starfield. 

Additionally, the Zephyrus G14 has 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, along with a combination of ports, including 3.2 Type-A, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C. The laptop also features a battery that can last around 10 hours on a single charge. There are a lot of really good gaming laptops for sale, but the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 stands out for its impressive excellent performance, display, and long-lasting battery.

Best value: Asus Zenbook 14X

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Specs: 

• Processor: Intel 13th Generation Core i5
• GPU: Intel Iris Xe
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512 GB SSD
• Connectivity: 2 Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, USB-A 3.2, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Beautiful OLED display
• Sleek design
• Comfortable, satisfying keyboard

Cons

• Fan can get loud under heavy load

For the price, the Asus Zenbook 14X is the best value laptop at this size, offering a beautiful design and stunning OLED display. It’s also pretty powerful, too, allowing you to tackle everyday tasks and some light creative work. The laptop weighs 3.44 pounds with dimensions of 0.66 by 8.88 by 12.67 (HWD) inches, so it’s very portable, verging on ultraportable laptop territory. Overall, it has a minimal look that’s fitting for the office or classroom.

The Zenbook 14X features a unique LED number pad that you can activate on the touchpad. The virtual pad is convenient for inputting data and doing calculations. Meanwhile, the laptop features a decent number of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4, an HDMI port, and one USB-A port. Laptops that are this compact typically skimp on ports but the Zenbook 14X provides a decent selection, so you can connect different peripherals.  

Best 2-in-1: Lenovo Yoga 9i

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Specs: 

• Processor: Intel 13th Generation Core i7 Evo
• GPU: Intel Iris Xe
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512 GB SSD
• Connectivity: 2 Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Fantastic OLED touchscreen
• Sleek, sturdy design
• 2-in-1 functionality

Cons

• So-so battery life

Lenovo is no stranger to 2-in-1 laptops—we reviewed one last year—and the latest iteration is among its best. The laptop’s features an exquisite design and a beautiful OLED display that is great for content creation and watching movies. And games look amazing, too—the Intel Iris Xe GPU isn’t the most powerful by any means, but you can still play some of your old favorites.

The rotating speaker bar is a standout feature. It hides in the hinge and ensures the sound is always pointing in your direction, whether you’re in laptop mode or tablet orientation.  In fact, the whole design is superb, with rounded edges that offer a look that’s more fun and friendly. And, like we said, the OLED touchscreen display is terrific, with support for the Lenovo Precision Pen 2 for drawing and editing. Lenovo helped pioneer the 2-in-1 market, and it’s still leading the pack with the Yoga 9i.

Best budget: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus

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Specs: 

• Processor: Intel 13th Generation Core i3
• GPU: Intel UHD
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128 GB SSD
• Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A, USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Sturdy design
• Big, responsive trackpad
• 2-in-1 functionality

Cons

• Screen could be brighter

Laptops at this price generally don’t offer the most power or the sleekest hardware. But Lenovo’s IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is an exception. The laptop offers decent performance and features a 2-in-1 design, so you can use it like a traditional laptop or flip it to tablet mode. Whatever your preference, the IdeaPad Flex 5i can handle basic tasks with aplomb—and more intensive tasks, too. 

Overall, the IdeaPad 5i is an excellent laptop for anyone on a budget; it’s the perfect starter device, offering the right balance of design, performance, and features. You’ll be surprised by what Lenovo’s device is capable of, with enough ports to connect your peripherals. There’s even a slot for microSD cards, allowing you to easily transfer files, photos, and videos. 

What to consider when buying a 14-inch laptop

Many of the market’s very best laptops are 14 inches, giving you several options that cater to different preferences and budgets. We’ve rounded up the best options, whether your goal is content creation, entertainment, or both.

Processor

The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, serves as the digital brain in a laptop, ensuring the operation of everything from basic operations to complex computations. The CPU plays a pivotal role in handling tasks like running operating systems, applications, and processing data. Modern Apple laptops feature the brand’s M Series chips, the latest being the M3. These processors combine the CPU, graphics processing unit (GPU), security enclave, neural engine, and shared memory on a single piece of silicon. For Windows laptops, Intel and AMD are the primary CPU makers. Intel is planning to launch a more power processor codenamed Meteor Lake at the end of this year.

When evaluating a laptop processor, it’s essential to consider its clock speed, measured in GHz, and the number of CPU cores. Opting for a processor with higher clock speeds and a greater number of cores ensures better performance when executing resource-intensive tasks like editing photos and videos. If your work involves a mix of multitasking, gaming, or content creation, we recommend purchasing a laptop with a more robust processor. Remember that upgrading a laptop’s processor isn’t possible, unlike in many desktop computers.

Graphics

The GPU is another critical component, one responsible for handling graphics-related tasks. It works alongside the CPU to render and display graphics on the screen, encompassing everything from visual rendering to gaming and video playback. Laptops either feature an integrated or dedicated GPU; integrated graphics, like those from Apple, find the GPU included on the same chip as the CPU. 

Laptops designed for gaming generally feature dedicated graphics cards with their own memory. It’s important to note that laptops with dedicated graphics tend to be bulkier and heavier, impacting their portability. Additionally, due to the increased power demand of dedicated GPUs, users may need to be more vigilant about monitoring their laptop’s battery life throughout the day.

Memory

Random Access Memory, or RAM, serves as a temporary place for applications to store data the computer needs to access quickly. We recommend a minimum of 8GB for more basic tasks, like web browsing and emailing. For more demanding tasks, such as editing photos and videos, consider 16GB of RAM or more. The more RAM a laptop has, the more data it can store in memory, impacting how swiftly it executes tasks. The upfront cost of choosing a laptop with more RAM can be pricey, but it may be worth the cost since you generally can’t upgrade after the fact. (And you certainly can’t download more RAM, despite what that popup says.)

Display

When evaluating a laptop’s display, there are several factors to consider, including the screen’s resolution. The resolution of a display determines how many pixels it has; the more pixels, the sharper and more detailed the display will appear. Many of today’s top models feature a resolution of 2K (2560×1440) or 4K (3840×2160). A high-resolution display is beneficial for content creation and multitasking, providing you with more screen real estate. More affordable models feature a 1080p (Full HD) display, which is fine for general use like web browsing, emailing, and school work.

The display’s technology is equally important, with options for IPS (in-plane switching), which offers better viewing angles, or OLED (organic light emitting diode) for vibrant contrast. Some gaming laptops also feature high refresh-rate panels of 120Hz or higher for smoother animations. Accurate color representation is also essential for creative work, allowing you to achieve true-to-life visuals in your images and videos. For reliable color accuracy, look for a screen that covers at least 95% of the sRGB color gamut.

Some laptops support DCI-P3, which provides approximately 26% more color space than sRGB. This extended color range allows for more vivid and saturated colors, making it an excellent choice for tasks that demand vibrant imagery, such as professional photo and video editing.

Storage

Solid-state drives (SSD) have become the standard for data storage, employing more advanced technology than traditional hard drives. SSDs feature no moving parts, enhancing their speed and reliability. That means faster file and application loading times, a feature convenient for gaming and content creation. 

For most users, a laptop with a 256GB SSD is enough. However, it’s essential to remember that data accumulates over time, so upgrading to a 512GB or even a 1TB SSD can be a wise investment if it’s within your budget. If you frequently work with larger files, such as photos or videos, opting for a larger SSD can accommodate your workflow. Alternatively, you can use a portable hard drive for additional storage, allowing you to manage large files without filling up your laptop’s hard drive.

Connectivity

Finally, having the right ports on your laptop can enhance its versatility. Traditional USB-A ports were once the industry standard and still serve a vital purpose, but high-bandwidth ports like USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 are becoming more common. These ports enable rapid data transfer, making importing and exporting media more efficient and convenient. An HDMI port allows you to connect your laptop to an external display, and a built-in card reader is handy for transferring media from a camera’s memory card to your laptop. You can use a USB hub to extend your laptop’s connectivity options if it doesn’t have all the necessary ports. However, built-in ports provide the most seamless and hassle-free experience, eliminating the need for additional accessories and simplifying your work setup.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 14-inch laptops

• Best overall: MacBook Pro with M3
• Best design: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 
• Best gaming: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
• Best value: Asus Zenbook 14X
• Best 2-in-1: Lenovo Yoga 9i
• Best budget: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus

The MacBook Pro with M3 is the best 14-inch laptop, which is no surprise considering it’s the newest entry in its lineup. That said, it’s a pro model, so it’s not designed for casual users. But if you want a laptop that will last for years, the new MacBook Pro is an excellent choice, offering features like Touch ID, MagSafe charging, and long-lasting battery life. If the MacBook Pro with M3 isn’t your jam, some of the market’s best options are 14 inches. You can’t go wrong with any of our picks, so the choice comes down to your preferences and budget.

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 14-inch laptops in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Whether you rock a console or have built your own custom gaming PC, there’s never been a better time to play games. There’s more variety than ever, and always something to play regardless of your genre of choice, budget, or time commitment. Black Friday is a great time to pick up a discounted console, computer, games, or accessories you’ve had your eye on. We personally have had our eye on a few things, too, and we’re more than happy to share the deals we found.

PlayStation 5 Console Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Bundle $499 (Was $559.99)

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The PlayStation 5 Slim is Sony’s latest revision of its newest home console. As its name implies, it’s smaller than the previous PS5 design, which means it’ll have an easier time fitting into your media center or behind your TV. It’s equipped with a 1TB solid-state drive, comes with a single controller, and has Astro’s Playroom, a game developed by Sony, preinstalled. The PlayStation 5’s library is varied—you can find a lot of great discounts on the hottest titles below—but Sony has gone the extra mile with this Black Friday deal by including a digital copy of Marvel Spider-Man 2 in this bundle. The game costs $70 on its own, so you’re saving a total of $130 when you pick up this set.

PlayStation 5 Disc Edition $449 (was $499)

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If by some weird chance you’re not a Spider-Man fan (or a Spider-Fan), then you can currently score a disc-drive version of the PS5 for just $449 at Amazon. You get the console and one controller with a $50 discount left over to buy whatever game your little heard desires.

PlayStation 5 game deals

• NBA 2K24 Kobe Bryant Edition, $29.99 (Was $69.99)
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, $24.99 (Was $34.99)
• LEGO 2K Drive, $34.99 (Was $69.99)
• Super Bomberman R 2, $19.99 (Was $49.99)
• Dying Light 2 Stay Human, $19.99 (Was $59.99)
• Final Fantasy XVI, $39.99 (Was $69.99)
• Sonic Superstars, $34.99 (Was $59.99)
• Payday 3, $24.99 (Was $39.99)
• Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol.1, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Dead Island 2: Day 1 Edition, $34.99 (Was $69.99)
• Madden NFL 24, $29.99 (Was $69.99)
• Sword Art Online Last Recollection, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• No More Heroes 3 Day 1 Edition, $19.99 (Was $39.99)

Xbox Series X/S game deals

• No More Heroes 3 Day 1 Edition, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• Mortal Kombat 1, $39.99 (Was $69.99)
• Theatrhythm Final Bar Line, $24.99 (Was $49.99)
• Dead Island 2: Day 1 Edition, $34.99 (Was $69.99)
• EA SPORTS FC 24, $29.99 (Was $69.99)
• LEGO 2K Drive, $34.99 (Was $69.99)
• Sonic Origins Plus, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol.1, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• No More Heroes 3 Day 1 Edition, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• Star Ocean The Divine Force, $19 (Was $39.99)
• Payday 3, $24.99 (Was $39.99)

Nintendo Switch game deals

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Octopath Traveler II, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion, $29.99 (Was $49.99)
• PowerWash Simulator, $19.99 (Was $24.99)
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, $24.99 (Was $34.99)
• Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town, $19.99 (Was $29.99)
• Samba de Amigo: Party Central, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• Super Bomberman R 2, $19.99 (Was $49.99)
• Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Rune Factory 4, $19.99 (Was $29.99)
• Trinity Trigger Day 1 Edition, $29.99 (Was $39.99)

Razer deals

• Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless Gaming Headset, $99.99 (Was $179.99)
• Razer Viper Ultimate Lightweight Wireless Gaming Mouse, $53.72 (Was $129.99)
• Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard, $149.99 (Was $249.99)
• Razer DeathStalker V2 Gaming Keyboard, $149.99 (Was $199.99)
• Razer Quick Charging Stand for PlayStation 5, $24.99 (Was $39.99)
• Razer Leviathan V2: Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar with Subwoofer, $199.99 (Was $249.99)
• Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Razer Wolverine V2 Wired Gaming Controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, $48.99 (Was $99.99)
• Razer Barracuda Wireless Gaming & Mobile Headset, $100.99 (Was $159.99)
• Razer Orochi V2 Mobile Wireless Gaming Mouse, $44.99 (was $69.99)
• Razer Kraken V3 HyperSense Wired USB Gaming Headset, $79.99 (Was $129.99)

MSI deals

• MSI Thin GF63 Gaming Laptop, $799.99 (Was $999)
• MSI Aegis R (Tower) Gaming Desktop, $799.99 (Was $949)
• MSI Creator M16, $1,099.99 (was $1,599.99)
• MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic RED AM Mechanical RGB Gaming Keyboard, $79.99 (Was $129.99)
• MSI Stealth 17 Studio Gaming Laptop, $2,399.99 (Was $2,799)
• MSI Katana 17 Gaming Laptop, $1,199.99 (Was $1,399)
• MSI Aegis ZS Gaming Desktop, $1,099.99 (Was $1,249)

The post Get in the game with $130 off the limited-time PlayStation 5 Slim Spider-Man 2 bundle for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Apple Studio Display		SEE IT	Apple makes the best display for the Mac Mini, but it’s also the priciest.
Best 4K		Dell S2722QC		SEE IT	Need a high-resolution screen for less? You’ve come to the right place.
Best budget		ViewSonic VP2756-2K		SEE IT	Pair Apple’s lowest-cost computer with an equally budget-friendly display.

The Mac Mini is Apple’s entry-level, low-cost desktop computer, but that entry-level price means it doesn’t come with a keyboard, mouse, or monitor. You’ll need to hook the Mac Mini up to a display to set up or otherwise use the computer, and you can even connect two to it simultaneously. The two-display setup is less indulgent with the Mac Mini, given its $599 starting price. In many cases, you’ll spend roughly as much (if not more) on a monitor as the computer. The best monitors for Mac Mini will allow you to use this pint-sized machine to its full potential.

• Best overall: Apple Studio Display
• Best ultrawide: BenQ PD3420Q
• Best curved: Samsung ViewFinity S65VC
• Best 4K: Dell S2722QC
• Best budget: ViewSonic VP2756-2K

How we chose the best monitors for Mac Mini

The Mac Mini can be connected to any monitor without an adapter thanks to its HDMI and Thunderbolt 4 ports. This flexibility means your stream of options is nearly endless, which is why we relied on both hands-on testing and extensive research to determine the best ones to get. We factored in each monitor’s size, resolution, port selection, and price above all else, so you’ll find a screen that fits both your needs and budget.

The best monitors for Mac Mini: Reviews & Recommendations

The Mac Mini is a great machine for many businesses, as well as home users. But it won’t be great until you add a monitor (although if you plan to run it as a home server, you could use a TV or even an iPad during setup). When picking an essential accessory, it’s important to be selective when choosing one. Take stock of how much space you can dedicate to a screen on your desk, or consider hooking up your monitor to an arm to take up less room. Consider the day-to-day tasks you’re going to use the Mac Mini to accomplish since specific tasks like photo and video editing require the highest-resolution monitors with the most accurate color reproduction.

Best overall: Apple Studio Display

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 5120 x 2880
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: 1 X Thunderbolt; 3 X USB-C
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• 5K display with fantastic color accuracy
• Robust-sounding built-in speakers
• Integrated 12-megapixel webcam with Center Stage support

Cons

• Cost
• Middling webcam picture quality

It shouldn’t be shocking that the Apple Studio Display is the best monitor for the Mac Mini, as it was for the MacBook Pro. The company finally released a display matching its computers in aesthetics and performance.

It isn’t as performant as Apple’s premium Pro Display XDR, which costs a whopping $5,000 with a stand, but you do get an excellent-looking 27-inch 5K display for less than a third of that price. Apple first debuted a 5K monitor as part of the iMac, and it’s only recently offered a monitor with this resolution pretty recently. While the first 5K iMac was released in 2015, it’s still rare to find any monitor from any company that’s this high res.

The primary reason to pair the Mac Mini with a monitor designed by Apple is both were designed to work perfectly in sync. We tested this monitor with a MacBook Pro and never had a problem with the machine recognizing the display. There were no unwanted artifacts like flickering or stuttering, either. Surprisingly, the Studio Display’s speakers performed significantly better than we expected, delivering punchy bass, while there was still a lot of detail in the mids and highs.

This isn’t a necessary feature, but you’ll appreciate it if you want a clean desk—some good powered speakers sound better but require space. Similarly, the Studio Display’s aluminum body matches the Mac Mini, which is aesthetically pleasing. When it comes to connectivity, this monitor is equipped with one Thunderbolt 3 port, which must be used to connect the display to the Mac Mini, and three USB-C ports that can be used to hook up accessories. One accessory you won’t necessarily need when using the Mac Mini with an Apple Studio Display is a webcam.

This monitor has a 12MP webcam, which is better than nothing but disappointing given the display’s north-of-$1,000 price. The issue is that Apple opted to sacrifice video quality to support a feature called Center Stage. The Studio Display’s webcam will zoom in and crop its image to keep you in the middle of the frame. It’ll also pan around as you move. This feature is neat, but we’d have preferred a better-looking webcam.

Still, you won’t beat Apple’s Studio Display if you have a Mac Mini and want a monitor that was literally made to be its companion.

Best ultrawide: BenQ PD3420Q

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 34-inch
• Resolution: 3440×1440
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: 1 X DisplayPort 1.4; 2 X HDMI 2.0; 1 X USB-B; 1 X USB 3.1; 1 X USB-C
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Calman and Pantone validated
• Built-in speakers
• Wide assortment of ports

Cons

• Large size

If your desk has enough space to accommodate its huge size, BenQ’s PD3420Q is an excellent ultrawide monitor for the Mac Mini. It’s earned the distinction of being Pantone Validated, which means it’s been tested by one of the foremost authorities on color accuracy and found to display a wide range of colors precisely. If you edit photos and videos, this is an essential mark of quality. Similarly, the PD3420Q can reproduce colors on 98% of the sRGB color spectrum. The bottom line is that what you see on this screen will be reflective of what you’ll see on a printed product.

You can connect the Mac Mini to this monitor using either an HDMI or USB-C cable because it has both of those inputs. These video inputs sit alongside this monitor’s USB-A ports, which can be used with accessories. If you choose to connect your computer to this display via USB-C, you can use the HDMI ports to plug in a couple of game consoles. The PD3420Q has a pair of three-watt speakers for stereo sound. Don’t expect much from them, but it’s better than nothing.

There’s no getting around the PD3420Q’s big size, but that’s the point of getting an ultrawide monitor. If you need a big screen for important media work, this Mac Mini monitor is for you.

Best curved: Samsung ViewFinity S65VC

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 34-inch
• Resolution: 3440×1440
• Refresh rate: 100Hz
• Ports: 1 X HDMI 2.0; 1 X USB-C; 2 X USB-A; 1 X USB-B; 1 X Ethernet
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Built-in webcam
• HDR 10 support
• Ethernet port

Cons

• May be too big

If you prefer using curved displays with your computer to get a more immersive experience for work or play, Samsung’s ViewFinity S65VC is the ideal Mac Mini monitor. The display’s size may be overwhelming—this is true of all curved displays—but the point is to take up as much of your peripheral vision as possible. If you work with multiple windows simultaneously, the extra space is necessary to work efficiently.

This Mac Mini monitor has the highest refresh rate out of all our recommendations and supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), which is helpful for both gaming and video editing. The display also features a pair of five-watt stereo speakers and a built-in five-megapixel camera. You should expect good-looking HD video from this camera given its size and placement—it protrudes from the top of the screen in its own enclosure rather than having to fit in its bezels. If you believe in a clean desktop and don’t want to clutter up more space with accessories, this all-in-one monitor approach makes a lot of these, and the ideology even extends to its assortment of inputs.

Alongside the typical array of video and USB ports sits an Ethernet jack. If you connect the Mac Mini to this monitor, you can use the display as your networking and accessories hub in a way that isn’t possible with the other monitors we’re recommending. Yes, the Mac Mini has a built-in Ethernet port, but you can organize your cables more easily if they’re all coming from a single point. Add these features to this display’s curved screen, and you get a Mac Mini monitor unlike any other.

Best 4K: Dell S2722QC

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x headphone jack
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Sharp display
• Sturdy Stand
• Ergonomic

Cons

• Doesn’t cover as much of the DCI-3 color gamut

Dell’s S2722QC makes the dream of a 4K USB-C-equipped monitor for the Mac Mini a reality for just about everybody. Its price, which fluctuates around $300, is solid and competitive with our budget pick in this category. What we found most surprising about this screen is its overall build quality. It’s made of plastic, but both the display and stand feel sturdy, even when rotating the monitor 90 degrees or adjusting its height.

This monitor’s USB-C port is the star of the show. We tested this monitor with a 13-inch MacBook Pro, but expect the same performance from a Mac Mini connected with a USB-C cable. You can plug the computer into this display over HDMI if you’d prefer. Dell complemented this monitor’s video ports with two USB-A ports and a headphone jack. The USB-A ports come in handy if you want to connect a webcam and external hard drive.

Overall, we were pleased with the performance of Dell’s S2722QC during common tasks like reading articles, streaming video, and participating in digital meetings. The display’s color accuracy was good enough for casual photo editing, but professionals are better off with a display that covers 100% of the sRGB color spectrum. On the other hand, the monitor’s 4K resolution made those photos, videos, and text look sharp.

Our time with the Dell S2722QC shows how much value you should expect from a monitor for the Mac Mini. To get this level of performance from a display in this price range is remarkable and proves the company’s commitment to pushing premium features in less expensive hardware.

Best budget: ViewSonic VP2756-2K

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: 1 X USB-C; 1 X Displayport; 1 X HDMI; 2 X USB 3.0; 1 X USB Type-B
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Good color accuracy
• Ergonomic stand
• Price

Cons

• So-so design

You can always get a cheaper monitor if you’re willing to compromise on size and specs, but the ViewSonic VG2756-2K is a very reasonable price-conscious mid-tier monitor that delivers what we’d recommend maximizing everyday work and play with a Mac Mini.

The VG2756-2K is a 27-inch, 1440p monitor you can connect to your computer via USB-C. You also have the option to plug it in with an HDMI cable if you’d prefer. The display’s 5ms response time is solid, as are its 350 cd/m² brightness, built-in stereo speakers, fully adjustable stand, and a three-year warranty. Overall, it’s an enticing mid-range productivity monitor.

We were continually impressed by its shockingly accurate color reproduction during our tests. It performed well in this regard right out of the box without having to futz around with settings or change it to a specific mode. That plug-and-play performance is usually outside the purview of monitors in this price range. This makes this monitor a reasonable option for creative work when paired with the Mac Mini.

What to consider when shopping for a monitor for Mac Mini

Several factors should be considered when deciding which monitor for Mac Mini is right for your needs. We’ve addressed the most important ones below, which we kept in mind while testing and researching. We also judged the monitors we chose based on their price, which heavily impacted how we viewed their overall value.

Screen size

Monitors come in a wide assortment of styles, but bigger isn’t necessarily better. The larger the monitor, the more space it’ll take up on your desk. This is also one of the most significant drivers of a monitor’s price. Photo and video editors can take full advantage of the space afforded by a 30+ inch screen, while a writer who uses one app at a time won’t. Additionally, it’s easier to see individual pixels on a larger monitor as it typically has the same resolution as a smaller one.

Screen resolution

While size will have the biggest immediate impact on how you perceive a screen, its resolution will determine its image quality. A basic summation is the higher the resolution, the more pixels you’ll see in a given patch of monitor space.

Screen resolution is defined by both numbers and letters, which can be somewhat confusing. The numbers signify how many horizontal and vertical pixels are present. For example, a resolution of 1920 x 1080 shows 1920 pixels from right to left and 1080 pixels from top to bottom. Resolution numbers are often abbreviated to just show the vertical number—1920 x 1080 is known in this system as 1080p.

Our Mac Mini monitor recommendations fall into the QHD (2560 X 1440), 4K (3840 x 2160), and 5K (5120 × 2880) resolution ranges. Text, images, and videos will look clear on all of these displays, so you won’t have to worry about upgrading your screen any time soon.

Ports

A monitor’s ports (also called inputs) determine which cable is required to connect it to your Mac Mini (or any other gadget, for that matter). All of our recommendations have HDMI ports, but many also feature DisplayPort and USB-C inputs. You can connect the machine to any display because of the Mac Mini’s built-in HDMI and Thunderbolt 4 ports. However, the benefit of using a USB-C connection is that a single cable will carry audio, video, and data, while HDMI only carries the first two. Some of our picks have USB-A ports, which allow you to use them as a hub to connect your computer to additional accessories.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate—measured in hertz, shortened to Hz—determines how quickly its display can be updated with new information. Refresh rates are measured in milliseconds, which means this tech spec isn’t important for common tasks but will make a difference if you choose to use your monitor for gaming. Most displays refresh at 60Hz, but it can go much higher.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best monitors for Mac Mini

• Best overall: Apple Studio Display
• Best ultrawide: BenQ PD3420Q
• Best curved: Samsung ViewFinity S65VC
• Best 4K: Dell S2722QC
• Best budget: ViewSonic VP2756-2K

The Mac Mini is an excellent entry point into Apple’s computer ecosystem thanks to its low price. The machine is powerful enough to handle demanding tasks like 4K video editing while taking up far less space than a traditional PC tower. It’s small and light enough that you could actually carry it around in a backpack if you have two workstations set up. One of the best parts about monitors for Mac Mini is that you can continue to use the same display even after upgrading your computer. These displays can outlast several computers without having to be replaced, which makes them an excellent value if you switch out your PC often.

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 monitors for Mac Mini, 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		Anker Powerline+ III Lightning to USB-C		SEE IT	The Anker Powerline+ III is slim, braided, and enables fast charging. What else do you need?
Best USB-A to Lightning		Anker USB-A to 90-degree Lightning Cable		SEE IT	Anker’s USB-A to Lightning cable features a 90-degree connector that makes the device much easier to hold horizontally.
Best durable		Nomad Kevlar Lightning		SEE IT	Nomad’s Kevlar line of cables are double-braided and built to stand the test of time.

If you own an iPhone prior to the iPhone 15, you can’t live without a Lightning cable. Even with wireless charging, Apple’s proprietary cable connector for iPhones and some iPads is a must for fast charging, transferring data, and wired audio. The stock Lightning cables bundled with new iPhones and iPads are … fine. Most of the time, they’re a bit short and they fray easily. Luckily, you don’t have to settle for one of Apple’s cables. There is a vast market of third-party alternatives that offer more variety, better durability, longer reach, and more interesting designs. If you’re holding onto your current iPhone for a while and need a new cable, the best Lightning cables will drastically improve the experience of connecting your phone.

• Best overall: Anker Powerline+ III Lightning to USB-C
• Best USB-A to Lightning: Anker USB-A to 90-degree Lightning Cable
• Best durable: Nomad Kevlar Lightning
• Best braided nylon: Native Union Belt Cable
• Best long: Anker Powerline+ II (10-foot)
• Best multi-cable: Nomad Universal Cable
• Best budget: AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning

What is Lightning?

Introduced in 2012 with the iPhone 5, Lightning is Apple’s proprietary 8-pin connector format, which replaced the company’s original 30-pin dock connector for iPods, iPhones, and other handhelds. Like USB-C, the common charging/data port on Android phones and tablets, a Lightning connection charges, transmits audio, and transfers data to and from your device.

While the technology remains prevalent across Apple’s legacy portfolio, the company has phased it out to some extent. Apple switched to USB-C for the iPad Pro and the iPad Air M1. Meanwhile, an EU mandate helped motivate apple to introduce USB-C on the iPhone 15 models, the current AirPod Pros, and the iPad Pro.

We shouldn’t put the cart before the horse, though. if you’re using an iPhone with a Lightning port, you’re still going to need charging cables for the foreseeable future.

How we chose the best Lightning cables

I’ve used many, many Lightning cables over the last decade since Apple introduced the format. Over the years, I’ve encountered my fair share of frayed cables and understand the value of high-quality materials, and I combined that experience with peer suggestions, critical reviews, and online under impressions. When I’m not searching for the perfect Lightning cables, you can find me writing about the best Lego Star Wars sets and the best mouse for Mac.

The best Lightning cables: Reviews & Recommendations

Many of the best Lightning cables feature braided nylon or kevlar material, come in various lengths, and are MFi certified. The picks on our list come from reputable brands and fit all kinds of use cases. Do you need something that’s ultra-durable that can survive your rugged outdoor adventures? Or are you a remote worker who needs a long cable so you charge off an outlet across the room? Whatever you need, there’s a Lightning cable for that.

Best overall: Anker Powerline+ III USB-C to Lightning

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Length: 6 feet
• Material: Braided nylon
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• 35,000 bend lifespan
• Fast-charging support
• More durable connection points
• Lightning connector has been strengthened to resist breaks

Cons

• Expensive

USB-C isn’t the only port but, with its conveniently reversible interface, it has become the modern standard of choice, even in Apple laptops (RIP, Thunderbolt). For that reason, our best overall pick is a USB-C to Lightning cable. And Anker’s Powerline+ III cable has everything we look for in a well-rounded charging cable, including MFi certification, support for fast charging, a braided nylon outer layer, and a 35,000-bend lifespan. It’s very durable, with a rustproof connector and curved steel design that protects the Lightning connection points, making them more resistant to drops and other everyday nicks.

The Powerline+ III is available in 3-foot and 6-foot options in black, red, silver, and gold. Anker also offers a lifetime warranty and will provide users with a replacement for any quality issues.

Best USB-A to Lightning: Anker USB-A to Lightning (90 degree)

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Length: 3 feet
• Material: PVC
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• Angled connector
• Rated to withstand being plugged in and unplugged 10,000 times
• Great for mobile gaming and watching videos

Cons

• Only available in a 3-foot option

While the USB-C oval feels like it has become ubiquitous, there are still plenty of devices with USB-A’s familiar rectangle port. We like Anker’s USB-A to Lightning cable because it isn’t like every other USB-A to Lightning cable you’ve seen. The Lightning end of this cable is angled at 90 degrees, so it sits flush with the device and is comfortable when held horizontally. The angled approach makes the cable particularly good for charging while playing a game or watching a movie because there’s no cable jutting out. Anker’s cable still offers enhanced durability and official MFi certification, so you can rest assured that it will last.

Best durable: Nomad Kevlar Lightning

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Length: 10 feet
• Material: Kevlar
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• Kevlar construction
• Fast-charging support
• Cable length is great for faraway outlets
• Integrated cable tie

Cons

• Expensive

Nomad’s Kevlar USB-C to Lightning cable is made for people who have had bad luck with fraying cables. It has a double-braided sheath made from Kevlar, which is heat-resistant and five times stronger than steel. (You may know the material for its starring role in bulletproof vests.) Nomad’s cable supports fast charging when paired with the correct power adapter, bringing an iPhone battery from 0 percent to 50 percent in 30 minutes. It also includes an integrated cable tie made of liquid silicone rubber, so you can keep it coiled.

Adding Kevlar isn’t cheap, apparently, as Nomad’s cable is the most expensive option on our list. Then again, it should be the only Lightning cable you’ll ever need. The Nomad Kevlar Lightning is available as either a USB-C to Lightning or USB-A to Lightning cable, with 5-foot and 10-foot variants.

Best braided nylon: Native Union Belt Cable

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Length: 4 feet
• Material: Braided nylon
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• Extra durable design
• O-Flex cutout for added strain relief
• Variety of designs

Cons

• Only 4-foot option

Native Union’s Belt Cable is another excellent USB-C to Lightning cable that’s MFi certified and features braided nylon for increased durability. The cable also features an “O-Flex” cutout near the end to give it more flexibility right where the cable meets the connector to deal with strenuous bends. Native Union’s cable is another straightforward option that supports fast charging and stays tangle-free with the help of a genuine leather strap, so you can keep the cable compact when transporting it in your bag. 

The 4-foot cable is also available as a USB-A to Lightning cable and comes in a few stylish colorways, including zebra, cosmos, rose, indigo, and sage. 

Best long: Anker Powerline+ II (10-foot)

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Length: 10 feet
• Material: Braided nylon
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• Longer cable
• Excellent durability
• 30,000 bend lifespan

Cons

• USB-A to Lightning only

If you need a cable that can stretch from a faraway outlet to a couch or bed, Anker’s Powerline+ II is 10 feet long, giving you plenty of freedom while charging. Like its successor, the Powerline+ II features a braided nylon outer layer and is rated to withstand 30,000 bends. It also features tensile strength capable of withstanding 175 pounds, not that you’d ever stretch it like that.

As an older model, the Powerline+ II has a couple of disadvantages. It only comes as a USB-A to Lightning cable. Since it doesn’t support USB-C, that means no fast charging at a distance. The Powerline+ II is available in black, red, silver, and gold.

Best multi-cable: Nomad Universal Cable

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Length: 5 feet
• Material: Kevlar
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• Features microUSB, USB-C, and Lightning
• Kevlar construction offers excellent durability
• Integrated cable tie

Cons

• No USB-PD support
• Expensive

The Nomad Universal Cable removes the pain of fumbling with different cables for each and every device. Sometimes, you need a Lightning cable, but you may also need a USB-A to USB-C cable at some point, or USB-A to Micro USB. This one can do all three using a set of removable connector heads. Now you can carry one cable that can charge your iPhone, wireless mouse, and any other accessories you may own. It’s a nice way to cut down clutter and is convenient for road warriors. It’s durable like the other Nomad picks on our list and it features an integrated cable tie to keep it coiled in your bag. 

Best budget: AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Amazon’s USB-A to Lightning shows Apple how it’s done at an affordable price.

Specs

• Length: 3 feet
• Material: Braided nylon
• MFi Certified: Yes

Pros

• Affordable
• Color and length variety
• Durable

Pros

• No USB-PD support

The AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning cable is a more affordable MFi-certified option, in case our other picks seem a bit too pricey. With braided nylon for added durability and an additional layer of protection to the connectors to prevent fraying, it’s a straightforward cable you can quickly throw in your bag and use in any situation. It isn’t perfect, but you get the quality of a more expensive cable, which should last your iPhone’s lifetime, at a very nice price. 

The AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning cable is available in 3-foot and 6-foot variants. It comes in four colors—gray, red, rose, and silver.

Things to consider when picking the best Lightning cables

If you’ve ever bought a $5 charging cable at a pharmacy when you left yours at home, you know that there are good Lightning cables and bad Lightning cables. They come in different lengths and designs. Some connect Lightning to USB-A, while others go to USB-C. Most importantly, you need to look out for MFi certification, which ensures third-party products meet Apple’s strict standards for things like construction and durability.

MFi Certified

Introduced in 2005, Apple’s “Made For iPhone/iPad” program—or “Made for iPod,” as it was originally called—certifies third-party manufacturers who create accessories for Apple devices, ensuring they meet certain technical specifications and standards for product quality. Developers and manufacturers that join the MFi Program get access to technical specifications, hardware components, and the right to say that their gear is “Apple approved.”

As part of the MFi program, official Lightning connectors contain an authentication chip to ensure full compatibility with Apple’s devices. When you plug in a Lightning cable without this authentication chip, your phone may warn with a message saying the accessory isn’t compatible with your device.

Uncertified Lightning cables aren’t automatically bad but most uncertified knock-off Lightning cables aren’t great. At best, you may find they don’t charge your phone as fast as an official one would. At worst, they may break or even overheat in a way that damages your device.

When you buy a Lightning cable that’s MFi-certified, you know it will work as it’s supposed to. They may still fray and break before you want them to but it’s clear that an MFi certification is a prerequisite for making a great Lightning cable. Given that, all of our picks are MFi-certified.

Length and material

Lightning cables come in various lengths and materials, and what you buy depends on when and where you charge. The standard 3-foot cable is easy to transport and only becomes a tangled mess when you drop it in a bag without winding it up. They’re good for charging your phone in the car or transferring data at a workstation. However, it may not be long enough for you to continue using your device on your couch or in bed while charging.

A long cable may be more difficult to fit in a bag or purse if you don’t wrap it up properly, but it gives you more flexibility to charge and use your phone while charging. You can find Lightning cables anywhere from 1-10 feet long, so you’ll have to consider what size works best for your needs. You may need to purchase a few different cables at different lengths to use in different scenarios. Worst case, you have a couple of extra cables that you can stash away for when friends come over or if a go-to cable breaks.

Once you settle on the size, you’ll need to consider the outer material of your cable. Apple’s standard Lightning cable is made of Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) and is infamous for fraying after a short time. Many high-end cables are coated with braided nylon or kevlar, which are more resistant to the long-term effects of bending and pulling. Cables made with these materials are also more likely to withstand bites from mischievous pets.

Connection

If you’re plugging in an iPhone, you’ll always need a Lightning connector. The question is, what gets plugged in on the other end? Most Lightning cables plug into either a USB-A or USB-C port. If you’ve been using iPhones for a long time, chances are you have at least a couple USB-A power adapters around, so you should buy a cable to support your charger. 

It has been a while since Apple included a charging brick in the box with the iPhone. You can find Apple and third-party USB-C power adapters, but you will need to buy them separately. Some USB-C adapters with higher outputs will enable faster charging, so there is an advantage to making the switch. You can also get a USB-C hub to charge more devices.

In either case, there are many great Lightning cables in all kinds of lengths and styles, so you really just need to figure out what’s going to work well with your gear.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Lightning cables

• Best overall: Anker Powerline+ III Lightning to USB-C
• Best USB-A to Lightning: Anker USB-A to 90-degree Lightning Cable
• Best durable: Nomad Kevlar Lightning
• Best braided nylon: Native Union Belt Cable
• Best long: Anker Powerline+ II (10-foot)
• Best multi-cable: Nomad Universal Cable
• Best budget: AmazonBasics USB-A to Lightning

It’s easy to look at a high-end Lightning cable and balk at the cost. It’s just a cable, right? The reality, though, is that the best Lightning cables can charge your phone faster and will last much longer than that cheap charging cable from the pharmacy. By upgrading to a pick on our list, you’re investing in a piece of equipment that will last as long as your phone or longer. It’s a small investment but one you’ll be happy you made.

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 Lightning cables of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Sawgrass SG500		SEE IT	The Sawgrass SG500 offers a high resolution and is ready to print sublimation right out of the box.
Best inkjet		Epson EcoTank ET-2720		SEE IT	This Epson EcoTank printer is easy to convert into a sublimation printer.
Best budget		Canon Selphy CP1500		SEE IT	This budget printer is also portable so you can print sublimated photos on the go.

Sublimation printing allows you to print photos and artwork using special inks to transfer to items like T-shirts, mugs, canvases, and more. But gone are the days of sublimation printers being primarily for high-end production businesses. More companies are now producing these special devices for general consumer use, making the art of dye sublimation more approachable. Should one of those not fit the bill, most inkjet printers can also be converted to the sublimation process. The best sublimation printers are a great way to create custom products in your home or office without paying a third party to handle them. 

• Best overall: Sawgrass SG500 
• Best for photos: DNP DS620A
• Best for beginners: Epson SureColor SC-F170
• Best inkjet printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2720 
• Best budget: Canon Selphy CP1500

How we chose the best sublimation printers

For this selection of the best sublimation printers, we chose current models from some of the major brands that produce these types of printers. Those meeting most users’ needs earned the top spots on our list.  We researched and selected models that included the broadest spectrum of features and capabilities, such as connectivity options, print speed, ink capacity and price, printer footprint, maximum print size, and more.

The best sublimation printers: Reviews & Recommendations

While you can convert most inkjet printers to sublimation printers, more companies have started to offer dedication sublimation options for creators. Converting an inkjet printer has benefits, but for most, buying a sublimation printer ready to run right out of the box is the preferable choice. Just add laptop (and your own brand/creativity, naturally). We’ve included out-of-the-box dye-sub devices in this guide, though with a few traditional inkjets thrown in as well. 

Best overall: Sawgrass SG500

SEE IT

Specs

• Maximum resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: ‎32.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 15.75 x 17.25 x 8.5 inches
• Type: Purpose-built sublimation printer

Pros

• Comes with a set of Sublijet UHD sublimation inks
• WiFi connectivity
• 2-year product warranty and In-house support

Cons

• Somewhat pricey
• Ink is expensive

Sawgrass is well known for its sublimation printers, with the SG500 sitting at the entry point of its lineup. It offers a high resolution for detailed prints and produces accurate, vibrant colors. You can print on media up to 8.5 by 14 inches and use it to create and apply custom graphics to a wide variety of items, including mugs, coasters, phone cases, apparel, and more.

The Sawgrass SG500 fits easily onto the top of a desk thanks to its small size. But, it’s still a powerful dye-sublimation printer that can be used on many projects, whether you’re a hobbyist or you own a small business or kiosk operation. It offers WiFi connectivity for wireless printing, so you don’t have to stay tethered to your desk. 

Since this is a purpose-built sublimation printer, you won’t need to worry about converting anything to get started. Set up is easy, as is printing. It comes with Sawgrass Print Manager, a software utility that automatically adjusts the ink output to ensure optimal quality while also reducing wasted ink. That’s ideal since ink for this printer is expensive, which is one of the main downsides. It also doesn’t hold very much, so if you print frequently, you’ll be refilling ink a lot.

Best for photos: DNP DS620A

SEE IT

Specs

• Maximum resolution: 300 x 300 dpi
• Maximum print size: 6 x 8 inches
• Weight: 26.4 pounds.
• Dimensions: ‎10.8 x 14.4 x 6.7 inches
• Type: Purpose-built sublimation printer

Pros

• Excellent performance and very fast
• Prints high-quality photos
• Offers several different print sizes
• You can print either glossy or matte finish

Cons

• Pricey
• Not for transfers

The DS620A printer is ideal for event and wedding photographers and content creators who want to quickly produce many quality photos to hand out at an event. What’s also nice about this printer is that, unlike cheaper purpose-built sublimation printers, it can print in three different sizes: 4 x 6 inches, 5 x 7 inches, and 6 x 8 inches. 

The DNP DS620A is very fast, too. The company says it can print 400 prints per hour. You can also place a watermark on the back of all your images and use the same media to produce either glossy or matte photos. It features a standby mode to lower costs by making the most efficient use of energy. The printer also provides advanced status information from the driver, enabling you to check on remaining media, media format, printer status, printer life counter, color control data, firmware version, and serial number.

It’s important to point out that this is strictly a photo printer. It is not meant for transfer purposes, so you won’t be able to print photos to transfer to mugs, shirts, etc. But this is an excellent choice if you want to produce high-quality and durable photos for clients. 

Best for beginners: Epson SureColor F170

SEE IT

Specs

• Maximum resolution: 1440 x 720 dpi
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 27.7 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.8 x 19.8 x 7.4 inches
• Type: Purpose-built sublimation printer

Pros

• Affordable inks
• Easy to get started and use
• Works with a wide range of blanks
• Excellent print quality

Cons

• Can’t print larger than 8.5 x 14 inches

Epson makes some of the best home office printers, all-in-one printers, and even photo printers. So it should come as no surprise that it also makes an excellent sublimation printer. The SureColor SC-F170 is ready to produce dye-sub prints right out of the box. It features a 150-feet auto-feed tray to keep you from loading media constantly. And the large ink tanks mean you won’t need to refill as often, saving you money and reducing the plastic you use. 

This printer for sublimation offers a 144 x 720 dpi resolution and produces vibrant, detailed prints. You’ll be able to transfer your prints to a variety of blanks, from mugs and metal panels to mousepads, shirts, and more. It connects via USB, Ethernet, or integrated wireless, giving you plenty of options. It is easy to set up and easy to use, getting you printing faster with less fuss.

Best inkjet: Epson EcoTank ET-2720 

SEE IT

Specs

• Maximum resolution: 5760 x 1440 dpi
• Maximum print size: 8.5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 8.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 13.7 x 14.8 x 8.7 inches
• Type: All-in-one inkjet printer

Pros

• Easy to convert to a dye-sub printer
• Ink tanks can hold months’ worth of ink
• Easy to set up
• Has both wireless and hands-free voice-activated printing capabilities
• Includes built-in scanner

Cons

• Requires conversion, which voids your warranty

If you’d prefer to convert an inkjet printer for dye-sub printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is a great choice. The printer itself is affordable, saving you money in upfront costs. Its large tanks hold a lot of ink, so you won’t have to refill as often. And the 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution will produce detailed prints for transferring.

Converting the printer is as simple as adding sublimation ink, so you don’t need to be a tech guru to get started. As an all-in-one, it features a built-in scanner, allowing you to use it for more than just printing. It offers plenty of connectivity options as well, making it easy to print from anywhere. Finally, the relatively small footprint won’t take up much room on a desk. Just keep in mind that using sublimation ink will void the warranty of the printer. If it breaks, you’ll be left dealing with repairs or replacement on your own.

Best budget: Canon Selphy CP1500

SEE IT

Specs

• Maximum resolution: 300 x 300 dpi
• Maximum print size: 4 x 6 inches
• Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Dimensions: 7.2 x 2.3 x 5.2 inches
• Type: Portable photo dye-sublimation printer

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Easy to use
• Portable
• Can print on four media sizes, including small stickers
• Can print directly from SD memory card (via memory card slot)

Cons:

• Not for heat transfers 
• Not very versatile

There’s a lot to like about the Canon Selphy CP1500 dye-sub photo printer, provided that you’re okay with being limited to printing only 4 x 6-inch photos. Also, Canon didn’t make this printer for what transfers, so you won’t be able to create images for mugs, shirts, and so on. But if you just want a compact, portable, affordable printer for quality and durable photos, the CP1500 is a great choice.

Beyond being a great budget option, the Selphy CP1500 is also the best portable dye-sub printer. It will fit in any small office or anywhere else in the home and is easy to tuck away or take with you on the go. There are also several options when you want to connect with the printer. You can connect to it via a USB port for a wired connection, print directly from an SD card or USB flash drive, or print wirelessly via WiFi. You can even print from your smartphone or tablet through the SELPHY Layout app, Canon’s PRINT app, Apple AirPrint (for Apple devices), or Mopria (for Android devices).

An AC adapter powers the printer. It also supports the Canon NB-CP2LH battery, allowing up to 54 prints on a single charge. The Selphy CP1500 also sports a small 3.2-inch LCD, which allows you to preview any images you’d like to print directly from your memory card or thumb drive.

What to consider when buying the best sublimation printers

For many of you, it’s quite possible that you’ve never even heard of sublimation (or dye-sublimation) printers before. You might be wondering: How does a dye-sublimation printer work, and how does it differ from the process inkjet printers use to create images and prints? Essentially, during the printing process, heat is applied to the layers of solid ink, which causes them to sublimate, which means it skips the liquid form and goes directly to the gaseous state. Then, once the ink hits the paper or other material, it transitions back to a solid, producing the image. The printer then finishes by applying a clear protective coating to prevent smudging. 

What will you be using the printer for? 

Sublimation printing is used for two main types of processes: Printing photos or printing images and graphics for transfer. Some printers can do both, but some are only intended for one or the other. So, when you buy a sublimation printer, you’ll want to be clear on what you’ll be using it for. The media type that works in the printer will determine what you can use it for. 

Sublimation technology is especially common in compact, portable photo printers. That is partly because sublimation photo prints are more durable than standard inkjet prints due to this heating process. They come out of the printer totally dry and won’t smudge if touched too soon. They are also more resistant to fading. You can also find larger devices that use this method of printing, but those can get rather pricey.

Many creatives and small business owners use sublimation printers in order to transfer images or designs onto fabric or a range of hard materials, such as mugs or metal sheets. To do this kind of dye-sublimation printing, you first create a graphic or photo and produce a dye-sub print (which is printed in reverse) onto transfer paper. Once the ink is dry on the transfer paper, the photo or graphic can be transferred onto an object by heating it. Heat is applied to the ink, at which point it’s vaporized and transferred to an object. 

Type of printer

If you’re interested in placing your photos or graphics on customized gifts, like baseball hats, cell phone cases, mugs, or t-shirts, you have two options. First, you can convert an inkjet printer to a dye-sublimation printer. This process is as simple as adding sublimation ink instead of the ink that comes with your printer when buying a new device. You should be aware, however, that when you decide to convert your printer to the sublimation process, you will no longer be able to use it as an inkjet printer. It also voids your printer’s warranty since you are not using ink intended for the printer. Also, not all inkjets can be converted. So, be sure to do some research to find out if your model can be converted. 

Your other option is to buy a purpose-built sublimation printer. These are becoming more common, with more brands offering consumer-level devices suitable for home or office settings.  

Print size

Before purchasing a printer, you’ll want to consider what size you will be printing. Some printers can only print up to four by six inches, while others can print up to 13 inches wide. If you are primarily creating small graphics to put on mugs and other promotional items, a smaller printer will save you money and still work well for your needs. But if you want the ability to create large graphics, focus on printers that support larger print sizes. 

What other equipment and supplies will I need on hand? 

If you are purchasing a sublimation printer in order to transfer images to objects or other materials, you will also need a heat press. Heat presses come in different forms, with some specifically built for mugs, hats, or other oddly shaped objects. You’ll also need to invest in sublimation paper, ink, heat-resistant tape, and blanks to transfer your images onto. Be sure to factor all these costs into your budget when choosing a printer. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best sublimation printers

• Best overall: Sawgrass SG500 
• Best for photos: DNP DS620A
• Best for beginners: Epson SureColor SC-F170
• Best inkjet printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2720 
• Best budget: Canon Selphy CP1500

Sublimation printers can be a fun way to either create durable, long-lasting photos or to transfer images and designs to all sorts of objects and materials. There are a range of sublimation printers out there for all experience levels, project types, and budgets. You can even convert inkjet printers, adding even more options. No matter what, be sure to consider what type of images you want to print and how you will be using those images in order to choose the best printer for your needs. 

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 sublimation printers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Vornado Pivot Personal Air Circulator Fan		SEE IT	Style, power, and brand reputation align in this highly rated small fan!
Best whisper-quiet		Rechargeable Small Oscillating Desk Fan		SEE IT	With a max sound of 25 dB, this desk fan offers great value for your money, at a fair price point.
Best budget		Gaiatop USB Desk Fan		SEE IT	For under $15, you can get a three-speed USB plug-in desk fan with overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Desk fans offer a convenient way to take control of the climate around your workspace. When it’s hot and stuffy, focusing on work is near impossible. You don’t want to be a sweaty mess on those Zoom calls and you certainly don’t want a loud, disruptive, and distracting window A/C sputtering in the background—an absolute work-from-home nightmare. Desk fans are a great way to offset hot summer months without breaking the bank with cooling bills. And if you don’t have A/C at all, small desk fans should be mandatory in every household! While desktop fans don’t actually cool the air like air conditioning, they help circulate airflow around the room to create a wind chill effect, helping your body cool itself. The best desk fans are quiet, powerful, compact, and budget-friendly, so we rounded up some of the best options available to keep you comfortable.

• Best overall: Vornado Pivot Personal Air Circulator Fan
• Best retro: Vornado VFAN Vintage Whole Room Air Circulator Fan
• Best compact: Vornado 133 Compact Air Circulator Fan
• Best whisper-quiet: Kovhzcu Air Circulator Fan
• Best budget: Gaiatop USB Desk Fan

How we picked the best desk fans

Choosing the right desk fan for your setup really depends on your own needs and personal tastes. For this list, we picked some models that work for just about anyone and others geared toward specific users. All of the entries on this list, however, promise reliable build quality, solid airflow, generally quiet operation, and compact sizing. We relied on a mixture of personal experience, peer suggestions, user impressions, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons to choose models from reputable brands. 

Related: Best fans

The best desk fans: Reviews & Recommendations

A small, compact desk fan does not need to be expensive to be effective. You can find solid and simple designs for under $20, but more stylish designs will have a higher price tag. More speed settings and stronger power will also up the price, but you should really never be paying more than $100 for even the best desk fans.

Best overall: Vornado Pivot Personal Air Circulator Fan

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Style, power, and brand reputation align in this highly rated small fan! It’s got three speeds, clocks in at under 2 pounds, and has a sleek, modern design. 

Specs 

• Product Dimensions: 5.1″D x 5.7″W x 6″H
• Item Weight: 1.7 lbs
• Number of Speeds: 3

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Stylish
• Great brand reputation
• 3-speed, multi-directional airflow

Cons

• Highest setting is noisy
• Can be difficult to clean

Designed with a cool, aviation-inspired look, the Vornado Pivot looks expensive without breaking the bank. Standing at only 6 inches tall, it’s a great choice for a desk or nightstand that produces concentrated airflow without overpowering the space. It features three speeds, multi-directional airflow, and several colors to suit your vibe. Reviewers love that it’s durable, not too loud (especially the lowest setting), and can “blow 11ft across my bedroom, even on medium.” Note that it can be a bit hard to clean, and the highest setting is definitely the noisiest if you’re trying to take a video call or are a light sleeper.

Best retro: Vornado VFAN Vintage Whole Room Air Circulator Fan

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With a green and gold painted finish, this retro-inspired desk fan offers a groovy vibe with your cooler air. It’s got three speeds, lots of positive reviews, and a full-action pivot head for multi-directional airflow.

Specs

• Product Dimensions: 13.8 Inches (H) x 11.8 Inches (W) x 8.1 Inches (D)
• Item Weight: 7.9 pounds
• Number of Speeds: 3

Pros

• 3 speeds
• Pivot head for multi-directional airflow
• Tough, sturdy, well-built
• Lots of 5-star online reviews
• Vintage feel

Cons

• Cleaning the inside can be challenging
• Pricier than other options
• Vintage look (not actually vintage)

A vintage feel with the benefits of modern technology, this green-and-gold painted fan is strong yet compact enough to fit on your desk. With Vortex technology for whole-room circulation, three speeds to suit your preference, and a strong brand reputation, this desk fan is the perfect choice for anyone who has a more retro design style. It’s made from durable metal with no assembly required—just plug it in! Note that this is a retro feel, not an actual vintage fan. 

Best compact: Vornado 133 Compact Air Circulator Fan

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With over 5,000 positive Amazon reviews, apartment dwellers and space savers will love this mini, 2-pound desk fan with two speeds and deep-pitched blades. 

Specs

• Product Dimensions: 7.4 x 5.9 x 8.7 inches
• Item Weight: 2.1 pounds
• Battery Required: No

Pros

• Lightweight (2 lbs)
• Mini, compact, space-saving
• Sturdy
• Moves air up to 25 feet
• Budget-friendly 

Cons

• Noisy
• Only 2 speeds

The 133 Compact Air Circulator features Vornado’s features deep-pitched blades, two speeds, and an inlet guide code with an enclosed air duct that moves air about 25 feet around the room. That’s pretty good for a fan that’s only 2 pounds! It comes with an adjustable tilt head so you can direct air right on your face during hot months; however, it only moves up and down (not sideways). Reviewers like that this mini desk fan is sturdy, compact, and budget-friendly at under $40. It’s a “good little fan” that’s pretty decent for home office use or a child’s room. Note that some found it to be noisy when on the higher speed. This isn’t ideal for light sleepers or noise-sensitive folks. 

Best whisper-quiet: Kovhzcu Air Circulator Fan

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With a max sound of 25 dB, this rechargeable oscillating desk fan offers great value for your money, at a fair price point.

Specs

• Product Dimensions: 8″D x 8″W x 11″H
• Material: Plastic
• Noise Level: 25 dB

Pros

• 4 Speeds
• 45 dB – whisper quiet
• Fairly priced
• Compact yet durable
• Rechargable 

Cons

• Some don’t see enough difference between levels 2 & 3

With four wind speeds (normal wind, natural wind, sleep wind, baby wind) for a customizable experience, this whisper-quiet desk fan is only 45 dB when running. It features an intelligent oscillating fan with turbine technology for more concentrated blowing. While the high-performance DC motor makes for a powerful fan, the low noise output is perfect for light sleepers, video calls, and those who are easily irritated by noise. Reviewers absolutely rave about this little fan—many note that they love the LED function, how quiet it is, and that it’s small enough to be compact while large enough that it’s not flimsy. It’s also fairly priced at under $50!

Best budget: Gaiatop USB Desk Fan

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: For under $15, you can get a three-speed, quality, USB plug-in desk fan that’s got over 11,000 positive reviews to back it up.

Specs

• Product Dimensions: 3.07″D x 4.57″W x 5.43″H
• Item Weight: 8 oz.
• Number of Speeds: 3

Pros

• Super inexpensive
• Over 11,000 positive Amazon reviews
• 3 speeds
• Powerful yet compact
• Anti-slip base

Cons

• Not the most stylish
• Included 3-foot cords are short

For a simple and straightforward desk fan that won’t break the bank but will deliver powerful circulation, look no further than the Gaiatop compact desk fan. For under $15, you get a small but strong fan with three speeds, USB plug-in, and one button for simple controlling. The anti-slip rubber pad base helps to reduce noise and prevent scratching your table or desk surface. Note that the three-foot cord can be a bit short for plugging into some outlets, depending on how your desk is situated. One reviewer had trouble fitting other plugs into the tiny fan’s USB outlet, so make note of this when purchasing. 

What to look for when choosing the best desk fans

Size

Your tabletop desk fan should be compact enough that it won’t be taking up your entire workspace! We’d recommend considering size first and foremost when shopping for your desk fan—around 6- to 8-inches high is a good starting point.

Weight

You don’t want some big, heavy, chunk to lug around from desk to desk or around your house. Look for a lightweight design that’s easy to move.

Noise

Noise for fans can be measured in decibels. You’ll want around 40-50 dB for quiet, discreet noise levels.

Speeds

We prefer fans that have at least 3 speeds, so you can customize your experience and noise level depending on your preferences.

FAQs

Final thoughts about the best desk fans

• Best overall: Vornado Pivot Personal Air Circulator Fan
• Best retro: Vornado VFAN Vintage Whole Room Air Circulator Fan
• Best compact: Vornado 133 Compact Air Circulator Fan
• Best whisper-quiet: Kovhzcu Air Circulator Fan
• Best budget: Gaiatop USB Desk Fan

Stop sweating through work meetings, long nights writing, or brainstorming sessions at your desk. Keep cool in higher temps with these compact, affordable, and convenient desk fans that’ll make you feel comfortable and cool without spending a ton on AC bills!

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best desk fans of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		ASUS Strix Scope II 96 Wireless		SEE IT	ASUS pulled out all the stops with its design, creating a keyboard that is both soft yet crisp under the fingers, allowing you to type for hours without fatigue.
Best wireless		Nuphy Air75		SEE IT	This low-profile keyboard is designed to completely replace your laptop keyboard thanks to its innovative silicone feet that rest between its built-in keys, allowing you to use it directly on top with ease.
Best low-profile		Corsair K100 Air		SEE IT	At only 11mm at its thinnest point, but using Cherry’s MX Ultra low-profile tactile switches, it offers a much crisper, exceptionally comfortable typing experience.

When you make your living programming on a keyboard, the keys you use become a tool of the trade. Like any professional, investing in the proper tool is one of the best decisions you can make to improve the quality of your work day. Proper keyboards for programming not only feel good under the fingers but also offer unique features that enhance your workflow and the enjoyment you take in your coding experience. The keyboard market is more crowded than ever, making finding the best for your needs more difficult. What makes one keyboard worth $30 and another worth $300, and are they actually worth the investment? We’ve researched so you can cut through the noise and get straight to what’s most important: the best keyboards for programming so far this year.

• Best overall: ASUS Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
• Best wireless: Nuphy Air75
• Best low-profile: Corsair K100 Air
• Best for full-size: Keychron Q6 Pro
• Best compact: Blackwidow V4 75%
• Best ergonomic: Kinesis Advantage360
• Best budget: Keychron C3 Pro

How we chose the best keyboards for programming

I’ve been writing about tech online for over a decade, first as a member of the games press and then moving to tech explicitly in 2015. Over that time, I’ve covered hundreds of keyboards for sites like MMORPG, IGN, Tom’s Hardware, PC Perspective, and, of course, Popular Science. I make my living on a keyboard, and because of that, have developed an intense interest in exploring their nuances and differences. In addition to reviewing every sort of keyboard, from budget and gaming-focused to expensive and completely custom, I also build and collect my own. In short, I know what makes a good keyboard, especially if you’re going to be typing for multiple hours every single day.

Since I cover so many keyboards, I started this list by considering some of my favorite releases of the year and comparing them to the needs of a typical programmer. I then reviewed the wider world of releases I haven’t experienced first-hand, consulting industry-leading sources like RTings, PC World, TechRadar, and Tom’s Hardware to determine the stand-out options in the wider consumer tech world. Finally, I compared the top options to user reviews, my own knowledge of each brand, and their individual features to settle on this list of the seven best options for every type of programmer.

The best keyboards for programming: Reviews & Recommendations

Sure, you could skip to our things to consider and then shop and find the best mechanical keyboard to meet your needs all by yourself. However, if you’d rather skip the hard part, we’ve researched for you and now present the best keyboards for programming available right now.

Best overall: ASUS Scope 96 Strix II

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Specs

• Price: $179.99
• Layout: Compact full-size
• Switches: Linear, clicky
• Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT (backlit)
• Backlight: Yes, programmable RGB
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired, 2.4GHz
• Battery Life: Up to 1,500 hours
• Software: Armoury Crate

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a great layout
• Soft, smooth typing experience
• Exceptionally programmable

Cons

• Battery life takes a nosedive with RGB-enabled
• Software can be a bit clunky

The ASUS ROG Scope Strix II 96 is one of the single-best wireless mechanical keyboards you can buy today without building one yourself. ASUS pulled out all the stops with its design, creating a keyboard that is both soft yet crisp under the fingers, allowing you to type for hours without fatigue. The switches feel great and are exceptionally smooth and deep sounding, and the keycaps are made of durable doubleshot PBT plastic, so they’ll last for years into the future. It’s a keyboard that’s so satisfying to type on, you’ll find extra enjoyment in your hours of dev time.

The Scope Strix II 96 uses a compact, full-size layout. It includes a full function row, arrow keys, and number pad, but pushes all of those keys together so it’s only a single row wider than a standard TKL, ensuring every key is close at hand. Using the Armoury Crate software, nearly every key can be remapped, assigned macros, or used for advanced features like Windows shortcuts or program launches. The software is admittedly a little clunky, but it’s completely usable. If there’s a feature you’d hope for in a keyboard, there’s a good chance it has it.

It features per-key RGB backlighting that’s fully customizable, so typing in the dark won’t be an issue, and has enough battery life to last upwards of two full work weeks between recharges. If you’re willing to go without colorful backlighting, that extends up to an incredible 1,500 hours using its fast SpeedNova Wireless 2.4GHz connection. It’s truly something to behold.

Best wireless: Nuphy Air75

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Specs

• Price: $120.99
• Layout: Compact TKL
• Switches: Linear, clicky, tactile
• Keycaps: Dye-sublimated PBT (non-backlit)
• Backlight: Yes, programmable RGB
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired
• Battery Life: Up to 48 hours
• Software: Nuphy Console

Pros

• Compatible with both Mac and Windows
• Versatile tri-mode connectivity, made for travel
• AirFeet allow it to replace a laptop keyboard

Cons

• No Mac software

A great wireless keyboard should be versatile, reliable, and something with great battery life … the Nuphy Air75 is all that and more. This low-profile keyboard is designed to completely replace the keyboard on your laptop or MacBook thanks to its innovative AirFeet, thin silicone feet that rest between its built-in keys, allowing you to use it directly on top with ease. It’s just as portable, too, thanks to its slim, bag-friendly design. With 48 hours of battery life (and even more on the new V2 version), it can last for a full workweek with battery to spare for evening gaming.

Its build quality is much closer to a custom keyboard, featuring an aluminum top case and polycarbonate bottom with a sleek mirrored badge. The switches are pre-lubed for extra smoothness yet also come in your choice of linear, tactile, or clicky versions. They’re also hot-swappable, so if you ever want to try something new, you won’t be stuck buying a whole new keyboard. Atop those switches are thick keycaps made of durable PBT plastic—a rare luxury in a low-profile keyboard—that are made to last years without ever showing wear or tear and lending your keystrokes a deeper sound profile.

The Air75 features tri-mode wireless connectivity (wired, wireless, and 2.4GHz) and is fully reprogrammable using the Nuphy Console software. Rebinding keys, assigning macros, and mapping secondary functions takes only minutes, as does customizing its per-key RGB lighting. The software isn’t as refined as bigger brands like Razer and Logitech, but it’s surprisingly fully featured. Unfortunately, it’s only supported on Windows. The keyboard itself is fully Mac compatible and even features matching keycaps, but for programmability, you’ll be limited to Windows. Still, this fantastic wireless keyboard is well worth the cost of entry.

Best low-profile: Corsair K100 Air Wireless

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Specs

• Price: $249.99
• Layout: Full-size
• Switches: Tactile, ultra-low-profile
• Keycaps: Doubleshot
• Backlight: Yes, programmable RGB
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired
• Battery Life: Up to 200 hours
• Software: Corsair iCUE

Pros

• Exceptionally low-profile yet fully mechanical
• High-speed wireless connectivity
• Outstanding programmability

Cons

• No other layouts available

The Corsair K100 Air Wireless is in a class of its own in the world of low-profile mechanical keyboards. At only 11mm at its thinnest point, it’s the perfect choice for programmers used to typing on laptops or Apple Magic Keyboards. But since it uses Cherry’s MX Ultra low-profile tactile switches, it offers a much crisper typing experience that makes long hours at the keyboard feel like less of a chore and exceptionally comfortable. Its slim design also allows it to be much quieter than the vast majority of full-height mechanical keyboards. Coming from Corsair, it also features a suite of next-level features that most other low-profile keyboards just can’t match.

The K100 Air relies on Corsair iCUE to make the most of its features, but it’s definitely a software package you’ll want to download. With it, you have access to a full suite of customization tools, including macros, multiple layers of key bindings, instant text strings, program launches and shortcuts, and support for up to 50 onboard profiles — enough for even the most dedicated coder’s array of software tools. It also supports the most in-depth customization for its per-key RGB backlighting we’ve found for a keyboard of its type.

The keyboard is also completely wireless, supporting both Bluetooth and fast 2.4GHz SlipStream wireless. You can count on up to 200 hours of battery life with RGB off or 50 hours with it on, so you’ll only need to recharge once a week to once a month with normal use. The biggest downside to this keyboard is that its unique switches rule out custom keycaps to take your setup to the next level. Still, this is a fantastic low-profile keyboard that seems bound to impress.

Best full-size: Keychron Q6 Pro

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Specs

• Price: $229.99
• Layout: Full-size
• Switches: Tactile
• Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT (non-backlit)
• Backlight: Yes, programmable RGB
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, wired
• Battery Life: Up to 300 hours
• Software: VIA, QMK

Pros

• Heavy-duty aluminum case and doubleshot keycaps
• Excellent tactile switches
• Soft, fatigue-free typing with plentiful programming options

Cons

• Advanced macros are challenging to program

Keychron’s Q-series has been a revelation in mechanical keyboards, adopting features from limited-run custom keyboards to offer a typing experience that excels beyond what many thought possible. Its heavy aluminum case is immediately impressive, weighing in at just under five pounds, but the entire keyboard is built with an attention to detail that’s rare in pre-built keyboards. Everything from its switches to the soft plastic plate they’re mounted in has been selected to deliver an exceptional use experience that will make you more productive and have more fun in the process.

Its gasket mount structure is easily the softest in this round-up, feeling both lively and controlled, and is experienced through a fantastic set of comfortably sculpted doubleshot keycaps. The custom Banana switches are lubricated for improved smoothness and acoustics but are also highly tactile to ward off typos that slow down your process. When purchased directly from Keychron, you can also choose a less tactile brown switch or a linear red, as well as light or dark-colored cases.

It’s also completely programmable using VIA, an open-source software that allows you to program the keyboard at the firmware level—meaning it can bypass workplace IT policies and carry your keymaps to any machine, regardless of operating system. Launching programs sadly isn’t possible, but simple macros are easy to assign. There’s no record button for advanced sequences and key combinations, which means typing in key codes; it’s not ideal, but it shouldn’t pose a big hurdle to any software professional. Add in Bluetooth connectivity and up to 300 hours of battery life and you have a keyboard that excels in virtually every way … and can double as a home defense weapon if the situation calls for it.

Best compact: Razer Blackwidow V4 75%

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Specs

• Price: $179.99
• Layout: Compact TKL
• Switches: Tactile
• Keycaps: Doubleshot ABS
• Software: Razer Synapse

Pros

• Soft, comfortable typing experience
• Outstanding software features
• Space-saving layout

Cons

• Single switch choice available
• Wired only

If space is a concern, the Razer Blackwidow V4 75% is the right keyboard for you. It’s smaller than a tenkeyless keyboard but features most of the same keys. Just as importantly, it allows you remap any key on its layout, assign secondary commands, and with the press of a button, swap to a whole second layout with its HyperShift system. Think of how the Shift key turns the number row into punctuation and apply that to the entire keyboard, including macros, program launches, Windows shortcuts, and even mouse controls. HyperShift, indeed.

The Blackwidow V4 75% brings with it a number of improvements compared to Razer’s other keyboards. Like a number of other keyboards in our line-up, it uses a gasket mount structure with layers of sound dampening for pleasant acoustics and cushioned keystrokes. Razer has gone the extra mile to make this keyboard sound pleasant to your ears, applying a suite of modifications from the custom keyboard community, so you’ll enjoy hearing this keyboard as much as typing on it. It also introduces a brand-new, exceptionally smooth linear switch. If you’d care to change up the feel of your keyboard, the switches are hot-swappable so that you can trade them out without the need for a soldering iron.

There are a couple of downsides, such as its lack of wireless connectivity and the fact that it uses ABS keycaps that will become shiny over weeks of work, but it’s still a great keyboard overall that feels exceptionally powerful for automating keystrokes and speeding up your process. It’s also pretty great for gaming.

Best ergonomic: Kinesis Advantage 360

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Specs

• Price: $449
• Layout: Split 65-percent
• Switches: Tactile, linear (silent)  
• Keycaps: PBT (non-backlit)
• Backlight: No
• Software: SmartSet App

Pros

• Split, contoured design promotes ergonomics
• Designed to promote long-term health
• Layout crafted for easy access to every key

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• Exceptionally expensive

When it comes to ergonomic keyboards, Kinesis is one of the most respected names in the business. The Advantage 360 is crafted for users who spend multiple hours typing on their PCs every day and want to avoid common repetitive stress injuries associated with computer use. All it takes is a glance to see that it’s unlike any other keyboard on the market and its quirky design pays dividends for your health.

The Advantage 360 is a split ergonomic keyboard that adopts a unique, compact, bowl-like design for its keys. This allows you to keep your hands naturally angled and spaced, preventing ulnar deviation and pronation, two high-stress postures that can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome and RSIs. The compact layout and deep-dish contouring prevent pinched wrists and over-extension that can limit blood flow. Integrated palm rests further support the hands. Even the position of the keys has been shifted into uniform ortho-linear columns to match their natural movement better.

The keyboard is very well made, featuring high-quality mechanical switches and durable keycaps, but be prepared for a significant learning curve. It can take several weeks to get back up to speed using this keyboard, but as many fellow programmers will tell you, once you master its keys, it becomes one of the most comfortable keyboards you could choose for typing all day and won’t leave you sore after. It’s also fully programmable and has a built-in number pad using a key combination. There’s no way around this keyboard’s high price, however. It’s specially designed to protect your health and isn’t a mainstream product, so you pay for the privilege of self-care. Thankfully, Kinesis offers two much cheaper alternatives with the Freestyle Pro and Freestyle Edge mechanical keyboards. Both drop the contoured design and ortho-linear layout but keep the split, embedded palm rest design for less than half the price. Choose the edge if you’re interested in RGB backlighting.

Best budget: Keychron C3 Pro

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Why it made the cut: The Keychron C3 Pro is perhaps the best value in all mechanical keyboards. It’s affordable, soft, and programmable.

Specs

• Price: $36.99
• Layout: Tenkeyless
• Switches: Tactile, linear
• Keycaps: Doubleshot ABS
• Backlight: Yes, red
• Software: QMK/VIA

Pros

• Soft, smooth typing that gives under the fingertips
• Designed to be customized
• Easily programmed

Cons

• Single-color backlight (red)
• Lightweight, plasticky build
• Not hot-swappable

Welcome to the best value in mechanical keyboards. The Keychron C3 Pro takes many of the features of the Q6 Pro and puts them into a budget-friendly package. For less than $40, this keyboard offers a surprisingly great typing experience that puts most other keyboards in this price range to shame. It’s also highly programmable to meet the demands of your workflow.

The C3 Pro uses a similar gasket-based mounting structure to other keyboards on this list. It’s not as soft as the Q6 Pro, but the keys have enough cushion to be comfortable, even over extended coding sessions. Keychron has even put effort into making the keyboard sound good with layers of sound foam integrated throughout its construction. It also uses VIA for its programming, including key remaps, limited shortcuts, and simple macros, and each of those changes is stored on the keyboard itself to use between computers.

Of course, for this price, there are some trade-offs. There are only two switches to choose from, generic linear and tactile, and they aren’t hot-swappable to upgrade yourself over time. The keys are backlit, but you’re stuck with a red hue. The keycaps are also made of ABS instead of more durable PBT, but they’re doubleshot, so even though they’ll shine with use, the legends should never chip or fade. Given the cost, these are all reasonable trade-offs, and the C3 Pro remains the best affordable mechanical keyboard for coding and beyond.

Things to consider when buying the best keyboards for programming

If you’re shopping for a great programming keyboard, several things must be considered to guarantee the keyboard will meet your needs.

Size

One of the most important considerations when shopping for any keyboard is your desired size. This is sometimes referred to as its layout and indicates how many keys it has. Keyboards come in all shapes and sizes. For productivity, a full-size keyboard is often the preferred choice due to its full-size number pad. For gaming, or simply a cleaner and more minimalist look to your desk, compact options are a popular choice. These are the most common layouts you’re likely to encounter:

Full-size: Full-size keyboards include 104 to 108 keys and feature a number pad, function row, arrow keys, and a navigation and editing cluster. This is the “classic” keyboard layout. The difference in key count is defined by whether there are four additional keys above the number pad or if the manufacturer uses that space for media controls or indicator lights.

Tenkeyless: Often referred to as TKL keyboards, this layout is the second most common on the market. It features the exact same layout as a full-size keyboard without the number pad. It is a good fit for programmers who don’t need a dedicated number cluster.

75-percent/Compact TKL: This layout compresses the standard TKL. It still features a function row and arrow keys, but the navigation cluster is shrunk to a single vertical column. Lesser-used keys, like Pause and Scroll Lock, are usually removed or made accessible with key combinations.

65-percent: Smaller still, 65-percent keyboards remove the function row but keep most of the other qualities of Compact TKLs. These keyboards balance compactness with functionality and are often programmable to account for the missing keys.

60-percent: 60-percent keyboards are the smallest you’ll find without venturing into the niche world of custom mechanical keyboards. These keyboards feature only the most important keys you’ll need for typing. There are no arrow keys, navigation buttons, or function row, only letters, numbers, punctuation, and modifier keys. They’re quite popular for gaming due to their tiny size, but don’t let that fool you. They’re often highly programmable and have plentiful secondary functions to compensate for their missing keys.

Membrane or Mechanical

Keyboards come in two main types: membrane and mechanical. Membrane keyboards use one large, soft layer beneath all the keys. When you press a button, that membrane makes contact with the circuit board and triggers a key press. Conversely, mechanical keyboards feature an independent mechanical switch beneath each button, leading to a more crisp, reliable typing experience.

While there are fans of both types, mechanical keyboards have a number of advantages. Since there are dedicated switches beneath each key, there is far more variety in the shopping experience. Mechanical keyboards come with different types of switches that offer different sounds, feels, and noise levels to match exactly what you’re looking for. They’re also far more durable and are made to last for many years (the average key switch is rated for at least 50 million presses!).

Membrane keyboards, on the other hand, are cheaper, softer, and usually quieter. These keyboards are easy to find and are readily available at Walmart, Target, and other department stores. They can still get the job done but are significantly more generic.

There is no right or wrong choice, but when your livelihood depends on being able to type, there’s no arguing with mechanical keyboards’ higher durability.

Switches

If you choose a mechanical keyboard, one of the most confusing decisions is what type of switch to choose. These components are mechanical triggers that hide under each key and send your key press to the computer. They come in multiple forms that break down into four main styles:

Linear: Linear switches are totally smooth and have no tactile bump or click when pressed. These switches are popular among gamers for their smooth actuation but many typists enjoy them as well. These switches are often color-coded with a red hue, such as Cherry MX Red switches, but not always.

Clicky: Clicky switches are the opposite of linears and offer a tactile bump that can be felt in the fingertip and make an audible click when pressed. Often colored blue (such as Cherry MX Blue), these switches are popular for typing as they are considered less likely to result in typos. They tend to be unpopular in offices due to their typewriter-like acoustics but can be quite fun to type on.

Tactile: Tactile switches offer a middle ground between the prior two types. They feature a tactile bump you can feel through your fingertip but no audible click. Tactile switches are popular for typing and gaming alike and are considered a good starter switch if you’re not sure what to choose. These switches are often brown in color, ala Cherry MX Brown.

Silent: Silent switches are a sub-type of linear and tactile. These switches use internal dampeners to quiet their noise. This can make them feel a bit softer under the fingers and less crisp audibly, but can be a good choice if you’re worried about the noise your keyboard will make bothering those around you.

There is no right or wrong type of switch. If you’re shopping for your first mechanical keyboard, tactile switches can be a good first step, offering the best of both worlds with their quiet, clear feedback. If your local department store has an electronics section with keyboards on display, we suggest trying a few types to get a feel for what you enjoy most.

Programmability

One of the most important qualities to look for in productivity-enhancing keyboards is how programmable the keyboard itself is. Being able to remap keys (change their place on the keyboard) and assign secondary functions can be game-changing to your productivity. Likewise, being able to record and assign macros will help you to automate repetitive tasks and accomplish more in a set time.

Many of the best keyboards allow you to map buttons in layers. This allows keys to have a second function when used in a combination (similar to how shift turns the number row into punctuation). This can be very useful if you’re using multiple pieces of software and need other capabilities immediately accessible but don’t want to lose the functionality of the usual key. Another common use is to add media keys to keyboards that may lack them natively.

Similarly, many keyboards support profiles, where pressing another key combination allows you to swap between custom layouts so you can have individual keymaps for each application or game. Having separate work and gaming profiles can help you keep your most used functions under your fingers, even on the most compact layouts.

Programmability comes in hardware or software forms or can be a mix of both. Hardware-level programming is typically more complicated, so you may need to keep a manual on hand. Software-based programming is usually much easier and presents you with a graphical version of your keyboard. Keyboard software frequently allows you to perform more advanced tasks, too, like launching an application from a single key or removing all of the delays from a macro so it fires with robotic efficiency.

Wired or wireless?

The final consideration is whether you want your keyboard to be wired or wireless. For many years, the best keyboards for programming were wired-only, but that’s no longer the case. Some of the very best options now utilize rechargeable batteries and feature tri-mode connectivity. This includes wired, usually with a USB Type-A cable to connect to your PC, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz for a wired-like connection using a USB dongle.

For normal typing, Bluetooth is a perfectly fine choice. Bluetooth is slower than either wired or 2.4GHz and connects with a speed of 125Hz (8ms). This is low enough not to notice while typing, but we recommend opting for a keyboard with a faster 2.4GHz option if you plan to play games. These typically connect with speeds of up to 1,000Hz (1ms), which is equivalent to most wired gaming keyboards and ensures it will be responsive enough for any genre or competitive setting.

How long the battery lasts is an important consideration that goes hand in hand with these options. The best mechanical keyboards can last hundreds or even thousands of hours if you’re willing to turn RGB backlighting off and 40 to 100 hours if you leave it on full at full brightness. Regardless, we recommend scouting for a keyboard that’s capable of more than your typical work week unless you don’t mind plugging in mid-day should it run dry.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best keyboards for programming

• Best overall: ASUS Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
• Best wireless: Nuphy Air75
• Best low-profile: Corsair K100 Air
• Best for full-size: Keychron Q6 Pro
• Best compact: Blackwidow V4 75%
• Best ergonomic: Kinesis Advantage360
• Best budget: Keychron C3 Pro

When you work at a computer all day, investing in a great keyboard, just like an optimized monitor, is a decision that can directly enhance your quality of life. The best programming keyboards offer you quality, comfortable keys with specific benefits to enhance your workflow. Now that you know what the best options are and what to look for when shopping, you’re armed to make the decision that’s right for you. Happy coding.

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 keyboards for programming 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.

Best overall		Ducky One 2 Mini		SEE IT	The Ducky One 2 Mini keeps it simple, but wins you over with an incredible typing feel.
Best for gaming		ASUS ROG Falchion		SEE IT	The Asus ROG Falchion is a remarkable feature-rich wireless 65 percent keyboard.
Best budget		Anne Pro 2		SEE IT	The Anne Pro 2 gives you the essential compact keyboard experience at a price well below the competition.

One of the most compact keyboard sizes available, 60 percent keyboards typically feature between 62-68 keys, omitting the number pad, function row (F1 through F12), arrow keys, and other miscellaneous keys such as “home” and “delete.” Often called “compact” or “programming” keyboards, 60 percent designs have seen a surge in popularity with the ascension of custom mechanical keyboard building, fueled by tech YouTubers, Twitch streamers, and esports pros. The best 60 percent keyboards offer a comfortable, ergonomic, and sleek typing experience. 

Still, they are relatively niche compared to larger full-size and TKL form factors. You won’t find many keyboards of this size from mainstream peripheral brands like Apple or Logitech. Instead, most 60 percent keyboards are made by gaming and enthusiast brands, which offer products ranging from slim and minimal to loud and colorful. That said, there are still plenty of great options for anyone who wants to minimize their keyboard’s desk footprint without building a custom keyboard from scratch. We’ve collected some of the best 60 percent keyboards to help you understand the appeal of this compact keyboard size.

• Best overall: Ducky One 2 Mini
• Best for gaming: ASUS ROG Falchion
• Best wireless: Happy Hacking Professional Hybrid Wireless
• Best for typing: Drop ALT
• Best budget: Anne Pro 2
• Best ergonomic: Kinesis TKO
• Best low-profile: Fnatic Streak65 LP

How we picked the best 60 percent keyboards

I’ve been a PC gamer for most of my life and a professional writer for most of my career. Both require a lot of time using keyboards, and my own experience testing different products has helped me understand what makes a keyboard great.

To pick the best 60 percent keyboards, we leveraged our collective keyboard expertise at PopSci, as well as professional and consumer reviews from across the internet. We considered the myriad of qualities that go into making a great keyboard: Case design, connectivity options, software compatibility, ergonomics, keycap print, and, most of all, typing feel. We primarily focused on true 60 percent keyboards, but also included 65 percent keyboards, which typically add the arrows and a couple of other keys, to the compact form factor.

The best 60 percent keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

The best 60 percent mechanical keyboards right now come from a mix of gaming and enthusiast brands like Ducky, Asus, Drop, and Fnatic. Each one offers an excellent typing experience, with its own unique mix of features. With many of our recommendations, you can choose your preferred key switches, so make sure to pick the version you want before pressing “buy.”

Best overall: Ducky One 2 Mini

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Specs

• Number of Keys: 61
• Interface: USB wired
• Switch options: Assorted Cherry, Gateron, Kailh Box, TTC

Pros 

• Excellent typing feel
• High-quality keycaps with clear legends
• Custom profiles saved onboard

Cons

• Customization can be confusing
• Higher than average latency

Simply put, the Ducky One 2 Mini is an outstanding 60 percent keyboard. What it lacks in flair or fancy software it makes up for in build quality, with stellar body, keycap, and key switch feel. Typing on this keyboard feels joyful.

Anyone mourning the loss of function or arrow keys can rest easy using the Ducky One 2 Mini. As is common in 60 percent keyboards, nearly every key pulls double duty, able to input additional commands by holding down keys like Fn. Nearly every key has side-printed legends showing that key’s hidden functionality, making this keyboard more accessible for users new to the 60 percent form factor.

The excellent build quality, plug-and-play design, customizable backlighting, and informative keycaps make the Ducky One 2 Mini one of the easiest 60 percent keyboards to recommend.

Best for gaming: ASUS ROG Falchion

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Specs

• Number of Keys: 71
• Interface: USB wired, RF wireless
• Switch options: Cherry, ROG NX

Pros 

• Wired and wireless connectivity
• Touch-based volume slider
• Easy customization via Asus software.

Cons

• Lighting customization requires a second app

The ASUS ROG Falchion seems rather plain at first glance. Take a closer look, though, and you’ll discover one of the best compact gaming keyboards around, full of unique features and thoughtful design choices.

The biggest reason we love the ROG Falchion is that it can connect to your computer wired or wirelessly. We were particularly impressed with its wireless connectivity, which provides a stable, low latency connection fit for gaming. It also gets tremendous battery life up to 450 hours (if you turn the RGB lighting off).

The Falchion features a comparatively robust array of special features for a compact keyboard, including a customizable touch-based volume slider. When you store it, the included wireless dongle slots magnetically into a convenient slot at the top of the keyboard, making it great for travel.

In exchange for a slightly larger size, the Asus ROG Falchion makes for a great gaming device with its connectivity options, 65 percent layout with arrows, volume slider, and strong software customization.

Best wireless: Happy Hacking Professional Hybrid Wireless

SEE IT

Specs

• Number of Keys: 60
• Interface: USB wired, Bluetooth
• Switch options: Topre

Pros 

• Unique Topre key switches
• Wired and Bluetooth connectivity
• Swap between four connected devices

Cons

• Very expensive
• Learning curve
• Windows-only customization app

The Happy Hacking professional hybrid wireless keyboard is all about design and typing experience. A minimalist, retro aesthetic combines with a unique key switch to deliver an extraordinary typing experience.

The key to Happy Hacking’s great typing feel is its Topre key switches. Japanese Topre switches blend elements of mechanical and membrane switches. Where other membrane and “hybrid” switches are often frowned upon, Topre is widely beloved by enthusiasts. Practically, They feel light, consistent, and comfortable, with a bassier sound compared to other switch types.

Unlike other Happy Hacking keyboards, this model can connect wired or wirelessly to multiple devices via Bluetooth 4.2. We never had connection or latency issues and appreciated the three-month-long battery life via AA batteries.

While its ultra-minimal design is not for everyone, the Happy Hacking professional hybrid wireless is a great wireless typing experience thanks to Topre switches and steady connectivity.

Best typing feel: Drop ALT

SEE IT

Specs

• Number of Keys: 67
• Interface: USB wired
• Switch options: Cherry, Halo, Kaihua

Pros 

• Extraordinary build quality
• High-quality switches and keycaps
• Hot-swappable

Cons

• Expensive
• Web-based configuration app is hard to use

The Drop ALT is an enthusiast keyboard, offering incredible build quality and type feel above all else. It does not come with any flashy features like Bluetooth connectivity or volume sliders. Instead, the Drop ALT is focused on build quality, with an all-aluminum frame, durable and legible keycaps, adjustable magnetic feet, and stellar backlighting. We particularly appreciated the addition of a second USB-C port, meaning we could easily plug in accessories like mice or game controllers.

While the Drop ALT doesn’t feature wireless connectivity or exceptional software customization, it does offer more physical tinkering in the form of hot-swappable key switches. That means you can easily swap out individual key switches, mixing or matching to create your ideal typing experience. For typing enthusiasts, hot-swapping, along with amazing built quality, the Drop ALT sets a high-water mark among compact keyboards.

Best budget: Anne Pro 2

SEE IT

Specs

• Number of Keys: 61
• Interface: USB wired, Bluetooth
• Switch options: Cherry, Gateron, Kailh Box

Pros 

• Wired and Bluetooth connectivity
• Excellent software customization 
• Swap between four connected devices

Cons

• No dongle-based wireless connectivity
• Occasional disconnects

The Anne Pro 2 does the unthinkable: It provides solid functionality and a great typing experience in an enthusiast 60 percent keyboard, without charging an arm and a leg for it.

For less than $100, the Anne Pro 2 gives you wired and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, with the ability to swap among four different devices in wireless mode. It also offers strong software customization. You can easily adjust key inputs, change wireless settings, program key backlighting, and even create custom commands all through the easy-to-use ObinsKit software.

Great connectivity, software, and typing feel make the Anne Pro 2 an excellent budget 60 percent keyboard on its own merits. The fact that it only costs $89.00 is the icing on the cake.

Best ergonomic: Kinesis TKO

SEE IT

Specs

• Number of Keys: 63
• Interface: USB wired
• Switch options: Kailh Box

Pros 

• Tilt and angle adjustable
• Three-button spacebar
• Included hardshell case

Cons

• Confusing software customization

If you are considering the 60 percent form factor primarily for ergonomics, the Kinesis TKO takes ergonomic customization to another level. 60 percent keyboards generally offer ergonomic comfort for gaming by making it easier to tilt your keyboard, minimizing wrist movement. The Kinesis doubles down on ergonomic control by including not two, but four feet underneath the case, which allows you to reverse tilt or “tent” your keyboard by elevating the left or right side. Another standout feature of the Kinesis TKO is its split spacebar. While you can use a traditional spacebar, the TKO includes three smaller spacebars, all of which can be programmed to enter different inputs.

Aesthetics-wide, this keyboard is flashy, with customizable backlit keys as well as bar lighting accenting each side of the keyboard. While the lighting is fun, the real selling point of the Kinesis TKO is its ergonomic angling options.

Best low-profile: Fnatic Streak65 LP

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Specs

• Number of Keys: 68
• Interface: USB Wired
• Switch Options: Fnatic Speed

Pros 

• Great low-profile switches
• Compact design
• Hugely improved keycaps

Cons

• Software offers limited customization

The Fnatic Streak65 LP is an esports-focused keyboard with low-profile keys, which “travel” less distance between the upright position and fully pressed. Usually, using a low-profile keyboard means sacrificing some comfort for a thin keyboard and/or quicker inputs. In the Streak65’s case, though, you get the best of both worlds: A comfortable typing experience and snappy actuation. It also features some unique bells and whistles for a 60 percent keyboard, including four dedicated macro keys that you can customize via Fnatic’s OP software.

It isn’t without flaws, though. The compressed block of keys feels a bit cramped, even among smaller compact keyboards. Still, the small and lightweight design does make the Streak 65 LP ideal for small spaces and competitive players who carry their keyboards with them.

What to consider before buying a 60 percent keyboard

If you normally use a full-size or even a TKL keyboard, the switch to a compact design may feel like a transition. If you’re willing to take the plunge, picking one is not dissimilar from picking any other kind. Here are some of the big questions we think about before picking a new keyboard:

Which keys do you really need?

Keyboards come in a wide variety of sizes. The most popular sizes are full-size (104+ keys), tenkeyless or TKLs (about 87 keys), 65 percent (67-70 keys), and 60 percent (62-65 keys). As the keyboards get smaller, you start losing more keys, including some that people use regularly. The typical 60 percent keyboard omits the number pad, function row, arrows, and additional keys such as the home and delete key. There are advantages and disadvantages to using a smaller keyboard: On the positive side, the keyboard takes up less space. On the negative side, you will need to use more shortcuts and hotkeys for inputs that would have a dedicated button on a larger keyboard. Before you switch, take a good hard look at how you use your keyboard day-to-day, and figure out whether streamlining the keyboard will make your life simpler, or unnecessarily complicate your typing flow.

There is a tiny adjustment period

The formatting also changes: 60 percent and 65 percent keyboards are compressed into a single block of keys, without any spacing. Between the dropped keys, shortcuts, and new layout, users should expect a small learning curve when moving to a smaller keyboard: That doesn’t mean you’ll suddenly forget how to type, but expect to type a bit slower and make more typos in the first couple weeks of using one.

Wired or wireless?

For most daily computing, a wireless keyboard is a convenient way to declutter and give yourself a little more flexibility in how you position your keyboard (and yourself). There are still reasons to use a wired keyboard, though, especially if you play games or produce content on your computer.

Many wireless keyboards, specifically those that connect via Bluetooth, introduce a small amount of latency or input lag. Latency is, in essence, a perceivable gap between when you press a key or button, and when the action you triggered occurs. For most people, a Bluetooth keyboard will not generate a noticeable amount of latency while typing. When playing games or doing a task that requires precise timing, it becomes an issue. But for gamers? Any delay can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Gaming manufacturers have found an alternative wireless technology, using a 2.4GHz connection and wireless USB dongle. If you’re buying a wireless gaming keyboard, that connection is an essential feature. Still wired is the most stable and reliable. Also, wireless mechanical keyboards tend to be more expensive than their simple, wired counterparts.

How do you want your keyboard to feel and sound?

Unlike most laptop or budget keyboards, most 60 percent keyboards feature mechanical key switches. Unlike the keys in a laptop or ultra-thin keyboard, Mechanical switches have spring-loaded mechanisms underneath each keycap that trigger the input. When pressed, they make a distinct sound and provide more physical feedback.

Key switches come in a variety of styles, ranging from loud “clicky” switches to streamlined “linear” ones. Choosing a key switch is a major factor in how your keyboard will feel and sound to use. You can learn more about key switches in our best mechanical keyboards guide or from enthusiast sites like Mechanical Keyboards.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 60 percent keyboards

• Best overall: Ducky One 2 Mini
• Best for gaming: ASUS ROG Falchion
• Best wireless: Happy Hacking Professional Hybrid Wireless
• Best for typing: Drop ALT
• Best budget: Anne Pro 2
• Best ergonomic: Kinesis TKO
• Best low-profile: Fnatic Streak65 LP

The best 60 percent keyboards are excellent for typists and gamers seeking a smaller, more ergonomic experience. Anyone who can live without the number pad, function keys, and arrow keys should consider this sleek and minimal approach to typing. For everyone else, there are tons of larger keyboard options we recommend, including the best ergonomic keyboards for users dealing with hand and wrist pain.

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 60 percent keyboards of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Xbox Wireless Controller		SEE IT	Console preferences aside, the Microsoft Wireless Controller is the most comfortable controller out there and feels like the “default” option on PC.
Best upgrade		Xbox Elite Series 2		SEE IT	Microsoft took an incredible controller and loaded it up with extra customization options and special features.
Best on a budget		PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller		SEE IT	The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is one of the few budget controllers that lacks obvious flaws and adds extra functionality.

Every good game console needs a controller, even your gaming PC. Yes, there are many types of games where mouse and keyboard shine: Strategy games, multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs), even first-person shooters. But even the best gaming keyboards can’t simulate the feeling of tilting an analog stick and having your character move exactly where you point. (Not to mention that, sometimes, you just want to slouch on the couch with a controller).

Once upon a time, pairing a controller with your PC was a chore that involved installing drivers and tons of troubleshooting. Nowadays, most controllers work automatically when plugged in and connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or a wireless dongle like Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows 10. With that level of ubiquity, PC players have yet another advantage over console players: They can basically choose whatever controller they want! With so many options, let’s go over the best controllers to pair with your PC, so you can skip the picking and go right to playing.

How we selected the best controllers for PCs

I have a confession to make, everyone: I play a lot of video games. As a former game and tech critic for sites like IGN, GameSpot, GamesRadar, and PCMag, I’ve used and reviewed many, many controllers including the majority of the options on this list. For the recommendation I haven’t personally tested, I’m relying on second-hand accounts from other reviewers and an understanding of the brand based on time spent with its other products.

• Best overall: Xbox Wireless Controller
• Best Xbox controller: Xbox Elite Series 2
• Best PlayStation controller: PlayStation DualSense
• Best wired: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
• Best Nintendo-style: 8BitDo Pro 2
• Best budget: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller

The best controllers for PCs: Reviews & Recommendations

Picking the best controller for PC comes down to personal taste and, often, your history playing games. I know a lot of people who prefer either Xbox or PlayStation controllers because they grew up with those consoles, so that’s what they’re comfortable with. We’ve done our best to accommodate options for all types of players, so you can pick something great that fits your style.

Best overall: Xbox Wireless Controller

SEE IT

Specs

• Buttons: 15
• Rear buttons: 0
• Connection types: USB-C wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless (with optional wireless adapter)
• Estimated battery life: 40 hours (requires two AA batteries)

Pros

• Very comfortable ergonomic design
• Pairs easily with PC via wired and wireless
• Optional 2.4GHz wireless on PC

Cons

• No “extra” remappable buttons
• Requires AA batteries for wireless, which generates e-waste

The Xbox controller has been the “default” gamepad for PC since the Xbox 360 era, before manufacturers cared to streamline their controller’s compatibility on PC. Despite the fact that you can choose any option, the Xbox Wireless Controller still feels like best controller for PC overall. Its well-balanced weight, wide grips, and offset analog sticks guide your hands into a comfortable grip. It’s buttons feel snappy, and its D-Pad has a tactile clickiness to it. For wireless users, the Xbox line of controllers gets 2.4 GHz wireless support via the optional Xbox Wireless Adapter.

But the real secret for the “core” Xbox controller is the price. At $60, the Xbox Series X/S version of the controller is cheaper than most of the other options on this list, including the DualSense. If you go for an Xbox One controller, which is almost identical, you can often shave down the price even more. Between\ the comfort, build quality, and price, the Xbox Wireless Controller sets the standard against which all controllers are judged.

Best Xbox controller: Xbox Elite Series 2

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Specs:

• Buttons: 19
• Rear buttons: 4
• Connection types: USB-C wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless (with optional wireless adapter)
• Estimated battery life: 40 hours

Pros

• Four customizable rear paddles
• Interchangeable analog sticks and D-pad
• Optional 2.4GHz wireless on PC

Cons

• Expensive

The Xbox Elite Series 2—our pick for the best Xbox controller for PC—is the kitchen sink of controllers. Microsoft’s pricey, feature-rich version of the Xbox One gamepad has almost every luxury option you can find in a third-party controller, including four removable paddles that can be mapped to mimic any controller input, alternate analog stick and d-pads that you can pull off and swap on the fly, and a wireless charging dock (because it has an internal battery, which means no more AAs). You can also remap the controller’s buttons and fine tune certain inputs using the Xbox Accessories app. At $179.99, the Elite Series 2 is very expensive, but it’s also the best version of the best controller. It may not be for everyone, given the price, but it’s a worthwhile luxury for players who want the best of the best.

Best PlayStation controller: PlayStation DualSense

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Specs:

• Buttons: 14
• Rear buttons: 0
• Connection types: USB-C wired, Bluetooth
• Estimated battery life: 10-13 hours

Pros

• Great grip
• Tight, responsive buttons
• Adaptive triggers
• Cons

• Short battery life
• Most games don’t support DualSense-specific features on PC

The Sony DualSense, the controller for the PlayStation 5, is an outstanding evolution of the company’s past DualShock controllers. Its long handles situate your hands perfectly to use its symmetrical analog sticks. The buttons and D-pad both offer a tight response. And it has a host of cool new features, including haptics that mirror tactile effects and resistive triggers that tense up to mimic the feeling of a bow or gun trigger tightening. It’s the best PlayStation controller, and the one I’d use if I wanted a gamepad with PlayStation-style layout for my PC. 

The magic of using the DualSense on PS5 becomes a drawback on PC. Technically, the DualSense is fully functional on PC, but very few games support its special features there, even when they have DualSense features on PS5. The features around wireless connectivity fall short of the Xbox controllers: It only connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, which can lead to lag issues. It’s short 10-13 hour battery life also tends to feel even shorter when you’re in the middle of a long gaming session. The DualSense is a great controller, but it’s best enjoyed with a PS5. On PC, I would only recommend it for players who want symmetrical thumbsticks.

Best wired controller: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

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Specs:

• Buttons:
• Rear buttons: 4
• Connection types: USB-C Wired
• Estimated battery life: N/A

Pros

• Clicky mechanical buttons
• Six customizable buttons
• Customizable RGB lighting

Cons

• Not wireless
• Expensive

Razer’s Wolverine line of Xbox controllers has always set a high bar for wired-only controllers. Their signature feature, at least in mind, a mechanical d-pad and face buttons that elicit a tactile click when you press them. Like mechanical keyboard switches, the Wolverines’ clickiness also informs you that the button has actuated, so you know a button’s been pressed. 

The newest Wolverine, the V2 Chroma, is a true successor to the 2012 Wolverine Ultimate and deserving of the title ‘best wired controller for PC.’ Per the name, it also has customizable RGB stripes on top. It features six extra customizable buttons – four triggers on the back and two extra bumpers on top. It also has many of the features from the Xbox Elite Series 2, including replaceable analog sticks and trigger locks. If your PC setup is such that you know you don’t need a wireless connection, the Wolverine V2 Chroma (or even the less expensive Wolverine V2) bring some good features to the table that other controllers don’t.

Best Nintendo-style: 8Bitdo Pro 2

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Specs:

• Buttons: 18
• Rear buttons: 2
• Connection Options: USB-C wired, Bluetooth
• Battery life: 20 hours

Pros

• Good grip/feel
• Affordable
• Great configuration software

Cons

• Bluetooth is the only wireless option

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 is a great controller for the Nintendo faithful. While it features a modern shape and special features Nintendo would never put on a controller, it features the old-school Nintendo button layout, features an NES-style D-pad, and comes in an SNES-style finish. On PC, it features an “ultimate” configuration app that allows you to fine-tune the controller’s feel, remap buttons, and even create macros, custom button combinations, that you can assign to a single button. While it isn’t without flaws, if you’re hunting for a controller to use on Switch and PC, the 8Bitdo Pro 2 offers a lot of customization at a stellar price.

Best budget: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller

SEE IT

Specs:

• Buttons: 17
• Rear Buttons: 3
• Connection Options: USB Wired
• Battery life: N/A

Pros

• Affordable
• Two customizable rear buttons
• Onboard headset controls

Cons

• Wired only

When I was growing up, third-party controllers were (rightfully) treated as inferior knock-offs compared to the official gamepads made by the console manufacturers. In the last ten years, things have changed–there are lots of premium third-party controllers–but the cheap stuff is still around for kids (and parents) who need an extra controller, but don’t want to shell out and pay an extra $60 or more for it. 

Regardless of why, if you’re looking for the best budget controller for PC, the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is a good choice. It’s significantly cheaper than the Xbox Wireless Controller. The buttons, sticks, D-Pad, and faceplate all feel like they’re made of a cheaper calibur of plastic than a premium controller. Despite that, though, it’s durable and feels good to play with. Plus, it features a toggle for controlling the audio on a 3.5mm headset if you plug one in, and two customizable rear buttons. It isn’t my favorite controller, but it’s the best you can do at a sub-$50 price point.

What to consider when buying the best controllers for PCs

If you’re buying a controller specifically for the PC, there are some things you should know. First and foremost, you want to know what goes into a good controller. Tight, responsive analog sticks and snappy or clicky buttons are a must. The directional pad should also bounce back into position and not feel “squishy.” You should also get a feel for the different kinds of special features a controller offers. A lot of it, frankly, comes down to feel. That obviously makes picking a controller without trying it first very difficult. (That’s why I’m here to help).

How well does it work?

While most controllers will work if you pair with or plug into a Windows PC, compatibility issues can still pop up. Most controllers are made for one of the three dedicated game consoles, so some of their features may not work on PC. For example, the PS5’s DualSense controller features advanced haptics, triggers that generate resistance when pulled, and a central touchpad, but most games–even ones that are also on PS5–don’t support those features on PC.

There are also features that may require an additional purchase or extra work. All of Microsoft’s Xbox controllers work right out of the box on Windows, but if you want to connect them wirelessly using a 2.4GHz connection like an Xbox console, you’ll need to buy an Xbox adapter for PC. Other consoles, like Razer’s Wolverine controllers, require a special app to configure. Depending on what controller you buy and how you plan to use it, these things may not matter. If you’re buying a controller specifically for the PC, it’s important to know what features will work, and how much work it will take to make them fully functional.

Buttons and paddles and triggers, oh my!

If you’re looking at a controller made by any company other than Sony, Microsoft or Nintendo–or Microsoft’s “Elite” controllers–chances are it will have “premium” features that extend beyond the usual 13 buttons, two analog sticks, and D-Pad.

Many third-party controllers (even inexpensive ones) now come with customizable buttons or paddles, which can be mapped to replace any of the standard buttons. These buttons or paddles are often placed on the back grips of the controller, where your middle and/or fingers can easily reach them without overextending.

You may also find that third-party controllers have esports-centric features like trigger locks, which reduce the “travel” of a controller’s triggers to ensure the quickest input, often at the expense of button feel. Many controllers with any of these features will also feature a configuration app, which allows you to set the extra buttons and customize other aspects of the controller’s feel. While there isn’t a one-to-one correlation between these extra features and price, they are almost always part of the package when purchasing something that costs more than $60, so it’s worth keeping them in mind.

Wired or wireless?

Most people prefer a wireless controller for consoles because of the distance from their TV to their couch. With a PC, however, a wired controller may actually be the most convenient option. If your PC is within arm’s reach, it’s easy to plug and unplug your controller, and it will work instantly.

That said, you can always go wireless, either because you’re plugging your PC into a TV or just because you want to keep your cable management in order. Pairing wirelessly to a PC comes with tradeoffs. Many controllers, including Sony and Microsoft’s, can pair via Bluetooth, which is convenient but introduces input lag that can be a serious problem in precise and/or competitive games. Some controllers support 2.4GHz wireless via a USB receiver dongle, which cuts down on the lag. Aside from Microsoft’s, however, the number of controllers with dedicated receivers is pretty low, as most companies design their controllers to support one of the major consoles.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best controllers for PCs

• Best overall: Xbox Wireless Controller
• Best Xbox controller: Xbox Elite Series 2
• Best PlayStation controller: PlayStation DualSense
• Best wired: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
• Best Nintendo-style: 8BitDo Pro 2
• Best budget: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller

When picking the best controller for PC, you’ve got a lot of options. And, honestly, the ratio of good controllers to bad is about as close to even as it’s ever been. The most important thing is that you pick something that fits your preferences and setup, so that the controller meets your specific needs. Even in gaming, you have to pick the right tool for the right task, even if the tool is a gamepad and the task is staying up all night playing “Red Dead Redemption II.”

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 controllers for PCs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

SEE IT

Overview

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Verdict

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

Apple MacBook Pro M3 Max design

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

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

MacBook Pro M3 Max build options

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

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

MacBook Pro M3 Max performance

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

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

Photo-editing test

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

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

Video editing test

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

Gaming test

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

Battery power

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

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

The rest of the MacBook Pro M3 Max experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Best overall		ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X		SEE IT	The Mono X’s feature set is a cut above the usual suspects in the 3D printer game, especially in the build volume department.
Best for beginners		Elegoo Mars 3		SEE IT	Due to its popularity, the Mars 3 has an absolutely ridiculous number of tutorials on Reddit and YouTube, and that’s what gives it a slight edge in the “beginner-friendly” department.
Best budget		Creality Halot-One		SEE IT	A robust feature set makes this printer perfect for fresh hobbyists or beginners looking to cut their teeth in the 3D printing game.

From role-playing game miniatures to tool prototypes, resin 3D printers have changed the nature of many time-intensive hobbies. While they have a (somewhat unfair) reputation for being unwieldy and expensive, resin printers in recent years have become smaller, cheaper, and surprisingly easy to use. Whether you’re a Warhammer fiend who wants a top-of-the-line machine to print an entire opposing army or just a casual Dungeons & Dragons player who wants to dip your toe into the hobby, there’s a model that will work for you. Still, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the options before you commit to anything, as there’s a lot to learn on the hunt for the best resin 3D printer.

• Best overall: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X
• Best for miniatures: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 2 4K
• Best for beginners: Elegoo Mars 3
• Best high-end: Original Prusa SL1S Speed
• Best for large prints: ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max
• Best budget: Creality Halot-One

How we picked the best resin 3D printers

As a tech journalist with almost a decade of experience, I know how to determine which products are best for every level of consumer, from entry-level to industrial. I’m also a longtime RPG enthusiast and game-master with my own collection of tokens, so I know what discerning fans are looking for in their 3D printers. In putting together these recommendations, we consulted personal testimonials, consumer reviews, and tests conducted by top-quality professionals to determine which resin 3D printer is right for you, regardless of your priorities.

The best resin 3D printers: Reviews & Recommendations

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine which of the above features is more important to you. The following resin 3D printers each excel in one area or another, often in multiple. Regardless of whether or not you plan to go all out for an industrial-grade solution or save a bundle in order to try crafting for yourself, one of these resin printers will probably suit your needs. (And, to make sure you consider all your options, you can check out our guides to filament-based 3D printers, as well.)

Best overall: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X offers the best vital features per cost of any consumer-grade resin 3D printer out there.

Specs

• Build volume: 192mm x 120mm x 250mm
• Resolution: 3840×2400 (4K)
• Printing speed: 60mm/h
• Printing accuracy: .01mm
• XY axis resolution: .05mm
• LCD: 6.23 inch Mono
• MSRP: $480

Pros

• Premium feature set
• Reasonable price
• Very fast

Cons

• Not as easy to use as entry-level models

If you’re looking for the best overall bang for your buck in the resin 3D printer space, the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X is your ticket. Though it’s technically the big brother of true entry-level machines like the Elegoo Mars 3—more on that later—ANYCUBIC is an extremely well-known manufacturer in the space, and there are plenty of online tutorials on how to use its devices on enthusiast forums like Reddit. 

The Mono X’s feature set is a cut above the usual suspects in the 3D printer game, especially in the build volume department. At 7.5 inches by 4.7 inches by 9.8 inches, the Mono X’s build area is more than big enough for any miniature you’re likely to want to build, except maybe Cthulhu. It also offers fast speeds, 4K resolution, and better Z-axis support than similar models.

Its price may be several hundred dollars more than other options, but in our opinion, the difference is more than worth it.

Best for miniatures: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K excels at creating standard miniatures quickly and easily, and it’s not hard to master.

Specs

• Build volume: 132mm x 80mm x 165mm
• Resolution: 3840×2400 (4K)
• Printing speed: 50mm/h
• Printing accuracy: .01mm
• XY Axis Resolution: .035mm
• LCD: 6.23 inch Mono
• MSRP: $250

Pros

• Extremely competitive price
• Fast, easy-to-use
• Rich online community

Cons

• Standard build volume
• Touch screen issues

It might be smaller than its big brother, the Mono X, but it still packs a punch. The Mono 4K is the latest model of the ANYCUBIC Photon, one of the original resin 3D printers. Though it’s solidly in the entry-level price of $250 to $300, the Mono 4K is extremely similar to the X in terms of feature set. 

The 4K’s great resolution and standard build volume make it a very good option for users who want to make a large number of standard miniatures without much fuss. It’s quite easy to set up even for newbies, and its compact size means that it can sit on a small end table without calling a lot of attention to itself. At 50mm an hour max speed, the 4K will spit out miniatures very quickly once you get it set up, which is quite easy thanks to its online popularity.

If you’re an average user who wants to build an army of detailed orcs as fast as possible without breaking the bank, the Mono 4K is a great option.

Best for beginners: Elegoo Mars 3

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Arguably the most famous resin 3D printer out there, the Elegoo Mars 3 is a great option for both beginners and experts alike.

Specs

• Build volume: 143mm x 89mm x 175mm
• Resolution: 4098×2560 (4K)
• Printing speed: 50mm/h
• Printing accuracy: .01mm
• XY axis resolution: .035mm
• LCD: 6.66 inch Mono
• MSRP: $380

Pros

• Very popular and intuitive
• Good resolution
• Slightly larger build volume

Cons

• Somewhat expensive for what it is

As the follow-up to arguably the most popular resin printer of the last few years, the Mars 2, the Mars 3 has big shoes to fill. In fact, if you search “resin 3D printer” on any search engine, the Mars 3 will probably be the first one to show up. Overall, the Mars 3 lives up to its reputation as the easiest resin printer to use out there, and it offers a robust feature set, too.

The Mars 3’s specs are a little bit better than its main competitor, the Mono 4K, in almost every meaningful category, especially its build volume. However, reviews suggest that it’s not quite as fast as the Mono 4K over time. However, due to its popularity, you can find an absolutely ridiculous number of tutorials on Reddit and YouTube on how to use the Mars 3, and that’s what gives it a slight edge in the “beginner-friendly” department.

Overall, the Mars 3 is comparable in price to more premium resin 3D printers, but its ease of use and reputation make it a great 3D printer for beginners, especially if you’re intimidated by the hobby as a whole.

Best high-end: Original Prusa SL1S Speed Bundle

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Prusa SL1S Speed might be expensive, but it’s the choice for resin-crafters who want to turn their hobby into a serious side hustle.

Specs

• Build volume: 127mm x 80mm x 150mm
• Resolution: 2560×1620 (2K)
• Printing speed: 1.3 to 2.4 seconds per layer
• Printing accuracy: .01mm
• XY axis resolution: .049mm
• LCD: 5.96 inch Mono
• MSRP: $2,000

Pros

• Extremely fast
• Truly professional-grade
• Supports easy post-processing

Cons

• Very expensive
• Some dated features

In the world of resin 3D printing, there are hobbyists, and there are small businesses. If you’re looking to make a serious buck selling your miniatures or other products on a storefront like Etsy—and you already have some experience with resin printing—the Prusa S1LS Speed is a strong option. Thanks to its vat tilting support and ultra-fast scanning speed, the Prusa is suitable for both precise industrial work (such as dental molds) and cranking out miniatures as fast as possible. Testing suggests it’s nearly double the speed of the Mars 3, for example.

However, you get what you pay for. At $2,000, the SL1S Speed is about eight times more expensive than an entry-level resin printer like the Mars 3. While that is certainly quite a pill to swallow, this is a “prosumer” model that’s intended to compete with industrial scanners in the $5k to $6k range. (You can even get it bundled with the CW1S, a curing and washing machine that makes post-processing much more efficient.) For a $2,000 machine, you could certainly argue that the SL1S’s lack of 4K support and small build volume are major stumbling blocks, but many small businesses aren’t going to miss those features compared to the volume it can spit out.

If you’re in the market for a high-end resin printer, the SL1S Speed is a great option. It’s definitely not suitable for your average consumer, however.

Best for large prints: ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max is a high-end resin 3D printer that supports massive builds at a fairly reasonable price.

Specs

• Build volume: 300mm x 298mm x 164mm
• Resolution: 6480×3600 (6K)
• Printing speed: 60mm/hr
• Printing accuracy: .01mm
• XY axis resolution: .040mm
• LCD: 13.6 inch Mono
• MSRP: $1,300

Pros

• Incredible build volume
• Very high resolution
• Massive screen

Cons

• Large and unwieldy
• Expensive

If “bigger is better” is your favorite mantra, the Photon M3 Max might be the resin 3D printer for you. Boasting a ridiculous foot-tall build volume and better than 6K resolution, this is a machine that can print a heck of a final boss for your D&D campaign. It’s also surprisingly speedy for its size, posting significantly better build times than smaller alternatives like the Mars 3 and the Photon 4K Mono.

However, its size has some downsides. The Photon M3 Max weighs more than 57 pounds, it has a much larger footprint than entry-level models, and its ultra-large builds are going to cost you a small fortune in resin. Also, its rated power of 120 watts is almost double that of smaller models, so watch that electricity bill. Its price point of $1,300 is definitely a step up from other printers, but considering everything it brings to the table, it’s fairly reasonable.

Overall, the Photon M3 Max is a serious machine for serious hobbyists and you probably already know if it’s the right resin 3D printer for you. If you’re in the market for a more newbie-friendly machine, you should look to its smaller cousins.

Best budget: Creality HALOT-ONE

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Creality HALOT-ONE is the perfect starter machine for price-conscious customers who want to try out a new hobby.

Specs

• Build volume: 130mm x 82mm x 160mm
• Resolution: 2560×1620 (2K)
• Printing speed: 1-4 seconds per layer
• Printing accuracy: .01mm
• XY axis resolution: .050mm
• LCD: 5-inch Mono
• MSRP: $200

Pros

• Ultra-low price
• Decent specs

Cons

• Can get better features for $100+ more

When you consider that even the cheapest 3D printers cost $400 to $500 only a few years ago, the $200 price tag of the Creality HALOT-ONE is pretty staggering to consider. But while it’s definitely a budget model, the HALOT-ONE has a robust feature set that’s perfect for fresh hobbyists or beginners looking to cut their teeth in the 3D printing game. Its 2K resolution is more than enough for most projects, and its standard build volume can fit a standard miniature. It’s not the biggest or the fastest, but for many users, the price probably matters more.

The main argument against the HALOT-ONE is that you can get 4K resolution and significantly faster speed from a Mars 3 or Mono 4K for around $100 to $150 more. However, that might be the difference in purchasing a resin printer or not if you’re on a tight budget, so it’s ultimately up to you to decide whether those features are worth it to you.

The HALOT-ONE is a nice little machine, and its price can’t be beaten. For many budding hobbyists, it’s a great place to start.

Things to consider before buying the best resin 3D printers

Buying a 3D printer can be pretty intimidating, especially if you don’t know much about the hobby. The best resin 3D printers cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000, so one is not a casual pickup. Before making your purchase, you’ll need to consider what exactly you want to use it for, as that will have a big impact on what printer you choose. For example, if you’re planning on creating intricate and/or oversized pieces for cosplay or substantial figures for RPG campaigns, you will need a printer with a larger build volume. You’ll also need to decide what level of detail you need from the printer, as that has a big impact on its cost. While a 4K capable printer is fairly affordable these days, 6K will raise the price substantially.

Regardless of what printer you ultimately buy, you’ll need to determine how comfortable you are working with resin, as you’ll need special tools and gear (such as a UV light and nitrate gloves) as part of your production process. If you’re willing to shell out, you can buy a washing-and-curing machine, like the Elegoo Mercury, in order to save yourself some legwork. Finally, you’ll need to reckon with the fact that resin itself is much more expensive than the alternatives, such as filament. However, the final product is more than worth it.

Size matters

Build volume is a measure of how large a product a resin 3D printer can produce. For example, a common build volume is about 5.5 inches by 3.5 inches by 7 inches, which is well within the typical range of a Dungeons & Dragons miniature. If you’re looking to make something bigger than that, you will need to purchase a printer with a large (or even extra-large) build volume. Generally speaking, printers with large build volumes require a bit more fiddling (and can be more prone to user error) than their standard-volume equivalents, but you can learn the ropes with a bit of effort.

4K, 6K, or 8K, oh my

The resolution of the 3D printer’s LCD will determine the level of detail it can inscribe on your beautiful miniatures. A 4K printer is considered the standard these days for all but ultra-budget models, and it’s more than sufficient for most projects. Still, if you want those details to really sing, you may want to consider a 6K (or even 8K!) option.

Mono is better than RGB

Yes, it may seem counterintuitive, but a 3D printer with monochrome LCD masking is better than one with RGB (or color) LCD masking. Monos are better at letting the UV light pass through than their colored alternatives, which means that each layer is scanned that much faster. RGB 3D printers are cheaper than monos, but even mono printers are fairly affordable these days. As such, unless your budget is extremely constrained, we recommend you get a mono, as they’re between 3-5x faster on average.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best resin 3D printers

• Best overall: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X
• Best for miniatures: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 2 4K
• Best for beginners: Elegoo Mars 3
• Best high-end: Original Prusa SL1S Speed
• Best for large prints: ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max
• Best budget: Creality Halot-One

3D printing is one of the fastest-growing hobbies out there and, while there’s certainly a learning curve, it won’t take you long to make the wizard of your D&D dreams. In general, newbies to resin 3D printers should stick to well-known brand names like Elegoo and ANYCUBIC due to their very large online communities and tutorial support. It might seem intimidating, but if you work at it, it’s not as hard as it looks.

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 resin 3D printers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best Overall		Pioneer DJ DDJ-800		SEE IT	A controller that combines the look and feel of the club-standard CDJ and DJM gear with added performance features and built-in displays.
Best Standalone System		Denon DJ Prime 4+		SEE IT	The most comprehensive and innovative feature set you can get in a standalone system/DJ controller.
Best Compact Controller		Numark DJ2GO2 Touch		SEE IT	All a digital DJ’s essential needs are contained in this one tiny package.

DJ controllers leverage the processing power and massive storage of laptops—and sometimes mobile devices and cloud services—so that DJs can spin sets from enormous music libraries at a fraction of the cost and hassle of using high-end DJ turntables, mixers, and media players. While DJ controllers cover a wide range of sizes, feature sets, software compatibility, and prices, they generally connect to host devices over USB and include audio outputs for sending your mix to a main set of speakers and your cued music to headphones. Some DJ controllers prefer standalone systems that allow self-contained mixing but can also connect to a computer when you want to see a larger screen and potentially access additional software capabilities. For both complete newbies and old-school turntablists, this handy hardware can unlock a new world of possibilities, making DJing more creative and even more fun. Choosing the right one for you is where that fun begins, so let’s get into the best DJ controllers of 2023.

• Best overall: Pioneer DJ DDJ-800
• Best for scratching: Rane One 
• Best for beginners: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
• Best standalone system: Denon DJ Prime 4+ 
• Best compact controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
• Best budget: Roland DJ-202

How we chose the best DJ controllers

I have been a performing DJ for more than 15 years and have covered DJ gear (such as the Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3) for DJ Tech Tools, Electronic Musician, Remix, Popular Science, and other outlets. I’ve personally used half of the DJ controllers on this list for public DJ sets, livestreams, or extensive reviews, and the remaining choices are based on thorough research, the feedback of fellow DJs, and other expert reviews. This guide includes the best DJ controllers for a variety of needs, skill levels, and price points. 

The best DJ controllers: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding the perfect DJ controller may not spike your dopamine as much as laying down a perfect set for a hyped crowd, but it should be an enjoyable process. And it’s better to start spinning tracks rather than spin into a spiral of indecision, which is where our list comes in. There are many great options, and unless you want to invest in more than one for different situations, you may end up sacrificing some great features for portability or vice versa. Or you may find the exact controller you want, but it doesn’t work with your preferred software. To make your search easier, here are our picks for the best DJ controllers available this year for many different situations and budgets. 

Best overall: Pioneer DJ DDJ-800 

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Gig-ready gear that comes the closest to mimicking the layout and workflow of Pioneer DJ’s club-standard media players and mixers in a 2-channel controller. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input channel
• Inputs and Outputs: XLR and RCA stereo Master outputs; balanced ¼-inch stereo Booth output; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch stereo headphone outputs; two stereo RCA phono/line channel inputs; stereo RCA Aux input; one balanced XLR/1/4-inch combo Mic input; one balanced ¼-inch Mic input. 
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Pioneer Rekordbox

Pros

• Has the layout and feel of Pioneer DJ’s high-end club gear in a smaller, more affordable package
• Informative on-jog color displays
• Unlocks a performance-ready version of Rekordbox DJ software
• Excellent performance pad modes

Cons 

• High-level Rekordbox functions like DVS and cloud storage/syncing require a subscription

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-800 recreates the layout and features of Pioneer DJ’s professional club-standard CDJ-NXS2 media players and DJM mixers but in a single unit for controlling the company’s Rekordbox software. It also unlocks a performance-ready version of Rekordbox so that you don’t have to pay for a subscription to the software, unless you want to unlock extra features like the DVS (digital vinyl system) Plus Pack, or other subscription levels for music library cloud storage and syncing. The DDJ-800 gives you basically everything from the popular 4-channel DDJ-1000 except in a smaller, 2-channel version that weighs about 1.3kg less and costs about $400 less. 

Color LCD displays in the center of the jog wheels help you see the essential track information without staring at the computer screen, and you can customize them to show what you want to see, including BPM, cue and loop points, and the waveform with playback position. Another small display dedicated to the popular Beat FX from Pioneer’s DJM mixers shows the settings. If you scratch while DJing, the jog wheel’s resistance is also adjustable to your preference. The DDJ-800’s mixer has two stereo phono/line audio inputs, so you can use the controller’s channel faders, trims, and EQs for external turntables and media players, as well as using Rekordbox’s effects on the external sources. 

The 16 performance pads (eight per deck) control several pads modes: Hot Cues, Pad FX, Beat Jump, Sampler, Keyboard Mode, Beat Loop, and Key Shift, which can automatically change the key of the upcoming track to match the master deck or shifts the keys up or down to your liking. With the pad Page function, you access 16 Hot Cues per deck and toggle the pads to control cues 1-8 and 9-16.

Best for scratching: Rane One

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A controller that caters to scratch DJs with the dual motorized, vinyl-feel platters and pro-level crossfader on the Rane One. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus 2 mic inputs
• Inputs and Outputs: RCA stereo Master output; balanced XLR stereo Main output; balanced XLR stereo Booth output; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch stereo headphone outputs; two stereo RCA phono/line channel inputs; stereo RCA Aux input; two balanced XLR/1/4-inch combo Mic inputs 
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit, 48kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Pro, Aloriddim Djay Pro AI, VirtualDJ

Pros

• Dual 7-inch motorized turntable-style platters with real vinyl feel
• Pro scratch DJ Mag Four crossfader with tension and contour adjustment
• Two USB ports for seamless transition between two laptops
• 16 multi-function performance pads that support Serato DJ Pro’s Scratch Bank mode 

Cons 

• You must pay a price for this kind of quality
• Serato DJ Pro license not included

Among DJ-focused brands, Rane has carved out a niche as one of the most trusted and beloved names that concentrate on the needs of scratch DJs. The company makes some of the best scratch DJ mixers (such as the Seventy-Two MKII), and now it has laid claim to some of the best DJ controllers for scratching. While you can scratch with most DJ controllers with jog wheels, dedicated scratch DJs most often prefer to use vinyl turntables to scratch, because that’s where they have the most control and the best feel to practice their art form. However, with the Rane One, scratch DJs don’t have to sacrifice much to use a DJ controller. It provides the feel of two turntables with a scratch mixer along with conveniences like a dedicated loop section, track browsing and loading, and eight multi-function performance pads on each deck. The two motorized 7-inch turntable platters have the feel of real vinyl, including vinyl brake speed adjustment, and the buttery smooth, professional scratch DJ Mag Four crossfader equals those of high-end scratch mixers, including tension and contour adjustment. 

Rane One’s mixer section has six FX buttons for calling up effects combinations within the DJ software, and the aluminum FX paddles give scratch DJs the effects control they crave—the ability to lock the effects on or to momentarily toggle the effects on with the paddle down. For the pure feel of a full-size turntable in a DJ controller, Rane also makes the Twelve MKII, which works like a full-size, vertically oriented, 12-inch motorized turntable controller for DVS-enabled Serato DJ Pro, Traktor, and VirtualDJ. However, for scratch DJs who want the best of both the DJ controller and vinyl-manipulation worlds in a single unit that—at about 27 by 14 inches—is much smaller than two turntables and a mixer, nothing beats the Rane One.

Best for beginners: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This compact, beginner-friendly DJ controller works in lock-step with Native Instruments software and won’t be obsolete when you progress from beginner status. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input
• Inputs and Outputs: Stereo RCA and stereo 1/8-inch main outputs; 1/8-inch stereo headphone output; ¼-inch mic input
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz or 48kHz (selectable in software)
• Software Native Compatibility: Traktor DJ 2 (free download), Traktor Pro 3 (license included)

Pros

• Approachable feature set with lasting appeal to higher skill levels
• Very high-quality build and audio
• Dedicated USB port for iPad connectivity
• Includes Traktor Pro 3 license

Cons 

• No controls for Traktor Pro’s effects decks
• Smaller than full-size performance pads
• Fewer performance pad modes than many DJ controllers

There are many DJ controllers aimed at beginners. But if your goal is to not remain an entry-level entertainer forever, the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 lets you start out with a manageable piece of hardware that semi-pro and pro-level DJs will still use when a gig calls for a relatively small DJ controller. Even better, beginners can start out with the free Traktor DJ 2 software (available for Mac, Windows, and iPad), which is very approachable to beginners yet still has the core features you need for credible DJ sets. Traktor DJ 2 is also one of the best DJing apps for iPad and the S2 MK3 includes a dedicated USB port for iDevice connections. When you’re ready to graduate from Traktor DJ 2, you can step up to Traktor Pro 3, which is included with the S2 MK3. Traktor Pro 3 now also has a Pro Plus subscription for added performance features like a drum pattern sequencer, but it’s not necessary to subscribe to use the main Traktor Pro 3 software. 

Aside from its manageable size (about 19.1 by 10.4 inches) and flexible software options, the S2 MK3 puts a decent amount of controls at your fingertips for a small controller. There are 16 total performance pads for triggering saved cue and loop points; multi-purpose touch-sensitive jog wheels for searching waveforms, nudging playback, and scratching; and four Mixer FX on each deck: filter, reverb, delay, and flanger. It even supports four-deck operation in Traktor Pro 3. While the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 treats beginners well, it also gives them room to grow into seasoned DJs.

Best standalone system: Denon DJ Prime 4+ 

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Why it made the cut: Compared to other standalone DJ systems, this setup does not hold back any functionality and offers the best touchscreen, connectivity, and overall feature set in its class. 

Specs 

• Channels: 4 decks plus two mic inputs
• Inputs and Outputs: RCA stereo Master output; three balanced XLR stereo outputs; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch stereo headphone outputs; two stereo RCA phono/line channel inputs two stereo RCA line channel inputs; two balanced XLR/1/4-inch combo Mic inputs; four USB media inputs; SD memory card slot 
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Pro, VirtualDJ

Pros

• Brilliant 10.1-inch color touchscreen with gesture control
• Plenty of wired and wireless connectivity options
• Built for both standalone and laptop use
• Good value for what’s included

Cons 

• Rather large and unwieldy for transporting

Pioneer DJ standalone DJ systems like the XDJ-RX3 are home-setup mainstays, in part because you can use the same Rekordbox-prepared USB sticks from the standalone system on club gear like the CDJ-3000. However, the Denon DJ Prime 4+ unequivocally packs the most features into its 4-deck frame at similar price to its main competitors (a little over $2,000). On first glance of the Prime 4+, the eye goes immediately to its brilliant 10.1-inch touchscreen, which offers gesture control familiar to mobile device users powered by the system’s multi-core processing. You can play music files without the use of a laptop thanks to four USB inputs and an SD card slot (as well as a built-in 2.5-inch SATA drive bay, if you add a hard drive/SSD), taking advantage of on-board song analysis. Or hook it up to a computer loaded with Serato DJ Pro or VirtualDJ software. The Prime 4+ also has built-in WiFi and an Ethernet port for accessing music from your personal Dropbox collection or from multiple streaming services: Amazon Music Unlimited, Tidal, SoundCloud Go+, Beatport Link, Beatsource Link, and Dropbox (subscriptions required). 

The multi-view touchscreen can clearly show large scrolling waveforms for all four decks at once either horizontally or vertically, allows fast and easy track browsing and loading, lets you create playlists on the fly, and dynamically shows the relevant parameters as you play, such as looping, beat slicing, track roll, and other performance pad modes. 

A generous effects control section on each side includes its own mini displays for showing the parameters of the 26 dynamic internal DJ effects, in addition to the per-channel Sweep FX knobs (combinable with Main FX). There’s an embedded Sampler with 16 pad-triggered sample slots, volume control, and output routing, as well as standalone Stems functionality for real-time vocal and instrument isolation. You also get full hands-on control over the two mic inputs and multiple audio outputs. 

To add visual elements to your DJ sets, the Prime 4+ integrates with SoundSwitch for customized or automated light shows, and Resolume for live visuals and videos. All told, the Prime 4+ impresses like no other standalone DJ system to date. 

Best compact controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch

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Why it made the cut: Simple, straightforward, and very small, this controller includes core DJing necessities that can slip easily into a slim laptop case. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input
• Inputs and Outputs: 1/8-inch stereo main output; 1/8-inch stereo headphone output
• Audio Resolution: 16-bit/44.1kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Lite (included), Serato DJ Pro, VirtualDJ, Algoriddim Djay for iOS

Pros

• Extremely compact for easy portability
• Four pad modes
• Touch-sensitive jog wheels allow both scratching and nudging
• Low price

Cons 

• No track EQ controls

For an ultra-compact DJ controller weighing only 12 ounces and measuring 12.4 by 3.4 inches, the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch dishes out a surprising amount of controls and functionality. There are many reasons to have such a tiny DJ controller, including the ability to take a mini-rig almost anywhere to casually play from either a laptop or an iOS device. But the DJ2GO2 Touch can suffice even for more professional mobile DJing or gigs where a larger controller is either impractical or unnecessary. This slim controller connects with an included mini-USB to USB cable and both monitor and headphone outputs. Each mini-deck includes playback controls, headphone cue controls, level, pitch fader, four trigger pads, and a jog wheel. The DJ2GO2 Touch jog wheels have been upgraded from the previous DJ2GO2 controller to be capacitive on the top to enable both scratching and track nudging from the jog wheel’s side. There are even four selectable pad modes: cue triggering, auto-looping, manual looping, and sample triggering. 

When used with the included Serato DJ Lite, you can DJ with streaming music from SoundCloud and Tidal. Track library browsing and deck loading round out the DJ2GO2 Touch to make it a very attractive option either as a starter DJ controller or an alternate second controller for when small size matters.

Best budget: Roland DJ-202

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Why it made the cut: This excellent 2-channel DJ controller stands out for its included Serato DJ Pro license for U.S. customers and some unique music production-oriented features. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input
• Inputs and Outputs: Stereo RCA main output; 1/4-inch stereo headphone output; ¼-inch mic input; MIDI output
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Lite, Serato DJ Pro (license for US customers only)

Pros

• Solid all-around 2-channel DJ controller with 4-deck support in Serato software
• Includes Serato DJ Pro license for US customers
• Built-in drum machine and MIDI out for syncing external gear

Cons 

• May take some leg work to obtain the Serato DJ Pro upgrade

While the Roland DJ-202 measures up as a super-solid 2-channel controller for Serato software, it’s not the least expensive option out there. What makes it an irresistible prospect for serious DJs on a budget is its inclusion of an upgrade to Serato DJ Pro (for U.S. customers only). You may have to jump through some hoops with customer service to get the Serato DJ Pro license, but DJ-202 buyers are still getting it in 2023. 

Either way, the DJ-202 is packed with features for its size. Two effects sections give you full control over Serato’s internal audio effects, and the mic input has onboard reverb and echo. Its eight performance pads per side support eight pad modes, including one that lets you use the 16 total pads together to sequence drum beats using the famous sounds of Roland’s classic drum machines: the TR-909, TR-808, TR-707, and TR-606. A MIDI output also lets you sync the DJ-202 tempo from the software to external MIDI gear like samplers, synthesizers, or drum machines—a rarity for a DJ controller. 

Things to consider before buying the best DJ controllers

Some specialty DJ controllers do not include audio interfaces that let you monitor the cue mix in your headphones and send audio out to the main speakers. This guide only spotlights DJ controllers that include audio interfaces and also access to some level of mixing software, so you can get started DJing right away. The audio capabilities of the controllers on this list vary. Some of them have basic audio connections, so you can only plug in your headphones and one set of main monitors. Others have much more, including audio inputs for turntables and DJ media players, separate booth monitor outputs, and microphone inputs. 

DJ software

Many DJs prefer to decide which DJ software they want to use before picking their DJ controller, as this narrows down DJ controllers to the ones that support the software out of the box. Some DJ software, like Virtual DJ and Algoriddim DJ, supports many controllers with mappings that the software developers have made, but you won’t find many DJ controllers made specifically for those programs. Other DJ software, like Pioneer DJ Rekordbox and Native Instruments Traktor Pro, has a limited number of natively support DJ controllers made by the same maker of the software. Serato DJ has the largest selection of third-party DJ controllers that are made specifically for that software. Traktor Pro and some other DJ software options also have MIDI mapping built-in, so any DJ controller could be made to work with them. However, most DJs do not want to go through the trouble of creating their own MIDI mapping, and the user-made mappings available online are hit or miss.

Size

For the most part, the more mixer channels and features (such as FX controls, displays, and performance pads) that a DJ controller has, the larger its footprint. They can be made smaller by making the jog wheels, performance pads, pitch faders, or other elements more compact but, eventually, DJ controllers that are more and more streamlined will have to sacrifice some features. The size of the controller could matter for a multitude of reasons. If you’ll be using it to perform, your venue may be limited in the amount of space it has for your controller, or you may not want to carry something beyond a certain size. There are some very large, heavy 4-channel DJ controllers and standalone DJ systems/controllers that are a joy to mix on but can be much tougher to take out for shows. Some DJs only use them for at-home practice and streaming.

Mixer channels and features

The number of mixer channels—two or four—distinguishes many DJ controllers. Certainly, many high-end two-channel DJ controllers exist but, conversely, there are not many entry-level controllers with four channels. Most four-channel controllers and some two-channel controllers have extra audio inputs to connect turntables and DJ media players to the controller’s mixer channels, while others may only have four channels for playing four decks of internal audio from the DJ software. Even if you do not plan on using more than two decks while DJing, it can be handy to have a four-deck controller because you can change the MIDI function of the extra channel-strip controls to assign them to other functions in the software that do not have dedicated hardware controls, like effects manipulation, turning quantization on/off, etc. 

Control features

DJ controllers also vary significantly in how many/what type of features they include. If they are made for scratch DJs, for example, they will probably have a professional crossfader, like a Magvel, made for smooth and accurate precision over a long life of extended use. They will also probably have larger jog wheels made to better simulate the response of turntables, which may include motorized platters and a vinyl piece on top to respond like a record. On the other hand, occasional controllers, like the now-discontinued Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8, don’t have jog wheels at all, and others have much smaller jog wheels to save space. 

Many other control features may play into your choice of DJ controller, like having performance pads and different pad modes, the availability and size of control sections for effect modules and looping, built-in displays, and features unique to specific controllers, like the drum machine abilities of the Roland DJ controllers. Knowing the kinds of controls available and the ones most important to you can help you make your decision, but remember that it can be tricky to find a DJ controller with the exact controls you want, at the right size, that works with the software you want, all within your acceptable price range. 

Price

DJ controllers range widely in price from under $100 for some barebones yet highly portable gear to well over $2,000 for some of the largest, most deluxe pro controllers, some of which may also be standalone systems you can use without a laptop. While I recommend staying within your means, it’s also worth it to try to decide on a controller you really vibe with rather than compromising to save a few bucks. Quality DJing rests more on your musical choices and mixing skills than on the gear you use, but you should try to be as happy as you can be with your DJ controller. Frustration with your DJ gear can distract you from putting together a great DJ set. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best DJ controllers

• Best overall: Pioneer DJ DDJ-800
• Best for scratching: Rane One 
• Best for beginners: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
• Best standalone system: Denon DJ Prime 4+ 
• Best compact controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
• Best budget: Roland DJ-202

Several key factors play into your decision on the best DJ controller to buy: software compatibility, size, price, number of mixer channels, and the availability of performance features like pad modes and effects sections. It can be a challenge to find one that fits the exact profile you want but parse through our picks, and you will soon be equipped with the perfect DJ booth companion.

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 DJ controllers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard		SEE IT	Connect it to your work laptop, personal computer, and phone with the push of a button.
Best for gaming		Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard		SEE IT	The Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard combines mechanical keyboard aesthetics sans cords.
Best budget		Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard		SEE IT	This wallet-friendly wireless keyboard is compact and easily connects to your laptop.

Whether you spend your time gaming into the night, working from home, or a little bit of both, your wireless keyboard has been there through it all. The best wireless keyboards can be a convenient switch that eases movement and alleviates wrist strain. Wireless keyboards also minimize desk clutter—a perk for gamers looking to curate an impressive, stream-worthy battlestation. As we spend more time working remotely, it’s important to choose computer accessories that increase productivity and comfort. There are a lot of options out there for wireless keyboards, but we’ll help you find the perfect one for your gaming or office needs. It’s time to free yourself from cords by finding the best wireless keyboard for your needs.

• Best overall: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
• Best ergonomic: Logitech Wave Keys
• Best for gaming: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
• Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard With Touch ID
• Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

How we chose the best wireless keyboards

As journalists, our entire job is typing. Our top choices for the best wireless keyboards are based on personal testing, research, recommendations, reviews, and user impressions. We looked carefully at all specs and perspectives—key types and travel, etc.—until we found the ones that fit every typing scenario.

The best wireless keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

These wireless keyboards are ready to tackle that manuscript draft you’ve been working on for years, and the game level you’re having a hard time beating. Putting words together and demolishing cartoon villains is hard, but choosing the best wireless keyboards is easy.

Best overall: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard

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Why it made the cut: This Bluetooth keyboard easily connects to an Apple device, PC, and even your phone.

Specs

• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 10.9 x 4.9 x 0.6 inches
• Weight: 0.90 pounds

Pros

• Quiet typing
• Fast connection
• Portable

Cons

• Computer needs a Bluetooth connection to work
• Keys not backlit

Logitech’s versatile keyboard has three pairing channels that you can switch between at the touch of a button, meaning you don’t have to fuss over Bluetooth pairing every time you swap devices. The K380 comes with pre-installed AAA alkaline batteries and has an expected battery life of two years (though we’d recommend replacing them with rechargeables eventually). Depending on your usage, you won’t have to worry about power until it’s time to replace the batteries. Similar to ergonomic keyboards, the K380 has sculpted keys that mirror the shape of your fingertips, a design choice that makes for fluid and quiet typing. This Bluetooth keyboard is a convenient and modern solution that won’t hold you back. And yes, it also comes in pink.

Best ergonomic: Logitech Wave Keys

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Why it made the cut: This ergonomic keyboard takes the weight off your wrists with pain-free connectivity.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB receiver, Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 9.17 x 17.95 x 1.89 inches
• Weight: 2.15 pounds

Pros

• Compatible with PC and macOS
• Connects via USB receiver or Bluetooth
• Built-in wrist rest

Cons

• Wrist support cannot be removed
• Keys not backlit

The ergonomist-approved Logitech Wave Keys keyboard is made for relaxing and natural typing posture. Its namesake feature is a gentle slope that begins raising at the D key and declining to the L key. You’d think this would make the keyboard more difficult to type on, but it actually feels incredibly comfortable to use, even after several hours of continuous typing. The keyboard’s wrist rest, which for better or wise is physically attached to the keyboard and non-removable, provides enough padding and elevation to position both hands perfectly.

We prefer this ergonomic keyboard design to those with two separate sets of keys with a large gap in between them because learning to type on it comfortably takes time. This Logitech wireless keyboard is fully compatible with macOS and PC and connects with a USB receiver or Bluetooth. We conducted our tests on a MacBook Pro using both the receiver and Bluetooth and never had an issue with connectivity or lag while typing. We wish some more premium features like backlighting for the keys was present, but that disappointment is far outweighed by the feeling of comfortably typing on these keys.

Best gaming: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

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Why it made the cut: This tenkeyless keyboard combines mechanical keyboard aesthetics with gamer-friendly features.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB receiver, Bluetooth
• Dimensions: ‎15.2 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches
• Weight: 1.79 pounds

Pros

• Can charge and play simultaneously
• Low profile

Cons

• Expensive

The Logitech G915 is a high-performance mechanical keyboard that will take your gaming marathons to the next level (which is why it’s our best overall wireless mechanical keyboard). This keyboard features low-profile mechanical gaming switches, an incredible battery life, and fully customizable RGB lighting with LightSync. The G915 is light yet durable, with an aluminum alloy top case and a steel-reinforced base. This keyboard also comes with three options for switches—Clicky, Tactile, and Linear—and five programmable G-keys. It takes a mere three hours to fully recharge and is fully functional while charging via micro USB.

Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard With Touch ID

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Why it made the cut: This white wireless keyboard is an example of Apple’s penchant for turning its devices into an ecosystem.

Specs

• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Dimensions: 0.16–0.43 x 16.48 x 4.52 inches
• Weight: 0.53 pounds

Pros

• Automatic pairing
• No extra configuration
• Touch ID button

Cons

• Keys not backlit
• Price

It should come as no surprise that the best keyboard to use with a Mac is made by Apple itself, despite its high price, lack of backlit keys, and proprietary charging port. The reason for the Magic Keyboard’s dominance is the Touch ID button built into the keyboard. This allows you to unlock your Mac using a fingerprint rather than a password and can be used for authentication throughout several different actions on the computer. If you do anything that requires entering a password once your computer is unlocked, be it changing a system setting, making a purchase from the Mac App Store, or installing a new app, Touch ID will save you time. Just ensure you have a Lightning cable when it comes time to charge it.

To its credit, the keyboard does look very nice, with comfortable-feeling square keys and an aluminum frame that feels much more luxe than the typical plastic keyboard. Another benefit to using an Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is that the function row keys on top offer quick access to volume and media controls or system features like Spotlight, Siri, and Control Center. Apple offers the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID as a full-sized keyboard complete with a separate number pad (shown above) or a more svelte version roughly a third shorter. While this is undeniably the best keyboard for the Mac, we have a guide to alternatives worth considering.

Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

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Why it made the cut: Usability doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, and this full-size wireless keyboard is proof.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB receiver
• Dimensions: 6.5 x 1.75 x 15.56 inches
• Weight: 1.75 pounds

Pros

• Good tactile feel
• Small and compact

Cons

• Keys not backlit

This wireless keyboard from Logitech is reliable, sturdy, and customizable. It comes with six hotkeys and twelve programmable F-keys, and the USB receiver can connect up to six unifying devices to one receiver. The K360 is a real trooper—its two pre-installed batteries provide up to three years of use. Worried about security while working wirelessly? This keyboard protects your keystrokes with 128-bit encryption. Although this keyboard is technically compatible with Mac, it is much better suited for Windows users.

What to consider when buying the best wireless keyboards

There are a few things to factor in when searching for the best wireless keyboard. If you’re looking to update your work-from-home computer gear, you’ll want to keep style, portability, and ergonomics in mind. When you’re working all day at a desk, a wireless ergonomic keyboard can improve your typing posture and lower muscle strain. Is the local coffee shop your version of a home office? When working on the go, a wrist pad can add bulk, and a lightweight, portable keyboard will be a sleeker and more compact choice. Portability is also important for those using a Bluetooth keyboard to connect to tablets and laptops. Still a little unsure? We’ll walk you through the specifics so you can snag a good wireless keyboard.

Connectivity

A major consideration is how your keyboard will connect to your device. Some devices utilize a 2.4 GHz radio frequency with a USB adapter, while others have Bluetooth pairing. If you’re someone who doesn’t want extra computer gear and needs to connect to multiple devices, you might opt for a Bluetooth keyboard. Can’t decide? You’re in luck—a lot of keyboards are both USB- and Bluetooth-capable.

Ergonomic wireless keyboards vs. flat wireless keyboards

If you use a standard flat keyboard, chances are you type in some unnatural positions. A wireless ergonomic keyboard combines cordless freedom and smart design in order to provide a seamless typing experience. With split keyboards, curved structures, and slanted wrist pads, ergonomic keyboards enable your hands and fingers to rest at a natural angle. If you’re noticing pain after a long work week, it might be time to choose a computer keyboard with a gentler design. Go all-in by adding an ergonomic mouse to your setup.

Some people find that a lot of ergonomic keyboards look clunky or awkward. Fortunately, the best ergonomic keyboards retain style while providing that much-needed wrist relief.

Use case

Gamers might be apprehensive about latency in wireless keyboards, but the truth is that wireless gaming equipment has evolved past the days of lag. The best wireless gaming keyboard will have an imperceptible delay with the same features you love—mechanical switches, RGB backlighting, and quick response time. Standard peripherals might restrict your fluidity and tether you to one position, while wireless allows you to sit back and relax.

Gamers should look for a keyboard that is engineered to handle intense gaming sessions and equipped with customizable G-keys.

Portability

When you’re multitasking and on the move, a full-size keyboard can hold you down. With a portable Bluetooth keyboard, you can switch between devices with ease and travel without extra weight or tangled cables. The best Bluetooth keyboards are universally compatible with most devices and compact—perfect for those who hunker down with a laptop, tablet, and iPad. You’ll want to look for a lightweight and durable design with a long-lasting battery.

Whether you’re traveling to the office or a different corner of the living room, you need a slim keyboard that can handle the journey.

Operating system

Mac users, we didn’t forget you. You don’t always have to buy from Apple, as the majority of USB and Bluetooth keyboards are compatible with Mac computers, but you will want to make sure that any keyboard you choose fully supports Mac’s native keyboard layout. The best wireless keyboards for Mac seamlessly connect to multiple Apple devices and last for months between charges.

Budget

We know that wireless keyboards can get pretty expensive, but there are some amazing, affordable options that don’t compromise on quality. If you’re searching for a budget-friendly wireless keyboard, you will want to make sure it is compatible with your system. Keep in mind that cheaper wireless keyboards might not be equipped with simultaneous Bluetooth and USB connections.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wireless keyboards

• Best overall: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
• Best ergonomic: Logitech Wave Keys
• Best for gaming: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
• Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard With TouchID
• Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

The most important part of selecting a good wireless keyboard is ensuring that it is right for your lifestyle. The best part of switching is how many options there are out there, whether you’re looking for a sophisticated wireless mechanical keyboard or a weightless Bluetooth companion. Enjoy your newfound freedom from wires.

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.

Related: How to recycle electronics

The post The best wireless keyboards 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.

Best overall		Elegoo 8K 3D Printer Resin		SEE IT	This resin works wonders with today’s best resin 3D printers.
Best value		Sunlu ABS-Like Resin (3000G)		SEE IT	A giant bottle of resin that has an excellent dollar-to-gram ratio.
Best for models		Anycubic 3D Printer Resin		SEE IT	It is a customer favorite that consistently displays sharp details.

You’ll need 3D printer resin for 3D resin printing if you have a resin 3D printer. It sounds like a tongue twister, but it is just a simple fact. Your printer almost certainly came with some resin, giving you an initial feeling of what your printer is capable of. But did you know that there are tons of styles and colors of resin that can completely redefine your builds? To help you make your next print a true work of art, we compiled a list of the best 3D printer resin bottles you can get, all with different styles and functions.

• Best overall: Elegoo 8K 3D Printer Resin
• Best transparent: Siraya Tech Craft Ultra-Clear 3D Printer Resin
• Best for models: Anycubic 3D Printer Resin
• Best color kit: Sunlu 3D Printer Resin Bundle
• Best dual color: RepRapper UV Dual Color 3D Resin
• Best flexible: Superflex 3D Printer Resin
• Best eco-friendly: Elegoo Plant-Based 3D Printer Resin
• Best for large batches: Sunlu ABS-Like Resin (3000G)
• Best budget: Monoprice Rapid 3D Printer Resin

How we chose the best 3D printer resin

3D printer resin is the base of your prints. As a result, changing up your resin can have a giant effect on the look of your prints. Some resin holds shapes better and is made for premium details, while other resins come in cool colors or can be flexible. The variety is truly surprising, which is why we wanted to bring forward a variety of styles to you, giving you a wide variety of inspiration and intrigue for your next print.

The best 3D printer resin: Reviews & Recommendations

The following 3D printer resins represent the best in their respective categories. Each resin presented is unique in the way that it prints, but similar in that it has been used successfully by hundreds (if not thousands) of customers just like you. The resins here can be thought of as both superior in some way and a means of expression by the printer.

Best overall: Elegoo 8K 3D Printer Resin

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: 1000g
• Colors: Space Grey
• Characteristic: Opaque model

Pros

• Supports high-details models
• Low shrinkage
• High compatibility
• Non-brittle, low odor

Cons

• On the expensive side

If you have an 8K 3D printer, which is considered the top-of-the-line for commercially available products, then you should check out this best-selling resin from Elegoo. It’s designed to be non-brittle and essentially non-shrinking so you can get the most out of detailed print projects. And while you should still ventilate, there will be reduced odors with this product.

While the Elegoo 8K 3D Printer Resin is specifically designed to work with their Saturn 2 8K LCD 3D Printer, it is widely compatible. It should work with nearly any DLP or LCD printer that uses 405nm light. Instead of compatibility, we find the main flaw of this resin to be the price. While not “expensive” it is a bit pricier than most, so it’s best to only grab this if you have a printer that can make use of its talents.

Best transparent: Siraya Tech Craft Ultra-Clear 3D Printer Resin

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Specs

• Sizes: 1,000g
• Colors: Ultra-Clear
• Characteristic: Transparent

Pros

• Completely see-through
• Anti-yellowing formula
• Smooth and glossy after processing

Cons

• Takes some experimentation

If you’re into painting your models, it doesn’t really matter what the base coloration is. But if you want to peer into your model or use lighting with it, transparent styles are the best 3D printer resin for you. Siraya makes an ultra-clear resin that has an ice-like appearance, becoming even more clear after processing. While the general consensus is that you will need to practice with this resin to get the effect perfect, it does turn out great results. A person with a 3D resin printer for cosplay can really run wild if they’re concentrating on smaller objects, such as baubles and lenses, as can jewelry makers. If you want other cool effects, Siraya Tech Craft Glow-in-the-Dark 3D Printer Resin is a cool alternative.

Best for models: Anycubic 3D Printer Resin

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Specs

• Sizes: 1,000g
• Colors: Gray, black, white, green, clear
• Characteristic: Opaque

Pros

• Sharp details
• Low shrinkage
• Customer favorite
• Highly affordable

Cons

• Easiest to use with Anycubic printers

Our guide to the best 3D printers for miniatures includes at least a couple of Anycubic printers. With resin like this, perfect for miniature makers, it makes sense, too. Anycubic’s 3D Printer Resin has low shrinkage, which might seem odd for miniatures, which you want to be small. However, shrinkage can be unpredictable, causing slight changes to models. As a result, this combined with the Anycubic resin’s ability to hold sharp details, makes it great for small figures. Customers love it for its quality and affordability, too, making it hard to find negatives. We can say, however, that the resin will work best with Anycubic printers, if only for the extensive ideal parameters charts the company provides.

Best color kit: Sunlu 3D Printer Resin Bundle 

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Specs

• Sizes: 4 x 500g
• Colors: Multi-pack (Dark grey, black, clear, clear green)
• Characteristic: Varies

Pros

• Lots of variety
• High (395 to 405nm) compatibility
• Inspires creativity
• Other options available

Cons

• Smaller 500g individual bottles

Committing to a whole bottle of clear or colored resin when you aren’t sure you’ll like it can be costly as well as disappointing. As a result, we recommend getting kits with several bottles of different resins to experiment with. This particular kit has an assortment of solid and transparent colors, though other options exist on the store page, including a set of cute pastel colors. The only thing we don’t love about this set is what comes standard for such packs; the individual packs are smaller.

Best dual color: RepRapper UV Dual Color 3D Resin

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Specs

• Sizes: 500g, 1000g
• Colors: Various
• Characteristic: Dual color

Pros

• Cool lighting effects
• Water washable resin
• Makes printing an art again

Cons

• Awkward bottle design

As we get obsessed with the finer points of 3D printing, such as resolution, build area, and print speed, the cool factor can be totally forgotten. The two-tone effects of RepRapper resin bring back the inner artist in the 3D printer, however. Each bottle (coming in 500 or 1,000g, depending on color set) prints in a single resin style. When viewed, however, the two colors will appear in a spectrum depending on the amount of light present. Different angles will also make opposing colors pop out, producing a truly mesmerizing effect.

Best flexible: Superflex 3D Printer Resin

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Specs

• Sizes: 500g, 1000g, and 5000g
• Colors: Clear
• Characteristic: Flexible, transparent

Pros

• Combines transparent and flexible effects
• Playful, rubberlike material
• Maintains durability

Cons

• Quite expensive

If you want a floppy, rubbery finish to creepy crawlies, tentacles, or unexpected creations like towers, the Superflex 3D Printer Resin is a good choice. While different thicknesses will have it behaving in somewhat different ways, nearly everyone describes it as giving their prints a tough rubber feel. There are some pretty good (and successful) experiments with mixing this resin with other, more standard, resin among community members as well. To be fair, this is a pretty logical thing to do as the Superflex 3D resin does run on the more expensive side.

Best environmentally friendly: Elegoo Plant-Based 3D Printer Resin

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Specs

• Sizes: 500g and 1000g
• Colors: Gray, clear green, and white
• Characteristic: Opaque or clear

Pros

• BPA- and benzene-free
• Soy-based design for less chemicals
• Highly affordable

Cons

• Hit or miss on the odor

When we think of environmentally friendly or “green” options, we usually expect to pay a huge price hike. Luckily, Elegoo’s Plant-Based 3D Printer Resin remains affordable while eliminating many chemicals typically found in resin and replacing them with soybean-derived substances. For example, this resin is BPA- and benzene-free so you can feel somewhat safer as you are working with it. One interesting thing about this product is the odor, which customers seem to have strong opinions about. Some report that it has a very low odor, while others completely detest it. No matter your opinion, this remains the best 3D printer resin for reducing your exposure to chemicals.

Best for large batches: Sunlu ABS-Like Resin (3000G)

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Specs

• Sizes: 3000g
• Colors: Black, dark gray, gray, white
• Characteristic: Opaque

Pros

• Great cost per gram
• Tough, non-brittle resin
• Secure packaging
• Highly-reviewed product

Cons

• Mixing can be a challenge

There are a ton of things to like about Sunlu’s ABS-Like resin, as it is a fan favorite in its own right. What we wanted to highlight, however, was the incredible affordability of the 3,000-gram jug of this resin, which is perfect for printing larger sets that need the same characteristics. Its bottle is very secure and easy to use, but mixing large quantities of the resin is known to be a challenge.

Best budget: Monoprice Rapid 3D Printer Resin

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Specs

• Sizes: 250g
• Colors: Black and gray 
• Characteristic: Opaque

Pros

• Small, affordable bottles
• Wide compatibility
• Perfect for small projects

Cons

• Bulk buys may be cheaper

While large jugs of resin are great for large projects, if you just print occasionally, the best 3D printer resin for you likely comes in a smaller bottle. We find the Monoprice Rapid 3D Printer Resin to offer the smallest bottles of decent quality resin. While, if your goal is to save money in the long term, large bulk buys may be better, the 250-gram bottle of Monogram Rapid 3D Printer Resin is a fantastic deal for casual printers and is compatible with all UV resin printers.

What to consider before buying 3D printer resin

If you’ve read through our guide to picking the best 3D printer filament for FDM printers, you may already suspect that picking the best 3D printer resin is more difficult. In actuality, it isn’t that difficult. There are some common sense compatibility checks, but there’s a lot of freedom in resin choices you might not expect. Here’s what we looked at and why:

Brand

Brand loyalty isn’t necessarily something to encourage. 3D printers aren’t like home office printers, with companies like HP locking you into using their ink. Even the best 3D printer resin is just a fluid, after all.

That all being said, when a company makes printers and resin, they obviously test them out together. And they’ll tell you which of their printers will work with which resin, including optimal settings that they’ve discovered through large-scale testing. Just look at the Anycubic resin compatibility chart. If you have an Anycubic printer, you know the exact settings to use with this resin. This is one reason why we have resin from most major printer makers represented on the list.

Still, most resin has wide compatibility. If you have a 405nm spectrum printer, you will be able to find a variety of products compatible with it.

Bottle size

If you just want to make just a few prints in a given color or style, a small bottle will do. But what if you want to make a set of figures with the same character? Min-maxing bottle size or buying in bulk makes more sense.

The bottle sizes represented here are usually for 1,000 grams of product. However, bottles as small as 250 grams exist. Similarly, you can find large bottles for 2,000 grams or even 3,000 grams.

Ultimately, it is up to you to figure out what is the best 3D printer resin bottle size for your specific circumstances. However, in much the same way as you should get an extra can of wall paint for later touch-ups, consider grabbing an extra bottle of resin for long-term projects. You never know when your resin of the moment will get discontinued.

Character

Character, texture, color, call it whatever you like, but there is a distinct feel to each type of resin available. While even standard opaque resins will differ from each other in subtle ways, you can find extreme differences if you’re willing to search. With our list of 3D printer resin, you will be able to find something that can make your next project shine.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 3D printer resin

• Best overall: Elegoo 8K 3D Printer Resin
• Best transparent: Siraya Tech Craft Ultra-Clear 3D Printer Resin
• Best for models: Anycubic 3D Printer Resin
• Best color kit: Sunlu 3D Printer Resin Bundle
• Best dual color: RepRapper UV Dual Color 3D Resin
• Best flexible: Superflex 3D Printer Resin
• Best eco-friendly: Elegoo Plant-Based 3D Printer Resin
• Best for large batches: Sunlu ABS-Like Resin (3000G)
• Best budget: Monoprice Rapid 3D Printer Resin

The preceding list includes opaque, transparent, glow-in-the-dark, two-tone, and flexible resins. Though there are certainly others, we feel like these should give you a chance to open your creativity in the near future. 3D printing isn’t only a way to create copies of things entered into a printer, it is a craft and a way to express your true creativity. From standard, solid resins to neat light tricks, it really does feel that a resin 3D printer can do it all.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best 3D printer resin in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best wired		Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series		SEE IT	Corsair’s Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series might not look like a hardcore gaming peripheral, but few other mice can match its flexibility, accuracy, and comfort at just $50.
Best wireless		Corsair Harpoon RGB wireless		SEE IT	The Harpoon RGB Wireless’ low latency, long rechargeable battery life, and ergonomic frame are surprising for a budget wireless mouse.
Best esports		HyperX Pulsefire Haste		SEE IT	HyperX’s Pulsefire Haste is a small, lightweight mouse with an excellent sensor that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or durability for performance.

Over the last few years, gaming mice have evolved to match the needs of the growing esports market. These days, the ideal gaming mouse is light, strips out unnecessary frills, and packs an excellent sensor that can handle competitive play. With such specific demands, it’s easy to assume a decent gaming mouse should cost a pretty penny, but the esports boom elevated the baseline quality for consumer-level gaming equipment, mice included. That doesn’t mean every gaming mouse is great, though. Every gamer is different and you should take the time to find the best cheap gaming mouse to fit your needs—and your hand.

• Best for esports: HyperX Pulsefire Haste
• Best wired: Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series
• Best wireless: Corsair Harpoon RGB wireless
• Best for travel: SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless
• Best under $50: Roccat Burst Pro
• Best under $30: Logitech G203 Lightsync

How we selected the best cheap gaming mice

Our picks for the best cheap gaming mice were selected by Popular Science’s reviews editor, Mike Epstein, based on his years of hands-on experience reviewing just about every noteworthy model on the market, as well as the experiences of our peers and other trusted sources. Since we focused heavily on mice built for esports with good-to-great sensors, we primarily judged each model on its ergonomics, paying special attention to weight and size, and we made sure to evaluate which grip styles work best with each mouse. Click latency and battery life were also important considerations for the wireless models we selected. 

The best cheap gaming mice: Reviews & recommendations

Armed with this information, you’re ready to strike out on your own and find the best cheap gaming mouse for you. If you want a head start, we’ve been doing this for a while so let us take care of some of the guesswork by highlighting our picks.

Unless otherwise specified, all of the mice on this list cost $50 or less. (We have one slightly more expensive pick to highlight what you can get if you’re willing to spend a little extra.) They’re all perfect for gaming, but each one has its own strengths to suit particular lifestyles and gameplay needs.

Best for esports: HyperX Pulsefire Haste

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Specs:

• Maximum Sensor Resolution: 16,000 DPI
• Dimensions: 2.58 inches x 4.9 inches x  1.41 inches (WDH)
• Weight: 2.01 ounces
• Connection: Wired USB

Pros

• Lightweight
• Great DPI sensor resolution for the price
• Onboard memory for up to five customizable DPI presets

Cons

• Small size may not support larger hands

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste’s standout trait is its lightweight design. As the best cheap esports mouse, it’s pretty small and weighs in at just over 2 ounces thanks to its honeycombed chassis. Some manufacturers make ergonomic concessions to hit those measurements, but the Pulsefire Haste manages to stay comfortable and drop down to an esports-grade “fighting” weight. It feels best when used with the claw grip, but isn’t so small that you can’t use it with a palm grip—as long as it fits your hand.

The Pulsefire Haste’s Pixart 335 sensor tracks at up to 16,000 DPI and is accurate at up to 450 inches per second, so your speedy hand movements will translate to accurate in-game actions. The mouse also performs well in lower DPI settings, which you can swap to on the fly to suit your gameplay needs at a given moment. The internal memory stores up to five DPI presets and RGB profiles, which are programmed with HyperX’s Ngenuity desktop app and cycled through with the DPI button just behind the RGB-lit scroll wheel. If you need more than the five the mouse saves locally, the desktop app can also store additional mouse profiles on your PC with their own presets. To be fair, a set of adjustable DPI presets is a ubiquitous gaming mouse feature these days, but the Pulsefire Haste is one of those rare mice with a spec sheet that punches above its weight.

Best wired: Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series

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Specs:

• Maximum Sensor Resolution: 18,000 DPI
• Dimensions: 2.7 inches x 5.02 inches x 1.37 inches (WDH)
• Weight: 2.43 ounces
• Connection: Wired USB

Pros

• Great sensor for the price
• Comfortable
• Great on-the-fly DPI customization

Cons

• PC-only “Hyperpolling” requires extra processing power

The Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series’ well-rounded specs can fulfill multiple roles other than the best cheap wired gaming mouse. It sports a simple, unassuming aesthetic that would fit in a professional setup without screaming “gamer gear.” At 2.43 ounces, it’s very light, allowing for speedy movement, and its dedicated right-handed design offers better ergonomics than other small gaming mice.

The Corsair RGB Pro Champion’s sensor has a maximum 18,000 DPI resolution, better than most gaming mice at this price point. It also allows you to fine-tune your DPI setting, raising or lowering your tracking in 50 DPI increments, with the option to quickly revert back to your DPI presets with simple button combos.

The Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series also features “Hyperpolling,” which increases the polling rate above the standard 1,000Hz. Raising the polling rate, particularly to the potentially useful 8,000Hz, requires more computing power than merely using a mouse, which is an odd issue to consider. Other companies have managed to offer 8,000Hz polling without a CPU hit, so this is, in fact, a “budget” version of better polling. That said, it’s also the only mouse under $50 that offers it, so it’s not all bad. More importantly, the Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series is still a great mouse even with Hyperpolling turned off, especially within its price range.

Best wireless: Corsair Harpoon RGB wireless

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Specs: 

• Maximum Sensor Resolution: 10,000 DPI
• Dimensions: 2.67 inches x 4.56 inches x 1.77 inches (WDH)
• Weight: 3.65 ounces (without charging cable)
• Connection: 2.4GHz wireless USB; Bluetooth 5.0; Wired USB 

Pros

• Strong sensor
• Lots of connection options
• Great battery life

Cons

• Comparatively heavy

As the best cheap wireless gaming mouse the Corsair’s Harpoon RGB Wireless has excellent specs and features for a $50 wireless mouse. The Pixart PMW335 sensor tracks up to 10,000 DPI, and there are buttons to quickly bump the DPI up or down by 200 DPI increments. It gets a very healthy 40 hours of battery life and offers 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, giving you the freedom to choose between a more stable connection and a more power-efficient one. (It also allows you to connect it to more devices, including phones.)

The Harpoon RGB Wireless’ only potential drawbacks as an esports mouse are its weight and size. The mouse weighs 3.65 ounces due to the internal battery and wireless sensors, and if you plug in its charging cable, the whole thing jumps to 5.11 ounces. In either configuration, the Harpoon RGB Wireless will feel a bit heavier compared to a wired esports mouse, and even some of its wireless competitors. 

Best for travel: SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless

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Specs:

• Maximum Sensor Resolution: 18,000 dpi
• Dimensions: 2.62 inches x 4.87 inches x 1.43 inches (WDH)
• Weight: 3.74 ounces
• Connection: Bluetooth 5.0; 2.4Gz Wireless USB; Wired USB

Pros

• Supports multiple wireless connection types
• Long battery life
• Flexible weight and power options

Cons

• Power-saver mode impacts performance
• Heavier than wired mice

The Rival 3 Wireless is the best cheap gaming mouse for traveling. Its signature feature—an incredible 400-hour battery life—makes it the right pick for gamers on the go. It only lasts that long in “high-efficiency” mode, which reduces the mouse’s polling rate, but even without that, you’re still getting an incredible amount of usage on a pair of AAAs. That’s right: Like many less expensive wireless mice, the Rival 3 requires disposable batteries for power. While not ideal, the incredible amount of time you get from them is hard to pass up.

The SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless’ TrueMove Air sensor boasts a maximum 18,000 DPI, which is better than most other $50 mice. For connectivity, the Rival 3 supports either Bluetooth or 2.4Ghz wireless, so you can pair the mouse with just about any device and keep room for other cordless peripherals.

There is one drawback to the Rival 3’s fully wireless nature, however: it’s relatively heavy. The batteries and wireless components in the mouse ups its weight to 3.74 ounces. If you can sacrifice some battery life, SteelSeries wisely engineered the Rival 3 Wireless to work just fine on a single AAA battery, which brings the weight down to 3.14 ounces. Could it be lighter? Sure, but a little extra weight is a compromise you have to make to go wireless.

Best under $50: Roccat Burst Pro

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Specs:

• Maximum Sensor Resolution: 16,000 DPI
• Dimensions: 2.62 inches x 4.83 inches x1.5 inches (WDH)
• Weight: 2.33 ounces
• Connection: Wired USB

Pros

• Great sensor performance for the price
• Optical click switches are more responsive and durable
• Good hand support for this type of mouse

Cons

• Takes more effort to grip than other mice.

The Roccat Burst Pro is similar to the other mice on this list in many key ways: it’s a 6-button device aimed at esports players, with a small handful of extra features like RGB lighting and programmable buttons, and wired USB connectivity. It’s a pretty standard gaming mouse. Its overall performance and specs, however, make a big leap, even though it only costs $10 more.

The Burst Pro features Roccat’s custom Owl-Eye sensor, which is essentially a retooled Pixart PMW3389, with tracking that tops out at 16,000 DPI and stays accurate at up to 400 inches per second. In practice, the Burst Pro’s in-game performance feels like a much more expensive mouse. It also sports Roccat’s “Titan” optical mouse switches, rather than mechanical switches, which minimize input lag and increase button durability. At 2.33 ounces, it’s definitely a competitive contender, too.

It’s also a sharp, distinctive-looking mouse. It has a dual-layer chassis that includes a honeycombed plastic inner layer and a smooth, transparent plastic outer shell with a matte finish, which creates a pleasing soft glow effect when the internal RGB lights shine through. It’s a great fit for any player’s gaming PC “battlestation.”

Best under $30: Logitech G203 Lightsync

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Specs:

• Maximum Sensor Resolution: 8,000 DPI
• Dimensions: 2.27 inches x 4.5 inches x 1.37 inches (WDH)
• Weight: 2.86 ounces
• Connection: Wired USB

Pros

• Good sensor performance at a low price
• Accommodates claw and palm-style grips
• Less expensive than other new cheap gaming mice

Cons

• No onboard memory
• Heavy for its size/shape

The Logitech G203 Lightsync is a very simple, 6-button gaming mouse. At $40, however, one of the least modern mice you can get from a top manufacturer. While Logitech definitely held back in places to hit the G203 Lightsync’s $40 price point, the device still performs exceptionally well. The sensor’s maximum resolution is a respectable 8,000 DPI and is accurate at up to 200 inches per second. Sure, that lags behind higher-end mice that are twice the price, but squares up well against most other options in the same sub-$50 range.

The G203 Lightsync definitely falls within the general sizing standards of esports mice and is best used with the claw grip, but it’s tall enough to accommodate palm grip users, too. However, it’s heavier than most wired models at 2.86 ounces, so you won’t get the full benefits of the tinier form factor an esports mouse is meant to confer.

If there’s anything “missing” from the G203 Lightsync compared to the other options on this list, it’s onboard memory. The G203 Lightsync can’t store DPI presets internally to use on any device. You can still save them on your PC with the G Hub app, though, so it may not seem like a huge loss. It’s very basic, but it’s the best version of basic you can get at such a low price.

Things to consider before buying the best cheap gaming mice

There are a few important factors to keep in mind when judging a gaming mouse’s performance, comfort, and overall viability for your gaming style.

Sensor

The best gaming mice released in the last couple of years tend to feature good sensors—good enough that you don’t necessarily need to fret over hardware specs anymore. Still, as you look at lower-priced gear, you’ll find that some mice feature great sensors, and others feature something more, well, cheap.

When looking at gaming mouse specs, you’ll often see manufacturers tout a mouse’s maximum sensitivity, which effectively determines the mouse’s cursor speed. Sensitivity or tracking is measured in DPI (dots per inch) resolution. You may also see it listed as CPI (counts per inch). Either way, it notes the highest possible cursor speed setting. Most manufacturers use high-DPI sensors that can reach resolutions far beyond what anyone would ever use, often exceeding 10,000 to 20,000 DPI. 

You’re not locked into your mouse’s maximum DPI, though, as most gaming mice let you tune the DPI settings using configuration software or onboard controls. The “right” DPI settings will differ for everyone and may even vary from game to game. For reference, I usually set my mouse to well below 2,000 for shooters but will bump it up for action-RPGs or strategy games. Competitive players will actually turn their DPI very low to enhance their precision, even if it means they have to swing their arm across their desk to move their mouse across the screen.

Aspiring pros may also want to check a mouse’s speed (sometimes referred to as “accuracy”), which tells you fast you can move your mouse before the sensor starts losing track of its position.

Size, shape, and grip style

Mouse shape is arguably the most important, and most malleable, facet of any mouse—gaming or otherwise. Having a mouse that supports your hand and feels comfortable to hold ensures you can use it for as long as you like without cramping or pain, and achieve your personal best performance in games. 

Many esports mice, which comprise the majority of this list, describe themselves as “ambidextrous” mice, which are uniformly round and aren’t molded to fit specific hand shapes. Most of the time, they are not actually ambidextrous, because they lack secondary thumb buttons for left-handed players. It is a worst-of-both-worlds situation because molding a mouse for a specific hand—almost always the right—allows the manufacturer to create a mouse that naturally supports your hand.

Faux-ambidextrous mice have value for many players, though. While smaller, ambidextrous mice feel awkward or even uncomfortable when you hold them with the standard grip, called “palm” in gaming circles, many gamers use alternative “claw” or “fingertip” grips, where you do not lay your hand flat on your mouse. If your hand doesn’t grip the mouse, then its shape doesn’t matter as much. For this list, we will note if a particular grip style works better than the others for our picks.

Input latency

Input latency, the time between when you move your mouse or click a button and when those actions are reflected in your game, is something you want to avoid. We’ve reached a point where latency is mostly a non-issue for most players, even when using wireless mice. 

Polling rate, measured in Hz, is a spec that tells you how many times a mouse sends instructions to your computer per second. In 2021, the standard for both wired and wireless mice is 1,000Hz, or 1,000 signals per second. There are some high-end mice that achieve a higher polling rate, but that is a high-end feature for more expensive mice.

That said, wireless mice that connect via Bluetooth usually have higher input latency than other connection types. Depending on your sensitivity to input lag, it may or may not be a factor. In general, we look for wireless gaming mice that connect to a 2.4GHz USB dongle, which provides a less laggy connection.

Weight

Gaming mice vary widely in weight and the right weight is a matter of preference. Esports mice tend to be smaller and lighter than your average gaming mouse, making them easier to move around your desk. You should shoot for a mouse that weighs less than 3.5 ounces, and preferably something below 3 ounces if you’re serious about fast hand movements. Heavier mice have their uses, too, as extra resistance offers more control. Some models include removable weights, though this isn’t a common feature for cheaper esports-specific mice.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cheap gaming mice

• Best for esports: HyperX Pulsefire Haste
• Best wired: Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series
• Best wireless: Corsair Harpoon RGB wireless
• Best for travel: SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless
• Best under $50: Roccat Burst Pro
• Best under $30: Logitech G203 Lightsync

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get one of the best gaming mice. Yes, there are incredible, feature-rich mice that are worth $100 or more, but if you focus on the basics and getting high performance, you can get everything you need from the best cheap gaming mice.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best cheap gaming mice in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Official Arduino Starter Kit		SEE IT	The company that started it still provides the best way to learn about coding.
Best beyond the basics		Sunfounder Mega2560 R3 Project Kit		SEE IT	This takes beginners beyond without major expense.
Best budget		Elegoo UNO Project Basic Starter Kit		SEE IT	Get started with coding and electronics for very little money.

Arduino kits are great for teaching students about science, technology, engineering, and math. The Interaction Design Institute in Turin, Italy, created Arduino in 2005 to provide people of all ages with an easy, inexpensive way to build electronic devices and control them with rudimentary code. By making Arduino an open-source platform, the Institute made the technology freely available to anyone, which led to a vast array of starter kits. Today, everyone from young children to seasoned professional techies use them to build everything from simple devices that turn on the lights to robots controlled remotely via WiFi. Given their popularity, there are a lot of kits available. We look at some of the best Arduino kits and break down what you’ll find and how to choose one suited to your project and learning goals.

• Best overall: Official Arduino Starter Kit
• Best beyond the basics: Sunfounder Mega2560 R3 Project Kit
• Best WiFi set: GAR Monster Starter Kit for Arduino
• Best budget: Elegoo UNO Project Basic Starter Kit

How we chose the best Arduino starter kits

Arduino kits have many similarities, so making our selection was not easy. Often, with our reviews, there are several key components to highlight, but Arduino starter kits have dozens, if not hundreds, of elements. In this case, it’s not a very practical approach. What we’ve done instead is ensure that a kit includes key elements, then focus on how each kit satisfies the needs of a particular learner. Does it suit a complete beginner? An intermediate user? Does it meet the criteria for STEM learning? By doing that, we believe we’ve provided a broad selection that offers something for just about everyone.

The best Arduino starter kits: Reviews & Recommendations

Most Arduino starter kits are very affordable. That said, we included a premium option for those enthusiastic makers who want to develop multiple projects without having to shop for more components. Not surprisingly, larger kits also tend to offer greater versatility. No matter what you’re looking for, we’ve got an option here for you.

Best overall: Official Arduino Starter Kit

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Why it made the cut: This kit, from the company that invented the Arduino system, teaches makers of all ages how software and hardware interact to produce real-world results.

Specs

• Board: UNO R3
• Number of Components: Over 100
• Projects Included: 15

Pros

• High-quality components
• 170-page project book is easy to understand
• Many additional free resources available online

Cons

• Premium price
• Software must be downloaded

Picking the best Arduino starter kit is no easy task, given the huge variety. That said, nobody has more expertise teaching beginners than the Arduino organization, and its official starter kit provides a wide-ranging yet easy-to-understand introduction to coding and electronics.

The Official Arduino Starter Kit is ideal for STEM learning or for adult hobbyists or professionals interested in these areas. It features the latest UNO R3 microcontroller board and more than 100 components. The array of switches, sensors, actuators, motors, and displays offers terrific versatility. The kit includes an excellent project guidebook. The Arduino software (called Integrated Development Environment, or IDE) isn’t supplied but is available as a free download.

Buyers pay a premium for the name, but the official Arduino starter kit is backed by an array of online resources that allow makers to expand their learning and undertake projects far beyond the 15 provided within this excellent kit.

Best beyond the basics: Sunfounder Mega2560 R3 Project Kit

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Why it made the cut: Budget Arduino starter kits are great for introducing beginners to coding and electronics, but eager learners soon want more. The SunFounder kit provides the logical ‘next step’ and great value for money.

Specs

• Board: MEGA2560 R3
• Number of Components: 291
• Projects Included: 40

Pros

• MEGA2560 board offers increased versatility
• Online tutorials extend capabilities
• Convenient storage case

Cons

• Not ideal for beginners

Inexpensive entry-level Arduino kits provide a great way to start learning about coding and electronics. But their versatility is somewhat limited, and those eager to continue learning may soon want more. Fortunately, they don’t need to spend a great deal of money to extend their skill set. This SunFounder kit offers an extensive collection of components and is great value.

The kit is based on the MEGA2560 board, which is larger than the UNO and provides a wider range of connectivity options. That allows users to employ more complicated wiring. Used in conjunction with items like an ultrasonic ranging module, joystick and tilt switch, makers can build more complex mechanisms. Although the kit includes 40 projects, many more can be developed using online resources.

Users must download the IDE separately. While SunFounder provides some code, it, like instructions, is not as comprehensive as it might be. It’s less detailed than some competitors’, meaning learners may have to find solutions elsewhere or use other online resources to maximize the kit’s potential. While these challenges are not difficult to overcome, we would not recommend this kit for beginners.

Best WiFi set: GAR Monster Starter Kit for Arduino

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Why it made the cut: It’s expensive, but the GAR Monster starter kit can help beginners build and control complex wireless systems.

Specs

• Board: MEGA2560, UNO R3, NANO, ESP32 WiFi & Bluetooth
• Number of Components: Over 500
• Projects Included: None (see description)

Pros

• One of the largest component collections available
• Includes three different microcontroller boards
• Wireless capabilities

Cons

• Expensive
• May be overwhelming for beginners

Goliath Automation and Robotics (GAR) claims its Monster starter kit for Arduino is second only to its $500 Colossus kit as the largest kit available.

While the Monster starter kit is not cheap, it is impressively comprehensive. Although it will definitely appeal to more advanced users, it includes basics like the UNO R3 board that make it suitable for beginners. As a maker’s skills and knowledge increase, the MEGA2560 board allows them to pursue more complex projects, and the NANO and ESP32 platforms make it possible to develop wireless systems. The GAR Monster starter kit is also compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and Raspberry Pi.

The instructions are fairly basic, and the main repository for projects is online. GAR offers an expanding library, but that’s really just the start. Given the number and variety of components provided, those wishing to extend their knowledge will find literally hundreds of suitable projects on the internet.

Best budget: Elegoo UNO Project Basic Starter Kit

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Why it made the cut: Elegoo makes a number of highly-rated Arduino starter kits. This one may be the most affordable one you’ll find, but it offers all the basics needed to get started.

Specs

• Board: UNO R3
• Number of Components: Over 100, though many are duplicates
• Projects Included: 8

Pros

• Remarkably low cost
• Good quality components
• IDE included on CD

Cons

• Breadboard (a plastic board used to prototype projects) is smaller than some expect
• Limited project scope

The Elegoo UNO Basic Starter Kit is designed for those who want to try Arduino without spending much money. It includes the UNO R3 microcontroller, a reasonable assortment of components, and a CD that contains a PDF tutorial and the IDE software.

The tutorials focus on introducing the concepts of using code to drive electronic devices. It is a valuable introduction for beginners. The tutorials are very informative, and produce real-world results like illuminating an LED, activating a buzzer, and other fun projects). That said, keen learners will soon seek more demanding challenges, and although they’ll find other projects online, the variety of components included in this kit may limit their ability to pursue them.

The kit offers a couple hundred components, but many of them are duplicates. For example, it includes five red LEDs, five green LEDs, etc. Although it includes 130 resistors, they are limited to 10 types. Every component has its use in basic projects, but this kit does not offer the versatility that might appear at first glance.

What to consider when buying an Arduino starter kit

Arduino is an open-source hardware and software platform, which means anyone can copy the designs to produce an Arduino starter kit. As a result, many are essentially clones of the original and are largely similar. That said, the quality and content of each kit can vary considerably. Here’s what to look for.

Boards

The core of every Arduino starter kit is a board that contains a microcontroller. This can interpret a signal (input) and perform an action (output) based on instructions supplied by the user. For example, pressing a button might turn on a light or move an object.

Arduino UNO, MEGA2560 and NANO are the most common boards, but many others are available. Each has its own specification, which will become of greater importance as a maker’s knowledge increases. Size may be a consideration if the goal is to build the board into, say, a robot or other confined space. UNO is the most basic and usually recommended for beginners. One of MEGA’s key features is the ability to accept more connections if the project’s wiring is complicated.

Projects/Tutorials

Most Arduino starter kits come with a number of projects or tutorials. These may be contained within a booklet or a DVD containing a PDF. Quantity varies from a single tutorial to the 40 projects included in our best value suggestion.

The creative possibilities of a particular kit usually exceed what is covered by the tutorials, however. Manufacturer’s websites, and those run by Arduino enthusiasts, provide almost limitless expansion and variation. Video tutorials are common. Note however that if they are not specific to a particular kit, buying additional components may be necessary.

Components

There are literally thousands of Arduino components and modules available. It’s certainly an area worth exploring. For beginners, it is undoubtedly easiest to buy a starter kit and follow the tutorials provided. A ‘breadboard’ is a key component, allowing circuits to be built without soldering.

While many Arduino components are available individually, there is a compelling argument for buying additional starter kits, even for those people who have gained some experience. This is especially true if a maker has a particular project or range of projects in mind. Larger starter kits frequently contain parts for related projects, and buying one can often be easier than compiling an extensive shopping list. They are convenient and may offer better value. Compatibility issues aren’t common—all components should follow the Arduino standard—but buying from the same manufacturer ensures everything works together.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Arduino starter kits

• Best overall: Official Arduino Starter Kit
• Best value: Elegoo UNO Project Basic Starter Kit
• Best beyond the basics: Sunfounder Mega2560 R3 Project Kit
• Best WiFi set: GAR Monster Starter Kit for Arduino

We can’t think of a better place to start the Arduino adventure than with the official Arduino starter kit. It provides a number of excellent examples of how software and electronics have real-world impact. However, it does come at a premium price. The Elegoo Uno is an Arduino starter kit for those who want to test the waters at minimal cost. Nevertheless, it has sufficient content to prove absorbing and deliver satisfying results.

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 Arduino starter kits for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		MacBook Air with M2		SEE IT	Apple’s first lightweight 15-inch laptop hits the mark for portability and power.
Best touchscreen		Dell XPS 15		SEE IT	This laptop’s large touch screen allows it to walk the line between PC and tablet.
Best budget		Microsoft Surface Laptop 5		SEE IT	The Surface Laptop 5’s 3:2 aspect ratio and battery life make it competitive with laptops that cost a lot more.

Today’s 15-inch laptops perfectly balance portability and performance while offering a trifecta of benefits: ample screen real estate, a comfortable typing experience, and superior hardware, setting them apart from smaller models. This blend of versatility and capability makes laptops of this size an attractive computing solution. The larger display enhances productivity and immerses you in a rich multimedia experience. At the same time, the powerful hardware configurations enable seamless multitasking, all within a compact design that’s easy to transport. This combination of features provides the ideal platform to tackle an array of tasks, from web browsing and emailing to content creation, rendering the best 15-inch laptops a compelling choice for those seeking the best of both worlds.

• Best overall: MacBook Air with M2
• Best for gaming: MSI Vector GP66
• Best touchscreen: Dell XPS 15
• Best under $1,000: HP Envy x360 2-in-1
• Best budget: Microsoft Surface Laptop 5

How we chose the best 15-inch laptops

As someone who regularly works in coffee shops, libraries, and co-working spaces, I know the importance of selecting the right laptop for remote work. When away from your desk, you need a device that can handle various tasks, from editing pictures and videos to data analysis. My experience with the demands and nuances of remote work has given me valuable insight into what to look for in the best 15-inch laptops. Additionally, I’ve written about and tested laptops for publications like Popular Science, Best Products, and Forbes. Drawing from my extensive experience and expertise, I assessed these laptops based on factors like performance, design, portability, battery life, and affordability.

The best 15-inch laptops: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re a professional seeking powerful processing capabilities or a student on a budget, this guide will highlight models that suit different needs and financial constraints. These laptops span the gamut regarding power, display quality, and design, giving you options that align with your requirements. Do you prioritize multitasking or a high-resolution display? Our list of the best 15-inch laptops will ensure you find the model that delivers the features you need to get work done, whether you’re working from home or in an office.

Best overall: MacBook Air with M2

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Specs

• Display: 15.3-inch Liquid Retina
• Processor: Apple M2 with 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine
• Memory: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB

Pros

• Lightweight
• Beautiful high-resolution display
• Fantastic performance

Cons

• Base model storage can fill up fast

The biggest MacBook Air to date is also the best, offering a beautiful display, powerful performance, and a sleek, lightweight design. The laptop features Apple’s latest in-house M2 processor, which offers an 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine. The resulting performance is impressive, nipping on the heels of Apple’s MacBook Pro with M2 chip. While the Air is targeted at everyday computing (e.g., working on documents, browsing the web, emailing), it can handle more intensive tasks like editing photos, videos, and graphics. 
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The MacBook Air with M2 is 0.45 inches thick and weighs 3.3 pounds, making it easy to transport around campus or to a coffee shop. A six-speaker sound system offers excellent audio performance, and the 2880 x 1864 resolution screen looks phenomenal when streaming movies. The laptop also features a spacious keyboard with Touch ID and an expansive trackpad that supports multi-touch gestures. It all comes in the best design in Apple’s lineup, with up to 18 hours of battery life, making the MacBook Air with M2 the best overall 15-inch laptop available.

Best for gaming: MSI Vector GP66

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Specs

• Display: 15.6-inch 1080p
• Processor: Intel 12th Generation Core i9
• Memory: 32GB
• Storage: 1TB

Pros

• Lightning-fast performance
• Ultra-high refresh rate display
• 32GB of memory

Cons

• Loud fan noise

The MSI Vector GP66 earned a spot on our list of the best gaming laptops, and it’s making an appearance on this list, too. The gaming laptop boasts Intel’s powerful 12th-generation Core i9 processor, which features six performance cores and eight efficiency cores, plus the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti GPU. The result is smooth, rapid performance that can easily handle the latest AAA titles, including Bethesda’s Starfield. Unsurprisingly, this is the most rugged laptop, given its thicker body, which accommodates the more energy-hungry specs required for gaming.

This particular model features 32GB of RAM and a 15.6-inch 1080p display. While the screen isn’t 4K, the lower resolution means you can play titles with more detailed graphics at higher frames per second. And it opens the door to advanced features like DLSS upscaling to improve gaming performance further. Our only qualm is the fans inside the MSI can get loud when it’s pushed to its limits. It’s something that doesn’t happen often, but it’s worth noting if you plan to game in a quiet environment. Still, for a gaming PC in laptop form, it’s hard to beat MSI’s Vector GP66.

Best touchscreen: Dell XPS 15

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Specs

• Display: 15.6-inch FHD+
• Processor: Intel 12th Generation Core i7
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB

Pros

• Beautiful touchscreen
• Sturdy, elegant design
• Good battery life

Cons

• 720p webcam
• No USB-A ports

Our favorite Windows laptop deserves a spot on our list of the best 15-inch models. Dell has several laptops that are hard to beat, and the XPS line, in particular, is a favorite across the industry, offering excellent performance, portability, and design. The XPS 15, updated for 2023, rocks a 12th-generation Intel Core processor i7 (there are i5 and i9 configurations), up to 64GB of RAM, and a 15.6-inch FHD+ touchscreen.

The XPS 15 can be upgraded with a high-end NVIDIA graphics card, giving you plenty of power to play games and edit high-resolution videos. You can also configure the device with up to 8TB of SSD storage, which is plenty for applications, games, images, and video. There are two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, a USB 3.2 Type-C port, and a built-in SD card reader. Other configuration options include a Full HD Plus (1920×1080) non-touch display and an Ultra HD Plus (3849×2400) touch display.

All said, the XPS 15 is the closest challenger to Apple’s M2-equipped MacBook Pro in terms of performance and design, and there are several configuration options to meet specific needs.

Best under $1,000: HP Envy x360 2-in-1

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Specs

• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
• Processor: Intel 13th Generation Core i7
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 1TB

Pros

• Port selection
• Sleek design
• 2-in-1 functionality

Cons

• Low-resolution display

The HP Envy x360 features a 2-in-1 hybrid design that lets you switch from laptop mode to tablet mode. The display hinge makes it easy to switch between the two and tailor the experience to your preferences—laptop mode for work and tablet mode for streaming videos. The display is decidedly low resolution at 1080p, but it keeps the price under $1,000, a worthwhile sacrifice in our book.

While the display is stuck at 1080p, the Envy X360 offers a good balance of design and performance, with an Intel 13th Generation Core i7 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. This configuration also features Intel Iris Xe graphics, so you should be able to play your favorite games—but don’t expect to run the latest AAA titles on high settings. There is an HDMI 2.1 port, two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, two USB-A 3.1 ports, and an SD card reader. If you’re just beginning your content creation journey, the Envy is an excellent option, and HP makes other quality laptops worth exploring.

Best budget: Microsoft Surface Laptop 5

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Specs

• Display: 15-inch
• Processor: Intel 12th Generation Core i7
• Memory: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB

Pros

• Excellent battery life
• Sleek, lightweight design
• Beautiful display

Cons

• 720p webcam

Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 5 is an excellent option for those on a budget. The device features a premium aluminum build (unchanged from the Surface Laptop 4), with dimensions of 0.58 x 13.4 x 9.6 (HWD) and 3.4 pounds. The design is very much in the vein of the MacBook Air with M2, with a minimalist look that feels very high quality. And it’s available in a few colors, including platinum and black.

The 15-inch display offers a 3:2 aspect ratio and a crisp 2496 x 1664 resolution, so movies and other media look detailed. There are two ports—one USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) and one USB-A, giving you some flexibility to use different peripherals. There’s also a headphone jack, which is worth mentioning since the port is slowly disappearing from portable electronics. As a budget device, the Surface Pro 5 offers high-quality construction, excellent performance, and long-lasting battery life. 

For those on more of a budget, the Surface Laptop 4 is still available. However, you may sacrifice longevity since the device is already a few years old. 

What to consider when selecting one of the best 15-inch laptops

The good news is several excellent laptops in this size range cater to different preferences and budgets. We’ve rounded up the best options, whether your goal is content creation or hardcore gaming.

Processor

The brain of your laptop is the Central Processing Unit, or CPU. Modern Apple laptops feature the brand’s M1 or M2 system-on-a-chip. These processors (also available on Apple’s iPad Pro models) combine the CPU, graphics processing unit (GPU), security enclave, neural engine, and shared memory on a single piece of silicon. Meanwhile, newer Windows laptops generally feature either 12th or 13th Generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, offering 6 or 8 processor cores. 

To gauge a laptop’s computing power, it’s essential to consider its clock speed, measured in GHz, and the number of CPU cores. A processor with higher clock speeds and more CPU cores can perform tasks more rapidly and is well-suited for users engaging in resource-intensive activities such as high-resolution video editing. We recommend investing in a laptop with a robust CPU if your work involves multitasking, gaming, or content creation, as it’s not typically possible to upgrade the processor after purchase.

Graphics

The GPU is another critical component, one responsible for handling graphics-related tasks. It works alongside the CPU to render and display graphics on the screen, encompassing everything from visual rendering to gaming and video playback. Laptops either feature an integrated or dedicated GPU; integrated graphics, like those from Apple, find the GPU included on the same chip as the CPU. 

Laptops dedicated to gaming generally feature dedicated graphics cards with their own memory. However, it’s important to note that laptops with dedicated graphics tend to be bulkier and heavier, impacting their portability. Additionally, due to the increased power demand of dedicated GPUs, users may need to be more vigilant about monitoring their laptop’s battery life throughout the day.

Memory

Your computer’s Random Access Memory, or RAM, is integral to your laptop’s performance. RAM provides applications with a place to temporarily store and access data. If you multitask, you’ll want a laptop with more RAM—at least 8GB for more basic tasks or 16GB if you use creative apps. The more memory your laptop has, the faster it will complete tasks. Laptops typically don’t allow users to upgrade memory after the fact, so you may be stuck with the configuration you buy.

Display

When evaluating a laptop’s display, there are several things to consider. Screen resolution is one significant aspect to examine. Many of today’s best 15-inch laptops feature a 4K (3840×2160) display, offering sharper visuals that allow you to see more minor details in your photos and videos. More affordable models feature a 1080p (Full HD) display that’s fine for general use like web browsing, emailing, and school work.

Equally important is the display technology, with options including IPS for wider viewing angles or OLED for vibrant contrast. Some gaming laptops also feature high-refresh-rate panels for smoother animations. Accurate color representation is also essential for creative work, allowing you to achieve true-to-life visuals in your images and videos. For reliable color accuracy, aiming for a screen that covers at least 90% to 100% of the sRGB color gamut is advisable.

Some laptops support DCI-P3, which provides approximately 26% more color space than sRGB. This extended color range allows for more vivid and saturated colors, making it an excellent choice for tasks that demand vibrant imagery, such as professional photo and video editing.

Storage

Solid-state drives (SSD) have become the standard for data storage, employing more advanced technology than traditional hard drives. SSDs feature no moving parts, enhancing their speed and reliability. The absence of mechanical components results in quicker data access, leading to faster file and application loading times, a feature convenient for gaming and content creation. 

For most users, a laptop with a 256GB SSD is a sound choice, offering a good balance between performance and storage capacity. However, it’s essential to remember that data accumulates over time, so upgrading to a 512GB or even a 1TB SSD can be a wise investment if it’s within your budget. Alternatively, consider using portable hard drives for additional storage, which provides flexibility in managing large files and backups.

Connectivity

The ports on a laptop can expand its functionality. Traditional USB-A ports were once the industry standard and still serve a vital purpose. Still, high-bandwidth ports like USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 are becoming more common. These ports enable rapid data transfer, making importing and exporting media more efficient and convenient. An HDMI port allows you to connect your laptop to an external display, and a built-in card reader is handy for transferring media from cameras or memory cards.

You can use a USB hub to extend your laptop’s connectivity options if it doesn’t have all the necessary ports. However, built-in ports provide the most seamless and hassle-free experience, eliminating the need for additional accessories and simplifying your work setup. When choosing a laptop, consider the types and quantity of ports it offers to ensure they align with your requirements.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 15-inch laptops

• Best overall: MacBook Air with M2
• Best for Gaming: MSI Vector GP66
• Best Touchscreen: Dell XPS 15
• Best Under $1,000: HP Envy x360 2-in-1
• Best budget: Microsoft Surface Laptop 5

The MacBook Air with M2 is the best 15-inch laptop, featuring an impressive balance of power and portability. It’s on the expensive side for casual use, but it should last for years. It offers many of the MacBook Pro’s best features, including Touch ID, MagSafe charging, and a comfortable scissor-switch keyboard. If the MacBook Air with M2 isn’t your jam, options are abundant in this size range. All of our picks are worthy of your consideration, and what you choose comes down to your preferences and budget. Whether you’re a creative professional seeking top-notch performance or a student looking for a reliable and stylish companion for the semester, the MacBook Air with M2 offers a compelling choice that bridges the gap between power and convenience, making it a versatile option at this size.

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 15-inch laptops in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Dell XPS 15 9000		SEE IT	The Dell XPS 15 9000 is an excellent all-around laptop for anyone who wants to do a some of everything on an elegant, sleek machine.
Best for gaming		Alienware m18 AMD Gaming Laptop		SEE IT	It offers many different configurations aimed at gaming enthusiasts with the cash to throw into the finer details to ensure blistering speeds and an immersive experience.
Best budget		Dell Inspiron 15 3530 Laptop		SEE IT	A solid computing choice without making as many compromises as a sub-$500 device.

Dell’s laptop lineup offers options for every computing need, from a kid tackling schoolwork to an engineer designing a plane. In fact, there’s a good chance a school or workplace issued you a Dell at some point, thanks to the company’s reputation for reliable performance, durable builds, and affordability. To pick one for yourself, list how you plan to use it, your budget, and your must-have features, and we’ll help you find one that checks all the boxes. Are you a casual user, a student, a content creator, a gaming enthusiast, or all of the above? This guide will help you check off your must-have features and pick from the best Dell laptops.

• Best overall: Dell XPS 15 9000
• Best for students: Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 Laptop
• Best for gaming: Alienware m18 AMD Gaming Laptop
• Best budget gaming: Dell G15 5530 Gaming Laptop
• Best for working from home: Dell-Latitude 15.6″ Laptop
• Best budget: Dell Inspiron 15 3530 Laptop

How we chose the best Dell laptops

There’s not a single Dell laptop that is perfect for everyone. The company’s laptop options range from Chromebooks under $500 to high-powered workhorses that cost thousands, so it helps to understand its leading laptop brands and their most common users. We extensively researched and analyzed this, drawing from a multitude of sources, including our own PopSci reviews, peer recommendations, critical analyses, and user testimonials, to meticulously curate a refined selection for you.

The best Dell laptops: Reviews & Recommendations

Dell’s Inspiron laptops offer wallet-friendly options targeting general computing needs, like streaming videos, emailing, creating social content, and other assorted, more personal computing needs. The XPS line is Dell’s premium line for creative users who need more multitasking power for intensive programs like photo and video editing. Gamers can choose between Dell’s G Series or the LED-lit options of Alienware. Business users, whether small businesses or enterprises, should look at the Latitude, Precision, and Vostro lines that prioritize powerful processors and security. And we’ve got the perfect choice from each of these below.

Best overall: Dell XPS 15 9000

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Specs

• Dimensions: 13.6 x9.1 x 0.71 inches
• Weight: Starts at 4.2 pounds
• OS: Windows 11 Pro
• Processor: Intel i7-13700 (13th generation)
• RAM: 16GB DDR5 SDRAM
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Graphics: Intel Arc A370M Graphics
• Screen size: 15.6 inches, 1920 x 1200 resolution
• Ports: 2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort, 1 SD card, headphone jack
• Battery life: Up to 18 hours

Pros

• Aluminum body
• Sturdy, elegant design
• Good battery life
• Backlit keyboard

Cons

• 720p web camera
• No USB-A ports
• Pricey

The Dell XPS 15 9000 is an excellent all-around laptop for anyone who wants to do some of everything on an elegant, sleek machine. The XPS series is Dell’s premium line to rival Apple’s M2 series of MacBooks. A longtime favorite of reviewers and consumers, a version ranks as PopSci’s overall pick for best Windows laptop, and it’s one of favorite 15-inch laptops in general.

The XPS 15 is hard to beat for performance, and its well-designed, portable aluminum body weighs just over four pounds. The entry-level XPS starts at $1,600 and is loaded with the latest Intel i7, 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, and Intel Arc A370M Graphics. That’s plenty for graphic design, video editing, and some gaming, but it can be configured for more powerful processing and graphics. It can be maxed out to an Intel i9, up to 64GB of RAM, 8TB of storage, and Nvidia GeForce RTX options. The XPS 15 allows two screen options: the full high-definition plus, non-touchscreen option that measures brightness of 500 nits, or an OLED touchscreen of 400 nits. One sore spot is the 720p high-definition webcam, though the video-obsessed may want to upgrade with one of our picks for the best webcams for streaming. The other sore spot is the splurgy price, though deal hunters can still find refurbished models with 12th-generation processors to save some cash.

Best for students: Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 Laptop

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Specs

• Dimensions: 12.36 x 8.92 x 0.73 inches
• Weight: Starts at 3.48 pounds
• OS: Windows 11 Home
• Processor: Intel i7-1355U (13th generation)
• RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
• Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• Screen size: 14 inches, 1920 x 1200 resolution
• Ports: 2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 HDMI, 1 USB-A, 1 SD card reader, headphone jack
• Battery life: Up to 11 hours