Computer goals

May 18, 2025

👩‍💻 “Kim, what are your laptop and desktop recs?” I got you:

This HP laptop ($350) comes with a lifetime Microsoft Office license.
I use a Dell Inspiron 3030 ($838) as my workstation in Santa Barbara.
The battery on the latest 13-inch MacBook Air ($849) lasts 18 hours.
Snag a Dell XPS 13 ($1,600) that can support two external monitors.
Gamers, Asus’ ROG Strix G16CH ($1,889) is made with you in mind.

💻 Before you log off: Check out 15 more picks on my new Amazon page to fit your budget and needs.

We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

Tags: Amazon, desktop, laptop, Microsoft Office, support

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Best travel gadgets for any trip

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You rolled into your “deluxe” hotel room only to be stuck with dim lighting, mystery smells and Wi-Fi that makes you nostalgic for dial-up. Having fun yet?

Seasoned travelers know this secret: Pack smart. I tracked down the best gadgets on Amazon that are worth your carry-on space. Let’s check in.

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Tech deals hiding in plain sight

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You made it through the week. Time to treat yourself! I dug through the sea of fake reviews and gimmicks for sweet savings on gadgets you’ll actually want. Let’s dive in.

🚘 Eyes on the road 24/7: Redtiger’s 4K dual dash cam ($118.99, 30% off) covers your ride from front to back, even when parked. Your protection is worth the investment.

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We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

One app to rule them all: Amazon never wants you to leave their app. That’s why they’re testing a “Buy for Me” button that lets you shop other sites within their app. It uses AI to handle checkout securely. Amazon says they won’t take a cut of the purchases, but let’s be real, this undercuts their competition.

We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

Fill ’er up: The free Upside app gives you cash back on gas, groceries and dining out. Download Upside and use promo code Kim to get an extra $0.25 back for every gallon on your first tank of gas.

Gadget or gimmick? The truth behind viral tech products

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Oh, it’s Friday. Let’s lighten our tech brains and hearts.

Every week, some new gadget promises to make your life easier. There’s a fine line though between “tech that improves your life” and “tech that ends up in a junk drawer next to the USB lava lamp.”

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Bin stores let you hit the jackpot

I hit up a bin store the other day. It’s where returned and overstock items find a second chance. I spotted a sealed 2-by-2-foot mystery box for 10 bucks. Naturally, I had to buy it. What was inside?

Four pairs of men’s black socks, a cat bell, two potato peelers, an iPhone stand and a women’s tee that said, “Cowboys in my veins. Jesus in my heart.”

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AirPods aren’t the only option: Check out Raycon. Their earbuds sound great, get a ton of battery life and are a fraction of the price.

I love it when things are functional … and mini. Mini is great, too.

A universal charging cable, complete with USB, USB-C, micro-USB and Apple Lightning adapters.
An emergency Advil stash (10% off).
A $9 seatbelt slicer and safety hammer for escaping a wrecked car.
An eyeglass repair kit under $5.
An Apple AirTag holder (30% off). Ta-da! Your keys are now unlosable.

I order supplements online: Mix two scoops of collagen* into your coffee or smoothie. I do this every morning to keep my skin, bones and joints happy. (Psst, it’s 45% off and you’ll get free shipping with my link.)

We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.

🚨 50% off alert: My home security pick, SimpliSafe, is having a massive sale. Get all the gear to lock down your home. You’ll sleep better at night.

💰 Want to snag a deal on eBay? Researchers found the longer it takes for a seller to reject you, the better shot you have at scoring a bargain. If it’s been a couple hours and they said “no way” to your lowball, go in with a slightly higher offer. You have ’em on the hook.