Did you know that billions of smart devices watch over us? Listen to this one-minute episode to find out which gadgets snoop on you — and what they know.
Our favorite laptops at every budget (PC, Mac and Chromebook)
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Most people have one or two gadgets running simultaneously and can do fine keeping them charged with a couple of cables and a wall outlet. But for those who have multiple devices, that’s simply not enough. Tap or click here for the top charging stations for all your devices.
Tablets are great for browsing the web, reading ebooks, playing games, listening to music and video calls with friends and family. But you should look at a laptop for handling lots of emails, creating documents and general work/business needs. While tablets rely mostly on touchscreens, which is OK for texting, you’ll want a full keyboard for more intensive tasks.
Here are our picks for the best laptops that fit into any budget.
Best laptops under $500
Lenovo IdeaPad 3i
Why we picked it: It’s lightweight and affordable, with a powerful Intel Core i5 processor.
You get a lot of bang for your buck with the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i. It packs in a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage via the solid-state (SSD) drive.
The 14-inch FHD display with narrow bezels gives you a great viewing experience, whether streaming movies or on a conference call. Connect your favorite devices via the USB-C port, two USB ports, HDMI or Bluetooth.
This laptop is travel-ready, weighing just over 3 lbs. and with a battery life of up to 10 hours. Windows 11 Home is included, so you don’t need to worry about upgrading your OS anytime soon. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop is suitable for home, school and business use.
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HP 15 Laptop
Why we picked it: For a budget laptop, this is powerful with 8GB of RAM.
Get 40% off home security tech, like video doorbells, outdoor cameras and window sensors
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Now is the best time to protect your home with tech. Thanks to a home security sale from our sponsor SimpliSafe, you can get steep discounts on everything you need to stay secure. Grab motion sensors, security cameras, burglary alarms and more.
Electronic kits under $25 – Start making your own electronics today
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We’re surrounded by dozens of gadgets daily, yet many of us don’t know their inner workings. These mini electronics kits show you how to direct electricity, power your inventions and understand how electricity works in a practical setting. Beyond being a great learning experience and educational for kids (with proper supervision), they’re really fun to use. These are our favorites.
Ways to cool off with tech this summer
In the winter, we share tech tips and gadgets that keep you warm. In the summer, we’ve got you covered — or uncovered, as the case may be. We found some of the best summer safety cooldown tech you can use to survive the heat waves.
AI baby monitor, Peloton gives up, smart trash can
Turn yourself into a superhero by 3D-printing your face onto an action figure. Here’s how. You also need to know about a revolutionary Google tool that can save you thousands. Instead of buying new gadgets every few years, turn an old laptop into a Chromebook with this trick. You can’t afford to miss out on this!
Camping or driving a long way? How to boost cell service (and what to do if you can't)
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The weather’s warming up, and it’s time to get back out there. You may think you need to leave your favorite gadgets behind, but the line between tech and the great outdoors grows blurrier by the day.
If you or someone you know needs the motivation to get outside, we’re here to help. Tap or click here for 15 outdoor sports and activities gift ideas to get anyone off the couch.
The chip crisis is getting worse
Did you know two companies you’ve never heard of are about to make new gadgets almost impossible to get? Listen to this one-minute podcast episode for the full story.
You're not paranoid. You ARE being watched.
Did you know that billions of smart devices watch over us? Listen to this one-minute episode to find out which gadgets snoop on you — and what they know.
Apple's new products are here and you'll want them
Interested in Apple’s newest products? Listen to this one-minute podcast for a quick recap of the best new gadgets.
Smart trick to get all the perks of an Echo Show for less money
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Everyone loves their Amazon Echo Show. Regardless of generation, you can access all your smart gadgets, listen to your favorite podcasts and music, get the local weather forecast and use tons of Alexa-friendly apps.
Tired of juggling remotes? 5 great universal remotes you can buy right now
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No one likes to waste valuable relaxation time hunting down all the remotes they need to control all the tech in the living room.
The kids took and lost the TV remote again. Your spouse left the surround sound settings remote somewhere, and who knows where the streaming system remote went.
How to turn your old TV into a smart TV for under $30
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Everyone seems to want to jump on the streaming bandwagon these days. Tap or click here for nine streaming service pro tips to save money. But what if you don’t have a smart TV?
That’s when you should turn to these discrete gadgets that plug straight into your TV’s HDMI port. Setup is simple, and you can access all the streaming services you love.
Get parental control on the go with these three smartwatches for kids
Establishing healthy tech habits with your kids early on can do you a world of good in the long run. Instead of handing your toddlers advanced iPhones, gradually introduce them to more advanced gadgets. Kid-friendly smartwatches and phones teach kids digital independence while giving you the freedom to make sure they’re safe.
6 great options if you're always running out of power outlets
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It can be challenging to find the perfect outlet that lets you relax and charge your gadgets simultaneously.
If you notice everyone fighting for the best power outlet in your home, or if you can’t connect all your work-related tech at the office, it’s time to look for better power options.
Easy way to make money with your old tech
Did you get some new gadgets over the holidays? Listen now for a few ways to make money off of the old devices you replaced.
How companies and government agencies buy your private info
You probably think of your devices as tools that make life ten times easier. Keep in mind that they also collect a ton of valuable data that can be used against you. For instance, police officers can request your data as evidence. Governments can buy your data from brokers. Kim’s interview with technologist Bennett Cyphers from the Electronic Frontier Foundation reveals which gadgets snoop the most — and which secrets you’re losing.
Don't make these mistakes this Christmas
Expecting some tech gifts this year? Listen now for the best way to set up your gadgets.
6 crafty ways thieves will steal your car and parts
If you’re anything like Kim, you’ve poured a ton of time, money and love into your cars. That’s why it’s devastating when you slam the gas pedal and your car refuses to start, screeching instead. When you hear that roar, consider it a calling card from a carjacker.
Shopping guide: Ben's best-reviewed products of 2021
Over the past year, I’ve reviewed dozens of products, from battery chargers to motorized standing desks. While not every new gadget managed to wow me, quite a few made a positive impression.
They might do the same for you. There could even be a few that would make an excellent gift for someone you know — especially those who are difficult to buy for.