The Galaxy Watch FE makes it easier for everyone to get in on the smartwatch action, plus the LTE support lets you use the watch without your phone. It's also been recently discounted on Samsung's website.

In the pursuit of safeguarding essential data or addressing the significant challenge of limited free space on your computer, an external hard drive serves as an invaluable solution, effectively enhancing your storage capacity with ease. By utilizing a complimentary USB port and a modest amount of desk space, one can substantially augment their digital storage capabilities, with options available that range from several gigabytes to an impressive 44 terabytes.Also:Best cloud storage services of 2024An external hard drive can effortlessly cater to your every storage need with minimal fuss and maximum convenience. Get ready for the ultimate storage upgrade, say farewell to storage limitations, and embrace the boundless potential that awaits you.What's the best external hard drive right now?After dedicating countless hours to hands-on testing and scouring online reviews, I've made my pick for the best external hard drive on the market: The WD My Passport Ultra. This drive stands out for its user-friendly design, built-in encryption, and compact form factor. However, if your priorities include different storage capacities or a drive capable of withstanding rain and dust, don't worry. This list caters to those needs as well Sort by All The best external hard drive of 2024 Show less A common mistake I often see is people purchasing the largest, bulkiest external hard drive they can find, under the impression that it's the best solution for their needs. Later, they find themselves with a huge, noisy device that occupies too much desk space and is inconvenient to carry to the office or on the road.This is why I recommend the WD My Passport Ultra to those who need a compact, easy-to-use hard drive for a few critical files, or for moving data between systems, or for travel.Over the years, I've recommended this drive to dozens of people, ranging from home users in need of a backup solution to amateur photographers and videographers facing disk space limitations. Everyone who has purchased one has reported back that they've been satisfied with their choice.What sets this drive apart are two key features: It includes WD Backup software for PCs, which simplifies and optimizes the backup process, and it offers built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption, ensuring that data on the drive is secure.Given the solid reputation of the WD brand and the quality of their hard drives, I have little concerns about premature data loss.WD My Passport Ultrafeatures:USB-C and USB 3.1 interface | 1TB to 5TB capacities| 256-bit AES hardware encryption | 2.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Pros Backup software included Price is good Small enough to carry about Cons Needs to be reformatted to work with Mac A common mistake I often see is people purchasing the largest, bulkiest external hard drive they can find, under the impression that it's the best solution for their needs. Later, they find themselves with a huge, noisy device that occupies too much desk space and is inconvenient to carry to the office or on the road.This is why I recommend the WD My Passport Ultra to those who need a compact, easy-to-use hard drive for a few critical files, or for moving data between systems, or for travel.Over the years, I've recommended this drive to dozens of people, ranging from home users in need of a backup solution to amateur photographers and videographers facing disk space limitations. Everyone who has purchased one has reported back that they've been satisfied with their choice.What sets this drive apart are two key features: It includes WD Backup software for PCs, which simplifies and optimizes the backup process, and it offers built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption, ensuring that data on the drive is secure.Given the solid reputation of the WD brand and the quality of their hard drives, I have little concerns about premature data loss.WD My Passport Ultrafeatures:USB-C and USB 3.1 interface | 1TB to 5TB capacities| 256-bit AES hardware encryption | 2.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The SL500 breaks the mold with its size. It's thin, light, and roughly the size of a credit card at only 4.8mm thick. The solid aluminum unibody construction fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and slips unobtrusively into a pocket.The design not only protects the drive from bumps and scrapes but also does a fantastic job of dissipating heat. The SL500 is also fast, capable of reaching up to 2,000MB/s read and 1,800MB/s write speeds, making it easy to move large files. Performance on Macs and other systems that don't support USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 may be significantly lower.If you're looking for a thin, light drive that allows you to record ProRes video on your iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, the Lexar SL500 is definitely worth a look. Plus, it can easily slip into a pocket or bag.Lexar SL500features:USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface | 1TB to 4TB capacities| 256-bit AES software encryption | 2.5-inch form factor | 5-year limited warranty Pros Super thin Super light Fast Cable features Supports ProRes video on the iPhone Pro/Pro Max Cons Systems that don't support USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 will see significantly slower speeds The SL500 breaks the mold with its size. It's thin, light, and roughly the size of a credit card at only 4.8mm thick. The solid aluminum unibody construction fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and slips unobtrusively into a pocket.The design not only protects the drive from bumps and scrapes but also does a fantastic job of dissipating heat. The SL500 is also fast, capable of reaching up to 2,000MB/s read and 1,800MB/s write speeds, making it easy to move large files. Performance on Macs and other systems that don't support USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 may be significantly lower.If you're looking for a thin, light drive that allows you to record ProRes video on your iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, the Lexar SL500 is definitely worth a look. Plus, it can easily slip into a pocket or bag.Lexar SL500features:USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface | 1TB to 4TB capacities| 256-bit AES software encryption | 2.5-inch form factor | 5-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less This is an external hard drive that James Bond would feel confident using to keep his secrets locked away. This drive has been certified to FIPS 140-2 Level 2 standards and features built-in 256-bit hardware encryption. So as to eliminate the need for software to be installed on the host machine, the drive has its own keypad for PIN entry.But that's not all -- this drive is packed with features to keep the data on it secure from prying eyes. From the 256-bit AES-XTS hardware encryption, the wear-resistant keypad (so PIN codes can't be guessed from the wear pattern), the touch epoxy resin used to seal the components, to the brute force self destruct mechanism, this drive is as good as they get.I have owned a number of Apricorn drives over the years, and they have all been exceptional in terms of performance and reliability.Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress features: USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 500GB to 2TB capacities| 2.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Pros Super secure encryption No software needs to be installed Bruteforce protection Cons Price is far higher than it's non-encrypted counterparts This is an external hard drive that James Bond would feel confident using to keep his secrets locked away. This drive has been certified to FIPS 140-2 Level 2 standards and features built-in 256-bit hardware encryption. So as to eliminate the need for software to be installed on the host machine, the drive has its own keypad for PIN entry.But that's not all -- this drive is packed with features to keep the data on it secure from prying eyes. From the 256-bit AES-XTS hardware encryption, the wear-resistant keypad (so PIN codes can't be guessed from the wear pattern), the touch epoxy resin used to seal the components, to the brute force self destruct mechanism, this drive is as good as they get.I have owned a number of Apricorn drives over the years, and they have all been exceptional in terms of performance and reliability.Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress features: USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 500GB to 2TB capacities| 2.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at B&H Photo-Video This is the go-to choice for those who require an enormous amount of storage but want to avoid the extra hardware and setup complexities of an NAS (Network Attached Storage) system. With capacities ranging from 4 to 22 terabytes, the WD Digital Elements is perfect for even the most demanding data hogs.However, don't assume that high capacity translates to a high price tag. The cost of the 22TB version breaks down to a reasonable $18 per terabyte. This makes it an ideal solution for individuals who manage or work with large media files, especially videos. It's a popular choice among drone pilots who do extensive filming.Also:The best NAS devicesI personally relied on similar drives for many years before my storage needs grew and I transitioned to a NAS system. Throughout all those years, these drives never failed me; they consistently performed well until I required even more storage capacity.The only downside I've noticed is that the drive can be rather noisy. Partly in my case this was due to me operating several drives on my desk simultaneously, but even a single drive can be far from silent on its own.WD Digital Elements features:USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 4TB to 22TB capacities| 3.5-inch form factor | 2-year limited warranty Pros Massive capacity Reliable data storage Backup software included Cons AC adapter powered, so needs a free outlet Quite noisy This is the go-to choice for those who require an enormous amount of storage but want to avoid the extra hardware and setup complexities of an NAS (Network Attached Storage) system. With capacities ranging from 4 to 22 terabytes, the WD Digital Elements is perfect for even the most demanding data hogs.However, don't assume that high capacity translates to a high price tag. The cost of the 22TB version breaks down to a reasonable $18 per terabyte. This makes it an ideal solution for individuals who manage or work with large media files, especially videos. It's a popular choice among drone pilots who do extensive filming.Also:The best NAS devicesI personally relied on similar drives for many years before my storage needs grew and I transitioned to a NAS system. Throughout all those years, these drives never failed me; they consistently performed well until I required even more storage capacity.The only downside I've noticed is that the drive can be rather noisy. Partly in my case this was due to me operating several drives on my desk simultaneously, but even a single drive can be far from silent on its own.WD Digital Elements features:USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 4TB to 22TB capacities| 3.5-inch form factor | 2-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less While most external hard drives are destined for a sedentary life on a desk at home or in the office, this particular model is engineered for adventure. With its IP54 rain and dust rating, along with crush resistance up to 1000 pounds, this drive is ideally suited to endure the toughest environments.Considering the inevitable drops onto hard surfaces that occur during outdoor activities, the drive is equipped with rubber bumpers and internal shock absorbers. These features offer added protection to the drive's delicate components.However, it's important to note that this is still a hard disk drive, with spinning platters that store data. Despite the robust protection, any device with moving parts is inherently susceptible to damage from drops and vibrations. Therefore, exercising caution is advisable when handling this drive.I have owned several ArmorATD drives and have found them to be exceptionally durable. They have been particularly useful for backing up data. I usually carry multiple drives with me, ensuring that important photos and videos are duplicated across several units for added security.SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATDfeatures:USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 interface | 1TB to 5TB capacities| 3.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Pros IP54 rain/dust rating Designed for Mac Crush resistance up to 1000lbs Cons Needs to be reformatted for Windows use Chunky enclosure While most external hard drives are destined for a sedentary life on a desk at home or in the office, this particular model is engineered for adventure. With its IP54 rain and dust rating, along with crush resistance up to 1000 pounds, this drive is ideally suited to endure the toughest environments.Considering the inevitable drops onto hard surfaces that occur during outdoor activities, the drive is equipped with rubber bumpers and internal shock absorbers. These features offer added protection to the drive's delicate components.However, it's important to note that this is still a hard disk drive, with spinning platters that store data. Despite the robust protection, any device with moving parts is inherently susceptible to damage from drops and vibrations. Therefore, exercising caution is advisable when handling this drive.I have owned several ArmorATD drives and have found them to be exceptionally durable. They have been particularly useful for backing up data. I usually carry multiple drives with me, ensuring that important photos and videos are duplicated across several units for added security.SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATDfeatures:USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 interface | 1TB to 5TB capacities| 3.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is the ideal budget-friendly choice for those seeking simplicity without the high cost or complexity. It's a straightforward drive that can be easily connected to a system as needed. Remarkably compact, it's only slightly larger than the 2.5-inch hard drives found in laptops, making it one of the smallest and lightest external drives available.This drive is perfectly suited for individuals who manage small amounts of data, such as students or home users looking to back up essential files.Furthermore, this drive comes from Toshiba, a manufacturer known for its excellent track record. Toshiba's drives are renowned for their reliability, and you can expect years of dependable service from this model.Toshiba Canvio Basics features:USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 1TB to 4TB capacities|2.5-inch form factor | 1-year limited warranty Pros Small Budget option Durable, smudge-resistant shell Cons Short warranty period No frills, no software, no encryption This is the ideal budget-friendly choice for those seeking simplicity without the high cost or complexity. It's a straightforward drive that can be easily connected to a system as needed. Remarkably compact, it's only slightly larger than the 2.5-inch hard drives found in laptops, making it one of the smallest and lightest external drives available.This drive is perfectly suited for individuals who manage small amounts of data, such as students or home users looking to back up essential files.Furthermore, this drive comes from Toshiba, a manufacturer known for its excellent track record. Toshiba's drives are renowned for their reliability, and you can expect years of dependable service from this model.Toshiba Canvio Basics features:USB 2.0/3.0 interface | 1TB to 4TB capacities|2.5-inch form factor | 1-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less If you're worried about data loss, then this is the external hard drive for you. Why? Because it takes a regular external hard drive and adds a second drive. This second drive can be used in one of two ways:It can be used alongside the first drive, doubling the capacity of the unit.It can be used as a redundant backup of the first drive in what is called a RAID array. This way, if one drive fails or the data is somehow corrupted, the data remains safe on the other.And I need to say this clearly: Drive failure is rare, but it happens, especially when you're transferring a lot of data (the kind of thing you might do if you are processing high-definition video, for example). If you have irreplaceable data, then an external hard drive like this is an important part of the solution when it comes to preventing data loss.WD My Book Duo features:USB 3.2 interface | 8TB to 44TB capacities| 3.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Pros Huge capacity Drive redundancy protects against data loss Pro-grade features and performancde Cons Big box Noisy Expensive If you're worried about data loss, then this is the external hard drive for you. Why? Because it takes a regular external hard drive and adds a second drive. This second drive can be used in one of two ways:It can be used alongside the first drive, doubling the capacity of the unit.It can be used as a redundant backup of the first drive in what is called a RAID array. This way, if one drive fails or the data is somehow corrupted, the data remains safe on the other.And I need to say this clearly: Drive failure is rare, but it happens, especially when you're transferring a lot of data (the kind of thing you might do if you are processing high-definition video, for example). If you have irreplaceable data, then an external hard drive like this is an important part of the solution when it comes to preventing data loss.WD My Book Duo features:USB 3.2 interface | 8TB to 44TB capacities| 3.5-inch form factor | 3-year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best external hard drive? Recognizing that your external hard drive requirements might vary from mine, my aim is to guide you toward options that cater to a broad spectrum of needs and preferences. Accordingly, my top selection is the WD My Passport Ultra. In my experience dealing with a wide range of users, this drive meets the needs of a good 90-95% of users. It stands out for delivering excellent value and reliability, comes with useful backup software, and includes the added benefit of built-in hardware encryption. However, if you're among the 10% seeking something a bit different, I've compiled a comprehensive list of external drives. This resource is designed to help you effortlessly compare their specifications and find the one that best matches your unique circumstances. External hard drivePriceCapacity (TB)InterfaceForm factorHardware encryptionWarrantyWD My Passport Ultra $130 5 USB-C and USB 3.1 2.5-inch Yes 3-year limited Lexar SL500$891USB-C and USB 3.2 2.5-inch No5-year limited Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress $232 2 USB 2.0/3.0 2.5-inch Yes 3-year limited Western Digital Elements $410 22 USB 2.0/3.0 3.5-inch No 2-year limited SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD $1594 USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3 3.5-inch No 3-year limited Toshiba Canvio Basics $57 1 USB 2.0/3.0 2.5-inch No 1-year limited WD My Book Duo $1199 Starting at 8, up to 44 USB 3.2 3.5-inch No 3-year limited Show more Which is the right external hard drive for you? Choose thisexternal hard driveIf you wantWD My Passport Ultra A drive for most people who want an inexpensive yet reliable drive with the added protection of hardware encryption. This drive is perfect for most users wanting a backup drive or a way to store files when their computer starts running out of space. Lexar SL500Need a drive that so thin and light you forget it's in your pocket, yet fast enough to be able to keep up with ProRes recording on your iPhone Pro/Pro Max? This is the drive for you! Available in capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, you only have to pay for the capacity you need.Apricorn Aegis Padlock Fortress You want insane levels of data security, from built-in 256-bit hardware encryption to bruteforce self destruct. This drive is as secure as they get! Western Digital Elements A drive for data hogs who keep everything. Yes, it's bigger and noisier -- and more expensive -- but this is a solid, reliable performer. SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD To your external hard drive out with you on adventures. Water and dust-resistant, and built to survive bumps and drops, this drive is perfect for adventure. Toshiba Canvio Basics A minimalist, no-frills drive. This one is perfect for those who know they need to backup their data, but think it's going to need a lot of expensive hardware. WD My Book Duo To never get paranoid about losing data. This drive offers masses of capacity or the ability to have the data copies across two drives for added security. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an external hard drive External hard drives may not be the most exciting pieces of technology, but it's amazing how quickly people become interested in them after experiencing data loss. The following are things to consider when trying to choose the right external hard drive for your needs, and what I considered in creating this guide:Reliability:I've selected external hard drives from top-name brands to ensure the highest reliability. Hard drives are inherently reliable, and the products chosen are expected to offer about 5 to 7 years of effective life, after which it is advisable to replace them.Features: The selection includes basic drives for those with modest requirements, as well as models equipped with advanced features such as hardware encryption, water and dust resistance, and drive redundancy for added data protection.Capacity: The products come in a variety of capacities, allowing users to select a size that meets their needs without paying for unused storage space.Desktop or portable: Some want an external hard drive for use on a desk, others will want to take it with them. Generally, those with a 2.5-inch form factor are portable units, while 3.5-inch units are best forstatic desktop use.Price:I've ensured there is a range of prices to accommodate all budgets. Everyone deserves the opportunity to back up their data securely and affordably. Show more How we test external hard drives Having worked with technology for nearly three decades, and been a pro-am photographer and videographer for much of that time (so I've been testing and using backup solutions for many years), I've handled and tested a wide array of external hard drives from various manufacturers. With the exception of the SanDisk Professional G-Drive ArmorATD -- which is new to me, though I've owned an earlier version -- I have personally used all the drives listed in this guide. This gives me a practical understanding of what they offer in terms of features, performance, and long-term reliability.Additionally, I've considered user reviews to identify and exclude products that may have design flaws or reliability issues. Show more What is the difference between an SSD and an HDD external hard drive? SSD (Solid State Drive) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive) are two types of storage technologies used in external hard drives. SSDs are faster, more durable, and use less power because they have no moving parts, making them ideal for frequent transport and high-speed data transfer.HDDs, on the other hand, offer larger storage capacities at a lower cost per gigabyte but are generally slower and more susceptible to damage from physical shocks due to their moving parts.Also: The best SSDs Show more How do I choose the right capacity for my external hard drive? The appropriate capacity for your external hard drive largely hinges on your individual storage requirements. It's important to consider the types of files you intend to store, such as documents, photos, videos, or software, and their respective sizes.As a general guideline, a drive ranging from 500GB to 2TB ought to suffice for most users. However, for those dealing with significant volumes of high-resolution media files or needing backups for multiple devices, opting for a drive with a capacity of 4TB or more may be necessary.To make an informed decision, assess both your current and future storage needs. My recommendation is to estimate your present data volume and then double that storage capacity; this approach should adequately serve you for at least the next year or so. Show more Can I use one external hard drive for both Windows and Mac computers? Yes, you can use one external hard drive with both Windows and Mac computers, but it will require formatting the drive in a file system that is compatible with both operating systems.The exFAT format is widely recommended for this purpose because it is supported by both Windows and Mac without the file size limitations of FAT32. However, formatting the drive will erase all data on it, so be sure to back up your files before proceeding, otherwise you could be in a world of hurt.Note that many external hard drives come pre-formatted for one operating system, but can be reformatted for use with another. Show more Other external hard drives to consider Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

The clock strikes 4 p.m., and the monotony of your office is beginning to hit. Yoursmartphone, that trusty sidekick you rely on to stay organized and productive, is gasping for life at a perilous 15% battery. Panic? That's not your style. You recall your secret weapon: A power bank. With one swift move, you reach into your bag, pull out your trusty power bank, and hook it up to your device -- turning the tide and keeping your productivity on point.A good power bank is a game changer in the modern tech arsenal. New portable chargers can fuel everything from tiny earbuds all the way up to a high-end Apple MacBook Pro. Yet, the journey to find a top-notch, dependable power bank amidst the multitude of subpar knock-offs can be treacherous. Fear not, for I am here to be your guide, navigating you through the tech wilderness to uncover the perfect power bank that stands tall in quality, safety, and reliability.What is the best power bank right now?I've rigorously tested hundreds -- yes, literally hundreds -- of power banks in recent years, putting me in the perfect position to identify which ones truly deserve your hard-earned money.My pick for the best power bank overall goes to the Anker Nano 10,000 mAh for its portability, quality construction, and the fact that it has USB-C and USB-A ports, which means it caters to both old and new devices, and it has a super handy built-in USB-C cable. While it's my favorite, there are plenty of other options with different price points, features, and brands in mind. For example, if you're looking for a power bank with sheer power, the Cuktech P-series 25,000 mAh can give you several recharges of a smartphone or close to a full recharge of a MacBook Pro. Read on for all of my picks for the best power banks you can buy right now. Sort by All Number of USB ports Max port output Travel friendliness Features Max output The best power banks of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon While MagSafe power banks are now all the rage, if you need to charge anything else, you still need to remember a cable. The Anker Nano has a built-in USB-C cable and two USB ports -- one USB-C and one USB-A.The built-in USB-C cable is a decent length at 0.6ft (19cm) and can be used for both charging the power bank and charging other devices. The cable fits through a metal loop on the power bank, keeping it out of the way when not in use and allowing it to be used as a lanyard loop when you're not charging anything.Review: Anker Nano 10,000 mAhThis simple but highly effective feature makes the power bank easy to carry around, especially when your hands are full with other gadgetry.Online reviews for this power bank are very positive, praising its lightweight, compact design.Anker Nano 10,000 mAh tech specs:Capacity: 10,000mAh|Ports: 1 x USB-C cable, 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A|Max output: 30W Number of USB ports 7 Max port output 7 Travel friendliness 9 Features 7 Max output 7 Pros Small, lightweight, and portable Built-in USB-C cable USB-C and USB-A ports Cons No wireless charging Anker Nano 10,000 mAh Best power bank overall 3.7 / 5 Score While MagSafe power banks are now all the rage, if you need to charge anything else, you still need to remember a cable. The Anker Nano has a built-in USB-C cable and two USB ports -- one USB-C and one USB-A.The built-in USB-C cable is a decent length at 0.6ft (19cm) and can be used for both charging the power bank and charging other devices. The cable fits through a metal loop on the power bank, keeping it out of the way when not in use and allowing it to be used as a lanyard loop when you're not charging anything.Review: Anker Nano 10,000 mAhThis simple but highly effective feature makes the power bank easy to carry around, especially when your hands are full with other gadgetry.Online reviews for this power bank are very positive, praising its lightweight, compact design.Anker Nano 10,000 mAh tech specs:Capacity: 10,000mAh|Ports: 1 x USB-C cable, 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A|Max output: 30W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This power bank is what I'd consider as chunky. It's a fair-sized brick weighing in at a pound. Inside are batteries that hold 20,000mAh (72Wh) of power, enough for a few charges of a modern smartphone and more than one charge of a laptop -- while still being within the limit for airline travel.The batteries are rated for 1,000 recharge cycles, and the unit can hold its power for up to 200 days, which is relatively long.Review: Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh 130WAt the end of the power bank, there are three ports with a combined output of 130W. Two USB-C ports, one of which can charge the unit in as little as two hours, and a USB-A port for legacy devices.But the real trick up the sleeve of this power bank is the TFT display. This shows a multitude of information, including battery capacity, inputs and outputs, whether trickle charge is enabled, and real-time voltage, current, and power curve.The online reviews for this power bank are very strong, with owners praising its power output, reliability, and dependability.Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh, 130Wtech specs:Capacity: 20,000mAh|Ports: 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A|Max output: 130W Number of USB ports 8 Max port output 7 Travel friendliness 2 Features 6 Max output 8 Pros High power capacity Enough output power to run a laptop Easy to read OLED display Trickle charge mode Cons Chunky and heavy Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh 130W Best power bank for large power capacities 3.1 / 5 Score This power bank is what I'd consider as chunky. It's a fair-sized brick weighing in at a pound. Inside are batteries that hold 20,000mAh (72Wh) of power, enough for a few charges of a modern smartphone and more than one charge of a laptop -- while still being within the limit for airline travel.The batteries are rated for 1,000 recharge cycles, and the unit can hold its power for up to 200 days, which is relatively long.Review: Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh 130WAt the end of the power bank, there are three ports with a combined output of 130W. Two USB-C ports, one of which can charge the unit in as little as two hours, and a USB-A port for legacy devices.But the real trick up the sleeve of this power bank is the TFT display. This shows a multitude of information, including battery capacity, inputs and outputs, whether trickle charge is enabled, and real-time voltage, current, and power curve.The online reviews for this power bank are very strong, with owners praising its power output, reliability, and dependability.Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh, 130Wtech specs:Capacity: 20,000mAh|Ports: 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A|Max output: 130W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is one of the smallest power banks that you can buy, but don't let that fool you into thinking that it's basic. Here, not only do you get 5,000mAh of battery capacity, but you also get a wireless charging pad and a USB-C port that can be used both for charging the power bank and other devices.This bank also supports MagSafe wireless charging for an additional layer of convenience since iPhone owners don't need to carry a cable around with them. Finally, there's a trickle charge mode that allows the bank to charge low-power devices such as headphones or smartwatches without the power bank automatically switching off, so you can keep listening to tunes and audiobooks for longer.This power bank makes a great, stylish, and practical gift -- I've sent them out to folks for the holidays, and I also keep a few handy to hand out to people who don't have a power bank of their own.Reviews are very positive for this power bank, and owners are pleased with its size and performance. I noticed some reports of overheating, but I've not experienced that and speculate that the owner might have a thick case on their smartphone.Tech specs: Capacity: 5,000mAh|Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x wireless charging pad|Max output: 15W Number of USB ports 6 Max port output 6 Travel friendliness 7 Features 5 Max output 5 Pros Small Magnetic, wireless pad for iPhones Trickle charge mode for low-power devices Cons Not enough power to fully recharge a big smartphone Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Power Bank Best small power bank 2.9 / 5 Score This is one of the smallest power banks that you can buy, but don't let that fool you into thinking that it's basic. Here, not only do you get 5,000mAh of battery capacity, but you also get a wireless charging pad and a USB-C port that can be used both for charging the power bank and other devices.This bank also supports MagSafe wireless charging for an additional layer of convenience since iPhone owners don't need to carry a cable around with them. Finally, there's a trickle charge mode that allows the bank to charge low-power devices such as headphones or smartwatches without the power bank automatically switching off, so you can keep listening to tunes and audiobooks for longer.This power bank makes a great, stylish, and practical gift -- I've sent them out to folks for the holidays, and I also keep a few handy to hand out to people who don't have a power bank of their own.Reviews are very positive for this power bank, and owners are pleased with its size and performance. I noticed some reports of overheating, but I've not experienced that and speculate that the owner might have a thick case on their smartphone.Tech specs: Capacity: 5,000mAh|Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x wireless charging pad|Max output: 15W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Newegg It's hard to come across a power bank that impresses me anymore. Most are mundane plastic enclosures with a few ports. However, the Cuktech P-series 25,000mAh power bank is a game-changer. With its stylish design and advanced technology, it pushes the envelope of what a power bank can achieve.After using it on a week-long trip away from home, I was amazed by its durability. Everything about the P-series power bank feels premium and stylish; from the packaging to the design. There's even a futuristic pulsing blue light on the front while the power bank is in use that looks very sci-fi.I must admit that my inner geek loves the TFT display on this power bank. It displays important -- at least to me! -- information such as battery level, power, voltage, and current. A tap of the button brings up a graphical display of the input and output wattages.Online reviews highlight the power of this unit, along with the usefulness of the display, and the cool, futuristic styling goes down well with geeky owners!Cuktech P-series tech specs: Capacity: 25,000mAh|Ports: 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A|Max output: 210W Pros High capacity Readable display Massive 210W max output Trickle charging Cons Not pocket size Not lightweight It's hard to come across a power bank that impresses me anymore. Most are mundane plastic enclosures with a few ports. However, the Cuktech P-series 25,000mAh power bank is a game-changer. With its stylish design and advanced technology, it pushes the envelope of what a power bank can achieve.After using it on a week-long trip away from home, I was amazed by its durability. Everything about the P-series power bank feels premium and stylish; from the packaging to the design. There's even a futuristic pulsing blue light on the front while the power bank is in use that looks very sci-fi.I must admit that my inner geek loves the TFT display on this power bank. It displays important -- at least to me! -- information such as battery level, power, voltage, and current. A tap of the button brings up a graphical display of the input and output wattages.Online reviews highlight the power of this unit, along with the usefulness of the display, and the cool, futuristic styling goes down well with geeky owners!Cuktech P-series tech specs: Capacity: 25,000mAh|Ports: 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A|Max output: 210W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Whenever I encounter a power bank that's rated for water and dust resistance, it immediately captures my interest. This kind of resilience in a power bank is not only impressive but also incredibly practical for anyone leading an active outdoor lifestyle.The Nitecore NB10000 Gen III offers just that, a carbon fiber-clad power bank that has it all -- it's ultralight, ultra-thin, and waterproof to IP68. I've thoroughly tested the dust and water resistance of this power bank, and it impressively shrugs off both elements.Review: Klarus K5It has a maximum output of 22.5W and can charge two devices simultaneously or charge one while the pack is being charged. The capacity is enough to charge one and a half to two modern smartphones, and the pack can be fully recharged in about two and a half hours.What sets this power bank apart from the competition is its size and weight. At 0.42 inches and 5.29oz, this is the power bank you want to have with you if you're going to be carrying it for days on end. Its lightness was quite shocking the first few times I picked it up. It also excels in cold conditions -- I tested the NB10000 Gen III in cold conditions -- I threw it into a freezer at -18C/0F overnight -- and found that while the output was reduced, I could still get a respectable 8,000mAh from a fully charged pack.Nitecore NB10000 Gen III tech specs: Capacity: 10,000mAh|Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, |Max output: 22.5W Pros Thin and lightweight IP68 water for dust and water-resistance Built-in trickle charge feature Cons No covers for the USB ports allow dirt and water to collect No larger option Whenever I encounter a power bank that's rated for water and dust resistance, it immediately captures my interest. This kind of resilience in a power bank is not only impressive but also incredibly practical for anyone leading an active outdoor lifestyle.The Nitecore NB10000 Gen III offers just that, a carbon fiber-clad power bank that has it all -- it's ultralight, ultra-thin, and waterproof to IP68. I've thoroughly tested the dust and water resistance of this power bank, and it impressively shrugs off both elements.Review: Klarus K5It has a maximum output of 22.5W and can charge two devices simultaneously or charge one while the pack is being charged. The capacity is enough to charge one and a half to two modern smartphones, and the pack can be fully recharged in about two and a half hours.What sets this power bank apart from the competition is its size and weight. At 0.42 inches and 5.29oz, this is the power bank you want to have with you if you're going to be carrying it for days on end. Its lightness was quite shocking the first few times I picked it up. It also excels in cold conditions -- I tested the NB10000 Gen III in cold conditions -- I threw it into a freezer at -18C/0F overnight -- and found that while the output was reduced, I could still get a respectable 8,000mAh from a fully charged pack.Nitecore NB10000 Gen III tech specs: Capacity: 10,000mAh|Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, |Max output: 22.5W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Top portable chargers compared Which is the best power bank really depends on what you want from a power bank -- for some, portability is the main feature, for others it might be having the maximum possible output power. For others, it might be how many ports it has.Power bankPricePortsMax outputAnker Nano 10,000mAh$301 x USB-C cable, 1x USB-C, 1 x USB-A 30W Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh $992 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A 130W Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Power Bank $30 1 x USB-C, 1 x wireless 15W Cuktech P-series 25,000mAh $602 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A 210W Nitecore NB10000 Gen III $651 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A 22.5W Show more Which is the right power bank for you? As always, it depends on your needs and what you're looking for. Some people want giant power banks for multi-day adventures, others want something small to get them out of an emergency. Some want something stylish and sleek, while others want total geekery and get something that's more like a charging computer than a simple power bank. Choose thispower bankIf you wantAnker Nano 10,000mAh The best power bank overall. It's portable, well built, and offers both USB-C and USB-A ports, and that built-in USB-C cable is perfect for those who always forget to pack a cable! Ugreen Nexode 20,000mAh The best power bank for its large battery capacity and power, and a display that is clear and readable. One of my all-time favorites and is available for $70. Ugreen 5000mAh Magnetic Power Bank A tiny power bank that packs a big punch. You can have this attached to your iPhone and forget that it's there. Cuktech P-series 25,000mAh A big, powerful power bank with a great futuristic look. It features a really detailed display that will appeal to those who want to know everything that's going on, and the 210W max power output can keep up with anything.Nitecore NB10000 Gen III A sleek, stylish, and lightweight power bank that's also dust and water-resistant. This is perfect for use when camping, hiking, or working outdoors. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a power bank A variety of factors impact the quality and usability of power banks. Here are some things to take into consideration before buying one:Battery size: Power banks range from giving you a single charge to several charges, and may increase in size and price accordingly. I think of anything below 7,500 mAh as a small power bank that perfect for topping up a smartphone, 7,500 to 20,000 mAh as a medium power bank good for a few recharges, and maybe an emergency top-up of a laptop, and 20,000 and above as a big power bank better suited to those wanting to charge laptops and such or who are going to be away from a power outlet for a few days.Portability: Some people want giant power banks for multi-day adventures, while others want something small they can hold in their pocket for daily charging or emergencies.Design: Some want something stylish and sleek, while others want total geekery and get something that's more like a charging computer than a simple power bank.Weight: Big power banks can really pull on your pocket or bag, so choose wisely if you intend to carry it around with you.Ports: Do you want one or two or more ports? Do you need USB-A or will USB-C be fine? These are points to consider before making a purchase.Passthrough: Do you want to be able to charge the power bank while it is charging other devices? I find this a handy feature when traveling because I can use the power bank as a charger for multiple devices so I only need a small wall charger. Show more How we test power banks I test and review a lot of power banks, and this allows me to filter through hundreds of units to find the best of the best. On top of that, I use power banks a lot when traveling or going off-grid for hiking and camping. This allows me to get real-world, hands-on experience of the product for extended periods of time. Finally, every product that I use, test, or review is thoroughly safety tested to make sure that you'll be buying a reliable, safe product.Here are the key factors I consider when testing power banks:Capacity: I've seen plenty of companies make exaggerated claims about their power bank's capacity. I charge and discharge each power bank several times to test the rated capacity to make sure that this corresponds with the capacity stated on the box.Power output: A lot of cheaper power banks might be able to hit the rated power output for short periods, but this can take a dive under heavy load or when the power bank gets warm. I test every power bank under heavy load to make sure that it can output the maximum stated output power for extended periods.Safety: If the power bank overheats in use or when charging, it doesn't make this list. Plain and simple.Robustness: How does the power bank stand up to regular use? Does the shell resist scratches and knocks? Are the ports high quality and durable? If it's going to make this list, it must be tough enough to put up with heavy use. Show more FAQs on power banks Is there a limit of the size of power bank I can take on an airline? There is, but fear not, because it's actually quite a generous limit.FAA rules (and this rule is mirrored by most aviation authorities) allow you to take a power bank with a capacity up to 100Wh or 27,000mAh without declaring it. Beyond this, you must check with the airline and declare the power bank. Show more Can you simultaneously use and charge a power bank? Most modern power banks have a feature called pass-through charging that allows you to charge it and use it to charge other devices simultaneously. This is a handy feature if you have limited number of power outlets and what to charge multiple devices -- for example, when traveling. Show more How long do power banks last? Lithium-ion batteries -- the batteries found in most power banks -- are good for about 800 recharge cycles. This means if you used a power bank daily, and each day you ran it empty before recharging it for the next day, you'd get more than two years of life.In reality, people easily get 5 years from a power bank, and normally, it's technology moving forward and making the power bank obsolete that kills it, not usage. Show more How long does charging time vary across power capacity levels? The bigger the power bank's capacity, the longer it will normally take to charge. However, this depends on a lot of factors -- from whether it charges using USB-A or USB-C, to the power output of the charger doing the charging. Show more Other power banks to considerHere are a couple of alternative power banks to consider -- all from reputable manufacturers and all offering safe, reliable charging. Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

While cloud backup servicespredominantly emerged as the preferred solution for consumers and small businesses seeking to secure their data, partly down to how easy it is to implement, a select group of professionals -- such as photographers, videographers, and 3D designers -- continue to advocate for the efficacy of local backup methods. The process of transferring hundreds of gigabytes to the cloud can be cumbersome, particularly for those lacking substantial bandwidth.Enter the network-attached storage (NAS) device, which represents a significant advancement for individuals managing extensive data workloads. These technological innovations provide considerable storage capacities and remarkably fast data transfer rates, while simultaneously ensuring secure data backups across multiple drives through RAID (redundant array of independent disks) technology. This sophisticated system markedly mitigates the risk of permanent data loss resulting from a single drive failure. For professionals who require robust and reliable storage solutions to accommodate their expansive data needs, NAS devices are truly indispensable.Also: The best M.2 SSDs of 2024: Expert tested and reviewedWhat is the best NAS device right now?Based on extensive testing, thorough research, comprehensive product review analysis, and expert opinions, my top pick for the best overall NAS device is the Synology Diskstation DS1522+. This exceptional NAS stands out as a powerful and robust option, equipped with top-tier hardware and excellent supporting software. And it offers storage capacities up to 60TB using robust and reliable server-grade drives.You can't go wrong with this NAS, whether you need it for personal use, creative projects, or small business operations. Read on to discover all of my recommendations for the best NAS devices available on the market today. Each option has been carefully selected to meet various needs and preferences, ensuring you find the perfect storage solution for your requirements. Sort by All The best NAS devices of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon By far, the standout feature of any Synology NAS is the company's exceptional Diskstation Manager (DSM) software. While the Synology hardware is on par with many other NAS offerings, it's when that hardware is combined with the DSM software that Synology's offerings truly become noteworthy.Synology's DS1522+ ships with built-in enterprise-grade data software and support for dozens of applications, OS, and SaaS services. Featuring five hard drive bays by default and expandable up to 15 bays total, the DS1522+ is an economical NAS solution with plenty of room to expand as the user's data storage needs grow. Running Diskstation Manager, this NAS option comes with Synology's suite of enterprise backup solutions. This includes Active Backup for Business which allows users to backup Windows PCs, VMs, SaaS applications like Microsoft 365.Also included is Synology's Hyper Backup software, which allows you to back up your entire NAS or specific files and folders to most major cloud service providers. This flexible and free backup software gives the user enterprise-grade tools in an easy-to-understand format. This makes setting up a proper 3-2-1 backup environment a breeze, no matter what or how many devices you're responsible for.The DS1522+ is also a certified storage device for VMware and is compatible with most major virtualization platforms, including Windows Server, Microsoft's Hyper-V, and Citrix.Synology Diskstation DS1522+ specs:Drive bays:5 |Max capacity:108TB |Max w/expansion units:270TB |RAM:8GB DDR4 (32GB max) |1GB Ethernet ports:4 |10GB Upgrade:with Gen3 x2 upgrade |USB 3.2 ports:2 |eSATA ports:2 |M.2 slots:2 Pros Excellent DSM UI Good price per bay Great apps Ample USB ports Cons No native 2.5GB Ethernet ports No HDMI ports No SSD-only models By far, the standout feature of any Synology NAS is the company's exceptional Diskstation Manager (DSM) software. While the Synology hardware is on par with many other NAS offerings, it's when that hardware is combined with the DSM software that Synology's offerings truly become noteworthy.Synology's DS1522+ ships with built-in enterprise-grade data software and support for dozens of applications, OS, and SaaS services. Featuring five hard drive bays by default and expandable up to 15 bays total, the DS1522+ is an economical NAS solution with plenty of room to expand as the user's data storage needs grow. Running Diskstation Manager, this NAS option comes with Synology's suite of enterprise backup solutions. This includes Active Backup for Business which allows users to backup Windows PCs, VMs, SaaS applications like Microsoft 365.Also included is Synology's Hyper Backup software, which allows you to back up your entire NAS or specific files and folders to most major cloud service providers. This flexible and free backup software gives the user enterprise-grade tools in an easy-to-understand format. This makes setting up a proper 3-2-1 backup environment a breeze, no matter what or how many devices you're responsible for.The DS1522+ is also a certified storage device for VMware and is compatible with most major virtualization platforms, including Windows Server, Microsoft's Hyper-V, and Citrix.Synology Diskstation DS1522+ specs:Drive bays:5 |Max capacity:108TB |Max w/expansion units:270TB |RAM:8GB DDR4 (32GB max) |1GB Ethernet ports:4 |10GB Upgrade:with Gen3 x2 upgrade |USB 3.2 ports:2 |eSATA ports:2 |M.2 slots:2 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less This Asustor Lockerstor model bridges worlds in a number of ways. First, by providing six hard drive bays as well as support for four M.2 sticks, it's possible to do some very interesting performance tiering work, both automatically and manually. Second, like the QNAP, the Lockerstor has HDMI output, possibly moving this from the server closet to the family room.The internal 8GB RAM is respectable, and ZDNET was impressed with the 2.5G Ethernet port. The Lockerstor 6 uses the ADM operating system with more than 200 App Central applications, including various tools, business applications, office applications, and digital home entertainment.A common theme in the reviews of this NAS is ease of use, which for what can be a complex network product, will be a breath of fresh air for those who are not tech experts.Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen 2 specs:Drive bays:6 |M.2 SSD slots:4 |Max capacity:120TB + M.2 capacity |RAM:8GB |2.5G Ethernet ports:2 | USB 3.0 ports: Dual 3.2Gen 2x1 |PCIe Gen 3 x4 slots:Support PCIe 3.0 on M.2 SSD |HDMI:HDMI 2.0b Pros Ample M.2 slots Reasonable RAM capacity Built-in HDMI Cons Customers report slow tech support This Asustor Lockerstor model bridges worlds in a number of ways. First, by providing six hard drive bays as well as support for four M.2 sticks, it's possible to do some very interesting performance tiering work, both automatically and manually. Second, like the QNAP, the Lockerstor has HDMI output, possibly moving this from the server closet to the family room.The internal 8GB RAM is respectable, and ZDNET was impressed with the 2.5G Ethernet port. The Lockerstor 6 uses the ADM operating system with more than 200 App Central applications, including various tools, business applications, office applications, and digital home entertainment.A common theme in the reviews of this NAS is ease of use, which for what can be a complex network product, will be a breath of fresh air for those who are not tech experts.Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen 2 specs:Drive bays:6 |M.2 SSD slots:4 |Max capacity:120TB + M.2 capacity |RAM:8GB |2.5G Ethernet ports:2 | USB 3.0 ports: Dual 3.2Gen 2x1 |PCIe Gen 3 x4 slots:Support PCIe 3.0 on M.2 SSD |HDMI:HDMI 2.0b Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less QNAP has a broad selection of NAS devices, and this lower-cost entry-level unit is absolutely worth consideration. At only $200 (without drives), this option provides you with a way to quickly create a private home cloud.Powered by an ARM Cortex-A55 2.0GHz processor, this NAS station can serve two valuable purposes at home: working as a backup machine for Windows and Mac (via NetBak Replicator software and Time Machine), and as a storage system for your multimedia, including photos, videos, and important documents.The entry-level NAS comes with 3.5-inch drive bays that are 2.5-inch compatible. Customer reviews suggest that this NAS is excellent value for money, with one reviewer saying it "punches above its class." However, others say the user interface needs improvement.The Amazon reviews on this product are strong, with many users emphasizing the value this NAS device offers compared to other high-end units.QNAP TS-233-US 2-Bay NASspecs:Drive bays:2 |Max capacity:Diskless|RAM:2GB (up to 4GB)|Ethernet ports:1 |USB 2 ports:2|USB 3.2 ports: 1 Pros Affordable Solid performance Supports multimedia applications Cons Purchasing disks ramps up the cost QNAP has a broad selection of NAS devices, and this lower-cost entry-level unit is absolutely worth consideration. At only $200 (without drives), this option provides you with a way to quickly create a private home cloud.Powered by an ARM Cortex-A55 2.0GHz processor, this NAS station can serve two valuable purposes at home: working as a backup machine for Windows and Mac (via NetBak Replicator software and Time Machine), and as a storage system for your multimedia, including photos, videos, and important documents.The entry-level NAS comes with 3.5-inch drive bays that are 2.5-inch compatible. Customer reviews suggest that this NAS is excellent value for money, with one reviewer saying it "punches above its class." However, others say the user interface needs improvement.The Amazon reviews on this product are strong, with many users emphasizing the value this NAS device offers compared to other high-end units.QNAP TS-233-US 2-Bay NASspecs:Drive bays:2 |Max capacity:Diskless|RAM:2GB (up to 4GB)|Ethernet ports:1 |USB 2 ports:2|USB 3.2 ports: 1 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less TerraMaster is a solid storage space at a budget-friendly price. We found the user interface to be clean and well done and the overall usage experience to be solid. Now, to be clear, this is not a Synology, but that device is considerably more expensive.TerraMaster is upping its game with the F4-423. Instead of a budget device, this is a performance machine, but at a mid-tier price. It's got two high-speed Ethernet ports, an HDMI port that lets you turn this into a media center server, and support for additional applications. TerraMaster says this model provides improved speeds and up to a 50% improvement in handling high-load workflows.Overall, this is a solid product for higher-stress loads at a reasonable price. Cheaper, two-bay options are also available. Customers say this NAS solution is great for home setups, although some are irritated by its lack of documentation.Reviews for the TerraMaster F4-423 on Amazon and Reddit take note of the the stylish exterior of this NAS cabinet, as well as the performance and value for money it offers.TerraMaster F4-423 specs:Drive bays:4 |Max capacity:80TB |RAM:4GB |2.5G Ethernet ports:2 |USB 3.2 ports:2 |HDMI port:1 |M.2 slots:2 Pros Fast Respectable user interface HDMI port Bay hot swaps Cons A bit more expensive than TerraMaster's earlier offerings Fewer apps than Synology and QNAP TerraMaster is a solid storage space at a budget-friendly price. We found the user interface to be clean and well done and the overall usage experience to be solid. Now, to be clear, this is not a Synology, but that device is considerably more expensive.TerraMaster is upping its game with the F4-423. Instead of a budget device, this is a performance machine, but at a mid-tier price. It's got two high-speed Ethernet ports, an HDMI port that lets you turn this into a media center server, and support for additional applications. TerraMaster says this model provides improved speeds and up to a 50% improvement in handling high-load workflows.Overall, this is a solid product for higher-stress loads at a reasonable price. Cheaper, two-bay options are also available. Customers say this NAS solution is great for home setups, although some are irritated by its lack of documentation.Reviews for the TerraMaster F4-423 on Amazon and Reddit take note of the the stylish exterior of this NAS cabinet, as well as the performance and value for money it offers.TerraMaster F4-423 specs:Drive bays:4 |Max capacity:80TB |RAM:4GB |2.5G Ethernet ports:2 |USB 3.2 ports:2 |HDMI port:1 |M.2 slots:2 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon If you're interested in exploring the capabilities of NAS devices but aren't ready to take the plunge on a full rig -- yet -- you may want to consider the SSK 2TB portable NAS.To be clear, this product doesn't have bays and is more akin to an external storage drive than a full NAS -- and some users report problems with speed. However, it's cheap and provides a way to set up a personal cloud that can be accessed remotely via your PC, smartphone, and other mobile devices.Keep in mind, though, that this is a mechanical hard disk so you shouldn't treat it like a typical external SSD drive, which tends to be quite rugged. As it has its own Wi-Fi hotspot, I would use a product like this for accessing media including films and TV shows.Many user reviews on Amazon compliment the ease of setup, with it being more like an external drive than a NAS. This makes it perfect for those who want an easy out-of-the-box storage solution.SSK 2TB Portable NASspecs: HDD/SSD|Max capacity:2TB |USB 3.0 ports:1 |HDMI port:1 | Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections Pros Portable Personal cloud functionality Cons Some users report performance issues If you're interested in exploring the capabilities of NAS devices but aren't ready to take the plunge on a full rig -- yet -- you may want to consider the SSK 2TB portable NAS.To be clear, this product doesn't have bays and is more akin to an external storage drive than a full NAS -- and some users report problems with speed. However, it's cheap and provides a way to set up a personal cloud that can be accessed remotely via your PC, smartphone, and other mobile devices.Keep in mind, though, that this is a mechanical hard disk so you shouldn't treat it like a typical external SSD drive, which tends to be quite rugged. As it has its own Wi-Fi hotspot, I would use a product like this for accessing media including films and TV shows.Many user reviews on Amazon compliment the ease of setup, with it being more like an external drive than a NAS. This makes it perfect for those who want an easy out-of-the-box storage solution.SSK 2TB Portable NASspecs: HDD/SSD|Max capacity:2TB |USB 3.0 ports:1 |HDMI port:1 | Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best network-attached storage? ZDNET ranks the Synology DiskStation DS1522+ as the best NAS device currently on the market. This model stands out as a powerful and durable choice, supported by an excellent suite of applications. If the DS1522+ doesn't meet your specific needs, here are the top features to look for in alternative models:Best network attached storagePriceBaysMax capacityEthernetSynology Diskstation DS1522+ 60TB$2,8105108TB4 1GB portsAsustor Lockerstor 6 Gen 2$8096120TB2 2.5GB portsQNAP TS-233-US 2-Bay NAS$199236TB1 portTerraMaster F4-423$453480TB2 2.5GB portsSSK 2TB Portable NAS$125N/A2TB1 port Show more Which is the right NAS for you? Choosing the right NAS device is a straightforward process, beginning with an assessment of your budget and storage requirements. Vendors typically offer models starting from two bays (allowing for two drives) and upwards.For those requiring substantial storage, opting for a model with more bays is advisable. However, if you're venturing into NAS devices for the first time, you might want to start with an entry-level or portable option. This allows you to become acquainted with NAS technology without committing to more advanced and costlier equipment immediately.Below is a simple chart to assist you further in making your decision:Choose this NAS device...If you want...Synology Diskstation DS1522+The best overall NAS. By combining solid hardware and a best-in-class DSM software, this unit promises comprehensive storage for small businesses and remote workers alike.Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen 2The best NAS from a reputable brand. This model also features six hard drive bays, support for four M.2 sticks, and uses the ADM 4.0 operating system.QNAP TS-233-US 2-Bay NASThe best value storage with solid performance. This entry-level model will add considerable value to your network without breaking the bank.TerraMaster F4-423The best mid-tier NAS with a nice user interface. Coming at a mid-tier price, it still has two high-speed Ethernet ports, an HDMI port, and accounts for higher stress loads.SSK 2TB Portable NASA portable, less expensive, and less powerful option. While this portable NAS drive does provide you with a private cloud, it's more akin to an external hard drive than a typical NAS setup. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a NAS storage solution When in the market for a new NAS device, it's crucial to consider several key factors to ensure you choose the option that best suits your needs:Use Cases: Identify the primary function of your NAS device. Whether it's for video editing, setting up a home office, or entertainment purposes, understanding its intended use is vital given the investment. This clarity will guide your decision-making process.Budget: Determine your budget early on. NAS systems are significant investments, often carrying a hefty price tag. Additionally, if you opt for a diskless model, remember to account for the cost of purchasing storage separately.Bays: The number of bays you need is directly tied to your storage requirements. For those handling extensive multimedia files or planning long-term storage, opting for a device with more bays is advisable.Connectivity: NAS devices vary in their connectivity options, from Ethernet and HDMI ports to portable models that can generate Wi-Fi hotspots. Ensure the device you choose has the connectivity features that align with your needs. Show more How did we choose these NAS devices? Here at ZDNET, our expertise in NAS devices spans decades. Our selections are informed by a combination of in-depth testing, verified customer feedback, and real-world user interactions, with particular emphasis on user-friendly interfaces, performance, a thorough assessment of each model's strengths and weaknesses, and, importantly, price point.User-friendly Interface: We prioritize NAS models that are straightforward to set up and manage, featuring software that simplifies usage and enhances sharing and collaboration capabilities.Fast Performance: A NAS device accelerates saving and retrieving the data, making it particularly efficient for tasks like video editing -- outpacing many cloud storage services.Strengths and Weaknesses: Understanding that no model is flawless, we highlight the advantages and drawbacks of each, providing clarity on how they might match your security needs, setup preferences, and workflow requirements, including portability.Price: Recognizing budget constraints, we carefully consider each product's price. Although initial costs can be high, they may offer savings over time compared to ongoing cloud service subscriptions. Show more Should you build your own NAS service? You can repurpose an old PC or even build a very custom NAS solution to meet your exact needs.ZDNET author and resident hardware expert David Gewirtz has built his own NAS boxes for years, including some that were highly customized. But as the NAS offerings from vendors like Synology, QNAP, and Drobo improved, the need to build his own diminished.If you're comfortable with the prospect of sourcing PC parts and building PCs, you'll probably want to go it on your own. But if you're new to PC building, buying an appliance NAS is probably the way to go. Show more What is a RAID? RAID, which stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a data storage technology that combines multiple physical disk drives into a single logical unit for improved performance, redundancy, or both. The primary purpose of RAID is to enhance data protection and improve storage efficiency by distributing data across several disks in various configurations known as RAID levels.Here's a breakdown of three of the most common RAID levels:RAID 0 (Striping)RAID 0 splits (stripes) data evenly across two or more disks. This configuration offers improved performance because multiple disks can be read or written simultaneously. However, be aware that this provides no redundancy. If one disk fails, all data in the array is lost.RAID 1 (Mirroring)RAID 1 duplicates (mirrors) data across two or more disks. This setup offers high data redundancy because each disk in the array contains an exact copy of the data. If one disk fails, the data can be recovered from the other disk(s). However, note that RAID 1 does not improve performance and effectively reduces usable storage capacity by half.RAID 5 (Striping with Parity)RAID 5 combines striping with parity, distributing data and parity information across three or more disks. Parity provides fault tolerance, allowing the array to withstand the failure of a single disk without data loss. RAID 5 offers a good balance of performance, redundancy, and storage efficiency. Show more What's the difference between network storage and DAS? The primary difference between Network Attached Storage (NAS) and Direct Attached Storage (DAS) lies in how they are connected to and accessed by devices in a network.NAS devices connect to a network, typically through Ethernet, providing storage that can be accessed by multiple devices on that network. This setup allows multiple users and devices to access and share data simultaneously over the network, making NAS ideal for collaborative environments. NAS units often come with their own operating systems and can support a variety of applications, including file sharing, media streaming, and even server functions like web hosting. These devices are managed via a web-based interface, allowing for remote administration and configuration. Additionally, NAS solutions are generally more scalable, allowing for easy expansion by adding more drives or connecting additional NAS units to the network.In contrast, DAS devices connect directly to a computer via USB, Thunderbolt, or another direct interface, making them accessible only to that specific computer. DAS systems are typically single-user devices, meaning only the connected computer can access the stored data. For other devices to access this data, it must be shared through the computer to which the DAS is connected. DAS units are simpler and usually do not come with their own operating systems or support for additional applications beyond basic storage. These devices are managed directly through the operating system of the connected computer, without the need for web-based interfaces. Because they connect directly to a computer, DAS devices can offer faster data transfer rates compared to NAS, which relies on network speeds.The choice between NAS and DAS depends on specific requirements for accessibility, scalability, and performance. NAS is best suited for environments where multiple devices need to access and share data, such as in homes with multiple users, small businesses, or professional settings requiring collaborative access to large files. On the other hand, DAS is ideal for single-user scenarios where fast data transfer rates are critical, such as video editing, graphic design, or personal data storage needs. Show more How long do NAS drives last? Vendors typically estimate the lifespan of a NAS device to be between three to five years. However, it's possible for a NAS to exceed this range, potentially lasting up to a decade. Despite this, the risk of failure escalates over time.Be on the lookoutfor signs of hardware deterioration, like sluggish performance and connectivity problems, which may indicate impending failure. Show more Does a NAS drive stay on all the time? You can potentially improve a NAS device's lifespan by allowing it to hibernate while not in use. For example, if you are away from home for several months, you may want to consider giving it a rest. However, NAS devices can be left on permanently, as many NAS devices have been specifically built to allow this. Show more Are there alternative NAS drives worth considering? While our top recommendations are above, we also wanted toshowcase some other worthy alternatives, including different features, price points, and bay counts. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Imagine this: a dead iPhone throwing a wrench in your entire day! It's happened to me more times than I'd like to admit, which is why I'm never without my trusty power bank. It's all about staying one step ahead of problems. After all, it's better to have it and not need it than to find yourself in a panic with a phone that's gone belly up!Seriously, giving your iPhone a little mid-day top-up is like treating it to a little snack! It can mean the difference between cruising through the day or watching it fade to black before you even get home. So, keep that power bank close and let your phone thrive!Also:The best MagSafe accessories for your iPhone What is the best iPhone power bank right now? I've tested hundreds of iPhone power banks, scrutinizing everything from their sleek designs and rapid charge times to their hefty recharge capacities, power outputs, port varieties, and safety features. This thorough analysis has allowed me to weed out the duds -- the low-quality units, the overpriced rip-offs, and the downright failures -- focusing exclusively on the cream of the crop. This lineup represents the pinnacle of performance, ensuring you get only the best from your purchase.My top pick for the best overall iPhone power bank is the Anker MagGo 6.6K Wireless Charger, based on its lightweight build, foldable kickstand, and convenient charging options. Read on to learn more about my top picks and others. Also:The best iPhone 15 cases Sort by All The best iPhone power banks of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon This Anker battery pack offers 6,600mAh of battery capacity, features a USB-C port that is used both as an input and output, and has a compact design. With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet as a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source.Leveraging Qi2 technology, the MagGo Power Bank securely snaps onto the back of compatible Android and Apple phones and packs a 6,600mAh battery capacity that can charge most phones at least once.This power bank also comes with a two-foot USB-C-to-USB-C cable, which is always handy to have. I like the clamshell design of this power bank, and it looks a lot like the Star Trek communicator from the days of old. It's a well-made, durable power bank, exactly what I'd expect from an Anker product.Online reviews for this product are strong, although I feel that some buyers are confused about what Qi2 offers and expect it to be faster than a MagSafe charger (which it isn't).Anker 622MagSafe Wireless ChargerFeatures: Capacity: 6,600mAh|Charging port:USB-C| Max output: 15W wireless, 20W wired Pros Well priced Foldable clamshell design Lightweight and easy to hold Can charge your device while the charger itself is charging Cons Either have to purchase a MagSafe-compatible case or remove your current case to use Only wired charging for older iPhones A bit bulky This Anker battery pack offers 6,600mAh of battery capacity, features a USB-C port that is used both as an input and output, and has a compact design. With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet as a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source.Leveraging Qi2 technology, the MagGo Power Bank securely snaps onto the back of compatible Android and Apple phones and packs a 6,600mAh battery capacity that can charge most phones at least once.This power bank also comes with a two-foot USB-C-to-USB-C cable, which is always handy to have. I like the clamshell design of this power bank, and it looks a lot like the Star Trek communicator from the days of old. It's a well-made, durable power bank, exactly what I'd expect from an Anker product.Online reviews for this product are strong, although I feel that some buyers are confused about what Qi2 offers and expect it to be faster than a MagSafe charger (which it isn't).Anker 622MagSafe Wireless ChargerFeatures: Capacity: 6,600mAh|Charging port:USB-C| Max output: 15W wireless, 20W wired Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon A "not-too-big, not-too-small" power bank, this product falls into the Goldilocks zone -- big enough for a few rounds of recharging but still small enough to carry.I'm a fan of the Anker brand, and this is another gadget that I've taken out and about in cities (and into the wild) in several countries. Anker power banks are well-built, robust, and highly reliable. This is a power bank that's built for daily use, or for throwing into a drawer or glovebox for when you need it.While this is a list of power banks for iPhones, I have to admit that I do like the fact that this power bank comes with USB-A and USB-C ports. If you have earbuds that need charging alongside the iPhone, this is a perfect pairing.Despite the relatively large 10,000mAh capacity and two USB ports, this is still a portable power bank that's compact and lightweight enough to slip into a pocket or bag. It also fits great both in the hand and pocket, a sentiment echoed in reviews I've read on Amazon and Reddit.Anker PowerCore Features: Capacity:10,000mAh |Charging port:USB-C | Max output: 25W Pros Compact design Good capacity Dual ports Cons Wall charger not included Long charging time A "not-too-big, not-too-small" power bank, this product falls into the Goldilocks zone -- big enough for a few rounds of recharging but still small enough to carry.I'm a fan of the Anker brand, and this is another gadget that I've taken out and about in cities (and into the wild) in several countries. Anker power banks are well-built, robust, and highly reliable. This is a power bank that's built for daily use, or for throwing into a drawer or glovebox for when you need it.While this is a list of power banks for iPhones, I have to admit that I do like the fact that this power bank comes with USB-A and USB-C ports. If you have earbuds that need charging alongside the iPhone, this is a perfect pairing.Despite the relatively large 10,000mAh capacity and two USB ports, this is still a portable power bank that's compact and lightweight enough to slip into a pocket or bag. It also fits great both in the hand and pocket, a sentiment echoed in reviews I've read on Amazon and Reddit.Anker PowerCore Features: Capacity:10,000mAh |Charging port:USB-C | Max output: 25W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The biggest downer is reaching into your bag and discovering that you have a power bank without a cable. The Belkin Boostcharger removes this possibility because it features built-in Lightning and USB-C cables, separating it from the competition -- a feature that many reviewers on Amazon and B&H Photo also love.This power bank also features passthrough technology, which means you can charge your iPhone with speeds up to 18W while charging the power bank.This passthrough charging feature might not seem like much, but I've found this to be super useful both for use on a desk or nightstand and when traveling. It means I can have one small wall charger charging up the power bank, and then have the power bank simultaneously charging up a couple of devices. This not only saves on space and how many power outlets I need, it also streamlines what I need to carry, which is really appreciated when traveling.The 10,000mAh capacity also means that it's not too big to be slipped into a pocket or bag.Belkin Boostcharge Features: Capacity:10,000mAh |Charging port:Integrated Lightning (MFI) and USB-C cables plus USB-C port | Max output: 23W Pros Charge two devices at once Slim design LED indicators Cons Pricey Slow to charge devices The biggest downer is reaching into your bag and discovering that you have a power bank without a cable. The Belkin Boostcharger removes this possibility because it features built-in Lightning and USB-C cables, separating it from the competition -- a feature that many reviewers on Amazon and B&H Photo also love.This power bank also features passthrough technology, which means you can charge your iPhone with speeds up to 18W while charging the power bank.This passthrough charging feature might not seem like much, but I've found this to be super useful both for use on a desk or nightstand and when traveling. It means I can have one small wall charger charging up the power bank, and then have the power bank simultaneously charging up a couple of devices. This not only saves on space and how many power outlets I need, it also streamlines what I need to carry, which is really appreciated when traveling.The 10,000mAh capacity also means that it's not too big to be slipped into a pocket or bag.Belkin Boostcharge Features: Capacity:10,000mAh |Charging port:Integrated Lightning (MFI) and USB-C cables plus USB-C port | Max output: 23W Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W is a power bank with a twist, and that twist is a built-in USB-C cable -- making it a great option for the iPhone 15.This cable is a decent length at 0.6ft (19cm) and can be used for both charging the power bank and charging other devices. This cable fits through a metal loop on the power bank, keeping it out of the way when not in use and allowing it to be used as a lanyard loop when you're not charging anything. There's a single button on the top of the unit to turn the power bank on. On the front, a small but exceptionally vibrant display shows the charge level and estimated charge/discharge time. Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh |Charging port:USB-C|Max Output: 30W Pros Built-in cable is a winner Cons LCD screen is small and can be difficult to read The Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W is a power bank with a twist, and that twist is a built-in USB-C cable -- making it a great option for the iPhone 15.This cable is a decent length at 0.6ft (19cm) and can be used for both charging the power bank and charging other devices. This cable fits through a metal loop on the power bank, keeping it out of the way when not in use and allowing it to be used as a lanyard loop when you're not charging anything. There's a single button on the top of the unit to turn the power bank on. On the front, a small but exceptionally vibrant display shows the charge level and estimated charge/discharge time. Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh |Charging port:USB-C|Max Output: 30W Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best iPhone power bank? The Anker MagGo 6.6K battery pack is our pick for the best overall iPhone power bank, because the functional design makes it a multitasking winner. Plus, it offers easy integration with Apple devices. Here's how the best iPhone power banks compare based on pricing, capacity, and quick charge capabilities: iPhone power bankPriceCapacityMax outputQuick charge?Anker MagGo 6.6K$706,600mAh15W wireless/20W wiredYesAnker PowerCore$3510,000mAh25W wiredNoBelkin Boostcharge Plus$4510,000mAh23W wiredYesAnker Nano 10,000mAh 30W$3010,000mAh30W wiredYes*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts. Show more Which iPhone power bank is right for you? The best iPhone power bank gives you enough mobile power to keep your phone running until you can plug it in. Here's a further breakdown if you're trying to decide which power bank is best for you since all vary in power, price, and even port availability. Choose this iPhone power bank...If you need...Anker MagGo 6.6K A multitasking, all-around solid power bank. Anker PowerCore An affordable power bank with dual ports. Belkin Boostcharge Plus A power bank with integrated charging cables. Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W The perfect portable power bank for the iPhone 15 with a built-in cable. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an iPhone power bank Here are some factors I suggest you consider when choosing a power bank for your iPhone:Size: It's no good having a power bank if you're going to end up leaving it at home. Sure, if you're going off grid for a few days, you're going to need something big, but most people are looking for something to top up their phone during the day before going home, and for this a power bank with a 4,000mAh capacity is more than enough.Wired or wireless: If you don't want the hassle of having to carry a charge cable and a power bank, go for a unit that feature wireless MagSafe charging.Safety: I test every power bank for a number of safety issues, including checking for overheating in use and whether the case is robust enough to protect the internal batteries. I recommend sticking with name brands and avoiding dollar store power banks. Show more How we test iPhone power banks I chose these iPhone power banks through a combination of extensive research and using the products to charge everyday devices. I paid attention to:Customer reviews and ratings: I evaluated personal experiences and ratings of the included products to take note of strengths, weaknesses, and overall customer satisfaction with each battery pack.Pricing: I considered battery packs with a varied price range to ensure there is a product for everyone, with most battery packs costing between $20 and $100.Renowned brands: I selected battery packs manufactured by trusted and ZDNET-reviewed brands to ensure the recommended picks were of quality and standard.Capacity: Battery packs can differ in the amount of power (measured in milliamp hours or mAh) contained in the battery. I used a USB power meter to test the capacity of every power bank listed to ensure that it delivers what it says on the spec sheet.Overheating: I used a thermal camera to check for overheating, both when the power back was in use, and when it was being charged. Show more Does charging your battery from a power bank damage the battery on the iPhone? Some cheap power banks and chargers can harm your smartphone. Overall, though, power banks are safe and work using the same technology as a regular charger. We trust any of the picks above to be quality power banks that won't damage your iPhone's battery. Show more Are these power banks allowed on an airplane? According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium-ion battery must be packed in a carry-on bag, rather than in checked baggage. Most airlines allow a power bank with a battery of up to 27,000mAh. Show more How much should you spend on a power bank? Those cheaper power banks work; however, in my experience, they don't offer the capacities that they claim and don't last nearly as long as a decent power bank from a reputable manufacturer, don't deliver the power stated, and can overheat in use.The phrase "you get what you pay for" applies to everything, including iPhone accessories. That's why it's better to spend more money to get something that'll enhance your phone's productivity and last. Show more Is a wireless power bank better? A wireless power bank can be very helpful, since you don't have to remember to bring any cords or cables with you. Just set your iPhone on the power bank and start charging.They're not ideal for use while you're actually traveling, however, since there isn't a way to secure your phone to the power bank. When flying or driving, your phone could slip off the charger without you noticing, leaving you with a dead or dying phone when you reach your destination. MagSafe power banks are good, but they're not infallible. Show more What size power bank do you need to charge an iPhone? It depends on how many recharges you want. A 5,000mAh power bank will give you about two recharges of a standard iPhone, and a little less for the bigger iPhones. Show more More iPhone power banks to consider Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

monsitj/Getty ImagesIn one of my earlier AI and coding articles, where I looked athow ChatGPT can rewrite and improve your existing code, one of the commenters, @pbug5612, had an interesting question:Who owns the resultant code? What if it contains business secrets - have you shared it all with Google or MS, etc.? It's a good question and one that doesn't have an easy answer. Over the past two weeks, I've reached out to attorneys and experts to try to get a definitive answer. Also: I've tested dozens of AI chatbots since ChatGPT's stunning debut. Here's my top pickThere's a lot to unpack here, but a good starting point is the overall theme of this discussion. As attorney Collen Clark of law firm Schmidt & Clark states: Ultimately, until more definitive legal precedents are established, the legal implications of using AI-generated code remain complex and uncertain. That's not to say there is a shortage of opinions. In this article, I'll discuss the copyright implications of using ChatGPT to write your code. In a related article, I discuss issues of liability pertaining to AI-generated code. Who owns the code?Here's a probable scenario. You're working on an application. Most of that application is your direct work. You've defined the UI, crafted the business logic, and written most of the code. However, you've used ChatGPT to write a few modules and linked that resulting code into your app. Continue to Part 2: If you use AI-generated code, what's your liability exposure?Who owns the code written by ChatGPT? Does the inclusion of that code invalidate any ownership claims you have on the overall application? Attorney Richard Santalesa, a founding member of the SmartEdgeLaw Group based in Westport, Conn., focuses on technology transactions, data security, and intellectual property matters. He points out that there are issues of contract law as well as copyright law -- and they're treated differently. From a contractual point of view, Santalesa contends that most companies producing AI-generated code will, "as with all of their other IP, deem their provided materials -- including AI-generated code -- as their property." OpenAI (the company behind ChatGPT) does not claim ownership of generated content. According to their terms of service, "OpenAI hereby assigns to you all its right, title, and interest in and to Output." Clearly, though, if you're creating an application that uses code written by an AI, you'll need to carefully investigate who owns (or claims to own) what. For a view of code ownership outside the US, ZDNET turned to Robert Piasentin, a Vancouver-based partner in the Technology Group at McMillan LLP, a Canadian business law firm. He says that ownership, as it pertains to AI-generated works, is still an "unsettled area of the law." That said, there has been work done to try to clarify the issue. In 2021, the Canadian agency ISED (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada) recommended three approaches to the question: Ownership belongs to the person who arranged for the work to be created.Ownership and copyright are only applicable to works produced by humans, and thus, the resultant code would not be eligible for copyright protection.A new "authorless" set of rights should be created for AI-generated works.Piasentin, who was also called to the bar in England and Wales, says: "Much like Canada, there is no English legislation that directly regulates the design, development, and use of AI systems. However, the UK is among the first countries in the world to expressly define who can be the author of a computer-generated work." "Under the UK Copyright Designs and Patents Act, with respect to computer-generated work, the author of the work is the person who undertook the arrangements necessary to create the work and is the first owner of any copyright in it," he explains.Piasenten says there may already be some UK case law precedent, based not on AI but on video game litigation. A case before the High Court (roughly analogous to the US Supreme Court) determined that images produced in a video game were the property of the game developer, not the player -- even though the player manipulated the game to produce a unique arrangement of game assets on the screen. Because the player had not "undertaken the necessary arrangements for the creation of those images," the court ruled in favor of the developer. Ownership of AI-generated code may be similar in that, "the person who undertook the necessary arrangements for the AI-generated work -- that is, the developer of the generative AI -- may be the author of the work," Piasenten notes. That doesn't necessarily rule out the prompt-writer as the author. Notably, it also doesn't rule out the unspecified (and possibly unknowable) author who sourced the training data as an author of AI-generated code. Fundamentally, until there's a lot more case law, the issue is murky. What about copyright?Let's touch on the difference between ownership and copyright. Ownership is a practical power that determines who has control over the source code of a program and who has the authority to modify, distribute, and control the codebase. Copyright is a broader legal right granted to creators of original works, and is essential to controlling who can use or copy the work. If you look at litigation as something of a battle, Santalesa describes copyright as "one arrow in the legal quiver." The idea is that copyright claims provide an additional claim, "above and beyond any other claims, such as breach of contract, breach of confidentiality, misappropriation of IP rights, etc."He adds that the strength of the claim hinges on wilful infringement, which can be a challenge even to define when it comes to AI-based code. Then there's the issue of what can qualify as a work of authorship -- in other words, something that can be copyrighted. According to the Compendium of the U.S. Copyright Office Practices, Third Edition, to qualify as "a work of 'authorship,' a work must be created by a human beingWorks that do not satisfy this requirement are not copyrightable." Additionally, the Compendium notes that the U.S. Copyright Office "will not register works produced by nature, animals, or plants. Likewise, the Office cannot register a work purportedly created by divine or supernatural beings."While the Copyright Office doesn't specifically say whether AI-created work is copyrightable or not, it's probable that that block of code you had ChatGPT write for you isn't copyrightable. Also:25 AI tips to boost your programming productivity with ChatGPTPiasenten says this applies in Canada, too. Provisions that point to "the life of the author" and the requirement that the author be a resident of a certain country imply a living human.Piasenten notes that, inCCH Canada Ltd. v Law Society of Upper Canada,the Supreme Court of Canada found that original work is derived from "an exercise of skill and judgment" and cannot be "purely mechanical exercise." Messy for coders Let's wrap up this part of our discussion with some thoughts from Sean O'Brien, lecturer in cybersecurity at Yale Law School and founder of the Yale Privacy Lab. Taking us from analogies and speculation to actual rulings, O'Brien points to some US Copyright Office actions on AI-generation."The U.S. Copyright Office concluded this year that a graphic novel with images generated by the AI software, Midjourney, constituted a copyrightable work because the work as a whole contained significant contributions by a human author, such as human-authored text and layout," O'Brien says. "However, the isolated images themselves are not subject to copyright." If this ruling were applied to software, the overall application would be copyrighted, but the routines generated by the AI would not be subject to copyright. Among other things, this requires programmers to label what code is generated by an AI to be able to copyright the rest of the work. Also: The most popular programming languages in 2024 (and what that even means)There are also some messy licensing issues. O'Brian points out that ChatGPT "can't properly provide the copyright information, specifically refusing to place free and open source licenses, like the GNU General Public License, on code." Yet, he says: "It's already been proven that GPL'd code can be verbatim repeated by ChatGPT, creating a license infringement mess. Microsoft and GitHub continue to integrate such OpenAI-based systems into code authoring platforms used by millions, and that could muddy the waters beyond recognition." What does it all mean? We haven't even touched on liability and other legal issues, which you'll want to read about in Part II. There are some clear conclusions here, though. First, this is somewhat uncharted territory. Even the attorneys say there's not enough precedent to be sure what's what. I should point out that in my discussions with the various attorneys, they all strongly recommended seeking an attorney for advice on these matters, but in the same breath, acknowledged there wasn't enough case law for anyone to have more than a rough clue how it was all going to shake out. Second, it's likely the code written by an AI can't be owned or copyrighted in a way that provides legal protections. This opens a huge can of worms because unless code is rigorously documented, it will be very difficult to defend what is subject to copyright and what's not. Let's wrap this up with some more thoughts from Yale's O'Brien, who believes that ChatGPT and similar software are leaning on the concept of fair use. However, he says: There have been no conclusive decisions around this affirmation of fair use, and a 2022 class action called it "pure speculation" because no court has yet considered whether usage of AI training sets arising from public data constitutes fair use. Pure speculation. When considering whether you own and can copyright your code, you don't want a legal analysis to end with the words "pure speculation." And yet here we are. Continue to Part 2:If you use AI-generated code, what's your liability exposure?You can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at @DavidGewirtz, on Facebook at Facebook.com/DavidGewirtz, on Instagram at Instagram.com/DavidGewirtz, and on YouTube at YouTube.com/DavidGewirtzTV.See also

The Andes 1500 portable power station is strong enough to power essential appliances during a power outage or as a camping or RV companion.

The Herk Orion is a capable Ryzen-powered Mini PC in its own right, but ditching Windows for a Linux OS has opened up a whole new level of performance.

As technology becomes more portable, tablets are becoming a popular option for college students. Tablets are lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry from class to class. As the most popular tablet on the market today, iPads have become a great option for college students.Also: The best Black Friday iPad dealsWhether you need a powerful option to run professional programs like the iPad Pro or a portable device to upload your books like the iPad Mini, an iPad will carry you far in your college career.What's the best iPad for college students right now?After ZDNET's hands-on testing along with considering functionality, performance, and battery life, the 5th generation iPad Air wins our pick for the best iPad for college students overall thanks to its powerful A1 chip, portability, and price. However, other models and generations are still well worth considering for back-to-school season. Sort by All The best iPads for college students in 2024 Show less This lightweight tablet can do everything -- including taking notes for college. Compatible with the Apple Pencil (second generation), the iPad Air makes it easy to take notes in class and watch seminars virtually if needed. Apple's products are largely customizable, and this is no different: you can opt for one of five colors and get more or less storage depending on what you need.In addition, you can also equip your iPad to use cellular data if Wi-Fi doesn't feel sufficient for classes. For students who might need to use their tablets while on the go often, a cellular data plan ensures you can always get online to access.Review:iPad Air (2022)ZDNET contributor, Jason Cipriani, went hands-on with the iPad Air and was impressed by its 2-in-1 compatibility thanks to the Apple Keyboard and Apple Pencil additions. "It's as powerful as the iPad Pro, but costs hundreds of dollars less -- even when you max out the storage -- with a display that's on par with the 11-inch iPad Pro," he wrote.Overall, 98% of Best Buy customers who bought the iPad Air would recommend it to others and gave it an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.iPad Air(5th generation)tech specs: Display: 10.9-inch Retina display|Processor: Apple Silicon M1 |Storage: 64GB or 256GB|Biometrics: Touch ID |Colors: Space gray, starlight, pink, purple, blue|Cameras: 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP Ultra Wide camera |Weight: 1.02 pounds|Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches |Connections: USB-C port|Battery life:10 hours Pros Apple M1 Chip Affordable option for amazing quality Fast USB-C connectivity Cons 64 GB isn't enough No SD card slot This lightweight tablet can do everything -- including taking notes for college. Compatible with the Apple Pencil (second generation), the iPad Air makes it easy to take notes in class and watch seminars virtually if needed. Apple's products are largely customizable, and this is no different: you can opt for one of five colors and get more or less storage depending on what you need.In addition, you can also equip your iPad to use cellular data if Wi-Fi doesn't feel sufficient for classes. For students who might need to use their tablets while on the go often, a cellular data plan ensures you can always get online to access.Review:iPad Air (2022)ZDNET contributor, Jason Cipriani, went hands-on with the iPad Air and was impressed by its 2-in-1 compatibility thanks to the Apple Keyboard and Apple Pencil additions. "It's as powerful as the iPad Pro, but costs hundreds of dollars less -- even when you max out the storage -- with a display that's on par with the 11-inch iPad Pro," he wrote.Overall, 98% of Best Buy customers who bought the iPad Air would recommend it to others and gave it an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.iPad Air(5th generation)tech specs: Display: 10.9-inch Retina display|Processor: Apple Silicon M1 |Storage: 64GB or 256GB|Biometrics: Touch ID |Colors: Space gray, starlight, pink, purple, blue|Cameras: 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP Ultra Wide camera |Weight: 1.02 pounds|Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches |Connections: USB-C port|Battery life:10 hours Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Apple's tried-and-true tablet, the base model iPad, is arguably the best design out of Apple's tablet lineup -- especially thanks to its versatility and compatibility. When it comes to features, you essentially get the same suite as the more expensive iPad Pro and iPad Air models, but in a more lightweight form factor and a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina, True Tone display. Plus, Apple recently reduced its price by $100, making it an affordable $349.Review:iPad 2022 (10th Gen)In his hands-on testing, June Wan determined that if you're shopping on a budget (as most students are), this iPad should "make the most sense," especially given the A14 Bionic processor, USB-C support, 5G support for on-the-go tasks, and a new 12MP ultra-wide camera. There's also aMagic Keyboard Foliomade specifically for this iPad, making it perfect for turning your tablet into a laptop in your dorm, library, or campus center with ease. Plus, it includes an adjustable kickstand with a 14-key function row for shortcuts.However, one callout to note that some verified customers make, is that this iPad doesn't support the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, which means you'll have to use a dongle in order to use it.Apple iPad specs: Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone|Processor: A14 Bionic chip with 16-core Neural Engine|Storage: 64GB or 256GB|Biometrics: Touch ID |Colors: Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow |Cameras: 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front |Weight: 1.05 pounds |Dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches |Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector |Battery life:Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging Value for money 9 Storage 5 Performance 9 Display quality 7 Battery life 9 Pros Affordable USB-C replaces lightning port Lots of colors to choose from Cons Isn't compatible with Smart Keyboard Folio Doesn't work with 2nd generation Apple Pencil Only available in 64GB and 256GB iPad (10th generation) Best iPad design for college students 3.9 / 5 Score Apple's tried-and-true tablet, the base model iPad, is arguably the best design out of Apple's tablet lineup -- especially thanks to its versatility and compatibility. When it comes to features, you essentially get the same suite as the more expensive iPad Pro and iPad Air models, but in a more lightweight form factor and a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina, True Tone display. Plus, Apple recently reduced its price by $100, making it an affordable $349.Review:iPad 2022 (10th Gen)In his hands-on testing, June Wan determined that if you're shopping on a budget (as most students are), this iPad should "make the most sense," especially given the A14 Bionic processor, USB-C support, 5G support for on-the-go tasks, and a new 12MP ultra-wide camera. There's also aMagic Keyboard Foliomade specifically for this iPad, making it perfect for turning your tablet into a laptop in your dorm, library, or campus center with ease. Plus, it includes an adjustable kickstand with a 14-key function row for shortcuts.However, one callout to note that some verified customers make, is that this iPad doesn't support the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, which means you'll have to use a dongle in order to use it.Apple iPad specs: Display: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone|Processor: A14 Bionic chip with 16-core Neural Engine|Storage: 64GB or 256GB|Biometrics: Touch ID |Colors: Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow |Cameras: 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front |Weight: 1.05 pounds |Dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches |Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector |Battery life:Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Apple's iPad Mini has an A15 Bionic chip, making it a powerful tablet packed into a small package. The iPad Mini was last updated in the fall of 2021 with new features like support for the 2nd gen Apple Pencil, a slightly bigger screen size, and a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.There's a spot on the right side of the tablet to charge the Apple Pencil, making it a great tablet to draw or write class notes on. Plus, the size makes it portable enough to bring wherever you need it around campus.ZDNET contributor Jason Cipriani went hands-on with the iPad Mini and said, "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't absolutely fascinated by it." "Its compact size is more manageable," Cipriani wrote. "I don't have to move my keyboard and mouse or trackpad out of the way to make room. Within a few hours, the iPad Mini quickly became my preferred device for taking notes."ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner also noted that "Compared to a phone, [the iPad Mini is] better for reading ebooks, PDFs, documents, news apps, and other digital content," meaning you won't have to lug around heavy textbooks from class to class--you can just slip your iPad Mini into your backpack.iPad Mini tech specs: Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display|Processor: A15 Bionic |Storage: 64GB or 256GB |Colors: Space gray, pink, purple, starlight|Cameras: 8MP rear, 1080p video. 12MP FaceTime camera with Center Stage |Weight: 0.65 pounds |Dimensions: 7.69 x 5.3 x 0.25 inches |Connections: USB-C |Battery life:10 hours Pros Battery life is impressive Sleek design Small size makes it easy to fit in a backpack Cons Not compatible with Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard Folio No UltraWide camera Apple's iPad Mini has an A15 Bionic chip, making it a powerful tablet packed into a small package. The iPad Mini was last updated in the fall of 2021 with new features like support for the 2nd gen Apple Pencil, a slightly bigger screen size, and a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.There's a spot on the right side of the tablet to charge the Apple Pencil, making it a great tablet to draw or write class notes on. Plus, the size makes it portable enough to bring wherever you need it around campus.ZDNET contributor Jason Cipriani went hands-on with the iPad Mini and said, "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't absolutely fascinated by it." "Its compact size is more manageable," Cipriani wrote. "I don't have to move my keyboard and mouse or trackpad out of the way to make room. Within a few hours, the iPad Mini quickly became my preferred device for taking notes."ZDNET editor-in-chief Jason Hiner also noted that "Compared to a phone, [the iPad Mini is] better for reading ebooks, PDFs, documents, news apps, and other digital content," meaning you won't have to lug around heavy textbooks from class to class--you can just slip your iPad Mini into your backpack.iPad Mini tech specs: Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display|Processor: A15 Bionic |Storage: 64GB or 256GB |Colors: Space gray, pink, purple, starlight|Cameras: 8MP rear, 1080p video. 12MP FaceTime camera with Center Stage |Weight: 0.65 pounds |Dimensions: 7.69 x 5.3 x 0.25 inches |Connections: USB-C |Battery life:10 hours Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less There is no doubt that the iPad Pro is powerful, thanks to its M4 chip. This chip upgrade comes with next-generation machine learning accelerators to handle a diverse range of tasks, and ProMotion technology, enabling variable screen refresh rates ranging from 10 to 120Hz.ZDNET reviews editor Kerry Wan spent some time with the 13-inch Apple iPad Pro and was especially impressed by the chip performance. "A more efficient processor means the iPad absolutely speeds through app load times, 4K video exports, detecting and cropping subjects out of images, and more," he wrote in his review.Review:iPad Pro (7th generation)Wan added that this tablet is perfect for content creation thanks to the iPad-iPhone-only workflow that feels less challenging than previous models. "This ultimately lowers the barrier to entry for videographers, digital artists, and other content creators, which is never a bad thing," he said.The Pro also supports the newApple Pencil Pro, which has a range of note-taking features, including a squeeze gesture for quick tool and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. It also pairs with the newly revampedMagic Keyboard,which is thinner and lighter, has a larger trackpad and a new row of function keys to make your iPad experience feel more like a MacBook experience--especially if you want to entirely replace your laptop with an iPad for schoolwork.Apple iPad Pro tech specs: Display: 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion|Processor: Apple Silicon M4 |Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB |Biometrics: Face ID |Colors: Silver, space black|Cameras: 12MP wide (4K, ProRes), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide|Weight: 1.23 pounds |Dimensions: 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.24 inches|Connections: USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4|Battery life:Up to 10 hours of surfing the web Pros Tandem OLED display gets plenty bright M4 processor is fast, reliable, and for everyone Strongest accessory ecosystem yet Cons Expensive choice for students Accessories that optimize workflow are sold separately There is no doubt that the iPad Pro is powerful, thanks to its M4 chip. This chip upgrade comes with next-generation machine learning accelerators to handle a diverse range of tasks, and ProMotion technology, enabling variable screen refresh rates ranging from 10 to 120Hz.ZDNET reviews editor Kerry Wan spent some time with the 13-inch Apple iPad Pro and was especially impressed by the chip performance. "A more efficient processor means the iPad absolutely speeds through app load times, 4K video exports, detecting and cropping subjects out of images, and more," he wrote in his review.Review:iPad Pro (7th generation)Wan added that this tablet is perfect for content creation thanks to the iPad-iPhone-only workflow that feels less challenging than previous models. "This ultimately lowers the barrier to entry for videographers, digital artists, and other content creators, which is never a bad thing," he said.The Pro also supports the newApple Pencil Pro, which has a range of note-taking features, including a squeeze gesture for quick tool and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. It also pairs with the newly revampedMagic Keyboard,which is thinner and lighter, has a larger trackpad and a new row of function keys to make your iPad experience feel more like a MacBook experience--especially if you want to entirely replace your laptop with an iPad for schoolwork.Apple iPad Pro tech specs: Display: 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion|Processor: Apple Silicon M4 |Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB |Biometrics: Face ID |Colors: Silver, space black|Cameras: 12MP wide (4K, ProRes), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide|Weight: 1.23 pounds |Dimensions: 11.09 x 8.48 x 0.24 inches|Connections: USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4|Battery life:Up to 10 hours of surfing the web Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less All college students know the importance of a college budget, and this 9th-generation iPad is perfect for those looking for a powerful Apple product with a budget of less than $400. You'll find many of the same features you'd expect from Apple's other tablets, like iPadOS updates for years and access to the App Store.Review:iPad (9th generation)While the 10th-generation iPad was announced in 2022, Wan said the 2021 version is still a good buy -- plus it's $120 cheaper. "Even if you're shopping for personal use, if your intended uses are mainly video streaming, note-taking, and playing tablet games, then the ninth-generation iPad should suffice," Wan said.While this iPad doesn't feature the near-borderless design as some of the newer units included in this list, with a 10.2-inch display, there is still plenty of room to draw or write with your Apple Pencil and connect the Smart Keyboard to transform your iPad experience.One Reddit user noted that the older design wasn't a deterrent in buying the 9th-gen iPad: "The non-laminated display is honestly not a deal-breaker, and it's definitely not as bad as tech reviewers make it out to be."Apple iPad (9th generation) tech specs: Display: 10.2-inch with True Tone|Processor: A13 Bionic chip|Storage: 64GB or 256GB|Biometrics: Touch ID |Colors: Silver and space grey |Cameras: 8MP f/2.4 back, 12MP Ultra Wide f/2.4 front|Weight: 1.08 pounds |Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x .29 inches |Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector |Battery life:Up to 10 hours Pros Front camera features Center Stage technology Can use multiple apps at once Affordable price for a lot of storage Cons Back camera could use some work Slightly heavier than the other options All college students know the importance of a college budget, and this 9th-generation iPad is perfect for those looking for a powerful Apple product with a budget of less than $400. You'll find many of the same features you'd expect from Apple's other tablets, like iPadOS updates for years and access to the App Store.Review:iPad (9th generation)While the 10th-generation iPad was announced in 2022, Wan said the 2021 version is still a good buy -- plus it's $120 cheaper. "Even if you're shopping for personal use, if your intended uses are mainly video streaming, note-taking, and playing tablet games, then the ninth-generation iPad should suffice," Wan said.While this iPad doesn't feature the near-borderless design as some of the newer units included in this list, with a 10.2-inch display, there is still plenty of room to draw or write with your Apple Pencil and connect the Smart Keyboard to transform your iPad experience.One Reddit user noted that the older design wasn't a deterrent in buying the 9th-gen iPad: "The non-laminated display is honestly not a deal-breaker, and it's definitely not as bad as tech reviewers make it out to be."Apple iPad (9th generation) tech specs: Display: 10.2-inch with True Tone|Processor: A13 Bionic chip|Storage: 64GB or 256GB|Biometrics: Touch ID |Colors: Silver and space grey |Cameras: 8MP f/2.4 back, 12MP Ultra Wide f/2.4 front|Weight: 1.08 pounds |Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x .29 inches |Connections: USB-C, Smart Connector |Battery life:Up to 10 hours Read More Show Expert Take Show less Former ZDNET contributors Josh Slate and Lena Borrelli also contributed to this story.What is the best iPad for students? Powered by the Apple M1 chip and a Liquid Retina display with True Tone, it's hard to argue that there is a better iPad for students than this iPad Air. From its slim, sleek design available in an array of colors to its powerful capabilities internally, this iPad gives you the "wow" factor with its usage and price.Though the iPad Air is our top pick, there are still plenty of good options in Apple's fleet of tablets. The table below compares the five iPads by a few of their key features.Best iPads for college studentsCostScreen sizeChipiPad Air (5th generation)$59910.9 inchesM1iPad (10th generation)$34910.9 inchesA14 BioniciPad Mini (6th generation)$4998.3 inchesA15 BioniciPad Pro (7th generation)Starting at $99911 inches or 13 inchesM4iPad (9th generation)$32910.2 inchesA13 Bionic*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons. Show more Which iPad for students is right for you? There is an abundance of factors that go into the decision when purchasing anything, especially high-quality tech. From surfing the web to editing high-quality videos and pictures, iPads can seemingly do it all. Consider this table when deciding which iPad will be the next addition to your backpack.Choose thisiPad for studentsIf you wantiPad AirThe best iPad for students on the market. It's super lightweight and has many of the same features as the iPad Pro, but for less money.iPad (10th generation)A reliable iPad with a sleek design. There's also a Magic Keyboard Folio made specifically for this iPad.iPad MiniA smaller tablet that is still highly capable. It's size makes it a great replacement to lugging around textbooks in your backpack.iPad ProAn iPad that can fuel your passion for content creation. Its M4 chip makes performance faster and better than ever, great for multi-tasking between software programs.iPad (9th generation)To save a little money with an older, but still capable iPad. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an iPad for college: Between the four different iPad model variations (iPad base model, the Pro, Air, and Mini), there are many capable features that makes decision making, especially for students, even tougher.Chip:Apple's signature processor comes in a few different forms. Its M2 chip is the latest and greatest, offering lightning-fast performance, but our team at ZDNET has also greatly appreciated the M1 chip in our testing.Screen size: iPads are available in a variety of screen sizes, running anywhere from less than 8.5 inches to 13 inches. As a college student, you may prefer a larger screen, but a smaller size lends better to portability.Storage:An iPad is more limited in its storage than a Mac, so be sure to consider the amount of storage that comes with your chosen iPad. College students generally deal with a lot of files, but if this is a device supplementary to your computer or laptop, then storage is not typically such a concern.Cost:Apple products are not the cheapest, but you will find a lower price tag with the iPad line. The cost of the best iPads for college students ranges from about $350 to $729, depending on the model you choose. Show more How we test tablets The ZDNET team chose all of the tablets included in this list based on their performance whentested in the real world. When we test tablets, we typically follow the same routine for each one to see which performs best.Display: We measure the brightness level in different lighting conditions and assess color accuracy.We also compare the display's performance with what the manufacturer promised, test the screen's responsiveness to touch, and assess the performance of any extra features, like a manufacturer's stylus.Performance:For real-world performance metrics, our reviewers measure how quickly the tablet reacts to input, assess game performance and frame rates, test how the tablet handles having multiple apps running simultaneously, measure the time it takes to launch apps, and even assess the tablet's temperature during intensive tasks.Battery life: We test different scenarios for battery life, including measuring how long the battery lasts while streaming, web browsing, using productivity apps, and playing games.Camera and audio:For cameras, we evaluate features like resolution, aperture, low-light performance, autofocus accuracy, dynamic range, color accuracy, image quality, sharpness, and video quality. For audio, we look at the sound quality and overall listening experience, including audio clarity at different volumes, stereo separation of left and right audio channels, maximum volume level in various environments, and if there is perceived distortion.For a deeper look into our testing process, check out our comprehensivetablet testing methodology. Show more When do iPads go on sale? The best time to snag a deal on an iPad is during big sales events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday. This year, Black Friday happens on Friday, Nov. 29, with Cyber Monday happening Monday, Dec. 2. Last year, we saw discounts on Apple and other big-named brands of up to 40% off during this shopping weekend. Show more FAQs on iPads for college Should I get an iPad or a laptop for college? Generally, tablets are cheaper than laptops since they have less processing capabilities and storage options. It really depends on your major and what classes you are taking if you opt for a tablet over a laptop. For example, English majors could probably get by with an iPad instead of a laptop, while an engineering student will most likely need a laptop to work with specific programs. Show more Do college students get discounts on iPads? Apple offers several student discount optionswhen you purchase an iPad with a verified college email address. Students can get anywhere from $50-$100 off popular iPad models. Apple and other retailers also offer deals on tablets to students closer to graduation or back-to-school season, so always keep an eye out for those deals. Show more Do iPad covers fit all iPads? No. Much like phone cases, the size and layout of these iPads change with every model that is released. But, you can find cases for any line of iPad at places like Best Buy, Amazon, and Target. Show more What is the best iPad stylus? The best iPad stylus is the Apple Pencil, which is made for the iPad. Be sure to consider which generation of the Apple Pencil is compatible with whatever iPad you choose, especially since the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen and the Apple Pencil Pro are compatible with only certain iPad models.However, Adonit is also a brand that caters to iPads only, so if you want more unique features or stylus colors, you can consider that as well. Show more Alternative products we recommend Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

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The moment home internet rolled out, the way we communicate, work, study, and entertain ourselves changed forever. The lines separating our physical and digital identities blurred. We use the web daily, and our mobile devices hold the keys to everything from our social media profiles to our bank accounts.You can't often control the flow of information that leads to your personal data being exposed online. Although you can and shouldlock down your individual accounts, sometimes you may feel compelled to take an extra step to improve your online security and privacy.One way to reduce your digital footprint and protect yourself from being so easy to find -- or impersonate -- is to overhaul all the services you useand delete anything you no longer want.Also: How to delete yourself from internet search results and hide your identity onlineOld shopping accounts and social media profiles, mailing list subscriptions, and legacy online service accounts can clutter your email inboxes and, over time, become annoying or embarrassing. Those with ill intentions may also link them together, increasing your risk of identity theft.Organizations that hold on to your data without cause need to be compelled to delete it. Rather than trying to track the details of each service online that holds onto your data, dedicated services shoulder this task for you.What's the best service for deleting yourself from the internet right now?Based on our extensive research, ZDNET's top pick for a service for deleting yourself from the internet is Incogni. Amassing many positive customer reviews, Surfshark's Incogni tackles data removal and data brokers on your behalf and will enforce these requests using applicable data protection laws. Incogni has a holiday promotion in which you pay the equivalent of $7.49/month if you sign up for an annual plan.Below, you will find more services we recommend to reduce your online footprint and remove your data from the internet in 2024. Sort by All The best services for deleting yourself from the internet in 2024 Show less View now at Incogni Surfshark's Incogni is a great service for removing yourself from the internet and negotiating with data brokers, and as such, it is our top pick.Once you've signed up, Incogni will send removal requests to a wide array of data brokers and enforce these requests using applicable privacy laws, including GDPR and the CCPA.The company says that most requests are handled within eight weeks, although some may require action from you. Incogni will also tackle shadow profiles on your behalf.Regarding pricing, Incogni offers monthly or annual plans. If you opt for an individual monthly plan, you will pay $14.98/month. If you want to pay once a year, Incogni's services will cost you $77.78 or $7.49/month. Family plans start at $16.49/month. Use the voucher codeHDAY24for additional discounts.If you're unsure how much information you need to be removed from the internet, you could opt for the monthly plan and consider a clean-up once or twice a year. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you find less related to you than you first believed, this service is a great try-before-you-buy option.Incogni has some of the best customer feedback of all our recommendations. Customers say they feel the benefit of reduced spam calls and emails and that data is removed quickly. That said, some reports may not provide as much in-depth information as some users want.Incogni features:Data broker management| Data removal request follow-ups| Limited reports| Shadow profile detection| User education resources | Individual and family plans | 30-day money-back guarantee Pros Automatic data removal Utilizes data privacy laws Affordable Reduces spam calls Cons Reports could be more detailed Surfshark's Incogni is a great service for removing yourself from the internet and negotiating with data brokers, and as such, it is our top pick.Once you've signed up, Incogni will send removal requests to a wide array of data brokers and enforce these requests using applicable privacy laws, including GDPR and the CCPA.The company says that most requests are handled within eight weeks, although some may require action from you. Incogni will also tackle shadow profiles on your behalf.Regarding pricing, Incogni offers monthly or annual plans. If you opt for an individual monthly plan, you will pay $14.98/month. If you want to pay once a year, Incogni's services will cost you $77.78 or $7.49/month. Family plans start at $16.49/month. Use the voucher codeHDAY24for additional discounts.If you're unsure how much information you need to be removed from the internet, you could opt for the monthly plan and consider a clean-up once or twice a year. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you find less related to you than you first believed, this service is a great try-before-you-buy option.Incogni has some of the best customer feedback of all our recommendations. Customers say they feel the benefit of reduced spam calls and emails and that data is removed quickly. That said, some reports may not provide as much in-depth information as some users want.Incogni features:Data broker management| Data removal request follow-ups| Limited reports| Shadow profile detection| User education resources | Individual and family plans | 30-day money-back guarantee Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at DeleteMe DeleteMe has earned many positive customer reviews, and it's easy to see why. This user-friendly option will help you remove sensitive and personal information from online sources and data brokers while saving you time and effort.Once you've submitted your information, the organization will search for it online and send removal requests to third parties holding your data. Within seven days, you will receive a report outlining DeleteMe's progress. The company says that, on average, 15 listings of public data belonging to a subject that is searchable via Google are removed within "days."You can also take advantage of other features, including email and phone masking. As a bonus, in 2024, this serviceexpanded beyond the US and now covers areas including Europe and Canada.DeleteMe offers a range of plans. These include a subscription for one person, for one year at $10.75/month, or for two years at $8.71/month. Other subscriptions include a two-person plan for two years, priced at $14.54/month. Family plans begin at $20.79/month.You can also use DeleteMe's guides if you want to take on the job yourself. Many customers say the service exceeds expectations, but the upfront cost can be daunting.DeleteMe features:Data broker management| Data deletion request handling| Scanning| User interface| Privacy reports | Custom removal requests | Email and phone masking | Opt-outs Pros Great user interface Privacy reports Family plans available DIY guides Cons No free trial DeleteMe has earned many positive customer reviews, and it's easy to see why. This user-friendly option will help you remove sensitive and personal information from online sources and data brokers while saving you time and effort.Once you've submitted your information, the organization will search for it online and send removal requests to third parties holding your data. Within seven days, you will receive a report outlining DeleteMe's progress. The company says that, on average, 15 listings of public data belonging to a subject that is searchable via Google are removed within "days."You can also take advantage of other features, including email and phone masking. As a bonus, in 2024, this serviceexpanded beyond the US and now covers areas including Europe and Canada.DeleteMe offers a range of plans. These include a subscription for one person, for one year at $10.75/month, or for two years at $8.71/month. Other subscriptions include a two-person plan for two years, priced at $14.54/month. Family plans begin at $20.79/month.You can also use DeleteMe's guides if you want to take on the job yourself. Many customers say the service exceeds expectations, but the upfront cost can be daunting.DeleteMe features:Data broker management| Data deletion request handling| Scanning| User interface| Privacy reports | Custom removal requests | Email and phone masking | Opt-outs Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Kanary Kanary is another excellent service for cleaning up your online information. Kanary tries to remove search links, data dumps, and sensitive information from the web, all in a 90-day timeline for most removals.Once you've added your personal data to a user interface or multiple profiles for family members, Kanary will review removal requests and start working on your behalf, although some requests may require manual handling.A free service is also available, Kanary Copilot. Currently available on iOS (with an Android waiting list), this app is designed to help you combat stalking and doxxing.Kanary offers a deal for families. There is a free, limited plan that includes a 14-day trial of premium features, an individual plan for $14.99 per month, or family members can be added to the $16.99 per month premium plan for an additional $8.49 per month (or $7.49 per month on annual plans).Customer feedback indicates that this service is reliable, reports are clear and concise, and the service is valuable for the money.Kanary features:User dashboard| Frequent scanning| Family plans | Data removal request management| Strong security standards| Personalized dashboards | Data broker management | Copilot Pros Excellent features Family plans Affordable Free trial Cons Some requests require manual review Kanary is another excellent service for cleaning up your online information. Kanary tries to remove search links, data dumps, and sensitive information from the web, all in a 90-day timeline for most removals.Once you've added your personal data to a user interface or multiple profiles for family members, Kanary will review removal requests and start working on your behalf, although some requests may require manual handling.A free service is also available, Kanary Copilot. Currently available on iOS (with an Android waiting list), this app is designed to help you combat stalking and doxxing.Kanary offers a deal for families. There is a free, limited plan that includes a 14-day trial of premium features, an individual plan for $14.99 per month, or family members can be added to the $16.99 per month premium plan for an additional $8.49 per month (or $7.49 per month on annual plans).Customer feedback indicates that this service is reliable, reports are clear and concise, and the service is valuable for the money.Kanary features:User dashboard| Frequent scanning| Family plans | Data removal request management| Strong security standards| Personalized dashboards | Data broker management | Copilot Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at PrivacyBee PrivacyBee is another service that can track where your information is and act on your behalf to remove it from companies you don't trust, plus data brokers.The service also checks and monitors search results to remove sensitive information. Furthermore, you can download a browser extension that displays your data relationship with the sites you visit.The company can also remove you from marketing databases to reduce the volume of spam and mass emails you receive and takes a proactive approach to handling your information.Pricing begins at $197 per year, which is an expensive up-front cost that may deter some customers. Family plans are also available. Still, reviews suggest that the service is secure and thorough.PrivacyBee features:Company checks| Data deletion| Data broker management| Privacy browser extension| User dashboard| Mass marketing opt-outs |24/7 monitoring | Search engine cleanup Pros Browser extension Privacy monitoring Select trusted companies Cons No free trial Expensive PrivacyBee is another service that can track where your information is and act on your behalf to remove it from companies you don't trust, plus data brokers.The service also checks and monitors search results to remove sensitive information. Furthermore, you can download a browser extension that displays your data relationship with the sites you visit.The company can also remove you from marketing databases to reduce the volume of spam and mass emails you receive and takes a proactive approach to handling your information.Pricing begins at $197 per year, which is an expensive up-front cost that may deter some customers. Family plans are also available. Still, reviews suggest that the service is secure and thorough.PrivacyBee features:Company checks| Data deletion| Data broker management| Privacy browser extension| User dashboard| Mass marketing opt-outs |24/7 monitoring | Search engine cleanup Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Reputation Defender Reputation Defender by Norton is a tailored service offered to individuals, professionals, executives, and businesses.This service differs from our other recommendations: it's a personal offering that focuses on managing and cleaning up reputations, which could include online data removal and deletion of information held by data brokers and people-search websites.Norton's offering includes data management, reputation management, personal branding assistance, privacy alerts, regular scanning, and search result management.Prices for Reputation Defender by Norton are available upon request, as the work is personalized to your circumstances. The company offers a free consultation, and customers say the support team handles sensitive situations well.Reputation Defender features:Personal service| Reputation management| Personal branding| Search result monitoring| Data deletion| Personal consultation | Privacy threat reports | Tackles newsarticles Pros Personalized services Reputable company Patented technology Free consultation Cons Prices unavailable publicly Reputation Defender by Norton is a tailored service offered to individuals, professionals, executives, and businesses.This service differs from our other recommendations: it's a personal offering that focuses on managing and cleaning up reputations, which could include online data removal and deletion of information held by data brokers and people-search websites.Norton's offering includes data management, reputation management, personal branding assistance, privacy alerts, regular scanning, and search result management.Prices for Reputation Defender by Norton are available upon request, as the work is personalized to your circumstances. The company offers a free consultation, and customers say the support team handles sensitive situations well.Reputation Defender features:Personal service| Reputation management| Personal branding| Search result monitoring| Data deletion| Personal consultation | Privacy threat reports | Tackles newsarticles Read More Show Expert Take Show less What are the best services for deleting yourself from the internet? Below, you will find some of the main features of each of our recommendations.Best data removal servicePriceConducts data removal/opt-out requests?Free trial?Personalized solutions?Incogni$7.49+/monthXxDeleteMe$8.71+/monthX (scan only)xKanaryFree or $15+/month (limited free plan)xPrivacyBee$197/yearX (scan only)xReputation Defender by NortonOn requestX Show more Which is the right service for deleting yourself from the internet for you? Choose this top data removal service...If you wantIncogniOur top pick for an affordable solution to protect yourself and your data. Incogni provides a one-stop-shop solution for data protection and managing data brokers.DeleteMeTo have information removed from search engines. You submit the information you want removed, and DeleteMe will do the rest. DeleteMe is a great choice for in-depth data removal.KanaryProtection for more than one person. Kanary provides great value for families that want their personal data monitored online. 90 days should be enough for most data removal requests.PrivacyBeeTo choose what companies you trust. PrivacyBee allows you to select companies you are comfortable holding your data, as well as select organizations that you want to delete your information from their records.Reputation Defender by NortonA reputation manager. Reputation Defender is best suited to high-profile individuals and businesses that need constant data leak monitoring and reputation protection. Show more How did we choose these services for reducing your online footprint? When choosing the best services for deleting yourself from the internet, we considered a number of factors, including:Price: While selecting the best services, we wanted to provide various options, including affordable subscriptions and plans. Depending on your needs, signing up can be a long-term investment, so we have included a variety of data removal solutions with different price points and contract periods.Removal: We focused on services that can scan, monitor, and check online databases and data broker repositories for your personal information and then work on your behalf to have it removed. After all, if you're paying for a service, you should be able to expect the challenging parts of the process to be handled for you.Protection: The services listed above also include protective features that may reduce the likelihood of personalized spam calls and phishing emails, as well as trolling, stalking, or identity theft. You may also want, for example, to combine automatic data removal with data breach alerts and antivirus software.Frequency: We also ensure that our recommended services can conduct frequent scans on your behalf. While you may just want one check and deletion, our information is constantly changing hands -- and this means that your data could reappear online eventually.Reports: The services we recommend will often provide reports with each scan to keep you updated on where your data was found, what has been deleted, and potentially what your next steps should be.Free trials and features: We have included data removal solutions that offer free reports and snapshots of your data exposure, allowing you to make the right choice before signing up for a plan. While free trials are uncommon, some of our recommendations offer free, limited plans or trial periods. Show more FAQs on how to delete yourself from the internet How do I delete myself from internet search results? There are numerous steps you can take to stop your name from appearing in internet search results and through engines, including Google and Bing, but it can be a complicated and time-consuming process. Below are some steps to help you get started.Use a search engine: Your first action should be to type in your name, nicknames, and online handles into search engines. This step will reveal the information that anyone can easily find on you and can help you plan your next steps, including which companies you may need to contact to have data removed or what accounts to delete.Lock down or delete social media accounts: Deletion is the nuclear option, but most social media platforms will have an option to stop your profile from appearing in search engine results. As our profiles -- even if they are publicly limited -- can contain our photos, full name, and more, removing them from search engine queries can help reduce our online footprint. For step-by-step guides, visit Facebook,Instagram, and X.Delete old, unused accounts: Whether it's shopping sites, social media networks, or forums, each service you use -- or have used -- may tie your online identity to your name, nicknames, or PII, all of which could be at risk if a data breach occurs. If you do not want to use a dedicated service, consider going through your email and password managers to find active accounts. You will need to access them and request removal manually.Clean up forum posts: Forums can often be overlooked, but if someone finds out the handles you commonly use, they may be able to find content connected to you -- which could now be completely irrelevant to the person you are today, or embarrassing if exposed. Delete old forum posts and preferably remove your accounts entirely.Contact webmasters: If you have old accounts that do not have auto-delete features, contact webmasters directly to have your profiles and data deleted. This process will likely be easier if you are in an area covered by regulations such as the EU's GDPR.Request that people finder websites delete your information: People finder websites can be used as "search engines" to look up someone based on their name, phone number, and other personal information, which can be a privacy nightmare. Opting out and forcing the removal of your information from these organizations, which may buy it from data brokers, can be a challenging process to perform manually as it may require contacting each service individually to negotiate. If these organizations prove to be difficult, deletion could also require an understanding of applicable privacy and data protection laws to enforce your requests. Consider using a service such as Incogni or DeleteMe to do the legwork for you.Deactivate email accounts: Our email accounts tend to be the core platform that ties your digital profile together, but once they're gone, they're gone. When you are ready, delete your email accounts, which will break the common threads between your online services. Only take this step if you are sure. Show more Can I remove my personal information from Google search? You can, although the process is limited and your request may be rejected if the company doesn't believe there are grounds for removal.You will need to contact Google using this form, requesting to remove information you see or asking to prevent information from appearing in Google search results. Removal requests can also be made for:Exposed personal identifiable information (PII)Explicit images, including adult contentInvoluntary, fake pornographyImages of minorsInformation from websites with "exploitive" removal practices, such as those that demand paymentIn some cases -- for example, a request to remove links to law enforcement statements or media articles concerning an individual and a prosecution -- Google may refuse, as such information could be in the public interest. If Google refuses, it will provide a reason for its decision. Show more How can I protect my identity online? There are numerous ways you can protect your identity online. Experts recommend securing personal information, locking down your social media accounts to friends and connections only, using antivirus software, regularly updating programs and software, and changing your passwords on a regular basis.Furthermore, if you find "clones" of your identity -- such as a fake Facebook or dating app profile -- ensure you report the fake account to associated online services.If you suspect your data has been leaked online, use the Have I Been Pwned service to see if you have been involved in any data breaches. Show more How do I quickly clean my name off social media? To remove your name from social media, you'll have to follow some basic steps. First, change your name to a nickname or surname that isn't linked to your true name. This should ensure that photos or linked content will also change.Next, switching all of your content to private can keep it away from search engines and individual search queries. You can also delete all of your accounts, and potentially file a Google request to remove content connected to you (although this is not always going to be accepted, especially if such information is considered in the public interest.) Show more How do I hide what I search for on the internet? The majority of search engines will log your search queries, and some will use this information to tailor ads and recommendations. If you want to keep your search queries hidden, we recommend using DuckDuckGo, which offers a free search engine that does not log your activities -- or, for extra privacy, use its browser. Show more How do I find out if my information has been leaked online? The easiest way is to visit Troy Hunt'sHaveIBeenPwnedto see the vast troves of data posted online due to company data breaches. Once you have entered your email address, the search engine will reveal if you have been involved in any third-party information leaks. Show more How do I remove my information from the dark web? There's no easy way, and unfortunately, it is often outside our control.Instead of chasing removal, the best thing you can do is to see what information has been leaked and make it redundant. For example, if an email and password combination for an online service has been exposed, change it immediately for that service -- as well as any other platforms using the same set -- and never use that combination again. Using multi-factor authentication can also prevent your online accounts from being compromised. Show more Are personal data removal services worth it? It is worth it as online threats, phishing, and impersonation are now fixed and permanent problems in our lives. This may be especially true for anyone who grew up oversharing and before we understood that once something is online, it is usually there forever. If you want to mask problematic information and cut the links that connect you between different online services, investing in a personal data removal service -- at least, for a while -- is worth the cost. Show more Are there alternative services for deleting yourself from the internet worth considering? While the services above for deleting yourself from the internet are ZDNET's top picks and are what we consider to be the best solutions on the market, there are many other options available. Here are other choices that might suit what you're looking for. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

NurPhoto/Getty ImagesWith the holiday season upon us, many companies are finding ways to take advantage through deals, promotions, or other campaigns. OpenAI has found a way to participate with its "12 days of OpenAI" event series.OpenAI announced via an X post that starting on Dec. 5, the company would host 12 days of live streams and release "a bunch of new things, big and small," according to the post. The company saved the best for last, sharing its biggest annoouncemnt on Friday, Dec. 20, the last day of the series.Also: I'm a ChatGPT power user - here's why Canvas is its best productivity featureHere's everything you need to know about the campaign, as well as a round-up of every day's drops.What are the '12 days of OpenAI'?OpenAI CEO Sam Altman shared more details about the event, which kicked off at 10 a.m. PT on Dec. 5 and occurred daily for 12 weekdays with a live stream featuring a launch or demo. The launches included both "big ones" or "stocking stuffers," according to Altman.What's dropped?Friday, December 20On the last day of OpenAI, OpenAI unveiled its latest models, o3, which encompass o3 and o3 mini.As previously reported,the reason for the name that skips "o2" is the existence of Telefonica's O2 telecommunications brand, which could cause confusion and copyright issues.OpenAI said that the technology will not be available to the general public yet.o3 can outperform o1 in a variety of benchmarks, including math and science, as seen in its performance on the AIME 2024, a competition math benchmark, and the GPQA, a Ph.D. level science benchmark with biology, physics, and chemistry questions.o3 also scored a new state-of-the-art score on the ARC-AGI benchmark, which is significant because it shows the model is nearing AGI, although, to be clear, it is not there yet.o3 mini is a new model in the o3 family that will support three reasoning options: low, medium, and high. The thinking time determines the performance. At a low level, it performs the same as o1-mini on the Codeforces Competition Code benchmark, but at medium and high, it can perform comparable to o1, if not better. This performance remained consistent across other evals.In addition to internal safety testing, OpenAI is, for the first time, opening up the o3 models to external safety testing. Safety researchers can get early access to the model by filling out a form on the OpenAI website, which will be open until January 10.Sam Altman concluded the live stream by sharing that the o3 model is planned to launch at the end of January, and the full o3 model will be launched after that.The company also introduced deliberative alignment, "a training paradigm that directly teaches reasoning LLMs the text of human-written and interpretable safety specifications, and trains them to reason explicitly about these specifications before answering," according to OpenAI.Thursday, December 19On the second to last day of '12 days of OpenAI,' the company focused on releases regarding its MacOS desktop app and its interoperability with other apps.Users can now use the desktop app on MacOS to see and automate their work with ChatGPT. There will be more releases of this nature in 2025, but until then, OpenAI has been introducing the three features below.Using the "Work with Apps" button, users can now work with many more coding apps. The list includes: BBEdit, MatLab, Nova, Script Editor, TextMate, Android Studio, AppCode, CLion, DataGrip, GoLand, IntelliJ IDEA, PHPStorm, PyCharm, RubyMine, RustRover, WebStorm, Prompt, and Warp.For users who use ChatGPT for writing, the desktop app now supports Apple Notes, Quip, and Notion.Lastly, the desktop app for MacOS now supports Advanced Voice Mode while working with other apps.Features have already been shipped. All you have to do is have the latest version of the MacOS app and a Plus, Pro, Team, Enterprise, and Edu subscription.To ease privacy concerns, OpenAI says ChatGPT will only work with apps when manually prompted. When the feature is active, users know what will be attached to the message."Day 12, we have something super special, so don't miss it," teased OpenAI about its upcoming Friday release.Wednesday, December 18Have you ever wanted to use ChatGPT without a Wi-Fi connection? Now, all you have to do is place a phone call. Here's what OpenAI released on the 10th day:By dialing 1-800-ChatGPT, you can now access the chatbot via a toll-free number. OpenAI encourages users to save ChatGPT in their contacts for easy access. Users can call anywhere in the US; in other countries, users can message ChatGPT on WhatsApp. Users get 15 minutes of free ChatGPT calls per month.In WhatsApp, users can enter a prompt via a text as they would with any other person in their contacts. In this experience, it is just a text message.The phone call feature works on any phone, from a smartphone to a flip phone -- even a rotary phone. The presenters said it is meant to make ChatGPT more accessible to more users.Tuesday, December 17The releases on the ninth day all focus on developer features and updates, dubbed "Mini Dev Day." These launches include: The o1 model is finally out of preview in the API with support for function calling, structured outputs, developer messages, vision capabilities, and lower latency, according to the company.o1 in the API also features a new parameter: "reasoning effort." This parameter allows developers to tell the model how much effort is put into formulating an answer, which helps with cost efficiency.OpenAI also introduced WebRTC support for the Realtime API, which makes it easier for developers "to build and scale real-time voice products across platforms."The Realtime API also got a 60% audio token price drop, support for GPT-4o mini, and more control over responses.The fine-tuning API now supports Preference Fine-Tuning, which allows users to "Optimize the model to favor desired behavior by reinforcing preferred responses and reducing the likelihood of unpreferred ones," according to OpenAI. OpenAI also introduced new Go and Java SDKs in beta.An "AMA" (ask me anything) session will be held for an hour after the live stream on the OpenAI GitHub platform with the presenters.Monday, December 16The drops for the second Monday in the 12 days of OpenAI series all focused on Search in ChatGPT.The AI search engine is available to all users starting today, including all free users who are signed in anywhere they can access ChatGPT. The feature was previously only available to ChatGPT Plus users.The search experience, which allows users to browse the web from ChatGPT, got faster and better on mobile and now has an enriched map experience. The upgrades include image-rich visual results.Search is integrated into Advance Voice mode, meaning you can now search as you talk to ChatGPT. To activate this feature, just activate Advance Voice the same way you regularly would and ask it your query verbally. It will then answer your query verbally by pulling from the web.OpenAI also teased developers, saying, "Tomorrow is for you," and calling the upcoming livestream a "mini Dev Day."Friday, December 13One of OpenAI's most highly requested features has been an organizational feature to better keep track of your conversations. On Friday, OpenAI delivered a new feature called "Projects."Projects is a new way to organize and customize your chats in ChatGPT, meant to be a part of continuing to optimize the core experience of ChatGPT.When creating a Project, you can include a title, a customized folder color, relevant project files, instructions for ChatGPT on how it can best help you with the project, and more in one place.In the Project, you can start a chat and add previous chats from the sidebar to your Project. It can also answer questions using your context in a regular chat format. The chats can be saved in the Project, making it easier to pick up your conversations later and know exactly what to look for where.It will be rolled out to Plus, Pro, and Teams users starting today. OpenAI says it's coming to free users as soon as possible. Enterprise and Edu users will see it rolled out early next year.Thursday, December 12When the live stream started, OpenAI addressed the elephant in the room -- the fact that the company's live stream went down the day before. OpenAI apologized for the inconvenience and said its team is working on a post-mortem to be posted later.Then it got straight into the news -- another highly-anticipated announcement:Advanced Voice Mode now has screen-sharing and visual capabilities, meaning it can assist with the context of what it is viewing, whether that be from your phone camera or what's on your screen.These capabilities build on what Advanced Voice could already do very well -- engaging in casual conversation as a human would. The natural-like conversations can be interrupted, have multi-turns, and understand non-linear trains of thought.In the demo, the user gets directions from ChatGPT's Advanced Voice on how to make a cup of coffee. As the demoer goes through the steps, ChatGPT is verbally offering insights and directions.There's another bonus for the Christmas season: Users can access a new Santa voice. To activate it, all users have to do is click on the snowflake icon. Santa is rolling out throughout today everywhere that users can access ChatGPT voice mode. The first time you talk to Santa, your usage limits reset, even if you have reached the limit already, so you can have a conversation with him.Video and screen sharing are rolling out in the latest mobile apps starting today and throughout next week to all Team users and most Pro and Plus subscribers. Pro and Plus subscribers in Europe will get access "as soon as we can," and Enterprise and Edu users will get access early next year.Wednesday, December 11Apple released iOS 18.2on Wednesday. The release includes integrations with ChatGPT across Siri, Writing Tools, and Visual Intelligence. As a result, the live stream focused on walking through the integration.Siri can now recognize when you ask questions outside its scope that could benefit from being answered by ChatGPT instead. In those instances, it will ask if you'd like to process the query using ChatGPT. Before any request is sent to ChatGPT, a message notifying the user and asking for permission will always appear, placing control in the user's hands as much as possible.Visual Intelligence refers to a new feature for the iPhone 16 lineup that users can access by tapping the Camera Control button. Once the camera is open, users can point it at something and search the web with Google, or use ChatGPT to learn more about what they are viewing or perform other tasks such as translating or summarizing text.Writing Tools now features a new "Compose" tool, which allows users to create text from scratch by leveraging ChatGPT. With the feature, users can even generate images using DALL-E.All of the above features are subject to ChatGPT's daily usage limits, the same way that users would reach limits while using the free version of the model on ChatGPT. Users can choose whether or not to enable the ChatGPT integration in Settings.Read more about it here: iOS 18.2 rolls out to iPhones: Try these 6 new AI features todayTuesday, December 10Canvas is coming to all web users, regardless of plan, in GPT-4o, meaning it is no longer just available in beta for ChatGPT Plus users.Canvas has been built into GPT-4o natively, meaning you can just call on Canvas instead of having to go to the toggle on the model selector.The Canvas interface is the same as what users saw in beta in ChatGPT Plus, with a table on the left hand side that shows the Q+A exchange and a right-hand tab that shows your project, displaying all of the edits as they go, as well as shortcuts.Canvas can also be used with custom GPTs. It is turned on by default when creating a new one, and there is an option to add Canvas to existing GPTs.Canvas also has the ability to run Python code directly in Canvas, allowing ChatGPT to execute coding tasks such as fixing bugs.Read more about it here:I'm a ChatGPT power user - and Canvas is still my favorite productivity feature a month laterMonday, December 9OpenAI teased the third-day announcement as "something you've been waiting for," followed by the much-anticipated drop of its video model -- Sora. Here's what you need to know:Known as Sora Turbo, the video model is smarter than the February model that was previewed.Access is coming in the US later today; users need only ChatGPT Plus and Pro.Sora can generate video-to-video, text-to-video, and more.ChatGPT Plus users can generate up to 50 videos per month at 480p resolution or fewer videos at 720p. The Pro Plan offers 10x more usage.The new model is smarter and cheaper than the previewed February model.Sora features an explore page where users can view each other's creations. Users can click on any video to see how it was created.A live demo showed the model in use. The demo-ers entered a prompt and picked aspect ratio, duration, and even presets. I found the live demo video results to be realistic and stunning.OpenAI also unveiled Storyboard, a tool that lets users generate inputs for every frame in a sequence.Friday, December 6:On the second day of "shipmas," OpenAI expanded access to its Reinforcement Fine-Tuning Research Program:The Reinforcement Fine-Tuning program allows developers and machine learning engineers to fine-tune OpenAI models to "excel at specific sets of complex, domain-specific tasks," according to OpenAI.Reinforcement Fine-Tuning refers to a customization technique in which developers can define a model's behavior by inputting tasks and grading the output. The model then uses this feedback as a guide to improve, becoming better at reasoning through similar problems, and enhancing overall accuracy.OpenAI encourages research institutes, universities, and enterprises to apply to the program, particularly those that perform narrow sets of complex tasks, could benefit from the assistance of AI, and perform tasks that have an objectively correct answer.Spots are limited; interested applicants can apply by filling out this form.OpenAI aims to make Reinforcement Fine-Tuning publicly available in early 2025.Thursday, December 5:OpenAI started with a bang, unveiling two major upgrades to its chatbot: a new tier of ChatGPT subscription, ChatGPT Pro, and the full version of the company'so1 model.The full version of o1:Will be better for all kinds of prompts, beyond math and scienceWill make major mistakes about 34% less often than o1-preview, while thinking about 50% fasterRolls out today, replacing o1-preview to all ChatGPT Plus and now Pro usersLets users input images, as seen in the demo, to provide multi-modal reasoning (reasoning on both text and images)ChatGPT Pro:Is meant for ChatGPT Plus superusers, granting them unlimited access to the best OpenAI has to offer, including unlimited access to OpenAI o1-mini, GPT-4o, and Advanced ModeFeatures o1 pro mode, which uses more computing to reason through the hardest science and math problemsCosts $200 per monthWhere can you access the live stream?The live streams were held on the OpenAI website, and posted to its YouTube channel immediately after. So if you missed the 12 days of OpenAI and want to rewatch, you can access them all on the company's YouTube channel.Artificial Intelligence

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ZDNETFollowing the 2024 US presidential election, X (formerly known as Twitter) has experienced one of its largest user exoduses since Elon Musk acquired the platform two years ago.The day after the election, about 115,000 US web visitors deactivated their X accounts. Numerous celebrities, public figures, and media platforms, according toThe GuardianandPrism Reports, have also announced their departures from the platform. Users seem to be flocking from X to alternative text-based social media apps, including Bluesky and Instagram's Threads.Also: Why I don't regret leaving X for BlueskyEven before theturmoilthathasplaguedX sinceMusk's takeover, many users had reasons to consider leaving. From social media detoxes to the search for a new online space, platform migration happens frequently.In this guide, we'll walk you through how to fully delete your X account and take all of your valuable data with you. We'll also share areliable, cost-effective solution for deleting tweets, likes, direct messages, and follows. Finally, if you choose to stay on X, we'll show you how to opt out of Grok AI, whichMusk is training on your data by default.How to delete your X accountUnlike some other sites that let you immediately delete your information and close your account, X requires a 30-day deactivation period when you choose to delete your account. If a third-party app linked to your X account signs in during that time, your account can be reactivated and will remain active even after the 30 days have passed. ZDNET 1. Deactivate third-party services The first step you should take when deleting your account is to unlink all third-party services:Log in to your X account.If you're using a desktop browser, click More on the left side, then Settings and Privacy. If you're on the X mobile app, tap your profile picture in the top-left corner, then tap Settings and Privacy.Once inside, click or tap Security and Account Access, then Apps and Sessions, and finally Connected Apps.Once you've completed this step, you're ready to delete your account without worrying that a forgotten app you linked to your profile years ago will accidentally foil your attempt to leave. Show more ZDNET 2. Archive your X data When your deactivated X account reaches the end of the 30-day deactivation window, all your data will be permanently deleted from the social network's servers. If you'd like to retain your data, X provides a way to download an archive of everything tied to your account that remains on its servers.Also: How to migrate from X to Bluesky without losing your followersIt may not seem like your X data will be too valuable in the long run. However, if you ever need to access a link you shared (or that was shared with you), need proof of a previous exchange, or eventually return to X and want a list of accounts you followed or were followed by, all this data is included in your archive.To get yours, you'll need to use the X website via a desktop or mobile browser.Open your desktop or mobile browser.Navigate toX.comand click More on the left side.Then click Settings and Privacy.Once inside, click Your Account, then click Download an Archive of Your Data.You may need to enter your password at this point. Once you've done that, click Request Archive.After completing this step, you'll receive a notification that the process can take up to 24 hours. When the archive is ready, you'll receive a push notification via the X mobile app as well as an email. Both will provide a link that takes you to the settings page on X's website. There, you can download your data archive.You'll download is a ZIP with two important items inside: an HTML file titled Your Archive and a data folder that contains all the media you posted to X, such as uploaded videos, images, and animated .gifs. If anything is precious to you, we recommend you back it up locally or to a cloud storage service of your choice.Next, let's get rid of your X account. Show more ZDNET 3. Fully delete your X account Because this process differs somewhat between a PC and a phone, we'll describe each scenario individually.How to delete your X account from the webLog in to X.com in your desktop browser.Click More on the left side.Click Settings and Privacy and look for the Your Account section.Within there, click Deactivate your account.At this point, you'll be presented with a 30-day reactivation notice. Once this period expires, your account and all of its data will be gone forever.Click Deactivate.You'll have to enter your password at this point and confirm your decision one final time by clicking Deactivate account one last time.How to delete your X account from the mobile appLog in to your X mobile app (Android or iOS).Tap on your profile icon in the top-left corner.Tap Settings and Privacy in the pop-out menu.Within there, tap Your Account and then Deactivate your account.At this point, you'll be presented with a 30-day deactivation notice. Once this period expires, your account and all of its data will be gone forever.Tap Deactivate.You'll have to enter your password at this point and confirm your decision one final time by tapping Deactivate account one last time.Once you've gone through this process on desktop or mobile, wait out your chosen reactivation period. Show more ZDNET How to opt out of Grok AI data-mining X is using users' posts and interactions to train its Grok AI by default, without explicit permission from users. To opt out, you must access the X website, navigate to Settings and privacy, and uncheck the option to allow your data to be used.Log into X.com in your desktop browser.Click More on the left side.Click Settings and Privacy and look for the Grok tab.Open the Grok tab, then deselect the data-sharing with business partners option.Remain in the Grok tab and deselect the Grok & third-party collaborators option.For good measure, delete your conversation history. Show more Optional: Use Cyd to take control of your data Cydis a desktop app for macOS, Windows, and Linux that empowers users to regain control of their data from Big Tech -- for free. This app is useful for anyone looking to clean up their X account:Download Cyd.Log in to your X account inside Cyd.Give Cyd instructions on what you want it to do.Cyd takes care of the rest.For an in-depth tutorial, read Jason Perlow's review of Cyd.Use the coupon code CLAWBACKYOURDATA for 20% off your first year of a Premium plan. The coupon is valid until Dec. 31, 2024. Show more FAQ Show more Can you return to X after deleting your account?Yes and no. Should you decide to return to X after your 30-day deactivation period, you'll need to sign up for a completely new account. You can't "reactivate" an account you fully deleted.What happens to your username after deleting X?Once you delete your X account, your username becomes available for other users to claim.If you wish to create a new account and reuse the same handle you had previously, you'll have to hope that no one has chosen it as their username since you deleted your old account. Once an account is deleted, anyone signing up can claim that username. In the event that someone grabbed your handle while you were away, you're out of luck and will need to choose something new.X will not let a new account claim your handle during your reactivation period. The platform keeps your username reserved for you until that reactivation period expires.Can you protect your X account instead of deleting it?If you're determined to keep your existing username from being claimed by anyone else, you can leave your account active and set it to Protected in the Audience and Tagging section of the Settings and Privacy menu.Just be aware that, while this will prevent the sharing of your tweets via the usual channels and forbid new accounts from following you, all your existing data will remain on X's servers for any use they see fit.Featured

Since we often rely on our mobile devices to shop, communicate, travel, and more, it's paramount to keep your phone's battery boosted. But most of us can't stay tethered to a wall outlet.Thankfully, you don't have to. The battery market is packed with options that can boost your phone's battery life no matter where you are. From power banks to wireless charging stations, there's something for everyone's lifestyle and charging needs. Battery packs that use MagSafe technology to magnetically attach to your phone offer a more compact solution than traditional portable power banks, so you can ditch the charging wires altogether.What's the best MagSafe battery pack right now?I and other ZDNET experts went hands-on with several of the top MagSafe battery packs (including every pick on this list), spending time testing for charge speed, function, and other features during our everyday activities. Our tested pick for the best overall MagSafe battery pack is the newly refreshed Baseus PicoGo Magnetic power bank thanks to its practical design and refined functionality. Read on to learn more about the Baseus PicoGo and which other top-tested MagSafe battery packs may be worth considering for your wants and needs.Also: We've tested every iPhone accessory on this list. Here are the best Sort by All Value Efficiency Performance Design Compatibility The best MagSafe battery packs of 2024 Show less The Baseus PicoGo has a traditional rectangular design with rounded edges and corners, a sleek finish, and indicator lights on the bottom of the pack. It's fairly average weight for a battery, and it comes in four colors (blue, white, black, and pink). It can charge at 20W with wired charging or at 15W with wireless, magnetic charging. Plus, it can charge wirelessly and with the USB-C port simultaneously for a double device boost.When I tested this pack, it increased the battery of my iPhone 14 Pro from 25% to 60% in half an hour. About 40 minutes later, the phone was back up to 80%, with half of the battery capacity still left in the pack.Two things about this battery pack piqued my interest from the get-go when I first saw the product at an NYC launch event. First, it's priced at only $50 (even less during a sale), and its kickstand feature is upside down and all around (literally). The affixed ring on the back of this pack can be used as a kickstand in any orientation (it fully rotates) or used as a phone grip. While I've seen plenty of kickstand features before, I've never seen one like this.Current Baseus PicoGo users on Amazon said they liked the indicator lights, strong magnetic grip, and battery-boosting feature that the PicoGo pack provided, giving it a 4.4/5 star rating. Other users said they were expecting more power capacity and experienced warming on their phones. Keep in mind that most battery packs do get warm to the touch, and that is expected. It's also important to note that a 5,000mAh pack is enough for most people to have on hand for top-offs or while on the go, but it isn't large enough for repetitive recharges without the unit being charged up either. It's enough to charge most smartphone models once fully (or close to it); if you need more than that, I recommend looking at larger battery packs.Baseus PicoGo Magnetic Power Bank specs: Capacity:5,000mAh|Charging Port:USB-C |Power button:YesAuthor's note: The Baseus PicGo is currently sold out on Baseus' website at the time of publication, but it is available on Amazon in select colors. Pros 20W charging Rotatable ring Ring doubles as stand or grip Fun colors Clear indicator lights Cons Not the most comfortable to use ring as grip Bit of overhang off phone Slippery to hold The Baseus PicoGo has a traditional rectangular design with rounded edges and corners, a sleek finish, and indicator lights on the bottom of the pack. It's fairly average weight for a battery, and it comes in four colors (blue, white, black, and pink). It can charge at 20W with wired charging or at 15W with wireless, magnetic charging. Plus, it can charge wirelessly and with the USB-C port simultaneously for a double device boost.When I tested this pack, it increased the battery of my iPhone 14 Pro from 25% to 60% in half an hour. About 40 minutes later, the phone was back up to 80%, with half of the battery capacity still left in the pack.Two things about this battery pack piqued my interest from the get-go when I first saw the product at an NYC launch event. First, it's priced at only $50 (even less during a sale), and its kickstand feature is upside down and all around (literally). The affixed ring on the back of this pack can be used as a kickstand in any orientation (it fully rotates) or used as a phone grip. While I've seen plenty of kickstand features before, I've never seen one like this.Current Baseus PicoGo users on Amazon said they liked the indicator lights, strong magnetic grip, and battery-boosting feature that the PicoGo pack provided, giving it a 4.4/5 star rating. Other users said they were expecting more power capacity and experienced warming on their phones. Keep in mind that most battery packs do get warm to the touch, and that is expected. It's also important to note that a 5,000mAh pack is enough for most people to have on hand for top-offs or while on the go, but it isn't large enough for repetitive recharges without the unit being charged up either. It's enough to charge most smartphone models once fully (or close to it); if you need more than that, I recommend looking at larger battery packs.Baseus PicoGo Magnetic Power Bank specs: Capacity:5,000mAh|Charging Port:USB-C |Power button:YesAuthor's note: The Baseus PicGo is currently sold out on Baseus' website at the time of publication, but it is available on Amazon in select colors. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Let me start by saying that I really liked the first iteration of this battery pack (enough to have it included on this list over the last several months), and I like the newly upgraded Qi2 version even more.This new model has the USB-C connector on the side instead of the bottom of the pack, making it easier to use your phone standing upright while the pack is charging. Instead of the charging indicator lights being on the side, they're now more visible, located on the back of the pack. This model is also a tad slimmer and lengthier than its predecessor, making it easier to transport.And while this Belkin pack is a true embodiment of a classic brick-style battery booster, there is still a place in my heart for it because it just works so well. Similarly to many picks on this list, it provides 5,000mAh of extra juice to your phone, which is a standard capacity for many MagSafe packs. Its design, though simple, fits snugly against my phone (no bumping onto the lip of my camera lens) and remains secure. Often, you'll see some gapping between the battery and the phone due to a disturbed magnetic connection, but not with this Belkin battery pack.Its secure grip and competitive battery speak for themselves. I took this pack to a Yankees game, to several late-night outings, to work, and even on errands, and I am impressed with the charging. You can expect between a 25-30% battery boost in about an hour to your phone.What's more, is that it comes with a built-in stand that easily swings in and out -- no folding required -- and while I originally thought this would be useless, I rather enjoyed being able to prop my phone up whenever. Perhaps the best thing about this Belkin pack is that it comes in a few fun colors, a nice feature many competitors still haven't matched.Like the previous iteration, this pack is still not the slimmest design I've ever seen. But the newly upgraded design offers a more comfortable and sleek user experience that feels great in handand doesn't feel as boxy as the pack really is. Overall, I'm impressed with the new shape and think it was a much-needed facelift.Apple used to be the only retailer that sells the blue, green, pink, and sand color options right now (as well as black), but the product is no longer accessible on the Apple website, which is a downside. The color options made this a fun battery option. However, Belkin carries the black and white iterations as well as the 8k and 10k models. Regardless, Redditors who own this battery pack really like the intentional upgrades.Some Redditors said that this is a great pack to replace Apple's discontinued battery pack, too.Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5K specs: Capacity:5,000mAh|Charging Port:USB-C |Power button:Yes Value 9 Efficiency 9 Performance 9 Design 9 Compatibility 8 Pros Qi2 charging Minimal warming Kickstand to prop phone Fits snug on iPhone Several color options Strong magnetic grip Recently upgraded design Clear battery indicator lights Cons Fun colors no longer available Not the sleekest option Let me start by saying that I really liked the first iteration of this battery pack (enough to have it included on this list over the last several months), and I like the newly upgraded Qi2 version even more.This new model has the USB-C connector on the side instead of the bottom of the pack, making it easier to use your phone standing upright while the pack is charging. Instead of the charging indicator lights being on the side, they're now more visible, located on the back of the pack. This model is also a tad slimmer and lengthier than its predecessor, making it easier to transport.And while this Belkin pack is a true embodiment of a classic brick-style battery booster, there is still a place in my heart for it because it just works so well. Similarly to many picks on this list, it provides 5,000mAh of extra juice to your phone, which is a standard capacity for many MagSafe packs. Its design, though simple, fits snugly against my phone (no bumping onto the lip of my camera lens) and remains secure. Often, you'll see some gapping between the battery and the phone due to a disturbed magnetic connection, but not with this Belkin battery pack.Its secure grip and competitive battery speak for themselves. I took this pack to a Yankees game, to several late-night outings, to work, and even on errands, and I am impressed with the charging. You can expect between a 25-30% battery boost in about an hour to your phone.What's more, is that it comes with a built-in stand that easily swings in and out -- no folding required -- and while I originally thought this would be useless, I rather enjoyed being able to prop my phone up whenever. Perhaps the best thing about this Belkin pack is that it comes in a few fun colors, a nice feature many competitors still haven't matched.Like the previous iteration, this pack is still not the slimmest design I've ever seen. But the newly upgraded design offers a more comfortable and sleek user experience that feels great in handand doesn't feel as boxy as the pack really is. Overall, I'm impressed with the new shape and think it was a much-needed facelift.Apple used to be the only retailer that sells the blue, green, pink, and sand color options right now (as well as black), but the product is no longer accessible on the Apple website, which is a downside. The color options made this a fun battery option. However, Belkin carries the black and white iterations as well as the 8k and 10k models. Regardless, Redditors who own this battery pack really like the intentional upgrades.Some Redditors said that this is a great pack to replace Apple's discontinued battery pack, too.Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5K specs: Capacity:5,000mAh|Charging Port:USB-C |Power button:Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Not all wireless battery power packs are created equally. Take this Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic power bank, for example. Most battery power packs can only supplement a little battery boost, but not this one. With this power bank, you can get up to two recharges on an iPhone and charge two different devices simultaneously.This power bank is for iPhones with MagSafe, but Android users can also reap the benefits of this bank with a couple of added accessories. When ZDNET contributor Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tried out the battery pack, he said the magnetic connection was "one of the best I've seen" and said the power bank is "more than enough" to get you through a day of hard work.Review: Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable chargerHow much juice you can get from the power bank depends on your iPhone. If you have an iPhone 13, you can recharge it about 1.8 times with Baseus's charging capacity and 2.1 times with an iPhone 12. For around $46, it's also a pretty affordable bank for the battery it replenishes.Amazon reviewers also noted that they liked the quality, appearance, and charging performance of the Baseus power bank. Many said they appreciated the dual charging feature and the strong magnetic attachment to their iPhone.Author's Note: At the time of publication, customers can save 15% at Baseusat checkout.Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable chargerspecs: Capacity:10,000mAh/18.5Wh |Charging Port:Wireless Charging (7.5W and 15W) + USB-C (20W PD) |Power button:Yes Value 9 Efficiency 9 Performance 9 Design 7 Compatibility 8 Pros Strong grip to phone Up to two recharges Wireless Charge two devices simultaneously Cons Android users need accessories to use Not all wireless battery power packs are created equally. Take this Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic power bank, for example. Most battery power packs can only supplement a little battery boost, but not this one. With this power bank, you can get up to two recharges on an iPhone and charge two different devices simultaneously.This power bank is for iPhones with MagSafe, but Android users can also reap the benefits of this bank with a couple of added accessories. When ZDNET contributor Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tried out the battery pack, he said the magnetic connection was "one of the best I've seen" and said the power bank is "more than enough" to get you through a day of hard work.Review: Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable chargerHow much juice you can get from the power bank depends on your iPhone. If you have an iPhone 13, you can recharge it about 1.8 times with Baseus's charging capacity and 2.1 times with an iPhone 12. For around $46, it's also a pretty affordable bank for the battery it replenishes.Amazon reviewers also noted that they liked the quality, appearance, and charging performance of the Baseus power bank. Many said they appreciated the dual charging feature and the strong magnetic attachment to their iPhone.Author's Note: At the time of publication, customers can save 15% at Baseusat checkout.Baseus 10,000mAh magnetic portable chargerspecs: Capacity:10,000mAh/18.5Wh |Charging Port:Wireless Charging (7.5W and 15W) + USB-C (20W PD) |Power button:Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less If you're someone who does a lot of work with your phone, having a battery pack that you can use both on the go and at your desk is incredibly important. When former ZDNET associate editor Christina Darby tested out this Anker 622 magnetic battery pack, it provided her and her iPhone-dependent workflow with everything she needed in a single package.With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet to create a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source. Darby noted that the battery pack is lightweight and well-priced at under $60 compared to Apple's offerings.Verified Amazon customers noted that they liked the performance, size, and quality of Anker's 622 power bank, highlighting the kickstand's functionality and the pack's easy portability. However, some also noted that it warms up quickly and overheats.Author's Note: At the time of publication, Anker is offering their 622 MagSafe battery pack for $10 off with an on-site promo code ofWS7DV2EB81WR. This offer lasts through 12/23.Anker 622 Magnetic Battery specs: Capacity:5,000mAh|Charging Port:USB-C |Power button:Yes Value 7 Efficiency 8 Performance 8 Design 7 Compatibility 8 Pros Built-in kickstand Not expensive compared to competition Multiple colors 7.5W charging Cons Not compatible with iPhone 12 or 13 mini More of a trickle charge Anker 622 Magnetic Battery Best MagSafe battery pack with a stand 3.8 / 5 Score If you're someone who does a lot of work with your phone, having a battery pack that you can use both on the go and at your desk is incredibly important. When former ZDNET associate editor Christina Darby tested out this Anker 622 magnetic battery pack, it provided her and her iPhone-dependent workflow with everything she needed in a single package.With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet to create a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source. Darby noted that the battery pack is lightweight and well-priced at under $60 compared to Apple's offerings.Verified Amazon customers noted that they liked the performance, size, and quality of Anker's 622 power bank, highlighting the kickstand's functionality and the pack's easy portability. However, some also noted that it warms up quickly and overheats.Author's Note: At the time of publication, Anker is offering their 622 MagSafe battery pack for $10 off with an on-site promo code ofWS7DV2EB81WR. This offer lasts through 12/23.Anker 622 Magnetic Battery specs: Capacity:5,000mAh|Charging Port:USB-C |Power button:Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This Torras MiniMag Battery Pack is the thinnest wireless charger I've tested, and I've had the chance to review a lot. It doesn't have any kickstand or added features, but its 5,000mAh capacity is pretty comparable to other packs I've tested on this list. I typically recommend 5,000mAh as a starting point for most MagSafe battery packs, especially for daily use. Anything below is more so for extra top-offs and emergencies, and anything larger can become a bit cumbersome to carry.The MiniMag pack is available typically under $50, and is only 0.3 inches thick, which makes it ultra slim and easily portable. It's a lot less bulky than other options on this list, like the Belkin BoostCharge QI2, but it provides a similar charging experience. It provides 18W USB-C charging or 7.5W wireless charging, too.Despite some possible improvement areas (the pack is a bit slippery in the hand and lacks grip), my buying advice for this pack is straightforward: it's a good buy. This probably isn't the best battery if you're looking for added features like kickstands or grips or larger capacity options (though Torras does make a10,000mAh versionthat's only 0.5 inches thick), but it is a super practical option to ensure you always have a battery pack on hand. I was thoroughly happy with its performance, especially for its thin design. Despite its smaller stature, it does not compromise on charging or speed.Torras users on Amazon said that they liked the quick charging speed and lightweight profile. and slim design of the Torras MiniMag battery pack. However, some said the battery gets too hot to the touch.Torras MiniMag Wireless charger features: Slim profile and design | Two color options | Competitive charging | 5,000mAh battery capacity | Lightweight Value 9 Efficiency 9 Performance 9 Design 9 Compatibility 8 Pros Slim design Ultra light Portable Fits in pocket Competitive charging Easy to use Indicator lights Cons A little slippery in hand Limited color options Does not ship directly from Torras to select countries Torras Slim MiniMag Wireless Charger Best slim MagSafe battery pack 4.4 / 5 Score This Torras MiniMag Battery Pack is the thinnest wireless charger I've tested, and I've had the chance to review a lot. It doesn't have any kickstand or added features, but its 5,000mAh capacity is pretty comparable to other packs I've tested on this list. I typically recommend 5,000mAh as a starting point for most MagSafe battery packs, especially for daily use. Anything below is more so for extra top-offs and emergencies, and anything larger can become a bit cumbersome to carry.The MiniMag pack is available typically under $50, and is only 0.3 inches thick, which makes it ultra slim and easily portable. It's a lot less bulky than other options on this list, like the Belkin BoostCharge QI2, but it provides a similar charging experience. It provides 18W USB-C charging or 7.5W wireless charging, too.Despite some possible improvement areas (the pack is a bit slippery in the hand and lacks grip), my buying advice for this pack is straightforward: it's a good buy. This probably isn't the best battery if you're looking for added features like kickstands or grips or larger capacity options (though Torras does make a10,000mAh versionthat's only 0.5 inches thick), but it is a super practical option to ensure you always have a battery pack on hand. I was thoroughly happy with its performance, especially for its thin design. Despite its smaller stature, it does not compromise on charging or speed.Torras users on Amazon said that they liked the quick charging speed and lightweight profile. and slim design of the Torras MiniMag battery pack. However, some said the battery gets too hot to the touch.Torras MiniMag Wireless charger features: Slim profile and design | Two color options | Competitive charging | 5,000mAh battery capacity | Lightweight Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon If you're in the market for a compact, wireless, and travel-friendly charging setup (or just something to curb those cords at home) -- this is it. Revealed at CES 2024, this charging station has a compact form factor, one comparable to a deck of cards, while still being able to charge multiple devices simultaneously with impressive speed.The Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station leverages Qi2 technology to snap onto the back of your iPhone and delivers 15W fast charging. In addition, it has a retractable arm to set your Apple Watch and a pad for your AirPods or any earbuds that are compatible with wireless charging.When ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested it earlier this year, it boosted her iPhone 14 from 40% to 60% in just 30 minutes -- while she remained using it. Ortiz also found that the charger steadily charged her multiple devices relatively evenly when 3-1 charging was used.Verified customers like the foldability and charging capabilities of the Anker MagGo 3-1. They mention that it's portable, and performs well. However, some users experienced a weak magnetic connection or thought it was too expensive for what it provided. And if you don't need a multi-charger, or don't own an Apple Watch, though, you can probably skip out on this one.Author's Note: Save $10 at Anker withon-page coupon codeWSCPV2CAGDWPthrough 12/23.Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station features: 3-1 charging | 15W fast charging | Compact (folds to the size of a baseball) | USB-C connectivity Value 7 Efficiency 9 Performance 9 Design 9 Compatibility 6 Pros 3-1 MagSafe charging station Compact and travel-friendly design Evenly distributes charge Fast charge rate Foldable Cons Pricey Not for those only looking for a MagSafe battery pack Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station Best 3-1 MagSafe battery pack 4 / 5 Score If you're in the market for a compact, wireless, and travel-friendly charging setup (or just something to curb those cords at home) -- this is it. Revealed at CES 2024, this charging station has a compact form factor, one comparable to a deck of cards, while still being able to charge multiple devices simultaneously with impressive speed.The Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station leverages Qi2 technology to snap onto the back of your iPhone and delivers 15W fast charging. In addition, it has a retractable arm to set your Apple Watch and a pad for your AirPods or any earbuds that are compatible with wireless charging.When ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested it earlier this year, it boosted her iPhone 14 from 40% to 60% in just 30 minutes -- while she remained using it. Ortiz also found that the charger steadily charged her multiple devices relatively evenly when 3-1 charging was used.Verified customers like the foldability and charging capabilities of the Anker MagGo 3-1. They mention that it's portable, and performs well. However, some users experienced a weak magnetic connection or thought it was too expensive for what it provided. And if you don't need a multi-charger, or don't own an Apple Watch, though, you can probably skip out on this one.Author's Note: Save $10 at Anker withon-page coupon codeWSCPV2CAGDWPthrough 12/23.Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station features: 3-1 charging | 15W fast charging | Compact (folds to the size of a baseball) | USB-C connectivity Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best MagSafe battery pack? My pick for the best MagSafe battery pack is the Belkin BoostCharge Pro Qi2 battery pack for its upgraded design, great charging abilities, and added stand feature. Here's how our tested picks stack up.Best MagSafe batteryPriceCapacityBaseus PicoGo Magnetic Power Bank$505,000mAhBelkin BoostCharge Pro Qi2 MagSafe Power Bank 5K$605,000mAhBaseus Magnetic Portable Charger 20W$4610,000mAhAnker 622 Magnetic Battery$605,000mAhTorras MiniMag Wireless Charger$505,000mAhAnker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station$110N/A*MSRP price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts. Show more Which MagSafe battery pack is right for you? There are a few factors worth considering when you look at this group of MagSafe-compatible batteries. The first, and arguably most important, is how much you want to spend. From there, you need to take into account the various brand options, the physical size of the battery pack, how you plan to use it, and how often.Choose this MagSafe battery pack...If you want...Baseus PicoGo Magnetic Power BankA practical battery pack with the most universal stand configuration yet.Belkin BoostCharge Pro Qi2 MagSafe Power Bank 5KThe best overall MagSafe battery pack that we think would work for most people.Baseus Magnetic Portable Charger 20WA strong wireless charger that supplies your phone with up to two recharges and can recharge two devices simultaneously.Anker 622 Magnetic BatteryA battery pack that doubles as a kickstand for hands-free operation with a single magnetic click.Torras MiniMag Wireless ChargerThe slimmest, lightest, and most practical 5,000 mAh battery pack ZDNET has tested thus far.Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging StationA 3-1 MagSafe charging station for on-the-go or at home. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a MagSafe battery pack: If you're looking to purchase a MagSafe battery pack, there a few things to keep in mind.Charging efficiency:Most power bank companies claim that your phone should last more than a day with 5,000 mAh. Therefore, battery packs within the 5,000-20,000 mAh range are likely best for most people's needs.Pass-through charging capabilities:Chances are it's not only your phone that could benefit from some battery but a whole device ecosystem. Pass-through charging allows other connected devices to charge simultaneously.Portability:A battery pack won't do you any good if you can't take it on the go. Consider options that are sleek, compact, and don't weigh you down.Use: It will be easier to select a MagSafe battery that works for your lifestyle if you spend some time thinking about where you'll be using it and when. On the train to work? While you're walking out and about? Just at home? Just in case of an emergency? Asking yourself these types of questions may help you narrow down what factors, such as size, charging capabilities, and charging rate, are most important to you.Price:Phones are expensive enough, so your battery pack doesn't need a hefty price tag to match. Consider budget-friendly options with a quality charge and features, and decide how much you're willing to spend to juice up your phone on the go. Show more How did we test these MagSafe battery packs? ZDNET went hands-on with all of the MagSafe battery packs on this list. We spend time affixing these packs to our own iPhones during our daily activities and lives to test out recharge rate, magnetic strength, pass-through capabilities, comfort, and more -- not just for a day or two, but over the course of a few weeks to really get a feel for a product's add-in value. That is, can you "add-in" this product into your life and benefit from its presence, or is it just another fad product that's too good to be true or collects dust after the buzz wears off?If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write up a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for.Plus, we are routinely scouring the web for new products that are worthy of testing, and following news on product rollouts and upgrades, and sourcing the best deals. We know buying anything in the current economy is not just for your whims, and that's why this list, as well as our other advice, is tailored to your needs, wants, and your budget and why our picks are expert-tested and expert-vetted. Show more What is a MagSafe battery pack? The MagSafe Battery Pack allows for on-the-go, wireless charging that is easy and reliable since it attaches to the back of your iPhone. Show more Why should you get a MagSafe battery pack? A removable battery pack makes it easy to charge when you need it and ditch the battery when you don't. If you find yourself constantly looking for an outlet while carrying a wall adapter and cable, then a battery pack would be a good fit. Show more MagSafe battery pack FAQs Is MagSafe charging better for your battery? MagSafe charging is great for when you need your phone to charge while you are out and about, making it a better option for some. Just be careful to pay attention to your phone's temperature, as the MagSafe pack can make your phone warm, which is not good for your device. Show more Why did Apple discontinue its MagSafe battery pack? Apple's own MagSafe battery pack was discontinued following the release of the latest iPhone 15 lineup in 2023. Though Apple frequently updates its products, the discontinuation doesn't come as a surprise considering the iPhone 15 models all feature USB-C connectivity while the original MagSafe battery pack was equipped with Apple's lightning capabilities. Show more Why bother with MagSafe? MagSafe capabilities can enhance your user experience and your iPhone's functionality. Besides creating simpler, more efficient wireless charging, MagSafe technology opens the door for various accessories such as wallets, car vent clips and mounts, fitness mounts, power banks, grips and key ring accessories, and more to widen the iPhone experience and make your life as efficient as possible. Show more Should I get a power bank or a MagSafe battery pack? The answer to this question ultimately depends on your needs. Let's walk through it. A power bank can technically have MagSafe capabilities, and some MagSafe battery packs offer dual charging, but not all offerings are the same.Traditionally, a power bank refers to products without MagSafe capabilities, ones that rely on a lightning or USB-C cord to charge your iPhone and that cannot be affixed to your phone with a magnetic grip. These are great options for road trips, emergency charging situations such as power outages, or to store as a "just-in-case" item in your car, work bag, or home.On the other hand, MagSafe battery packs offer charging via magnetic grip. Most of these battery packs can be attached to your phone, making them perfect for air travel, commuting, and everyday activities. They also do not require a cord for charging, though some MagSafe battery packs can be used, like a battery pack with a cord.What's a better buy for you will depend on where and when you want to juice up your iPhone, so I recommend taking a look at our "Factors to consider" FAQ and really thinking about how your backup battery needs to function in your day-to-day life to be worth your money. Show more Will a MagSafe battery pack fit the iPhone 15? If you've recently bought a MagSafe battery pack for your iPhone, you shouldn't have any issues with fit or compatibility when you decide to upgrade to the new iPhone 15. However, if you have a first-generation MagSafe accessory, it may not fit perfectly due to design changes since the technology was first introduced. Show more Other MagSafe battery packs we've tested: Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

PCs have been through a number of evolutions in terms of form factor, transforming from big, heavy, and quite ugly beige boxes that took up a lot of desk space to something no bigger than a hardback book that packs enough power to handle all but the most demanding of workloads.Say hello to the mini PC: A PC that's just as comfortable tucked behind a TV, popped on a shelf, or hidden in a cupboard as it is sitting on a desk. These mini PCs pack a punch and have everything that you could want from a modern PC -- and take up the least amount of space possible.Also:The best power banks: Expert testedWhat is the best mini PC right now?I've tested and researched the current mini PC offerings on the market, examining specs and paying close attention to user reviews, and my top pick for the best mini PC is the Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon. Whether you want a mini PC for the home, office, or meeting room, this is a solid choice. But I understand that this might not be for everyone, so I've picked a handful more mini PCs, each aimed at a specific use case. Sort by All The best mini PCs of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon When it comes to mini PCs, it's hard to beat a mini PC built to the Intel NUC specs. I've owned and tested a number of them myself, and have been very happy with them.With this model, we have a system running a 16-core Core i7 chip that can power up to 3.7 GHz with a built-in Iris Xe GPU. Backing that is 32GB of RAM and 1TB M.2 SSD. That's quite a spec for a system that you can hold in the palm of your hand. As for ports, this system has a multitude of USB ports, along with Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and Ethernet.As mini PCs go, this one is overkill for most, but if you are looking for a really powerful system that runs whisper-quiet and can be mounted behind a TV or put on a shelf, this is the system for you.Given the price of this system, there aren't a lot of reviews for it, but the ones that have been written by owners are overwhelmingly positive.Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon tech specs: 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1360P | Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 1x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro Pros Powerful Quiet Excellent reviews Cons Expensive When it comes to mini PCs, it's hard to beat a mini PC built to the Intel NUC specs. I've owned and tested a number of them myself, and have been very happy with them.With this model, we have a system running a 16-core Core i7 chip that can power up to 3.7 GHz with a built-in Iris Xe GPU. Backing that is 32GB of RAM and 1TB M.2 SSD. That's quite a spec for a system that you can hold in the palm of your hand. As for ports, this system has a multitude of USB ports, along with Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and Ethernet.As mini PCs go, this one is overkill for most, but if you are looking for a really powerful system that runs whisper-quiet and can be mounted behind a TV or put on a shelf, this is the system for you.Given the price of this system, there aren't a lot of reviews for it, but the ones that have been written by owners are overwhelmingly positive.Intel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon tech specs: 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1360P | Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 1x USB-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Just when you thought this list would only include Windows systems, we've got the Mac Mini. This was one of the original mini PCs, and with the switch to Apple Silicon processors, it has seen a new lease of life.Considered at one point the gateway Mac that got people over to MacOS from Windows (because they could replace their Windows PC with the Mac Mini and keep using their existing keyboard, mouse, and monitor with their new Mac), it's now a staple of the Mac lineup, and the perfect choice for those who want a compact system.I've owned a few different Mac Mini systems over the years, and I've been more than satisfied by them. They're reliable, well-built, and run cool and quiet. The biggest downside to this system is upgrading -- bottom line, this Mac will live and die with the same processor, RAM, and storage that it left the factory with. If you want to give it a storage boost, Satechi makes a hub/stand for it that adds a bunch of ports and a port for an M.2 SSD.As I'd expect from an Apple product, the reviews are strongly positive, with users reporting that they are happy with the performance and overall reliability of the system.Apple 2023 Mac mini tech specs: Apple Silicon M4 processor with 10 CPU cores, 10 GPU cores | 16GB RAM | 256GB storage | 2x USB-C, 3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | MacOS Pros Powerful Close to silent Excellent Apple build quality Cons Runs MacOS (although you can run Windows on it using virtualization) Limited upgrade options Just when you thought this list would only include Windows systems, we've got the Mac Mini. This was one of the original mini PCs, and with the switch to Apple Silicon processors, it has seen a new lease of life.Considered at one point the gateway Mac that got people over to MacOS from Windows (because they could replace their Windows PC with the Mac Mini and keep using their existing keyboard, mouse, and monitor with their new Mac), it's now a staple of the Mac lineup, and the perfect choice for those who want a compact system.I've owned a few different Mac Mini systems over the years, and I've been more than satisfied by them. They're reliable, well-built, and run cool and quiet. The biggest downside to this system is upgrading -- bottom line, this Mac will live and die with the same processor, RAM, and storage that it left the factory with. If you want to give it a storage boost, Satechi makes a hub/stand for it that adds a bunch of ports and a port for an M.2 SSD.As I'd expect from an Apple product, the reviews are strongly positive, with users reporting that they are happy with the performance and overall reliability of the system.Apple 2023 Mac mini tech specs: Apple Silicon M4 processor with 10 CPU cores, 10 GPU cores | 16GB RAM | 256GB storage | 2x USB-C, 3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack | MacOS Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is a tiny mini PC that is a cube measuring 72 x 72 x 44.5mm, weighing only 206g. Inside the cube is a 4-core Intel N5105 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128HB M.2 SSD running Windows 10 Pro.Despite the tiny size, this mini PC features a handful of USB ports, two HDMI ports, an audio jack, and an Ethernet port. This system has no problems running two 4K@60FPS displays for maximum productivity.And yet given the power, this system is quiet and very energy efficient (using only 10W), making it a great choice for someone who wants a PC for the home, office, or meeting room, or even to drive digital signage.Reviewers of this system comment on the performance and overall value of the system, and it's an outstanding system for the price.GMKtec Mini PC tech specs: 11th Generation Intel N5105 | Intel UHD Graphics | 8GB DDR4 RAM | 128GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, USB-C, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, TF/microSD slot, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro Pros Tiny Powerful enough to drive two 4K displays Cons Not fanless, so may become a little noisy when pushed with heavy workloads This is a tiny mini PC that is a cube measuring 72 x 72 x 44.5mm, weighing only 206g. Inside the cube is a 4-core Intel N5105 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128HB M.2 SSD running Windows 10 Pro.Despite the tiny size, this mini PC features a handful of USB ports, two HDMI ports, an audio jack, and an Ethernet port. This system has no problems running two 4K@60FPS displays for maximum productivity.And yet given the power, this system is quiet and very energy efficient (using only 10W), making it a great choice for someone who wants a PC for the home, office, or meeting room, or even to drive digital signage.Reviewers of this system comment on the performance and overall value of the system, and it's an outstanding system for the price.GMKtec Mini PC tech specs: 11th Generation Intel N5105 | Intel UHD Graphics | 8GB DDR4 RAM | 128GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, USB-C, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, TF/microSD slot, audio jack | Windows 11 Pro Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This mini PC has a few features that set it apart from the competition. While dual HDMI isn't all that rare, finding a system with dual Ethernet and dual M.2 slots is, and finding one with a built-in filter to keep dust out of the innards is even rarer.The price of this system makes it a perfect choice for those who want a cheap yet powerful mini PC -- as long as you're not running AAA-title games or other heavy workloads, this system has you covered.The only con to this system is that it runs the older 12th-gen Intel silicon, but for $300, this is still a system that both holds its own and won't break the bank.Beelink EQ13 Mini PC tech specs: 12th Generation Intel N200 | Intel UHD Graphics 32EUS | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, 2x Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProReviews of this system are strongly positive, with owners praising the power and performance of the system, and how quiet it is in day-to-day use. Pros Dual HDMI Dual Ethernet Dual M.2 slots Dust filter to keep the fan and insides clean Cons Older, 12th-generation processors This mini PC has a few features that set it apart from the competition. While dual HDMI isn't all that rare, finding a system with dual Ethernet and dual M.2 slots is, and finding one with a built-in filter to keep dust out of the innards is even rarer.The price of this system makes it a perfect choice for those who want a cheap yet powerful mini PC -- as long as you're not running AAA-title games or other heavy workloads, this system has you covered.The only con to this system is that it runs the older 12th-gen Intel silicon, but for $300, this is still a system that both holds its own and won't break the bank.Beelink EQ13 Mini PC tech specs: 12th Generation Intel N200 | Intel UHD Graphics 32EUS | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 500GB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, 2x Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProReviews of this system are strongly positive, with owners praising the power and performance of the system, and how quiet it is in day-to-day use. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This mini PC describes itself as a gaming system, and with good reason. The combination of AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX and AMD Radeon 680M GPU gives this system a lot of horsepower to tackle a variety of workloads, from work to games.It also throws away the design rulebook. While most mini PCs are cube-like, this one is an upright tent shape. While that might seem like purely a design choice, it does in fact make opening up the system to carry out upgrades a snap as the side panel is held in place with magnets. This system features a power dial on the top to switch it between silent mode, auto, and performance, depending on whether you want power or silence. It also includes a multitude of LED lights, which you might love or hate. If you love them, great, if not, there's an app that turns them off for you.But the lights aside, this is the perfect mini PC for those looking for a gaming system but who don't want to have a huge box on their desk or beside their TV. There's no harder set of people to please than gamers, which is why it's quite reassuring to find strong reviews for this gaming mini PC.AceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC tech specs:AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX | AMD Radeon 680M GPU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProThis is a mini PC that breaks a lot of the rules. Pros A mini PC that legitimately describes itself as a gaming system Powerful AMD processor and GPU Convenient dial for switching between power modes Cons Different shape LED lights might be annoying This mini PC describes itself as a gaming system, and with good reason. The combination of AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX and AMD Radeon 680M GPU gives this system a lot of horsepower to tackle a variety of workloads, from work to games.It also throws away the design rulebook. While most mini PCs are cube-like, this one is an upright tent shape. While that might seem like purely a design choice, it does in fact make opening up the system to carry out upgrades a snap as the side panel is held in place with magnets. This system features a power dial on the top to switch it between silent mode, auto, and performance, depending on whether you want power or silence. It also includes a multitude of LED lights, which you might love or hate. If you love them, great, if not, there's an app that turns them off for you.But the lights aside, this is the perfect mini PC for those looking for a gaming system but who don't want to have a huge box on their desk or beside their TV. There's no harder set of people to please than gamers, which is why it's quite reassuring to find strong reviews for this gaming mini PC.AceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC tech specs:AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX | AMD Radeon 680M GPU | 32GB DDR4 RAM | 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD | 3x USB 3.2 type A, 2x HDMI, Ethernet, USB-C, audio jack | Windows 11 ProThis is a mini PC that breaks a lot of the rules. Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best mini PC? Mini PCPriceProcessorGPURAMStorageOperating systemIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyon$949Intel Core i7-1360PIntel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU32GB DDR42TB M.2 NVMe SSD Windows 11 ProApple 2024 Mac Mini$599Apple Silicon M4Apple Silicon M416GB DDR4256GB SSDMacOS 15GMKtec Mini PC$140Intel N5105Intel UHD Graphics8GB DDR4128GB M.2 NVMe SSDWindows 11 ProBeelink EQ13 Mini PC$299Intel N200Intel UHD Graphics 32EUS16GB DDR4500GB M.2 NVMe SSDWindows 11 ProAceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC$570AMD Ryzen 9 6900HXAMD Radeon 680M32GB DDR41TB M.2 NVMe SSDWindows 11 Pro Show more Which is the right mini PC for you? Choose this mini PCIf you wantIntel NUC 13 Pro Arena Canyona general-purpose mini PC. The Intel NUC PCs continue to be the best all-around mini PCs on the market. Yes, there are better, faster, cheaper systems out there, but these systems have continually impressed me over the years.Apple 2024 Mac minito go with MacOS. The Mac Mini used to be the way that Windows PC users would start to make the transition over to Mac. Nowadays, they are all-purpose desktop computers that are perfect for anyone who doesn't want a portable system, from students to developers.GMKtec Mini PCa truly tiny PC. This is one of the smallest systems I've seen, but it packs quite a punch, hitting well above its size and weight.Beelink EQ13 Mini PCa mini PC with a difference. This mini PC breaks the mold: not only does it have a special dust filter to keep out debris, it also has 2 Ethernet ports, and two M.2 slots to compliment the two HDMI ports.AceMagician AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PCa proper mini gaming PC. Here you have a full gaming PC packed into a tiny footprint. Sure, there are going to be desktop systems that are way more powerful than this system, but for the size, you'll be hard-pressed to find anything faster. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a mini PC In many ways, choosing a mini PC is much like a regular PC. There are all the usual performance, price, and support for all your peripherals to keep in mind. But if you are after a mini PC, then the mini part does come into play, so there is a size issue to bear in mind. The good news is that mini PCs come in a range of sizes, from systems that can fit in the palm of your hand to systems so small you could fit several of them in the palm of your hand.Do you need a mini PC? This is the top question when choosing a mini PC. Do you actually need one, or do you just need a regular PC?Size: This really is the differentiator when it comes to mini PCs. Do you want a PC that's the size of a biscuit tin, or something significantly smaller?Performance: Pretty standard PC consideration here. What do you want your system to do? Do you want to carry out general PC tasks like word processing and spreadsheets and browsing the web, or do you have more specialist needs in mind, such as gaming?Budget: Small doesn't always mean cheap, but you can save money by choosing a mini PC that suits your needs.Ports: Most mini PCs come with a decent array of ports, but if you need something like two Ethernet ports or a bunch of USB ports, you need to ensure you're getting the right mini PC for you. Show more How did we choose these mini PCs? There are a lot of mini PCs on the market from a variety of different vendors, and I've tested and used mini PCs from all the vendors listed here, I've based my selections on my experience using these brands, as well as current model user reviews.Product specs and price also come into play, but being able to draw on dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of other people's views allows me to get a broad sense of how well-received a selected mini PC is. I've paid particular attention to reports of performance, stability, how quiet or noisy the PC is, and weeded out many that seemed to have a poor lifespan.What we're left with is the best of the best, in a broad selection of categories that are applicable to mini PCs. Show more What is a mini PC? A mini PC is a compact yet fully functional computer that offers many, if not all of, the capabilities of a desktop PC, but is packaged into a smaller form factor. Mini PCs are designed to save space and can be used for a variety of tasks, from basic computing to more demanding applications such as programming or even gaming. Show more What are the advantages of using a mini PC? People often choose to invest in a mini PC for these reasons:Space-saving:The top benefit of going for a mini PC is that it takes up significantly less space than traditional desktop PCs.Portable:Mini PCs are lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for users who need computing power on the go.Energy efficiency:Most mini PCs consume significantly less power than a similarly-specced desktop system, which can lead to cost savings on electricity.Quiet:Some models are fanless, resulting in quieter operation, and even those that still have a fan are far quieter than a standard desktop system. Show more Are mini PCs upgradeable? It depends on the model. Some mini PCs allow for upgrades -- sometimes very easy upgrades -- to components like RAM and storage, while others have fixed configurations.On the whole however, like laptops, mini PCs are better aimed at those situations where you buy the PC with the spec that you need rather than relying on an upgrade down the line. Show more Are there alternative mini PCs worth considering? Here are a few mini PCs that didn't make the cut to the main list, but are still worthy of an honorable mention. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

In our tech-fueled era dominated by portable devices, microSD cards are the unsung champions of data storage. These tiny shards of plastic are, in reality, veritable titans of storage capable of adding gigabytes to a wide array of devices -- from smartphones and tablets to action cameras, dashcams, and drones. Whether you're snapping selfies or capturing the wildest of adventures, these storage cards are likely an integral part of your digital existence, perhaps without you even realizing it.But beware! The market is a minefield of low-quality and counterfeit pretenders that threaten to sabotage your data and throttle your device's performance. The specter of losing priceless files or enduring sluggish operations is an ever-present worry. But fear not, as top-tier microSD cards are astonishingly affordable. Investing in genuine, high-quality cards isn't merely a wise choice; it's an absolute must, as premium cards deliver unrivaled performance, steadfast reliability, and rock-solid data integrity, ensuring your digital escapades remain seamless and your tech life hums along with efficiency.So, choose wisely because when it comes to microSD cards, quality reigns supreme.Also:What do all those microSD and SD card numbers and letters mean?What is the best microSD card right now?Over the years, I've conducted hands-on testing on numerous microSD cards, evaluating features like capacity, price, and performance. My extensive use of dozens of microSD cards across a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, drones, and action cameras, has given me a comprehensive understanding of their performance in real-world scenarios.Based on my testing, here are my top picks for the best microSD cards, with the SanDisk Extreme microSDXCstanding out as the best overall choice for its consistent quality, performance, and reasonable price. Sort by All The best microSD cards of 2024 Show less View now at B&H Photo-Video Tell me you need a microSD card, and chances are,this is the one I'll recommend. I've been using SanDisk microSD cards in smartphones, tablets, action cams, dashcams and drones for years now, and I've not had one let me down.Quality doesn't have to come at a price, eitheryou can pick up a 1TB card for under $100.This is consistently one of the highest-rated microSD cards in online reviews.SanDisk Extreme microSDXC UHS-I tech specs:Capacity: From 32GB to 1TB |Offload speed: Up to 190MB/s|Write speed: Up to 130MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) |In-app performance rating: A2 (up to 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS) Pros Great, consistent quality Great value Comes with a microSD to SD card adapter Cons Lots of counterfeits out there Capacities peak at 1TB Tell me you need a microSD card, and chances are,this is the one I'll recommend. I've been using SanDisk microSD cards in smartphones, tablets, action cams, dashcams and drones for years now, and I've not had one let me down.Quality doesn't have to come at a price, eitheryou can pick up a 1TB card for under $100.This is consistently one of the highest-rated microSD cards in online reviews.SanDisk Extreme microSDXC UHS-I tech specs:Capacity: From 32GB to 1TB |Offload speed: Up to 190MB/s|Write speed: Up to 130MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) |In-app performance rating: A2 (up to 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Lexar, a brand I've trusted for well over a decade, has released a new microSD card -- the Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC. The storage card combines professional-grade performance and reliability at a budget-friendly price, and I recently put it to the test. The card is rated with a video class speed of V30 and a UHS speed rating of U3, meaning it can achieve a minimum of 30 MB/s. It also boasts an Application Performance Rating of A2, indicating it can handle 4000 IOPS minimum random reads, 2000 IOPS minimum random writes, and 10 MB/s minimum sustained sequential writes. In terms of performance, this card is perfect for 4K video capture in H.265 format, which is more than enough for most people's needs. It's solid and reliable, and it comes with a great warranty and free recovery software in case you accidentally delete important footage. Review: Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC For a new card, the user reviews on online stores are very positive, indeed, which means this card is a winner. Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC Memory Card tech specs: Capacity: From 128GB to 512GB |Offload speed: Up to 205MB/s |Write speed: Up to 150MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) Pros A professional-grade card for a mainstream price Comes with an SD card adapter Cons For some who like massive cards, the capacity ceiling of 512GB will feel limited Lexar, a brand I've trusted for well over a decade, has released a new microSD card -- the Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC. The storage card combines professional-grade performance and reliability at a budget-friendly price, and I recently put it to the test. The card is rated with a video class speed of V30 and a UHS speed rating of U3, meaning it can achieve a minimum of 30 MB/s. It also boasts an Application Performance Rating of A2, indicating it can handle 4000 IOPS minimum random reads, 2000 IOPS minimum random writes, and 10 MB/s minimum sustained sequential writes. In terms of performance, this card is perfect for 4K video capture in H.265 format, which is more than enough for most people's needs. It's solid and reliable, and it comes with a great warranty and free recovery software in case you accidentally delete important footage. Review: Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC For a new card, the user reviews on online stores are very positive, indeed, which means this card is a winner. Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC Memory Card tech specs: Capacity: From 128GB to 512GB |Offload speed: Up to 205MB/s |Write speed: Up to 150MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is the card I recommend to those who either are in love with the Amazon Basics brand, or who are scared to buy another brand for fear of getting a counterfeit card.I've used these cards a lot in applications where speed is not a concern -- such as dashcams -- and they've all performed as advertised.Reviews on outlets such as Amazon are highly positive, with buyers being surprised that something on the Amazon Basics brand can be so good.Amazon Basics Micro SDXC Memory Card tech specs:Capacity: From 32GB to 1TB |Offload speed: Up to 100MB/s |Write speed: Up to 60MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) Pros An easy buy for those who like the Amazon brand Comes with microSD to SD card adapter Not come across a counterfeit of this brand Cons Can be pricier than other options Not as fast as some of the other cards This is the card I recommend to those who either are in love with the Amazon Basics brand, or who are scared to buy another brand for fear of getting a counterfeit card.I've used these cards a lot in applications where speed is not a concern -- such as dashcams -- and they've all performed as advertised.Reviews on outlets such as Amazon are highly positive, with buyers being surprised that something on the Amazon Basics brand can be so good.Amazon Basics Micro SDXC Memory Card tech specs:Capacity: From 32GB to 1TB |Offload speed: Up to 100MB/s |Write speed: Up to 60MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less When I want speed, these are the cards that I turn to when I need to record a lot of data. With write speeds topping at 130MB/s, these are the cards I choose when I'm working with 5K video, either on the ground in action cameras or in the air with a drone.With 89 percent of Amazon reviewers giving this card 4 or 5 stars, this is a card you can trust.ProGrade Digital UHS-II microSD Card tech specs: Capacity: From 64GB to 256GB |Offload speed: Up to 250MB/s|Write speed: Up to 130MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 60 (V60) Pros High performance Laser-etched serial number to reduce on counterfeits 3-year warranty Advanced Recovery Pro Software to restore damaged files included Cons Capacity tops out at 256GB Pricey When I want speed, these are the cards that I turn to when I need to record a lot of data. With write speeds topping at 130MB/s, these are the cards I choose when I'm working with 5K video, either on the ground in action cameras or in the air with a drone.With 89 percent of Amazon reviewers giving this card 4 or 5 stars, this is a card you can trust.ProGrade Digital UHS-II microSD Card tech specs: Capacity: From 64GB to 256GB |Offload speed: Up to 250MB/s|Write speed: Up to 130MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 60 (V60) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less If you're going to be doing a lot of writing to a microSD card, these are the cards for you as they are designed to offer up to 16 years -- an incredible 140,160 hours -- of continuous recording time for the 256GB version, while offering read and write speeds of up to 100 megabytes per second (MB/s) and 40 MB/s, respectively.Review:Samsung PRO Endurance MicroSDXC CardI've read countless reviews on Reddit and Amazon for these cards, and the claims of high endurance seem to translate into real-world usage.Samsung PRO Endurance MicroSDXC Card tech specs:Capacity: From 32GB to 256GB |Offload speed: Up to 100MB/s|Write speed: Up to 40MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) Pros High endurance Fast enough for 4K video 5-year warranty Cons Capacity tops out at 256GB If you're going to be doing a lot of writing to a microSD card, these are the cards for you as they are designed to offer up to 16 years -- an incredible 140,160 hours -- of continuous recording time for the 256GB version, while offering read and write speeds of up to 100 megabytes per second (MB/s) and 40 MB/s, respectively.Review:Samsung PRO Endurance MicroSDXC CardI've read countless reviews on Reddit and Amazon for these cards, and the claims of high endurance seem to translate into real-world usage.Samsung PRO Endurance MicroSDXC Card tech specs:Capacity: From 32GB to 256GB |Offload speed: Up to 100MB/s|Write speed: Up to 40MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less It's impossible to cover storage media for cameras without including Lexar, as it's one of those brands that's been around since the dawn of storage. Great performance, an excellent limited lifetime warranty, and another brand that's not let me down.Another brand of microSD cards that has tens of hundreds of positive reviews on outlets and Reddit.Lexar Professional microSDXC UHS-I microSD Card tech specs:Capacity: From 64GB to 1TB |Offload speed: Up to 160MB/s|Write speed: Up to 130MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) |In-app performance rating: A2 (up to 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS) Pros Trusted brand Excellent track record Lifetime warranty Cons Pricier than the competition It's impossible to cover storage media for cameras without including Lexar, as it's one of those brands that's been around since the dawn of storage. Great performance, an excellent limited lifetime warranty, and another brand that's not let me down.Another brand of microSD cards that has tens of hundreds of positive reviews on outlets and Reddit.Lexar Professional microSDXC UHS-I microSD Card tech specs:Capacity: From 64GB to 1TB |Offload speed: Up to 160MB/s|Write speed: Up to 130MB/s |Performance rating: 4K and 5K UHD-ready with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) |In-app performance rating: A2 (up to 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS) Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best microSD card? ZDNET's pick for the best overall microSD card is theSanDisk Extreme, but narrowing down the best microSD card isn't an easy task. That's because you can have different cards for different applications. For example, one person might favor performance, while another might want high endurance, and another be budget conscious. Thankfully, there are numerous options for extra storage that can range from just a few dollars to over a hundred, with different storage offerings and read and write speeds. BrandPriceRead speed (MB/s)Write speed (MB/s)SanDisk Extreme From $10 190 130 Lexar Professional Silver PlusFrom $14205150 Amazon Basics From $11 100 60 ProGrade Digital From $50 250 130 Samsung PRO Endurance From $19 100 40 Lexar Professional From $12 160 130 *MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons. Show more Which is the right microSD card for you? ZDNET's pick for the best overall microSD card is theSanDisk Extreme, but narrowing down the best microSD card isn't an easy task. Check out our other top picks and see how they compare to each other, and to your needs. Choose thismicroSD card brandIf youSanDisk Extreme Want a fantastic all-rounder suitable for most applications. Lexar Professional Silver Plus Want a professional, pro-grade card without the eye-watering cost. Amazon Basics Are worried about counterfeit cards with more prominent brands. ProGrade Digital Record lots of video and want blistering fast write speeds. Samsung PRO Endurance Are recording 24/7/365 to the card with CCTV or use it in a body cam or dash cam. Lexar Professional Are a professional and you want a brand that's been around for ages and a limited lifetime warranty. Show more How we test microSD cards ZDNET only recommends products we ourselves have tested or researched, and while there are many microSD options on the market, not every card is built the same. Here are some other factors I considered when testing and curating my top selections.Real-world use: When I test microSD cards, I use them in a variety of systems from cameras and drones to CCTV systems under both easy and harsh conditions, to get a feel for how they actually work in the real world.Brand trust: I've been a photographer and videographer for a couple of decades, and a drone operator for close to ten years, and during that time I've had the chance to use all these microSD cards in real-world situations. These are the brands of cards that I use and trust.Benchmarks: I'm also quite a nerd, and have carried out both real world and synthetic benchmarks on these storage cards. For benchmarking I use AmorphousDiskMark and BlackMagic Disk Speed Test. Show more FAQs on microSD cards What's the difference between an SD card and a microSD card? The main difference between an SD card and a microSD card is size. SD cards are larger, measuring 32mm x 24mm x 2.1mm, while microSD cards measure 15mm x 11mm x 1mm.Both types of cards come in similar capacity ranges and performance classes.SD cards are found in devices with larger form factors such as digital cameras, camcorders, and older laptops, while the smaller microSD cards find a place in smaller devices such as smartphones, tablets, drones, and action cameras. Show more Should you always go for the biggest microSD card you can buy? No. In fact, I've seen people run into troubles and lose a lot of data doing this, not so much because of the microSD card, but because of their own bad practices. A terabyte microSD card can hold a lot of data, but that can lead to problem if you don't regularly empty it and one day your camera falls into the sea or your drone flies away never to be seen again.This is why I prefer having a handful of smaller cards. This way I change them regularly, and if the worst happens and I do lose data, the loss is limited. Show more How robust are microSD cards? Very robust!I've been using microSD cards for closer to two decades now, and they're incredibly durable. MicroSD cards are built to withstand extreme weather conditions, and are temperature-proof, waterproof, drop-proof, shockproof, and even X-ray proof. Show more How do you spot a counterfeit microSD card? It can be hard to do this. The way many find out is that their card either dies or doesn't have anywhere near the stated capacity. Other, more subtle giveaways include the printing on the card being poor quality or wrong, and cheap packaging.Windows users can also use software tools to check the validity of their microSD cards, tools such as h2testw, USB Flash Drive Tester, and ChipGenius.Another way it to carry out a speed check test using a tool such as BlackMagic Disk Speed Test or CrystalDiskMark and checking your results against the specs on the card's packaging or the internet. If they are dramatically different -- say by 20% or more -- then you could have a fake card (or something is wrong with your test system or card reader).The best way to avoid counterfeits is to buy from a reputable outlet. Show more Are there alternative microSD cards worth considering?Yes, but I'm going to steer away from cheap or budget microSD cards simply because my listing above has some great cards at a great price, and going cheaper is a false economy.But here are a couple of cards that might interest you -- a 1.5TB card and a great value 3-pack of 128GB cards. Show less PNY 32GB Elite Class 10 U1 V10 SDHC Flash Memory Card 5-Pack Here's a 5-pack of 32GB microSD cards for under $20. A bargain! Read More Show Expert Take Show less Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

ZDNETAs someone who's been around the block a few hundred times with technology, planned obsolescence has long bothered me.Consider this: With Windows 10 nearing the end of its life, you have two choices. You can hope your computer supports the upgrade to Windows 11, or you can go another route. When Microsoft released Windows 11, it became clear that a lot of hardware (capable of running the previous iteration) wouldn't support the new version of Windows. Many people ended up having to purchase new systems if they wanted to stick with Windows. For some, that wasn't an option, so they had to continue using a Windows operating system that would eventually fall out of support. That meant no more security updates, which can leave users -- and their data -- vulnerable.Also:When Windows 10 support runs out, you have 5 options but only 2 are worth consideringIf you've found yourself in such a situation, there's hope in the form of a handful of Linux distributions designed specifically for older or less-powerful hardware. With these operating systems, you can revive an old machine and make it run as though it were new.Here are six Linux distributions that are perfectly at home on older (and even newer) hardware.1. Bodhi LinuxGreat for those willing to learn new things The Bodhi Linux desktop offers a unique way of interacting with your computer. Image: Jack WallenFor about five years,Bodhi Linuxwas my go-to operating system. It's not just perfectly suited for older hardware, but it also offers a unique take on the user interface. The Moksha Desktop is similar to that of Enlightenment (another old-school favorite of mine) and includes plenty of features to make it a full-fledged desktop operating system.The one caveat to using Bodhi Linux is that you will have to rethink the way you interact with the desktop, as it's quite different. That doesn't make it challenging (it's not), but know that Moksha will take a bit of getting used to. One of my favorite features of Moksha (which also appears in Enlightenment) is that you can access the desktop menu by clicking anywhere on the desktop. That makes for a very efficient workflow.The recommended system requirements for Bodhi Linux are:64-bit, 1.0GHz processor768MB of RAM10GB of drive spaceWith just a minimal system, you'll have a desktop computer that not only runs like a champ but also looks really cool as it does.2. Linux LiteVery user-friendly, highly customizable, and blazingly fast The Linux Lite desktop includes all the features to which you're accustomed. Image: Jack WallenIf you're looking for a more standard desktop interface,Linux Litemight be your best bet. Linux Lite uses a custom Xfce desktop environment to create an interface that should be immediately familiar to all user types.Even better, Linux Lite was designed to be very user-friendly. So, even if you aren't familiar with Linux, you should be able to get up to speed with the operating system quickly. Linux Lite comes with the Chrome web browser, Thunderbird email client, GIMP image editor, VLC media player, the LibreOffice office suite, and more pre-installed. Linux Lite is fairly customizable, so if you don't like the default desktop layout, you can change it.The minimum system requirements for Linux Lite are:1GHz CPU768MB of RAM (1GB is recommended)8GB of drive space (minimum)3. Puppy LinuxBest for use as a live distribution The Puppy Linux default desktop. Image: Jack WallenPuppy Linuxis a bit of an outlier here, as it's not nearly as easy to install as the other distributions. In fact, Puppy Linux is rather challenging on this front, so it's often best to simply use it as a live distribution. With that, you can "install" it to a USB flash drive (and even do so with persistent file storage) and boot as needed. This way, you can carry Puppy Linux around with you and boot it on any machine you like, without making a single change to what's installed on the local drive.Also:The best Linux laptopsYou'll find more than enough installed software, such as the Palemoon web browser, Claws Mail email client, AbiWord word processor, Gnumeric spreadsheet tool, and plenty more. The Puppy Linux desktop is a bit cluttered, but it's still very straightforward to use.The minimum system requirements for Puppy Linux are:CPU: Pentium 900 MHzRAM: 300MBHard Drive: OptionalDVD-ROM: 20x and up or USBJust remember, even though Puppy Linux can do wonders to revive your old hardware, you'll need a bit more Linux experience to get the most out of this distribution.4. Tiny Core LinuxBetter for experienced users The Tiny Core Linux default desktop offers side title bars similar to those you can configure with AfterStep. Image: Jack WallenTiny Core Linuxcouldn't have a more apropos name. It's very small. Tiny Core is another distribution that you don't really need to install on your hard drive. You boot it, add only the applications you need (using a GUI installer), and interact with the bare minimum desktop (based on BusyBox and FLTK).Like Puppy Linux, I don't recommend Tiny Core Linux to those who are new to Linux, as it's not nearly as straightforward as you might think.Tiny Core does support virtual desktops, sticky windows, and includes a Control Panel for configuring backup/restore, services, date/time, mouse, network, and more.The minimum system requirements for Tiny Core Linux are:i486DX CPU46MB of RAMThe recommended minimum configuration for Tiny Core Linux is, however, a Pentium II CPU and 128MB of RAM. There are also three different versions on thedownload page: Core (the base system), Tiny Core (the recommended option), and CorePlus (an installation image that includes the choice of seven different window managers).Of all the lightweight Linux distributions, Tiny Core can run on the oldest hardware.5. LXLE LinuxWorks on ancient hardware The LXLE Linux desktop interface makes using Linux a breeze. Image: Jack WallenLXLE Linuxis built on the most recent version of Ubuntu Linux and uses the LXLE desktop environment to create an operating system that's very lightweight, simple to install, and easy to use. LXLE offers quite a nice desktop (especially for a lightweight distribution) that includes all the software you need to be productive or entertain yourself.The latest release of LXLE Linux (Focal) can be completely installed (from start to finish) in less than five minutes. On top of that, the default desktop should be quite familiar to anyone who's used any kind of desktop interface. If, during the installation, you configure it to upgrade, you'll probably run into a moment during the process where it seems like things have stopped (when it says "Retrieving file 100 of 101"). Have patience because it will complete and continue.The system requirements for LXLE are about as minimal as you can get:512MB of RAMP3 CPU or betterYes, you read that correctly, a Pentium 3 CPU. That means you can revive ancient hardware with this distribution.LXLE does ship with apps like LibreOffice, Bookworm, HomeBank, LibreWolf, and ClawsMail installed by default, so even though it's a tiny distribution, you'll find it has everything you need to get up and running.6. Bunson Labs LinuxA more modern flare Bunson Labs Linux is as beautiful as it is easy to use. Jack Wallen/ZDNETBuson Labs Linuxuses the Xfce desktop to create a lightweight Linux distribution. However, this isn't your grandmother's Xfce, as the developers have given it a rather modern twist. Instead of looking like an old-school Linux desktop, Buson Labs Linux has a more modern flair. And because Buson Labs Linux is based on Debian, you can be sure that it's as rock-solid and reliable as any operating system on the market. This Linux distribution's desktop takes a nod from Ubuntu, with a vertical panel and loads of personality. And with a right-click desktop menu, you can bet this distribution is incredibly efficient to use.As far as system requirements, here's what they look like:CPU: 32- or 64-bitRAM: 1 GB minimum and 2 GB+ recommendedStorage: 20 GB recommendedWith these six different lightweight Linux distributions that can help give old computers new life, you can save some money and the environment by keeping hardware around that cannot run the most modern operating systems, and feel good about doing a good deed for the planet and yourself.See also

An HDMI splitter may seem like a simple device, but it's a game-changer for anyone looking to share a single HDMI signal across multiple displays! Imagine connecting an HDMI cable from your media center PC to the splitter's input, then effortlessly linking HDMI cables from the splitter's output ports to your TVs and monitors. This setup is not just for home entertainment systems, it's also a staple in offices, conference centers, and venues that require seamless output distribution to multiple screens or TVs.However, not all HDMI splitters are created equal. Some models come with power capabilities, acting as repeaters that boost the HDMI digital signal. This feature is particularly beneficial when you need to transmit the signal over long distances, ensuring that your video and audio quality remain top-notch.So whether you're setting up a multi-screen gaming experience, enhancing your home theater, or facilitating presentations in a professional setting, an HDMI splitter is your key to a clutter-free and efficient display setup!Also:The best power banks: Expert testedWhat is the best HDMI splitter right now?I've spent years testing tech products and accessories ranging from HDMI splitters to electric screwdrivers to portable power stations. Before we go for the deep dive on HDMI splitters, let me cut to the chase and tell you that for the majority of people who are looking for an HDMI splitter, the Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter is all you'll need. It takes an input and can push that out to two displays. It's simple to use and super reliable.Stay tuned to find out what else makes this the best overall HDMI splitter, and for a bunch of alternatives that can cater to those who need something different. Sort by All The best HDMI splitters of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon If you need to send one source signal to two displays simultaneously -- for example, sending the output from a computer to two monitors, or to a TV and a projector -- this is the splitter for you.It might seem basic, but for a good 90% of those who need a splitter, this is all you'll need. There's no point overspending on an all-singing, all-dancing HDMI splitter if you just need to split a signal into two displays.This splitter also supports up to 4K@60Hz -- again, more than enough for most people's needs. It's a solid, reliable unit, and the reviews on Amazon support this conclusion.Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter tech specs:2-in:1-out | Up to 4K@60Hz | Power: USB-A to microUSB power cable (USB adapter not included) Pros Inexpensive Everything most people need No controls or buttons Cons Only mirrors output, no switching Power adapter not included If you need to send one source signal to two displays simultaneously -- for example, sending the output from a computer to two monitors, or to a TV and a projector -- this is the splitter for you.It might seem basic, but for a good 90% of those who need a splitter, this is all you'll need. There's no point overspending on an all-singing, all-dancing HDMI splitter if you just need to split a signal into two displays.This splitter also supports up to 4K@60Hz -- again, more than enough for most people's needs. It's a solid, reliable unit, and the reviews on Amazon support this conclusion.Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter tech specs:2-in:1-out | Up to 4K@60Hz | Power: USB-A to microUSB power cable (USB adapter not included) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon We've gone from basic to high-tech. This HDMI splitter takes a single HDMI input and splits it up to four times, but rather than sending the signal along HDMI cables, it sends it over an ethernet cable.If you have a big home, this could very well be the solution you are looking for, but this model has been designed for bigger workloads, such as classrooms, digital signage, churches, meeting rooms, and conference centers.For such a specialist unit, there aren't a huge number of reviews, but what is out there shows this to be a strong product.Vpfet HDMI Extender Splitter tech specs:1-in:4-out | up to 1920x1200@60Hz and 1080p@60Hz | Up to 165 ft range | Power: 12V power adapter Pros High-tech Perfect for long cable hauls Supports Power Over Channel (POC) tech, so receiver units don't need separate power Cons Overkill for most users Pricey We've gone from basic to high-tech. This HDMI splitter takes a single HDMI input and splits it up to four times, but rather than sending the signal along HDMI cables, it sends it over an ethernet cable.If you have a big home, this could very well be the solution you are looking for, but this model has been designed for bigger workloads, such as classrooms, digital signage, churches, meeting rooms, and conference centers.For such a specialist unit, there aren't a huge number of reviews, but what is out there shows this to be a strong product.Vpfet HDMI Extender Splitter tech specs:1-in:4-out | up to 1920x1200@60Hz and 1080p@60Hz | Up to 165 ft range | Power: 12V power adapter Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Not many people will want an HDMI splitter with 8 outputs, but if you are one of those people wanting to drive a lot of displays, this is a perfect solution.This unit looks industrial and much like a network switch. It has LED lights on the front to show which ports are active, and it takes a 5V DC power input.This splitter has decent input and output ranges (33.5 and 66.5 feet, respectively). It supports both copy mode, where the input is protected to all eight outputs, and extended mode, where, when connected to a computer, the output can be a second display. The reviews are very positive, with owners citing excellent quality and reliability, with no lag.Icuixian HDMI splitter tech specs:1-in/8-out | 4Kx2k@30Hz | Power: 5V DC Pros Lots of outputs Good input and output range Supports copy and extended modes Cons Bulky unit LEDs on the front might be annoying in some situations Not many people will want an HDMI splitter with 8 outputs, but if you are one of those people wanting to drive a lot of displays, this is a perfect solution.This unit looks industrial and much like a network switch. It has LED lights on the front to show which ports are active, and it takes a 5V DC power input.This splitter has decent input and output ranges (33.5 and 66.5 feet, respectively). It supports both copy mode, where the input is protected to all eight outputs, and extended mode, where, when connected to a computer, the output can be a second display. The reviews are very positive, with owners citing excellent quality and reliability, with no lag.Icuixian HDMI splitter tech specs:1-in/8-out | 4Kx2k@30Hz | Power: 5V DC Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is the perfect splitter for modern gaming consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, as well as high-end gaming PCs and capture cards. Its support for high resolutions and frame rates puts it at a caliber above the rest. It also understands HDCP2.3 copy protection, so there are fewer hassles when it comes to outputting the video stream.EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) switches allow the switch to work with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and there's also a built-in downscale that allows the splitter to handle resolution changes.This is more than most people need, but it is a worthwhile choice for those wanting to stream games to the web or move high-resolution media to multiple displays.EzcooTech HDMI Splitter tech specs:1-in:2-out | Up to 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz | Power: USB-C input Pros Handles high resolutions and frame rates Perfect for capture cards for streaming gaming to the web Built-in Dolby support Cons High resolutions and frame rates demand quality cables Does not work with Sonos This is the perfect splitter for modern gaming consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, as well as high-end gaming PCs and capture cards. Its support for high resolutions and frame rates puts it at a caliber above the rest. It also understands HDCP2.3 copy protection, so there are fewer hassles when it comes to outputting the video stream.EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) switches allow the switch to work with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and there's also a built-in downscale that allows the splitter to handle resolution changes.This is more than most people need, but it is a worthwhile choice for those wanting to stream games to the web or move high-resolution media to multiple displays.EzcooTech HDMI Splitter tech specs:1-in:2-out | Up to 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz | Power: USB-C input Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is a simple 1-in/1-out repeater with one simple job -- extending the span of HDMI cabling you can use. The manufacturer claims it can take an input cable of up to 15m/49ft and an output 10m/33ft.It supports a broad range of audio formats, including DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, Dolby-AC3, and DSD.Not many people will need a repeater because their HDMI inputs and outputs will be close together, but if you do, this is a great choice, and it's a product with strong reviews.Bytecc HDMI Repeater tech specs:1-in:1-out | 8K@60Hz | USB-C input 5V/2A Pros Sleek and simple USB-C powered Support for long cable input and output Cons Repeater only, not a splitter This is a simple 1-in/1-out repeater with one simple job -- extending the span of HDMI cabling you can use. The manufacturer claims it can take an input cable of up to 15m/49ft and an output 10m/33ft.It supports a broad range of audio formats, including DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, Dolby-AC3, and DSD.Not many people will need a repeater because their HDMI inputs and outputs will be close together, but if you do, this is a great choice, and it's a product with strong reviews.Bytecc HDMI Repeater tech specs:1-in:1-out | 8K@60Hz | USB-C input 5V/2A Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best HDMI splitter? HDMI splitters are one of those things that most people will never need, and most of those who do need one will only need something simple, which is why my top pick is the Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter 1-in/2-out splitter. It's cheap and cheerful, and does what more than 90% of those who will want an HDMI splitter will ever need.HDMI SplitterPriceInputsOutputsMax ResolutionAmazon Basics HDMI Splitter $141 2 4K@60Hz Vpfet HDMI Extender Splitter$130 1 4 1920x1200@60Hz Icuixian HDMI Splitter $321 8 4K@30Hz EzcooTech HDMI Splitter $30 1 2 8K@60Hz Bytecc HDMI Repeater $24 1 1 8K@60Hz Show more Which is the right HDMI splitter for you? Choose thisHDMI splitterIf you wantAmazon Basics HDMI SplitterA simple, inexpensive HDMI splitter. Most people will want to split one input into two outputs, and this does that.Vpfet HDMI Extender SplitterA professional splitter that pushes the signal to receiver units over network cable. This is great for more complicated home setups.Icuixian HDMI SplitterTo push and output to a lot of displays. This is less of the home and more for classrooms, conference rooms, and such.EzcooTech HDMI SplitterSupport for high resolutions and framerates. This is perfect for those who want to use capture cards and run high-end PCs and game consoles.Bytecc HDMI RepeaterA simple HDMI repeater. Perfect for pushing audio and video across long cable lengths. Show more Factors to consider when choosing the best HDMI splitter When choosing an HDMI splitter, there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the right one for your needs. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:Number of outputs: How many displays do you want to connect to the splitter? HDMI splitters are available with different numbers of outputs, ranging from two to eight or more.Resolution and refresh rate: You will need to make sure that the HDMI splitter you choose supports the resolution and refresh rate of your source device and displays.Audio format: Are you using audio formats such as Dolby Digital or DTS? If so, you need to make sure that the HDMI splitter supports the audio format you want to use.Signal boosting: If you need to transmit the HDMI signal over long distances, consider a powered HDMI splitter. These act as repeaters and boost the digital HDMI signal, allowing you to surpass the normal length limitations of the format.Budget: Consider your budget when choosing an HDMI splitter. Prices can vary depending on the brand, number of ports, and additional features. The more features you want, the more it will cost you. Show more How did we choose these HDMI splitters? Most people never need an HDMI splitter. They hook up their media output to a single TV or monitor and they're done. But there are those who want to make things more complicated, taking a single output and pushing that to multiple displays. Throw in audio formats such as those from Dolby and things can get more complicated.Fortunately, there is an HDMI splitter to suit your needs, from simple to complicated.I have year of reviewing a variety of tech products and accessories ranging from large power stations to tiny thermal cameras for phones. To filter down the whole of the HDMI splitter market to a handful of choices, I've relied heavily on user reviews. There are so many different input and output devices and setups that the crowdsourcing nature of user reviews was the best approach to selecting the best HDMI splitters. Show more What is an HDMI splitter? As the name suggests, an HDMI splitter takes an HDMI input signal from a source device (such as a games console or media box) and splits it into multiple output signals, allowing you to connect multiple displays to a single source device. Show more How long can an HDMI cable be before you need a powered splitter? While there is no maximum length for an HDMI cable specified in the specs, signal attenuation (think leakage) and cable quality normally limits it (with the best quality cables and components, the limit is about 15 meters/49 feet). Show more Can an HDMI splitter be used to connect multiple source devices to a single display? No, a splitter splits the input into multiple outputs. If you want to connect multiple sources to a single display, you need an HDMI switch such as the Anker HDMI Switch that allows two inputs to be switched between on a single display.If you want to get even more fancy and take multiple inputs and mix them, adding things like transitions and even picture-in-picture, you need an HDMI mixer, such as the RGBlink Mini Video Mixer Switcher, which can take four HDMI inputs, along with an audio input, and mix those into one output. Show more Are there alternative HDMI splitters worth considering? Here are a few alternative HDMI splitters for your consideration. While these didn't make it onto the main listing, don't let that put you off because they are very capable units. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Thinkhubstudio/Getty ImagesIf 2024 was a busy 12 months for IT professionals, 2025 will present similar challenges -- and then some.The IT department just wrapped its collective head around generative AI use cases, and nowagentic AI is threatening another digital revolution. Add in continuing demands for other emerging technologies -- such as automation, machine learning, and augmented reality -- and senior IT executives can expect 2025 to be a formidable year.Also: AI transformation is the new digital transformation. Here's why that change mattersSo, how can digital leaders deal with these pressures and deliver great results during the next 12 months? Four business leaders share their best-practice tips.1. Provide lateral thinkingWendy Redshaw, chief digital information officer at NatWest Retail Bank, says successful digital leaders act less like technologists and more like business leaders.The democratization of IT knowledge will continue in 2025 as professionals use more digital services in their everyday roles."Everyone is becoming technology literate -- the business won't be just the business, and the technologists won't be just technologists."Also:5 ways to tell people what to do at workRedshaw told ZDNET that effective digital leaders play an important role in allowing the rest of the organization to embrace innovation with a sense of perspective."From a business perspective, it's not being overly excited or overly scared of the technology that's coming, but stopping and thinking, 'Where is the customer benefit here, and how do we make sure it's bringing benefits?'"Digital leaders will use their IT knowledge to work with the business and deliver improved customer experiences safely and effectively, especially in an age of AI."For people with a traditional technology background, the engineering blocks are still important for keeping customers safe, especially with changes in cybersecurity and quantum computing coming down the road," she said."Generative AI is not human. It's important to understand that, even though it looks like a superhuman and behaves like one, you can't assume it's correct. So, we need real discernment and lateral thinking on what we're doing." 2. Design your futureGabriela Vogel, senior director analyst in the Executive Leadership of Digital Business practice at research firm Gartner, said the heightened interest in technology is good news for digital leaders but comes with a side order of challenges. "CIOs have a lot of pressure to deliver the value of technology," she said, especially given that non-IT executives are boosting their digital credentials. Gartner's research suggests as many as 80% of CXOs and business leaders believe digital leadership is part of their jobs. If CIOs don't deliver value quickly, other executives will start stomping on their territory -- and for some digital leaders, that might be a suitable solution to an intractable challenge.Also:5 ways to be a great leader at work"You can pretty much design the work and responsibility you want because as tech and business move together, you can start focusing on the parts of the role you want," said Vogel. "You might say, 'You know what? I don't want any of this. I want to do the old IT,' and that's all fine and fair.'"Gartner's research suggests just 12% of CIOs who lead a digital transformation operate in a franchise model, integrating themselves with the rest of the business to create a democratized approach to technology. Vogel said it's these digital leaders who will deliver the most value. "We do see a trend of them connecting and being part of the executive committee more and more," she said. "And the relationship that we see is the higher the digital maturity of the business, the more likely it is that the digital leader will report to the CEO, and, hence, have more opportunities to deliver value."3. Don't hog the gloryNick Woods, CIO at airport group MAG, said digital leadership titles -- such as CIO, CTO, or CDO -- are far less important than how you partner with the business. "Do you understand the business problems you're trying to solve?" he said. "Technology for technology's sake solves nothing. Digital leaders must address tangible business outcomes and deliver value." Woods said digital leaders reach that goal using their IT engineering expertise to help their business colleagues implement technology."We're used to taking complex pictures and plotting logical courses and routes," he said. "I think the tentacles are extending as tech becomes more pervasive and integrated into more parts of the organization."Woods told ZDNET that successful digital leaders grab the opportunity to build bonds with the rest of the business and identify strong use cases."It's not the reality that you're going to the ops guys and saying, 'Hey, I've got this great new technology solution that I'm going to put on top of everything and deliver you 30% more capacity. I'll see you next week when I've finished it,'" he said "You must partner because digital success is people, process, and tech coming together. So, just implementing tech in isolation doesn't do it. There has to be mutual gains and benefits." Woods said the best position for digital leaders is to view success as supporting others. Get that area right, and you'll be recognized for your efforts."The reality is the costs often sit with me, and the benefits sit with someone else. I pay for the cloud and compute we're using to run an AI algorithm, but the efficiency, the gains, and the upside sit somewhere else," he said. "So, digital leadership has to be built on a partnership model. And everyone wins as a result of that. If you try and take all the glory yourself, then you're [certain to fail]."4. Provide smart answers quicklyClaire Thompson, group chief data and analytics officer at insurance giant L&G, said she's in a fortunate position where she sits on a board subcommittee. "I have a seat at the top table and can talk about what's going on," she said. "But I know that's not true for other peers."If you're a digital leader who doesn't attend board-level meetings, Thompson told ZDNET you must find another way to hammer home the importance of technology and data."That's tough if you don't sit at the top table and can't ask senior stakeholders, 'Have you thought about how that's possible?'" Also:5 ways to ensure you spend time on the right tasks at workThompson said the good news for digital leaders who feel left out in the cold is that the broad interest in generative AI and other emerging technology means the focus on technology and data will keep increasing."Boards and executive committees must think about what's happening in that space and how they might leverage those advances," she said. "And that's exactly what you'd expect from a board -- to look at the organization and ensure they're keeping up with innovation happening elsewhere."Of course, if you are seen as someone who can help the board achieve its digital objectives, then there'll be new pressure to deliver quickly and effectively. "Success is all about how these aims tie back into the digital and data piece, and ensuring you have the right individuals in your organization that help you answer questions the board asks."Featured

With a simple text prompt, creators will be able to change outfits, backgrounds, and more. (Meta's Mosseri turned himself into a puppet.)

The Yamaha True X Bar 50A is a low-profile, elegant soundbar that'll look good under any TV. Jack Wallen/ZDNETZDNET's key takeawaysThe Yamaha True X Bar 50A is available now at a discount, with surround speakers sold separately (and individually).The sound produced by these speakers is rich, deep, well-blended, and spacious.I just wish the setup process was more seamless and simple.For months, I was one hundred percent certain the JBL Bar 1000 soundbar couldn't be beat. It offers incredible clarity of sound, rich bass, and brilliant surround via two wireless speakers.When Yamaha sent me the True X Bar 50A to review, I assumed it wouldn't be able to stand up to the sound the JBL delivered. Given that the Yamaha sells for roughly half the price of the JBL, that assumption was a fairly safe bet. And even though my audiophile ears could easily tell the difference between the two (with the JBL coming out on top), for the money, the Yamaha True X Bar 50A is hard to beat. Also: One of the loudest Bluetooth speakers I've tested is not made by Sonos or BoseOne thing to remember is that I was also sent aTrue X Speaker 1A, which is sold separately and runs for $150 each. If you want surround (which you should), now you're talking about $850 for the whole kit. Another thing to keep in mind is that I only reviewed this connected to my television and didn't opt to test how music might sound via this speaker. For me, a soundbar serves a single purpose to replace built-in TV speakers that rarely offer sound of much quality.With that in mind, let's dive into the review. details View at Amazon The specsDrivers - Front L/R: 4.6 6.6 cm (1-3/4 2-5/8") cone 2, Height L/R: 5.2 cm (2") cone 2, Built-in Subwoofer: 7.5 cm (3") cone 2, Wireless Subwoofer: 16 cm (6-1/4") coneOutput power - 280 W (Front L/R: 30 W 2-ch, Height L/R: 30 W 2-ch, Built-in subwoofer: 30 W 2, Subwoofer: 100W )Dimensions - Center unit: 1,015 63 112 mm (40" 2-1/2" 4-3/8"), Subwoofer: 187 407 409 mm (7-3/8" 16" 16-1/8")Inputs - HDMI, digital opticalSound technology - Dolby Atmos with stereo, standard, movie, and game modes.Bass extensionWireless streaming The Yamaha sub is on the left and the JBL Bar 1000 sub is on the right. Jack Wallen/ZDNETMy experienceThe first thing to note about this soundbar is that the setup can be a bit finicky. It took me several attempts to connect the subwoofer and surround speakers. The issue with the surround speakers turned out to be a low battery -- they needed to be fully charged via USB-C before they would connect. Even then, the setup process is somewhat confusing, requiring you to download a manual on your phone using a QR code for guidance. Also:This stereo amp made me feel like I was hearing my favorite band for the first timeFor some reason, the subwoofer wouldn't connect right out of the box either. I had to go through the manual setup a few times before it finally linked with the main speaker. But once everything was connected, the difference was impressive.Many soundbars in this price range (without the additional surround speakers) tend to overemphasize midrange frequencies, which makes sense since that's where vocals sit. However, too much focus on the midrange can result in tinny or harsh sound. That's not the case with the True X Bar 50A. Instead, it delivers a well-balanced mix that adds richness to the sound. When the subwoofer kicks in, it adds depth and punch for a more immersive experience.Once everything is set up, the True X Bar 50A is easy to use, thanks to a well-designed remote that lets you switch between modes (Standard, Movie, Music, Game, and All), adjust the bass, and control surround levels.While this soundbar does advertise Dolby Atmos for a more immersive sound experience, mid-range systems like this aren't quite capable of delivering the full effect. The True X Bar 50A gets close but doesn't fully achieve the true Atmos experience. That said, it still fills the room with sound beautifully, and when you add the surround speakers, the sound really comes to life.Also:Philips Fidelio FB1 soundbar is just for audiophilesMy only gripe with the surround speakers is that they lack the volume power of a JBL system. With JBL, the sound is so immersive that you sometimes wonder if it's coming from the speakers, somewhere in the house, or even outside. In comparison, the Yamaha is more subtle. Even with the surround speakers set to max, the effect is more understated. However, the All mode, which sends sound to both the main and surround speakers, is a great solution -- especially for watching TV or movies where dialogue can be hard to hear. These surround speakers are small but they produce impressive sound. Jack Wallen/ZDNETHit the All button, and you'll have no trouble understanding dialogue. There's also a Clear Voice option that enhances vocal clarity. I tested it with a few films where the dialogue is notoriously hard to hear, and the Clear Voice feature easily solved that issue. In particular, Oppenheimerwhich is known for its challenging dialogue -- sounded crisp and clear with Yamaha's Clear Voice technology.You'll likely find yourself using this feature often, especially with more films leaning into complex sound design.The only downsideAs I mentioned earlier, setting up the True X Bar 50A isn't as straightforward as it should be. With JBL, it was as simple as unpacking, plugging in, and getting started. The Yamaha setup, on the other hand, requires a bit of patience and luck. But once it's up and running, you're good to go.Also:This is the soundbar I recommend if you have limited space at home (and it's $100 off)Here's a tip: if you purchase the surround speakers, keep the soundbar on once everything is connected. When you turn the soundbar off, you'll have to manually switch each surround speaker back on. While the speakers offer around 12 hours of battery life, I recommend keeping them plugged in via USB-C, especially if you mount them on the wall. If you choose to use them wirelessly, be sure to charge them regularly. Otherwise, you risk losing sound mid-movielike during Prometheusand ruining the experience.ZDNET's buying adviceIf you don't have the budget for a $1,000+ soundbar, but you still want high-quality sound, the Yamaha True X Bar 50A is a brilliant option, especially with Amazon's current discount. And if you can afford it, add the surround speakers for a much more immersive experience.Just make sure to give yourself plenty of time for setup, and don't be surprised if you have to go through the steps a few times before everything connects properly.If it weren't for the exceptional sound of the JBL Bar 1000, the Yamaha True X Bar 50A would easily be my top pick. With its deep, rich bass, well-balanced mids, and crisp highs, this soundbar is a significant upgrade from your TV speakers and will likely outperform any midrange soundbar you're currently using.When will this deal expire?Deals are subject to sell-out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you atZDNET.com.Featured reviews

Overshadowed by the shiny AI features, the latest iPhone update brought multiple QOL improvements, such as the new Home Screen controls.

Instagram's new 'profile card' turns social networking into a professional networking site for freelancers, content creators, and small business owners.

If you need help with coding, math, and reasoning, Gemini 2.0 Flash is the model for you.

blackred/Getty ImagesSometimes it can be hard to get all your reading done, especially with ADHD diagnoses on the rise. If you're tasked with a school or work project and you're pressed for time (or focus),artificial intelligence (AI)chatbots like ChatGPT can help summarize long articles, research papers, and books to make them a bit more accessible.Also: You can now talk to ChatGPT on the phone - no Wi-Fi neededChatGPT has come a long way from its launch in 2022, especially since it got web browsing last spring. However, all AI chatbots can make mistakes -- don't rely entirely on ChatGPT's summary for your understanding of a text. Though ChatGPT now provides citations, they aren't always correct. Plus, an AI system won't interpret more abstract concepts or literature the way a human mind can, meaning it won't necessarily capture certain themes or details.Think of ChatGPT as a tool that can help make a dense text more approachable. If you're using it to help with other parts of your work, such as writing, tread carefully -- considering the plagiarism and copyright issues surrounding these tools, it isn't in your best interest to have chatbots write your work for you.If you're a student writing a research paper, someone who is keen to discover more about a lengthy article, or want to dive into a complicated subject, you can use ChatGPT to simplify the process.How to create summaries with ChatGPTWhat you'll need: A device that can connect to the internet, a free (or paid) OpenAI account, and a basic understanding of the article, research paper, or book you want to summarize.The process should take about one to three minutes. 1. Find your article, paper, or book to summarize If you need ChatGPT to help summarize an article or research paper, find the body of text online and keep it open in a separate tab. You can also try just giving ChatGPT the book title and author by inputting it into the text box. Show more 2. Open your web browser and log in to ChatGPT Open your web browser of choice and head to chatgpt.com.Also:5 ways college students can use Gemini AI to keep up with school workLog in or sign up for an account. Show more Screenshot by Radhika Rajkumar/ZDNET 3. Type your request In the chat box, type in "Summarize [book title]." For example, "Summarize Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman," or "Summarize this article: [URL]."Also: Study finds AI-generated research papers on Google Scholar - why it mattersNow that ChatGPT can provide sources for the info it surfaces, you can also ask for clarifying background information on a topic. For example, if you're writing about cognition, you can prompt ChatGPT to "Explain how personal experiences impact cognition and provide citations."ChatGPT will respond with several bullet points and citations, giving you a framework for your larger topic area and additional sources to dive into if you choose.In my case, those citations were papers and books that weren't linked -- I verified the titles were real by Googling each one. If you want to skip that step, simply ask ChatGPT to "provide citations with links," and you'll only get sources you can click on to verify yourself.If you're having trouble comprehending specific passages in an article, book, or research paper, you can copy parts of the text and paste them into ChatGPT, or even upload a photo.Also: The most popular AI tools of 2024 (and what that even means)Think of this method as reshuffling the words you're currently reading to help you make more sense of the text in front of you. Show more This is an accurate summary of Let The Misunderstand, an essay by Moeko Fujii that I have read before. Screenshot by Radhika Rajkumar/ZDNET 4. Check responses and citations for accuracy Review ChatGPT's responses to ensure they're correct within your understanding. For one of my queries, ChatGPT did not catch that an article was an excerpt of a novel, responding instead that it was the novel itself."'The Witches of El Paso' is a novel by Luis Jaramillo, published on December 11, 2024," ChatGPT told me. The novel was published on Oct. 8, and the excerpt was published in the Public Seminar on Dec. 11, but ChatGPT mistakenly noted that date as the novel's publication date despite citing the article itself.ChatGPThas a track record of fabricating sources. Once you've reviewed the chatbot's responses, be sure to check the sources it provides. Search titles of papers or books to verify they're real, and click on linked articles if ChatGPT provided them. For one of the non-linked book titles ChatGPT offered me, the chatbot listed the book's publication year as 2009, but I was only able to find editions going back to 2012.Also: I'm an AI tools expert, and these are the only two I pay forWhile the other details were correct, this is a good reminder that ChatGPT does make mistakes, or at the very least doesn't always offer transparency into how it finds sources. Show more ChatGPT did not catch that this article was an excerpt of a novel, not the novel itself. The novel was published on Oct. 8, and the excerpt was published in Public Seminar on Dec. 11, but ChatGPT mistakenly noted that date as the novel's publish date. Screenshot by Radhika Rajkumar/ZDNETFAQ Show more What are ChatGPT's limitations?If you're using ChatGPT to summarize an article, book, or piece of research, keep in mind that ChatGPT can still hallucinateinformation. Always check its outputs.Also: 8 ways to reduce ChatGPT hallucinationsChatGPT is a large language model that uses queues and millions of data points to mimic human responses. This form of mimicry is why ChatGPT will answer questions even when it doesn't output the correct answer. Make sure you're not using any information from ChatGPT without fact-checking it.Can ChatGPT summarize a PDF?Now that ChatGPT can ingest file uploads in both the free and paid versions, you can upload a PDF and ask ChatGPT to summarize it. The chatbot correctly summarized a press release I uploaded, formatting the key points of a tech company's release -- though it was only two pages long.Also:Don't trust ChatGPT Search and definitely verify anything it tells youYou can also try ChatPDFfor free, especially for much longer documents. You can summarize two PDFs of up to 120 pages per day, and a plan is available for $5 per month.Can ChatGPT summarize an email thread?Sort of. If you want to copy and paste every single email, ChatGPT can summarize the thread's contents for you -- but I wouldn't recommend that in terms of security. Emails can contain sensitive information, like confidential work information or personal identifiers, that you can't guarantee will be safe if uploaded to OpenAI.It would be more helpful to scan an email thread yourself and ask ChatGPT to help you write a response based on the key points you know about the conversation.Artificial Intelligence

A robust and functional iPad keyboard case can make all the difference in keeping your device safe and functional. That's why our experts have tested the best iPad keyboard cases of 2024, looking for that perfect blend of durability, functionality, and style. We used these cases ourselves and put them through the wringer.Here are our top picks for the best iPad keyboard cases of 2024, from brands like Apple, Logitech, and more.Also: The best iPads of 2024: Expert testedWhat's the best iPad keyboard case right now?Our expert testing, reviews, and extensive research have helped us select the best iPad keyboard cases you can buy. Our choice for the best iPad keyboard case overall is Logitech's Combo Touch keyboard case for its functionality and fair price. Check out our other recommended picks and see how our top choice compares to tried-and-true options. Sort by All The best iPad keyboard cases of 2024 Show less The Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best overall iPad keyboard case thanks to its top features and affordable price. The Combo Touch is packed with functions with a detachable keyboard, backlit keys, built-in stylus storage, iPad OS shortcut keys, and more. It offers four modes of use: type, view, sketch, and read, to suit any iPad activity.Review: My favorite iPad keyboard and stylus are not made by AppleWhen ZDNET's Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan tested the Combo Touch and Logitech Crayon Stylus with the iPad 10th Gen in 2022, he lauded it for its ability to "flex on the Magic Keyboard [Folio].""Logitech's Combo Touch cover and Crayon stylus for the iPad are cheaper and practically better than Apple's own accessories. [They] are not perfect, but they deliver a more feature-rich experience than Apple's first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. That's not a knock on Apple's iPad keyboard and stylus by any means; the two are just as worthy of your consideration," Wan wrote in his review.Current customers on the Logitech website said they liked the Combo Touch case's top-of-the-line features, overall value, and price point. The case has over 100 5-star reviews. One customer, like Wan, even said it beat out Apple's Magic Keyboard. "This product is exactly what I hoped Apple was going to provide. And, it was at a fraction of the price," they wrote.Logitech Combo Touchspecs: Dimensions: 0.89 x 7.68 x 10.12 inches (per 10.2 inch display)|Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 4 modes (type, view, sketch, read) | Detachable keyboard | Backlit keys | Stylus storage | Full row of iPad OS shortcut keys | 1-year limited warranty | Two viewing angles Pros Detachable keyboard Trackpad Stylus storage Backlit keys More affordable than Apple's Magic Keyboard Folio Cons Slightly heavy Still pricey Limited color options The Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best overall iPad keyboard case thanks to its top features and affordable price. The Combo Touch is packed with functions with a detachable keyboard, backlit keys, built-in stylus storage, iPad OS shortcut keys, and more. It offers four modes of use: type, view, sketch, and read, to suit any iPad activity.Review: My favorite iPad keyboard and stylus are not made by AppleWhen ZDNET's Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan tested the Combo Touch and Logitech Crayon Stylus with the iPad 10th Gen in 2022, he lauded it for its ability to "flex on the Magic Keyboard [Folio].""Logitech's Combo Touch cover and Crayon stylus for the iPad are cheaper and practically better than Apple's own accessories. [They] are not perfect, but they deliver a more feature-rich experience than Apple's first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. That's not a knock on Apple's iPad keyboard and stylus by any means; the two are just as worthy of your consideration," Wan wrote in his review.Current customers on the Logitech website said they liked the Combo Touch case's top-of-the-line features, overall value, and price point. The case has over 100 5-star reviews. One customer, like Wan, even said it beat out Apple's Magic Keyboard. "This product is exactly what I hoped Apple was going to provide. And, it was at a fraction of the price," they wrote.Logitech Combo Touchspecs: Dimensions: 0.89 x 7.68 x 10.12 inches (per 10.2 inch display)|Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 4 modes (type, view, sketch, read) | Detachable keyboard | Backlit keys | Stylus storage | Full row of iPad OS shortcut keys | 1-year limited warranty | Two viewing angles Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Magic Keyboard Folio is Apple's flagship keyboard case for the most current base model iPad, the 10th Gen. Designed especially for the iPad, it features a built-in trackpad, a 14-key function row, an adjustable stand and detachable keyboard, and a versatile two-piece design. It's the most obvious choice on the market if you're looking for a keyboard case for your iPad, and like many Apple products, our team of experts think it's pretty up to snuff. But it's pricey, costing over $200.ZDNET's Kerry Wan has gone hands-on with Apple's Magic Folio and the Logitech Combo Touch (our top pick), and while he admits this Apple Magic Folio is good, he says it has been outdone in terms of function and value."The Combo Touch keyboard cover and Apple's own Magic Keyboard Folio share many similarities, like their two-piece design ... But Logitech made some additional design choices that I'm a big fan of," he wrote in his 2022 review.Current Magic Folio users on Best Buy said they liked the keyboard's value, quality, and ease of use. It has a 4.6/5 star rating online. Many users said it was worth the hefty price tag, but others said the cost was a bit much, considering a lack of features like backlit keys.Apple Magic Keyboard Foliospecs: Dimensions: 11.69 x 5.04 x 0.76 inches |Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard | Adjustable stand | Protective back panel | 14-key function row | 1 year limited warranty Pros Trackpad Designed by Apple for Apple Detachable keyboard Adjustable stand Cons Uber pricey compared to other options No backlit keys Not compatible with older iPad models Limited color options The Magic Keyboard Folio is Apple's flagship keyboard case for the most current base model iPad, the 10th Gen. Designed especially for the iPad, it features a built-in trackpad, a 14-key function row, an adjustable stand and detachable keyboard, and a versatile two-piece design. It's the most obvious choice on the market if you're looking for a keyboard case for your iPad, and like many Apple products, our team of experts think it's pretty up to snuff. But it's pricey, costing over $200.ZDNET's Kerry Wan has gone hands-on with Apple's Magic Folio and the Logitech Combo Touch (our top pick), and while he admits this Apple Magic Folio is good, he says it has been outdone in terms of function and value."The Combo Touch keyboard cover and Apple's own Magic Keyboard Folio share many similarities, like their two-piece design ... But Logitech made some additional design choices that I'm a big fan of," he wrote in his 2022 review.Current Magic Folio users on Best Buy said they liked the keyboard's value, quality, and ease of use. It has a 4.6/5 star rating online. Many users said it was worth the hefty price tag, but others said the cost was a bit much, considering a lack of features like backlit keys.Apple Magic Keyboard Foliospecs: Dimensions: 11.69 x 5.04 x 0.76 inches |Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard | Adjustable stand | Protective back panel | 14-key function row | 1 year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Zagg The Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpad features many of the same traits as the more expensive options on this list at a more affordable price. The Pro Keys case has a detachable keyboard and case, laptop-style keys, an adjustable stand, a stylus holder, and multi-pairing capabilities. It's also extra durable, polycarbonate with reinforced rubber components and 6.6 feet of drop protection.With backlit keys in seven colors, customize your typing, work in low-light conditions easily, and toggle between two devices simultaneously, thanks to multi-pairing. Zagg says that the Pro Keys battery will last up to a year of typing before needing a recharge and that the keyboard will automatically turn off when folded backward against the tablet to preserve battery life.Current users on the Zagg website said they liked the overall value, functions, and design of the Pro Keys with Trackpad case. Many said it works like a laptop keyboard and levels up their iPad. Some customers said they wished more instructions for best use were included.Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpadspecs: Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inches |Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th (10.2 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard| Adjustable stand | Stylus holder | 6.6 feet drop protection | Multi-pairing capabilities | Backlit keys in seven colors | Rubberized edges, button covers, and corner bumpers | Battery life up to 1 year before recharging | 1 year limited warranty Pros Trackpad Multi-pairing capabilities Detachable keyboard Backlit keys 6.6 feet drop protection More affordable Cons No 10.9-inch model Limited color options The Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpad features many of the same traits as the more expensive options on this list at a more affordable price. The Pro Keys case has a detachable keyboard and case, laptop-style keys, an adjustable stand, a stylus holder, and multi-pairing capabilities. It's also extra durable, polycarbonate with reinforced rubber components and 6.6 feet of drop protection.With backlit keys in seven colors, customize your typing, work in low-light conditions easily, and toggle between two devices simultaneously, thanks to multi-pairing. Zagg says that the Pro Keys battery will last up to a year of typing before needing a recharge and that the keyboard will automatically turn off when folded backward against the tablet to preserve battery life.Current users on the Zagg website said they liked the overall value, functions, and design of the Pro Keys with Trackpad case. Many said it works like a laptop keyboard and levels up their iPad. Some customers said they wished more instructions for best use were included.Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpadspecs: Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inches |Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th (10.2 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard| Adjustable stand | Stylus holder | 6.6 feet drop protection | Multi-pairing capabilities | Backlit keys in seven colors | Rubberized edges, button covers, and corner bumpers | Battery life up to 1 year before recharging | 1 year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Esrgear The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard is another affordable iPad keyboard case option, much closer to $100 than other options on this list. It features similar top specs, such as a trackpad, a long-lasting battery, a floating, angled stand for viewing, laptop-style keys, a stylus holder, and front and back protection.With a sleek, laptop-esque design, the ESR Rebound can transform any space into a workstation. It is perfect for students, on-the-go users, or hybrid workers. The Rebound case is also available in white or black.Current ESR customers said they liked the keyboard's overall value, responsiveness, lightweight feel, and strong magnetic connection, giving it a 4.6/5 star rating on the ESR website. However, some users said the case closes oddly with a stylus in the storage slot and that the number keys are sometimes hard to reach depending on an outside case.Multiple customers said that the quality is premium and so are the features. "The quality definitely feels premium ... if the Magic Keyboard is out of budget, then this is a good value product," said one customer on the site.Author's Note: Save 18% with code BACK24 at ESR's website.ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 10 x 6.7 x 0.5 inches|Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Long-lasting battery | Front and back protection | Secure magnetic lock | Floating stand with angled viewing | Laptop-style keys | Stylus holder | Displays keyboard percentage charged Pros More affordable Trackpad Long-lasting battery Sleek design Stylus holder True laptop feel Cons No 10.2-inch model No adjustable angle No backlit keys Limited color options The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard is another affordable iPad keyboard case option, much closer to $100 than other options on this list. It features similar top specs, such as a trackpad, a long-lasting battery, a floating, angled stand for viewing, laptop-style keys, a stylus holder, and front and back protection.With a sleek, laptop-esque design, the ESR Rebound can transform any space into a workstation. It is perfect for students, on-the-go users, or hybrid workers. The Rebound case is also available in white or black.Current ESR customers said they liked the keyboard's overall value, responsiveness, lightweight feel, and strong magnetic connection, giving it a 4.6/5 star rating on the ESR website. However, some users said the case closes oddly with a stylus in the storage slot and that the number keys are sometimes hard to reach depending on an outside case.Multiple customers said that the quality is premium and so are the features. "The quality definitely feels premium ... if the Magic Keyboard is out of budget, then this is a good value product," said one customer on the site.Author's Note: Save 18% with code BACK24 at ESR's website.ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 10 x 6.7 x 0.5 inches|Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Long-lasting battery | Front and back protection | Secure magnetic lock | Floating stand with angled viewing | Laptop-style keys | Stylus holder | Displays keyboard percentage charged Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Best Buy The Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard case is designed, as named, to have a sleek and stylish profile while still delivering function. This keyboard case is available for most iPad models out of any other case on this list and has remained a mainstay on the market for several years.The Slim Folio features a three-year battery life, a stylus holder, front and back protection, two fixed viewing angles, and three modes of use (type, sketch, and read). It is made of water-repellent, easy-to-clean fabric that is durable for long use and has a one-year limited warranty. However, there are no trackpads or backlit keys.Current Logitech Slim Folio customers said they like the keyboard's overall value, function, fit, and typing capabilities, which has an overall rating of 4/5 stars on the Logitech website. Several customers said they were repeats after purchasing a new Slim Folio after upgrading their iPad models. "After years of using my previous Slim Folio, I realized I needed to replace the keyboard. The keyboard is easy to set up, and I replace batteries when needed and type messages on my iPad. Highly recommend this product," one customer wrote.Logitech Slim Folio Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 7.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches |Connectivity:iPad 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (9.7 inches, 10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 3 year battery life | Slim design | Stylus holder | Front and back protection |Water repellent, easy-to-clean fabric and durable plastic material | Two fixed viewing angles | 3 modes of use (type, sketch, read) | 1 year limited warranty Pros Slim design Available for iPads 5th Gen and up Long-lasting battery Stylus holder Cons No trackpad Limited color options No backlit keys No adjustable angles The Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard case is designed, as named, to have a sleek and stylish profile while still delivering function. This keyboard case is available for most iPad models out of any other case on this list and has remained a mainstay on the market for several years.The Slim Folio features a three-year battery life, a stylus holder, front and back protection, two fixed viewing angles, and three modes of use (type, sketch, and read). It is made of water-repellent, easy-to-clean fabric that is durable for long use and has a one-year limited warranty. However, there are no trackpads or backlit keys.Current Logitech Slim Folio customers said they like the keyboard's overall value, function, fit, and typing capabilities, which has an overall rating of 4/5 stars on the Logitech website. Several customers said they were repeats after purchasing a new Slim Folio after upgrading their iPad models. "After years of using my previous Slim Folio, I realized I needed to replace the keyboard. The keyboard is easy to set up, and I replace batteries when needed and type messages on my iPad. Highly recommend this product," one customer wrote.Logitech Slim Folio Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 7.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches |Connectivity:iPad 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (9.7 inches, 10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 3 year battery life | Slim design | Stylus holder | Front and back protection |Water repellent, easy-to-clean fabric and durable plastic material | Two fixed viewing angles | 3 modes of use (type, sketch, read) | 1 year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best iPad keyboard case? We love the Logitech Combo Touch iPad keyboard for its simple connectivity and lightweight build. Consider this overview of the best iPad keyboard cases to see how they stack up against the best keyboards. Remember the price you're willing to spend and the display size of your particular iPad.Best iPad keyboard caseCostDimensionsiPad display size and compatibilityLogitech Combo Touch Keyboard $1500.89 x 7.68 x 10.12 inchesiPad 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (10.2 inches, 10.9 inches)Apple Magic Keyboard Folio $25011.69 x 5.04 x 0.76 inchesiPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches)Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpad$10011.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inchesiPad 7th, 8th, 9th (10.2 inches)ESR Rebound Magneitc Keyboard Case$15010 x 6.7 x 0.5 inches iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches)Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard $607.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches iPad 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (9.7 inches, 10.2 inches, 10.9 inches)*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons. Show more Which is the right iPad keyboard case for you? The best keyboard case for you depends on what you're looking for and how you want to use your keyboard case. Here's how our top picks compare and ZDNET's recommendations for which one may be right for you.Choose this best iPad keyboard case...If you want...Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Our pick for the best iPad keyboard case overall, promising ample protection, performance, and value backed by ZDNET's own testing.Apple Magic KeyboardA pricier iPad keyboard case that works seamlessly with Apple's integrated ecosystem.Zagg Pro Keys with TrackpadA budget-friendly iPad keyboard case we'd recommend that doesn't sacrifice on features.ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard CaseA mid-range, yet functional iPad keyboard case with top features.Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard A lightweight, budget-friendly, and ultra-functional keyboard for most iPad models. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an iPad keyboard case: When choosing the best iPad keyboard cases, keeping a few things in mind is probably good. We recommend looking out for a few factors while searching for the perfect case.Size:A keyboard must have ergonomics to help you work better. Look for an iPad keyboard case that will fit your iPad but also hold a nicely sized keyboard for comfortable use.Protection:An iPad keyboard case is hardly worth it if it does not protect your iPad, so look for models that offer additional protection to ensure your device stays safe. A keyboard is great, but it's probably not worth your investment if it doesn't offer protection.Features: Not all keyboard cases are created equal, and they don't all offer the same features. Consider if you want or need a trackpad, stylus holder, adjustable stand, and other features to help narrow your search and make it easier to find your top contenders.Connection:Whether it uses Bluetooth or a magnetic connection, consider which type of connection will work best for your iPad, your needs, and how you want to use it.Cost:Set a budget you're comfortable with before searching the market. This will help narrow your options and ensure you don't overspend proportionate to your expected use. If you know you'll be using a keyboard everyday, then it might be worth spending more to find a top quality case.Also: The best iPads you can buy Show more How did we choose these iPad keyboard cases? ZDNET's team combined personal experience and testing, in-depth research, and our expansive knowledge and testing of the iPad line and its compatible accessories to consider the best iPad keyboard cases on the market.If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for. We also routinely scour the web for new products worthy of testing, follow news on product rollouts and upgrades, and source the best deals. Show more What are the iPad display sizes? The base model iPad has changed display sizes several times with each new iteration. Here's a basic guide for display size to remember while you shop. Pay attention to your iPad model to ensure you get the correct size of the keyboard case. The iPad 10th Gen is the newest base model of the iPad available.iPad 10th Gen: 10.9 inchesiPad 9th Gen: 10.2 inchesiPad 8th Gen: 10.2 inchesiPad 7th Gen: 10.2 inchesiPad 5th and 6th Gen: 9.7 inchesThe 4th and 5th Gen iPad Air models also have a 10.9-inch display, and the latest iPad Pro models have either an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display (iPad Pro 11-inch 4th Gen or iPad Pro 12.9-inch 6th Gen). You can compare sizes and see display and model information on the Apple website. Show more What are the new iPad models? Apple announced the 6th-generation iPad Air and the 7th-generation iPad Pro models on May 7, 2024.Also:How to order the new iPad Air, iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil ProThe new iPad Air comes in two sizes for the first time (11 inches and 13 inches) and features the M2 chip. In addition, the iPad Air now starts at 128GB instead of the mere 64GB that Apple previous included in the base model. Show more What is the newest base model iPad? The iPad 10th Gen is the most current base model iPad, released in 2022. Show more Is an iPad keyboard case worth it? Much like any other investment, it's a good idea to think about how you'd use a keyboard case, how often, and in what settings before dropping cash on something. If you frequently work from your iPad and do typing-intense tasks (especially on the go), then a keyboard case is probably worth your money.On the other hand, if you only use your iPad for entertainment, streaming, gaming, or not every day, you may not even need a keyboard case. Rest assured that I won't tell you how to spend your money, and if you've got money to burn -- go ahead and get one. But if you think you'd only need a keyboard in a here-or-there situation, a cheaper keyboard case or even a standalone Bluetooth keyboard could be better options. Show more How do iPad keyboard cases work? An iPad keyboard case fits snugly around your iPad to offer protection against bumps and scrapes. It typically incorporates other features, as well, like an adjustable stand and an Apple Pencil holder. Show more How much does an iPad keyboard case cost? The cost of an iPad keyboard case can vary significantly, depending on factors like size, design, brand, and features. Expect to spend over $100 on a quality iPad keyboard case, and keep in mind that some options will easily run you closer to $200 or more. Apple's Magic Keyboard Folio for example, is $249. Show more Where can I buy iPad keyboard cases? You can find iPad keyboard cases at many major retailers and individually at company websites. Chains like Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Amazon frequently sell many of the popular keyboard case options on the market. You even buy select, non-Apple keyboard cases (as well as Apple models) directly from Apple, too. Show more Do I have to use an Apple Magic Keyboard? The various Apple Magic Keyboard options, designed for respective iPad models, are certainly not your only keyboard options. While the Apple keyboards are designed by Apple and made to maximize your iPad's features, they often come with a hefty price tag. Other brands like Zagg, Logitech, Brydge, ESR, and more have similar keyboard cases that offer similar features for a lower cost, though many will still cost over $100. Show more Do all keyboard cases have a trackpad? No, not all iPad keyboard cases have trackpads. Don't assume that because one brand's model offers one others will, either. Each keyboard case will offer different features, from trackpads, to stylus holders, to adjustable stands, and more.If you're looking for a trackpad feature, be sure to narrow your search parameters and pay close attention -- many cases, especially those for older iPad models, only offer keyboard cases without trackpads, though you can always use a bluetooth mouse, too. Show more Are there alternative iPad keyboard cases to consider?Yes, there are many options for keyboard cases on the market from various brands. Here are a few more to check out.iPad accessories to considerIf you want to optimize your iPad's capabilities, here's a few more accessories to consider -- like a screen protector and an iPad styuls -- to level-up your functionality and your protection. Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

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Since data breaches are now a daily problem, traditional username and password combinations are nowhere near enough to protect online accounts.Many online service providers now enforce alternative ways to secure accounts. Two-factor and multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) methods have become widely adopted alongside passwordless authentication methods in the enterprise. Another option is to verify yourself using a physical security key. Even if a cybercriminal has obtained your username and password or compromised your mobile device, they won't be able to access your data without the key. Security keys are affordable and user-friendly, prevent phishing attacks, and are significantly more secure than SMS-based two-factor authentication. What is the best security key right now? ZDNET's favorite security key is the Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC. It offers excellent security and convenience, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to safeguard their online accounts. This key is compatible with a vast array of protocols and can be configured to provide easy authentication on mobile.ZDNET has tested many security keys throughout the years and frequently tracks market developments and changes. Many of us use security keys ourselves and lean upon our personal experience, customer feedback, and extensive research to shape our recommendations. Below, you will find our top picks for security keys in 2024. Sort by All Best security keys of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon The YubiKey 5 NFC combines useful USB-A connectivity with the versatility of wireless NFC, enabling broad compatibility with a wide range of devices.It is FIDO-certified, which allows it to work with Google Chrome and any FIDO-compliant application on Windows, macOS, or Linux. In addition, its NFC capability makes it compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices, giving you the option to authenticate quickly via your smartphone or tablet. Overall, this makes the YubiKey 5 NFC an excellent option for consumers and businesses alike.The YubiKey USB authenticator has multi-protocol support, including FIDO2, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, smart card (PIV), OpenPGP, and challenge-response capabilities, providing solid hardware-based authentication. Considering it is dust, water, and tamper-proof, this key is a great all-rounder for your security needs.Each key costs $50. Customer feedback indicates that this popular key is an excellent option, although you will need some rudimentary technological knowledge to use it effectively.Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC features:USB-A and NFC compatibility |Compact design | No battery required | Water, dust, and tamper-resistant | FIDO certified | Multi-protocol support | Compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices through NFC Pros Broad versatility NFC makes it compatible with both iPhone and Android devices Cons Expensive, especially if you need two Technical knowledge may be required The YubiKey 5 NFC combines useful USB-A connectivity with the versatility of wireless NFC, enabling broad compatibility with a wide range of devices.It is FIDO-certified, which allows it to work with Google Chrome and any FIDO-compliant application on Windows, macOS, or Linux. In addition, its NFC capability makes it compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices, giving you the option to authenticate quickly via your smartphone or tablet. Overall, this makes the YubiKey 5 NFC an excellent option for consumers and businesses alike.The YubiKey USB authenticator has multi-protocol support, including FIDO2, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, smart card (PIV), OpenPGP, and challenge-response capabilities, providing solid hardware-based authentication. Considering it is dust, water, and tamper-proof, this key is a great all-rounder for your security needs.Each key costs $50. Customer feedback indicates that this popular key is an excellent option, although you will need some rudimentary technological knowledge to use it effectively.Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC features:USB-A and NFC compatibility |Compact design | No battery required | Water, dust, and tamper-resistant | FIDO certified | Multi-protocol support | Compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices through NFC Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The FIDO2 is a USB-A key that functions with the latest Chrome browser and operating systems such as Windows, macOS, or Linux. This option also has backward compatibility with online services complying with U2F protocols.FIDO2 provides passwordless authentication using the FIDO and HOTP protocols. You'll find the most compatibility with desktop and PC applications as there are marginally more restrictions with iOS and Android functionality. What makes this key stand out, however, is how easy it is to setup, making it a great option for first-time security key users.The key is designed with a 360-degree rotating metal cover, shielding the USB connector when not in use. It is also made from durable aluminum alloy to safeguard it against drops, bumps, and scratches.Overall, this security key is reasonably priced at $25. However, it does not have advanced features such as a fingerprint reader, and you will want to buy more than one. Despite this, customers like its sleek and discreet design and find it easy to set up and use.Thetis Fido U2F Security Key features:Tough and durable alloy shell |360-degree design with rotating aluminum alloy cover | Looks like a USB flash drive | Backward-compatible with U2F protocol | Compatible with latest Chrome browser on Windows, macOS, and Linux Pros Great price Discreet design Sturdy Cons No NFC so no support for iPhone and Android Doesn't support macOS logins The FIDO2 is a USB-A key that functions with the latest Chrome browser and operating systems such as Windows, macOS, or Linux. This option also has backward compatibility with online services complying with U2F protocols.FIDO2 provides passwordless authentication using the FIDO and HOTP protocols. You'll find the most compatibility with desktop and PC applications as there are marginally more restrictions with iOS and Android functionality. What makes this key stand out, however, is how easy it is to setup, making it a great option for first-time security key users.The key is designed with a 360-degree rotating metal cover, shielding the USB connector when not in use. It is also made from durable aluminum alloy to safeguard it against drops, bumps, and scratches.Overall, this security key is reasonably priced at $25. However, it does not have advanced features such as a fingerprint reader, and you will want to buy more than one. Despite this, customers like its sleek and discreet design and find it easy to set up and use.Thetis Fido U2F Security Key features:Tough and durable alloy shell |360-degree design with rotating aluminum alloy cover | Looks like a USB flash drive | Backward-compatible with U2F protocol | Compatible with latest Chrome browser on Windows, macOS, and Linux Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The Yubico YubiKey 5 Nano is a discreet, tiny security key that provides the features you need to lock your devices and services while you're on the road. The key supports PCs and other devices via USB-A and is compatible with the Yubico Authenticator app. However, keep in mind that there is no USB-C support.This security key is compatible with various password managers, including 1Password, Keeper, and LastPass Premium, IAM platforms, cloud storage apps, and social media accounts. The Yubico YubiKey 5 Nano will likely work if an application is FIDO-certified.It is also tamper, dust, and water-resistant. Customer feedback shows that users find the key works well across multiple platforms and consider it straightforward to set up and use.Priced at $60, this is slightly more expensive than many on the market, but if you're looking for one of the smallest, portable, and most discreet keys on the market, this could be the right option for you.Yubico YubiKey 5 Nanofeatures:FIDO, FIDO2 certified |Multi-protocol| Supports USB-A | Protects against phishing and cyber attacks | IP68 rated | 1GB memory Pros Water and dust resistant Easy setup FIDO certified Small form factor Cons Expensive No NFC compatibility The Yubico YubiKey 5 Nano is a discreet, tiny security key that provides the features you need to lock your devices and services while you're on the road. The key supports PCs and other devices via USB-A and is compatible with the Yubico Authenticator app. However, keep in mind that there is no USB-C support.This security key is compatible with various password managers, including 1Password, Keeper, and LastPass Premium, IAM platforms, cloud storage apps, and social media accounts. The Yubico YubiKey 5 Nano will likely work if an application is FIDO-certified.It is also tamper, dust, and water-resistant. Customer feedback shows that users find the key works well across multiple platforms and consider it straightforward to set up and use.Priced at $60, this is slightly more expensive than many on the market, but if you're looking for one of the smallest, portable, and most discreet keys on the market, this could be the right option for you.Yubico YubiKey 5 Nanofeatures:FIDO, FIDO2 certified |Multi-protocol| Supports USB-A | Protects against phishing and cyber attacks | IP68 rated | 1GB memory Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon An alternative Yubico security key is the $29 C NFC model. The USB-C key is best suited for small businesses that want to implement physical 2FA procedures without spending a fortune.The key is compatible with Android, Windows 10, and iOS devices, as well as services such as AWS, Okta, Google accounts, Apple iCloud, Microsoft, Salesforce, and Cloudflare.These "tap and go" models do not support the Yubico Authenticator app. Instead, they have been designed for affordability and rapid security checks via USB-C, NFC, and FIDO protocols (a 5 series model is best suited if you want more extensive features).The company also offers a Yubico subscription to businesses that want to provide their teams with keys, so this could be the best solution for businesses that need to provide their teams with physical security keys. Customers say the key 'just works', but customer support could be improved.Yubico Security Key C NFC features:FIDO certified, FIDO2/U2F compatible| USB-C | NFC connectivity | No battery required | Suitable for Android, Windows 10, iOS devices and apps | Defends against phishing and account takeovers Pros Slim, lightweight design IP68 rated Subscription alternatives available Cons Only supports FIDO protocols An alternative Yubico security key is the $29 C NFC model. The USB-C key is best suited for small businesses that want to implement physical 2FA procedures without spending a fortune.The key is compatible with Android, Windows 10, and iOS devices, as well as services such as AWS, Okta, Google accounts, Apple iCloud, Microsoft, Salesforce, and Cloudflare.These "tap and go" models do not support the Yubico Authenticator app. Instead, they have been designed for affordability and rapid security checks via USB-C, NFC, and FIDO protocols (a 5 series model is best suited if you want more extensive features).The company also offers a Yubico subscription to businesses that want to provide their teams with keys, so this could be the best solution for businesses that need to provide their teams with physical security keys. Customers say the key 'just works', but customer support could be improved.Yubico Security Key C NFC features:FIDO certified, FIDO2/U2F compatible| USB-C | NFC connectivity | No battery required | Suitable for Android, Windows 10, iOS devices and apps | Defends against phishing and account takeovers Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The Kensington Verimark Fingerprint Key utilizes advanced biometric technology, offering excellent performance, 360-degree readability, and anti-spoofing protection.With Microsoft's built-in Windows Hello login feature, you can log into your Windows computer using your fingerprint. Users can store up to 10 fingerprints, allowing multiple individuals to access the same computer without remembering different usernames or passwords.The Kensington Verimark Fingerprint Key is FIDO U2F certified, meaning your fingerprint can be used as a second-factor authentication to secure cloud-based accounts such as Google, Dropbox, GitHub, and Facebook.You may need to download additional drivers from Kensington's website for different Windows operating systems, and some users report recognition problems. However, it is still a top choice -- especially as the key is available for only $19.Kensington Verimark Fingerprint Key features:Built-in biometrics for added security | Compatible with Windows Hello login feature | Compact and unobtrusive design | Stores up to 10 different fingerprints | FIDO U2F certified for cloud-based account security Pros Compact and unobtrusive Built-in fingerprint reader Affordable Cons USB-A only No support for macOS and ChromeOS May need to download additional drivers The Kensington Verimark Fingerprint Key utilizes advanced biometric technology, offering excellent performance, 360-degree readability, and anti-spoofing protection.With Microsoft's built-in Windows Hello login feature, you can log into your Windows computer using your fingerprint. Users can store up to 10 fingerprints, allowing multiple individuals to access the same computer without remembering different usernames or passwords.The Kensington Verimark Fingerprint Key is FIDO U2F certified, meaning your fingerprint can be used as a second-factor authentication to secure cloud-based accounts such as Google, Dropbox, GitHub, and Facebook.You may need to download additional drivers from Kensington's website for different Windows operating systems, and some users report recognition problems. However, it is still a top choice -- especially as the key is available for only $19.Kensington Verimark Fingerprint Key features:Built-in biometrics for added security | Compatible with Windows Hello login feature | Compact and unobtrusive design | Stores up to 10 different fingerprints | FIDO U2F certified for cloud-based account security Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Google The Google Titan security key line, which supports up to 250 passkeys, is an affordable way to bolster your online security. The $30 key is USB-C-compatible and a USB-C to USB-A adapter is included for legacy devices.This stylish option is based on FIDO standards, and it can connect most Android and iOS devices, as well as most devices able to run Google Chrome. If you're looking for a key suitable for most platforms, including Google services, this key is for you -- and as a bonus, it is reasonably priced.Titan security keys are compatible with Google's Advanced Protection Program, a scheme you may be required to join if you are considered at higher risk of cyberattacks -- including phishing and email-based attacks -- than the average consumer. Compatibility requirements are listed here. Setup is easy, but we've found that, on occasion, you may end up in verification loops when you try to register a new device with your key.Google Titan security key features:FIDO-certified security key |USB-A/NFC, USB-C/NFC |USB-C to USB-A adapter | Supports 250 passkeys | Multi-platform | Works with Google's Advanced Protection Program Pros High security standards USB-C adapter included Affordable Cons No biometrics The Google Titan security key line, which supports up to 250 passkeys, is an affordable way to bolster your online security. The $30 key is USB-C-compatible and a USB-C to USB-A adapter is included for legacy devices.This stylish option is based on FIDO standards, and it can connect most Android and iOS devices, as well as most devices able to run Google Chrome. If you're looking for a key suitable for most platforms, including Google services, this key is for you -- and as a bonus, it is reasonably priced.Titan security keys are compatible with Google's Advanced Protection Program, a scheme you may be required to join if you are considered at higher risk of cyberattacks -- including phishing and email-based attacks -- than the average consumer. Compatibility requirements are listed here. Setup is easy, but we've found that, on occasion, you may end up in verification loops when you try to register a new device with your key.Google Titan security key features:FIDO-certified security key |USB-A/NFC, USB-C/NFC |USB-C to USB-A adapter | Supports 250 passkeys | Multi-platform | Works with Google's Advanced Protection Program Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best security key? As testers of security keys over the years, we recommend the Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC as the best security key available on the market today. It offers unbeatable security and convenience, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to safeguard their online accounts. However, if this one doesn't suit you, the key features of our other favorites are listed below.Security keyPriceConnector typeNFC supportBluetooth supportWaterproofingSupported servicesCompatible devicesYubico YubiKey 5 NFC$50USB-A and NFCYesYesWater- and dust-resistantGoogle Chrome, FIDO-compliant appsWindows, macOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidThetis Fido U2F Security Key$25USB-ANoNoN/AU2F servicesWindows, macOS, LinuxYubico YubiKey 5 Nano$60USB-ANoNoIP68 water- and dust-resistantU2F and FIDO2 servicesWindows, macOS, LinuxYubico Security Key C NFC$29USB-C and NFCYesYesIP68 water- and dust-resistantFIDO-enabled servicesWindows, Android, iOSKensington Verimark Fingerprint Key$19USB-ANoNoN/AGoogle, Dropbox, GitHub, Facebook, and moreWindowsGoogle Titan security key$30USB-C, NFC, and BluetoothYesYesNo official IP ratingFIDO, Google Chrome services, various appsWindows, macOS, Android, Google Chome compatible devicesNote: Prices and compatibility information may vary based on location and specific devices. This table is based on the information provided in the given descriptions and is subject to change. Show more What's the right security key for you? Choose this security keyIf you wantYubico YubiKey 5 NFCThe best security key out there with broad versatility and compatibility. This FIDO-certified key is an excellent all-rounder with multi-platform compatibility.Thetis Fido U2F Security KeyA cheap, no-frills, tough USB-A security key suitable for beginners. It has a rather stylish design but does lack advanced features.Yubico YubiKey 5 NanoA high-quality, extremely small security key. This key is a great option if you want a security solution you can take with you on your travels thanks to its tiny form factor.Yubico Security Key C NFCThe best value key for small business, considering its compatibility with services including AWS, Okta, Google accounts, Apple iCloud, Microsoft, and Cloudflare.Kensington Verimark Fingerprint KeyA simple USB-A security key with built-in biometrics. This key is discreet, compact, and user-friendly, although it has limited compatibility.Google Titan security keyAn affordable, multi-platform key suitable for Chrome and Google services, Android, and iOS apps . Users can store up to 250 passkeys. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a security key Security keys are an investment in time and money and so it is best to select the right one for you before you connect one to your online accounts, especially as rolling back this decision can be a lengthy process. While you're deciding what security key is right for you, consider the following factors:Service compatibility: Ensure that the key you're interested in is compatible with your primary services, such as your email provider or business tools and platforms.One, or two?: We recommend that you purchase a key and a backup. You can often buy two packs of security keys, but in some cases, you may have to spend more. A backup key that you can store in a safe place is crucial to ensuring you aren't accidentally locked out of your accounts.Security standards: Security keys should adhere to modern security standards, including FIDO2. Check that your choice meets these standards to ensure you receive the best protection possible.Connectivity: Hardware-based security keys use different forms of connectivity, so you should consider what type works best for you, whether USB-based, Bluetooth, or NFC.Hardware: You might need hardware that complies with particular standards or has specific ports for connecting to your devices, so check on your key's specifications before purchase.Environment: If you plan to keep a security key with your house or car key, for example, opt for a model that is resistant to dust, water, and shocks. This may be especially important if you often travel. Price: Choose a security key that matches your budget, keeping in mind you will need to buy two if you want a backup key. Show more How did we choose these security keys? Extensive research has been conducted on every security key that is listed here across a wide range of devices and services. In some cases, this includes testing the keys on different operating systems, web browsers, and services to ensure they work smoothly and efficiently.It was also important to analyze the feedback left by other users who have purchased and used these keys over time. This has helped to determine the long-term reliability of each key and to identify any potential compatibility issues that users might encounter.Our main criteria for selecting these security keys are:Ease of use: There is often a learning curve associated with adopting a new security mechanism or gadget. We wanted to ensure that the next security key you buy is as close to seamless as possible, with easy setup and reasonable compatibility with devices and online services.Durability: As a physical device securing the keys to your digital kingdom, the products we recommend mustn't easily break. After all, they should be reliable enough to be a long-term security measure.Form factors: We include different form factors, such as standard key designs and nano options.Security features: Naturally, the security features of a security key are paramount. We considered each device's support for different authentication protocols alongside security measures, including passwordless authentication and biometrics.Platform, mobile compatibility: We like to see security keys that are compatible with multiple platforms, including the most popular operating systems. It's always a bonus if NFC and mobile support are available.Price point: The cost of your next security key is an important factor to consider. As they are physical, we recommend that you pick up two, just in case one ends up lost. As a result, we wanted to ensure this was affordable. Show more Security key FAQs What are security keys and how do they work? A security key is a physical device that generates a unique code used with a password to authenticate your identity when logging into a website or application. It uses public-key cryptography and is more secure than traditional 2FA methods. You usually plug your key into a trusted device to authenticate yourself. Show more What does FIDO mean? The FIDO Alliance consortium has developed open standards for authentication protocols. The authentication standard is based on public key cryptography.Devices that are FIDO certified allow users to quickly sign into their accounts using physical keys or biometric passkeys and have also achieved FIDO protection and security standards. Show more Why are security keys better than SMS-based 2FA? SMS is open to SIM hijacking, while a physical key cannot be copied or the data intercepted. Think about it this way: 2FA verification codes sent via SMS messaging may be intercepted if your smartphone has been infected with malware, including spyware, but unless an attacker has your physical security key in their hand, they cannot grab the code required to access your account. Show more How many security keys do I need? We recommend purchasing at least two -- one that you use day-to-day and one to keep as a backup. For example, you can keep one in your home office or attached to a keychain if you're on the road, while one is stashed safely away to cover you if you lose your primary key. Show more Can security keys be hacked? Security keys are one of the best authentication methods on the market today and they have very little exploitable attack surface, making them difficult to 'hack' in any way. While there are cases of keys being cloned for academic purposes, as security keys are not constantly connected to the Internet, you don't have to worry about the most common attack vectors having any impact on them. Just keep your key in a safe place. Show more How do security keys prevent phishing? In layman's terms, security keys use encryption and security tokens that only work on genuine websites rather than fake phishing domains. Public and private keys work together to authenticate a user session, but the private key is held on the physical device, reducing the attack surface. Show more Can I use a security key for multiple accounts? Yes, absolutely. Although, the number of accounts can vary depending on the security key you choose. The key's compatibility with different protocols and online services may also determine what accounts you can protect by using one device. Show more What happens if I lose my security key? The answer to this question depends on the provider and the account registered with your key. If you don't have a backup authentication method, such as an authenticator app, try removing the key from your account and registering a new one. If you are locked out, you may also have to contact relevant IT teams or fill out a request, such as the one provided by Google for free Gmail accounts. Show more Are there alternative security keys worth considering? Here are alternatives on the market that could be worth investigating if none of our top recommendations appeal to you. It's not possible to showcase every single worthy security key product on the market, so other options we like the look of are below: Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends