How-To Geek - Hardware

The Five Best PC Upgrades to Improve Performance

Ian Paul — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 16:00:20 GMT

Upgrading a PC? Your choices range from installing more RAM to custom building a case designed for a DIY liquid cooling system. Which upgrades are the best depends on your PC. What specs does it have right now? Are you gaming, editing 4K videos, or just browsing the web?

The Best Live TV Streaming Services of 2023

Josh Bell — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 15:00:20 GMT

As streaming services continue to grow in popularity and more people cancel their cable subsciptions, it can be hard which ones to give your hard-earned money to. If you're looking to watch live sports, news, and more, these five live TV services will have you covered.

JBL Authentics 300 Review: A Gloriously Retro Do-It-All Speaker

Tyler Hayes — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:00:20 GMT

For $450, you can buy a few different speakers to cover your various audio needs, or you can place all your eggs in the basket of the JBL Authentics 300. It features Bluetooth and a battery for use outside the house, and Wi-Fi for use inside. You can also use multiple voice assistants with it—at the same time! Maybe the most convincing reason to take a chance on this do-it-all speaker is its beautiful black and gold retro design.

Security Researchers Have Bypassed Windows Hello Fingerprint Login

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 19:39:09 GMT

Your laptop's fingerprint sensor is convenient, but is it secure? Researchers at Blackwing Intelligence have bypassed the Windows Hello fingerprint system on laptops from Dell, Lenovo, and Microsoft. Manufacturers should address this problem by following strict and consistent security practices, per Blackwing Intelligence.

Get a Great New Vacuum Thanks to Roborock’s Black Friday Sale

Jack Ryan — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 15:00:21 GMT

If you’ve ever thought about getting a new vacuum and mop or simply upgrading your existing setup, then now is the perfect time. Roborock is offering up to 45% off this Black Friday across their range of robot and smart vacuum and mops, though you’ll only be able to take advantage of them from the 20th through to the 30th of November.

The Best Laptop Docking Stations of 2023

Arjun Ruparelia — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 15:00:21 GMT

Your laptop can only house so many ports. If you have many peripherals, docking stations are the perfect solution to increase your port count. In this guide, we discuss the best docking stations on the market.

Roku's Best 4K Streaming Device Is $30 Off for Black Friday

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 14:52:36 GMT

Need a streaming device that can do it all? The Roku Ultra is a powerful 4K streamer box with Dolby Vision HDR, Dolby Atmos audio, and several other advanced features. It even comes with the excellent Voice Remote Pro. From now until December 9th, the Roku Ultra is on sale for just $69.99—that's $30 off the regular price.

The WiiM Amp Is More Than Just an Amplifier

Arol Wright — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 14:00:19 GMT

Getting the right amplifier is important, especially when you want to use more powerful headphones that don't always work on standard headphone jacks. As you go louder, in some cases, you might need external help, whether that's for boosting output, improving sound quality, or just making sure your audio is working just fine. WiiM just released the WiiM Amp, and it looks like an impressive option.

What Kind of Processor Should You Look for in a Laptop?

Ismar Hrnjicevic — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:15:18 GMT

Your laptop's processor, or CPU (central processing unit) for short, is your laptop's brain that controls all essential operations. A more powerful CPU means a faster laptop, but you don't want to overpay for something you don't need. Fortunately, we're here to help.

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Keyboard Review: Downsized and Upgraded

Mark LoProto — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:00:19 GMT

The market is riddled with mechanical keyboards, each seemingly offering something different. After running a gauntlet of countless mechanical boards, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% has proven to be a standout that maximizes comfort and customizability with a low profile and hot-swappable keys.

Get This Anker 240W USB Type-C Charger for Just $110 Today

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:24:30 GMT

Anker sells a lot of chargers, and the Anker Prime 240W is a high-end option for charging multiple devices at the fastest possible speed. Now you can get one for $110 from Amazon or Anker's online store, a savings of $90 from the usual price.

Victrola Hi-Res Onyx Review: A Solid Record Player With Bluetooth

Tyler Hayes — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 11:00:20 GMT

Turntables aren’t supposed to be known for their wireless connectivity, but more often than not, in 2023, the inclusion of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi isn’t a niche feature of a record player. Victrola already ventured into this space with its Sonos-compatible models, but now it has a more universal Bluetooth option with its Hi-Res Onyx.

Stock up on Apple AirTags While They're on Sale

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 21:00:19 GMT

Every year, millions of people lose their luggage, their pets, and their keys. That's why Apple's small and affordable AirTag tracker is a perfect stocking stuffer—everyone can benefit from one. Now, Apple AirTags are on sale for just $24 apiece, and you can buy a four-pack for just $80.

This Is the Cheapest iPad You Should Buy During Black Friday

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:53:12 GMT

Searching for a cheap iPad on Black Friday? Instead of buying an outdated model, get the colorful 10th Gen iPad. It's currently on sale for the all-time low price of $350, and it includes the latest iPadOS 17 update on top of modern features like USB-C charging.

What Are "Time Sensitive" Notifications on iPhone?

Joe Fedewa — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:30:23 GMT

For a long time, iPhones and iPad treated all notifications the same. You could turn them all off or do it on an app-by-app basis. Now, some notifications will be "Time Sensitive" to give you more control.

How to Make the Most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sales

Jason Fitzpatrick — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:30:16 GMT

It's that shop-til-you-drop time of year again, and retailers have already spent most of November with teaser sales and ads for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Here's how to score the best deals and avoid getting ripped off.

Hyperx Vision S Webcam Review: Stellar Low-Light Performance Highlights This Premium Webcam

Patrick Campanale — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:00:23 GMT

While there's no perfect webcam, you'll find that many require you to make more sacrifices than you'd probably want to. The HyperX Vision S goes against the grain in this regard to offer a well-rounded solution, if you’re up for its $200 premium price. Delivering a solid build quality, stellar low-light performance, fantastic autofocus, and Windows Hello support, it packs a punch in the features department. Add to that a 4K30/1080p60 HDR sensor alongside a magnetic privacy cover and detachable USB-C cable, and you've got a webcam that would be a great addition to any home office or streaming setup.

How to Extract a Still Image from a Live Photo on iPhone

Benj Edwards — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 17:00:24 GMT

If you've ever taken a Live Photo on your iPhone, you've basically created a short video clip attached to an image. If you don't like the resulting photo (or want to grab a different one), it's possible to extract a different photo from the video clip that you can save or share. Here's how.

How to Remove Audio from a Video Before Sharing It on iPhone

Benj Edwards — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 16:00:23 GMT

Sometimes, you'd like to share a video with others, but the accompanying audio track is distracting or perhaps introduces privacy concerns. Luckily, there's a quick way to silence a video using Photos on iPhone and iPad. Here's how.

The Best Tech Travel Gadgets of 2023

Melissa Lee — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 15:00:23 GMT

Before heading out on that month-long vacation or quick business trip, don't forget to gear up. From noise-canceling headphones and Bluetooth trackers to plug adapters and travel routers, these devices are the best tech travel companions.

The Best Meta Quest 2 Accessories of 2023

Sydney Butler — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 15:00:23 GMT

The Meta Quest 2 is one of the best VR headsets around, and out of the box, it's an excellent product. It's not perfect, but it can get close with the right accessories to go with the headset.

Reolink TrackMix WiFi Outdoor Camera Review: 4K Surveillance at Its Finest

Michael Bizzaco — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 11:00:22 GMT

The Reolink TrackMix WiFi is a great outdoor smart camera that brings exceptional image quality, responsive motion-tracking, and lots of customizations for tailoring surveillance to your lifestyle. And while some features were a little difficult to use, any and all drawbacks are easy to look past.

The Steam Deck Just Got a Big Update With SteamOS 3.5.5

Cory Gunther — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 16:11:36 GMT

The Steam Deck is already feature-packed, but that doesn't mean things can't continue to improve. Along with releasing a new Steam Deck OLED, we're getting a significant update to SteamOS 3.5.5 with a bevy of changes.

The Best Gaming Mice of 2023

Jon Bitner — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:00:22 GMT

The best gaming mouse has a specific job to do. It needs to perform under high-pressure gaming situations, both consistently and reliably. These mice are built for gaming and have the features to prove it.

Are Mini PCs Worth It?

Bemfica de Oliva — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 12:00:21 GMT

Mini PCs can be more practical (and usually cost less) than regular-sized desktops. Here are a few things to know before making the final call if you're considering buying a small computer.

Onyx Boox Palma Review: The iPod of Books

Tyler Hayes — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 11:00:23 GMT

The iPod successfully put music in people’s pockets. A thousand songs neatly stored on a device the size of a wallet turned out to be a huge deal. In that same vein, the Onyx Boox Palma is attempting to shove an infinite number of books into that same pants-sized pocket for even more accessible reading.

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Is Coming to a Phone Near You

Arol Wright — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 06:30:23 GMT

Flagship phones are cool. They are powerful, and they come with all the best features the manufacteror can offer. But the truth is, there's a lot of people out there who don't really use high-end smartphones—either because they're expensive, or because it's not really what they're looking for. Midrangers are a good middle ground between flagships and ultra-cheap phones, and there's some impressive stuff out there for this range. Now, Qualcomm has announced the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, its newest midrange chip.

Old Nook eReaders Are Losing Book Store Access

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:39:20 GMT

Barnes & Noble has been selling Nook eReaders since 2009, but internet-connected tech products can't last forever. Several of the company's older eReaders are losing the ability to log into accounts and download books.

Surface Pro 9 Owners Get 90 Days of Free 5G Service

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:58:15 GMT

The year-old Surface Pro 9 now includes 90 days (or 30 GB) of free 5G service, courtesy of T-Mobile. This free trial is only available in the U.S. and requires a Surface Pro 9 with 5G tablet—the standard Surface Pro 9 does not have a cellular modem and cannot connect to 5G networks. You do not need to be a T-Mobile customer to redeem this trial.

The Best Vertical GPU Mounts in 2023

Goran Damnjanovic — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:00:24 GMT

Just got a new graphics card and want to bask in its glory every time you’re sitting next to your PC? Get a vertical GPU mount and turn your GPU into the crown jewel of your gaming PC build.

Read This Before You Buy the Cheapest Laptop

Tim Brookes — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:00:21 GMT

Are you looking for a cheap laptop? Make sure your pursuit of a deal doesn’t end up costing you more than you bargained for. Here are some drawbacks you may encounter when you opt for the cheapest of the cheap.

Beyerdynamic MMX 200 Wireless Gaming Headset Review: Great Sound in a Barebones Package

Kris Wouk — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 11:00:22 GMT

Wired gaming headsets are great, but they can leave you feeling tethered to your PC or console, which is why wireless headsets are perfect. The Beyerdynamic MMX 200 Wireless is, somewhat surprisingly, the company's first gaming headset, and they went for a wireless model right out of the gate.

Google's New Titan Security Key Adds Passkey Support

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 20:42:25 GMT

In its continued push for a passwordless future, Google is launching a new Titan Security Key with passkey functionality. The 2023 Titan Security Key is available in USB-A and USB-C configurations, which are priced at $30 and $35, respectively.

Amazon Begins Replacing Its Android-based Fire OS with New Software

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 18:53:37 GMT

All of Amazon's hardware platforms, including the Fire Tablet, Fire TV, and Echo, run on the Android-based Fire OS. But this is set to change over the next few years. Amazon has debuted an all-new operating system, codenamed "Vega OS," on the latest Echo Show 5 smart display.

Samsung's Tiny T5 EVO SSD Offers up to 8TB of Storage

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:04:58 GMT

Portable SSDs tend to offer very little storage. But Samsung's new T5 EVO SSD, which is just 3.7 inches long and 0.6 inches thick, can accommodate up to 8TB of documents, media, and other files. It's an interesting product, but its unique storage capacity comes with a high price tag and compromised transfer rates.

The Best HDMI Splitters of 2023

Sarah Chaney — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:00:24 GMT

With an HDMI splitter, you can send a single input signal to multiple displays. This little device comes in handy when you want to watch a sports game on multiple TVs throughout the home, choose between a TV or a projector for movie night, or duplicate multiple screens for your business.

Logitech’s New “Reach” Webcam Has an Adjustable Arm

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 20:54:18 GMT

Logitech just debuted the Reach, an overhead webcam that makes it easy to stream or record objects that are sitting on your desk. The Reach is mainly aimed at online educators, though it's a compelling concept for anyone who needs to stream or record illustrations, board games, LEGO builds, food preparation, or any other action that happens on a flat surface. While Logitech hasn't revealed pricing for the Reach, customers who sign up for launch day email alerts will receive an unspecified discount toward Reach's Indiegogo campaign (which isn't live just yet).

Android 14 Update Might Break Music Playback in Your Car

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:16:08 GMT

The Android 14 update is slowly making its way to Samsung Galaxy devices and other non-Pixel phones. But some users have encountered a glaring problem with Android 14—it can break Android Auto music playback. If you use Android Auto, you may want to wait before installing the Android 14 update.

This Tiny Opal Webcam Can Clip To Your Laptop

Arol Wright — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 15:55:05 GMT

For online work meetings and video calls in general, having a good camera is essential. While laptops have stepped up and started including high-quality cameras, some laptops still lack decent cameras, which is why an external webcam might be needed. If you need an upgrade from your integrated webcam, or your computer doesn't have one to start with, a new model from Opal might be a great option.

Lenovo Legion Slim 5 14 Gen 8 (AMD) Review: The Smoothest Midrange Gaming Laptop

Cianna Garrison — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 11:00:24 GMT

Lenovo's gaming laptop line brings power and portability to the forefront with the Lenovo Legion Slim 5 14 (Gen 8). Packed with features gamers love, like an NVIDIA GeForce GPU and a 2.8K display, this device is a solid contender for gamers who want a laptop that almost does it all.

The Best Laptop Accessories of 2023

Joy Okumoko — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 15:00:23 GMT

Laptop accessories are a great way to make the most of your portable PC, especially with the current crop of slim and light laptops sometimes lacking in ports and extra features. From laptop bags and lap desks to portable monitors and USB hubs, we highlight some of the best laptop accessories.

Qualcomm’s Satellite Feature for Android Phones Is on Hold

Arol Wright — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 16:39:00 GMT

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was announced last month as the chip that will power many high-end Android phones in late 2023 and throughout 2024. However, the satellite messaging feature that Qualcomm previously promised wasn't talked about much, even though it was supposed to be ready by the second half of this year. Now, we know the likely reason.

Nvidia Will Reveal New Hardware in January 2024

Arol Wright — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 19:20:54 GMT

It's a bit hard to believe, but the RTX 4000 series of graphics cards is already one year old, which means it's roughly half through its lifespan. We're closer to the launch of possible RTX 5000 cards, but not quite there just yet, so NVIDIA has something planned in the meantime. NVIDIA has announced a hardware event for January, where it'll most likely announce new mid-gen GPU refreshes.

How to See Image Size (Resolution) of Photos on iPhone

Benj Edwards — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:01:23 GMT

Every digital photo on your iPhone has a resolution defined by the number of pixels in the image. The more pixels each images has, the more detail the photo can potentially store. If you're running iOS 15 or higher, here's how to see the size of an image (in pixel dimensions) in the Photos app on your iPhone.

Does Your Laptop Pass the One-Finger Lift Test, and Does It Matter?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 12:00:23 GMT

There are various way to assess the quality of a laptop, but one method you may not be familiar with is the one-finger lift test. Some laptop reviewers do this test, and it turns out it can reveal a lot.

Top Tech Deals: Get the Best Prices on an Apple Tablet, a Sony Portable Speaker, and More

Meghan Herlihy — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:28:06 GMT

Black Friday and Cyber Monday might still be a few weeks away but that doesn't mean there aren't any top-notch tech and electronic sales available. This week you'll be able to save $200 on a 65-inch Sony HD television, grab an Apple tablet for its Fall Prime Day price, snag the Samsung Galaxy S23+ for its lowest price of the month, and much more.

The Best Soldering Irons

Joy Okumoko — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 15:01:23 GMT

Soldering irons are handheld tools used by electricians, engineers, jewelers, metal smiths, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts for a wide range of applications, but especially for coupling wires and (re)connecting electronic components on PCBs. Here are the best soldering irons for most of your needs.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids (2023) Review: More Than a Fun Case

Joe Fedewa — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:01:22 GMT

Unlike smartphones and computers, tablets sit in a category of gadgets that not as many people deem essential. However, when it comes to kids, there's no better device. The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet (2023) is made with kids in mind, but it's not the soft case that stands out.

Samsung’s New S Pen Is More Like the Apple Pencil

Arol Wright — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 22:09:12 GMT

Even though the Galaxy Note lineup disappeared years ago, Samsung has not given up on the S Pen. Not only do we have the regular S Pen that's included in Galaxy S Ultra smartphones, but we also have the S Pen Pro, which is compatible with a range of tablets and smartphones. Now, though, Samsung wants to take things one step further, as the company has released the S Pen Creator Edition — perhaps its most advanced S Pen to date.

TCL's NXTPAPER 11 Is a Colorful, Affordable Kindle Replacement

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:55:39 GMT

Full-color ereaders are still a bit costly, and tablets like the iPad aren't ideal for long reading sessions. TCL now hopes to bridge the gap with the NXTPAPER 11, a proper Android tablet with a colorful "eye-care" screen. It's far from the most powerful tablet on the market, and it lacks some of the key benefits of an E Ink display, but it fits a niche that may appeal to some bookworms.

The Best Laptops of 2023

Kris Wouk — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 15:01:23 GMT

Phones and tablets are great, but laptops are the original portable computers. A laptop can serve you well at a desk, too, transforming into a desktop PC when you dock it with an external monitor and peripherals. Here are the best laptops you can buy right now.

Aura Walden Review: A Great Big Digital Frame Perfect for Re-Living Memories

Tyler Hayes — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:01:24 GMT

There’s not one best style or size for digital picture frames in the same way there has never been a single kind of frame that works for all printed pictures. So the 15-inch Aura Walden might not work in every home or every room, but its black frame, white mating, and HD resolution does make images look gorgeous in the places that can accommodate it.

ASUS Just Revealed a Detachable Chromebook

Arol Wright — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 17:35:17 GMT

We've seen a lot of spins on the classic laptop formula over the past decade, like two-in-one laptops, where a laptop can double as a tablet, and detachable laptops, where we have essentially a tablet that can be docked and used as a laptop. The latter segment has largely folded into tablets, but we still see the occasional "detachable laptop" launch now and then. Now, ASUS has released a Chromebook that's more like a "Chrometab" of sorts and helps blur the line between Android tablets and ChromeOS.

How to Turn Off iPhone Passcode

Mahesh Makvana — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:00:13 GMT

Your iPhone's passcode protects your phone from unauthorized users, but if you believe you don't need it, you can turn it off. This leaves your iPhone open to anyone, and although we don't recommend you do it, we'll show you how it's done.

Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe Review: StandBy Mode Perfected

Tyler Hayes — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:00:12 GMT

The debate over the best MagSafe iPhone stand rages on with the release of the HiRise 3 Deluxe from Twelve South. This multi-device dock wedges itself into the conversation because of its narrow footprint, an adjustable phone holder, and a multi-angle fast Apple Watch charger. Not only did it power my devices as advertised, but it looked great doing so, too. You’ll just have to decide if it’s worth the $149.99 price.

How to Change the Alarm Volume on iPhone

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 16:00:12 GMT

Is your iPhone's alarm volume too quiet or too loud for you? Whether you're getting up at sunrise or just need a reminder, you can finetune the alarm so that you'll never miss an alarm and also won't be totally jarred by it.

The Best Budget Chromebooks in 2023

Goran Damnjanovic — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 15:11:11 GMT

While Chromebooks are generally affordable laptops, you can save even more money if you know where to look. You can get a fantastic Chromebook for under $400 if you're willing to make some compromises.

Hiearcool 7-in-1 USB-C Adapter Review: Your All-Day Plug and Play

Michael Bizzaco — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 11:00:44 GMT

It's not often I sing the praises of a regular ole' USB hub, but the Hiearcool 7-in-1 USB-C Adapter is one of the best plug-and-play products I've ever purchased. It requires little to no thinking to operate, gives you seven convenient connections, and is easy to travel with.

The Best PS5 SSDs of 2023

Tyler Colp — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 14:00:22 GMT

The Sony PlayStation 5 supports an additional SSD to expand your game and app storage. The installation process is simple, but determining which SSDs will work can be complicated.

PNY Duo Link iOS Dual Flash Drive Review: Outdated Mobile Storage

Tyler Hayes — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 10:01:21 GMT

The PNY Duo Link iOS Dual flash drive can mostly be described as “Too little, too late.” Apple abandoned its Lightning connector for its entire line of iPhone 15 models in favor of using the more universal USB-C port for charging and transferring data. Even if you have a Lightning-enabled iPhone now, you won’t in the future.

SD Card Speeds Will Double with New SD 9.1 Specification

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 16:49:45 GMT

Even the fastest SD cards are still quite slow. This poses a great challenge for 8K video recording, handheld PC gaming, and other technologies that continually demand greater data transfer speeds and improved storage reliability. So, to remediate the problem, the SD Association has announced its new SD 9.1 specification, which achieves a data transfer rate two times greater than any existing SD card.

How to Unblock a Number on iPhone

Mahesh Makvana — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:00:24 GMT

Do you want to start getting calls and text messages from someone who you once blocked on your iPhone? Unblock their phone number on your iPhone, and they'll be able to contact you again. We'll show you how.

The Best HDMI Switches of 2023

Sarah Chaney — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 14:00:23 GMT

HDMI switches solve the problem that some TVs have—not having enough HDMI ports. With an HDMI switch, you can add to your TVs total number of HDMI ports without reducing quality. An HDMI switch can also be handy at your computer setup or in a media room.

System76's New Desktop Has Intel's 14th Gen Processors

Arol Wright — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 21:39:43 GMT

System76 is one of the most popular manufacturers for Linux PCs, selling computers designed from the ground up to run desktop Linux well. Intel just released its 14th gen Core desktop processors last month, and now System76 has updated its Thelio lineup of desktop PCs with the new chips, making them better than ever.

How to Schedule Text Messages on iPhone

Sandy Writtenhouse — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 15:31:22 GMT

Sometimes it's best to create a text message while you're thinking of it. But what if you don't want to actually send it until later? Here, we'll show you how to send a scheduled text message on iPhone at whatever time you prefer.

The Best NAS (Network Attached Storage) Devices of 2023

Sydney Butler — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 14:01:21 GMT

NAS (network-attached storage) devices can keep all of your files backed up, secure, and accessible from anywhere around the world. Hook up the right NAS to your router, and you'll have everything from a centralized backup to a home streaming server.

Dell's UltraSharp Monitors Finally Offer a 120Hz Refresh Rate

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 13:01:23 GMT

Dell's UltraSharp monitors are lauded for their color accuracy, video resolution, and accessible pricing. But the lack of a high refresh rate option has made the UltraSharp a bit of a no-go for some people. That changes today as Dell introduces the first UltraSharp monitors with a 120Hz refresh rate.

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 4 2-in-1 Review: Giving Us What We Didn’t Want or Need

Michael Bizzaco — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:00:21 GMT

The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 4 2-in-1 Laptop is a hybrid laptop with a lot of attitude. Built for small-business owners, students, and photo/video-heavy workflows, the easy-swap dual displays may look cool, but two screens make this machine super-expensive. Lenovo may have overstepped with this one.

OneNote on Windows Gets Improved Pen and Ink Gestures

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 18:38:31 GMT

Handwriting and stylus functionality just got a huge boost in the latest OneNote on Windows update. A new collection of gestures allows you to quickly navigate, annotate, and edit OneNote documents with a stylus, while handwriting can now be converted into text. This update also includes a Vertical Tabs layout option and text prediction.

macOS Sonoma Has a Boot Failure Problem

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 16:25:21 GMT

The Asahi Linux team has identified two bugs that may lead to boot failures in macOS Sonoma and macOS Ventura (version 13.6 only). All models of Mac may experience upgrade-related boot failures, though these problems mainly impact MacBook Pro models with the ProMotion display. Affected users will not lose data but must perform DFU recovery from another Mac.

How to View Saved Credit Card Numbers in Safari on iPhone and iPad

Benj Edwards — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:30:22 GMT

If you need access to your credit card number but don't have the actual card nearby, it's possible to get it from Safari — if it's been previously stored by Safari's AutoFill feature on your iPhone or iPad. Here's how to check.

The Best Sleep Trackers of 2023

Georgie Peru — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:00:21 GMT

How you sleep can deeply impact the following day, so tracking your sleep can give you a good insight into what's really going on once you enter dreamland. Are you waking up feeling groggy? Struggling to sleep through the night? Tossing and turning too much? Monitor your sleep patterns with a sleep tracker.

You're Probably Buying a Bigger PC Case Than Necessary: Here's Why

Sydney Butler — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 11:00:21 GMT

If you've seen the average PC desktop tower, you may have noticed that these machines are absolutely massive, and you might think this is necessary for some reason. The truth is that most PC cases are bigger than necessary.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review: Seriously the Best Noise Cancellation!

Tyler Hayes — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:01:21 GMT

There’s no reason to beat around the bush: the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are simply the best at noise cancellation—period. The music quality can be debated and maybe the fit or size isn’t right for everyone, but after trying nearly every pair of top-of-the-line wireless earbuds over the last several years, it’s easy to claim Bose is still in a league of its own when it comes to blocking unwanted noise.

Samsung’s Huge Odyssey Ark Monitor Now Has a KVM

Arol Wright — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 21:24:42 GMT

Samsung sells a lot of different PC monitors, but its Odyssey range might be the most innovative. Samsung pushed the envelope even further last year, when it released the Odyssey Ark monitor — a curved monitor with a 1000R curvature that could be set on either a horizontal or vertical orientation, depending on your needs. Now, the company has just released a second-gen model.

What Are AAE Files from an iPhone, and Can I Delete Them?

Benj Edwards — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 14:30:32 GMT

If you transfer photos from an iPhone or iPad to a Windows PC, you might see some files with the extension "AAE" stored along with the images. We'll explain this mysterious file type and what you should do with them.

The Best Gaming Laptops of 2023

Jon Bitner — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 14:01:28 GMT

Gaming laptops are the perfect combination of power and portability, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite titles anywhere. If you're looking to take gaming on the road or don't want a computer tower taking up space, there are many great and powerful laptops for various budgets.

Marshall Motif II ANC Review: Stylish Earbuds With a Signature Sound

Kris Wouk — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 10:00:25 GMT

Whether they come from Bose, Apple, Sony, or another company, most wireless earbuds have a similar aesthetic. If you’re looking for something with a more unique style, look no further than the Marshall Motif II ANC earbuds, which feature a design based on the brand’s iconic guitar amps.

Western Digital Won’t Make SSDs Anymore

Arol Wright — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:03:54 GMT

Western Digital is one of the big manufacturers for hard disks, but the company also makes more modern SSDs as well, partially thanks to its purchase of SanDisk in 2016. However, Western Digital is now set to split into two companies, which could mean changes to some of its products.

The Best Specialty Streaming Services of 2023

Josh Bell — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:01:28 GMT

Everybody knows about services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video, but those are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to streaming. Here are our top picks for specialty streaming services that cater to specific interests.

HyperX Cloud III Wireless Review: Wonderful Spatial Audio, but Xbox Need Not Apply

Mark LoProto — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 10:00:26 GMT

Sound design is a big part of the gaming experience, especially with the prevalence of 3D audio. With most built-in TV speakers producing a relatively subpar sound quality, it’s up to brands like HyperX and its Cloud III Wireless Headset to capture the full-bodied auditory magic of modern video games.

The Best 2-in-1 Laptops of 2023

Palash Volvoikar — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 14:00:26 GMT

Laptops and tablets work well together, but a device that combines both is the ultimate productivity machine for many people. 2-in-1 laptops combine the classic laptop form factor with a touch-screen tablet mode, letting you transform between both modes.

Nomad 65W Slim Power Adapter Review: The Accessory Your Laptop Is Missing

Tyler Hayes — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 10:00:25 GMT

I love ambitious gadgets and technology, but mostly I just want the power adapters charging my electronics to get smaller and work faster. The Nomad 65W Slim Power Adapter does just that. It’s an inconceivably small travel solution for road warriors or a way for homebodies to fast-charge using an outlet tucked behind a couch.

The Best NAS Hard Drives of 2023

Jon Bitner — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 14:00:25 GMT

Network-attached storage (NAS) is an excellent option for quickly accessing files across multiple devices. Whether you run a business or need versatility for your home office, here are the best NAS hard drives money can buy.

Your Next Laptop Might Have an Arm Processor (Here’s What That Means)

Bemfica de Oliva — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 11:01:24 GMT

In 2020, Apple shook up the computer CPU market with the Arm-based Apple Silicon. Now, other manufacturers are making similar chips. One of them might power your next laptop, and while there's a chance you won't even notice, it's a huge change for the laptop market.

Tenways CGO600 Pro Review: A Smooth Apple-Like Ebike

Tyler Hayes — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 10:00:25 GMT

The Tenways CGO600 Pro is a modern class 1 ebike. Its single-gear belt drive makes it ideal for urban areas, whether there are hills or not. It delivers on very specific needs, but if you’re doing short commutes, cruising on the weekend, or just don’t want to mess with gears, then your needs might be met by this stunner.

Secure Your Wireless Router: 8 Things You Can Do Right Now

Chris Hoffman — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:01:27 GMT

Your router is the hub for all of the devices on your home network, and helps protect all of the devices on your network against attack from the Internet. Here are some ways you can make sure your security is in tip-top shape.

The Best Cloud Storage Services of 2023

Russ Ware — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:01:26 GMT

Cloud storage services are great in that they let you keep your files in one place, and you can access them no matter what device you're on—provided you have access to internet. Make sure to pick the service with the features you want.

Nanoleaf 4D Screen Mirror and Lightstrip Kit Review: A New Way to Watch TV

Bryan M. Wolfe — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 10:00:26 GMT

Nanoleaf has been known for its distinctive smart lighting panels that can instantly change the ambiance of a room. However, it recently launched a new product that is quite different—the Nanoleaf 4D Screen Mirror + Lightstrip Kit.

7 Must-Have Tools for Mobile Phone Repair

Bemfica de Oliva — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 16:30:26 GMT

If your phone breaks, you may consider fixing it yourself. But do you know the required tools? Here are the must-haves and a few tips to repair your devices.

Apple Watch Series 9 Gains Double Tap Gesture in 10.1 Update

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 16:21:37 GMT

The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 launched without one of their flagship features—the creative Double Tap gesture. But Double Tap is now rolling out with the watchOS 10.1 update. Older models of Apple Watch also gain some improvements with this update, most notably NameDrop support.

What Is End-to-End Encryption, and Why Does It Matter?

Chris Hoffman — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:52:59 GMT

What is end-to-end encryption (E2EE), and why is it so controversial? Should you use it? Here's everything you need to know about it.

Ugreen Foldable Kickstand Magnetic Battery Review: Perfect for Pockets and Pouches

Michael Bizzaco — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:00:25 GMT

USB charging stations can cost a pretty penny, which makes the Ugreen Foldable Kickstand Magnetic Battery an excellent cost-cutting alternative. Equipped with Qi wireless charging, two USB ports, and Fast Charge capabilities, it’s a near-perfect portable battery that I’d gladly recommend to anyone.

iOS 17.1 Arrives with Improvements to AirDrop, Music, and StandBy

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:34:20 GMT

The iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 updates are now available. As previously announced by Apple, iOS 17.1 allows you to complete an AirDrop file transfer after losing your Wi-Fi connection or walking outside of AirDrop's typical range. Several bug fixes and small changes are also included in the iOS 17.1 and iPadOS 17.1 updates. Note that these updates initially rolled out to beta testers on September 27th.

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite Is Targeting Apple’s Mac Chips

Arol Wright — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:23:11 GMT

Apple's migration to its own ARM-based silicon for Macs from x86 Intel chips has been a wild success. Apple managed to make chips that perform even better than the Intel chips the company was putting on its older MacBooks. But the PC world has largely stuck to x86, with a few sporadic ARM laptops here and there. Qualcomm wants to solve this once and for all and has now released the Snapdragon X Elite chip — which the company is pitching as an Apple Silicon killer.

The Best Antivirus Software of 2023

Russ Ware — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:00:25 GMT

Choosing the right antivirus software to protect your devices has never been more crucial than it is today. Our picks of the best antivirus software for Windows, macOS, and Android will help you make the right choice.

Anker’s New Soundcore Portable Speaker Packs a Punch

Arol Wright — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 08:00:25 GMT

Finding the right Bluetooth speaker is a daunting task. If you want to invest in something good, you need to find a balance between portability, sound quality, and pricing. Anker has carved out a niche with its Soundcore audio products, which strike a decent balance between affordability and quality. Now the company has revealed the new Soundcore Motion X500 speaker, which has an array of premium features (including spatial audio) in a relatively small footprint.

GM Will Pay You If Your Chevy Bolt EV Battery Was Bad

Arol Wright — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 19:06:45 GMT

General Motors is currently in the process of revamping its cheapest EV, the Chevy Bolt. The upgraded Bolt is expected to include new battery technology, which is important because older Chevy Bolt cars have flawed, potentially dangerous batteries. That issue earned the company a class-action lawsuit, which is now paying out settlements to owners of 2020-2022 Chevy Bolt cars.

What's the Best Antivirus for iPhone? None!

Chris Hoffman — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:31:27 GMT

You don't need an antivirus for your iPhone or iPad. In fact, any "antivirus" apps you see advertised for iPhones aren't even antivirus software. They're just "security" programs that can't actually protect you from malware.

Which Streaming Sticks Support VPNs?

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 14:15:28 GMT

When you want to stream region-locked content or out-of-market sports, a VPN service is usually the best solution. But many people assume that a VPN can only be used on a phone or computer—two devices with relatively small screens. Thankfully, this isn't true, as most streaming sticks can run popular VPN apps like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.