Smartphones
Best Wireless Carriers for Students
Students have a lot of things to pay for from books to party supplies. Whether you need a lot of data or can get by on Wi-Fi, there is a plan that fits your needs. If you haven't been keeping an eye on phone carriers, you may have some room to save some money or get a better service for less with these carriers. Visible is the best wireless carrier for students thanks to its unlimited data, mobile hotspot, and Party Pay features.
Best Cheap Android Phones
It's 2020, and flagship smartphones are all nearly a thousand dollars or more. But as high-end phones get more expensive, cheaper phones are getting better. 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 $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 that preceded it. 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 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 Moto G Fast. Today, we're talking about it and seven other phones that bring tremendous value to the low-end space.
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 that truly stands out from the pack, and in 2020 that's the OnePlus 8 Pro. Not only is it a great phone packed with the latest internals and a 120Hz AMOLED display, but you also get the best software on Android right now.
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 mid-range options for years, and that holds true with its excellent Moto G Power. For an extremely competitive price, you get capable specs with a big display and simple software that anyone can figure out. Plus, it has a massive battery and convenient USB-C charging.
Best Verizon Prepaid Phones
If you're going prepaid, you can certainly try to bring your own device to Verizon — though Big Red is notoriously pretty strict about which phones it'll allow. Many unlocked phones aren't even compatible with its network. Otherwise, Verizon has a selection of prepaid phones that you can purchase directly. The Galaxy Note 10 is the best of the best on Verizon Prepaid, but there are plenty of other great options to choose from.
Best Small Android Phones
In just a few short years, big phones have gone from being an outlier to the norm in the smartphone industry. Just about every major device that's released these days has a larger physical size, and while that's great for watching movies and playing games, it can be a challenge for those of us that prefer our phones to be small and compact. Thankfully, there are still plenty of options out there — including the Google Pixel 3a as our top overall pick.
Best Android Phones
The best Android phone you can buy is the OnePlus 8 Pro, because it brings a great combination of hardware quality, specs, display, cameras, and software to a palatable price for a high-end phone. 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 Phones for Google Fi
For just $20 per month for unlimited calls and texts, and $10 per gigabyte of data (and any data past 6GB is free), Google Fi is one of the most compelling carriers around. Factor in its excellent global roaming, nationwide coverage, and billing feature that credits back whatever data you don't use, and you have an even more appealing purchase. Fi works with almost any unlocked phone, but certain features only work on some phones. The Google Pixel 4 XL is our top recommendation for the network because of its complete feature support, but if that doesn't fit your needs, there are plenty of other phones to choose from here.
Best Android Phones for Students
Summer's almost over, school will be back and — what's that, your kid needs a new smartphone? Whether you're the parent of a high schooler or are a student getting ready to head back to college, having a trusty Android phone by your side can make life a lot easier. Here are a few of our top recommendations, including the Google Pixel 3a as our best overall pick.
Most Secure Android Phone
The Google Pixel 4 (and 4 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 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 Google Pixel 3a!
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, means the time is right to make sure your next phone is capable of handling it all in stride. We think the Galaxy S20 is the best overall gaming phone, but if that doesn't strike your fancy, there are plenty of other options worth considering.
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 any even remotely expensive gadget. In 2020, you really can't go wrong with any of these waterproof phones, like the excellent OnePlus 8 Pro.
Best Android Phones for Kids
Like it or not, there will come a time when you need to buy a phone for your kid. Deciding at what age they should get a phone is entirely up to you, but when you do go out and pick one up, you want to make sure you're getting something worthwhile without completely wrecking their college savings fund. Lucky for you, there are tons of great handsets that your kid and wallet will equally love. We think the Moto G Power is the best all-around choice, but if it's not catching your fancy, there are plenty of other stellar phones on this list.
Best Unlocked 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 2020, 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 need a big phone to give you the largest screen and most capabilities, the Galaxy S20 Ultra 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 in India (June 2020)
India is the second-largest smartphone market in the world, and the most competitive. Value dominates the entire conversation around phones, and as a result you'll find incredible deals across the board — from flagships like the OnePlus 8 Pro to affordable options like the POCO X2. I've used every phone launched in India over the last 12 months, and these are the best Android phones you can buy in the country right now.
Best Android Phones Under $100
Not everybody needs to spend upwards of $1,000 on their phone, especially those on prepaid carriers looking to cut down on spending wherever possible. Luckily, phones at all price ranges have gotten great lately, and that holds especially true in the budget category. It was previously a wasteland of near-unusable devices, but now you can get a shockingly reliable phone for under a Benjamin. We think the Nokia 2.2 is the best phone in this price range, but if that doesn't strike your fancy, there are plenty of other options out there.
Best 5G Plan
5G is moving quickly and with coverage finally reaching more people thanks to Sub-6 5G. Verizon has been moving quickly on its Ultra Wideband network as well consistently adding new cities and towers. The best plan for you might depend on whether or not you get coverage. The best overall plan for 5G is T-Mobile's Magenta plan with unlimited data and Netflix included.
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 S20 Ultra 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 5G Phones
New technology works best when everyone commits to it — 2020 is the year everyone is committing to 5G connectivity. A ton of support from carriers and smartphone companies is going to flood the market with 5G-capable phones this year. 5G isn't everywhere (yet), but if you live in a place with a 5G network, these are the best 5G phones you can buy — starting with our top pick, the Galaxy S20+.
Best Android Phone Under $800
Once you step down from the absolute top end of the market, the OnePlus 8 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 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 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. For most people, all of these carriers are likely to have some coverage for you. Overall, T-Mobile has great network performance and looks likely to continue to improve in the next few years in both 4G and 5G.
Best MVNOs That Use T-Mobile's Network
The T-Mobile network has been one of the biggest surprises in recent years with continued growth and a knack for locking down a lot of great spectrum. T-Mobile is trading blows with the likes of AT&T and Verizon in terms of coverage and speed across the U.S. and has done so with one of the most open and compatible networks around. This is one of the reasons some of the best MVNOs take advantage of the T-Mobile network and can offer great rates on data with great coverage. Metro by T-Mobile manages to be one of the best prepaid carriers to use the network with tons of data and even great roaming partner access.
Best Android Phones in the U.S. for 2020
Globalization of the smartphone world has leveled the playing field dramatically, with most phones nowadays being made available internationally. But there are some notable exceptions, and if you're in the U.S. you don't get your choice of every phone out there. These are the best devices you can get in the U.S. today — from the best overall package in the OnePlus 8 Pro, up to more expensive picks and down to dramatically more affordable options.
Best Phone Mount for Game Controllers
Smartphones are more powerful today than they ever have been, with some devices offering a better gaming experience than even your desktop computer. On top of that, the mobile gaming platform has expanded so much that the library of games is incredible, so you'll want to use a controller to get the best experience. If you're not tied to a specific ecosystem, the best option for most people is the Razer Raiju Mobile, which works with both Windows and Android.
Best Unlimited Data Plan for 2020
All four major U.S. carriers and even some MVNOs currently offer unlimited data plans. In the past, carriers have steered away from offering a lot of data. Now, the plans are mainly differentiated by extras such as hotspot data, streaming quality, or even bundled extras like streaming services. T-Mobile's Magenta plan is the best value with plenty of data, 5G access, and even Netflix if you bring two or more lines.
Best T-Mobile Alternatives
T-Mobile, like the rest of the big U.S. carriers, is keen on selling access to MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators). This is great since it benefits T-Mobile (income without any investment), the MVNO (no need to build its own network), and us (more choices at different prices). A lot of MVNOs use T-Mobile's network, either exclusively or in combination with other carriers. For most people, Metro by T-Mobile is a great fit thanks to its wide range of plans and full support for T-Mobile's 5G network.
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 A31, 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 2020.
Best Carriers for 5G
It's finally time to think about 5G when choosing a carrier. 5G coverage has continued to grow and is available in more places than ever. Increased use of sub-6 5G has led to great coverage and many supported phones while mmWave is pushing out the boat on speed and capacity in dense urban areas. There are also some MVNO options allowing for even more access. With a mix of sub-6 on low-band and mid-band spectrum for rural and suburban areas and mmWave in progress in urban areas, T-Mobile is the best carrier for 5G.
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, tons of great Android phones embody the same idea: getting a great experience with the latest specs and features and not paying top dollar for it. The best example of this is the OnePlus 8 Pro, which offers a flagship-like experience for less than the direct competition. It's a great phone to pair with the solid-but-inexpensive Mint Mobile service.
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 Phones for Call of Duty: Mobile
Thanks to the rise of popular games like Fortnite and PUBG, not to mention streaming services such as Stadia and xCloud, mobile gaming has taken off like crazy in the past couple of years. One of the most notable titles to hit the scene is Call of Duty: Mobile, which brings the fully-fledged CoD experience right to your phone. From multiplayer, battle royale, and even zombies, Call of Duty: Mobile has it all. If you want to take your experience to the next level, you need a phone like the ASUS ROG Phone 2 — or any of the handsets mentioned below.
Best Phone Tripod
Tripods aren't just for DSLR and mirrorless cameras when they can also play a pivotal role in mobile photography. The best tripods are made to help capture scenes in the brightest or darkest conditions for any phone you latch onto them. Manfrotto's PIXI Mini with Universal Clamp offers the best traditional tripod functionality in a "mini" form made for phones. This guide will help you find the right fit for your device and the images you want to compose.
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 Smartphone Gimbals
Smartphone cameras are getting better and better with each new flagship release, so why not pair those cameras with an equally excellent gimbal that'll ensure ultra-smooth, cinematic video? With the wide availability of portable, easy-to-use, and best of all, affordable gimbals for your phone, there's no excuse anymore to shoot shaky cam footage — unless you're just a huge fan of The Blair Witch Project or Cloverfield. The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is the gimbal you should buy to shoot your next vlog, but there are some great alternatives.
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 ASUS Phones
ASUS overhauled its strategy in the last two years, cleaning up its user interface and turning its attention to the value flagship segment. The move worked very well for the brand, with the ZenFone 6 one of the best in this category. ASUS also has a standout gaming phone and decent options if you're on a budget.
Best Huawei Phones
The U.S. trade ban dominated Huawei's fortunes over the course of the last 12 months, with the manufacturer effectively hobbled from launching its products in global markets. While you can't pick up its phones officially in the U.S., Huawei's latest devices are available unlocked from Amazon.
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 2020 — including the Ulefone Note 7 as our top overall pick.
Best Sustainable and Repairable Phones
Our planet is a beautiful thing, but we only have one to go around. As such, making smart choices about how we live our lives and the products we buy is key to ensuring it sticks around for generations to come. Some smartphones are created to be more sustainable/repairable than others, and if those are important factors you consider when buying a new phone, the Teracube is the one to buy. There are also a few other options worth talking about, which we'll dive into in this article.
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 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 MVNOs That Use Verizon's Network
The four big wireless service providers in the U.S. are AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Each one has its own unique set of deals and features, but these aren't the only options you have to choose from. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (or MVNOs for short) are other providers that harness the network of the Big Four carriers so you can still choose the one that has the best coverage in your area while having more flexibility over what you spend. When it comes to MVNOs powered by Verizon's network, Visible stands out as the best overall choice. However, it's far from the only one out there.
Best Touchscreen Winter Gloves
There's not much worse during the winter than practically freezing your fingers off trying to send a quick text or navigate with Google Maps. Touchscreen gloves are one of the best ways to keep your hands warm, no matter what nature throws at you — next to staying inside, of course. The Mujjo Knitted Touchscreen Gloves are about as good as it gets, but there are plenty of other great options to choose from.
Best Foldable Phone
We're still in the early days of the foldable phone re-emergence, but there are a couple of options available if you want to buy-in. These are no longer concepts or prototypes, they're complete phones that are on store shelves just like any other. Right now, the best overall foldable is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip because of its ability to just work like a normal phone most of the time ... until it folds back in half again.
Best Prepaid 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 that will work with the major prepaid carriers under $325.
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 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 Boost Mobile Phones
Boost Mobile exists to help you save money on your monthly phone bill, giving you access to affordable wireless plans that are powered by Sprint's nationwide network. If you're looking for a phone to use with Boost, here's a roundup of our current favorites — including the Google Pixel 3a as our top choice.
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 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 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 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 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
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 Garmin Watch
If you're both a fitness fan and a smartwatch enthusiast, you might be familiar with Garmin, which designs a variety of wearables that cater to both the smartwatch and fitness crowds. Our personal favorite is the Vivoactive 4, which mixes the two well. Whether you're a professional athlete or a first-time runner, there are many fantastic choices here.
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. The Amazfit smartwatch lineup isn't as well known as, say, Fitbit, but it keeps growing and offers plenty of solid choices at great prices. The Amazfit Verge stands out from the rest as a superb lifestyle smartwatch full of useful features. At the end of the day, the watch you choose will depend on the experience you want.
Best Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers with GPS
Whether you're a casual or professional athlete, GPS is often one of the most sought-after features when buying a smartwatch or fitness tracker. Depending on your budget and what other features you're seeking, there are some great options out there, but you'll often have to pay more for the privilege. If you're serious about tracking your activities and want all of the details plus built-in GPS, we'd recommend the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music. It has plenty to offer, especially if you're a highly active individual who's committed to detailed fitness tracking.
Best Fitness Trackers in 2020: Top 10 products ranked
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 Apple Watch Alternatives
For some, the Apple Watch is considered the gold standard of smartwatches, but whether it is or not makes no difference to Android users who couldn't use it even if they wanted to. Smartwatches for Android users abound, and the one that stands out from the pack is the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 because of its balanced functionality and stylish design that caters to wider subset of users.
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 wearables but also adds top-of-the-line specs to the equation. 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 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 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. 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 many other affordable options to choose from, too.
Best Smartwatches That Can Measure Blood Oxygen Saturation Levels
Nowadays, it's becoming more common to see smartwatches with SpO2 sensors for measuring blood oxygen saturation. It's useful during sleep monitoring or when you're at high altitudes. Most importantly, it will alert you to potential issues that need to be addressed such as sleep apnea or other breathing conditions. The Garmin Forerunner 245 is an excellent running watch on its own, but it also has a built-in SpO2 sensor, which makes it even more appealing. We've rounded up the best watches you can buy that measure blood oxygen saturation levels.
Best Fitbit Charge 4 Bands
The Fitbit Charge 4 is finally available to purchase and it's an extremely impressive fitness tracker. If you know that you don't typically fancy the proprietary bands, now is the time to stock up on some new ones. You'll be happy to know that the Fitbit Charge 3 bands are also compatible with the new device. We've gathered up some excellent options for you to consider.
Best Fitbit
Whatever your fitness goals are, living a healthier life is a lot easier when you have something to keep track of your activity throughout the day automatically. 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, offering a great blend of features, specs, and design at a price your wallet will love.
Best Cheap Android Smartwatches
If you're thinking about buying a Wear OS smartwatch, you may have noticed there are a lot of appealing choices from top brands. However, not everyone wants to spend a fortune. Luckily, there are quality options available at lower price points. One of the most affordable yet feature-packed Android smartwatches is the TicWatch S2, which is all about rugged durability. There's plenty more where that came from.
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 on your way to finding a tracker that's reasonably priced and 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 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 Fitness Smartwatches
Are you an active individual who's seeking a smartwatch that delivers powerful fitness and health tracking tools along with an eye-catching design? The Garmin Vivoactive 4 has built-in GPS, music storage, full waterproofing, and even NFC for mobile payments with Garmin Pay. It's as fully-featured of a smartwatch and fitness tracker that you'll find, so it might be just what you're looking for.
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 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 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 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.
Accessories
Best Headphones with Amazon Alexa Support
Smart assistants like Amazon Alexa are becoming more popular than ever, and headphone makers are jumping onboard to offer it as a signature built-in feature. They're growing in number and variance, but the Sony WH1000XM3 stand out because of the combination of comfort, sound quality and versatility in bringing Alexa into the fold.
Best Office Chairs
The adage "you get what you pay for" definitely holds for certain categories of products, like shoes, mattresses, and yes, office chairs. The simple fact is, the more you have available to spend (up to a point), the better chair you can buy. The range of options for the best office chairs available is quite diverse and includes styles and features for just about any taste and preference. Our top pick is the AmazonBasics High-Back Leather Executive Chair. It's got the looks to fit in a corporate environment or a home office, and it's so comfortable you might not want to get out of it.
Best Wireless Earbuds
Smartphones are slowly but surely getting rid of the 3.5mm audio jack from smartphones and tablets, so users are turning to wireless as the next viable option. The Jabra Elite 75t are currently the best wireless earbuds you can buy today. They feature solid sound, long battery life, and they're incredibly comfortable and portable.
Best Smart Scale
Whether you're just beginning your weight loss journey or you're deep into a workout regimen and want to start tracking your progress, a smart scale is an awesome way to keep your fitness goals in check. These scales connect to a corresponding app on your phone or tablet and show you detailed data that you wouldn't get from an ordinary bathroom scale. Our favorite is the Eufy Smart Scale P1, which is easy to use, tracks 14 metrics, and can accommodate multiple users. No matter what features you desire, there's a smart scale on this list for you.
Best aptX Low Latency Headphones
Qualcomm, which owns the aptX Bluetooth codec, describes aptX Low Latency as "audio that keeps up." The implication is that sound will be in sync with whatever you're watching on a screen, which is critical if you're watching a show, movie, or playing a game. The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 stands out as the best aptX LL headphones because they offer excellent all-around sound quality, fantastic comfort, and superb battery life.
Best Backpacks
Backpacks are used for all kinds of reasons, whether it's to travel to work, school, or even vacation. There are so many types and kinds of backpacks, many of which are appropriate for different use cases. But one of the best and most versatile is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 which, as the name implies, is designed to handle everyday use, whatever you might throw at it. It can hold a laptop and other essentials, both large and small, thanks to adjustable dividers. Plus, it's water-resistant, expandable, and designed with plenty of features to reduce theft.
Best Bluetooth Trackers
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 Bluetooth tracker is still the Tile Pro. The new edition offers an unbeatable range, the loudest alert, and a one-year replaceable battery.
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 Kishi 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, along with those graphic-intensive titles that are making their way onto the Play Store.
Best Smart Speaker
If you're looking for the best 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 Soundbars
The best 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 are great for their size. That size also requires a smaller footprint in your living room, so it's great for people who want to save space. With something like the Sonos Beam, you'll 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 soundbar options for your home.
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 of the most highly requested features. 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 performance and excellent battery life.
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 Sony Headphones
Crank up your tunes with our favorite headphones, Sony's WH-1000XM3. Not only do the WH-1000KM3 feature class-leading active noise cancelation, but they also feature 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 your headphones off. Sony is one of the leaders in high-end headphones, so there are plenty of other great options, too.
Best Office Chairs Under $100
Everyone who works in an office setting, be it a corporate cubicle farm, a mom and pop shop, or working from a home office, knows that having a good office chair can make all the difference towards good posture and chronic pain. Unfortunately, not all of us have tons of cash lying around to invest in a $1,400 Herman Miller Aeron chair. We've compiled a list of some of the most affordable office chairs that you can find on Amazon, all $100 or less. Our top pick is the Neo Chair Marvel Avengers Headrest Office Chair. Not only does it look cool, but it also has great support and ventilation for a fair price.
Best Cheap 4K TVs
Regardless of why you need a new TV, you'll end up wanting or needing one at some point. And not everyone wants to throw thousands of dollars at a television, but thankfully, you don't need to. With the advancements in technology, you can get a 4K TV with a bunch of awesome features without needing to empty the piggy bank. Plus, when you find televisions that offer as great of a value as with the Samsung TU8000, you don't need to spend a boatload of dough. These are the best cheap 4K TVs you can get today!
Best Webcam For Your PC, Mac, or Chromebook
Chances are that you're using the built-in webcam from your laptop, or you have a desktop that doesn't have a webcam at all. But with more and more folks working from home, you'll end up needing to join in a video conference call at some point, and you don't want to end up looking like a potato. With the Logitech Brio 4K, there's no chance of that happening and you get more added features than you'll know what to do with. However, you'll want to take advantage of the 4K recording and Windows Hello support.
Best Cheap Dolby Atmos Soundbars
Most budget soundbars can't support Dolby Atmos soundtracks, and those that do often struggle to convincingly recreate the cinematic bubble of sounds you're used to in a theater. Soundbars like the VIZIO 36" 5.1.2-Channel Soundbar, however, manage to achieve an impressive Atmos sound without screaming through your savings. We've tracked down the best "budget" Atmos-compatible soundbars that best straddle the line between quality and affordability.
Best Cheap Headphones and Earbuds
We spend a lot of time talking about high-end wireless headphones like the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 and the Sony WH-1000XM3 — and for a good reason, they're incredible products — but nothing says you have to spend a lot just to get some good headphones for casual listening. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones are an excellent place to start, thanks to a solid mix of audio performance, comfort, and features that make them a real bargain.
Best Noise-Canceling True Wireless Earbuds
True wireless earbuds have come a long way in the few short years they've existed. Early offerings like the first-gen AirPods were expensive and lacked a lot of features, but as time has gone on, prices have come down and additional features have been implemented — one of which is noise cancelation. True wireless buds that can block out ambient sound are more common than ever before, and today, we're highlighting six of our favorite ones — including the Sony WF-1000XM3 as our top overall pick.
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. Here's why it's our favorite, along with seven other great alternatives.
Best Cheap Smart Lock
Turning your abode into a smart home isn't an easy process, especially when it comes to your wallet. Fortunately, now that automating your home is no longer a novel concept, there are many reasonably priced smart devices out there for you to upgrade your home with. We've gathered together a list of the best cheap smart locks like the August Smart Lock. See which ones catch your eye.
Best Cheap Wireless Earbuds
Cheap wireless earbuds have become great over the past several years. The ones you typically hear about are super expensive. Still, there are some great budget options out there, such as the Creative Outlier Air, which offer fantastic battery life, exceptional comfort, and superb sound quality.
Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks
Nothing can turn your technology from state-of-the-art to overpriced paperweight faster than a dead battery, but the best portable chargers and power banks can help recharge your tech when life plays keep-away with your power outlets. Portable chargers 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 Redux, which is tiny but mighty.
Best Cheap Standing Desks
If you are physically able to, standing while working — even in short spurts — is one of the best things you can do for your health. The trouble with standing desks is that they are often expensive and replace otherwise perfectly good office furniture. Thankfully, many affordable and flexible standing desk solutions will work great in your existing workspace, or just about anywhere around your home. Our favorite overall is the VariDesk Pro Plus 36 because it sits on top of an existing desk or tabletop, and it is incredibly spacious, sturdy, and adjustable.
Best 4K Android TVs
The best 4K Android TVs are abundant these days, but not all of them come with the same interface, and that can be a determining factor when looking for something that does UHD. Android TVs have emerged as a solid way to access popular streaming services and other apps that enhance the TV viewing experience. The Sony A8H Bravia OLED is a beautiful screen that brings out the best in both visual splendor and convenient connectivity.
Best Cheap 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-SK026, 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 Cable Management Solutions
Whether you are a seasoned vet of the desk life or you are new to the game, cables can get a bit wild sometimes. No, the wires aren't out to get you — it's just some strands of metal and plastic — but sometimes it can feel that way. Not to worry, here are some great ways to get those cables under control and out of sight. Our favorite option is the Scandinavian Hub Under Desk Cable Management Tray, but there are a lot of other options, from full-on cord organization nirvana to finding the slightest bit of order in your mess of wires.
Best Standing Desks
The best standing desks have been all the range in open-plan offices for the past few years, and now that more and more of us are working from home, we see the value in having the option to stand while we work in our home offices as well. When it comes to standing desks, there are a ton of different options at different price points. Whether you want an entirely new, tricked-out electronic number, or something more portable that you can move from room to room as your family's schedule necessitates, we've got you covered with some of the best standing desk options available. The standing desk we recommend is the Vari Pro Plus 36" because I can raise or lower it with ease, I can put my laptop and monitor on it, and I can move it if I need to.
Best Cheap 4K TVs for Chromecast
Looking into a 4K TV to use with your Chromecast or Chromecast Ultra can be confusing. There are tons of options out there, each with their own little quirks. There are fantastic TVs at the high end of the market, but those cost thousands of dollars. Luckily, with the Samsung TU-8000, you don't have to have an enormous budget to get a satisfying and reliable picture.
Best Wireless Controllers for Stadia
When it comes to the best Stadia controller that distinction goes to the Stadia controller. While there may be better controller options out there, the Stadia controller is what will give you the most complete Stadia experience, including allowing you to play on your television through Chromecast Ultra. Since you can use any Bluetooth controller with Stadia, we've come up with some of the best picks, ranging from best for most people to something that will be affordable for everyone.
Best Pour Over Coffee Makers
Avid coffee drinkers want their java to be perfect. As a fellow coffee lover, I expect perfection and consistency in every cup. Coffee needs to be an experience rather than just a drink. We think the pour-over coffee method is probably the best way to make and drink coffee. We recommend the Chemex Classic Series Coffee Maker as our choice for the best overall pour-over coffee maker. It is made of high-quality borosilicate that does not impart any other flavors, so you can make a brew as strong as you like without bitterness.
Best LED Light Bulbs
There are plenty of advantages to switching the bulbs in your home over to LED lighting. LED bulbs are more energy-efficient, last longer, and can save you money in the long run over incandescent equivalents. And when it comes to choosing one, you want to ensure you select a reputable brand and reliable product. You can't get more reputable when it comes to lighting than GE. The GE Relax High Definition LED Light Bulb is an excellent option to consider thank to its soft white glow. It's a color temperature that makes it ideal for any main room in the home, like the living room or bedroom, and, of course, the trusted brand reputation. But there are other alternatives worth considering, too.
Best PlayStation VR Controller
The perfect controller for the PlayStation VR (PSVR) depends on the type of game you want to play, your preferred playstyle, and how much immersion you want for your game. 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.Check out all your options here!
Best Digital Photo Frames In 2020
Digital photo frames were once pretty hot items but they sort of fell off the map — until now. The latest and most premium models include cloud connectivity that allows you to download a mobile app and upload photos, slideshows, and sometimes even videos wirelessly to a frame anywhere in the world. This has reinvigorated the category and sparked interest in even standard digital frames that can display a slideshow of photos. So which should you choose for yourself or a gift? My favorite is the Nixplay 10.1-inch Smart Digital Picture Frame because it has everything you could want, including Wi-Fi connectivity and a gorgeous screen, plus it is super easy to use. There are some other great options, too.
Best Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
Mesh Wi-Fi systems are the networking versions of working smarter, not harder. Compared to a traditional router, mesh systems use several smaller Wi-Fi routers placed around your home to cover you from multiple angles and dodge things like thick walls that can kill your signal. Whether you want top speed and customizability or simplicity and consistency, there's a mesh system that will work in any home. The Eero hits all of the sweet spots of a Wi-Fi system in a small understated housing that loses obtrusive articulating antennas.
Best Cheap NAS
The best cheap NAS (network attached storage) enclosure is one that gives you all the features that you'd look for in an internet-connected storage drive for less. Ideally, it should be able to backup the data and photos on all devices on your home network, let you play your media collection across devices, and provide adequate storage for your all your data needs. There are plenty of great options that do just that, but our favorite is the Synology DiskStation DS220j, which is a great starter model if you're looking to get into more advanced networking.
Best Dolby Atmos Soundbars
True Dolby Atmos setups require you to place between 8 and 12 speakers throughout your living room—including up to four mounted on your ceiling. For audiophiles who want cinema-level audio quality but can't spare the space, consider investing in an Atmos-supported soundbar like the Samsung HW-Q90R Soundbar. The excellent products below ship on their own or with two discrete speakers and a subwoofer, but still mimic a full 3D audio sphere using built-in drivers that blast object-based sound in all directions.
Best Neckband Earbuds Under $100
Neckband earbuds 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 an excellent choice with exceptional sound, battery life, and comfort.
Best Synology NAS
If you're looking to invest in a network attached storage for the first time or want to make the switch to a more powerful model, Synology has plenty of great options across all price points. A NAS lets you easily back up data from Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices, and you can build a robust media server for streaming audio and video to all devices on your home network. These are the best Synology NAS enclosures you can buy.
Best at Home Nail Care Products
I typically visit a salon to do my nails every two weeks but that can add up, especially when there's a lot you can actually do yourself from home. A friend recommended the Rosalind Gel Polish Starter Kit, which comes with pretty much everything you'd need. However, there are many other options worth considering, whether you want to do a full manicure and polish or just keep your nails clean and nicely cut and shaped.
Best Smart Locks that Support Amazon Alexa
Making your home smarter seems to be all the rage these days. There are smart speakers, smart TVs, and other accessories that let you control your life with your voice. One of the most significant conveniences in a home can come from installing smart locks, so you never have to fish a key out again and can manage guests easier. These are the best smart locks that support Amazon's Alexa voice assistant, although our favorite is the August Smart Lock Pro, which is stylish, easy to install, and works with most smart homes.
Best Office Chair Pads & Supports
It's important that when you choose an office chair, you pick an ergonomically designed one that will be comfortable for you to sit in for long periods of time. Even so, a chair pad can also be a worthwhile investment, not only to provide additional support for your back and/or butt, but to also to provide a cushier experience. I really like the Aylio Socket Seat thanks to its unique design that includes two holes designed to properly redistribute weight and provide relief for common pressure points. While it's more expensive than others, it might just be worth the investment.
Best Waterproof Headphones
There are a lot of factors that go into buying a new pair of headphones, but one that can be easy to overlook is the waterproof rating. Whether you're breaking a sweat at the gym or happen to get caught in a rainstorm, having proper waterproofing for your headphones will ensure they keep on working without any problems even if they happen to get a little wet. The Jabra Elite Active 75t are what we deem to be as the best overall waterproof headphones, but if those aren't your cup of tea, there are plenty of other options worth considering.
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 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 their overall battery life, sound quality, and comfort.
Best True Wireless Earbuds for Galaxy S20
The Galaxy S20 is one of the best flagship phones you'll find in 2020, and you need a suitably-great pair of true wireless earbuds to use with the device. Thankfully, there are a lot of excellent options available across price points. Our pick is the Galaxy Buds+ for the incredible sound quality combined with seamless connectivity, excellent battery life, and wireless charging.
Best Fitness Trackers in 2020: Top 10 products ranked
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 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 Gold leading the pack with outstanding battery life and incredible sound.
Best Wireless Headphones for Samsung Galaxy S20
The Galaxy S20 includes exciting new additions like a 120Hz screen, but it misses out on one important feature: the 3.5mm jack. Samsung is the latest brand to ditch the analog jack, and that means you'll have to use Bluetooth headphones to listen to music on your S20. The obvious choice is Samsung's own Galaxy Buds+ for the sound quality, battery life, and convenience.
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 Pixel 4 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 Razer Hammerhead USB-C would be our recommendation.
Best Ethernet Cables for PS4
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 Walkie Talkie for Kids
Walkie talkies aren't just for adults. Today, you'll find some fantastic tech in two-way radios built just for kids. My top choice is the Retevis RT628. These two-way radios are lightweight and sized right but have features that rival those found in adult radios. If you're thinking of getting a set of walkie talkies this year, these are the best around.
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 true wireless earbuds to over-ear headphones that you can get for less than $100. 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 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 it. If you're on a tight budget, the Mpow H5 are your best bet if you're looking for a set of great all-around Bluetooth headphones.
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. Especially if you're now working from home, a headset is an easy way to stay on top of your work in a distracting environment. We think the Plantronics Voyager Legend is the best overall choice, but there are plenty of other options on this list worth considering.
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 Speaker to Use with Your Amazon Echo Dot
Do you have an Echo Dot lying around the house? I've got a few! 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, but our favorite is the Sonos One SL. Here are some of our other favorite picks.
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 feature good sound quality, long 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 are a perfect example of this with superb sound quality, long battery life, and are super comfortable to use for long periods.
Best Noise Canceling Headphones Under $100
If you want to get the most out of your favorite music or podcast, noise-canceling headphones are the way to go. They block out ambient noise around you, making it easy to focus on what's playing — something that's especially useful when flying, working at a coffee shop, or just being out in public. We've rounded up eight of the best ones you can get for less than $100, including the Soundcore Life Q20 as our top overall pick.
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 get from a set of headphones. 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 set of headphones you can buy right now.
Best Wireless PS4 Headsets
A good headset can transform your gaming experience, allowing you the sound quality you won't get from your TV's speakers while enabling you to communicate with other players easily. As a bonus, they'll let you keep your gaming sessions quiet if you're sharing a space and can look pretty awesome. Our favorite option compatible with your PlayStation 4 is the SteelSeries Arctis 7, a wireless headset that's visually stylish, has a long battery life, and has industry-leading sound quality. We've also rounded up some other choices depending on your priorities and budget.
Best VR Headsets
When you think of VR, your mind probably immediately jumps to popular games like Beat Saber or Superhot VR. However, did you know that VR headsets can do so much more? From watching movies with friends to meeting new people in virtual social spaces, and even creating incredible works of art in programs like Tiltbrush, VR headsets can provide a wide variety of experiences. Which one delivers the best experience? It's the Oculus Quest by a wide margin. It's an all-in-one wireless gaming headset that requires no smartphone, PC, or console to play.
Best Headphones for Kids
When looking for headphones for kids, there are a special set of criteria. First, they need to be smaller to fit a child's head. They also need to include simplified controls, be comfortable, and crucially, include built-in volume limiting technology to ensure that a child can't crank the volume up beyond levels that are considered to be safe for little ears. Luckily, these headphones are more affordable than ever. Some limit audio to as low as 75 decibels, which is safe for even toddlers. 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. And these days, you can even find wireless Bluetooth headphones for kids.
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, Check out the best Chromebooks where you'll find something that fits you and your style.
Amazon Echo vs. Dot vs. Show vs. Plus: Which Echo should you buy in 2020?
It's hard to believe that the first Amazon Echo was released over five years ago. 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 4K TV for PS4 Pro
When you're looking for an awesome 4K TV for your PS4 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 JBL Headphones
JBL isn't as popular as it once was but the brand still makes some great headphones and other audio products, especially ones at reasonable price points. The JBL Live 650BTNC are our best overall pick for having excellent sound, battery life, and comfort.
Best 5G Hotspots
Verizon's Ultra Wideband network isn't winning any awards for coverage but if you're covered, you can get fantastic speeds and plenty of capacity for nearly any task. While many people are content to use their phone as a hotspot, the simplicity of a standalone hotspot plus the great battery life can make it an easy choice if you need to get a lot of work done away from home. The 5G MiFi M1000 from Inseego can make the most of Verizon's fast Ultra Wideband network with robust LTE support when you move out of coverage.
Best Portable Pico Projectors
Pico projectors come in all shapes and sizes, with some even available as modular attachments for your smartphone. They exist to fill the niche for those who want the ability to project content directly from their phone or tablet to make it easier to share photos or watch movies with friends. Our top recommendation is the LG PH550 CineBeam LED Projector because it uses a reliable and efficient LED lamp to cast up to 100-inch diagonal projections and can connect to virtually any media playing device you own — all while remaining portable enough to take with you wherever you go.
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 PS4 Controllers
The stock controller for the PS4 is good, but there are a lot of options out there that offer a different experience. If you can afford it, your current best bet is the Scuf Vantage 2. It's customizable, can be used wired or wireless, and it handles well. But we have options based on your budget and what you're looking for, whether you're a competitive gamer, have kids who want to play, or just want something with a more comfortable grip.
Best At-Home Highlights Kits 2020
Way back in the day, I used to do my own highlights at home with a friend or family member pulling my strands of hair through a cap, adding the color, then removing the cap to reveal a fresh, newly highlighted head of hair. There are lots of kits you can use at home, but the L'Oreal Paris Frost and Design Cap Hair Highlights is a great one that will suit both long and short hair and provide professional-looking highlights.
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 PopSockets and Phone Grips
As smartphones got bigger and selfies more 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, but there's phone grips aplenty if you're in the market for something a little less round.
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. Our favorite is the Koala Mount 2.0 by Dockem, with its minimalist design and easy, one-step installation. Here are the best wall mounts for Fire Tablet available today.
Best Phone Mount for Game Controllers
Smartphones are more powerful today than they ever have been, with some devices offering a better gaming experience than even your desktop computer. On top of that, the mobile gaming platform has expanded so much that the library of games is incredible, so you'll want to use a controller to get the best experience. If you're not tied to a specific ecosystem, the best option for most people is the Razer Raiju Mobile, which works with both Windows and Android.
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. 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 many other affordable options to choose from, too.
Best External Monitors for your Chromebook
Chromebooks are perfect on-the-go computers for a lot of people, but sometimes you just want to sit down, relax, and do your thing with a big display. That's why almost every laptop, regardless of what software is running on it, has some sort of port to send video out to an external display. Chrome OS makes using desktop peripherals dead simple, and we've rounded up the best monitors for any situation. Our top recommendation is the incredible 32-inch 4K ViewSonic VX3211, but we've also rounded up other great options with lower resolutions and price points.
Best Low-profile Exercise Machines for Home Gyms
We all appreciate the ability to get our workout done at home, especially when at-home workouts are rapidly gaining in popularity (and necessity). As much as we want to get our sweat on in the comfort of our own living spaces, the truth is, some of us just don't have a ton of room. That's why we created this list of the best low-profile exercise machines for home gyms. Our favorite is the LifePro Waver Vibration Plate because it offers a complete full body workout on a small, easily storable, vibrational plate. However, you can't go wrong with any products that made this list. These machines were designed with smaller spaces in mind, so you can do big workouts in compact places.
Best Headphones That Support Google Assistant
While our smartphones are getting smarter over time with A.I, manufacturers are finding more ways to make everyday 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 (2020) are a great example. They give you easy access to the Assistant while also adding additional functionality.
Best Racing Wheels for PlayStation 4
If you're looking to get into console-based sim racing, then the PlayStation 4 is a strong place to be. Not only does Sony have a strong first-party title in Gran Turismo, but it's well supported by third-party offerings like F1 and Project Cars. To take your experience to the next level, a wheel is a sound investment, and the good news is that there are some really awesome choices for the PlayStation. This includes the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT, which is the best option for most people.
Best Board Games
Board games might be an old school way to stay entertained, but there's a lot to be said for gathering around the dining room table, dealing the cards or rolling the dice and starting a board game adventure. We're presenting a selection of games that we think represent the best of both old classics and modern options, including our overall best choice, Sequence which combines the fun of playing cards with the board game format.
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 headphones are by far the best set of headphones Sennheiser makes due to their excellent sound quality, comfort, and flexibility.
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 wonderboom 2 due to its tiny form factor and its water and dust resistance, but there are plenty of other options.
Best Fitbit Charge 4 Bands
The Fitbit Charge 4 is finally available to purchase and it's an extremely impressive fitness tracker. If you know that you don't typically fancy the proprietary bands, now is the time to stock up on some new ones. You'll be happy to know that the Fitbit Charge 3 bands are also compatible with the new device. We've gathered up some excellent options for you to consider.
Best Fitbit
Whatever your fitness goals are, living a healthier life is a lot easier when you have something to keep track of your activity throughout the day automatically. 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, offering a great blend of features, specs, and design at a price your wallet will love.
Best Phone Tripod
Tripods aren't just for DSLR and mirrorless cameras when they can also play a pivotal role in mobile photography. The best tripods are made to help capture scenes in the brightest or darkest conditions for any phone you latch onto them. Manfrotto's PIXI Mini with Universal Clamp offers the best traditional tripod functionality in a "mini" form made for phones. This guide will help you find the right fit for your device and the images you want to compose.
Best Air Purifiers For Your Home
Air purifiers are an essentially utility these days. They not only manage to thoroughly clean the air of all pollutants like viruses and bacteria, but they also remove odors caused by cooking, pets, or smoking. The Honeywell HPA300 is our pick for its ability to scrub 99.97% of all allergens from the air, ensuring you're always breathing clean air in your house.
Best Samsung Earbuds
Samsung may not be the first company that comes to mind when you think of audio gear, but in recent years, the company has been growing its line of earbud offerings so that it has quality first-party accessories to go along with its smartphones. The Galaxy Buds+ stand out as the best Samsung earbuds you can buy right now, but if those aren't your cup of tea, there are plenty of other options worth considering. Let's check them out!
Best Gimbals for Galaxy S and Note Phones
Samsung's latest phones come with incredible video-centric features like ultra-smooth OIS and, in some cases, even 8K capture with native editing tools. No matter how good that built-in stabilization is, it's hard to beat a real gimbal for smooth and steady video, which counters against any shaky hand movements. The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is cost-effective, compact, and easy to use, but it's far from your only option.
Best Smartphone Gimbals
Smartphone cameras are getting better and better with each new flagship release, so why not pair those cameras with an equally excellent gimbal that'll ensure ultra-smooth, cinematic video? With the wide availability of portable, easy-to-use, and best of all, affordable gimbals for your phone, there's no excuse anymore to shoot shaky cam footage — unless you're just a huge fan of The Blair Witch Project or Cloverfield. The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is the gimbal you should buy to shoot your next vlog, but there are some great alternatives.
Best Bullet Blender
If you're someone who absolutely loves to use every bit of produce when you're making your smoothies in the morning, then ditch the old-school blender and grab yourself a NutriBullet. Unlike a traditional blender, a NutriBullet can break down your fruits and vegetables, encouraging the release of nutritional vitamins and minerals contained in your produce to make their way into your cup. We recommend the NutriBullet 600 Watts because this elite mixer delivers the smoothest shakes in just a matter of seconds. It is also strong enough to turn hard foods like nuts into a tasty puree.
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 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 on your way to finding a tracker that's reasonably priced and 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 Portable Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoor Sports in 2020: Clip-on, Water Resistant
There are so many Bluetooth speakers available, but what if you need one that can withstand a pool party, a trip to the beach, or a rugged trip through the woods? That's where water and dust-resistance come 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.
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 Wired and Wireless Outdoor Speakers
Turn your backyard into a sound garden with a new set of outdoor speakers. Whether you want an in-ground system, a wired set, or a wireless Bluetooth speaker you can take anywhere, we have you covered. Our favorite is the Bose Free Space 51, but they're not the only speakers that made the cut. Read on to find out which wired and wireless outdoor speakers we rank best this year.
Best Touchscreen Winter Gloves
There's not much worse during the winter than practically freezing your fingers off trying to send a quick text or navigate with Google Maps. Touchscreen gloves are one of the best ways to keep your hands warm, no matter what nature throws at you — next to staying inside, of course. The Mujjo Knitted Touchscreen Gloves are about as good as it gets, but there are plenty of other great 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 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.
Connected Home
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 to choose from, so which is the best Fire TV stick to get? We've played with them all and want to share our thoughts on which is the best option for you. However, the best option overall is the Fire TV Stick 4K. Make sure you pick up the version with the included Alexa Voice Remote!
Best Smart Scale
Whether you're just beginning your weight loss journey or you're deep into a workout regimen and want to start tracking your progress, a smart scale is an awesome way to keep your fitness goals in check. These scales connect to a corresponding app on your phone or tablet and show you detailed data that you wouldn't get from an ordinary bathroom scale. Our favorite is the Eufy Smart Scale P1, which is easy to use, tracks 14 metrics, and can accommodate multiple users. No matter what features you desire, there's a smart scale on this list for you.
Best Bluetooth Trackers
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 Bluetooth tracker is still the Tile Pro. The new edition offers an unbeatable range, the loudest alert, and a one-year replaceable battery.
Best Smart Speaker
If you're looking for the best 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 Soundbars
The best 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 are great for their size. That size also requires a smaller footprint in your living room, so it's great for people who want to save space. With something like the Sonos Beam, you'll 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 soundbar options for your home.
Best Cheap Dolby Atmos Soundbars
Most budget soundbars can't support Dolby Atmos soundtracks, and those that do often struggle to convincingly recreate the cinematic bubble of sounds you're used to in a theater. Soundbars like the VIZIO 36" 5.1.2-Channel Soundbar, however, manage to achieve an impressive Atmos sound without screaming through your savings. We've tracked down the best "budget" Atmos-compatible soundbars that best straddle the line between quality and affordability.
Best Cheap Smart Lock
Turning your abode into a smart home isn't an easy process, especially when it comes to your wallet. Fortunately, now that automating your home is no longer a novel concept, there are many reasonably priced smart devices out there for you to upgrade your home with. We've gathered together a list of the best cheap smart locks like the August Smart Lock. See which ones catch your eye.
Best 4K Android TVs
The best 4K Android TVs are abundant these days, but not all of them come with the same interface, and that can be a determining factor when looking for something that does UHD. Android TVs have emerged as a solid way to access popular streaming services and other apps that enhance the TV viewing experience. The Sony A8H Bravia OLED is a beautiful screen that brings out the best in both visual splendor and convenient connectivity.
Best 4K TVs For Chromecast
A TV is usually a major purchase for any entertainment setup, especially when you're looking for one that can display in 4K and HDR. The Chromecast Ultra is a great streaming device to get the content you love at the highest resolution and dynamic range, but you need a TV that supports the standards as well. The LG CX 4K Smart OLED TV is a beautiful screen that fits in everywhere, with great variances in size, and a feature set that is perfectly ideal for a high-end TV.
Best Security Cameras That Store Locally (Not The Cloud)
As our connected lifestyles and smart homes continue to merge, we are finding new ways to secure our houses and belongings. One of the best devices for keeping tabs on our stuff is a smart security camera, and there certainly are tons to chose from. In light of recent data breaches and privacy scandals, many are looking for options that feature local storage solutions (a.k.a. don't use the Cloud), so we've put together a list of some of our favorites here for your reference. My favorite out of the bunch is the eufy Cam 2. It has all of the features I want, with none of the added expenses (subscriptions).
Best Cheap 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-SK026, 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 Google Assistant Speakers
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 All-In-One Printers
It's one of the things everyone needs in their home office but often forgets about until, well, they realize they need it: the printer. While we remain on a quest for that paperless office, it isn't a reality just yet. And printers aren't just about work anyway. They are great for printing photos, arts and crafts projects, and keeping personal documents for filing. All-in-one printers (AIOs) are even better because they add scanning and copying capabilities as well, some also faxing (but who uses that anymore anyway?) My favorite AIO is, hands down, Epson EcoTanks, and one of the newest models is the Epson EcoTank ET-2760 Wireless AIO Inkjet Printer, which has wireless printing, high-resolution print quality, and, most importantly to set it apart from others, an ink reservoir system that, when filled, provides you with enough ink to last for up to two years. No joke.
Best Cheap 4K TVs for Chromecast
Looking into a 4K TV to use with your Chromecast or Chromecast Ultra can be confusing. There are tons of options out there, each with their own little quirks. There are fantastic TVs at the high end of the market, but those cost thousands of dollars. Luckily, with the Samsung TU-8000, you don't have to have an enormous budget to get a satisfying and reliable picture.
Best Cheap Mesh Router Systems
One of the best ways to get full Wi-Fi coverage in any home is a mesh Wi-Fi system. Mesh systems use multiple small routers to form a decentralized network that can keep Wireless connections strong even in challenging environments. Whether you're looking for something simple or want a lot of features, there is an option for every budget. An excellent option for most people is eero with enough speed for most people with a great setup app and easy expansion options.
Best Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
Mesh Wi-Fi systems are the networking versions of working smarter, not harder. Compared to a traditional router, mesh systems use several smaller Wi-Fi routers placed around your home to cover you from multiple angles and dodge things like thick walls that can kill your signal. Whether you want top speed and customizability or simplicity and consistency, there's a mesh system that will work in any home. The Eero hits all of the sweet spots of a Wi-Fi system in a small understated housing that loses obtrusive articulating antennas.
Best Cheap NAS
The best cheap NAS (network attached storage) enclosure is one that gives you all the features that you'd look for in an internet-connected storage drive for less. Ideally, it should be able to backup the data and photos on all devices on your home network, let you play your media collection across devices, and provide adequate storage for your all your data needs. There are plenty of great options that do just that, but our favorite is the Synology DiskStation DS220j, which is a great starter model if you're looking to get into more advanced networking.
Best Smart Light Bulb
When it comes to setting up a smart home, lighting is one of the simplest things you can switch over first, not to mention one of the most cost effective. That said, there's an abundance of choice in terms of smart lights, so the choice depends on a number of factors. The C by GE A19 Smart Light Bulb checks all of the boxes. It's made by a trusted brand in lighting and is compatible with all major voice assistants and smart home control platforms. They can be grouped together or used on their own and can replace any standard 60-watt incandescent A19 bulb. And while it's a top pick, it isn't the only choice around.
Best August Smart Locks
August makes the highest-rated smart locks around, and for a good reason. August's locks are not only easier to install than many other smart locks, but they're also just plain smarter. With the ability to actually know and understand that the door can open and close, as well as automatically locking your door when you leave home and unlocking it when you return, August smart locks are just a joy to use. But, with so many of them, how do you pick the right lock for you? We've got the answers.
Best Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Routers
Wi-Fi 6 was designed with the future of routers in mind. As more people work from home in the wake of coronavirus, holes in our Wi-Fi are more annoying than ever. As our homes get smarter, we have more connections than ever that need to check in consistently and reliably. Wi-Fi 6 is designed to bring more capacity to a network and even allows for greater speed with a lot of devices. Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems have come down in price, and the Netgear Nighthawk MK62 is one of the best choices for most people.
Best Synology NAS
If you're looking to invest in a network attached storage for the first time or want to make the switch to a more powerful model, Synology has plenty of great options across all price points. A NAS lets you easily back up data from Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices, and you can build a robust media server for streaming audio and video to all devices on your home network. These are the best Synology NAS enclosures you can buy.
Best Linksys Router
Linksys has been making routers for years and has made a name for itself providing reliable hardware with solid features. It has continued to innovate with its Velop series and has begun to move into Wi-Fi 6 for modern devices. The MAX-STREAM MR7350 is one of the best routers for most people with sufficient speed and mesh capabilities baked in, but there are other options as well.
Best Smart Sprinkler Systems
What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear "smart sprinkler system"? Is it automated scheduling, or the ability to control your home's sprinklers from afar? While those are certainly two good reasons to consider a smart sprinkler system, they aren't the best reasons. Smart sprinkler systems can also help save water by intelligently water your yard, garden, or flower beds with individual settings to cater to the types of plants, soil, and even real-time weather in your area. Our favorite is the Yardian, which does most of these things, but there are some other options.
Best Smart Locks that Support Amazon Alexa
Making your home smarter seems to be all the rage these days. There are smart speakers, smart TVs, and other accessories that let you control your life with your voice. One of the most significant conveniences in a home can come from installing smart locks, so you never have to fish a key out again and can manage guests easier. These are the best smart locks that support Amazon's Alexa voice assistant, although our favorite is the August Smart Lock Pro, which is stylish, easy to install, and works with most smart homes.
Best Philips Hue Lights
There aren't many smart home devices that are as well-known and universally-respected as the extensive collection of smart lighting products made by Philips Hue. Since 2012 the company has been putting out a wide variety of indoor and outdoor smart lights, and it has taken great pains to ensure that they're compatible with all of the major smart home ecosystems. With so many options to chose from for your home, where do you even begin? You can start with the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Bluetooth Smart LED Bulb. These bulbs can connect to a Bridge for remote control, or you can use Bluetooth for control from the app while you're in the room.
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. Most of us want to buy a router that's going to last a few years and provide more than enough speed. The Archer AX3000 does just that with solid speeds and support for Wi-Fi 6 as more devices start to support it.
Best Cheap Wi-Fi 6 Router
The next generation of Wi-Fi, known as Wi-Fi 6, is making its way to a lot of new phones and wireless devices. This new tech brings with it the fastest speeds, more consistent coverage, and support for more devices. Wi-Fi 6 has finally made its way to the cheaper routers that most people are interested in without losing the best features that come with it. The best overall cheap Wi-Fi 6 router is the Asus RT-AX56U thanks to its great price and advanced features, including easy mesh expansion and AX1800 speeds.
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 Speaker to Use with Your Amazon Echo Dot
Do you have an Echo Dot lying around the house? I've got a few! 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, but our favorite is the Sonos One SL. Here are some of our other favorite picks.
Best Smart Video Doorbells That Store Locally (Not in the Cloud)
Even if you've never considered a smart video camera to watch over your property, you might be eyeballing a smart video doorbell. Guess what? Those have cameras too, and the vast majority of them, especially the most popular ones like Ring, store all of your video footage in the cloud. If you're uncomfortable with this arrangement, or if you just want to know what your options are for storing your video footage locally, then we've got you covered. Out of all of the smart video doorbells on this list, we like the Eufy Video Doorbell best because of its top-quality construction, excellent video capabilities, built-in eMMC storage, high-end encryption, and included doorbell chime.
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 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 Robot Vacuums in 2020: Top 10 models ranked
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.
Amazon Echo vs. Dot vs. Show vs. Plus: Which Echo should you buy in 2020?
It's hard to believe that the first Amazon Echo was released over five years ago. 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 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 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 Amazon Echo Show in 2020: Which smart display should you buy?
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. Our favorite is the Koala Mount 2.0 by Dockem, with its minimalist design and easy, one-step installation. Here are the best wall mounts for Fire Tablet available today.
Best Smart Home 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-Wave 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 Water Monitoring System
When you think of protecting your home from disaster, what crosses your mind? Fire? Burglary? Natural disasters? Water damage often gets forgotten until the day you walk home, and your basement is flooded. Smart water monitors were created to prevent these very situations. leakSMART is our pick for best smart water monitoring solution, as it can detect leaks throughout your home and automatically shut off your water in the event of a leak, all for a lot less than the competition.
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. 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 many other affordable options to choose from, too.
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 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 Smart Display
Whether you're just starting 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 Lights For 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 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 Ring Alarm Home Security System is the best you can buy because of its great features, amazing Amazon Alexa integration, 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 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 3. 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.
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 SmartThermostat. Being able to set the temperature where you are instead of where the thermostat is can be a lifesaver.
Best Philips Hue Smart LED Light Bulbs
One of the best ways to start off or expand a smart home is through smart lights. Lighting can really set the mood in a home, creating a warm, inviting ton when you want to relax or brightening things up when you're ready to party. When it comes to smart lighting, Philips Hue is one of the most recognizable and popular brands thanks to the wide range of products in the line, all of which can easily be controlled through one Hue Bridge and your mobile device or even voice. A great option that will fit the bill no matter where you want to place the light is the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 Bluetooth Smart LED Bulb because it can connect to a Bridge for remote control and be added to a larger system, or just use Bluetooth for control from the app while you're in the room. But what other types of Hue bulbs would be great for different rooms of the home and different use cases?
Best Smart LED Light Bulb Kits
One of the first ways to start getting familiar with a smart home, how it works, and how easy and convenient it is to control devices in the home from your mobile device is through smart lighting. You could grab a single bulb to swap in for an old one and get started there, or consider opting for a starter kit that includes multiple bulbs like the Sengled Smart LED Multicolor A19 Starter Kit, which includes four bulbs plus a hub. Some starter kits come with a hub or bridge if it's required for smart connectivity, while others even throw in additional goodies that can function as part of your smart lighting system.
Best Cheap Smart LED Light Bulbs
Arguably the easiest way to smarten up your home is with a smart light bulb. All you need to do is unscrew your existing traditional bulb, replace it with a smart one, download the app, connect, and voila! You can control the bulb from your phone, or even sometimes by voice. There are plenty of smart light bulbs out there, but when it comes to simple and affordable, the LiFX 1,100-lumen bulb is an excellent option because it has built-in Wi-Fi and thus doesn't require a separate hub, can display up to 16 million colors, and works with all major voice control platforms.
Brightest LED Smart Bulbs in 2020: The Best for Dark Spaces
When times get dark, we need a bright light to see our way out — and a smart LED light makes it that much better. A high lumen (unit for measuring the quantity of light) bulb can do the trick in a small or large room. Adding in some smarts to that bulb gives it flexibility for more situations, whether you want a standard A19 E26 bulb or the BR30 for recessed lighting. The Feit Electric OM100 is our top pick for its incredibly high lumen rating and hubless smart controls, which means it only needs Wi-Fi and your phone to control.
Best Alternatives to Google Wifi
Google Wifi put a name you know and see every day on the most central part of your home network. If you're looking for a mesh Wi-Fi option there are a lot of options available, whether you just need a little more coverage or want to completely overhaul your network with fast Wi-Fi 6 technology. eero is the best overall alternative to Google Wifi if you like the features but want something with more expansion and a sleek modern design.
Best Netgear Orbi Alternatives
As more companies start to make mesh Wi-Fi systems, there are more options than ever to find the set that fits your precise needs. Whether you need more coverage or higher speeds, there's a package that will work for you. The AmpliFi HD system from Ubiquiti is one of the most well-rounded mesh systems. It makes the transition easy with the coverage and features you expect in a traditional router with the added flexibility of a mesh network.
Best Smart Doorbells in 2020: Top 6 video doorbells ranked
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 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 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 to 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 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 Smart Thermostat in 2020: Top 7 models ranked
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 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 Sonos Alternatives
Now more than ever before, speakers are more than just a singular tool for listening to your favorite music. Modern speakers often have built-in ways to play songs from your preferred streaming service, talk to digital assistants, and connect to other speakers in your home for multi-room audio. Sonos has become one of the most popular brands in the current speaker world, offering a multi-room system that's proven to be among the best out there. However, if you're ready to move beyond Sonos, there are a ton of options out there — including the Amazon Echo Studio — that are just as good.
Best Chromecast Alternatives
Google Chromecast remains one of the simplest solutions for wirelessly streaming between devices anywhere there's a reliable Wi-FI signal. It works for streaming entertainment at home, making a conference room presentation at work, or as quick way to share videos in the classroom. However, if you're solely relying on a Chromecast for wireless streaming in 2020, now may be the perfect time to upgrade. We recommend the new and improved NVIDIA Shield TV (2019), which delivers the best Android TV experience along with the wireless functionality and compact design of a Chromecast.
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 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 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 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.
These Are the Robot Vacuums That Require the Least Maintenance
Robot vacuums are designed to clean your house more often and with less effort than a traditional vacuum, so why get one that's going to need a lot of attention? Robots like The Roborock S5 Max make it easy to go about your day and always have a clean house without having to worry about fixing up the robot when you get 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 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 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 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.
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 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
The perfect controller for the PlayStation VR (PSVR) depends on the type of game you want to play, your preferred playstyle, and how much immersion you want for your game. 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.Check out all your options here!
Best Ethernet Cables for PS4
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 Wireless PS4 Headsets
A good headset can transform your gaming experience, allowing you the sound quality you won't get from your TV's speakers while enabling you to communicate with other players easily. As a bonus, they'll let you keep your gaming sessions quiet if you're sharing a space and can look pretty awesome. Our favorite option compatible with your PlayStation 4 is the SteelSeries Arctis 7, a wireless headset that's visually stylish, has a long battery life, and has industry-leading sound quality. We've also rounded up some other choices depending on your priorities and budget.
Best 4K TV for PS4 Pro
When you're looking for an awesome 4K TV for your PS4 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 PS4 Controllers
The stock controller for the PS4 is good, but there are a lot of options out there that offer a different experience. If you can afford it, your current best bet is the Scuf Vantage 2. It's customizable, can be used wired or wireless, and it handles well. But we have options based on your budget and what you're looking for, whether you're a competitive gamer, have kids who want to play, or just want something with a more comfortable grip.
Best Racing Wheels for PlayStation 4
If you're looking to get into console-based sim racing, then the PlayStation 4 is a strong place to be. Not only does Sony have a strong first-party title in Gran Turismo, but it's well supported by third-party offerings like F1 and Project Cars. To take your experience to the next level, a wheel is a sound investment, and the good news is that there are some really awesome choices for the PlayStation. This includes the Thrustmaster T300 RS GT, which is the best option for most people.
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 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 aptX Low Latency Headphones
Qualcomm, which owns the aptX Bluetooth codec, describes aptX Low Latency as "audio that keeps up." The implication is that sound will be in sync with whatever you're watching on a screen, which is critical if you're watching a show, movie, or playing a game. The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 stands out as the best aptX LL headphones because they offer excellent all-around sound quality, fantastic comfort, and superb battery life.
Best Sony Headphones
Crank up your tunes with our favorite headphones, Sony's WH-1000XM3. Not only do the WH-1000KM3 feature class-leading active noise cancelation, but they also feature 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 your headphones off. Sony is one of the leaders in high-end headphones, so there are plenty of other great options, too.
Best Cheap Headphones and Earbuds
We spend a lot of time talking about high-end wireless headphones like the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 and the Sony WH-1000XM3 — and for a good reason, they're incredible products — but nothing says you have to spend a lot just to get some good headphones for casual listening. The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones are an excellent place to start, thanks to a solid mix of audio performance, comfort, and features that make them a real bargain.
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 Pixel 4 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 Razer Hammerhead USB-C would be our recommendation.
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 it. If you're on a tight budget, the Mpow H5 are your best bet if you're looking for a set of great all-around Bluetooth headphones.
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 get from a set of headphones. 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 set of headphones you can buy right now.
Best JBL Headphones
JBL isn't as popular as it once was but the brand still makes some great headphones and other audio products, especially ones at reasonable price points. The JBL Live 650BTNC are our best overall pick for having excellent sound, battery life, and comfort.
Best Headphones That Support Google Assistant
While our smartphones are getting smarter over time with A.I, manufacturers are finding more ways to make everyday 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 (2020) are a great example. They give you easy access to the Assistant while also adding additional functionality.
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 headphones are by far the best set of headphones Sennheiser makes due to their excellent sound quality, comfort, and flexibility.
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.