It’s heavy and loud, but this powerful wand vibrator will send shockwaves through you, even underwater.

Winter is well and truly biting, but this fresh crop of game deals is bringing the heat. From mythological mayhem to pocket-sized platformers, there’s something here for every taste and timeframe. If your digital shelf could use a mid-year injection of chaos, charm, or challenge, this week’s offerings are primed to please.This Day in Gaming 🎂In retro news, I’m lighting a 26‑candle cake for Silent Hill, the fog‑laden survival horror fest that kept '99-era me perched on a seat with barely 2% of the surface area of one butt cheek. I still remember tentatively sweeping my flashlight across those grainy, polygonal streets, only to have the beam half illuminate some scurrying something in the dark. Though the OG Resident Evil certainly vexed me first, the unique magic of Silent Hill lay in how its graphical limitations—thick fog and encroaching darkness—became tools of terror rather than platform limitations. Every ring of static from your radio or *that* air raid siren heralding the "other plane" of this madhouse could ratchet up the dread in an instant. Lastly, I recall working game retail at launch and having to help absolutely bloody everybody with a solution to the piano puzzle.Tank controls and (hardware induced) bugger all visibility. OG Silent Hill was terrifying.Aussie bdays for notable games- Silent Hill (PS) 1999. Redux- Marvel vs. Capcom 2 (DC) 2000. Redux- The Conduit (Wii) 2009. eBay- Monster Hunter Generations (3DS) 2016. eBayContentsNice Savings for Nintendo SwitchAvailable now!Nintendo Switch 2 ConsoleNintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart WorldNintendo kicks things off with Persona 5 Royal for A$66.60, a lavishly expanded edition of the genre-defining RPG whose original director Katsura Hashino was inspired by Carl Jung’s theories of the psyche. Also worth nabbing is Bravely Default II at A$63.10, a spiritual twinner to the Final Fantasy titles that’s cheekily packed with nostalgic mechanics like turning off random encounters to power-level in peace.Persona 5 Royal (-33%) - A$66.60Bravely Default II (-21%) - A$63.10Sonic Frontiers (-53%) - A$47Sonic x Shadow Generations (-35%) - A$49NBA 2K25 (-79%) - A$19Metal Gear Col. (-50%) - A$45Expiring Recent DealsOr gift a Nintendo eShop Card.Switch Console PricesHow much to Switch it up?Switch OLED + Mario Wonder: $̶5̶3̶9̶ $538 | Switch Original: $̶4̶9̶9̶ $448 | Switch OLED Black: $̶5̶3̶9̶ $469 | Switch OLED White: $̶5̶3̶9̶ $449 ♥ | Switch Lite: $̶3̶2̶9̶ $328 | Switch Lite Hyrule: $̶3̶3̶9̶ $335See itBack to topExciting Bargains for Xbox Over on Xbox Series X, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is slashing skulls and prices at A$49.90, finally giving fans the long-awaited sequel to one of gaming’s most satisfyingly weighty shooters. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League is an outrageous A$9.90, and despite its rocky reception, it’s a fascinating look at how Batman: Arkham devs tried to blend looter-shooter DNA into their universe.40K Space Marine 2 (-54%) - A$49.90Suicide Squad: KTJL (-91%) - A$9.90Wild Hearts (-83%) - A$19Avatar: Pandora Gold Ed. (-69%) - A$49.90Hogwarts Legacy (-75%) - A$27.40Xbox OneTopSpin 2K25 (-88%) - A$14.90Sunset Overdrive (-36%) - A$19.20Alan Wake Rem. (-85%) - A$6.70Expiring Recent DealsThe Witcher 3 Comp. (-56%) - A$34.80Tekken 8 (-53%) - A$39.90NBA 2K25 (-80%) - A$24Farming Simulator 25 (-32%) - A$68FC 25 (-57%) - A$34Red Dead Redemption 2 (-78%) - A$20Lies of P (-19%) - A$73Lego Jurassic World (-65%) - A$22.50Or just invest in an Xbox Card.Xbox Console PricesHow many bucks for a 'Box? Series X: $̶7̶9̶9̶ $724 👑| Series S Black: $̶5̶4̶9̶ $545 | Series S White:$̶4̶9̶9̶ $498 | Series S Starter: N/ASee itBack to topPure Scores for PlayStationFor PS5 players, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales swings down to A$39, letting you sling through Harlem while wearing everything from a Bodega Cat suit to a Spider-Verse frame-rate filter. Meanwhile, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart for A$54 is a tech marvel that started life as a PS4 title, before being fully rebuilt to show off the PS5’s SSD.PS4God of War Ragnarök (-60%) - A$44Gran Turismo 7 (-60%) - A$44Watch Dogs: Legion (-86%) - A$13.60Expiring Recent DealsPS+ Monthly FreebiesYours to keep from May 1 with this subscriptionArk: Survival Ascended (PS5)Balatro (PS5/PS4)Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun (PS5/PS4)Or purchase a PS Store Card.What you'll pay to 'Station.PS5 + Astro Bot:$̶7̶2̶4̶.9̶5̶ $699👑 | PS5 Slim Disc:$̶7̶9̶9̶ $625 | PS5 Slim Digital:6̶7̶9̶ $549 | PS5 Pro $̶1̶,1̶9̶9̶ $1,049 | PS VR2: $649.95 | PS VR2 + Horizon: $1,099 | PS Portal: $329See itBack to topPurchase Cheap for PCOn PC, Resident Evil 4 is a steal at A$29.90, a stunning remake where the developers added extra charm to Leon’s famous “Where’s everyone going, bingo?” line by letting players unlock vintage filters that emulate 2005-era graphics. Also notable is Lies of P at A$76.40, the Pinocchio-meets-Bloodborne mash-up that lets you lie in dialogue choices for combat perks.Lies of P (-15%) - A$76.40The Alters (-30%) - A$35.60Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (-18%) - A$57.30Silent Hill 2 (-40%) - A$61.50Forza Horizon 5 (-65%) - A$31.40Resident Evil 4 (-50%) - A$29.90Expiring Recent DealsOr just get a Steam Wallet CardPC Hardware PricesSlay your pile of shame.Official launch in NovSteam Deck 256GB LCD: $649 | Steam Deck 512GB OLED: $899 | Steam Deck 1TB OLED: $1,049See it at SteamLaptop DealsDesktop DealsLenovo neo 50a G5 27" AIO (-47%) – A$1,379Lenovo neo 50q G4 Tiny (-35%) – A$639Lenovo neo 50t G5 Tower (-20%) – A$871.20Legion Tower 5i G8 (-29%) – A$1,899Monitor DealsSamsung QE50T 50" (-31%) – A$596ARZOPA 16.1" 144Hz (-55%) – A$159.99Z-Edge 27" 240Hz (-15%) – A$237.99Gawfolk 34" WQHD (-28%) – A$359LG 27" Ultragear (-42%) – A$349Component DealsStorage DealsBack to topLegit LEGO DealsExpiring Recent DealsBack to topHot Headphones DealsAudiophilia for lessBose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless (-38%) – A$399.95Soundcore by Anker Q20i (-43%) – A$68.79Sony MDR7506 Professional (-30%) – A$169Technics Premium (-46%) – A$299Bose SoundLink Flex (-31%) – A$171JBL Charge 5 - Portable Speaker (-28%) – A$144JBL Flip Essential 2 Waterproof Speaker (-26%) – A$96Sony SRS-XB100 Travel Speaker (-41%) – A$84.15Ultimate Ears Boom 3 Portable Speaker (-41%) – A$134.95Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro (-26%) – A$259.29Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless (-46%) – A$275Back to topTerrific TV DealsDo right by your console, upgrade your tellyLG 43" UT80 4K (-24%) – A$635Kogan 65" QLED 4K (-50%) – A$699Kogan 55" QLED 4K (-45%) – A$549LG 55" UT80 4K (-28%) – A$866Prism+ Q75 Ultra 75" 4K QLED (-47%) – A$1,229Gaimoo Mini Projector 1080p w/ 4K (-33%) – A$119.99GooDee 4K Projector (-58%) – A$169.99VOPLLS Mini Projector 4K (-19%) – A$168.99XuanPad Mini Projector (-36%) – A$128.99LG S70TY Q Series Sound Barn*-22%) – A$546Sony HTG700 Atmos Soundbar (-15%) – A$594Yamaha NS-SW050 Subwoofer (-13%) – A$270Smart Home DealsBack to top Adam Mathew is our Aussie deals wrangler. He plays practically everything, often on YouTube.

DJI Osmo Action 4. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETMultiple DJI Osmo Action 4 packages are on sale at Amazon. Both the Essential and Standard Combos have been discounted to $249, while the Adventure Combo has dropped to $349.DJI might not be the first name on people's lips when it comes to action cameras, but the company that's better known for its drones also has a really solid line of action cameras. And its latest device, the Osmo Action 4 camera, has some very impressive tricks up its sleeve.Also: One of the most versatile cameras I've used is not from Sony or Canon and it's on saleSo, what sets this action camera apart from the competition? Let's take a look. details View at Amazon First off, this is not just an action camera -- it's a pro-grade action camera.From a hardware point of view, the Osmo Action 4 features a 1/1.3-inch image sensor that can record 4K at up to 120 frames per second (fps). This sensor is combined with a wide-angle f/2.8 aperture lens that provides an ultra-wide field of view of up to 155°. And that's wide. Build quality and fit and finish are second to none. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETFor when the going gets rough, the Osmo Action 4 offers 360° HorizonSteady stabilization modes, including RockSteady 3.0/3.0+ for first-person video footage and HorizonBalancing/HorizonSteady modes for horizontal shots. That's pro-grade hardware right there.Also: This new AI video editor is an all-in-one production service for filmmakers - how to try itThe Osmo Action 4 also features a 10-bit D-Log M color mode. This mode allows the sensor to record over one billion colors and offers a wider dynamic range, giving you a video that is more vivid and that offers greater detail in the highlights and shadows. This mode, combined with an advanced color temperature sensor, means that the colors have a true-to-life feel regardless of whether you're shooting outdoors, indoors, or even underwater. The DJI Osmo Action 4 ready for action. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETI've added some video output from the Osmo Action 4 below. There are examples in both 1080p and 4K. To test the stabilization, I attached the camera to the truck and took it on some roads, some of which are pretty rough. The Osmo Action 4 had no problem with that terrain. I also popped the camera into the sea, just because. And again, no problem.I've also captured a few time-lapses with the camera -- not because I like clouds (well, actually, I do like clouds), but pointing a camera at a sky can be a good test of how it handles changing light. Also: I recommend this action camera to beginners and professional creators. Here's whyTimelapses with action cameras can suffer from unsightly exposure changes that cause the image to pulse, a condition known as exposure pumping. This issue can also cause the white balance to change noticeably in a video, but the Osmo Action 4 handled this test well.All the footage I've shot is what I've come to expect from a DJI camera, whether it's from an action camera or drone -- crisp, clear, vivid, and also nice and stable.The Osmo Action 4 is packed with various electronic image-stabilization (EIS) tech to ensure that your footage is smooth and on the horizon. It's worth noting the limitations of EIS -- it's not supported in slow-motion and timelapse modes, and the HorizonSteady and HorizonBalancing features are only available for video recorded at 1080p (16:9) or 2.7K (16:9) with a frame rate of 60fps or below. On the durability front, I've no concerns. I've subjected the Osmo Action 4 to a hard few days of testing, and it's not let me down or complained once. It takes impacts like a champ, and being underwater or in dirt and sand is no problem at all. Also: I'm a full-time Canon photographer, but this Nikon camera made me wonder if I'm missing outYou might think that this heavy-duty testing would be hard on the camera's tiny batteries, but you'd be wrong. Remember I said the Osmo Action 4 offered hours of battery life? Well, I wasn't kidding.  The Osmo Action 4's ultra-long life batteries are incredible.  Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETDJI says that a single battery can deliver up to 160 minutes of 1080p/24fps video recording (at room temperature, with RockSteady on, Wi-Fi off, and screen off). That's over two and a half hours of recording time. In the real world, I was blown away by how much a single battery can deliver. I shot video and timelapse, messed around with a load of camera settings, and then transferred that footage to my iPhone, and still had 16% battery left.No action camera has delivered so much for me on one battery. The two extra batteries and the multifunction case that come as part of the Adventure Combo are worth the extra $100. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETAnd when you're ready to recharge, a 30W USB-C charger can take a battery from zero to 80% in 18 minutes. That's also impressive.What's more, the batteries are resistant to cold, offering up to 150 minutes of 1080p/24fps recording in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). This resistance also blows the competition away.Even taking into account all these strong points, the Osmo Action 4 offers even more.The camera has 2x digital zoom for better composition, Voice Prompts that let you know what the camera is doing without looking, and Voice Control that lets you operate the device without touching the screen or using the app. The Osmo Action 4 also digitally hides the selfie stick from a variety of different shots, and you can even connect the DJI Mic to the camera via the USB-C port for better audio capture.Also: Yes, an Android tablet finally made me reconsider my iPad Pro loyaltyAs for price, the Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo bundle comes in at $399, while the Osmo Action 4 Adventure Combo, which comes with two extra Osmo Action Extreme batteries, an additional mini Osmo Action quick-release adapter mount, a battery case that acts as a power bank, and a 1.5-meter selfie stick, is $499.I'm in love with the Osmo Action 4. It's hands down the best, most versatile, most powerful action camera on the market today, offering pro-grade features at a price that definitely isn't pro-grade.  Everything included in the Action Combo bundle. DJIDJI Osmo Action 4 tech specsDimensions: 70.5×44.2×32.8mmWeight: 145gWaterproof: 18m, up to 60m with the optional waterproof case Microphones: 3Sensor 1/1.3-inch CMOSLens: FOV 155°, aperture f/2.8, focus distance 0.4m to ∞Max Photo Resolution: 3648×2736Max Video Resolution: 4K (4:3): 3840×2880@24/25/30/48/50/60fps and 4K (16:9): 3840×2160@24/25/30/48/50/60/100/120fpsISO Range: 100-12800Front Screen: 1.4-inch, 323ppi, 320×320Rear Screen: 2.25-inch, 326ppi, 360×640Front/Rear Screen Brightness: 750±50 cd/m² Storage: microSD (up to 512GB)Battery: 1770mAh, lab tested to offer up to 160 minutes of runtime (tested at room temperature - 25°C/77°F - and 1080p/24fps, with RockSteady on, Wi-Fi off, and screen off)Operating Temperature: -20° to 45° C (-4° to 113° F)This article was originally published in August of 2023 and updated in March 2025.Featured reviews

The joy of going camping is usually found in going off-grid for a few days and reconnecting with nature. However, having creature comforts like light and warmth, and even access to medical devices like a CPAP machine, make it worthwhile taking a portable power solution with you. That's where portable power stations come in. Think power banks, only bigger. Power stations come in a variety of power capacities and sizes, and that means that you can find a portable power station for every type of camping, no matter whether you're a backpacker, a car camper, or an RVer.  What is the best portable power station for camping right now?  We've tested dozens of portable power stations in a lab setting and have also done hands-on testing during camping trips and road trips. Based on both experiences, our pick for the best portable power station for camping overall is the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus, thanks to its versatility and the amount of power it provides. As an avid camper myself, I've also included other portable power stations from brands like EcoFlow and Bluetti so you can improve your next camping experience. Sort by All The best portable power stations for camping in 2025 Show less View now at Amazon Jackery is a well-known brand in the power station space, and for good reason. Its versatile power stations consistently rank among our best products, thanks to the enormous power these devices provide and their flexibility in setup, especially in a camping scenario.Steve Conaway, the director of CNET Test Labs, at our sister site, has tested dozens of power stations and said the Jackery is one of his top picks. "The versatility of modularity is what makes this power station so impressive," Conaway said. "You can choose to take just the one unit for regular camping, but if you wanted a bigger setup to power a cabin, you could easily add on more units."Review: This portable battery station can power your home for 2 weeksAnd the great thing about this unit is that if you need more power storage capacity, you can add on the PackPlus E2000 Plus battery pack for an additional 2042.8Wh of electrical storage capacity to the system.Jackery has a long track record of building quality, durable, and long-lasting power stations -- which is exactly what you need if you are spending the big bucks on a power station.Remember that the more additions you add to this setup, the heavier it will be. On its own, it weighs 41.9 pounds but can reach well over 100 pounds with more units. Despite the weight, Reddit users note that the solar additions, in particular, have been useful in camping and outdoor situations.Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus specs: Watts/hr: 2042.8W | Continuous watts: 3000W | Surge watts: 6000W | Solar input (W): 1400 | Ports: 2 USB-A, 2 USB-C, 4 AC | Weight: 61.5 pounds Pros Clean, easy-to-read LCD display Expansion battery modules Solar panels are durable and highly efficient Wheels make moving it a lot easier Cons Expensive Jackery is a well-known brand in the power station space, and for good reason. Its versatile power stations consistently rank among our best products, thanks to the enormous power these devices provide and their flexibility in setup, especially in a camping scenario.Steve Conaway, the director of CNET Test Labs, at our sister site, has tested dozens of power stations and said the Jackery is one of his top picks. "The versatility of modularity is what makes this power station so impressive," Conaway said. "You can choose to take just the one unit for regular camping, but if you wanted a bigger setup to power a cabin, you could easily add on more units."Review: This portable battery station can power your home for 2 weeksAnd the great thing about this unit is that if you need more power storage capacity, you can add on the PackPlus E2000 Plus battery pack for an additional 2042.8Wh of electrical storage capacity to the system.Jackery has a long track record of building quality, durable, and long-lasting power stations -- which is exactly what you need if you are spending the big bucks on a power station.Remember that the more additions you add to this setup, the heavier it will be. On its own, it weighs 41.9 pounds but can reach well over 100 pounds with more units. Despite the weight, Reddit users note that the solar additions, in particular, have been useful in camping and outdoor situations.Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus specs: Watts/hr: 2042.8W | Continuous watts: 3000W | Surge watts: 6000W | Solar input (W): 1400 | Ports: 2 USB-A, 2 USB-C, 4 AC | Weight: 61.5 pounds Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Camping takes all sorts of forms, and there's a power station to suit everyone. For those who head outdoors in an RV or to a remote cabin, the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra (DPU) is a powerful option. EcoFlow debuted the Delta Pro Ultra at CES this year, and compared to the EcoFlow Delta Pro model, the Ultra has double the power and charges, a dedicated 4G LTE modem port to access the app in remote areas with weak Wi-Fi signals, and a 32-minute faster recharge time.ZDNET editor Maria Diaz went hands-on with this unit and called it the "Swiss Army Knife of home backup systems," and its impressive specs back that claim up. The single unit has a 6kWh capacity, 7200W output, and 5.6kW solar input, allowing it to run an entire RV or cabin, especially when stacked with other units for increased capacity.This great power packs a lot of weight,186.4 pounds, to be exact. However, it can be divided into two pieces: the inverter, the top portion, is 70 pounds, and the battery, the bottom portion, is 116 pounds. Diaz noted that her family experienced a power outage recently, and her husband was able to transport the battery part much more easily by separating the pieces.EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra specs: Watts/hr. 7200W | Continuous watts: 6kWh | Surge watts: 10.8 kW | Solar input (W): 5.6kW | Ports: 2×USB-A, 2×USB-C (100W), 6×AC Output, 1×DC output | Weight: 186.4 pounds AC outputs 9 Total capacity 10 Expansion ready 10 USB ports 9 Max output 10 Pros Expandable to up to 90kWh Consumption insights in EcoFlow app Modular design Cons Expensive Heavy EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra Best portable power station for RV camping 4.8 / 5 Score Camping takes all sorts of forms, and there's a power station to suit everyone. For those who head outdoors in an RV or to a remote cabin, the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra (DPU) is a powerful option. EcoFlow debuted the Delta Pro Ultra at CES this year, and compared to the EcoFlow Delta Pro model, the Ultra has double the power and charges, a dedicated 4G LTE modem port to access the app in remote areas with weak Wi-Fi signals, and a 32-minute faster recharge time.ZDNET editor Maria Diaz went hands-on with this unit and called it the "Swiss Army Knife of home backup systems," and its impressive specs back that claim up. The single unit has a 6kWh capacity, 7200W output, and 5.6kW solar input, allowing it to run an entire RV or cabin, especially when stacked with other units for increased capacity.This great power packs a lot of weight,186.4 pounds, to be exact. However, it can be divided into two pieces: the inverter, the top portion, is 70 pounds, and the battery, the bottom portion, is 116 pounds. Diaz noted that her family experienced a power outage recently, and her husband was able to transport the battery part much more easily by separating the pieces.EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra specs: Watts/hr. 7200W | Continuous watts: 6kWh | Surge watts: 10.8 kW | Solar input (W): 5.6kW | Ports: 2×USB-A, 2×USB-C (100W), 6×AC Output, 1×DC output | Weight: 186.4 pounds Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Looking for something more compact for overnight camping or hiking? The EcoFlow River 2 Max 500 weighs just 13.1 pounds but has a battery capacity of 500Wh. In addition, you can recharge the unit using one of four methods: AC, solar, 12V in-car, or USB-C. If you choose AC, the unit can go from zero to 100% in an hour, which means you can leave charging to the last minute while camping.The company claims that one full charge of the River 2 Max can charge an iPhone 41 times, a drone 10 times, and an electric blanket eight times.ZDNET's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tested this unit and called it "compact enough to be portable, big enough to be practical." "If you want to go totally off-grid, EcoFlow offers a 160W solar panel that can recharge the River 2 Max in about four hours," he wrote. "The panel is durable and waterproof to IP68, so it's the perfect adventure companion for the River 2 Max 500."Verified Amazon customers note that this compact unit has been helpful for everything from camping festivals to powering a CPAP machine in primitive areas.EcoFlow River 2 Max specs: Watts/hr: 500W | Continuous watts: 500W | Surge watts: 1000W | Solar input (W): 220W | Ports: 3 USB-A, 1 USB-C, 4 AC | Weight: 13.14 pounds Pros Compact and lightweight Durable build Inexpensive Cons More limited ports and power Looking for something more compact for overnight camping or hiking? The EcoFlow River 2 Max 500 weighs just 13.1 pounds but has a battery capacity of 500Wh. In addition, you can recharge the unit using one of four methods: AC, solar, 12V in-car, or USB-C. If you choose AC, the unit can go from zero to 100% in an hour, which means you can leave charging to the last minute while camping.The company claims that one full charge of the River 2 Max can charge an iPhone 41 times, a drone 10 times, and an electric blanket eight times.ZDNET's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tested this unit and called it "compact enough to be portable, big enough to be practical." "If you want to go totally off-grid, EcoFlow offers a 160W solar panel that can recharge the River 2 Max in about four hours," he wrote. "The panel is durable and waterproof to IP68, so it's the perfect adventure companion for the River 2 Max 500."Verified Amazon customers note that this compact unit has been helpful for everything from camping festivals to powering a CPAP machine in primitive areas.EcoFlow River 2 Max specs: Watts/hr: 500W | Continuous watts: 500W | Surge watts: 1000W | Solar input (W): 220W | Ports: 3 USB-A, 1 USB-C, 4 AC | Weight: 13.14 pounds Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Portable power stations can get pretty pricey, but this one from Bluetti currently retails at only $359 for Amazon Prime members, making it a great budget pick. Plus, it charges quickly, especially when utilizing its turbocharging feature. Kingsley-Hughes also tested this model and praised it for delivering enough power to energy-intensive devices during a road trip. "It has enough capacity to meet the needs of a small group for several days," he wrote, adding, "I've relied on the power station to charge my smartphone, cameras, drones, and laptops efficiently."In his testing, he also found that charging the station from a car's 12V outlet is particularly efficient for keeping the unit charged, as long as the battery is not drained too much.Verified customers praised the AC70 on Bluetti's website, with most of the reviewers saying they bought it for camping and were pleased with the experience of using it for this purpose. Bluetti AC70 specs: Watts/hr: 768W | Continuous watts: 1000W | Surge watts: 2000W | Solar input (W): 500W | Ports: 2 USB-A, 2 USB-C, 2 AC | Weight: 22.5 pounds Pros Turbocharge feature Affordable price Cons Some of the better features are only available by using the app Portable power stations can get pretty pricey, but this one from Bluetti currently retails at only $359 for Amazon Prime members, making it a great budget pick. Plus, it charges quickly, especially when utilizing its turbocharging feature. Kingsley-Hughes also tested this model and praised it for delivering enough power to energy-intensive devices during a road trip. "It has enough capacity to meet the needs of a small group for several days," he wrote, adding, "I've relied on the power station to charge my smartphone, cameras, drones, and laptops efficiently."In his testing, he also found that charging the station from a car's 12V outlet is particularly efficient for keeping the unit charged, as long as the battery is not drained too much.Verified customers praised the AC70 on Bluetti's website, with most of the reviewers saying they bought it for camping and were pleased with the experience of using it for this purpose. Bluetti AC70 specs: Watts/hr: 768W | Continuous watts: 1000W | Surge watts: 2000W | Solar input (W): 500W | Ports: 2 USB-A, 2 USB-C, 2 AC | Weight: 22.5 pounds Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less What makes this portable power station so versatile for camping is the amount of power and port options. There's a 100W and 60W USB-C port on the front, along with four USB-A ports, so all your devices are covered. There is also a 12V car socket capable of outputting 120W of power and six AC outputs, each capable of 1500W or 2400W in a power surge.Kingsley-Hughes tested this unit and said in his review that the Anker 757 Powerhouse is "well thought out, not overly complicated, built with ergonomics in mind, and packs quite a lot of power." Review: Anker 757 PowerhouseAnker is a company that has been in the portable power market for many years, starting out with chargers and power banks, and then later making the leap to power stations. That long heritage is obvious when looking at the overall build quality of the Anker 757.Customer reviews note that adding portable solar panels allows for greater battery charge retention, especially while camping. Kingsley-Hughes said that while he wouldn't carry this 43.9- pound unit too far, the ergonomic handles distribute the weight well, so it's well built for moving from the garage to a truck or RV.Anker 757 Powerhouse specs: Watts/hr: 1229W | Continuous watts: 1500 | Surge watts: 2400 | Solar input (W): 600W | Ports: 4 USB-A, 2 USB-C, 6 AC | Weight: 43.9 pounds Pros Ergonomic design Lots of ports Large display Cons Solar charging could be better What makes this portable power station so versatile for camping is the amount of power and port options. There's a 100W and 60W USB-C port on the front, along with four USB-A ports, so all your devices are covered. There is also a 12V car socket capable of outputting 120W of power and six AC outputs, each capable of 1500W or 2400W in a power surge.Kingsley-Hughes tested this unit and said in his review that the Anker 757 Powerhouse is "well thought out, not overly complicated, built with ergonomics in mind, and packs quite a lot of power." Review: Anker 757 PowerhouseAnker is a company that has been in the portable power market for many years, starting out with chargers and power banks, and then later making the leap to power stations. That long heritage is obvious when looking at the overall build quality of the Anker 757.Customer reviews note that adding portable solar panels allows for greater battery charge retention, especially while camping. Kingsley-Hughes said that while he wouldn't carry this 43.9- pound unit too far, the ergonomic handles distribute the weight well, so it's well built for moving from the garage to a truck or RV.Anker 757 Powerhouse specs: Watts/hr: 1229W | Continuous watts: 1500 | Surge watts: 2400 | Solar input (W): 600W | Ports: 4 USB-A, 2 USB-C, 6 AC | Weight: 43.9 pounds Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best portable power station for camping? Based on our hands-on experience and in-lab testing, the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus is the best portable power station for camping. Its modularity makes it a versatile option for all types of camping. Show more Which portable power station for camping is right for you? It depends on the type of camping you prefer before you choose which portable power station will fit your needs. Consider what devices you want to bring with you and keep powered and whether you will be staying in an RV or cabin vs. a tent. Choose this portable power station for camping... If you want... Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus The best overall option. It packs a lot of power at 3000 continuous watts, and its modularity makes it versatile for camping. EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra A powerful portable power station best for RV camping. It can run an entire RV or cabin, especially when stacked with other units for increased capacity. EcoFlow River 2 Max 500A compact portable power station for camping. It weighs just 13.4 pounds and features 60 minute fast charging. Bluetti AC70 A budget-friendly portable power station for camping. This unit also has 2,000W surge capability and a turbocharging feature, which allows for super fast charging that can take it from flat to 80% in 45 minutes. Anker 757 Powerhouse  A versatile portable power station for camping with lots of ports. It also has an ergonomic build, making it easier to carry despite its weight. Show more Factors to consider when choosing the best portable power station for camping: Power stations are a significant investment, but they can ultimately upgrade your camping experience to allow for power off-grid. Before making our top picks, we considered several factors.Weight: Bigger isn't always better, especially when it comes to camping. Will the portable power station be wheeled down a paved trail, or will you be moving it from your vehicle to your camp? Do you want something you could carry in a backpack for a day? Battery capacity: If you plan to power an RV or bigger devices from your power station, you want as much battery capacity as you can afford, but for off-grid adventures, it's important to bear in mind that there's a penalty here in the form of weight.Cost: Some units cost several thousand dollars, while others cost a couple hundred. Plus, add-ons like battery packs and solar panels also increase the price.Charging: How do you plan on charging your power station? Are you mostly going to use AC power from an outlet, or do you want the independence of solar?Battery Chemistry: Lithium-ion (Li-ion) is the traditional battery technology, but the newer lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) are safer and have a much longer lifespan. Show more How did we test these portable power stations for camping? Over the past few years, we've tested well over 100 different portable power stations to find out which are the best of the best. To do this efficiently, because it takes days to do properly, we've developed a comprehensive testing structure. This not only ensures that manufacturers aren't playing fast and loose with their spec sheet data but also checks whether the units are safe and reliable. Here's an overview of how we test portable power stations.Unboxing and visual inspectionCapacity testsLoad testingUPS capability testingThermal testsSafety testsReal-world usageFor more detailed information on how these tests are carried out, check out this post, where we explore the process more thoroughly.  Show more FAQs on portable power stations How long will a power station last while camping based on its watts? To figure this out, you're going to need to get a pencil and do some back of the envelope calculations.  You're going to need a couple of bits of information.First, you need to know what devices you are going to power. List them all, because forgetting that coffee pot or heated blanket could make the difference between the power station lasting all day, or giving up the ghost on you before the day is over.Specifically, you want to know how much power, in watts, each device draws. This information is usually found on a label on the device. For example, a heater might draw 1,000W, while a CPAP machine might draw 60W. This figure represents the maximum power consumption, and you will find that the power consumption of some devices, such as CPAP machines, fluctuates greatly, while for other devices, like the heater, the power consumption remains quite stable.Next, you need to know how long you plan on running your devices during a day, or between recharges of your power station. Your heater might run for two hours, while the CPAP machine could run for eight hours.Power station capacities are measured in watt-hours (Wh). A device drawing 1,000W running for one hour uses 1,000Wh. Therefore, the same device running for two hours will need 2,000Wh. Heaters are some of the most power-hungry devices that people find themselves needing to run.Similarly, a CPAP machine that uses 60W will consume 60Wh per hour, so running it for eight hours would consume 480Wh.Your total energy usage over 24 hours would then be 2,480Wh.Based on this, you might think that a 2,500Wh capacity power station would be sufficient. However, in reality, nothing is perfect, and there are energy losses in the system. The rule of thumb is to add 20% to your total and then round up to the next highest capacity available. So, you'd be looking at a power station with a capacity of around 3,000Wh to ensure you have enough stored power for the day. Show more How can I make my power station run longer? Simple: Find your biggest power draws and replace them with more energy efficient alternatives. For example, you might find that you can replace that 1,000W heater with a heated throw that only takes 100W to power. That quilt would run for 10 hours on the power that the heater would use in an hour!Another big power hog is incandescent lights. Swapping these out for LEDs will result in huge power savings and dramatically boost your power station's runtime.   Show more What is the difference between a power station and a power bank? The main difference between portable power stations and portable power banks is the amount of power and what they can charge. Power stations have AC outlets and allow you to charge more and bigger devices, including life-saving ones like a CPAP machine, a cooler, or a floodlight for the campsite while going off-grid.Power banks are much smaller and are best for charging devices like phones, headphones, and smartwatches.  Show more Other portable power stations we've tested Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Heydar Aliyev Center | © Olivier Blanchette via Unsplash In contemporary architectural discourse, the building envelope is no longer a passive partition but a dynamic interface capable of interaction, regulation, and adaptation. Amid rising environmental complexity and performance demands, composite materials are emerging as enablers of this transformation. Their potential goes far beyond lightweight strength; composites are redefining what intelligence means in architectural materiality. As the industry pivots toward energy-conscious design, real-time responsiveness, and multi-functional skins, composites provide structural solutions and performative systems. In this context, the envelope becomes a site of intelligence. From Passive Shells to Active Systems For centuries, architectural skins served primarily as barriers, blocking weather, enclosing space, and symbolizing permanence. But the 21st century demands more. We require façades that filter air and light, mediate thermal flux, integrate sensors, and generate power. Traditional materials, limited by monolithic performance and weight, have struggled to adapt. Composites, by contrast, are inherently systemic. They are engineered layers rather than singular substances. Through the integration of fibers and matrices, composites enable architectural envelopes that perform structurally while accommodating embedded systems such as thermal insulation, acoustic control, impact resistance, and photoreactivity. These characteristics make them prime candidates for high-performance envelopes in buildings and infrastructure alike. In the Qatar Integrated Railway Project, composite roofing and FRP façade panels were employed to meet the demands of the harsh desert environment. This solution reduced structural loads and improved thermal performance while ensuring long-term durability in a climate defined by extremes. Performance Layering and Embedded Intelligence What distinguishes composites from conventional materials is their capacity to combine multiple performance layers in one unified system. Instead of applying insulation, waterproofing, and cladding in sequence, a composite panel can consolidate these into a single prefabricated, high-performance element. A compelling example is the Eco Casa in Australia, designed by Ian Wright, which used frameless DuFLEX composite panels. The result was an environmentally conscious home with significantly reduced material waste, enhanced thermal performance, and minimized emissions. These outcomes demonstrate how composites offer design efficiency and ecological responsibility. The capacity for prefabrication and integration is particularly valuable in settings where labor conditions, transportation logistics, or weather exposure make traditional multi-layered construction inefficient or impractical. Composites with a Nervous System: Sensing the Built Environment Recent innovations in smart composites extend these capabilities further. By embedding fiber-optic or piezoresistive sensors into composite assemblies, architects and engineers can develop building skins that sense stress, temperature changes, humidity, or vibration in real-time. These responsive façades can feed data into building management systems, enabling performance optimization or alerting maintenance teams to signs of wear or structural fatigue. This functionality has been successfully explored in transport infrastructure. The King Abdullah High-Speed Rail Station in Saudi Arabia used 27-meter composite sandwich panels to span vast distances with minimal support. The lightweight system reduced the need for extensive reinforcement while enabling thermal and mechanical performance in a climate that demands resilience. Such examples are foundational to a future in which architecture does not merely resist the environment but interprets it. Formal Freedom Meets Functional Responsiveness Guangzhou Opera House | © Scarbor Siu via Unsplash Beyond embedded intelligence, composites also expand formal expression. Their moldability, especially with parametric design and digital fabrication, allows for envelopes that curve, fold, and morph in unattainable ways with conventional rigid materials. The Guangzhou Opera House, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is a defining example. Advanced composite assemblies that merged structural demands with formal ambition enabled its seamless curvatures and sharp transitions. These systems supported high-precision details and complex geometries while reducing material weight and installation complexity. This freedom extends to smaller-scale yet equally ambitious projects. At the Tilburg School for VAVO, translucent composite panels embedded with knitted textiles reference local craft while offering thermal performance and design cohesion. Such examples show that intelligence in architecture includes cultural sensitivity as well as technical adaptability. Toward Circular and Regenerative Envelopes The sustainability potential of composites is often overlooked. While early generations relied heavily on fossil-derived materials, newer systems use bio-based resins, natural fibers like flax and basalt, and recyclable matrices that fit into circular design models. Composite panels can now be designed for disassembly, repurposing, or reintegration into new construction, minimizing waste and conserving embodied energy. The Pasarela de Almuñécar in Spain exemplifies this ethos. As the world’s longest carbon-fiber walkway, it replaced heavier materials and extended structural lifespan while reducing maintenance. The project signals how composites can fulfill both technical and ecological ambitions. Efforts to embed digital tracking into panels, such as RFID tags, also support long-term monitoring and facilitate reuse planning. This vision aligns with emerging concepts like material passports, which will play a critical role in lifecycle accountability. Pasarela de Almuñécar in Spain | © Luis Garcia, CC by 3.0 Overcoming Barriers to Adoption Despite the clear advantages, composite adoption in architecture still faces notable hurdles. First is the challenge of integration with legacy materials such as concrete, stone, or steel. Connection detailing requires careful coordination to ensure structural continuity and thermal performance. Second is the perception of cost. While composites may require a higher upfront investment, their lower maintenance demands, improved energy performance, and reduced structural requirements often result in favorable long-term economics. Finally, regulatory frameworks continue to evolve. Building codes have been slow to reflect the unique properties of composites, although this is changing as standardization increases and successful pilot projects proliferate. A Vision for the Future: Architecture as Adaptive Intelligence Composites are not merely substitutes for traditional materials. They represent a paradigm shift in how we understand performance, integration, and the role of material in space-making. As architecture becomes increasingly data-driven, climate-responsive, and energy-conscious, the intelligent envelope will become the norm rather than the exception. Composites make this future feasible by offering structural capability, aesthetic freedom, environmental stewardship, and embedded intelligence within a single engineered solution. From high-speed rail terminals to cultural landmarks, these materials are shaping a new kind of architecture that listens, learns, and evolves. It is no longer sufficient for architecture to stand still. The next generation of buildings must adapt, interact, and perform. Composites make that future tangible. Learn More Explore how composite materials are redefining the building envelope in the construction sector and beyond: Visit Composites.Archi by ArchEyes Team Leave a comment

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication.Warm weather is finally here, and it deserves a proper soundtrack. Whether you’re headed to the beach, camping in the woods, or taking a bike ride, the JBL Clip 5 is a compact Bluetooth speaker that’s built to tag along. Its IP67 rating ensures it’s both waterproof and dustproof, making it suitable for any outdoor adventure this summer. At 38% off, it's currently at its lowest price ever, according to price-trackers. JBL Clip 5 Speaker $49.95 at Amazon $79.95 Save $30.00 Get Deal Get Deal $49.95 at Amazon $79.95 Save $30.00 An IP67 rating means you can submerge it for up to 30 minutes in a meter of water, so this speaker isn’t ideal for long swims. The built-in carabiner clip can be hooked onto anything from a folding chair to a tent or backpack, and the ability to suspend it means you don’t have to risk damage by placing it on the ground.Despite its small size and travel-friendly design, the JBL Clip 5 delivers clear audio with decent bass. While the volume is moderate, setting it to the highest volume may result in some distortion, and it’s not as loud as some of the best outdoor speakers with higher price tags. Compared to similarly priced speakers like Anker, reviewers often give JBL the edge for sound clarity. You can also sync two Clip 5 speakers using Auracast for an even fuller sound.Portability is one of the major perks to consider—it weighs in at just over half a pound, making it a lightweight option for rugged activities. Battery life is another bonus: Playtime lasts a full 12 hours, and a feature called Playtime Boost extends it even further. With that feature on, however, you may notice a slight reduction in audio quality. If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful speaker to accompany you on nature excursions, outdoor activities, or just to jam out in the shower, the JBL Clip 5 speaker could be the right choice.

When it comes to flash drives, there are a few things to take into consideration: capacity, speed, and compatibility. That last one is a problem with the growing prevalence of USB-C because there just aren’t that many good USB-C flash drives around. But right now, you can get the Samsung Type-C flash drive for only $18 on Amazon! You’re getting 128GB of storage space for the price of a couple fancy coffees, which is pretty impressive when you look at the big picture. As the name suggests, this one has a USB-C connector so you can plug it into your laptop, smartphone, tablet—nearly any modern device. It’s also fast, with transfer speeds up to 400 MB/s. When you need to quickly back up files or move them between devices, this is the one to rely on. And it’s super compact, too. You can slip it into your pocket and forget it’s there. The sleek design looks great, but it’s also robust with a cap that protects the connector and a sturdy build that’s waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, magnet-proof, X-ray-proof, and good to use even in extreme temperatures. Oh, and it’ll survive drops and bumps. Snag your very own 128GB Samsung USB-C flash drive for next to nothing on Amazon while you can. Need more capacity? The other sizes are also on sale, including the 256GB version for $27 (was $35) and 512GB version for $50 (was $65). It’s up to you and how much you’re willing to spend for how much space you think you’ll need. Buy now at Amazon