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Kyle Walker of Burnley during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on August 16, 2025 in London, England.
Gaming Gear

Watch Premier League LIVE: cheap streams, live updates from Bournemouth vs Wolves, Brentford vs Aston Villa, Burnley vs Sunderland

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2025-08-23T16:06:43.866Z

Full time: Burnley 2-0 Sunderland

Burnley grab all three points after a dominant second half display driven by midfielder Josh Cullen who grabbed a goal and assist. Sunderland will be annoyed with that result, especially after their performance in gameweek one as they lose out to their newly promoted counterparts.

2025-08-23T16:03:28.767Z

Full time: Brentford 1-0 Aston Villa

Brentford grab their first three points of the season thanks to a debut goal from Ouattara in the 12th minute. Unai Emery will be disappointed that his team has lost that game and now gone through 180 minutes without scoring a goal.

2025-08-23T15:59:46.494Z

Full time: Bournemouth 1-0 Wolves

Bournemouth grab all three points at home as they fended off 10-men Wolves who extend their losing streak to two games.

2025-08-23T15:57:12.788Z

5 added minutes at the Gtech

Brentford edge closer to a massive win against Aston Villa as the referee adds 5 minutes of stoppage time.

2025-08-23T15:56:08.429Z

10 MINUTES ADDED AT TURF MOOR

The referee gives Sunderland a fighting chance as 10 minutes are added to this game, is that enough time for a Black Cats response?

2025-08-23T15:55:00.972Z

2-0 BURNLEY! 88′

(Image credit: Getty Images- Lewis Storey)

Burnley double their lead through Anthony to ensure all three points! The man of the moment Josh Cullen assists Jaidon Anthony as Burnley go 2-0 up in the dying embers of the game.

2025-08-23T15:51:30.252Z

6 added minutes at the Vitality

Bournemouth will have to endure six additional minutes of Wolves pressure to see out all three points.

2025-08-23T15:49:29.123Z

Sunderland come close! 78′

Substitute Roberts comes close to equalising for the visitors as he burst into the penalty area before picking out Isidor but Esteve puts it out for a corner which he injured himself doing.

Canadian fans can catch the nail biting end to this game on Fubo and can use a VPN if travelling outside the country to watch from anywhere in the world.

2025-08-23T15:40:54.528Z

The return of Kluivert 78′

The long awaited return of Bournemouth star, Justin Kluivert, takes place as he replaces goal scorer Marcus Tavernier.

2025-08-23T15:38:50.897Z

Burnley substitutions 69′

Laurent replaces the injured Ugochukwu for Burnley and Sonne comes on for Larsen as Burnley look to keep Sunderland out and claim all three points.

Australian fans can watch this game on Stan Sport and if you’re travelling outside of Oz right now then use a VPN to get access to your Stan account.

2025-08-23T15:35:20.903Z

Bournemouth double change 66′

Christie and Adli replace Scott and Brooks and Bournemouth look to see out a victory.

2025-08-23T15:33:10.308Z

Emery looks for a reaction with substitutes 64′

Aston Villa make a double substitution as Malen comes on for Onana and Maatsen comes on for Digne. Attacking changes for Villa as they look to get back into the game.

2025-08-23T15:31:07.779Z

Sunderland triple change 63′

Le Bris looks to utilise his bench to get back into this game as Roberts comes on for Talbi, Le Fee comes on for Adingra and Isidor comes on for Mayenda.

Away from home for the action? You can use a VPN to watch from anywhere in the world.

2025-08-23T15:27:37.445Z

CARD UPDATE:

Bournemouth: Adams (yellow), Scott (yellow)

Wolves: Toti (yellow and red), Hugo Bueno (yellow)

Brentford: Kelleher (yellow)

Aston Villa: Onana (yellow)

Burnley: N/A

Sunderland: Adingra

2025-08-23T15:24:10.909Z

BICYCLE KICK ATTEMPT! 52′

Aston Villa’s Emi Buendia tried his luck from a headed knock down Morgan Rodgers with his attempt narrowly going over the bar.

Emery’s half time team talk seems to have worked wonders as Villa are the team on top early in the second half.

2025-08-23T15:17:54.493Z

GOAL FOR BURNLEY! 47′

(Image credit: Getty Images- Matt McNulty)

It’s the hosts who take the lead and it’s through midfielder Josh Cullen. A backheel from Anthony sets up the captain to curl one into the bottom-right corner from 18-yards out. 1-0 Burnley.

Setanta Sports are showing all the game as well as access to all 380 EPL games for JUST $2.63 for Ukrainian fans.

If you’re travelling or working away from Ukraine today – You can tune in to Senanta sports coverage using NordVPN

2025-08-23T15:11:29.586Z

RED CARD FOR WOLVES! 48′

Evanilson is taken down just outside box by Toti Gomes who is shown an immediate red card. Wolves are down to 10-men in a nightmare start to the second half for them.

2025-08-23T15:09:39.902Z

2nd half begins!

Vitor Pereira makes two substitutes for Wolves as Hugo Bueno replaces Wolfe and Andre replaces Bellegarde.

No other team has made any changes during the break.

2025-08-23T15:08:05.926Z

Still looking for a stream?

US- In the states you can tune in via Peacock to watch Bournemouth vs Wolves and Burnley vs Sunderland. For Brentford vs Aston Villa you can watch on USA Network via Sling

CA- Over in Canada Fubo are streaming all the games

AU- Australian fans can watch the coverage from all three games on Stan Sport

Ukraine: In Ukraine right now? Setanta Sports are showing all the game as well as access to all 380 EPL games for JUST $2.63.

REMEMBER- If you’re travelling or working away for the games today, You can tune in to the streaming platforms of your home country using NordVPN

2025-08-23T15:05:21.086Z

HALF-TIME ACROSS THE BOARD

(Image credit: Getty Images- Matt McNulty)

Bournemouth 1-0 Wolves: The home side dominated the early parts of the game, grabbing the lead through Tavernier early on. Wolves managed to regain a bit of grip in midfield after about 30 minutes and created a few chances from wide. Both teams go in knowing the game is still up for grabs.

Brentford 1-0 Aston Villa: Perhaps against most people’s predictions for this one, it’s the home side who go in on top at half time. Debutant Ouattara scored for the Bee’s as they also had a late goal in the half ruled out for a foul in the build up. Unai Emery will have to rally his team up at half time if he wants to leave with some points.

Burnley 0-0 Sunderland: It’s stalemate at Turf Moor going into half-time. The hosts had a goal ruled out after VAR review in the 18th minute but the game has been very close in the first half, both teams having three shots each as they share possession 49% to 51%. All is still to play for.

All three games have witnessed an enforced change as Sunderland’s Daniel Ballard came off for Jenson Seelt, Aston Villa’s Boubacar Kamara came off for Emi Buendia and Wolves’ Ki-Jana Hoever came off for debutant Jackson Tchatchoua.

Expect a big second half across all three games as they’re all still wide open and don’t forget that if you’re travelling away from home you can use a VPN to access your usual coverage.

2025-08-23T14:37:44.897Z

Yet another enforced change 34′

This time it’s Wolves who are forced to make a change as Tchatchoua comes on for his debut to replace the injured Hoever who landed awkwardly.

Ukraine fans can watch on Setanta Sports for just $2.63.

REMEMBER- If you’re travelling away for the game today, You can tune in to the streaming platforms of your home country using NordVPN

2025-08-23T14:27:23.689Z

Yellow card for Sunderland’s Adringra 19′

A unnecessary card to receive really. Adingra goes into the book after slapping Mejbri in the face.

2025-08-23T14:21:42.461Z

Another early substitution 16′

There’s another early substitution in this afternoon’s fixtures but this time it’s Aston Villa who are forced to make a change. Kamara comes off for Villa for Buendia who will presumably play in attacking midfield with Tielemens dropping into the midfield pivot.

2025-08-23T14:19:58.671Z

BRENTFORD TAKE THE LEAD! 12′

(Image credit: Getty Images- Charlotte Wilson/ Offside)

Ouattara scores on his debut! A long ball from the goalkeeper is flicked on towards the striker who pokes the ball beyond both Villa centre halves and slides the ball past Martinez. 1-0 Brentford.

For this fixture fans in the US can watch on USA Network via Sling

If you’re outside the US right now– you can use a VPN to access your Sling account.

2025-08-23T14:18:07.270Z

An early substitution for Sunderland 9′

Daniel Ballard was the hero for Sunderland in gameweek 1 but his game ends early here as he’s forced to come off with an injury 9′ minutes in. Jenson Seelt replaces the centre half.

Canadian fans can watch on Fubo who are showing the game live on their platform.

Working or travelling outside of Canada? You can use a VPN to unlock your usual streaming platforms and watch as if you’re at home.

2025-08-23T14:13:23.937Z

Bournemouth hit the bar! 10′

Bournemouth came so close to doubling their lead but the shot rattles the top of the bar and Wolves manage to scramble the ball clear.

2025-08-23T14:12:15.897Z

Brentford come close! 4′

Damsgaard goes on a brilliant run and tries to curl one into the far corner and is just off target

Fans in the states can watch the game on USA Network via Sling

Outside the US for work? – Use a VPN to gain access to your usual coverage.

2025-08-23T14:07:37.747Z

BOURNEMOUTH SCORE! 5′

(Image credit: Getty Images- Justin Tallis)

A deflected shot from Tavernier find the back of the Wolves net to give Bournemouth the lead five minutes in.

Australian fans can catch the action on Stan Sport

Outside Oz right now? You can use a VPN to gain access to your usual coverage.

2025-08-23T14:03:40.392Z

Kick off: Burnley vs Sunderland

2025-08-23T14:03:19.417Z

Kick off: Brentford vs Aston Villa

2025-08-23T14:02:38.763Z

Kick off: Bournemouth vs Wolves

2025-08-23T13:58:03.505Z

HOW TO WATCH GUIDE

Follow our guide on how to watch all three of the fixtures this Saturday

Bournemouth vs Wolves:

US- In the states you can tune in via Peacock

CA- Over in Canada, as per usual, Fubo are streaming this one

AU- Australian fans can watch the coverage from the Vitality on Stan Sport

Ukraine: In Ukraine right now? Setanta Sports are showing the game as well as access to all 380 EPL games for JUST $2.63.

Brentford vs Aston Villa:

US- For this fixture, you can watch on USA Network via Sling

CA- Fubowill also be showing the Bees host Villa

AU- Your go to for this one is Stan Sport

Ukraine: For just $2.63, viewers in Ukraine can watch on Setanta Sports

Burnley vs Sunderland

US- To watch the Premier League new boys face off in the states, watch on Peacock

CA- Fans in Canada can watch the game on Fubo

AU- In Australia, Stan Sport will be showing this game as well as the other two games on their platform.

Ukraine: Setanta Sports are showing the games for JUST $2.63.

REMEMBER- If you’re travelling or working away for the games today, You can tune in to the streaming platforms of your home country using NordVPN

2025-08-23T13:41:37.497Z

Match Preview: Burnley vs Sunderland

(Image credit: Getty Images- Lewis Storey)

Two of the newly promoted teams face off early on in the 2025-26 Premier League campaign in what’s set to be a thriller.

Scott Parker’s Burnley host The Black Cats at Turf Moor after The Clarets were thumped 3-0 by Tottenham in gameweek 1, although the game was closer than the score suggests. Last year in the Championship, Burnley held an impressive defensive record, only conceding 18 goals in 48 matches. However, a crucial piece in that puzzle was goalkeeper James Trafford who departed for his boyhood club Manchester City this summer.

On the bright side, Burnley are unbeaten in their three Premier League home games against Sunderland, most recently a 4-1 victory in December 2018.

Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland enjoyed a marvellous return to the Premier League, beating West Ham 3-0 with goals from Mayenda, Ballard and Isidor. The Black Cats will be looking to pounce at the chance to extend their winning form against a dejected Burnley team.

After a summer spending spree, new boys Sunderland racked up a transfer bill of over £132 million and will be confident that their new new look side has the tools to dismantle Burnley.

In Ukraine, Setanta Sports are showing the games for JUST $2.63.

Outside Ukraine right now? use NordVPN to get access from across the world.

2025-08-23T13:29:59.945Z

Match Preview: Brentford vs Aston Villa

(Image credit: Getty Images- Harry Murphy)

The Bee’s started their 2025-26 EPL campaign with a disappointing 3-1 loss to Nottingham Forest, with a consolation goal from striker Igor Thiago from the penalty spot. The departure of key players such as Bryan Mbeumo, Christian Norgaard as well as manager Thomas Frank has proven to be difficult to deal with for Brentford. With ace, Yoane Wissa, also looking likely to depart for greener pastures, Brentford look on course for a difficult season under rookie manager Keith Andrews.

However, Andrew’s men will be looking for a positive result in front of their home fans for the first time this season, looking to overcome their six game winless streak against Villa in the League.

Unai Emery’s men come into this game after a stalemate vs Newcastle in their league opener. The lack of shots the Villans produced against Newcastle could be cause for concern for Emery but they have won in their last two visits to the Gtech and have scored in all eight of their Premier League meetings.

The big news is that goalkeeper Emi Martinez returns to the starting XI for Villa. However they are without Ezri Konsa as he’s suspended following a red card against Newcastle. Emery will have to adjust his defensive set up going into this battle, with both Mings and Torres looking to start at CB as they look to add to their impressive against a struggling Brentford.

Canadian fans can access the game via Fubo

Outside Canada right now? Use a VPN to watch from anywhwere

2025-08-23T13:14:28.922Z

LINEUPS ANNOUNCED

Bournemouth vs Wolves:

Bournemouth starting XI: Petrovic, Smith, Diakite, Senesi, Truffert, Adams, Tavernier, Scott, Brooks, Semenyo, Evanilson

Bournemouth subs: Dennis, Hill, Araujo, Soler, Adli, Kluivert, Christie, Doak, Kroupi

Wolves starting XI: Sa, Gomes, Agbadou, Doherty, Hoever, Wolfe, Gomes, Munetsi, Arias, Bellegarde

Wolves subs: Johnstone, H.Bueno, S.Bueno, Mosquera, Andre, Lopez, Tchatchoua, Gomes, Hwang

Brentford vs Aston Villa:

Brentford starting XI: Kelleher, Kayode, van den Berg, Collins, Lewis-Potter, Henderson, Yarmolyuk, Damsgaard, Ouattara, Schade, Thiago

Brentford subs: Valdimarsson, Ajer, Henry, Hickey, Milambo, Onyeka, Jensen Carvalho, Peart-Harris

Aston Villa starting XI: Martinez, Digne, Mings, Torres, Cash, Kamara, Onana, Tielemans, Rogers, McGinn, Watkins

Aston Villa subs: Bizot, Proctor, Maatsen, Bogarde, Rowe, Buendia, Burrowes, Malen, Guessand

Burnley vs Sunderland:

Burnley starting XI: Dubravka, Walker, Ekdal, Esteve, Hartman, Cullen, Ugochuckwu, Mejbri, Larsen, Anthony, Foster

Burnley subs: Weiss, Worrall, Pires, Sonne, Ramsey, Laurent, Tchaouna, Edwards, Flemming

Sunderland starting XI: Roefs, Reinildo, Alderete, Ballard, Hume, Xhaka, Sadiki, Diarra, Adingra, Mayenda, Talbi

Sunderland bench: Patterson, Masuaku, Seelt, Rigg, Neil, Le Fee, Guiu, Roberts, Isidor

2025-08-23T12:57:03.638Z

Match Preview: Bournemouth vs Wolves

(Image credit: Getty Images- Michael Steele)

Andori Iraola’s Bournemouth welcome Vitor Pereria’s Wolves to the Vitality stadium for this Premier League clash. Bournemouth showed a good account of themselves against Premier League champions, Liverpool, in gameweek 1 of the 2025-26 EPL season, losing 4-2 in an end-to-end thriller.

Riddled with summer departures, with key players such as Dean Huijsen and Illia Zabarnyi leaving for Real Madrid and PSG respectively and Milos Kerkez joining Liverpool, it’s more or less a new look back line for the Cherries as they’ll look to get their first three points of the season.

However, Bournemouth have managed to keep hold of star player, Antoine Semenyo, who dazzled against Liverpool. Bournemouth fans will be hoping the Ghanaian can lead them to victory against Wolves, who they have beaten three times in their last five Premier League meetings.

A similar summer of goodbyes took place in Wolverhampton as well, as Vitor Pereira lost talisman Matheus Cunha to Manchester United and left back Rayan Ait-Nouri to their Manchester rivals, the Citizens.

Wolves’ start to the 2025-26 Premier League campaign was one to forget as Ait-Nouri came back to haunt his former club as Manchester City shipped four passed Wolves with no reply. Pereira will be looking for a big response from his team as they look to bounce back from a harrowing opening day defeat. Wolves are unbeaten in five games at the Vitality stadium which should put them in good stead going into this game but their defensive fragilities shown in gameweek 1 may come to blossom once again if they can’t handle the pace of Bournemouth’s front line.

Australian fans can watch on Stan Sport from 3PM (BST)/ 12AM ACT

Outside your Australia for the game? You can watch EPL live streams streams from anywhere in the world using NordVPN.

2025-08-18T15:20:07.294Z

2 HOURS UNTIL KICK OFF

(Image credit: Getty Images- Matthew Ashton)

In just under two hours time, 3 exciting games in gameweek 2 of the Premier League kick off. Wolves travel to the Vitality stadium to take on the Cherries, Brentford host Aston Villa at the Gtech and Premier League newcomers Burnley and Sunderland meet at Turf Moor.

Follow our live blog for team news, live updates how to watch all three games.

Travelling outside your home country right now? Remember you can use a VPN to watch the action from anywhere in the world.



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Blasphemous guy taking helmet off blood dripping down
Product Reviews

Blasphemous is currently 90% off, so cheap it’s giving me a guilty conscience

by admin



Team 17 is running a publisher sale over the next week, offering an array of discounts like half-price on eldritch fishing sim Dredge and 80% off chaotic cooperative chef adventure Overcooked. By far and away the best discount, though, is for the The Game Kitchen’s Catholocism-coded angst ‘n’ slash Blasphemous, which is a whopping 90% off for the next few days.

That knocks the cost all the way down to $2.50 (£2.00), less than the price of, well, most things really. A bus ticket. A cup of coffee. A Tesco meal deal. I can just about get a McDonald’s cheeseburger for less, but there’s only 30p in it and that cheeseburger won’t last 14 hours or let me fight a giant baby wearing a crown of thorns.

Indeed, it’s the strange and grotesque world of Cvstodia that made Blasphemous worth investigating when it launched back in 2019, as Callum Agnew observed in his review. “Every moment in Blasphemous is unsettling and my morbid curiosity dragged me from screen to screen. What tortured unholy sight would I see next? The world is horrible and it’s all the more compelling for it. It felt like I was on a mercy-killing spree.”


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It isn’t a perfect game. The combat is somewhat limited by the restriction to two dimensions, while the platforming can lean too far toward unforgiving. But it was worth putting up with those flaws just to see what magnificent weirdness The Game Kitchen had cooked up, more so when it costs just a couple of quid.

Blasphemous – Official Launch Trailer – YouTube

Watch On

It’s worth nothing that Blasphemous 2 is also on a discount, available at half-price for $15 (£11.24). While not a steal like the original, if you grab the first game and really jive with it, it might be worth picking up the sequel while it’s relatively cheap. While we didn’t review Blasphemous 2, the consensus is it’s a bigger, better version of the original, albeit not vastly different from a mechanical perspective.

In fact, Blasphemous 2 grew even larger last year thanks to the double-barrelled blast of a paid expansion and a free update. This brought a new game plus mode and a 40% increase in the game’s footprint before it asked you to lay down any cash.

Both discounts run until Thursday, when Team 17’s publisher sale ends.



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Methane Pollution Has Cheap, Effective Solutions That Aren’t Being Used
Gaming Gear

Methane Pollution Has Cheap, Effective Solutions That Aren’t Being Used

by admin


And because methane is invisible and odorless, it can be difficult and expensive to monitor it and prevent it from getting out. As a result, researchers and environmental activists say the industry is likely releasing far more than official government estimates show.

Methane also seeps out from coal mines—more methane, actually, than is released during the production of natural gas, which after all is mostly methane. Ember, a clean-energy think tank, put together this great visual interactive showing how this happens.

The short version is that methane is embedded in coal deposits, and as miners dig to expose coal seams, the gas escapes, and continues to do so long after a coal mine reaches the end of its operating life. Since coal miners are focused on extracting coal, they don’t often keep track of how much methane they’re letting out, nor do regulators pay much attention.

According to Ember, methane emissions from coal mines could be 60 percent higher than official tallies. Abandoned coal mines are especially noxious, emitting more than abandoned oil and gas wells. Added up, methane emitted from coal mines around the world each year has the same warming effect on the climate as the total annual carbon dioxide emissions of India.

Alarmed by the gaps in the data, some nonprofits have taken it upon themselves to try to get a better picture of methane emissions at a global scale using ground-based sensors, aerial monitors, and even satellites. In 2024, the Environmental Defense Fund launched MethaneSAT, which carries instruments that can measure methane output from small, discrete sources over a wide area.

Ritesh Gautam, the lead scientist for MethaneSAT, explained that the project revealed some major overlooked methane emitters. Since launching, MethaneSAT has found that in the US, the bulk of methane emissions doesn’t just come from a few big oil and gas drilling sites, but from many small wells that emit less than 100 kilograms per hour.

“Marginal wells only produce 6 to 7 percent of [oil and gas] in the US, but they disproportionately account for almost 50 percent of the US oil and gas production-related emissions,” Gautam said. “These facilities only produce less than 15 barrels of oil equivalent per day, but then there are more than half a million of these just scattered around the US.”

There Are Ways to Stop Methane Emissions, but We’re Not Using Them

The good news is that many of the tools for containing methane from the energy industry are already available. “Around 70 percent of methane emissions from the fossil fuel sector could be avoided with existing technologies, often at a low cost,” according to the IEA methane report.

For the oil and gas industry, that could mean something as simple as using better fittings in pipelines to limit leaks and installing methane capture systems. And since methane is a fuel, the sale of the saved methane can offset the cost of upgrading hardware. Letting it go into the atmosphere is a waste of money and a contributor to warming.



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Nintendo Switch 2 Controller Charging Docks Are Cheap, But There's A Catch
Game Updates

Nintendo Switch 2 Controller Charging Docks Are Cheap, But There’s A Catch

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Nintendo Switch 2 users have two official methods for charging the new Joy-Con 2 Controllers for wireless play. Out of the box, you can dock the console with the controllers attached before removing them for TV mode, either connected to the grip or turned to the side for single Joy-Con controls. For $40, you can replace the standard grip with the Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip, which lets you charge the right and left controllers while playing. But if you have an extra set of Joy-Con 2 Controllers for local multiplayer, you’ll either need to purchase two Charging Grips or take turns charging each pair.

Nintendo and its third-party partners have released plenty of notable Switch 2 accessories already, but we have yet to see officially licensed charging docks for Joy-Con 2 Controllers. We imagine those will start popping up before long, but what about right now? Unofficial controller charging docks for Switch 2 exist already–in fact, there are tons of Joy-Con 2 charging stations at Amazon, including models that charge four or more controllers at once. Some of the manufacturers currently producing Joy-Con 2 charging stations have made popular, well-received controller chargers for original Joy-Con Controllers as well as the PS5 DualSense and Xbox Wireless Controllers.

Quick look: Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Charging Stations

Disclaimer: None of the controller chargers listed above or shown below are officially licensed. While many of them are known brands with solid track records, there’s always the small possibility they won’t work as intended or will damage to your controllers. Unofficial controller chargers for other platforms, including the original Switch, generally work perfectly fine, and it’s very rare for an accessory like this to damage your controller. But since they don’t have the official Nintendo seal of approval, this is a “buy at your own risk” situation. If you want to play it as safe as possible, the Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip is the way to go. The official grip has built-in back buttons and lets you play while charging via the detachable USB-C cable.

Switch 2 Joy-Con Charging Docks – third-party, not licensed by Nintendo

Of the unofficial products, the Mumba Charging Dock has been the most popular on Amazon since the Switch 2’s launch earlier this month. It has sold over 1,000 units in the past month and has earned great reviews from buyers so far. Offering a compact design that holds and charges up to four Joy-Con 2, it’s a frugal choice at just $20. It even manages to pack in some cool RGB lights and overcharge protection.

Two different options from Fastsnail have great reviews and are among the top sellers, too. There’s a $15 standard docking station for four Joy-Con 2 Controllers as well as a versatile 8-in-1 model with slots that support Switch 2 and original Switch Joy-Con Controllers. Instead of an upright position, the controllers are placed on their sides like mouse mode.

NexiGo has manufactured a number of popular console controller chargers over the past few years, and the brand’s two newest models are for Switch 2. NexiGo’s traditional Switch 2 docking station is getting a limited-time discount at Amazon that drops it to $22 (was $25). Magnetic connections hold your Joy-Con 2 in place as they charge, LED indicators let you know when they’re ready for action, and various protections like overvoltage and overcurrent protection should help keep your controllers safe even though this is an unofficial product. NexiGo also has a model for four controllers that’s similar to Fastsnail’s 8-in-1 edition.

Take a look at some of the Joy-Con 2 charging stations below. We’ve included lists of key specs and features for each product.



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Nobody Thought a VPN This Good Could Be This Cheap
Gaming Gear

Nobody Thought a VPN This Good Could Be This Cheap

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Obtaining a VPN at a budget-friendly price often means making compromises. Well, not with PIA. This renowned provider has significantly reduced its prices, making it the most affordable VPN currently available.

You won’t believe the discount the provider has come up with. It’s an 82% discount with two free months for the biennial plans. When you do the math, you save $255 compared to the monthly plan. Sounds unreal, but it’s true.

Save $255 on PIA VPN Today

PIA VPN $255 Discount Explained

Private Internet Access was never too pricey to begin with. However, its monthly plan at $11.99 per month isn’t remarkably affordable. Now, imagine spending this amount of money for 26 months straight: sounds ludicrous!

That’s why PIA has introduced a discount that slashes the price by 82% and includes two free months. As a result, you’ll spend only $56.94 for the first 26 months. Even after the initial offer, PIA will charge you this much annually!

This still results in ample savings compared to the standard monthly price. Private Internet Access hasn’t forgotten to include a 30-day money-back guarantee, either. This enables a prompt refund if you’re unsatisfied.

Antivirus + Dedicated IP Discounts

As part of its flash sale, the VPN has discounted its antivirus and dedicated IP addresses. Its competitive antivirus now costs $34.80 for two years, while a dedicated IP costs $60 for two years.

It’s worth noting that PIA Antivirus is primarily designed for use on PCs. However, its dedicated IP addresses can be used on a plethora of devices. PIA offers them in 25 locations, so there’s plenty to choose from if you decide.

As a gift, Private Internet Access includes 500 GB of pCloud for free for a year. We reviewed pCloud and were thoroughly impressed. At under $57 for 24 months, PIA offers one of the top VPN packages you can find.

Features Rundown

There’s not much you can buy at $2 per month, except if you shop on Temu. PIA doesn’t skimp on necessary VPN features, despite its nearly free price. You’ll get unlimited device protection and a no-log policy, for example.

PIA also introduced MultiHop, which doubles your encryption. People love using the VPN for streaming and torrenting. Meanwhile, it’s phenomenal for those on the dark web who seek full onion over VPN support.

Private Internet Access is compatible with nearly all devices, and each app version offers robust security. From 256-bit GCM encryption to IP and DNS leak protection, you can expect everything in this neat package.

Bear in mind that Private Internet Access periodically alters its price. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy a world-class VPN and spend peanuts.

See the offer at Private Internet Access



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The best cheap phones for 2025
Gaming Gear

The best cheap phones for 2025

by admin


Some of us take a kind of “I eat to live” rather than an “I live to eat” approach to gadgets. They’re tools that help you get things done, not something you want to invest a lot of time or money in. If that’s you — and there’s no judgment here from a certifiable gadget nerd — then you can probably think of more worthwhile ways to spend $1,000 than on a phone.

Budget phones to the rescue. These devices are roughly $500 or under, though not all of them, and they’re more capable than ever. You won’t get all the bells and whistles, but you will save a little money to spend on, I don’t know, actual bells and whistles. It’s your world.

What I’m looking for

How we test

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There’s no shortcut to properly testing a phone; I put my personal SIM card (physical or otherwise) in each phone I review and live with it for a minimum of one full week. I set up each phone from scratch, load it up with my apps, and go about living my life — stress testing the battery, using GPS navigation on my bike while streaming radio, taking rapid-fire portrait mode photos of my kid — everything I can throw at it. Starting over with a new phone every week either sounds like a dream or your personal hell, depending on how Into Phones you are. For me, switching has become so routine that it’s mostly painless.

Strong software support

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At least a couple of years of OS upgrades and, ideally, three years of security updates. There’s no point in buying even a cheap phone if you have to replace it after just a couple of years because it stopped getting security patches.

A good screen

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Since you look at it roughly two thousand times a day, your phone’s screen is one place you shouldn’t compromise. An OLED has richer contrast and color than an LCD, and the big screens on today’s phones really need at least a 1080p resolution. Faster refresh rates like 90Hz and even 120Hz are becoming more common on budget phone screens, but for my money, a smooth-scrolling LCD doesn’t look as nice as an OLED with a standard refresh rate.

Serviceable storage space

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If you plan to hang onto your phone for a while, you’ll want enough storage space to accommodate all the system files, photos, and videos you’ll accumulate over the years. Ideally you’ll get at least 128GB built in.

One good rear camera, not four mediocre ones

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Upgrades like telephoto cameras and optical image stabilization are rare in the under-$500 class, but you can still expect good, basic performance in good lighting from any modern smartphone. Low light is trickier. Phones in this class should offer a night mode to help with non-moving subjects in very dim light. And there are no bonus points awarded for adding extra macro and depth cameras to pad out the rear camera array — those 2- and 5-megapixel sensors are pretty much useless.

What compromises can you expect from a budget phone? Some combination of the following: slower processors, less storage, and worse cameras than flagship phones, almost across the board. Many have lower-resolution screens and water resistance is often less robust than on a pricier phone.

$599

The Good

  • Reliable performance
  • Good, if limited, camera system
  • It’s the cheapest new iPhone you can buy

The Bad

  • No MagSafe
  • $599 feels like $100 too much
  • No ultrawide

Screen: 6.1-inch, 1170p OLED / Processor: A18 Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 with OIS, 12-megapixel selfie / Charging: 20W wired, 7.5W wireless / Weather-resistance rating: IP68

If I was making this recommendation to you face-to-face, you’d hear a heavy sigh. Yes, this is the cheapest new iPhone Apple makes. Yes, it comes with most of the things that make an iPhone an iPhone. But it comes with some significant tradeoffs — some of which make more sense than others — and it’s not exactly cheap. If you’re amenable to last year’s model or a refurbished iPhone 14, one of those might actually be a better option. But for an unfussy person who just wants a new iPhone for the least amount of money, the 16E will do the trick.

There’s a single 48-megapixel rear camera on the back, meaning there’s no ultrawide like on the regular 16. That’s an understandable tradeoff — so is the use of the older “notch” design rather than the Dynamic Island. But it’s harder to understand why Apple left out MagSafe here — that’s the ring of magnets built into the back of virtually every other iPhone since 2020. The 16E still supports wireless charging, but it can’t take advantage of the ecosystem of magnetic chargers and accessories on its own; you’ll need to add a magnetic case. This is a silly omission, and Apple should feel bad about it.

Another heavy sigh: the 16E supports Apple Intelligence, which you won’t get if you opt for an iPhone 15 or 14. Should you care? It’s really hard to say. What exists of Apple Intelligence so far is underwhelming and the most interesting bits won’t arrive anytime soon. If you want to future-proof your purchase as much as possible, the 16E will be ready for Apple’s AI. But don’t buy one expecting a life-changing experience now. It’s just an iPhone after all, for better and worse, and right now it’s the best price you’ll find on a brand-new one.

Read my full iPhone 16E review.

The best Android phone under $500

$449

The Good

  • Robust IP68 rating
  • Seven years of software updates
  • Brighter, bigger screen

The Bad

  • Missing a couple of AI features
  • AI is occasionally handy, usually weird

Screen: 6.3-inch, 1080p OLED, 120Hz / Processor: Tensor G4 Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.7 with OIS, 13-megapixel ultrawide, 13-megapixel selfie / Battery: 5,100mAh / Charging: 23W wired, 7.5W wireless / Weather-resistance rating: IP68

Google’s Pixel A-series phones have been my go-to recommendation for a cheap Android phone for years, but there was still room for improvement. With the 9A, Google made some modest tweaks that make it even easier to recommend — and at $499, the price is right.

The phone uses a Tensor G4 chipset that doesn’t run as hot as some of its predecessors, and performance is reliable. The 6.3-inch OLED screen is a little bigger and a bit brighter than last year’s, which makes a difference when you use the phone outside. Durability also got a small boost up to IP68, which means it can survive a drop in deeper water than the IP67-rated Pixel 8A.

The 9A’s camera is fine, though it comes up short against the rest of the Pixel 9 series in low light. Portrait mode could be better, too, and if you care a lot about image quality, then that might be a good reason to consider stepping up to a Pixel 9. But it does the trick for everyday snaps, and for the price, the 9A’s better qualities outweigh its shortcomings by a wide margin.

Read my full Google Pixel 9A review.

The budget phone with a big, beautiful screen

$599

The Good

  • Excellent battery life
  • Great screen for the price
  • Six years of security updates

The Bad

  • No wireless charging
  • Only splash-resistant
  • Fewer OS updates than Google and Samsung

Screen: 6.78-inch, 1264 x 2780 120Hz OLED / Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.8 with OIS, 50-megapixel 2x telephoto, 8-megapixel ultrawide, 16-megapixel selfie / Battery: 6,000mAh / Charging: 80W wired / Weather-resistance rating: IP65

The OnePlus 13R isn’t quite as well-rounded as my pick for the best overall budget Android phone, the Pixel 9A. It’s also a little pricier at $599 — though we’ve seen it at $499 for extended periods of time — but for some people the 13R’s upgrades will make it a better choice. It comes with one of the best big screens in its class, and lots of people love a big screen. The 13R also offers very strong battery performance; unless you’re a power user, you can probably manage two full days on a single charge.

There’s also very fast charging with the included charger, though you won’t find wireless charging at any speed. The 13R also lacks full water resistance; it should hold up fine against spray and rain showers, but it isn’t rated to withstand full immersion. Plenty of people won’t find those omissions bothersome, but they make it harder to recommend to a general audience — especially at a higher price than the Pixel 9A.

Read my full OnePlus 13R review.

The best phone under $400

$360

The Good

  • Bright, 120Hz OLED display
  • Robust IP67 dust and water resistance
  • Five years of security updates

The Bad

  • No wireless charging
  • Unremarkable camera system
  • So-so performance

Screen: 6.6-inch, 1080p resolution, 120Hz OLED / Processor: Exynos 1380 Cameras: 50-megapixel f/1.8 with OIS, 8-megapixel ultrawide, 5-megapixel macro, 13-megapixel selfie / Battery: 5,000mAh / Charging: 25W wired / Weather-resistance rating: IP67

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G comes with surprisingly strong specs for its $399 price. They’re the kind of features you won’t really spot from the outside, but they’re important, particularly its IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. Unlike virtually every other phone at this price, the A35 5G is built to withstand water immersion, so you don’t need to sweat it if your phone lands in a toilet bowl or puddle.

Here’s another unexciting spec: four years of OS updates and five years of security updates. That’s not the very best in the budget category — the Pixel 9A takes that honor with seven years of updates — but it’s much better than the two or three years we typically see in phones well under $500.

The A35 5G comes with a water-resistance rating and software support policy that are unusually strong for its class. Photo: Allison Johnson / The Verge

The camera is lackluster; it’s fine in bright light but struggles in dim and mixed indoor lighting. It doesn’t have the strongest processing performance you can find under $500, either, and the Samsung-made Exynos processor occasionally stutters when quickly bouncing between tasks. I was horrified — horrified! — when I accidentally texted my husband one of the automatically generated replies because it popped up at the last moment as I was trying to tap on something else. These things don’t happen when everything loads quickly.

But overall, it’s a compelling package — especially with a big, crowd-pleasing OLED display and strong battery performance. If you’re a light user and not fussy about camera quality, the A35 5G offers some upgrades that make a real difference in the long term.

Other budget phones we tested

  • The 2024 Motorola Moto G Power has all the makings of a good budget phone, including a lovely vegan leather exterior and wireless charging. But it’s loaded with bloatware of the worst kind, and that alone disqualifies it from our recommendations. Read our impressions.
  • The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is another perfectly capable phone that doesn’t quite earn a recommendation here. It’s a little outside the scope of this guide at $649 anyway, but you do get a telephoto lens and a nice, big screen for that price. Still, you’re better off saving a bunch and picking up the Pixel 8A or trying to score a trade-in promo for the newer Galaxy S25. Read our review.

Update, June 13th: Updated prices and availability. Samsung’s Galaxy A35 5G is currently out of stock at Amazon and Samsung, while Best Buy has it marked down on clearance.





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Best cheap robot vacuum deals June 2025
Gaming Gear

Best cheap robot vacuum deals June 2025

by admin


We’re in an age where you can realistically delegate tasks to smart hunks of metal, whether it’s a self-driving car or a robot that can clean on your behalf. Most of us probably won’t be able to afford the helpful sentient humanoids being developed in our lifetimes, but robot vacuums are an affordable way to experience that promised utopia right now.

Today’s floor cleaners are also more advanced than ever. In addition to vacuuming, many of the best models can now mop, allowing you to tackle both carpet and hardwood flooring. Some can automatically dispense of their trash and dirty water, too, and clean their own components without intervention. We now even have models that can pick up dirty laundry and purify the air in your home, preventing you from having to lift a finger.

But if you need something relatively affordable for daily cleaning, you’d be surprised how little you have to pay for premium features. Below, we’ve listed the best deals currently available on a slate of Verge-approved robot vacuums, whether you prefer a budget entry-level model from Yeedi or a top-of-the-line offering from iRobot, Dreame, and more.

Roborock’s S8 MaxV Ultra — our pick for the best robot vacuum overall — is available from Best Buy, Roborock, and Amazon for $1,299.99 ($500 off), which is $200 shy of its best price to date. The combination of a 10,000Pa suction power and dual rubber roller brushes makes it a terrific vacuum, one that can easily pick up pet hair and other debris. It can also mop with great efficiency thanks to a sonic mopping system that vibrates the mop pad 4,000 times a minute, allowing it to clean sticky juices, thick condiments, and other common spills. The mop arm can extend to cover corners and baseboard edges, too.

The S8 MaxV Ultra’s camera-equipped AI obstacle avoidance makes it the best navigator in Roborock’s lineup and one of the top models overall, though it’s not quite as strong as Roomba’s. The mobile app offers ample options to customize cleaning zones and schedules, and you can use its dedicated voice assistant to start and stop routines. It’s also a Matter-ready robot that’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home.

$1000

With top-notch vacuuming performance, an easy-to-use app, and built-in voice control, the S8 MaxV Ultra is a superb vacuum and good mop. It features Roborock’s best obstacle detection, innovative features like dirt detection, and a hands-free dock that makes it an expensive but excellent choice.

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The Roborock Q8 Max Plus is a cheaper alternative you can buy for $399.99 ($419 off) at Amazon and Roborock, which is its best price to date. It isn’t as powerful or feature-packed as the S8 MaxV Ultra, but it still delivers a solid 5,500Pa of suction power, rendering it good enough for most cleaning tasks. It also handles mopping well, with 30 adjustable water flow levels and a sizable 350ml water tank that allows it to cover larger areas without frequent refills. The robovac can map your home efficiently and avoid most obstacles thanks to built-in lidar navigation, though it lacks a built-in camera for advanced object recognition.

$400

The Roborock Q8 Max Plus offers strong 5,500Pa suction, solid mopping features, and reliable obstacle avoidance.

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The new Roborock Saros Z70 is on sale for $1,999 ($600 off) at Amazon and Roborock, which is its best price to date. What sets it apart from other robot vacuums is its built-in robotic arm, which can pick up items such as socks, tissues, towels, and even small sandals. While the arm isn’t entirely reliable, the Z70 is still a highly capable robovac with 22,000Pa suction power. It features a dual anti-tangle system, along with spinning mop pads that lift to avoid carpets and detach automatically. Roborock’s StarSight navigation system even allows you to teach the robovac to recognize specific objects, while the AdaptLift chassis lets it climb over thick carpets. What’s more, the Matter-compatible vacuum seamlessly integrates with Roborock’s Multifunctional Dock 4.0, which handles auto-emptying, charging, and both the refilling and draining of its water tanks. Read our review.

$1999

The Roborock Saros Z70 offers built-in robotic arm that can pick up light items like socks. It’s also a powerful robovac / mop hybrid, with with 22,000Pa suction and dual spinning mop pads that lift and detach automatically.

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The Dreame X40 Ultra is another mopping robot, and while it’s on the more expensive side, you can currently pick it up for $999.99 ($500 off) from Dreame and Amazon (if you’re a Prime member), which is $100 shy of its all-time low. You’re paying a premium for 12,000Pa of suction power and a pair of removable, self-retracting mop pads, which it can automatically clean and dry on its own using the included base. It can also empty its own bin and refill its own water tank.

The Dreame X40 Ultra features an extendable side brush and mop pads, too, offering better coverage for baseboards, corners, and the underside of your furniture. It uses a combination of AI-powered cameras and “3D-structured light” (presumably based on lidar technology) to map and navigate rooms, with customizable keep-out zones and more functions available in the app. There’s also a dirt detection system that can identify messier spills and adjust its cleaning routine accordingly.

$1000

With a unique ability to remove and reattach its mop pads, the Dreame X40 solves the problem of vacuuming carpets (with 12,000Pa suction power) while also mopping hard floors. Its mops can also swing out and under low furniture, getting where most bots can’t reach.

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The Dreame L20 Ultra is currently available for $539.99 ($440 off) from Amazon, which remains its best price to date. The L20 Ultra is an excellent alternative to Dreame’s newer flagship robots, including the X40. It lacks a bit of power in comparison, though its 7,000Pa of suction power is still enough for most cleaning jobs. It also doesn’t have the L40’s tri-cut brush, which makes the step-up model more efficient at picking up pet hair. The only other real advantage the X40 holds over the L20 is its self-extending arms for vacuuming (though the dual mop pads can extend a bit for baseboard and corner coverage), nor does it have dirt detection.

The L20 Ultra’s base station is rather large, but it can take care of the entire cleaning process, including emptying the dustbin, emptying and refilling the water tanks, and washing and drying the mop pads. It doesn’t have a heated cleaning function for the mop pads, however. It uses a lidar-based AI-powered navigation system, and you can prompt it to start cleaning by voice using Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.

$540

The L20 Ultra is a great all-around bot that can remove its mop pads to vacuum carpet and do the splits with its mops to better clean your baseboards. It has 7,000Pa suction, a bigger base station, and fewer advanced cleaning features than the newer X30 and X40 Ultra models, but it’s still an excellent robot vacuum.

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The SwitchBot S10 is available directly from SwitchBot for $600 ($600 off) when you use coupon code LMTK50, which is one of its best prices to date. The S10 is one of the most affordable robot vacuum / mop hybrids you can buy, one that can refill its own tank so long as you hook the battery-powered base station into your home’s plumbing. It can also dry its own mop pads and empty its own bin at a separate docking bay, and offers enough capacity to run for up to 90 days without intervention.

The S10’s self-cleaning roller mop is more effective than the typical pads we see in most other units, but it’s also limited to a smaller coverage area. It only has a single roller brush for vacuuming, but its respectable 6,500Pa suction can make up for it. And while it has lidar mapping and AI-powered obstacle avoidance, we found it still has a tendency to get stuck on laundry, bath mats, and other obstacles. The S10 is also one of the few robovacs with Matter support, however, which effectively enables native control through Apple Home, Google Home, and Alexa (though said platforms don’t yet fully support robot vacuums).

Read our SwitchBot S10 review.

$600

The S10 is a great mopping robot with a battery-powered water refill dock that makes it the most hands-free robovac we’ve tested. A separate auto-empty dock takes care of the dust. It’s big and loud and lacks some features found on high-end robots, but it does a great job of keeping your floors clean.

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The SwitchBot K10 Plus is available for $240 ($260 off) from SwitchBot (with promo code LMTK40), which is an all-time low. At 3.6 inches high and 9.8 inches wide, it’s a more petite option if you want something that can maneuver tighter spaces, which it does to decent success with a lidar-based mapping system that supports digital keep-out zones. It only has 2,500Pa suction, but that should be powerful enough to lift dirt in all but the deepest carpeting. You can also attach disposable mopping pads, though their mopping function doesn’t work well. The K10 Plus comes with a self-emptying dock that can hold a respectable four liters of dirt before it needs emptying.

$240

The smallest robot vac on the block, the K10 Plus, doesn’t compare to the other bots here in terms of performance, but if you have a small space where other vacs can’t get to, it’s better than nothing. It’s also very quiet, making it ideal for small spaces like home offices and bedrooms or a very small studio apartment.

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The Eufy X10 Pro Omni, our current pick for the best midrange robot vacuum / mop, is down to an all-time low of $549.99 ($250 off) at Eufy’s online storefront with promo code WS24T2351121. Amazon is also matching said deal price when you apply code EUFYX10PRO at checkout.

The X10 Pro Omni is a bit of a novelty, at least in comparison to other robovacs in its price range, in that it offers AI-powered obstacle detection, which allows it to deftly navigate cables and other clutter. It also features a slew of functions you’d expect from top-of-the-line models, including 8,000Pa of suction power, speedy lidar-powered mapping, and oscillating dual spinning brushes for mopping.

Mind you, none of these features are as effective as they are on more premium models, though the result is an all-in-one bot that punches above its weight. Plus, it has heated mop drying and onboard water reservoir, the latter of which prevents it from having to return to its multifunction auto-empty / wash / fill dock too frequently.

$550

The X10 is a great robovac with excellent AI-powered obstacle detection, powerful oscillating mops, a user-friendly app, and good mapping capabilities.

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If you’re looking for a bump-and-roll model that’s relatively budget-friendly, the discontinued Eufy 11S Max is on sale at Amazon for just $139.99 ($140 off). The 11S Max stands out from other robovacs because it doesn’t use Wi-Fi, meaning it doesn’t require you to fiddle with a mobile app on your phone. Instead, you can control it using an on-board button or with the included remote, which also allows you to create cleaning schedules. It’s relatively quiet and reliable, too, with 2,000Pa of suction power and replaceable parts, making it a great long-term investment for those who want something basic.

$140

The Eufy 11S Max is a super slim, repairable bump-and-roll bot with a large 600ml bin and three cleaning levels. Its biggest selling point, however, is that it lacks Wi-Fi, meaning you don’t have to fiddle with an app.

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The Yeedi Cube is currently down to an all-time low of $246.99 ($243 off) at Amazon at checkout. It’s not easy to find a self-emptying / self-cleaning vacuum at this price, as those features are typically only available on robots that cost upward of $600 or more.

With 5,100Pa of suction power, the Cube can tackle most common vacuuming scenarios, though its single hybrid rubber / bristle brush can get easily tangled with pet hair. It mops better than most models in its range, however, namely because its vibrating microfiber pads can actually scrub your floors. The Cube uses lasers for object avoidance, too, though it’s not as effective for navigation as those with lidar and AI smarts. It can avoid large furniture and other objects, but it might need your help rerouting around cables, toys, and laundry. Still, we found it navigates better than most other robots under $300.

$247

One of the first robots that can vacuum, mop, self-empty, self-wash, and self-dry with hot air for under $1,000, the Yeedi Cube is an older model that currently retails for under $500. It’s a good vacuum and mop for hands-free cleaning on a budget.

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The Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 is a great robot vacuum / mop hybrid that’s now on sale for $399.99 ($320 off) at Amazon and Best Buy, which is $20 shy of its all-time low price. Before the Eufy X10 Pro Omni took its place, the Matrix Plus 2-in-1 was our runner-up pick for those seeking a midrange robot vacuum that mops and automatically empties its own bin. Its vibrating, sonic mopping feature does an excellent job of scrubbing hardwood floors; however, keep in mind that you’ll have to fill and attach the mop reservoir manually.

$400

The Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop mops very well — doing a swingy, scrubbing movement with its rear end when in “Matrix mode.” However, you have to manually fill and attach the mop reservoir and empty the bin when it mops, as it only self-empties in vacuum mode and can only avoid larger objects.

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You can get iRobot’s Roomba Combo 10 Max from Amazon, Best Buy, and iRobot for $799.99 ($600 off), which is its second-best price to date. We think it’s the best robot vacuum for pet hair, one that combines high suction power with rotating dual rubber brushes that pick up without getting tangled. What’s even more impressive is that it comes with a new multifunction charging dock that allows it to empty its bin, wash its own mop, and even refill its mopping tank. Add in Matter support, excellent AI-powered obstacle detection, and a retractable mop arm, and you’ve got a robovac that makes cleaning almost entirely hands-free.

$800

iRobot’s first mopping bot that can refill its water tank and wash and dry its mop, the Combo 10 Max, features a retractable mop arm and superior suction power. It’s also iRobot’s first robot to support Matter.

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If you’re working with a tight budget, the Combo i5 is also a good vacuum / mop — one you can pick up on sale at Amazon right now for $199.99, down from $349.99. It’s not as powerful as the aforementioned Combo 10 Max and can’t refill its water tank or wash and dry its own mop; however, it still features Roomba’s wide, dual rubber brushes, which do an excellent job of picking up dirt and debris. It doesn’t support virtual keep-out zones or Matter, either, though you can schedule it to clean specific rooms at set times. It’s also compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and like all Roombas, it’s relatively easy to repair.

$200

The Roomba Combo i5 Plus is the company’s budget vacuum and mop robot with room mapping features but no virtual keep-out zones.

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$1100

The Deebot X8 Pro Omni remains our favorite robot vacuum / mop. It represents a welcome return to form for Ecovacs’ flagship line, with great obstacle avoidance, a small dock, and a convenient self-cleaning brush system.

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$230

A budget robot vacuum and mop with high-end features, including room-specific cleaning, carpet boost, and smart navigation, it also features an auto-empty dock for just $80 more.

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$550

A superior mopping bot with a superior price tag, the Narwal is smart enough to know when it needs to go back and mop more. Its vacuuming is good, and its unique onboard compression bin means no loud auto-emptying.

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Update, June 10th: Updated to reflect current pricing / availability and a deal for Roborock’s Q8 Max Plus.





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TCL C6K (left) and TCL C7K (right) showing butterfly on screen
Gaming Gear

I compared a new cheap mini-LED TV to a mid-range model, and here’s why upgrading is more than worth a small price increase

by admin



Some TV manufacturers are now offering more models within their full TV lineup, with smaller gaps between them when it comes to features and price, and this can make things confusing for potential TV buyers. Naturally, if an entry-level TV has a similar feature list to a step-up model, it’s the better deal, right? Well, that’s not always the case.

I recently tested two 2025 UK mini-LED TVs from TCL, makers of some of the best TVs. The models are the entry-level C6K and the mid-range C7K, which earned 4 out of 5 stars in my TCL C7K review. When I first saw the 2025 C-series mini-LEDs, the C7K looked to be the sweet spot in terms of value, delivering the best picture quality and features for the price.

As I had both these TVs available, I decided to compare them side-by-side just to see whether the extra cost of the C7K was worth it.


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For a price reference, the 55-inch C6K costs £599, and the 55-inch C7K costs £849. I compared the 55-inch C6K with the 65-inch C7K for my testing, however. If you’re in the US, the closest direct models are the TCL QM6K vs the TCL QM7K.

Brightness and color

The C7K (right) exhibited significantly bolder and more vibrant colors than the C6K (left), as shown here on the Wizard & I scene from Wicked (Image credit: Future)

Both of these TVs use mini-LED backlights, meaning you’re getting higher brightness than with a standard LED TV. But, crucially, there are often brightness differences between entry-level and mid-range mini-LED models.

When I measured the peak brightness of both TVs (on a 10% white HDR window in Filmmaker Mode), the C6K hit 705 nits, while the C7K hit 1,790 nits – a significant difference. But how did this translate into real-world viewing?

The first area of note was color, where the best mini-LED TVs often excel. Watching a 4K Blu-ray of Wicked, with both TVs set to Dolby Vision Dark (which I found to be a more accurate picture preset than Dolby Vision IQ), the benefit of the C7K’s extra brightness hit was apparent.

In the Wizard & I scene, the green of Elphaba’s skin, pink flowers, blue wall inlays and even the beige walls looked much punchier and more vibrant on the C7K. The C6K didn’t look bad, but it also didn’t have the same level of definition I expect to see in a movie like Wicked, with the C7K adding more color depth.

Even in the climax of the scene where Elphaba runs across a wheat field, the yellow of the field and the sun were more impactful on the C7K. This showed that peak brightness, which is typically higher in more premium mini-LED TVs compared to entry-level models, is a crucial factor for delivering more vivid colors.

Contrast and black levels

Both the TCL C6K (left) and TCL C7K (right) displayed surprisingly deep black levels, but the C7K’s higher brightness allowed for better contrast (Image credit: Future)

TVs with a backlight, such as mini-LED models, use local dimming to enhance the contrast between light and dark areas on screen. The more local dimming zones a TV has, the more precisely it can dim and brighten sections of the screen based on what’s being shown.

The 55-inch C6K has 180 local dimming zones compared to the 65-inch C7K’s 1,008 local dimming zones. Screen size does have an impact on the number of local dimming zones in a TV, but the C7K’s 55-inch model still has 720 zones, so there can be a significant difference even in same-sized models.

Watching a 4K Blu-ray of Nosferatu, again in Dolby Vision Dark, scenes with extreme contrast, such as a blackened room lit only by a torch, fireplace, or the Moon, looked richer and more accurate on the C7K. Light areas were brighter and the black tones were deeper, creating a much more dynamic and textured image.

With Nosferatu (2024), both TVs did a good job with black levels, although the C6K (left) was subject to black crush in places (Image credit: Future)

The same was true in The Batman, with the flashbulbs of cameras and wall-lamps better contrasting with the dark surroundings on the C7K. Even smaller details, such as light reflected off Batman’s cape, showed stronger contrast, with a greater difference between the light and dark tones.

The C7K’s higher number of local dimming zones also allowed it to show better shadow detail. In Nosferatu, as Hutler walks towards the carriage to Count Orlock’s at night, the C7K showed more of his face in the darkness, whereas the C6K crushed that level of detail.

Black and white – and shades of gray

Although the C7K (right) has the better contrast and overall picture quality, the C6K’s screen uniformity was better with black and white pictures such as this one from Oppenheimer. (Image credit: Future)

Things got even more interesting when viewing black and white movies. Watching the black and white scenes from Oppenheimer, the C7K still showed greater contrast between deep blacks and white highlights, and had a wider range of gray tones in between.

However, I noted that the C6K had better screen uniformity (the ability to evenly display the same color across larger areas of the screen) compared to the C7K. This was an issue I’d noted as an issue in my C7K review, and it made me prefer the C6K when watching black and white content.

Conclusion

The C6K (left) is a good TV for its price, but the jump in picture quality provided by the C7K (right) justifies paying more (Image credit: Future)

To sum up, comparing these two TVs side-by-side proved that it does pay to pay more. Yes, the C6K may have had the upper hand with black and white images, but the C7K outmatched it in color, contrast, black levels and also detail, with the C6K taking on a softer look in a side-by-side test.

That’s not to say the C6K is a bad TV. For its price, it did a solid job with every movie I threw at it, and it was a perfectly fine TV for casual viewing. But this is one example where, given the small £250 gap in price of the respective 55-inch models, it’s worth investing in the more premium option.

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I reviewed the BenQ EW2790U - and I still can't believe this 4K business monitor is so cheap for what you get
Product Reviews

I reviewed the BenQ EW2790U – and I still can't believe this 4K business monitor is so cheap for what you get

by admin



I review monitors as a significant portion of my work here at TechRadar Pro. I’ve tried more than most, and I have a good sense of what monitor I’d be willing to buy for real-world use and what is good on paper. That’s partially due to the fact that I am still very much in the “regular” workforce as well, using all sorts of different setups, computers, monitors, and so on. With all that being said, I had forgotten how affordable this monitor was during my testing phase and realized it was only $360 when I sat down to write the review and double-checked the specs.

There is a plethora of 4K monitors on the market right now, ranging from budget options that are not worth the money to absurdly overpriced models. We have excellent guides if you’re looking for some of the best business monitors right now, but what is truly impressive about this EW2790U is that, for only $360, you get a great 4K panel packed with features, not just a bare panel.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

BenQ EW2790U: Pricing & Availability

The EW Series currently has three variants: the EW3290U at $549.99, the EW2790U at $359.99, and the EW2790Q at $329.99. The Q model has a lower resolution (2560×1440) but a higher refresh rate of 100Hz compared to the EW2790U. Outside of that, the displays are identical. The EW3290U, then, is essentially the same as the EW2790U, but with a larger screen and an improved speaker system.

BenQ displays are sold through the BenQ website and at major retailers and are frequently available at discounted prices. If you are in the market for a new panel and want a BenQ, be sure to do some searching to check for deals.

BenQ EW2790U: Unboxing & first impressions

The BenQ EW2790U comes with a monitor, a slimmer stand than other BenQ monitors, a USB-C cable, a power cable (IEC), and a quick guide. Right off the bat, the visible speakers stand out, there’s no doubt about that. Additionally, the white bezel is a bit different than most black bezel monitors. However, after having it out of the box for a little while, I grew accustomed to it, and now I don’t mind it at all.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

I had the monitor on the stand it came with for about 15 seconds to see how it worked. Then I moved the display to one of my monitor arms because I’m pretty sure I’ve reached my limit, and all my monitors need to be on one of my monitor arms for aesthetic reasons, to keep the desk clean, and for cable management.

BenQ EW2790U: Design & build quality

Specs

Display: 27-inch IPS
Resolution: 3840×2160
Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Response Time: 5ms
Color Profile: 95% DCI-P3

There have been a few BenQ monitors now that I have tested that has a non-standard white bezel frame, and I have really grown to like it in the right space. It feels modern and fun, reminding me that I can enjoy this space and the work I am doing and not just feel like work is work.

The visible speakers are something that I haven’t seen before in a monitor, but now I barely even see them as odd since I have seen them so frequently at this point.

The port offering on the back is another build quality that I was not expecting on a budget monitor in the slightest. Most budget monitors have minimal ports, I’ve seen some with a single HDMI port to save money. This monitor, though, has three HDMI, two USB-C (one that can plug into your computer, one for accessories), three USB-A, a headphone jack, and an IEC port for power (not a cheap barrel connector like a lot of budget displays have).

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

BenQ EW2790U: In use

Alright I’ll admit it, I have a problem. After only about 15 seconds of having this monitor on the stand it came with, just long enough to test it out and see how it functions, I threw this display on one of my monitor arms. I just love the look and function. But that’s not to say anything negative about the stand that BenQ sends with the monitor, because I don’t mind it. It’s minimalist, has some nice mobility to it, and it’s pretty.

Moving on, this display has been running my secondary setup for 105 days at the time of writing this review. For 105 days I have run every computer through this monitor to test specs and performance, I’ve had it in the background of every meeting, I’ve had my son play games on it, and watch shows on it while I’m working, I’ve had friends co-work from it, and I’ve even had it play a podcast or two just because I can and it’s that easy.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

For productivity, this display is great. The 27-inch size is industry standard for a reason, it’s a sweet spot. That, along with the 16:9 aspect ratio and 4K resolution, works well with almost every computer. What makes this unit unique though is that with the tap of a button you can swap color profiles, audio modes, display modes and volume and jump to a totally different profile for a different device all together.

So, you could have your productivity setup with your standard visuals, vocal audio mode, and USB-C port, and then with the touch of a button you can be ready for gaming after hours, or watching content on your lunch break. And, with the three HDMIs, you can plug in a gaming system, an Apple TV, and a work dock all while still keeping your personal laptop or tablet plugged in via USB-C. Oh, and don’t forget this is a budget monitor.

The speakers are not ground breaking, but I will say that they are better than the vast majority of other monitors and would more compare to a TVs speakers in my mind. They’re good, you won’t be upset with the quality but you also won’t be mind blown by them. For music I could tolerate non-descript background music but anything I know well I felt like I was missing out on some parts. For virtual meetings the audio profiles were excellent, same with podcasts or videos I was watching.

BenQ EW2790U: Final verdict

The BenQ EW2790U is a spectacular budget 4K monitor with phenomenal port offerings, fabulous features and a unique design. If you’re looking for a full-featured budget monitor, or even just a full-featured monitor and you aren’t as worried about the price, you’ll want to check this display out before you make any other purchases.

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Unique and clean design

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ease of use

Easy for all to use

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Practicality

Practical for most who need monitors

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price

Great price

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐



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Best cheap Apple Watch deals June 2025
Gaming Gear

Best cheap Apple Watch deals June 2025

by admin


In September, Apple launched its latest smartwatch, introducing the Apple Watch Series 10 alongside a black rendition of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Each wearable has its own pros and cons, as does the second-gen Apple Watch SE, but the introduction of Apple’s newest wearables also means there are now more Apple Watch models on the market than ever before — and a lot more deals to be had.

But with all of those options, which one should you pick? Generally speaking, you want to buy the newest watch you can afford so that it continues to receive software updates from Apple. The latest update, watchOS 11, launched in September on the Series 6 and newer models, ultimately leaving those still using an older Series 4 or 5 behind.

That being said, picking up a watch from the latest (or a recent) generation ensures you’re getting a smartwatch with an updated design, a robust number of features, and plenty of sensors.

Now, let’s get to the deals.

The best Apple Watch Series 10 deals

The Apple Watch Series 10 represents the latest wearable in Apple’s flagship Series lineup. It features the new S10 SiP chip, faster charging, and a wide-angle OLED display that’s brighter, larger, and easier to read than that of previous models. It weighs half as much as the Ultra, too, and is about 30 percent thinner despite its new 42mm and 46mm sizing. Other upgrades include an added depth and water temperature sensor, as well as a new FDA-cleared sleep apnea detection feature, the latter of which is also available on the last-gen Series 9 and Ultra 2.

While the improvements are welcome, the Series 10 isn’t a vast departure from the prior model, the Series 9. That said, it’s currently on sale at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy right now in the 42mm sizing with GPS starting at $299 ($10 off), which remains its lowest price to date. The 46mm variant, meanwhile, is on sale at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy starting at $329 ($100 off) — which is the second-best price we’ve seen on the larger configuration — while the LTE models can be had at Amazon and Walmart starting at $389 ($110 off).

Read our Apple Watch Series 10 review.

The best Apple Watch SE deals

The Apple Watch SE received a refresh in late 2022. It has the same chipset as the Series 8, which is great, but with fewer sensors, no always-on display, and a slightly outdated design compared to the Series 8, 9, and 10. Those omissions might take this out of the running for some people, but it still may be exactly what you’re after. Best of all, it starts at $249 for the 40mm Wi-Fi / GPS model, which is $30 less than the previous generation’s baseline cost. Opting for cellular connectivity increases the starting price to $299 for the 40mm size (the 44mm size adds $20 to each configuration).

Right now, the best deal on the latest SE can be found at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, where you can pick the 40mm model with GPS for $169 ($80 off). The 44mm / GPS configuration, meanwhile, is available at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy for $219 (also $80 off). If you want the LTE configuration, the 40mm model is on sale at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy starting at $219 ($80 off), which nearly matches the lowest price we’ve seen on the entry-level LTE configuration.

Read our Apple Watch SE (second-gen) review.

The best Apple Watch Ultra 2 deals

The latest Apple Watch Ultra launched at $799 in September with GPS and LTE support, much like the original model. The ultra-capable smartwatch has the most features, sensors, and ruggedness of any Apple Watch model available thus far, along with a display that’s 50 percent brighter than the first Ultra. The 49mm smartwatch also packs Apple’s S9 SiP and second-gen ultra wideband chips, just like the Apple Watch Series 9, while maintaining long-lasting battery life, precise GPS tracking, and a bevy of diving-friendly sensors.

In recent months, we saw the Apple Watch Ultra 2 dip to as low as $642 ($157 off) in select configurations. Right now, however, it’s only on sale at Amazon with a Trail Loop or an Ocean Band starting at $734.89 (about $64 off) or with an Alpine Loop starting at $741.89 (about $57 off). You can also pick it up at Best Buy and Target in various configurations, though only for its full retail price of $799.

Read our Apple Watch Ultra 2 review.

A note on the more premium models

While all of the Apple Watch models and colorways covered here are encased in aluminum (except the Ultra 2, which has a titanium build), Apple does make a more premium range built out of stainless steel and titanium. These offerings are functionally and aesthetically similar to their aluminum counterparts, with slightly refined colors and finishings — polished for the stainless steel and brushed for the titanium. However, they start at much steeper prices of $699 and above. They, too, can often be found on sale, but they’re never discounted as low as the standard base models, so we don’t include them here.





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