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Build out the smart home that fits your everyday needs rather than focus on specs
(Image credit: Future) The best smart speakers are powered by one of three smart assistants: Amazon Alexa, Apple’s Siri, or the Google Home Assistant. Alexa remains the most popular as it works with the widest variety of smart home devices and its excellent speakers don’t break the bank. Amazon’s value focus only gets better when you account for its ease-of-use and versatility to play nice with both Android and Apple households.
The Google Home Assistant is a tidbit-lover’s dream. Thanks to the search giant’s wealth of data, it’s more knowledgeable when providing information. Its more human-like speaking cadence and ability to understand multi-part commands stands out from the competition. If you happen to use Google’s services it also offers much tighter news briefings, pulls up more personalized music content, and can even read your emails.
HomePod speakers provide the best sound quality and secure, local processing of all the systems. They’re best for those in the Apple ecosystem. However, Siri isn’t as smart when conversing or giving information. It’s meant primarily for controlling home devices and syncing things like calendar events and messages with your iPhone.
Alexa and Google have traditionally been the more popular platforms due to their wider range of compatible devices. Although each platform supports Matter, its arrival has been most beneficial for Apple’s HomeKit. Matter provides HomeKit with more parity since it now has more smart home devices to choose from and you can transfer Matter devices between platforms.
(Image credit: Future) Amazon’s Echo was the first smart speaker to hit the market. These speakers offer the best value by balancing affordability with impressive sound. From the easy-to-use Alexa app, even a smart home newbie can build out complex routines to automate tasks. Thanks to understandable “If” and “when” building blocks, you can tell your devices like smart lights to turn on, but only if it’s at certain times on certain days.
Echos are also the most smart-home-oriented devices since they come loaded with sensors and work with the largest number of devices. Even the budget Echo Dot smart speaker can detect motion and temperature changes to trigger automations. Plus, with Alexa, you can even change the wake word, whereas you’re stuck with “Hey Google” or “Hey Siri” with the other two options.
The Alexa assistant experience sits between Google’s brainiac helper and Siri’s more bare-bones nature. It can consult the web for information and have basic conversations about the status of your smart home. Google Assistant fleshes out its answers and provides more context to your questions. For example, ask about an actor’s birthday and you’ll get a whole biography. However, Alexa’s skills (essentially audio apps) allow it to evolve its abilities over time.
Alexa is the most universal platform and is best for most people. But suppose you’re in Apple or Google’s ecosystems. In that case, the other assistants have stronger ties to your accounts in their services, as well as better integration handing off content between either your iOS (Siri) or Android (Google) phone. With Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that means you have those assistants at home, while you drive, and on your phone for the tightest integration possible.
Google
(Image credit: Future) Google’s Assistant is seriously smart and I consider it more of a “lifestyle” helper than the smart home-centric Alexa. Voice Match customizes your device to offer personalized calendars, flights, payments, photos and more; you can even set your own default media services. On top of that, it handles everyday tasks like booking a reservation or making recommendations better.
The Nest smart speaker lineup isn’t as forward-thinking as Amazon or Apple’s since it lacks built-in smart home sensors to trigger routines. In our faceoff between Alexa and Google Assistant, Amazon’s smart assistant controls devices faster, too. That said, Google Home can still make advanced routines. Plus it’s not as obnoxious with recommendations or attempting to upsell you on a service like Alexa does.
Google knows things. Alexa does them. If you want to get information fast, like directions for how to use a gadget or find a nearby take-out spot, Google Assistant is the way to go.
Apple HomeKit
(Image credit: Future) Apple’s HomeKit prioritizes seamless connectivity between iOS devices and your smart home. It’s a polished experience with enhanced privacy and security since it encrypts and processes commands locally. Plus, it banks on you always having an iPhone or Apple Watch on hand for a physical universal smart home controller.
Like the rest of Apple’s hardware, you pay a premium for a powerful device that “just works.” HomePods offer unrivaled sound with better woofers and tweeters than Alexa or Google’s speakers, and they tune themselves to the acoustics of the room they’re placed in automatically. If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, this is great for handing off content like calls and music with a press (or you can simply tap your iPhone against it).
Siri still isn’t as smart as Alexa or Google when you ask it questions, deferring to say “Here’s what I found on the web” while taking you to links. We’re hoping to see the assistant evolve with the arrival of Apple Intelligence. Of course it’s quick to remind you about upcoming appointments or set alarms. But at the moment it excels at commands like controlling smart home devices or playing content. You’ll still need to use a third-party app to manage devices like robot vacuums until they arrive in the next HomeKit Matter update. Over time this platform has the potential to be the best, but priciest option.
These are our best laptop for kids picks on the market right now
（Image credit: Future / Acer)
The best laptop for kids needs to fulfill a few important criteria. It should be easy to use, with a solid battery life, good portability, and tough enough to stand up to a few hard knocks here and there. In addition, the best laptops need to offer decent performance when it comes to web browsing, homework, and media streaming.
For a great overall performance, we recommend theAcer Chromebook Spin 311. As with many other best Chromebooks, this is a 2-in-1 model that can be used in laptop or tablet modes, making it versatile and adaptable to your child’s way of working. It’s compact, portable, and sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of the daily school or college commute.
Elsewhere, theLenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebookis an ideal laptop for kids, if you happen to be shopping with a smaller budget. It may not win any prizes in the style stakes, but it has a solid performance, a decent battery life, and a robust build quality. Plus, it also offers 2-in-1 functionality.
Of course, the practical applications aren’t the only factors to consider with the best laptops for kids. As with the best student laptops, they represent more than just a work tool. For younger kids, they can be a means to stay in contact with friends and family (under supervision, of course), a gaming device, or a way to enjoy their favorite TV shows and movies.
1.Acer Chromebook Spin 311 The best laptop for kids Specifications CPU: AMD A4-9120CGraphics: AMD Radeon R4 RAM: 4GB DDR4 Screen: 11.6″ HD (1366 x 768) 16:9 IPS touchscreenStorage: 64GB Flash Memory Reasons to buy +Very affordable for a 2-in-1 laptop +Sturdy chassis and hinge +Pleasingly compact Reasons to avoid -Dim screen -Chunky bezels
TheAcer Chromebook Spin 311opts for an AMD APU, which utilizes the well-known Radeon graphics technology for better 3D capabilities – if you have time out of your studies to play some games from the Google Play Store! The dual-core AMD processor does offer Intel-Celeron-beating abilities, by a little at least, and so Chrome OS is going to remain more responsive.
More importantly, the Acer Spin 311 feels durable and well-made, meaning it can handle being dropped in a school backpack or thrown onto the back seat of your car. It’s highly portable and, although the screen disappoints a little by being a touch dull, perfectly usable. At just over eight hours the battery is good though not spectacular for a Chromebook, but balancing that against the great price makes this a strong choice.
2. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook The best cheap laptop for kids Specifications CPU: Intel Celeron N4020 Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 600 RAM: 4GB DDR4 Screen: 11.6″ HD (1366 x 768) 16:9 IPS touchscreen Storage: 64GB eMMC Reasons to buy +Incredible value +Sturdy build quality +Good battery life Reasons to avoid -Weaker performance -Old-fashioned design
If you’re on the hunt for something super-affordable, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Flex Chromebook is an excellent choice. we still gave it four stars.
No, it’s not going to measure up to more expensive laptops when it comes to performance, but the sturdy chassis, long battery life, and touchscreen with a 360-degree hinge for swapping into tablet mode make this the perfect first laptop for a younger child. It should survive whatever your kid throws at it – and thanks to Chrome OS’s parent mode, you can rest assured that your child’s digital safety is secure.
3. Google Pixelbook Go Still one of the best Chromebooks for kids Specifications CPU: Intel Core m3 – i7 Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 615
RAM: 8GB – 16GB Screen: 13.3-inch Full HD – 13.3-inch 4K Ultra HD Molecular Display
Storage: 64GB – 256GB Reasons to buy +Incredible battery life +Amazing ‘Hush’ keyboard +Rare 1080p webcam Reasons to avoid -No biometric login -Higher-spec models are pricey Google might’ve sadly shuttered its own laptop division so we won’t be getting a new model, but you can still pick up a Pixelbook Go for a reasonable price – and it’s basically the best Chromebook ever made.
When we tested it, we marveled at the super-long battery life and excellent ‘Hush’ keyboard, with the entire construction of the laptop feeling sturdy yet sleek. It’s got a sharp 1080p webcam – perfect for virtual classes or video calls with friends – and naturally runs Chrome OS smooth as butter; the perfect union of Google’s hardware and software.
Bear in mind that it’s at the premium end when it comes to Chromebook pricing, so if you’re on a budget, you might be better served elsewhere. That’s just about our only real criticism, though: you get a lot for your money here, and Google is committed to ensuring Chrome OS remains a stable, secure, and child-friendly virtual environment for years to come.
4. Acer Aspire 5 (2022) An affordable Windows laptop for kids Specifications CPU: 11th-gen Intel Core i5 Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Storage: 512GB SSD Reasons to buy +Competitive price +Durable but not too heavy +Decent battery Reasons to avoid -Average performance -Limited port selection Chromebooks can be super-cheap, but the downside of Chrome OS is that it lacks the versatility and widespread support of Windows. If you’re looking for a more conventional laptop without a high price tag, the Acer Aspire 5 is the way to go.
The Intel Core i5 processor will smoke the majority of Chromebooks around the same price point, even if it’s nothing particularly impressive for a Windows laptop. With the Aspire 5’s aggressive pricing though, it’s great value – and you’re getting plenty more, too.
The battery life is solid, and the full HD display is good for both homework and watching videos after school. There’s a 720p webcam for video calls and distance learning too, and the whole design is pleasingly robust without being incredibly heavy. There aren’t quite as many ports as we’d like (only one USB-C is a shame) but at this price point, it’s honestly hard to argue.
5. Acer Chromebook 516 GE A great Chromebook for work and play Specifications CPU: Intel Core i5-1240P Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Storage: 512GB SSD Reasons to buy +Great all-rounder performance +Fantastic display +Lightweight and portable Reasons to avoid -Fairly expensive for a Chromebook -Sub-par speakers -Can’t use Steam directly If your kid wants a machine for both schoolwork and gaming, you may want to consider a gaming Chromebook. The Acer Chromebook 516 GE is our current favorite of this rare breed of laptops, providing great performance in a sleek and sturdy chassis with a truly excellent screen. You’ll pay a bit more than some of the cheapest laptops on this list, but the build quality justifies the price tag – this is a machine for a slightly older kid.
Bear in mind that these ‘gaming Chromebooks’ still use Chrome OS, so they can’t directly run games from platforms such as Steam or the Epic Games Store. Instead, you can download and play games from the Google Play Store, and use cloud gaming services such as Xbox Game Pass and Nvidia GeForce Now. These require a subscription and a good internet connection, but grant you access to a wide library of games to stream on-demand – great for indecisive kids who are always looking to play something new!
6. MacBook Air (M1, 2020) The best Apple laptop Specifications CPU: Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU Graphics: Integrated 7-core – 8-core GPU RAM: 8GB – 16GB unified memory Screen: 13.3-inch 2560 x 1600 Retina display Storage: 256GB – 2TB SSD Reasons to buy +macOS Big Sur is fast and responsive +Battery life is great +Silent in use Reasons to avoid -Fanless design could impact performance Although it might’ve been replaced by the faster, sleeker M2 MacBook Air (2022), the 2020 model – equipped with Apple’s first-generation M1 chip – is still no slouch. A powerhouse productivity machine, the M1 MacBook Air is perfect for students no matter what level of education they’re at.
Not only is it still capable of going toe-to-toe with many newer laptops in terms of performance, but the M1 model offers phenomenal battery life and the passive cooling design means that you’ll never have to listen to noisy laptop fans. Back when we reviewed it, we praised the speedy performance, bright display, and comfortable keyboard – all things that hold true to this day. Oh, and it’s quite a bit cheaper than the newer M2 model, too!
7. HP Pavilion 15 The quintessential learning laptop lives on Specifications CPU: up to 11th-generation Intel Core i7 Graphics: up to Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 RAM: 8GB – 16GB Screen: 15.6″ diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), micro-edge BrightView 250 nits – 15.6″ diagonal, FHD (1920 x 1080) touch IPS micro-edge BrightView 250 nits Storage: up to 1 TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD Reasons to buy +A few affordable configurations +Capable performance +Touchscreen model is great Reasons to avoid -Design is nothing special -Battery life could be better It’s hardly the most exciting laptop around, but the HP Pavilion 15 is a reliable workhorse – and that’s what makes it one of the best laptops for kids. It touts impressive specs (the kind you might expect from a pricier laptop) and an optional touchscreen display model, potentially a boon for kids who prefer a more tactile laptop experience.
HP Fast Charge is also a nifty inclusion, and a valuable one since in our review we did note that the battery life was a bit unimpressive. There wasn’t much else to complain about though, and there’s a variety of configurations available to suit your budget, though, so you won’t have to spend the world to pick one of these up.
What is a good first laptop for kids? There’s a wealth of choices when it comes to laptops for kids, with some great options from manufacturers like Dell, Lenovo, and Acer. And although there’s no definitive answer here, we were impressed by the Acer Chromebook Spin 311.
This 2-in-1 Chromebook is versatile, lightweight, portable, and has a reasonable battery life. It’s not too expensive and is powerful enough to comfortably cover any kind of junior homework assignment.
Plus, if the worst comes to the worst and it gets unceremoniously dropped, it’s durable enough that it shouldn’t cause any lasting damage.
What is a good laptop for an 8-year-old? As with the above, a suitable laptop for an eight-year-old should cover the same bases, while offering reliable security measures to protect your child while they’re web browsing.
Before buying, it’s worth checking whether your child needs access to certain software for their school work, as this will determine what type of laptop might be suitable (e.g. some software that runs on Windows won’t be supported by a laptop that runs on Chrome OS).
Beyond this, it’s a good idea to stick to more household brands that you know can be trusted, and pick a laptop capable of providing what your child needs it to do.
A whole 26 hours of battery? The magic 8-ball we consulted says “reply hazy, try again”
(Image credit: Dell) Dell announced a new XPS 13 at IFA Berlin , powered by the new Intel Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” processors. That shiny new XPS uses the same chassis as previous models, but the thing that makes it so interesting to us is the 26 hours of battery life Dell is claiming.
As we’ve previously discussed, the Dell XPS 13 9345 with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip managed 19 hours and 1 minute on the Laptop Mag battery test, which wasn’t too far off the initial claims made by Dell and Qualcomm. Dell claimed 27 hours of video playback for the XPS 13 9345, which is just above the 26 hours the company is claiming for the XPS 13 9350 with an Intel Core Ultra 200V processor.
Dell claims the XPS 13’s battery life was based on streaming video at 1080p resolution using the Netflix Windows 11 app, with the display set to 150 nits and with wireless enabled. Obviously, there will be differences based on specific configurations and the type of battery test used, and the battery test is a web surfing test as opposed to video playback, so it is unlikely our test labs will get a 26-hour battery life on the XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 200V.
That said, the XPS 13 9350 with Intel Lunar Lake model could very well rival the XPS 13 9345 with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite for being our laptop with the best battery life.
While we don’t have benchmarks for the new Intel Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” chips yet, we can make a few predictions based on what we know about the processors’ expected power draw.
At the Intel Lunar Lake demo showcase ahead of IFA Berlin, I was able to take a look at two different power draw and performance demonstrations set up by Intel.
The first demo measured CPU power draw between the Intel Core Ultra 200V series, AMD Ryzen AI 300, and Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors. All four demo laptops were running the same scripted game in DOTA 2 with hardware monitoring software tracking the power draw of the CPU and the entire system while the game was playing on a constant loop. Intel claims that the sweet spot for Intel Core Ultra 7 200V performance is around 17 Watts of CPU power while the Intel Core Ultra 9 288V has the best power-to-performance ratio at about 30 Watts.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V demo model showed a CPU power draw of 17.787W to keep the gaming running at 58 fps. The Intel Core Ultra 9 288V model showed a CPU power draw of 26.453W to achieve 61 fps on the scripted game encounter. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 model was showing a CPU power draw of 28.037 Watts to keep the game running at 52 fps.
Unfortunately, Qualcomm Snapdragon chips don’t support internal CPU power monitoring, so all four systems were also using external power draw monitors to determine overall system power. The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V model was running with a total of 33.3 W, the Intel Core Ultra 9 288V model was running a total of 44.8 W, the Ryzen AI HX 370 was using 46.3 W, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite XIE-80-100 was using 33.8 W of power to maintain a framerate of 48 fps.
So the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V was using just 0.5 W less power for a much higher frame rate. That said, there isn’t a massive difference in the overall system power between the two processors, which could mean good things for the XPS 13’s projected battery life.
CPU Power and Battery life: Is there a correlation?
(Image credit: Future) The second power demo I watched for the Lunar Lake launch in Berlin last week was specifically geared to streaming battery life. Intel set up two identical XPS models running comparable Intel Core Ultra 100 “Meteor Lake” and Intel Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” processors, streaming the same 4K videos from YouTube. The older “Meteor Lake” XPS was using 18.3 W of total system power to stream the 4K video while the “Lunar Lake” model was using just 6.22 W of total system power. So the Lunar Lake system was almost three times more power efficient while streaming.
Of course, CPU power draw is part of a system’s total power usage, and there is a correlation between the wattage it takes to keep a laptop running during a specific task and its estimated battery life while doing similar tasks. However, it isn’t the kind of thing that is easy to calculate. You can estimate battery life using total system power and the Watt-hour rating of the laptop’s battery, but that’s not always a guarantee as batteries don’t discharge in equal measures over time and power draw has a tendency to vary, even when performing the same exact task over time.
That said, based on what we’ve seen so far, it seems likely the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 200V “Lunar Lake” processors will make it to about 19 hours on our battery test, though obviously we’ll have to test that claim in our lab.
The best 14-inch laptops are small but have a lot of potential. A 14-inch laptop hits the sweet spot between the portability of a 13-inch laptop and the performance of a 15-inch laptop. Perhaps because of this, it has become one of the most popular laptop forms – and with good reason.
Over the past few months, we’ve seen the next generation of processors, which will start dominating most newly launched laptops next year. Whether it’s Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite, Intel’s Lunar Lake, Apple’s M4, or AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series, these chips are the future of mobile computing.
We run a series of tests on each laptop :Geekbench(synthetic CPU test), Handbrake(video encoded CPU test), 3DMark(graphics test), display test (brightness, color gamut), battery test (custom battery drain), and more. Our reviewers then put the laptops in a real-world environment. Our two-pronged review strategy gives the full picture of each laptop and allows us to thoroughly compare them.
1. Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (Q425M) Affordable perfection Specifications CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H GPU: Intel Iris XeRAM: 16GB Storage: 1TBDisplay: 14-inch, 1800p Size: 12.3 x 8.67 x 0.59 inches Weight: 3 lbs Reasons to buy +Almost 16 hours of battery life! +Snappy performance +Quality audio +Smooth, comfortable keyboard +Secure webcam privacy shutter Reasons to avoid -Display could be brighter
Buying at a low price does not mean sacrificing good looks or stable performance. In fact, it’s a stylish laptop with Intel Meteor Lake performance, 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.
Not every laptop has to achieve a high level of performance or graphics capabilities that can compete with the latest game consoles. Instead, the Zenbook 14 OLED offers a nice platform where you can handle a lot of work.
Its battery life is especially amazing. In the Laptop Mag battery test, the battery lasted 15 hours and 52 minutes while continuously browsing the web over Wi-Fi at 150 nits. We usually recommend a productive laptop with 9 to 10 hours of use, and its performance certainly makes it one of the longest lasting laptops you can buy right now. Even the more expensive MacBook Air 13-inch M3 doesn’t last that long, at 15 hours and 13 minutes.
In Geekbench 6’s overall performance test, the Zenbook 14 OLED’s multi-core score reached 12,707 points, which is very impressive. Again, which is impressive considering its higher price. When you think about this laptop’s amazing OLED display, you won’t believe your eyes. In addition to the seductive deep black ink, you can enjoy a DCI-P3 coverage of 79.8%. Its brightness is good, but 339 nits could be better.
2. Razer Blade 14 The best gaming laptop out there Specifications CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070RAM: 16GB Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe SSD Display: 14-inch QHD+ 240Hz, 2560 x 1600 Size: 12.23 x 8.97 x 0.7 inches Weight: 4.1 pounds Reasons to buy +RTX 4070 performance +Gorgeous display +Sturdy aluminum build +Impactful speakers +Excellent battery life Reasons to avoid -Runs a bit hot -Loud while gaming
Plain and simple, the Razer Blade 14 is the best gaming laptop I’ve reviewed. There’s no beating around the bush in that this isn’t a cheap product, but there’s no world in which it could disappoint with its stunning display, long-lasting battery life, and powerful RTX 4070 gaming performance.
The model we reviewed is built with an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage. Its 14-inch, 2560 x 1440-pixel display at 240Hz refresh rate is excellent on paper and fantastic in practice. Its 114.3 percent reproduction of the DCI-P3 color gamut is phenomenal, soaring far beyond the premium gaming laptop average of 93 percent.
We recommend anything between 80 and 100 percent, but going over 100 percent is even better. Its brightness is also nothing to scoff at, hitting 465 nits on average. This demolishes the category average of 408 nits, meaning you’ll easily carry it outdoors, even in intense sunlight, without worrying about glare.
But its display isn’t the only thing that gives it top marks and makes it our best gaming laptop. Its productivity performance is thanks to its AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor. The Geekbench 5.5 overall performance test managed a multi-core score of 11,121. You can expect solid transfer rates alongside its SSD speed of 1,230 megabytes per second.
Best of all, its battery life is seriously staggering for a gaming laptop. We recommend traditional laptops, which last anywhere between 9 and 10 hours, but expectations are far lower when a dedicated graphics card is involved. The Razer Blade 14 lasts 8 hours and 35 minutes, and in a world where many gaming laptops are trapped between 2 and 5 hours of longevity, this is fantastic.
Best overall
MacBook is at its best with the Pro M3 Specifications CPU: M3 (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16-core Neural engine) RAM: 8GB to 24GBStorage: 512GB to 1TB Display: 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display (3024 x 1964 pixels, 254ppi) Size: 12.3 x 8.7 x 0.6 inches Weight: 3.4 pounds Reasons to buy +Excellent overall performance +Solid gaming performance +Stunning design +Comfortable keyboard +Incredible endurance Reasons to avoid -No Face ID -Distracting notch
The Apple MacBook Pro M3 sets the standard for other 14-inch laptops. It’s the total package and an obvious top pick for anybody looking to pick up a laptop in this category. Beyond the MacBook’s iconic style, its M3 chip is a consistent powerhouse for accomplishing computing tasks and a real pioneer in efficiency and battery life.
Beyond the MacBook Pro 14’s performance, you’ll find Apple’s iconic keyboard, plus-sized trackpad, powerful speakers, a fantastic high-resolution webcam, and a stunning 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display.
This MacBook Pro 14 is a multipurpose laptop that can do just about anything, from productivity to creation—and even a little gaming, too. Work or play, the MacBook Pro 14 is a best-in-class option well worth a place on any buyer’s prospective shortlist.
On the Geekbench 6 overall performance test, the MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 managed a multi-core score of 11,870. This is undoubtedly exceptional, which is no surprise considering the M3’s unbelievable processing power. It also took 5 minutes and 38 seconds to transcode a 4K video into 1080p, which blasts past the 7-minute and 51-second category average.
Best of all, the battery life on this thing is unreal. On the Laptop Mag battery test, which involves continuous web surfing at 150 nits, it lasted 17 hours and 16 minutes before dying. This is phenomenal, making it one of the longest-lasting laptops we’ve reviewed in years. Look no further if you want a powerhouse that can last more than two full workdays.
If you want OLED, its display will leave much to be desired, but its ability to reproduce 81.3 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut makes it colorful enough for most users. And, of course, Apple never disappoints when it comes to brightness, managing an average of 558 nits. This makes it easy to work on even the brightest days.
Best Ultrabook
4. Acer Swift Go 14 The most colorful display I’ve ever seen Specifications CPU: Intel Core i7-13700H GPU: Intel Iris XeRAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 14-inch 2,880 x 1,800-pixel OLED Size: 12.3 x 8.6 x 0.6 inches Weight: 2.9 pounds Reasons to buy +Incredible performance +Most vivid screen I’ve ever seen +Phenomenal display +Affordable +Satisfying keyboard Reasons to avoid -Runs a bit hot -Subpar battery life
There always has to be one machine out there touting the “MacBook killer” moniker, and our current best pick for that title in the 14-inch laptop category is the Acer Swift Go 14. It’s packed to the gills with high-performance components and ticks off all Ultrabook requirements. Better still, it’s affordable and houses one of the most vivid OLED displays we’ve encountered.
The Swift Go 14’s incredible performance results from a 13th-generation Evo-certified Intel Core i7 processor, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and 16GB of RAM with 512GB of SSD storage to back it up. However, regardless of the top-notch tech housed inside, the Swift Go 14’s dazzling 2.8K, 14-inch OLED display will steal the show for many.
Perhaps the only way it fails to fulfill the “MacBook killer” moniker is its underwhelming longevity. MacBooks last 15 to 18 hours on our Laptop Mag battery test, which involves continuous web surfing at 150 nits over Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, the Acer Swift Go 14 only survived 8 hours and 5 minutes. Yikes!
But what stands out as being above and beyond reason is that the Acer Swift Go 14’s display has an absurd level of vividity. Its 175.7 percent coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut is practically unreal. Considering the category average is 107.5 percent, it’s wild that this laptop rises above and beyond the rest. Its brightness of 395 nits is also pretty solid, and while a MacBook is often superior in this regard, it’s still great.
And if you are worried about losing that beautiful MacBook keyboard, this manages to emulate it rather well. It is a 60 percent Wiisland-style keyboard featuring black matte keys with an LED backlight. It felt smooth and tactile, allowing you to write your review effortlessly without being held back by mushy keys.
Best 2-in-1
5. HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) A culmination of greatness Specifications CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H GPU: Intel Arc Graphics RAM: 32GBStorage: 2TB SSD Display: 14-inch, 2.8K, OLED, touch Size: 12.4 x 8.7 x 0.7 inches Weight: 3.2 pounds Reasons to buy +Sleek design +Beautiful OLED display +Bouncy keyboard +Bumpin’ speakers +Excellent performance +Great battery life +4K webcam Reasons to avoid -Short on ports -Display benchmarks could be better
Once in a while, we’re blessed by the emergence of a 2-in-1 that crushes expectations in every conceivable manner. In this case, the HP Spectre x360 14 is not only the ultimate 14-inch 2-in-1 laptop, but it’s the best of the year, period.
This is thanks to the culmination of phenomenal battery life, a stunning OLED display, powerful speakers, a sleek design, and solid performance, thanks to the Intel Ultra 7 155H and a satisfying keyboard.
On the Laptop Mag battery test, which involves continuous web surfing over wifi at 150 nits, we saw the Spectre x360 last 11 hours before running out of juice. For context, our previous best 2-in-1, the Lenovo Yoga 9i (Gen 8), lasted 10 hours and 10 minutes before dying.
Thanks to the power of OLED, you don’t have much to worry about if you’re a fan of a solid-looking display. It features a 2,880 x 1,800-pixel resolution touchscreen with OLED technology, meaning blacks are far deeper and inkier.
On the colorimeter, the HP Spectre x360 covered 86% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, which is solid but not the best compared to competing laptops like the Lenovo Yoga 9i (136%). However, anything with an 80% or higher DCI-P3 coverage is usually more than enough to enjoy a nice and vivid panel. Its brightness of 366 nits isn’t super high, but that’s unsurprising, considering OLED panels are typically a tad dimmer.
Of course, its Intel Ultra 7 155H performance is more than enough to deliver the best of the best available now (until Lunar Lake comes out). On the Geekbench 6.1 overall performance test, the Spectre x360 managed a multi-core score of 12,358. That’s excellent and absolutely crushes previous-generation chips, even pulling ahead of the MacBook M3 (11,968).
How to choose the best 14-inch laptop
14-inch laptops can be used for any number of reasons, including gaming, productivity, business, and more. So here’s what you should look out for when picking a great laptop.
Design: 2-in-1 or Clamshell?
More and more of today’s laptops are 2-in-1s with screens that either bend back 360 degrees or detach so you can use them as tablets. If you like the idea of using your laptop in slate mode for drawing, media consumption, or just standing up, a 2-in-1 could be for you. We even have a foldable laptop on the list for those wanting to get fancy. However, you can often get better features or a lower price with a traditional clamshell-style laptop.
Battery Life: 9+ Hours for Portability
Unless you plan to use your laptop only on your desk, battery life matters. Even within the home or office, having plenty of juice enables you to work on the couch or at the conference table without being chained to the nearest outlet. We recommend getting a laptop that lasted over 9 hours on the Laptop Mag Battery Test for the best portability. The longest-lasting laptops endure anywhere between 10 and 15 hours. If you’re gaming, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything that lasts this long.
Sony’s WH-1000MX5 and WF-1000XM5 are now available in a brand new color
(Image credit: Sony) As much as we love the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds and Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones they’re not much fun in the color department: earbuds like Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 are much more visually entertaining, and while this month’s AirPods Max update was a little disappointing there’s no denying that Apple’s colors are more fun than those in Sony’s flagship. So it’s nice to see a new color option for both the in-ear and over-ear Sony flagships.
The new color is called Smoky Pink and as you can see it’s more of a pastel pink than a Barbie hue or the bright coral of the Pixel Buds Pro 2. That fits with the other color options – black, midnight blue and platinum silver – which are all low-key and understated.
Sony has helpfully provided a video to show you what pink looks like and suggested it’s for “all the girly girls!” Don’t let that put you off, though.
How do you make our long-running picks for the best over-ear headphones and best wireless earbuds even better? Releasing them in a cool new shade of pink certainly doesn’t hurt. That’s exactly what Sony’s done with its new Smoky Pink versions of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones and WF-1000XM5 earbuds, both of which are up for preorder now.
I got to check out these new variants ahead of their October release date, which was like seeing an old friend in a fancy new suit. The “smoky” in Smoky Pink is fitting; the new color is subdued and almost salmon-like, rather than, say, the hot pink you’ll find on the new iPhone 16. I’m always happy to see headphones offered in a wider range of attractive colors, especially since the WF-1000XM5 earbuds were previously only available in black and silver.
This is an especially ideal time for the XM5 headphones to get a new color, as one of their main competitors — Apple’s ubiquitous AirPods Max — just got refreshed with USB-C charging and a fresh suite of hues that include an attractive blue, purple and orange.
The new smoky pink versions of the Sony WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM5 are on sale now from the usual outlets.
The Dell Latitude 7350 is a highly portable and lightweight laptop that balances portability with premium features, making it an ideal choice for business professionals on the move
Verdict
Pros
+Lightweight and portable
+Impressive Battery
+AI embedded in the laptop
Cons
-High Price
-Limited to 13-inch screen size
-Not as “flexible” as the 2-in-1 counterpart
Dell has long been a staple in the business workspace, known for delivering reliable, high-performance laptops that cater to the needs of professionals across various industries. The Latitude series, in particular, has been a go-to for companies looking to equip their employees with devices that are both robust and versatile.
Recently, I reviewed the Dell Latitude 7350 Detachable, a powerful 2-in-1 device that impressed with its flexibility and portability. Now, this laptop is the standard Dell Latitude 7350—a more traditional laptop that promises the same level of performance but with the stability and feature set expected from the best business laptops.
Dell Latitude 7350: Unboxing and First impressions
The Dell Latitude 7350 comes in minimalist, professional-looking packaging, and it is clear from the beginning that this is more professional than some of the laptops I look at. That could be because of the simple logo, the color, the form factor, or whatever it may be; it’s clear that this laptop is meant for business. Upon unboxing, the first thing that surprised me was how light and sleek the device was. It feels very light and portable, which would be fantastic for those daily commuters or those in and out of physical meetings all day, walking from place to place. The Latitude 7350’s build quality feels premium, with a sturdy hinge mechanism and smooth finish. All around, this laptop looks and feels great out of the box.
Dell Latitude 7350: Design and Build Quality
The Dell Latitude 7350 Business Laptop features some customizations regarding the chassis and LCD panel. The two main chassis options are an ultralight magnesium version in a deep blue and a more durable aluminum variant in a more typical gray. The ultralight model weighs just 2.18 pounds (0.989 kg), making it one of the lightest business laptops on the market. While slightly heavier, the aluminum chassis offers more durability and additional features like a SmartCard reader, which may be a deal breaker for some.
Dell offers multiple display options, including a 13.3-inch FHD+ touch and non-touch, as well as a QHD+ 2-in-1 variant, all with a 16:10 aspect ratio for enhanced productivity. This is in addition to the multiple variants of the Latitude 7350 already, meaning there are plenty of options for this laptop to be customized to your needs.
The keyboard features a mini LED backlight with a Copilot key, enhancing power efficiency and workflow speed. With the Copilot key, Microsoft’s AI is a keystroke away, ready to help you with a boost of productivity when used correctly.
Specs
Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 135U, vPro® or Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 165U, vPro® RAM: 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x, 6400 MT/s (Onboard) Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB M.2 PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD Display: 13.3” FHD+ (1920×1200) IPS, Anti-Glare, No-Touch, 250 nits or 13.3” QHD+ (2880×1920) IPS, Touch, 500 nits Graphics: Integrated Intel® Graphics, Core™ Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 Battery: 3 Cell, 57 Wh, ExpressCharge™ capable Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4.0 with Power Delivery & DisplayPort (USB Type-C), 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 with PowerShare, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x Universal audio jack, Optional: SmartCard reader, uSIM card tray Connectivity: Intel® BE200 Wi-Fi 7 (2×2), Bluetooth® 5.4 Technology, Optional: 5G or 4G LTE Webcam: 1080p at 30 fps Operating System: Windows 11 Pro Dimensions: Ultralight Laptop: 11.77 x 8.38 x 0.69 inches, 2.18 lbs (0.989 kg) or Aluminum 2-in-1: 11.77 x 8.39 x 0.70 inches, 2.86 lbs (1.297 kg)
Dell Latitude 7350: In use
The Latitude 7450, the non-2-in-1 variant, is powered by Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors. It offers options ranging from the Core Ultra 5 135U to the Core Ultra 7 165U, making it highly capable for most business applications. I’ve had the opportunity to use this laptop for the last few days as my primary machine to get work done, and I have a lot of thoughts.
The Latitude 7350’s battery life is impressive, with more than 10 hours of use on a single charge and a basic daily workload. By the third day, I stopped worrying about bringing a portable power station because I was confident in my battery life.
I greatly appreciated the lightweight nature of this little 13-inch computer. It has been easy to grab and go while still being large enough for most of my work. For those things that I wish I had more screen real-estate for, I can easily plug into any of the best business monitors with the available ports and get to work.
These days, with the nature of what I do, most of my meetings are virtual. The Dell Latitude 7350 makes these meetings super easy, especially if those meetings are on Zoom or Microsoft Teams (sadly not Google Meet or others, yet). The Latitude 7350 has a collaboration touchpad, meaning that at the top of the standard touchpad are soft buttons in Zoom and Teams to help with effortless collaboration. These controls help with screen sharing, muting, turning the camera off, and showing or hiding the chat window. The collaboration features are top-notch and help make virtual meetings on this laptop a breeze.
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Simple and functional design
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Easy to use
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Practicality
Practical for most business users
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price
High priced
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dell Latitude 7350: Final verdict The Dell Latitude 7350 is a formidable choice for business users who need a lightweight, powerful, and secure device. A solid alternative to some of the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops, its high price point is justified by the extensive customization options and premium features, making it a worthwhile investment for those who can afford it.
If you are looking for a quality, lightweight, powerful laptop and happen to have a lot of virtual meetings, this laptop should be on your list of computers to consider.
Off the heels of their 2024 VMAs performance, the K-Pop girl group talks teaming up with Sony Audio on a brand new colorway of their best-selling noise-canceling headphones
The trendsetting members of Le Sserafim know that there needs to be style backing substance. As one of the most exciting acts to watch in 2024 and beyond, they’re certainly well known for their top-notch choreography — but their chic fashion senses have garnered attention off the stage as well, and their latest collaboration with Sony Audio shows it.
The audio giant is adding a new ‘Smoky Pink’ colorway to their award winning 1000X noise-canceling headphones that releases Oct. 14 (pre-orders are open online now) inspired by the aesthetics of the hitmaking K-pop group, and they’re not just aiming for them to have the perfect sound — the members want it to be a stylish staple, too. “I use it often as a fashion item, because it gives a clean look and goes with any outfit,” member Sakura told Rolling Stone. Hong Eunchae adds, “It’s a rare color you don’t see everywhere, which matches well with our unique aesthetic as a team.”
The new versions of the WH-1000XM5 headphones and WF-1000XM5 earbuds (which are among the best headphones our team has tested) also have the noise reduction and audio quality we love, just in a soft and refined package. Le Sserafim’s fourth self-titled mini-album Crazy, released on August 30, will be the theme song for their campaign, and they recently had the opportunity to perform it live at the 2024 vma Awards, marking another career milestone.
But even ICONS who have achieved so much in just two years on the scene, especially in an industry obsessed with visual effects, are still constantly trying to push their style and sound as hard as they push themselves. They learned a lot for themselves as they transitioned from the lighthearted genre (influences heard on Impurities from 2023’s Unforgiven) to the fast-paced EDM of Crazy and turned to Blackpink’s Coachella performances. “Our true value lies in our fearlessness and willingness to push boundaries, which is part of our identity as LE SSERAFIM,” Sakura said.
The group sat down to speak withRolling Stoneabout their Sony headphone collab, learning how to vogue, and how their style differs on and off the stage.
Now that you’re collaborating with Sony Audio, do you feel like audio gear needs to look stylish and fashion-forward beyond just sounding good?
Sakura:I use it often as a fashion item, because it gives a clean look and goes with any outfit.
Kim Chaewon:I love how Sony Audio can double as a stylish accessory, while still delivering impressive sound quality.
Huh Yunjin:I would definitely say audio accessories have become a fashion statement in recent years. Whether it’s a retro wired earphone or a sleek bluetooth headset, I think I definitely consider the aesthetics of audio gear as well.
Kazuha:It’s really nice to be able to enjoy music, while also using it as a fashionable accessory.
Hong Eunchae:Although sound quality is the most important of all, I think being able to incorporate it into your style is also significant, especially these days. [The ‘Smoky Pink’ colorway] is a rare color you don’t see everywhere, which matches well with our unique aesthetic as a team.
Sakura:I think the cute, yet sophisticated vibe is a perfect match for Le Sserafim. I love the Smoky Pink color!
How would you describe your personal style as a group versus what you wear out in everyday life?
Chaewon:Along with music, we enjoy experimenting with new styles, so our aesthetic as a group has been continuously evolving since our debut in a way that not only matches our sound, but also highlights our individual style. For performances, we opt for bolder outfits that match our sound, while our everyday attire is more relaxed and casual, as we love to be comfortable off stage.
Your MV for“Crazy”has been praised for paying homage to the ballroom scene — what inspired you to tap into that subculture, and what was it like learning how to vogue?
Kazuha:When our team first heard the EDM-house track “Crazy,” we all agreed voguing would be a perfect fit. We felt it was important to thoroughly study not only voguing and its movements, but also the subculture behind it to bring our interpretation to life on stage. Meeting and collaborating with voguing powerhouses the Iconic House of Juicy Couture and Dashaun Wesley was incredible, and it’s an invaluable learning experience that we will cherish for a long time.
For Huh Yunjin —What was it like being the main producer for the last track on the album, “Crazier”?
Yunjin:I was grateful and honored to debut as a main producer for the track “Crazier,” signaling the beginning of more to come! It was a little awkward at first working with the members in the studio on the other side, but I tried to do my best to bring out the best in them. The track celebrates the beauty in embracing both our crazy and unrestrained moments. I sincerely hope listeners will wholeheartedly connect with whatever their hearts are passionate about!
From sampling legendary Korean diva Kim Wan-sun’s “Pierrot Laughs At Us” to dipping into house music, how have you challenged yourself with new styles of music and performances for this mini album?
Sakura:With every album, we challenge ourselves to new styles of music, and performances as it’s both our forte and our passion. Our 4th Mini AlbumCrazyencourages listeners to have fun, let loose, and go crazy together with us, and we tried our hand at EDM-house and voguing that we felt aligned with the theme of the album. Our true value lies in our fearlessness and willingness to push our boundaries that are embedded in our identity as Le Sserafim.
Think of your own personal playlists: what types of songs or artists have you been “crazy” for lately?
(Image credit: Shutterstock / Mojahid Mottakin) Last month Google quietly revealed Android 15 would be arriving in October as part of its release notes for the Android Beta Exit update – which is available to people who have been testing the OS ahead of its launch. Now a new report has revealed precisely when Android 15 might release for Pixel devices: October 15.
This comes via Android Headlines that reports that the Android 15 release date for Pixel 6 and later phones, is coming 42 days after the operating system’s source code went up on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). If correct, this would mark the longest delay between the AOSP release and the update being pushed to users, beating Android 12’s 15-day delay.
The hope is this extended wait time should lead to Android 15 being a lot less buggy and more stable when it finally comes out compared with previous versions.
While the date does match up nicely – a 15th of the month release date for Android 15 – it’s still worth taking it with a pinch of salt, as we recommend with all unofficial leaks. Android Headlines hasn’t revealed how it discovered the October 15 date, and it itself admits that the date could be pushed if Google’s bug-squashing efforts do not go according to plan.
The Google Pixel 9 (Image credit: Peter Hoffmann) It’s also worth highlighting that October 15 is being reported as the Pixel launch date for Android 15. Samsung, OnePlus, and other Android OS device makers will still be preparing their own versions of Android 15 to roll out to their phones. Though given the long delay time since being released on AOSP there’s a good chance these non-Google rollouts could follow more quickly behind the Pixel launch compared with previous years.
The wait will be worth it, however. Based on the betas so far there have been some very neat features shown off, such as…
Android OS updates also come with subtle tweaks and optimizations that can have a significant effect on how your phone operates. One such upgrade was revealed by VP of Engineering for the Android Platform Dave Burke on the Android Faithful podcast earlier this year; he explained that devices running Android 15 can switch to the low-power doze mode around 50% faster than devices running Android 14.
The upshot of this is that Google saw as much as three extra hours between device recharges. Not every user will see as much of a battery life boost, but even an hour – or just half an hour extra between charges could be a massive helper for users – especially as a free update.
Lock screen widgets
Android 15 should see the return of lock screen widgets (we’ve not seen them since the Android 4 days), and the possible addition of a Communal Space that allows multiple users to share access to apps on the lock screen.
The downside is we expect the selection of apps that support this feature at launch won’t be the most widespread – perhaps limited to tools like Google Calendar and Google Clock – though the delay between the AOSP release and Pixel launch may mean a few other services are ready to support lock screen widgets at launch.
Private Space
Taking a page out of Samsung’s book with its Secure Folder feature, Android 15 is adding a native version called Private Space. It’s a folder for apps that requires a password, PIN, or biometrics to open. Any apps in this folder will be completely hidden from anyone who can’t open it.
Gemini upgrades
Gemini upgrades are coming in 2024 (Image credit: Google)
Google’s Gemini AI is also getting a few Android 15 improvements as well. Ask Photos makes it easier to find old snaps using more natural language, and even use it to answer questions based on pictures you’ve taken. Then there’s a new Gemini overlay that can answer questions about what it sees on your screen. While Gemini Nano will be an on-device version of Gemini that doesn’t need to share your information with a cloud – making it more private.
Simply the best Bluetooth speakers and portable speakers you can buy
（Image credit: Sonos) The best Bluetooth speakers have become a staple household (and travel) item thanks to their compact size and convenience for listening anywhere, whether you’re in the shower, mowing the lawn, chilling in your hotel room, having a house party or cleaning the kitchen.
We’ve been testing the best portable speakers for years, in all shapes and sizes – and crucially, for all budgets. Audiophile sound quality and a thumping low end is always going to be a big ask if you’re looking at something the size of a coffee cup, but you can get a portable speaker that delivers balanced and clear audio outdoors, especially if you go larger. These are our priorities when testing Bluetooth speakers and obviously we balance that with battery life and price – aka value for money.
If your biggest priority is a rugged speaker design that can deal with being dropped and dunked, our dedicated guide to the best waterproof speakers is a great place to look. And if portability isn’t a factor, check out our guide to the best wireless speakers.
1. JBL Flip 6 The best Bluetooth speaker at a mid-range price with no frills Specifications Weight: 1.2 pounds (0.54kg) Battery life: 12 hours Wireless range: Not listed Frequency response: 63Hz – 20kHz Connectivity : Bluetooth 5.1 Drivers: 16mm dome tweeter, 45x80mm bass driver and 2x passive radiators NFC: NoAux-in: NoUSB charging: No Reasons to buy +Brilliantly balanced bass +Extremely easy to use Reasons to avoid -Pairing restricted to Flip 6 speakers -No Alexa or Siri support
What you need to know: There’s not a lot that a portable speaker needs to do outside of delivering good quality audio while on the go – and if that’s all you need, then look no further then JBL. The Flip 6 is a no frills Bluetooth speaker that is easy to use and sounds great. It was released in 2021 so we’re expecting a new model to be announced soon but until then, it remains our top pick at this mid-range price point. Being a JBL speaker, it also offers access to features like being able pair up to 100 speakers from the brand at once to create an even larger sound system, but there is no reverse charging with this model – instead check out at #7 in the list if that’s something you need.
Audio performance: Given that the Flip 6 doesn’t have a lot of features, its main focus is on delivering clear and accurate audio – yes, it does one thing but it does it very well. While we were reviewing the Bluetooth speaker, we described its sound as warm and well-balanced, which was surprising for a speaker of this size. Its small stature does mean that the treble can sound a little harsh at times when played at loud volumes but there’s still a lot of clarity and detail on offer.
Design: Unlike a lot of other portable speakers on the market, the Flip 6 doesn’t have an obscure shape to it. Rather, it comes in a classic cylinder style that fits in the side pocket of any backpack. There’s also a wide range of colors to choose from so there’s plenty of options to make sure it matches your gear. It is also extremely rugged, and can withstand a splash of water so you don’t have to worry too much about it breaking or running out of battery with its 12 hours battery life.
Value: The Flip 6 is an ideal speaker for anyone who wants to simply play their music, crank it up loud, sit back and enjoy for a reasonable price – no matter whether you’re listening at home or on the go. It’s also priced slightly lower than the JBL Charge 5 due to it not having the extra phone charging feature, which places it firmly in the mid-range part of the market.
BUY IT IF
✅ You’re a technophobe: JBL has made the Flip 6 extremely easy to use. Just connect the speaker to your phone or laptop and that’s it!
✅You love the great outdoors:The Flip 6 has one of the most hardiest shells, boasting an IP67 rating, which makes it both water and dust resistant.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You want the best possible sound quality: Without Wi-Fi like the Sonos Roam at #1 in this list, the Flip 6 is restricted to Bluetooth’s limited bandwidth.
❌You tend to run out of charge often:If this is feature you value, then we suggest looking at the JBL Charge 5at #6 in the listas it can also charge your phone.
2. JBL Charge 5 A Bluetooth speaker that also charges your phone Specifications Weight: 2.11 pounds (0.9kg) Battery life: 20 hours Wireless range: 30 ft (10 m) Frequency response: 65Hz–20kHz Connectivity : Bluetooth 5.1 Drivers: N/A NFC: No Aux-in: No USB charging: Yes Reasons to buy +Even sound at low to mid volumes +Doubles as a charger for your phone +Great battery life of up to 20 hours Reasons to avoid -Takes a while to charge -Missing aux input -Some distortion at high volumes
What you need to know: There aren’t a lot of speakers on the market that are extremely small and portable and have detailed sound alongside helpful features like reverse charging, but JBL has pulled it off with the Charge 5. It’s priced a little bit more than JBL’s more streamlined Flip 6 at #3 in this list, but that’s down to the added tech, which we think makes it’s a worthwhile pick if these are the three main things you need out of a Bluetooth speaker.
Audio performance: One of the big highlights of the Charge 5 is its balanced sound, which has a striking amount of clarity. The only downside is that it unfortunately starts to distort at high volumes. Because of this wouldn’t advise turning it up past 60% of the volume bar as this is where we found it started to struggle. For the optimum volume, we found the sweet spot was more between 50–60%.
Design: The cylinder-shaped speaker looks exactly the same as the Flip 6 except for a waterproof USB-C charging port and flap hiding the USB-A port that can be used to charge up your smartphone. There’s no aux input for a 3.5mm jack but you do still have access physical buttons for playback, volume, power, pairing and dedicated party sound mode that turns up the volume up to 11 (use this sparingly).
Value: The only thing about the cost of the Charge 5 is that it puts it squarely in line with the Sonos Roam at #1 in this list, which we think is by far the better all-rounder based on its added connectivity features like Wi-Fi that unlocks multi-room pairing and access to voice assistants. But frankly, there’s no reverse charging so this will be the biggest point to consider if choosing between the two.
3. Sonos Roam 2 The best Bluetooth speaker for most people Specifications Weight: 0.96lbs / 0.44kg Battery life: 10 hours Wireless range: 9 meters (30 feet) Frequency response: Not specified Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and a USB-C port Drivers: 1x tweeter, 1x mid-woofer NFC: Yes Aux-in: No USB charging: Yes (USB-C) Reasons to buy +Produces rich, powerful audio +Bluetooth button really streamlines setup +Portable, minimalist design that comes in fun new colors Reasons to avoid -Only 10 hours of battery life -Fairly expensive for its power -Not the loudest outdoor speaker
What you need to know: The original Sonos Roam has been our favorite Bluetooth speaker since it was released in 2021. Although there are now plenty more portable speakers on the market, the Sonos Roam 2 not only improves in some key areas, but continues to be one of the top choices. It delivers a balanced, rich and clear sound from a compact design with a long list of connectivity features, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which means it can work as both a portable speaker and as part of your wider multi-room Sonos system. It also has Google Assistant and Alexa onboard (when you’re on Wi-Fi) to make it double as a smart speaker too.
Audio performance: In our review, we wrote that the Sonos Roam 2 delivers “excellent sound that punches far above the sheer size”. We found that it presents audio well across the frequency range, which makes it a good choice for listening to a broad range of genres and artists. It’s not the heaviest on bass, so if you want a big booming speaker look elsewhere, but you can still hear that element of your favorite tracks well. Even when you pump it up to high volumes, expect rich and clear sounds.
Design: Its slick and minimal design means the Sonos Roam 2 won’t look out of place in your home, especially because it comes in a couple of nice-looking shades. It also has a rugged, waterproof and dustproof build with an IP67 rating that makes it ideal for listening to music outdoors. The battery life isn’t huge at 10 hours – and it’s not an improvement on the original Roam, which is disappointing. However, it is enough for a day out, but if battery is a priority for you, then check out the JBL Charge at #6 in the list, which boasts an impressive 20 hours of battery. Or the Tribit Stormbox Flow at #7 in the list with a huge 30 hours of power.
Value: The Sonos Roam 2 gives you a lot of features, a top design and great sound, so you do get solid value for money. Having said that, this speaker is expensive compared to rivals, and Sonos hasn’t revealed a cheaper ‘Roam 2 SL’ model yet. The JBL Flip 6 or JBL Charge 5 will give you better audio power per buck, but the Roam 2 is such a good all-rounder that we think it’s worth its price.
The best budget Bluetooth speaker
4. JBL Clip 5 The best cheap Bluetooth speaker Specifications Weight: 10 ounces / 285g Battery life: Up to 12 hours Wireless range: Up to 10 meters (33 feet) Frequency response: 95 Hz – 20 kHz Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C (charging) Drivers: Integrated class D digital amplifiers x 1 NFC: Yes Aux-in: No USB charging: Yes Reasons to buy +Great detail +IP67 waterproof and dustproof +Impressive volume and bass Reasons to avoid -You can’t stand it on its base -Only 3 EQ presets -Treble trouble when using preset EQs
What you need to know: If you’re looking for a (fairly) cheap, portable and super small speaker, then the JBL Clip 5 is our top pick. The sonic performance is impressive for the speaker’s compact size and there are also plenty of features that’ll make it well worth its relatively affordable price – at least compared to rivals in this list.
Audio performance: This speaker can really blast out the tunes for its size. We did notice that it can struggle with treble when you’re listening at higher volumes, with a sharp, tinny edge. But the mids and low frequencies performed well. In our review, we wrote “the bass was dramatic and impactful”, especially considering how compact it is – overall, it’s seriously impressive, and a clear step up over the very slightly cheaper JBL Go 4. There’s a feature called PlaytimeBoost in the app, which boosts the volume without draining the battery, as well as a PartyTogether mode, resulting in a surround sound effect if you have another JBL speaker nearby. You’ll also find four EQ presets, JBL Signature, Chill, Energetic, and Vocal, and a customizable EQ profile.
Design: The JBL Clip 5 is light and compact, weighing in at 285g. It comes with a carabiner attached, making it handy for listening in all kinds of scenarios. An IP67 rating means it’s waterproof and rugged enough for outdoor parties or holidays. Its appearance feels a little dated, however, and it struggles to stand on its base – that’s why the carabiner is so necessary. The battery onboard lasts up to 12 hours. Not the best in the list, but perfect for a full day of listening – check out the Tribit XSound Plus 2 if you want something with longer battery life for the same kind of cost (though it’s bulkier).
Value: The JBL Clip 5 is great value for money. It’s compact, portable and IP67-rated with a fun and punchy sound. The JBL Go 4 is a solid, cheaper option from the same brand, but it doesn’t sound as good, and it’s not as portable.
The best mid-range Bluetooth speaker
5. Ultimate Ears Everboom The best Bluetooth speaker for for sound quality without going wild on price Specifications Weight: 960g Battery life: 20 hours Wireless range: Not specified Frequency response: Not specified Connectivity : Bluetooth 5.3 Drivers: Two 56.6 x 56.2mm active full range transducers; two 49.4 x 87 mm passive radiators NFC: Yes Aux-in: No USB charging: USB-C Reasons to buy +Room filling, 360° sound +Surprisingly portable +Stylish aesthetic Reasons to avoid -No Wi-Fi support -A little pricey -Loses clarity at max volume
What you need to know: This is a great speaker that ticks a lot of boxes. Sure you’ll find similar devices that are cheaper. You’ll also find ones that pack more of a punch for a party, but that are a little more expensive. But for reliable sound in a durable design, we think the Ultimate Ears Everboom is a smart choice, especially when you’re weighing up the sound-per-pound performance – this sound better than just about anything else at the same price and size.
Audio performance: Firstly, the Everboom can get loud. Incredibly loud. Much louder than you’d probably ever need. This is good news for parties, although you will notice some distortion if you hit those high volumes. In our review, we wrote the UE Everboom “delivers a very compelling audio performance, proving it can deliver quality not just quantity.” We particularly enjoyed the power in this speaker and its 360-degree soundstage. In the app you’ll find ways to make the most of the sound with an EQ packed with presets and an Outdoor Boost mode, which ensures the speaker focuses on frequencies that travel well outside.
Design: There’s nothing special about the design of the Everboom, but it’s practical, durable and comes with a handy carabiner clip. It’s a great idea if you want to take it outside or travelling as it has an IP67 rating, meaning it’ll handle dust and can float around in water for up to 30 minutes. That’s right, it floats! Audio takes a hit when you listen to it in water, but it’s good to know it’ll survive a dunk in the pool. It’s a little larger than rivals in this list and at 960g it’s not the lightest, but its design and clip makes it feel surprisingly portable.
Value: The Ultimate Ears Everboom is a jack of all trades speaker that sounds great, works well and has a durable and portable design. It’s not cheap, but it feels even more premium than it is, both to look at and listen to. You’ll find cheaper speakers with some durable specs, but they don’t sound as good. Similarly, speakers with better sonic performance cost a big step up from here. UE has hit a real sweet spot.
What’s the best Bluetooth speaker brand? The best Sonos speakers are great if you want to bridge the gap between indoors and outdoors, with the ability to form part of a wider multi-room system – and you can be sure that they’ll sound fantastic, too.
JBL is well known for making some of the best waterproof speakers affordable prices, and it’s line of party speakers even come with built-in light shows.
If waterproofing is a priority then look out for models from Ultimate Ears, which combine fun, colorful designs with rugged builds – many of which can withstand a dip in the pool.
Consider high-end audio brands such as Bose and Bang & Olufsen if you want a combination of stylish design and great sound – but be prepared for relatively high prices. If you want to save money then Tribit and Anker offer strong speakers that won’t break the bank.
Chromebooks are incredible, lightweight devices, and I’ll show you how to use them
(Image credit: Konstantin Savusia ) The best Chromebooks are known as the most user-friendly devices on the market, making them easily some of the best laptops for those seeking a simple yet efficient computing experience.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a casual user, navigating and utilizing the wealth of Chromebook features can significantly enhance your productivity and streamline your daily tasks.
One of the Chromebook’s most appealing features is its simplicity. Unlike traditional laptops and desktops, Chromebooks are designed to be easy to use, without a lot of the bloat that many other laptops come with.
The operating system, Chrome OS, is very lightweight and is based on the same technology that powers the Chrome web browser, making it intuitive and familiar to many users right out of the box.
Chromebooks also boot-up faster and have far fewer maintenance requirements than either Windows laptops or MacBooks.
In addition to its simplicity, Chromebooks are also known for their portability. These devices are typically lightweight and compact, making them especially appealing to anyone who needs a lightweight device for on-the-go work.
Still, if you’re used to the best Windows laptops or best MacBooks, you might feel a bit lost when you first start up a Chromebook. But don’t worry, I’ve used Chromebooks for years and I’m here to help walk you through these increasingly popular devices.
While the Chromebook is designed to be user-friendly, there are advanced features that can take your Chromebook experience even further.
Accessibility Features:Chromebooks offer a range of accessibility features, including screen readers, magnification tools, and keyboard shortcuts for users with disabilities.
Multiple Users:If you share your Chromebook with others, you can create multiple user profiles to keep your data separate and secure.
Remote Desktop:Access your Chromebook from another device using remote desktop features, allowing you to work on your files and applications from anywhere.
Gaming on Chromebooks:While not as powerful as dedicated gaming consoles, Chromebooks can handle casual gaming and cloud gaming services.
Educational Tools:Chromebooks are popular among students and educators due to their affordability, portability, and integration with educational tools like Google Classroom.
(Image credit: Future / Michelle Rae Uy) The Chromebook’s interface is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for all levels of experience to use.
The Shelf, located at the bottom of the screen, is ChromeOS’s version of macOS’s Dock or Windows 11’s Taskbar, displaying frequently used apps and shortcuts.
To access all installed applications, simply click on the App Launcher icon at the far left of the Shelf.
For quick and easy navigation, the Search Bar is a valuable tool. By typing keywords, you can search for apps, files, or web pages, streamlining your workflow and saving time.
Additionally, the System Tray, located in the bottom-right corner, provides access to essential settings like Wi-Fi, battery status, and user profiles.
Using native apps
(Image credit: Future) One of the Chromebook’s greatest strengths lies in its app ecosystem.
Chromebooks were originally designed to rely on web-based applications, offering a seamless and efficient experience. Popular web apps like Google Docs, Gmail, and YouTube are optimized for Chromebooks, providing a wide range of productivity tools.
In recent years, however, more and more apps are becoming available offline, including the entirety of the Google Play app store, expanding a Chromebook’s functionality significantly. You can download and use popular apps like Microsoft Office, Spotify, and Netflix, just as you would on an Android smartphone or tablet.
For more advanced users, Chromebooks offer support for Linux applications. This feature is particularly valuable for developers or users who require access to powerful tools like Visual Studio Code or GIMP.
Setting up Linux on a Chromebook is relatively straightforward, allowing you to create a hybrid environment that caters to both casual and power users.
Efficient file management in the cloud
The Files app is your central hub for organizing and accessing both local and cloud-based files.
Google Drive, seamlessly integrated into the Files app, provides ample storage space for your documents, photos, and other data. By saving your files to Google Drive, you can access them from any device with an internet connection.
While Chromebooks used to offer limited local storage, that’s changed in recent years, with more premium Chromebooks featuring the same kind of storage options as more familiar Windows and Apple laptops.
For those needing even more storage, Chromebooks support external devices like USB drives, external hard drives, and SD cards. Simply plug in the device, and the Files app will automatically recognize it, allowing you to transfer files between your Chromebook and the external device.
Customize your Chromebook
To make your Chromebook truly your own, you can customize its appearance and settings. You can change the wallpaper, adjust the screen brightness, and even enable dark mode for a more visually comfortable experience.
Additionally, Chromebooks offer a variety of themes and extensions that can be installed to personalize your device further. With that, you’ll be able to make your Chromebook as personalized as you like, especially now that you know all the important tips to using your new Chromebook to its fullest.
