Monthly Archives: October 2024

Our Sunroom’s New Masterpiece: The Hisense CanvasTV Review

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Finding the perfect balance between cutting-edge technology and home décor can feel like a never-ending quest. We didn’t just want another big screen; we wanted something to enhance our living space, not dominate it. Enter the Hisense CanvasTV, a television that promises performance and seamless integration into your home’s aesthetic.

PROS:


  • Stunning Art Mode with over 120 free artworks included.

  • Sleek, customizable frame blends seamlessly into any room.

  • Versatile setup options—wall mount or mobile stand.

  • Crisp, vibrant QLED display with 144Hz refresh rate for smooth viewing.

  • Eco-friendly design with responsibly sourced materials and efficient power use.

CONS:


  • Lacks Mini-LED backlighting, affecting black level depth.

  • Art Mode requires manual activation through the remote, limiting automation.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

This TV turns your living room into an art gallery, transforming entertainment into a visual masterpiece.
award-icon

Designer: Hisense

 

A Sunroom Makeover

Our journey began in our sunroom, a bright and airy space with an entire wall of windows that flood the room with natural light. For too long, this beautiful room was overshadowed—literally—by an outdated, bulky 85″ VIZIO TV that felt more like an eyesore than a centerpiece. It was high time for a change.

Swapping it out for the sleek 65″ Hisense CanvasTV was like lifting a veil. The room instantly felt more spacious and inviting. The TV’s slim profile and minimalist design complemented the room rather than competing with it. It wasn’t just about replacing a piece of hardware; it was about transforming the atmosphere of our home.

Art Mode: More Than Just a Screen

One of the features that drew us to CanvasTV is its Art Mode. Instead of staring at a blank, lifeless screen when the TV is off, we’re now greeted by a rotating gallery of stunning artworks or our own cherished photos. Setting it up was a breeze—intuitive controls let us switch between various curated collections or upload our own images without any hassle.

What impressed us most is that the TV comes pre-loaded with over 120 free art pieces across multiple categories, such as landscapes, still life, and modern art—no subscription fees required. This thoughtful feature transforms the TV from a mere electronic device into an artistic statement that enhances the ambiance of any room.

Design That Speaks Volumes

The CanvasTV doesn’t just display art; it is art. Hisense has clearly put thought into every aspect of its design. The TV features a slim bezel that focuses on the content, not the frame. It comes standard with a teak frame, but thanks to its magnetic design, you can easily swap it out to match your décor or mood. We love the light wood tones, which perfectly complement our sunroom’s natural aesthetic.

One of my favorite moments was seeing Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies” displayed on the screen. The soft blues, greens, and pinks seemed to come alive against the backdrop of our vibrant blue walls. This created a mesmerizing interplay of color that transformed the space and added a sense of tranquility and elegance.

Beneath the TV, we placed a natural wood console that echoes the frame’s light wood tones. The simplicity of its design, with clean lines and earthy textures, ties the whole look together. The result is a harmonious blend that feels more like a curated art installation than just a TV setup.

Versatility with the 55″ Model

While the 65″ CanvasTV found its permanent home in the sunroom, we decided to get adventurous with the 55″ model. Instead of mounting it, we opted for the mobile stand—a decision that has added a whole new layer of versatility to our home entertainment.

The mobile stand is a game-changer. Its clever design includes an integrated power outlet, reducing cable clutter and making it incredibly easy to move the TV from room to room. Need a screen in the kitchen for following a new recipe? Roll it in. Hosting friends in the dining room and want to display a slideshow of memories? Easy. Cozy movie night in the bedroom? Done.

All the necessary ports—power, HDMI, and USB—are neatly integrated into the back of the TV. There’s no need for external boxes or messy cables, keeping the setup clean and elegant.

For families, this flexibility is a huge plus. Imagine being able to wheel the TV into the kids’ room for a special movie night or setting up an impromptu gaming session in any part of the house. It’s the convenience of a portable entertainment center without sacrificing style or quality.

Ergonomic Design and User Experience

The CanvasTV is designed with the user in mind. Wall mounting the 65″ model was straightforward, thanks to its lightweight build and slim profile. It sits flush against the wall, enhancing that art gallery feel.

The remote control continues the minimalist theme. With its brushed metal finish, it feels substantial yet sleek in hand. The button layout is intuitive—quick-access buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and Disney+ are right at your fingertips. The inclusion of voice control via Google Assistant adds an extra layer of convenience. We can navigate content, adjust settings, or even control other smart devices in our home with simple voice commands.

Performance: A Visual and Auditory Delight

Now, let’s talk about performance. The CanvasTV might not feature Mini-LED backlighting—a technology known for delivering deep blacks and high contrast—but it makes up for it in other ways. The matte display is amazing, especially in a room like ours where the entire back wall is glass and the sunrise shines directly into the space. The CanvasTV’s matte screen does a fantastic job, offering more than adequate brightness, even under direct sunlight.

The matte display quite literally ‘eats up’ and swallows any shadow thrown at it—making the artwork look like real art instead of something viewed through a monitor. Add in the Quantum Dot (QLED) technology, and the colors are vibrant and true to life, enhancing everything from movies to artwork.

With a refresh rate of up to 144Hz, the TV handles fast-paced action scenes and gaming without breaking a sweat. We connected our gaming console, and the experience was smooth and immersive. The visuals were crisp, with no noticeable lag or motion blur.

The audio doesn’t disappoint, either. With Dolby Atmos support, the built-in speakers deliver sound that fills the room. Dialogue is clear, music is rich, and the overall audio experience complements the high-quality visuals. While audiophiles might prefer an external sound system, we found the integrated speakers to be more than sufficient for our needs.

Navigating the TV’s interface is a breeze, thanks to the VIDAA U operating system. It’s clean, responsive, and doesn’t bog you down with unnecessary clutter. Integration with Google TV means easy access to all our favorite streaming services, including Dish Anywhere. If you’ve ever dealt with Dish Network, you know the hassle—wiring, coaxial cables, and setting up a box. With CanvasTV, it’s as simple as installing the Dish Anywhere app, and you’re good to go. The 55″ model on a mobile stand makes this even more convenient—art and entertainment on wheels, ready to roll into any room. Plus, support for Apple HomeKit and AirPlay 2 ensures seamless connectivity with our Apple devices.

Connecting my laptop and extending the use of CanvasTV as a second or third monitor makes life easier for meetings, streaming shows, and those long Zoom calls.

Sustainability Matters

Being eco-conscious is more important than ever, and we’re pleased to see that Hisense shares this value. The CanvasTV uses responsibly sourced wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensuring that materials meet high environmental and social standards.

Energy efficiency is another highlight. The TV includes advanced power management features to minimize energy consumption during use and standby. It meets or exceeds international energy efficiency standards, which not only reduces our carbon footprint but also helps lower our electricity bill.

Even the packaging reflects Hisense’s commitment to sustainability. They use recyclable materials and minimize the use of plastics, reducing waste without compromising product protection during shipping.

Value That Hits the Sweet Spot

One of the most compelling aspects of CanvasTV is its value proposition. The current price for the 55″ CanvasTV at Best Buy is $850, making it an appealing entry point for those looking to bring this blend of technology and art into their homes without breaking the bank. The 65″ model, priced around $1,100, offers many of the premium features found in higher-priced competitors like Samsung’s The Frame or TCL’s Nxtframe, but at a more accessible price point.

Including over 120 free pieces of curated art—without any subscription fees—is a significant bonus. Competitors often require monthly fees to access similar features. The ability to upload personal images at no extra cost adds another layer of personalization that enhances the overall value.

The TV’s compatibility with various smart home ecosystems—Google Voice, Google TV, Apple HomeKit, and AirPlay 2—makes it convenient for users across different platforms. The thoughtful design extends to every aspect of the user experience, highlighting Hisense’s focus on usability.

The versatile mounting options further enhance its utility. Whether you choose to wall-mount it for a sleek, integrated look or use the mobile stand for adaptable use throughout your home, the CanvasTV adapts to your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts: A Seamless Blend of Lifestyle and Technology

The Hisense CanvasTV has redefined our expectations of what a television can be. It’s a device for consuming content; it’s an integral part of our home’s aesthetic and functionality. From its stunning design and customizable art displays to its practical mobility and solid performance, it checks all the boxes.

For anyone torn between wanting the latest technology and maintaining a stylish, inviting home, the CanvasTV offers the best of both worlds. It’s elevated our living space in ways we didn’t anticipate, and we couldn’t be happier with our choice.

Would We Recommend It? Absolutely.

If you’re in the market for a new TV that does it all, the Hisense CanvasTV deserves serious consideration. Its blend of art, design, and technology offers a unique experience that’s hard to find elsewhere, especially at this price point.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a tech lover, or someone who appreciates thoughtful design, this TV has something to offer. It’s become an integral part of our home entertainment setup; it’s a conversation piece, a mood setter, and, quite frankly, a joy to own.

Key Takeaways:

  • Art Mode with 120+ Free Artworks: Transform your TV into a personal art gallery without extra costs.
  • Sleek, Customizable Design: Slim profile and magnetic frames let you tailor the look to your home.
  • Versatile Mounting Options: Choose between wall mounting or a mobile stand to suit your lifestyle.
  • Solid Performance: Vibrant QLED display with 144Hz refresh rate and Dolby Atmos sound.
  • Smart Home Integration: Compatible with Google Voice, Google TV, Apple HomeKit, and AirPlay 2.
  • Eco-Friendly Features: Uses responsibly sourced materials and energy-efficient technology.
  • Great Value: Offers premium features at a more accessible price compared to competitors.

The post Our Sunroom’s New Masterpiece: The Hisense CanvasTV Review first appeared on Yanko Design.

The best Prime Day bluetooth speaker deals we could find during Amazon’s Big Deal Days sale

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The October Prime Day sale at Amazon is slowly coming to an end, but as of this writing, there are still quite a few speaker deals to be had. At Engadget, we’ve tested scads of audio equipment. In our guide to the best Bluetooth speakers and smart speakers, we break down which, out of the thousands out there, are worth your money. And our guide to the best soundbars lists our favorite devices for immersive viewing and clear dialogue. 

Not surprisingly, many of those picks come from stalwart brands like Bose, JBL, Ultimate Ears and Marshall — and most of our favorites aren't exactly cheap. That's what makes sales like this so great. You can save on quality equipment, that comes highly recommended, so you won't get stuck with mumbly lows and flat mids and tinny highs. Here are the best Prime Day speaker deals we could find on the models we recommend.

The marshall emberton II speaker sits on a table; there's a bunch of vinyl in the background.
Photo by Jon Turi / Engadget

There’s a portable speaker for just about every situation in our guide to Bluetooth speakers. Whether you just want some tunes as you horbgorble around at home or need to entertain some coworkers at a music dance experience, there’s something for you here — and best of all, these are on sale.

  • Beats Pill Bluetooth speaker for $100 ($50 off): The new Beats portable speaker just came out a few months ago, and we called it a worthy revival of a classic Beats product in our review. It has improved sound, a longer battery life and a rugged build.  

  • Soundcore Motion 300 for $60 ($20 off): This sub-two-pound sound-maker delivers a bright, punchy output from 30-watt speakers. We found it to have a crisp high end and fairly thumpy bass when it has walls to bounce the sound off of. Plus it’s waterproof and goes for 13 hours on a charge. This Prime-members-only price matches its all-time low.

  • Anker Soundcore Motion+ for $69 ($31 off): This little guy comes in at just over two pounds and has a bright and bassy output. It can play songs for around 12 hours on a charge and we particularly appreciate the solid build with its metal grille. This Prime-exclusive deal matches the lowest price yet.

  • Tribit StormBox Micro 2 for $48 ($32 off): This is the smallest music box on our list, and we like it because it packs serious sound for its size. The audio isn’t the highest fidelity, but the rubbery strap is perfect for strapping onto a pack, bike handlebar or elsewhere.

  • JBL Flip 6 for $80 ($50 off): After reading our guide, this is the speaker I bought, and I can confirm this crowler-sized device has great sound quality, is durable as heck and I love that it sounds great on its side or stood on end.

  • Marshall Emberton II for $100 ($70 off): This clutchable model has two 10-watt drivers and passive radiators for 360-degree sound. While it’s not super loud, we found the output to be nicely balanced. You’ll get up to 30 hours of play on a charge and it has a IP67 water- and dust-resistance rating.

  • Marshall Middleton for $250 ($50 off): This is the flagship in Marshall’s waterproof/portable line. We like the top-notch sound quality and impressive output from the dual woofers, tweeters for the front and back, and passive radiators along each side.

  • Ultimate Ears Hyperboom for $320 ($130 off): At 13 pounds, this UE speaker pushes the boundaries of portable, verging into shelf speaker territory. It made the cut in our guide thanks to its good looks, loud output and ample port options. It’ll play for 24 hours on a charge, too.

  • JBL Go 3 for $28 ($12 off): The smallest JBL speaker isn't on our list of the best speakers, but many other models from the speaker company have earned high praise from our reviewers. This deal is the lowest price we've seen on this pocket sized music machine, just note that only Prime members get the full discount.   

The Echo Dot smart speaker sits on a wooden shelf next to a stack of books.
Photo by Amy Skorheim / Engadget

I never thought I’d own a smart speaker, but now I ask Alexa for everything — turn on the smart lights, set a noodle timer, remind me about Saturday’s group FaceTime and, most importantly, tell me the weather today. It’s always a good idea to get these devices on sale, so take advantage of these Prime Day prices while you can.

  • Sonos Era 100 for $199 ($50 off): The Sonos Era 100 is our pick for the best midrange smart speaker. The sound quality is excellent, it pairs well with other Sonos devices and there are plenty of useful features — which should only improve once Sonos resolves all of its app issues.

  • Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) for $23 ($27 off): The Dot is the most popular model in Amazon’s smart speaker family. Though it’s small, it puts out decent volume and music sounds pretty good from its speakers. But where it really shines is acting as your daily smart home assistant.

  • Amazon Echo (4th Gen) for $50 ($50 off):The full-sized model is probably a better option if you plan to use your Echo as a music source regularly — not surprisingly, its bigger size makes for bigger sound, plus you can pair two together. It’s our recommendation for a smart speaker under $100.

  • Amazon Echo Spot (2nd gen) for $45 ($35 off): The half-a-softball Spot with its tiny display went away for a time, but came back with a new look and a half-moon screen that can display the time, weather and the song that’s playing.

  • Amazon Echo Pop for $18 ($22 off): The tiniest Echo device is best suited to a small space where it would be helpful to have Alexa’s assistance. It’s not built for high fidelity music playing, but will bop out a song as you get ready or make some dinner.

Sonos Ray review photos
Nathan Ingraham / Engadget

It’s not just you. The dialogue in TV shows is getting tougher to suss out. In my house, a soundbar has made a world of difference. Of course, these long speakers and sets also make movies more immersive. Engadget’s Billy Steele tested out a bunch, putting his favorites in our soundbar guide and, in good news for anyone ready to turn off the subtitles, Prime Day deals extend to a few winning models.

  • Sonos Beam for $399 ($100 off): The Sonos Beam is our favorite midrange soundbar. It has solid sound quality, support for Dolby Atmos and is easy to set up. Just note that it only has one HDMI port, so you can’t hook up a console directly to the speaker.

  • Sonos Ray for $169 ($110 off): This is the lowest price we've seen yet for this recommended soundbar, at over $100 off. We like the Sonos Ray because it's an affordable option that puts out excellent sound in a compact bar with easy setup.

  • Sonos Arc for $719 ($180 off): In our guide to soundbars, we mention the Arc, noting that it's definitely the company's best sounding soundbar — but the price, and the fact that there's likely an updated Arc on the way make it harder to fully recommend. Still it got a positive review from us and if you're the type to go with the tried and true model over the new one and you want to save a chunk of change, this could be the deal for you. 

  • Sonos Sub Mini for $343 ($86 off): Here's a 20 percent discount on the Sub Mini. We gave it good marks in our official review, calling it a Sonos subwoofer that's "more affordable and practical for smaller spaces."

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice, and stay tuned to Engadget.com for all of the best tech deals coming out of October Prime Day 2024.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-best-prime-day-bluetooth-speaker-deals-we-could-find-during-amazons-big-deal-days-sale-073606169.html?src=rss

Power Up Your Prime Day: BLUETTI’s Epic Portable Power Station Deals

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Bluetti Prime Day Deals

Portable power stations have really taken off in the last few years, becoming essential gear for campers, RVers, and anyone who wants a reliable backup power solution for their home. These versatile devices aren’t just practical for keeping your gadgets and appliances running when you’re off the grid—they’re also an eco-friendly alternative to traditional generators. […]

The post Power Up Your Prime Day: BLUETTI’s Epic Portable Power Station Deals appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Sonos speakers and soundbars are up to 20 percent off for Prime Day

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It’s Prime Day again, and Amazon has the Sonos Era 100 speaker, the critically acclaimed successor to the Sonos One, on sale for $50 off. The deal could be worth a look if you’re eyeing a terrific-sounding home speaker or want to expand your existing Sonos setup. Usually, it is $249, but you can order the Sonos Era 100 today for only $199. If home theater is your priority, you can also save up to $110 on the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) or Ray soundbar.

The Sonos Era 100, which only arrived last year, sounds better than its successor and has more convenient controls and easier TruePlay tuning. The latter automatically adjusts its sound based on your room’s acoustics. Previously requiring a phone (and iPhone only, leaving out Android users), the feature now uses the speaker’s built-in mics for “Quick Tuning.” (iOS device owners can optionally still use the more advanced TruePlay tuning for a more thorough setup.)

The speaker is surprisingly loud and has more potent bass than the Sonos One lineup it replaced. It has two tweeters for better high-end output. Engadget’s Nathan Ingraham found the speaker’s sound quality to surpass that of the One, offering a full-bodied listening experience.

You can optionally buy two (or a second while on sale if you already own one) for a stereo pair. Use the Sonos app (which has had problems lately, but the company is working to improve it) to link your two speakers, providing a richer listening experience with stereo separation. It also supports Amazon Alexa and Sonos’ assistant for voice control. If you have a Sonos soundbar, you can set it up as a rear speaker for surround sound while watching TV or movies.

Speaking of soundbars, Amazon Prime Day also has a couple of those on sale, too. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) soundbar, typically $499, is available for $399. The speaker has a compact design and enhanced sound quality with Dolby Atmos support. The Sonos Ray, the company’s entry-level soundbar, is on sale for $110 off. An upgrade over your TV’s built-in speakers, the solid speaker is good for TVs in smaller spaces. You can get the Sonos Ray for $169 (typically $279).

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice, and stay tuned to Engadget.com for all of the best tech deals coming out of October Prime Day 2024.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/sonos-speakers-and-soundbars-are-up-to-20-percent-off-for-prime-day-162830423.html?src=rss

Prime Day gaming deals for 2024: Save big on the PS5, headsets, mice, board games and more

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Amazon's October Prime Day sale is nearing the finish line, but many of the event's actually decent gaming deals are still kicking. The standard and digital versions of Sony's PlayStation 5 are each $50 off, for instance, while several of the mice, headsets, controllers and board games we recommend in our various buying guides are at or near their lowest prices to date. 

If you've been looking to upgrade your setup and don't want to wait until Black Friday, we've sorted through the sale and picked out the best Prime Day gaming deals we could find below. As a refresher, Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event (as it's officially called) is scheduled to conclude at 3AM ET, and you'll need to be a Prime member to access some (but not all) of the discounts. 

The Astro A40 TR gaming headset rests on a white stand on an outside table, with its built-in microphone extended.
The Astro A40 TR gaming headset.
Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

  • PlayStation 5 (slim) for $449 ($51 off MSRP): While this isn’t the best PS5 deal we’ve ever seen, steeper discounts for Sony’s console have been infrequent, so this isn’t the worst time to hop aboard. If nothing else, it’s a better value for most than the PS5 Pro.

  • PlayStation 5 Digital Edition (slim) for $400 ($50 off): If you’re 100 percent sure you’ll only buy games digitally, the version of the PS5 without a disc drive is also on sale for $50 less. Annoyingly, this was the standard going rate for the original PS5 Digital Edition, but Sony hiked the console’s MSRP by $50 when it introduced these “slim” models last year. NOTE: This deal has gone in and out of stock at Amazon, but it's also available at Walmart and Best Buy.

  • Xbox Series X (1TB) + $25 Best Buy gift card for $450 ($75 off): This is neither an Amazon deal nor an all-time low, but those who'd prefer an Xbox can also take $50 off a new console at Best Buy. The retailer will throw in a $25 digital gift card with your purchase. 

  • Astro A40 TR gaming headset for $90 ($40 off): It’s several years old, but the open-back Astro A40 TR remains a top wired gaming headset thanks to its spacious sound and comfy design. The built-in microphone is pretty mediocre, however. This deal checks in $10 below the usual discount price we’ve seen over the course of this year.

  • Corsair Virtuoso Pro gaming headset for $140 ($60 off): The Virtuoso Pro is another wired open-back pair we recommend in our gaming headset guide. It’s not quite as good of a value as the Astro A40 TR, but it has a clearer mic, and we found its sound profile to work better with some (but not all) games. This deal matches the lowest price we’ve tracked.

  • Sennheiser HD 560S headphones for $126 ($104 off): If you don't need a built-in mic, the HD 560S is a quality pair of open-back headphones with the kind of wide, detailed sound that can help you feel immersed in most games. It's another pick from our gaming headset guide. This discount matches the lowest price we've seen in well over a year.

A black video game controller, the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller, rests on a white shelf in front of a row of several red Nintendo Switch video game cases.
The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller.
Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

  • Razer Basilisk V3 wired gaming mouse for $40 ($30 off): We recommend the Basilisk V3 in our guide to the best gaming mice for those who prefer a more ergonomic, right-handed shape and don't mind connecting over a cable. This deal matches the device's all-time low. It's worth noting that Razer announced an updated version of this mouse with an improved sensor just last week — we plan to test that model soon, but the upgrades appear to be fairly minor in practice.

  • Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro wireless gaming mouse for $110 ($40 off): If you'd rather go wireless, the DeathAdder V3 Pro is another favorite from our gaming mouse guide, blending a superlight, gently contoured shape with top-shelf performance. This is only a $10 drop from the mouse's recent street price, but it still represents an all-time low.

  • Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless MMO gaming mouse for $90 ($40 off): The Scimitar Elite is the wireless version of the top MMO pick in our buying guide. It offers 12 customizable side buttons that make it easier to pull of complex commands in MOBAs or MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV. This is the second-largest discount we’ve seen.

  • 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller for $50 ($20 off): While not an all-time low, this discount takes $10 off the usual street price for 8BitDo's wireless Switch/PC gamepad, which we've raved about before. It's a bit on the smaller side, but it's comfortable, with durable Hall effect joysticks that should avoid the "drift" sensation that's plagued Nintendo's Joy-Cons. If you don't need Bluetooth support, another model that only connects over a USB dongle is on sale for $10 less. That variant also uses Xbox-style face buttons instead of Switch ones.

  • Backbone One (USB-C, 2nd gen) for $70 ($30 off): The Backbone One is an easy-to-use mobile game controller that we’ve recommended before. This 30 percent discount ties the lowest price we’ve seen for the second-gen model. A PlayStation-branded model — which supports Sony’s official Remote Play app on Android and iOS, instead of just the latter — is available for the same price, as are the versions that connect over Lightning.

The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless gaming keyboard rests on a light brown wooden table.
The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless gaming keyboard.
Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget

  • ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless gaming keyboard for $142 ($38 off): This honorable mention from our guide to the best gaming keyboards offers a stellar typing experience, with a sturdy case, layers of sound-dampening foam and crisp PBT keycaps. The stock switches in this configuration are great, but they're also hot-swappable if you ever want to change things up. This deal is only about $15 off the keyboard's usual going rate, but it's still the second-best price we've tracked.

  • Keychron C3 Pro mechanical keyboard for $25 ($12 off): If you just want to pay as little as possible for a mechanical keyboard that still feels great, we recommend the C3 Pro. This iteration uses cheaper ABS keycaps and lacks hot-swappable switches, but it feels and sounds remarkably pleasant for something so cheap. This deal marks another all-time low. A hot-swappable version is also on sale for $13 more.

  • Keychron V3 Max mechanical keyboard for $89 ($11 off): The V3 Max is another recommendation from our gaming keyboard guide, specifically for those who want a more traditional look without any "gamer-y" embellishments. This is a modest discount, but we haven't seen the board fall this low super often. If you need a numpad, the full-size V6 Max is similarly discounted at $95.

  • 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard (Fami Edition) for $76 ($24 off): This wireless keyboard should appeal to anyone looking for a "vintage tech" aesthetic, as its keycaps and color accents are inspired by Nintendo's old Famicom console. It feels great for typing, too, though the default switches are somewhat noisy, so you may not want to use it in an office setting. This discount isn't an all-time low, but we normally see the device retail between $90 and $100.

  • WD Black C50 Xbox Expansion Card (1TB) for $121 ($37 off): It’s a pain in the neck, but the only way to fully expand the storage of an Xbox Series X/S is to use a proprietary expansion card such as the C50. This deal isn’t an all-time low, but it’s $10 to $20 cheaper than the typical street prices we’ve seen over the last several months.

  • Seagate Xbox Storage Expansion Card (2TB) for $199 ($50 off): If you want to add 2TB to your Xbox, meanwhile, this is the best price to date for Seagate's expansion card. There's little performance difference between this and the C50, so which one is best simply comes down to how much space you need.

  • Crucial P310 (2TB) for $168 ($97 off): The P310 is a small-size SSD you can slot into handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally. It uses cheaper QLC memory, not the more performant TLC, but reviews suggest it'll still run well in something like the Deck. This is the lowest price we've seen for the 2TB variant.

  • Alienware M18 R2 gaming laptop for $2,300 ($500 off): The M18 R2 is the latest version of the top 18-inch pick in our guide to the best gaming laptops. It’s an absolute hoss of a notebook, but it’s built well, and this model with an RTX 4080 GPU, 32GB of RAM and a Core i9-14900HX chip is powerful enough to play modern games in 1080p or 1440p at high-ish settings. While not cheap, this matches the config’s best price to date.

The WD Black C50 Xbox Storage Expansion Card slotted into the back of a white Xbox Series S console, with its cover off to the side on a black desk.
The WD Black C50 Storage Expansion Card for Xbox consoles.
WD

  • Assassin’s Creed Mirage for $23 ($27 off): Mirage is a something of a throwback to older Assassin’s Creed games, one that’s smaller in scope than the more recent open-world entries. We called it a “warm, bloody hug from an old friend” in our review — in video game land, that’s a good thing. These days we usually see the game retail around $30.

  • Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 for $19 ($21 off): This collection includes (lightly) remastered versions of the first three Metal Gear Solid games, which remain more subversive and self-assured than most games that have hit in the decades since. A few of the series’ classic 8-bit entries are here, too, and Konami has done well to rectify most of the set’s technical issues since launch. We’ve seen this price before, but it ties an all-time low.

  • Madden NFL 25 for $43 ($27 off): Madden is in pretty dire need of a creative reset, but at the end of the day, it’s Madden, and it works fine enough if you just want to scratch the pro football game itch. This is the second-best price we’ve seen for the latest entry.

  • EA Sports College Football 25 for $43 ($27 off): If you’re more of a college sports fan, EA brought back the series formerly known as NCAA Football back from an 11-year hiatus this past summer, and it generally received higher marks than its pro counterpart. This discount is the largest we’ve seen since launch.

  • WWE 2K24 for $28 ($32 off): If you prefer powerbombs and Hell in a Cell matches to touchdowns and bowl games, the latest WWE 2K game is also down to the best price we’ve seen (for a console copy, that is). It’s a 2K game, so there’ll be some bugs, but it received solid reviews at launch — something we cannot say for Cody Rhodes’ neck tattoo. Keep in mind that this game is available for free with a PlayStation Plus subscription during October, so there’s no need to buy if you plan on keeping that service for a while.

  • Azul board game for $18 ($22 off): We highlight this award-winning tile-laying game in our board game gift guide, calling it "a great gift for those who are new to gaming or just anyone who enjoys strategic puzzles." This deal comes within a couple bucks of the lowest price we've tracked and marks a $14 drop from the game's common street price in recent months.

  • King of Tokyo board game for $25 ($20 off): Essentially Yahtzee with monsters, King of Tokyo is another pick from our board game gift guide. We recommend it for kids and newbie board gamers in particular. This deal isn't an all-time low, but it does match the best price we could find in more than a year.

  • Ticket to Ride board game for $30 ($25 off): This is the lowest price we've seen all year for the ever-popular train-themed strategy game.

  • Catan board game for $30 ($30 off): Another ultra-popular one, Catan is a competitive strategy game in which you gather resources to build roads, cities and settlements. There's a non-zero chance it'll lead you and your loved ones to argue about sheep. The game has typically retailed around $43 over the last few months.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice, and stay tuned to Engadget.com for all of the best tech deals coming out of October Prime Day 2024.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/prime-day-gaming-deals-for-2024-save-big-on-the-ps5-headsets-mice-board-games-and-more-075455534.html?src=rss

Apple’s 9th-gen iPad returns to an all-time low of $199 for October Prime Day

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Amazon's October Prime Day sale may have ended, but there remain a few Prime Day deals floating around right now — including some on Apple gear. One of the lowest prices you'll find is on the 9th-gen iPad, which remains on sale for $199. That's a 40-percent discount from its $329 normal price, and the cheapest we've seen this slab.

Let's be very clear: this iPad is quite old at this point. Apple released it in 2021 and the company has since rolled out a new base iPad, along with several mini, Pro and Air models. If you're looking for a more recent model that Apple will support for longer, you can check out our guide on how to pick the best iPad for you. This sale feels very much like a case of trying to clear out old stock, but there are plenty of valid reasons to opt for the 9th-gen iPad instead of a more powerful model.

We gave the 9th-gen iPad a score of 81 in our review, due to its solid camera, performance and base storage (64GB) upgrades and the solid battery life. It lasted for 14 hours on a single charge during our initial video-streaming tests. It even has a headphone jack, which is a definite plus point.

The tablet will certainly do the trick if all you really need is a tablet to catch up on reading, browse the web, handle some emails and watch videos — more so if you're already in the Apple ecosystem. You'll be able to doodle on this iPad with the original Apple Pencil, but this model is not best suited for professional-level design work or productivity.

Apple tends to support iPads for at least five years in terms of iPadOS updates, so it's likely (but not a sure thing) that you'll be able to install up to iPadOS 20 on this thing. As such, you should be able to stream video via the likes of Netflix to this tablet for several years to come.

If you're willing to spend a bit more on an iPad, you can still grab some Prime Day deals on other iPads too:

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice, and stay tuned to Engadget.com for all of the best tech deals coming out of October Prime Day 2024.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apples-9th-gen-ipad-returns-to-an-all-time-low-of-199-for-october-prime-day-155016190.html?src=rss

Google Maps now lets you reserve a parking spot inside the app

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Google is making it easier for drivers to find and reserve parking. Starting today, it’s possible to access SpotHero, a service that allows people to book parking spaces online, directly through Google Maps and Search.

The next time you use either app to find parking, a “Book Online” button will appear if the lot you find is available to reserve through SpotHero. Tap the button and Google will send you to SpotHero’s website, where you can pay for a spot over a secure connection. The entire process is handled through Maps or Search, with no bouncing between the app of your choice and a browser.

No surprise, it’s also possible to book parking spots ahead of time, with SpotHero offering the option to filter by date and time. You can also search for facilities that offer EV charging, wheelchair accessibility and more. Google has been testing SpotHero integration with select users since April, with today marking the first time the feature is available to everyone.

However, even with the expansion, you may not see the feature in your area. According to SpotHero, it’s possible to use its service to book 8,000 spots in 300 cities across the US and Canada. Some of the more notable locations where it’s possible to use SpotHero to secure parking include Madison Square Garden and the SAP Center.

As TechCrunch notes, SpotHero has been finding its way into more high-profile platforms as of late. Lyft has offered SpotHero integration since 2022, for instance. More recently, SpotHero made its way to Apple Maps. As for Google, today’s announcement represents the latest effort by the search giant to keep Maps and Search relevant in two increasingly competitive markets.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/google-maps-now-lets-you-reserve-a-parking-spot-inside-the-app-154846343.html?src=rss

Sony will delist LittleBigPlanet 3 and its DLC on October 31

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LittleBigPlanet 3 has been around for a long time. The beloved game was released in November 2014 for both the PS3 and PS4. But after just about a decade, gamers won’t be able to purchase it and its DLC after October 31 because Sony will delist it.

To be clear, the game and DLC won’t be available for purchase anymore after the end of the month, but you can still keep your copies and enjoy them. Sadly, ever since the PS4 servers were shut down back in April this year, fan-created levels that weren’t already saved locally aren't available to download and play anymore. At this point, you’re limited to the base game — something worth playing, but much of the game’s charm came from all its user-generated content.

Sony didn’t say why it is delisting LittleBigPlanet 3, but it’s possible that the game’s music licenses are expiring after 10 years. No matter the reason, it’s best to grab a copy of the game if you want to enjoy your adventures with Sackboy.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/sony-will-delist-littlebigplanet-3-and-its-dlc-on-october-31-154650421.html?src=rss

More than a dozen states sue TikTok, alleging that it’s designed to addict kids

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Fourteen states have just filed lawsuits against TikTok that claim the social media platform damages the mental health of young users and collects their data without consent. Each lawsuit was filed individually. The suits, which are led by the attorneys general of New York and California, say the platform violated the law by “falsely claiming its platform is safe for young people.”

The lawsuits spotlight what the plaintiffs call “addictive” features. These include the kinds of things present with many modern social media apps, like 24/7 notifications and autoplay videos. However, the lawsuit also focuses on “dangerous TikTok challenges.” There have been plenty of these, from challenges that task people with taking an excessive amount of Benadryl to messing with an electrical outlet.

“Young people are struggling with their mental health because of addictive social media platforms like TikTok,” New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement. “TikTok claims that their platform is safe for young people, but that is far from true.”

It’s worth noting that the aforementioned challenges were issued by other TikTok users, and not by the platform itself. However, the suits do attempt to illustrate TikTok's “underlying business model”, which is accused of “maximizing young users’ times on the platform so the company can boost revenue from selling targeted ads.”

The various lawsuits even suggest that TikTok allows for the sexual exploitation of its younger users, via a proprietary currency and a live streaming component. The TikTok Live platform is technically only for adults, but one of the suits alleges "lax age verification measures incentivize US minors to lie about their age to gain access."

Once live, users can receive currency from viewers. The suit suggests that this practice “enables other serious harms to minors including sexual exploitation" and that "TikTok is fully aware that these features combine to create an environment where children are often sexually exploited by users but has chosen to turn a blind eye in favor of increasing its profitability." 

The suits also accuse TikTok and parent company ByteDance of collecting the data of young users without consent. This is not a new complaint, as the Department of Justice filed a suit back in August that charged TikTok of collecting the personal information of children on the platform and failing to comply with requests for that data to be deleted. Texas also recently sued the platform for violating child privacy laws.

Today’s suits seek to impose financial penalties on the platform, including “the disgorgement of all profits resulting from the fraudulent and illegal practices, and to collect damages for users that have been harmed.”

TikTok has responded to the suits, saying "we strongly disagree with these claims." The platform went on to call the claims "inaccurate and misleading." It listed all of the various "robust safeguards" it has put in place to protect kids, including "default screentime limits, family pairing, and privacy by default for minors under 16." 

This is all happening as parent company ByteDance faces a decision to either sell TikTok to a non-Chinese buyer or experience a nationwide ban. The current deadline for this decision is January 17, but the company’s lawyers recently argued that the terms of this law were unconstitutional.

The Electronic Frontier Foundation provided Engadget with the following statement from the organization's free speech and transparency litigation director, Aaron Mackey:

We’re still reviewing the complaints filed by the attorneys general, but at first blush, we’re troubled. Social media algorithms aren’t inherently evil – they can sift through vast amounts of data to present users with content they’ll find relevant, entertaining, and educational. The states' claims regarding features like autoplay and endless scrolling are really just a smokescreen for their distaste for First Amendment-protected content. We doubt the attorneys general would sue if TikTok presented an endless scroll of high school math problems or excerpts from classic literature. Parents and minors, not states, should decide when and how young people use TikTok. Finally, the complaint's troubling allegations about TikTok processing user data without appropriate consent shows once again the need for strong privacy first legislation to protect all users.

Update October 8, 3:18PM ET: Added the EFF's statement.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/more-than-a-dozen-states-sue-tiktok-alleging-that-its-designed-to-addict-kids-151242893.html?src=rss

Prime Day deals drop Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 to $169, an all-time low on Amazon

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Prime Day deals are here and you can grab Apple's AirPods Pro 2 for the best price we've seen. The October Prime Day sale has brought the wireless earbuds down to $169, which represents an $80 discount. Apple may not have fully revamped these buds back in September like it did with the standard AirPods, but it did bring a bunch of new features to the AirPods Pro 2. Voice isolation is designed to make you sound better on calls, while Siri interactions let you use gestures like a head nod to say yes to Siri during times when you can't use your voice to reply.

Arguably the biggest new feature coming to the AirPods Pro is the hearing test and the ability to use the earbuds as over-the-counter hearing aids. That hasn't rolled out just yet, but it's expected sometime before the end of the year.

Otherwise, the AirPods Pro 2 have excellent sound quality, with equally solid ANC to match, plus a Transparency Mode that's hard to beat. Like all other Apple earbuds, the Pros support seamless pairing and switching between other Apple devices. So while they're great for folks with an iPhone, you'll get even more use out of them if you live within the Apple ecosystem and have other devices like an iPad or a MacBook.

Their design might be a little stale at this point, and you could say their battery life is just average, but the AirPods Pro remain a solid option for iPhone users looking for a reliable pair of wireless earbuds. If you're not willing to spend quite so much, consider the AirPods Pro 4 with ANC, which just came out last month.

These aren't the only AirPods on sale right now, either. Here are the best Prime Day AirPods deals we found:

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter for the latest tech deals and buying advice, and stay tuned to Engadget.com for all of the best tech deals coming out of October Prime Day 2024.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/prime-day-deals-drop-apples-airpods-pro-2-to-169-an-all-time-low-on-amazon-072650206.html?src=rss