Smartphones
Best Cheap Samsung Phones
Samsung is largely considered to be a leader in the smartphone industry but it's not just for its flagship options. Samsung's budget phones, such as the Galaxy A30s, are still extremely serviceable, and sometimes even great for what you get. These are the best Samsung phones you can get for under $250 in 2019.
Best Phones for TracFone
Finding quality phone service without spending a heap of money each month is something that a lot of people are after. Numerous companies aim to bring great value to the wireless space, one of which is TracFone. TracFone offers affordable monthly rates with service powered by a combination of AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon. You can buy devices directly through TracFone, but we recommend buying something that's unlocked and then bringing it over with a TracFone SIM card. Our top recommendation is the Pixel 3a, but there are a few other phones worth checking out, too. Let's dive in.
Best Android Go Phones
There are affordable Android phones, and then there are Android Go phones. Android Go devices are designed to be as cheap as possible and run a special version of Android that's created specifically with lower-end specs in mind. Android Go handsets are great starter or backup phones, and these are the best ones you can buy in 2019 — including the Nokia 1 as our top overall pick.
Best Android Phones
Competition makes for better products, and the Android ecosystem is more competitive than ever. If you want a new Android phone at any price range, we've done the research to separate the great from the good, and the good from the bad. This list will help you make your next purchase easier.
Best Android One Phones
If you're in the market for a new Android phone, you owe it to yourself to make sure it's an Android One device. Phones that are part of Google's Android One program come with a couple of significant benefits, including stock builds of the latest version of Android and guaranteed software updates/security patches. There are a lot of great Android One phones out there, but if you ask us, the Nokia 7.2 is the best you can get.
Best MVNO Carrier
An MVNO carrier provides cell service by using another carrier's network. This setup can lead to a wider range of plans and can keep you out of a contract if you don't want to be tied to any one carrier. It can also be a good way to try out a new network without spending too much money or time moving numbers over. Metro by T-Mobile is the best overall MVNO offering great data options and plenty of ways to save money with multiple lines.
Best Cheap Android Phones
It's 2019, and flagship smartphones are all nearly a thousand dollars or more. But as high-end phones get more expensive, cheaper phones are getting better. Phones under $300 are beautifully designed, with great screens, super-long battery life, excellent cameras, and awesome speakers. We've researched and ranked all of the best cheap Android phones you can buy, and with our buyer's guide, you'll find the perfect phone for you.
Best Android Phones Under $300
You can get a lot of phone for a modest price these days. Motorola has been a leading name in midrange options for years, and that holds true with its excellent new Moto G7. For an extremely competitive price, you get capable specs with a big display and simple software that anyone can figure out. Plus it has TurboPower fast charging, and finally uses USB-C.
Best Phones for PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile is a graphics-intensive game that demands a powerful phone. If you want the best results and get more Chicken Dinners, you're going to need a phone for gamers that truly stands out from the pack, and in 2019 that's the ASUS ROG Phone 2. Not only is it a great phone that was specifically designed with gaming in mind, but it also includes some of the most advanced smartphone features for those who love to live on the bleeding edge.
Best Alexa Built-in Phone
These days, Alexa seems to be everywhere you look. Amazon's voice assistant is in speakers, displays, and even microwaves! To no one's surprise, you can also find Alexa built into certain Android phones. Amazon has a collection of what it calls "Alexa Built-in Phones" to highlight these devices, and these are our favorites — including the Motorola One Action as our top overall pick.
Best AT&T Phones
AT&T is one of the most popular carriers in the United States. Unsurprisingly, that means it sells a plethora of excellent Android phones to give customers as much choice as possible when shopping for their next handset. If you're a little overwhelmed by all of the options and want some help determining which AT&T phone is the best for you, you've come to the right place.
Best Verizon Unlimited Plans for Disney Plus
Disney+ is here and Verizon is giving you a free year as long as you have one of its unlimited wireless or home internet plans. If you are a Disney fan and ready for a new unlimited cell plan, now might be the time to make the switch. Overall, the best plan for Disney+ on Verizon Wireless is the Play More Unlimited plan with its 720p video streaming and Apple Music included.
Best Waterproof Phones
Over the years, water-resistance in phones has gone from being a luxury reserved only for top-end phones to a standard feature that's expected of almost any even remotely expensive gadget. In 2019, you really can't go wrong with any of these waterproof phones, like the excellent Galaxy S10+.
Best Phone for Fortnite
Fortnite is an intense game that needs a pretty capable Android phone to run it properly. A multiplayer match involving up to 100 unique players is bound to push a phone to its limit, but these phones are sure to run those matches without any hiccups. The ASUS ROG Phone 2 is our favorite pick with its huge display, and specs that are better than some computers that are used to run Fortnite.
Best Samsung Phones
Samsung is one of the biggest phone manufacturers in the world, and with good reason — it makes some pretty incredible phones, combining outstanding hardware design with long lists of handy features that differentiate its phones from the competition. The Galaxy S10+ is the company's top phone, but there's also a range of other devices that hit different sizes, price points and value propositions.
Best Android Phone Under $800
Once you step down from the absolute top end of the market, the OnePlus 7 Pro is the best phone you can buy for the money. It's an exceptional phone overall that marries great hardware with a full spec sheet and excellent performance through its simple software. It draws on strengths from the history of OnePlus phones, but steps up the hardware and display quality to make it a competitor at any price.
Best Wireless Carrier in the U.S.
There are four major wireless carriers in the U.S. and they all have a different approach to the same goal. Luckily for the consumers, this competition helps drive these companies to make a better product. No matter your needs, there is a carrier for you. However, Verizon continues to have one of the strongest and fastest LTE networks around and if you can find a plan in your budget, you should have a great experience.
Best Phones for Google Fi
For just $20/month for unlimited calls/texts and $10 per GB of data you use (any data past 6GB is free), Google Fi is one of the most compelling MVNOs around. Factor in its excellent roaming support, nationwide coverage, and Bill Protection feature that credits back whatever data you don't use, and you have an even more appealing purchase. Fi works on almost any unlocked phone these days, but certain features work better on some phones than others. The Pixel 4 XL is our top recommendation for the network, but if that doesn't fit your needs, there are plenty of other handsets to choose from.
Best iPhone 11 Alternatives
The iPhone 11 just may be one of the most compelling phones Apple's ever made. It has blazing-fast performance, outstanding cameras, excellent battery life, and costs less than 2018's iPhone XR. In fact, it's even cheaper than a lot of flagship Android phones. Today, we're going to highlight a few of our favorite iPhone 11 alternatives to give you an idea of what's out there if you don't feel like going with Team Apple. The OnePlus 7T is our top recommendation, and along with it, we have five other handsets we'd also like to shine the spotlight on.
Best Android Phones Under $200
Smartphones that cost $1,000 and more have quickly become commonplace in the market, and for anyone on a budget, those steep prices can quickly induce a headache. Thankfully, cheap smartphones are still plentiful, with more great options to choose from than ever before. If you need a new handset but only have $200 to spend, our favorite one is the Nokia 4.2. Today, we're talking about it and five other phones that bring tremendous value to the low-end space.
Best Metro by T-Mobile Phones
Metro by T-Mobile (formerly known as MetroPCS) gives you the opportunity to save some money when buying a phone without a contract, coupled with affordable plans. There's a variety of phones in both the high- and low-end, but most people will be well-suited with the Galaxy A20, which combines modern design with midrange specs and a large battery.
Best VPN Apps for Android
Covering your online activity and device data with a virtual private network (VPN) is one way to keep your information and your digital identity private. VPNs mask your identity so it's nearly impossible for anyone to track where you go and what you do. This is done by assigning a different IP address to your device each time you connect through the VPN service. Our top pick for the best VPN for Android devices is IPVanish for its overall ease of use, strong encryption capabilities and over 40,000 IP addresses to use.
Best Phones to Use with Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile is all about getting great service for a fraction of the price of the big carriers, and for many, that philosophy extends to the phone they choose to use. Thankfully there are tons of great Android phones that embody the same idea: getting a great experience with the latest specs and features, and not paying an arm and a leg for it. The best example of this is the OnePlus 7T, which offers a flagship-like experience for hundreds of dollars less than the competition. It's a great phone to pair with solid-but-inexpensive Mint Mobile service.
Best Waterproof Phones
Over the years, water-resistance in phones has gone from being a luxury reserved only for top-end phones to a standard feature that's expected of almost any even remotely expensive gadget. In 2019, you really can't go wrong with any of these waterproof phones, like the excellent Galaxy S10+.
Best MVNO Carriers with Unlimited Data Plans
A lot of people think of an MVNO as a carrier you get to just save money, but in the last few years these carriers have become a stronger choice even for heavy users. A data hungry user wants to have fast and reliable internet everywhere they go. There are more options than ever for unlimited MVNO data plans and the prices keep coming down as well. Our current favorite is Visible because of its simplicity compared to other carriers.
Best Phones for Visible
When it first launched in May 2018, Visible made a big mark on the carrier space since $40/month for unlimited everything on Verizon sounds too good to be true. One of the few drawbacks to the service is that Visible only works with a small selection of Android phones, but that doesn't mean it's impossible to be an Android user and get the most out of what the carrier has to offer. Here are our favorite Android phones that work with Visible, including the Pixel 3a!
Best Android Phones Under $400
When your budget maxes out at $400, the Google Pixel 3a is the best phone you can get. That's because it offers the same core experience as the higher-end Pixel 3, which costs nearly twice as much. You get the same software and features, and the exact same camera experience. The only shortcomings come in the hardware and a couple of the specs — a fine trade-off to save hundreds of dollars.
Best Unlocked Android Phones
In a world where most people in the United States buy smartphones through carriers like Verizon and AT&T, it's important to highlight the market of unlocked phones. When you buy a phone unlocked, you have the freedom to use it on any carrier you want (so long as it's supported) and often save money in the long haul compared to purchasing it on a contract or installment plan. The Pixel 3a is the best unlocked Android phone you can buy in 2019, but it's not the only one we recommend checking out. Here's a list of our favorites!
Best Big Android Phones
What we consider a "normal" phone size today would feel downright gigantic just a few years ago. And that normalization of large phones has made it even easier for companies to make even bigger phones at the very top end of their lineup. When you're in need of a big phone to give you the largest screen and most capabilities, the Galaxy Note 10+ is the best of the bunch. Not only does it have a huge display, but it's a great display — and everything else about the experience backs it up.
Best Android Phones for Students
Summer's over, school's back and — what's that, your kid needs a new smartphone? Of course they do. Well, whether you're looking for a cheap plastic phone with a great camera like the Pixel 3a or a super-powerful flagship with a stylus (and a price tag to match) like the Note 10, we've have the best phones for students in 2019 and beyond.
Best Budget Camera Phones
It's no secret that camera quality is near the top of the list when it comes to requirements for a smartphone. And that's the case no matter how much you're spending. Thankfully there are plenty of phones out there that offer solid camera experiences without breaking the bank. The best of the best is the Google Pixel 3a. It gives you flagship camera quality, front and back, for a fraction of the cost — and stands out particularly well at night and for selfies.
Best Alternatives to Google Fi
There's nothing quite like Google Fi when it comes to service and coverage. Not everyone needs all of the features Fi offers, and if you aren't traveling internationally, the data can be quite pricey. If you've been looking to Google Fi for your phone service but don't think it's quite the right fit, here are some of the best alternatives you can get.
Best Gaming Phones
Sure, casual games like Angry Birds and Candy Crush are still wildly popular, but thanks to Unity now offering fantastic cross platform support for developers, indie developers and big publishers alike are able to make full-scale games initially developed for consoles or PC over to and Android and iOS devices. This, along with game streaming services like Google's Stadia and Microsoft Project xCloud on the horizon, means the time is right to make sure your next phone is ready for the next leap in mobile gaming. If you want a new phone, your best bet will be the OnePlus 7 Pro
Best Verizon Prepaid Phones
If you're going prepaid, you can certainly try to bring your own device to Verizon. Verizon is pretty strict about which phones it'll allow, and many unlocked phones aren't even compatible with the network. Otherwise, Verizon has a selection of prepaid phones that you can purchase directly, which may make for less of a headache in the long run. Here are a few that you should consider first.
Most Secure Android Phone
The Google Pixel 3 (and 3 XL) is the best Android phone when it comes to security. Google builds its phones to be secure from the start, and you get monthly security patches to guarantee that you won't be left behind on future exploits. Three years of guaranteed updates will let you use your phone knowing you'll be up to date for what is likely the life of the phone.
Best Prepaid Cell Phones
The idea of a prepaid phone has become increasingly vague in recent years. Technically, almost any phone can be a prepaid phone these days — that is, just about any phone can be financed or bought outright and used on a prepaid network. Still, most prepaid shoppers are looking for a value offering, so we've compiled some of the best phones offered by major prepaid carriers under $300.
Best 5G Plan
5G technology is moving fast and both Sprint and Verizon Wireless offer it to consumers now. Sprint offers an HTC hub and the LG V50 ThinQ 5G while Verizon offers the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G. Sprint and Verizon are the only major carriers to offer 5G support on phones so far on higher tier unlimited plans. Both 5G networks are still small but Sprint's Unlimited Premium is the best with offering more 4G data and extra services at a lower price.
Best Huawei Phones
Huawei has shown over the years that it knows how to build great phones, and the manufacturer cranked things up a notch over the last 12 months. Whether we're talking about the fantastic Mate 20 Pro or the upcoming foldable Mate X, Huawei is making some of the most evocative phones in the market today. These are the best Huawei phones in 2019.
Best ASUS Phones
ASUS had a resurgent 2018, with the Taiwanese manufacturer hitting its stride in the affordable flagship space with the ZenFone 5Z. ASUS also took the fight to Xiaomi in India's budget segment with the ZenFone Max Pro series, which offers astounding value for $200.
Best Android Phone Without a Notch
The Samsung Galaxy S9+ builds on years of Samsung's excellence. It starts with a gorgeously sculpted metal-and-glass waterproof body sporting dual speakers, a headphone jack and an SD card slot. Inside are the latest and greatest specs, plus a standout pair of cameras on the back and the best display on the market around front.
Wearables
10 Best Fitness Trackers
We highly recommend the Fitbit Versa 2 for a wide variety of styles and uses, including automatic activity tracking, on-screen workouts, Fitbit Pay, music storage, and so much more. It's no wonder that Fitbit continues to be one of the many highly regarded names in the industry with all it has to offer. However, don't worry if that's not your cup of tea. There are quite a few other options to choose from. Whether you're looking for specific software, design, or feature set, you'll be able to find a fitness tracker that checks all the boxes on your wish list.
Best Android Smartwatch
Right now, the best smartwatch for Android users is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2. It's optimized for Samsung phones but runs well on all Android devices and has all the smartwatch and fitness features you'd expect. It's compact and lightweight but still offers good battery life. But if you're not into that one, the good news is that there are so many other amazing options from Fossil to Garmin to Fitbit and more.
Best Fitbit
Whatever your fitness goals are, living a healthier life is a lot easier when you have something to automatically keep track of your activity throughout the day. Fitbits are great tools for this, but with so many to choose from, which one should you buy and why? We think the Fitbit Versa 2 is best Fitbit you can buy in 2019, offering a great blend of features, specs, and design at a price your wallet will love.
Best Smartwatches for Fitness
Are you active and looking for a smartwatch that delivers powerful fitness-tracking tools, a great design, and won't break the bank? The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active has a stunning OLED display, built-in GPS, full waterproofing, and even NFC for mobile payments with Samsung Pay. It's as fully-featured of a smartwatch and fitness tracker that you'll find, plus it comes in at a price most people will be quite happy with.
Best Smartwatch for Women
It can be fun to accessorize but sometimes it's a battle to find the perfect blend of function and fashion, like when choosing a smartwatch. The good news is that there are tons of options for women these days. Our favorite is the Fossil Gen 5 Julianna, which offers premium features while boasting a classic, stylish design. We've rounded up the best picks to help you choose the one that's right for you.
Best Amazfit Smartwatch
Finding a smartwatch that checks every box on your wish list is no easy task. The options are endless and it can be tricky to navigate them all. Amazfit continues to impress with its growing smartwatch lineup. We happen to favor the Amazfit Verge, which is a superb lifestyle smartwatch full of useful features. Of course, the watch you pick will depend on the experience you're after. Luckily, Amazfit has something for everyone.
Best Smartwatch For Kids
Kids love gadgets as much as adults, maybe even more, so it's no surprise the idea of having their own smartwatch gets kids excited. Choosing what watch to get for your child can be daunting, with so many choices out there. Aside from wading through all the options, it's also important to consider privacy, durability, and cost when looking at the choices. One watch that does a great job of these core features is the Coolpad Dyno. There are a lot of choices out there, so let us help you find the best option for you and your child.
Best Smartwatches for Fitness
If you're active and looking for a smartwatch that delivers powerful fitness tools, a great design, and won't hurt the wallet too much, look no further than the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active. It has a stunning OLED display, built-in GPS, full waterproofing, and even NFC for mobile payments with Samsung Pay. It's as fully-featured of a smartwatch and fitness tracker that you'll find, plus it comes in at a price most people will be quite happy with.
Best Android Smartwatch
Right now, the best smartwatch for Android users is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2. It's optimized for Samsung phones but runs well on all Android devices and has all the smartwatch and fitness features you'd expect. It's compact and lightweight but still offers good battery life. But if you're not into that one, the good news is that there are so many other amazing options from Fossil to Garmin to Fitbit and more.
Best Garmin Smartwatch
If you're both a fitness and a smartwatch enthusiast, you might be familiar with Garmin, which designs an array of wearables that cater to both the smartwatch and fitness crowds. Our personal favorite is the new Vivoactive 4, which mixes the two well. Whether you're a pro athlete or a first-time runner, there are many fantastic choices here.
Best Fossil Smartwatch
If you're in the market for a new Wear OS smartwatch and happen to like classically styled watches, then the Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle is going to be for you. Fossil is one of the few Wear OS watchmakers out there that continues to produce not only good looking but also top of the line specced devices out there. The Carlyle has a classic look that can work for almost any occasion with swappable bands, snappy performance, and a speaker for calls. Fossil has some other great choices as well. Whether it's a sports focus, fashion, or even a hybrid watch — Fossil has an option for you.
Best Fitness Trackers
We highly recommend the Fitbit Versa for a wide variety of styles and uses, the Samsung Galaxy Fit for a robust activity tracking suite, and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active for high-tech, stylish fitness fans.
Best Samsung Fitness Tracker
We've worn every size, style, and system of wearable trackers, and Samsung's fitness trackers can certainly hold their own against the competition. Of course, Samsung has quite a few options for you to choose from and we're here to help you pick the best fit for your fitness needs. We suggest the undeniable front-runner, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active, which offers superior fitness tracking in a stylish smartwatch package.
Best TicWatch Smartwatches
When the time comes to choose just one smartwatch for all your needs, you'll have your work cut out for you. Whether you prefer rugged or sleek, simple or robust, there's no shortage of options. The line of Mobvoi TicWatch smartwatches offers a little something for everyone. Our personal favorite is none other than the TicWatch Pro. While this model is priced the highest out of the bunch, it'll be money well spent for many users. You'll have loads of smart features, battery life that goes on for days, and a gorgeous dual display. Of course, there are other watches in the lineup that are worth considering as well.
Best Cheap Fitness Trackers
When you're on a budget, every dollar counts. That doesn't necessarily mean you have to skip out on owning a fitness tracker, though. With a bit of time and research, you'll be well on your way to finding a tracker that's reasonably priced and still does what you need it to do. We've gathered up some of our favorite cheap fitness trackers to help you decide. The Fitbit Inspire HR continues to hold a special place in our heart. Although, there are some pretty close contenders.
Accessories
Best USB-C Headphones for Pixel 3 and Pixel 4
Google bundles a pair of USB-C earbuds in the box with every Pixel 3 and 3 XL purchase, and the sound quality on offer is pretty decent, all things considered. However, if you're looking for something with a bit more oomph, the Libratone Q Adapt would be our recommendation.
10 Best Fitness Trackers
We highly recommend the Fitbit Versa 2 for a wide variety of styles and uses, including automatic activity tracking, on-screen workouts, Fitbit Pay, music storage, and so much more. It's no wonder that Fitbit continues to be one of the many highly regarded names in the industry with all it has to offer. However, don't worry if that's not your cup of tea. There are quite a few other options to choose from. Whether you're looking for specific software, design, or feature set, you'll be able to find a fitness tracker that checks all the boxes on your wish list.
Best VR Headsets
Some VR headsets are used for playing video games, while others are used for creating them. People use VR headsets to watch TV, Netflix, YouTube, or browse the internet. Amazingly enough, some headsets are used for all of these things. However, the one we believe to be the best VR headset is the Oculus Quest, an all-in-one wireless gaming headset.
Best Wireless Headphones
Wireless Bluetooth headphones have become increasingly popular over the last several years. The best wireless headphones have support for great, high-fidelity sound. That's why the Sony WH-1000XM3 are our best overall pick. They have excellent sound quality, battery life, and are comfortable for long-term use — and their noise cancelation is second-to-none.
Best Headphones Under $200
Not all great headphones have to be super expensive. And not all cheap headphones have to be bad. Sometimes you have to find the middle ground. The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a perfect example of this with superb sound quality, long battery life, and are super comfortable to use for long periods.
Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones may not be as popular as they once were but they still have a place in the market. They're great for when you want the best sound quality you can possibly get from a headphone. Portable, and especially wireless (Bluetooth) headphones have exploded over the past decade and that's why the Sony WH-1000XM3 have taken our top spot as the best overall headphone you can buy right now.
Best Fitbit
Whatever your fitness goals are, living a healthier life is a lot easier when you have something to automatically keep track of your activity throughout the day. Fitbits are great tools for this, but with so many to choose from, which one should you buy and why? We think the Fitbit Versa 2 is best Fitbit you can buy in 2019, offering a great blend of features, specs, and design at a price your wallet will love.
Best PlayStation VR Controller
Shooting games are the most popular style of game in the VR community, and the PlayStation Aim controller adds a level of immersion you can't get with your Move controllers. The perfect controller for the PlayStation VR depends on the type of game you want to play, your preferred playstyle, and how much immersion you want for your game. Check out all your options here!
Best Wireless PlayStation 4 Headsets
When you're playing a game you want the very best audio quality possible. Using a good headset is almost like experiencing a whole new universe once you put it on. If you want the best of the best wireless options for your PlayStation 4, you'll want the SteelSeries Arctis 7 for its form factor, affordability, and audio quality. But there are plenty of others out there to choose from depending on your tastes.
Best True Wireless Earbuds
In 2019, when smartphones are slowly but surely getting rid of the 3.5mm audio jack from smartphones and tablets, users are turning to wireless as the next viable option. The Sony WF-1000XM3 is currently the best overall truly wireless earbud around for Android. It features solid sound, long battery life, and class-leading active noise cancelation (ANC).
Best Fast Pair Headphones for your Android Phone
Fast Pair is a technology that lets you quickly pair your Bluetooth headphones to your Android phone without having to dig through multiple menus. Simply place them into pairing mode and bring your headphones and Android phone close together. There aren't too many options on the market (yet), but the Jaybird Tarah are the best we can find thanks to its overall solid battery life, sound quality, and comfort.
Best JBL Headphones
JBL isn't as popular as it once was but it still makes some really great headphones. The JBL Live 650BTNC is our best overall pick for having excellent sound, battery life, and comfort.
Best Noise-Canceling Headphones
With the elimination of the headphone jack from many newer phones, wireless headphones are surging in popularity, and noise-canceling is one the most highly requested feature. Though once a premium feature found only in extremely expensive headphones, these days noise-canceling is available in Bluetooth headphones of all price ranges and form factors. The Sony WH-1000XM3 ANC headphones have class-leading noise canceling properties and a super long battery life.
Best 4K TV for PlayStation 4 Pro
When you're looking for an awesome 4K TV for your PlayStation 4 Pro you need to be looking for a few specific features: excellent screen quality, high dynamic range (HDR), and a good price. The LG ThinQ OLED ticks all of these boxes and then gives you lots more smart functionality thrown in for good measure.
Amazon Echo vs. Dot vs. Show vs. Plus: Which should you buy?
It's hard to believe that the first Amazon Echo was released five years ago, and since then, it's evolved from a standalone smart speaker into an entire ecosystem of radically different products. You'll find an Echo on just about every website and in every store these days, but with so many different models to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you? Well, we're experts on Amazon's Echo lineup, and below you'll find a detailed guide on buying an Alexa-powered speaker or screen for your smart home. We think the Echo Dot (3rd Gen) is the best choice for most folks, but if that's not your cup of tea, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Let's dive in.
Best Touchscreen Gloves
Here at Android Central, we're all always on our phones, and we need to keep up, even when the snow starts to fall. As a Canadian from one of the coldest places in the country, I can attest to the necessity for touchscreen gloves, and I can assure you that those following options are the best of what's around. But if you just want the cream of the crop off the hop, grab the ViGrace Winter Touchscreen Gloves right now.
Best PopSockets and Phone Grips
As smartphones got bigger and more selfies are crucial, Popsockets became a must-have. Now you can stabilize your phone without getting that dreaded cramp in your pinky finger. The PopSockets Swappable PopGrips have so many fun designs and last through me running around Disney World's heat and rain.
Best Bluetooth Speakers under $100
You don't need to spend a lot of money to get a great Bluetooth speaker. Whether you're looking to pick up a speaker to listen to music or play your favorite podcasts at the pool, or need one for streaming music from your phone, there are plenty of great options available for under $100. Our pick would be the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 for its versatility and excellent sound quality.
Best Bluetooth Speakers
A Bluetooth speaker is the best way to play your favorite music when you're swimming in the pool or out on a camping trip with friends. Compatible with practically every device known to man, Bluetooth speakers will make sure that, as long as your phone, tablet, or laptop is around, your music will be loud! Our favorite is the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 due to its sound quality and water resistance, but there are plenty of other options.
Best Bluetooth Trackers in 2019: Tile, Chipolo, and more
Once upon a time, you'd lose track of your keys and spend precious time searching for them. Now, you have phones and Bluetooth. When you combine the two, you have Bluetooth trackers that connect to your phone. When you lose an item, you're only an app away from quickly finding it again. Tile continues to dominate this market and recently refreshed its lineup. Our favorite is still the Tile Pro. The new edition offers an unbeatable range, the loudest alert, and a one-year replaceable battery.
Best Chromecast for Oculus Quest
The Oculus Quest is an excellent device to bring to parties. It doesn't require any external sensors or wires so you can bring it anywhere and pass it around so everyone can play. However, if you want people to see what's going on inside the headset rather than watch someone flail their arms around, you'll need a Chromecast device. Even though there is a wide range of supported devices for casting the quest, the best three options are the first three devices that supported casting, and the best of the best is the Chromecast Ultra.
Best Sennheiser Headphones
Sennheiser has a large selection of headphones, and finding the best one can be tough. However, we firmly believe the company's HD 600 headphone are by far the best headphone Sennheiser makes due to its excellent sound quality, comfort, and flexibility.
Best Laptop Bags
Laptop computers are replacing the desktop in many work, school, and home environments. These devices have become pretty powerful and can handle the same workload as any high powered desktop. Portability is a huge benefit; you can practically go anywhere to work or play. However, laptops can be expensive, so keeping them safe is essential. The North Face Resistor is the best laptop bag for keeping your portable computer protected. Plus, tons of storage and a built-in Joey battery pack means your electronics will stay fully charged all day long.
Best Wireless Headphones for Pixel 4
The Pixel 4 doesn't come with a pair of bundled earbuds in the box, so you'll have to pick up a third-party option if you want to enjoy music on the go. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options available, with the Creative Outlier Air leading the pack with a 10-hour battery life and incredible sound.
Best Accessories for the Amazon Fire HD 10
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is a remarkably good tablet that allows you to watch shows, look for recipes, read books, or play games. But getting the tablet itself is just the start. You're going to want to snag a few accessories for the Fire HD 10 both to protect it and to give it a unique look, like the MoKo Slim Fold Case. Here are the best things to buy alongside your new tablet.
Best Bose Headphones
Bose is known not only for comfortable headphones, but for excellent sound quality, so getting a pair of Bose headphones might be worth the investment. Bose's Noise Canceling Headphones 700 are the company's most innovative headphone to date. They feature 11 different steps of active noise cancelation, great battery life with up to 20 hours on a single charge, USB-C, and solid sound quality.
Best Wall Mount for Kindle Fire Tablet
We all love our tablets, but sometimes you just want to set it and forget it rather than carrying it around or looking for a surface to balance it on. That's where wall mounts come in, providing both a tasteful and practical answer that looks right out of your favorite sci-fi, like the Koala Mount by Dockem, our best overall choice, with its minimalist design and easy, 1-step installation. Here are the best wall mounts for Kindle Fire available today.
Best Soundbars
Soundbars have come a long way in the last few years. While full-sized speakers will still sound better — sound needs space, after all — soundbars sound great for their size. That size also requires a smaller footprint in your living room and with something like the Sonos Beam, you will get great sound without a head-scratching installation process, and more. There are other great soundbars available, and we have detailed some of the best options for your home.
Best Alexa-enabled Speakers
Alexa, one of the world's most popular digital assistants, is seemingly everywhere in 2019. Just about everything supports Alexa one way or another, with the most popular way to access the assistant being through smart speakers. We think the Amazon Echo (3rd Gen) is the best overall speaker for everyone, as it strikes a great balance of features and price. If that's not your thing, we have seven other recommendations to check out, too. Let's dive in!
Best Sony Headphones
Crank up your tunes with our favorite headphones, Sony's WH-1000XM3. Not only do these headphones have the best noise cancelation, but also great sound, battery life, and comfort. Now you can jam out, talk to Alexa, and even take a phone call without ever having to take babies off.
Best Smart Scale under $50
When you look at all of the connected tech we spend money on to improve our well-being, a smart scale offers the best value and data. After all, it measures more than your weight and delivers the data right to your phone. Best of all, you don't need to spend a fortune. Our favorite under $50 is the Eufy BodySense Smart Scale, which tracks 12 metrics for multiple users. There are, however, many more affordable options to choose from.
Best Universal Car Phone Holder
Answering your phone while driving is a big no-no, your hands are off the wheel, and your attention is elsewhere. With a car phone holder though, you'll be able to answer calls or even change the radio with just a flick of your finger. Outside of answering your phone, some of these phone holders can even charge your phone while you drive. With that in mind, our overall favourite ended up being the Lynktech Bolt Smart Automatic Car Mount for it's charging capabilities, and one-touch system.
Best Bluetooth Headphones
Wireless (Bluetooth) headphones have become increasingly popular over the last several years. The best wireless headphones have support for great, high-fidelity sound. That's why the Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 are our best overall pick. They have excellent sound quality, battery life, and are comfortable for long-term use.
Best Noise-Canceling Headphones
With the elimination of the headphone jack from more and more phones, wireless headphones are surging in popularity, and noise-cancelling is a highly requested feature. Though once a premium feature found only in extremely expensive headphones, these days noise-cancelling is available in Bluetooth headphones of all price ranges and form factors. If you're looking for the best of the best ANC headphone, look no further than the Sony WH-1000XM3.
Best Bluetooth Speakers
Summer's the perfect time to buy a Bluetooth speaker so you can blast your favourite music when you're swimming in the pool or out on a camping trip with friends. Compatible with practically every device known to man, Bluetooth speakers will make sure that, as long as your phone, tablet, or laptop is around, your music will be loud! Our favourite is the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 due to its sound quality and its water and dust resistance, but there are plenty of other options.
Best Wireless Headphones
Wireless, or Bluetooth, headphones have become increasingly popular over the last several years. The best wireless headphones have support for great, high-fidelity sound and you don't have to deal with that nasty cord, which makes them portable and easy to wear. That's why the Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 are our best overall pick. They have excellent sound quality, battery life, and are comfortable for long-term use.
Best Battery Packs
Nothing can turn your technology from state-of-the-art to overpriced paperweight faster than a dead battery, but battery packs can help recharge your tech when life plays keep away with your power outlets. Power banks used to be big, bulky, and slow, but Power Delivery charging has made things much faster — fast enough to charge laptops, even — and has allowed power banks to get slimmer and better than ever. There are plenty of options in every shape or size, but our favorite is the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD, which is small but mighty.
Best Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Mesh wireless networks, like our favorite kit from Eero, are the best way to rid your home of those dreaded dead spots where Wi-Fi can never seem to reach. Since they are also easy to set up and expandable to work in almost any home, they're a popular way to do it! Here's our pick of 2019's best offerings to help you pick which works for you.
Best Amazon Kindle E-Reader
Like Xerox and Velcro, the Kindle brand name is now synonymous with e-readers. Amazon dominates the category, and its latest products offer exciting new features at affordable price points. The new Kindle Paperwhite is a great starting point if you're looking to pick up your first e-reader or are looking to upgrade from an older model.
Best Chromebox
The ASUS Chromebox 3 is the best Chromebox you can buy right now. It's available in several configurations, but all models feature a true M.2 SATA SSD for years of worry-free storage and upgradability should you need it. If you're more interested in Chromebooks for using Chrome OS on the go, Black Friday discounts have some amazing deals you'll want to keep an eye on.
Best Family Charging Stations for Android
When everyone in your home has their own devices whether it be smartphones, fitness trackers, tablets, or Chromebooks it can get messy trying to keep all of those charging cords tucked away. One easy solution is to get a charging station like the SIIG Smart Charging Station. That way everyone's devices can charge at the same time without taking up a ton of space. No need to worry about excessive cables or places to plug in. We spent several hours comparing charging stations to determine which are the best of the best. Here are the top options for a variety of situations.
Best Portable High-capacity Power Banks, Including 50,000mAh+ Chargers
Today's phones and tablets are more powerful than ever, and despite more power-efficient processors, it's not uncommon to find yourself needing to charge up at times when you aren't near a wall outlet. Battery packs that are 20,000 mAh and higher are ideal for people that need a lot of juice while on-the-go, and while they may not fit into your pocket, they're necessary for keeping your devices topped up. Our top pick is the Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD. Here's why it's our favorite, along with seven other great alternatives.
Best Kids Headphones
Getting headphones for a kid is a different task than getting headphones for an adult. Kids headphones get smaller dimensions, simplified controls, well-thought-out features for comfortable use and crucially, from an aural safety point of view, built-in volume limiting. Luckily, these headphones are more affordable than ever. Some limit audio to as low as 85 decibels, which is safe for a child to listen to for up to eight hours. Other options, like the Noot Products K11 are foldable for easy travel, while others still boast further clever tricks to make them kid-friendly, like cute designs and durable build quality.
Best USB-C Adapters
The downside to owning the newest and sleekest computers and smartphones is the lack of ports they come with. To do something as simple as listening to headphones while charging your phone, you'll often need an adapter. We recommend using the EUASOO USB C Adapter Hub, which provides several functions that used to be standard on previous computers. There are plenty of other adapters out there if you want one that offers a specific function.
Best Affordable Soundbars
If you thought that you needed to spend an arm and a leg to get a solid soundbar, that's not the case anymore. When you have budget options like the TaoTronics Soundbar TT-SK019, it's hard to spring for the big-ticket items. We have found the best soundbars that you can get for under $100 today.
Best Travel Duffel Bags
Duffel bags are great! You can pack them with pretty much anything for a long work trip with the boss or a weekend escape with your best buds. What I like about them is that they sit somewhere between a backpack and a suitcase, which makes them incredibly versatile in any situation. When it comes to choosing the best duffel bag out there, WANDRD's Hexad Access Travel Duffel steps up as the best choice overall. With ample storage, a padded laptop sleeve, stowaway backpack straps, internal dividers, and easy access, it is the perfect travel duffel.
Best Game Controllers for Android
Mobile gaming on your phone often offers the flexibility of gaming everywhere just using touchscreen controls. But let's be real — there's nothing better than gaming with a trusty controller in hand. The best option is the Razer Raiju Mobile which is a premium Bluetooth controller that will let you play all your favorite old-school games using emulators or the best Android games that support Bluetooth controls.
Best Bluetooth Speakers Under $50
Nothing makes a party better than some music, and nothing makes playing music easier than a Bluetooth speaker, especially as more phone manufacturers omit the 3.5mm headphone jack. Fortunately, you don't need to spend a fortune just to make your tunes louder, especially with fantastic options like the Anker Soundcore Flare Mini to get the party rolling.
Best Spigen cases for Galaxy Note 10 and Note 10+
Now that the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ is available, we've been busy finding the best cases out there. One of the biggest names in smartphone accessories is Spigen, and we were eager to check out everything they had to offer. Here are our favorite Galaxy Note 10 cases they have to offer. Remember, they have all of these models available for both the Note 10 and Note 10+.
Best Caseology Cases for Galaxy Note 10 and 10+
With the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and Note 10+ hitting shelves, new owners will want to cover theirs with the best protection out there. We've taken a close look at Caseology's collection to size up the best cases. Everything here is available both for the Note 10 and Note 10+.
Best Tech Backpacks
Whether you're a writer, photographer, or just someone with a long commute to work every day, backpacks are the most efficient way to carry a full day's worth of gear without having to fuss with annoying rolling bags or messenger bags that wreck your shoulder. They're also a huge commodity, with thousands of backpacks to choose from, ranging from plain empty bags to more specialized options with dividers, pouches, and pockets galore. These are our favorite backpacks that cater specifically towards technology.
Best Bluetooth Headsets
Bluetooth headphones and earbuds are all the rage these days, and rightfully so. For some people, however, Bluetooth headsets that are less bulky and only focus on delivering a great hands-free phone call experience are a better purchase. Whatever your reasoning for being in the market for a Bluetooth headset in 2019, our top pick is the Plantronics Voyager Legend because you get a lot of features at a great price.
Best Neckband Headphones Under $100
Neckband headphones are convenient for those who either have small pockets or no pockets at all. They lay around your neck and are always readily available whenever you need them. If you're looking for a dependable pair, the JBL Live 200BT Wireless are excellent with exceptional sound, battery life, and comfort.
Best Soundbars
Soundbars have come a long way in the last few years. While full-sized speakers will still sound better — sound needs space, after all — soundbars sound great for their size. That size also requires a smaller footprint in your living room and with something like the Sonos Beam, you will get great sound without a head-scratching installation process, and more. There are other great soundbars available, and we have detailed some of the best options for your home.
Best Bluetooth Headphones
Wireless (Bluetooth) headphones have become increasingly popular over the last several years. The best wireless headphones have support for great, high-fidelity sound. That's why the Plantronics Backbeat Pro 2 are our best overall pick. They have excellent sound quality, battery life, and are comfortable for long-term use.
Best Wireless Home Security Cameras
The prevalence of WiFi-connected security cameras has made it easy to keep an eye on your home when you're away. Many of these cameras include internal batteries so that you can mount them anywhere, even in places that a power cable can't reach. We've rounded up our favorites to help keep your security untethered to power outlets.
Best Samsung Earbuds
Samsung isn't known for its line of headphones, and that's mostly because they haven't made any sets of headphones that genuinely stick out from its competition. However, some of Samsung's more recent headphones have been pretty decent like the truly wireless Galaxy Buds.
Best Wireless Headphones for Note 10 and Note 10+
The Galaxy Note 10 and Note 10+ are the first flagship smartphones from Samsung that ditch the 3.5mm audio jack. This means your pre-existing wired headphones won't work and you'll need to find other headphones, probably wireless (unless you're a fan of dongles). The Samsung Galaxy Buds are a solid pair of wireless earbuds and will provide the best experience with your Note 10 or Note 10+.
Best Headphones That Support Google Assistant
While our smartphones are getting smarter over time with A.I, manufacturers are finding more ways to make every day life more manageable. One of those ways is getting the Google Assistant on as many devices as humanly possible. One product category where the Assistant has become super useful in is headphones. Google's own Pixel Buds are a good example. It gives you easy access to the Assistant while also adding additional functionality.
Best Gamepad For Samsung Gear VR
While the latest Samsung Gear VR headsets come with a handy controller, you may still get more out of your gaming experience with a full gamepad. The Stratus Duo is the latest Android controller released by SteelSeries and delivers top build quality and comfort which are important when you're playing with your eyes covered. SteelSeries actually has two controllers featured on this list, but ultimately the Stratus Duo is the best option for most people because it does more without requiring AA batteries.
Best Bluetooth Headphones Under $50
Now that we're a few years into manufacturers releasing smartphones without headphone jacks, it's becoming more common for users to own smartphones that no longer have the 3.5mm headphone jack. If you're on a tight budget, the Ausdom M06 is your best bet if you're looking for a great all-around Bluetooth headphone.
Best Business Backpacks
Though I work remotely, there are times when I need to pack up my computer and other technology to meet with clients - or potential clients - to discuss business or do a presentation. As professionals, we don't necessarily want to show up to an appointment looking like we're going on a hike! We look for a balance of style and business savvy, and that is why Nomatic is our best choice for a business backpack. This pack's big focus is design and functionality, and that is why it's the best business backpack out there. Of course, there are plenty of bags to suit your business needs, and we have them right here.
Best HOTAS Joysticks for PlayStation VR
Here at Android Central, we're experts when it comes to finding all the best ways to improve your virtual reality experience. If you're looking for a HOTAS controller for your PlayStation VR you've come to the right spot. Here are the best options we've found!
Best Bluetooth Headphones Under $100
If you're looking to either replace or add a set of Bluetooth headphones to your collection without breaking the bank, you're in the right place. There are plenty of options ranging from truly wireless earbuds all the way up to over-ear headphones. If you're looking for the best overall headphones, look no further than the OnePlus Bullets Wireless 2, which offer the best balance of portability and quality.
Best Samsung Fitness Tracker
We've worn every size, style, and system of wearable trackers, and Samsung's fitness trackers can certainly hold their own against the competition. Of course, Samsung has quite a few options for you to choose from and we're here to help you pick the best fit for your fitness needs. We suggest the undeniable front-runner, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active, which offers superior fitness tracking in a stylish smartwatch package.
Best Smart Locks
Whether you're tired of losing your keys, you're already in the process of automating your home, or you're setting up a B&B, a vital part of the process is choosing a smart lock that fits your needs. There are plenty of different smart locks to choose from, each with their own unique abilities. However, we recommend the August Smart Lock Pro for most people since it's super easy to set up and comes with everything you need.
Best Speaker to Use with Your Amazon Echo Dot
Just grab an Echo Dot on Prime Day? I love how easy the Echo Dot makes it to listen to music, search for the news, add items to your grocery list, and do so much more. The device's sound quality isn't terrible, but if you want a better audio experience you'll want to purchase compatible speakers. There are hundreds if not thousands out there for you to choose from. Here are the top picks.
Best Heavy Duty Kid Cases for Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablets
The Amazon Fire HD 8 is the perfect tablet for kids since its software is simple and there's a ton of kid-friendly content. But a tablet isn't inherently kid-friendly on its own, so it's good to grab a durable case like the Fintie Case, which comes in several colors while protecting the Fire HD 8 from drops, bumps, and general kiddie clumsiness. Here are our top picks for a variety of instances.
Best Cheap Fitness Trackers
When you're on a budget, every dollar counts. That doesn't necessarily mean you have to skip out on owning a fitness tracker, though. With a bit of time and research, you'll be well on your way to finding a tracker that's reasonably priced and still does what you need it to do. We've gathered up some of our favorite cheap fitness trackers to help you decide. The Fitbit Inspire HR continues to hold a special place in our heart. Although, there are some pretty close contenders.
Best 5G Hotspots
5G connectivity, in its early days, makes a lot of sense with a hub that you can place in a good location and use with multiple devices thanks to its fast speeds and low latency. Sprint offers its customers the option of using a phone or a hotspot with its 5G. AT&T only offers a hub to business customers. The HTC 5G Hub on Sprint is the best overall 5G hotspot because it brings the newest 5G tech to home and business users alike with ease of use of a touchscreen and Android operating system.
Best Magnetic Charger for Oculus Quest
The Oculus Quest provides a completely untethered VR experience, but if you want to play for more than a few hours, you'll need to plug in your device. The Oculus Quest uses a USB-C charging port that can also transfer data, but using a magnetic attachment will help protect your port and also make using it even easier. By attaching magnetically, these cables and adapter make it so your headset isn't yanked to the ground if you accidentally pull on the cable.
Best Samsung Laptops
The 13-inch Notebook 9 from Samsung is an excellent Windows-powered laptop that offers the best in terms of hardware, performance, and dimensions within the company's catalog of portable PCs.
Best replacement AC adapters for PlayStation VR
The Old Skool AC adapter is everything you need to replace a broken or lost PlayStation VR AC adapter. The cables are long enough to give you plenty of room to maneuver.
Best Ethernet cable to use on PlayStation 4
The DanYee Cat 7 Ethernet cable is the perfect Ethernet cable for your PlayStation 4. While the category doesn't make a huge difference, the braided cord means it's durable and it should last you the life of your console.
Best Gamepad for Fortnite on Android
Everyone's favorite battle royale finally supports Bluetooth controllers on mobile. This has been a long time coming for Fortnite, and you'll likely want the best possible controller to get your game on. You shouldn't look any further than the SteelSeries Stratus XL.
Best Screen Protectors for Samsung Galaxy J8
Lacking any protective layer, the screen on the Galaxy J8 is particularly vulnerable to breaking during a tumble. The first thing you should do after buying the device is pick up the PULEN 2.5D Glass Tempered Glass Film. It takes just a few minutes to install the screen protector thanks to the bubble-free design, and the 9H rating offers great protection against tumbles.
Best Photography Case for Your Android Phone
The Moment Photo Case is well-known for a reason. On its own, it's a slim and stylish case that fits on most popular phones, but with the addition of Moment's high-quality interchangeable lenses, you can turn your phone into a much more versatile camera with options for wide angle, telephoto, macro, and even anamorphic lenses.
Best Controller to Use with the Ryze Tello Drone
The GameSir T1d looks like a regular Bluetooth controller, but it has been customized to work only with the Tello for the best possible experience. If you're using an Android phone, it's the one you need to buy.
Best Chromecast to use with your Oculus Go
Oculus Go headsets are a great way to isolate yourself from the world to immerse yourself a movie, game, or other content. But, say you want to share your gameplay with someone else at your house. You're never going to strap two heads inside of a VR headset, but there's a better way with the Chromecast Ultra.
Best Gamepad for Oculus Go
The SteelSeries Stratus XL is the perfect gamepad to use with your Oculus Go. It's comfortable and extremely familiar in style. If you're looking for a little more control when it comes to your virtual reality (VR) gaming then you want this gamepad!
Best USB controller to use with the Commodore 64 Mini
With all the time I have spent with the Commodore 64 Mini, I am well aware of the shortcomings of its controller. It's bulky, awkward, and takes away from an otherwise awesome gaming experience. I looked into some other controller options to see what would actually work with this killer little retro system. This is what I came up with.
Best AC Adapter for PlayStation Classic
The Anker Dual USB Wall Charger provides not one, but two capable USB ports for powering the PlayStation Classic. That means you can have your game going and maybe even charge your smartphone at the same time.
Best Bose Headphones for Running, Working Out
The Bose SoundSport Wireless headphones feature a winning combination of amazing sound and great battery life. The IPX4 rating means they're protected against sweat and water, and while the $149 price isn't cheap, you really do get what you pay for.
Best Bluetooth Headphones for Oculus Go
VICSOME True Wireless are currently the best headphones you're going to find for your Oculus Go. From the noise-canceling abilities to their ability to seem like they're not even there, these are the perfect fit for the best immersive experience for your virtual reality adventures.
Best Water-resistant Bluetooth speakers
There are so many Bluetooth speakers available, but what if you need one that can withstand a pool party or a trip to the beach? That's where water-resistance comes into play, and there's none better than the JBL Charge 4. With this speaker, you'll get 20 hours of battery life, USB Type-C, and the ability to connect with up to 100 different compatible speakers. You get all of this, along with being IPX7 waterproof so you can take it for a swim.
Connected Home
Best Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Routers
Wi-Fi 6 was designed with the future of routers in mind. A router spends most of its time directing and managing network traffic to keep speeds high even with a ton of connections. As our homes get smarter, we have more connections than ever that need to check in consistently and reliably. Wi-Fi 6 then allows for more connections than ever and still manages to kick the speed up a notch. Wi-Fi 6 isn't just for enthusiasts anymore and even in mesh, there is an option for nearly anyone, although the Arris SURFboard mAX Plus Mesh is our top pick for people who want top speeds.
These 5 Roborock vacuums will make perfect Christmas presents
Finding the perfect gifts for the holidays can be a difficult task. If you're looking to get someone a useful present that they will actually want, you should consider purchasing a Roborock robot vacuum. These impressive devices all respond to an app, and they all include motion sensors and gyroscopes that allow them to vacuum in perfect back and forth lines instead of running every which way. Some of these machines, like the Roborock S5, allow you to both set up no-go zones and explicitly tell the unit to clean a particular section of your home. Here are the best Roborock vacuums that will make excellent gifts this holiday season.
Best Roborock Vacuums
Keeping your house clean isn't the easiest thing in the world. You have to find the time between running to work, taking care of family, and scheduling in that much-needed downtime. Something that can help keep your home clean is a reliable robot vacuum. I personally go with Roborock since the company creates quality products, like the Roborock S5, which come with several convenience features while still being incredibly good at cleaning my home. Here are the best Roborock vacuums on the market today.
Best Arlo Cameras
There are so many different smart security cameras that your head could be left spinning while trying to find the best option. However, Arlo has been a player in the game for quite some time and has the following to back it up. With consistent updates and some of the best features, you would be hard-pressed to find a better option. With that being said, the Arlo Pro 3 is our favorite camera thanks to having all the bells and whistles one could want, without having to sacrifice anything to keep your home secure.
Best Samsung TVs
There are so many different TVs out there in the stratosphere, but largely, Samsung is the industry leader. The company makes fantastic options such as the Samsung Q90R which not only has a 4K OLED display, but all of the smart TV functionality one could want, including Bixby. Then, there are others such as the Samsung Q900 which is the epitome of future-proofing your TV viewing experience for years. Nonetheless, Samsung makes a TV for every situation and every budget, and here are the best.
Best Robot Vacuums
When you live in a busy household, keeping everything clean isn't the easiest thing to do. That's why having a reliable robot vacuum like the iRobot Roomba 960 is so appealing. You'll be able to focus on other tasks or simply allow yourself to relax for a moment while the vacuum does work for you. We've done the research and have gathered the best robot vacuums on the market to fit a variety of homes. See which one works for you.
Best Ring Doorbells
Ring makes some of the most popular video doorbells on the market. Most of them can operate off of a battery or low voltage wiring, and they all allow you to keep an eye on your home, even when you're not there. You get motion alerts when someone is near your door, and you can talk to them with two-way audio. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro is the best choice for most people, but your options largely depend on your home and particular security needs.
Best Products With Amazon Alexa
Whether you're looking for holiday gifts, or you want to outfit your smart home with more Alexa-enabled gadgets, there are a lot of options. These are some of our favorite devices that are made to work with or be controlled by Amazon's smart voice assistant. If you don't already have an Echo smart speaker, we recommend you pick up the revamped Amazon Echo (3rd Gen) to get started. It sounds great and comes in at a reasonable starting price. Of course, if you already have an Echo and just want to build out your smart home capabilities, well, we've got you covered there too.
Best Amazon Fire TV Stick
Amazon has been making Fire TV streaming devices for over five years now, and for most of that time, they have had a streaming stick available. Currently, there are three Fire TV sticks to choose from, so which one should you get? We've played with them all and want to share our thoughts on which is the best option for you.
Best Smart Thermostats for Amazon Echo
There are several reasons why you might want to automate your home heating and air conditioning systems. Whether for convenience, energy efficiency, or that "cool" factor, connected smart thermostats are a great investment. If you are in the Amazon ecosystem, there are a growing number of great options. The ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control is our top choice because it has Alexa built-in, includes a room sensor, and is easy to use.
Best TP-Link Router System
TP-Link has been making networking equipment for ages and it's quite good at it. Not only that, TP-Link routers more often than not offer competitive specifications at great prices. If you're looking for a great balance of features including fast AC Wi-Fi with MU-MIMO and tri-band, the Archer A20 is a great fit.
Best Smart Doorbells
Whether you're in a house or apartment, making sure your home is safe while you're away is a key priority. One of the best ways to deter thieves while providing yourself with peace of mind is with a quality smart doorbell like the Nest Hello. We've done the research and made a list of the best smart doorbell cameras for any home. See which one works for you.
Best Smart Lights That Support Alexa
The ecosystem of smart home devices that work with Amazon's Alexa smart voice assistant is vast, and one of the most popular categories of smart home products is smart lighting. With so many options out there, how are you supposed to know which ones work well, or which ones work well with Alexa? My top choice is the Philips Hue White Ambiance Bulb, because it is an industry-leading product, has a massive ecosystem of other Hue products it will work with, and it plays well with Alexa.
Best Smart Doorbells That Support Alexa
As an introvert by nature, one of the things I love most about smart doorbells is the ability for me not to have to get off of my keister and answer every knock or ring at the front door. All I have to do is ask Alexa to show me who is at the front door. We've compiled a list of great smart doorbells that work with Alexa, but my favorite is the Ring Video Doorbell 2. There are plenty of good devices on this list, so be sure to check them out and see what might be the best fit for your situation.
Amazon Echo vs. Dot vs. Show vs. Plus: Which should you buy?
It's hard to believe that the first Amazon Echo was released five years ago, and since then, it's evolved from a standalone smart speaker into an entire ecosystem of radically different products. You'll find an Echo on just about every website and in every store these days, but with so many different models to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you? Well, we're experts on Amazon's Echo lineup, and below you'll find a detailed guide on buying an Alexa-powered speaker or screen for your smart home. We think the Echo Dot (3rd Gen) is the best choice for most folks, but if that's not your cup of tea, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Let's dive in.
Best Speakers with Google Assistant
Whether you want an easy way to check the weather, control smart home devices, stream music, or any other multitude of things, Google Assistant speakers are the way to go. They come in many shapes, sizes, and prices, but no matter which one you buy, you get the same core experience. If you're in the market for your first Assistant device or need another for your growing collection, here's a list of our current favorites — including the Google Nest Hub as our top overall choice.
Best Smart Speaker in 2019: Echo vs. Google Home vs. Sonos
If you're looking for a good, affordable smart speaker but don't know where to start, fear not! We've lined up a list of the best smart speakers in various categories to help you decide which one to add to your home. Our best overall choice is the Sonos One due to its price, performance, and interoperability with multiple platforms.
Best Bluetooth Trackers in 2019: Tile, Chipolo, and more
Once upon a time, you'd lose track of your keys and spend precious time searching for them. Now, you have phones and Bluetooth. When you combine the two, you have Bluetooth trackers that connect to your phone. When you lose an item, you're only an app away from quickly finding it again. Tile continues to dominate this market and recently refreshed its lineup. Our favorite is still the Tile Pro. The new edition offers an unbeatable range, the loudest alert, and a one-year replaceable battery.
Best Amazon Echo Show
Did you know that there are three Echo Show devices currently being sold by Amazon? And that there was something called an Echo Spot? With so many showy Echo devices, which one should you get? We'll talk you through each option to help you decide which is right for your home, although we recommend the new Echo Show 8 above the others because of its great size.
Best Wall Mount for Kindle Fire Tablet
We all love our tablets, but sometimes you just want to set it and forget it rather than carrying it around or looking for a surface to balance it on. That's where wall mounts come in, providing both a tasteful and practical answer that looks right out of your favorite sci-fi, like the Koala Mount by Dockem, our best overall choice, with its minimalist design and easy, 1-step installation. Here are the best wall mounts for Kindle Fire available today.
Best Soundbars
Soundbars have come a long way in the last few years. While full-sized speakers will still sound better — sound needs space, after all — soundbars sound great for their size. That size also requires a smaller footprint in your living room and with something like the Sonos Beam, you will get great sound without a head-scratching installation process, and more. There are other great soundbars available, and we have detailed some of the best options for your home.
Best Alexa-enabled Speakers
Alexa, one of the world's most popular digital assistants, is seemingly everywhere in 2019. Just about everything supports Alexa one way or another, with the most popular way to access the assistant being through smart speakers. We think the Amazon Echo (3rd Gen) is the best overall speaker for everyone, as it strikes a great balance of features and price. If that's not your thing, we have seven other recommendations to check out, too. Let's dive in!
Best Smart Display
Whether you're just starting out with your smart home or have been building it up for a while, a smart display (or two) can be the perfect addition. A smart display is essentially a Google Assistant or Alexa speaker with a screen attached to it, allowing you to perform your usual array of voice commands while also watching YouTube videos, following recipes, and more. The smart display we recommend the most is the Nest Hub Max, but if it isn't catching your fancy, we have five other options that are also worth a look.
Best Smart Scale under $50
When you look at all of the connected tech we spend money on to improve our well-being, a smart scale offers the best value and data. After all, it measures more than your weight and delivers the data right to your phone. Best of all, you don't need to spend a fortune. Our favorite under $50 is the Eufy BodySense Smart Scale, which tracks 12 metrics for multiple users. There are, however, many more affordable options to choose from.
Best Roku Streaming Products
Welcome to the world of streaming! Roku has a bunch of different streaming products that are so easy to set up and use. You'll get access to thousands of movies and TV shows with devices that are compatible with smart TVs and, for those of you who still have, dinosaur-aged TVs. We love using Roku devices and have picked out our favorites for you in a number of categories, although our favorite is the Roku Ultra.
Best Cheap Android TVs
Smart TVs are plentiful, but finding ones that are powered by Android TV can be a chore — especially if you're working with a smaller budget. Cheap Android TVs just aren't that popular in the U.S., but if you do a bit of digging, you can still find some pretty great options. We've done the hard work for you and rounded up our top picks for the best cheap Android TVs available right now in 2019 — our favorite of which is the Hisense 55H8F.
Best Sonos Speakers
Over the last few years, we've seen a resurgence in home speakers thanks to the rise of Alexa and Google Assistant. The idea of having a "smart speaker" is a lot more appealing to folks than a traditional, dumb speaker, and this has created for a significant shift in the home audio market. Sonos has been creating killer speakers since 2002, and lately, has been adapting to the changing industry. The company's product line is now better than ever, with its top overall offering being the tried-and-true Sonos One. Here's why the One is so darn good, along with the company's other top gadgets.
Best Fire TV Edition Televisions
By now almost everyone has heard of or has purchased a Fire TV box, stick, or some similar competing product from Roku or Apple. If not, you likely own a "smart TV" with certain apps built-in. The Fire TV Edition sets bridge the gap between these devices and make your entertainment delivery more seamless. Our overall favorite is the Toshiba LF711U20 series, which is available in several manageable sizes and is an affordable entry into the 4K world of Fire TVs. There are a lot of other great choices too though, so let's take a look.
Best Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
Mesh wireless networks, like our favorite kit from Eero, are the best way to rid your home of those dreaded dead spots where Wi-Fi can never seem to reach. Since they are also easy to set up and expandable to work in almost any home, they're a popular way to do it! Here's our pick of 2019's best offerings to help you pick which works for you.
Best Smart Thermostat
Heating and cooling are the single biggest factors of your monthly energy bill, so it makes sense for most people to consider picking up a smart thermostat that better manages the temperature of your home. The Nest Learning Thermostat is the best overall option, offering a sleek and modern design that fits into any home and automated schedule creation based on your habits.
Best Smart Home Security Systems
Many homeowners are moving to a more hands-on security setup because excellent products that are easy to set up are readily available. Just mount it, plug it in, and your home is good to go. We think the Arlo Pro 2 system is the best you can buy because of its great features and easy setup, but there are plenty of others that might fit your needs. Here are some smart home systems that can get you started.
Best Robot Vacuums for Pet Hair
When you live in a home with pets, it's not uncommon to find tumbleweeds of fur collecting in different areas of the house. Cats and dogs never seem to stop shedding, which makes cleaning up a bit of a hassle. The best way to keep your home clean is with a reliable robot vacuum like the iRobot Roomba i7+ that takes care of the furry mess every day. We've done our research and gathered a list of the best robot vacuums for pet hair. See which one fits your needs.
Best Smart Sensors
Smart sensors are great little devices if you're looking for added security. They can detect movement, alert you when someone tries to enter your home, detect leaks, and others can monitor room temperature. Our top pick is the Ecolink Z-Ware Door and Window Sensors. Set up is quick and easy, and it is compatible with SmartThings so that you can use voice controls through multiple smart hubs. Check our top picks for the best smart sensors out there.
Best Smart Thermostat for Multiple Zones
You're not always going to be in the room that houses your thermostat. For some homes, that can mean a pretty substantial difference in temperature in every season. There's a fix for this common problem, though: smart thermostats with multiple zoning like our favorite the Ecobee 4. Being able to set the temperature where you are instead of where the thermostat is can be a lifesaver. We've rounded up the best of them for 2019.
Best Affordable Soundbars
If you thought that you needed to spend an arm and a leg to get a solid soundbar, that's not the case anymore. When you have budget options like the TaoTronics Soundbar TT-SK019, it's hard to spring for the big-ticket items. We have found the best soundbars that you can get for under $100 today.
Best Baby Monitors
When you put the baby down for a nap, it can be hard not worrying about her every few seconds. Having a quality video baby monitor can help give you peace of mind by letting you check on her without disrupting her sleep. These devices have come along way in the past few years. Many baby monitors like the Infant Optics DXR-8, include night vision, temperature sensors, and two-way communication. We've gathered the best options on the market to help you find one for your needs.
Best Soundbars
Soundbars have come a long way in the last few years. While full-sized speakers will still sound better — sound needs space, after all — soundbars sound great for their size. That size also requires a smaller footprint in your living room and with something like the Sonos Beam, you will get great sound without a head-scratching installation process, and more. There are other great soundbars available, and we have detailed some of the best options for your home.
Best Wireless Home Security Cameras
The prevalence of WiFi-connected security cameras has made it easy to keep an eye on your home when you're away. Many of these cameras include internal batteries so that you can mount them anywhere, even in places that a power cable can't reach. We've rounded up our favorites to help keep your security untethered to power outlets.
Best Smart Garage Door Openers
When you're looking to upgrade your home to a smart home, you don't want to forget the garage door. Being able to open it from your phone makes it easier for you to enter your house when you don't have a remote or keypad handy. More than that, at some point, you or one of your kids might leave the garage door open. Most smart garage door openers including the Chamberlain MyQ let you check the status of your garage door and close it from a distance. Here are the best smart garage door openers for any home.
Best Smart Smoke Detector
Smoke detectors are a necessary part of any home. They provide peace of mind throughout the night and can help save you and your loved ones in an emergency. For many years we've dealt with the high pitched beeps emitted by most fire detectors. But with modern smart fire alarms, like the Nest Protect (2nd Gen), you can swap that out for voice alerts and smartphone notifications. We've gathered together a list of the best smart smoke detectors. See which one works for you.
Best Smart Locks
Whether you're tired of losing your keys, you're already in the process of automating your home, or you're setting up a B&B, a vital part of the process is choosing a smart lock that fits your needs. There are plenty of different smart locks to choose from, each with their own unique abilities. However, we recommend the August Smart Lock Pro for most people since it's super easy to set up and comes with everything you need.
Best Speaker to Use with Your Amazon Echo Dot
Just grab an Echo Dot on Prime Day? I love how easy the Echo Dot makes it to listen to music, search for the news, add items to your grocery list, and do so much more. The device's sound quality isn't terrible, but if you want a better audio experience you'll want to purchase compatible speakers. There are hundreds if not thousands out there for you to choose from. Here are the top picks.
Best LIFX Bulbs
LIFX's smart bulbs are great, but picking the right one for your home can be daunting — especially when there are so many to choose from. The LIFX+ is the best bulb in the company's catalog and is particularly useful if you have a night vision security camera, but not everybody needs to go out and buy the most expensive bulb, and there are plenty of other great options to choose from.
Best Samsung Smart TVs
There are so many different smart TVs on the market, and Samsung is one of the best in the business as evidenced by the NU8000 Premium Smart TV. This TV gives you everything you could want in a smart TV while offering so much more. Of course, there are other options and just about one for any kind of person.
Best DIY Security Systems for Renters
The Ring Alarm is the best DIY home security system for renters because it offers everything needed to keep your home safe at a competitive price and the optional $10 monthly monitoring is the best value.
PlayStation 4
Best PlayStation VR Controller
Shooting games are the most popular style of game in the VR community, and the PlayStation Aim controller adds a level of immersion you can't get with your Move controllers. The perfect controller for the PlayStation VR depends on the type of game you want to play, your preferred playstyle, and how much immersion you want for your game. Check out all your options here!
Best Wireless PlayStation 4 Headsets
When you're playing a game you want the very best audio quality possible. Using a good headset is almost like experiencing a whole new universe once you put it on. If you want the best of the best wireless options for your PlayStation 4, you'll want the SteelSeries Arctis 7 for its form factor, affordability, and audio quality. But there are plenty of others out there to choose from depending on your tastes.
Best 4K TV for PlayStation 4 Pro
When you're looking for an awesome 4K TV for your PlayStation 4 Pro you need to be looking for a few specific features: excellent screen quality, high dynamic range (HDR), and a good price. The LG ThinQ OLED ticks all of these boxes and then gives you lots more smart functionality thrown in for good measure.
Best HOTAS Joysticks for PlayStation VR
Here at Android Central, we're experts when it comes to finding all the best ways to improve your virtual reality experience. If you're looking for a HOTAS controller for your PlayStation VR you've come to the right spot. Here are the best options we've found!
Best Fight Stick for Mortal Kombat 11
Mortal Kombat 11 is right around the corner, and a lot of gamers are curious about fight sticks. Fight sticks are dedicated hardware which include two rows of buttons and a joystick. They're essentially what you find at an arcade, but with some modifications. If you prefer to use them when you're playing fighting games, we have a great recommendation. It's called the Mayflash F300 Arcade Fight Stick.
Best replacement AC adapters for PlayStation VR
The Old Skool AC adapter is everything you need to replace a broken or lost PlayStation VR AC adapter. The cables are long enough to give you plenty of room to maneuver.
Best Ethernet cable to use on PlayStation 4
The DanYee Cat 7 Ethernet cable is the perfect Ethernet cable for your PlayStation 4. While the category doesn't make a huge difference, the braided cord means it's durable and it should last you the life of your console.
Best Replacement Power Cord for PlayStation 4
The AmazonBasics power cord for PlayStation 4 is an affordable replacement from a trustworthy brand. It'll provide the exact kind of power your PS4 needs at a very comfortable range.
Best AC Adapter for PlayStation Classic
The Anker Dual USB Wall Charger provides not one, but two capable USB ports for powering the PlayStation Classic. That means you can have your game going and maybe even charge your smartphone at the same time.
Headphones
Best USB-C Headphones for Pixel 3 and Pixel 4
Google bundles a pair of USB-C earbuds in the box with every Pixel 3 and 3 XL purchase, and the sound quality on offer is pretty decent, all things considered. However, if you're looking for something with a bit more oomph, the Libratone Q Adapt would be our recommendation.
Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones may not be as popular as they once were but they still have a place in the market. They're great for when you want the best sound quality you can possibly get from a headphone. Portable, and especially wireless (Bluetooth) headphones have exploded over the past decade and that's why the Sony WH-1000XM3 have taken our top spot as the best overall headphone you can buy right now.
Best Sony Headphones
Crank up your tunes with our favorite headphones, Sony's WH-1000XM3. Not only do these headphones have the best noise cancelation, but also great sound, battery life, and comfort. Now you can jam out, talk to Alexa, and even take a phone call without ever having to take babies off.
Best Headphones That Support Google Assistant
While our smartphones are getting smarter over time with A.I, manufacturers are finding more ways to make every day life more manageable. One of those ways is getting the Google Assistant on as many devices as humanly possible. One product category where the Assistant has become super useful in is headphones. Google's own Pixel Buds are a good example. It gives you easy access to the Assistant while also adding additional functionality.
Best Bluetooth Headphones Under $50
Now that we're a few years into manufacturers releasing smartphones without headphone jacks, it's becoming more common for users to own smartphones that no longer have the 3.5mm headphone jack. If you're on a tight budget, the Ausdom M06 is your best bet if you're looking for a great all-around Bluetooth headphone.
Best Bose Headphones for Running, Working Out
The Bose SoundSport Wireless headphones feature a winning combination of amazing sound and great battery life. The IPX4 rating means they're protected against sweat and water, and while the $149 price isn't cheap, you really do get what you pay for.
Chromebooks
Best Chromebooks
The best Chromebooks of 2019 can provide a top-notch computing experience, perfect for students and anyone looking for a trouble-free laptop with long battery life. We've reviewed and rated the absolute best Chromebooks so that you can find the best value at any budget. Our buyer's guide will help you find the perfect Chrome OS laptop or tablet.
Best Laptops
Our phones are smarter than ever, but they still can't do everything, and let's be real: who wants to write a ten-page essay on a phone? Or file taxes? Or play solitaire for hours on end? For so, so many things, a laptop is the best tool for the job, and whether you use yours for work or play, chances are you overpaid for your last one. Let's make sure that doesn't happen again by letting us help you find a high-quality laptop that actually earns its price tag, like my run-and-gun workhorse Lenovo Chromebook C340.
Best Chromebox
The ASUS Chromebox 3 is the best Chromebox you can buy right now. It's available in several configurations, but all models feature a true M.2 SATA SSD for years of worry-free storage and upgradability should you need it. If you're more interested in Chromebooks for using Chrome OS on the go, Black Friday discounts have some amazing deals you'll want to keep an eye on.
Best Chromebooks for Students
Chromebooks are great computers for a lot of different uses, but they are almost tailor-made for education. They're designed to perform well even with modest specs, software is hard to break, corrupt, or infect, and if a student breaks a laptop, they just need to log in on any other laptop in the school system to get back to work. There are a lot of great options to choose from, but our top pick is the ASUS Chromebook Flip C214.
Best Chromebooks for Travelers
If you want to take a laptop with you on your trips, you want something that will help you get everything you need to do securely. Depending on where you're going or staying along the way, you might want a laptop that won't hurt your wallet too much if you have to replace it. Whether you want a portable powerhouse or an expendable essential, these Chromebooks are ready to see the world!