Samuel Contreras
When Samuel is not writing about networking or 5G at Android Central, he spends most of his time researching computer components and obsessing over what CPU goes into the ultimate Windows 98 computer. It's the Pentium 3.
Latest articles by Samuel Contreras
Best Wi-Fi 6 mesh routers 2024
By Samuel Contreras published
All the coverage If you have a need for speed, these mesh routers have your back.
These 6 smart plugs are the best for monitoring energy usage in 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Smart energy management Do you know how much energy your devices and appliances use? These handy smart plugs can help you figure that out.
Best Wall Outlets with USB Ports in 2023
By Samuel Contreras published
Charge your tech without giving up any outlets
How to sell or trade in your Android phone to get the most money
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you're ready for a new phone but your old one is still hanging in there, you can sell it for cash or put it towards a new device. It's not only good for your wallet, but the environment as well.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (2023) vs. Chromecast with Google TV: Which should you buy?
By Samuel Contreras published
Stick vs. dongle With new features like Live View Picture-in-Picture and Wi-Fi 6, the Fire TV Stick 4K is technically more advanced than Google's Chromecast, but not enough to leave Google's ecosystem.
Which Echo speakers have eero built-in?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
eero on echo Your Echo speaker can improve your Wi-Fi, as long as you have 4th gen or newer.
USB Type-C FAQ — everything you need to know
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Superior connector USB Type-C, or more simply, USB-C, is a rounded and reversible plug for charging and data transfer. Used by most Android phones, USB-C can deliver fast charging and transfer speeds up to 40Gbps.
Best battery cases for Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Protect and charge Keep your S22 Ultra running all day and into the next.
Best smart home bathroom gadgets 2024
By Samuel Contreras published
Make your bathroom time more comfortable and convenient
Best Wi-Fi 6E mesh routers 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Better Wi-Fi When shopping for the best Wi-Fi 6E mesh routers, the ASUS ZenWiFi ET8 tops the list thanks to its low price and balanced performance.
These are the most secure smart plugs you can buy
By Samuel Contreras published
Stay in control of who has access to your smart home tech.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100 PD Qi review: An expensive yet powerful 100W battery pack
By Samuel Contreras published
Power up! Built like a tank with up to 100W of power
Verizon vs. Mint Mobile: Which is right for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Verizon and Mint Mobile offer some of the best cell phone plans today, but picking between the two isn't easy. Both carriers offer excellent service, but the right one for you depends on your needs.
Should you worry about data prioritization on prepaid carriers?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you're looking to save with a prepaid carrier, keep in mind that not all data is treated equally. Here is what you need to know about "de-prioritization".
Best Kindle Paperwhite cases 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Protect your virtual library with a stylish case.
Best T-Mobile Cell Phone Plans 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you want to use the nation's largest 5G network, you have a few plan options to choose from.
How much do Ring camera storage plans cost?
By Jeramy Johnson, Samuel Contreras last updated
Ring's smart security cameras work fine with a free account, but they're made even better with a Ring Protect subscription.
Mint Mobile vs. T-Mobile: Which is right for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you're looking for data on the T-Mobile network, you have plenty of plans to choose from whether you want to stick with T-Mobile postpaid or Mint's prepaid options.
Tello vs. Ultra Mobile: Which low-cost carrier is right for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Whether you're looking to build your own plan or save some money buying in bulk, you're guaranteed to find the right plan with one of these MVNOs.
What is Pixel Call Assist?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Save time on calls with Pixel Call Assist.
Nest Wifi Pro Review: Honestly, it’s a bit disappointing
By Samuel Contreras last updated
This is a fast mesh system but I don’t know who it’s supposed to be for.
How to turn your old Samsung phone into a smart home sensor through SmartThings
By Samuel Contreras published
Samsung's Upcycling program turns your old Samsung Galaxy phone into a smart sensor for your home. Here's how to do it!
Mint Mobile vs. Verizon Prepaid: Which is better for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Two carriers that give you discounts for loyalty, but Mint's savings are there on day one.