Stan Horaczek | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/authors/stan-horaczek/ Awe-inspiring science reporting, technology news, and DIY projects. Skunks to space robots, primates to climates. That's Popular Science, 145 years strong. Tue, 28 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.popsci.com/uploads/2021/04/28/cropped-PSC3.png?auto=webp&width=32&height=32 Stan Horaczek | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/authors/stan-horaczek/ 32 32 Inside look: This vault holds the world’s greatest collection of historic cameras https://www.popsci.com/technology/george-eastman-museum-vintage-camera-collection/ Tue, 28 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591719
NASA's a lunar orbiter camera

The George Eastman Museum hidden archive features a moon orbiter, a magnesium flash bomb, and a dogfight practice rig for pilots.

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NASA's a lunar orbiter camera

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

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

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

stairs and storage inside a museum of cameras
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

original Kodak camera from 1988, interior and exterior view, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

shelves of various cameras in a camera museum
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage camera that was used by Eadweard Muybridge to capture animal locomotion, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

inside of a drawer containing a pile of various shutter mechanisms from many Kodak cameras made a century ago
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a close up of a vintage watch-shaped camera with films, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a shelf containing the Brownie vintage camera in its box
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage camera that looks like a gun, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage Technicolor camera standing up in an aisle of a camera museum in front of a photography backdrop
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage camera that would have been used to take photos of baseball players in action, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage flash bomb standing upright in the aisle of a camera museum in front of a photography backdrop
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

Leica prototype vintage camera
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage camera used by pilots to practice dogfighting that looks like a gun, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a NASA rig used by the US Forest Service in 1970s, hanging in the air by straps inside a vintage camera museum
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a vintage astronaut-friendly camera, isolated on a background
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

a lunar orbiter much like the one used by NASA in the 1960s to photograph and catalog the entire surface of the moon, several views, in front of a white photo backdrop
Jarren Vink for Popular Science

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

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50+ editor-approved Cyber Monday deals that don’t suck https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-cyber-monday-deals-2023/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 13:45:39 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=592334
A Hydroflask bag with a hydroflask water bottle and a picnic laid out on a plain background
HydroFlask

You can save money on just about everything from kitchen gadgets and Hydroflasks, to generators and massagers on Cyber Monday.

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A Hydroflask bag with a hydroflask water bottle and a picnic laid out on a plain background
HydroFlask

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

TV deals

Kitchen deals

Personal care deals

Solar generator and portable power station deals

Home decor deals

Water bottle, mug, and cooler deals

Awesomely nerdy deals

Personal audio deals

Hard drive and portable SSD deals

Space heater and heated clothing deals

DNA test kit deals

Camping accessories deals

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20+ luxury items that are less pricey for Cyber Monday https://www.popsci.com/gear/luxury-high-end-deals-cyber-monday-2023/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 21:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=592592
LG OLED Evo TV in a room with viewers
LG

Do you need a $5,000 TV? $5,000 speakers? How about a $5,000 headphones-amp combo? Probably not. But that and more is all on sale for Cyber Monday.

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LG OLED Evo TV in a room with viewers
LG

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

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

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

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

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Powerful Cyber Monday deals: Solar generators from Jackery, Anker, and more up to 50% off https://www.popsci.com/gear/solar-generator-deals-anker-jackery-amazon-black-friday-2023/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 21:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=590790
Jackery Explorer Plus solar generators arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

Some of the best solar generators on the market are currently at their cheapest prices ever for Black Friday at Amazon.

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Jackery Explorer Plus solar generators arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

Anker

SEE IT

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

Jackery solar generator deals

Ecoflow solar generator deals

Bluetti solar generator deals

Ugreen solar generator deals

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You need one of these car jump starters on-sale for Cyber Monday https://www.popsci.com/gear/car-jump-starter-cyber-monday-deals-2023/ Sun, 26 Nov 2023 22:04:57 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=592121
Car jump starter Cyber Monday deals arranged in a pattern on a plain background.
Stan Horaczek

These devices revive a dead battery, charge your devices, offer a built-in flashlight, and sometimes even inflate your tires.

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Car jump starter Cyber Monday deals arranged in a pattern on a plain background.
Stan Horaczek

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

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

Noco

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

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

Yaber Auto

SEE IT

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

More car jump-starter Cyber Monday deals

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Our favorite smart lighting from Govee is up to 44% off for Cyber Monday at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/govee-smart-lights-amazon-deal-cyber-monday-2023/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:13:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=592187
Govee smart LED strip lights lit up in different colors with the control app in the foreground
Govee

Govee smart lights add tons of illumination options to the inside and outside of your home. They're all on sale for Cyber Monday at Amazon.

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Govee smart LED strip lights lit up in different colors with the control app in the foreground
Govee

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

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

Govee

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

More Govee smart lighting deals

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These limited Cyber Monday deals have Jackery generators at their lowest prices of the year https://www.popsci.com/gear/jackery-solar-generator-amazon-deals-cyber-monday-2023/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:28:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=592145
Jackery 2000 plus solar generator sitting on a paved driveway
Stan Horaczek

Whether you need a small portable power station or a massive solar generator, these Cyber Monday deals on Jackery products will save lots of cash.

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Jackery 2000 plus solar generator sitting on a paved driveway
Stan Horaczek

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

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

Jackery

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

More Jackery portable power station and solar generator deals

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These deep soundbar discounts are still live, but won’t be for long https://www.popsci.com/gear/jbl-soundbar-black-friday-deal-2023/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 15:21:34 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591846
A JBL soundbar in a home entertainment center in a living room
JBL

One of our favorite JBL soundbars is literally half-price at Amazon—just one of many Black Friday deals still available.

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A JBL soundbar in a home entertainment center in a living room
JBL

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

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

JBL

SEE IT

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

More Black Friday soundbar deals

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

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

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

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Shop these Black Friday 3D printer deals and print all your holiday gifts https://www.popsci.com/gear/3d-printer-black-friday-deals-2023/ Sat, 25 Nov 2023 00:39:41 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591966
The best 3D printers on-sale for black friday from Creality, Anycubic arranged in a grid on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

Whether you're an experienced printer or a total novice, these Black Friday deals on 3D printers offer discounts on your perfect machine.

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The best 3D printers on-sale for black friday from Creality, Anycubic arranged in a grid on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

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

Anycubic

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

Creality 3D printer deals

Anycubic 3D printer deals

Anker 3D printer deals

Elegoo 3D printer deals

Flashforge 3D printer deals

Bambu Labs 3D printer deals

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Shop percussion massagers at Amazon for Black Friday and get up to 40% off https://www.popsci.com/gear/percussion-massager-deal-amazon-black-friday-2023/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591445
A pattern of Theraguns on a plain background
TheraBody

Therabody and Hyperice make some of the best massage guns on the market and they're all deeply discounted for Black Friday at Amazon.

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A pattern of Theraguns on a plain background
TheraBody

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

TheraGun Prime $189 (was $299)

TheraBody

SEE IT

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

More Therabody massager deals

Hyperice percussion massager deals

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Shop massive Black Friday deals on DeWalt tools and accessories https://www.popsci.com/gear/dewalt-tools-amazon-black-friday-deals-2023/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 14:25:19 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591809
DeWalt drill and driver kits arranged in a pattern on a white background for Black Friday
Stan Horaczek

Amazon has just about every DeWalt power tool and mechanics tool set you could want on deep discount for Black Friday.

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

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DeWalt drill and driver kits arranged in a pattern on a white background for Black Friday
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

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

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

DeWalt

SEE IT

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

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

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

DeWalt

SEE IT

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

More DeWalt power tool deals

DeWalt Mechanics Tool set deals

DeWalt tool accessory deals

DeWalt tool organizer deals

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Shop 75+ Black Friday deals you might actually want https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-black-friday-deals-2023/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 12:40:05 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591800
The best Black Friday deals including a jackery generator, airpods, a TV arranged on a plain background.
Stan Horaczek

We're spending our weekend eating leftovers and looking for the best Black Friday deals on everything from electronics to kitchen gadgets.

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

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The best Black Friday deals including a jackery generator, airpods, a TV arranged on a plain background.
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

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

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

Tony Ware

SEE IT

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

Apple deals

Solar generator deals

Fitness deals

TV deals

Personal electronics deals

Gaming deals

Home goods deals

Travel deals

Black Friday deals for your car

Computers and computer accessories

Kitchen deals

Grill deals

Routers and networking gear

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Go grab this deeply discounted De’Longhi Espresso machine for just $119 for Black Friday https://www.popsci.com/gear/delonghi-espresso-machine-deal-amazon-black-friday-2023/ Thu, 23 Nov 2023 16:41:22 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591530
De'Longhi espresso machines arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

You can finally break your expensive coffee take-out habit with this machine that's currently 42 percent off at Amazon for Black Friday.

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

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De'Longhi espresso machines arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

De’Longhi

SEE IT

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

More De’Longhi coffee and espresso machine deals

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The best bird feeder camera is cheaper than ever at Amazon for Black Friday https://www.popsci.com/gear/bird-buddy-deal-amazon-black-friday-2023/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 19:02:07 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591312
A blue Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder filled with seed is mounted to a green post.
Abby Ferguson

We love the Bird Buddy for capturing impossibly close images of feathered friends. It's on deep discount at Amazon for Black Friday.

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

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A blue Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder filled with seed is mounted to a green post.
Abby Ferguson

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

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

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

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

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

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

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

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Bambu Labs Black Friday deals: Some of the best 3D printers and filaments are up to $160 off https://www.popsci.com/gear/bambu-labs-3d-printer-deal-black-friday-2023/ Tue, 21 Nov 2023 22:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=591092
Bambu Labs printer on a table with many colors of filament
Bambu Labs

Whether you're an advanced printer or a total novice, Bambu Labs has a machine that can get you manufacturing in minutes.

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

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Bambu Labs printer on a table with many colors of filament
Bambu Labs

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

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

Bambu Labs

SEE IT

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

More Black Friday deals from Bambu Labs:

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Save $100 on the base model iPad before it sells out for Black Friday https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-ipad-deals-early-black-friday-2023/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=590560
A close-up of three iPad cameras. One is pink, one is yellow, and one is blue.
Apple

Get a 10th-gen iPad for just $349 or a 9th-gen model for just $229 from Amazon before Black Friday even hits.

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

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A close-up of three iPad cameras. One is pink, one is yellow, and one is blue.
Apple

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

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

Apple

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

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

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Save up to 31% on Fujifilm Instax instant film cameras during Amazon’s Black Friday sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/fujifilm-instax-camera-deal-amazon-early-black-friday-2023/ Fri, 17 Nov 2023 19:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=590341
A grid made of Fujifilm Instax cameras on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

Fujifilm's fun film cameras are a fantastic gift or a great way to make friends at a holiday party.

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

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A grid made of Fujifilm Instax cameras on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

Fujifilm

SEE IT

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

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

Fujifilm

SEE IT

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

More Fujifilm Instax Black Friday deals

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Save up to 50% on DeWalt power tools, batteries, and kits during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/dewalt-tool-deals-amazon-early-black-friday-2023/ Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:30:56 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=590234
DeWalt tools arranged on a white background. The pattern includes circular saws and impact drivers.
Stan Horaczek

You won't find better prices than these on DeWalt tools for the rest of the year.

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

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DeWalt tools arranged on a white background. The pattern includes circular saws and impact drivers.
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

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

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

DeWalt

SEE IT

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

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

DeWalt

SEE IT

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

DeWalt battery deals

DeWalt tool deals

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Get Bose noise-canceling headphones for their lowest prices ever during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/bose-headphone-deal-amazon-early-black-friday-deal-2023/ Fri, 17 Nov 2023 13:47:31 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=590226
Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones arranged in a pattern on a plain background
sta

Kill the noise, and some of the pain, of holiday travel (and even family gatherings) with the best ANC headphones at their best price.

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

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Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones arranged in a pattern on a plain background
sta

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

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

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

Bose

SEE IT

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

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

More headphone deals from other great brands:

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

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

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The best smart ovens and air fryers are at their lowest prices of the year before Black Friday at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-smart-oven-air-fryer-early-black-friday-deal-2023/ Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=589704
A pattern of breville smart oven pros on a white background
Stan Horaczek

Save up to 70 percent on high-end cookers from Breville, Whall, and Ninja.

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

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A pattern of breville smart oven pros on a white background
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

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

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

Breville

SEE IT

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

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

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

Whall

SEE IT

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

More smart oven and air fryer deals from Amazon

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The best mirrorless cameras of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-mirrorless-cameras/ Sun, 12 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=588434
Four of the best mirrorless cameras are sliced together against a white background.
Abby Ferguson

These mirrorless cameras will help you get your best shot no matter what you like to capture.

The post The best mirrorless cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Four of the best mirrorless cameras are sliced together against a white background.
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best for pros The Nikon Z8 mirrorless camera is placed against a white background with a gray gradient. Nikon Z8
SEE IT

The Z8 offers impressive specs across the board for pros.

Best APS-C The Fujifilm X-T5 mirrorless camera is placed against a white background with a gray gradient. Fujifilm X-T5
SEE IT

It’s simply a fun and fantastic camera to shoot with.

Best low-light The Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera is placed against a white background with a gray gradient. Nikon Z6 II
SEE IT

NIkon’s Z6 II excels when the light gets dim.

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

How we chose the best mirrorless cameras

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

Best mirrorless cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

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

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

Canon

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros 

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

Cons

  • Expensive

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

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

Best for pros: Nikon Z8

Nikon

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros 

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros 

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

Cons

  • Expensive

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

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

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

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

Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II

Nikon

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1

Sony

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Specs

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

Pros 

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

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

Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony a7C

Sony

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Specs

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

Pros 

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

Cons

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

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

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

Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

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

Pros 

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

Cons

  • Viewfinder feels small compared to full-frame models

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

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

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

Best budget:  Canon EOS R100

Canon

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Fixed rear display
  • No touchscreen functionality

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

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

What to consider when shopping for the best mirrorless camera

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

In-body image stabilization

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

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

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

Low-light performance

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

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

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

Video

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

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

FAQs

Q: Why are mirrorless cameras better than DSLRs?

There are a few ways in which mirrorless cameras outperform DSLRs. In general, mirrorless cameras and their lenses are generally smaller and lighter if only because they don’t need a mirror inside to flip up and down. Mirrorless cameras have electronic viewfinders that show the same information and image as the LCD, so, conveniently, there’s rarely a need to move your eye from the EVF to the LCD—including when reviewing images.

DSLRs also use dedicated autofocus sensors that exist outside of the imaging sensor. If the two sensors get out of alignment, the camera needs adjustment, or the photos will turn out blurry. Also, regarding autofocus, mirrorless cameras offer extremely accurate face and object tracking that DSLRs typically can’t match.

Q: What’s the best mirrorless camera?

The best mirrorless camera truly depends on an individual’s needs and priorities. The Nikon Z8 is one of the most impressive and well-rounded mirrorless cameras available right now, thanks to the high-resolution sensor, impressive video specs, and excellent autofocus. But the Z8 is more camera than many need. From a budget perspective, you can’t beat the Canon EOS R100, which offers some advanced features at a very affordable price.

Q: How do the different size sensors affect picture-taking on mirrorless cameras?

One of the main differences is how sensor size impacts a lens’s angle of view. A full-frame sensor delivers the same angle of view as it would on a 35mm film camera. An APS-C sensor “crops” the image by 1.5x or 1.6x (Canon). Attaching a 100mm lens, for instance, will look more like a 150mm lens on an APS-C camera. Micro Four Thirds sensors double the effective focal length, so a 100mm lens delivers a 200mm equivalent focal length. That can be both a positive and negative depending on your needs. If you want longer reach, the smaller APS-C sensors can offer it. If you want wider lenses, it’s easier to achieve on a full-frame body.

Q: Are mirrorless cameras good for close-up shots?

A lens will determine whether a mirrorless camera is good for close-up shots, not the camera itself. Lenses all have different minimum focusing distances, or how close you can get to your subject while still getting a focused image. For the best close-up shots, you’ll want a macro lens, as they can focus close and offer a large magnification ratio. But just about any lens with a short minimum focusing distance will work well for close-up shots.

Q: Is autofocus better on mirrorless cameras?

Yes, autofocus is better on mirrorless cameras. This is largely due to the fact that most companies haven’t released new DSLR cameras in a few years, so mirrorless cameras simply contain the latest technology to enable better autofocus. That includes AI-based features that are able to detect and track eyes and faces with superb accuracy and reliability.

Final thoughts on the best mirrorless cameras

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

Why trust us

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

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

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The best snow blowers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-snow-blower/ Fri, 25 Feb 2022 15:59:49 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/story/uncategorized/best-snow-blower/
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Snow piling up? Dig in here so you can dig out in a hurry with a snow blower to clear your driveway in no time.

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Best overall The PowerSmart Two Stage Snow Blower is the best two-stage PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower
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A reliable and heavy-duty pick to handle serious winter conditions.

Best electric Snow Joe SJ623E Electric Single Stage Snow Thrower Snow Joe Electric Blower
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Skip the hassle of maintenance and choose sustainably with this electric, yet high-powered option.

Best budget Home photo Greenworks 13 Amp 20-inch Corded Snow Thrower
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Save your money while still clearing snow effectively.

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

How we chose the best snow blowers

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

The best snow blowers: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best overall: PowerSmart PSSAM24 Snow Blower

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Heavier design

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

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

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • If not maintained well the steel can rust

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

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

EGO

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Specs

  • Power source: Battery
  • Throw distance: 40 feet

Pros

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

Cons

  • Not self-propelled

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

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

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

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

Specs

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

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Sustainable
  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • Not suited for large driveways

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

rounded option.

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

Ariens

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

Briggs & Stratton

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

Specs:

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Heavier design

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

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

Amazon

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

Specs:

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

Pros

  • Affordable pick
  • Lightweight design
  • Easy electric start

Cons

  • Requires extension cord

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

What to consider when buying the best snow blowers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs

Q: How long should a snow blower last?

Depending on the brand, style, use time, how they’re stored, and how well you care for the machine, snow blowers can last between 10-30 years. This means that, in order to get more winters out of your snow blower, you will need to give it some love and care in the off-season with some maintenance. This includes draining the gas, replacing sparkplugs, oiling the wheels, and cleaning it. A basic parts inspection every 20 hours of use is a good rule of thumb to follow.

Q: Do you need hearing protection when using a snow blower?

You don’t need to wear hearing protection when using a snow blower, but you should, as they can be loud. For example, gas snow blowers can reach up to 85 decibels. Eight hours of exposure to that decibel level is considered safe. However, at 100 decibels, the safe exposure time drops to 15 minutes. Although snow on the ground isn’t permanent, hearing loss is. If you’re looking for hearing protection that you can use year-round, check out our best earplugs for concerts. You can rock them under your hat when you’re outside using your brand new snow blower, and rock out with them when seeing your favorite band in town.

Q: Do snow blowers work on heavy snow?

It depends on the kind of snow blower you buy. Single-stage and two-stage blowers can handle up to a foot of snow. Three-stage snow blowers can handle 16 inches. Two- and three-stage snow blowers also remove a wider swath of snow in a pass compared to single-stage snow blowers. If you get frequent, heavy snows, a two- or three-stage snow blower is worth the investment since it will be easier—and less time-consuming—to clear your driveway.

Final thoughts on the best snow blowers

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

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best snow blowers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Sustainable gift guide: 20+ gifts that keep on giving https://www.popsci.com/reviews/sustainable-gift-guide/ Wed, 08 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=414623
A selection of sustainable gifts, featuring a stack of Coyuchi towels, steel watering cans, and Jackery solar generators

Saving the world is a team effort. And hopefully our team can help save you some time, too, when it comes to choices.

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

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A selection of sustainable gifts, featuring a stack of Coyuchi towels, steel watering cans, and Jackery solar generators

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Best solar generator Jackery Explorer 1000 on white with blue hue Jackery Solar Generator 1000
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Harness the power of the sun to keep your devices and appliances juiced with this portable generator.

Best for hydration Gift Guides photo Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid
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Keep water ice-cold all day long while reducing plastic waste.

Best for students A reusable spiral notebook by Rocketbook with a pen and cloth to erase the surface in the foreground. Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook
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This smart notebook lets users save their scribblings to the cloud, then erase and start all over again.

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

Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker

Bruvi

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

Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug

YETI

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

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

Best for students: Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook

Rocketbook

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

Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter

Lomi

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

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

Joseph Joseph

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

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

Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle

6KU

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

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

Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000

Jackery

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

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

Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Temescal Organic Towels

Coyuchi

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

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

Caitlin Winner

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

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

America’s Test Kitchen

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

Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Acaciaware Set

Pacific Merchants

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

Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can

Sporgard

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

Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags

Nordic by Nature

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

Best for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers

Tiny Land

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

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

Best for hydration: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid

Hydro Flask

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

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

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

StrawExpert

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

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

Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers

KOIO

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

Best slippers: Glerups Wool Slip-On Leather Slippers

Jen McCaffery

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

Best for puzzle lovers: Party Fowls Trick Puzzle

Party Fowls

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

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

House of Marley

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

Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag

Troubadour

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

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

Jen McCaffery

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

Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush

Jen McCaffery

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

Final thoughts on sustainable gifts

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

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

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

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Walmart started Black Friday early. Here are the best deals on tools, electronics, and more. https://www.popsci.com/gear/walmart-early-black-friday-deals-2023/ Wed, 08 Nov 2023 19:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=587612
Walmart Black Friday products including pots, a shop vac, a TV, and a coffee machine arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

Walmart isn't waiting for Thanksgiving. The biggest big box store's Black Friday deals are happening right now.

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

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Walmart Black Friday products including pots, a shop vac, a TV, and a coffee machine arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

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

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

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

Hisense

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

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

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

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

Walmart

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

Tool deals

Electronics and home theater deals

Kitchen and home deals

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

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The best Google smart-home starter kit https://www.popsci.com/reviews/google-smart-home-devices/ Wed, 28 Jul 2021 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=383753
The best google smart home devices
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

You can build most of the best Google smart home without leaving the company’s own first-party products.

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

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The best google smart home devices
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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best smart light bulbs GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs
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Control the state, luminocity, and color of your lights for under $25.

Best speaker JBL Authentics 300 JBL Authentics 300
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Get the best sound you can from this portable smart speaker.

Best smart lock Schlage Encode Plus Schlage Encode Plus
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Never worry about whether you door was locked or unlocked ever again.

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

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

ecobee

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

Best smart light bulbs: GE CYNC Smart LED

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

Best smart light switch: Kasa Smart Light Switch HS200

TP-Link

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

Best smart-home hub: Nest Hub Max Smart Display

Google

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

Best smart lock: Schlage Encode Plus

Schlage

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

Best smart doorbell: Google Nest Doorbell (Battery)

Google

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

Best speaker: JBL Authentics 300

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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

Best robot vacuum: Narwal Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop

Narwal

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

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

Best smart outlet: Leviton Decora Smart Outlet

Leviton

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

Best smart plugs: GE CYNC Indoor Smart Plug

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

Best TV: Hisense U8K

Hisense

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

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

Final thoughts about building the best Google smart home

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

Why trust us

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

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

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Apple MacBook Pro M3 Max review: The best laptop gets a power-up https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-macbook-pro-m3-max-laptop-review/ Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=586941
The MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 Max in a plant with Adobe Lightroom on the screen
Stan Horaczek

The M3 series Apple MacBook Pros pack absurd power into a small package, now with impressive gaming upgrades.

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

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The MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 Max in a plant with Adobe Lightroom on the screen
Stan Horaczek

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

Stan Horaczek

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Overview

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Verdict

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

Apple MacBook Pro M3 Max design

The keyboard on the MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 Max
The keyboard is still excellent, and the trackpad is still better than anyone else’s on the market. Stan Horaczek

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

MacBook Pro M3 Max with Cinebench software on the screen.
The MBP’s Cinebench score puts it up there with Threadripper machines. Stan Horaczek

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. 

A right side view of the ports on the MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 Max
Stan Horaczek

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

A left side view of the MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 Max on a red blanket
Stan Horaczek

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.

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Get this DeWalt kit with 10 power tools and two batteries for $500 off at Amazon before Black Friday https://www.popsci.com/gear/dewalt-10-piece-tool-kit-early-black-friday-amazon-2023/ Mon, 06 Nov 2023 19:21:13 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=586716
Amazon DeWalt tool kids arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

This kit includes a ton of useful tools, a pair of batteries, and two carrying bags to tote everything around.

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

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Amazon DeWalt tool kids arranged in a pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

DeWalt

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

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

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

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

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Grab ridiculously cheap mechanics tool sets before Black Friday at Amazon and Lowe’s https://www.popsci.com/gear/lowes-amazon-tool-set-deals-early-black-friday-2023/ Mon, 06 Nov 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=586466
An array of DeWalt mechanics tool sets arranged in a pattern on a plain background.
Stan Horaczek

Jump on these absurd deals on DeWalt and Kobalt tool sets before they get sucked up in the Black Friday frenzy.

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

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An array of DeWalt mechanics tool sets arranged in a pattern on a plain background.
Stan Horaczek

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

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

DeWalt

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

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

Lowe’s

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

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

DeWalt

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

More tool kit deals from Lowe’s and Amazon

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Slice up to 30% off KitchenAid mixers and more with this early Black Friday sale at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/kitchenaid-amazon-early-black-friday-deal-2023/ Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=585669
A pattern made of Kitchen-Aid stand mixers in profile on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

Get $60 off Kitchen-Aid's iconic mixer and save even more when you buy attachments like meat grinders and pasta makers at Amazon.

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

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A pattern made of Kitchen-Aid stand mixers in profile on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

KitchenAid

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

More Kitchen-Aid cooking tool deals:

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Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar review: A standout standalone sound system https://www.popsci.com/gear/samsung-hw-q900c-soundbar-review/ Mon, 30 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=584124
A wide shot of the Samsung Q900C soundbar on a console in front of a TV.
The soundbar is four-feet long and substantial. Stan Horaczek

This powerful soundbar and subwoofer combo provides punchy sound and excellent dialog without a complicated setup.

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

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A wide shot of the Samsung Q900C soundbar on a console in front of a TV.
The soundbar is four-feet long and substantial. Stan Horaczek

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

Stan Horaczek

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Overview

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Verdict

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

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar build

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

A TV with the Samsung Q900C soundbar sitting on a console in front of it.
The soundbar is just narrower than this 65-inch TV. Stan Horaczek

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

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

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar setup and design

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

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

Samsung Q900C soundbar with a Sonos Beam soundbar sitting on top of it in front of a TV
Here, you can see how much bigger the full-sized Samsung is than the small Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) I typically use for this space. Stan Horaczek

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

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar performance

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

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

Samsung Q900C wireless subwoofer sitting on a carpet in a living room
The subwoofer is chunky and boxy, but it’s nicely designed and effective at making boom sounds. Stan Horaczek

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

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

Q900C sound modes

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

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

Samsung Q900C remote in a left hand
The remote is robust and feels premium to match the system price. Stan Horaczek

Music performance

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

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

Special features for Samsung users

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

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

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

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

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This DeWalt jump starter belongs in your car’s emergency kit, and it’s 20% off pre-Black Friday at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/dewalt-jump-starter-deal-amazon-early-black-friday-2023/ Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=584290
DeWalt power bank jump starters arranged in a pattern on a white background
Stan Horaczek

Winter is brutal on car batteries, so a jump starter is an emergency kit essential to prevent you getting stuck in the cold.

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DeWalt power bank jump starters arranged in a pattern on a white background
Stan Horaczek

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

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

DeWalt

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

More deals on car starters and trickle chargers

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

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The best office chairs of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-office-chair/ Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-office-chair/
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These premium perches let you relax in comfort and style when working from home.

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Best overall The black Herman Miller Aeron Chair against a plain background. Herman Miller Aeron Chair
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Set your recline range at one of three postures with the specially designed tilt limiter.

Best eco-friendly The mesh Steelcase Karman Office Chair is facing a brown standing desk with an open laptop, plant, and a lamp on top. Steelcase Karman
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This sleek chair is made from recycled materials and a breathable proprietary mesh.

Best for big and tall The black Steelcase Gesture office chair against a plain background. Steelcase Gesture
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This highly adjustable chair can support up to 400 pounds.

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

How we chose the best office chairs

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

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

The best office chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best overall: Herman Miller Aeron Chair

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Headrest not included and sold separately

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

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

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

Best ergonomic: Flexispot Exclusive Ergonomic Chair (C8)

Flexispot

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

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

Best eco-friendly: Steelcase Karman Chair

Jen McCaffery

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

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

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

Best for big and tall: Steelcase Gesture

Steelcase

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Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Expensive

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

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

Best for back pain: Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair

Gabrylly

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Doesn’t suit tall people as well

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

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

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

Best for long hours: Branch Ergonomic Chair

Gabriel Morgan

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Headrest is an added-on cost

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

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

Best upholstered: Art Leon Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair

Art Leon

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Too small for some

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

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

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

Best modern design: Laura Davidson SOHO Chair

Laura Davidson

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Vinyl faux leather not very breathable

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

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

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

Best budget: BestOffice Home Office Chair

BestOffice

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Seat is too narrow for wider hips

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

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

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

What to consider before buying an office chair

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

Space

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

Ergonomic design

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

Size

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

FAQs

Q: How much should I spend on an office chair?

You can find a decent office chair no matter what your budget is. Office chairs can range wildly from under $100 to over $1,500. For a high-quality, ergonomic office chair, expect to spend somewhere in the market of $200 to $600. If you’re looking for more affordable office furniture, consider our budget-friendly pick, the BestOffice Home Office Chair.

Q: What should I look for in an ergonomic office chair?

Features to look for in an ergonomic office chair include lumbar support, seat and backrest materials, armrests, overall movement and stability, and seat width, depth, and height. Most importantly, a good ergonomic chair should allow the seat height to be adjusted from at least 15 to 22 inches off the floor, depending on how tall you are.

Q: What types of office chairs are available?

Most office chairs on our list are traditional swivel chairs with pneumatic up-and-down adjustments and some customizable ergonomic detailing. However, we also included a non-traditional active stool that can be adjusted to fit a standing desk. Office chairs come in all types, and are made of nylon, leather, faux leather, and many other materials. Older models of office chairs might feature wood backs with a leather pillow.

Q: How long do most office chairs last?

Some studies estimate that you’ll get seven to eight years of use out of an office chair, while others are more optimistic and suggest that you can go an entire decade before your chair has to be repaired or replaced. Of course, the life expectancy of your office chair also depends on how much money you invest, as a $50 chair is obviously not going to hold up as well as a chair that costs $500.

Final thoughts on the best office chairs

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

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

Why trust us

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

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

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Save up to half-off Ryobi power tools and batteries during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/ryobi-tool-deals-fall-amazon-early-black-friday-2023/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 13:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=583172
Ryobi circular saws and tool batteries arranged in a repeating pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

Whether you need extra batteries or a whole new kit of power tools, this pre-Black Friday Amazon Ryobi sale will save you some cash.

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Ryobi circular saws and tool batteries arranged in a repeating pattern on a plain background
Stan Horaczek

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

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Hurry and grab huge discounts on high-end soundbars during Amazon’s pre-Black Friday flash sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-soundbar-jbl-early-black-friday-deal-2023/ Tue, 24 Oct 2023 19:21:08 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=582900
A pattern made up of JBL subwoofers on a white background
Stan Horaczek

Hurry and grab this super-limited early Black Friday deal on one of the best soundbars around.

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A pattern made up of JBL subwoofers on a white background
Stan Horaczek

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

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Get an 86-inch 4K LG TV cheaper than ever with Best Buy’s early Black Friday deal https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-buy-tv-deal-pre-black-friday-2023/ Mon, 23 Oct 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=582228
An array of LG TVs arranged on a white backdrop. Each one has a logo and colorful pattern on the screen.
Stan Horaczek

LG's 86-inch LED TV is just $899 right now, which is cheaper than the price clubs.

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An array of LG TVs arranged on a white backdrop. Each one has a logo and colorful pattern on the screen.
Stan Horaczek

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

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

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

More TV deals

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The best TV stands in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-tv-stands/ Tue, 05 Oct 2021 18:09:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=280482
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Support your biggest screen and store your streaming boxes and consoles in style.

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Best overall Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand overall best tv stand Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand
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This sturdy and stylish option has a traditional design and comes in multiple finish options

Best with mount The Walker Edisen Wren TV Stand is the best TV stand with wall mount Walker Edison Wren Classic 4 Cubby TV Stand
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Elevate your TV without the need to drill into the wall.

Best fireplace The Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace is the best fireplace TV stand Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace
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A realistic fire effect to add a cozy element to your home. 

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

How we chose the best TV stands

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

The best TV stands: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best overall: Walker Edison Wren Classic TV Stand

Walker Edison

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • No enclosed storage

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

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

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

Best for gamers: Bestier 70-inch Entertainment Center

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

Specs 

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

Pros

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

Cons 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Specs 

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

Pros

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

Cons 

  • No doors on the front
  • Limited finish options

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

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

Best fireplace: Ameriwood Home Lumina Fireplace

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

Specs 

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

Pros 

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

Cons 

  • Limited storage space
  • Not a real fireplace

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

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

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

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

Specs 

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

Pros

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

Cons 

  • Short
  • Legs allow for stuff to roll underneath

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

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

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

Best easel-style: VIVO Artistic Easel

VIVO

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

Specs

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

Pros

  • Swivels 360 degrees
  • Adjustable height

Cons

  • Limited weight capacity

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

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

Best solid wood: Simplihome Redmond

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

Specs 

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

Pros 

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

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Design may feel dated to some

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

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

Best budget: Zinus Modern Studio Collection TV Media Stand

Zinus

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

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

  • Minimal storage
  • Not suitable for large TVs

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

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

Things to consider before buying the best TV stands

You must know your home and your TV before pulling the rip cord and buying a stand. Here are some things to consider:

Materials

Most of the easily shippable stuff you’ll find online is made of material like MDF or particleboard. These materials sometimes get a bad name because they aren’t as durable as real wood, which is true in a way but not in others. They typically include laminate exteriors, which are good at resisting marks and damage from liquid. 

You can, of course, go with various types of wood, but it comes with its own issues, like a need to be polished and a predilection for dings. 

Dimensions

It should go without saying, but your TV stand needs to actually fit in your house and where it’s best to place your TV. Get a good, solid measurement before you pull the trigger so you know for sure that your new furniture has a snug place to go. If your TV is huge, you want something that’s wide enough for the feet to sit comfortably on the surface, but you also don’t want it too tall to throw the center of the screen above your eyeline when you’re sitting on the couch. 

Storage type

Modern gaming consoles are extremely chunky, so if you want to park that PS5 or Xbox Series X inside your new TV stand, ensure it will fit and the shelves can handle its weight. You’ll also want to decide whether or not you want doors in front of your cabinets to hide your shameful mess of game cases and controller charging cables when you’re not playing or watching content. 

FAQs

Q: How wide does a TV stand need to be?

Manufacturers are annoyingly inconsistent when it comes to how they support their TVs. Some use a central pedestal, while others use feet spaced far apart at the edges of the panel. You can find out exactly how wide you need the stand to be by checking your TV’s specifications, but you can also just err on the side of wider if your space can fit it. 

Q: Can I put a 55-inch TV on a 50-inch stand?

Almost certainly. Firstly, the 55-inch measurement refers to the screen’s diagonal size, which means the length and width will be shorter (remember the Pythagorean theorem?) A 55-inch TV is actually probably well under 50 inches wide, so you should be fine. Again, be sure to check your specific TV before dropping cash. 

Q: Which is better: TV wall mount or stand?

It depends on your situation. Some people can’t drill into their walls in order to mount a TV. It’s also easier to get behind the screen to plug in cables and other stuff if you can simply move the stand away from the wall. Even flexible mounts don’t make it that easy. However, mounted TVs are less likely to tip over, and you can put them at whatever height you want rather than relying on the TV stand to be the right height. 

Final thoughts on the best TV stands

You have a nice place to sit when you watch content; that amazing new OLED TV deserves the same. It may not seem like an important decision, but the TV stand can set the tone for your entire living room. It stores your important stuff, hides your wires, and holds up our good pal, the TV. By taking a few minutes to really consider your options, you can make an informed decision and get the best TV stand for your home. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best TV stands in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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Save up to $101 on a Celestron x PopSci telescope with this post-eclipse sale at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/celestron-popsci-telescope-eclipse-amazon-deal/ Mon, 16 Oct 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=579855
Two Celestron telescopes on a white background
Celestron

The October solar eclipse is over, but there's still a ton of interesting stuff going on in the sky. Save on a new telescope and check it out.

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Two Celestron telescopes on a white background
Celestron

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We had a great time checking out the Oct. 14 solar eclipse, but the next one that’s visible here in the U.S. won’t be until April 2024. Lots of interesting things will be happening in the sky between then and now, and you’ll need a good telescope to check them out. Right now, Amazon has substantial discounts on Celestron x PopSci telescopes that were already a solid value. There are three different options currently available depending on your star-gazing needs. Then, when the next eclipse rolls around, you can buy a dedicated solar eclipse filter and get a better look than all those jealous people with their (still pretty cool) pinhole cameras.

This is the biggest and most powerful scope in the Celestron x PopSci lineup, and it’s just over $100 off right now. Its five-inch aperture and high-end coatings provide a clear, low-aberration image of the night sky. More importantly, it’s compatible with the Celestron app, which can help you find cool things going on in the sky above you and then help you locate them with your scope so you don’t have to go blindly hunting around the heavens. That’s especially important with a scope this powerful.

This 100mm refractor provides a very solid field of view for astrophotography. It’s light and easy to move around, and it’s compatible again with Celestron’s app to guide you around the night sky. Plus, the integrated hood helps combat errant light from hitting the front element of the scope and causing image-ruining glare.

This model is meant specifically for beginners, and the price makes it very appealing with this discount. The short tub provides a relatively loose view of celestial objects, so beginners won’t get frustrated trying to find specific areas. Plus, the short tube design keeps it small and light, so this is a great scope to keep as a backup for quick jaunts out into dark sky country without lots of gear.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Popular Science has teamed up with Celestron on a line of products. We do earn a commission on its sales—all of which helps power Popular Science.

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The best marble runs of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-marble-runs/ Wed, 08 Jun 2022 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=448404
The best marble runs
Stan Horaczek

Marble runs are old-school toys that provide endless options for play.

The post The best marble runs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best marble runs
Stan Horaczek

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Best Overall National Geographic Glowing Marble Run is the best overall. National Geographic Glowing Marble Run
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Lots of pieces make this set very flexible.

Best budget An ELONGDI Marble Run Set on a blue and white background ELONGDI Marble Run Set
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Save money or buy several sets to expand the builds.

Best wooden Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction is the best wooden marble run. Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction
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Wood materials will last longer than plastic.

Marble run toys are classic games that not only provide fun and excitement for your child but also help build STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) and other skills like visual tracking, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination. From wooden constructions to magnetic pieces to glow-in-the-dark marbles, marble runs vary in design and style. You can find marble runs for toddlers 3+ or more challenging options suitable for older kids. Please be mindful that these games can be a choking hazard, so don’t leave this game around babies or unattended toddlers. Here are the five best marble runs of 2023 that you can convince your kids are just real-life Minecraft.

How we chose the best marble runs

Unlike consumer electronics for kids, marble runs don’t have a ton of hard specs or setup requirements to compare. We started by taking a wide survey of the available models and then narrowing it down to specific options that promise durability and flexibility. Kids can get bored easily when toys only offer one play pattern, so flexibility is critical in keeping little ones interested. 

We also focused on sets made from durable materials because they last longer than their cheaper, flimsy counterparts. We used a combination of personal experience, editorial reviews, user feedback, and feature comparisons to choose the best possible models. 

The best marble runs: Reviews & Recommendations 

While comparing features can be useful, we have some specific recommendations for different people. While we’ve broken the picks down into categories, there’s always overlap, so peruse all options for best marble runs before purchasing.

Best overall: National Geographic Glowing Marble Run

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

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Why it made the cut: This marble run comes with 50 glow-in-the-dark marbles, 1 UV keychain light, and sturdy construction for fun gaming.

Specs

  • Ages: 8+
  • Dimensions: 17.5 x 7.5 x 13.5 inches
  • Batteries: 1 CR2 battery required (included)

Pros

  • Excellent brand reputation
  • 12,000 positive reviews
  • High quality
  • Sturdy
  • Glow in the dark

Cons

  • Blacklight isn’t impressive
  • Glow could be brighter

This glowing run comes with 250 pieces, including glowing marbles resembling “galaxies in the dark.” It also has a storage pouch and a UV keychain light to make the marbles glow brighter and last longer.

This kit is super high-quality with ample reviews to back it up. You can get great height with stackable towers, and it’s easy to assemble. 

One of the only cons is that some say the black light isn’t very bright, but you can keep the marbles under a flashlight or lamp to make them shine even brighter. 

Best plastic: Ravensburger GraviTrax

Ravensburger

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Why it made the cut: Kids 8 and up can enjoy the Speed Set, the deluxe version of the Starter Set, plus extra features and accessories like flips, loops, spirals, and cannons. 

Specs

  • Ages: 8+
  • Dimensions: 13.5 Inches (H) x 4 Inches (W) x 20.5 Inches (D)
  • Batteries: None required

Pros

  • 6 million sold worldwide
  • Excellent brand reputation
  • High quality
  • 185 pieces

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Could have more base pieces

For kids ages 8 and up, this marble run set features everything from the GraviTrax Starter Set, plus some components from the Bridges and Tunnels expansions and four additional accessories. These accessories include the Magnetic Cannon, Flip, Loop, and Spiral. In total, it offers 185 pieces and 10 different track layouts to play with. 

The GraviTrax encourages kids to start simple and build, allowing this set to grow with your kid developmentally with more challenging elements. It doesn’t require batteries.

Reviewers love the variety in the set and how positively their kids responded to the game. However, some customers wished there would have been more base pieces for building more towers. Buying more sets will provide more options.

Best wooden: Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction

Hape

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Why it made the cut: Made from high-quality and durable birch wood, this marble run has tons of fun features like seesaws, straightaway rails, and three spiral funnels to keep your kids engaged.

Specs

  • Ages: 4+
  • Dimensions: 21.34 x 13.39 x 5.43 inches
  • Material: Wood

Pros

  • High-quality wood, durable
  • Non-toxic, FSC-accredited
  • Lots of features 
  • Lots of positive reviews

Cons

  • Can be wobbly
  • Colors could be more distinguishable 
  • Pricey

This wooden marble run is a high-quality, multifunction construction set that encourages spatial awareness and problem-solving. It offers seven different color blocks made from non-toxic, FSC-accredited birch and rubber wood.

The Quadrilla Vertigo features a mix of spins, drops, seesaws, straightaway rails, and three spiral funnels to keep kids (and curious parents) entertained. Some of the pieces have toggles, which keep the marbles going in unpredictable directions.

The only knock on this was it doesn’t include organizational materials to keep the wooden pieces safe from scratches and dings. The colors could also be more distinguishable from each other. It’s pricey, but given the high quality and natural wood material—a bonus if you’re cutting down on household plastic—it’s worth the premium.

Best magnetic: PicassoTiles Marble Run Magnetic Tiles

PicassoTiles

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Why it made the cut: This colorful magnetic tile marble run and 3-D race track comes with 10 different geometric shapes, including columns, slopes, slides, funnels, and U-turns.

Specs

  • Ages: 3+
  • Dimensions: 16.51 x 13.24 x 5.32 inches
  • Material: Steel, Plastic

Pros 

  • Fairly priced
  • Good for toddlers
  • Can be used with other PicassoTiles sets
  • BPA-Free, Lead-Free, Non-Toxic

Cons

  • Could be sturdier
  • Some say need to purchase more than one

Choose from a 40-, 70-, or 150-piece set that comes chock-full of 10 different geometric shapes like columns, slopes, slides, funnels, and U-turns. The steel-weighted marbles and a 3-D race track are perfect for building on imagination and STEM skills. 

Some reviewers recommend getting at least two sets to really make this product shine. Add marble run tubes to your tiles to help them snap into place for added sturdiness. 

It’s fairly priced—depending on the number of pieces, it ranges from under $30 to under $70—and is made from non-toxic, BPA-free, lead-free, and child-safe materials. Note: it can be used with other PicassoTiles products, excluding the mini tiles with the PTG set. 

Best budget: ELONGDI Marble Run Set

ELONGDI

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Why it made the cut: This inexpensive and colorful marble run game for kids ages 3 and up comes with 105 pieces made from non-toxic and BPA-free plastic, all under $40.

Specs

  • Ages: 3+
  • Dimensions: 12.4 x 9 x 3.4 inches
  • Material: Plastic

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Simple and straightforward
  • Colorful
  • Non-toxic, BPA-free plastic
  • Great for toddlers

Cons

  • Not the highest quality

This budget-friendly set comes with 105 marble run pieces to create elaborate, continuous setups. The bright, colorful nature of the pieces will likely do well to keep a little one’s attention.

This is a simple marble run without a ton of frills and features. It can stack 2 feet high and is great for toddlers and little ones (but be sure to keep an eye on them—these pieces can be a choking hazard). 

Note that the plastic is BPA-free and non-toxic, but because of the price point, the material isn’t the highest quality. Hot tip: some users recommend constructing your run on a rubber mat—the dining table can make it less sturdy and tip over. 

What to consider when buying the best marble runs

These brainy toys are a great way to get creative juices flowing and reduce tablet time. Here is what you should know when shopping for the best marble runs.

Age

Marble toys will list their age restrictions or recommendations. Be sure to look for an age-appropriate toy when shopping for your little one. Marbles are, by their very nature, choking hazards, so these are probably best to avoid for very little ones. And make sure they’re stored in a safe place, like a toy organizer, when not in use.

Materials

Some marbles are made of glass, while others are made of plastic. You can find magnetic sets, wooden options, and more. Some sets can expand if you buy more pieces to go with them, so if you think it may be a big hit, opt for something you can build on later.

Durability

Depending on price point and material, the toy’s durability can vary. Some will be sturdier and some more flimsy—so always read the reviews! For toddlers, you might afford to get something a bit more flimsy, but a wobbly marble run could definitely frustrate older kids. Maybe they can take out that irritation in the backyard on their ATV.

FAQs

Q: How much does a marble run cost?

Price points for marble runs range from ultra-cheap to more expensive, depending on the material, sturdiness, brand, etc. Typically, you can find cheap ones for less than $40 and higher-end models for around $150. Many sets rely on standard pieces, so you can start with a smaller set and buy more pieces later to expand if it’s particularly popular in your household. 

Q: How do you build a marble run? 

There are so many ways to build a marble run. The easiest DIY way is to use a cardboard box with cards used as slopes and runways. However, all the products listed in this article make excellent choices for ready-made marble runs!

Q: What was the biggest marble run ever?

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the longest marble run is 6,293.04 ft. across Elgg, Switzerland.

Q: How do you do a slow marble run?

To slow down a marble run, some sort of force must be applied in the opposing direction from where the marble is traveling. For example, adding a card, bumper, or blockage can slow down the marble’s travels. 

Final thoughts about the best marble runs

Marble runs are the perfect educational toy that not only entertains and excites your little ones but also helps build valuable skills! Get off the screen and into twists, turns, slides, flips, loops, and spirals with the fun of the best marble runs. 

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 marble runs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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Amazon dropped these DeWalt tools to their cheapest prices ever for Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/dewalt-tools-amazon-prime-day-deals-october-2023/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578671
A full dewalt tool kit
Dewalt

Save big on DeWalt drills, impact drivers, saws, batteries, and even suspenders during Amazon's October Prime Day.

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A full dewalt tool kit
Dewalt

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Update: You all really liked these deals so much that many of them sold out. Stock changes frequently, so check back and see if something doesn’t show up or it’s no longer on-sale. Here are some Ryobi tool deals that are still active as of 7:30 p.m. eastern.

You don’t have to be an expert builder to appreciate a good power tool. Right now, Amazon has Dewalt tools on deep discount as part of its Prime Big Deal Days promotion. While we’re used to seeing regular price drops on some of these products, most of them are at their lowest price we’ve seen this year … and sometimes ever. If you’re looking for a great gift or just some new hardware to round out your toolbox, this is a great time to jump on these deals.

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

o, and it’s probably worth picking up, even if you already have tons of tools in another system. It’s also a perfect gift.

DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 4-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with Battery and Charger $399 (was $639)

Dewalt

SEE IT

If you want a full-on pro-grade tool kit instantly, this is a great deal. It includes an impact driver, a drill, a circular saw, a reciprocating saw, and an oscillating multitool. You also get two batteries, a charger, and a bag in which to carry everything.

More DeWalt Prime Day tool deals

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

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

The post Amazon dropped these DeWalt tools to their cheapest prices ever for Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Live: More Amazon Prime Day deals you actually want to buy https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-last-minute-amazon-prime-day-deals-october-2023/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 19:10:48 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578847
Products from Amazon Prime Day that are on-sale.
Stan Horaczek

Amazon Prime Day is wrapping up here on day two, but there are still tons of great deals across the board.

The post Live: More Amazon Prime Day deals you actually want to buy appeared first on Popular Science.

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Products from Amazon Prime Day that are on-sale.
Stan Horaczek

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We spent all day yesterday hunting for the best deals Amazon had to offer during the Prime Big Deal Days. We enjoyed the process so much that we did it again. You can go check out yesterday’s deals (many of which are still active), skip straight to the bargain bin with our top 50 under $50 list, or keep scrolling for a bunch more stuff that’s still available here on day two of the October Prime Day event.

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

Grooming and wellness

Home theater deals

Audio deals

Patio and backyard deals

Home deals

Deals for pets

Deals for kids

Fitness deals

Kitchen deals

Tablet deals

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

The post Live: More Amazon Prime Day deals you actually want to buy appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-watch-amazon-prime-day-deals-october-2023/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578759
Apple watch SE 2 in a pattern
Stan Horaczek

The Apple Watch SE 2 has everything most people need and it starts at just $199 during Amazon's Prime Big Deal event.

The post The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple watch SE 2 in a pattern
Stan Horaczek

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The Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) is Apple’s budget-friendly wearable, and Amazon has knocked $50 off the price across the board to make it even more attainable. The SE has most of the bells and whistles found on the more expensive Apple Watch models at a fraction of the price. It’s 50m water resistant and includes essential safety features like irregular/unusually high heartbeat notifications and crash detection. It works seamlessly with other Apple devices. Plus, it comes in two sizes and a wide variety of colors. You can buy an older model to save money, but then you won’t get software support for as long as you will with the SE. This is all the smartwatch most people need, and it’s a steal at this price.

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

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Loop $199 (was $249)

Amanda Reed

SEE IT

This is the cheapest version you can get. It has a smaller 40mm face (you can move up to 44mm starting at $229). It’s great if you don’t have a huge wrist or you simply don’t want a giant watch. It monitors your heart rate, gives you your messages, runs all the Apple Watch apps, and does everything most people need.

Other Apple Watch SE options on sale for Prime Day:

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

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

The post The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best October Amazon Prime Day deals: 100+ products you actually want https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-big-deal-days-amazon-prime-day-deal-october-2023/ Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578178
October Prime Day deals composited
Stan Horaczek

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days are upon us and we've spent hours hunting down the deals that don't suck.

The post The best October Amazon Prime Day deals: 100+ products you actually want appeared first on Popular Science.

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October Prime Day deals composited
Stan Horaczek

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Spooky season may be in full effect, but the gift-giving holidays are quickly approaching. Amazon’s October Prime Day sales represent an excellent opportunity to complete all your holiday shopping. So, when all those suckers are battling it out on Black Friday or enduring the December crowds and shipping delays, you can sit back and relax. That’s a real treat, not a trick.

While Prime Day lasts through Wednesday, Oct. 11, deals go out of stock all the time. So, if you see something you want, be sure to jump on it quickly. Keep checking back on this post for new deals as they pop up.

Also, you’ll need an Amazon Prime account to take advantage of most of these deals, so make sure you’re signed up before cruising for discounts.

Garmin health-monitoring multisport GPS smartwatches

Want more fitness deals? Click here!

Laptop and computer deals

Monitors

Storage

Want more computer deals? Click here!

Headphones and earbuds

Wireless surround sound systems

Want more audio deals? Click here!

Amazon devices

Want more Amazon device deals? Click here!

Portable power station deals

Want more generator deals? Click here!

Projector deals

Roku deals

Want more TV deals? Click here!

Kitchen

Air purifier deals

Vacuum deals

Digital photo frame deals

Want more home deals? Click here!

Printer deals

iPad cases

Networking and router deals

Camera deals

Home security deals

Smart lighting deals

Tablet deals

Board game and puzzle deals

For the car

Outdoor deals

Patio and outdoor

Grill deals

Charging station deals

Glasses and sunglasses deals

Record player deals

Deals for moms

Supplement deals

Rocketbook deals

Pivo Pod deals

Laundry deals

Beauty deals

Memory card and hard drive deals

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

The post The best October Amazon Prime Day deals: 100+ products you actually want appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save more than 50% on hard drives, SSDs, and memory cards for Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/memory-cards-hard-drives-amazon-prime-day-deals-2023/ Tue, 10 Oct 2023 22:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578519
Amazon Prime Day storage deals
Stan Horaczek

Whether you're backing up your data or feeding your camera, save on storage this Prime Day.

The post Save more than 50% on hard drives, SSDs, and memory cards for Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Prime Day storage deals
Stan Horaczek

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Digital storage isn’t fun to buy. It’s not like a fun piece of workout gear or a giant new TV. But, if you skimp on digital storage now, you risk losing your pictures, videos, documents, and pretty much everything else on your computer. That would suck. Luckily, Amazon’s October Big Deal Days event brings with it some very solid discounts on everything from SSDs to hard drives to memory cards. Here are some stand-out deals to store your digital stuff.

External hard drives

SSDs for gaming consoles

SSDs

Portable SSDs

Network-attached storage drives

Internal hard drives

Memory cards

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

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

The post Save more than 50% on hard drives, SSDs, and memory cards for Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Buy is blowing out high-end TVs and Apple gear with its anti-Prime Day flash sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-buy-october-prime-day-deals-2023/ Tue, 10 Oct 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=578324
Best Buy's deals on TVs and Macs
Stan Horaczek

Best Buy quietly dropped the prices on TVs, MacBooks, and iPads in honor (spite) of Prime Day.

The post Best Buy is blowing out high-end TVs and Apple gear with its anti-Prime Day flash sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Buy's deals on TVs and Macs
Stan Horaczek

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Yes, it’s Amazon’s October Deal Days (aka Prime Day 2), which means Amazon is getting most of the attention. But Best Buy has quietly rolled out some of the better deals we’ve seen on TVs, MacBooks, iPads, and even Windows laptops. Below, you’ll find a list of the best deals we’ve found at the big, blue, big-box store. We’ll update this list throughout the day, but also be sure to go check out our Amazon-specific list of the best Prime Day deals. Bring money.

The best TV deals at Best Buy

The best MacBook deals at Best Buy

The best iPad deals at Best Buy

The best Windows laptop and Chromebook deals at Best Buy

The post Best Buy is blowing out high-end TVs and Apple gear with its anti-Prime Day flash sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best October Prime Day deals on solar generators from Jackery, Bluetti, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/solar-generators-amazon-prime-day-deals-october-2023/ Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:05:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=577903
October Prime Day solar generator deals tiled
Stan Horaczek

Keep the juice flowing even during a power outage with these portable solar generators.

The post The best October Prime Day deals on solar generators from Jackery, Bluetti, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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October Prime Day solar generator deals tiled
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You likely won’t know just how much you’ll appreciate a solar generator until you really need one. These robust portable backups offer huge batteries that can power full-sized appliances in a pinch. That’s crucial during a blackout or a camping trip. Unlike the gas-powered competition, they run silently and are often highly portable. Plus, they can draw power directly from the sun with optional solar panel attachments. These power stations require some investment, which makes them a perfect purchase during Amazon’s October Prime Day sale. Save more than $1,000 on some models. You’ll be so glad you did next time everything goes dark.

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

Jackery solar generator deals

Anker solar generator deals

Bluetti solar generator deals

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

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

The post The best October Prime Day deals on solar generators from Jackery, Bluetti, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best early deals for Prime Day 2 in 2023: Robot vacs, AirPods, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/early-amazon-prime-day-deals-october-2023/ Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=577749
Early Prime Day deals for 2023
Stan Horaczek

Prime Day doesn't start officially until the 10th, but you can already get solid deals on all kinds of gear.

The post The best early deals for Prime Day 2 in 2023: Robot vacs, AirPods, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Early Prime Day deals for 2023
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Amazon’s October Prime Day event doesn’t technically start until this Tuesday, October 10, but plenty of solid deals are already ready to be had before it gets underway. We’ll watch the early deals all day today and update this post with the best bargains we can find. Then, come back on the 10th and 11th for a solid stream of the best deals across every category.

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

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Wireless Earbuds with USB-C $199 (was $249)

Tony Ware

SEE IT

Apple recently released a version of its AirPods Pro that charge via USB-C instead of the now-defunct Lighting cable. And you can also score $50 off the retail price of this new model right now before Prime Day. These AirPods give you all the Pro features you expect, including active noise cancelation and Spatial Audio, with the added bonus of needing to carry one less cord. On top of that, they’re the only model (currently) that will support lossless audio with the upcoming Vision Pro headset. With the holidays coming up, they’re a fantastic gift, even if you’re giving them to yourself. (Still want the Lightning version? It’s also discounted. Want the AirPods Max instead? Also on sale!)

Audio deals

Amazon devices

Watch deals

Clothing and footwear deals

Robot vacuums

Kitchen deals

Furniture deals

The post The best early deals for Prime Day 2 in 2023: Robot vacs, AirPods, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save up to $50 on Govee smart lighting during this early Amazon Prime Day sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/govee-smart-lighting-deal-amazon-prime-day-2023/ Fri, 06 Oct 2023 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=577636
Govee RGB strip lights tiled
Stan Horaczek

The best LED strip lights are getting the early Prime Day treatment in the form of very solid discounts across the board.

The post Save up to $50 on Govee smart lighting during this early Amazon Prime Day sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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Govee RGB strip lights tiled
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Whether you’re trying to ramp up your spooky season decorations for Halloween or your room needs a lighting makeover, head over to Amazon to check out these early Prime Day deals on Govee smart lighting. We’re big fans of Govee’s products for both indoor and outdoor situations, and right now, you can save up to $50 on some of the company’s most popular products. So, ditch that clapped-out old floor lamp you’ve had since high school and upgrade your illumination. Note: Just about all these deals require clicking a box on the product page (right below the price) to activate a coupon, so make sure you do that to get the best price.

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights, 32.8ft Smart LED Lights $18.99 (Was $28.99)

Govee

SEE IT

This is the simplest, cheapest way to give your room an entirely new look. This 32.8-foot string of lights takes commands from an app or a wired remote. The lights can produce up to 16 million colors, sync up with your music, and perform up to 64 pre-programmed routines to make your living space more lively. They’re easy to hang, and you can add more strings if you need to cover more space. It’s a no-brainer at this price, and a great taste of the kind of deals we’ll be bringing to you throughout Oct. 11-12.

More Govee smart lighting deals

The post Save up to $50 on Govee smart lighting during this early Amazon Prime Day sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best big and tall office chairs for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-big-and-tall-office-chairs/ Fri, 29 Sep 2023 21:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=576256
four of the best big and tall office chairs sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

The best big-and-tall office chairs provide style and support for every body.

The post The best big and tall office chairs for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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four of the best big and tall office chairs sliced together against a white background
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Steelcase Gesture big-and-tall office chair against a white background Steelcase Gesture
SEE IT

This chair can support up to 400 pounds and offers a comfortable ergonomic design.

Best budget Gray JOYFLY Big and Tall Office Chair against a white background JOYFLY Big and Tall Office Chair
SEE IT

The JOYFLY chair is more affordable than other options and is still very comfortable.

Best for gaming Secretlab Titan Evo biig and tall office chair for gaming against a white background Secretlab Titan Evo
SEE IT

The Secretlab gaming chair comes with a removable headrest and sleek design.

Big and tall office chairs often sacrifice design and comfort for capacity. That doesn’t have to be the case, however. There are tons of models on the market that support bigger bodies with comfort and style. We’ve surveyed and tested some of the most popular options on the market to track down the best big and tall office chairs for anybody and any body. 

How we chose the best big and tall office chairs

For this list, we emphasized models with a high weight capacity and tall seat heights without getting too stuffy or cheesy looking. You won’t find a tufted CEO chair on this list. We relied on a mixture of hands-on experience, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons to make our selections. As a big and tall person, I have sat in many bad chairs, and this topic is very near and dear to my heart. These are chairs I would spend 10 hours per day sitting in myself.

The best big and tall office chairs: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you need a big and tall office chair for sitting at a desk through long Zoom meetings or epic gaming sessions, these chairs will keep you comfortable without sacrificing style.

Best overall: Steelcase Gesture

Steelcase

SEE IT

Specs

  • Maximum weight: 400 pounds
  • Maximum seat height: 21 inches 
  • Material: Polyester with foam padding
  • Weight: 70 pounds

Pros

  • Supports a wide array of body shapes and sizes
  • Support in crucial areas
  • Supports up to 400 pounds
  • Highly adjustable
  • Versatile arms that won’t cut into legs

Cons

  • Expensive

If you spend most of your life sitting at a desk (like so many people do), it’s worth investing in something that will treat your body correctly. This chair comfortably supports up to 400 pounds and has a maximum seat height of 21 inches. That makes it very versatile for bodies of any size. It has highly adjustable arms, which aren’t attached at the front of the seat, so they won’t dig into your thighs if your legs sit far apart (something many other big-and-tall chairs inexplicably suffer from). 

The seat cushion has air pockets inside for ideal support and squishiness. Plus, the cushions are softer around the edges so they flex under your legs. That puts less pressure on the muscles and helps with blood flow. The back of the chair has a patented flexible panel that mimics the ideal shape of the spine to encourage sturdy posture in a natural configuration. The additional headrest also encourages sitters to maintain a more upright position to prevent slouching. Yes, it’s expensive, but it will treat your body how it deserves to be treated.

Best budget: JOYFLY Big and Tall Office Chair

Joyfly

SEE IT

Specs

  • Maximum weight: 450 pounds
  • Maximum height: 20 inches
  • Material: Mesh and polyester
  • Weight: 41 pounds

Pros

  • Looks expensive
  • Affordable
  • Holds up to 450 pounds
  • Mesh back and covering for breathability
  • Adjustable, single-post arms

Cons

  • Can be creaky
  • Not overly adjustable

This elegant-looking chair supports up to 450 pounds comfortably, more than most big-and-tall chairs. The high back isn’t a headrest, but you can lean back on it to give your neck a break occasionally. The mesh material feels strong, but it’s very flexible. Plus, the tiny holes provide solid ventilation, refreshing compared to other fabric or leather chairs. 

It’s not the most supportive chair in the world, but it’s ergonomically shaped and very comfortable. The seat itself could stand to go a little higher, especially if you’re very tall. But, the gas-powered raising and lowering is smooth and effective. This is a sturdy place to sit that provides a lot of comfort for a surprisingly affordable price. 

Best for gaming: Secretlab Titan Evo

Secretlab

SEE IT

Specs

  • Maximum weight: Up to 395 pounds
  • Maximum height: 22 inches
  • Material: Hybrid leatherette
  • Weight: 80 pounds

Pros

  • Wide sitting area
  • Highly adjustable, single-post arms
  • Sturdy cushioning that won’t flatten out
  • Magnetic pillow for added head support
  • Lumbar support adjustments
  • Sturdy base
  • Very rugged material

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Material can be hot

Make sure you get a size XL when you’re ordering this chair if you want the most support and room. This gaming-specific chair offers a familiar high back with a clever magnetic pillow that acts as a headrest. The arms adjust up and down, but there’s plenty of room between them for a comfortable fit. The leatherette material is tougher than regular leather, and it feels that way. I’ve been using this chair for about a month now, and it doesn’t even have a scuff. 

The chair moves up and down easily. Plus, it has a versatile reclining function. You can recline the chair almost all the way back or lock it somewhere between upright and totally reclined. I like to sit just a bit reclined, and the lock works great for me. 

Assembly takes some work, but it comes with some of the best instructions I’ve ever found in a piece of furniture. And while this is a PC gaming chair, the whole gamer style isn’t overly apparent. You could totally use this in an office without raising any issues. 

Best for over 400 pounds: Ralex-Chair Executive Office Chair

Ralex-Chair

SEE IT

Specs

  • Maximum weight: 500 pounds
  • Maximum height: Up to 24-inch seat height
  • Material: Fake leather
  • Weight: 20 pounds

Pros

  • Typical chairs only hold up to 400 pounds while this one goes to 500
  • Flip-up arms make extra space
  • Contoured back provides some spine support
  • Sturdy wheels and base

Cons

  • Barebones in terms of features and adjustability

If you want a very heavy-duty chair, this one supports up to 500 pounds, 100 pounds more than most. The arms flip up, and out of the way in case you need extra room instead of a place to put your arms. It’s made from sturdy fake leather, which is good for durability but isn’t ideal for ventilation. 

The high back provides support all the way up to the neck. The high-density foam will resist squishing, even over extended use. This is a relatively no-frills option, but it does promise very high capacity, and sometimes that’s crucial. It’s also surprisingly affordable, which is nice. 

Best design: Steelcase Series 1 Work Office Chair

Steelcase

SEE IT

Specs

  • Maximum weight: 400 pounds
  • Maximum height: 21.5-inch seat height
  • Material: Polyester mesh
  • Weight: 29 pounds

Pros

  • Very nice to look at
  • High back for support
  • Lots of adjustability
  • Mesh for ventilation
  • Sturdy build
  • Many features from the best overall at a lower price

Cons

  • Arm adjustability is just OK
  • Seat cushion is slightly narrower than others

Many big and tall chairs can look stuffy or nerdy. This one, however, adds some style despite its high maximum weight limit. Like other Steelcase options, it relies on 100 percent polyester mesh to provide excellent strength and plenty of ventilation. The mesh back includes the company’s familiar back support technology which mimics the spine’s natural shape for ideal sitting positions. 

It has an extremely sturdy base with chunky wheels that move well, even when someone is sitting in the chair. The arms could use a little more adjustability, and the seat itself is a little narrower than other entries on the list. But, it’s still a great fitting chair for most bodies and will last for a long time. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best big and tall office chairs

Here are some crucial variables to consider when you’re looking for the best big and tall office chair. Don’t just get the biggest, puffiest one you can find. You’ll regret it in the long run. 

Materials

Most of the time, you’ll choose between fabric, fake leather, and mesh. They all have their strengths and weaknesses. Leatherette looks classy and is durable, but it’s bad for ventilation and tends to show marks. Mesh is great for breathability and flexibility, but it’s not always the most durable. Fabric runs the gamut in terms of durability and comfort. It really comes down to personal preference. I like leatherette, but if you spend tons of time in your chair and need ventilation, mesh may be what you’re looking for. 

Wheels

Most chairs come with one set of wheels, but some higher-end models will ask you to specify between hardwood and carpet wheels. Make sure you check for this option before making a purchase. It will make a big difference in durability for your floor and rolling ease. 

Support

A high-back chair typically offers better support than a low one, but it’s not a given. Adjustable support in the lumbar area is a very nice addition and worth paying for if you have back pain or old injuries. Just because the back of a chair is vaguely spine-shaped, don’t assume it’s actually based on research or anything other than aesthetics.

Armrests

With bigger bodies, armrests can be a huge issue. If they’re attached at two points, the front supports can often dig into your legs and be very uncomfortable. I prefer a single-post armrest with adjustable pads on top. Some big and tall chairs are very wide, so you may actually want to adjust the arms inward in some cases. More adjustability is generally better since you’re going to be keeping your arms attached to them for large chunks of the day. 

FAQs

Q: Which type of chair is best for long sitting?

You want a chair that allows you to sit with your feet flat on the floor and your arms resting comfortably on the armrests. You want to be sitting mostly straight up with your eyes pointing toward the center of your monitor. If you’re going to be sitting for a very long time, I like a mesh back and pad for ventilation. You’ll also want to make sure you take advantage of your chair’s adjustable features to get it just right for your body. 

Q: Why are high-end chairs so expensive?

It’s true, many high-end chairs cost quite a bit. The answer here is mostly materials and research involved with developing the chairs. You want a chair that’s well-made with durable materials and that costs money on the front end. You can get a cheaper chair, but if it doesn’t fit your body or it breaks down quickly, the long-term cost could easily outweigh the initial savings. 

Q: Can armrests cause shoulder pain?

They sure can. Sitting with your arms in the wrong position can pull your shoulders forward or cause your whole body to lean. That can hurt your shoulders and the surrounding muscles like the rhomboid and traps. Even if you don’t feel uncomfortable while you’re sitting in your chair, you could possibly be putting undue stress on your body with bad positioning. 

Final thoughts on the best big and tall office chairs

You don’t need to buy a big, stuffy chair for a big and tall body. There are fantastic models out there that lend themselves to any kind of sitting situation without sacrificing design and style. The best big and tall office chairs provide the support you need for everything from gaming marathons to extended Excel sessions. 

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 big and tall office chairs for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best CrossFit shoes for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-crossfit-shoes/ Fri, 29 Sep 2023 18:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=576005
The best crossfit shoes
Stan Horaczek

The right CrossFit shoes can make you a whole lot more comfortable (and safer) during your workout.

The post The best CrossFit shoes for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best crossfit shoes
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Nobull gum trainer+ crossfit shoes Nobull Gum Trainer+
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The sturdy and seamless, which prevents annoying blisters from forming.

Best budget Nikon Metcon 8 crossfit shoes Nike Metcon 8
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They’re one generation old, but they’re still great and frequently on sale.

Best for recovery Hoka recovery slides Hoka Ora Recovery Slides
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They’re comfortable like flip flops, but much better for your feet.

If you’ve ever attended a WOD (short for Workout of the Day in CrossFit parlance), you know the right CrossFit shoes can make a huge difference in your performance. Of all the many, many CrossFit accessories you can purchase to improve your training, few have the same kind of impact as your shoe choice. But, CrossFit is a varied discipline with several distinct aspects. In this list, we’ll break down the best CrossFit shoes for cross-training, Olympic lifting, and even recovery.

How we chose the best CrossFit shoes

I have been a part of my local CrossFit community since 2009, during which time I’ve tried just about every shoe meant for the mats. You can even see a very embarrassing picture of me online from the Reebok CrossFit launch event way back in 2012. For this article, I relied on personal experience, editorial reviews, spec comparisons, and advice from several high-level CrossFit competitors who can’t be named here due to their sponsorship status. While CrossFit-oriented shoes are never cheap, I have focused on pairs that are durable enough to last for years while providing the comfort and performance required to keep you ringing up PRs. 

The best CrossFit shoes: Reviews & Recommendations

While we make specific recommendations about individual products, you’re always best off checking out all the options before purchasing. There’s lots of product overlap, so know your options before you pay.

Best overall: Nobull Gum Trainer+

Nobull

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Specs

  • Sizes: Men’s 8-16 and Women’s 5-11
  • Best for: All-around shoe suitable for weightlifting and metabolic conditioning

Pros

  • No seams to rub and cause blisters
  • Very comfortable
  • Subtle heel rise
  • Rubber reinforcement makes them very durable
  • Wide toe box for stability

Cons

  • Toe box may actually feel too wide for some
  • Women’s sizes cap at 11

Nobull burst onto the CrossFit scene just a few years ago, and now the company is the title sponsor for the annual CrossFit Games. The Nobull shoes are easily recognizable thanks to their seamless design, which makes them cool to look at but also reduces the risk of blisters from bunched fabric. CrossFit requires a lot of unusual movements in every direction, and one bad seam inside of a shoe can cause havoc. 

Heavy-duty rubber reinforces areas that take a lot of abuse. The toe caps are burly, so repeated burpees won’t tear them apart. The bottom is thick and sturdy, so it won’t flex when you don’t want it to. Plus, the wide toe cage and reinforced sole provide a very stable platform for heavy lifts and intense dynamic movements. Despite their rugged build, they’re still relatively light and extremely breathable. 

These shoes were specifically built for the rigors of a CrossFit gym, and it shows. 

Best budget: Nike Metcon 8

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

  • Sizes: Women’s 5-12 and Men’s 6-15
  • Best for: All-around shoe for lifting and conditioning

Pros

  • Very wide size range in both men’s and women’s
  • Attractive design with lots of colors
  • Affordable because they’re usually on-sale
  • Sturdy sole provides a very solid platform
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Toe box isn’t as wide as some others

You’ll notice that the Metcon 9 is already on the market, which may make the 8 seem like a weird recommendation. But, if you don’t need the absolute latest model, you can save quite a bit of cash and still get a great shoe. 

The Nike Metcon 8 (“Meton” is CrossFit speak for “metabolic conditioning”) offers a flat, sturdy bottom with four degrees of heel rise. That makes them much more stable than running shoes when it comes to dynamic movements and heavy lifts. They’re naturally a bit more narrow than the Nobulls, but they break in very nicely. They’re reinforced with sturdy rubber at points that naturally take a lot of abuse. There’s even a large rubber area on the outside midsole of the shoe to prevent rope climbs from tearing up your kicks. 

While the Nobulls opt for a very no-nonsense design, the Nikes are much flashier, which I personally appreciate. There are lots of colorways to choose from. 

The toe box is wide but not massive, so you might have to spend a little time breaking these in before they feel just right. Once you’ve gotten a couple of workouts in, though, they’re excellent. 

Best for beginning lifters: Reebok Lifter PR II

Reebok

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Specs

  • Sizes: Men’s 6-14 (men and women can wear the same style)
  • Best for: Weightlifting

Pros

  • Affordable compared to other dedicated lifters
  • Relatively light
  • Lots of size options
  • Easy to put on
  • Stable

Cons

  • Not as durable as more expensive models

Once you start lifting seriously, a solid pair of weight-lifting shoes can make a huge difference in your form and the overall feel of your lifts. You’ll notice that pro lifters typically wear wedge-shaped shoes with a raised heel that puts their legs (and by extension, their entire body) into a better position. These beginner-oriented lifters do just that with a wedge-shaped sole that slightly raises the heel. This is useful for backsquatting, Olympic lifting, and other activities with heavy weights. 

A sturdy velcro strap goes across the laces to add an extra layer for stability during the high-torque process that is weight-lifting. If you’re just starting out, these will likely provide all the stability you need. Plus, they’re durable enough to last for years of training before you move up to something more advanced.

Best for advanced lifters: Nike Romaleos 4 SE

Nike

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Specs

  • Sizes: Men’s 3.5-15 (unisex)
  • Best for: Serious weight lifting

Pros

  • Heel rise provides a comfortable lifting position
  • Extremely sturdy
  • Very stable even under heavy load
  • Cool colorways
  • Easy to put on

Cons

  • Some reviewers complain about the durability of the Velcro strap

Once you’re ready to move on to a more advanced (and more expensive) lifter, this is a great option. The hard, flat bottom provides a very stable base and a satisfying slap against the gym floor during Olympic lifts. The raised heel puts your body in an ideal position for a deep squat without taxing your Achilles and other vulnerable tendons. The leather upper is very sturdy to handle the rotational forces involved with heavy lifts. Plus, a pair of Velcro straps go over the laces in order to keep everything cinched up tightly. These are pro-grade lifting shoes for moving serious weight. 

Best for recovery: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide

Hoka

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Specs

  • Sizes: Men’s 4-14 (unisex)
  • Best for: Wearing after a workout

Pros

  • Specifically shaped to support the foot, unlike regular sandals
  • Air channels to keep cool
  • Two-stage material to refine squish under your foot
  • Lots of colorways

Cons

  • Most colorways are very bright, which may not be your style

Recovery is crucial for your entire body. But, feet take an especially hard beating. Just about any good trainer will tell you that the average sandal or flip-flop is like a foot torture device. Hoka designed these slides with recovery in mind. They have a two-stage design, which provides the right balance of squishy padding and stable support. The shape of the slide cradles your foot in an active position rather than flattening it out and stressing the delicate parts inside. They’re super-light, ventilated for airflow, and cool-looking as long as you can pull off the bright color vibes. You could get some to match your workout headphones.

Things to consider when shopping for the best CrossFit shoes

Here are some variables and terms to understand when shopping for the best CrossFit shoes.

Style

Most serious CrossFitters have a pair of shoes they use for metabolic conditioning workouts and then another pair of shoes meant specifically for weight lifting. If you’re just starting out, you probably don’t need a dedicated set of lifters. A simple pair of training shoes from this list can do everything you need. Once you start getting to heavier lifts, however, a good pair of lifting shoes will pay off in the long run. Plus, since you only wear them a few hours a week, they should last a long time. 

Heel drop

Running shoes are not good for CrossFit. They typically have too much padding, which makes them unstable during lateral movements and under heavy weights. Plus, they typically have more than 10mm of drop from the heel to the toe. That elevated heel puts your legs in the incorrect position and can limit your flexibility and mobility down the road. A shoe like the Nobull trainers on this list, for example, only has 4mm of heel drop. You’ll find that most CrossFit shoes hover around that. You want something that’s still relatively comfortable, but that puts your legs in the correct position during a workout. 

Fit

Most CrossFit shoes offer a wide toe box that may feel weird when you’re first getting used to it. You need a wide, stable base for dynamic movements (especially when you’re moving laterally), so CrossFit shoes skew much wider than running shoes or casual footwear. Even with that wide toe box, however, you want to ensure you tie them very tightly. You don’t want your foot wiggling around while you work out. That’s a surefire ticket to Blister City. 

FAQs

Q: Are CrossFit shoes worth it?

If you’re going to be working out regularly, you’ll want the right shoes. Typical running shoes offer too much padding and heel drop, which is bad for stability and flexibility. That might be fine when you’re just starting out, but once you start moving serious weight, things can get very dicey. Eventually, you’ll likely want a pair of trainers and a pair of lifters. 

Q: Are running shoes OK for CrossFit?

When you run, your heel typically strikes the ground with the whole weight of your body. As a result, running shoes really stack the padding around that area to cushion the blow. During CrossFit, however, that happens somewhat infrequently and that padding becomes a liability. A higher heel pushes your ankle up and shortens your tendons, limiting movement in the long run. Also, that squishy foam doesn’t provide a solid base under your foot once you start doing torque-based heavy lifts like backsquats. Imagine you’re trying to lift while standing on a big squishy blob instead of a rigid platform. It can go badly. 

Q: How long do shoes last for CrossFit?

There are a lot of variables here. You can burn through a pair in six months if you work out five times per week doing outdoor exercise and otherwise punishing your shoes. If you mostly work out in the gym and take care of them, they can last for years. Lifters tend to last longer because they’re made from tough material and don’t get as much use. 

Q: Can you do CrossFit without shoes?

First, you’ll need to get your gym to allow it. Most won’t for hygiene reasons. Some workouts may lend themselves to barefoot status. Kettlebells, for instance, are fun to do with no shoes on. You’ll want to wear shoes for things like back squats or Olympic weight-lifting because you need the grip. Done correctly, those will put a ton of rotational force on your feet, and you want as much grip as possible. Your best bet is to get a pair of shoes that fit nicely, and then you won’t be so eager to ditch them and let the dogs out. 

Final thoughts on the best CrossFit shoes

Whether you’re just starting out or have been around since the early days, the right CrossFit shoes can make a huge difference in how you train. You want stability, versatility, and durability. Plus, you want them to look cool, so when you post your daily Instagram story from the gym, you look the part. 

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 CrossFit shoes for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best outdoor TVs of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-outdoor-tv/ Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:59:00 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-outdoor-tv/
man in a hoodie sitting in an old armchair outside watching an outdoor tv
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Entertain guests with fresh entertainment in the fresh air with a fresh new outdoor TV.

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

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man in a hoodie sitting in an old armchair outside watching an outdoor tv
Jordan Koons via Unsplash

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Best Overall The Samsung Terrace TV Samsung 55-inch Class QLED The Terrace Outdoor TV
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This television is IP55 rated and features 4K QLED for excellent picture quality.

Best budget Sunbrite Veranda is the best 55-inch outdoor TV. SunBriteTV 43-inch Outdoor Television for Shade
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Its picture quality is high despite its low price.

Best for partial sun Furrion Partial Sun Outdoor TV product image Furrion Aurora Partial Sun Series Outdoor TV
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A self-adjusting screen means more time watching TV and less time fiddling with settings.

An outdoor TV can change the entire vibe of your al fresco living space. Want to play whiffle ball while you watch Field of Dreams? No problem. Most standard TVs can’t withstand the elements, and not all outdoor TVs offer the same level of protection and versatility. Some work on covered patios and decks, while others can handle full exposure to rain and snow. Sunlight makes a difference, and most TVs will fall under one of three categories: shade, partial sun, and those that will offer great picture quality no matter what the conditions are. Other factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor TV are size, sound quality, and price. With so many options out there, choosing the right one can be a little confusing, but we’re here to help you find the best outdoor TV for all your viewing needs.

How we chose the best outdoor TVs

As pool lovers, grill geeks, and float fanatics, we’re excited about everything outdoorsy. We looked at critical reviews and consumer impressions, along with important features like weatherproofing and anti-glare technology, to narrow down the best outdoor TVs. We then took that list, culled through pages of specs and opinions from the most trusted sources, and selected the top six options we’re presenting to you.

The best outdoor TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

From enjoying America’s pastime in prime time to movie nights under the stars, the best outdoor TVs can handle it all. After plenty of research, here are our outdoor television picks. All you’ll need is some popcorn and a cooler full of drinks and you’ll be entertaining in no time.

Best overall: Samsung 55-inch Class QLED The Terrace Outdoor TV

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: An IP55 rating and 4K QLED ensure durability and excellent screen quality.

Specs

  • Sizes: 55″, 65″ 75″
  • Resolution: 4K, 8K
  • Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

  • Excellent screen quality
  • Intuitive

Cons

  • Decrease in quality at outer angles

With a 55-inch screen utilizing QLED technology, this Samsung TV is our pick for best outdoor TV overall. Equipped with smart TV technology, this TV lets you easily stream your favorite sports and movies without having to buy a separate device. Although its anti-glare technology and exceptional brightness levels mean that it works well on sunny days, you may notice a decrease in quality at the outer angles if you have very wide seating. Overall though, it’s no surprise that Oprah named The Terrace one of her favorite things in 2020.

Best with soundbar: Furrion FDUP55CSA 55″ Aurora Partial Sun Outdoor TV Bundle with 2.1-Channel Soundbar

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: This outdoor television combines excellent sound quality with clear audio.

Specs

  • Sizes: 55″
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

  • Included soundbar
  • Works in a wide temperature range
  • Daytime and nighttime viewing settings

Cons

  • Pricey

While picture is important for consuming quality content, audio also plays a similarly huge role. This 55-inch outdoor TV offers all the features you’d expect out of a high-end model, including 4K, HDR, and a display that’s rated against weather, temperatures, and even impacts. It also, however, comes with a relatively powerful 75W Bluetooth soundbar that mounts directly with the TV itself. It’s easy to connect and adds serious audio oomph that will really make a difference when you’re trying to watch the latest James Bond movie and birds won’t stop screaming in your yard. Even if you’re not going to use the TV, you can hook up your phone to the soundbar and use it as an outdoor speaker for playing music.

Best for shaded areas: SunBriteTV Weatherproof Outdoor 55-inch Veranda

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: A backlit 4K HDR screen and an aluminum case make it a welcome addition to your covered patio.

Specs

  • Sizes: 43″, 55″, 65″, 75″
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Anti-glare: No

Pros

  • Durable
  • Multiple sizes
  • Built-in speakers

Cons

  • Is not a smart TV

This model from SunBriteTV is durable enough to live in a shaded area like a covered porch but won’t get damaged by wind, rain, dust, and stray insects. The 55-inch screen is up to 50-percent brighter than your typical indoor TV and comes with excellent built-in speakers. Unlike some of its more expensive rivals, this outdoor screen isn’t a smart TV, but it’s easy to connect multiple media sources to it through its three HDMI ports and single USB port.

Best for partial sun: Furrion Aurora Partial Sun Series 43-inch 4K UHD LED Outdoor TV

Furrion

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Why it made the cut: A self-adjusting screen means less time fiddling with settings and more time enjoying the sun.

Specs

  • Sizes: 43″, 50″, 55″, 65″
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

  • Built-in fans
  • Self-adjusting screen
  • Waterproof remote
  • Streaming ready

Cons

  • Not the loudest speakers

This Furrion HDR10 LED outdoor TV is a terrific choice if you’re watching in an area that gets partial sun. In fact, the 400 nits screen will even adjust itself according to how much light it’s getting, so there’s no need to constantly fiddle with the brightness settings. It’s IP54 rated for when it does rain and has built-in cooling fans for when it’s hot. And if your weather gets a bit intense, you’ll be happy to know the screen comes equipped with enhanced protection against scratches and impacts thanks to XtremeShield IK08-rated tempered glass.

Best budget: SunBriteTV 43-inch Outdoor Television for Shade

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: This television is hard on the elements but easy on your wallet.

Specs

  • Sizes: 43″, 55″, 65″, 75″
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

  • Weatherproof media bay included
  • Powder-coated rust-proof aluminum exterior
  • Easy cable hookups

Cons

  • Sound doesn’t travel as far compared to others

The smallest and least expensive option in the SunBriteTV Veranda line, this unit is designed to be enjoyed in the shade but can withstand rain, snow, dust, insects, and whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw at it. The Ultra 4K HDR LED screen delivers a crisp picture that’s 50-percent brighter than a standard TV and is perfect for patios, screened-in porches, and covered decks. This SunBrite TV comes with a large weatherproof media bay so whatever you plug into it will be protected as well.

What to consider when buying the best outdoor TVs

Before you bust out the snacks at your next shindig, there are a couple of things you’ll need to think about when choosing the best outdoor TV for your space. For example, if you plan on watching your new set under your porch, you probably won’t need a model that offers the same level of waterproofing and anti-glare technology as a full sun option.

Placement

Sun exposure is a major consideration when choosing an outdoor TV. Partial sun models might have some glare, and some will only deliver a great picture if they’re in the shade.

However, the picture might not be the only thing that suffers if you aren’t choosy about your new TV. Models designed to be enjoyed under a covered porch may not be as resilient to extreme weather conditions as ones that are meant to live in a backyard. In some cases, it may be wise to invest in a cover, just as you would for your grill or ping pong table.

TV size

If you want to keep everyone from invading each other’s personal bubble, but don’t want your guests squinting to see the game, a huge outdoor TV will keep everyone entertained and safe at the same time. Plus, if you’re a movie buff, a large TV is terrific for simulating the fun of a drive-in without leaving your home. Just remember, the bigger the TV, the bigger the price tag.

Audio quality

When you’re shopping, make sure you pay attention to audio quality. Some models don’t come with built-in speakers, meaning you’ll have to connect them to something else unless you just plan on watching old, silent movies. Other models come with speakers but deliver less quality.

One way to make sure that you don’t end up straining your ears is to find an outdoor TV that comes equipped with a soundbar. A soundbar (also known as a media bar), is a speaker that is wider than it is tall and delivers superior audio quality when mounted above or below the TV. In a pinch, you could also pair waterproof Bluetooth party speakers with your TV, and then be ready when the party migrates to the pool.

Amount of shade and sun

If you plan on enjoying your TV on a screened-in porch or in a covered gazebo, there may not be a reason to shell out extra money on the latest anti-glare technology. The best outdoor TV is suited for where you’re watching it—there are great options that work in the shade while still offering protection from temperature shifts, rain, insects, and dust.

If you have a covered porch that receives some amount of light but isn’t directly exposed to the sun, consider a partial shade TV. These models will have brighter screens compared to shade-friendly TVs and will offer more protection against glare.

Price

Although outdoor TVs have come down in price considerably over the past couple of years, they’re still relatively expensive compared to standard models. The cheapest outdoor designs are not designed to truly live outside. In fact, some won’t work at all if they aren’t in the shade because the glare from the sun will make it impossible to see what’s on the screen.

If you’re just looking for a TV to watch on your covered deck or screened-in porch, look for options that are durable enough to be (partially) exposed to the elements. And expect to pay between $1,500 and $5,500, depending on brand, size, and features.

FAQs

Q: What is the best outdoor television?

The best outdoor television depends on where you’re going to watch it. The most important thing to consider is how much sun the television will be exposed to because glare can be a major issue if the TV is designed to only work in the shade.

Q: What is the best outdoor TV for a large viewing party?

The best outdoor TV for a viewing party depends on where and how many people are watching it. The most important consideration is sunlight, but if you’re trying to keep your friends and family socially distant, then you’ll need to consider the size of the screen. Another thing to keep in mind is what angle people will be watching it from, as some outdoor models lose quality if they’re not watched head-on.

Q: Do I need an outdoor TV enclosure?

Outdoor TV enclosures are usually designed to keep an indoor model safe when it’s used outside. Most outdoor TVs are built to be weatherproof and can withstand extreme temperatures. That being said, investing in a cover for your TV is still a good idea.

Final thoughts on the best outdoor TVs

Enjoying your television in the great outdoors can be a wonderful change of pace, especially after a year of being cooped up inside. The most important thing to consider when shopping for the best outdoor TV is where you’re going to watch it because different models can handle different conditions. A TV built for shade is not recommended for sun exposure. Likewise, one that is meant to be watched in the sun will probably be wasted sitting under a covered porch.

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.

More TV roundups to help you find the perfect set

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

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The best cameras under $1,000 in 2023, according to experts https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-cameras-under-1000/ Wed, 20 Sep 2023 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=571903
The best cameras under $1,000 composited
Stan Horaczek

You don't need to spend as much as you would on a used car to get a great camera.

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The best cameras under $1,000 composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Canon EOS R50 mirrorless camera is one of the best cameras under $1,000 Canon EOS R50
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This beginner-friendly camera offers intelligent auto modes with room to grow.

Best design the Nikon Z fc is one of the best cameras under $1,000 Nikon Z fc
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This retro-styled camera draws inspiration from Nikon’s iconic film SLRs.

Best for vlogging The Sony ZV-1 II is one of the best cameras under $1,000 Sony Z-V1 II
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This all-in-one compact shoots high-res video through a sharp, fast lens.

Survey the market right now, and you’ll find that cameras under $1,000 offer some truly impressive features that were once reserved for enthusiast and even pro models. Since mirrorless cameras took over from DSLRs in the last decade, cameras have gotten smarter, faster, and more compact. If you’re looking to upgrade from a smartphone, learn the basics of photography, step up your vlogging game, or just take pictures that look different from everyone else’s smartphone snaps, the best cameras under $1,000 can help while leaving enough cash left over for memory cards. 

How we chose the best cameras under $1,000

I have been a professional photographer and camera journalist for nearly two decades. During the course of my work at our sibling publication, Popular Photography, I have shot with almost every major camera released in the past decade. In order to choose the best cameras under $1,000, I looked for models with particular strengths that would likely fit specific shooting styles. I emphasized durability, performance, and less tangible variables like access to a large infrastructure of lenses and accessories.

You’ll notice that you won’t find any DSLRs on this list. Everything is either a compact or mirrorless camera. I still like DSLRs, and they can still be great workhorse cameras, but they use older lenses that are only compatible with newer models via adapter. Plus, DSLRs miss out on some very useful features like object-based AF tracking. 

The best cameras under $1,000: Reviews & Recommendations

While we always make specific picks for models that we think will fit your needs, there’s always overlap. Peruse the entire list before getting your heart set on a specific camera.

Best overall: Canon EOS R50

Canon

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Specs

  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Megapixels: 24.2
  • Maximum video resolution: 4K at up to 30 fps

Pros

  • Comes in well-under $1,000, even with a lens
  • Uses Canon’s current lens mount, for which it’s always releasing new glass
  • Super-fast shooting up to 15 fps with electronic shutter
  • Advanced A+ Assist provides useful help for shooting in tough situations
  • Excellent AF
  • Small and light

Cons

  • Very basic weather sealing
  • May feel too small for some, especially when paired with a large lens

Canon’s entry-level mirrorless camera offers a seriously impressive list of specs, considering its roughly $800 price tag. And that includes the standard 18-45mm kit lens. The 24.2-megapixel resolution is tried-and-true as it was the standard for several years before resolutions started to shoot up. This provides a nice balance of easy-to-work-with files and the ability to crop in on an image after the fact. 

The camera weighs just about a pound, which makes it extremely compact. Compared to my professional-grade cameras, it’s noticeably lighter from the moment you pick it up. Despite its entry-level status and diminutive build, the R50 still offers many of the high-end features found in Canon’s enthusiast-level cameras. The object-based autofocus tracking does a stellar job locking onto humans and even animals, keeping them in focus without any extra work on the photographer’s part. It also has a fully articulating touchscreen display and a mic port for external audio.

One thing I particularly like for beginners in the R50: It offers an Advanced A+ Assist shooting mode, which helps simplify the process of capturing images in difficult locations. It’s like auto shooting mode, but a lot smarter. That’s a solid middle ground between total beginners and more advanced users who prefer more manual shooting modes. 

Overall, this is a great all-around camera that will leave money left in your budget for an extra lens like the 50mm f/1.8 STM, which performs way beyond its $169 price tag

Best design: Nikon Z fc

Nikon

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Specs

  • Lens mount: Nikon Z
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Megapixels: 20.9
  • Maximum video resolution: 4K at 30 fps

Pros

  • Modeled after one of the best film cameras ever made
  • Ample tactile controls
  • Excellent color and overall image quality
  • Built tougher than most cameras at this price point
  • Easy to adapt vintage lenses
  • Snappy overall operation

Cons

  • No lens—$1,000 only gets you the body unless you find it on sale

The Nikon FM2 is a truly iconic film SLR, and Nikon drew heavily from it to create this enthusiast-grade mirrorless camera. The top of the body offers a robust selection of actual dials to control variables like ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. I personally love navigating through camera settings with tactile controls, so this earns the Z fc tons of points with me. I know many higher-level shooters who feel the same way. 

The body is relatively compact, but it’s easy to hold. The contoured body makes it easy to grasp with your shooting hand, which is good if you want to navigate the controls without removing the camera from your eye. The APS-C sensor isn’t quite as impressive as some more expensive full-frame models, but it provides excellent color and overall image quality. 

The viewfinder is also no slouch. It offers 100 percent coverage in both horizontal and vertical directions. The OLED display in the viewfinder offers 2.3 million pixels of resolution and seven levels of brightness adjustment depending on your needs. 

Feel is truly crucial for creating an enjoyable camera, and Nikon absolutely nailed it with this retro-cool body.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1 II

Sony

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Specs

  • Lens mount: Fixed
  • Sensor size: 1-inch type
  • Megapixels: 20.1
  • Maximum video resolution: 4K up to 30 fps

Pros

  • Extremely compact body
  • Advanced microphone 
  • Fast lens with useful zoom range
  • Screen flips around to the front for vlogging
  • Solid still performance
  • Sports a surprising array of physical buttons

Cons

  • No access to interchangeable lenses

Smartphone cameras have come a long way in recent years, but creators almost always outgrow them. They want more flexibility, better image quality, and the creative control that comes with a dedicated camera. The Sony ZV-1 II is a great step up from a smartphone without making the process overly complicated for people who just want to get up and shoot in a hurry. 

This is a compact camera with an integrated zoom lens. So, you can’t swap the lens out, but you don’t have to worry about buying or choosing a lens every time you shoot. The built-in lens offers the same field of view you’d expect from an 18-55mm lens on a full-frame camera. That makes it plenty wide for capturing several people in the same shot when zoomed out. But it still offers a flattering perspective for portraits when zoomed in. The lens is also fast in terms of aperture, so it performs well in low-light. 

This camera offers several vlogging-specific features that aspiring YouTubers will appreciate. The screen flips around to face the front of the camera, which is necessary for framing a selfie photo or video. The integrated three-microphone array provides considerably better sound than we’re used to out of a built-in microphone. It even has a built-in Product Showcase mode, which tells the autofocus system to prioritize products when they’re held up in front of the lens. So, if you’re doing an unboxing or other product-oriented video, you won’t have to worry about focus. 

If you want something more advanced, check out our list of the best video cameras.

Best full-frame: Canon EOS RP

Canon

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Specs

  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Megapixels: 26.2
  • Maximum video resolution: 4K

Pros

  • One of very few full-frame options under $1,000
  • Excellent overall image quality
  • Relatively compact body for that big sensor
  • Decent tactile controls 
  • Rotating screen

Cons

  • Shooters coming from Canon DSLRs will miss the joystick and control wheel on the camera’s back

When it comes to camera sensors, size isn’t everything. But, some inherent advantages come with a full-frame sensor. The primary benefit has to do with lenses. Because the sensor is the same size as a single image shot on 35mm film, full-frame cameras like the RP can utilize the entire image circle from high-end lenses. Smaller APS-C sensors only capture a smaller portion of the image, which makes the lenses appear more zoomed in. If you’re switching from a DSLR and you already own some glass, that’s a big deal. 

That 26-megapixel sensor also does an excellent job with color reproduction and low-light performance. Plus, with a larger sensor, it’s easier to get shallow depth-of-field effects (where the subject is sharp, but the background is blurry). 

The Canon RP has been around for several years now, so it doesn’t have the absolute newest guts inside. But it still performs well above its price tag. In addition to excellent still photography performance, it can capture 4K video with image stabilization. 

Best action camera: GoPro Hero 12 Black

GoPro

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Specs

  • Lens mount: Fixed
  • Sensor size: 1/1.9 custom
  • Megapixels: 27
  • Maximum video resolution: 5.3K

Pros

  • Absurdly effective shake reduction
  • Excellent image quality
  • Super-rugged design
  • Built-in front-and-back screens
  • Robust app with remote control functionality
  • Tons of mounting options

Cons

  • Not a huge leap in tech from the Hero 11

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is a heck of a lot of camera for under $400. It offers a surprisingly sharp super-wide angle lens with a revamped image sensor. It shoots high-res, high-framerate video that translates into super-smooth footage. Plus, it has some of the best image stabilization we have ever seen. It’s almost shocking how smooth the GoPro can make even the burliest action shots look. 

The camera sports a front- and back-side touchscreen for navigating menus and composing shots, but it also offers a robust app for controlling the camera and then editing and reviewing footage after it’s shot. 

The new Hero 12 isn’t a huge revolution over the 11 that came before it, but there are some useful upgrades, including a standard tripod socket for easier mounting on non-GoPro accessories. 

With 27-megapixel stills, it’s no slouch in terms of photography, but it really shines in terms of video. Plus, it’s ultra-durable and totally waterproof (GoPros make the best underwater video cameras) without an extra case, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking and costing you even more money. 

Best Sony mirrorless: Sony a6400

Sony

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Specs

  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Megapixels: 25
  • Maximum video resolution: 4K

Pros

  • Fast, accurate autofocus
  • Excellent image quality
  • Lots of tactile controls
  • Built-in viewfinder (not always a given in rangefinder-style bodies)
  • Tilting screen
  • Small and light

Cons

  • It’s a few generations old by now

This isn’t the latest addition to Sony’s excellent A6X00 series, but it still has plenty of life in it, especially at its now permanent sub-$1,000 price. It relies on Sony’s proven 24.2-megapixel sensor and a well-regarded rangefinder-style design. Despite its compact nature, it offers plenty of tactile controls, including a mode dial and a function dial. 

The built-in viewfinder is big, bright, and easy to see. That’s not always a given with a camera this small and cheap. Its $1,000 price tag includes a fully electronic 16-50mm kit lens that flattens out when it’s not in use for easy transport. 

This is a fantastic vlogging camera if you want to shoot video. Sony offers an accessory microphone for the camera, and it’s light and compact to hold at arm’s length for an extended period of time. Not bad for an older model that saves you more than $400 compared to the latest and greatest. 

What to consider when buying a camera under $1,000

As stated earlier, this list is made up entirely of mirrorless or compact cameras. DSLRs can still be great, but they lack some of the very convenient features found in their mirrorless counterparts. They’re also not natively compatible with the most recent lenses from various manufacturers. Here are some more variables and terms to consider before making a purchase.

Lens options

Lenses make a huge difference when it comes to the look of your content. Compact-style cameras have built-in lenses, which some shooters like because they keep everything in one tidy package. It’s a matter of simplicity over flexibility. Buying into an interchangeable-lens camera system is more complex. You’ll want to make sure that your camera uses the latest lenses. Most manufacturers have switched their focus to mirrorless lenses over DSLR glass, which means you’ll want to go mirrorless if you want to futureproof your purchase as much as possible. 

Resolution and sensor size

Most cameras on this list have resolution in the 20-30 megapixel range, which should be plenty for most users. When it comes to sensor size, you’ll typically have to choose between full-frame and APS-C. APS-C is about three-quarters the size of a full-frame sensor. Full-frame cameras typically offer better depth-of-field effects, better low-light performance, and increased access to wide-angle lenses. APS-C sensors make telephoto lenses more acceptable, offer smaller lenses, and typically cost less than their full-frame siblings. 

Video features

4K capture is common across the board at this point. Most cameras on this list top out around 30 fps, which is a standard video framerate. Some shooters prefer 24 fps because it simulates the cinema, but not all cameras offer it. Some more high-end cameras also offer 4K video at 60 fps and beyond for smoother-looking footage. Again, that’s something to check for before you buy if it’s important to you. 

You’ll also want to make note of the recording formats. We won’t go deep on those here because they can get extremely confusing, but it pays to know what your workflow looks like before you buy a camera so you know everything will work nicely together.

Manual features

When you’re a beginner, manual mode can seem intimidating. That won’t last forever, though, and you want a camera that you can grow into. Manual mode offers creative freedom for those willing to climb the learning curve. Beginner-friendly features are great for getting started, but eventually, you’ll want to strike out on your own.

Build quality

Most cameras under $1,000 aren’t built to endure super-harsh conditions. If you’re planning on really abusing your camera, consider a model that’s built for it. That’s why we recommend the GoPro so often. You’ll make better content if you’re not worried about breaking your pricey camera. 

FAQs

Q: Which is better: mirrorless or DSLR?

DSLRs aren’t quite dead just yet, but they’re close. Most manufacturers have switched their focus to mirrorless models. You won’t find many (if any) new DSLRs or DSLR lenses hitting the market any time soon. Going mirrorless now will ensure that your lenses will work with future bodies, and your skill won’t need to adapt when you inevitably make the switch. 

Q: Do mirrorless last longer than DSLR?

DSLRs have a mirror box inside that flaps up and down with every shot. Moving parts break down faster than static components, so mirrorless models can last longer for that reason. If you’re asking this question regarding battery life, mirrorless cameras typically die well before DSLRs because they don’t need to power an electronic viewfinder. 

Q: Can modern cameras use vintage lenses?

Mirrorless cameras are great for using vintage lenses. You can typically get some great deals on older glass if you don’t mind using an adapter and focusing manually. That makes them especially useful for shooters who primarily capture video where manual focus is the norm. 

Final thoughts regarding the best cameras under $1,000

Pro cameras still cost you thousands of dollars, but you can get a truly capable imaging machine for less than $1,000. The trick to picking the right one is focusing on your specific niche. If you’re really into still photography, go for something with a full-frame sensor. If you’re an aspiring video creator, get something specifically meant for shooting motion. Whatever you pick, learn how to use it to the best of its abilities. Even the best cameras under $1,000 won’t be worth much without creativity. 

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 cameras under $1,000 in 2023, according to experts appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save up to 35% on surprisingly powerful mini PCs at Amazon right now https://www.popsci.com/gear/mini-pc-amazon-deal/ Mon, 18 Sep 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=571721
Amazon Mini PC deals header
Stan Horaczek

Get a very capable little PC for just $250 and replace your old desktop or build an excellent, inexpensive media server.

The post Save up to 35% on surprisingly powerful mini PCs at Amazon right now appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Mini PC deals header
Stan Horaczek

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It’s hard to feel nostalgic about old PC towers. They took up way too much space, and the fans made them sound like the industrial compressors required to keep a bouncy castle inflated. Mini PCs solve both of those problems, and right now you can save hundreds on them at Amazon.

These miniature computers are often the size of a delicious panini but pack all the power and hardware required to accomplish most common computing tasks. Of course, the specs you choose will heavily influence its overall performance, but almost all of them punch above their weight, especially when you can get a solid discount.

This tiny PC measures 4.96″ x 4.44″ x 1.57″, which makes it tiny enough to cram just about anywhere. Let it take up a small amount of space on your desk, or mount it somewhere out of the way so it’s totally invisible. Despite its tiny size, it offers ample power, including an AMD Ryzen 5 CPU, 16GB RAM, and a 500GB SSD. It also offers Bluetooth, WiFi 6, and five USB ports for accessories.

It’s not a powerful gaming machine, but that shouldn’t come as a surprise with this price and form factor. If you’re looking to build a media center, replace a noisy work computer, or just have a machine to mess around with, this is a great option.

More mini PCs on sale at Amazon:

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A giant list of Labor Day deals to peruse while you mourn the end of summer https://www.popsci.com/gear/labor-day-sales-2023/ Sat, 02 Sep 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=567706
Solo Stove fire pit burning on a patio
Stan Horaczek

Save on Beats, Solo Stove, Aura Frames, Otterbox cases, LG TVs, soundbars, mattresses, and more.

The post A giant list of Labor Day deals to peruse while you mourn the end of summer appeared first on Popular Science.

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Solo Stove fire pit burning on a patio
Stan Horaczek

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The Pumpkin Spice Latte is already back. School has started. Summer is over. Some people are thrilled. Some of us are sad. But, luckily, everyone can currently take advantage of some very solid Labor Day deals happening right now. So, whether you’re on the beach clinging to the last rays of summer sun or eagerly awaiting the end of a Labor Day barbecue so you can rush home and put up your Halloween decorations, here’s a list of deals to help ease the pain.

Stock changes quickly, so don’t hesitate if you see a deal you like. We’ll update this list sporadically between hot dogs and Liquid Deaths at the cookout.

The post A giant list of Labor Day deals to peruse while you mourn the end of summer appeared first on Popular Science.

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Solo Stove Pi Prime review: Propane-powered pizza oven supreme https://www.popsci.com/gear/solo-stove-pi-prime-pizza-oven-review/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=564674
Solo Stove Pi Prime with pizza coming out
That's a gluten-free pizza believe it or not. Stan Horaczek

Solo Stove's propane-powered pizza oven is durable, portable, and requires just the right amount of culinary skill.

The post Solo Stove Pi Prime review: Propane-powered pizza oven supreme appeared first on Popular Science.

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Solo Stove Pi Prime with pizza coming out
That's a gluten-free pizza believe it or not. Stan Horaczek

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Cooking pizza with a wood fire requires a certain amount of artistry. You have to craft the pie itself, but tending to the fire is a skill all its own. The flame lives and breathes as it burns, which was a key selling point for Solo Stove’s first pizza oven, the Pi. Unfortunately, for culinary dunces like myself, that romantic Neapolitan fantasy often ends with sad, burnt pizzas and a call to Domino’s. That’s where the Solo Stove Pi Prime comes in. 

This 30-pound, propane-powered oven doesn’t require wood fire at all. Push the electric starter, and the built-in burner churns out a consistent flame that burns with relentless consistency and ruthless intensity. The end result: Crispy crusts and charred pepperonis that are delicious enough to justify the extra Tums you’ll need to digest them. No practice necessary.

Stan Horaczek

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Overview

  • The follow-up to the original Solo Stove Pi, the Pi Prime only works with liquid propane like you’d use for your gas grill. Wood fire isn’t an option. 
  • It cooks 12-inch pizzas at temperatures up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit on a removable Corderite pizza stone. 
  • It weighs just 30 pounds and comes with a durable cover, so it’s easy to lug around in a typical car trunk.
  • It costs $349 directly from Solo Stove, but we recommend upgrading to the $469 starter kit, which comes with essential accessories that make cooking much easier.

Pros

  • Electric start gets the fire going instantly, and it heats up in less than 15 minutes
  • It reaches extremely high temperatures. We read over 900 degrees when cranked. 
  • It burns roughly one pound of liquid propane per hour when set to max (which you won’t need), so it costs less than $1 per hour to operate
  • Relatively easy to carry around and fits in a typical car trunk
  • Removable pizza stones and stainless steel construction make cleaning simple
  • Cheaper than the fire-based model
  • Accessories allow for cooking other foods besides pizza
  • Monolithic design makes it easier to transport than other pizza ovens with tall chimneys

Cons

  • Stainless steel outer surface gets very hot and stays that way for more than an hour after cooking
  • No built-in thermometer
  • Culinary dorks will tell you how much they like fire better and how the pizza was “totally amazing” when they went to Napoli (which they’ll pronounce in an annoying way)

Verdict

This is a perfect option for cooks who want to spend more time picking ingredients, stretching dough, and actually making pizza instead of fussing around with sticks in a wood fire. It’s simple, portable, easy to clean, and generally a great addition to any quiver of outdoor cooking equipment.

The Solo Stove Pi Prime build

An internal look at the Pi Prime pizza oven
This is what the interior looks like before the first cook. The flame comes from the burner at the back, and the stones are separated to make them easy to take out and clean. Stan Horaczek

If you’re familiar with Solo Stove’s excellent fire pits, the design here should make sense. It’s a stainless steel cylinder with a hole cut in the side to slide the pizzas in. It weighs roughly 30 pounds, so it’s relatively easy to carry around. It stands just 15 inches high and 20.5 inches across, so even my 14-year-old son had no trouble lugging it around on his own. It does require a liquid propane tank, however, so you’ll need to consider the bulk and weight of that if you’re going to transport the Pi Prime.

It looks and feels like a Solo Stove, which is a very good thing in our book. 

The Solo Stove Pi Prime setup

The Pi Prime can sit on any non-flammable surface (it has feet to elevate the hot parts above whatever surface you choose). For my test, I simply sat it on a wall made of patio stone in my yard. But I would recommend getting the dedicated stand to go with it if you can stomach the $250 price. You constantly need to look into the oven to watch the pizzas as they cook quickly, so you want it at a height that doesn’t require endless bending. 

Once you find a spot, the rest of the setup process requires little more than attaching the propane tank via the integrated hose, installing the Corderite pizza stones (which consist of two pieces to make them easier to maneuver), and pushing the electric ignition to get the fire going. 

The Solo Stove Pi Prime performance

Solo Stove Pi Prime with a pizza cooking inside
The stainless steel surface gets messy during the cooking process, but it’s easy to wipe with a damp cloth. Stan Horaczek

You’ll notice the conspicuous absence of a thermometer on the Pi Prime. Solo Stove sells an instant-read infrared thermometer on Amazon and as part of its pizza oven packages instead of integrating a temperature monitor directly into the device. I thought that would be more of a downside than it turned out to be in practice. I started my test by simply turning the gas to medium/high and letting it rip for about 20 minutes before putting in the first pizza. It worked out just fine. 

The burner is localized to the back of the oven, so it’s obviously much hotter back there than it is up front near the opening. As a result, you need to give the pizza constant attention to ensure each quadrant of the pie gets the correct amount of char. This may sound tedious, but pizzas take roughly 90 seconds to a maximum of three minutes to cook at these temperatures. It gives novice cooks like me a chance to get in there with the turning peel (an accessory I absolutely recommend) and really take part in the pizza-making process. After the first pizza, I was totally hooked on the process. I thought that must be how other famous pizza chefs, like Charles Entertainment Cheese, must feel. It’s a rush.

After about seven pizzas, I did need to turn the power down slightly because the heat was getting too intense in the chamber. If you’re going to be doing extended cooks, the infrared thermometer really is a must. The same is true if you plan on doing any proper baking since that process is far less forgiving. 

Once everything is heated up and running smoothly, each pizza takes about 90 seconds from when it first slides into the oven until it comes out bubbling from a 750-degree chamber. Times vary depending on toppings–adding fresh mozzarella takes longer because of all the moisture. Overall, though, it’s very pleasant and meditative. 

Cleanup

The worst part about cleaning the Solo Stove Pi Prime is waiting for it to cool down after you’re done cooking. Once it’s comfortable to touch, you can remove the stones, which come in two pieces so they’re easy to slide in and out of the chamber. The stones are sensitive to water, so you can’t submerge them. You have to scrape the loose particles off and then gently wash them. They will stain—that’s inevitable. But it doesn’t affect the performance.

The rest of the device is very simple to clean. It’s all stainless steel, so you can wipe it with a damp rag and sauce, cheese, and whatever else comes off very easily. The only part that provides any real challenge is the roof of the cooking chamber, which might get some goop on it if your dough bubbles high enough that the toppings touch it. Even that’s relatively quick to deal with, however.

Solo Stove Pi vs. the Solo Stove Pi Prime

Solo Stove Pi Prime-cooked gluten free pizza with arugula and chicken.
Here’s a gratuitous pizza detail. It’s a gluten-free crust with chicken, mozzarella, and arugula (it’s a vegetable). Stan Horaczek

If you’re considering both of Solo Stove’s pizza offerings, the choice should be relatively simple, depending on your desires. Both ovens are nearly identical in size and weight, but the original Pi costs $399, $50 more than the $349 Pi Prime’s retail price. The original Pi can work with propane, but only if you buy the optional burner accessory that you’ll need to install. That adds another $129 to the total cost. 

I’m only really interested in propane cooking, so the choice is obvious for me. If you want the flexibility, it may be worth spending the extra money upfront so you can satisfy your culinary whims. I don’t have culinary whims. I want pizza. That’s what makes the Pi Prime work for me.

So, who should buy the Solo Stove Pi Prime?

For $349, this is one of the most portable, durable, and versatile gas-powered pizza ovens available at the moment. It weighs more than a similar model from its main competitor, Ooni, but it’s also cheaper, and I like the form factor better overall. While some serious cooks may find the lack of wood fire support limiting, I’m grateful for it. And I think other enthusiastic novices will feel the same way. Pizza ovens aren’t worth the money they cost and the garage space they occupy if they’re too annoying to use. The Pi Prime is so simple, quick, and effective that I used it way more than I would have initially thought. Sure, I did slightly burn off my fingerprints when I carelessly touched the stainless steel outer surface that’s clearly marked “hot,” but I also made and ate a bunch of great pizzas. And that’s what outdoor cooking is really all about. Just stock up on Tums when you add it to your cart. Those pepperonis will get you.

The post Solo Stove Pi Prime review: Propane-powered pizza oven supreme appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Dell monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-dell-monitors/ Thu, 12 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=442221
Sliced up best Dell monitors header image
Stan Horaczek

No matter what kind of work you’re doing, Dell likely has a monitor to fit your setup.

The post The best Dell monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Sliced up best Dell monitors header image
Stan Horaczek

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Best monitor Dell UltraSharp U2720Q Dell UltraSharp U2720Q
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This solid all-around option fits most people’s needs.

Best 4K monitor Dell U4320Q Dell U4320Q
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Make the most of all those pixels with 43 inches of screen.

Best budget Dell S2722QC best budget USB-C monitor Dell S2722QC
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Dell’s S2722QC is performant, comfortable to use, and perfectly priced.

You may know Dell best for its computers, but Dell monitors offer a wide array of options and setups to cover just about any use case you can imagine. From hardcore productivity-oriented panels to gaming displays designed to max out framerates and HDR colors, Dell makes dozens of monitors across several lines, which can make choosing the best one for your specific needs challenging. If you’re looking for a new display and like the brand, we’ve compiled a list of the best Dell monitors for just about any kind of user.

How we chose the best Dell monitors

I have been writing about and reviewing consumer electronics for nearly two decades. That includes years spent evaluating monitors for Popular Photography and other industry publications. During that time, I have also worked as a professional photographer and photo editor, both of which demand precision monitors. 

For this list, we started by evaluating Dell’s full monitor lineup and then narrowing it down based on personal experience, editorial reviews, user feedback, and spec comparisons. We focused on choosing models well-suited for specific uses but that would appeal to a wide range of people.

The best Dell monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

With the jargon and features out of the way, it’s time to dive into our favorite Dell monitors. While we’ve broken up this list into specific categories, there’s absolutely some overlap, so consider all of them before committing to one.

Best overall: Dell UltraSharp U2720Q

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: With a 4K IPS display, the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q is a great all-around monitor suitable for just about any use.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Connectivity: USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Built-in speakers: No
  • Built-in webcam: No

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • IPS display provides excellent color
  • Versatile stand easily flips for vertical use
  • Covers 99 percent of the sRGB colorspace

Cons

  • 60Hz refresh rate

Unless you’re a very serious gamer, the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q offers up just about everything you need in a display. Dell has offered both a 1440p and 4K version of this display, but we prefer the versatility of the high-resolution model. 

The U2720Q relies on in-plane shifting (IPS) tech, which provides punchier and more accurate colors all the way across the screen, including the edges where some of its competition start to show inconsistency. That makes this a solid option for people who do regular photo editing, video creation, or design work. 

Built-in HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C ports make it versatile for connectivity. It offers a pair of USB-A ports for connecting accessories, and it lacks speakers but includes a headphone jack for sound. 

All of that considered, this display performs above its mid-level price point and should feel at home on just about any desk that’s not emblazoned with tons of RGB lighting. 

Best for work: Dell S2722DZ

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: A built-in webcam and microphone array make this a solid stand-alone option for business users.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Connectivity: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Built-in speakers: Yes
  • Built-in webcam: Yes

Pros

  • Built-in webcam and mics are great for video conferencing
  • Solid connectivity and specs for its price
  • Built-in speakers
  • Very affordable considering the feature set

Cons

  • Built-in camera quality is just OK

Laptops make video conferencing simple thanks to their built-in microphones, cameras, and speakers. Setting up a desktop for on-screen interaction, however, often requires connecting a whole gaggle of accessories like webcams and microphones. Dell’s 27-inch 1440p S2722DZ monitor includes a pop-up, five-megapixel webcam that tucks away when not in use. That means you won’t have to worry about covering it with a piece of tape or a camera cover if you’re worried about privacy. 

In addition to the camera, this display has a built-in microphone and even integrated speakers, so it’s ready for Zoom, Teams, or whatever other video conferencing tech you want to throw at it with just one simple cable connection. 

Outside of its video conferencing features, this IPS panel offers some impressive features for its price. It tops out at 2560 x 1440, which is more than respectable in a 27-inch monitor. It offers USB-C, DisplayPort, or HDMI connectivity. And if you don’t need the USB-C port for connecting to a computer, it can fast-charge compatible devices at up to 65W with the right charging cable. If you’re looking for a monitor to sit on a desk at work, this is our favorite monitor with a built-in webcam.

Best 4K: Dell U4320Q

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: If you’re going to spring for tons of pixels, you might as well get a huge 43-inch screen to go with them.

Specs

  • Size: 42.5 inches
  • Resolution: 2
  • Refresh rate: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Connectivity: HDMI (x2), DisplayPort (x2), and USB-C
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Built-in speakers: Yes
  • Built-in webcam: No

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • Enormous screen
  • Excellent connectivity options
  • Two USB-A ports

Cons

  • You’re going to need a bigger desk

Right now, 32-inch monitors still feel like a flex. The Dell U4320Q delivers a whopping 42.5 diagonal inches of screen real estate for those who want to enable maximum multitasking on a single display.

It displays a 4K on-screen image, received via HDMI or DisplayPort. The USB-C port outputs 95W of power, the most we’ve seen from a monitor. It’s enough to charge power-hungry devices like a MacBook Pro

Despite its massive size, it still manages a 103ppi pixel density, which means it can display up to four unique programs at the same time while remaining crisp, clear, and readable. It’s a solid alternative to running multiple monitors. But, because you can daisy chain these massive displays, you could also hook up several of them and make a totally immersive workstation assuming your computer can handle pushing all those pixels. 

Is this overkill for most typical users? Yes. Will that make it even more appealing to other users? Of course. 

Best for gaming: Dell G3223Q

Dell

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Why it made the cut: While some gamers prefer curved ultrawide displays, we’ll take a standard panel with impeccable specs.

Specs

  • Size: 32 inches
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Connectivity: HDMI 2.1 (x2), DisplayPort, USB-C
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Built-in speakers: No
  • Built-in webcam: No

Pros

  • Two HDMI 2.1 ports for next-gen console gaming
  • VESA-certified HDR 600 for intense colors and contrast
  • AMD Free-Sync for smooth gameplay
  • Fast IPS tech for accurate, consistent color
  • Burly top vents to keep the screen cool during long sessions

Cons

  • Expensive

As hardware converges, so do PC and console gamers. Luckily, the Dell 3223Q serves both equally well. This 32-inch display promises true 4K resolution with a maximum 144Hz refresh rate. It relies on AMD Free-Sync Premium Pro to keep the computer’s graphics card in lockstep with the display to prevent jitters and image tearing. 

This display offers DisplayPort connectivity and a USB-C 3.2 Gen1 connection. More importantly, however, it also comes sporting a pair of HDMI 2.1 ports, making it capable of keeping up with the top resolution and frame rates you can find on current-gen gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.

The G3223Q meets the VESA HDR 600 standard, which promises ample contrast and super-rich color reproduction. That color performance also gets a goose from the monitor’s wide color space support. It covers 95 percent of the wide DCI-P3 color gamut, which makes it a capable monitor for creators as well as gamers.

Best for photo editing: Dell UltraSharp PremierColorUP2720Q

Dell

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Why it made the cut: A built-in colorimeter keeps this monitor perfectly calibrated for super-accurate colors. 

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Connectivity: HDMI (x2), DisplayPort, USB-C
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Built-in speakers: No
  • Built-in webcam: No

Pros

  • Built-in colorimeter keeps super-accurate color
  • Four USB-A ports and two USB-C connectors
  • Thunderbolt 3 can chain two monitors together
  • Covers wide color spaces, including 100 percent of Adobe RGB

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Requires semi-regular calibrations to keep colors perfect

If you’re doing serious creative work, then color really matters. And it’s not about getting the most vibrant tones, but rather creating the most accurate hues required for advertising, publishing, and fine art printing. 

The Dell UltraSharp 27-inch PremierColorUP2720Q monitor has a colorimeter that extends out over the bottom of its beautiful 4K panel to take real-time measurements of its output. That allows you to tweak the monitor’s performance and get the most accurate possible colors and illumination. This is definitely overkill for most people but a game-changer for many professionals who need to calibrate their screens regularly.

This monitor covers all of the Adobe RGB color space and 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. If you’re a creative pro, you know that’s a fairly impressive showing. If those terms mean nothing to you, you may not need something at this level. 

The screen naturally prevents glare thanks to an external coating, but it also comes with a magnetic hood that snaps around the screen itself to prevent ambient light from creating annoying reflections or sapping contrast from the on-screen picture. 

Best budget: Dell S2722QC

Brandt Ranj

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Why it made the cut: The Dell S2722QC is a great 4K monitor for a laptop-centric work-from-home setup.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x headphone jack
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Built-in speakers: Yes
  • Built-in webcam: No

Pros

  • 65W of USB Type-C Power Delivery means you can charge your laptop while you use it
  • Sturdy Stand
  • Rotation and height adjustment

Cons

  • Response rate too low for gaming

Dell’s S2722QC makes the dream of a Dell monitor with USB-C connectivity a reality for many more people because of its low cost. It’s possible to pick one up for under $300, but its price typically fluctuates within about $50. The most surprising feature of this monitor is its overall build quality. Dell used plastic, but both the S2722QC’s stand and foot feel sturdy, even when intentionally wobbling the display around. This was true even when rotating the display 90 degrees or adjusting its height. In our tests, both of those ergonomic features made it possible to position the display to avoid neck strain.

This monitor’s USB-C port is the star of the show—our 13-inch MacBook Pro never had a problem connecting or charging. Dell also included a pair of HDMI ports, two USB-A ports, and a headphone jack, which round out the S2722QC’s port selection nicely. Those USB-A ports are especially handy if you want to connect a webcam and external hard drive to your machine when you plug your laptop into this display.

Overall, we were pleased with the Dell S2722QC’s performance during everyday 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 will require 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 just how far Dell has been able to push USB-C monitors in terms of both performance and value.

Things to consider when shopping for the best Dell monitors

Monitor spec sheets come loaded with all kinds of buzzwords and numbers that can be difficult to navigate. When picking your next monitor, it helps to have a foundational knowledge of what to look for. Here are some essential variables to examine when going out to make a purchase.

Screen size

You can expect to find most modern PC models fall somewhere between 24 and 32 inches. That includes a glut of 27-inch options, which I consider a sweet spot at the moment for its mix of performance and value. There are some outliers, of course. Dell offers a 43-inch display which appears on this list, and some of the ultrawide options employ up to a 21:9 aspect ratio, which throws a wrench in the typical measurements. 

As with a TV, grabbing the biggest model you can afford isn’t always the best plan of action. You want to balance screen size with image quality, extra features, and resolution to get the performance you actually want.

Resolution

Right now, you’ll find most Dell displays max out at one of three resolutions: Full HD, or 1080p, represents the bare minimum when it comes to resolution. Quad HD, or 1440p, occupies a large chunk of the market. At the top of the heap, you have good old 4K monitors, or 3840 x 2160p. Some companies do make high-end productivity monitors with 5K and 8K displays, but Dell sticks to the more conventional resolutions. However, it makes some ultrawide displays with unique resolutions to match their distinctive shapes. Dell’s 40-inch Ultrasharp curved gaming display, for instance, offers a 5120 x 2160 resolution to go with its 21:9 aspect ratio.

While 4K is the pinnacle at the moment, you may not actually need to pay for all those pixels unless you have a reason to. Playing PC games in 4K still requires absurd amounts of computing power if you want to keep a reasonable framerate. And, depending on your eyesight, running native 4K on a 24- or even 27-inch monitor could make on-screen elements small enough that they’re tricky to read without scaling. In short, 4K is great but you should make sure it’s practical for you before paying extra cash for all those pixels.

In general, we recommend aiming for a top resolution that pairs well with your monitor’s size and PC’s performance. On a 24-inch monitor and/or an older PC, you’ll probably want to stick with a 1080p display. With a 27-inch monitor and a decent gaming PC, 1440p usually makes the most sense. For content creators with top-of-the-line PCs and 32-inch monitors, you should splurge on a 4K display. These are not hard and fast rules, but they can guide you towards a monitor that will allow your system to look its best without overpaying for visual fidelity you don’t need.

Refresh rate

In order to trick the human eye into seeing seamless movement, monitors (and TVs and any other display) refresh the image on-screen multiple times every second. The faster that image refreshes, the smoother the on-screen action seems. That applies to everything from hectic gaming to simple scrolling. Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your display draws what’s happening on your screen each second.

In basic or productivity-oriented models, expect to find 60Hz-75Hz refresh rates, which look good for basic computing—browsing the web, making spreadsheets, and other everyday tasks. Step up to a gaming-specific monitor, however, and you’ll find rates that go up to 120Hz, 144Hz, 240Hz, and in some cases, even 360Hz.

If you’re just looking for a productivity monitor to keep on a desk in an office, the plain 60Hz refresh rate is probably fine. If you’re going to do any serious gaming or you just want smoother motion on your screen, we recommend a 144Hz monitor. A 240Hz to 360Hz monitor benefits some esports players in specific games but offers diminishing returns for most people.

The maximum refresh rate doesn’t tell the whole story, though. Dell offers several monitors toting Nvidia’s G-Sync technology, which allows the screens to adjust their refresh rate in real-time based on a PC’s graphics card output. Keeping those two working together in harmony eschews ugly side effects like screen tearing or jittering.

Connectivity

When attaching a monitor to your PC, you’ll typically rely on either a DisplayPort or an HDMI cable. The former may be a traditional DisplayPort or a USB-C connection. Each method has its own advantages and may have a surprisingly profound effect on your overall usability. 

HDMI is the simplest and most accessible option, though not all HDMI ports are created equal. Case in point, our current gaming pick, the Dell G3223Q, promises HDMI 2.1 compatibility, making it capable of showing ultra-high-definition gaming at advanced framerates. That’s important if you want to hook it up to something like a PlayStation 5 or an Xbox Series X

DisplayPort provides a more robust connection, but it’s available through most of the line. Some offer a typical DisplayPort connector. It looks like a slightly more complex HDMI jack. Others rely on a USB-C-style connector like the one used to charge Android phones and iPads

There are a few simple advantages that come with using DisplayPort. It supports high-resolution and high frame-rate signals. It’s also extremely adaptable: If you wanted to use an older machine with a DVI or even VGA connection for some reason, you could accomplish that with a cheap adapter. 

USB-C connections often also enable extra features like powered USB hubs that can come in handy if you have a lot of peripherals to plug in every time you attach the monitor to your laptop. This is also the handiest connection for Mac users since it will allow them to be plug-and-play.

Touch capabilities

While you won’t find any touchscreen monitors on this list, Dell does offer a few models that respond to a finger or stylus. That includes this solid 24-inch model, which reclines so it’s simple to draw on. While it’s a very good monitor, adding touch means skimping on other features while adding to the price, so it’s really only a good option if you need a touchscreen.

FAQs

Q: Do Dell monitors have speakers?

Some Dell monitors have built-in speakers, but the list isn’t particularly long. Several of the productivity-oriented models have both webcams and speakers so that they can serve as standalone workstations. If a monitor doesn’t have built-in speakers, it may have an integrated headphones jack.

Q: Are Dell monitors VESA compatible?

Most monitors, Dell or otherwise, support the VESA mounting standard, which ensures that they are compatible with a variety of stands and mounting arms beyond those included in the box. When looking at their specs, you’ll find “VESA” followed by a number in this metric, indicating the distance between the mounting holes on the back of the display. If you already have a monitor arm or mount, make sure to check your top pick(s) to make sure the panel will fit your chosen bracket.

Q: Are Dell monitors compatible with Mac?

Dell monitors will work with Macs, but you may need to do a little adapting depending on which model computer you have. If your Mac has an HDMI port, then the connection is simple. If you have a newer Mac, you’ll likely want to use DisplayPort over USB-C to get the best possible performance out of the screen.

Check out our list of the best monitors for Macbook Pro to learn more.

Q: How much do the best Dell monitors cost?

If you want a high-end display, you should be prepared to fork over more than $1,000 to get something with 4K resolution, dynamic framerates, the latest connectivity features, and more. But that’s not necessary for most people. You can get a very solid Dell monitor for roughly $400 that will serve you well for years.

Q: Do Dell monitors have a USB-C port?

Some Dell monitors have USB-C ports, while others only feature HDMI and DisplayPort inputs. Dell has begun to add USB-C ports to more of its displays, though.

Q: Do all Dell monitors have an IPS screen?

All of the Dell monitors we recommend have an IPS (In-Plane Switching) panel because they offer the best performance.

Q: Are Dell monitors 4K?

Dell offers external monitors in a wide assortment of resolutions, the most common being 1080P (1920 x 1080) to 4K (3840 x 2160). Dell’s UltraWide and QHD displays have resolutions that fall outside of those ranges.

Final thoughts on the best Dell monitors

Peruse the Dell monitor lineup and you’ll find something for just about every possible use. Our best overall pick, the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q, offers a great mix of resolution, refresh rate, and overall image quality that makes it suitable for just about any user. Go beyond that, however, and you’ll find the best Dell monitors are great options for gaming, productivity, and creative work. 

Why trust us

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

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

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The best lava lamps of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-lava-lamps/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=435004
14.5-inch lava lamp
Stan Horaczek

Let those magical globs provide endless entertainment. 

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14.5-inch lava lamp
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall 14.5-inch lava lamp Lava Colormax lamp
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The Lava Colormax feels like an old-school lava lamp unearthed from the ’60s.

Best tall A missile-shaped lava lamp Jambo 16-inch motion lamp
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The Jambo 16-inch motion lamp is a retro space-age object d’art.

Best lava-lamp alternative JBL Pulse 5 Bluetooth speaker pulsing blue in a getaway cabin JBL Pulse 5 Bluetooth speaker
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Trippy visuals are all well and good, but what’s a lava lamp without some psychedelic music? This portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker from JBL brings both together.

Our smartphones currently fill the role that humble lava lamps did back in the 1960s with hypnotic blobs of wax. People love to stare at glowing objects. While a solid half-century has passed since the lava lamp’s heyday, these iconic sources of illumination have maintained a level of kitsch that appeals to everyone from boomers who saw Pink Floyd back in ’72 to Zennials who just found the Classic Rock section of Spotify and won’t shut up about it. The best lava lamps are largely a matter of taste, but the selections on this list have everything you need to turn on and zone out for a few hours. 

How does a lava lamp work?

Look at a working lava lamp, and you’re witnessing an elegant example of a scientific concept called a convection current. The glass container holds a series of wax blobs suspended in a liquid like water or sometimes mineral oil. The wax and oil/water are immiscible, which means they won’t mix, similar to how oil and vinegar remain separated in a salad dressing bottle.

A simple light bulb sits below the glass enclosure and heats up the contents, but it does so unevenly. Wax sitting on the warm bottom of the jar heats up and becomes less dense, which causes it to travel to the top of the lamp. It cools down as it gets farther from the heat source, which causes it to contract and sink back down to the bottom—where it starts the process all over again. So, if someone calls your lava lamp “stoner decor,” casually inform them that it’s simply a shrine to the elegance of fluid dynamics.

How we picked the best lava lamps

We’re not going to pretend we’re lava lamp experts, but we did go out of our way actually to spend some time staring deeply into these colorful tubes. We chose models that were reliable, attractive, and, most importantly, affordable. In addition to our hands-on experience, we considered user impressions and spec comparisons to pick the best possible models. 

The best lava lamps: Reviews & recommendations

With the specs out of the way, it’s time to dive into our specific picks. As you’ll see, there’s not a ton of variety out there in terms of form factor and price ranges. You can find some extra features floating around if you want them, but again, we recommend you get something simple that you can appreciate for a while without getting bummed if it breaks. 

Best overall: Lava Colormax lamp

Stan Horaczek

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Why it made the cut: It’s truly a classic lava lamp that won’t overwhelm your room with psychedelic nostalgia.

Specs 

  • Height: 14.5 inches
  • Wax color: White
  • Liquid color: Clear
  • Color source: Painted glass

Pros

  • Classic tri-color design
  • Sturdy base
  • Easy-to-change 25-watt bulb

Cons 

  • Design may be “a bit much” for some people

The Lava Colormax really gives you the classic lava lamp experience. The base, cap, and glass all sport a tri-colored design that would feel right at home in a retro-styled room or maybe the back of a conversion van with a dragon painted on the side of it. At 14.5-inches tall, it’s not overwhelmingly huge, and the 25-watt bulb makes it glow without bathing much of your room in light. I put it in the corner of our living room during our testing and found it less gaudy than I expected. It takes a solid two hours to really get the lava moving around inside the glass container, but that’s standard across pretty much every model we’ve tried. 

Because it gets its tint from paint on the outside of the glass, the colors look bright and vibrant. If you want something you can stare at after altering your mind, this will do the trick with aplomb.

Best tall: Jambo 16-inch motion lamp

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Make sure you get the big one if you want to make sure everyone who enters your house says, “Hey, is that a lava lamp?” 

Specs 

  • Height: 16-inches
  • Wax color: Green
  • Liquid color: Blue and yellow
  • Color source: Dye

Pros

  • Stands out in a room
  • Silver base has a vintage look
  • Unique color combination

Cons 

  • Colors may not be as vibrant as painted models

It looks a bit like a trippy missile, but this 16-inch lamp’s size helps it make a statement in a room. Green wax floats around in blue-ish liquid, which gives it a very sci-fi vibe. We know it’s wax in there but if you wanted to pretend it’s some kind of alien ooze, you could likely do so while still moderately sober. 

The wax and liquid inside the chamber contain the dye that gives the lamp its color, so you don’t have to worry about paint flaking off of the exterior. The silver base lets the actual lava part of the lamp take center stage without visually competing. It’s big and relatively cheap, so it’s hard to go wrong here.

Best unique: Edier 16.5-inch Lava Lamp with Bluetooth speaker

Edier

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Why it made the cut: One device provides your trippy music and visuals thanks to a built-in speaker and a Bluetooth connection.

Specs 

  • Height: 16.5 inches
  • Wax color: Orange
  • Liquid color: Purple
  • Color source: Dye

Pros

  • Built-in Bluetooth speaker is good for kids
  • Unique shape shirks the typical missile-shaped design
  • Pleasant color combination

Cons 

  • Speaker quality is as you’d expect (bad)

For just a little more money than you’d spend on a typical lava lamp, you can get this model with a Bluetooth speaker built directly into its base. Despite the 16.5-inch height, the speaker itself is relatively small, so manage your expectations when it comes to sound quality and volume. It has a basic Bluetooth connection that can be a bit finicky, but it’s perfectly capable of jamming out some Hendrix tunes if you don’t have anything more robust. 

The lava aspect of the lamp involves orange globs floating in purple goo, which provides a nice contrast. Despite a rather large light bulb, it’s not overly bright, giving off more of an ’80s feel than a ’60s vibe. You can turn on the light or the music by themselves or keep them both on at the same time. Pairing the Bluetooth is a little clunky since there’s only one switch onboard, rather than buttons or any kind of screen, but it’s hard to demand more for under $50 (plenty of the best budget Bluetooth speakers cost that, or more, sans trippy visuals).

Best glass: Schylling Tricolor White and Clear 14.5-Inch Lava Lamp with Aluminum Base and Cap

Schylling

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Why it made the cut: Painted glass and a black base make this unique compared to its competition. 

Specs 

  • Height: 14.5 inches
  • Wax color: White
  • Liquid color: Clear
  • Color source: Painted glass

Pros

  • Perfect if you want a lava lamp, but you aren’t a hippy
  • Black base blends into the decor when it’s not turned on
  • Vibrant red offset by white

Cons 

  • Paint may rub off over time

Red, white, and clear bands adorn the outside of this 14.5-inch lava lamp. It sits on a black base, which makes the colors pop more than they would against a more colorful top and bottom. At 14.5 inches, it’s on the shorter side, which allows it to heat up relatively quickly, though that still means you’ll be waiting a couple of hours for it to reach full glob ballet mode. 

It offers a decidedly volcanic aesthetic that doesn’t seem as dated as some other models that throw off serious retro vibes. This is a solid choice for kids who don’t want something they will get sick of in a few weeks. It also has a very classic lava lamp shape despite its unique colors.

Best budget: Schylling Lamp Lava 2179 14.5-Inch

Schylling

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Why it made the cut: Your kid wants a lava lamp, and you want one that won’t catch on fire but also doesn’t cost very much. 

Specs 

  • Height: 14.5 inches
  • Wax color: White
  • Liquid color: Clear
  • Color source: Painted glass

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Colorful

Cons 

  • Simple in-line power switch

Maybe you want a white elephant gift, but you’re on a budget. Maybe your nephew once mentioned that he liked a Doors song, and that’s all the information you have about him. There are plenty of reasons to want a cheap lava lamp, and this 14.5-inch model fits the bill. 

It has a painted glass container that matches its metallic base and cap. It’s not too big and heats up relatively quickly (two hours or so) despite its tiny bulb. Did we mention that it’s cheap?

Best lava-lamp alternative: JBL Pulse 5 Bluetooth speaker

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: When the vibe is heating up, but you don’t want to wait for the light show to warm up, the JBL Pulse 5’s 360-degree app-controlled ambiance is available at the press of a button.

Specs 

  • Height: 8.5 inches
  • Wax color: N/A
  • Liquid color: N/A
  • Color source: Customizable LED lights

Pros

  • Durability (IP67 dustproof and waterproof enclosure)
  • 12-hour battery life (USB-C charging)
  • Expanded frequency response thanks to an expanded acoustic chamber/passive radiator for the woofer and an added tweeter
  • Bluetooth 5.3 for improved signal stability
  • Multiple speakers can be paired for bigger, brighter, bolder sights & sounds

Cons 

  • Fingerprints and smudges are very visible on the exterior, so make sure to use the integrated rope strap
  • While this speaker offers an alluringly lysergic light show, it doesn’t replicate the viscous visuals of a true lava lamp


The history of JBL stretches all the way back to the 1920s, and the company was releasing best-selling hi-fi loudspeakers in the late 1960s/early 1970s—so it knows a thing or two about reproducing trippy sounds. With the Pulse line of portable party speakers, JBL adds trippy visuals to the equation.

The translucent obelisk contains a 360-degree, nearly top-to-bottom surface backed by 140 LEDs—a decorative display only broken up by a logo on one side and a strip of buttons/ports on the opposite side. In addition, a ring-shaped halo projects downward onto the surface the speaker sits on. With the JBL Portable app, various vibrant themes can be selected/adjusted to visualize any style/speed of music with kaleidoscopic accompaniment.

Speaking of sonics, new design elements in this fifth iteration push even more air out from the upfiring 30W woofer, while a newly added 10W tweeter extends crisp treble to help balance the mid-lows. The Pulse 5 outputs a surprising bass volume for a compact Bluetooth party speaker, while maintaining clarity.

As a portable party speaker that can pulse to your playlist’s pace, JBL’s latest aurally and visually bright Bluetooth speaker is worth its $249 price tag. The cycling colors and elevating audio add momentum to the environment that a traditional lava lamp never can. At the same time, part of the appeal of a lava lamp is watching the groovy flow of all that mellow magma—an experience the JBL Pulse 5 can’t recreate. Of course, if you drop a lava lamp, you’ll be cleaning up a spill, while you can toss the IP67 Pulse 5 into a pool, and it will keep kicking like the best waterproof speakers.

Things to consider before buying one of the best lava lamps

We’ll be blunt: Lava lamps aren’t the most sophisticated ambient lighting you can add to your space. For that, you want a useful desk lamp or perhaps the best LED strips to give your room that Twitch streamer vibe. Lava lamps are largely a novelty, and you should keep that in mind when comparison shopping. There are a few things to consider before you decide on the best lava lamp for you, however. 

Height

Lava lamps typically stand between 12 inches and 2 feet tall. Obviously, you want something that fits in your space, but you’ll also want to consider how patient you are when you’re waiting for those globs to start their dance. Larger lamps contain more liquid, which requires more heat to get things moving. 

Most of the time, you’ll find that the height refers to the total height, so the actual glass area (which companies typically refer to as the “globe”) will be shorter than that. 

Color

The phrase “lava lamp” typically evokes an eclectic, psychedelic color pallet akin to what you’d find at that store in the mall that always smells like patchouli. That’s usually correct, but it’s not always the case. Some lava lamps embellish their look even more by adding glitter and other fun pollutants into the mixture to liven up the light show. Others tone it down a bit and give off more of an ’80s Art Deco vibe. None of them are particularly subtle, though, so if you’re looking for something to complement your Kanye-style all-white living quarters, maybe it’s time to get a regular lamp.

It’s worth paying attention to how the companies add the color to the lamp. Some add dye directly to the wax and liquid, while others use neutral substances inside and paint the outside of the container. Those painted on the outside may lose a bit of their luster after regular cleanings, but they’ll look more vivid in the meantime. 

Extra features

Again, these are novelties, so some models will pull out all the stops to keep you entertained and set themselves apart from a sea of similar products. Some play music or even rotate. Generally speaking, we recommend something simple because you might regret spending the extra cash on getting the fancier lava lamp once the novelty wears off.

FAQs

Q: How much does a lava lamp cost?

If you’re paying more than $50 for a lava lamp, you’re probably doing it wrong. You’re paying for a tube of goo and wax with a very cheap light bulb underneath it. These are simple, fun devices, and you shouldn’t go all out unless you’re a real connoisseur. You can also make one on your own if you want to be super cheap about it. 

Q: What is the safest lava lamp?

The safest lava lamp is the one you put in place away from potential accidents and then never touch. Most lava lamps are simply light sockets hooked up to a basic cord. They generate heat out of necessity. Keep them away from flammable materials, don’t touch them when they’re on, and keep them away from kids who might want to taste the forbidden lava inside. 

Q: Can you leave a lava lamp on all the time?

Nope. You should turn your lava lamp off when you’re not home or when you go to sleep. If you’re not actively gazing into it or trying to set a real mood, you should turn it off then, too, because you’re just burning electricity for no reason.

Final thoughts on the best lava lamps

While lava lamps may not be the classiest lighting solution to spruce up your home, they’re undeniably fun. When people come over, they’ll say, “Oh, cool, is that a lava lamp? I haven’t seen one of those in forever!” While you can get a ton of different styles, we recommend going with something classic and fun. Just don’t touch it once it’s on. 

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 lava lamps of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Upgrade your home theater with Amazon deals on LG OLED TVs, projectors, and speakers https://www.popsci.com/gear/lg-home-theater-amazon-deals/ Mon, 14 Aug 2023 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=562801
LG OLED evo TVs arranged in a diagonal pattern for their amazon sale
Stan Horaczek

Get an LG OLED evo TV or a high-end projector at a solid discount before binge-watching season begins.

The post Upgrade your home theater with Amazon deals on LG OLED TVs, projectors, and speakers appeared first on Popular Science.

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LG OLED evo TVs arranged in a diagonal pattern for their amazon sale
Stan Horaczek

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It’s summer, and you’re probably spending tons of time outside right now. And that’s great. But cold weather will be here before you know it, and it’ll be time to curl up in front of the TV to consume some content. Be ready when that time comes, thanks to Amazon’s current sale on LG OLED TVs, projectors, and sound systems. These aren’t the basic models you find on sale during Black Friday. This is the good stuff. Here’s what Amazon has for cheap at the moment:

LG C3 Series 65-Inch Class OLED evo 4K Processor Smart Flat Screen TV $1,995 (was $2,599)

Simply put, this is one of the best TVs you can buy at the moment. You don’t need a qualifier. It’s literally about as good as you can get. The C-series OLEDs have been fantastic for several years now, and the C3 is no exception. You get 4K resolution and a native 120Hz refresh rate. Plus, LG’s integrated brightness boosting technology makes its evo panels up to 70 percent brighter than a typical OLED. It supports the most popular technologies for variable refresh rate, works with the most popular flavors of HDR, and comes toting a powerful image processor that can upscale non-4K footage to make it look great. Yes, there are much cheaper TVs, but this is the lowest price we’ve seen on the best.

More LG TV deals

LG S75Q 3.1.2ch Soundbar $296 (was $599)

A soundbar with a subwoofer represents one of the simplest possible ways to upgrade your TV’s audio. This kit comes with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility so it offers impressive surround performance right out of the box. It offers eARC support and 4K pass-through via HDMI, so you can set it up quickly and easily, then control everything with one remote. This is the lowest price we have seen on this system, which retails for twice as much.

LG projector deals

The post Upgrade your home theater with Amazon deals on LG OLED TVs, projectors, and speakers appeared first on Popular Science.

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Get Apple’s new 15-inch M2 MacBook Air for cheap at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/macbook-air-back-to-school-amazon-deal/ Mon, 07 Aug 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=561687
MacBook Air 15-inch repeated in a pattern.
Stan Horaczek

The 15-inch MacBook Air is $100 off right now even though it's only a few months old. Get one for back-to-school.

The post Get Apple’s new 15-inch M2 MacBook Air for cheap at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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MacBook Air 15-inch repeated in a pattern.
Stan Horaczek

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Ever since Apple switched over to its own brand M-series silicon chips, it has been extremely easy to recommend the MacBook Air as the best laptop for most people. It’s an all-around fantastic machine, but the 13-inch screen feels a bit limiting for some users. This year, Apple released a 15-inch version of the MacBook Air, and it’s already experiencing a $100 discount at Amazon. This is a fantastic back-to-school computer, so jump on this if you or your child is headed off to college or other school this year.

Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M2 $1,199 (Was $1,299)

Apple

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This is the base model of the 15-inch MBP. It comes back with Apple’s M2 chip, as well as 8GB unified memory. 8GB may not sound like much for the equivalent of RAM, but Apple’s systems use shared memory differently. Because it’s integrated completely into the system, it runs much faster than the number would suggest. I regularly edit 4K video on my 16-inch MacBook Pro with an M1 Pro processor and just 16GB shared memory.

The 15-inch MacBook Air comes with an HD webcam, Touch ID for easy log-ins, and a full-sized keyboard. Despite all of that, it weighs just 3.3 pounds and stands less than a half-inch thick. The only real downside is the 256GB built-in storage, but that’s easily remedied with an external drive that you can plug into one of three USB-C ports.

More Apple laptop deals

The post Get Apple’s new 15-inch M2 MacBook Air for cheap at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best pizza ovens in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-pizza-oven/ Fri, 21 May 2021 16:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=365249
A closer look inside the Gozney Dome pizza oven
Stan Horaczek

We slice through the competition to find you the best pizza makers to get the most out of your dough.

The post The best pizza ovens in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A closer look inside the Gozney Dome pizza oven
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Stainless steel pizza oven. Ooni Karu 12
SEE IT

This pizza oven can be brought to any outdoor event and uses both wood and charcoal.

Best large A large oven all metal and silver color, with a long chimney-shaped tube and wide from below to create space for baking that will be done in it. ALFA 4 Pizze Outdoor Stainless Steel Oven
SEE IT

This pizza oven can cook up to four pizzas at once. It also has built-in lateral shelves and a peel holder.

Best countertop A copper and oven for silver pizza and rectangular shape and inside it with a grill in which there is a pizza. Professional Series Pizza Oven Baker
SEE IT

This fits easily on your countertop and can handle pizzas up to 12 inches.

A dedicated pizza oven can really revolutionize your pizza game. Takeout and delivery ’za is expensive. Frozen slices are tragic. While investing in a pizza maker sounds like an excessive “solution,” it’s actually essential if you want to upgrade meals instantly while saving money in the long run. Say bye-bye to soggy bottoms and freezer burn. Plus, baking pizza is fun! On a night at home, making a pizza together as a family is a great boredom buster, bonding activity, and time filler. And when you’re done, you have a delish meal to share that you all made together (which automatically makes it taste better). The best pizza oven is a small kitchen appliance worth adding to your cooking arsenal ASAP.

How we chose the best pizza ovens

There’s nothing like a piping-hot slice with all your favorite toppings. And there’s really nothing like making one of those picture-perfect pies all by yourself. Whether you like deep dish, thin crust, or a classic New York slice, it’s possible to find the best pizza oven for you once you know what you’re looking for. The trick is to know your budget and then go from there. Pizza makers can range anywhere from 40 bucks to thousands of smackeroos, so narrow down your options by price, then decide what features are non-negotiable: Do you want something that rotates on its own, so you don’t have to stand sentry and turn the pie every few minutes? Would you like to be able to pop the machine in the dishwasher when you’re done? Are you looking for something that can make multiple pies at once to satisfy both the pineapple-and-ham lover and the pepperoni-only lover in your group? The world of cooking appliances is vast and potentially overwhelming, so this list of the best pizza ovens is where to start. 

The best pizza ovens: Reviews & Recommendations

There are lots of options on this list because pizza comes in lots of different forms. Sure, some smart ovens have a pizza option, but there’s nothing quite like a dedicated device that’s finely tuned for its pizza purpose. Be sure to check out all of the models before deciding to make sure you get the model that works best for you.

Best overall: Ooni Karu 12

Ooni

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Specs

  • Temperature range: Up to 900 degrees F
  • Fuel: Wood, charcoal, or gas (with the optional adapter, which we recommend)
  • Price: $299

Pros

  • Heats up in just 15 minutes
  • High maximum temperature
  • Relatively compact for its level of sophistication
  • Maintains heat nicely
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Requires an optional adapter for gas power

Use the Ooni Karu 12 to level up your homemade pizza game. It can reach up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit and is ready to use within 15 minutes. To get it going, you can pick your preference between wood or charcoal. The specially designed fuel tray maximizes airflow to bolster the flames while leaving it with no excess ash to clean out after cooking. Weighing in at just over 26 pounds, you can bring this oven anywhere, from your backyard to a park BBQ. If you want to use the oven for other food—like steak, fish, or vegetables—Ooni has add-ons and other cast iron cookware to make the Ooni Karu 12 super multifunctional.

This portable, patio-sized artisan pizza oven is ready to cook with charcoal or wood right out of the box. The optional gas adapter allows it to cook with liquid propane, which is even easier than the other methods. The double-layer ceiling, ceramic pizza stone, and micro-adjust flame controls achieve heating dynamics like a wood-fired brick oven, perfect if you want to bake bread, roast meats, or just make a perfect artisan pie. And a built-in temperature gauge monitors your slices. 

Best upgrade: Gozney Dome

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Temperature range: Up to 950 degrees F
  • Fuel: Wood, charcoal, or gas
  • Price: $1,999 and up

Pros

  • Beautiful design
  • Maximum temp goes over 900 degrees
  • Sturdy cart and side tables
  • Easy electric start
  • Simple temperature control
  • Steam injector prevents dry bread

Cons

  • Requires some trial and error
  • Expensive

At first glance, you know this is a pizza oven. The elegant dome shape and visible flame licking the insides of the cooking chamber give it away right away. Our test unit sits on the optional stand, which holds the oven at the ideal working height. It also adds a pair of handy side tables for basic prep and setting down tools. 

The oven itself operates on either gas or traditional wood fire. To cook in gas mode, this Dome works a lot like a propane grill. You simply turn on the gas, press the electric starter, and watch the fire woosh across the top of the chamber. The flame resides on one side of the oven, so you can control cook times by adjusting the pizza’s proximity to it. It really closely emulates the process of cooking with a wood fire. In gas mode, the oven reached more than 930 degrees Fahrenheit in under 20 minutes. It didn’t require any tending or finesse. It’s a wonderfully simple process. 

The wood cooking process is relatively similar. You build your fire on the other side of the chamber. An air intake below the wood area allows a built-in fan to blow a consistent and controllable breeze across the wood to get it lit and keep it glowing. It offers just enough help to make the process accessible without taking out the artistry of it. 

Cooking on this grill requires some practice. You’ll need to figure out just how high you want your temperature, where to put the pie when you first slide it into the cooking chamber, and how to move it so the whole thing cooks evenly. It took us three or four test pies before we really dialed in our settings for a classic Neapolitan pie. But once we had it figured out, it was easy to replicate.

This is obviously a splurge when it comes to outdoor cooking, but the Dome also offers commercial-grade construction, so it will perform reliably for years to come. That means fewer wasted ingredients and less frequent maintenance. 

Most versatile: Ninja Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

  • Temperature range: 105-700 degrees F
  • Fuel: Electricity
  • Price: $399

Pros

  • Extremely easy to use
  • Also great for a variety of other cooking situations
  • Compact
  • Woodfire compartment allows for adding smoke taste
  • Doesn’t require propane or wood fuel

Cons

  • 700-degree max temp isn’t as hot as other options
  • Cooking area just big enough for one pizza

We love pizza as much as the next person, but you must eat something else occasionally. Ninja’s compact outdoor oven is ready to handle just about anything you’d ever want to scarf down. The oven itself is about the size of a microwave. It draws its power from electricity, so you simply plug it in, put in the proper accessories, racks, or pizza stone, set the temperature, and let it preheat. It’s a very simple hands-off process, unlike the other more complex models on this list. 

The oven offers five different pizza settings: thin crust, pan, New York, Neapolitan, and even frozen. We tried the Neapolitan and New York modes, which cook at very high temperatures. It took about 15 minutes to get to its max temp, then we slide in the pizza and closed the door. It requires almost no real learning curve, and you don’t need to rotate or babysit it. Once you open the door, you’re left with a very well-cooked pizza. We were extremely surprised at how well it cooked without our attention. 

The cooking chamber isn’t massive. Our 12-inch (roughly) pizza just barely fit and took a little nudging to make sure it wasn’t oozing over the sizes. But, with super-quick cook times, you can go through several pies in a hurry. Afterward, cleanup is relatively simple since the pizza stone comes out of the oven for simple washing. The rest of the oven chamber didn’t get dirty, so it was a quick job.

Once you’re done making pizza, you have many different cooking functions at your disposal. It can roast, broil, bake, dehydrate, and more. It can even smoke. It easily keeps a 225- to 250-degree temperature, and the pellet box on the side of the oven allows it to easily imbue smoke flavor onto whatever you’re cooking (a feature familiar to grillmasters). 

This is an all-around great cooker for people who want occasional pizzas without taking up tons of space with a single-use device. 

Best for beginners: Nexgrill Ora

Brandt Ranj

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Specs

  • Temperature range: Up to 800 degrees F
  • Fuel: Electricity
  • Price: $299

Pros

  • Easy setup
  • Rotation knob
  • Compact design

Cons

  • No thermometer

Cooking homemade pizza in a 900 degree Fahrenheit oven can feel very intimidating but Nexigrill’s Ora has a feature that makes it way easier to get great results on your first try. A knob on the right side lets you rotate the oven’s central pizza stone, turning your pizza to achieve even cooking. Other pizza ovens require you to turn your pizza manually, which can feel stressful and intimidating. Pizza ovens are pretty unforgiving because of their extreme heat; 10 seconds can be the difference between a perfectly cooked pizza and a charred mess.

Setting up Nexgrill’s Ora was surprisingly easy. The oven itself comes fully assembled; all we had to do was insert the five pieces of its stone inside. It felt like a giant, easy-to-complete puzzle. With the pizza stones fully in place, it was time to connect the oven to a propane tank and start cooking. The Ora is a gas-powered pizza oven, which is friendly to new pizzaiolos as you’ll get a consistent heat source without worrying about feeding wood chips or logs into a hopper. That said, a chamber on top of the Ora can be filled with wood, which will burn and impart a wood-fired smokey flavor to your pies.

Turning on the Ora was as simple as twisting its power knob to the on position (there’s a picture of a flame, you can’t miss it) and waiting a few seconds for the fire to start. The Ora’s flame is concentrated toward the back of the oven, so rotating your pie is necessary. After waiting about 10 minutes for it to heat up—our only complaint is that the Ora doesn’t have a built-in thermometer so you can check its temperature—it was time to cook.

Getting pizzas into and out of the oven worked the same way as with other ovens we’ve tested: flour your dough on a peel, top it lightly, launch it into an oven, then take it out after about 90 to 120 seconds. The difference was that we got a more even cook every time using the Ora’s rotation knob. The knob offers just enough resistance that you won’t send the pie spinning like a top while still being easy to turn. In our experience, the result was better-looking (and better-tasting) pizza every time. When we were done cooking, all we had to do was turn the Ora’s power knob to the off position; the flames stopped, and we could wait for the oven to cool down before putting it away.

Cooking homemade pizza in an outdoor oven has become a lot more popular in the last few years, and if you’re looking for a good entry point into the hobby, we highly recommend Nexgrill’s Ora.

Best large: ALFA 4 Pizze Outdoor Stainless Steel Wood-Fired Oven

ALFA

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Specs

  • Temperature range: Up to 950 degrees F
  • Fuel: Wood
  • Price: $4,499

Pros

  • Commercial grade
  • Will last forever
  • Heats up quickly
  • Lots of space for cooking
  • Excellent wood-fired flavor

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Requires technique

You get what you pay for. This wood-fueled cooker is a looker and super-efficient thanks to a stainless steel dome. You’ll achieve 840 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes to achieve that truly wood-fired char. Additionally, this backyard pizza oven got bonus features, including shelves and utensil holders and ceramic-fiber insulation (which maintains warmth and reduces wood consumption).

Best countertop: Professional Series Pizza Oven Baker

Continental Electric

SEE IT

Specs

  • Temperature range: Up to 900 degrees F
  • Fuel: Electricity
  • Price: $75

Pros

  • Fits on a countertop
  • Stainless design is easy to clean
  • Simple to learn
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer much in the way of control over the cook

This durable, stainless steel countertop pizza oven preheats in minutes, features a cool-touch handle, and cleans up quickly. Able to cook a 9-inch pizza in six minutes thanks to top and bottom heating elements, it’s perfect for the busy undergrad or grad or grown-up—basically anyone who wants something relatively affordable and simple to operate. And a 30-minute timer reminds you that food is ready. Families and groups with different tastes will definitely benefit from the adjustable heat setting. 

Things to consider when picking the best backyard pizza ovens

If you’re looking for a small pizza oven for your backyard or patio, size is as important as quality. If you don’t have much space to spare, look for something highly regarded but won’t take up a huge amount of room. (Note that just because a pizza oven is small doesn’t mean it will be lightweight, so plan to use a strong, stable surface—one where you wouldn’t mind leaving the oven for a while.) The best small oven can be used for more than just ’za—you can cook fish, veggies, and other stuff al fresco when the weather’s right. 

If you’ve got room—and dough!—to spare in your outdoor space, go big and go home! A massive restaurant-style backyard pizza oven won’t just turn out stellar pies; it’ll also give you serious bragging rights (these are very, very cool looking). In general, a larger oven will heat up to hotter temps and feature extras like a wooden handle (for easy, burn-free opening and closing), as well as a stainless steel dome.

How to pick the best electric pizza oven for your needs

There are pros and cons to an electric pizza oven. Though they might not turn out the restaurant-quality ’za of a big beautiful brick or stainless-steel oven, they do the job without taking up a huge amount of room. Plus, they’re safe to use inside. And just because they’re not as fancy as, say, a massive outdoor gas option, lots of newer options come with the bells and whistles of their bricky brethren, like quick preheating times, easy cleanup, and a built-in timer. Nestle this baby between the toaster oven and coffee maker, and you’re good to go.

Want to cook pizza like a pro but don’t know how? Pick a simple oven!

Sure, if you’re a more confident dough designer, you could splurge on something complicated, like a backyard pizza oven or professional-grade model with loads of extras. But if you’re just a hungry person with limited time and/or space, or maybe someone intimidated by overly customizable kitchen appliances, search for something small and easy to use. A simple oven will rack up many enjoyable meals.

Got more dough to cook than to spend? No worries!

Two words: Betty. Crocker. The fictional best mom in the world has been around since 1921, and though she’s known for her cookies, her pizza oven is a top choice among homemade pizza aficionados. In addition to being a legacy brand, the Betty Crocker pizza oven is versatile and a total bargain. Plus, it’s lightweight and travel-friendly, ideal if you can’t imagine traveling without your very own pizza maker.

FAQs

Q: How do you clean the inside of a pizza oven?

Every model is different, so read the instructions that come with yours to avoid any mishaps. In general, if you have a classic stainless steel or wood-fired oven, invest in a scraper brush to remove food and ash. You can also use a damp, hot rag to remove peskier residue. Some smaller electric models are dishwasher-safe (when securely removed from all electrical sources, of course). Again, when in doubt, read the user manual.

Q: How long do you cook pizza in a pizza oven?

The answer depends on what kind of pizza oven you’re using, the temp you’re cooking at, and how you like your ’za. After that, it’s a bit of trial and error and requires total concentration and supervision, at least in the beginning, and plenty of rotation for an even cook. Lower temps could mean a pizza takes 20 minutes to cook; higher temps could mean piping-fresh dough in a few minutes. Again, read your user’s manual, follow directions, and don’t be afraid to trust your instincts. If you feel your pizza is ready, pull it out and check!

Q: What is the best pizza oven for home use?

The answer depends on your home type, how seriously you take your pizza-making, and what kind of budget you’re working with. If you’re short on space and want to keep things simple, a standard countertop electric pizza oven will get the job done and pinch-hit on other foods like eggs and baked goods, saving you money and space. If you fashion yourself a pizza aficionado and/or aspiring chef—and you’ve got the outside space to spare—you can go for a high-end, professional-quality cooker. The good news is that there are loads of options in between for those Goldilocks-like pizza makers out there. 

Related: You need somewhere to enjoy that slice, so grab the best patio furniture.

Final thoughts on choosing the best pizza ovens for your needs

The best pizza oven for you and your family could be a massive backyard pizza oven, a countertop pizza oven, or even one of your favorite small kitchen appliances—like the Betty Crocker pizza oven, which doubles as a miracle worker on all sorts of foods. The biggest things to consider before you invest are your budget, space, and particular needs and wants from your new kitchen gadget. What’s right for you may not be right for someone else, so figure out how much you want to spend, then go looking for the right pizza oven—it’s definitely out there. Buon appetito!

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 pizza ovens in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Get a 4-pack of Apple AirTags for their lowest price ever at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-airtag-amazon-summer-deal/ Tue, 01 Aug 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=560333
Apple AirTag on keys
Apple AirTag has built-in anti-stalking tech. Stan Horaczek

Get four Apple AirTags for $85 and (hopefully) never lose track of your bag, keys, or other important items ever again.

The post Get a 4-pack of Apple AirTags for their lowest price ever at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Apple AirTag on keys
Apple AirTag has built-in anti-stalking tech. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

I was slightly skeptical of Apple’s AirTags object trackers when they first debuted. Since then, however, I have added them to several of my important belongings. I have one on my keys, one for my daily carry bag, two in my most-used camera bags, and one in my car. A four-pack will typically cost you $99 at Amazon, but act now and you can get it for just $85. That’s big savings compared to the $28 they cost when purchased individually.

Apple AirTags [4-pack] $85 (Was $99)

Unlike other object-tracking devices, the AirTag doesn’t rely on GPS. Instead, it uses a low-power Bluetooth connection to ping off iPhones and locate itself via Apple’s FindMy network. Once you’ve synced the AirTag up with your iPhone, you can ask Siri to help you find it. The AirTag can either play a noise to help you hunt it down or literally guide you to within one foot of the AirTag like a high-tech game of hotter/colder.

These are super useful for everything from keeping tabs on your wallet to ensuring you know where your luggage is when you go on a trip.

Essential AirTag accessory deals we’re tracking

You can just chuck an AirTag into a bag, but there are also more elegant solutions for keeping tabs on your stuff. Here are some essential AirTag accessories to consider, most of which are also on sale.

The post Get a 4-pack of Apple AirTags for their lowest price ever at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best hydroelectric generators for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hydroelectric-generators/ Sat, 29 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=559517
Waterlilly turbine
Waterlily

These surprisingly powerful devices can turn the power of running water into current.

The post The best hydroelectric generators for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Waterlilly turbine
Waterlily

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best portable waterlily turbine WaterLily Turbine
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This model is small enough to carry with you into the wild.

Best overall Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine
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This reliable model can power a small home all on its own.

Best budget Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator Water 12V DC 10W Micro Hydro Water Charging Tool Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator
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Install it on your pipes and get up to 10W of power.

Hydroelectric generators produce electricity by harnessing the force of running water. This may seem like a novelty or impractical for home use, but you’d be surprised. While hydropower—or the use of the kinetic energy of running water to generate power—has been in use since ancient times, it is most associated these days with massive industrial damming projects, like the Oahe Dam and the Hoover Dam in the United States. But, hydropower can exist on an extremely small scale.

The benefits are obvious: you can generate power from an available resource—running water (with some models, even the water in your home’s pipes). In addition to possibly lowering your energy bills, allowing you to run additional electrical equipment, and potentially providing other benefits, utilizing hydro can take the pressure off the electricity grid, provide electricity if living off-the-grid, and offer backup power in the event of a blackout. Regarding sustainability, generating your own hydropower can reduce your use of fossil fuels and, consequently, your carbon footprint. According to the Department of Energy, about 7 percent of the nation’s electricity (and 37 percent of its renewable electricity) comes from hydropower—but with your own generator, you may be able to help those numbers grow, even slightly. Better yet, unlike large-scale hydroelectric projects, which can be extremely damaging to river ecology, small-scale hydro has relatively minimal effects on the immediate environment. Here are our picks for the best hydroelectric generators.

How we chose the best hydroelectric generators

We looked through about a dozen models to find the top hydroelectric generators. Admittedly, there aren’t a ton of options in the middle. There are a few larger-scale, ultimately stationary models that require a good amount of flow but can usually power a home, as well as tiny models that are best for producing small amounts of power. But we did find a couple of relevant models that—while maybe not meeting all your power needs—can provide extra energy and are particularly useful in a camping or off-grid setting. 

When purchasing a hydroelectric generator, sustainability is primarily in the concept: if you have running water near you, you can access a freely available resource to produce, potentially, a lot of electricity. Again, unlike with massive industrial hydro projects, effects near you should be minimal, and you can take pressure off the grid or other less sustainable energy sources. If you want to get deeply technical about it, you can calculate hydropower that you produce, and compare it to grid power, estimating both the relative cost and carbon impact of the energy you use.

The best hydroelectric generators: Recommendations & Reviews

If you’re on this page, then you likely know exactly what you’re looking for because these are somewhat complex machines that require lots of infrastructure to go with them. We’ve selected the best to fit specific uses, but products always overlap.

Best overall: Scott Hydro 1500W Water Turbine

Scott Hydro

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Why it made the cut: This is an extremely well-built machine that—even with low head—can reliably power a small home with steady water flow.

Specs

  • Rated at 1500W output (but can reach 2000W)
  • Largely self-cleaning
  • Made in USA

Pros

  • Provides ample power
  • Very sturdy

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Additional components required

If you live near a decent, steady source of running water, this high-quality machine can, once installed, probably provide consistent power for your home year-round. Your electricity bills will be negligible, you will not have to worry about the weather (as you do for solar or wind power), and you can sustainably produce consistent electricity with limited environmental impact.

ABS Alaskan, the maker of this machine, has been making high-quality alternative energy devices for over 30 years, geared toward the conditions in Alaska—a state with over 12,000 rivers—but applicable all over. The Scott Hydro Turbine, with a 1500-watt output, can almost certainly provide the energy you need for your home. While it requires a steady flow of water, it only needs a 20-foot drop in “head” (a term explained in our “Things to consider …” section near the bottom)—relatively small given the power provided. Once installed, it’s very easy to maintain—it is effectively self-cleaning, using the water flow, with only three rotating components.

On the con side, these units are pricey, and installation does take some work, requiring a relatively simple water diversion and a small shelter to protect the unit. You’ll also need an electric connection kit, not to mention batteries (if intending to store power). But once it’s up and running, it can provide lasting, sustainable power for years.

Best value: Energy Systems and Design Watter Buddy

Energy Systems and Design

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Why it made the cut: For a modest price and small size, the Watter Buddy can provide a non-insubstantial 200W of power.

Specs

  • Type: Generates DC power via rectifier
  • Weight: 8 lbs

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Multiple nozzle sizes provided to match flow

Cons

  • Likely cannot provide all your power needs

The Watter Buddy is an innovative machine from Energy Systems and Design, a Canadian company providing off-grid hydro solutions for four decades. While the company produces a couple of larger (and more expensive models), the Watter Buddy meets you in the middle. For a modest price, it can provide a considerable amount—though probably not all—of your power needs. But don’t discount 200W. Whether you need supplementary off-grid power, are looking for electricity for a small workshop, or have other relevant needs, with steady water flow, this machine can do a lot—potentially lessening your reliance on a traditional electric generator. And you don’t have to be off-grid—this can even be effectively used with traditional household pipes.

This product is convenient in a few other ways. Multiple nozzle sizes allow you to match the flow you use to generate power easily. A built-in rectifier converts from AC to DC power, allowing electricity produced to be easily sent to batteries or compatible devices. Finally, its very small size allows you to move it around conveniently as needed.

Best portable: WaterLily Turbine

WaterLily

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Why it made the cut: The WaterLily Turbine is easy to set up and use anywhere you can access running water, providing charge capabilities for both 12V and USB devices.

Specs

  • Produces up to 2A (on 12V output); or up to 3A (via USB output)
  • 10 ft. charge cord
  • 1 km/h minimum water flow required

Pros

  • Can charge cellphones, battery banks, lights, and more
  • Under 3 lbs.

Cons

  • Likely can’t provide for all power needs

For something easily transportable but extremely reliable, check out the WaterLily Turbine. This innovative little device can be set up virtually anywhere you have running water, producing (at highest power) up to 15 W. With good flow, a small device (cellphone, camera, etc.) should charge at roughly the same rate as it would if plugged into a traditional wall outlet. The WaterLily also offers unique accessories, including its WindLily attachment, which allows you to convert the device to harvest wind energy, and its SolarLily panels, which allows for a solar harvesting component.

In terms of sustainability, again, a small hydroelectric generator has the virtue of harnessing natural flow with minimal ecological impacts. According to the company, using a WaterLily can provide the equivalent power of 50 AA batteries in a day. The company also looks to promote its values by collaborating with organizations that help deploy WaterLily turbines in the developing world.

Best budget: Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator

Yosoo

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Why it made the cut: For a very affordable price, this small Yosoo generator reliably generates up to 10 W of power and can be used on your household pipes.

Specs

  • 12V, 10W output
  • 3.2 oz
  • Made in China

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Reliable, steady

Cons

  • Provides very limited power

The Yosoo DC Water Turbine Generator is a small, handy device that neatly hooks up to the pipes in your home. For an extremely affordable price, you can use water that, in most cases, should flow through your pipes anyway to generate a little extra electricity. It’s not useful for big devices, but it can provide additional capacity for lightning, charging for phones or other devices, or similar uses that require comparable power.

While this generator may not make a huge difference if you’re tied into the grid, it can be very handy if you live off-grid, where every little bit of power matters. Keep some lights on, charge up your phone or radio, or fulfill other needs based on existing water flow. 

Best lightweight: Beduan Micro Water Turbine Generator

Beduan

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Why it made the cut: This is another small, inexpensive, and simple option that can provide some extra power in your home.

Specs

  • 3.17 oz
  • 12 V, 10 W
  • 0.5” G thread

Pros

  • Very light
  • Affordable
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Provides limited power
  • Can be noisy

This small device from Beduan provides another handy way to generate a little extra power from water running through a pipe, like a shower or through a hose. Its recommended water flow for full power is about 26 L/min, and with 10 W, you can provide a little extra power to charge a small device or power a light. While that certainly won’t be enough to run your washing machine or fridge, it can still be helpful—again, especially in off-grid situations, where power may be limited.

In practice, this little device from Beduan can make a handy addendum to your stock of energy-efficient tech. It makes up for its limitations by being both extremely affordable, as well as lightweight and easy to install.

Best off-grid: PowerSpout TRG

PowerSprout

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Why it made the cut: This is a high-caliber model that comes in high-head, medium-head, and low-head options, with the capacity to provide substantial off-grid power.

Specs

  • Head range is 6.6 to 100 feet
  • Maximum flow 254 gpm
  • 16.9×16.1×13.8”

Pros

  • Customizable to different types of flows
  • Relatively affordable given power provided

Cons

  • Can be challenging to set up

PowerSpout is a New Zealand-based company that offers an assortment of hydroelectric generators. We’ve linked to their medium-head option here, but they also make a high-head and low-head model. This variety is great, allowing you to carefully select the right model for your given conditions. Bear in mind, though, that setup can be tricky, and it is best to buy from a dealer.

The PowerSpout TRG is a high-quality machine that—for a pretty modest price—can generate 1.6 kW daily with adequate flow. The company even notes that “stacking” units is an option for generating additional power. The turbine will come with pretty much everything you need for setup, and by ordering from a dealer, you can go over your system specs to be sure you are prepared to easily get it up and running. While these are ideal for off-grid setups, they can be ordered such that the system voltage can easily be tied into the grid. In short, a great model for all situations.

Best small: Suneco 500W Hydro Turbine

Suneco

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Why it made the cut: If your water flow has decent head, this fairly small turbine can produce a decent amount of power that can cut down your electricity budget or provide extra off-grid power.

Specs

  • Rated for 12-18 m. head
  • Output: 500 W
  • Weight: 27 kgs.

Pros

  • Consistent, fairly substantial power
  • Good safety protection

Cons

  • Requires considerable head to generate power

Suneco Hydro has been developing micro hydro turbines since 1991—and they have several options. The 500W hydro turbine is a modest size that slots in right in the middle; it’s not too large or expensive but is substantial enough to make a difference in terms of power provided.

This particular model, weighing in at 27 kgs., is small enough that you can most likely set it up yourself. While it requires a somewhat considerable 12 m. of head to generate power, if you have the setting for it, it can make a great option for an on or off-grid property. However, it should be noted that Suneco Hydro is based in China, which can mean longer shipping times, and may potentially involve more challenges when working with customer service.

What to consider when shopping for a hydroelectric generator

Many factors go into choosing the ideal hydroelectric generator. How bulky is the generator? Is it portable? How much water does it require to run? How much power does it generate? Where can it be run? Can you set it up yourself? Depending on your needs—whether you want it for the home, a workshop, or for use when out in the backcountry—you will probably hone in on particular products.

Size

Hydropower comes in many sizes. According to the Bureau of Reclamation, for instance, the Hoover Dam generates 4 billion kilowatt-hours annually. On the far opposite end of the spectrum is pico hydro, which can generate up to 5 kW of electricity. The next most substantial type of hydro is micro hydropower, which generates up to 100 kW of electricity. (Hydropower continues up in size after that—encompassing mini hydro, which produces 100 kW to 1 MW of electricity, small hydro, and so on—but virtually any system for use on an individual scale will fall into the micro or pico category.) 

Keep your needs in mind. If you’re looking for something to use while camping, you’ll want to focus on the smallest and lightest end of the spectrum; if you want to power your house from the creek that runs through your property, you may need a sizable generator. 

Water source

While hydropower is conventionally associated with large rivers, any flow of water can potentially produce hydropower. The output could possibly offer more power than you think. Two terms are useful to know to understand how to calculate hydropower’s potential output. “Head” denotes the height gradient over which water moves from input to output; “flow” is the amount of water going through the system. These two numbers can be used to calculate the rough power output of a system.

How does the water source come in? Naturally, heavier running water over steeper terrain generates more power. If you have a substantial stream on your property, it’s very possible that you can generate a considerable amount of electricity from it. But hydropower can work even on a tiny scale. For instance, some systems are built to run off the water in your pipes. When looking for a personal hydro system, give consideration to the source of the water—and also consider seasonal factors, like whether a stream tends to dry up in the summer.

Generator type

According to the Department of Energy, “reaction” and “impulse” turbines are the two main classes of hydro turbines. Hydropower is not terribly complicated, but for the purposes of home use, you mainly need to determine what fits your particular setting.

The main difference between the two is that reaction turbines generate energy based on water pressure, while impulse turbines generate energy based on water velocity. Impulse turbines are best with high head and low flow (while reaction turbines are the inverse). Impulse turbines are more common in microhydro settings, although propeller turbines are a type of reaction turbine that can be used for microhydro.

FAQs

Q: How much do hydroelectric generators cost?

In a generator, the cost of a generator will be correlated with its power output. The most miniature, portable generators—which may produce only a few watts, can be reasonably priced. Larger generators surveyed, provided they have access to a steady water supply, may be able to power your home—and more. But these ones can cost several thousand dollars and may require supplementary equipment, like inverters, wiring, and batteries. Of course, you can always save and look for refurbished options on sites like eBay, Amazon Renewed, and others. 

Q: What size hydroelectric generator do I need?

It all depends on your needs! If you want one that provides enough power to charge your phone, one of the smallest options above might be sufficient. If you want to generate most of your home’s electricity via a hydro generator, you may need one producing 1000W or more.

Q: Can you power a house with a hydroelectric generator?

It depends on your power needs, the amount of water flow you can access, and the size of your generator. According to ABS Alaskan, the average American home without electric heat uses about 1000W consistently (less than the 1500 W put out by their Scott Hydro Turbine—meaning that device could power an average house). You can add up the wattage used by regularly running devices in your home—refrigerator, lights, washing machine, etc.—and compare them to the output of your generator.

Q: Will I need to purchase any additional equipment?

Sometimes. If you want to store power, you must purchase batteries, typically lead-acid or lithium. Both options are fairly expensive, but once purchased, they can usually last many years. Depending on the model, you may also need an inverter or other equipment to bring power from the generator to batteries or appliances. Be sure to check the specs on whichever generator you end up purchasing.

Q: What can I do with my hydro or old generator when it no longer works?

With good care, your hydro generator should last many years. Because these units tend to be specialized and each model is unique, check with the dealer or manufacturer about cleaning and maintenance instructions to ensure the machine lasts as long as possible (some, like the Scott Hydro 1500 W Water Turbine, are largely self-cleaning once set up.)

If your new hydro generator will replace your gas generator, you may be looking for ways to recycle your old machine. LoadUp is one company that can help recycle your old gas generate, salvaging as many valuable materials as possible. Some scrap companies, like Rockaway Recycling, may pay cash for old generators. Reaching out to scrap yards near you may suggest other ways to salvage usable materials from your generator.

Final thoughts on the best hydroelectric generators

If you’re looking for a serious way to generate consistent hydropower from a decent amount of flowing water on your property, check out the Scott Hydro 1500 W Water Turbine. If you’re looking for a smaller and more portable option, the WaterLily Turbine is a great choice.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best hydroelectric generators for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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You need this $28 dog pool on sale at Amazon right now https://www.popsci.com/gear/dog-pool-keep-cool-amazon-deal/ Fri, 28 Jul 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=559856
Amazon dog pool deal pattern
Jecoo

Just imagine you and your pooch chilling in this super-cheap dog pool on a super-hot day.

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Amazon dog pool deal pattern
Jecoo

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It’s hot outside in just about every sense of the word. Sweltering, sweaty, records-breaking, dangerously hot. It’s tough on humans, but it’s also hard on our favorite furry pals. But that doesn’t mean they want to stay inside all day. Right now, Amazon has this super-popular dog pool on sale for just $28. That’s a 30 percent discount when compared to its normal $40 price. Plus, it ships for free if you have Amazon Prime. Grab one of these pools. Then pour a drink, call your pooch, and float in a cool pool of water until mosquitos drain you of all your blood.

Jecoo Dog Pool for Large Dogs 63″x12″ $28 (Was $40)

Jecoo

SEE IT

Even the cheapest and most basic above-ground pool meant for humans requires an annoying amount of prep and setup. This pool, however, makes it very simple. Unfold the ultra-tough PVC pool and simply fill it with the hose. The sides have stiff panels that keep it upright and won’t get completely destroyed if your dog scratches at them. It’s just 12-inches deep, so you can lounge to get covered by water, but even small breed dogs can play without having to paddle their little hearts out.

Once you’re done chilling in the pool, drain the water through the simple spout. The whole thing folds up nice and flat so that you can stick it on a shelf in the shed in-between uses rather than leaving it on the yard and murdering a big, ugly circle of grass in your lawn.

Here are more hot deals for keeping cool:

The post You need this $28 dog pool on sale at Amazon right now appeared first on Popular Science.

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Get the GoPro Hero11 Mini Black for just $200 right now at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/gopro-hero11-mini-black-best-buy-deal/ Tue, 25 Jul 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=558973
GoPro Hero 11 Mini Black action cameras in a pattern
Stan Horaczek

Save $100 and every memorable moment as you shoot ultra-smooth 5.3K video with up to 8x slow motion and excellent stabilization.

The post Get the GoPro Hero11 Mini Black for just $200 right now at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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GoPro Hero 11 Mini Black action cameras in a pattern
Stan Horaczek

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You know how it goes on the internet: If there’s no video of something, it basically didn’t happen. However, you’ll never run into that problem again if you jump on this absurd GoPro deal at Amazon right now. You can currently snag a GoPro Hero11 Mini for just $199. That’s a full $100 off the normal $299 price tag of one of the best action cameras.

GoPro Hero11 Mini Black $199 (Was $299)

GoPro

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As the name suggests, this is essentially a miniature version of the GoPro Hero11 Black flagship action camera—an essential accessory if you’re an athlete, adventurer, or parent of one that wants to document thrills and spills. The biggest difference here is that the Mini doesn’t have any built-in screens for composing shots or navigating menus. Instead, you connect the camera to your phone and preview your shot or change your settings that way. Old-school GoPro cameras worked similarly, and it’s really not a hindrance once you get everything set up.

Other than that, this is basically the same camera as the much more expensive GoPro Hero11 Black flagship camera (and there’s an Amazon sale on the excellent, screen-equipped Hero11 Black below if that is a dealbreaker for you). The Mini (also available at Best Buy if that’s your preferred retailer) shoots up to 5.3K video with GoPro’s impressive Hypersmooth 5.0 technology. Built-in mounts make it super versatile and easy to attach to just about anything. Plus, it’s totally waterproof down to 33 feet, so it’s definitely not afraid of water. The whole camera weighs just 4.7 ounces, so you won’t feel it too much when you strap it to your chest and shred gnar (or chase your kid around the playground).

More GoPro deals (and one drone deal for those sweeping aerial shots)

The post Get the GoPro Hero11 Mini Black for just $200 right now at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Ultimate Ears speaker comparison: Which model is right for you? https://www.popsci.com/reviews/ultimate-ears-speaker-comparison/ Mon, 28 Mar 2022 19:08:58 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=368373
Ultimate Ears speaker comparison
Stan Horaczek

This Ultimate Ears speaker comparison will help you pick the right box to rock your party.

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Ultimate Ears speaker comparison
Stan Horaczek

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Play Whatever Floats Your Boat, In Or Out Of One The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 in Hyper Pink is the best shower speaker with bass UE Wonderboom 3
SEE IT

A waterproof, floating speaker that’s perfect for a trip to the beach or a soak in the hot tub.

Much Bigger Sound Without A Much Bigger Body UE Boom 3 bluetooth speaker UE Boom 3
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The Boom 3 has evolved from the original Boom, which kicked off the Ultimate Ears speaker line way back in 2013.

A Musical Monolith That Brings The Biggest Boom ue hyperboom best portable bluetooth speaker UE Hyperboom
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A powerful low-end, adaptive equalizer, and concert-level sound make this speaker perfect for your next party.

Back in 2013, Ultimate Ears dropped its first Bluetooth wireless speaker, the UE Boom. It was roughly the size of a tall can of Arizona iced tea and it set a high water mark for other portable Bluetooth speaker manufacturers. Thanks to its cylindrical design, it pumped out loud, clear, punchy sound in every direction for the duration of its impressive battery life. It wasn’t fully waterproof, but it was weather resistant, which made it one of, if not the, best when it comes to outdoor Bluetooth speakers. Since then, Ultimate Ears has refined and expanded its line of portable party machines. The original Boom is on its third iteration, the aptly named UE Boom 3. The Ultimate Ears speaker family now includes the pint-sized but powerful UE Wonderboom 3 and goes all the way up to the monolithic Hyperboom

We’ve laid hands—and ears—on the full line of Ultimate Ears products and have never been disappointed. But, when it comes to choosing the best UE speaker, comparison shopping is essential. We’ve broken down the different models and done some handy side-by-sides to help you get the Ultimate Ears speaker that fits your needs.

Ultimate Ears speaker comparison

With a variety of models in the current UE speaker lineup, it can be tricky to navigate the options. Here’s a brief overview of each model to point out the most relevant features. The list runs from smallest to largest in both size and price. 

UE Wonderboom 3 $99.99 (or less)

Ultimate Ears/Logitech

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At roughly 4 inches around, this 1-pound Ultimate Ears speaker is shaped like the loudest little grapefruit you’ve ever heard. The Wonderboom 3 is IP67 rated (waterproof and dust-resistant, making it one of our favorite shower speakers), has a dedicated bass boost mode, and promises up to 14 hours of battery life. It offers 360-degree sound coverage, and you can also pair two of them together for stereo sound. A tough, integrated loop makes it easy to attach it with a carabiner to a backpack—or a belt loop if you’re really confident in your ability to keep your pants up. And, in case it’s flung off while over or in water, it floats.

UE Boom 3 $149.99 (or less)

Ultimate Ears

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Evolved from the original UE Boom, the Boom 3 has a massive Bluetooth connectivity range up to 150 feet. It promises 15 hours of battery life and sports a pair of giant “plus” and “minus” buttons for easy volume control. Unlike the original Boom, the UE Boom 3 is totally waterproof, so it can blast “Barbie Girl” by Aqua while underwater for maximum irony. 

UE Megaboom 3 $199.99 (or less)

Ultimate Ears

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At roughly three pounds, the powerful UE Megaboom 3 speaker pumps more volume and burlier bass than its smaller siblings. Sadly, however, that means it probably won’t fit in your car’s cupholder or your bike’s water bottle holder as easily. It does offer up to 20 hours of battery life and it’s compatible with UE’s Power Up charging dock, so you can set it down and let it juice up when not in use.

UE Hyperboom $449.99 (or less)

This massive UE speaker stands more than 14-inches tall with a base that’s more than 7.5 inches around. All that body gives the UE Hyperboom enough room for features you won’t find in any other Ultimate Ears speaker, including a USB port, an optical audio in, and an auxiliary headphone jack. It’s not as waterproof as other UE speakers, so don’t throw it in the pool, but it does boast up to 24 hours of battery life and sound output that towers over the rest of the lineup in both bass levels and overall volume. If you’re looking for a loud Bluetooth speaker, this is your pal. The built-in handle also makes its substantial 13-pound heft easier to lug around.

What about the Ultimate Ears speakers Blast and Megablast?

While almost all of the Ultimate Ears speakers only connect to devices via Bluetooth (or direct cable connections in the Hyperboom’s case), the Blast and Megablast speakers also include Wi-Fi. That extra connection allow them to work with Amazon’s smart assistant, Alexa. Both the Blast and Megablast are still listed on the Ultimate Ears site, but they can be hard to find for purchase since they’re several years old. If you can get an exceptional price on a Blast or Megablast, they will still work as excellent Bluetooth speakers. Still, the Alexa integration was never that impressive and was somewhat buggy even when they were new.

What makes UE Bluetooth speakers so appealing?

Ultimate Ears has been building out its UE Bluetooth speaker line for over a decade. In that time, it streamlined and smoothed out the UE app, which adds some clever functionality to its speakers. All the current speakers except for the pint-sized Wonderboom 2 can access an equalizer function that allows listeners to tweak the overall sound performance. 

The app also facilitates pairing two speakers together for stereo sound. The Boom 3, Megaboom 3, and Hyperboom all connect interchangeably. In fact, the app allows listeners to connect up to 150 speakers simultaneously in case you want to build a wall of sound or make a really impressive TikTok. The Wonderboom 3, however, requires another unit of the same model for stereo pairing. 

Ultimate Ears speaker comparison: Design

Since the original Boom debuted, UE has made some of the best-looking Bluetooth speakers around. They spare listeners the built-in light show that companies like Sony and JBL typically include with their portable speakers. All the devices in the current lineup share the same outer layer of woven fabric and a design that centers around two oversized volume buttons. 

The Hyperboom only comes in black, but the Boom 3, Megaboom 3, and Wonderboom 3 all come in a variety of colors. If you order directly through the Ultimate Ears site, you can even customize your own Boom 3 with a system similar to Nike’s ID sneaker site. UE lets you choose the color and design on the fabric, the end caps, the spine, and the volume buttons. It will even allow for custom messages down the spine. At $179, it’s not much of a premium over the typical model price. 

Which UE Bluetooth speaker is best for you?

UE hasn’t produced a truly bad-sounding speaker yet, which makes this Ultimate Ears speaker comparison fairly simple. For its $99 price, the Wonderboom 3 is compact and easy to carry (and a perpetual inclusion in the best Bluetooth speakers under $100), but it’s not as compatible with the rest of the UE ecosystem. 

The original Boom 3 will suit the needs of most people. With 15 hours of battery life and plenty of audio oomph to fill a large room or even a typical yard, it’s a very safe bet. If you’re trying to fill a larger space, the Megaboom 3’s extra power may come in handy, just remember that it also brings a larger size and heavier weight. 

The Hyperboom provides the best sound, but it’s also massive. Don’t expect to throw it in a backpack or for it to subtly blend into your decor. Set it in your living room, and you’d half expect apes to start worshipping it like the monolith in 2001: A Space Odyssey. (That’s compared to other Bluetooth speakers, of course.) The Hyperboom has enough output and bass to provide an alternative for people who would otherwise consider a larger PA speaker, which might be overkill. If you have a massive space to crank tunes—or very understanding neighbors—then the Hyperboom might be the best portable Bluetooth speaker for you.  

Why trust us

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

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

The post Ultimate Ears speaker comparison: Which model is right for you? appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best chainsaws of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-chainsaw/ Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=284644
The best chainsaws on a rock
Stan Horaczek

Cut your project down to size with the best chainsaws for yard maintenance.

The post The best chainsaws of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best chainsaws on a rock
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Worx Nitro 40v chainsaw Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw
SEE IT

This user-friendly chainsaw is practically maintenance-free.

Best small Black and orange cordless electric chainsaw Worx WG322 
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Powerful chainsaws can come in small sizes—take this one from Worx.

Best budget Black, gray, and red electric chainsaw Oregon CS1500
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Simply take this pre-assembled chainsaw out of the box to use.

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

How we chose the best chainsaws

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

The best chainsaws: Reviews & Recommendations

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

Best overall: Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Worx offers a number of very versatile tools in its Nitro series, and the chainsaw is no exception. The 16-inch bar is ideal for most typical users who don’t need to go chopping through Middle Earth-style forests. A pair of sturdy grips give both of your hands a comfortable place to rest and lots of control over the tool as you’re using it. During our testing, we chopped through tons of 3- to 4-inch sticks and some larger, full-grown trees. With two powerful batteries installed, it quickly gets up to speed, and we barely had any issues with kicking or getting stuck.

Worx has one of the most flexible battery systems on the market at the moment, and this tool relies on a pair of batteries (that charge simultaneously in one charger). The batteries give the chainsaw a nice balance, which is important when you’re wielding a tool that can quickly cause carnage when mishandled.

Installing and adjusting the chain is simple, and it self-lubricates as you run it, so it doesn’t require much in the way of maintenance. We spent several hours cutting away with this tool and ran into almost no issues, which is exactly what we’re looking for.

Best battery life: CAT 60V Max Chainsaw

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Weight: 13.02 pounds
  • Bar length: 16 inches
  • Maximum cutting diameter: 30 inches

Pros

  • Large battery capacity adds extra cutting time
  • Efficient motor provides more power and lasts longer
  • Only requires one battery that charges quickly
  • Balanced and easy to hold

Cons

  • 16-inch bar won’t tackle the biggest trees
  • Other battery systems have more compatible devices

This single-battery model relies on a chunky 60V cell to provide the juice it needs to slice and dice through trees, shrubs, and whatever else may get in its way. During our test cuts, we hacked through everything from small branches to medium-sized tree trunks without issue.

It’s electric, so the throttle response is all but instant. As soon as you pull back the trigger, the chain quickly gets up to speed. The brushless motor inside this model promises 72.2ft of travel per second, which is on par with the most powerful 16-inch models we’ve tested.

The wide nose helps fight off kickback. We only managed to make it kick once or twice, but the Cat has a built-in safety feature that immediately cuts the engine when that happens. It’s handy and comforting. A dial adjustment system keeps the chain tight. We didn’t have any issues with the hand-tightened screw coming loose, but it’s worth checking each time you use it to ensure everything is tight.

Overall, this is a very well-balanced chainsaw that provides more uptime per charge session. That’s handy if you’re only doing longer, more sporadic cuts.

Best gas: ECHO CS-590-20 Timber Wolf

Echo

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Why it made the cut: Feel better about your ecological impact with this California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliant gas chainsaw.

Specs

  • Weight: 16.1 lbs.
  • Cutting time on one charge: N/A
  • Bar length: 20 inches
  • Maximum cutting diameter: 35 inches

Pros

  • Responsive throttle
  • Translucent fuel tank
  • Long-lasting, sharp chain

Cons

  • A bit on the heavy side

This saw is loaded with premium features, including a dual post chain brake to keep you safer, a clutch-driven oiler to reduce bar oil consumption, an engine air pre-cleaner to help the engine last longer, a heavy-duty toolless air filter, and removable bumper spikes for better control. It’s built with a premium vibration-dampening system to reduce user fatigue. Includes a ⅜-inch pitch, .050-gauge chain, and 20-inch bar.

Best cordless: Greenworks G-MAX 40V 16-Inch Cordless Chainsaw

Greenworks

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: One charge warrants 90 minutes of use and 100 cuts—that’s a lot of trees to cut.

Specs

  • Weight: 10.36 lbs.
  • Cutting time on one charge: 90 minutes
  • Bar length: 16 inches
  • Maximum cutting diameter: 15 inches

Pros

  • Lots of run time
  • Universal battery for other Greenworks products
  • Brushless motor

Cons

  • Chain needs frequent re-tensioning

With a 90-minute runtime per charge, this cordless chainsaw will make up to 100 cuts between charges. Features of this Greenworks chainsaw include toolless chain tensioning, an automatic oiler, a push-button start, and an efficient brushless motor. The battery works with more than 50 tools in the Greenworks outdoor power equipment line.

Best small: Worx WG322 

WORX

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Fast, clean cuts don’t have to come in large packages, and this compact chainsaw is proof.

Specs

  • Weight: 6.19 lbs.
  • Cutting time on one charge: 2 hours
  • Bar length: 10 inches
  • Maximum cutting diameter: 8 inches

Pros

  • Automatic chain tension and lubrication system
  • Separate pole attachment can cut high branches
  • Battery compatible with other Worx power tools

Cons

  • Battery drains fast
  • Best for small jobs

This cordless 20V small chainsaw includes convenient innovations such as automatic chain tensioning, automatic chain lubrication, and a battery compatible with dozens of Worx power tools. Features a 12.5-feet-per-second chain speed that cuts through branches quickly and smoothly. Weighing in at only 6.2 pounds, this Worx chainsaw works hard but won’t tire you out.

Best budget: Oregon CS1500 

Oregon

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Pull this pre-assembled electric chainsaw out of the box and you’re ready to trim branches in your yard.

Specs

  • Weight: 12.6 lbs.
  • Cutting time on one charge: N/A
  • Bar length: 18 inches
  • Maximum cutting diameter: 17 inches

Pros

  • Pre-assembled
  • Little to no maintenance required
  • Lots of safety precautions in place

Cons

  • Instructions are a must-read

Electric chainsaws are not known for feature upgrades, but this Oregon chainsaw includes three significant improvements, including a chain brake for safety and an upgraded oiling system for smoother operation. The other feature of note is the PowerSharp chain that lets you sharpen the blade in only 3 seconds without removing it. This electric chainsaw comes pre-assembled and ready to start cutting right out of the box.

What to consider when buying the best chainsaws

If you’ve already stopped in your local hardware store to check availability, you may have noticed a somewhat limited range of options. Often these places carry only one or two brands, with a heavy focus on gas chainsaws. Buying a chainsaw online is a great way to see the full options. Whether you need a gas, corded electric, or battery-powered chainsaw, you’ll find an excellent range of options. Read on for what you need to know before clicking “add to cart.”

Are you looking for professional quality and power for long days in the woods?

Gas chainsaws are the tool of choice for those who regularly spend long days cutting up big logs away from the house or shop. They offer lots of power to cut through the thickest tree trunks and are limited only by the fuel tank size. Often the user needs a break before the saw runs out of gas. Engine size is expressed in cubic centimeters of displacement (CC), ranging from about 24 to 60 CC in residential models. The larger the engine, the longer the bar and chain it can power, with sizes of 14, 16, 18, and 20 inches commonly available.

Is clean and quiet operation something you value?

Corded electric chainsaws offer unlimited clean, quiet power anywhere within the length of an extension cord. Electric is also an excellent choice for indoor home improvement and DIY projects. Electric saws are significantly quieter and lighter than gas saws and offer impressive power. Plus, they require almost no maintenance other than topping off the bar oil and sharpening the chain. Most utilize either a 12 or 15-amp electric motor. Guide bars on these saws come in 10-, 12-, 14-, 16-, 18-, and 20-inch lengths. The shorter bars are convenient for detailed work in and around shrubbery or landscape trees that could be subject to accidental cuts, scuffs, and scrapes from longer bars.

Battery power offers total mobility with zero emissions

A cordless saw could be a great choice if weight is not much of an issue. The battery pack makes the saw heavier, but mobility improves. In enclosed spaces where an extension cord would cause a trip hazard, cordless would be the safer choice. Cordless chainsaws offer the benefits of clean, quiet electric saw performance without being attached to the outlet. And if you’re worried you’re going you’ll run out of powered packs during an extended job, take along a portable generator so you can swap out and recharge them.

Guide bar sizes include 4- and 6-inch mini saws, as well as more conventional 10-, 12-, 14-, 16-, 18-, and 20-inch lengths. Battery power is expressed in a combination of voltage (V) and amp hours (Ah) ratings. Voltage represents the total available power, while amp hours indicate the runtime. Often these saws are part of larger tool lineups from the same brand that use the same batteries, so it’s pretty easy to have an extra power pack available for extended work time. 

Smaller is better for detailed work in thick vegetation

With the right tools, yard maintenance, and home improvement can become much easier. For many users, the handiest cutter to use around the home is a small chainsaw—often a lightweight corded electric model. A short to mid-size bar in the 12- to 16-inch range is often adequate and, in many cases, most convenient while working around hazards like fences, house siding, landscape lighting, and plants you wish to protect from scars. And it makes a perfect complement to (if not a replacement for) a hedge trimmer.

FAQs

Q: Which brand of chainsaw is the best?

There are lots of great chainsaw brands with long histories of excellent quality. Which brand of chainsaw is the best is a subjective question that would eliminate many best-in-class brands. Some brands known for outstanding products for home users include Echo, Stihl, Oregon, Poulan Pro, Husqvarna, Remington, Greenworks, Worx, and more.

Q: What chainsaws do professionals use?

Professional loggers and others who cut wood all day, every day, go for more power, less weight, and premium parts with tougher alloys. Many manufacturers offer separate lines for residential/farm work and professional work. 

Q: How much does a chainsaw cost?

This depends on its size and features, but our recommendations cost between $108 and $419.

Final thoughts on the best chainsaws

Whether pruning a hedge, cleaning up fallen limbs, or stocking up a woodshed, a good chainsaw is an essential tool for you. The best chainsaw may not be the biggest, fastest, strongest one you can find. It could be the quiet one, the lightweight one, or the one with the lowest maintenance requirements. If you know you’ll only use it once yearly to trim the bottom of the Christmas tree, an electric saw would be perfect. But if you need to thin your 10-acre woodlot, a top-rated powerful gas saw is probably the best choice. If you enjoy working with quality power tools, and you take care of them as they require, the best chainsaw will provide many years of satisfaction.

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 chainsaws of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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Replace your old, risky power strips for less with these Amazon surge protector deals https://www.popsci.com/gear/surge-protector-power-strip-amazon-deal/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=558620
A collage of surge protectors for an Amazon deal
Stan Horaczek

You should replace your surge protectors every few years and these Amazon deals can help you save some cash while protecting your gear.

The post Replace your old, risky power strips for less with these Amazon surge protector deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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A collage of surge protectors for an Amazon deal
Stan Horaczek

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You probably don’t think much about your power strips and surge protectors. They’re the socks and underwear of the gadget world in that they’re not particularly fun to buy, but they play an important role in your life. Like those undergarments, power strips and surge protectors actually need regular replacement if you want them to work as they should. In fact, most sources will tell you to replace them every five years at the least. Surge protectors can only protect your devices from so many spikes before they lose their defensive capabilities. If your home is particularly susceptible to blackouts and power surges, that surge protector’s lifespan could be even shorter. Right now, Amazon has some solid surge protectors and power strips on sale for very reasonable prices, which makes this a good time to swap out the old ones. Maybe think about doing the same with your actual socks and underpants, too. It couldn’t hurt.

Anker Power Strip Surge Protector (2100J), 12 Outlets with 1 USB-C and 2 USB Ports $27.99 (Was $35.99)

Anker

SEE IT

This is a great place to start if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable option. It offers 12 total outlets and three USB ports for charging (two USB-A and one USB-C). It draws power through a five-foot cord and offers an 18-month warranty that includes up to $200,000 worth of protection for devices plugged into the surge protector. It also comes in black, but that version isn’t as deeply discounted.

Belkin Wall Mount Surge Protector – 3 AC Multi Outlets & 2 USB Charger Ports $15.99 (was $29.99)

Belkin

SEE IT

I have had one of these in my travel bag for several years now, and I consider it absolutely essential travel gear. An integrated plug makes it easy to fit into any standard outlet. From there, it provides three AC outlets and two USB-A ports. It’s a real surge protector, too, so even if you plug it into a slightly dirty outlet, it will protect your gadgets on the road. For $15, this is a no-brainer.

Here are more surge protectors savings to energize your shopping:

The post Replace your old, risky power strips for less with these Amazon surge protector deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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90+ deals to upgrade your outdoor space: Spas, tools, fire pits, coolers, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/patio-backyard-outdoor-deals-2023/ Sat, 22 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=558156
Patio deals for 2023 composited
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Save on everything to upgrade your outdoor living experience no matter how big your space is.

The post 90+ deals to upgrade your outdoor space: Spas, tools, fire pits, coolers, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Patio deals for 2023 composited
sta

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As July comes to a close, it’s tempting to start thinking about going back to school (and how to get the best deals on those educational essentials). But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. There’s still plenty of opportunity to chill in your yard (or whatever outdoor space you can access). You might as well make the most of it. Right now, you can get some excellent deals on just about everything built for the backyard. These bargains range from coolers and furniture to pools and hot tubs. Whether you have a massive yard or a tiny plot of communal outdoor space, you’ll find something to improve your warm evening hangs in these entertainment investments, maintenance must-haves, and other accessories for your al fresco oasis.

Pools and pool accessories

Lighting

Tools and hoses

Shade

Coolers

Fire pits

Bug and pest control

Furniture and storage

Outdoor speakers

Hot tubs and spas

Saunas and cold plunge tubs

We try to keep prices current, but, like everything on Amazon, they’re subject to change.

The post 90+ deals to upgrade your outdoor space: Spas, tools, fire pits, coolers, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung’s back-to-school sale drops prices on monitors and SSD storage https://www.popsci.com/gear/samsung-back-to-school-monitor-ssd-sale/ Mon, 17 Jul 2023 16:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=557138
Samsung back to school deals on monitors and SSDs
Stan Horaczek

Save up to $200 on Samsung monitors, portable SSDs, and internal drives during this back-to-school sale.

The post Samsung’s back-to-school sale drops prices on monitors and SSD storage appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung back to school deals on monitors and SSDs
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

I’m sorry to mention the dreaded “back-to-school” phrase while we’re still trying to bask in the warm July sun. But September sneaks up on you. Right now, Samsung is helping with early school prep by offering solid deals on monitors, portable SSDs, and internal SSDs. Here are the best back-to-school deals Samsung has going on right now.

Samsung monitor deals

Whether you need a basic monitor to expand your workspace or a super-fancy gaming monitor for blasting aliens, Samsung has them both on sale.

34″ ViewFinity CJ79 WQHD QLED 100Hz Thunderboltᵀᴹ 3 Ultra Wide Curved Monitor $499 (Was $699)

Samsung

SEE IT

Samsung has been announcing a lot of statement pieces recently, like the 5K ViewFinity S9 and the 49-inch curved Odyssey OLED G9. But not everyone wants to wait till August (or spend $1,599-$2,199) on a monitor for school this year. Luckily, Samsung has much more approachable, no less impressive options like this extremely versatile monitor offering an ultra-wide 34-inch view in a 21:9 aspect ratio. It essentially negates the need for two monitors for some users. The spec sheet is no slouch, either. It offers a 3,000:1 contrast ratio thanks to its inclusion of Samsung’s familiar Quantum Dot tech, which you’ll find in many of its high-end TVs.

This monitor also sports a whole heap of connectors, which includes two USB-C Thunderbolt 3 ports. One can charge a laptop at up to 85W, while the other can charge a phone or smaller device at up to 15W. You also get a pair of USB-A ports, which can come in handy for things like older hard drives.

Samsung portable SSD deals

These are great for creatives who need a super-fast external drive to keep their computer’s internal storage clean and clear. But, they’re also useful if you just want some extra storage to back up your stuff.

Samsung internal SSD deals

These super-fast drives can improve your machine’s performance without much effort.

The post Samsung’s back-to-school sale drops prices on monitors and SSD storage appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best solar generator deals to shop right now https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-solar-generator-deals/ Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=512024
Jackery Explorer 300 solar generator
This affordable generator is small enough to keep around the house or camper. Stan Horaczek

These portable power stations often feature steep discounts to save you money now and hassle later.

The post The best solar generator deals to shop right now appeared first on Popular Science.

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Jackery Explorer 300 solar generator
This affordable generator is small enough to keep around the house or camper. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You may not think about a solar generator until you really need one. And once you’ve been put in that position, you’ll never want to be without one. Charged via the mains or optional solar panels, these portable power stations store power to keep your appliances and devices in action when plugging into the grid isn’t an option. That can happen during an emergency with power outages or simply an intentional trip out into the wilderness away from the email notification sound that has been tormenting you day in and day out for years now.

While solar-compatible generators aren’t cheap, manufacturers regularly offer solid discounts on some of their most popular models, including many of our specific recommendations for the best solar generators. We’ll update these deals regularly, but be sure to check the actual price on the product pages before checking out, as they change frequently. Often these are the Amazon Deal of the Day and are only offered for a limited time—so if you see something too good to pass up, act fast!

Also, note that many solar generator deals often require applying a digital coupon, which typically appears as a check box under the product’s price on the Amazon page. So make sure you don’t miss out on the deal by neglecting to check the box.

Jackery solar generator deals

Jackery is one of the most prolific manufacturers in the solar generator game, and they also offer some of the steepest discounts. We’re big fans of the durability and capacity of Jackery portable power-all solutions, like the Explorer 2000, and if you’re looking for versatility and reliability, you will be too.

Jackery 1800W Generator Explorer 1500 and SolarSaga 100W Panel $1,615 (Was $1,998)

Jackery

SEE IT

Bluetti solar generator deals

EF Ecoflow solar generator deals

Anker solar generator deals

The post The best solar generator deals to shop right now appeared first on Popular Science.

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40+ random last-minute Prime Day deals still worth buying https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-last-minute-deals-2023/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 22:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=556520
Last minute Prime Day 2023 deals
Yup, that's right. Powdered beets. sta

There are still lots of fun, practical, and weird Prime Day deals happening. Here are our favorites.

The post 40+ random last-minute Prime Day deals still worth buying appeared first on Popular Science.

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Last minute Prime Day 2023 deals
Yup, that's right. Powdered beets. sta

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We’ve looked at literally thousands of deals during the last two days of this Prime Day shopping holiday. While we want to share all the good ones, sometimes they end up lingering in open tabs. That seems like a shame. So, here’s a random assortment of deals I still had open on my computer. They run the gamut from practical and handy to fun and irresponsible. You’re welcome, and I’m sorry.

YETI Lowlands Blanket, Multi-Use Blanket with Travel Bag, Alpine Yellow $140 (Was $200)

Sure, $140 sounds like a lot for a blanket, but it was $200. Plus, it’s made by Yeti (makers of some of the best coolers and water bottles), so you could probably share it with a grizzly bear on your next camping trip, and it would still come out unharmed. You would be dead, though. Sorry.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Industry Leading Headphones $328 (Was $399)

This isn’t a joke entry. These are really good headphones, and I’m just surprised they’re still on sale and didn’t sell out.

Nuun Sport: Electrolyte Drink Tablets, Citrus Berry Mixed Box, 10 Count (Pack of 4) $18 (Was $29)

Have you ever tried one of these? It’s the closest thing to a video game heal potion you can get in real life. Running is still a waking nightmare for me, but these are fruity and salty and ease the horrible pain in my body.

Waterpik Cordless Advanced Water Flosser For Teeth, Gums $54 (Was $100)

These basically sell themselves. All I have to do is remind you that there’s probably a little bit of popcorn or pot roast hanging out in your teeth right now. Gross. This little baby will blast it right out of there. They’ll call you Mr. Cleanmouth.

Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier – Lemon Lime – Powder Packets $17 (Was $23)

Look, you have to choose between these and the Nuun hydration things above. You can’t be that hydrated. You don’t want to risk becoming … moist.

JBL Charge 5 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker $119 (Was $179)

Despite its smaller-than-a-football size, this Bluetooth speaker will blast Slayer for up to 20 hours on a charge. Just ask my neighbor. Actually, don’t ask him because he gets all “get off my property or I’m going to call the cops” too quickly.

Premier Protein Shake, Cake Batter, 30g Protein $20.99 (Was $29.99)

You know these don’t taste that much like cake, but they taste more like cake than your typical protein shake and that should be good enough for your precious little taste buds. Ronnie Coleman drank raw eggs, so these are like a vacation.

Force Factor Total Beets Drink Mix Superfood Powder $12.99 (Was $19)

If you put powdered beets on all your food, you can make your poop dark red. It probably does other stuff, too, but the poop thing is pretty good.

Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel and Floor Pedals $199 (Was $299)

Some people like to race with a racing wheel. I like to fire up a driving simulation game, throw in a virtual Kenny Loggins tape, and cruise with the top down as the virtual wind blows my digital hair in every direction.

Philips Soup and Smoothie Maker $85 (Was $150)

I have no idea how this thing works, but it looks like it’s from a futuristic sci-fi show and smoothies at the smoothie place are like $9 now, so I’ll try anything to make them more affordable.

GE Profile Opal 1.0 Nugget Ice Maker with Side Tank $229 (Was $429)

This is it. This is the good ice. It’s the Sonic ice. It makes everything you drink into a delightful little treat. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s absolutely worth it.

AeroGarden Harvest with Gourmet Herb Seed Pod Kit – Hydroponic Indoor Garden, Black $49 (Was $165)

If you kill every plant you try to grow, this automated garden setup is a great alternative to actually learning anything about plants or how to take care of them.

23andMe+ Premium Membership Bundle $118 (Was $229)

Your DNA results are really fascinating to you and extremely boring to everyone else, so if you buy this, you have to promise that you’ll enjoy the results without torturing your friends with long explanations about your family history.

MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set $82 (Was $119)

I was going to put LEGO sets in here, but the deals all sold out. These are sorta like LEGOs; only they’re magnetic and triangular. They also won’t send a shooting agony through your whole body if you step on one.

Original Bunch O Balloons Tropical Party 330+ Rapid-Filling Self-Sealing Water Balloons $17 (Was $24)

Spend five minutes filling up all these water balloons, then spend hours obliterating your friends and family to ensure that you’re never invited to another family function ever again.

BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB3A, 268Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $199 (Was $349)

OK, no joke about this one. This is actually really handy and may save your butt in an emergency. Get one and keep it charged for when the grid goes down, or when you want to hide behind the garage and play your Switch for 11 hours instead of doing chores.

NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells $295 (Was $350)

Did you know there are more than a dozen types of curls you can do for your biceps? You can do all of them with these adjustable weights. You can exercise other muscles, too, but why?

Polaroid Now+ Black w/B&W Film Pack $108 (Was $166)

Bring a Polaroid camera to a party and you’ll be instantly popular. That only lasts until you run out of film, of course. Then you go back to being that “weird guy who took home a bunch of other people’s shoes after the last party.” Bring lots of film.

Marshall Stanmore II Wireless Bluetooth Speaker $189 (Was $379)

This is the coolest-looking Bluetooth speaker you can buy. You can fully pretend you’re a rockstar with it. No practice necessary.

Grandma’s Cookies Variety Pack of 30 $13 (Was $16)

Yeah, we’re going to eat 30 bags of cookies. Remember all that healthy stuff from the top of the list? We deserve something sweet. Maybe we’ll put beet powder all over them.

Casaphoria XXXLarge Cotton Rope Basket for Living Room $19 (Was $29)

Hahahahahahahahaaha. Look how big this hamper is. “Oh, you’re looking for the remote? Why don’t you look over by the decorative Dumpster-sized fabric basket that’s in my living room for some reason …”

Neakasa by neabot P1 Pro Pet Grooming Kit & Vacuum Suction 99% Pet Hair, Professional Grooming Clippers $104 (Was $149)

There’s a roughly 80% chance you’ll mess up your dog and make it look hilarious with this vacuum-based grooming kit. But the groomer is expensive, and that’s a risk we’re willing to run.

Igloo BMX 72 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology $118 (Was $179)

This is actually a great cooler, but I put it on this list because it kinda looks like a loot box from a futuristic video game. Imagine diving in and getting a Truly while pretending to shoot it out with aliens.

Amazon Basics Cooling Elevated Dog Bed $23 (Was $28)

This is a dog hammock. Your dog wants a hammock. You want to see your dog in a hammock. We want the money we get if you buy the dog hammock from that link. Everybody wins.

Greenworks Pro 80V 21-Inch Brushless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower $439 (Was $549)

Electric lawnmowers are great for elderly people because they start with a simple button-press and the self-propelled mechanism makes them easy to push. Give gramps the gift of getting out there and mowing the lawn.

JOOLA Ben Johns Pickleball Set with 2 Fiberglass Paddles $60 (Was $80)

The New York Times recently published an article about how everyone is really annoyed by Pickleball because it’s too loud. You could be that loud annoying person if you buy this kit.

Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker $423 (Was $529)

Some barbecue purists talk smack about pellet cookers. Let them talk while you eat a delicious pulled pork you made while lying on the couch watching Max or whatever HBO’s app is called next.

SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine $176 (Was $219)

Don’t buy new clothes. Just learn how to sew and fix the old ones. Or, make the state pageant costume you always really wanted back in grade school. You could truly become Oregon.

Official Creality 3D Printer Ender-5 S1 250mm/s High-Speed 3D Printers $405 (Was $579)

If you’re into science and tech, you must go through a 3D printing phase. It’s mandatory. You might as well get it out of the way and save some money while you do.

The post 40+ random last-minute Prime Day deals still worth buying appeared first on Popular Science.

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Get this 12,000-watt gas backup generator for 40% off during Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-duromax-dual-fuel-generator-deal-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 20:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=555665
DuroMax Dual Fuel generator header
DuroMax

This powerful dual-fuel generator runs on either fuel or propane and it's heavily discounted for Amazon Prime Day.

The post Get this 12,000-watt gas backup generator for 40% off during Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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DuroMax Dual Fuel generator header
DuroMax

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NOTE: While the dual-fuel generator below is sold out, there is still a 12,000-watt gas-powered generator for $799, which is 38 percent off of its regular $1,399 price. Still a very solid deal. You can buy it here. Many of the links on solar generators are also still good for the moment.

Original post: You don’t think you need a backup generator until you really need a backup generator. And while it can be painful to spend considerable cash on something you hope you don’t have to use, you’ll be glad you did in an emergency. Amazon Prime Day has many excellent generator deals on solar generators from Jackery, EcoFlow, and Bluetti. But, if you’re looking for something more traditional and flexible that lets you run longer for less, this Duromax 13,000-watt dual-fuel model fits the bill and is 40% off its regular price.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

SOLD OUT: DuroMax XP13000EH Dual-Fuel Portable Generator 13000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start-Home Back Up $899 (was $1,499)

The dual-fuel designation means this powerful generator can run off traditional gasoline or liquid propane. Its outlet selection includes one 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet, one 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet, one 120V 30A twist lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets. With 13,000 watts of maximum output and 10,500 running watts, this model offers enough power to keep full-sized appliances working when the grid goes down. Plus, the 8.3-gallon fuel tank won’t need constant refills during a long outage. While some Prime deals offer phony savings, this model typically sells for $1,399 or even more on a normal day, so this is a very legit discount. Jump on it before it sells out (or before a tree takes out your power lines).

The best solar generator Prime Day deals

In case you’re looking for a solar backup battery, here are some of the best deals out there for Prime Day right now:

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Prime Day 2 brings deep discounts on OLED TVs from LG, Sony, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-tv-oled-qled-deals-2023/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:32:27 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=556018
Prime Day 2 TV deals
Stan Horaczek

You don't have to wait until Black Friday to get a great deal on a fancy new TV. Prime Day is here to help.

The post Prime Day 2 brings deep discounts on OLED TVs from LG, Sony, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Prime Day 2 TV deals
Stan Horaczek

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Go back just a few years, and OLED TVs were out of reach for most of us binge-watching commoners. Prices have come down, however, and these Amazon Prime Day deals make a sweet, contrasty OLED screen more attainable. OLEDs provide exceptional contrast because every pixel provides its own light. That allows them to turn off completely when they’re not needed to create deep, moody black levels that make content pop. Watching Alien for the first time on an OLED? Revelatory. Watching that episode of Paw Patrol your kid has demanded for the millionth time? Hey, at least it looks good. Here are the best TV deals for Amazon Prime Day.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

More OLED TV Prime Day deals

More Prime Day TV deals

If you’re not necessarily in the market for an OLED, plenty of great TV deals remain to be had. We’ve intentionally excluded most of the cheap FireTV stuff because they go on sale quite a bit and are typically pretty affordable, even without a discount. This is just higher-end stuff that’s cheap specifically for this shopping holiday.

Prime Day soundbar deal

Stock has been tricky with soundbar deals this Prime Day, but here are a few LG options that have been reliably available:

And if you’re looking to take your home theater audio experience into new immersive dimensions, the Nakamichi Shockwafe Wireless Surround Sound Systems are at their lowest price point of the year.

Prime Day universal remote deals

Well, it’s really Prime Day universal remote deal because there’s only one. It’s a good one, though. This universal remote is compatible with a ton of devices and provides a slick UI for navigation.

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Amazon Prime Day Thermacell deals: Save on mosquito repellents that actually work https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-thermacell-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 11:10:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554408
Thermacell mosquito repellents composited
You can choose your protection radius and battery life. Stan Horaczek

These devices are as cheap as a Citronella candle and a lot more effective.

The post Amazon Prime Day Thermacell deals: Save on mosquito repellents that actually work appeared first on Popular Science.

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Thermacell mosquito repellents composited
You can choose your protection radius and battery life. Stan Horaczek

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Mosquitos can ruin a beautiful summer night outdoors faster than a noise complaint or spoiled potato salad. Thermacell’s clever repellent devices rely on rechargeable batteries and undetectable diffused liquid to create a mosquito-free dome around you and your pals. The devices are small, portable, rechargeable, and affordable. And these Amazon Prime Day Thermacell deals make them positively irresistible. Unless you really like scratching bug bites. Then you can do your own thing.

Thermacell Mosquito Repellent E-Series Repeller with 20’ Protection Zone and 9-hour battery $29.98 (Was $49)

Thermacell

SEE IT

This is the most robust Thermacell model that Amazon has on sale for Prime Day. It lasts for up to nine hours on a single charge, and it creates a 20-foot mosquito-free zone around the device. I’ve used one of these (and its previous versions) for several summers now, and I consider them essential outdoor gear. It’s small, silent, and effective. If you don’t need a full nine hours of coverage, you can save $10 more and get the 5.5-hour battery models listed below. The light blue one is the cheapest. I’m not a big fan of the color, but I’ll put up with it to save the extra $3.

Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller in dark blue $12.99 (Was $20)

Continuing with the trend of some Thermacell colors checking in cheaper than others, this dark blue model of the 15-foot mosquito barrier is an extra $2 cheaper than the rest of the colorways. For $12.99, it’s worth it to grab a couple of these to keep in the car or anywhere else you might find yourself trying to chill out without mosquitos constantly vying for your delicious blood.

While you’re buying stuff for outside, maybe pick yourself up a grill for the patio. There are some great deals on Char-Broil models for Prime Day.

The post Amazon Prime Day Thermacell deals: Save on mosquito repellents that actually work appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Prime Day 2023 offers rare Magic: The Gathering deals https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-magic-the-gathering-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554336
Magic The Gathering collector booster boxes and commander decks on-sale for Prime Day
It's rare that you'll see Collectors' boxes on-sale. Stan Horaczek

The sale includes unusual discounts on high-end Collector Booster boxes as well as Commander decks, plus Set and Draft boosters.

The post Amazon Prime Day 2023 offers rare Magic: The Gathering deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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Magic The Gathering collector booster boxes and commander decks on-sale for Prime Day
It's rare that you'll see Collectors' boxes on-sale. Stan Horaczek

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Magic: The Gathering is a truly incredible hobby that can fill your Friday nights with friendly, magical fun while simultaneously draining your bank account with shocking efficiency. Booster packs are almost impossible to resist, and cracking packs adds up quickly. Luckily (and perhaps unexpectedly), Amazon has included some fairly excellent Magic: The Gathering deals as part of its big Prime Day shopping holiday. The deals include draft boosters, bundles, and even Collector Boosters from recent sets. These might even be worth socking away in a closet somewhere in hopes that you find them 10 years from now and sell them to buy a pool (or more Magic cards). Here are the best Amazon Prime Day Magic: The Gathering deals to shop right now. See all the Magic Prime Day deals here or scroll down for the best values.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

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Save on EGO electric lawnmowers and yard tools for Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-ego-power-electric-mowers-chainsaws-tools-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554569
Ego electric yard tool deals Amazon prime day
Trim, saw, and mow your way to an enjoyable yard. Stan Horaczek

These Amazon Prime Day deals on EGO Power+ yard tools offer some of the lowest prices we have seen this year.

The post Save on EGO electric lawnmowers and yard tools for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Ego electric yard tool deals Amazon prime day
Trim, saw, and mow your way to an enjoyable yard. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Electric yard tools have come a long way in recent years. You don’t need a long cord to get tangled on everything, and batteries last long enough to actually get the work done before they cut out. These Amazon Prime Day deals on EGO electric yard tools offer the lowest prices we’ve seen this year (and the lowest ever in some cases) on popular EGO tools like chainsaws, trimmers, and mowers. When you order one of these, ensure you get a battery to go with it if it’s not included. We’ve indicated which devices come with batteries, but always double-check so you’re not stuck when your new tool arrives. The deals of dwindled a bit, but there are still some solid values in there.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

EGO Power+ lawnmowers

EGO Power+ Chainsaws

EGO Power+ Blowers

EGO Power+ Trimmers

More EGO Power+ tools and accessories

The post Save on EGO electric lawnmowers and yard tools for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Prime Day golf deals: Save up to $150 on Callaway clubs and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-callaway-golf-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:35:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554379
Callaway golf Amazon Prime Day Deals 2023
Get everything you need except the skill. Stan Horaczek

Save on everything you'll need to head out onto the course (except for the skills).

The post Amazon Prime Day golf deals: Save up to $150 on Callaway clubs and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Callaway golf Amazon Prime Day Deals 2023
Get everything you need except the skill. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You have to save money where you can when you’re just starting with golf. These Amazon Prime Day Callaway deals can help in that department. These deals cover affordable balls (which is good because they often mysteriously end up in the water), as well as complete club sets and even a solid rangefinder. Here are the best Amazon Prime Day Callaway deals to take advantage of right now.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Callaway Golf Capital Stand Bag $159 (was $199)

Callaway

SEE IT

If your bag is looking kinda ratty, it’s probably time for a new one. This stand bag has five compartments with two full-length dividers. It also has five ideally placed pockets for easy access. The stand holds the bag up when you put it down, while a double-strap system makes it easy to lug around. This is a great all-around bag no matter what your game is like.

Callaway 16-piece Strata Men’s Right-Handed Complete Golf Set $479 (Was $599)

Callaway

SEE IT

Callaway isn’t some thrown-together store brand you’ll find at the local big box. These are real Callaway clubs meant for golfers looking to get into the game without spending John Daly’s annual Diet Coke budget on a new set of sticks (he famously drank 28 cans every day for years). This kit includes:

  • A stand bag
  • Driver
  • 3 wood
  • 4 and 5 hybrid clubs
  • 6-9 irons
  • Pitching wedge and sand wedge
  • Putter
  • Four head covers for the woods and hybrids

Grab a box of balls, a handful of tees, some sunscreen, and a beverage, and you’re ready to head out onto the course.

These clubs are designed specifically for beginners. The 3-wood, for instance, offers more loft and a bigger sweet spot to help get the club airborne when hitting it off the fairway. As you improve your game, you can upgrade each piece of this kit to match your playing style. Or, you’ll likely have to replace your putter after you snap it over your knee for missing a three-footer. What a beautiful game.

Women’s clubs

Two-dozen Callaway Hex Soft Golf Balls White $34 (Was $43)

You’ll need a lot of golf balls when you’re starting out. In fact, you might need a lot of golf balls for your entire golf career. They end up in the lake, in the woods, and sometimes in your dog’s mouth. These beginner-friendly balls maximize distance while keeping a soft feel that allows for touch around the greens. Plus, they’re very affordable, so it won’t feel nearly as bad as hitting a $5 Titleist into the drink.

Callaway 300 Pro Rangefinder $169 (Was $190, but retails for $299)

A reliable rangefinder will tell you the distances you need, so once you figure out how far you hit each club, you can tell which one will give you the best chance at a low score. It’s durable, portable, and looks kinda like a spy device from a ’90s movie.

If you’re spending a lot of time out on the course, you might also want one of these Thermacell mosquito repellers which are also on-sale for Prime Day.

The post Amazon Prime Day golf deals: Save up to $150 on Callaway clubs and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Get Char-Broil grills for their lowest prices this year during Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-char-broil-grill-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554539
Char-Broil grills on-sale for Amazon Prime Day
Never cook inside again. Stan Horaczek

Save more than $100 on Char-Broil gas grills, electric grills, and even flat tops during this Amazon Prime Day sale.

The post Get Char-Broil grills for their lowest prices this year during Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Char-Broil grills on-sale for Amazon Prime Day
Never cook inside again. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Conveniently, Amazon Prime Day falls during grilling season because that means you can score a deal on a great new cooker to keep the hot dogs and hamburgers rolling until fall. Right now, you can find a deal on Char-Broil’s electric, propane, and flat-top grills, which means you can build yourself a whole outdoor cooking arsenal if you want. These models were already relatively affordable and punch above their retail price tags. So, with the discounts, they’re a truly excellent deal. These are also the lowest prices we have seen on these models all year (with an exception or two). Because they ship with Prime, you’ll also get them to your house for free. That’s a big bonus since it saves you a laborious trip to the local big-box hardware store. If you checked this post this morning, they’re even cheaper now, so good job procrastinating!

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Char-Broil 463732923 Performance 3-Burner Cabinet Gas Grill (clay colorway) $327 (Was $449)

Char-Broil

SEE IT

While enormous grills can be tempting, this cooker offers 450 square inches of cooking space, which is enough for roughly 20 burgers. That’s a sweet spot for most people since it won’t require tons of extra fuel to heat unused space. It’s powered by three 9,000-BTU burners and includes durable cast iron grates, so this thing will have you grilling burgers for many, many Prime Days to come.

Here are more sizzling grill sales

If you’re going to be cooking outside, you’ll also probably want these Thermacell mosquito repellents, which are also on-sale for Prime Day.

The post Get Char-Broil grills for their lowest prices this year during Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save hundreds on Samsung TVs and soundbars during Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-samsung-tv-soundbar-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:45:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554642
Samsung TVs and soundbars arranged in a header for Prime Day deals
Stan Horaczek

Amazon Prime Day brings deals on Samsung Frame TVs, Terrace TVs, QLEDs, and soundbars.

The post Save hundreds on Samsung TVs and soundbars during Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung TVs and soundbars arranged in a header for Prime Day deals
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You can save money on lots of practical stuff during Amazon Prime Day, but it’s much more fun to use your home theater system for maximum binge-watching. Right now, you can save hundreds on Samsung TVs and soundbars across the company’s various product lines. If you’re in the market for a The Frame TV, this seems like a particularly good opportunity since the deals run across almost every size and bezel color you could want. Here’s what Samsung has for your home theater this Prime Day:

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Samsung TV deals

SAMSUNG M8 Series 32-Inch 4K UHD Smart Monitor & Streaming TV $299 (was $699)

This may not be the typical TV you came in here looking for, but it doubles as a monitor and it’s a fantastic deal, which includes 4K resolution and a camera for video calls.

More Samsung TV deals

Samsung The Frame HDTV Amazon Prime Day deals

Samsung Terrace outdoor TV deals

Samsung soundbar deals

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There are still some cool Lego Amazon Prime Day deals left to grab https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-lego-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:50:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554998
Baby Yoda Lego Minifig
Baby Yoda wants you to buy some Lego sets. Stan Horaczek

Amazon's Prime Day deals on Lego sets include this Baby Yoda Minifig and lots more.

The post There are still some cool Lego Amazon Prime Day deals left to grab appeared first on Popular Science.

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Baby Yoda Lego Minifig
Baby Yoda wants you to buy some Lego sets. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Update: Look, you all bought most of the Lego sets, so they’re mostly gone. Sorry. There are still a few left below. Maybe go buy some board games.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Prime Day LEGO deals

Note: These LEGO deals sell out quickly, so expect this list to change throughout the day, and don’t be too heartbroken if you click a link to find that it’s already out of stock.

LEGO Friends Horse Show Trailer $69 (was $99)

LEGO Icons Pickup Truck 10290 Building Set for Adults $90.99 (was $129)

LEGO Creator 3in1 Viking Ship and The Midgard Serpent $83.99 (was $99)

LEGO Star Wars Boba Fett’s Throne Room $69 (was $99)

LEGO DUPLO Classic Creative Building Time 10978 Bricks Box $31.50 (was $45)

MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set $83 (was $120)

MAGNA-TILES Classic 32-Piece Magnetic Construction Set $35 (was $49)

MAGNA-TILES Cars – Green & Yellow 2-Piece Magnetic Construction Set $10 (was $15)

The post There are still some cool Lego Amazon Prime Day deals left to grab appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save big on Bluetti solar generators during Amazon’s Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-bluetti-solar-generator-deals-2023/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=554487
Bluetti solar generators prime day 2023 main
That's a lot of power in one picture. Stan Horaczek

Bluetti's reliable solar generators are discounted hundreds of dollars during an early Amazon Prime Day sale, live now.

The post Save big on Bluetti solar generators during Amazon’s Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Bluetti solar generators prime day 2023 main
That's a lot of power in one picture. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

You don’t need to live in Tornado Alley or spend tons of time off the grid to appreciate a solid solar generator you can count on. These battery-powered backup devices can come in handy on long trips, during extended power outages, or even just power backyard barbecues. Bluetti is offering Amazon Prime Day deals that represent the lowest prices we’ve seen all year on its super-reliable solar generators. They may not seem as exciting as a new TV or some other electronic deal, but you’ll be glad you hopped on this purchase next time the power goes out while you’re still basking in the glow of those sweet, sweet devices of yours.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB3A, 268Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup $199 (Was $299)

Bluetti

SEE IT

At just $199, this 268Wh battery backup is a no-brainer. I have a similar model from another brand that gets way more use than expected. It’s great for charging phones and tablets during a blackout. But, it’s also very useful to bring on a trip. This compact rig offers two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, two standard AC outlets, a 12V marine port, and even a handy built-in light. And you can recharge it from a socket or with optional solar panels. This is an essential emergency kit at a very affordable price.

Here are more Prime Day portable power station deals

You can also save big bucks on Jackery solar generators during Prime Day.

Looking for a 13,000-watt dual-fuel backup generator? Get this one for 40% off

The post Save big on Bluetti solar generators during Amazon’s Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Jackery Solar Generators are on sale right now on Amazon for Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-jackery-deals-2022/ Wed, 28 Dec 2022 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=502342
Jackery amazon deals
Jackery

Save up to 40% on Jackery solar generators that could save you in a pinch.

The post Jackery Solar Generators are on sale right now on Amazon for Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Jackery amazon deals
Jackery

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Whether you’re preparing for weather-induced power outages or just looking for a way to power your devices in an RV or off-grid camping situation, out the current deals on Jackery solar generators. The 240Wh model charges smaller devices like smartphones, tablets, and even laptops. It’s considerably beefier than any simple charging bank and can keep the whole family’s devices juiced up during a power outage. Right now, it’s just $168 (down from $299), which is even cheaper than it was on Black Friday.

Jackery

SEE IT

If you need more juice, the 1,002Wh generator provides enough power to keep larger appliances running in an emergency. So, if you’re trying to keep a fridge full of food from going bad or you’re trying to keep the internet up and running for essential communication, this little box of lightning bolts can help. Amazon has it for $799 right now, down from its regular price of $1,099.

In addition to the actual generators, Amazon is currently offering deep discounts on the optional SolarSaga panels that go with them. Right now, you’ll pay just $209 instead of the normal $299 price tag. These efficient panels fold up for easy storage, which makes them suitable for use in an RV and other tight spaces.

Here’s a list of everything that’s on sale right now:

The post Jackery Solar Generators are on sale right now on Amazon for Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Prime Day brings predictably massive deals on Kindle e-readers https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-amazon-kindle-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=555219
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite main
There are lots of nerd books hiding in there.

Get the lowest prices of the year across Amazon's entire collection of Kindle e-readers for Prime Day. That includes Paperwhite and Oasis.

The post Amazon Prime Day brings predictably massive deals on Kindle e-readers appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Kindle Paperwhite main
There are lots of nerd books hiding in there.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If you’ve been on the fence about buying a Kindle e-reader, now is the time to take that leap. Every time Prime Day rolls around, Amazon craters the prices on its own devices, including its very popular Kindle e-reader gadgets. Every flavor of Kindle is on sale right now, and it’s unlikely that they will get any cheaper until at least Black Friday. So, pick your model and get to reading. Your friends aren’t going to bother themselves about Infinite Jest, now are they?

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Kindle Paperwhite (8 GB) – Now with a 6.8″ display and adjustable warm light $89 (Was $139)

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

This is the best Kindle for most people. It has an excellent mix of features for its price tag. I bought one on Prime Day last year for $109, and I’ve used it (and reviewed it) a ton since then. It has an adjustable light for reading in the dark, and 8GB space is plenty of room for a ton of books. It has its quirks, but this is overall a great e-reader that will treat you well for years. If you need more space, you can upgrade to the Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) for $94 (was $149).

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32 GB) $124 (Was $189)

If you want to step up from the Paperwhite, you can get the Signature edition, which adds wireless charging, an automatically adjusting light source, and 32GB total storage.

More Amazon Kindle deals

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Save more than 42% on Microsoft Office 365 during Amazon Prime Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/prime-day-microsoft-office-365-deals-2023/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 12:02:59 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=555221
Microsoft Office Prime Day deal with gift cards
Amazon

Get 15 months of access to Microsoft Office 365 and a $20 Amazon gift card for just $69 with this Amazon Prime Day deal.

The post Save more than 42% on Microsoft Office 365 during Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Microsoft Office Prime Day deal with gift cards
Amazon

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It never feels good to pay for Microsoft Office Family. Most of the time, it means you’re paying money for the right to do homework. That’s why we like discounts on Microsoft Office 365 so much. Right now, you can get a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 for up to six people for $69. The deal also includes three free months and a $20 Amazon gift card. So, you’re essentially paying $49 for 15 months of Microsoft Office 365. That’s a steal compared to its typical $119 per-year cost and a great way to save on some essential back-to-school “supplies.”

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Microsoft Office 365 Family 15-month subscription with free $20 Amazon gift card $69 (Was $119, plus the gift card)

This is a physical gift card, so it will get shipped to you after you purchase. The package includes 15 total months of access to all of Microsoft’s Office apps, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Plus, you get 1TB of cloud storage from Microsoft OneDrive. This is a great way to save on something you probably wish you didn’t have to spend money on in the first place.

More Amazon Prime Day deals for your office

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The best solar generators for 2023, tested and reviewed https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-solar-generators/ Wed, 26 Jan 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=421868
The best solar generators including Jackery 2000 Pro, Anker 767 and the EcoFlow
Stan Horaczek

Tap the power of the sun to meet your power needs wherever you may roam.

The post The best solar generators for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best solar generators including Jackery 2000 Pro, Anker 767 and the EcoFlow
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Jackery 2000 Plus front panel close-up Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
SEE IT

This is a solid all-around mix of features and affordability.

Best for camping Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core Portable Generator Review Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core
SEE IT

This powerful pack is easy to transport to a site.

Best for homes EcoFlow Delta Pro portable generator review EcoFlow Delta Pro
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This is the pick if you need lots of scalable capacity.

If you’re camping and want to charge up your lantern, phone, or other devices, a solar generator sure would be convenient. Or perhaps you’re van-living your way across the country, and you need to work on the go and keep your conversion electrified—yet another solid case for a solar-powered generator. Whatever the case, few things are as useful in today’s tech-driven world as a source of reliable, renewable power. The best solar generators can reliably and sustainably meet various energy needs, and we’re here to help you find the right one for you.

How we chose the best solar generators

As an avid outdoorsman, I’ve had the opportunity to test an extremely wide range of outdoor gear, including mobile and off-grid electrification equipment like solar-powered generators, as well as inverter and dual-fuel generators. These became particularly essential when the pandemic forced my travels to become domestic rather than international, which prompted me to outfit a van for long-term road-tripping. 

To bring my work along for the ride, I needed a constant power source to charge my laptop, a portable fridge, lighting, and a myriad of devices and tools … even ebikes. As a result, I’ve tried all the leading portable power stations (and plenty that aren’t leading, too), so I know precisely what separates the best from the blah. I’ve written all about it (and other outdoor tech) for publications, including the Daily Beast, Thrillist, the Manual, and more. There were cases when my own opinion resulted in a tie, and I, therefore, looked to reviews from actual customers to determine which solar generators delivered the most satisfaction to the most users.

The best solar generators: Reviews & Recommendations

The solar generators on this list span a wide range of budgets, from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. They span several use cases, from camping to a backup for your home. Only you know all the factors that make one of these the best solar generator for you, but we think that one of these will get the job done.

Best overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus

Stan Horaczek

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Why it made the cut: It offers just about everything from our previous best overall pick with the added benefits of LiFePO4 battery power.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 2,042.8Wh (expandable up to 24,000Wh)
  • Output capacity: 6,000w
  • Dimensions: 18.6 x 14.7 x 14.1 inches
  • Weight: 61 pounds
  • Price: $2,199

Pros

  • Charges quickly
  • Very high output that can run power-hungry devices
  • Built-in wheels and handle
  • Clear display
  • Four AC outlets
  • Expandable with extra batteries
  • Long life batteries

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Slightly less capacity than our previous pick

As new solar generators hit the market, many come toting new lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries instead of the familiar lithium-ion batteries that came before. LiFePO4 offers a few advantages, including a much longer lifespan as you charge and discharge them. They’re also safer and often faster to charge. They do typically add some weight, however. Just about all of those modifiers apply here in the form of the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus can power current-hungry devices at up to 6000w, so even if you want to power a welder, you can. The battery will only last you about a half hour doing this (we tried it), but it does work, and that’s more than many other models can say. I also got to test the Explorer 2000 Plus during a real power outage. It kept our router running for several hours to maintain connectivity.

This model has 2kWh of storage built-in, but you can expand that capacity with extra external daisy-chained batteries. It gives a total max storage of up to 24kWh—enough for a serious off-grid job. The optional solar panels charge the battery quickly and efficiently. Jackery claims roughly two hours of charging time via the optional solar panels, and I found it took more like 2.5 hours, but that includes battling some passing clouds. With two straight hours of direct sun, it could likely get the job done.

A look at the Jackery 2000 Plus solar generator with its handle extended
The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus handle and integrated wheels make it considerably easier to move around. Stan Horaczek

At 61 pounds, this is considerably heavier than the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, which weighs nearly 20 pounds less. But, the integrated wheels, handle, and chunky grips to either side of the box make it very easy to lug around. Everyone in my family could easily set it in the back of my wife’s Honda Civic.

The switch to LiFePo4 also means that this unit will last a long time before the battery degrades beyond its usable range. The company claims it will take 4,000 cycles before the battery life degrades to 70 percent. We obviously haven’t had time to test that yet, but that is the nature of LiFePo4, so it will almost certainly last longer than a lithium-ion model at least.

Still great: Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro

Nick Hilden

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This Jackery solar generator delivers the best blend of capacity, input/output capability, portability, and durability.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 2,160Wh
  • Input capacity: 1,200W
  • Output capacity: 2,200W (4,400W surge)
  • Dimensions: 15.1 x 10.5 x 12.1 inches
  • Weight: 43 lbs
  • Price: $2,498

Pros

  • Fast charging and outstanding capacity
  • Durable and easy to use
  • Plenty of ports
  • Can connect to six 200W solar panels

Cons

  • Heavy for its size

The biggest portable power station from Jackery, a leading solar generator manufacturer, the Explorer 2000 Pro offers a tremendous 2,160 watt-hours of power, making it capable of charging a full camping setup for a few days. When plugged into six 200W solar panels, an upgrade over the four-panel setup available on the Jackery Explorer 1500, you can fully charge this portable power station in just 2-2.5 hours. That’s less than half the time of the smaller model.

On top of all that, it’s extremely user-friendly. Numerous output ports ensure that you can plug in a wide range of devices and electrical equipment. Its functions are highly intuitive, and the digital display is easy to understand. Like other Jackery generators, it’s incredibly durable, too. The one potential downside is its weight: At 43 pounds, it’s a bit heavy for its size. Even so, for all the power you can store, and the rapid-charging time, the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro will keep the lights on wherever you need power.

For more on the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, check out our full review.

Best high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro

Nick Hilden

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Specs

  • Storage capacity: 3,024Wh
  • Output capacity: 3,000W
  • Dimensions: 18.6 x 14.1 x 14.7 inches
  • Weight: 63.9 pounds
  • Price: $2,799

Pros

  • Ample power storage for long trips or outages
  • Sturdy handles and wheels make it easy to move
  • Smooth design makes it easy to load and unload
  • High peak output for power-intensive tasks
  • Lots of ports for connectivity

Cons

  • 200W solar panels can be klunky
  • Relatively pricey

This is the big sibling to our best overall pick. Inside the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro, you’ll find 3,024Wh of power storage, which is enough to power even large devices for extended periods of time. It can charge a high-end smartphone more than 100 times on a single charge. It can also power full-on appliances in an RV or emergency situation.

Despite its large capacity, we learned firsthand that the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro is relatively easy to move around. Sturdy handles molded into its case make it easy to pick up, while an extending handle and wheels make it easy to roll around at the campsite or any other location.

It can charge in less than three hours from a standard outlet or, under optimal conditions with the 200W solar panels, it can fill up as quickly as eight hours. That full solar array can get large and unwieldy, but a smaller setup can still provide ample charging if you don’t need to max out the capacity daily.

This portable power station offers the best of everything we loved about the Explorer 2000 Pro, there’s just more of it. When you’re living the van life, powering an RV, or trying to ride out a power outage, more is definitely better if you can justify the extra cost.

Best for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar Generator

Stan Horaczek

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Why it made the cut: High capacity and fast charging make this long-lasting battery a solid everyday driver.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 2,048Wh
  • Output capacity: 2,400W
  • Dimensions: 20.67 x 9.84 x 15.55 inches
  • Weight: 67.3 pounds
  • Price: $1,999

Pros

  • Charges up to 80% in less than two hours
  • Solid output and storage capacity
  • Optional battery pack doubles capacity
  • LiFePO4 batteries survive more charge cycles than traditional models
  • Plenty of ports
  • Built-in handle and wheels for transport

Cons

  • Heavy for its capacity
  • No USB-C in for charging

Anker has equipped its massive portable power station with LiFePO4 batteries, which stand up much better to repeat charging and discharging over the long term than common lithium-ion cells. Anker claims it can charge and discharge up to 3,000 times before it reaches 80% battery health compared to 500 in a similar lithium-ion setup. While I haven’t had the chance to run it through 3,000 cycles, LiFePO4 batteries have a well-earned reputation for longevity. 

Regarding overall performance, the Anker 767 does everything you’d want a unit with these specs to do. The bad weather has given me [Executive Gear Editor Stan Horaczek] ample chances, unfortunately, to test it in real-world situations. 

The built-in battery offers a 2048Wh capacity and pumps out up to 2,400W. It does so through four standard AC outlets, an RV outlet, two 120W car outlets, two 12W USB-A ports, and three 100W USB-C ports. 

I used it during a blackout to keep our Wi-Fi running while charging my family’s devices. Filling a phone from zero barely makes a dent in the power station’s capacity, and it ran the router for several hours with plenty of juice left. 

In another instance, it powered our small meat freezer for four hours before the power came back on with some juice still left in the tank. It does what it promises. 

There are a few nice extra touches as well. Built-in wheels and an extendable handle allow it to roll like carry-on luggage. Unfortunately, those are necessary inclusions because it weighs a hefty 67.3 pounds. It’s manageable but definitely heavy compared to its competition. 

The Anker 767 is compatible with the company’s 200W solar panels, which fold up for easy transportation. I mostly charged the unit through my home’s AC power, a surprisingly quick process. The 767 Portable Power Station can go from flat to more than 80% charge in less than a half hour with sufficient power. It takes about two hours to get it fully juiced. 

Anker also offers a mobile app that connects to the power station via Bluetooth if you want to control it without actually going over and touching it.

Best for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core

Nick Hilden

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Thanks to its outstanding portability, high storage capacity, and Yeti’s famous durability, the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core is great for packing along for camping or van-living. 

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 983Wh
  • Input capacity: 600W
  • Output capacity: 1,200W (2,400W surge)
  • Dimensions: 9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inches
  • Weight: 31.68 lbs
  • Price: $1,198.95

Pros

  • Highly portable
  • Incredible durability
  • Rapid recharge rate
  • Plenty of plugs

Cons

  • Expensive for its size/capacity

Yeti is long-renowned for making some of the best outdoor gear money can buy, so when the company launched its Goal Zero line of solar generators, it was no surprise that they turned out to be awesome. While the whole line is great, the 1000 Core model’s balance between capacity and portability makes it perfect for taking on the road and going camping.

While the 1000 Core has a third less capacity than our top pick, it charges up faster, making it a great option for rapid solar replenishment. That said, its capacity is no slouch, offering 82 phone charges, 20 for a laptop, or upwards of 15 hours for a portable fridge (depending on wattage). Suffice to say, it’s more than capable of powering your basic camping gear.

Beyond its charging capabilities, the Goal Zero 1000 Core excels at camping thanks to its hearty build quality. Built super tough—like pretty much everything Yeti makes—its exterior shell provides solid protection.

The biggest issue it presents is the cost. Like pretty much everything Yeti produces, its price tag isn’t small. While there are other 1000-level solar generators for less, this one offers a great balance of power storage and portability.

For more on the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core, check out our full review.

Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200 Max

Bluetti

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Thanks to its high solo capacity and ability to daisy-chain with additional batteries, the Bluetti AC200 Max is perfect for bringing power off the grid.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 2,048Wh standalone, expandable up to 8,192Wh
  • Input capacity: 1,400W
  • Output capacity: 2,200W (4,800W surge)
  • Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches
  • Weight: 61.9 lbs
  • Price: $1,999

Pros

  • Massive capacity
  • Daisy-chain capability
  • Lightning-fast input capacity
  • 30A RV plug and two wireless charging pads
  • Surprisingly affordable for what it offers

Cons

  • Pretty heavy
  • Fan can get loud, especially in hot weather

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a solar generator better suited for living off the grid for an extended period than the Bluetti AC200 Max. It boasts a substantial 2,048Wh capacity, allowing you to power your whole life off it longer than most portable generators. Even better, you can daisy-chain multiple Bluetti batteries, expanding its capacity to a massive 8.192Wh. That’s flat-out enormous and translates into the ability to power a full-sized fridge for over a day or several hours of air conditioning. For the more modest needs of people who are used to living off a generator, it will last for a very long time.

At the same time, the AC200 Max has an outstanding input capacity of 1,400W. That means you can plug in a pretty hefty array of solar panels to replenish its stores quickly. This allows you to keep your off-grid setup going with little to no interruption. It also features some specialty charging options, including a 30A plug, which lets you plug it directly into an RV, and multiple wireless charging pads for smaller devices.

Fastest charging: EcoFlow Delta 2 Max

Stan Horaczek

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Why it made the cut: Whether it’s solar or AC power, you can get 80% of a charge in an hour or less.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 2048Wh (expandable to 6,000Wh)
  • Output capacity: 3,400W
  • Dimensions: 19.8 x 9.5 x 12.01
  • Weight: 50.71 lbs
  • Price: $2,000

Pros

  • Very fast charging over solar or mains
  • Relatively compact
  • Not as heavy as we might have expected
  • Long-lasting batteries
  • Scalable by connecting two extra batteries
  • Advanced temperature management for safety

Cons

  • Solar panels are pricy
  • Still heavier than non-LiFePo4 models

Plug this 2048Wh battery pack into up to 1,000 watts of solar panels, and you can get an 80 percent charge in just 43 minutes. That’s blisteringly fast compared to other models. Plug the unit into the wall and you’ll go from zero to 80 percent in just 1.1 hours, which is still fairly speedy when it comes to soaking up electricity. That extra time can make a huge difference if you only have limited opportunities to top off your solar generator. We managed to get above 80 percent in just under an hour without perfect sun conditions here in Upstate New York.

In addition to its quick charging skills, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max offers an impressive array of connectivity, including six AC outlets, which is more than many larger models offer. That’s good if you want to run many devices or chargers simultaneously. If you need more capacity, you can add two extra external batteries to give it a total storage of 6Wh.

At 51 pounds, this isn’t the lightest solar generator in its category, but like the other EcoFlow generators, it has chunky handles on top that make it easy to lug around. Everyone in my family could easily get it in and out of the back of our Honda CR-V without issue. Though, it doesn’t have wheels, so you will have to actually carry it around or put it on a cart.

Ultimately, this feels like a very high-end device. The fast charging is wonderful. The display is clear and relatively bright (though it could be brighter). And it offers a wide array of connectivity.

Best for homes: EcoFlow Delta Pro

Nick Hilden

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The EcoFlow Delta Pro delivers the standalone and expandable power capacity necessary to power your entire home.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 3,600Wh standalone, expandable up to 25,000Wh
  • Input capacity: 6,500W
  • Output capacity: 3,600W (7,200W surge)
  • Dimensions: 25 x 11.2 x 16.4 inches
  • Weight: 99 lbs
  • Price: $3,699

Pros

  • Enormous capacity
  • Daisy-chain capability
  • 30A RV plug
  • Lightning-fast input capacity
  • Wi-Fi and Smartphone connectivity

Cons

  • Very heavy
  • Expensive

If you’re looking for the best solar generator for home backup in the event of a power outage, the EcoFlow Delta Pro stands apart from the pack, thanks to an unrivaled power and output capacity. The Delta Pro alone packs a 3,600Wh wallop, and you can expand that to 25,000Wh by chaining it to extra EcoFlow batteries and generators. That’s a ton of power and it has the substantial output capacity necessary to power an entire house worth of electronics when you need it to.

The Delta Pro also offers a companion app for iOS and Android that allows you to monitor energy usage, customize its operation, and monitor and manage a number of other elements.

While it’s not overly large for what it does, the Delta Pro is a heavy piece of equipment. It has wheels, so it is technically portable, but this is meant to be put down in a home or other semi-permanent site. Given its size and power, it’s also a much more expensive device, especially if you’re springing for the add-ons. As the best solar power generator to provide backup power for your entire home, however, it’s worth every penny. 

Best portable: Anker 545

Anker

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it makes the cut: If you’re looking for highly portable power, the Anker 545 delivers.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 778Wh
  • Input capacity: 240W
  • Output capacity: 770W
  • Dimensions: 11.81 x 8.03 x 7.28 inches
  • Weight: 18.2 lbs
  • Price: $559.99

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Plenty of capacity
  • Built-in lights

Cons

  • Slower input capacity

When portability is a priority, the Anker 545 offers the compact size and reduced weight you’re looking for and packs fairly substantial power to boot. Roughly the size of a shoebox and lighter than a case of beer, it’s easy to pack along with camping gear and move around without too much effort.

To get something so light, though, you have to compromise on power. The Anker 545 has a capacity of 778Wh and an output capacity of 770W, which is plenty of power for keeping your devices charged. Specifically, that should provide about 55 phone charges, 10 for a laptop, or 38 for a camera. Unfortunately, the outlets only output at up to 500W, so it cannot power more demanding devices like hair dryers or electric stoves.

That said, the Anker 545 has some bells and whistles, including an integrated flashlight and ambient light. All told it’s a solid option if you need a highly mobile generator.

Best budget: Jackery Explorer 300

Stan Horaczek

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: With its reasonable capacity, compact size, and solid build quality at a low price, the Jackery Explorer 300 is a great budget pick.

Specs

  • Storage capacity: 293Wh
  • Input capacity: 90W
  • Output capacity: 300W (500W surge)
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.2 x 7.8 in
  • Weight: 7.1 lbs
  • Price: $250

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Durable
  • Portable
  • Reasonable capacity

Cons

  • No flashlight
  • Slower input capacity

Though it isn’t quite as impressive as our top picks for best overall and best high-capacity, Jackery’s smaller Explorer 300 solar generator is super compact and lightweight with a decent power capacity for its price. Less a mobile power station than an upscale power bank, the 7-pound Jackery Explorer 300 provides plenty of portable recharges for your devices when you’re camping, on a job site, driving, or just need some power and don’t have convenient access to an outlet. Its modest 293Wh capacity isn’t huge, but it’s enough to provide 31 phone charges, 15 for a camera, 6 for the average drone, 2.5 for a laptop, or a few hours of operation for a minifridge or TV. A built-in flashlight would have upped its camping game somewhat, but at $300 (and often considerably less if you catch it discounted), this highly portable little power station does a lot for a little.

We tested this portable power station for several months, and it came in handy numerous times, especially during the winter when power outages abound. At one point, we had it powering two phones, a MacBook, and a small light.

The built-in handle makes it very easy to lug around. It feels like carrying a lunch box. The screen is easy to read, and the whole package seems fairly durable. Our review unit hasn’t taken any dramatic tumbles yet, but it has gotten banged around in car trunks, duffle bags, and other less-than-luxurious accommodations with no issues. If you catch one of these on sale, get it and stick it in a cabinet. You’ll be extremely glad to have it around when the need arises.

What to consider before buying the best solar generators

Over the past few years, solar generators have exploded onto the market. There are now dozens of different brands that largely look more or less the same at a glance. The fact is there are only a few standouts amidst a sea of knockoffs. Here’s what to look for to ensure you’re getting a great one:

How much power can it store?

A portable solar generator comes in an extremely wide range of sizes, but a generator’s size doesn’t automatically make it capable of storing a lot of power. In fact, most are disappointingly limited and unable to store much more juice than a portable charger.

To properly check a generator’s storage, you must look at its capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh). One watt-hour is the equivalent of 1 watt flowing over the course of an hour. The best solar generators offer capacities of several hundred and sometimes several thousand watt-hours. That doesn’t mean, however, that it will provide power for several hundred or several thousand hours. Any generator will ultimately last a different amount of time, depending on what’s plugged into it.

It’s easy to predict how long a generator will last when you use it to power one thing. For example, if you were to power a 100-watt bulb using a power station with a capacity of 500 watt-hours, it would stay lit for five continuous hours. Add a portable fridge that requires 50 watts per hour, your phone which uses 18, a mini-fan that uses three … you get the picture. The more capacity, the better.

Charging capability

No solar generator will hold a charge forever, so you want one capable of charging as quickly and easily as possible. This is where we put the “renewable” into “renewable energy.”

All of the power stations included in this roundup can be charged by connecting them to solar panels (hence the designation “solar generators”). Still, you also want to look for the ability to charge via other sources like wall outlets and your vehicle’s 12-volt plug. This ensures that you can charge up whether you’re off-grid in the sun, plugged in while preparing at home, or using your dash socket on the go.

You must also monitor a model’s charging input capacity, measured in watts (W). For example, a solar-powered generator with a max input of 100W can take in a continuous flow of up to 100 watts, which is about the minimum that you’ll reasonably want to look for. Most of the generators below have input capacities of at least a few hundred watts when charging via solar, so a few 50- to 200-watt solar panels will max them out.

Output capability

Solar generators need to keep the power coming in and going out. The best solar generators can simultaneously charge all your intended devices via whatever plugs are necessary.

Any portable power station worth your money will have a high output capacity so you can charge many devices, even if they require a lot of juice. A generator’s maximum output should be much higher than its max input. While a particular model might only be capable of taking in a few hundred watts at any given moment, it will usually put out exponentially more. At a minimum, you’ll want a generator that can put out 300 watts at a time, though you’ll want at least 500 for larger tasks.

The best solar generators should also offer a variety of output plugs, including AC outlets, USB-A, USB-C, and even 12-volt DC outlets like the one in your vehicle dash. This ensures you can charge several devices simultaneously regardless of their plug. The number of ports you’ll need will vary depending on how many devices you need to power, but it should have at least a couple of AC outlets and a few USB-A ports.

Portability

While portable battery sources have been around for a while now, over the past several decades, they’ve been pretty heavy, unwieldy things. One of the most exciting aspects of the latest generation of solar generators is that they’ve become much more physically compact. 

Suppose you plan on taking a generator camping or working it into a van conversion where every square inch matters; well, size and weight become major considerations. All of the products we’ve recommended are about the size of one or two shoeboxes—three at the most. The lightest is about the weight of a 24-pack of soda, while the heaviest is 100 pounds. Most fall somewhere between 30-60 pounds.

If you’re using your generator as a more or less stationary source of backup power at home, portability isn’t a huge issue. Still, we generally recommend keeping weight and size in mind; You never know when you’ll need it for something other than a backup. (Plus, who wants to lug around something heavy and awkward if they don’t have to?) 

Another consideration regarding portability involves the necessity for accessories, which can impact how easy it is to move and use your generator. Some generators, for example, require a lot of removable battery packs, which can be a hassle when you’re on the go or packing a vehicle. All of the inclusions on our list require some accessories—you can’t get solar power without connecting cables and solar panels—but they work well with minimal add-ons.

Durability

As with any product you expect to last, durability and all-around quality craftsmanship are essential. This is especially true if you plan on lugging your generator around on camping and road trips. Many subpar power stations are made from cheap components and flimsy plastic that doesn’t feel like it will hold up under the rigors of the road.

Durability isn’t something you can determine by reading a spec sheet off the internet. You’ve actually got to take the generator out, use it a bunch, and see how it holds up. I’ve verified the durability of these recommendations via a combination of my own actual field tests and reviews culled from countless real product owners.

Related: Best electric generators

FAQs

Q: What size solar generator should I get?

It’s easy to underestimate how much capacity you need. A 1,000 watt-hours might sound like a lot, but if you’re going to power a converted van with a portable fridge, lights, and occasional phone and laptop top-off, that 1,000 watt-hours will go faster than you expect. I used a setup like this and know from personal experience that you should always overestimate how much power you’ll need.

A generator with a capacity under 1,000Wh can keep electronics charged. A larger one with 1000-1500Wh should be the minimum for road trips where you’ll need it to last multiple days between full charges. For a house or worksite where you expect to use some serious energy—like a full-sized refrigerator or power tools—you’re going to want to start looking at the biggest possible power stations that can be daisy-chained to external batteries.

If you want to get precise, there is an equation:

1. Estimate how many hours you’ll need to power various devices. For example, if you want to power two light bulbs for 2 hours: you need 4 hours of operation.

2. Add up the total wattage necessary: the two bulbs are 60 watts each, so you need 120 watts.

3. Multiply these together to find the total watt-hours needed: 4 x 120 = 480. So, in this case, you’d need at least a 500Wh solar generator. 

That might sound like a lot for two lightbulbs, but remember that, in most situations, you won’t really be powering 60-watt light bulbs for hours on end. You’ll be charging phones and laptops for an hour here or there, cooling a fridge that kicks on and off every once in a while, using power tools in short bursts, and whatnot.

Q: How many years will a solar generator last?

Most modern generators are rated to last upwards of 25 years. The best-designed power stations are pretty sturdy, with few to no moving parts, so they should likely keep kicking for a long time, provided that you care for them properly. I’ve been pretty rough with a few of mine, and they show no signs of stopping.

Q: Can I run my house on solar power only?

Yes and no. While it’s absolutely possible to power your house with solar power, you’re unlikely to do so with a portable solar generator unless you use several at once while limiting your power usage. The largest of our recommendations—the EcoFlow Delta Pro—will come fairly close when bolstered with extra batteries. If the power goes out, you’ll be able to keep your fridge cold and use basic electronics for a couple of days without recharging. With quality solar panels, good sunlight, and smart energy usage, your power should theoretically go uninterrupted.

Final thoughts on the best solar generators

We’re living in a “golden age” for portable solar generators. When I was a kid, and my family was playing around with solar gear while camping in the ‘90s, the technology couldn’t charge many devices, so it wasn’t all that practical. 

By contrast, the solar generators we’ve recommended here are incredibly useful. I’ve relied on them to power my work and day-to-day needs while road-tripping nationwide. They’re also great when the power goes out. When a windstorm cut the power at my house for a couple of days, I was still working, watching my stories, and keeping the lights on. 

We haven’t even scratched the surface in terms of the potential offered by portable, reliable, renewable, relatively affordable power. What we can do now is already incredible. The potential for what may come next, though, is truly mind-blowing.

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 solar generators for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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Hisense early Prime Day TV deal composite
Stan Horaczek

This TV is typically a bargain even at its $599 regular price. Get it even cheaper now during this discounted early Prime Day deal.

The post Score a 58-inch Hisense QLED TV for just $350 at Amazon before Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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Hisense early Prime Day TV deal composite
Stan Horaczek

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Prime Day doesn’t officially start until Tuesday, July, but you can already score one of the best deals we have seen in a while. Right now, the Hisense U6-series 58-inch TV is just $349. This is one of the best budget-friendly TVs on the market at its regular $599 price, but it’s absolutely wild for $349.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Hisense 58-inch ULED U6 Series Quantum Dot LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $349 (Was $599)

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Despite this TV’s very affordable price, it comes with a heap of high-end features that make it worthy of a spot in your living room. Hisense’s ULED tech includes Quantum Dot tech, so it’s brighter than the typical LED-lit displays you’ll find in this price range. You get access to HDMI 2.1 and eARC, which come in handy if you’re attaching advanced devices like an Apple TV, next-gen. gaming console, or surround sound system. It runs on the Amazon FireTV platform (presumably how it earned its spot in the Prime Day lineup), so you don’t even really need an external streaming box for most apps.

Simply put, this does not look like a TV that should cost less than $400, especially at 58 inches.

If you don’t need to go that big, the 50-inch model is just $299, down from a regular price of $529. That’s better-than-Black-Friday territory.

One of the best TVs available is also at its lowest price ever

If you have more cash to spend on a TV, you might want to check out Samsung’s S95B OLED TV, which is currently cheaper than it ever has been.

SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class OLED 4K S95B Series TV $1,597 (Was $1,797)

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Samsung doesn’t make a ton of OLED TVs, but when they do, they’re typically excellent. This set is no exception. This is the 2022 model, but it offers a full suite of powerful features. The OLED panel itself is super-thin and provides the kinds of deep black levels and exemplary contrast we’ve come to expect from this technology. It offers a native 120Hz refresh rate, which is great for gaming. A full four HDMI 2.1 ports also help get the most out of current-generation gaming consoles. This is a flagship-grade TV without all the extra cost of paying for unnecessary 8K resolution.

More early Amazon Prime Day TV deals

The post Score a 58-inch Hisense QLED TV for just $350 at Amazon before Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best outdoor string lights for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-outdoor-string-lights/ Mon, 03 Jul 2023 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=553106
The best outdoor string lights main composite
Stan Horaczek

Give your home an alfresco facelift cheaply and easily with the best outdoor string lights.

The post The best outdoor string lights for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Govee best overall outdoor string lights Govee outdoor string lights
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These elegant, durable lights provide app-controlled illumination.

Best budget Addlon budget outdoor string lights Addlon outdoor string lights
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These simple lights offer a sophisticated Edison bulb style.

Best multi-colored Govee best colored outdoor string lights Govee Multi-Colored Outdoor String Lights
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Choose from roughly 16 million colors and 47 lighting modes.

Outdoor string lights provide some of the best return on investment when it comes to improving the overall look and feel of your yard. They’re surprisingly cheap and typically straightforward to install. But they can change the entire complexion of your outdoor environment. I say this as a person who was very skeptical about them. After an hour of installation and less than $100 worth of purchases, the vibes on my patio are immaculate. Here are our picks for the best outdoor string lights to give your yard the pleasant feel of an expensive downtown bar where the beers have clever names and cost $11. 

How we chose the best outdoor string lights

It’s hard work to sit outside under pleasant lights, but we’re always willing to do it here at PopSci HQ. For these selections, we emphasized reliable brands that offer products that will last. String lights like this can be very disposable, and that’s bad for both your wallet and the environment. Even the cheaper options on this list will likely last you longer than buying a random option from Amazon. Our picks result from hands-on testing, spec comparisons, editorial reviews, and user feedback. We’re always updating our stories as we test new products, so you may see different picks today than you saw in this article before. 

The best outdoor string lights: Reviews & Recommendations

While we offer specific picks for various uses, we recommend checking out all of our suggestions before making a purchase. You’ll often find overlap between picks, especially when you have a category as broad as outdoor string lights. There are a ton of options out there, and it’s good to know what your options are so you can pick something that complements your solar deck lights, LED landscape lights, etc.

Best overall: Govee Outdoor String Lights

Govee

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Specs

  • Price per foot: $0.77 
  • Power source: Plug-in electric
  • Light color: 2700K (warm white)

Pros

  • Pleasant glow and color
  • Daisy chain sets together to cover any amount of yard
  • 20,000-hour lifespan
  • IP65 weatherproof rating
  • Smartphone app provides remote control

Cons

  • Requires an outlet instead of a battery or solar, so keep that in mind when installing

Govee makes excellent LED lights for a variety of purposes, and its outdoor offerings are unsurprisingly excellent as well. These warm white lights offer an IP65 weatherproof rating, which means they can endure full exposure to the elements, even if the climate gets harsh. 

You can buy 24-foot, 48-foot, and 96-foot packages, but you can also string them together to make longer segments and cover more area. They plug directly into an outlet, so you don’t have to worry about solar chargers getting enough exposure or batteries dying while trying to enjoy your time outdoors. 

Govee offers a slick and intuitive app for controlling the lights. The bulbs are dimmable and offer six different scene modes, all of which you can control from up to 230 feet away. They aren’t the cheapest option around, and they don’t have the trendy Edison bulb look that some people crave, but they provide a very pleasant, consistent, and flattering warm white light that suits just about any space. These look mature and sophisticated without feeling stodgy. Plus, the bulbs promise a 20,000-lifespan so they should last several seasons depending on your usage. 

Best budget: Addlon 50FT LED Outdoor String Lights with Edison Shatterproof Bulbs

Addlon

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Specs

  • Price per foot: $0.54 per foot
  • Power source: Plug-in electric
  • Light color: Warm white/yellow

Pros

  • Attractive Edison bulb design
  • IP65 weatherproofing
  • Affordable per foot and even cheaper if you buy longer lengths
  • Shatterproof

Cons

  • Longer lengths don’t necessarily reduce cost per foot
  • Compatible with dimmer switches, but it’s not included

With clear domes and visible filaments (well, LEDs designed to look like old-school filaments, at least), this is the most affordable way to pull it off. These Edison-style bulbs check in at roughly $0.50 per foot since they’re typically on sale. Despite their affordable price, they still offer some higher-end features. The bulbs have an IP65 rating to stand up to full-on exposure to the elements. They’re also dimmable, but there’s no app or built-in knob to control the output. You’ll have to run them to a dimmer switch to control the intensity. 

These affordable lights come in packages between 25 and 200 feet. The wires are made of copper, not copper-clad aluminum, which makes them more durable. The PVC coating contributes to that toughness as well. These require an outlet to draw power, so make sure you have one near your outdoor area or get an extension cord to cover the difference. 

Best multi-color: Govee Multi-Color Outdoor String Lights

Specs

  • Price per foot: $1.04
  • Power source: Plug-in electric
  • Light color: Multi

Pros

  • Lots of colors to choose from
  • App control
  • Many display modes
  • IP65 weatherproof
  • Control each bulb color individually

Cons

  • Expensive

We’re big fans of Govee’s traditional warm white outdoor lights, so it only makes sense that its colored lights would shine bright (metaphorically speaking) as well. These are very similar in form and function to our best overall pick. But, the bulbs on these strands can reproduce roughly 16 million different colors. They can also implement up to 47 different lighting modes, which means you have basically infinite options when it comes to your outdoor lighting. 

These are some of the most expensive lights on this list but also the most versatile. They take commands from Govee’s dedicated mobile app. Bluetooth lets you issue lighting commands from as far as 230 feet away. These lights draw power from an outlet, so it’s easy to string them together by simply plugging them into each other. The bulbs come with an IP65 rating so they’re not afraid to live out in the elements. 

While basic lighting is fun, these have a music sync mode that allows them to change color, flashing pattern, and brightness depending on what you’re listening to. “Hotel California” demands decidedly different lighting vibes than Wu-Tang, and these string lights can handle that switch on the fly.  

Best solar: Westinghouse 48-ft Solar Black Outdoor String Light with 24 White-Light LED Edison Bulbs

Westinghouse

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Specs

  • Price per foot: $1.02
  • Power source: Solar
  • Light color: Warm white

Pros

  • Glass bulbs
  • Attractive Edison bulb design
  • Solar power doesn’t require plugs or batteries
  • Bright for solar lights

Cons

  • No battery or plug option to keep lights on when solar runs out
  • Not linkable, so you’ll need to install individual strands if you want more than one

Some outdoor areas just don’t have access to an outlet, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a little mood lighting. These Westinghouse outdoor string lights come with a small solar panel that spikes into the ground near where your lights start. The energy-efficient LEDs don’t require much juice, so a day exposed to regular sunlight can provide ample illumination for a party that goes well into the night. 

This kit includes 24 bulbs stretched over a span of 48 feet. The clear glass bulbs provide a very classy look, and they’re relatively easy to replace since they’re a standard size. Mounting loops above each bulb makes it easy to hang these lights on hooks or nails. Plus, these lights put out a pleasant 2700K warm white light that’s pleasing in just about any setting. You don’t get fancy app controls or color changing, but that would drain your solar power so fast that it wouldn’t be worth the extra effort and cost. You can simply install these solar lights and then let them do their thing. It’s a very hands-off experience.

Things to consider when shopping for the best outdoor string lights

Before buying the most popular thing on Amazon, take a few minutes to learn the basic terms and tech behind outdoor string lights. It’ll help ensure you get the right setup for your space. That romantic patio just won’t feel right with flashing carnival lights. 

Power source

The most common power source for outdoor string lights is just plug-in electric. It’s not always the easiest to work around because you’ll need access to an outdoor outlet every time you want to light up. But, it has some advantages over the alternatives. Solar is a nice option because you can put the lights wherever the sun regularly shines without having to be tethered to the mains. If you don’t get enough sun, however, you only get a limited amount of light before the built-in battery does. Solar lights also tend to break down faster than their hardwired counterparts. Battery-powered models are also an option, but batteries don’t love to live outside because they’re very vulnerable to temperature changes and moisture.

Price per foot

If you’re covering a large area, these prices can add up fast. $1 per foot doesn’t sound that pricy until you consider how far you have to string lights and how many times you want to crisscross your yard. Buying longer lengths will typically slightly reduce the cost per foot, but the savings may not be as deep as you’re expecting for buying in bulk. 

Light color

Many manufacturers express light color in Kelvin. You’ll find a few on this list that check in at 2700 Kelvin, a very warm white. Daylight typically falls between 5,600 and 6,500 Kelvin; the lower that number goes, the more orange it will look. 2,700K will emulate old incandescent bulbs, for instance. 

Some bulbs will do a ton of colors. Our pick for best multicolored, for instance, can replicate roughly 16 million colors. That can be fun, but it also doesn’t match everyone’s style. If you’re looking for something sophisticated and basic, just plain, warm white is our recommendation. 

Bulb design

You’ll want to be able to replace the bulbs if one goes out, so check the bulb size before making a purchase. You’ll be sad if you can’t easily get a replacement. Some bulbs offer more opaque coverings for a softer glow, while others offer clear domes so you can see the (fake LED) filament inside. Find a shape and style that you like and commit to it. You want a consistent look across your entire space most of the time. 

App control

Some lights go beyond a simple on/off switch to enable different brightnesses, colors, and illumination modes. The truly advanced models, however, offer control from afar via a dedicated mobile app. That’s a big part of what we like about Govee’s offerings. Its app is intuitive and effective for what it is.

FAQs

Q: Where should I hang outdoor string lights?

This is really a matter of personal taste as long as you take a few small technical considerations into account. If you’re using plug-in lights, you’ll need to ensure they reach an outlet, limiting your placement a bit. You can use an outdoor extension cord to expand the reach. 

Some people choose to crisscross the lights over the outdoor space to provide more even light. Some prefer to hang them just around the perimeter. You could also hang them in a specific area where you’re trying to curate a vibe. Just ensure that your lights are fully weatherproof if you’re hanging them in an area fully exposed to the elements. 

Q: How often do bulbs need replacing?

This really depends on a lot of variables. Many lights will tell you how long the bulbs are rated for. So, some will say something like, “rated for 20,000 hours.” But that number varies wildly in the real world. If you hang your lights uncovered in the elements, they may deteriorate faster than if they’re hung under a pergola or a gazebo. 

Q: What’s a good way to hang and secure outdoor string lights?

Hooks provide the best method for hanging outdoor string lights because they’re simple to install (most of the time) and they don’t stress or compromise the wire itself like stables can. That’s especially true if the lights spend all of their time exposed to the elements. Metal hooks with clasps work best in an outdoor setting, assuming you can drill holes into whatever you’re mounting them to. Drill a pilot hole, then screw in the hook and string the lights along with hooks to support them at regular intervals. If hooks aren’t an option, you can use staples to keep the strings in place. Just be sure your staple gun isn’t damaging the wire as you apply the fasteners. 

Final thoughts regarding the best outdoor string lights

Sitting outside with some friends (or just with your Nintendo Switch as you play the latest Zelda game) really gets an upgrade with outdoor string lights. You don’t have to spend much money or undertake a major electrical project to do it, either. The options on this list are reliable, appealing, and easy to install. In fact, the best outdoor string lights might provide the biggest bang for your buck of any outdoor upgrade. It’s right up there with mosquito-repellent devices that really work. 

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 outdoor string lights for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Netgear Orbi 960 WiFi 6E mesh system review: All the speed you could need https://www.popsci.com/gear/netgear-orbi-960-wifi-6e-mesh-network-review/ Thu, 29 Jun 2023 17:25:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=552346
Netgear Orbi 9 router
The router and satellite nodes look nearly identical. sta

This pricey mesh network setup will serve up super-fast WiFi for years—and yards—to come.

The post Netgear Orbi 960 WiFi 6E mesh system review: All the speed you could need appeared first on Popular Science.

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Netgear Orbi 9 router
The router and satellite nodes look nearly identical. sta

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The dream is to have super-fast internet just about everywhere. Mesh WiFi systems help enable that beautiful reality, and Netgear’s flagship Orbi system dishes out some of the fastest home internet I have ever experienced—full stop. This pricey system offers high-end features designed for sharing a fast connection across a very large home, and it truly delivers thanks to some clever tech and smart design. It’s also quite a bit more secure than the router your ISP tried to get you to use when they installed your service. Is it overkill for many people? Probably, but that’s what makes it great. 

Stan Horaczek

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PopSci readers can get 10 percent off at Netgear.com right now by using the code: “POP10” at checkout.

Overview

  • The Orbi 960 system includes one router node and two satellite nodes that link up to cover roughly 9,000 square feet of terrain with WiFi connectivity. 
  • This router provides access to typical WiFi bands, but WiFi 6E hardware inside can access the newly available (and decidedly less crowded) 6GHz band.
  • Netgear’s subscription-based security service offers in-depth safety features and network protection for a monthly price.

Pros

  • Extremely fast and reliable coverage over a large area thanks to 12 internal antennas
  • Broadcasts on the 6GHz band for devices that can access it
  • Attractive design
  • Offers a fast wired connection thanks to 10Gbps WAN and 2.5Gbps LAN ports, which are uncommon on home routers
  • Easily expandable with extra nodes
  • Netgear Armor provides solid subscription-based security that’s easy to manage
  • Easy to set up, considering its advanced nature

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Only a limited number of devices currently support 6GHz
  • Netgear Armor software requires a monthly subscription

Verdict: Netgear’s $1,500 WiFi system offers some of the fastest and most flexible wireless coverage available, thanks to its advanced hardware and robust software.

Netgear Orbi 960 hardware and setup

There are three individual devices inside this kit. The router connects directly to your modem and includes the high-speed 10Gbps WAN and 2.5Gbps LAN ports. The other two devices are satellite nodes that connect to the main router and expand coverage to a total of 9,000 square feet (depending on your structures, layout, and network interference). 

This is a $1,500 high-end system, so it comes in an elegant box that’s simple to unpack and includes just about everything you need to set up your network. The typical Orbi 960 system comes with white nodes, but you can also get the Black edition if you buy directly from Netgear itself. Buying direct also gets you a year of access to the Netgear Armor software, which we’ll dive into more later. 

Netgear Orbi Router back
The router has an extra port not found on the satellites. Stan Horaczek

The setup is relatively simple. Each node has a sync button onboard, so once you’ve set up the router, it’s easy to get it to talk to the satellite nodes without navigating software menus. We got our network set up and all our devices (including a slew of smart-home stuff) connected in under an hour. This is a quad-band 802.11a/n/ac/ax router—offering simultaneous tri-band 2.4/5/6GHz coverage with dedicated backhaul—so you’ll have to ensure you connect devices correctly if you want them to work together. For instance, I use some older connected gear that still works perfectly but requires 2.4GHz connectivity in order to play nicely. Other than some slight troubleshooting, the setup is extremely simple. If you run into any issues, it will likely have to do with the band you’re using, which is one slight downside to having all of these built-in options.

Setting up the software

A QR code on the router begins the setup process with a simple scan. Downloading the mobile app is actually the first step in the entire setup process, and it guides you through easily and efficiently. It’s not quite Apple’s “tap devices together and they magically work,” but it’s simple enough for a network system this advanced. 

The Orbi mobile app is surprisingly slick in light of many other network management utilities that feel as modern as an Atari 2600. The same is true for the web app, which actually offers even more options and controls than the mobile version. The Orbi app allows you to track devices on the network, test internet speed, manage guests, monitor network security, and more. 

Several features require a subscription beyond the Orbi’s already high purchase price. Netgear Armor is an excellent suite of security features that costs $99 per year for its subscription. It offers robust and easy-to-manage protection that we think is worth the investment. We even gave the tech a Best of What’s New award when it debuted in 2021.

The other subscription is the $69 annual Premium plan, which enables a number of useful parental control features. It allows you to observe and manage your family’s usage and screen time. 

Generally speaking, the Orbi software is all-around excellent. It offers deep access to complex settings if you have the know-how (and desire) to do so. But, the sleek design and relatively intuitive interface make it simple to navigate for networking novices. It can get a little intimidating just because there’s so much going on in the software, but once you’ve climbed the short learning curve, it pretty much runs on autopilot unless you want to tinker. 

Netgear Orbi 960 wireless performance

Netgear Orbi 9 satellite node
You can add additional satellites to the system for $599 each. Stan Horaczek

We’re not going to be publishing specific speed test numbers here because, without a carefully controlled testing environment, your results can vary widely depending on several factors. For our testing, however, we relied on a whole gaggle of connected devices, laptops, TVs, smart home devices, and tablets. We also connected a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra because it’s one of a limited number of WiFi 6E devices that can actually take full advantage of its bandwidth.

In our speed tests, this system ran faster than any other mesh setup we’ve tried. The interface has an internet speed panel that includes an Ookla speed test functionality to regularly monitor the speed of your network. 

While speeds are typically their fastest when you’re near the router or a satellite, the Orbi system provides an impressively uniform blanket of wireless connectivity across the entirety of my house. My home isn’t anywhere near 9,000 square feet. Still, it has some trouble areas for WiFi, including a basement area that typically struggles to maintain a fast and reliable connection for 4K streaming. That wasn’t an issue with this system, however. That’s one of the benefits of mesh. 

Each node provides such a wide coverage area, thanks to the 12 built-in antennae, that this may feel like overkill for smaller spaces. I was able to arrange the nodes so that I got a strong signal all the way to the back of my yard on my half-acre lot. The network easily moved through walls and other obstacles and didn’t create any dead spots. 

So, who should buy the Netgear Orbi 960 mesh WiFi system?

At $1,500, the Netgear Orbi 960 mesh system is an investment, though you can get 10 percent off with the code “POP10” right now. With 9,000 square feet of promised coverage, it’s dramatic overkill if you’re simply trying to toss internet around your apartment. For some, however, all that tech is ideal. The WiFi 6E and 6GHz compatibility make this a pleasantly future-proof system. Even as new devices arrive on your network, you’ll already be able to take full advantage of their connectivity. 

While this system provides burly enough hardware and ample access to in-depth settings for hardcore users, it’s also easy enough to set up and maintain that you don’t have to be a networking pro to get the most out of it. And if you need to cover an even bigger area, expanding your mesh network is extremely easy (if a bit expensive). This is a true flagship home networking setup and if you have the need and the cash, it’s absolutely worth it.

The post Netgear Orbi 960 WiFi 6E mesh system review: All the speed you could need appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon’s early Prime Day deals have already started with Kindles, Fire TVs, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/early-prime-day-deals-amazon-devices-kindle-fire-tv/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:58:57 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=551763
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Get a jump on the savings.

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Amazon’s Prime Day shopping holiday doesn’t officially start until July 11 and 12, but the company has already started dropping prices on its own products to get the deal juices flowing. That includes Kindles, Fire TVs, Echo speakers, Eero routers, Ring home security and more. There are some decidedly cheap products here, including newer models that haven’t even been on the market that long. Here’s a look at what’s up for grabs right now. Then, make sure to come back on Prime Day proper for our extensive coverage of all the best deals.

Echo speakers (Including the limited edition Star Wars versions)

Before you get too excited, the Darth Vader Echo Dot stand isn’t on sale. It was too popular and we totally get it. The Mandalorian and Stormtrooper versions are on sale for just $30, though. We can appreciate that. You’ll need an Echo Dot speaker to go inside of them. Luckily those are on-sale, too.

Amazon Fire TV early Prime Day deals

If you’re shopping Amazon’s early Prime Day TV deals, you’ll want to make sure that the deal you’re getting is actually cheaper than usual. Some of the Fire TV models have actually gone up in price very recently, which makes their current “deal” price above their normal cost. Here are some options with actual discounts happening now.

Amazon Kindle early Prime Day deals

Echo earbuds early Prime Day deals

Eero router early Prime Day deals

Ring security early Prime Day deals

The post Amazon’s early Prime Day deals have already started with Kindles, Fire TVs, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best dog food for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-dog-food/ Tue, 27 Jun 2023 17:37:35 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=551536
The best dog food composited
Stan Horaczek

Your pooch deserves a healthy food that they actually enjoy eating.

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The best dog food composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best for large breeds The best dog food for large breeds Purina Pro-Plan Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breeds
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Big dogs put lots of stress on their joints, but the right food can help.

Best for small breeds The best dog food for small breeds in its bag. Royal Canin bag Royal Canin Small Breed adult dry dog food
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Each morsel is the proper size, shape, and recipe for small dogs that need energy.

Best raw The best dog food Maev best raw dog food Maev
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You’ll recognize every ingredient in this raw food product.

Caring for a dog requires a number of essential decisions, few of which carry more importance than choosing the right dog food. The pet food aisle at your local store is likely jammed with more options than you could possibly consider, which make navigating them nearly impossible on your own. Luckily, there are some basic variables that can point you in the right direction and get your pooch the chow they need to thrive. And while high-end dog foods may cost extra, they will likely pay off in the long run when it comes to vet bills, carpet cleaning costs, and nights spent sleeping instead of listening to dog with a rumbly stomach pacing around the house. Here are our picks for the best dog foods no matter what kind of canine you’re feeding.

How we chose the best dog food

We typically select a “best overall” pick for our buying guides, but that doesn’t really apply here. Every dog is different and suggesting one blanket food that’s the “best” for all of them just doesn’t work. Instead, we’ve broken up our selections by size, age, and delivery method. While these aren’t bargain-oriented options, we focused on brands that offer high quality without super premium pricing. You can spend five-star money on your pooch if you have the cash, but most of us don’t.

For our picks, I’ve relied on my extensive experience researching and writing about dog products for PopSci and other outlets. I’ve integrated suggestions from the vet that takes care of my dogs, though they didn’t want to specifically endorse any brands. Instead, they have provided some guidelines to look for. 

We also considered editorial reviews, user feedback, nutrient comparisons, and brand reputation during our research process. The latter is especially important in this research as many dog food brands have experienced multiple recalls for safety issues in recent years. 

The best dog food: Reviews & Recommendations

While we make specific picks for different varieties of dog, we recommend checking out all the picks since there’s often overlap when it comes to what’s best. Keep scrolling for a list of ingredients and variables you should consider when making your selection.

Best delivery service: PetPlate Dog Food

Specs

  • Type: Fresh (frozen), and kibble
  • Package size: Varies depending on variety
  • Cost: Starts at roughly $2.50 per day for just cooked food or $6.50 per day for dry and cooked food

Pros

  • Food gets delivered so you don’t run out
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Plans include complete nutrition options or just fresh food “toppers”
  • Sturdy containers
  • Healthy recipes

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Requires freezer storage

Running out of dog food feels like the biggest pet parenting fail. That’s not an issue with PetPlate. This delivery service offers several options, including a raw-only food topper that’s meant to mix with kibble. The company also sells its own fresh-baked kibble to go with the raw food topper, but it’s somewhat pricey compared to the dog food you’ll find at the store. 

When you first sign up for the service, the site will guide you through a series of questions about your dog’s breed, size, allergies, weight, and any other variables that may affect its ideal food choice. The service then tweaks the selections and delivery intervals in order to provide an optimal diet. 

The packages are sturdy and easy to store, even though they require freezing to stay fresh. The ingredients are excellent and you have access to a wide mix of nutrients. You’re going to pay more than you would if you just went to the store and bought the food, but the convenience can be worth it for some people. The added flexibility is also a definite plus for many. 

Best raw: Maev

Billy Cadden

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Specs

  • Type: Raw (frozen)
  • Package size: Varies depending on variety
  • Cost: $138 per 10-pound bag

Pros

  • Extremely excellent ingredient list with meat, berries, peanut butter, and more
  • Glucosamine for joint health
  • Easy to store in the freezer
  • Good for any breed
  • Can mix with other foods to slow down consumption

Cons

  • Expensive

The ingredients for this frozen raw dog food read like the menu at a delicious salad spot. It’s full of USDA-certified meat, kale, zucchini, green beans, peanut butter, and many other things you’ll actually recognize. This is most certainly not the cheapest option around, but it can work wonders for dogs with very sensitive stomachs or strong allergies. 

In addition to the raw food itself, Maev also offers other products like bone broth toppers that can go with kibble and supplement bars that address specific issues. There’s a supplement bar for digestion, one for a shiny coat, one for joint health, and one to help with anxiety. 

If you sign up for the subscription, you can easily change your delivery frequency, tweak your product selection, and cancel easily if you want to try something else. It’s expensive, but it’s worth it if you can accept the cost. 

Best for puppies: Wellness Complete Health Puppy

Wellness

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Specs

  • Type: Dry
  • Package size: 5-, 15-, and 30-pound bags
  • Cost: $66.48 for a 30-pound bag

Pros

  • Small chunks
  • Glucosamine and calcium for bone and joint development
  • Calcium and phosphorus for tooth development
  • Staff nutritionists and vets
  • Brand makes a full line so they can easily transition off of puppy food to adult food

Cons

  • Expensive

Puppies require lots of energy in their food, but the wrong nutrient mix can make them chubby instead of well-fueled. Wellness boasts nutrition experts and vets on-staff in order to give credibility to their formulas. The pieces are small and easy for dogs to chew, but they’re crunchy and include essential supplements. Glucosamine helps with joints and bones. Other additives include probiotics (which can help developing stomachs adapt to their new food), antioxidants, and omega 3 fatty acids. 

Once your puppy grows out of the puppy formula, Wellness offers a full line of foods that progress along with your pup. The puppy formula is usually appropriate for the first 8-14 months and then they can move up to the full-grown food. 

Best for small breeds: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin

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Specs

  • Type: Dry
  • Package size: 14-pound bag
  • Cost: $59.99 for a 14-pound bag

Pros

  • Small chunks that are easy to chew
  • Limited phosphorous for kidney health in older dogs
  • On-staff nutritionists for development
  • Impeccable reputation
  • Good for older small dogs
  • Provides ample energy without causing weight gain

Cons

  • Very expensive

Royal Canin has a very well-earned reputation when it comes to dry dog food and that’s true for its small breed formula as well. Each piece of kibble is small and chewy, which dogs enjoy. The company has also tweaked the shape of each morsel in order to make it easy to chew, but good for the teeth. This food includes L-Carnitine, which the company claims provides the energy smaller dogs need without collecting as fat. 

While this food is suitable for puppies (they are small after all), it has controlled levels of phosphorus specifically to help maintain kidney health in older dogs. 

Best for large breeds: Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food

Purina

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Specs

  • Type: Dry
  • Package size: 18-, and 34-pound bags
  • Cost: $71 for a 34-pound bag

Pros

  • Not as expensive as other high-end foods
  • Several ingredients support joint health which can suffer in large breeds
  • Suitable for sensitive stomachs (which can mean fewer farts)
  • Chicken and rice formula doesn’t have a strong smell

Cons

  • 18-pound bag goes quick with a big dog

Large dogs are fun, but they eat a ton of food. Plus, the food they eat can play an even larger role in their health because a fat large breed dog is bound to get joint issues and other problems that can be painful (and pricey) down the line. 

This large-breed specific food doubles down on the joint health and bone support supplements. Heavier dogs abuse their joints, so that’s crucial here. It has a relatively gentle flavor profile, so it’s OK for many dogs with sensitive stomachs. Plus, it has extra protein, which is crucial for maintaining muscle, especially as the dog ages. 

This isn’t the cheapest food around, which can be challenging with some large dogs eating several cups of food at every feeding. But, it’s a high-quality food that may keep your dog healthier longer and make up for its cost by saving you vet bills down the road.

Best for senior dogs: Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Life Protection Formula

Blue Buffalo

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Specs

  • Type: Dry
  • Package size: 5-, 15-, 30-, and 34-pound bags
  • Cost: $57.50 for a 30-pound bag

Pros

  • Relatively affordable for a high-end food
  • Supplements to support joint health
  • Extra protein, which older dogs require to maintain muscle
  • Soft pieces are easy to chew

Cons

  • Not good for overweight older dogs

You’ll notice several kinds of morsels in this kibble and that’s because Blue Buffalo has included its LifeSource bits in the mix. These vitamin-laden pieces include a wide variety of supplements, including vitamin D, L-Lysine, omega fatty acids, flax, and more. Keeping older dogs active is essential for keeping them healthy and this food provides plenty of energy to keep an old pooch moving. That said, if your older dog isn’t very active, this food can have too much energy stored and they can get fat if you don’t dial it in just right. 

Blue Buffalo has nutrition experts and vets onboard to help with the development, so we have more trust in the ingredients and recipes than some others. This is also one of the more affordable options on the list, which is good since older dogs tend to require more expensive trips to the vet. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best dog food

Brushing up on a few crucial variables and terms will help you get the right food for your dog and hopefully even save you some cash along the way.

Ingredients

It can be easy to fall into the same marketing traps human food endures when it comes to chow for your hound. After all, “natural,” is better, right? That’s not necessarily the case when it comes to dog food. Terms like “organic” and “natural” can be convincing on a package, but they’re hardly the only variables you should consider. You want to find ingredients that provide the nutrient and energy mix that your dog requires. Though our vet recommends we avoid foods with garlic powder, which some brands include to entice dogs to eat the food. It’s usually only present in small doses, but it’s unnecessary and can be harmful to the dog. 

Supplements

Beyond the core ingredients you’ll find in the food itself, some companies include supplements for other purposes. For instance, some dog food includes phosphorus and calcium for tooth development. That’s great for some dogs, but phosphorus can also be hard on older dogs’ kidneys. That’s why many senior foods leave it out. You’ll also often see glucosamine for joint and bone health in foods for puppies, larger breeds, and older dogs. Ask your vet if those supplements are worth it for your pooch.

Cost

We’d love to truly splurge on our dogs and feed them food that would make the characters on The Bear applaud. But, that’s not always possible. You can get affordable dog food that still provides everything your dog needs, but make sure it’s not loaded with fillers or other garbage. Many companies sell raw food “toppers” that you can add to much cheaper dry food in order to balance out their diets. Once you’ve decided on a food combination, run it by your vet to make sure it provides everything your furry friend needs. Asking an expert is always the best way to get the info you need. Even if you have to pay for an appointment, you’ll get that money back and more in the long run, especially if it keeps your dog healthy.

Certifications

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) keeps track of what companies are putting into dog foods. It’s an independent organization, which is currently helping to evaluate the possibility of new federal standards regarding pet food. While this type of approval is important, it’s not as important as getting your own vet’s stamp of approval.

FAQs

Q: What ingredients should I look for in dog food?

While “natural” and “organic” ingredients are tempting to splurge on, the overall nutritional value of the dog’s food is more important than the specific ingredients most of the time. There are some ingredients that you want to avoid, like garlic, but reputable dog foods tend to avoid truly harmful ingredients. Obviously meat, vegetables, and grains are typically reliable sources of nutrients, but you need to get the mix right or even the most expensive dog food will do your dog a disservice. Talk to your vet.

Q: What can I add to my dog’s food for better nutrition?

If you want to provide your dog with raw food for nutrition, but you can’t spend a ton of cash every month, many companies offer raw food “toppers,” which add nutrition to typical kibble. Maev and PetPlate on this list both offer that type of product. Some vets will often recommend supplements like fish oil for omega 3s or glucosamine for joint health. Again, ask the vet. Always ask the vet.

Q: Dry vs. wet dog food: What’s the difference?

Technically (and predictably) speaking, the difference between wet and dry food is the moisture content. Dry food will typically have less than 10 percent moisture, while wet foods will often contain more than 70 percent. But you’re probably wondering about the practical differences when it comes to your dog’s daily routine. To start, neither dry food nor wet food is objectively “better” than its counterpart. They each have their strengths and the only way to really know for sure which works better for your pooch is to (you guessed it) talk to your vet and then try it out. 

Wet food can be good for dogs that are picky eaters or those that need to lose weight because they typically make a dog feel more satiated for a longer period of time. Dry food is typically cheaper, easier to store, and frankly a lot less disgusting than wet food. 

Your specific dog’s needs and your own budget will often play the biggest role in determining which one is right for you. My dogs typically rely on a mixture of wet and dry and they’re very happy. Results always vary.

Final thoughts regarding the best dog food

If you want to ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life, choosing the right dog food is essential. This choice can also drastically affect your budget, your daily routine, and how often your living room gets bombarded with room-clearing farts. The best dog foods come from a reputable brand and provide all the nutrition your pup needs to stay healthy and active for the long haul. 

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 dog food for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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Amazon has Samsung’s latest QLED and OLED TVs for their lowest prices ever https://www.popsci.com/gear/amazon-samsung-tv-oled-qled-deals/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 16:08:29 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=551193
Samsung TVs arranged in a pattern. They're on-sale at Amazon.
Stan Horaczek

Save up to $500 on Samsung's current-generation TVs, including OLEDs.

The post Amazon has Samsung’s latest QLED and OLED TVs for their lowest prices ever appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung TVs arranged in a pattern. They're on-sale at Amazon.
Stan Horaczek

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We’re big fans of Samsung’s latest TV offerings around here, and right now Amazon has 2023 models for the lowest prices we have seen this year. Most of these models made their debut back at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show, but have hit the market in recent months. These aren’t older models that Amazon is blowing out. These are current QLED and OLED TVs that offer the most recent features and tech. These aren’t exactly Black Friday or Prime Day blowout prices, but these typically aren’t the models that enjoy those gigantic discounts because of how new they are. Here’s a look at the best Samsung TV deals happening at Amazon right now.

SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90C Series $1,597 (was $1,997)

Samsung

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This is one of Samsung’s best TV offerings full-stop. It utilizes the company’s Neo QLED technology, which combines the bright, poppy colors you expect from QLED with the absurd contrast ratios achieved by MiniLED backlighting. This price represents a $400 drop from April when these TVs weren’t all that easy to get. This is the lowest price we have seen by a full $100. The other sizes are on-sale as well.

SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class OLED 4K S90C Series $1,597 (was $1,897)

If you’re looking for an OLED, Samsung has some this year for the first time in a while. The S90C is a full-featured OLED TV with HDMI 2.1 and just about everything else you could want out of a high-end display. Like the other TVs in this post, this set was selling for retail just a few months ago, so this is a real $300 discount that’s $100 cheaper than the lowest previous price. The step-up sizes are on-sale as well.

SAMSUNG 85-Inch Class QLED 4K Q60C $1,797 (was $2,297)

Samsung

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Just a few months ago, this TV was selling for its full retail price of $2,297. Since then, we have seen it drop as low as $1,897, but this is still $100 cheaper than that. This isn’t Samsung’s basic Crystal UHD series. This is a full-on 2023 QLED display. The Quantum Dot tech inside gives it ample brightness and vibrant colors that go beyond what a base model can offer. The 85-inch offers the biggest discount, but the other sizes are also currently at their lowest prices so far.

The post Amazon has Samsung’s latest QLED and OLED TVs for their lowest prices ever appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best sun hats in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-sun-hat/ Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=283312
The best sun hats composited
Stan Horaczek

These durable, reliable sun hats keep you safe, cool, and stylish all day long.

The post The best sun hats in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best sun hats composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall The North Face Breeze Brimmer hat North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer hat
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It’s comfortable, durable, and easy to clean.

Best budget A man with a beard wearing a fishing hat GearTOP Fishing and Safari Cap with Sun Protection
SEE IT

Get solid construction and durability on the cheap.

Best for babies Grey baby sun hat SimpliKids UPF 50+ UV Ray Sun Protection Baby Hat
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This sturdy hat will stay on and last many washes.

The best sun hats are a not-so-secret style staple that do so much more than accent your favorite looks. They provide additional sun protection, keeping harmful UV rays from your skin, eyes, and hair. The best part is that there are numerous styles offered so you don’t have to compromise on what you love to wear when you’re doing what you love—whether that is lounging on the beach or poolside, gardening, hiking, or traveling. And if you’re worried about how to transport wide-brim sun hats, know that hat boxes, while beautiful, are a thing of the past thanks to packable sun hats that are meant to be folded up and pop right back into wide-brim hats when unpacked. Here are our picks for the best sun hats.

How we picked the best sun hats

As someone who has dealt with skin cancer, I hold sun protection near and dear to my heart. For this test, we focused on offering up picks that are both functional and relatively fashionable. We emphasized variables like price, durability, materials, design, breathability, and fit options. These recommendations are based on first-hand experience, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons. I have been using our top pick for over a year and have been very pleased with it.

The best sun hats: Reviews & Recommendations

Before we get to the picks, we want to say that we’re proud of you for taking precautions against sun damage. We’re sure you’re already using the best sunscreen, and a sun hat will only add to that already essential choice. You’ll really appreciate the effort you’re making right now when you get older. Keep it up.

Best overall: North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer hat

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Sizes: S/M and L/XL
  • Material: Recycled Nylon exterior, recycled polyester mesh interior
  • UPF rating: 40+

Pros

  • Very comfortable
  • Excellent ventilation
  • Adjustable
  • Sturdy chin strap
  • Wide brim for ample coverage
  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Durable even after several washes

Cons

  • Expensive

I have been wearing this hat very regularly for months now, and it has taken a ton of abuse. It has sunscreen all over it, dirt ground into it, and lots of sweat. But this well-made hat didn’t flinch through any of it. The recycled nylon exterior can take an absolute beating despite its light nature. Built-in vents let lots of air through to keep your head cool on hot days. The UPF 40+ protection has proven extremely effective, and the wide brim provides ample coverage for my face and neck.

There are two adjustable straps on this hat, both of which rely on flexible cords. The chin strap holds the hat firmly on your head when worn in the front. When you don’t need it, simply move it around to the back and out of the way. The strap around the base of the brim allows for a more precise fit. I wear a 7 3/4 size hat, and the L/XL fits snugly but comfortably. If your head is bigger than that, you may want to look for another option.

The sweat band around the hat’s interior does an excellent job preventing perspiration from reaching the eyes, and it’s easy to wash once it gets too scummy. Even if this hat doesn’t match your exact style, it’s a great way to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.

Best budget: GearTOP Fishing and Safari Cap with Sun Protection

GearTOP

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Specs

  • Sizes: One-size adjustable
  • Material: Polyester
  • UPF rating: 50+

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Wide brim
  • Pocket on top for hot or cool packs
  • Adjustable fit and chin strap
  • Ample ventilation

Cons

  • Polyester not as durable as some nylon options
  • Only fits up to roughly hat size 7 1/2

Don’t let the name of this fishing hat/safari cap fool you—it’s great for more than just anglers and adventurers. But if it’s good enough to protect you for the prolonged time you spend in the open on a fishing trip or a safari, it’ll be just fine for long walks, gardening, or camping. This 100-percent polyester hat, with UPF 50+ protection, has breathable mesh panels that allow for moisture and heat to escape your hat, keeping your head cool. It’s lightweight and quick-drying, so you can even wear it while you take a dip to cool off. The adjustable straps let you tweak the fit, but it may be too small for some with larger heads.

Best for the beach: Furtalk Women’s Wide Brim Sun Hat with Wind Lanyard

FURTALK

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Specs

  • Sizes: M/L and L/XL
  • Material: Paper, polyester, and cotton
  • UPF rating: 50+

Pros

  • Attractive looking
  • Wide brim comes down far enough to protect neck and some shoulders
  • Adjustable chin strap
  • Comfortable
  • Folds easily for transport

Cons

  • Not super durable so best for lounging

The Furtalk sun hat, made of eco-friendly recycled paper, has a UPF 50+—protecting you from the sun’s most harmful rays. To avoid being the person chasing their hat down the beach, this wide-brim hat has a wind lanyard chin strap and an inner velcro band, both of which you can adjust to fit your head and face comfortably. Additionally, the velcro band is sweat resistant and will wick away moisture, keeping you cool and comfortable. The best part is that you can bring your new packable sun hat wherever you go without worrying about folding it up to fit into your bag.

Best sun visor: Simplicity Hats for Women Convertible Beach Visor Hat

Simplicity

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Specs

  • Sizes: One-size
  • Material: Cotton and polyester
  • UPF rating: 50+

Pros

  • Comfortable fit
  • solid coverage
  • Long brim provides face shade
  • Lots of color options
  • Breathable for solid ventilation

Cons

  • One-size may not work for everyone
  • Some of the colors are very ugly

If you can’t choose between a sun hat and a visor, this sun visor hat is for you. A zipper removes the top part of the hat, allowing you to rock a visor or wide-brim sun hat. Made of a cotton/polyester blend, this lightweight and breathable hat is quick-drying, so you can even take it for a dip. An adorable bow covers the adjustable velcro back closure. And yes, answering that $1 million question, it is UPF 50+ and can be rolled up (later to pop back to its perfect shape) for traveling.

Best for babies: SimpliKids UPF 50+ UV Ray Sun Protection Baby Hat

SimpliKids

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Specs

  • Sizes: 0-12 months, 12-24 months, 2-4T
  • Material: Polyester
  • UPF rating: 50+

Pros

  • Three sizes to accommodate most kids
  • Lots of colors, including many neutral options
  • Sturdy laces to tie around baby’s chin with no plastic clasp for them to choke on
  • Neck and face coverage

Cons

  • Getting the chin strap tied may be a battle, but that’s more of a “con” for babies than this specific hat

This best-selling UPF 50+ protective baby/toddler sun hat with neck flap and drawstring uses a moisture-wicking material that is breathable and quick-drying, keeping your kid cool in the summer. It is offered in sizes from newborn to 4T, and with the wide selection, there is sure to be a color or pattern that will be the perfect fit for your child (notable prints include a shark print and a pineapple print). The hat has an adjustable chin strap to secure the hat so it doesn’t fly away or get pulled off. It’s the perfect hat to take on the go, as it can be easily folded up and packed for you and your little one’s next big adventure.

Best color options: Jane Shine Outdoor Sun Hat Bucket Hats

Jane Shine

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Specs

  • Sizes: One-size
  • Material: Polyester
  • UPF rating: 50+

Pros

  • Tons of colors to choose from
  • Brim extends more than three inches for solid coverage
  • Chin strap with simple clasp
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to pack
  • Lots of ventilation

Cons

  • Only one size available
  • Polyester isn’t as durable as other Nylon options

This best-selling UPF 50+ bucket hat is made of 100-percent polyester, with a breathable nylon mesh top panel and an inner cotton sweatband to keep you cool during camping, hiking, or biking. You can adjust the hat to fit your head comfortably with the internal drawstring and rope chin strap. Amazon sells nearly 30 different colorways of this hat, so you can get one to match any outfit you want.

What to look for when shopping for the best sun hat

While our individual recommendations are a great place to start, it’s worth knowing some of the essential variables and jargon you’ll find when you’re out there shopping. Here are some things to consider before making a purchase.

UPF rating

Look for sun hats that have a UPF level over 30. UPF, which stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is how much a fabric prevents UV radiation from hitting your skin. Most sun hats for protection have a UPF of 50, blocking 98 percent of UV rays, reducing your exposure exponentially. If you want to take sun protection a step further, and purchase some sun-protective clothing—consider darker or brighter colors over lighter ones because they will absorb the UV rays rather than allow them to penetrate your skin.

Adjustability

Chin straps may not look very cool, but they can really come in handy if you’re planning to wear your sunhat at the beach or in some other location where wind is an issue. Some hats also offer straps around the base of the brim in order to make a secure fit. Most sun hats only offer limited sizes, so adjustability is a nice addition if you want things to stay comfortable and secure.

FAQs

Q: Does a sun hat block UV rays?

Most sun hats will provide some additional protection from harmful UV rays, especially if they are a wide-brim hat. The larger the brim, the more sun protection you will have. To get the most protection from UV rays, you should opt for a sun hat with UPF 50+ and always apply sunscreen. When sun hats or sun protective clothing have a UPF 50+, you know that 98 percent of the sun’s rays are being absorbed into the fabric, leaving only 2 percent to penetrate your skin.

Q: What should I look for in a sun hat?

To narrow your search, you should first know where you’ll wear your sun hat most. If you plan on doing more movement-based activities—think hiking, gardening, fishing, camping, etc.—you’ll want to look for a sun hat with lightweight and breathable fabrics and some mesh paneling. It might be helpful that your sun hat is quick-drying and has an inner sweat-resistant strip and a chin strap to prevent it from flying off. If the beach or poolside is where you want to be, again, you’ll want a sun hat designed with breathable fabrics. A wide-brim sun hat would also be a good selection to protect you from those UV rays. If you have a lot of travel plans coming up, consider a packable hat that folds and unfolds easily while keeping its original shape.

Q: Do sun hats work?

In short, sun hats work … if you want them to protect your skin, hair, and eyes. If you want them to teach you Spanish, then no, they probably won’t work. But to ensure they are doing their job, help them out by applying sunscreen throughout the day and throwing on some shades as well. Make sure to choose the best sun hat that fits your head and has the best characteristics to protect you during those long walks on the beach, bringing that vegetable garden back to life, or going on a long fishing trip. 

The final word on shopping for the best sun hats

The best sun hat will keep your head cool and provide additional protection from harmful UV rays. And while you’re shopping, remember which activities you’ll need a sun hat for during the warmer months, and select the hat with characteristics that best caters to that activity.

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 sun hats in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best QLED TVs for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-qled-tvs/ Mon, 28 Feb 2022 18:10:03 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=426855
Best QLED TVs header
Stan Horaczek

If you want the best balance of brightness, contrast, and color accuracy, check out these TVs with vivid QLED technology.

The post The best QLED TVs for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best QLED TVs header
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall The Samsung QN90C TV on a stand in a room showing the Lord of the Rings. Samsung QN90C
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This high-end 4K QLED has every feature you could want and a fantastic picture to go with it.

Best for gaming TCL QM8 QLED TV TCL QM8 QLED TV
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This bright TV allows gamers to crank up the frame rate for ultra-smooth gameplay.

Best budget Hisense U8H QLED TV Hisense U8H QLED TV
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Despite its excellent performance, this TV retails well below its major competition.

If you’re looking to buy a big, expensive new TV, there are really two types to choose from right now, including QLED TVs. You’ve probably heard of OLED TVs, with their pure blacks, but what about QLED TVs? In a sense, QLED is the more conservative display technology, as it’s an evolution of existing LED tech. While it doesn’t always reach the qualitative heights of an OLED, the best QLED TVs deliver an incredibly bright and vibrant picture for movies, TV, gaming, and more, often at a more affordable price. While these high-end sets get better yearly, these are the best QLED TVs to buy right now.

How we chose the best QLED TVs

The writers and editors at Popular Science have decades of combined experience writing about, reviewing, and generally nerding out about high-end TVs. This collection of recommendations comes from a mixture of hands-on review experience (including our best overall), brand reputation, spec comparisons, editorial reviews, and user feedback. We prioritized models that best represent QLEDs strengths. QLEDs often offer exceptional brightness and solid value for their picture performance. You’ll notice several newer QLED technologies here, including Samsung’s Neo QLED and Mini-LED. These represent a very notable improvement over some already excellent TVs.

The best QLED TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

The best QLED TVs offer a great all-around picture as bright and vibrant as anything you can find on the market right now. Since QLED is Samsung tech, you will notice that the list features a larger-than-average number of Samsung TVs. Despite that, there’s a good amount of variety among the manufacturers in the mix–as much variety as one can expect in a list of TVs with the same display type, anyways.

Best overall: Samsung QN90C Neo QLED TV

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Sizes: 43”, 50”, 55”, 65”, 75”, and 85”
  • Backlight: Neo QLED
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB-A, Ethernet, Optical audio, RF
  • Operating system: Tizen

Pros

  • Exceptional picture quality
  • Full-featured operating system
  • Elegant design
  • Snappy performance
  • Solid upscaling
  • Bright

Cons

  • Ports are on the back of the TV rather than on a remote box like some other Samsung models

Samsung is the heavy when it comes to QLED TV—the company has been at the forefront of the technology since it debuted. The new QN90C relies on the company’s Neo QLED technology, which mixes the bright, poppy colors that typically come with Quantum Dots with the excellent contrast ratio and black levels offered by Mini-LED backlighting. This allows you to crank the brightness if you’re in a well-lit room, but you can still tame its performance and maintain the subtlety you want from movies and other high-production value content once the lights go down. 

Samsung’s desire to do everything with their TVs is both a strength and a weakness. There are tons of features here, including four HDMI 2.1 ports for maximum connectivity, as well as a pair of USB ports, and a very robust operating system that’s compatible with just about every popular streaming app you could ask for. That operating system can sometimes feel a little too robust to the point that it’s bloated and requires a learning curve to navigate quickly. 

In my time testing the QN90C, I played several AAA PS5 games, including Returnal, and found the motion smooth, the graphics crisp, and the colors extremely poppy. While watching Alien on 4K Blu-ray, the TV did a very solid job creating well-defined details, even in the shadowy areas that can get muddy on some TVs. This is a great all-around TV worth considering, especially if your room is often too bright for an OLED to really shine.

Best budget: Hisense 65U8H QLED U8H Series Quantum 4K

Hisense

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  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 75”
  • Backlight: QLED
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, Optical audio, 
  • Operating system: Google TV

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Full HDMI 2.1 compatibility
  • Variable refresh rate for better gaming
  • Mini-LED backlight for excellent contrast

Cons

  • Not as bright as some other models
  • Better mounted on the wall since the stand is just OK

Even when it’s not on sale, this Mini-LED-driven QLED TV offers a ton of features considering its price tag. The 65-inch model retails for just $949, roughly half what some of its competitors cost. 

The most surprising feature at this price point has to be the Mini-LED backlight. By shrinking the light sources, Hisense has refined its illumination tech to crank up the contrast and improve black levels. Smaller light sources lead to less picture-ruining light bleed. 

This TV also offers variable refresh rate tech in the form of AMD Freesync. And a quartet of HDMI 2.1 ports offers solid connectivity that will work with high-bandwidth devices like next-gen consoles and beyond. 

While the picture is excellent, it can’t quite directly compete with other higher-end models. And you’ll notice the savings in some of the fit and finish. The stand, for example, is fairly lackluster, so we definitely recommend hanging it on the wall if that’s an option. You’re also relatively limited in sizes with just 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch options. So, while it’s not a half-priced flagship killer, it’s absolutely a TV that punches well above its weight.

Best 8K: Samsung QN900C Neo QLED 8K

Stan Horaczek

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  • Sizes: 65”, 75”, 85”
  • Backlight: Neo QLED
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, Ethernet, Optical audio, RF
  • Operating system: Tizen

Pros

  • Excellent upscaling to 8K
  • Every bell and whistle
  • Ports live on a remote box rather than on the back of the TV
  • Mini-LED tech translates into exceptional contrast
  • Vivid HDR picture
  • High-end finishes

Cons

  • Expensive

Samsung’s flagship TV leaves you wanting for absolutely nothing. Yes, it’s an 8K display, which means it has a total resolution above 32 megapixels. That’s a ton of image8K data. And while there’s almost no native 8K content to consume at the moment, this TV offers Samsung’s most powerful image processor designed to seamlessly upscale content to fill that massive resolution. During our testing period, I watched content from several streaming services, including Netflix and Hulu, and found the upscaled 8K image to look excellent. Plus, you’ll be ready to go as 8K support slowly grows for devices like the PS5 or Xbox Series X. 

Beyond all those pixels, this TV offers a heap of high-end features. Samsung’s NeoQLED tech integrates Mini-LED tech with Quantum Dots for a bright, contrasty picture with super-accurate color. For gaming features, you get Samsung’s dedicated gaming mode and other more advanced features like variable frame rate to combat unwanted artifacts or screen tearing. 

While this is a great all-around TV, the high price tag definitely reflects its flagship nature. There are only three sizes in this current lineup and they start north of $5,000. That would be slightly easier to justify if there were more native 8K content out there, but it will be a while before that’s a reality. If you’re buying this TV, it’s because you want the absolute best and you won’t have to think about buying a new TV for a while. Or, you just want to flex on your 4K-watching pals.

Best for gaming: TCL 65-Inch QM8 QLED 4K Smart Mini-LED TV

TCL

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  • Sizes: 65”, 75”, 85”
  • Backlight: QLED (Mini-LED)
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, Optical audio, RF
  • Operating system: Google TV

Pros

  • Bright
  • Capable of 240Hz refresh rate at 1440p
  • Full HDMI 2.1 compatibility
  • Solid contrast from the Mini-LED backlight

Cons

  • 240Hz mode isn’t full 4K

For many gamers, smooth, fast gameplay overshadows pure resolution or even image quality in terms of importance. It makes sense. Would you rather lose a game that looks immaculate or win one that looks pretty great? The QM8’s big differentiator comes in the form of the Game Accelerator mode, which doubles the refresh rate up to 240fps at the cost of some resolution. It runs at 1440p when the framerate is cranked instead of its native 4K. Luckily, 1440p is still plenty of pixels to look great, and that smooth performance can be a real advantage in gaming situations. 

As for the rest of the TV, this is Hisense’s flagship, and its specs suggest as much. It mashes Mini-LED tech together with QLED to get a bright, contrasty picture (2,000 nits max is pretty bright) that does justice to prestige TV and AAA video games. It has all the modern connectivity and HDMI support you could also need. And, because Hisense is a value-oriented brand, it all comes at a price that starts lower than most of its competition. 

It’s not without compromises, of course. The remote is somewhat lackluster, and the Google TV platform can sometimes be awkward. But this is a truly great value, especially if you’re playing a lot of games on your TV.

Still great: Samsung QN90A NEO QLED

Samsung

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Specs

  • Sizes: 50, 55, 65, 75, and 85 inches
  • Backlight: Mini LED
  • HDR: HDR10
  • Wide Color Gamut: Yes
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 3, HDMI 2.1 x 1, USB 2.0 x 2, Ethernet, RF (cable) Input, Optical, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Gaming Features: 120 Hz frame rate, FreeSync/G-Sync support

Pros

  • Incredible picture
  • Mini-LED
  • Lots of sizes
  • 120Hz and FreeSync support

Cons

  • Only one HDMI 2.1 port

While this is technically last year’s model, it’s still more than capable of competing with the highest-end TVs on the market. Plus, since it’s a little older, you can probably get a really solid deal on it. The Samsung Q90A is, in every sense of the word, a top-of-the-line TV. The Mini-LED-lit panel produces an ultra-bright vibrant picture with strong color reproduction and has all the features you should hope for in a high-end TV, including Wide Color Gamut and a high refresh rate for gaming. 

In typical Samsung fashion, it also features a wide variety of special features, including Q-Symphony, a surround-sound feature that reduces audio lag with compatible soundbars, and Ultra Viewing Angle mode, which adjusts processing to reduce the impact of sitting off to the side. Whether or not you buy into the hype behind the buzzwords, the Q90A is a well-rounded TV with a killer look.

Best “budget” 8K: Samsung QN900A NEO QLED 8K

Samsung

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Specs

  • Sizes: 65, 75, and 85 inches
  • Backlight: Mini-LED
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Wide Color Gamut: Yes
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB 3.0 x 1, USB 2.0 x 1, Ethernet, composite video, composite audio output, RF (cable) Input, Optical
  • Gaming Features: 120 Hz refresh rate, FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility

Pros

  • 8K resolution
  • Very bright
  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports

Cons

  • You don’t need an 8K TV
  • Extremely expensive

That said, if you want an 8K QLED TV and don’t want to spend absolutely absurd money, the Samsung QN900A is the way to go. It delivers a bright picture thanks to its Mini-LED backlighting and has many great gaming features. (If you can use this TV to play 8K content in the foreseeable future, there’s a good chance you’ll get it through a PS5 or Xbox Series X.)

What is a QLED TV?

QLED stands for “Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diodes.” (Please do not ask me why the Q stands for two words.) Invented by Samsung, QLED is a display backlight technology that augments a conventionally backlit Liquid Crystal Display with a “transmissive” layer of tiny dots that enhance the screen’s color, brightness, and contrast. (Transmissive displays, like LCD, have multiple layers of different materials in front of the backlight to control how much and what kind of illumination gets transmitted through it.) Samsung’s QLED TVs also feature a Quantum processor that adjusts and maintains brightness and color accuracy moment-to-moment.

As a hybrid of LCD display and LED backlighting technology, QLED manages to overcome common issues with color accuracy, including a faded “blooming” effect around bright spots on your picture. In less technical terms, QLED TVs offer a sharper, brighter picture than conventional LCD or LED sets.

Importantly, new display technologies are frequently associated with QLED because it’s a new, high-end TV display design, but they are not part of the QLED screen stack. Most notably, many high-end QLED TVs feature Mini-LED backlighting. This separate display technology enables “local dimming,” or the ability for your TV to enhance or reduce its brightness in specific areas to enhance its contrast. We’ve described Mini-LED as an alternative to QLED and OLED TVs in the past, and technically it is, but companies frequently combine the two and market the tag-team as a high-end QLED TV. As we’ve seen with Samsung’s Neo QLED and LG’s QNED TV lines, QLED displays with Mini-LED backlighting tend to be the best of the best, at least for now.

Who makes QLED TVs?

As I mentioned before, the QLED design, integrating the Quantum Dot layer into an LCD screen, is a Samsung invention. Whenever you see a QLED TV, the actual display panel was made by Samsung. Because Samsung makes the displays, it is the biggest proponent of the technology and makes more QLED TVs than any other company. But Samsung is not the only company that offers QLED TVs. TCL, Hisense, LG, and Vizio all produce QLED models.

QLED vs. OLED

If you’re shopping for a TV right now, chances are there are three options in front of you: LED, QLED, and OLED. If you’re looking at a high-end TV, you’re really just choosing between QLED and OLED. OLED stands for “Organic Light-Emitting Diode.” Contrary to the name, however, it is not a variation of LED TV technology like QLED. OLED TVs can independently control the brightness of every point on the screen, allowing it to make colors more vibrant and achieve a “perfect” black tone by turning lights off completely. For this reason, you’ll never see the light bleeding through dark areas and washing them out. 

While OLED has become the preferred choice among critics for high-end TVs, QLED conveys several distinct advantages, while generating an incredibly high-quality picture when done right. First, QLEDs tend to get much brighter than OLED panels, making them better for rooms with lots of windows and outside light. Second, because QLED is a riff on LCD and LED technology, not a brand new thing, it tends to be less expensive. There are mid-range QLED TVs, but OLEDs only come in varying shades of expensive. (You may not notice that looking at our picks, though.) 

What to look for when picking the best QLED TVs

It’s important to keep in mind that there’s a wider range of picture quality and price among QLED TVs than there are among the best OLED TVs or the best TVs for gaming. The Quantum Dot has some benefits but isn’t a magic bullet. Ultimately, you judge the best QLED TVs the same way you would any other: by their picture quality. Is it bright enough? Are the colors vibrant, sharp, and accurate? Does it have the features you want for gaming or support for high-end audio gear? The best QLED TVs fit your specific space and viewing habits.

Size

Most people assume that a bigger TV is always better because they’re more expensive. Technically, that isn’t correct. The size of your TV should correspond to the size of the room when you plan to place it and how far away you will sit from your TV when you use it. If you sit too close to your TV, it may hurt your eyes over time. If you sit too far away, you may have trouble seeing the image’s fine details. There are a number of sites that offer screen size calculators to help you figure out how your TV will fit your space. Here are a few common sizes and distances:

Does it have Mini-LED backlighting?

Frequently, the big difference between the very high-end QLED TVs and their budget-to-mid-range versions is the addition of Mini-LED backlighting, which greatly enhances the TV’s brightness and enables local dimming, or the ability to change the brightness of different parts of the screen, similar to an OLED TV. Its presence doesn’t automatically guarantee a stunning picture: Some TVs have more precise backlight control than others and a wider range of brightness. Still, even on its worst day, local dimming makes colors pop, making dark colors look darker and bright colors look brighter. 

It also maximizes High-Dynamic Range, a complimentary feature that adjusts brightness to make especially dark and/or bright light conditions look more realistic. A brighter TV is one of the main advantages of a QLED TV, especially at the top of the line, so looking for the highest possible NIT count, a unit of measuring brightness, and local dimming are important factors for telling the difference between QLED TVs at similar price points.

Resolution

There isn’t a whole lot to say about TV resolution in 2023. Almost all new TVs support 4K resolution or 3840 x 2160 pixels. And, frankly, you wouldn’t want to buy anything else at this juncture. There’s no reason to buy one of the few remaining 1080p TVs when even budget models from major manufacturers support 4K. While 8K TV exists, there’s little to no native 8K content yet. Though there will be some difference in picture quality thanks to digital upscaling, an 8K TV is more of a statement piece than anything else. (That said, there are still enough of them out there that I will recommend an 8K QLED, just in case.)

Color accuracy and Wide Color Gamut

Okay, we’ve gotten to the nerdy part. When you look at a wall of TVs in a store, and you can just tell that some look better than others but can’t really figure out why, it’s often a combination of better brightness, which we’ve discussed at length, and color accuracy. Color accuracy, in short, is your TV’s ability to accurately produce colors more representative of real life (or how they would look if that lightsaber was real instead of digitally generated). Measuring color accuracy requires special equipment, which is why it’s primarily discussed on forums and in reviews, but you can tell very clearly that it’s especially good when you look at an image of a flower and think, “That’s the reddest red I’ve ever seen.” You can also tell when it’s incredibly bad because you won’t be able to tell if the same flower is red or pink, orange, or purple. This is the No. 1 reason to go to a store and see a TV in person before you buy it. The specs related to color accuracy require a lot of technical know-how to use effectively, but your eyeballs won’t lie to you.

That said, there is one color-related feature worth looking for as you peruse different TVs, QLED or otherwise. Wide Color Gamut is often described as a complement to High-Dynamic Range, and it does exactly what it sounds like it would: It allows your TV to show a wider array of colors, allowing for more accurate reproductions of specific shades. It may allow you, as an example, to see the difference between seafoam green and teal rather than just a generic pastel blue-green. It also allows for more “bit depth,” which affects color saturation: Sometimes, a color should look supernaturally deep, and other times it should look faded. With Wide Color Gamut, the TV can get closer to both of those things.

Viewing angles

Another general TV feature that’s surprisingly important, but can feel hard to quantify or convey by description, it’s important to judge how a TV looks when you don’t sit directly in front of it. All TVs are designed for that perfect front-and-center viewing experience, but what happens when you have friends over, and someone’s sitting way off to the side? All TVs have some spots where the picture looks distorted, but some are better than others. Some companies, including Sony and Samsung, tout “wide viewing angle” TV modes that can improve things somewhat, but bad viewing angles cannot really be undone. 

Gaming features

The newest and rarest features on the premium TV are related to refresh rate, or the number of times your TV can redraw its picture every second. In video games, there’s a direct correlation between your TV’s maximum refresh rate and your game’s top frame rate. Most games on consoles run between 30 and 60 frames per second, and most TVs top out at 60Hz, so frame rate hasn’t been a technical concern for TV manufacturers until recently. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X can run some games at 120fps, so players who want the best of the best will look for TVs capable of a 120Hz frame rate. You’ll also need HDMI 2.1 ports (and the appropriate HDMI cables) that have the bandwidth to support that level of fidelity to achieve that high bar. 

Lastly, some TVs also support variable refresh rate technology, which syncs the target frame rate of your game or computer with the screen’s frame rate for more efficient processing and fewer display-related glitches. There are two variable refresh rate standards, AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync: The Xbox consoles support FreeSync, and PC players may want one or the other based on their hardware. The PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch don’t currently support variable refresh rates.

FAQs

Q: Is QLED worth the extra money?

This is an interesting question. While there aren’t many “budget” QLED TVs, there are plenty of solid mid-range QLED TVs, so you don’t technically have to spend “extra” money on QLED unless you’re targeting a TV under $500. In theory, the answer should be “yes.” QLED enhances brightness and color reproduction, leading to a substantially improved picture over a standard LED-backed LCD TV.

That said, when I see this question, I can’t help but wonder if we’re actually talking about spending extra on a QLED TV or spending extra on a high-end QLED TV with Mini-LED backlighting, since the two technologies are often conflated. Without knowing more, I would say yes: By and large, Mini-LED generally enhances local dimming and contrast, which are crucial to conjuring a sharper, crisper-looking picture and maximizing HDR.

Q: How long do QLED TVs last?

QLED is still a relatively new technology, so it’s hard to say how long they typically last. According to Samsung, QLED should last seven to 10 years of “typical use” before you start to see any tangible picture degradation, which typically manifests as a loss in brightness. Samsung doesn’t define what “typical use” means, but we’re going to take an educated guess and say that we’re talking about a few hours per day.

Q: Can QLED TVS get burn-In?

Burn-in is a form of visual degradation on some TVs over time. When you leave a static image on your screen for a long time, a faded silhouette of the image may linger even after the image has changed. The Achilles Heel of OLED TVs is a relatively high chance of burn-in over time.

According to Samsung, QLED TVs cannot generate burn-in. (This is abnormal; most TVs are at least capable of generating a “ghost image” or screen burn-in late in their life cycle.) We haven’t independently verified this, so I won’t say that it’s true, but there’s enough evidence to suggest that QLEDs are more resistant to burn-in than OLEDs, potentially making them more durable in the long term.

Final thoughts on the best QLED TVs

Looking forward, at least in the short term, I expect that QLED, rather than OLED, will be the technology that disseminates to more budget-friendly TV models. Since OLED is an entirely different type of screen technology, rather than an evolution of LED-backed LCD TVs, it stands to reason that it will scale down to cheaper TVs faster. In that sense, QLED is the TV of the moment, whereas OLEDs are the TV of the future. 

That’s all really just semantics and speculation, though. Don’t sweat it too much: There’s a whole world of technical screen quality analysis out there if you really want to dive in and figure out what TV has the best picture. It’s a serious investment of time and effort, though, so I think you’re better off taking what we’ve talked about, going to the store, and—armed with a little know-how—picking the TV that looks right to you. Because, if you’re like me, all the specs fall away as soon as the opening credits start rolling.

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.

More TV roundups to help you find the perfect set:

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Apple Mac Studio 2023 (M2 Max) review: All the computing power a creative needs https://www.popsci.com/gear/apple-mac-studio-m2-max-computer-review/ Fri, 16 Jun 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=549266
Mac Studio M2 Max review front view
The SDXC slot in the front is great for quickly dumping files. Stan Horaczek

The latest Mac for professionals cranks up the power level in just about every way.

The post Apple Mac Studio 2023 (M2 Max) review: All the computing power a creative needs appeared first on Popular Science.

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Mac Studio M2 Max review front view
The SDXC slot in the front is great for quickly dumping files. Stan Horaczek

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I have been impressed with just about every machine into which Apple has injected its proprietary chips. The MacBook Pro is great. The MacBook Air is probably the best laptop for most people right now. And I also really enjoyed the first iteration of the Mac Studio with the M1 Max chip inside. Now, Apple has upgraded the Mac Studio to its M2-series silicon, including the M2 Max (which I’m reviewing here) and the even more powerful M2 Ultra (which is probably overkill for all but the most serious users). While the M2 Max isn’t a revolutionary jump from the M1 flavor (like the M1 was from the Intel Macs), the new generation does provide a very noticeable speed increase, as well as some welcomed features for advanced users. 

Stan Horaczek

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Overview

  • The chassis has stayed the same, but the computer now jumps up to the M2 Max and M2 Ultra-series chips.
  • The base M2 Max model starts at $1,999 with a 12-core CPU, 30-core GPU, 32GB unified memory, and 512GB storage.
  • M2 Ultra models start at $3,999 with a 24-core CPU, 60-core GPU, 64GB unified memory, and 1TB built-in storage. 
  • M2 Max models support up to five high-res displays at once.
  • Apple promises 1.8x improvement in CPU performance over M1 Max and 3.8x GPU performance improvements.

Pros

  • The design is still fantastic
  • Super-quiet
  • Noticeably faster than the previous model in every task
  • Solid set of ports for a small computer

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Gets really expensive as you add to the specs

Verdict: The sophomore Mac Studio provides a solid upgrade over its still-worthy predecessor and represents a monumental leap from the old Intel Macs—so, if you’re still on one of those, this is a great time to upgrade.

The Mac Studio 2023 (M2 Max) build

Our review unit has an M2 Max chip inside with 12 CPU cores, 38 GPU cores, 64GB shared memory, and 4TB built-in storage. This configuration is a step up from the $1,999 base model in terms of the chip, which adds $200. The extra shared memory (the base model offers 32GB) adds $400. And the upgrade to 4TB storage adds a pretty gnarly $1,200. The base model only offers 512GB of built-in storage. And while many creative pros rely heavily on super-fast external storage, I think 1TB is the floor for a work computer at this point. 

The Mac Studio 2023 (M2 Max) performance

I’ve used the Mac Studio as my main computer for the better part of a week at the time of this review. That includes very heavy photo editing with large raw files, 4K video editing, and lots of browser tabs. As you might expect, the Mac Studio handles everyday computing tasks very easily. Windows quickly snap open. Switching windows happens without delay. Even tons of tabs don’t seem to tax the machine too seriously. I did notice that the machine is essentially silent at all times, even when I’m doing something that creates a heavy load on the hardware. That’s been the Mac Studio’s brag since it debuted, but it’s still impressive for the little box to churn out 4K video edits without making a peep. 

Ports

Mac Studio M2 Max review back and ports
The port layout should look familiar from the first Mac Studio. Stan Horaczek

The back of the machine sports four USB-C Thunderbolt ports, an Ethernet port, the power connector, two USB-A ports, an HDMI, and a headphone jack. The front of the machine rocks another pair of USB-C ports and an SDXC card reader. In addition to the physical ports, the new Mac Studio now comes with Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 6E connectivity. 

It’s a really solid arsenal of connectors for such a small machine. The ports on the front come in handy often, and I’m a huge fan of the SDXC card slot. As more high-end cameras switch to CFExpress cards, however, it might start to feel outdated depending on your camera gear upgrade path. 

While this doesn’t really affect how the computer runs or what you can do with it, the Mac Studio still comes with one of the nicest power cords I have ever seen. It’s wrapped in fabric and pleasantly rounded on the edges. That’s the kind of thing you like to see when you spend a ton of money on a machine. 

Photo editing on the Mac Studio M2 Max

Mac Studio M2 Max Cinebench scores
You can see the single-core CPU performance (left) and multi-core CPU performance (right). Cinebench

This is not a benchmarking site, so we’re not going to bombard you with a ton of charts and inscrutable test results. I ran the Mac Studio through Cinebench, and it finished above 14,000 on the multi-core CPU test. That handily beats the previous M1-series Mac Studio I tested last year, which scored in the 12,000s. The new M2 Max machine finished the single-core test in the mid-1,700s. 

The real-world, hands-on testing was more informative for me. I loaded a batch of 5,000 or so 45-megapixel Canon R5 raw files into Adobe’s Lightroom Classic. I used the arrow key to quickly move through the images, marking those I wanted to edit and deliver. My M1 Pro-powered MacBook Pro (which I absolutely love) moves noticeably slower than the Mac Studio. That’s not surprising, but it quickly spoiled me. It’s easy to forget how much fractions of a second add up when dealing with thousands of images. 

When it comes to exporting full-res jpegs from raw files, the Mac Studio M2 Max did the job roughly twice as quickly as my M1 Pro MacBook Pro. That speed varies, of course, depending on what else is running and what kind of resizing/sharpening the images need. But it’s noticeably faster, and that’s a good thing. 

AI

You may have seen wild videos of Photoshop’s new AI-based content-aware fill system. It uses generative AI to add to, edit, or retouch photos in truly impressive ways. It can feel a little like magic when it gets it just right. That’s coming from someone who once made a living as a photo retoucher. 

While the AI-powered fill is fun, it’s also very resource intensive. While the Mac Studio wasn’t quite twice as fast as my M1 MacBook Pro, it wasn’t far off. The progress bar on the Mac Studio moves perfectly smoothly across the screen as Photoshop extends the background or inserts a random astronaut into an image. This performance improvement likely comes partly from the Mac Studio’s improved machine learning hardware, which has jumped in capabilities since the previous generation. 

I noticed similar, though less pronounced, speed increases when it comes to other AI-powered image editing processes. Lightroom Classic’s Denoise function is a solid example. This AI-powered function pulls digital noise (some people incorrectly call it grain) out of images without making things look muddy or ruining the fine details within the image. This process typically takes roughly 30 seconds per image if you don’t make many adjustments to the strength. The Mac Studio did it in about 20 seconds. If you’re running this function on a lot of images, that’s a big time saver. 

Video editing

Mac Studio M2 Max review with SSD drive plugged in
I typically use an external SSD for editing because it keeps the internal drives clear. Stan Horaczek

While I have a long history of professional photo editing, my video skills aren’t nearly as refined. Still, I regularly edit 4K video in Final Cut Pro from my Canon R5, iPhone 14 Pro Max, and any number of other cameras I may be reviewing for PopPhoto.com at the time. 

Final Cut Pro has an advantage in speedy editing since it’s made by Apple and specifically tweaked to run excellently on the company’s proprietary chips. While I don’t have any issues with my M1 Pro MBP and 4K editing, I’ve gotten used to a certain editing pace that I know won’t jam things up or cause a crash. With the M2 Max, I can substantially increase that pace. Scrubbing through previews, adding transitions, and rendering scenes all move noticeably faster here. Again, that isn’t surprising, but it is worth noting that Apple has delivered on its lofty performance processes. 

The Mac Studio M1 Max vs. Mac Studio M2 Max

Moving from M1 chips to M2 hardware is a generational shift. It’s not the same massive revolution you’d experience making the leap from an Intel-based Mac, but it will provide a noticeable speed increase, even over a machine just a year old. If your M1-series Mac Studio keeps up with your current workflow, then there’s probably no hurry to upgrade. If you’re still using an Intel Mac, you’re really missing out and probably wasting a ton of time waiting for progress bars to move. 

The Mac Studio M2 Max vs. Mac Studio M2 Ultra

While the Studio M2 Max is a beast, Apple’s lineup includes an even more monstrous configuration in the form of the M2 Ultra. It’s the company’s most powerful chip, only available in the Mac Studio and the recently announced Mac Pro. If you need absolute power, the Ultra is your move, even though the base model will start at twice the M2 Max’s $1,999 floor. But make sure you actually need all that power. The Mac Studio M2 Ultra can drive up to eight high-res monitors. As a gear writer, I have a lot of monitors around here, but I don’t even use four of them at a time. It’s always tempting to get the best thing you can possibly afford, but it may be more power than you need and more cash than you need to spend. 

So, what Mac Studio M2 Max should you buy?

The jump from a 30-core GPU to a 38-core model will only set you back an extra $200 (though this upgrade is only available if you buy directly from Apple). That’s a worthwhile investment. The base model ships with 32GB of unified memory, which is decent. However, we always recommend splurging on RAM (or, in this case, the Apple equivalent) if you can because it makes a tangible difference in performance. And while $200 seems like a big price tag to go from 512GB internal storage to just 1TB, I still think it’s a worthy upgrade. I wouldn’t go beyond that, though. Just get some fast external solid-state storage to connect via USB-C. 

Considering all the variables, the Mac Studio M2 Max is a fantastic computer, especially if you do creative work or other resource-intensive projects. It blasts through photo-editing programs, easily chews through high-res video, and supports all the most recent wireless technologies for quick communication. It’s not cheap, and it can get very pricey in a hurry if you start making upgrades, but be smart about your purchase. If you need the firepower, then spend the money and spend less time staring at slow progress bars. Or, if you have a lot of money and you just want a really slick, fast, sophisticated desktop, the Mac Studio M2 Max absolutely fits the bill. 

The post Apple Mac Studio 2023 (M2 Max) review: All the computing power a creative needs appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best dog harnesses in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-dog-harness/ Wed, 21 Apr 2021 12:59:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/story/?p=283602
SleepyPod dog harness
Stan Horaczek

Is your four-legged friend a puller? Don’t get hot under the collar switch to one of our best dog harness picks.

The post The best dog harnesses in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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SleepyPod dog harness
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best no-pull Ocean blue and grey dog harness and leash best dog harnesses 2 Hounds Design Freedom No Pull Nylon Dog Harness & Leash
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This unique design enables you to redirect your dog’s attention while also reigning them in from the back.

Best for large dogs Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness is the best dog harness for large dogs Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness
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Designed with optimal comfort in mind, this large-dog harness has foam padding, wide straps, and four points of adjustment.

Best for small dogs Red and black dog harness with adjustable chest belt and quick release buckle Puppia Soft Dog Harness
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This small-dog harness has a back clip leash attachment, an adjustable chest belt, and quick-release buckles for a seamless park-to-couch transition.

Collars are great for ID tags and quick out-and-back bathroom breaks, but when it comes to a serious walk or adventure, a dog harness is the way to go. Collars can potentially inflict strain on a dog’s throat and do little to reign in exuberant canines. Humans may not know why that far patch of grass is irresistible, but a dog may pick up a whiff of something worth pulling against the leash until they choke. To avoid your dog causing self-harm, turn to one of the best dog harnesses.

A harness distributes pressure evenly over a large area, which makes for a more controlled and comfortable walking experience. So, if your dog is still getting a handle on proper walk etiquette, a harness is the kind of dog gear that can gently discourage pulling and limit strain on your pet, helping your dog feel confident and comfortable no matter how far along they are in their training. Whether you have a big dog or one that’s small, we’ll help you discover the best dog harness to match your pet’s walking style.

The best dog harnesses: Reviews & Recommendations

There’s more to the best dog harness than a latch and a catch, so remember these major differences while shopping for your pup. A dog harness is a vest designed to secure your dog with maximum comfort, usually with a triangle of fabric that hugs their torso and fastens in the back. A strap harness is a more lightweight option with thinner bands of material. Whether you opt for a vest or strap design, you must choose between a front-clip, back-clip, or dual-clip system. If you’re working with a stubborn dog that loves to tug, a front-clip harness can help keep your pet under control. Dogs that are already professional heelers might not require a front-clip and will do fine with a back-clip design. So, with all that in mind, here are the best dog harnesses for when you can coax your buddy off that comfy cooling bed and out into the world.

Best overall: 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Nylon Dog Harness & Leash

2 Hounds Design

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Specs

  • Sizes: XS (15″-20″), Small (20″-24″), Medium (24″-28″), Large (28″-32″), XL (32″-38″), and XXL (38-44″)
  • Material: Nylon with stainless steel clips
  • Included leash: Yes

Pros

  • Lots of sizing options with adjustability
  • Sturdy metal clips
  • Strong nylon webbing
  • Lots of color options
  • Two connection points allow for easier guidance

Cons

  • Tricky to put on, especially if your dog won’t stand still

This no-pull dog harness combines two points of contact with your dog: an included double-connection leash attaches to an action loop between the shoulders and a structural ring on the chest. This unique design enables you to redirect your dog’s attention while also reigning them in from the back. The 2 Hounds Design harness works with breeds of all sizes and temperaments, and its stainless-steel hardware and heavy-duty nylon are built to last.

Best for large dogs: Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

RUFFWEAR

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Specs

  • Sizes: XXS, XS, Small, Medium, Large, and Large/XL
  • Material: Nylon with foam padding
  • Included leash: No

Pros

  • Two attachment points
  • Foam padding for added comfort
  • Strong Nylon construction
  • Easier to put on than some other models
  • Decent color selection

Cons

  • Bulky
  • Doesn’t come with a leash

Designed with optimal comfort in mind, this large-dog harness has foam padding, wide straps, and four points of adjustment. The Ruffwear harness features an aluminum back clip and a reinforced webbing chest loop for training. Reflective trim and a convenient ID pocket make this harness perfectly suited for nighttime jogs. Ruffwear offers this harness in eight nature-inspired shades and five sizes.

Best for small dogs: Puppia Soft Dog Harness

Puppia

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Specs

  • Sizes: XS (10.25″ x 15″), Small (11.9″ x 16.6″), Medium (15″ x 20.5″), Large (18.9″ x 26″), XL (21.25″ x 29.9″)
  • Material: Polyester
  • Included leash: No

Pros

  • Easy to get on thanks to clipped design
  • Solid comfort from chest pad
  • Lots of color and size options

Cons

  • Polyster isn’t as durable as Nylon
  • No included leash

The Puppia harness is designed to protect your small dog’s delicate skin with soft air-mesh padding and lightweight polyester. This small-dog harness has a back clip leash attachment, an adjustable chest belt, and quick-release buckles for a seamless park-to-couch transition. Puppia offers 14 adorable colors, and its smallest option fits dogs with a neck of 9.5 inches.

Best dog pack: Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack

Mountainsmith

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Specs

  • Sizes: Small (dogs 20-50 pounds), Medium (dogs 40-90 pounds), and Large (dogs over 80 pounds)
  • Material: Nylon mesh
  • Included leash: No

Pros

  • Handle on top for excellent control
  • Carrying bags provide extra storage and give dog a sense of accomplishment
  • Colorways look like real outdoor gear for humans
  • Four points of adjustment

Cons

  • Not suitable for smaller dogs
  • Bulky

This dog pack has all the essentials: two pannier compartments with zippered accessory pockets, an indestructible metal back clip, and mesh panels with perforated EVA foam for increased ventilation. With optimal weight distribution in mind, this pack features a four-point adjustable chest harness, an adjustable back harness, and a non-slip buckle system. The pack also has a padded grab handle that enables you to quickly lift your dog in emergency situations. Mountainsmith packs are weather-resistant and can be worn by dogs that weigh up to 120 pounds.

Best budget: Rabbitgoo Dog Harness

Rabbitgoo

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Specs

  • Sizes: XS, Small, Medium, Large, XL, XXL
  • Material: Polyester
  • Included leash: No

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Lots of color options
  • Sturdy leash clips
  • Solid padding for a comfortable fit
  • Large surface area for better comfort

Cons

  • Polyester instead of Nylon
  • No included leash

This hassle-free harness has fast-release buckles, four adjustable straps, and reflective trim. The Rabbitgoo harness features both front and back metal leash rings for versatile training. Rabbitgoo offers its harness in a wide range of vibrant colors and four sizes.

Best for cars: Sleepypod Harness

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, XL
  • Material: Nylon and foam padding
  • Included leash: No

Pros

  • Protects dog in a car crash
  • Easy to buckle into a typical car seat
  • Also good for walks
  • Burly leash clips
  • Built-in reflectors

Cons

  • Expensive

Car accidents are bad news, especially when you’re not wearing a seatbelt. The same goes for dogs. If your pooch is roaming around the car while you’re driving, it can be a safety hazard for you and your canine pal. This sturdy harness easily clips into a typical car seatbelt to keep your dog in one place during typical driving or an accident. It’s easy to get on and off, so it can work as a regular harness for walks and drives. Built-in reflectors make it easy to see, and very burly leash clips ensure that even the hardest pullers won’t break free. It’s one of the pricier options on our list, but it pulls double duty in a way that could save your dog’s life. That’s worth a little extra cash in our eyes.

Features to consider when selecting the best dog harness

The best harness combines durability, comfort, and mobility. You will want to find a harness that can withstand doggie wear and tear but isn’t made of stiff or irritating material. It is also important that your harness is tough under pressure a flimsy harness can stretch or degrade when paired with a serious puller. We know that picking out dog products can get pretty complicated, so here are our picks. Let’s find the perfect fit!

Related: Poop happens. Be prepared with the best bags.

What exactly is a no-pull dog harness?

Some dogs pull on a leash like they’re auditioning for the Iditarod. Pull behavior can be frustrating and harmful if you’re using a traditional collar and leash. This tug-of-war match might seem impossible to resolve, but there are harnesses created to ease the difficulty of training the more tenacious puppy personalities. A no-pull harness is designed to pivot your dog’s energy toward you, often by redirecting their movements with a front-clip or dual-clip design. With a leash attachment at their chest, a dog is deterred from lunging forward and encouraged to walk at your pace. The best no-pull harness helps you control your dog without causing pain or discomfort. Multiple versatile designs are available that combine both front- and back-clip designs for maximum command over your dog’s training, like our favorite no-pull harness here.

What dog harness works for larger breeds?

Big dogs can be a lot to handle, and they need a harness that can match their strength and size. A thin harness might dig into a big dog’s skin, so when shopping for a large-dog harness, you will want to look for one with wider bands. Harnesses with a vest shape also work well for larger dogs and distribute pressure equally across their chests. The best large harness combines resilient fabric with durable aluminum leash clips. Yours should be able to handle everything your big dog throws at it, from zealous days at the park to muddy treks in the woods.

What should small dogs wear?

Small dogs are infamous escape artists who sometimes slip out of their collars. This might make you lean toward finding the most snug option, but if your small dog is a bundle of energy, a collar could also hurt its neck. A small harness can provide peace of mind while out and about with your tiny pup. Little dogs don’t require the same hardware as big dogs, so you will want to focus on soft fabric, flexibility, and weight when shopping for a small dog. You might also want to consider one that is easily washable little dogs are low to the ground, and their gear quickly collects grime. The best small harness should be simple, light as a feather, and soft enough for everyday wear, and our top pick checks all the boxes.

What’s the best harness for hiking with my dog?

Long hikes with your furry friend require a lot of equipment. A dog backpack harness is a wonderful solution for those who spend every weekend exploring new trails with their dogs. Most dog packs are saddlebags, which distribute weight evenly on both sides of your dog. With a sturdy pannier compartment on each side, your dog can carry his own gear without losing any mobility. Dog backpacks are perfect for carrying a day’s supply of treats, doggie bags, and first-aid materials. Keep in mind that dog packs are best suited for medium and large breeds, and the majority of backpacks do not accommodate dogs with a ribcage girth under 20 inches. The most important attributes to look for in a backpack harness are durable fabric and adjustable straps. The best dog backpack harness is made of water-resistant materials and allows you to customize the position of the pannier compartments. Check out our favorite backpack harness before you set out on your next wilderness adventure.

Best dog products if you’re on a budget

Small options tend to be pretty affordable, while dog gear for medium and large breeds can get expensive. There are some options for affordable harnesses that still have all the features you love: reflective fabric, optional front clips, and comfortable padding. When shopping for a cheaper one, you will want to ensure that it is still fully adjustable and made of soft, durable material that won’t irritate your dog’s skin. Here’s an affordable, vest-style harness that works with dogs of all sizes.

FAQs

Q: How tight should a dog harness be?

It should fit snug enough that your pup can’t get loose, but not so tight that it constricts them. A good rule of thumb When shopping for fitted dog products is that you should be able to fit two fingers between your dog and their harness at all times.

Q: Are front-clip harnesses good for dogs?

Front-clip harnesses are a great solution for dogs that pull. With a leash attachment on their chest, a dog is kindly redirected when they try to bolt forward. A front clip will safely encourage a dog to walk at your side, rather than barging at the nearest squirrel.

Q: Can I leave my dog’s harness on all day?

If your dog is comfortable in his or her harness, there is nothing wrong with keeping it on during the day. You should remove your dog’s harness at bedtime so your canine companion can get some air. This also prevents matting in long-haired breeds.

Final thoughts on the best dog harnesses

Daily walks with your canine companion should be a breeze, not a battle. The best dog harness enables both you and your dog to enjoy the outdoors without stress, strain, or risk of injury. Whether you’re seeking a solution for a stubborn puller or selecting gear that keeps your dog comfortable all day, a harness is one of those dog products that is a fantastic addition to your beloved pup’s wardrobe.

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 dog harnesses in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best K cup coffees in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-k-cup-coffee/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 14:33:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=393496
Best K-cup coffee
Stan Horaczek

Not all K cups are made the same. If you're in a rush or on the go, you don't have to sacrifice taste for convenience.

The post The best K cup coffees in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best K-cup coffee
Stan Horaczek

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Best Value Newmans Own Organics is the best K Cup Coffee. Newman's Own Organics
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Organic beans and recyclable cups make this an overall winner.

Extra-Caffeinated Death Wish is the best K Cup Coffee. Death Wish Coffee
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Twice the caffeine accompanies bold taste.

Best Decaf Community Cafe Special is the best K Cup Coffee. Community Cafe Special Decaf
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Find lots of flavor without the stimulant.

When it comes to making coffee, it doesn’t get easier than slamming a K cup into a Keurig machine and letting that little pod work its instant-brewing magic. That convenience is key when you’re trying to resist the allure of pricy cafe brew or nasty-but-easy gas station swill. But just because K cups are easier than traditional coffee makers doesn’t mean they can’t be delicious. The best K cup coffee matches your particular tastes and habits without costing more than your monthly Hulu subscription for each mug.

How we selected the best K cup coffee

For this test, we scoured the options while considering the most crucial variables, including price-per-cup, roast, flavor, and even how sustainable those little pods are. We consulted with a small crew of die-hard coffee drinkers who, after they were done lecturing us about the superiority of drips and pour-overs, helped shed some light on what to look for. We also consulted with a few long-time office workers who have tried every K cup their corporate overlords agreed to order them. The resulting list includes a variety of flavors and roasts to meet just about any preference.

The best K cup coffees: reviews & recommendations

Best overall: Atlas Coffee Club

Billy Cadden

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Why it made the cut: This handy delivery service ensures that you’ll never run out or get bored of your coffee stash.

Specs

  • 24, 48, and 72-cup subscriptions
  • Comes every two, four, or six weeks
  • Light/Medium, Medium Dark, and All Roast options

Pro

  • Lots of options for trying new things
  • Simple shipping means you never run out
  • Ample frequency and quantity options
  • Attractive packaging looks good on the counter
  • Price-per-serving is solid, especially with larger quantities

Cons

  • You may not love every flavor

For many people, coffee is a ritual, but it doesn’t always have to be exactly the same (unless you want it to be). This coffee delivery service will ship you 24, 48, or 72 coffee pods every two, four, or six weeks depending on how fast you can plow through it. Each shipment comes with your single-source coffee, a post card from its country of origin, and tasting notes to let you know what to look out for. We particularly enjoyed the Rwandan grind, but the service delivers a new coffee each month. These coffees aren’t available in stores, so there’s a bit of mystery and exclusivity that comes with your morning cup of joe.

If you eventually switch off of pods and go to another kind of machine, you can change your subscription over to beans or ground coffee to meet your needs. It’s also easy to pause or change your subscription if you’re going on a trip of you get a backlog of coffee sitting around because you’re not drinking it fast enough. (That has not been a problem for us). There are cheaper ways to get coffee pods, but it’s hard to match the quality, variety, and ease that comes with the Atlas subscription.

Best value: Newman’s Own Organics

Newman’s Own

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Why it made the cut: Truly cheap coffee tastes like an ashtray. This affordable option provides much fuller flavor for not much more cash. 

Specs

  • Four available flavors
  • Recyclable cup
  • Quantities up to 96

Pros

  • Cheap unit price
  • Good taste
  • Recyclable cup

Cons

  • No flavored options

Like we said above, K Cups should only be part of your balanced coffee consumption. If you’re only looking to supplement your fancy java, you don’t want something that strikes a balance between taste and cost. 

Newman’s Own offers four different flavors, including the middle-of-the-road special blend (which also comes in decaf), a darker French roast with a richer flavor, and a lighter Sunrise blend. Even if you have two at a time in order to get your day started off, it will still be cheaper than even gas station coffee. 

Plus, the cups are made from number 5 polypropylene so they’re relatively simple to recycle if you have curbside pickup. Just be sure to empty the coffee (preferably into a compost pile), then peel off the lid, and recycle the cup.

Best extra-caffeinated: Death Wish Coffee

Death Wish Coffee

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Why it made the cut: With double the caffeine in each cup, this strong brew doesn’t take much to get you going in the morning or before that 3 p.m. meeting.

Specs

  • Available in two flavors
  • Roughly 200 mg caffeine
  • Available in 10, 20, and 50 packs

Pros

  • Double caffeine
  • Attractive cup design
  • Bold taste

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Only two roasts are available

A regular cup of coffee will get you roughly 100 mg of caffeine, but each Death Wish K Cup Coffee has around 200 mg for a two-times increase. That’s roughly the same amount of caffeine as two 12-ounce red bulls. It’s no joke. 

Despite its scary name and intense stimulant content, Death Wish coffee comes in both dark and medium roast depending on your personal taste. The medium roast is a newer release brought on by customer requests. 

Both blends have a strong flavor profile that stands up nicely to cream or creamer, but you can keep it black for maximum wake-up effects. Recently, the company worked with NASA in order to create a freeze-dried version of this peppy beverage to send to the international space station. 

Best decaf: Community Cafe Special Decaf

Community Coffee

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Why it made the cut: Even without the caffeine, this medium-dark blend has a smooth, powerful flavor to help satisfy the routine. 

Specs

  • Zero caffeine
  • Packs of 36
  • Medium-dark roast

Pros

  • Delicious
  • Caffeine and decaf options
  • Affordable

Cons

  • No additional flavors are available

Coffee isn’t always about caffeine. Sometimes it’s about the morning ritual or maybe you just like the taste. These totally decaffeinated pods provide a medium to dark taste that has very noticeable hints of chocolate in it. The company also says it has notes of caramel, but in our tests, the chocolatey flavor overshadowed that. 

If you like the taste of this specific brew, the company also sells a caffeinated version, so you can keep both on-hand and even mix them together for a half-caf when you want just a little boost. 

Best for flavored coffee: Crazy Cups Decaf

Custom Variety Pack

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Why it made the cut: With more than a dozen flavors, you get a ton of choice for your cup. 

Specs 

  • More than a dozen flavors
  • All decaf
  • 20 count variety pack

Pros

  • Tons of flavor options
  • Extra coffee inside for stronger flavors

Cons

  • Decaf only

Die-hard coffee snobs turn up their noses at flavored coffees. That’s especially true for flavors like Death By Chocolate or Bananas Foster Flambe. Luckily, we’re not all coffee snobs and sometimes a fun flavor is just what you want. All of the flavors are zero-calorie and caffeine-free. Each pod comes with roughly 30 percent more coffee than a typical K Cup coffee to make the flavor extra bold. That means it will stand up to ice if you want to have it cold instead of hot. 

Not all the flavors are winners, but that’s why we’re recommending the variety pack first. Give the flavors a go, then pick the one you like best to order more. You’ll likely want to stick to the familiar flavors. The Vanilla Pumpkin Spice is a safe bet. White Chocolate Strawberry may sit in the cabinet for a while. 

Best compostable: Cameron’s Coffee Single Serve

Cameron’s Coffee

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Why it made the cut: There’s no plastic cup component to go with these coffee pods, which makes nearly the whole package compostable.

Specs

  • Packs from 12 to 72
  • Compost-friendly cups
  • Dozens of flavors

Pros

  • Easily compostable pods
  • Excellent flavor
  • Small pods take up less space

Cons

  • Limited flavors
  • Needs airtight storage

While recyclable plastic is fine, these compostable cups cut down on overall waste considerably. Compost loves coffee because of its nitrogen content, which helps the pile thrive. Each one of these pods includes a paper lid (as opposed to foil), a compostable structural ring to keep it all together, and a filter that will quickly deteriorate into your pile. It’s a very strict upgrade over the plastic stuff. 

That’s all moot if the coffee isn’t good though. Luckily, that’s not the case here. The company offers a wide range of flavors from light to dark roasts and into the flavored coffee territory. The breakfast blend is solid if you’re looking for an easy flavor to start with. 

Note that you will have to keep these pods in an airtight container since there’s no plastic cup to keep it sealed in. That gives you the added bonus of wafting coffee air every time you open the receptacle. 

Things to consider before buying the best K cup coffees

Before you grab a random pod, there are a few things to consider. After all, these little buckets of ground-up beans will set the tone for the whole day. It’s worth doing a little research before committing. 

Caffeine

For some people, morning coffee is more about the taste and the ritual than it is the shot of caffeine to the dome. A typical cup of coffee will net you just shy of 100 grams of caffeine, but that obviously varies between brands and flavors. Some offer to double that, while others nix the stimulants completely. Be sure you know what you’re getting in terms of caffeine content before you let that hot water flow. 

Compatibility

When someone says the phrase “K cups,” it evokes the iconic Keurig machines, which really kickstarted the pod coffee enthusiasm. There are other machines out there, though, so be sure to check and make sure the cups you buy work with the machine you own. If you don’t see the information directly on the box, check the company’s official site. Sometimes it will list the compatible machines. 

Price

While opting for a K Cup will almost always be cheaper than opting for takeout coffee, the prices do vary. Buying in large quantities typically saves you some cash on each one. Be sure to check that unit price before you buy. Even a little saving can add up after a long period of time and lots of cups. 

Sustainability

We recommend you keep K Cups as a part of your coffee consumption since they’re not the most environmentally friendly way to enjoy a cup of brew. Most K Cups are recyclable, but you can up the ante by opting for those that are compostable. Compost actually loves coffee because it’s high in nitrogen and it will help your pile thrive just like you after your third dose of caffeine before your 11 a.m. meeting. 

FAQs

Q: Which K Cup has the least caffeine?

Any K Cup marketed as “decaf” will typically offer very little to no caffeine. You can check the box to see if it lists the amount of caffeine per cup (the average is around 100) or check the manufacturer’s website if you want to be sure. 

Q: Which K Cup has the most caffeine?

At roughly 200 mg of caffeine per cup, the Death Wish coffee on this list is definitely among the top. There are others out there with soaring caffeine levels, but we recommend moderating your stimulant intake no matter how boring that staff meeting is going to be. 

Q: Can you use the same K Cup twice?

You can, sorta. But you shouldn’t. They’re only meant for one-time use. There’s already a hole in the lid, which means you may end up making a mess when you try to run it through again. The coffee also likely won’t taste good the second time around since it will be watered down and, frankly, kinda gross. 

A final thought on the best K cup coffees

K Cup Coffee can’t replace a carefully crafted cup of coffee made by a hip barista at a cool cafe. They can, however, provide a quick, easy cup of coffee that provides a shot of flavor and caffeine into your morning with little hassle. 

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 K cup coffees in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best cooling dog beds for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-cooling-dog-beds/ Tue, 13 Jun 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=548099
The best cooling dog beds composited
Stan Horaczek

These dog beds will come in clutch during the hot months.

The post The best cooling dog beds for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best cooling dog beds composited
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Coolaroo elevated dog bed Coolaroo Elevated Dog Bed
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An elevated mesh pad allows air flow all the way around your dog.

Best memory foam Sealy lux pet dog bed Sealy Lux Pet Bed
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This luxurious option includes four layers of foam for maximum comfort.

Best gel pad Chillz Dog Colling Mat Chillz Dog Cooling Mat
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Pressure-activated cooling gel provides quick relief for overheating pups.

A cooling dog bed can go a long way toward making your pooch more comfortable during unpleasantly warm weather. Sure, your dog may simply want to pass out on the cold tile of the bathroom floor after a walk, but a dedicated bed with cooling features adds a level of comfort with which a hard floor just can’t compete. While some cooling bed options rely on innovative foam materials, others take a simpler, but often just as effective, approach to keeping your pooch from panting. Here are the best cooling dog beds to keep your best buddy comfortable this summer and beyond.

How we chose the best cooling beds for dogs

We absolutely love dogs here at PopSci and want them to be as comfortable and safe as possible as the temperatures increase. For these picks, we’ve selected models proven durable and effective because a good dog bed can last years as long as it doesn’t get shredded. We’re sticking with reputable brands with solid reviews and reader feedback to ensure overall quality. While we love an overly techy product, this list isn’t loaded with overly complicated picks. Sometimes simpler is better, especially when it comes to pets. 

The best cooling dog beds: Reviews & Recommendations

Every dog is different, so knowing what they’ll like can be impossible. Their tastes can also change. They may love their bed one day and completely destroy it the next. With that in mind, here are some suggestions to best fit your specific dog’s needs now and in the future so you can get the right thing and save yourself some money or trouble before you plop something down in your dog’s pen or next to their favorite puzzle.

Best overall: Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Dog Bed

Coolaroo

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Specs

  • Size: Small (35″ x 22″ x 8″), Medium (42″ x 25.5″ x 8″), Large (51″ x 31.5″ x 8″), and XL (59.8″ x 37″ x 8.8″)
  • Material: Mesh fabric on a powder-coated steel frame
  • Machine washable: No

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Easy to transport since it’s flat
  • Tough steel frame can last outside
  • Keeps its shape
  • Hard for a dog to destroy

Cons

  • Takes up a lot of space indoors
  • Not a ton of cushioning for older or injured dogs

You won’t find any space-age gel or electronics in this cooling bed. It works on the simple idea that letting a breeze surround your dog will naturally cool them down. The Coolaroo sits 8 inches off the ground and employs a mesh pad that lets air flow through. There’s no room for heat to build up in bulky material. It doesn’t need to be reactivated or charged. 

The mesh stretches across a powder-coated steel frame that’s burly enough to live outside but light enough to bring the bed with you on a trip. The mesh pad comes in several colors to match your (and your dog’s) vibe. You can’t throw it in the washing machine, but the surface cleans up very easily with a damp cloth and some light detergent. And Coolaroo makes a version to suit every size of companion, including large dogs.

Best memory foam: Sealy Lux Pet Dog Bed

Sealy

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Specs

  • Size: Small (25” x 20” x 5”), Medium (36” x 28” x 7”), Large (42” x 32” x 8”), XL (48” x 38” x 8”)
  • Material: Memory foam, fleece, cooling gel
  • Machine washable: Cover only

Pros

  • Ample padding is good for older dogs
  • Charcoal-infused base material for odor absorption
  • Same basic cooling material found in human beds
  • Raised edge for comfort
  • Sturdy memory foam will keep its shape
  • Non-slip bottom

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Heavy

Sealy makes very solid mattresses for humans, so it only stands to reason that it could create an excellent dog bed. This cooling bed includes several of Sealy’s mattress technologies that you’ll find in their full-sized models. Memory foam lays at the base of this bed with a layer of Sealy’s Bio-Orthopedic foam on top to help evenly distribute the dog’s weight across the surface of the bed. The charcoal-infused foam base resists odors, which is important if you have a smelly dog. 

A waterproof liner prevents the bed from getting ruined during an accident, while the cover can simply go in the washing machine when it needs cleaning. The non-slip bottom will hold the bed still to keep you or your pooch from sliding around as you step on it. It’s definitely not the cheapest cooling bed, but it is one of the most luxurious, and your dog will likely appreciate it. 

Best calming: Coldest Cozy Dog Bed

Coldest

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Specs

  • Size: Small (12″ x 5″ x 3″), Large (36″ x 27″ x 7″), and XL (42″ x 32″ x 7″)
  • Material: Foam, cooling gel
  • Machine washable: Cover only

Pros

  • Cooling gel feels cool to the touch
  • Cover is machine washable
  • Raised edge for comfort and calming
  • Sturdy foam should last
  • Biggest version works for large dogs

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Expensive

If the surface of this dog bed looks familiar, that’s because you’ll find similar tech on many cooling pillows made for humans. The surface of the Coldest Cozy Dog Bed feels cold to the touch. It warms up over time, but it quickly cools back down if you leave the surface exposed to air for a while. A raised edge around the sleeping area gives your pooch a place to rest their head or nestle if they prefer cuddle-style sleeping.

Like the Sealy, this isn’t the cheapest bed, so it’s not great for dogs with destructive tendencies. It’s fairly durable, and the cover is washing machine safe. It’s heavy and has a skid-proof bottom, so you won’t slip and fall if you step on it in the dark on the way to the bathroom. 

Best gel pad: Chillz Dog Cooling Mat

Chillz Dog

SEE IT

Specs

  • Size: Medium (19.5″ x 15.5″ x 0.75″), Large (36″ x 20″ x 0.75″), and XL (31” x 37” x 0.75”)
  • Material: Gel
  • Machine washable: No

Pros

  • Easily rolls up for transport
  • Flat design fist easily in any space
  • Recharges after 20 minutes of non-use
  • Based on proven cooling gel tech

Cons

  • Not machine washable
  • Dog could bite it and get the gel out if unsupervised

At just three-quarters of an inch thick, this pad doesn’t offer much padding; however, it excels in cooling. A gel inside activates when the dog’s paws step on the pad. It draws heat out of your hot dog to help cool them down quickly. The cooling effect lasts for up to three hours, but it recharges for another round of cooling in just 15 or 20 minutes. 

The outside feels a lot like an ice pack that you would put on a black eye in gym class back in grade school. It’s tough, but it’s possible for a dog to chew through it. While it would likely make a mess, the gel is non-toxic, so you wouldn’t have to worry too much about harm coming to your pup. 

This pad rolls up fairly easily, so it’s simple to store or bring with you if you want a way for your dog to cool down after some laps at the park. In fact, you may want to lay on it, too.

Best for shade: Heeyoo Elevated Dog Bed with Canopy 

Heeyoo

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Specs

  • Size: 42″ x 30″ x 37″
  • Material: Oxford fabric on a powder-coated steel frame
  • Machine washable: No

Pros

  • Removable tent provides shade no matter what
  • Raised design offers airflow all the way around the dog
  • Tough material will stand up to lots of laying down
  • Powder-coated steel frame can withstand outdoor environments

Cons

  • Some assembly required
  • Not super easy to travel with

The sun is trying to murder you with its heat and UV rays. Your dog feels that too, which makes shade a treasured commodity in the hot months. This dog bed comes with its own shade. It employs an elevated design that allows air to move both above and below the dog. A breathable mesh pad doesn’t allow heat to build up between your pooch and the bed. That should provide some solid cooling on its own. The tent takes things one step further. 

The canopy attaches and detaches without the need for any tools. It effectively blocks the sun, but it’s also waterproof, so it can protect your dog from precipitation (though it’s not meant as a shelter, so it can’t replace actually going inside). It comes in four colors and relies on a powder-coated steel frame, so it should last years before it needs replacing. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best cooling dog bed

Sticking to our picks is great, but we also want shoppers to have as much information as they need before parting with their cash. Here are a few things to consider before handing over your credit card.

Size

If your dog is like mine, it will probably try to cram its body into all kinds of places it doesn’t belong. Why is she in that Amazon box? Is she a cat? While pooches will try to sleep just about anywhere, you want a bed that’s big enough to accommodate their body, even if they’re only semi-curled up. If you have the space, err on the side of a larger bed, but don’t go overboard. You want something your dog can easily sprawl out on but won’t be swimming in. If your dog is particularly tiny, you really don’t want to go overboard with an overstuffed bed as they can get stuck in the crevices. 

How easy is it to clean?

Dogs aren’t the tidiest creatures, so their beds need regular washes. Ideally, you can chuck at least the cover in the washing machine. Some other tougher materials may withstand a simple hose cleaning, which is great for outdoor beds. You want to avoid super delicate materials that look fancy but are impossible to wash when the time comes. 

FAQs

Q: What temperature is too hot for a dog?

Before we get into this information at all, it’s important to note that a cooling bed is never an excuse to leave a dog in a hot environment like a car or outdoors when the temperature is cranked. Cooling beds can increase comfort, but they cannot prevent the serious health conditions that can arise from prolonged heat exposure. The Humane Society has some handy tips about keeping dogs cool, but you’ll want to talk to your vet about specific best practices for your dog before you make any decisions. If you’re uncomfortably hot, there’s a good chance your pooch is, too. 

Q: When does a dog need a cooling bed?

It’s all about comfort. Many dogs with thicker coats will appreciate any cooling help they can get. For some dogs, it may not make that much of a difference. For instance, my old chihuahua (RIP) hated every cooling bed and loved to lay on the hot patio stones in the middle of summer. My current long-haired canine stays on the cooling bed at every possible opportunity. Your need depends on your specific dog.

Q: Do cooling dog beds really work?

Yes, but they’re not magic. Again, these won’t prevent your dog from sustaining health issues from too much heat exposure. Cooling gel and raised mesh beds, however, can keep your dog cooler and more comfortable than they would be without them. Some beds will actually feel cool to the touch, like the cooling pillows that many humans use to sleep. If you have realistic expectations, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re hoping you can chuck your air conditioner and swelter away in your home without damaging your pooch, you’re out of luck. 

Final thoughts on the best cooling dog beds

Hot summer months can play havoc on your fur-laden friends, but the best cooling dog beds can provide a much-needed reprieve from the elevated temperatures. Whether you want a plush pad, a simple cot, or a full-on doggy tent, your pooch will appreciate a chill place to recline when the thermometer rises.

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 cooling dog beds for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best label printers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-label-printers/ Fri, 15 Oct 2021 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=403350
The best label printers composited
Stan Horaczek

Make shipping and organizing much easier with these compact, efficient printers.

The post The best label printers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best label printers composited
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall The Rollo Label Printer is the best label printer overall. Rollo Label Printer
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The easiest way to print shipping labels.

Best for small business The Dymo XL is the best label printer for small business. Dymo 4XL
SEE IT

A super-compact printer with a wide range of features

Best value The Leoity is the best label printer. Leoity Thermal Label Printer
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This affordable option prints as fast as many competitors.

You don’t have to be a true type-A person for a label printer to change the way you work. Whether you’re running a high-volume online store or just trying to keep track of where all your stuff is, a great label printer can make the process much simpler. The best label printers are typically much more efficient than trying to wrestle with an unreliable all-in-one inkjet printer that tries to do everything and succeeds at almost nothing. These purpose-built printers can make the shipping process a lot easier and a whole lot cheaper. Just be sure you know what you’re looking for before taking the plunge and picking up one of the best label printers. 

How we chose the best label printers

Here at PopSci HQ, we have gadgets and other products coming in and out all the time. Combined with some years of online selling experience, it has made some of the writers and editors on staff into certified shipping label experts. I can look at a shipping box and tell you the correct dimensions at this point. Our regular delivery service workers gave us a holiday gift last year. We do a lot of shipping. At the same time, we also do a lot of organizing. Keeping track of everything can be a grind if we’re constantly sorting through identical boxes. Label makers can make a huge difference. 

The best label printers: Reviews & Recommendations

For this guide, we surveyed dozens of models but focused on the most reliable and revered brands with the best reputation. We considered ease of use and even design, which is important when you have to stare at these things all day.

Best overall: Rollo Label Printer

Rollo

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Specs

  • Thermal printing
  • Up to 4-inch x 6-inch prints
  • Works with all the major shipping companies
  • Prints one label per second

Pros

  • Fast
  • No toner or ink to buy
  • Works with all major shippiers
  • Automatically recognizes labels

Cons

  • Pricey unless you’re doing high-volume
  • No color 

Put a stack or roll of labels behind the Rollo label printer, and it can start pumping out ready-to-roll labels at a rate of one per second. It uses thermal-printing tech, which means it prints with heat onto thermal-compatible labels, which means there’s no ink or toner to buy as there would be with your inkjet. 

The Rollo has built-in sensors that can automatically detect what type of label it’s printing on to keep everything in the correct spot without a user having to dig into its settings. 

In many cases, you can get the Thermal Direct labels from the shippers for free, which means the cost of the printer and the small amount of electricity it takes to run it is all you’re spending on labels. 

As the best label printer overall, it works with USPS, UPS, and FedEx, and the whole thing is rugged and portable, so you can take it with you if you want to get some work done at a separate location. 

Best with wireless: Brother P-Touch PT-D460BT Business Expert Connected Label Maker

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Memory holds up to 70 labels
  • 30mm per second print speed
  • Bluetooth or wired connectivity
  • Five lines per label
  • Manual tape cutter

Pros

  • Easily stores frequently used labels for quick printing
  • Crisp, clear print quality
  • Keyboard is easy to type on
  • Quick
  • Screen is roomy and easy to red
  • Wireless connectivity is handy

Cons

  • Requires proprietary materials

This Bluetooth-enabled printer can churn out prints at up to 30mm per second on 0.75-inch wide tape. You’ll have to use the proprietary Brother tape, but that’s common for models like this. The P-Touch 460BT can store up to 70 different label templates in its memory, making them easy to quickly print if you use them frequently. Brother’s print quality and clarity are excellent. Even small print is simple to make out, thanks to the sharp, clear letters. You can connect this printer to a computer via Bluetooth or a cord, which makes it one of the most versatile models we’ve tried. It’s a great way to label things in storage or add QR codes to inventory that you’re trying to keep track of in automated systems. Plus, if you’re using it at home, you have many formatting options that are easily accessible through the keyboard. With 16 different fonts, 800 symbols, and 140 frame styles, you can personalize the look of the labels.

Best color label printer: Brother VC-500W Versatile Compact Color Label and Photo Printer

Brother

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Specs

  • ZINK thermal printing technology
  • Prints in color and black-and-white
  • WiFi connectivity

Pros

  • Full-color printing without ink to buy
  • Can make prints up to 17 inches long
  • Small
  • Wireless connectivity
  • Lots of printing substrate options, including stickers

Cons

  • Width maxes out at two inches
  • Pricey paper refills

This printer can churn out full-color print jobs but doesn’t require ink. Instead, it relies on Zero Ink technology (sometimes called ZINK). The required colors exist inside the special paper or sticker refills before entering the printer. Heat activates them to create images.

These labels aren’t as big as typical shipping labels—they max out at two inches wide. It can print images up to 17 inches long, however. 

Built-in wireless connectivity makes connecting via WiFi or even a smartphone’s wireless connection easy. While this isn’t ideal for people in most business settings, it can be the best color label printer for a teacher or other professional that can benefit from the occasional splash of color. 

Best for small businesses: Dymo 4XL

Dymo

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Specs

  • Prints up to 4 inches by 6 inches
  • 60 custom templates to choose from
  • Prints up to 129 labels per minute
  • Works with major selling and shipping platforms

Pros

  • Super-fast printing
  • Very small footprint
  • Super crisp, high-res text
  • Woks with shipping labels from major companies

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Works best with on-brand labels

Small business label printing goes beyond shipping. This 300-dpi printer can churn out super-crisp barcodes, QR codes, and other business-specific labels easily read with a machine or your eyeballs. If you’re mostly shipping, this printer works with labels from major shippers like FedEx, USPS, and UPS. With 60 built-in printing templates, the Dymo can automatically print labels from popular services like eBay and Etsy to streamline shipping. 

Like other label printers, it maxes out at four inches by six inches, which should be plenty big for the most common tasks. Dymo offers a litany of different first-party papers and substrates to match your exact printing requirements. 

Like other thermal printers, it doesn’t require ink or toner cartridge replacements, which keeps costs way down over inkjets making this the best label printer for small businesses. 

Best for organizing: Brother P-Touch

Brother

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Specs

  • Full QWERTY keyboard
  • Battery powered
  • Prints to half-inch tape
  • Three font choices

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Built-in keyboard
  • Portable
  • Prints quickly

Cons

  • Very small print material

If you don’t need to print barcodes or shipping labels and just need the best label printer for organizing, this portable unit can come in very handy. Load a roll of half-inch tape inside and choose one of three fonts. Then type into the onboard QWERTY keyboard, and the machine spits out your label in just a few seconds. It allows for borders and special characters like fire if you want to point out that something is flammable. 

This model can save 15 labels to its built-in memory, so if you’re constantly making the same one, you don’t have to create it every time you turn the machine on. Brother sells a whole line of compatible tape for printing, including various colors and types. The printing process is quick and quiet so that you can make fast work of an entire room or space.

Things to consider when buying the best label printers

Paper size

The major shipping companies have standardized their label sizes, so it’s fairly easy to know whether the labels you need to use will fit. Anything capable of pumping out 4-inch by 6-inch labels is enough to cover USP, USPS, FedEx, and any other big names. 

Smaller label makers and quirky label printers often use much smaller material, which won’t work for shipping purposes.

Printing technology

Most shipping label printers use True Thermal technology. There’s no ink involved. Instead, the printer uses heat to reveal black substrate from behind a top white layer. This process requires special paper or labels to work, but it doesn’t require ink cartridges or toner, which is typically much more expensive. 

If you want color, you’re better off with inkjet or Zero Ink (ZINK), which uses the same thermal printing tech but includes color in the paper.

Print speed

You’ll sometimes see this expressed differently depending on the model. Some thermal printers will describe their speed by the number of mm per second it can churn out. For instance, you might see 150mm/s listed in a product description. Higher numbers mean faster printing. Other printers will tell you exactly how many labels you can print out per second or per minute. Expect 0.5 to 2 labels per second, depending on the content and the printer.

FAQs

Q: Do label printers need ink?

Thermal printers like the Dymo don’t rely on ink to make prints. Instead, they utilize special paper or labels that react with heat to reveal black material that makes up the print itself. So, there are no ink cartridges or toner cartridges to replace.

If you’re using a more traditional printer to print labels, however, you will need to replace those cartridges.

Q: What should I look for in a label printer?

As with any electronic, I suggest figuring out what the most important aspect of the device is to you and focusing on that. In the case of label printers, speed is likely a concern if you’re dealing with high volume. You want something that can churn out a lot of labels in a little bit of time. 

Size is also a consideration. If you only need labels to mark bins, boxes, binders, or other things that need organizing, pick something that gives you more text options and a portable form factor.

Q: How long do label makers last?

Heat and gadgets do not typically get along. Most label makers use heat for their thermal printing process. Good models have robust cooling solutions that blow hot air out to keep delicate electronics from overheating. Still, you’ll know your label printer is starting to go when prints get inconsistent and spotty.

Final thoughts on the best label printers

Shipping is a huge part of starting many small businesses; the best label printers can make short work of it. Of course, they also have utility beyond shipping. They can print barcodes, stickers, and other things to make your life easier and more organized. Just make sure you get the right model for you.

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best label 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.

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The best 4K TVs for 2023, as chosen by experts https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-4k-tvs/ Thu, 16 Jun 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450004
Samsung OLED 4K
Stan Horaczek

Treat your eyes to the best 4K TVs money can buy.

The post The best 4K TVs for 2023, as chosen by experts appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung OLED 4K
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best budget OLED The LG C2 OLED TV LG C2
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It’s technically a 2022 model, but it’s phenomenal and you can find it for a great price.

Best overall The Samsung S95C OLED on a stand in a room with two chairs Samsung S95C OLED
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Samsung’s flagship OLED TV adds brightness, but keeps the image quality and features.

Best budget TCL 55" Class 6-Series 4K Mini-LED TV TCL 6-Series
SEE IT

Mini LED backlighting helps this affordable TV punch well above its price tag in terms of quality.

If you’re buying a new TV in 2023, it really should be a 4K TV. Those 1080p models can still keep up at smaller sizes, but the centerpiece of your living room really deserves the full 2160p experience. At the same time, 8K is still crawling along when it comes to affordable TVs and available native content. 4K really is the sweet spot, and it will be for some time. But choosing a specific model can be complicated. What backlight technology do you want? Do you need a 120Hz refresh rate? What the heck is VRR? Luckily, we’re here to break down these variables and provide expert insight into which TV should handle most of your binge-watching and video gaming needs. Let us help you pick the best 4K TV for your space, budget, and viewing habits.

How we chose the best 4K TVs

The editors and writers at Popular Science have decades of collective experience when it comes to covering, reviewing, and generally nerding out over TVs. The authors of this story have written for countless publications, from general to enthusiast, including Maxim, Men’s Journal, Engadget, and Sound & Vision.

We’ve tapped into our collective experience to parse the specific differences between models for these selections. These selections are based on a foundation of personal hands-on experience, spec comparisons, user feedback, and opinions from other trusted names in the industry. We nerd out about TVs in our free time, too.

The best 4K TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you know what to look for when picking out the best 4K TV for you, you can go out and take your pick. Of course, if you need help getting started, our list features the cream of the crop. For most people, one of these five models will be the best 4K TV.

Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Size: 55”, 65”, 75”
  • Display: OLED
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, RF, Ethernet

Pros

  • Exceptional OLED picture quality
  • Bright enough for rooms with moderate light
  • 4K/120Hz
  • Ports live on a separate box connected with a cable for easy installs
  • Solar-powered remote

Cons

  • Expensive
  • UI can feel bloated

You’ll see this TV pop up in many “best of” TV articles this year. The reason is simple: Samsung did a wonderful job with its most recent OLED display. This is a flagship TV, so it isn’t cheap, but it offers almost anything you could want from a current-generation TV. It offers four HDMI 2.1 ports to support current (and future) gaming consoles. Plus, all its ports live on a separate box connecting to the ultra-thin panel with a single wire. That makes this TV super versatile when it comes to installation.

When it comes to picture quality, I was very impressed during my viewing time with it. I hooked up a PS5, then played several games and watched a few high-res Blu-ray titles, including the latest Venom movie, which is particularly challenging in terms of color and contrast. Samsung’s OLED looked fantastic throughout all of it.

The built-in speakers aren’t phenomenal, but that’s easy to forgive on a wildly skinny TV. You’re best off adding a soundbar or other external audio. The UI can also get a bit clunky, but that’s more of a general Samsung thing than it is specific to this TV.

Quibbles aside, the real star here is the picture quality. It maintains the super-deep blacks that make OLED so appealing. But, due to Samsung’s new display tech, it’s considerably brighter than many OLEDs that came before it. I had no trouble watching content in a fully lit room with strong overhead lights on full-blast. If you have an absurdly bright room, you may still be better off with something like a QLED, but most viewers should be stoked on this TV if they can stomach the relatively high cost.

Best budget: TCL 6-Series Google TV

TCL

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 55”, 65”, 75”
  • Display: QLED
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 3, USB 2.0 x 2, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Mini-LED QLED 4K display
  • Three HDMI 2.1 ports
  • 4K/120Hz
  • Affordable

Cons

  • TCL makes three “6-Series” TVs, which can get confusing

If you are shopping on a budget, the TCL 6-Series with Google TV makes it very easy to cut some small technical corners and get a great 4K TV at a lower price than our other picks. It features a vibrant, color-accurate QLED 4K display and excellent brightness that can easily combat the sunniest living rooms. TCL also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, so you can enjoy the latest season of Stranger Things on Netflix the way it was meant to be seen. The R646 also features two HDMI 2.1 ports, so you can play games in 4K at 120Hz, with features like variable refresh rate available. At this price point, the TCL R646 is unbeatable, offering an impressive 4K picture and a brightness that provides the kind of “wow factor” that matches more expensive alternatives.

Because this TV relies on Mini LED tech, it can provide more localized dimming for content. That means light won’t seep into the dark areas and ruin the contrast ratio. That can seriously detract from the overall visual appeal. If you don’t want the Google TV version, TCL also offers a Roku version if you prefer that platform.

Best budget OLED: LG C2

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Sizes: 42, 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, 83”
  • Display: OLED evo
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB 2.0 x 3, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Sharp, vibrant picture
  • 4K/120Hz support
  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports
  • Up to 20 percent brighter than previous models

Cons

  • OLED panel could be brighter

The LG C2 has just about everything you could want out of a TV even though it’s technically last generation’s model. As the OLED designation suggests, it provides spectacular color and contrast. But, thanks to the latest generation OLED evo panel, it’s also 20 percent brighter than its predecessor. It maintains the deep blacks for which OLED TVs are renowned while pumping up the maximum brightness and overcoming one of OLED’s only inherent weaknesses. As a result, the C2 is a phenomenal all-around TV that will fit in just about any space or use case. It offers a full suite of HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting to game consoles and streaming devices. It offers an array of variable refresh rate modes to prevent artifacts and jaggies during gaming sessions. Plus, it supports just about every form of HDR you could want. If you’re not ready to jump to the C2, you can still find pretty great deals on the C1 out there. If you’re not putting it in a super-bright room, then the C1 should perform excellently while saving you some money.

Best QLED: Samsung QN90C

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

  • Sizes:
  • Display:
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB 2.0 x 3, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Very bright
  • 4K/120Hz support
  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports
  • Excellent overall picture quality

Cons

  • Ports live on the TV instead of on an auxiliary box

If you want a bright display, QLED still reigns over almost everything else on the market. It’s not just about brute force brightness, however. Samsung has been refining its QLED TVs for years, and the company has managed to squeeze exceptional picture quality out of its QLEDs at every level. This is the high-end stuff, though, and it’s worth the extra investment. Samsung employs some of its most powerful image processing in this display, which allows it to excellently upscale content of just about every kind.

Despite its relatively skinny stature, this TV offers excellent built-in sound. I was genuinely impressed with the stock sound performance during my review period with the TV. I fired up Godzilla vs. Kong on Blu-ray, and the visuals were predictably meticulous, but the sound was also impressively boomy and clear despite the lack of extra help.

I still find Samsung’s TV UI clunky. I typically just remember the buttons that get me where I want to go rather than trying to navigate the on-screen menus. And I would have loved for Samsung to put the ports on an external box like it has with the OLEDs and other high-end models. But that’s not a deal breaker.

At the end of the day, this is a killer TV that will perform in literally any room. While it’s capable of impressive brightness, it doesn’t rely on it as a selling point. With Film Maker Mode turned on, it can reproduce all the color and contrast accurately and elegantly.

Best for gaming: Sony Bravia XR A90J

Sony

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

  • Size: 55”, 65”, 83”
  • Display: OLED
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB 2.0 x 3, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Gorgeous picture
  • Ample ports and features for gaming
  • Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay

Cons

  • Expensive

The Sony Bravia XR A90J features a fantastic 4K picture that produces perfect blacks and a relatively bright HDR experience for an OLED. It also supports a wide color gamut, high contrast ratio, and a fast response time, ensuring every game, movie, and TV show looks flawless. It also features Variable Refresh Rate support, a gaming staple, and special PS5-exclusive features, like automatically switching in and out of HDR mode when you start playing a game or other HDR-compatible content on the console. If we’re being honest, the A90J is pretty close to fitting in our “overall” and “best OLED” categories, but we feel it’s best suited for gaming, especially if you’re playing on a PS5.

Because this model is technically a generation old, you can typically find it at a very affordable price, compared to other TVs with similar overall picture quality and specifications. Don’t be afraid to save yourself some cash to buy video games.

Things to consider when choosing the best 4K TVs

When searching for the best 4K TVs, we focused on finding models that balance display quality, color accuracy, port selection, gaming features, and price. Together, these elements help us distinguish between a good TV and a great one.

QLED vs. OLED

Two luxury display technologies are central in lighting up the best 4K TVs. On a technical level, OLED and QLED take different approaches, but both enhance the brightness and contrast of your TV, improving its picture quality over older models.

Organic Light-Emitting Diode displays, or OLED for short, are currently considered the cream of the crop among high-end 4K TVs. Though it shares three letters with “LED” TVs you’re more familiar with, OLED is actually an entirely new display technology. In OLED TVs, each pixel generates its own light, allowing these sets to turn individual pixels on and off. This gives viewers more life-like blacks, rather than the darkest possible gray. You also won’t see any light bleeding out into on-screen shadows, as they do on older LCD TVs.

Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diode displays, commonly known as QLED, are a next-generation upgrade of the conventional LED TV. QLED TVs feature a transmissive layer of “quantum dots” in the screen panel, enhancing a TV’s color, brightness, and contrast. High-end QLED TVs pair that with a backlighting feature called “local dimming,” which allows your TV to enhance or reduce its brightness in specific areas to improve contrast, not unlike OLED displays.

OLED displays offer sharper contrast and “true” blacks that QLED can’t replicate, so they are the premier choice if money is no object. On the other hand, OLED TVs feature comparatively low brightness, which may be a liability in a living room with a lot of natural light. However, manufacturers have begun to remedy that problem by introducing new materials into the OLED formula.

Since QLED panels are based on LED technology, you can find them in a wider variety of price points than OLED. That said, there’s a big difference between an affordable QLED TV with moderately enhanced colors and a top-of-the-line QLED model with local dimming and other enhancements.

As always, the best way to find your preference is to go to a showroom and see the difference for yourself. Short of that, we recommend letting price and logistical considerations guide you to one type of TV or the other.

High dynamic range (HDR)

High Dynamic Range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows your TV automatically its brightness to create more contrast between well-lit and darkened on-screen elements. In situations with challenging lighting, it enhances the overall image with greater detail and color depth. Let’s say you’re looking into a dark room from the outside: HDR can simultaneously display detail in the bright space outside and inside the dimly lit room. TVs with HDR are also capable of displaying more vibrant, varied colors. In addition to enabling more precise contrast, bright colors will look more full and vibrant.

There are a few different standards of HDR, including HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. HDR10 is the most widely adopted and is an open, free standard supported by everything from 4K TVs to Blu-ray players. Dolby Vision offers a few advantages over HDR, including “dynamic” metadata, which allows your TV to adjust its brightness on a scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis. HDR10 uses “static” metadata, which means it sets brightness levels once for the content you consume. HDR10+ also uses dynamic metadata similar to Dolby Vision.

Generally, today’s top TVs feature support for a few different HDR standards, but for the best possible HDR experience, you’ll want Dolby Vision or HDR+.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hz (Hertz), refers to the frequency your TV refreshes what’s on the screen every second. Refresh rate has been a core feature on computer monitors for some time but has only become a serious consideration for TVs in the last two years. If you’re buying a high-end TV for gaming and own either a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, you should hold out for one that supports a higher refresh rate.

Prior to 2020, all TVs supported the same 60Hz refresh rate. Most TVs still do, and that’s perfectly fine for watching streaming services, cable, movies, and playing most consoles. With the PS5 and Xbox Series X, though, you have the ability to play some games at up to 120 frames per second, unlocking smoother animations. Likewise, some live sports broadcasts will benefit from a higher refresh rate.

HDMI 2.1

To enable 4K at 120fps, your TV must support HDMI 2.1, the newest version of the standard TV connection for plugging everything from cable boxes to game consoles to streaming devices.

HDMI 2.1 can transfer data at up to 48Gbps, theoretically allowing you to watch 10K video at 120Hz on the right TV. For now, you only need it to watch or play in 4K at 120Hz on the small number of games that support those specs on PS5 and Xbox Series X

There are other reasons you’ll want it, though. HDMI 2.1 supports many other features that can enhance your viewing and gaming experiences, including Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), a feature that enables Game Mode on your TV (if that feature is available) and typically reduces input lag. It also opens the door for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) over HDMI, which can stabilize volatile frame rates in games.

Unfortunately, TVs equipped with HDMI 2.1 don’t always support every feature introduced by the latest standard. Making matters worse, manufacturers aren’t always transparent about the HDMI 2.1 features supported by their TV. You’ll have to pay close attention to what the manufacturer says when purchasing … and then get coordinating HDMI cables.

FAQs

Q: How much does a 4K TV cost?

Since buying a new TV almost always means buying a 4K TV, prices range from a few hundred dollars for a budget 40-inch TV to upwards of $4,000 for a top-of-the-line 70- to 80-inch OLED. Beyond size, brand name, display technology, and other factors may impact the price from model to model. We’ve broken down the top TVs by size, display technology, and more, so check with our other, more specific guides if you’d like more help narrowing down your options.

Q: What size 4K TV should I choose?

Ideally, you should pick the size of your display based on the size and layout of the room where you will put it. According to the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, you want to place your TV far enough away so that it fills up at least 30 degrees of your horizontal field of view.  For a 55-inch 4K TV, ideal for bedrooms and dorm rooms, you should sit about 7.5 feet away. That is the target, but getting a little closer or further away is fine, depending on your room and what size TV you can afford.

For more help figuring out where to put your TV, check out our handy guide.

Q: Should I get an 8K TV?

Short answer? No, not yet.

While manufacturers are pushing the technological envelope with giant 8K TVs, there is currently little to no 8K content available right now. An 8K TV can upscale 4K content, making it look sharper, but we wouldn’t recommend buying an 8K TV just for that. Realistically, there will be better, more powerful, and more affordable 8K TVs on the market by the time it makes sense for even a niche home theater fan to buy an 8K TV.

Final thoughts on the best 4K TVs

You can’t go wrong with our recommendations if you want to upgrade to a 4K TV. You’ll get top-notch picture quality, ample port selection, and support for next-generation technology, including HDMI 2.1 and the latest HDR standards. The good news is there has never been a better time to jump on the bandwagon with more ways to enjoy 4K content, thanks to streaming services and next-generation consoles. The LG C1 is, pound-for-pound, the best 4K TV available, hitting all the essential benchmarks while offering an incredible OLED image. Once you see the higher resolution yourself, you’ll wonder what took you so long to upgrade. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best 4K TVs for 2023, as chosen by experts appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best grill tool sets for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-grill-tool-sets/ Mon, 12 Jun 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=547721
The best grill tool kits composited
Stan Horaczek

Theses tool kits offer sturdy utensils that will last an outdoor cook for years.

The post The best grill tool sets for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best grill tool kits composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best Overall Weber grilling tool set Weber Precision 3-Piece Grilling Tool Set
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These durable tools feel premium and clean up easily.

Best wood handle Cuisinart ash wood handle grill tools Cuisinart CGS-1100 with Ash Wood Handles
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The ash wood handles provide nice balance and feel.

Best budget Oxo Good Grips grill tool set XO Good Grips Grilling Tools, Tongs and Turner Set
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You don’t need to spend a ton of money for reliable tools.

A solid grill tool set can drastically improve the experience that comes with outdoor cooking. You don’t need a ton of tools, but you want a few solid utensils that will last longer than a single season. It’s not just about durability, either. Quality tools give you the precision and reliability to make every barbecue successful. Have you ever dropped a burger due to a sub-standard turner? Or worse, lost a steak due to wimpy tongs? The best grill tool sets will stop that kind of barbecue catastrophe from ruining your cookout. 

How we chose the best grilling tool sets

Here at PopSci, we can appreciate fancy cooking gadgets, but you don’t need the most elaborate kit for grilling. You don’t need the fanciest tools to get great results. We’ve emphasized durable, affordable tools made from high-quality materials for our picks. What good is a fancy turner if it only lasts one summer of flipping burgers? Most of our picks include the basic tools necessary for solid grilling, including a turner, tongs, and a brush. Some grill tool sets have more, but we don’t like having a lot of extra tools hanging around that we won’t use. I have been reviewing grills and grilling accessories for more than a decade. In that time, I have expensed a shameful amount of meat to various companies and interviewed some big names in the barbecue industry. 

The best grill tool sets: Reviews & Recommendations

As with barbecue itself, tastes and needs differ from person to person, so check out every option for grilling tool kits before making your decision. Note: Some people call turners “spatulas,” but the terms aren’t exactly interchangeable. Most people will know what you mean if you say spatula, but the technical term is “turner.”

Best overall: Weber Precision 3-Piece Grilling Tool Set

Webter

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Specs

  • Tools included: Turner, tongs, and basting brush
  • Carrying case? No
  • Handle material: Silicone

Pros

  • No unnecessary tools
  • Sturdy stainless steel construction
  • Steel loops for hanging tools
  • Handle shape makes them easy to hold
  • Locking tongs are easy to secure

Cons

  • Slightly heavy

Barbecue is about the essentials done well, which this kit includes. Each stainless steel tool is 18 inches long, which makes them long enough to keep your hand off the heat without making things feel precarious. The tongs include a clever twist-activated locking mechanism that you can activate with one hand, unlike other latch-based systems. Silicone handles make these tools dishwasher safe, so they’re easy to clean. Sturdy metal loops allow the tools to hang easily during storage. They handle easy, feel sturdy, and come with a two-year warranty. It’s everything you need for basic barbecuing. 

Best budget: XO Good Grips Grilling Tools, Tongs, and Turner Set

Oxo

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Specs

  • Tools included: Turner and tongs
  • Carrying case? No
  • Handle material: Silicone

Pros

  • Very sturdy
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Sturdy loops for hanging
  • Long tools for lots of reach
  • Built-in bottle opener

Cons

  • Tong locking mechanism can be finicky

If you only grill occasionally and want something very simple, this set from OXO fits the bill nicely. The set includes a 16.5-inch turner and an 18.7-inch pair of tongs. The turner has a beveled edge and a thin profile, making it easy to slide under food resting on the grill. The corners are also relatively narrow, so it’s easy to get between the spaces in the grill grates. These tools are dishwasher safe, which makes them easy to clean no matter how often you use them. The scalloped edges on the ends of the tongs are great for gripping almost anything with surprising precision.

Best for flat-tops: Blackstone 1542 Flat-top Griddle Professional Grade Accessory Tool Kit

Blackstone

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Specs

  • Tools included: Two spatulas, scraper, two squirt bottles
  • Carrying case? No
  • Handle material: Poly

Pros

  • Thin, sturdy spatulas for flipping and chopping
  • Tough chopper/scraper for cheesesteaks and other foods
  • Refillable bottles
  • Cookbook with solid recipes

Cons

  • Would benefit from a burger smasher

Flat-top grills are different from their open-fire counterparts. Grills like the popular Blackstone products offer a flat surface with uniform heat like in a commercial kitchen that turns out smash burgers, pancakes, and some of the best breakfast you’ll have at home. This tool kit has a pair of turners/spatulas with durable poly handles. They can flip, chop, rearrange, and perform just about any other flat-top cooking task you have. The chopper/scraper can mince meat for chopped cheese and cheesesteak sandwiches. Plus, it can help clean the cooking surface once you’re done. A pair of squirt bottles work for oil or other sauces. 

Best wood handles: Cuisinart CGS-1100 with Ash Wood Handles

Cuisinart

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Specs

  • Tools included: Fork, tongs, turner, and brush
  • Carrying case? No
  • Handle material: Ash wood

Pros

  • Handles look great and are easy to hold
  • Silicone brush head is removable for easy cleaning
  • Turner has a serrated edge for basic cutting
  • Long tools good for reaching without singing arm hair

Cons

  • Strings loops instead of metal for hanging
  • Not the longest

While silicone handles are very practical, they don’t always match everyone’s aesthetic. This set of four tools comes with sturdy ash wood handles firmly attached to the stainless steel cores. The set includes a two-pronged fork, a basting brush, tongs, and a turner. They all measure 16 inches in length, except for the turner, which is 16.5 inches long. That’s not as long as some other options on this list, but it’s a small difference. 

The ash wood handles add a very nice balance, and they feel great in the hand. They’re relatively easy to clean even though they can’t go in the dishwasher. The loops work for hanging the tools, but we prefer the metal loops found on some other options.

Best multitool: Traeger BBQ Multi-tool

Traeger

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Specs

  • Tools included: Turner, hook, brush, wine opener, bottle opener
  • Carrying case? No
  • Handle material: Wood

Pros

  • Keeps all the tools together
  • Sturdy tools
  • Brush is removable for cleaning
  • Take up less space than other kits

Cons

  • Not as easy to use as individual tools
  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Hook isn’t as easy to use as tongs

Is this a little bit of a novelty? Yes. But this barbecue multitool is surprisingly handy if you want an easy-to-tote option. The burly wood handle conceals tools like a Swiss Army knife. The spatula and basting brush are both very solid. Since you can’t fit a set of tongs into a multitool, Traeger opted for a curved meat hook that easily picks up steaks and other solid cuts of meat. It’s not as precise as tongs, but it does the job. In addition to the barbecue tools, you also get a corkscrew and a bottle opener because barbecue tastes better with both of those beverages. The only downside for its portability comes from the hook, which has a sharp point on it and can poke or scrape things if you’re not careful. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best grill tool sets

Tool selection

This is the most important part of the equation. If you’re buying a kit, you want everything you need and nothing you don’t. Basic sets include a turner, tongs, and maybe a brush. Sometimes a fork or hook can come in handy. Sets that throw in a lot of extras, like cheap skewers or corn holders, tend to try and overcome a lack of quality with quantity. 

Handle material

Silicone or wood handles will treat you well. You don’t want plastic. It’s not heat-resistant and will melt if you leave it too close to the fire. Wood handles are generally solid, buy they’re not all created equal. Look for a set that tells you what kind of wood you’re getting (like ash) because otherwise it might be junk.

Can it go in the dishwasher?

Wood-handle models look nice and perform well, but they typically don’t fare well in the dishwasher. Silicone handles with full-stainless tools typically make cleaning much easier. Also, if you have a brush in your set, a removable head can make it much simpler to maintain.

Does it have a metal grill brush?

Metal grill brushes can leave stray bristles on your grill that can stick to your meat and end up in your mouth. That’s very bad news. 

FAQs

Q: What is the best material for BBQ tools?

Just about every grill tool kit will be made of stainless steel, but you’ll find differences in handle material. I prefer silicone handles because they’re comfortable and durable. Some prefer wood or solid metal. It’s about personal preference as long as no super-cheap wood or plastic is involved.

Q: What’s wrong with metal grill brushes?

Imagine one of those metal bristles clinging to your next burger and making its way into your mouth when you take a bite. That’s what you’re risking when you rub a metal grill brush on your grill to clean it. Go with wood, silicone, or something else. 

Q: How often should grill tools be cleaned?

Clean your tools after every use with the recommended directions. You’ll be glad you did when you go to grill next time, and your tongs aren’t crusted with two-week-old barbecue sauce from your last cookout. 

Final thoughts regarding the best grill tool sets

You’re spending money on quality meats, meat alternatives, and other ingredients, so it’s worth investing in a solid set of grilling tools. You don’t need every bell and whistle, just well-made basics that will perform every time and last for years. 

Why trust us

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

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

The post The best grill tool sets for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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The best dog beds for large dogs in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-dog-beds-for-large-dogs/ Sat, 10 Jun 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=547318
The best dog beds for large dogs composited
Stan Horaczek

These dog beds are supportive, durable, and easy to clean.

The post The best dog beds for large dogs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best dog beds for large dogs composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Shag 2XL Dog Bed with a black dog on it Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Shag Dog Bed 
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This plush bed has a raised edge to allow for burrowing or cuddling.

Best chew-proof Ballistic K9 dog bed for large dogs K9 Ballistics Armored Padded Dog Crate Pad Bed
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An aluminum frame and ripstop Nylon surface make it indestructible.

Best cooling Coolaroo elevated dog bed Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Dog Bed
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A breathable mesh surface allows cool breeze to hit every side of your pooch.

Dog beds for large dogs often work considerably harder than those meant for tiny pooches. Large dogs take up more space, shed more fur, chew harder, and track in more dirt and grime than their teacup counterparts. More importantly, large dogs often put more stress and strain on their joints and bodies, so a comfortable place to rest after a solid walk is much more important. The best dog beds for large dogs offer simple cleaning, plenty of cushioning, and durable construction that can withstand the daily abuse doled out by your ample K-9.

How we chose the best dog beds for large dogs

While we can’t get direct feedback from our dog pals, we know our pets very well here at Popular Science. We based this research on hands-on (or paws-on?) experience, user feedback, editorial reviews, expert information, and simple spec comparisons. For this list, we assumed “large” dogs mean anything over 50 pounds. But we also know some breeds can get much bigger than that, so we’ve mostly opted for the largest size whenever several are listed. We also highly value washability and durability because you want a dog’s bed to last longer than a single cycle of flea-and-tick medicine. Lastly, we emphasized durability. Big dogs can do big damage if they decide to chew—on top of daily wear and tear. The options on this list should keep Fido comfy for years to come barring any defluffing catastrophes.

The best dog beds for large dogs: Reviews & Recommendations

You know your dog better than anyone. So, while we’re very confident in our picks here, we recommend perusing all of the options in case more than one meets your specific needs. There’s often overlap, and you might save yourself some money or trouble by knowing what’s out there before you plop something down in your dog’s pen or next to their favorite puzzle.

Best overall: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Shag 2XL Dog Bed 

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

  • Dimensions: 54” round
  • Machine washable? Cover-only on sizes M-XXL
  • Other sizes available: Small (23”), Medium (30”), Large (36”), XL (45”)
  • Material: Fiber fill with a polyester plush cover

Pros

  • Zippered cover is easy to put on and take off
  • Machine washing cover is simple
  • Raised outer edge lets dog rest its head or cuddle into the bed
  • Round style fits easily in most spaces
  • Durable
  • Slip-resistant bottom is also dirt and water resistant

Cons

  • Limited color choices in large sizes
  • Padding is not machine washable

This is the bed my 50-pound dog chose and has been sleeping on for several months now. Its circular design includes a raised pillow around the outside edge. Dogs that like to burrow can climb into the notch between the edge and the main bed, while others can use it as a slightly elevated headrest. It’s an extremely flexible design. 

The slip-resistant bottom keeps the bed in place if you step on it or the dog is restless. Ours only really moves around when the dog actively drags it around. Even after several months of use, the poly-fiber fill inside is still very plush and thick. Some beds tend to squash after just a few months, but this one has remained fluffy. 

Cleaning is relatively simple. The outer cover comes off easily thanks to a zippered closure. The entire cover can go in the washing machine, though the padding can’t. If your dog has wetting problems, that might be an issue since cleaning the interior can be tricky, but that’s true of most large dog beds. 

This solid, durable option is easy to clean and can accommodate just about any breed. A few extra color options in large sizes would be nice, but the neutral tones should fit just fine into most spaces. 

Best leather: Le Bed Leather Dog Bed

Billy Cadden

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Specs

  • Dimensions: 45 x 35 x 6 Inches
  • Number of sizes: 2
  • Machine-washable cover: No, wipes clean with leather cleaner
  • Colors: 6
  • Material: Memory foam with leather cover

Pros

  • Sleek design for a dog bed
  • Orthopedic support
  • Durable

Cons

  • Expensive

Love to indulge your pooch? For dogs with a taste for the good life, consider Le Bed’s Leather Dog Bed. This premium model comes in two sizes and is designed with a supportive orthopedic mattress with cooling memory foam that will cradle your pooch and help regulate body temperature. The supple leather cover is available in six shades: black, chocholate brown, cognac tan, slate gray, python, and bone (pictured). Cleaning the bed is easy as well. Just wipe clean with a damp cloth and use a leather cleaner.

Best memory foam: Casper Dog Bed, Plush Memory Foam, Large

Casper

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Specs

  • Dimensions: 35″ x 45″ x 7″
  • Machine washable? Cover only
  • Other sizes available: Small (26″ x 19″ x 6″) and Medium (25″ x 33″ x 6″)
  • Material: Memory foam padding with bonded microfiber cover

Pros

  • Memory foam provides excellent support, just like the human-sized version
  • Machine washable cover
  • Retains its shape
  • Very durable cover is hard to chew through
  • Heavy so it won’t slip

Cons

  • Expensive (when not on sale)
  • Padding isn’t machine washable

You’re probably familiar with Casper’s human mattresses. This is the same basic idea but for dogs. The dog bed consists of a 7-inch thick slab of Casper’s memory foam, with the same molding and cooling traits found in the human version. A raised edge surrounds your pup and gives them an elevated area to put their head on. Casper has added extra material to the top of the cover to allow dogs to dig and paw at the bed before they lay in it. That digging can be particularly brutal on dog beds, but Casper’s bonded microfiber cover is tough enough to withstand it. 

The memory foam filling is (predictably) not machine washable, but the easily removed cover is. You zip it off, wash it on cold, and you’re good to go. This isn’t the biggest bed around, so if you have a truly massive breed like a Great Dane, you’ll likely want to go with something even bigger. 

Best chew-proof: K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Armored Padded Dog Crate Pad Bed

K9 Ballistics

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Specs

  • Dimensions: 50” x 33” x 1”
  • Machine washable? No
  • Other sizes available: Small (29″ x 18″ x 1″), Medium (35″ x 22″ x 1″), Large (41″ x 27″ x 1″), XL (47″ x 29″ x 1″)
  • Material: Ripstop nylon on an aluminum frame

Pros

  • Aluminum frame covers fabric edges to prevent chewing
  • Ripstop nylon stands up to heavy biters
  • Made to fit inside standard crates
  • Material resists digging paws as well as chewing
  • Several color options
  • Lots of size options

Cons

  • Not a ton of padding
  • Not machine washable

If you crate your dog, it can be hard to see them sleeping on a plain plastic base, but many pooches will typically chew or claw apart any bed you put in with them. This 1-inch thick pad is designed to fit in the bottom of popular crates and provide extra comfort without the possibility of destruction. 

This bed stretches ripstop nylon across a sturdy aluminum frame that’s light enough to move in and out of the crate easily. The company says it first started the design with Kevlar, but it ultimately wasn’t tough enough to withstand the kind of punishment some dogs dish out. 

A DWR coating makes cleaning simple as you can simply wipe it off with a wet cloth if there’s an accident. The fiber filling should keep its shape and loft for up to five years, even under regular use. It may not look like the comfiest bed, but it’s a lot better than the hard bottom of a crate and will also last a lot longer. Plus, it will work as a stand-alone bed even if you don’t crate your pooch. Just don’t bash your toe into the edge of it when you go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. That aluminum frame is not messing around.

Best cooling: Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Dog Bed

Coolaroo

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Specs

  • Dimensions: 51″ x 31.5″ x 8″
  • Machine washable? No
  • Other sizes available: Small (35″ x 22″ x 8″), Medium (42″ x 25.5″ x 8″), and XL (59.8″L x 37″W x 8.8″Th)
  • Material: Polyethylene fabric over a powder-coated steel frame

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to move around
  • Hammock design means no bulky fill to clean
  • Steel frame can withstand life outside
  • Lots of color options
  • Clean with a wet rag

Cons

  • May slide around on solid floors
  • Not machine washable

Hammocks are awesome for people, but dogs enjoy them too. Rather than relying on some extremely complex (and marginally effective) foam, this cooling bed keeps Rover comfortable by allowing airflow to hit them from every side. The poly-material sling is made of fine mesh so your dog can feel the cool breeze as it goes by its belly. It’s basically the same idea as an air fryer, only with cool air instead of heat. 

The powder-coated steel frame is sturdy and durable enough to easily hold even the largest dogs. Plus, it can survive outside if you keep it at camp or in the yard for your dog to chill out on. It comes in several colors, and all of them are very affordable. The actual fabric can’t go into the washing machine, but it’s easy to wipe down with a wet cloth when it gets scummy. And because it’s basically totally flat, it’s relatively easy to transport compared to a giant sack full of fiber fill. 

Best budget: Midwest Homes Double Bolster Pet Bed

Midwest Homes

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Specs

  • Dimensions: 54″ x 31.88″ x 10.63″
  • Machine washable? Yes
  • Other sizes available: 18”, 22”, 24”, 30”, 36”, 42”, and 48”
  • Material: Fiber fill inside of a polyester cover

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Tons of sizes
  • Several color options
  • Completely machine washable
  • Four corner straps can attach it to a crate floor
  • Fleece outer

Cons

  • Not water resistant
  • Moderate padding

Maybe you need an extra bed to take with you on trips. Or perhaps your dog just isn’t that picky when it comes to places to flop. This basic bed doesn’t offer any advanced cooling/warming tech, is not made to withstand tons of abuse, and sports a relatively basic shape. But it’s very affordable, big enough to accommodate even the biggest dogs, and the whole thing is machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about trying to stuff padding back into a tricky cover. 

It comes in many sizes, so you may not even need the largest one, which means you can save even more cash. The fluff inside will likely get matted down after a while, but regular washes and moving it around will help prevent it from getting too lumpy. It’s not super fancy, but it’s fancy enough to let you steal your favorite blanket back after your pooch stole it and has been sleeping on it for weeks.

Things to consider when shopping for the best dog beds for large dogs

While we feel great about our specific recommendations, some things are good to know before you dive headfirst into the surprisingly deep pool of dog beds. Here are some things to consider before making a purchase. 

Size

We’re talking about large dogs here, which means you may be tempted to simply buy the biggest model you can find. First, however, consider how your dog sleeps. If they often curl up into a ball, they may not need an enormous 54-inch surface on which to flop. Going too big can also take up more of your floor space than you were expecting. Many product pages will tell you exactly how much a dog should weigh or how tall it is in order to fit a specific size. You want a bed that fits your dog and your space; otherwise, you may end up tripping and spilling your water at 3 a.m. on your way back to the bedroom. Trust us. We’ve been there. 

Washability

This is critical. Most higher-end beds include a zippered cover that can go in the washing machine, while the internal padding needs more careful washing. Some cheaper models will allow you to stuff the entire bed into the washing machine. That’s easier, but it also tends to lead to a lumpier bed and a shorter lifespan for the stuffing. We are talking about large beds here, though, so make sure your washing machine can handle the bed. In the end, your life may be simpler if you just wash the cover. 

Padding type

You’ll typically find beds with either fiber fill or foam inside. Some foam models offer egg-crate-shaped surfaces for added ergonomic benefits, but they’re often marginal. While neither foam nor fiber is inherently better, they do have their strengths and weaknesses. Foam beds keep their shape but can get crumbly and fall apart in the long run. Fiber beds lose their loft and can get lumpy and misshapen, but they’re often easier to clean. 

FAQs

Q: How thick should a dog bed be?

It seems logical that a thick bed will be the most luxurious, but that’s not always the case. You’ll find beds up to 8 inches thick and sometimes even more. But it comes down to your dog’s specific needs. If you’re putting a 12-pound dog on an 8-inch thick bed, they won’t benefit from that squish. At the same time, too thick of a fiberfill bed and you’re just adding more material inside to get bunched up and misshapen. A thick bed is nice, but don’t go overboard for what you need. And, if it needs to fit in a dog pen or dog house, there are additional space considerations.

Q: How often should I wash my dog’s bed?

You don’t need to wash your dog’s bed as often as you wash your own sheets, but regular cleanings will absolutely extend the life of your dog bed. If your dog has an accident or drags something disgusting onto the bed, wash it right away. Don’t let gross substances seep into the material. If your dog sheds a lot, you can often use a shedding brush to pull some of the hair out of the bed between washes. That will help prevent your washing machine from getting clogged with gross hairballs when you wash it. As a general rule of thumb, it’s easier to stay ahead of a stinky bed than fix one that already smells bad. Wash semi-regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions as closely as possible. 

Q: How long do beds for large dogs last?

This really depends on the quality of the bed, your commitment to taking care of it, and (most importantly) how your dog treats it. Even the best dog bed can die a horrible death in seconds should your huge dog decide to chew it apart. Or, a cheap bed can last for many years if you’re willing to re-stuff it occasionally. Buy a quality bed and take care of it. Try to keep your dog from destroying it. The rest is in the universe’s hands. 

Final thoughts on the best dog beds for large dogs

Owning a big dog is an adventure. They eat a lot, bark loudly, and fart in such a way that can clear a room. But we love them. And they deserve a great place to sleep. While it’s tempting to just chuck them an old blanket, the best dog beds for large dogs offer a durable, comfortable place for your giant pooch to rest their massive noggin. 

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 dog beds for large dogs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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