Best overall		Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker		SEE IT	A balance of sound and style help the AW6500s to stand out.
Best portable outdoor speaker		Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker		SEE IT	A long-lasting outdoor speaker you can take anywhere, anytime.
Best budget		Pyle 3-way Mini Box Speaker System		SEE IT	A pair of powerful, water-resistant speakers that’ll only set you back $30.

Our yards and patios often have just as much decorating TLC as our indoor spaces, so why shouldn’t they have a set of outdoor speakers, too? Outdoor speakers can turn open-air space from just rocks into the rock and roll garden party of your dreams or allow chill tunes to accompany the natural breeze and rustling leaves. But bringing the boom beyond a climate-controlled room can be challenging. We’ve assembled a list of the best outdoor speakers, from pairs that require permanent wiring to portable options that’ll make your neighbors wish they were on your guest list.

• Best overall: Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker
• Best speaker disguised as a rock: Klipsch AWR-650-SM Indoor/Outdoor Speaker
• Best landscape speakers: Furrion Aurora 4.1 Veranda Series Outdoor Landscape Speaker System
• Best for live performances: SOUNDBOKS4 —Bluetooth Performance Speaker
• Best portable outdoor speaker: Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
• Best budget: Pyle 3-way Mini Box Speaker System

How we chose the best outdoor speakers

The only thing predictable about the weather is its unpredictability. But good outdoor speakers should reliably produce a sonic landscape while withstanding the elements. The PopSci team combined our collective experience testing speakers of all sorts with user feedback to create a list anchored in brands with innovative audio engineering and products that fit a range of price points.

The best outdoor speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

We’ve selected speakers for people who want higher sound quality and a more permanent setup in their outdoor oasis. Most will take running speaker wire to an indoor setup, installing mounting brackets, and adjusting the aim until you create a sonic sweet spot. Keep in mind that it takes more speakers outside than it does inside to create the same sound. If installing passive speakers sound like too much work, revisit our best portable party speakers.

All these speakers boast weatherproofing and durable casings. Still, when you dive into user guides, most manufacturers recommend installing them where they have some protection from the elements to prolong how long they will last and make sure the mounting angle doesn’t allow water to pool. Beach and coastal residents may also want to look into how speakers fare in the salt air. Beyond that, just add friends and snacks and the perfect playlist to keep the energy up.

Best overall: Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker

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Specs

• Dimensions: 8.88 inches by 14.44 inches by 9.25 inches
• Weight: 9.2 pounds
• Drivers: 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, 6.5-inch round BDSS bass mid/woofer, 5.5 by 10-inch pressure-driven bass radiator
• Power range: 10-200 watts
• Frequency response: 40Hz to 30kHz

Pros

• Can be oriented horizontally or vertically
• Comes in black or white
• Galvanized steel mounting brackets included
• Can stick to one or add many to the setup
• 5-year warranty

Cons

• Higher end of price scale per speaker
• Relies on receiver/amp to have Bluetooth/WiFi compatibility

Definitive Technology makes some of our favorite indoor tower speakers, but they’re a luxury for the living room. We recommend the Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker to ensure you have great sound during patio party season. Packed into an installation-friendly form and for about $300 each, this passive speaker rocks a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter and pairs a  6.5-inch Balance Double Surround Sound System mid-woofer with a 10-inch passive bass radiator, resulting in bumping bass whether you’re aiming to be the center of the block party or keep the next great barbecue at a neighbor-respecting volume.

Designed to withstand rain, snow, and heat, the AW6500 is housed in a PolyStone casing and an aluminum mesh grill that can be mounted horizontally or vertically. The included steel mounts allow for 360-degree rotation, so you can fill the space with sound whether you’re working with one or several to fill a vast backyard. According to DT’s user guide, a pair covers about 200 to 400 square feet.

Best speaker disguised as a rock: Klipsch AWR-650-SM Indoor/Outdoor Speaker

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Specs

• Dimensions: 11 inches by 15 inches by 17 inches
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Drivers: Two 3/4 inch polymer dome tweeter, 6.5 inches dual voice coil polymer woofer
• Power range: up to 50 watts
• Frequency response: 60Hz to 20kHz

Pros

• UV-resistant enclosure
• Can be mono or stereo
• Available in granite or sandstone
• Comes with 3-foot pre-attached speaker cable
• 5-year warranty

Cons

• You got a rock

Speakers come in three very broad groups: eye-catching statement designs, traditional enclosures that don’t bring attention to themselves, and then some designs meant to blend in completely. The Klipsch AWR-650-SM Indoor/Outdoor Speaker looks like a rock that is somehow eye-catching but also could vanish into a rustic setting. Whether the granite colorway suits your mountain vista or the sandstone better complements your desert panorama, the Klipsch AWR-650-SM is the best design to be put on the ground where conventional loudspeakers can’t go. The fiberglass enclosure houses two 3/4-inch tweeters and 6.5-inch subwoofer that can be configured for use as a single dual-channel speaker or a pair of single-channel speakers when connected to your receiver or amp. Each rock will set you back about $330, though they seem oddly addictive. Many users note they purchased one and then went back for more.

Best landscape speakers: Furrion Aurora 4.1 Veranda Series Outdoor Landscape Speaker System

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Specs

• Dimensions: Speakers without stake 6 inches by 7.5 inches by 8.9 inches; Subwoofer 16 inches by 26.8 inches
• Weight: Speakers 2.7 pounds; Subwoofer 31 pounds
• Drivers: 0.75-inch marine-grade PEI with 10-inch dual voice coil long throw
• Power range: 50 to 150 watts
• Frequency response: 80Hz to 20kHz

Pros

• Weatherproof
• Can cover 3,500 square feet
• Multiple mounting options

Cons

• Expensive
• Installation will take considerable work

When your outdoor living takes place primarily off the patio, the Furrion Aurora 4.1 Veranda Series Outdoor Landscape Speaker System might be the investment for you. For about $1,800, the system includes a 10-inch DVC subwoofer and is rounded out by four two-way speakers to help cut through ambient noise and create your own immersive soundtrack. The weatherproof fluorocarbon components can be mounted in the ground with stakes, tucked discreetly in plants, or mounted on trees. The 150-degree pivoting arm allows for plenty of flexibility as you aim to eliminate sound dead spots, no matter how irregularly shaped a yard may be. The system is compatible with most two-channel receivers or amplifiers, but expansions require additional Furrion brand speakers and subwoofers. Two sets—that’s two subwoofers and eight speakers—can cover 3,500 square feet.

This kind of installation may require digging or trenching, so the company recommends checking with the dig agency in your area before picking up a shovel.

Best for live performances: SOUNDBOKS4—Bluetooth Performance Speaker

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Specs

• Dimensions: 20.87 inches by 15.55 inches by 29.17 inches
• Weight: 34 pounds
• Connectivity: XLR or Bluetooth

Pros

• Loud
• 40 hours of battery life (charges in 3.5 hours)
• Portable if you’ve got the space
• Customizable EQ and sound modes

Cons

• Larger and harder to transport
• Only battery-powered

The Soundboks 4 performance Bluetooth 5.0 speaker isn’t for your apartment, main casual speaker situation, or even something you want to toss in your car for a quick trip camping. You could absolutely use it for all of these scenarios, but it is likely overkill, and certain design aspects could prevent challenges—not to mention your need to have extremely understanding neighbors. That being said, the speaker is perfect for a smaller patio party or tailgating and allows you to add up to five other Soundbok speakers if you’re throwing a full-on rager in your backyard. Able to reach up to 126dB while maintaining audio clarity—just into the uncomfortable/damaging level—you don’t have to worry about people talking getting in the way of your cha-cha slide number.

If you are going into the wood or a setting requiring a speaker that can stand up to the elements, the Soundboks 4 has you covered with silicone ball corners that prevent the powdered aluminum frame, steel honeycomb grill, and an IP65 waterproof rating. The built-in carrying handles also make the 34-pound speaker fairly easy to pick up and place in your car if you did need to transport it.

The companion smartphone app gives you all the typical controls over a connected speaker including multiple sound mounds, the ability to customize the EQ, and connecting multiple other speakers. While we don’t love that the speaker is ONLY battery-operated, you can buy more batteries for extra battery life. But to be fair, you get up to 40 hours out of each charge, and we can’t imagine most people needing more than that. If you do, you’re probably on a longer trip and have portable power stations or another type of generator to re-up the battery.

One other standout feature is the speaker’s microphone and instrument input. Perfect for streaming your favorite Spotify artists, you’ll also have a chance to plug in an electric guitar, DJ controller, or vocal mic to host a show or perform. All in all, this is a solid multi-purpose speaker that can be used for anything, but its size might get in the way of some use cases.

Best portable outdoor speaker: Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

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Specs

• Dimensions: 6.38 inches by 4.7 inches by 9.5 inches
• Weight: 4.36 pounds
• Battery life: 17 hours
• Bluetooth range: 180 feet

Pros

• Portable
• Can be wirelessly linked with other UE speakers
• Waterproof, IP67 rating
• Onboard controls
• NFC pairing for Android 8.0 and later

Cons

• No WiFi
• No voice assistant
• No microphone
• No aux port for other sources

The wired life isn’t for everyone, which is why Bluetooth speakers are so popular. For the very digital, the Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM offers 360 degrees of big, bassy sound in a durable but attractive package for about $300. In either charcoal or cotton white, the EPICBOOM is a shockproof, dustproof, waterproof device that can be immersed in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Forget poolside; the EPICBOOM can be in the pool. (Its little sibling, the Wonderboom, is also one of our picks for a swim or a soak, as it’s one of the best shower speakers.)

The EPICBOOM needs to be paired with a phone to stream music, but it excels at this. The speaker itself features buttons for fast play, pause, skip, and volume changes, so wet or dirty hands don’t have to handle a comparatively delicate smartphone to change the vibe. The BOOM app adds additional controls, like customizable EQ and connecting several UE BOOM devices together to create a dispersed sound system on the fly.

While some Bluetooth speakers can serve as an access point for voice assistants or pull double-duty as a phone speaker, the EPICBOOM focuses on music and playing music only. However, the EPICBOOM’s battery life is a decent 17 hours, so it will likely last longer than your favorite playlist. Still, anyone aiming to party all night and every day will need to keep a USB-C charger handy (and maybe some comfy patio furniture and some of the best deck lights).

If it’s a smart speaker you’re after, the Sonos Move 2 costs $150 more but adds more connectivity alongside durability (and if you really love the multiroom Sonos ecosystem and are tired of moving things around, the best splurge is to install Sonos by Sonance Architectural speakers, which are $900 a pair).

Best budget: Pyle 3-way Mini Box Speaker System

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Specs

• Dimensions: 3.75 inches by 5.25 inches by 3 inches
• Weight: 2.63 pounds
• Drivers: 1-inch superior dome tweeter, 3.5-inch aluminum injection cone with 1.75-inch-wide dispersion cone midrange with bass reflex vent
• Power range: up to 200 watts
• Frequency response: 70Hz to 21kHz

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Quick connect/disconnect terminals
• Waterproof; IP-44 rating
• Corrosion and stain-resistant mesh grills

Cons

• May want to upgrade the included speaker wire
• Relies on receiver/amp to have Bluetooth/WiFi compatibility

File the Pyle 3-way Mini Box Speaker System under “good things in small packages.” For about $30, this pair of small speakers features are marine-grade, so they can be mounted outdoors on the patio, near a pool, or on a boat without worrying about splishes or splashes. The speaker system is waterproof with stain and corrosion-resistant mesh fronts. These little guys come with removable mounting and can be attached horizontally or vertically. They’ll deliver good sound for the price, but people who want to flood a large yard with tunes may want to look elsewhere. However, this could be a pro depending on whether your neighbors like to lodge complaints. A few users also suggest ditching the included but thin speaker wire for an upgraded one.

Want the best value on something really whimsical? You can hang a 2-pack of the pohopa 20W lantern-shaped waterproof Bluetooth speakers with built-in LED color lights for less than $175.

What to consider when buying outdoor speakers

We love making the great outdoors greater by adding music. As you shop for outdoor speakers, start by thinking about the size and shape of the space you want to fill, what elements the speakers will operate in, and your price point.

Weather resistance

If you’ve ever mistaken water-resistant hiking boots for waterproof ones, you’ll understand the difference between weatherproof and waterproof. Water-resistant boots are good for the occasional puddle or light rain, but crossing a stream will quickly lead to soaked feet. Weatherproof and waterproof speakers are similar. All of the selections in our list have weatherproofing—resistance to elements and more durable, sealed housing—but truly waterproof speakers come with an IP rating. Generally, manufacturers recommend finding spots to mount outdoor speakers that have some protection from the elements, like under an awning or a covered patio. For more extreme climates, like beaches and deserts, look for additional information about how speakers deal with salt air and sand. So, can you leave outdoor speakers in the rain? Many of them, yes. But look at those ratings to be sure.

Installation options

Do outdoor speakers require amplification? It depends. Portable outdoor Bluetooth speakers are best for setting up a sound system without installing amps or anything else. However, more permanent options will require patience and expertise running speaker wires between the outdoor speakers and the indoor A/V components (and sometimes drilling a hole through a wall). The upside is higher sound quality and a wider source selection.

The size and layout of the outdoor space will also dictate some system features. Many systems include wall mounts that allow for adjustable angles, though a space with no walls may need speakers that can go on the ground or on stakes. Little spaces, like a condo patio, don’t need as many watts as trying to turn a large yard into the daytime version of your favorite club.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best outdoor speakers

• Best overall: Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker
• Best speaker disguised as a rock: Klipsch AWR-650-SM Indoor/Outdoor Speaker
• Best landscape speakers: Furrion Aurora 4.1 Veranda Series Outdoor Landscape Speaker System
• Best for live performances: SOUNDBOKS4 —Bluetooth Performance Speaker
• Best portable outdoor speaker: Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
• Best budget: Pyle 3-way Mini Box Speaker System

Elevate your outdoor experience by turning it into a concert-in-waiting. Investing a little extra effort into installing outdoor speakers on your porch, patio, or garden offers a higher sound quality while setting a vibe. For durable, traditional aesthetics, consider the refined audio performance of the Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker or the budget-friendly Pyle 3-way Mini Box Speaker System. The Klipsch AWR-650-SM adds a touch of whimsy by disguising itself as a rock, seamlessly blending into its natural surroundings. For larger landscapes or irregular spaces, the Furrion Aurora 4.1 Veranda Series delivers harmonious melodies that resonate far and wide. If portability is a priority, the Soundboks 4 cranks up the volume for dynamic live performances, while the Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker ensures your outdoor gatherings stay waterproof and musically vibrant. Unleash the potential of your outdoor oasis by dragging out a packed cooler and entertaining surrounded by speakers that make every note count.

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 speakers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

PAX Plus Vaporizer $160 (Was $250)

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

More cannabis deals

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

The post Our favorite cannabis vaporizer is $90 off for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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

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

Jackery solar generator deals

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

Ecoflow solar generator deals

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

Bluetti solar generator deals

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

Ugreen solar generator deals

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

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

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You’re in luck if you’ve resisted the temptation of Black Friday deals to get your gaming deals. You can still save hundreds of dollars on a new console gaming PC and get deep discounts on plenty of games across every major platform. These deals are going fast, so while your patience has been rewarded, it can also be your undoing if you don’t act quickly enough.

Xbox Series X $399.99 (w/ clickable coupon, Was $499.99)

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The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s most powerful game console to date, capable of playing 4K games at up to 120 frames per second with HDR (High Dynamic Range) enabled. It can play Xbox One and some Xbox 360 games as well. The system can play game discs but comes equipped with a 1TB SSD to store digital games as well. This $100 Cyber Monday discount brings the console down to its lowest price ever, and it likely won’t stay there for very long. And don’t forget to grab some great games:

Xbox Series X/S game deals

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

PlayStation 5 game deals

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

Nintendo Switch game deals

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

Razer deals

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

MSI deals

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

The post This is your last chance to save $100 on an Xbox Series X during Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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Cyber Monday is the ideal time to save hundreds of dollars on a kitchen upgrade that might be hard to justify otherwise. Vitamix, KitchenAid, Breville, and other premium appliance makers have slashed hundreds of dollars off the price of their highest-end gear. Any of these appliances will save you time in the kitchen, making tasks like kneading bread dough, blending homemade soup, or brewing barista-quality coffee at home a cinch.

Vitamix Propel Series 510 Blender $279.95 (Was $479.95)

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If you need a blender powerful enough for making everything from smoothies to soups, Vitamix’s Propel Series 510 is a can’t-miss Cyber Monday deal. A $200 discount on Amazon brings the 48-ounce blender down to its lowest price ever. The Propel Series 510 is outfitted with 10 speed settings, a BPA-free dishwasher-safe container, and laser-cut stainless steel blades that won’t dull after years of use. Glyphs located next to the speed control knob allow you to access settings specifically designed for smoothies and soups with a single twist. Once you’re done cooking, add a little soap and water to the blender’s container and run it at its highest speed. This will quickly clean the bowl.

Want to check out other blenders, or maybe coffee makers, air fryers, multi-cookers, nugget ice, toasters, and any manner of other countertop convenience? We got you:

Vitamix deals

• Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender, $289.95 (Was $349.95)
• Vitamix Propel Series 750 Blender, $399.95 (Was $629.95)
• Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series Smart Blender, $574.95 (Was $649.95)
• Vitamix 7500 Blender, $509.95 (Was $559.95)
• Vitamix Ascent Series A3300, $649.95 (Was $729.95)
• Vitamix Eco 5 FoodCycler, $499.95 (Was $599.95)
• Vitamix A2500 Ascent Series Smart Blender, $499.95 (Was $549.95)
• Vitamix A2300 Ascent Series Smart Blender, $449.95 (Was $499.95)

Breville deals

• Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo Pizza Oven, $799.95 (Was $999.95)
• Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine, $1,199.95 (Was $1,499.95)
• Breville the Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine, $719.95 (Was $899.95)
• Breville Infuser Espresso Machine, $479.96 (Was $599.95)
• Breville Countertop Smooth Wave Microwave, $319.95 (Was $399.95)
• Breville Sous Chef Pro 16 Cup Food Processor, $329.95 (Was $449.95)
• Breville the Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro, $439.95 (Was $549.95)
• Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, $399.95 (Was $499.95)

Ember Mug deals

• The Ember Smart Mug 2 (10-ounce Black) $99 (was $129.95)
• Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 (10-ounce Metallic Collection), $109.46 (Was $139.95)

GE Profile deals

• GE Profile Opal 1.0 Nugget Ice Maker, $228 (Was $386.02)
• GE Profile Smart Oven with No Preheat, $298.96 (Was $449)
• GE Profile Semi Automatic Espresso Machine + Steam Frother, $339.15 (Was $579)
• GE Digital Air Fryer Toaster Oven + Accessory Set, $149 (Was $219)

KitchenAid deals

• KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $239.99 (Was $379.99)
• KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $239.99 (Was $329.99)
• KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer, $349 (Was $449.99)
• KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, $499.95 (Was $599.99)

Wolf Gourmet deals

• Wolf Gourmet 4-Slice Extra-Wide Slot Toaster, $319.95 (Was $399.95)
• Wolf Gourmet Elite Digital Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, $549.95 (Was $999.99)
• Wolf Gourmet Programmable 6-in-1 Multi Cooker with Temperature Probe, $499.95 (Was $999.99)
• Wolf Gourmet Precision Electric Griddle, $449.95 (Was $649.95)
• Wolf Gourmet Programmable Coffee Maker System, $449.95 (Was $799.99)
• Wolf Gourmet True Temperature Electric Kettle, $179.95 (Was $449.99)
• Wolf Gourmet High-Performance Blender, $399.95 (Was $879)

OXO deals

• OXO Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker, $199.99 (Was $299.99)
• OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker, $183.95 (Was $229.95)
• OXO Brew 8 Cup Coffee Maker, $135.99 (Was $199.95)
• OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle, $83.95 (Was $104.95)

De’Longhi deals

• De’Longhi Dinamica Plus with LatteCrema System, $1,299.99 (Was $1,668.59)
• De’Longhi Magnifica Evo with LatteCrema System, $599.95 (Was $899.95)
• De’Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine, $200 (Was $249.95)
• De’Longhi La Specialista Arte, $499.95 (Was $699.95)
• De’Longhi Air Fry Oven, $149.95 (Was $188.91)
• DeLonghi America Livenza All Day Combination Contact Grill and Open Barbecue, $218.24 (Was $299.95)

The post Save big with Cyber Monday deals on premium home appliances we love appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Anyone with a small dog will tell you that they come with big personalities. Charli, my Aussie Shepherd-Japanese Chin mix, is 10 pounds of opinion. So, if she doesn’t like something, well, hope you kept the receipt. And, while every comfy spot in the house is ultimately hers, she still likes to have a space that’s exclusive when she’s feeling reclusive. But when it came time to upgrade her crate, we not only had to deal with a picky pup but also the logistics of limited space—which is why we love the Fable Crate, which lets her have a cozy den and we don’t have to lose a “side table.” And right now, the stylish accessory is up to 30% off if you buy it today.

Fable Crate $345 – $1,015 (w/ coupon BFCM2023, was $495 – $1,499)

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Arriving in five easily assembled bentwood pieces, Charli’s Fable crate blends in seamlessly in the corner beside our couch (as seen at the top of the page). Topped by planters and bathed in indirect light for much of the day, it’s like a secluded forest glen for when she needs to recover from her adventures—or just take a mid-afternoon post-nap nap. We opted for the small, naturally, and went with the lighter signature finish. But there are also medium and large sizes, and you can go darker walnut if you’re feeling it. You can also choose between a metal or clear acrylic built-in gate … for when contractors come calling or for any other reason you don’t want your loyal companion snuffing around the house. I couldn’t remember where I put the Fable receipt if my life depended on it, but the restful look on Charli’s face when she’s nestled in her crate says it’s safe to rip it up anyway.

Additional Fable accessories for outdoor exploration:

• FABLE Magic Leash – Hands-Free Can be Worn as a Belt, Bandolier, or Wrist Strap $52 – $60 (Was $64 – $75)
• FABLE Magic Link Dog Leash – Slip-On Collar & Waist Leash for Dog Walking $52 – $60 (Was $64 – $75)
• FABLE Signature Waterproof, Durable, Lightweight Leash $38 (Was $48)

Want to know more about your dog than where they like to sleep? Get a DNA test:

• Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test Kit $68.24 (Was $104.99)
• Basepaws Dog DNA Test $84 (Was $89)
• DNA My Dog Essential Test–Breed ID Test $76 (Was $79.99)
• Embark Breed & Health Kit-Dog DNA Test $127 (Was $199)
• Embark Breed Identification Kit $99 (Was $129)
• Orivet Genopet Dog DNA Test $75.95 (Was $94.94)
• Know Your Pet DNA by Ancestry $69 (Was $99)
• Koko DNA Test for Dogs Advanced $90.99 (Was $129.99)

The post My dog’s safe space can be your dog’s new happy place appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Cyber Monday is officially here, and you can save big on everything from smart home tech and soundbars to sought-after Bluetooth speakers—essential for anyone who wants to listen to music with friends and family this holiday season. Many of the deals we’ve found are discounts on Bluetooth speakers that have found themselves in our buyer’s guides. If your current Bluetooth speaker is on the fritz, or you’d like to treat yourself (or someone you know) to an audio upgrade they can appreciate on the go (or with a wireless turntable), don’t miss these limited-time deals.

Sony SRS-XE200 $97.95 (Was $129.99)

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Sony SRS-XE200 is an excellent mid-sized Bluetooth speaker whose Cyber Monday discount brings it down to its lowest price ever. The speaker has a pair of drivers and passive radiators for well-balanced sound, a battery that lasts up to 16 hours per charge, and an IP67 durability rating, which means it’s dustproof and can be completely submerged under water. The SRS-XE200 can also take advantage of Sony’s Wireless Party Connect feature, allowing you to sync up to 100 speakers. A built-in strap makes the speaker easy to carry or hang outdoors. This Bluetooth speaker even has a microphone, so you can use it as a speakerphone.

Sony Bluetooth speaker deals

• Sony SRS-XB100, $38 (Was $59.99)
• Sony SRS-XP500, $298 (Was $399.99)
• Sony SRS-XG500, $298 (Was $499.99)
• Sony SRS-XV800, $498 (Was $549.99)

Sonos Bluetooth speaker deals

• Sonos Roam portable speaker $134 (was $179)
• Sonos Roam SL, $119 (Was $159)
• Sonos Roam (2-Pack), $268 (Was $358)

JBL Bluetooth speaker deals

• JBL Flip 6, $89 (Was $129.95)
• JBL Clip 4, $44.95 (Was $79.95)
• JBL Go 3, $29.88 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Partybox Encore Essential, $179 (Was $299.95)
• JBL PartyBox 110, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Boombox 2, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Charge 5, $119.95 (Was $179.95)
• JBL Boombox 3, $349.95 (Was $499.95)
• JBL Pulse 4, $129.99 (Was $249.95)

Bose Bluetooth speaker deals

• Bose SoundLink Revolve (Series II), $159 (Was $219)
• Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II), $229 (Was $329)
• Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker, $119 (Was $149)
• Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker, $99 (Was $119)
• Bose S1 Pro+ All-in-one Powered Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $649 (Was $699)

Ultimate Ears Bluetooth speaker deals

• Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3, $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ultimate Ears Boom 3, $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Ultimate Ears Logitech MEGABOOM 3, $149.99 (Was $199.99)

Bang & Olufsen Bluetooth speaker deals

• Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore, $144.58 (Was $199)
• Bang & Olufsen Beosound Emerge, $710 (Was $899)
• Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Generation), $179 (Was $250)

Marshall Bluetooth speaker deals

• Marshall Emberton, $99.99 (Was $169.99)
• Marshall Emberton II, $119.99 (Was $169.99)
• Marshall Kilburn II, $179.99 (Was $299.99)
• Marshall Willen, $99.99 (Was $119.99)

TREBLAB Bluetooth speaker deals

• TREBLAB HD-Mini, $19.96 (Was $39.97)
• TREBLAB FX100, $39.84 (Was $89.97)
• TREBLAB HD77, $59.96 (Was $119.97)
• TREBLAB HD-Force, $89.97 (Was $179.97)
• TREBLAB HD-360, $119.97 (Was $189.97)

Tribit Bluetooth speaker deals

• Tribit StormBox Bluetooth Speaker, $54.39 (Was $77.59)
• Tribit Bluetooth Wireless Portable Speaker, $47.99 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit Upgraded MaxSound Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $47.39 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit XSound Go Speaker, $27.19 (Was $49.99)
• Tribit StormBox Blast Portable Speaker, $155.98 (Was $199.99)
• Tribit StormBox Micro, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Tribit Upgraded StormBox Pro, $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Tribit StormBox Flow, $63.99 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit XSound Mega Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $79.99 (Was $129.99)

Soundcore Bluetooth speaker deals

• Soundcore Motion+, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Soundcore Motion 300, $63.99 (Was $79.99)
• Soundcore 2, $29.99 (Was $39.99)
• Soundcore Mini 3, $31.99 (Was $40.99)
• Soundcore Motion X500, $129.99 (Was $169.99)
• Soundcore Motion X600, $149.99 (Was $199.99)
• Soundcore Glow Mini Portable Speaker, $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• Soundcore Motion 100, $47.99 (Was $59.99)
• Soundcore Rave Neo 2, $87 (Was $109)

The post The best Cyber Monday deals on expert-approved Bluetooth speakers appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Setting up a smart home can save you a considerable amount of time, improve your house’s aesthetics, and even increase its safety. But replacing each light bulb, lock, and everything in between can get expensive fast. Thankfully, Cyber Monday is jammed full of deals that dramatically reduce the amount you’ll have to spend on the highest-end gear, with some items clocking in at under $10. If you’re looking to start (or expand) your smart home this year, don’t miss these Cyber Monday deals.

Google Nest Thermostat $89.99 (Was $129.99)

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Google’s Nest Thermostat is one of the few smart home gadgets that may actually pay for itself over time, which sweetens this already excellent Cyber Monday deal. Once it’s connected to your HVAC system and Wi-Fi network, the smart thermostat will learn your habits and intelligently heat and cool your home based on when you wake up and go to bed. This is far more efficient than leaving your heating and cooling system on all day. By reducing the amount of time the HVAC system is running, Google’s Nest Thermostat can lower your utility bill, which is especially important during the hottest and coldest months of the year.

Nanoleaf deals

• Nanoleaf Essentials Smart LED Color-Changing Light Bulb $14.99 (Was $19.99)
• Nanoleaf Shapes Triangles and Mini Triangles $199.99 (Was $249.99)
• Nanoleaf Lines Smart Color LED Dimmable Gaming and Home Decor Wall Lights Smarter Kit $199.99 (Was $299.99)
• Nanoleaf Essentials Matter Bluetooth & Thread Smart LED Lightstrip $49.99 (Was $89)

Philips Hue deals

• Philips Hue Smart 75W A19 LED Bulb $32 (Was $54.99)
• Philips Hue Smart 75W A19 LED Bulb $34.49 (Was $49.99)
• Philips Hue Dimmer Switch with Smart 85W BR30 LED Bulbs $89.59 (Was $127.98)
• Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Lily Outdoor (4-Pack) Base Kit $351.98 (Was $439.98)
• Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Starter Kit $125.99 (Was $179.99)
• Philips Hue​ White Ambiance Base Lumen Smart Button Starter Kit $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Philips Hue Go Portable Table Lamp (2-Pack) $239.99 (Was $299.99)
• Philips Hue Lucca White Outdoor Wall Light $49.99 (Was $69.99)

August home deals

• August Home Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) $157.99 (Was $229.99)

Schlage deals

• Schlage Encode Century WiFi Latitude Lever Smart Keyless Entry Touchscreen Door Lock $249 (Was $309.99)

Yale deals

• Yale Assure Lock 2 $181.99 (Was $259.99)
• Yale Security Assure Lock SL $103.99 (Was $169.99)
• Yale Smart Cabinet Lock $90.99 (Was $129.99)

Ecobee deals

• ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air Quality Monitor $219.99 (Was $249.99)
• ecobee Smart Sensor (2-Pack) $78.99 (Was $99.99)
• ecobee New Smart Thermostat Enhanced $169.99 (Was $189.99)
• ecobee Smart Video Doorbell Camera (Wired) $139.99 (Was $159.99)
• ecobee SmartCamera $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• ecobee Smart Sensor for Doors & Windows (2-Pack) $59.99 (Was $79.99)

Eufy deals

• eufy Security Video Doorbell E340 (Battery Powered) $125.99 (Was $179.99)
• eufy Security Video Smart Lock S330 $244.99 (Was $349.99)
• eufy Security Floodlight Camera E340 Wired $169.99 (Was $219.99)
• eufy Security Smart Lock C220 $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• eufy Security Indoor Cam C120 $28.99 (Was $42.99)
• eufy Security, eufyCam 2C 2-Cam Kit $129.99 (Was $239.99)
• eufy Security Indoor Cam S350 $99.99 (Was $129.99)
• eufy Security eufyCam E330 (Professional) 2-Cam Kit $279.99 (Was $349.99)
• eufy Security SoloCam S340 $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• eufy Security C210 Smart Lock $74.99 (Was $99.99)
• eufy Security by Anker SmartTrack Link $13.99 (Was $19.99)
• eufy security eufyCam S300 (4-Cam Kit) $489.99 (Was $699.99)

TP-Link deals

• TP-Link Tapo Smart LED Light Strip $29.99 (Was $49.99)
• TP-Link Tapo 2K Pan/Tilt Security Camera $25.99 (Was $34.99)
• TP-Link Kasa Smart 3 Way Switch $25.99 (Was $39.99)
• TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Power Strip $20.99 (Was $29.99)
• TP-Link Kasa Apple HomeKit Outdoor Smart Plug $19.99 (Was $29.99)
• TP-Link Kasa Smart Light Bulbs $13.99 (Was $24.99)
• TP-Link Kasa Smart Light Bulbs (4-Pack) $25.99 (Was $39.99)

GE Cync deals

• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs (2-Pack) $17.99 (Was $23.99)
• GE CYNC Indoor Smart Plug $10.49 (Was $14.99)
• GE CYNC Smart Dimmer Light Switch $25.34 (Was $54.99)
• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs (4-Pack) $60.79 (Was $75.99)
• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulb $9.74 (Was $12.99)
• GE CYNC Smart Light Switch $18.74 (Was $44.99)
• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs $35.09 (Was $44.99)
• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs (4 Pack) $31.52 (Was $39.96)
• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs (2 Pack) $11.94 (Was $14.05)
• GE CYNC Smart Indoor Security Camera $38.99 (Was $69.99)
• GE CYNC Dynamic Effects Smart LED Light Strip $74.99 (Was $179.99)
• GE CYNC Smart LED Light Bulbs $37.08 (Was $49.99)

Ring deals

• Ring Video Doorbell $54.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen) $29.99 (Was $59.99)
• Ring Stick Up Cam Battery $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Ring Battery Doorbell Plus $119.99 (Was $179.99)
• Ring Spotlight Cam Plus $119.99 (Was $169.99)
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 $149.99 (Was $249.99)
• Ring Spotlight Cam Pro $179.99 (Was $229.99)

Blink deals

• Blink Video Doorbell $29.99 (Was $59.99)
• Blink Mini Pan-Tilt Camera $29.99 (Was $59.99)
• Blink Wired Floodlight Camera $49.99 (Was $99.99)
• All-new Blink Outdoor Cameras (5-Pack) $199.99 (Was $399.99)
• Blink Mini (2-Pack) $39.98 (Was $64.99)
• All-New Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera $79.99 (Was $159.98)

The post Upgrade your space with these limited-time Cyber Monday smart home deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The post Don’t wait to save 40% on Shark vacuums and Ninja kitchen gear for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

If you’ve recently picked a big, new 4K TV, you’ll want to get a soundbar to go with it. These compact speaker systems can pump out louder, higher-quality sound than the audio equipment built into ultra-thin TVs without taking up a tremendous amount of space. Some soundbars come with additional speakers—a subwoofer for more bass or wireless rear speakers for surround sound—while others stand on their own. You can save hundreds of dollars on a wide range of soundbars thanks to an abundance of Cyber Monday deals.

Sonos Ray $223 (Was $279)

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The Sonos Ray is the best Cyber Monday soundbar deal due to its impressive audio fidelity for something of such a diminutive size. At just 22 inches wide, you can easily fit this soundbar beneath any TV or inside an entertainment center. Sonos packed the Ray with a multi-driver audio system, including a pair of woofers and outward-facing tweeters connected to a custom-designed amplifier that guarantees well-balanced sound. This Cyber Monday deal on the Sonos Ray solves both issues if you’ve put off getting a soundbar due to its high price and large size.

Bose soundbar deals

• Bose TV Speaker, $199 (Was $279)
• Bose Smart Soundbar 600, $399 (Was $499)
• Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar, $799 (Was $899)

LG soundbar deals

• LG S40Q, $126.99 (Was $196.99)
• LG S95QR, $996.98 (Was $1,799.99)
• LG GX, $349.95 (Was $999.99)

Vizio soundbar deals

• VIZIO M213ad-K8, $144.97 (Was $179.99)
• VIZIO V20-J8, $79.99 (was $119.99)
• VIZIO M512E-K6, $498 (Was $799.99)

JBL soundbar deals

• JBL MK2, $199.95 (Was $299.95)
• JBL Bar 300, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Bar 500, $379.95 (Was $599.95)

Samsung soundbar deals

• SAMSUNG HW-S60B, $197.99 (Was $347.99)
• SAMSUNG HW-B550, $177.99 (Was $277.99)

Sony soundbar deals

• Sony HT-S400, $178 (Was $299.99)
• Sony HT-S2000, $298 (Was $499.99)
• Sony HT-A7000, $998 (Was $1,399)

Polk soundbar deals

• Polk Audio React Sound Bar, $169 (Was $269)

Denon soundbar deals

• Denon DHT-S217, $149 (Was $249)
• Denon DHT-S316, $229 (Was $299)

Bang & Olufsen soundbar deals

• Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage, $1,649 (Was $2,199)

Need a top-quality source and/or screen to pair with that soundbar? Pick up a Panasonic 4K Blu-ray player on sale and shop these amazing deals on Samsung TVs.

The post Save big on soundbars from Sonos, JBL, Sony, Bose, Samsung, and more during Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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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

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

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

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

Holiday travel means your family’s germs have a chance of making themselves home when the celebration is over. Amazon has deals on air purifiers from our favorite brands this Cyber Monday to obliterate unwelcome microscopic company so you can focus on reuniting with your loved ones.

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

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

BLUEAIR deals

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

Levoit deals

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

Molekule deals

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

NuWave deals

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

Miscellaneous deals

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

The post Editor-approved: This air purifier is at its lowest price of the year for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

SEE IT

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

More Jackery portable power station and solar generator deals

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

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

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

The idea of having authentic, pizzeria-quality pizza is possible with an Ooni Fyra oven, which is currently $105 cheaper than usual, thanks to a Cyber Monday deal. This relatively compact oven runs on wood pellets and can get up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit in roughly 15 minutes. Ooni is responsible for making our favorite pizza oven ever, and this discount brings the Fyra 12 down to its lowest price ever on Amazon.

ooni Fyra 12 Wood Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven $244.30 (Was $349)

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A big part of the Fyra 12’s appeal is its size. At 20 pounds, a single person can set up, break down, and move this pizza oven before and after use. The oven’s tall stack keeps smoke from billowing on your face as you launch and retrieve home-cooked pizzas, while a pellet hopper on its backside can be monitored to maintain a steady stream of fuel. This ease of operation, combined with Amazon’s Cyber Monday discount, makes the Ooni Fyra 12 a no-brainer for any pizza enthusiast looking to up their game from an indoor home oven.

More pizza oven deals for devoted pie lovers

• Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo Pizza Oven, $799.95 (Was $999.95)
• EAST OAK Outdoor Pizza Oven, $167.99 (Was $239.99)
• Cuisinart CGG-403 3-in-1 Pizza Oven Plus, $179.99 (Was $299.99)
• Ninja OO101 Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven, $299.99 (Was $399.99)

The post Ooni’s pizza oven is down to its lowest price ever on Amazon for Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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

Here are more Cyber Monday Eero deals

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

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

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

If you’re like us, your blood is more coffee than plasma at this point. And there’s nothing worse when it comes time to work than being cold-blooded (unless you’re a reptile or Rick James). That’s why we love the Ember Smart Mug 2, a powered mug that lets you set your desired beverage temperature and maintain it thanks to multiple sensors and a microprocessor-controlled heating system. It’s the perfect desk accessory for coffee and tea lovers, and it’s 23% off if you act fast.

The Ember Smart Mug 2 $99 (was $129.95)

SEE IT

The Ember Smart Mug 2 is stainless steel coated with ceramic, an ideal vessel for 10 ounces of caffeinated (or unleaded) lifeblood (there are also 14-ounce options on sale). Synced via smartphone to the Ember app, it maintains presets (between 120°F – 145°F) for your favorite beverage for up to 80 minutes when fully charged or indefinitely if put back on its charging coaster between sips. You can get lost in your workflow and not be disappointed when, 45 minutes later, you pick your head up and find a lukewarm liquid. And if you are done for the day, the mug enters sleep mode when empty or after two hours of inactivity. And don’t we all dream of sleep mode, our bellies warm with some calming concoction? Day or night, the Ember Mug 2 can be your constant companion (and Ember also makes a travel mug we love).

Speaking of coffee … check out this espresso machine and these Yeti mugs.

Looking for non-beverage kitchen accessories? We got you.

The post This essential work-from-home accessory is on sale for a limited time appeared first on Popular Science.

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

The explosion in the popularity of turntables and vinyl proves that what goes around comes around—in this case quite literally. If you’re looking to supplement your music streaming with high-fidelity slabs of wax, Black Friday is the best time to pick up a new record player. Many turntables, including advanced models with high-tech features like Bluetooth connectivity, are deeply discounted for a limited time. If you want a new deck or to give vinyl a try for the first time, don’t miss out. And if you need some LPs to play on your turntable, you can take advantage of VinylMePlease’s buy one get one 50% off sale.

House of Marley Stir It Up Wireless Bluetooth Turntable $199.99 (Was $249.99)

SEE IT

House of Marley’s Stir It Up is an excellent turntable for newbies and more seasoned LP lovers alike. Its deck is made of bamboo—in keeping with the company’s commitment to sustainability—and comes bundled with an Audio-Technica cartridge. This record player has a built-in phono preamp and Bluetooth support, so you can hook it up directly to any pair of powered or wireless speakers and play albums without additional hardware. A switch on the top of this turntable allows you to jump between 33- and 45-RPM settings. A conveniently located headphone jack lets you enjoy your collection without disturbing others. And if you’re willing to spend $100 more, you can also upgrade to the stylish belt-drive Stir It Up Lux with its Audio-Technica elliptical stylus (AT-95E), Bluetooth 5.3 connection, and more. And those are just a couple of the many deeply discounted platters being served up this Black Friday. Check these out:

Audio-Technica turntable deals

• Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK, $179 (Was $219)
• Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK, $279 (Was $349)
• Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT-BK, $249 (Was $329)
• Audio-Technica ATLP120XBTUSB, $319 (Was $399)
• Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN, $319 (Was $379)

1ByOne turntable deals

• 1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable, $154.97 (Was $229.97)
• 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System, $168.97 (Was $269.95)
• 1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth Connectivity, $99.97 (Was $119.97)
• 1 BY ONE Luscinia Acrylic Sheet Turntable, $133.99 (Was $179.97)
• 1 BY ONE Rock Pigeon Record Player, $76.93 (Was $109.90)

Denon turntable deals

• Denon DP-300F, $329 (Was $349.99)

Fluance turntable deals

• Fluance RT80, $169.96 (Was $199.99)
• Fluance RT81, $211.96 (Was $249.99)

Victrola turntable deals

• Victrola VTA-65-MAH, $51.03 (Was $71.18)
• Victrola Re-Spin, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Victrola VTA-75-ESP, $99.99 (Was $122.36)
• Victrola Revolution GO, $72.85 (Was $199.99)

Need a system to play that turntable through? Check out these other amazing speaker deals before they’re gone. Prefer some affordable wireless headphones or earbuds if it’s a Bluetooth turntable? We got you.

The post These Black Friday turntable deals are still spinning, but not for long appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Black Friday is over or ongoing, depending on your understanding of the time-space continuum. And multiroom audio experts Sonos are offering great deals on connected speakers so you can fill the home theater, whole house, or someone else’s heart with cheer this holiday season. Sonos’ speakers and soundbars were designed to work together, and these deals allow you to assemble a full wireless system in a couple of clicks.

Sonos Arc Soundbar $719 (Was $899)

SEE IT

The Arc soundbar is the centerpiece of the most immersive Sonos system. Pair it wirelessly with either a Sonos Sub (Gen. 3) or Sub Mini and two Era 100 speakers for rear channels and you’ve got a compact 5.1 surround sound system (available in black, white, or a Cruella De Vil-worthy combo if that’s your vibe). The soundbar connects to your TV via eARC HDMI to take advantage of top-tier Atmos material, but you can stream stereo music to it wirelessly from Apple devices through AirPlay 2. And you can add additional speakers throughout the house (assuming your WiFi is up to the task) if you need to hear Vince Guaraldi and other Christmas classics no matter where you roam.

Check out all the Sonos deals that are music to our ears:

• Sonos Sub (Gen 3) $639 (was $749)
• Sonos Sub Mini $343 (was $429)
• Sonos Era 100 powered speaker $199 (was $249)
• Sonos Roam portable speaker $134 (was $179)
• Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) Soundbar $399 (was $499)
• Sonos Ray Soundbar $223 (was $279)

Looking for other soundbar deals? We got you. We’ve also collected deals on some of our favorite speakers for stereo and multichannel setups.

The post It’s not too late to save hundreds on a Sonos sound system appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

SEE IT

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

More Black Friday soundbar deals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE IT

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

AirPods deals

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

MacBook deals

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

iPad deals

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

HomePod deals

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

Mac Mini deals

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

Mac Studio deals

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

Apple Watch deals

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

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

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

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

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

Imagine your favorite artist just released a new album, and all you want to do is be surrounded by sound … but maybe not by speakers. Maybe you don’t have the space, budget, or just plain desire for a surround sound system. But you’re worried a two-channel system can’t quite satisfy you. After spending three months with a pair of Dymension DM70 floor-standing speakers, I can say … definitively … that one can. Whether I’m streaming, playing CDs, or enjoying my latest pressing from Vinyl Me Please, these loudspeakers don’t need Atmos to be immersive. If I were buying a music lover an indulgent gift right now (and you can be your indulgent music lover in question), these are what I’d buy. And, at hundreds less than their typical prices, they’ve never been more affordable … if you act fast.

Definitive Technology Dymension DM70 Large Tower Speakers $1,399.00 each (was $1,999.00)

SEE IT

They may look like the 2001 monolith, but what’s under the minimalist fabric cover makes the DM70 speakers multidimensional. Each three-way tower has a bipolar array, meaning two 5.25-inch long-throw midrange drivers and a 1-inch aluminum oxide dome tweeter on each side. And the reflections of those rear-focused channels mean there’s enveloping energy throughout the room. Anchoring that expansive soundstage is the integrated powered 10-inch subwoofer and two passive radiators within each speaker. That’s a lot of muscularity rounding out pure musicality, and it’s available for $600 off—a total of $1,200 in savings per pair.

The DM70 towers are basically 2.1 systems and don’t need a separate sub to shine (just add wall outlets for the Class D 180W amplifiers and a sturdy floor), but the balanced bipolar arrays do require external power. I’ve been using a Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD C 700 at various times because I’m a fan of compact network players/integrated amps. But if you do end up wanting a 5.1 or 7.1 system, you can use a powerful multichannel AV receiver and expand the system with DM60 mid-sized towers for the rears, a DM20 center speaker, and DM90 height modules (all of which are on sale right now).

Here are additional audio components offering more for less:

• Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater 8K A/V Receiver $598 (was $899)
• Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch 8K UHD Home Theater AVR $1,296.71 (was $1,699)
• Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer $899 (was $999)
• Bluesound Node Wireless Multi-Room High-Resolution Music Streamer $448 (was $549)
• Focal Theva No.1 2-Way Bass-Reflex Bookshelf Loudspeakers (pair) $798 (was $998)
• Polk Audio Legend L100 Bookshelf Speaker (Single, Brown Walnut) $849 (was $999)
• Polk Audio T50 150 Watt Home Theater Floor Standing Tower Speaker (Single, Black) $199 (was $249)
• Klipsch R-41M Powerful Detailed Bookshelf Home Speaker (pair) $149 (was $279)
• KEF Q350 Bookshelf Speakers (pair) $499 (was $799)
• KEF LSX II Wireless HiFi Speaker System $999.98 (was $1,399.99)
• Q Acoustics M20 Bluetooth Speakers HD Wireless Speakers Music System $399 (was $499)
• Fluance Ai41 Powered 2-Way 2.0 Stereo Bookshelf Speakers with 5″ Drivers $211.96 (was $249)
• Cambridge Audio ALVA ST Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth aptX HD $499 (was $599)
• Fluance RT81 Belt Drive Turntable with Audio Technica AT95E Cartridge & Built-in Preamp $211 (was $249)
• Sennheiser IE 600 Wired Audiophile Earphones $499 (was $699)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones $399 (was $599)
• Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones $1,499 (was $1,699)
• Focal Bathys Over-Ear Hi-Fi Bluetooth Wireless Headphones with Active Noise Cancelation $629 (was $799)
• Focal Clear Mg Open-back over-ear wired headphones $1,199 (Was $1,499)

The post Shop our favorite speakers of 2023 and save up to 30% right now appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE IT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dyson Airwrap $499 (Was $599.99)

SEE IT

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

Here are more Black Friday Dyson deals at Amazon:

Dyson vacuum deals

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

Dyson air purifier and fan deals

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

Dyson hair styling tool deals

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

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

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Black Friday is all about getting the best possible deals, and you can’t get much better than Roku’s $15 discount on the Express 4K+. The media streamer was an excellent value at its original price—especially since it comes bundled with Roku’s new Voice Remote—but this Black Friday deal pushes it over the top. Anyone who wants to make an older TV smart, or a new TV easier to use, should take notice.

Roku Express 4K+ $24.97 (Was $39.99)

SEE IT

This pocket-sized media streamer allows you to play 4K HDR video anywhere you go, and the included voice remote allows you to control it totally hands-free. The biggest reason to choose a Roku device over the competition is the company’s commitment to ease of use. The Voice Remote has large, tactile buttons, with shortcuts to popular streaming services. Roku’s digital user interface is easy to navigate, and its devices always feel snappy. Roku continually updates the software to add new features and channels for its media streamers, oftentimes automatically in the middle of the night to avoid downtime.

Roku Streamer deals

• Roku Streaming Stick 4K, $29.99 (Was $49.99)
• Roku Ultra, $69 (Was $99.99)

Fire TV deals

• Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite, $15.99 (Was $29.99)
• Amazon Fire TV Stick, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, $24.99 (Was $49.99)
• All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Amazon Fire TV Cube, $109.99 (Was $139.99)

Chromecast deals

• Chromecast with Google TV (HD), $19.95 (Was $29.99)
• Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K), $37.98 (Was $49.99)

Want to ditch streaming for discs? Check out this deal on a 4K Blu-ray player. And need somewhere to showcase all that quality content? Shop these amazing deals on Samsung screens.

The post Start streaming for as little as $25 thanks to Roku’s Black Friday deals appeared first on Popular Science.

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In the age of streaming, it’s easy to forget that movies are still released on discs, and a 4K Blu-ray player will offer a far more high-fidelity experience than what you’ll see from streaming services. Expect better-looking colors and improved contrast to showcase that 4K flatscreen, equally uncompressed Atmos audio that will make your surround system shine, and, of course, all those special features like filmmaker commentaries, deleted scenes, and blooper reels. If you’re considering upgrading from a standard Blu-ray player or want to get back into collecting movies in the fear that all the streaming services could one day go dark, we’ve found the best Black Friday deals on a 4K Blu-ray player and classic films.

Panasonic DP-UB420-K Streaming 4K Blu-ray Player $197.99 (Was $247.99)

SEE IT

The Panasonic DP-UB420-K is a 4K Blu-ray player designed for the streaming age, and it’s currently $50 off thanks to a Black Friday deal. In addition to playing 4K Blu-ray (plus standard Blu-rays and DVDs), the DP-UB420-K doubles as a media streamer. That means you can access services like Netflix and Prime Video directly from the player when you’re not watching disks. The DP-UB420-K supports the latest HDR (high dynamic range) video formats, high-resolution audio formats, and even supports Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free operation. If you want to see movies the way the director intended, this is as close as you’ll get at home.

Looking to expand your film library? Spin through these 4K Blu-ray deals:

• Reservoir Dogs, $9.33 (Was $13.99)
• Everything Everywhere All At Once, $9.99 (Was $11.99)
• Terminator 2: Judgement Day, $7.99 (Was $22.99)
• BELLE Collector’s Edition, $32.99 (Was $44.10)
• Interstellar, $22.78 (Was $25.99)
• WarGames, $17.99 (Was $21.36)
• The Fifth Element, $11.99 (Was $30.99)
• Harry Potter: 8-Film Collection, $92.95 (Was $178.99)
• The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy, $74.99 (Was $89.99)
• Back to the Future: The Ultimate Trilogy, $28.49 (Was $55.98)
• Men in Black Set, $33.49 (Was $65.99)
• Game of Thrones: The Complete Collection, $99.99 (Was $219.99)
• The Dark Knight Trilogy, $34.99 (Was $70.99)

Need somewhere to showcase all that 4K goodness? Shop these amazing deals on Samsung screens.

The post Get the best picture and price with $50 off a Panasonic 4K Blu-ray player at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Shark and Ninja are known for creating well-priced products that perform better than their expensive competitors. They also changed the appliance game. I personally remember when the Ninja Creami was all over my TikTok For You page, with lots of creators making protein ice cream just by freezing some Fairlife. Whether you’re living that lactose life or not, you can save on Shark and Ninja products, like a vacuum to clean up after family visits you, at Amazon this Black Friday.

Shark AI Ultra Voice Control Robot Vacuum with Matrix Clean Navigation $299.99 (Was $599.99)

SEE IT

The smart robovac can be controlled using the SharkClean app (for iOS and Android) or your voice. It has Matrix Clean tech, which leaves no crumb left behind by passing over unclean areas multiple times. The bagless, self-emptying base holds up to 60 days of dirt, and a self-cleaning brushroll picks up more hair lingering in your home. 360-degree LiDAR vision maps your home so the robovac can detect and avoid objects in its path, day or night.

• Shark S3501 Steam Pocket Mop Hard Floor Cleaner $53.99 (Was $89.99)
• Shark HD112BRN HyperAIR Hair Blow Dryer with Alligator Clips $145.86 (Was $247.97)
• Shark Scrub + Steam Blaster $119.99 (Was $199.99)
• Shark HZ3002 Stratos Ultralight Corded Stick Vacuum $199.99 (Was $299.99)
• Shark HP201 Clean Sense Air Purifier MAX for Home $169.99 (Was $329.99)
• Shark RV2620WD AI Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop $249.99 (Was $449.99)
• Shark IX141 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum with XL Dust Cup $149.99 (Was $259.99)

Ninja OO101 Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Oven $399.99 (Was $600.95)

SEE IT

If you handle the cooking in your house, consider this outdoor oven your new bestie. This bundle includes a Pizza Peel to make (surprise!) pizza, an oven cover to protect your precious new toy from the elements, an outdoor stand, and pellets. It has eight functions in one, with settings like Pizza, Max Roast, Specialty Roast, Broil, Bake, Smoker, and Dehydrate to keep your creative chef brain quite content with all the new recipes you can make. Best of all, there’s no flame involved. Save the fire for the digital Yule log.

• Ninja DCM201 14 Cup, Programmable Coffee Maker XL Pro with Permanent Filter $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ninja K32014 Foodi NeverDull Premium Knife System, 9 Piece Knife Block Set with Built-in Sharpener $129.99 (Was $199)
• Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System with 72 oz Blending & Food Processing Pitcher $139.99 (Was $239.99)
• Ninja PB051 Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker $79.99 (Was $129.99)
• Ninja CW202GY Foodi NeverStick PossiblePot $75 (Was $129.99)
• Ninja BN701 Professional Plus Blender $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Ninja CW102RD Foodi NeverStick PossiblePan, Premium Set with 4-Quart Capacity Pan $84.99 (Was $129.99)

Looking for more appliance deals? Check out these sales from Insant Pot, KitchenAid, and more.

The post Shop these major Shark and Ninja appliance discounts at Amazon for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Having a lukewarm beverage is one of the largest party fouls at a holiday shindig. There’s always a shortage of ice! There’s so much schmoozing happening that our hot boozy beverage becomes tepid! We give thanks if you didn’t experience this at turkey dinner and want to make sure it doesn’t happen when Christmas ham or any other festive favorites roll around. Keep your drinks hot and/or cold all night all year with this Yeti tumbler and insulated koozie deal at Amazon.

YETI Rambler 16 oz. Colster Tall Can Insulator for Tallboys & 16 oz. Cans $15 (Was $30)

SEE IT

This stainless steel, vacuum-insulated Tall Colster is great for anything that involves a 16-ounce can: a holiday work party; meeting the parents for the first time; a winter football tailgate; and more. It’s dishwasher-safe and can accommodate a Liquid Death pounder can.

Here are more Yeti deals happening for Amazon Black Friday:

• YETI Rambler 14 oz Vacuum Insulated Mug $21 (Was $30)
• YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L, Nordic Purple $161 (Was $230)
• YETI Lowlands Blanket $140 (Was $200)
• YETI Boomer 4, Stainless Steel, Non-Slip Dog Bowl $28 (Was $40)
• YETI Rambler Half Gallon Jug $70 (Was $100)
• YETI Rambler 64 oz Bottle, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Chug Cap $45.50 (Was $65)
• YETI Rambler Gallon Jug $91 (Was $130)
• YETI Rambler 26 oz Straw Cup, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Straw Lid, Stainless $26.25 (Was $36.81)
• YETI Rambler 16 oz Stackable Pint, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with MagSlider Lid $22.50 (Was $30)

The post Sip, sip, hooray: Shop the best Yeti Black Friday deals at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

SEE IT

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

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

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

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

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

Are you looking to upgrade your tools when it comes to cooking? Black Friday is the ideal time to save big on appliances and kitchen gadgets you’ll rely on every day to get food on plates. But what if you’re feeling a little more analog when it comes to setting the kitchen mood and dining room table? We’ve found deep discounts on heritage cookware that’ll last a lifetime, from non-stick pots and pans that’ll save you time at the sink. This is a range for the range, so no outlet will be necessary to take advantage of any of the gear you’ll find below—just add stove, a counter, and an appetite. We’ve sussed out sales on staples and splurges, plus anything in between. These Black Friday deals are active now and will only be around for a limited time, so if you hunger for something, act fast.

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven $287.95 (was $359.95)

SEE IT

No kitchen tool has become as iconic as Le Creuset’s Dutch ovens, lauded worldwide for their even cooking, extreme durability, and simple-yet-striking look. This Black Friday discount brings the 3.5-quart size down to its lowest price ever. The big appeal to using a Dutch oven from Le Creuset is its even heating, which will prevent sauces from scorching or the bottom of bread loaves from burning. The enamel coating on this French-made cookware piece is thick enough to prevent chipping, while its handles make it easy to transfer from the stovetop to your oven and vice versa. Le Creuset cookware is always a splurge, but this Black Friday deal makes it a little more accessible.

Le Creuset deals

• Le Creuset Stoneware Heritage Square Dish, $43.95 (Was $54.95)
• Le Creuset Stoneware Rectangular Dish, $99.94 (Was $124.95)
• Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Bread Oven, $216 (Was $299.95)
• Le Creuset Enamel On Steel Stockpot, $91.94 (Was $114.95)
• Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Braiser, $294.35 (Was $367.95)
• Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Oval Skinny Griddle, $79.95 (Was $139.95)
• Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 15.75 Inch Oval Skillet, $179.95 (Was $270)

Made In deals

• Made In Cookware 10″ Non Stick Frying Pan, $109 (Was $129)
• Made In Cookware Dutch Oven 5.5 Quart, $209 (Was $249)

OXO deals

• OXO Brew Tea Infuser Basket 6 oz., $11.96 (Was $14.95)
• OXO BREW Twisting Tea Ball Infuser, $9.56 (Was $11.95)
• OXO Good Grips Grilling 3pc Set, $25 (Was $32.95)

Staub deals

• Staub Cast Iron 10-inch Fry Pan, $99.95 (Was $243)
• Staub Ceramics 4-pc Baking Pans Set, $98.96 (Was $109.95)
• Staub La Cocotte de Gohan, $128.32 (Was $162.22)
• Staub Dark Blue Round Cocotte, $182.40 (Was $235.11)
• Staub Boussole Line Ceramic Deep Plate, $25.59 (Was $42.80)

Rubbermaid deals

• Rubbermaid Brilliance BPA Free Food Storage Containers with Lids, $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• Rubbermaid FreshWorks Produce Saver, Medium and Large Storage Containers, $29.99 (Was $39.99)
• Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container, Salad and Snack Lunch Combo Kit, $25.30 (Was $30.46)
• Rubbermaid Commercial Products Food/Meat Instant Read Thermometer, $6.12 (Was $8.29)
• Rubbermaid Commercial Products High Heat Resistant Silicone Heavy Duty Spatula, $10.37 (Was $22.42)

All-Clad deals

• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set, $55.96 (Was $109.98)
• All-Clad D5 5-Ply Brushed Stainless Steel Cookware Set, $734.86 (Was $1,429.94)
• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set, $405.66 (Was $799.92)
• All-Clad Pro-Release Nonstick Bakeware Set, $159.99 (Was $291.91)
• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick SaucePan, $55.99 (Was $69.99)
• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Stockpot, $79.96 (Was $99.99)
• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Grill, $47.96 (Was $59.99)
• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan, $79.95 (Was $99.99)
• All-Clad Pro-Release Nonstick Bakeware Loaf Pan, $19.99 (Was $27.99)
• All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Frying pan cookware Set, $160.99 (Was $229.99)
• All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Chef’s Pan, $79.99 (Was $99.99)

T-fal deals

• T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set, $125.99 (Was $179.99)
• T-fal Ingenio Nonstick Cookware Set, $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• T-fal Experience Nonstick Fry Pan Set, $49.48 (Was $75.99)
• T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Jumbo Cooker, $48.40 (Was $59.99)
• T-fal Cast Iron Enameled Dutch Oven, $55.99 (Was $79.99)

Our Place deals

• Our Place Always Pan 2.0, $98 (Was $150)
• Our Place Ovenware Set, $149 (Was $195)
• Our Place Cast Iron Hot Grill, $69 (Was $95)
• Our Place Cast Iron Perfect Pot, $129 (Was $175)

Cuisinart deals

• Nordic Ware Platinum Collection Anniversary Bundt Pan, $33.95 (Was $57.50)
• Cuisinart C55CB-11PM Advantage Cutlery 11-Piece Marble Knife Cutting Board and Knife Set, $16.80 (Was $21.99)
• Cuisinart 3 Qt Casserole, $48.96 (Was $69.95)
• Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick Bakeware 15-Inch Baking Sheet, $12.50 (Was $15.95)
• Cuisinart FCT193-18 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 3-Quart Saucepot with Cover, $66.46 (was $94.95)

KitchenAid deals

• KitchenAid Classic Plastic Cutting Board, $11.08 (Was $17.43)
• KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears, $7.22 (Was $11.99)
• KitchenAid 5 Quart Ceramic Bowl, $74.99 (Was $99.99)
• KitchenAid Gourmet 4-Sided Stainless Steel Box Grater, $16.15 (Was $24.99)
• KitchenAid KE199OHOBA Classic Multifunction Can Opener, $9.68 (Was $14.99)
• KitchenAid Gourmet Multi Sided Meat Tenderizer, $13.94 (Was $21.99)
• KitchenAid Classic Slotted Turner, $6.79 (Was $9.99)

The post 50+ sizzling Black Friday cookware deals you can get right now appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Black Friday deals are here, and we’ve seen deep discounts on some of the best appliances we’ve tested, like this KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 stand mixer, now a whopping $110 off at Amazon.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Stand Mixer $349.99 (Was $459.99)

SEE IT

Appliances can cut your cooking time in half and are necessary to make some recipes, but they can get expensive fast. No appliance is as iconic as the KitchenAid stand mixer, and getting a $110 discount on its Artisan Series 5 for Black Friday is no small feat. If we could only recommend one Black Friday appliance deal, it’s this stand mixer, which will last a lifetime. The five-quart mixer has 10-speed settings and comes with a whisk, beater, and dough hook attachment. These three tools will allow you to make bread, cookie dough, cake batter, whipped cream, and most sweet treats in between. You can extend its usefulness with optional accessories, which coincidentally are also on sale.

KitchenAid appliance deals

• KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $279.95 (was $379.99)
• KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, $499.95 (Was $599.99)
• KitchenAid KSMPEXTA Gourmet Pasta Press Attachment, $169.99 (Was $219.99)
• KitchenAid KSM2FPA Food Processor Attachment, $159.95 (was $249.99)
• KitchenAid Spiralizer Plus Attachment, $98.99 (Was $149.99)
• KitchenAid KGM All Metal Grain Mill Attachment, $114.95 (Was $149.99)
• KitchenAid KSMPSA Pasta Roller Attachment, $74.99 (Was $99.99)
• KitchenAid Fresh Prep Slicer/Shredder, $44.95 (Was $59.99)
• KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment, $69.95 (Was $99.99)
• KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachment, $39.99 (Was $59.99)

Breville appliance deals

• Breville the Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro, $439.95 (was $549.95)
• Breville Blender & Juicer, $149.94 (Was $299.95)
• Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo Pizza Oven, $799.95 (Was $999.95)
• Breville the Smart Oven Compact Convection, $179.95 (Was $199.95)
• Breville Mini Smart Toaster Oven, $127.95 (Was $179.95)
• Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Single Serve Coffee Maker, $524.97 (Was $749.95)

De’Longhi appliance deals

• De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, $85.66 (Was $91.99)
• De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, $119.95 (Was $207.95)
• De’Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine, $200 (Was $249.95)
• De’Longhi La Specialista Arte EC9155MB, Espresso Machine with Grinder, $499.95 (Was $699.95)
• De’Longhi ECAM37095TI Dinamica Plus with LatteCrema System, $1,299.95 (Was $1,678.39)
• De’Longhi Magnifica Evo with LatteCrema System, $599.95 (Was $899.95)
• De’Longhi TrueBrew Drip Coffee Maker, Built in Grinder, $449.95 (Was $499.95)
• De’Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine, $699.95 (Was $899.95)
• De’Longhi EC885M Dedica Arte Espresso Machine, $249.95 (Was $299.95)
• De’Longhi EC9255M La Specialista Arte Evo Espresso Machine with Cold Brew, $549.95 (Was $749.95)

Ninja appliance deals

• Ninja GR101 Sizzle Smokeless Indoor Grill & Griddle, $79.99 (Was $139.99)
• Ninja MC1001 Foodi PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart Multi-Cooker, $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Ninja OL701 Foodi 14-in-1 SMART XL, $199.99 (Was $349.99)
• Ninja Thirsti Drink System, $149.98 (Was $179.99)
• Ninja BC51NV Blast Portable Blender, $49.99 (Was $59.99)
• Ninja SP351 Foodi Smart 13-in-1 Dual Heat Air Fry Countertop Oven, $169.99 (Was $329.99)
• Ninja DG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill, $159.98 (Was $279.99)
• Ninja CE251 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Brewer with Permanent Filter, $59.99 (Was $79.99)
• Ninja SS401 Foodi Power Blender Ultimate System, $139.99 (Was $239.99)
• Ninja DT251 Foodi 10-in-1 Smart XL, $199.99 (Was $329.99)
• Ninja AMZ493BRN Compact Kitchen System, $99.99 (Was $159.99)
• Ninja SS351 Foodi Power Blender & Processor System, $99.99 (Was $199.99)

OXO appliance deals

• OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder with Scale, $159 (Was $299.95)
• OXO Brew Adjustable Temperature Kettle, $83.95 (Was $104.95)
• OXO Brew Conical Burr Coffee Grinder, $78.99 (Was $99.95)
• OXO BREW 6 Lb. Precision Coffee Scale with Timer, $44.79 (Was $55.95)
• OXO Brew 9 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Maker, $183.95 (Was $229.95)

Instant Pot appliance deals

• Instant Pot Duo Plus, $69.99 (Was $129.99)
• Instant Pot 10-Quart Air Fryer, $89.99 (Was $149.99)
• Instant Pot Milk Frother, $25.49 (Was $34.99)
• Instant Pot Vortex Plus, $59.95 (Was $109.95)
• Instant Electric Round Dutch Oven, $149.95 (was $229.99)
• Instant Pot Pod, 3-in-1 Espresso, K-Cup Pod and Ground Coffee Maker, $129.90 (Was $159.99)
• Instant Pot Omni Pro, $149.99 (Was $299.95)

Typhur appliance deals

• Typhur InstaProbe, $79 (Was $109)
• Typhur Sync Wireless Meat Thermometer for Grill, $183 (Was $229)
• Typhur Dome Air Fryer, $399 (Was $499)

Foodsaver appliance deals

• FoodSaver VS0150 Vacuum Sealing Machine, $69.99 (Was $94.99)
• FoodSaver 5800 Series Vacuum Sealer Machine, $199.99 (Was $314.99)
• FoodSaver V4400 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer Machine, $149.99 (was $199.49)
• FoodSaver 4800 Series Vacuum Sealer Machine, $169.99 (Was $239.99)
• FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Machine with Automatic Bag Detection, $109.99 (Was $146.98)

Cosori appliance deals

• COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer, $84.99 (Was $99.99)
• COSORI Pro III Air Fryer Dual Blaze, $127.49 (Was $149.99)
• COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo, $109.98 (Was $129.99)
• COSORI Food Dehydrator Machine, $42.49 (Was $49.99)
• COSORI Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, $109.96 (Was $129.99)
• COSORI 11-in-1 26-Quart Ceramic Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, $199.99 (Was $259.99)
• COSORI Electric Pressure Cooker 6 Quart, 9-in-1 Instant Multi Cooker, $75.99 (Was $89.99)
• COSORI Food Dehydrator, $135.99 (Was $159.99)

Meater thermometer deals

• Original MEATER: Wireless Digital Smart Meat Thermometer, $54.95 (Was $69.95)
• MEATER Block: 4-Probe Premium WiFi Smart Meat Thermometer, $224.95 (Was $349.95)

Fellow coffee accessory deals

• Fellow Tally Pro Studio Digital Coffee Scale, $148 (Was $185)
• Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Tea Kettle, $132 (Was $165)
• Fellow Clara French Press Coffee Maker, $108 (Was $135)
• Fellow Stagg Pour-Over Coffee Maker Set, $79.20 (was $99)
• Fellow Gen 2 Ode Brew Grinder, $276 (Was $345)
• Fellow Opus Conical Burr Coffee Grinder, $156 (Was $195)
• Fellow Stagg Stovetop Pour-Over Coffee and Tea Kettle, $68 (Was $85)

The post Save on KitchenAid stand mixers, Instant Pots, and more with Black Friday appliance deals at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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

A 4K projector is the type of uber-indulgent gadget every home theater enthusiast desires but finds clicking “add to cart” hard to justify. Enter Xgimi’s Black Friday deal. The company has knocked $900 off the price of its premium short-throw laser projector. What’s more, you can get its most entry-level HD projector for just $249, which is an incredible price for a gift you (or a gamer or movie lover in your life) would enjoy.

XGIMI Aura 4K UHD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector $1,599 (Was $2,499)

SEE IT

The Aura 4K is Xgimi’s latest and greatest laser projector. It can create a 120-inch 4K image from 11.7 inches away from your wall. If you’ve put off getting a projector because your room isn’t deep enough, the Aura 4K solves that issue. If you have more space, you can use this projector to create a 150-inch image. The Aura 4K is equipped with a pair of 15-watt Harman Kardon speakers, two HDMI ports, three USB-A ports, an Ethernet jack, an optical audio output, and a headphone jack. It runs Android TV, so you can stream media from the most popular apps directly from the projector. If you’ve been interested in upgrading your home theater setup from a TV to a projector, you won’t find a better Black Friday deal than this $900 discount on the Xgimi Aura 4K.

Xgimi projector deals

• XGIMI MoGo 2 Portable Projector, $249 (Was $399)
• XGIMI Horizon Pro 4K Projector, $1,099 (Was $ 1,699)
• XGIMI HORIZON 1080p FHD Projector, $799 (Was $1,099)
• XGIMI Halo+ 1080P Portable Projector, $649.99 (Was $849)
• XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector, $479 (Was $649)
• XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro 1080P Portable Projector, $509.99 (Was $599)

The post This isn’t an illusion: save up to $900 on a 4K projector at Amazon for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Blink Mini		SEE IT	A small camera packed with features like motion detection.
Best system		SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System		SEE IT	Expand from protecting just one room with this system.
Best budget		WYZE Cam v3		SEE IT	Simple, cheap, easy.

Indoor security cameras can be invaluable if you’re curious about what happens when you’re not home. How are your pets when it’s your day to go to work? Are the children revolting against the babysitter? You can ponder about it and give yourself a heart attack or simply set up a camera and see for yourself. We don’t think setting one up will reveal new horrors to you, but we do think you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have an eye on your home when you’re not there. Extra features like motion detection, voice assistant compatibility, and cloud storage allow you to get the most out of your new indoor viewpoint. Ensure your house is a shenanigan-free place with the best indoor security cameras.

• Best overall: Blink Mini
• Best system: SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera
• Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

How we chose the best indoor security cameras

I’ve previously written about the commercial security industry in a past life, so I know what features to look out for when purchasing a DIY model. I also edit/oversee the majority of smart home coverage here at the ye olde PopSci Gear desk (#subjectmatterexpert). To choose the best indoor security cameras, I looked at reviews, recommendations, did heavy research, and looked at past home security coverage for inspo.

The best indoor security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Some of these cameras do double duty and can work outdoors, but any of these models is made to keep a careful, watchful eye over your hearth and home.

Best overall: Blink Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired
• Viewing angle: 110 degrees diagonal
• Storage: Cloud storage

Pros

• Two-way audio
• Day and night HD video
• Motion detection

Cons

• Needs more cameras for more comprehensive coverage

The Blink Mini is a practical, wired palm-sized cube packed with features outside its $35 price tag. If you want the most approachable way to get 1080p livestream video with infrared night vision into your Alexa-maintained (or IFTTT-automated) monitoring routine, this is the best minimalist model to pick. It’s incredibly compact and features motion detection and two-way audio. More cameras, restricted to available wall sockets, might be required for the most comprehensive, widescreen coverage, but it’s not a heavy lift at this price. It also doesn’t feature the same audio triggers as Ring devices and only saves clips to the cloud. If you’d like a device with a 360-degree view, consider the Blink Mini Pan-Tilt Camera.

Best system: SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery 
• Viewing angle: 90 degrees
• Storage: Cloud storage only

Pros

• Lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box
• Outside cam has a very good quality video with 90 degrees field of view
• Easy to install and use
• Comes with a professional monitoring option
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant 
• Includes convenient magnetic mount

Cons

• Expensive
• Lacks support for HomeKit 

If you’re looking to install an indoor security camera and a DIY home security system along with it, the SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System might be your best bet. It’s pricey but far less expensive than buying the components individually. But even more importantly, it lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box.

The kit includes a 1080p camera, a base station, keypad, two motion sensors, and four entry sensors. All the components, including the cameras, connect to the base station, generating a loud siren to scare off intruders. Although the inside security camera isn’t the most robust model, the outside camera offers very good quality video with color night vision. What’s also nice is that the SimpliSafe mobile app (for iOS and Android) is nicely designed to let you effectively interact with your entire setup, and it comes with the option of including a professional monitoring system. However, for the price, it would be nice if both cameras had the option to store videos locally. 

Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 4K
• Power: Wireless
• Viewing angle: 180 degrees
• Storage: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage (sold separately)

Pros 

• Compatible with major smart technologies
• Cloud subscriptions are relatively inexpensive
• Color night vision is very good

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit compatibility
• May not be as sturdy as other models

This wireless, weather-resistant security camera isn’t one of the cheapest on the market, but it captures excellent 4K video. It also provides you with the option of storing your videos in cloud storage or on local storage using a microSD memory card. 

Two cameras are included in this bundle, and you can use them indoors and outdoors. You can see faces, license plates, and there’s even color night vision. WiFi isn’t required to use, thanks to the Arlo Smart Hub. A 180-degree field of view catches everything happening in the room. And, with an Arlo Secure Plan, you can receive notifications for people, vehicles, packages, or ward off unwanted indoor guests by triggering the siren.

Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees diagonal, 110 degrees horizontal, 57 degrees vertical
• Storage: Cloud (available with subscription)

Pros

• Robust app
• Lots of accessories and integrations
• Indoor- and outdoor-friendly

Cons

• Strategic placement is important
• Some features require Ring’s cloud plan

When you hear the brand Ring, you may immediately think about doorbell cams, which is understandable. But this Ring is more versatile, at home on any flat surface or wall. This Ring Stick Up Cam Battery has 1080p video with a 110-degree horizontal/57-degree vertical field of view, so strategic placement is important. And some features require paying for Ring’s cloud plan, but it’s a quickly up-and-running value with a robust app, particularly great for folks who already have Alexa devices (Amazon now owns Ring). And, because it’s an Amazon product, there are copious accessories (such as solar panels) for those inclined to upgrade.

Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees
• Storage: microSD card

Pros

• Two-way audio
• IP65 weather resistance
• Continuous recording with microSD card

Cons

• Lacks removable battery

While it won’t win awards for aesthetics (unless you have fond memories of playing with building blocks as a child), the WYZE Cam exceeds in inexpensive efficiency as long as you don’t mind dedicating some in-home space. The WYZE outdoor security camera is weather-resistant for deployment around your home (network) perimeter, but it’s also easily detachable with a “Travel Mode” that allows you to take the camera with you to record video directly to your phone without WiFi. There are sacrifices—like the lack of a removable battery, so you have to dismount the entire camera for charging—but it’s magnetically connected, so that’s just a simple twist.

What to consider when buying the best indoor security cameras

Easy-to-install indoor security cameras capture just “standard” HD all the way up to 4K, storing video locally or in the cloud, permanently or temporarily. Some are part of entire home security systems.

Wireless security cameras continue to evolve at a dizzying pace, with many models coming with better connectivity and cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve a host of features. However, if you’re new to these types of cameras, it can be confusing to figure out which features, specs, and capabilities are important for you and your home security cameras. 

Here is what you should look for when you purchase an indoor security camera: 

Video resolution and field of view 

You’ll see 1080p, 2K, or 4K resolutions in indoor security cameras. A higher resolution means you’ll get a crisper image. It will also fill up your local or cloud storage faster. That’s a problem if your subscription plan or card has a fixed limit to its capacity. If you’re trying to balance subscription costs for cloud storage with what resolution you’ll need, consider how detailed of a picture you’ll need. If you need more detail, go with a higher resolution. 

You’ll also want to check a security camera’s field of view specification, which is measured in degrees and tells you how much of a particular scene your security camera is capturing. The higher the FOV number indicates a wider lens and lets you see more of a particular scene in front of your house.  

Power options and storage

When setting up a new indoor security camera, you must consider where to install it. If it’s a light bulb camera, it has obvious restrictions. But you can post the wireless, battery-powered models we recommend anywhere. Wired options, however, require a nearby outlet.

Most indoor security cameras store video in the cloud, which is convenient, but you’ll most often have to pay a fee to access them. So, if you don’t want to pay a fee for a cloud service, consider models that let you store them on a memory card. 

Other features to look for

Many brands have introduced privacy features like two-factor authentication to ensure devices are not compromised or hacked. Many brands are also making security cameras that integrate with smart home features and connections to voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and others. Some brands even offer professional monitoring services for extra protection with a subscription.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best indoor security cameras

• Best overall: Blink Mini
• Best system: SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera
• Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

You may not be able to have eyes in the back of your head, but you can have eyes in your own home. Look for an indoor security camera with a wide frame of view to capture it all, and consider wireless options so placement isn’t a problem. If you’d like to compile a highlight reel of all that’s happened in your home, you can take that video from the cloud or a microSD card and use some editing magic to make it happen. Regardless, you won’t need to sleep with one eye open. Or maybe you will, since you discovered what the dog does when you’re not around.

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 indoor security cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best 30-inch		Frigidaire FGEC3068UB Gallery 30-in. Electric Cooktop		SEE IT	Ideal for large families and folks who love hosting gatherings, this smooth surface, glass-ceramic cooktop features five burners, including a 7-inch burner and two 6-inch burners to fit a variety of pots and pans.
Best splurge		Bosch Benchmark Series 36 Inch Wide 5 Burner Induction Cooktop		SEE IT	This WiFi-connected induction cooktop offers a luxury feel and cooking experience with tons of features that make the higher price tag worth it if, especially if you’re setting up your ideal smart home.
Best budget		Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner		SEE IT	Weighing only 3.5 lbs with adjustable temperature settings and non-slip feet for safety, it’s lightweight, portable, and easy to store away in cabinets when not in use.

Electric cooktops offer a modern solution to an ancient practice. Many customers, not just those without natural gas hookups, prefer them for their sleek and polished appearance, ease of cleaning, steady heat, energy efficiency, and overall pleasant cooking experience. However, electric cooktops aren’t one size fits all. There are a wide variety of types and styles at varying price points, making selecting them difficult if you’re new to the world of electric stovetops. From induction cooktops to electric coil cooktops, we’ve done the research on the best electric cooktops in 2023 to make the world of alternative cooking methods a little less overwhelming.

• Best 30-inch: Frigidaire FGEC3068UB Gallery 30-in. Electric Cooktop
• Best two burner: Cuisinart Cast-Iron Countertop Double Burner 
• Best scratch-resistant: Viking – Professional 5 Series 36″ Electric Cooktop
• Best four burner: Karinear 4 Burner Electric Cooktop
• Best splurge: Bosch Benchmark Series 36 Inch Wide 5 Burner Induction Cooktop with FlexInduction
• Best portable: Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop
• Best budget: Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner

How we chose the best electric cooktops

We understand how many options are out there when it comes to the kitchen—whether it’s countertop smart ovens, latte machines, or more serious appliances. We wanted to represent that variety in our selections because we know there is a wide range of needs and, in turn, types of electric cooktops. Our list of best electric cooktops represents those varying needs from portability to size to number of burners. 

We looked at ratings and reviews, looking especially for commentary on durability and quality. The last thing we’d want is for your electric cooktop to be unreliable or malfunction. We paid special attention to heat times and safety features like auto shut-off, manual control knobs, hot surface indicator lights, etc. 

We also looked at value for money. Everybody’s budgets are different, but we can all agree that higher price tags should come with higher quality, features, and reliability. 

The best electric cooktops: Reviews & Recommendations

Unlike traditional gas cooktops, the best electric cooktops remove the need for an open flame by evenly distributing heat using electricity instead of gas, like a hot plate. That doesn’t mean all the options are evenly matched, so we’ve picked the best and presented them here—from renovation-worthy to giftable.

Best 30-inch: Frigidaire FGEC3068UB Gallery 30-in. Electric Cooktop

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Glass ceramic
• Product Dimensions: ‎21.38 x 30.63 x 2.63 inches
• Wattage: 32000 Watts

Pros

• Five burners at varying sizes
• Hot surface indicator lights for safety
• Fits above most wall ovens
• Quick boiling function
• Attractive and sleek

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a rubber gasket to seal the glass to counter
• Some had issues with damage during shipping

Ideal for large families, this smooth surface, glass-ceramic cooktop features five burners, including a 7-inch burner and two 6-inch burners to fit a variety of pots and pans. The fifth burner comes in handy for big gatherings or those who cook often.

We love that it heats up quickly, has Express-Select control knobs for quick boiling, and a hot surface indicator light for added safety. You also have to push down to turn the dials, making it even safer to prevent kids and pets from accidentally turning it on.

At 30 inches, this cooktop fits above most wall ovens. It looks sleek, modern, and attractive, suitable for a variety of kitchen styles. Note that it doesn’t come with a rubber gasket to seal the glass to the counter, and many complained of shipping issues and damage during transit. 

Best two burner: Cuisinart Cast-Iron Double Burner 

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Product Dimensions: 11.5″D x 19.5″W x 2.5″H
• Wattage: 1800 Watts

Pros

• Very portable
• Durable
• Great for RVs, parties, road trips, camping, short-term renters, etc
• Two separate 6-setting adjustable temperature controls
• Stable with non-slip feet

Cons

• Temp control; it heats up and cools down much slower than alternative types
• Not ideal for boiling large amounts of water

At just 10 pounds, this super-portable double burner is the ideal solution for small spaces like RVs, apartments, and dorms. It’s easy to take along with you for road trips, camping, or setting up at a party or backyard barbecue.

With a brushed stainless steel base and durable cast iron plating, it features nonslip feet, adjustable control knobs, and two different burners. The large plate features 1300 watts of power, and the small plate has only 500 watts, making it more ideal for heating up food or lightly sauteing. 

Many reviewers state that you should never try to move this after it’s been running—set it and leave it until it’s fully cooled. One knock against this model is it can be very slow to boil larger pots of water. This is best for cooking food in a pan or boiling smaller amounts, but waiting for it to boil a gallon of water will drive you nuts.

Best scratch-resistant: Viking – Professional 5 Series 36″ Electric Cooktop

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Stainless Steel/Ceramic Glass
• Product Dimensions: 6.1” x 21” x 36.7”
• Wattage: 3200 Watts

Pros

• Easy installation
• Sleek, modern, luxury appearance
• Glass is scratch-resistant and durable
• Six burners
• Bridge element to create one larger cooktop for oversized cookware

Cons

• Shows fingerprints 
• 36” is on the larger size for standard oven cooktops

The Viking Professional 5 Series 36″ Electric Cooktop has an impressive six burners made from high-quality ceramic glass that is scratch-resistant and extremely durable. As a radiant heat cooktop, this cooktop cooks your food faster and more efficiently than alternative cooking methods and is compatible with nearly all cookware.

We love that the cooktop can accommodate a variety of cookware types. It has a triple element and a bridge element to turn two elements into one for a larger cooking surface or to accommodate bulky or oddly shaped cookware. There’s also a 12” warming zone to keep meals warm conveniently. 

There’s a hot surface indicator light for added safety and BlackChrome knobs that are removable for quick, simple cleaning. Note that the glass may be scratch-resistant, but that doesn’t mean you can go hog wild. It also does show fingerprints very easily, so may require more cleaning. At just over 36”, it’s on the larger end of standard oven tops. Be sure to measure your space to ensure a proper fit.

Best four burner: Karinear 4 Burner Electric Cooktop

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Glass Ceramic
• Product Dimensions: 23.62 x 19.69 x 1.97 inches
• Wattage: 1200, 1800 Watts

Pros

• Easy installation
• Affordable, great value for money
• Several safety features
• Comes with scraper tool for easy cleaning

Cons

• Knob order/correspondence seems confusing and non-intuitive for some
• Pets (cats) can easily step on the on/off switch

This affordable, easy-to-install, hard-wired, four-burner electric cooktop has nine heat level settings that allow you to boil, stew, fry, stir fry, and melt, all with just a button switch. 

It has overheating protection and an automatic safety shut-off function when the internal temperature is too high. There are also manual knobs, so pets or children aren’t as easily able to activate the cooktop. It’s compatible with any pot or cookware. 

If you have trouble cleaning the glass, use the cooking tool provided with the cooktop. The heat indicator lights are very sensitive, which we think is ultimately a positive for added safety, but can be annoying for some users. Also, many customers found that the knobs were not intuitive and could be confusing to use; some had trouble remembering which control was for which ring. You could add a colored mark to correspond to the ring. 

Best splurge: Bosch Benchmark Series 36 Inch Wide 5 Burner Induction Cooktop with FlexInduction

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Ceramic Glass
• Product Dimensions: D21.25 in x H4.125 in. x W37 in.
• Wattage: 12,000 W

Pros

• SpeedBoost® technology adds a boost of power for faster cooking
• AutoChef technology automatically regulates cooking temperature
• FlexInduction technology for cooking flexibility
• Induction provides precise temperature control
• 17 power levels

Cons

• The app doesn’t provide much value
• Some customers desired individual timers per burner, instead of just one

If you’re going to spend top dollar on high-end electric cooktops, you want all the bells and whistles. This induction cooktop offers a luxury feel and cooking experience with tons of features that make the higher price tag worth it if you’re setting up your ideal smart home. 

The WiFi-enabled induction cooktop allows for app-controlled remote monitoring. It features a keep warm function, 17 power levels, five frying levels, and FlexInduction technology for added flexibility by combining two cooking zones into one larger zone. The AutoChef technology automatically regulates the cooking temperature, and the SpeedBoost technology adds a boost of power for faster cooking or to quickly boil water. 

It also has several safety features to keep your little ones and pets safe. Featuring a childproof lock, key lock, pan recognition, and power management function, you’ll have less worry and stress when it comes to accidents, burns, and mishaps. 

Best portable: Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Ceramic Glass
• Product Dimensions: 10″D x 12″W x 2″H
• Wattage: 600, 900, 1300 Watts

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight and compact
• Three wattage settings
• Six temp presets
• Super quick heating

Cons

• Short power cord can be inconvenient 
• No on/off switch 
• Temperature display panel is really more “watts,” which is confusing

This fun-sized induction cooktop is a handy on-the-go stove, perfect for RVs, small spaces, travel, and office use. We love that it comes with three different wattage settings: 600, 900, and 1300 watts. To give you an idea of what that means in practice, boiling water would take about 15 minutes at 600, 8-9 minutes at 900, and 5 minutes at 1300W. 

The level of temperature precision and control is superior to many other models at a price point that doesn’t break the bank. It can heat from 100 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit in 10-degree increments with six preset temperature settings. 

Now for some downsides: there’s no on/off switch, so it’s automatically on when you plug it in. This isn’t great as far as safety and energy efficiency go, especially if you’re the type that forgets to unplug your appliances. It also has a short cord that exits from the right-hand side, so you’re a bit limited on how you use it. 

This isn’t a con, but do note that for an induction cooktop, you’ll need induction-ready cookware. 

Best budget: Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Aluminum 
• Product Dimensions: 9″D x 9″W x 3.25″H
• Wattage: 1000 Watts

Pros

• Extremely affordable
• Portable 
• Compact; great for small spaces and can be stored when not in use
• Safety features

Cons

• No auto shut-off
• Can’t use cookware larger than 9.5” 
• Not ideal for boiling large pots of water

At less than $25, this single cast iron compact cooking appliance is a total steal. Weighing only 3.5 lbs with adjustable temperature settings and non-slip feet for safety, it’s lightweight, portable, and easy to store away in cabinets when not in use.

Best for sauteing and frying foods (and not so ideal for boiling large pots of water), we recommend this compact cooking solution for dorms, camping trips, and RVs rather than elaborate cooking needs unless you’re cool with waiting 30 minutes for your water to boil.

You must use cookware less than 9.5” in diameter or less than 4 qt. if it’s a pot. Note that the power indicator will turn off when the desired temperature has been reached, so it will re-activate when it needs to raise the temperature as an overheating safety measure. The hot plate itself hasn’t turned off!

Things to consider when buying an electric cooktop

The primary thing that will guide your decision when buying an electric cooktop is space. You’ll obviously need a different cooktop if you’re a van-lifer than if you’re building your dream kitchen. And even beyond that, you’ll need to consider the layout of your space—whether you want a cooktop near the sink, on an island, that can tuck into a cabinet, etc. And the available dimensions will also dictate the number and configuration of burners you end up with—typically two, four, or five—and their size/number of heating elements, which will all impact your creativity and flexibility while cooking.

There is also what’s under the cooking surface that you must consider. Radiant and induction heating elements operate differently and require different cookware. Radiant heat is more traditional in that heat radiants from it and into any cookware, while induction uses electromagnetism, which requires compatible cookware with magnetic discs in the base, allowing the pots and pans to become the heating surface itself and leaving the cooktop’s surface cool to the touch. So, if you like ceramic, glass, copper, and aluminum cookware, go radiant. If you’re worried kids might touch stuff, maybe induction is better.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best electric cooktops

• Best 30-inch: Frigidaire FGEC3068UB Gallery 30-in. Electric Cooktop
• Best two burner: Cuisinart Cast-Iron Double Burner 
• Best scratch-resistant: Viking – Professional 5 Series 36″ Electric Cooktop
• Best four burner: Karinear 4 Burner Electric Cooktop
• Best splurge: Bosch Benchmark Series 36 Inch Wide 5 Burner Induction Cooktop with FlexInduction
• Best portable: Nuwave Flex Precision Induction Cooktop
• Best budget: Elite Gourmet ESB-301BF Countertop Single Cast Iron Burner

Electric cooktops are a great choice for those looking to modernize their kitchen experience. Whether you’re sick and tired of cleaning gas stoves, want a more even heat distribution, are looking for better energy efficiency, need a hot plate for on-the-go use, or simply like the appearance of a smooth stovetop with touch controls, there are many reasons you may be drawn to one of these top electric cooktops. 

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 electric cooktops of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager		SEE IT	This option features eight massage heads and uses infrared heat to provide relief to sore muscles.
Best for athletes		Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro		SEE IT	This powerful percussion massager operates at five different speeds and comes with five head attachments to customize the sensation.
Best budget		Homedics Neck Massager with Heat		SEE IT	This affordable model provides Shiatsu and vibrational massage and lets users control the intensity.

Working from home may be more comfortable in many ways, but it can also do a number on your muscles—the kind of number that calls for a neck massager. Typing with your laptop in your lap on the couch or looking down at your phone throughout the day can cause tightness and strain in your neck. According to John Hopkins Medicine, at least 25 percent of Americans experience neck or back pain at some point in their lives.

Investing in a neck massager is one way to get some relief at home. These devices “significantly improve blood circulation in the neck region,” says Kevin Huffman, D.O., specializing in bariatric surgery and treating whiplash and other car accident injuries. “Improved blood circulation delivers not only instantaneous relief, it also hastens the recovery process and delivery of vital nutrients to impacted areas.”

He adds that neck massagers also provide rhythmic pulses on pressure points that help alleviate muscle tension, which lessens pain and promotes relaxation. So, if you’ve got some knots in your neck, we’ve rounded up the best neck massagers to provide some relief.

• Best overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best for neck, shoulders, and back: Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager
• Best intelligent: COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager
• Best handheld: TruMedic Massage Gun
• Best for athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro
• Best pillow: Homedics Back and Neck Massager, Portable Shiatsu All Body Massage Pillow
• Best mini: Theragun Mini Gen 4
• Best budget: Homedics Neck Massager with Heat

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain is the fourth leading cause of disability around the globe. While most acute cases resolve themselves within about a month, nearly 50 percent of people go on to experience more pain or frequent occurrences. This pain can result from both our environment and underlying conditions.

“Our lifestyle choices contribute to neck pain. These include enduring constant stress—whether professional or personal—which often precipitates physical manifestations of the tension we feel; one such manifestation is chronic neck discomfort,” Huffman says. “Moreover, a lack of attention towards ergonomic health in our work and living environments can permit conditions that exert undue pressure upon our necks, resulting in persistent strain and subsequent pain.”

As we increasingly adopt sedentary lifestyles and become more dependent on technology, the prevalence of neck pain could get worse. Poor posture is, arguably, the most pervasive cause. “And in our digital age, a modern epidemic known as tech neck has emerged due to continual strain on the neck muscles from looking down at handheld devices,” Huffman says. “And as we age, the degeneration caused by wear and tear on our neck joints can lead to painful sensations.” Chronic conditions like migraine and osteoporosis can also result in neck pain. And muscle soreness can also result from strenuous exercise and injury.

That said, neck massagers can only do so much. If your neck pain is a result of an injury or underlying condition, you should always consult your healthcare provider if your aches increase or persist over time.

How we chose the best neck massagers

In searching for the best neck massagers to help alleviate some of that pain, we considered options from leading brands, including Homedics and Victor Jurgen. We also prioritized the new technologies developed by Hyperice and Theragun. We looked for various form factors in these devices, from massage guns to U-shaped models people hang around their necks. In addition, we considered the types of massage provided by these devices, whether they provided heat, and how customizable and portable they were. We also consulted user reviews when making our picks.

The best neck massagers: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re looking to relieve tech neck, are searching for some targeted relief after a tough workout, or are looking for some respite from a chronic condition, these neck massagers can help relieve muscle tension and help you feel more relaxed.

Best overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: High, medium, and low

Pros

• Allows you to customize intensity of massage
• Heated
• Can be used on different parts of the body
• Affordable

Cons

• Controls are small
• Extension cord isn’t long

When your neck is aching after a long day working on a computer, VIKTOR JURGEN’s Neck and Shoulder Massager can rescue you. This massager is designed with eight massage heads and infrared heat for deep tissue Shiatsu massage. Just plug this massager in, pull it around your neck and shoulders, and choose between high, medium, and low-intensity settings for targeted relief. It will knead tired muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders and provides about 113 degrees Fahrenheit of heat to encourage blood flow. The controls on the front of the device also allow you to customize the Shiatsu massage in three modes: Auto-Reversing, Single Direction, and Timed Interval, which goes for 15 minutes before it automatically shuts off.

Best for neck, shoulders, and back: Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: High, medium, low

Pros

• Works on different types of body
• Can turn heat on or off
• Compact

Cons

• Attached to cord

The Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager has lots in common with our best overall pick. This massager is similarly designed for users to hang around their neck and control the deep kneading settings with the control panel on the handles. Users choose between three intensities: high, medium, and low. Heat is an option you can turn on and off. This neck massager is particularly attractive because of its easy portability and the option to use it all over the body: shoulders, lower back, calves, and more. Looking for more targeted relief? Check out the best back massagers.

Best intelligent: COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Six modes, including Shiatsu
• Weight: .72 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Heat: Ranges from 100.4 to 118.4 degrees F
• Settings: Cupping, tapping, scraping, Shiatsu, acupuncture, and relaxation, plus 15 levels of electric muscle stimulation (EMS)

Pros

• Provides six different types of massager
• Offer 15 levels of EMS
• Features two electrodes for extra coverage
• Portable

Cons

• Some users had a hard time getting it to work

If you’re looking for a greater range of therapy from a neck massager, the COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager might be the right option. This battery-powered U-shaped device features six modes of massage: Cupping, tapping, scraping, Shiatsu, acupuncture, and relaxation. This massager also incorporates 15 levels of electric muscle stimulation, which uses electricity to stimulate muscle contractions. You can also incorporate heat into the experience, which ranges from 100.4 to 118.4 degrees F, and change the settings through a remote control. And the battery life is impressive as well. The company says a three-hour charge should last up to 10 days.

Best handheld: TruMedic Massage Gun

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Percussion
• Weight: 3.61 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Heat: No
• Settings: Six levels, plus

Pros

• Versatile
• Powerful
• Portable

Cons

• Should only use low settings on neck

People who need more powerful relief may want to consider a massage gun like this option from TruMedic. This percussion massager features six frequency settings, from 2,000 to 7,000 vibrations per minute. The TruMedic also comes with six interchangeable heads that users can use to customize the intensity of their massage. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, this massage gun has a quiet motor and can last up to four hours on a single charge. And it’s also ultra-portable and can be used all over the body.

Best for athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Percussion
• Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Heat: No
• Settings: Five percussion speeds

Pros

• Modern design
• Powerful
• Comes with five head attachments for customizations

Cons

• Expensive
• No heat

Muscle soreness is common for athletes, so investing in a high-quality massager for your whole body makes sense. The powerful HyperVolt 2 features five different head attachments to customize your experience: fork, ball, cushion, flat, and bullet. This gun also operates at five speeds, but given the sensitivity of the neck area, Hypervolt recommends that you use the slow and easy setting around that area. This massage gun may be overkill if you’re only concerned about your neck. But if your whole body needs relief, this massage gun is up to the task.

Best pillow: Homedics Back and Neck Massager, Portable Shiatsu All Body Massage Pillow

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu, vibration
• Weight: 4.18 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: Shiatsu, heat, vibration

Pros

• Comfortable
• Versatile
• Easy to use

Cons

• Doesn’t provide range of vibration or heat levels

When you just want to lie your head down at the end of a long day and relieve your aching neck, consider Homedics’ Body Massage Pillow. This cushion has massage nodes that let you switch between Shiatsu, vibration, and heated settings. The pillow adjusts to the contours of your body and can be used for your back, shoulders, and calves, as well. The heat also has an automatic shut-off after 15 minutes should you be lulled into slumber. If you’re looking for full-body relaxation, check out the best massage chairs.

Best mini: Theragun Mini Gen 4

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Percussion 
• Weight: 1 pound
• Power: Battery
• Heat: No 
• Settings: Three speeds

Pros

• Small
• Powerful
• Ergonomically designed
• Works on range of body parts

Cons

• Expensive
• No heat

The Theragun Mini Gen 4 provides impressive power in an extremely portable package. This pocket-sized, battery-powered percussion massager weighs in at just one pound. Yet it can provide up to 20 pounds of pressure. It’s ergonomically designed to be easy to hold, and you’ll want to use the lowest speed for your neck. But this deceptively small device can provide relief for your whole body.

Best budget: Homedics Neck Massager with Heat

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu and vibration
• Weight: 1.14 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: Shiatsu, vibration, heat

Pros

• Affordable
• Provides Shiatsu massage, vibration, and heat
• Lets you combine settings
• Portable

Cons

• Some users say it doesn’t fit ergonomically on the neck

If you’re looking for a neck massager that covers the basics but doesn’t cost a lot, Homedics’ Neck Massager with Heat checks all the boxes. This device lets users switch between Shiatsu massage, vibration, and heat modes or use them together for maximum relief. This foam massager is also comfortable, and the handles let you manually control the intensity of the experience. You can also complement this device with one of the best foot massagers.

What to consider when choosing the best neck massager

There are lots of options on the market for massagers. Before making a purchase, consider these elements to find the best option for you.

Types of massage

Neck massagers feature several types of massage, and some combine different methods. The most common are:

Shiatsu: Originating in Japan, Shiatsu, which translates as “finger pressure,” is a type of massage in which practitioners use their hands and fingers to knead muscles to release tension. Neck massagers that feature Shiatsu massage mimic that kneading motion. 

Vibrating: Vibrating massagers vibrate at a frequency, typically between 20 and 60 hertz, that causes muscles to contract and relax in quick succession, increasing blood flow to the muscles.

Percussion: Percussion massage combines vibrating massage with quick, forceful, and repetitive motions that encourage circulation and oxygen and nutrient flow to the muscles. Massage guns typically are percussion massagers, and they often feature a variety of attachments, such as balls, forks, bullets, and more, that allow users to customize the experience of the massage.

Percussion massagers often operate at a range of speeds, which are typically measured in vibrations per minute. And users can also choose the intensity of the massage. For the neck, it’s always best to use the lowest setting.

Heated: Many massagers also include heated elements. Some allow you to adjust the temperature to your liking, while others operate at a fixed temperature once they heat up. Often, heated massagers are designed with automatic shutoffs for safety. It’s worth noting that massage guns typically don’t provide heat therapy if that’s a feature you’re looking for.

Electric muscle stimulation: With this type of therapy, a massager uses electrodes to send electrical impulses to the muscles, which causes them to contract. 

Other modalities: Some massagers offer settings for cupping, tapping, acupressure, and other types of massage.

Form

Neck massagers come in a variety of forms, from U-shaped devices users hang around their necks to foam pillows to massage guns. Before making a purchase, consider whether you prefer to have the massage be more of a passive or active experience. Would you like just to turn the massager on, adjust the settings, and let it get to work? Or are you (or a partner or friend) interested in more of an active experience using a massage gun to target neck pain? Take into consideration that reaching the neck area with a massage gun may be hard for one person, depending on your mobility.

Versatility

Some neck massagers specifically target the neck, while others also simultaneously provide relief to the shoulders and upper back. Many devices, such as Homedics’ Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager, are designed to target several body parts at once. Others work specifically on the neck. Massage guns are typically more expensive than other neck massagers, and buying one makes more sense if you also plan to use it on different locations on the body.

Portability

Many neck massagers are corded electric, so you’ll need access to an outlet or another power source to use them. Other options are designed with rechargeable batteries and are lightweight, making it much easier to take them with you in the car or when you travel.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best neck massagers

• Best overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best for neck, shoulders, and back: Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager
• Best intelligent: COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager
• Best handheld: TruMedic Massage Gun
• Best for athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro
• Best pillow: Homedics Back and Neck Massager, Portable Shiatsu All Body Massage Pillow
• Best mini: Theragun Mini Gen 4
• Best budget: Homedics Neck Massager with Heat

Fortunately, relieving the neck pain you get from sitting hunched at your desk or looking down at your phone all day can often be remedied with some electronic massage and heat. The best neck massagers are a relatively affordable way to release that tension without medication and promote overall relaxation and well-being.

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 neck massagers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		BenQ TK700STi 4K Gaming Projector		SEE IT	A brightness level of 3000 lumens, 4K resolution, and gaming-tuned contrast and frame rate make this the best short-thrown projector for those long drives.
Best value		Optoma EH200ST Full 3D 1080p 300 Lumen DLP Short Throw Projector		SEE IT	Optoma’s EH200ST projector is an incredibly well-specced projector at a world-beating price—something you CAN swing a stick at.
Best budget		BenQ TH671ST Full HD 1080p Projector		SEE IT	While it won’t deliver its best performance in a bright room, it will more than impress in a dark room, especially for the price.

Golf is a fantastic hobby. However, being able to play is largely dependent on the weather. Technology to the rescue! These days, you don’t need a shining sun to get in a solid back nine, thanks to golf simulators. Immersive and convenient, simulators let you play virtually on the world’s top courses—from the comfort of your own home. However, to get the most out of your simulated experience, you will need a great projector, and that’s where this list of the best golf simulator projectors comes in.

• Best overall: BenQ TK700STi 4K Gaming Projector
• Best value: Optoma EH200ST Full 3D 1080p 300 Lumen DLP Short Throw Projector
• Best budget: BenQ TH671ST Full HD 1080p Projector
• Best ceiling-mounted: Panasonic PT-VZ580U 5000-Lumen WUXGA 3LCD Projector
• Best standard throw: ViewSonic PX748-4K UHD Projector

How we chose the best golf simulator projectors

To arrive at this selection of the best golf simulator projectors, we looked at various projectors across the spectrum and from all price points. We compared features and specifications and cross-referenced them with commentary and analysis from a number of well-respected critics, as well as general consensus and reviews from online users and retailers.

The best golf simulator projectors: Reviews & Recommendations

Seasoned pros will already know that the best golf simulator projectors are actually just general-use projectors. However, there are a few things to remember when shopping for one for your sim space. Aside from budget (which is always a consideration no matter the hobby), brightness and distance are the key factors to consider. In short, you want a bright projector with a short throw—one that sits relatively close to the screen. There are other things to keep in mind as well, such as aspect ratio, which relates to the size of your screen (the standard is 16:9). No matter your requirements, though, you’re sure to find a winner here.

Best overall: BenQ TK700STi 4K Gaming Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Brightness: 3000 lumens
• Display resolution: 4K
• Connectivity: USB, HDMI, 3.5mm jack

Pros

• 4K resolution
• Great picture
• Affordable price

Cons

• Could be brighter

Our choice for the overall best golf simulator projector is the TK700STi 4K Gaming Projector from BenQ. Although aimed primarily at gamers, it’s also incredibly popular with golfers looking to practice their swing in a home environment. It’s not hard to see why, given the brightness level of 3000 lumens (get it?). Although it could be brighter (4000 lumens is a good benchmark), it will still perform admirably given a darkish space. This short-throw projector also boasts 4K resolution at 60 Hz (1080p at 240 Hz), giving you a crisp and clear representation of the on-screen virtual fairway. And, as it’s aimed at gamers, it has sharp 10,000:1 contrast plus 4.16ms low latency, resulting in overall picture quality that you can definitely write home about.

And the best part is that it all comes in an eminently affordable package. If you’ve considered splashed out for a top-quality golf simulator, you may be worried you’ll feel the economic pinch, but know that the TK700STi will deliver without forcing you to reach deeper into your pockets than is comfortable.

Best value: Optoma EH200ST Full 3D 1080p 300 Lumen DLP Short Throw Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Brightness: 3000 lumens
• Display resolution: 1080p
• Connectivity: HDMI, MHL

Pros

• Excellent brightness
• Supports multiple aspect ratios
• Incredible price

Cons

• Could be brighter

Optoma’s EH200ST projector consistently appears on lists of the best golf simulator projectors, and for a good reason: it’s an incredibly well-specced projector at a world-beating price. This is why it’s our pick for best value.

As an entry-level projector, you can’t go wrong with the EH200ST. Sporting 3000 lumens of brightness, a contrast ratio of 20,000:1, and DLP technology to ensure sharp, colorful images, this projector will help elevate your game. It also has a 0.49:1 throw ratio, which means you can achieve a 100-inch image with the projector placed 3.5 feet from the simulator screen. There’s even an onboard speaker.

Best budget: BenQ TH671ST Full HD 1080p Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Brightness: 3000 lumens
• Display resolution: 1080p
• Connectivity: HDMI, VGA

Pros

• 16:9 native aspect ratio
• Plenty bright
• Affordable

Cons

• Darks not great in bright conditions

BenQ’s TH671ST makes a great entry-level projector if you’re working within a limited budget. While it won’t deliver its best performance in a bright room, given the 3000-lumen rating (essentially the minimum brightness spec for golf simulators), it will more than impress in a dark room.

Along with the brightness, this projector offers a clear picture at 1080p resolution plus a native aspect ratio of 16:9. It also features BenQ’s LumiExpert technology to automatically adjust brightness should you need it. While lag may not be of the most concern with a golf sim, it still boasts an ultra-smooth 16.67ms input lag, something your kids may appreciate if you let them play games on it. Overall, it is an excellent budget-minded projector.

Best ceiling-mounted: Panasonic PT-VZ580U 5000-Lumen WUXGA 3LCD Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Brightness: 5000 lumens
• Display resolution: WUXGA
• Connectivity: Wireless

Pros

• LCD display
• WUXGA 1900 x 1280 resolution
• Easy installation

Cons

• On the older side

This 2017 ceiling-mount projector from Panasonic may be getting long in the tooth, but it still comes recommended due to its fantastic brightness. Designed primarily as a conference room projector, it has 5000 lumens of brightness, so it looks sharp and luminous even in a bright room. If your golf sim space is on the bright side, this is one to consider.

The PT-VZ580U is a ceiling mount projector, which makes it ideal for those who want to save some space in their golf sim room by getting the projector up off the floor. Installation is a breeze, so don’t worry if you’re not very handy. It also runs on the quiet side, allowing you to focus on what’s important: your golf game.

Best standard throw: ViewSonic PX748-4K UHD Projector

SEE IT

Specs

• Brightness: 4000 lumens
• Display resolution: 4K
• Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, HDMI

Pros

• Excellent brightness
• 4K resolution
• 1.3x optical zoom

Cons

• Won’t work in small rooms

The best golf simulator projectors that we’ve looked at so far have all been short-throw projectors, making them appropriate for smaller rooms. However, if your golf sim room is on the larger side, you’ll need a projector to mount further back. The ViewSonic PX748-4K projector is meant to be used in standard throw situations and excels in that.

It’s plenty bright, for one. With its lumens rating of 4000, you won’t lose any of the picture, even with the lights on. It’s also 4K with SuperColor technology under the hood, giving it a vibrant and crystal-clear image. It even has a short lag rate of as low as 4.2 ms, meaning it can double as a gaming projector should you ever get tired of hitting the virtual links. If your room (and budget) will allow, remember this one for your best golf simulator projector.

Things to consider when choosing the best golf simulator projectors

Aside from budget, the major contributing factor to the best golf simulator you go with is your golf sim room. Everything else depends on this.

First, if your room is on the small side (and it probably is), you’ll want a short-throw projector. The throw is the distance between the lens and the screen; short-throw projectors can comfortably be placed between three and eight feet from the screen, while longer throws will be farther away and usually installed on the ceiling.

You’ll next want to think about aspect ratio, which your screen’s shape will determine. Finally, there’s brightness. If your room is sufficiently blacked out, 3000 lumens will be fine. Of course, brighter is always better. Additional factors like color accuracy can also contribute to your enjoyment.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best golf simulator projectors

• Best overall: BenQ TK700STi 4K Gaming Projector
• Best value: Optoma EH200ST Full 3D 1080p 300 Lumen DLP Short Throw Projector
• Best budget: BenQ TH671ST Full HD 1080p Projector
• Best ceiling-mounted: Panasonic PT-VZ580U 5000-Lumen WUXGA 3LCD Projector
• Best standard throw: ViewSonic PX748-4K UHD Projector

When shopping for the best golf simulator, we recommend going for brightness over resolution. As long as your projector puts out at 1080p, you’re good to go. While gaming projectors are nice and all, they’re made for fast-moving images and lots of detail. Golf sims display the fairway, and as long as you can make out things in the distance, such as sand traps, you’ll be fine. That being said, a good color balance is key. If you’re going to splurge on one area, make it brightness. With good blackout curtains, a brightness of 3000 lumens will be fine, but if you can pump that up to 4000 or even 5000, you’ll be good to go in even bright light. Remember, your golf simulator projector is your key to golf fun, regardless of the conditions outdoors. Enjoy.

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 golf simulator projectors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair		SEE IT
Best for kids playroom		Moonpod		SEE IT
Best for a splurge		Perfect Chair Human Touch PC-420		SEE IT

Zero gravity chairs aren’t quite a trip to a planet with a different gravitational pull, but they are a way to have a healing experience by simply sitting down. The chairs perfectly position your body so your feet and head elevate above your body at about a 120-degree angle, which helps to take pressure off your spine and lumbar. Many use the chairs to help recover from an injury or to just relax after a tough workout or demanding work day. Read on to find the best zero gravity chair for you.  

• Best overall: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair
• Best outdoor: PHI VILLA Oversized Zero Gravity Chair
• Best for gaming or reading: Zinus Lotus Zero Gravity Chaise
• Best for kids playroom: Moonpod
• Best for a splurge: Perfect Chair Human Touch PC-420

How we chose the best zero gravity chairs

When it comes to grading, rating, and choosing the best zero gravity chairs, comfort is key. A zero gravity chair that doesn’t immediately make you forget your body is there simply isn’t worth the space it’s taking up. Beyond comfort, ease of use is important, as is the ability to adjust the chair to a desired reclining level. When it comes to a top-quality zero gravity chair, you’re going to want it to be built with sturdy, long-lasting materials that are easy to keep clean—all things we kept in mind when considering chairs. Price is a factor, too, so we included options under $100, those that cost a few Benjamins, and one high-end option if you want it to blend seamlessly with your living room decor.

The best zero gravity chairs: Review & Recommendations

While the reason you need a zero gravity chair might range from needing a comfy place for an afternoon nap to needing a seat that helps you heal from an injury, you still want a reliable way to unwind. From zero gravity chairs that fold for easy transport to ones made from leather to fit into the fanciest of decor, these are the top picks for taking a load off and staying a while (which means the facilities at NASA are out).

Best overall: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 17.8 pounds
• Size: 31.5″D x 26″W x 33.9″H
• Frame material: Alloy steel

Pros

• Lightweight and foldable for easy carrying
• Low price point given its features
• Small profile for reclining chair
• Contoured armrests for comfortable arm positioning

Cons

• Design is more about utility than good looks
• Narrow width may be uncomfortable for some

The Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair hits all the notes you want in a zero gravity chair, and it does it for a price that won’t take all your banknotes. Heck, you might even be able to get one for every member of the family at this price. The Amazon Basics chair is marketed as an outdoor chair at home on your patio, poolside, or next to your RV, but nothing stops you from setting it up in your office, garage, or wherever you want to put your feet up. It comes in four attractive colors—beige, black, burgundy, and navy blue—to match whatever decor or color scheme you’ve got in mind. Truly, this is a go-anywhere chair.

Coming in at under 18 pounds, it’s light enough to move around or take to the beachfront or lakeside easily, and the powder-coated steel alloy frame also means it’s durable enough to hold up to 300 pounds. The smaller footprint of 31.5 inches in diameter by 26 inches in width and 33.9 inches in height works for tight spaces and for collapsing and folding up for storage in a closet or your vehicle’s backseat. Some people may find that 26 inches isn’t as wide as they’d prefer, but those with a smaller frame might be able to squeeze in with a dog or cat without much trouble. Its portability is a big factor in its place at the top of this list of zero gravity chairs.

As for features, the elastic mesh material of the seat and backrest allows for airflow and is easy to spray off if it gets dirty. And the corded bungee attachment to the frame is also key to its comfort. There’s also a detachable headrest you can reposition anywhere on the back portion of the chair. 

The chair’s starting position includes a bit of a recline, which may be enough on some days. For the moments when you need to relieve pressure on your back, spine, or life in general, you can go from upright to way back with ease by simply tilting backward. In fact, some customers think it’s almost too easy to recline in. However, once you’re in a near recline position, it’s nap-time city. And when you’re done, simply tilt forward to return to the upright position. Knobs on the side help to secure the chair at your desired recline.

The chair is missing a few things you might want in a zero gravity outdoor chair: a side table to hold drinks or your favorite novel or an overhead umbrella to protect from the sun. Some users report adding additional padding at the footrest or on the back panel of this chair for an experience that brings you closer to the classic recliner experience without the price or bulk.

Given that the Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair can collapse and is relatively lightweight, you may find this zero gravity chair taking the place of your regular patio furniture or even subbing in for your favorite armchair. And, at such an accessible price, the chair is a fantastic entry for newbies into the zero gravity chair world, and it comes with very few drawbacks.

Best outdoor: PHI VILLA Oversized Zero Gravity Chair

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 24 pounds
• Size: 35″D x 29″W x 45″H
• Frame material: Alloy steel

Pros

• Comes with attachable cup holder
• Wide armrests for comfort
• Wide seat accommodates wider bodies 
• Headrest pillow can be repositioned as needed

Cons

• Reclines just short of horizontal
• Heavier chair weight makes portability an issue

The PHI VILLA Oversized Zero Gravity Chair is the overstuffed version of the foldable zero gravity chair. With padding from tip to toe on its very roomy seat, the chair offers a lot of comfort, whether in its normal chair position or fully reclined to near vertical. Its adjustable headrest doubles down on the cushy theme, and the respectably sized armrests with faux wood grain add further comfort and visual appeal.

This oversized zero gravity chair comes in five color choices—navy blue, aqua, black, green, and gray—to mesh with whatever visual color palette you’d like to use. The fully padded seat is attached to the steel alloy frame via a double bungee system to support up to 400 pounds of weight.

As a folding zero gravity chair, you might be tempted to pick this one up and haul it to the campground or from the car to the ocean. At 24 pounds, the chair isn’t the lightest foldable zero gravity chair on the market, but those with strong arms or a wheeled beach cart may find it’s worth hauling the extra weight to recline in style, especially with the detachable drink holder. Stylish enough to wriggle its way into permanent indoor status, the chair would be equally at home in a den, office, closed-in porch, or bedroom for those who like to relax without the distraction of nature. 

Best for gaming or reading: Zinus Lotus Zero Gravity Chaise

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 27.2 pounds
• Size: 59″D x 23″W x 28.5″H
• Material: Textile, foam

Pros

• Dense foam material is easy on the body
• Fabric cover zips on and off for easy spot cleaning
• Comes with lumbar pillow for extra comfort

Cons

• Cover could fit more tightly over foam base
• Larger adults may find the width a bit narrow

The Zinus Lotus Zero Gravity Chaise takes a different approach to the zero gravity chair experience. It uses a molded dense foam to cradle the body in a sort of bumpy C-shape. Your head will sit a bit above the feet when seated in the chair, but the feet, calves, and thighs are boosted and supported to take the pressure off the joints and muscles. Likewise, the back, neck, and shoulder get a boost in the reclined seated position, making the chair ideal for semi-active reclined activities such as gaming, reading, or watching television. Some people find it comfortable enough to nap in.

For a chair that essentially has you lying down, it takes up a scant amount of floor space, with a 59-inch diameter, 23-inch width, and 28.5-inch height. Some find the width a bit narrow. The maximum weight recommendation is 250 pounds, which is less than some of the other zero gravity chairs on this list, although as it’s made of foam vs. a crackable frame, the ramifications for overloading it are less dire.

The chair comes in multiple fabric choices—including dark gray and oatmeal. With an ergonomic shape and friendly, soft lines, the chair fits well into the living room, bedroom, family room, or gaming room. Toss a fancy blanket over it, and you’ve got a cozy reading nook or just a space to stare out the window and watch the seasons change.

Best for kids playroom: Moonpod

SEE IT

• Weight: 12 pounds
• Size: 10″D x 5″W x 5″H
• Material: Cotton, spandex, and polyester cover

Pros

• Expanded polystyrene bead filling creates a floating sensation
• Removeable, machine-washable cover for easy cleaning
• Optional lunar footrest and crescent backrest for more lounging options
• Lightweight and easy to move from room to room

Cons

• Larger adults may not fit as well
• Without the optional crescent backrest and footrest, it’s hard to get true zero gravity positioning

The Moonpod proudly calls itself an “adult bean bag,” although we think it’s pretty good for kids of all ages. The bulbous chair is different from the other zero gravity chairs on this list in that it’s highly flexible and can be morphed into whatever shape the user prefers, much like a beanbag. Sitting down, leaning back, laying down—each position is possible with this chair that’s more of a baguette than a bun in shape. That said, calling it a chair is a stretch, but it will support up to 300 pounds. 

Anyone looking for a traditional chair shape and off-the-ground profile, including older people or those who have trouble getting up off the floor, may want a more traditional zero gravity chair experience. Kids, on the other hand, will love its ability to quickly morph into whatever shape they’d prefer, and as they tend to be smaller and weigh less, they’ll have no problem splaying out and being fully supported. Bonus points for parents: Due to its shape, it’s easier to stuff this into a corner when not in use vs. a traditional space-hogging bean bag chair.

The Moonpod has a removable, machine-washable cover that comes in five colors: blue, charcoal, gray, navy, and pink. The cover is a polyester, spandex, and cotton blend. Then there’s an inner shell that holds the responsive high-density beads that the company says are the secret behind the chair’s floating-on-air feel (and weight, it’s just 12 pounds). The nice thing about a beanbag — ahem, Moonpod — is that you can buy extra refill beads if you want your chair a bit firmer or take some out if you want it a bit more squishy. You can also accessorize by purchasing the optional footrest and crescent backrest for a truly luxurious nap session.

Best for a splurge: Perfect Chair PC-420 Classic Manual Plus

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 145 pounds
• Size: 43″D x 31″W x 47″H
• Material: Premium or top-grain leather and wood finishes

Pros

• Attractive look with quality finishes blends into high-end decor
• Full support head pillow for comfort
• Easy-to-use recline lever for ease
• Adjustable lumbar support for easy positioning
• Customizable finishes, including Memory Foam PLUS and Jade Heat

Cons

• Comes with the high-end furniture price tag
• With a reclined dimension of 64 inches, it takes up a lot of space

Think of this as the classic Lazy-Boy recliner but updated for a more modern decor and a more discerning zero gravity audience. It stands apart from the other zero gravity chairs on this list in both looks (it feels like a substantial piece of furniture) and cost (it costs what you’d pay for a lounge chair at a pricey furniture store). In the seated position, the Perfect Chair PC-420 Classic Manual Plus is 43 inches in diameter by 31 inches in width and 47 inches in height. You’ll want to leave room for its expanded length of 64 inches, too. That 5-plus feet of expansion means you really get to stretch and receive the benefits of the zero gravity positioning, even if you’re on the taller or heavier side (holds up to 400 pounds).

There’s no skimping on looks or luxury extras with this chair. Finishes include either premium or top-grain leather and wood. Bonus features like an adjustable neck pillow and lumbar support add value to what is, admittedly, a very expensive zero gravity chair. It’s even possible to upgrade by adding upgrades including Memory Foam Plus or internal heat control. You’ll get your feet above your heart in comfort and style in this executive-worthy chair that will look perfect in the drawing room, library, or, yes, even the plain old living room. 

What to consider when buying the best zero gravity chairs

Here’s what you should consider when shopping for zero gravity chairs:

How much floor space do you have for your zero gravity chair?

Zero gravity chairs come in a wide range of styles and sizes. Some fold up for easy storage, while others come permanently in the reclined position. When choosing the right zero gravity chair for you, consider if you’ll want to leave it out all the time, or if you’d rather be able to move it from room to room or, perhaps, store it in a closet when it’s not in use. 

Do you want to take your zero gravity chair with you outside in nature?

The good news is that portable zero gravity chairs suitable for outdoor use are on the cheaper side and are made with durable materials meant to withstand what nature can throw at it. Portable zero gravity chairs are also usually foldable, which means you can pop one in your trunk to take it down to the lake for a relaxing day of napping and then stow it in your garage for storage.

Do you want your zero gravity chair to double as a real piece of furniture?

When it comes to zero gravity chairs, there’s function—will this chair elevate my legs and offer the circulatory, digestion, and muscle and joint benefits I’m after—and then there’s form. Will this chair look great in my living room? Once you figure out what amount of form and function you’d like your zero gravity chair to offer, you’re on your way to picking the perfect one for you.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best zero gravity chairs

• Best overall: Amazon Basics Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair
• Best outdoor: PHI VILLA Oversized Zero Gravity Chair
• Best for gaming or reading: Zinus Lotus Zero Gravity Chaise
• Best for kids playroom: Moonpod
• Best for a splurge: Perfect Chair Human Touch PC-420

The best zero gravity chairs are comfortable to sit in and easy to recline to a zero gravity position. You might opt for a chair that folds for easy transport or one that’s more furniture-like to make it a centerpiece in your room. Likewise, you might prefer something made of soft foam or filled with beads over a leather and wooden statement piece. If you’ve ever come home after a long day at work and wanted to get your feet up, a zero gravity chair might be just your ticket to the relaxation train.

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 zero gravity chairs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Klein Tools 32305 Multi-bit Ratcheting Screwdriver		SEE IT	A tough, high-quality example that underlines all the features that make these such popular and flexible tools.
Best Kit		Makita B-50289 47 Pc. Ratchet and Bit Set		SEE IT	A comprehensive kit of screwdriver bits, sockets, and adapter all organized in a useful storage case.
Best Budget		Amazon Basics 12-in-1 Magnetic Ratchet Screwdriver		SEE IT	Offers many of the benefits associated with tools from top brands, and comes at a very affordable price.

A ratcheting screwdriver is one of those tools you didn’t know you needed and then wondered how you did without. They are simple yet effective and popular with engineers, electricians, model makers, DIYers, and anyone else who works with screws or small nuts and bolts regularly. They are faster than a standard screwdriver and usually more comfortable to use. In this article, we examine the wide variety of models available and talk about the key features that will impact choice. We also closely examine what we think are the best ratcheting screwdrivers on the market right now.

• Best overall: Klein Tools 32305 Multi-bit Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best grip: Wera 05073661002 Slotted Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best speed: Craftsman SpeedDrive Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best kit: Makita B-50289 47 Pc. Ratchet and Bit Set
• Best T-handle: Williams WRST4 Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best budget: Amazon Basics 12-in-1 Magnetic Ratchet Screwdriver

How we chose the best ratcheting screwdrivers

As a qualified engineer and keen DIYer, I know the benefits offered by ratcheting screwdrivers and have used them regularly. In addition to my experience with many types of different tools, we surveyed the market to get an understanding of what is available today. Finally, we checked what owners have to say to get some feedback on real-world performance and durability. What we ended up with are choices we’d be happy to have in our toolbox.

The best ratcheting screwdrivers: Reviews & Recommendations

After some consideration, we eventually chose six key categories that allowed us to showcase what we feel are the best ratcheting screwdrivers for a wide variety of purposes and different end users. Just be sure to operate all your tools safely.

Best overall: Klein Tools 32305 Multi-bit Ratcheting Screwdriver

SEE IT

Specs

• Length: 8.71 inches
• Handle Material: Cushion grip plastic
• Bits Provided: 14 plus nut driver
• Bit Storage: Onboard

Pros

• High-quality tool from a renowned US manufacturer
• High-strength carbon steel barrel with rust-resistant finish
• 14 heat-treated bits with storage in the handle

Cons

• Storage dividers occasionally break
• 1 bit needs to stay in the screwdriver

Klein Tools has been around since 1857, and most of its manufacturing, including its screwdrivers, is done in the US. They have a reputation for durable, high-quality equipment that is particularly popular with professional electricians.

The Klein Tools 3205 ratcheting screwdriver is a fine example of the elements that make these devices so useful. The main shaft is strong carbon steel with a bright coating to prevent rust. At the front of the handle is the ratchet mechanism with forward, reverse, and lock positions. The handle itself has what Klein Tools call a Cushion-Grip, which is soft plastic designed to maximize comfort and torque.

The 3205 has 14 heat-treated double-ended bits included. These are a mix of Phillips, slotted, square, combo, and Torx. They are held in place in the shaft by a ball-bearing detent rather than a magnet. Twelve of these can be carried inside the handle but two have to remain in the end of the screwdriver which not everyone cares for. When not occupied by a bit, the end of the shaft can be used as a 1/4” nut driver.

Best grip: Wera 05073661002 Slotted Ratcheting Screwdriver

SEE IT

Specs

• Length: 9.06 inches
• Handle Material: Bi-material Plastic
• Bits Provided: 6
• Bit Storage: Onboard

Pros

• Ergonomic handle is comfortable and generates tremendous torque
• 44-tooth ratchet allows fine adjustment
• Stainless steel shaft is strong and will not rust

Cons

• Comes with a premium price tag
• Only 6 bits included

German manufacturer Wera Tools developed its unique screwdriver handle with the help of the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering, a company that specializes in the interaction between humans and the equipment they work with. The ergonomic design has two functions. First, it allows maximum torque to be applied. It is rated for up to 50 Newton meters (Nm), which is equal to 37 foot-pounds (ft.lbs.). Second, it reduces stress and abrasion, thus helping to prevent tiredness and blisters. Usefully, it also stops the screwdriver rolling off a table or workbench.

Other aspects of the Wera ratcheting screwdriver underline its quality. The shaft is stainless steel, which is more expensive than other steels but strong and will not rust. A powerful magnet holds bits in place. The ratcheting mechanism has 44 teeth giving an 8-degree pitch, so small turns and therefore fine adjustments are possible.

The six slotted, Phillips, and Torx bits included are carried within the handle. Given the premium price, we’re a little surprised more aren’t supplied though bit sets are widely available and not expensive.

Best speed: Craftsman SpeedDrive Ratcheting Screwdriver

SEE IT

Specs

• Length: 11.3 inches
• Handle Material: Bi-material plastic
• Bits Provided: 14
• Bit Storage: Onboard

Pros

• Patented SpeedDrive for rapid working
• Positive locking bit holder
• Bi-material handle textured for better grip

Cons

• One bit stays in the screwdriver
• A few people found bits hard to remove

Craftsman has been supplying tools in the US since 1927, and the company’s reputation has always been one of providing great value for money. This ratcheting screwdriver costs very little money and, along with the features found on many rivals, has a patented SpeedDrive mechanism that is claimed to be twice as fast as alternatives. For those who work with a screwdriver in production or repair environments, this can be a major benefit.

Another interesting feature was the locking bit holder that grips small slots in the Craftsman double-ended bits to prevent them from coming loose. Whether this is any more secure than detent ball bearings or a strong magnet is a matter of debate. A few people thought it a little too effective and found bits difficult to remove.

A combination of 14 double-ended bits is provided in slotted, Phillips, square, and Torx formats. Twelve can be stored in the soft-grip, textured handle, but one must stay in the shaft. At 11.3 inches, the Craftsman ratcheting screwdriver is quite long. A lot of that length is the handle, and while that does allow good torque, the shaft is relatively short, so it doesn’t offer particularly good reach.

Best kit: Makita B-50289 47 Pc. Ratchet and Bit Set

SEE IT

Specs

• Length: 6.25 inches
• Handle Material: Rubberized Plastic
• Bits Provided: 46
• Bit Storage: Case

Pros

• Good variety of bits, sockets, and a quick-change adapter
• Textured, rubberized handle provides excellent grip
• Storage case gives easy access

Cons

• Handle may not suit small hands
• A few reports of mechanism breakages

For those who work on a wide variety of different devices, Makita’s 47-piece ratchet and bit set may well be the answer, especially given the very reasonable price. There are 38 screwdriver bits in slotted, Phillips, square, hex, and Torx formats, plus seven sockets ranging from 3/16-inch to 7/16-inch. There is also a quick-change adapter that can accept all of those items and allows them to be used in drills/drivers and impact drivers.

The ratcheting screwdriver itself has a steel shaft with a magnetic bit holder that will take bit lengths of up to 1- inch. The handle is a chunky item made of rubberized plastic with raised pimples. There’s also a lanyard/hanging hole that some might find useful. The handle does provide good grip, but is quite bulky and might be difficult for those with small hands.

The case is well made with everything laid out for easy access though a few people thought the bits could be awkward to remove.

Best T-handle: Williams WRST4 Ratcheting Screwdriver

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Specs

• Length: 2, 3-7/8, and 7-7/8 inches
• Handle Material: High-impact plastic
• Bits Provided: 1
• Bit Storage: None

Pros

• Impact-resistant handle applies good leverage
• Three lengths available to suit different tasks
• Stainless steel shaft will not rust

Cons

• Relatively high price
• Only one bit included

Williams Industrial Tools is another long-standing company, having been around for over 140 years. As the name suggests, the focus is on heavy-duty equipment for tough working environments. In the case of their ratcheting screwdriver, this means a handle made from impact-resistant plastic, a highly durable mechanism, and a shaft made from stainless steel, which won’t rust and has no need of a finish that might chip off over time.

T-handles offer good ergonomics, and as the bulk of the length is shaft, they can provide good reach in awkward places. They also make it easier to generate leverage than standard handles. The Williams ratcheting screwdriver is available in three lengths from a stubby 2-inch model, through 3-7/8-inch to 7-7/8-inch. Only one Phillips bit is included, and while others are readily available, a few more might have been expected for the price.

Best budget: Amazon Basics 12-in-1 Magnetic Ratchet Screwdriver

SEE IT

Specs

• Length: 9.3 inches
• Handle Material: Non-slip plastic
• Bits Provided: 12
• Bit Storage: Onboard

Pros

• Competitive specification for less money than most rivals
• Corrosion-resistant chrome vanadium shaft
• Single bits rather than double-ended

Cons

• Ratchet mechanism occasionally jams
• Magnetism can be weak

The Amazon ratcheting screwdriver might be called Basic, but it is anything but in many ways. The shaft is made of chrome vanadium steel which is a popular choice for making tools as it is strong, and corrosion resistant. It uses a common forward, reverse or fixed mechanism, and the plastic handle has enough grip to provide a confident hold. The base is free-spinning so fingers can be used to turn the handle while pressure is applied to the rear.

There are 12 single bits, which some people prefer to the double-ended type. They are slotted, Phillips, Torx, and hex. All of them can be stored within the handle. The shaft tip is magnetic to hold them in place, though some owners felt the strength was rather weak. The ratchet mechanism itself also came in for occasional criticism with a few owners experiencing jams or breakages.

What to consider when shopping for the best ratcheting screwdrivers

All the ratcheting screwdrivers we looked at have a similar mechanism, but there are a number of individual features that are likely to have an impact on your choice. The following section explains them in depth.

Operation & comfort

The benefit of a ratcheting screwdriver is that the mechanism allows force to be applied in one direction (either forward or reverse) but spins freely in the other. This allows screws or nuts to be tightened or loosened without breaking contact. The result is increased driving speed. Additionally, using a ratcheting screwdriver for long periods is often less tiring. Some have a spin cap that allows the main body to be turned with the fingers while the palm applies pressure. Most ratcheting screwdrivers have forward, reverse, and a central lock position where they act like a fixed screwdriver.

Handles are often made of a soft-grip or rubberized plastic that not only makes them more comfortable to work with but may also increase the torque (twisting force) that can be applied. T-handle ratchet screwdrivers have the same kind of mechanism, but some people prefer that style of grip. It also provides additional leverage.

Shape & reach

A quick check of the images of the different models in our top six will reveal that bodies have a number of different shapes. Some of this is to provide comfort or increase torque, but personal preference is equally important. If you don’t like the shape, you’ll struggle to use it effectively, whatever the supposed benefits.

Reach is another important area. Sometimes screws are buried deep within a device and a long shank is needed. At other times space is limited, so a ‘stubby’ ratcheting screwdriver will be required. Many people will end up with several to cope with all situations.

Bits & bit storage

We looked at several dozen different ratcheting screwdrivers when researching this article, and all of them take universal 1/4” bits. Some also take hex sockets, and there are adapters that allow other sizes to be used. The devices you work on will dictate how important each of these is.

There are also many styles of bit. Typically slotted, Phillips, and Torx (also called star) will be provided, but others may be included. While they can always be bought as extras, it’s useful to have the ones you need most supplied with the screwdriver.

Many ratcheting screwdrivers store bits within the screwdriver body. This provides convenient access and means they take up less space in your toolbox. Larger sets usually come in a storage case. It’s worth checking the quality of this because it can be frustrating if it breaks, and another way of keeping the bits together has to be found.

FAQs

Final thoughts on choosing the best ratcheting screwdrivers for you

• Best overall: Klein Tools 32305 Multi-bit Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best grip: Wera 05073661002 Slotted Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best speed: Craftsman SpeedDrive Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best kit: Makita B-50289 47 Pc. Ratchet and Bit Set
• Best T-handle: Williams WRST4 Ratcheting Screwdriver
• Best budget: Amazon Basics 12-in-1 Magnetic Ratchet Screwdriver

Although all ratcheting screwdrivers work in basically the same way, construction quality and materials vary. Brand reputation had a bearing on our choices because some manufacturers are known for supplying premium tools, while others are recognized for their value for money. We also looked at the number and variety of bits provided; for convenience, it’s nice to have either onboard bit holders or a storage case. We believe that there is something in our selection above that can make the job easier for everyone.

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 ratcheting screwdrivers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera		SEE IT	With its wealth of functions and excellent affordability, this should be your first choice when shopping for the best light bulb security camera.
Best for monitoring		LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera		SEE IT	With 4 megapixels, solid detection and motion-tracking, Starlight color night vision, and Alexa support, it has the clarity of image and connectivity that you require even up to 30 feet.
Best value		RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera		SEE IT	While it’s not 2K, the 1080p resolution should be enough for most applications, and the color night vision and two-way audio come in handy.

You value the safety and security of your home and/or business, so it never hurts to take precautions—and light bulb security cameras can help. These ingenious devices are the size and shape of a traditional light bulb and can be easily installed anywhere you have a light socket. They’re compact, discreet, and—best of all—extremely affordable. While they may look like a light fixture at first glance, they’re actually fully equipped cameras with infrared motion detection that can capture high-quality video. They also offer several other benefits, such as wide visibility, WiFi connectivity, two-way audio, and more. And, thanks to the clever design, they don’t require any additional mounting brackets or wires, making setup no muss and no fuss. If you’re in the market for peace of mind but don’t want to lay out a lot of cash, these best light bulb security cameras should definitely be on your radar.

• Best overall: Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best value: RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera
• Best budget: GuFamily Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best outdoor: Symynelec Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor
• Best for monitoring: LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera

How we chose the best light bulb security cameras

How do you go about selecting the best of the best when it comes to light bulb security cameras? The most important element that we considered was security. How well does the product fulfill its obligation of protecting you, the resident or businessperson? After ascertaining that, we looked at a variety of additional factors to choose the best light bulb security cameras. These included WiFi connectivity, range of visibility, use-case, and more. Next, we compared the many on the market by looking at both consumer responses and reviews from our industry peers. Lastly, we cross-referenced these points to elements such as price and quality, arriving at our final list.

The best light bulb security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

The PopSci writers and editors have experience covering wireless security cameras and other home security accessories. We’ve used that experience to narrow down the options. Now all you have to do is pick the one that suits your needs, screw it into a light socket that you already have, and pair it to an app to let you help protect your property in seconds.

Best overall: Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 2K
• WiFi: 2.4GHz
• Storage: TF card and cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• Color night vision
• Two-way audio
• Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

• No 5GHz support
• Not waterproof

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better, all-around deal for the best light bulb security camera than this offering from Galayou. This company knows security cameras, with a variety of well-reviewed products in its catalog.

We highly recommend the 360 Light Bulb Security Camera for a number of reasons. First, it has a stellar picture, with 2K Ultra resolution. This kind of clarity means you can easily make out faces and license plate numbers. This also extends to when it’s dark, with color night vision on board for clear viewing when the sun goes down. Security functions include motion tracking–detection plus following—as well as a siren warning and 360 viewing thanks to the 355-degree pan and 65-degree tilt range.

You control the Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera with a smartphone app. It also supports connectivity to Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. The included two-way audio means you can even use it as an intercom.

Lack of 5GHz WiFi connectivity may be a deal-breaker for some, and it’s not waterproof, meaning you’ll need to be careful when setting it up for outdoor use. However, with its wealth of functions and excellent affordability, this should be your first choice when shopping for the best light bulb security camera.

Best value: RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 1080p
• WiFi: 2.4GHz/5GHz
• Storage: Cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• Color night vision
• Includes two camera units
• 18 months free cloud storage

Cons

• No card storage

If value for money is a driving factor in your choice for the best light bulb security camera, look no further than this two-pack from RakeBlue. For the same price as some single-camera products, you can get two cameras and expand the range of your security.

In terms of features, these cameras have motion detection and tracking with 350-degree pan and 90-degree tilt, effectively removing blind spots. While it’s not 2K, the 1080p resolution should be enough for most applications, and the color night vision can come in handy. The two-way audio allows you to speak with people remotely. As with most light bulb security cameras, you interface with the camera via a smartphone app.

While you’re restricted to cloud storage (there’s no card support), RakeBlue does offer a year and a half of free cloud subscription. You’ll have to pay after that, so factor that into your total cost.

Best budget: GuFamily Light Bulb Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 2K
• WiFi: 2.4GHz/5GHz
• Storage: TF card and cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• Support of up to 16 simultaneous app users
• IR-cut filter for better night vision
• Includes AC adapter base

Cons

• Not waterproof

Sometimes, the cheapest option is the best option. If that’s the situation you find yourself in, GuFamily’s Light Bulb Security Camera offers plenty of functionality at an extremely affordable price.

With 2K resolution and 360-degree coverage, you’ll be able to see clearly and comprehensively. There’s also IR-cut for clear night vision, although vertical panning stops a little short at 52 degrees. When you’re unable to check the camera feed via the smartphone app, it’s good to know there are motion detection and app alerts. Additionally, GuFamily’s camera utilizes a human filtering function to minimize false alarms. WiFi connectivity is also good with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz options on hand. Additional bonuses include up to 16 simultaneous app users and an AC adapter base for indoor use.

Best outdoor: Symynelec Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 2K
• WiFi: 2.4GHz
• Storage: TF card

Pros

• Waterproof
• View up to 9 cameras and 20 users
• Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

• Pricier than some other cameras

While most other cameras on this list advertise indoor and outdoor use, they are not waterproof, meaning you’ll need to use them in a covered area. Not Symynelec’s Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor. Thanks to its waterproofing, it’s rated for outdoor use in a variety of weathers.

Other than waterproofing, it features a number of standard and attractive options. It records images at 2K, making it easy to recognize small details like faces, numbers, and letters. The smartphone app is fairly comprehensive as well, supporting up to nine cameras with access for 20 people, making it a good solution for large yards and businesses. There’s even Alexa and Google support.

While it may be pricier than some other cameras, the waterproofing will ensure that the camera won’t stop working outdoors when you need it. If you have a lot of land to cover—farms and other agriculture-related businesses, take note—this is the camera for you.

Best for monitoring: LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 4 MP
• WiFi: 2.4GHz
• Storage: MicroSD card and cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• High resolution for a light bulb camera
• AI to filter our false alerts
• Voice control via Alexa

Cons

• No 5GHz support

Light bulb security cameras are meant to provide security monitoring at affordable prices. Because they’re easy on the wallet, you don’t expect them to have high resolution like a wired camera. However, if you prefer something with a clearer picture, LaView’s 4 MP Bulb Security Camera is the way to go.

With four megapixels, it has the clarity of image that you require even up to 30 feet. Along with this, you get solid detection and motion-tracking at up to 17 feet, plus an AI algorithm that filters out false reports. The range is 355 degrees and not a full 360, although there is Starlight color night vision for peace of mind even when it’s dark. It also plays well with Alexa for hands-free voice operation.

This 2.4GHz camera is our choice for when monitoring is your top priority.

Things to consider when choosing light bulb security cameras

Compared to some other home security devices, light bulb cameras aren’t too complicated. They all mount the same way—in a standard E27-size socket—meaning there isn’t too much to worry about when choosing the best light bulb security cameras. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

Where you plan to use the camera is important. Most can be used indoors or outdoors, but not all are waterproof. If your chosen location is outside but not in a covered location, you’ll want to go with waterproofing. You’ll also need to decide how clear you want the picture. Most are either 1080 or 2K. Regarding WiFi, most support 2.4GHz, but only some are also compatible with 5GHz. Keep that in mind if that’s important to you.

The remaining options will largely depend on the area that you want to monitor. Range of viewing and number of supported cameras are two things to consider. Lastly, if Alexa compatibility is a deal-breaker, ensure it offers that.

FAQs

Final thoughts on buying the best light bulb security cameras

• Best overall: Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best value: RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera
• Best budget: GuFamily Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best outdoor: Symynelec Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor
• Best for monitoring: LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera

Light bulb security cameras are an elegant solution to a casual security problem. You want to keep an eye on an area of your home or office but don’t relish spending a lot of money on the camera itself or installation. By keeping a few variables in mind—indoor or out, supported WiFi frequency band, and picture resolution—you can find the best light bulb security camera to meet your needs. Extras, such as Alexa compatibility and number of people allowed for simultaneous viewing, are the icing on the cake.

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 light bulb security cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

Best overall		Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze		SEE IT	Choose from seven filters dedicated to tackling one problem.
Best for pets		BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier		SEE IT	An option that’s as powerful as it is stylish.
Best budget		Levoit Core 300		SEE IT	You’ll want to put this budget-friendly pick in every room.

If you suffer from allergies, an air purifier can be your saving grace. There are already so many things that affect the air quality of your home, like smoke. Pollen, dust, and other indoor particulate matter are just the icing on the cake of things that make you sneeze or put your air purifier into overdrive. Puffy eyes and sniffly noses can leave you saying “gesundheit,” and you can only bless yourself so many times before you start to believe that maybe you’ve been cursed. There’s also only so much allergy medicine you can take before you start hallucinating and get a visit from the Hat Man. Life doesn’t have to be sneezy, runny, hoarse, and itchy, however. The best air purifiers for allergies eliminate pet dander, airborne allergens, and pathogens, letting you breathe easily without the help of medication.

• Best overall: Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze
• Best with cooling: Dyson Pure Cool Link
• Best for pets: BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier
• Best with UV light: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier
• Best smart: Coway Airmega 250S
• Best budget: Levoit Core 300

How we chose the best air purifiers for allergies

All of us on the PopSci gear desk live in highly polluted cities (New York, D.C., and Pittsburgh, specifically) and own pets whom we adore dearly. We love where we live and the animals we call our fur children, who we treat just like real children. But one thing we don’t love: When the pollen count skyrockets, our pets decide to release more dander than usual, and existence feels like a hazy, miserable, (hay) fever dream.

We’ve written about air purifiers before and even delved into those that take mold out of the air. We considered factors like HEPA filtration, efficiency, smart-home features, design, and room coverage. Air purifiers work best when they’re out of sight and out of mind. You’re already worried about what’s in the air—you don’t want to worry about how well your air purifier is removing the gunk out of it.

The best air purifiers for allergies: Reviews & Recommendations

You want your Air Quality Index (AQI) like how The Youths are choosing the rise of their jeans: low. One of our choices will let you drop it* (*the amount of dust, pet dander, and pollen chilling out in your home) like it’s hot. You may have outgrown trends from the early 2000s, but you’ll never tire of retiring from your allergy era.

Best overall: Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 15 inches
• Weight: 12 lbs.
• Coverage area: 920 square feet

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Clean look
• Lots of customization

Cons

• Expensive

Instead of offering one filter that does everything OK, the Mila lets you choose from seven filters, each aimed at solving a particular need. We’re a fan of the Big Sneeze, which is made to fight allergy triggers like pollen, dander, and dust. It has a HEPA 13 filter with a powerful clean air delivery rate (CADR) of 416 cubic feet per hour. That gives you fully circulated air in a 920-square-foot room every 30 minutes.

The unit also has eight environmental sensors, including CO2 and humidity sensors. It’s literally as quiet as a library, thanks to its 24-decibel output. It’s also super sensitive: the air purifier kicked into high gear when I sprayed an aerosol air freshener in the room.

Mila’s app is where this connected smart-home device shines, however. Available for Android and iOS, the app gives you more preset modes like Bubble Boy (which keeps the AQI as low as possible, no matter the setting), sleep, white noise, energy save, Turndown Service, and child lock. We also love the app’s included local pollen forecasts from the National Allergy Bureau to stay in the know of elevated allergen levels. The air purifier is also incredibly stylish. Its cube shape gives “technologically advanced fancy marshmallow” compared to “bleak, unaesthetic cylinder” like many others on the market. The Mila is expensive, but you get lots of perks and flexibility.

Best with cooling: Dyson Pure Cool Link

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 7.7 x 4.3 x 4.01 inches
• Weight: 7.9 lbs.
• Coverage area: Up to 999 square feet

Pros

• Does double duty
• App provides detailed air quality reports
• Sleek

Cons

• Expensive

The Dyson Pure Cool Link excels at both purifying the air and providing a satisfying breeze. Its filtration system works quickly to clean a large area of all airborne allergens, including pollen, bacteria, and both human and pet dander. Expect all contaminants to be filtered out down to 0.3 microns. An activated carbon layer filters out paint fumes, smoke from tobacco and cooking, and nasty odors. Using the MyDyson app (available on Google Play and App Store) you can get real-time insights on air quality with detailed metrics.

You can even sync it up to an Amazon Alexa device and operate it using voice controls. Its fan is almost as powerful, with 10 different speeds, and automatic shut-off in the event that it’s knocked over. It also oscillates, and its bladeless design makes it safe for smaller humans and furry friends alike. The only downside here is almost ubiquitous with all other Dyson products: the cost. 

Best for pets: BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.3 x 14.7 x 25 inches
• Weight: 18.25 lbs.
• Coverage area: Up to 1,582 square feet

Pros

• Commercial-grade
• Pet-specific filter
• Stylish

Cons

• Heavy
• Difficult to move

Don’t lets its pretty exterior fool you; this pet dander-demolishing air purifier means business. It has three levels of filtration: A pre-filter, an activated carbon filter (good for getting rid of pet smells), and a HEPA 13 filter. H13 and H14-level filters are considered hospital-grade, meaning you’re getting the purest air possible. The Pet Pro filter specifically captures 99.97% of .3 microns and is smaller, and its added Zeolite layer is better for capturing and controlling pet odors compared to traditional carbon filters. You only need to change the filter every six months, and doing so is incredibly easy.

We also love that it is whisper-quiet, takes very little energy to run, and cleans the air fast. It is a beautiful air filter, but it’s heavy and hard to move from room to room. Consider parking this air purifier in one place.

Best with UV light: InvisiClean Aura II Air Purifier

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 12.34 x 6.25 x 17.75 inches
• Weight: 8.9 lbs
• Coverage area: Up to 1,094 square feet

Pros

• Four fan speeds
• Quiet
• CARB compliant

Cons

• No auto-sensing

The four fan speeds, whisper-quiet operation, and CARB compliance make this air purifier an especially good pick for allergy sufferers who are looking for something with UV light. In this case, a UV-C light neutralizes any airborne pathogens that the filter doesn’t catch. The California Air Resources Board requires purifiers to produce .050 parts per million of ozone or less, so any device with this certification keeps you safe from unsafe gas levels.

Best smart: Coway Airmega 250S

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.3 x 18.5 x 19.7 inches
• Weight: 20.5 lbs.
• Coverage area: Up to 930 square feet

Pros

• Stylish
• Easy-to-monitor LED lights
• Pulls even the small particles out of the air

Cons

• Noisy on higher fan speeds
• Expensive

This retro-inspired air purifier packs some seriously advanced tech. The touch panel at the top is easy to read and use. Plus, it’s not crowded with unnecessary settings: you just get an on/off button, and switches that control fan speed and different operational modes. Speaking of turning on, a long LED light flashes one of four colors for an instant read on air quality. If the light is blue, your air is so fresh and so clean. If it’s red, you might want to turn (the air purifier) up.

It can cycle 930 square feet of air in 30 minutes and can clean smaller rooms even faster than that. A multi-layered filtration system gets rid of mold, dust, pet dander, food smells, allergens, and even viruses—talk about a multi-hyphenate. Changing the filter is easy: simply open it up and slide a new one in. Practically everything with this air purifier, from its touch panel to the Coway IoCare app (available for Android and iOS devices), is user-friendly, which justifies its high price and occasional noisiness when running at high speeds.

Best budget: Levoit Core 300

SEE IT

Specs

• Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 16.25 inches
• Weight: 7.48 lbs.
• Coverage area: 219 square feet

Pros

• Lightweight
• Inconspicuous
• Incredibly quiet

Cons

• Have to pay more for a WiFi-enabled model
• Small coverage area compared to others on this list

This sub-$100 air purifier packs a punch well beyond its price. It’s incredibly quiet, easy to use, and lightweight for moving around the house. I’ve sneezed far less after running it in my living room and bedroom for the past two years. Its touch panel comes with three airflow presets (I, II, III), a quiet mode, a timer, a child lock, and a “lights off” button that turns off the panel lights without shutting down the air purifier. Each filter lasts for six months, and they come in a two-pack, so you only need to order them once a year. I’ve purchased this air purifier twice and would buy it again for every room in my apartment. I’ve used the general filter that comes with it and have had no problems, but the toxin absorber filter (sold separately) is a perfect match for mold catching. If you’re looking to pay extra for a WiFi-enabled model, it’s your lucky day.

What to consider when buying the best air purifiers for allergies

Looking at nature should make you cry because you’re moved by its astounding beauty, not because you’ve been ambushed by pollen. It’s also awful when you go inside to get some respite from that mulberry tree tackling your olfactory receptors, and you’re somehow still sneezing. Here’s what you should know when bringing home air purifiers for allergies:

Maintenance

Air purifiers generally require very little maintenance. If you have a pet, you’ll need to vacuum any excess hair stuck outside the filter. You’ll have to change the filter itself every six months. Most air purifiers will alert you when it’s time to change your filter, giving you the perfect opportunity to set up autoship so that they come to your door without having to think.

Filtration

HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air.” They remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria down to .3 microns. Make sure your filter is a HEPA 13 or HEPA 14 for maximum filter power. Additionally, some models are compatible with filters that tackle specific problems, like pet dander or fumes.

Efficiency and coverage

Look at the clean air delivery rate (CADR) of the model you’re considering. Per Energy Star, the higher the CADR, the larger the area it can purify. If you want to put an air purifier in one small room, you can get away with something with a lower CADR. However, if you live in a home or have a large room you want to purify, you’ll need a higher CADR. You can use an air purifier with a lower CADR in a large room, but it will take longer to fully filter the air. Also, if you have a high ceiling, you’ll need an air purifier with a higher CADR.

Tech

Smart air purifiers give you convenience and advanced metrics, but sometimes you gotta keep it simple, sunshine. Air purifiers with apps give you more specific numbers on the air quality in your home. If you just want something that filters the air—no bells, no whistles, just a simple air purifier that’s like a regular cup of coffee—look for a model that at least has controls for airflow, a timer, and a sleep mode.

Design

You worked hard to make your house a home. Don’t let your air purifier ruin the vibes you have cultivated over many months (and even years in some instances). However, don’t choose an air purifier just because it’s a pretty face. Make sure it works just as hard as those that look more utilitarian.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best air purifiers for allergies

• Best overall: Mila Air Purifier for Large Room | Big Sneeze
• Best with cooling: Dyson Pure Cool Link
• Best for pets: BISSELL air320 Smart Air Purifier
• Best smart: Coway Airmega 250S
• Best budget: Levoit Core 300

There’s no need to cry over spilled pollen, loose dust, and floating dander with an air purifier made specifically for allergies. Make sure you choose one that’s appropriately sized for your home, and let the device take care of the rest. HEPA 13 or HEPA 14 filters will give you the airborne purity you desire, and special add-ons like carbon filters can tackle odors and other pain points in your home. You’ll see clearly after using one of the best air purifiers for allergies.

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 air purifiers for allergies in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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

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

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

SEE IT

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

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

SEE IT

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

DeWalt battery deals

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

DeWalt tool deals

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

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

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

Best splurge		DeWalt 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill Kit		SEE IT	The most impressive cordless model we’ve come across, this prosumer model should appeal to DIY enthusiasts taking on substantial remodeling jobs, and contractors looking for lightweight and versatility.
Best overall		Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill		SEE IT	It delivers the kind of performance and reliability that makes it a good investment for both keen amateurs and professionals.
Best budget		Skil 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill		SEE IT	An ideal choice for the occasional user—it has all the necessary functions and is perfectly adequate for hanging pictures on a brick wall or putting up shelves in a cinder block garage.

Anyone who has ever tried hanging a shelf on a masonry wall will appreciate the benefits of a good hammer drill. They are a great addition to any DIY toolkit. At the entry-level, they are as easy to use as a standard drill driver but have the performance necessary to make light work of drilling holes in tough materials. For more challenging jobs we turn to rotary hammers. These powerful tools are not only capable of making holes large enough for pipework and electrical conduit but can also be fitted with chisels for light demolition duties. In this article, we explain all the key features to help you find the right tool for the task and offer recommendations for the best hammer drills for both DIY and professional users.

• Best overall: Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill
• Best budget: Skil 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill
• Best splurge: DeWalt 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill Kit
• Best corded: Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
• Best DIY demolition: Eneacro 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
• Best heavy-duty: Bosch 1-9/16-Inch SDS-Max Combination Rotary Hammer

How we chose the best hammer drills

There are hundreds of electric drills available, and sometimes it can be difficult to tell what the important differences are. We wanted to focus on the distinct benefits of each type, while still offering as wide a choice as possible. I own a couple of these tools myself (not to mention many others), having remodeled two of our homes. So I know my way around saws and sanders and grinders, and as a team, we know drills and drivers. To supplement my experience, we researched all the leading manufacturers to ensure we were up-to-date with current technology.

Performance was obviously a key aspect while making selections, but we also looked at power source, ease of use, weight, and any useful extras. Brand reputation played a part because hammer drills are often used in harsh conditions, and reliability and durability are vital. Adding to that, we checked buyer feedback for a sense of how each one coped in real-world use.

The best hammer drills: Reviews & Recommendations

Each of the following is what we believe to be the best hammer drill currently available in its category and something we’d be proud to have in our storage shed. The wide range of models provided should mean there’s something for everyone, and the detailed descriptions will help potential buyers go beyond power drills and focus on the right tool for their needs.

Best overall: Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill

SEE IT

Specs

• Power Source: Cordless 18V
• Chuck Size: 1/2”
• Maximum Speed: 2,000 rpm
• BPM: 32,000

Pros

• Claimed to be the most powerful hammer drill in its class
• Compact and lightweight making it easy to handle
• Redlink technology maintains performance under load and maximizes battery life

Cons

• Battery and charger cost extra
• Premium price tag does not include a case

Milwaukee is one of the world’s leading power tool brands with a reputation for high quality, and durability. Their compact hammer drill takes our top spot for its all-around appeal. It delivers the kind of performance and reliability that makes it a good investment for both keen amateurs and professionals.

Milwaukee claims the 2804-20 cordless hammer drill is the most powerful in its class. For standard drilling operations, it offers 2,000 rpm, and its 100 ft.lbs. of torque on tap are sufficient to drive substantial augers and hole saws when drilling wood. Switching to hammer action provides 32,000 BPM for efficient drilling in masonry and concrete.

The Powerstate brushless motor combines with Redlink battery management to maximize power delivery and run time between charges. It also has overload protection to prevent damage when the drill is pushed to its limits. A drill of this power needs a high-capacity battery, and a 5Ah unit is recommended. However, as is common with cordless tools, neither this nor the charger are included. If a spare is added it will more or less double the initial price. Given that this is already a premium tool we would have expected a case but one is not provided.

Best budget: Skil 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill

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Specs

• Power Source: Corded
• Chuck Size: 1/2”
• Maximum Speed: 3,000 rpm
• BPM: 48,000

Pros

• A good choice for the DIYer at a very competitive price
• Has soft grip handle and two-finger trigger for comfort
• Useful depth gauge included

Cons

• Keyed chuck is less convenient than keyless
• While normally reliable motor burnouts are not unknown

The Skill 7.5 amp corded hammer drill is an ideal choice for the occasional user. It isn’t big on features but has all the necessary functions, and is perfectly adequate for hanging pictures on a brick wall or putting up shelves in a cinder block garage.

The 1/2-inch chuck means it will take large drill bits, and with a maximum speed of 3,000 rpm, it will outperform most drill drivers. Skil gives an impact per minute (ipm) rate rather than the more common BPM but it means the same. In this case, it’s a surprising 48,000.

The two-finger trigger and soft-grip handle are nice touches that add a little comfort. A trigger lock means it doesn’t need to be held in all the time. There’s also a useful depth gauge. The power cord is only 6 feet which means you’re going to be using an extension cord most of the time, but that’s true of most corded power tools. It’s a shame they decided to save a few cents with a keyed chuck rather than keyless. Those keys are all too easy to misplace which can be very frustrating.

Best splurge: DeWalt 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill Kit

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Specs

• Power Source: Cordless 20V
• Chuck Size: 1” SDS Plus
• Maximum Speed: 1,050 rpm
• BPM: 4,600

Pros

• Powerful cordless drilling, hammer drilling, and chipping
• Vibration control for increased user comfort
• Includes two high-capacity 5Ah batteries, charger and case

Cons

• It’s hard to fault but it is a lot of money
• No drill or chisel bits included

The DeWalt SDS rotary hammer drill is the most impressive cordless drill we came across during our research. It’s what is often called a prosumer model, appealing to DIY enthusiasts taking on substantial remodeling jobs, and contractors looking for lightweight and versatility. This drill set has drill, hammer drill, and hammer-only functions.

It is fitted with a 1-inch SDS Max chuck and runs at a maximum speed of 1,050 rpm. BPM is 4,600, and each blow comes with an impact force of 2.1 joules (1.5 ft.lbs.). Heavy hammering like that causes a lot of vibration, which soon becomes tiring. DeWalt employ Shock Active Vibration Control to dramatically reduce user discomfort, and extend working time.  

The DeWalt SDS rotary hammer comes with a charger and two high-capacity 5Ah batteries so there can always be a spare available to reduce downtime. Each has a useful 3-stage LED giving charge status. There’s a depth rod, and the whole kit comes in a durable plastic case. For professional users, the DeWalt SDS rotary hammer can be paired with DeWalt’s onboard extractor thus complying with OSHA Table 1 standards for protection against respirable crystalline silica.

Best corded: Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

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Specs

• Power Source: Corded
• Chuck Size: 1” SDS Plus
• Maximum Speed: 1,300 rpm
• BPM: 5,800

Pros

• A robust tool at a competitive price from a market leader
• Ergonomic handle and modest weight aid working at all angles
• Automatic clutch helps prevent wrist injuries

Cons

• Requires periodic maintenance
• No vibration suppression

You can tell by the appearance that the Bosch Bulldog Xtreme is made for serious work. The slender design allows you to lean into the tool when necessary, applying maximum pressure. Not that much effort will usually be required. Performance figures are impressive for a tool in this price range with a maximum speed of 1,300 rpm, 5,800 BPM, and impact energy of 2.0 ft.lbs.

The variable trigger allows slow starting, reducing the chances of the drill bit wandering. It also allows accurate positioning when chiseling. The large ‘D’ handle has plenty of room for a gloved hand and includes a metal plate at the front that flips down to create a useful hanging hook. There’s a depth rod, and Bosch Pro-Guard dust extraction can be added for those who need to comply with OSHA regulations.

An automatic clutch is fitted to the SDS Plus chuck, which is a great safety feature. If the bit jams the drive is disconnected thus preventing wrist injury. There isn’t any vibration control so although the Bosch Bulldog Extreme is only 6.7 pounds it can get tiring after a while. As with all brush motors, the brushes will eventually wear, and need replacing though the job is fairly straightforward.

Best DIY demolition: Eneacro 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill

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Specs

• Power Source: Corded
• Chuck Size: 1-1/4” SDS Plus
• Maximum Speed: 820 rpm
• BPM: 4,200

Pros

• Kit includes drill and chisel bits, spare brushes, grease, wrench, and case
• Exhaust protects motor from excess heat
• Anti-vibration system and safety clutch

Cons

• It’s heavy
• Occasional breakdowns suggest inconsistent quality control

The Eneacro SDS Plus rotary hammer is remarkable both in terms of what you get for the money, and the performance it delivers. In addition to the drill itself the kit includes 3 drill bits, 2 chisel bits, grease, spare brushes for the motor, and a wrench. To keep everything organized, there’s a tough plastic case.

A top speed of 820 rpm isn’t as fast as some, but the 4,200 BPM is delivered with a powerful impact force of 5.5 ft.lbs. There’s an anti-vibration system and a soft grip handle for operator comfort. There’s also a safety clutch that disengages the drive if the bit jams to prevent injury. An exhaust helps stop the motor from overheating, and the base is designed to prevent dust from getting in. We’re a little surprised there isn’t a depth gauge, but it’s a minor gripe on an otherwise very good tool.

There’s really only one thing that prevents us from recommending the Eneacro rotary hammer for professional use, and that’s the weight. At 12.58 pounds it is heavy for a tool that is going to be used all day. DIYers can usually take a break, but contractors can’t afford to.

Best heavy-duty: Bosch 1-9/16-Inch SDS-Max Combination Rotary Hammer

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Specs

• Power Source: Corded
• Chuck Size: 1-9/16” SDS Max
• Maximum Speed: 340 rpm
• BPM: 2,750

Pros

• Variable speed dial for consistent control
• Vario-Lock mechanism provides optimum chisel angle
• Service minder brushes indicate when maintenance is required

Cons

• No drill-only option
• Heavy, and no vibration control

The Bosch SDS Max rotary hammer is a heavy-duty tool that, according to the manufacturer, is aimed at concrete contractors and professional remodelers. Its focus is underlined by the fact that there’s no standard drill function. It is either hammer drill or hammer-only.

Maximum speed is a relatively slow 340 rpm, but when you are driving very large drill bits control is more important. Most hammer drills offer variable speed triggers that demand you keep your fingers steady. The big Bosch has a stepped speed dial instead so concentration can stay at the business end. BPM is 2,750 delivered with a class-leading 6.1 ft.lbs. of impact energy.

In addition to mode selection the Bosch SDS Max rotary hammer has a Vario-Lock mechanism that allows chisel bits to be fixed in one of 12 positions so users have the optimum working angle without having to contort hands and arms. Service minder brushes give a clear visual indication of when they need to be changed, taking the guesswork out of a vital maintenance operation.

What to consider before buying a hammer drill

When detailing each of our best hammer drill picks, we’ve highlighted performance specifications and key features. In the following section we look at exactly what each of these means, and the impact they can have on your choice.

Types of hammer drill

The term ‘hammer drill’ can cover a varied range of tools, so they are usually divided into two groups: standard hammer drills, and rotary hammers.

Standard hammer drills are the first step up from an ordinary drill/driver adding a hammer action to the drill function so that in combination with a masonry bit they can drill holes in tough materials like brick, concrete, paving, and stone.

Rotary hammers usually have three functions: drill, hammer drill, and hammer only (some heavy-duty tools don’t offer a drill-only option). Rotary hammers accept much larger drill bits, and as a result, are capable of making much larger and deeper holes. When switched to the hammer-only function and fitted with chisel bits, they can be used to strip tile and undertake light demolition tasks.

Demolition hammers are heavy-duty tools that are sometimes confused with hammer drills but they have no drilling function at all, and so fall outside the scope of this article.

Chuck

There are two types of chuck used in these tools.

Standard hammer drills have a three-jaw chuck, the same as those found in drill/drivers. It is usually tightened by hand, though some use a key.

Rotary hammers use SDS chucks. SDS stands for Slotted Drive Shaft, a system that interlocks the drill or chisel bit with a spring-loaded collar on the tool to prevent them from slipping under heavy load. There are three shaft types: SDS, SDS Plus, and SDS Max. The first two have a 10mm shaft, but the slots are slightly different. SDS bits will usually fit SDS Plus drills, but not the other way around. SDS Max has an 18mm shaft and therefore can take larger diameter and longer drill bits.

Although it’s not a precise measure, generally speaking, the larger the chuck diameter, the more powerful the tool.

Performance

Rotational speed is an important factor in any kind of power drill. Whatever the material, a faster speed usually means the bit cuts more quickly. This is equally true of hammer drills whether the hammer action is engaged or not.

BPM stands for blows per minute and is the impact speed of the hammer action. A faster BMP might be seen as delivering more destructive force but the figure can be deceptive. Standard hammer drills often have very high BPM but the energy behind each impact is limited. Rotary hammers have lower BPM but actually deliver more force (impact energy) with each blow. Impact energy figures are often unavailable for standard hammer drills but are usually provided for rotary hammers either in joules or ft.lbs. For those buying a tool for demolition work as well as drilling impact energy is a good way to compare performance.

Torque is the twisting force. The international standard is Newton-meters (Nm), but in the US, it’s usually given as inch-pounds (in.lbs.) or foot-pounds (ft.lbs.). There are 12 inch-pounds to the foot-pound. Torque is important when turning screws or bolts (drill/drivers and impact wrenches tend to have high torque figures) but is not a major factor when drilling holes, and irrelevant when chiseling.

Additional Features

• Hammer drills create a lot of force so handling them can be challenging. In tough materials, the drill can sometimes jam momentarily sending a sharp reaction through the tool. This can cause painful wrist injuries. An auxiliary handle is fitted to provide a second grip, and should always be used.
• When drilling large, deep holes, having a sliding depth gauge can be very convenient, and many hammer drills have them fitted.
• Cordless hammer drills often have LED work lights that make it easier to see what you’re doing in poor light or dusty conditions.
• It’s nice to have a case to protect your hammer drill, and have somewhere handy to store drill and chisel bits. Some manufacturers include them, some don’t.
• Some of the best hammer drills have dust extraction systems available that fit right on the tool. These can be very efficient but do cost extra.

Note: Working with masonry, concrete, etc., can cause sharp fragments to be ejected and create a lot of dust. Always put on protective eyewear or a face shield, as well as some kind of dust mask.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best hammer drills

• Best overall: Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill
• Best budget: Skil 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Hammer Drill
• Best splurge: DeWalt 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill Kit
• Best corded: Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
• Best DIY demolition: Eneacro 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
• Best heavy-duty: Bosch 1-9/16-Inch SDS-Max Combination Rotary Hammer

The hammer drill market is very competitive which is good news because we get a host of excellent tools to choose from. The Milwaukee 2804-20 that takes our top spot is a superb all-rounder that will suit both keen amateurs and pro users. The corded Skil is light, easy to use, and ideal for DIYers on a tight budget. At the other end of the scale the Bosch SDS Max delivers remarkable performance though weight, and the lack of an ordinary drill function might limit it to contractors and site workers.

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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Wired security cameras is a somewhat vague, catch-all term that covers a number of types of security cameras. Often, they’re referred to as PoE security cameras, which stands for “power over Ethernet” and means that the cameras are connected by Ethernet lines for both power and for enabling the captured video footage to be downloaded. However, these cameras are also part of a system: In this case, it is an NVR, or “network video recorder,” system since the video is stored locally on a server in your house. You may also come across an older type of security camera system, called a DVR, or “digital video recorder system, which relies on coaxial cables instead of Ethernet lines. Many of these cameras are also referred to as IP cameras, which stands for “Internet Protocol,” which means they can send data over the internet, although many of these cameras simply send their video over a Local-Area Network (or LAN) instead of online. Regardless of going IP, POE, or DVR, the best wired security cameras are now significantly easier for consumers to install than they have been in the past. 

• Best overall: Lorex 4K 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras 
• Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)
• Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System
• Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System
• Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

How we chose the best wired security cameras 

I’ve written about many types of different cameras, including security cameras, for a number of publications over the years, including PCMag.com, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Popular Photography, Popular Science, Tom’s Guide, and Gearbrain. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best wired security cameras. I also looked at critical reviews, user recommendations, and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models.