The post The best high school graduation gifts in 2024 appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick Overview
Anker Soundcore Space A40
$59 at Amazon$100 at NeweggSee more options
OluKai Kipuka Hulu Slippers
Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer (4-in-1, 2-quart)
Tomtoc Defender-A13 Laptop Sleeve
Anker 733 Power Bank
LapGear Designer Lap Desk
Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Timbuk2 Lane Commuter Laptop Backpack
Blue Apron gift card
Bookshop.org gift card
Hulken Bag
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
$15 at Xbox$15 at AmazonSee more options
Away Carry-On
Moshi Digits
YouTube Premium
$14/month at YouTubeMore options
GrubHub Gift Card
$50 at Amazon$50 at GrubHubSee more optionsSee 12 more
Anker Soundcore Space A40
If your grad needs a new set of wireless earbuds that’ll work during the commute, at the gym or just while listening to music at home, the Anker Soundcore Space A40 should satisfy. The top pick in our budget wireless earbuds guide, this set is compact and comfortable, with a pleasantly bassy sound and strong active noise cancellation. It doesn’t have the best mics for phone calls, but it gets a good eight hours of battery life per charge, and it can connect to multiple devices simultaneously. Provided your grad doesn’t insist on getting AirPods, it should be a great value for you as well, as it usually costs around $60.
$59 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$100 at NeweggOluKai
OluKai Kipuka Hulu Slippers
For keeping warm during the cold winter months or simply not walking around the dorm barefoot, a set of OluKai slippers should be a great gift to make your grad’s day-to-day more comfortable. The Kipuka Hulu (for men) and Ku’una (for women) both slip over the whole foot easily and have delightfully soft interiors (the latter has a bit more fuzz around the heel). Both have simple yet attractive leather exteriors, plus sturdy rubber outsoles that will allow your grad to make quick jaunts to the bodega or around campus with minimal discomfort.
$130 at OluKaiInstant Pot
Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer (4-in-1, 2-quart)
An air fryer is a no-go in many college dorms, but for grads moving into a new apartment, it’s a fast and accessible tool for cooking many smaller meals. Among these, the Instant Pot Vortex Mini is a good option for cramped living spaces that we recommend in our guide to the best air fryers. It’s a two-quart model that takes up very little countertop space, and while it can’t cook a ton of food at once, it can still prepare things like wings, tofu and roasted veggies with minimal fuss. Its controls and pre-programmed settings are all dead simple to operate, and like most air fryers, it’s not a pain to clean. For grads who could use something beyond a microwave, it should make meal time easier. If you’d rather buy something bigger, consider the top pick in our guide, the Instant Vortex Plus.
$40 at Amazontomtoc
Tomtoc Defender-A13 Laptop Sleeve
Having a dedicated sleeve for their laptop can give your grad an extra bit of protection for one of the most important (and expensive) gadgets they have to carry around every day. There are a ton of suitable options here, but we’ve found Tomtoc’s Defender A-13 series to offer a tight yet secure fit, enough protection to fend off scuffs and scratches and enough water resistance to withstand spilled drinks. Plus, it has a pouch for holding accessories. Several colors and sizes are available, and at $30, it’s relatively affordable.
$27 at AmazonAnker
Anker 733 Power Bank
A portable power bank will keep your grad’s devices alive while they’re out of the house (and save you a little stress in the process). Anker’s 733 Power Bank is a particularly versatile take on the concept, as it can plug into an outlet and double as a wall charger. It has two USB-C ports and a USB-A port, so your grad can top up multiple devices at once. In wall-charger mode, it can deliver up to 65W of power, which is enough to charge some smaller laptops. As a portable battery, this drops to 30W, but that’s still enough to charge any iPhone at full speed. The 733 itself is fairly compact given its functionality, but if you think your grad would prefer something more pocketable, the Anker 511 Power Bank is a much smaller 2-in-1 option that we recommend in our guide to the best power banks.
$100 at AmazonLapGear
LapGear Designer Lap Desk
When your grad doesn’t feel like sitting at their actual desk, a lap desk can make working from the couch more comfortable. If nothing else, it’s a more organized solution than having them prop their laptop up on a throw pillow. If you think the graduate in your life could use one of these, the LapGear Designer is a fine choice. Its underside is soft yet stable, while its smooth top surface is easy to clean and large enough to fit a 17-inch laptop. There’s a stop at the bottom that helps keep their stuff from sliding off when the desk is slanted at an angle, as well as an elastic band for holding pens and notepads and a storage slot for phones. The accessory only weighs about two pounds on its own, while a built-in handle makes it easier to carry around.
$34 at Amazon
Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand
Belkin’s BoostCharge Pro is a sturdy wireless charger that can refill an iPhone, an Apple Watch and a set of AirPods (or any other wireless earbuds) at the same time. It supplies up to 15W of power to an iPhone, which is the fastest rate possible for this kind of device, and its MagSafe-compatible mount makes it all but impossible to align the device incorrectly. It also just looks nice, with a slick metal branch that extends from its base and makes the phone and watch look as if they’re floating in the air. If your giftee is all-in on Apple gear, it should be a stylish yet practical addition to their nightstand.
$127 at AmazonWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
It’s 2024, so we’re guessing there’s a good chance your grad won’t be subscribing to cable once they get an apartment. If that’s the case, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a speedy and uncomplicated way to get streaming apps on their TV. It performs well, it’s dead simple to navigate and it supports just about all of the major services (Twitch aside). It also works with Apple AirPlay, so your grad can beam shows to it directly from an iPhone. An Apple TV 4K is faster and less ad-heavy if you can afford it, but the Roku stick gets most of the way there for less than half the price, and its smaller design is much more convenient for travel.
$48 at AmazonTimbuk2
Timbuk2 Lane Commuter Laptop Backpack
There are any number of backpacks that could work for a graduate in need of a bag refresh, but Timbuk2’s Lane Commuter Backpack is one we’ve recommended before. This 18-liter bag isn’t the largest pack, but it’s light, comfy and sturdily constructed, with a pair of bottle holders, a compartment for a 15-inch laptop and enough pockets for carrying the essentials to work or class. It has reflective panels on the front and shoulder straps to keep itself visible at night, and while it’s water-resistant on its own, it comes with a removable sleeve for full protection from heavy downpours.
If your grad needs more space for stuffing lots of tech, Timbuk2’s Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe (28L) might be a better buy. SwissGear’s 1908 ScanSmart is another hefty option (32L) that has served yours truly well for years and costs less than $100, though it doesn’t look as nice and is more likely to show more signs of wear over time. You can read our roundup of our favorite backpacks for other suggestions, too.
$189 at Timbuk2Blue Apron
Blue Apron gift card
A meal kit service is a relatively approachable way to get your grad in the habit of cooking for themselves. There are roughly two quintillion meal kit services to choose from these days, few of which are actually bad, and some of which may be better than others depending on your grad’s preferences. If you just want us to pick one, Blue Apron is a particularly no-fuss choice for newbie cooks, with straightforward recipes, various menu options, generally high-quality ingredients and an intuitive website. While none of these services deliver meals on par with a good restaurant, they should still please most tastes.
$70+ at Blue ApronBookshop.org
Bookshop.org gift card
Reading! Sources say that it’s something your grad should continue to do, even when they don’t have a professor forcing their hand. Gifting them a free book or two with a Bookshop.org gift card is a good way to keep them going, or reignite their love of reading for fun. Apart from having a wide selection, the marketplace doles out a percentage of its profits to independent booksellers, so you and your grad can feel a bit better about supporting a good cause (or, if nothing else, a better cause than Amazon’s). It also allows you to order books from one local bookseller and direct the full profit to that specific store alone.
$10+ at Bookshop.orgHulken
Hulken Bag
The Hulken bag is a big rolling tote that your grad can use to more comfortably wheel around groceries, laundry or any other large hauls. It’s available in three sizes, and while it’s not exactly cheap, it feels comfortably durable. (Anecdotally, mine has shown little sign of wear after about a year of weekly use.) The bag folds up for tidier storage, and there are a few built-in handles that make it easier to lift up stairs or carry around campus. All told, Hulken says the bag can carry up to 66 pounds. Something like this might be most useful for city dwellers, but if your grad hasn’t done their own laundry and grocery shopping much before, it should take some weight off their shoulders, literally and figuratively.
$90 at AmazonXbox
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass remains a great value for any grad who owns an Xbox or gaming PC. The subscription’s library includes big-name series like Halo and Minecraft alongside more experimental gems like Hi-Fi Rushand Pentiment, and it still gets you access to first-party Xbox games on day one. Everything is available to download on-demand. The Ultimate tier includes perks like cloud gaming and online play, but there are cheaper options for just Xbox consoles or PCs as well.
If your graduate plays more on PlayStation or the Nintendo Switch, there are similar services you can gift: PlayStation Plus for the former, Switch Online for the latter. These will almost certainly be appreciated if you’re buying for someone who games frequently, though they’re not quite as strong a value as Game Pass in terms of cost or included games.
$15 at XboxExplore More Buying Options$15 at AmazonAway
Away Carry-On
The popular Away Carry-On is a stylish and sturdy hard-sided suitcase your grad should appreciate when it’s time to come back home. Its polycarbonate shell is tough but not overly stiff, and it’s available in several bold colors. Its zippers, adjustable handle and fully rotatable wheels all feel substantial. As a 40-liter suitcase, it can fit enough items to last a week or so on the road, plus it comes with a breakaway bag for dirty laundry. Away sells larger models as well, and it backs all of them with lifetime limited warranty.
The Carry-On has been my personal suitcase for several years now, and while it has caught some scuffs over time (like most polycarbonate cases), it hasn’t shown any major signs of degradation after several international trips. You can get luggage with more compartments if efficiency is your main concern, and it’s hard to call this a strong value, but as a gift, the Carry-On should delight any grad who’d like a fashionable and lightweight suitcase.
$275 at AwayMoshi
Moshi Digits
Your grad probably won’t need them for a few more months, but the Moshi Digits are the rare winter gloves that are both warm and not impossible to use with a smartphone. Their knitted exterior and microfleece lining are sufficiently protective from the cold, while a set of rubber strips make it easier to keep hold of a phone. Typing with the Digits on isn’t as fast as using your bare hands, but it’s responsive enough to pull off brief texts and searches without constant typos. The gloves aren’t perfect: They’ll run tight for those with large hands, and they can be susceptible to loose threads. But if your grad is heading somewhere cold and needs to text on the go, they should help.
$30 at AmazonEngadget
YouTube Premium
If your grad spends a good chunk of time on YouTube, the first thing you should probably do is remind them that there are much better ways to spend their time. (I speak from experience.) But the second, and more practical, thing you can do is buy them a YouTube Premium subscription. This will let them download YouTube videos for offline viewing and play videos in the background on a mobile device and, most importantly, remove ads across the service. It also includes access to YouTube Music, a full-on Spotify competitor and a recommendation from our guide to the best music streaming services.
The catch here is that there’s no easy way to actually gift the subscription, so you may have to just pay their bill for however long you’re comfortable doing so. Premium costs $14 a month for individuals, which isn’t cheap, though it drops down to $8 a month for students. You could also put multiple users on a family plan, though that hikes the price to $23 a month. Regardless, for those who watch YouTube almost as much as traditional TV, most of Premium’s features are borderline indispensable once you’ve had them. Yes, that’s partly because the ad experience on YouTube is so terrible, but an upgrade is an upgrade.
$14/month at YouTubeGrubHub
GrubHub Gift Card
Here’s a simple one: Regardless of their current culinary skills, your grad is probably going to use a food delivery service like GrubHub sooner rather than later. We’ve yet to find a young adult who will say no to free food, so gifting them a couple of meals is an immediate and practical way to make their early days of independence more manageable.
$50 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$50 at GrubHub
The post The best high school graduation gifts in 2024 appeared first on Best News.
]]>The post Gadgets that make great Mother's Day gifts appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick OverviewMore options
Ember Mug 2
$114 at Amazon$140 at Verishop$120 at Abt ElectronicsSee more options
Levoit Core 400S air purifier
Trade Coffee subscription
Mpix photo books
Instant Vortex Plus air fryer
$130 at Amazon$152 at Walmart$100 at BelkSee more optionsMore options
Fitbit Inspire 3
$89 at Amazon$97 at Walmart$100 at AdoramaSee more optionsMore options
Echo Show 15
$280 at Amazon$280 at Kohl’s$280 at TargetSee more optionsMore options
Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender
$130 at Amazon$130 at Sur La Table$130 at Bloomingdale’sSee more optionsMore options
OluKai Ku’una Slippers
$130 at Nordstrom$176 at AmazonSee more optionsMore options
iRobot Roomba 694
$180 at Walmart$180 at Wayfair$180 at AmazonSee more options
Apple Watch Series 9
$299 at Walmart$299 at Amazon$399 at AdoramaSee more optionsMore options
Beats Fit Pro
$160 at Amazon$181 at Groupon$200 at VerizonSee more options
Anker Nano Power Bank (10,000mAh)
Breville Juice Fountain Plus Juicer
$140 at Amazon$140 at Macy’s$150 at WayfairSee more options
Headspace subscription
$70/year at Headspace
JBL Flip 6
$100 at Adorama$94 at Walmart$100 at AmazonSee more options
Hatch Restore 2
Universal Yums subscription
$15 at Universal YumsSee 13 moreEmber
Ember Mug 2
Take your mother’s morning coffee routine up a notch with the Ember Mug, a self-heating smart mug that keeps beverages at just the right temperature for up to 1.5 hours or all day if the mug is kept on its charging coaster. It has a temperature range between 120 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit, which lets your mom dial in just how hot she wants her brew. There’s also a companion app which lets her save preset temps for her favorite drinks, track her caffeine intake, customize the color of the LED light on the front of the mug and more. The latest version comes in a pretty rose gold color as well as white, black, gold, silver and copper. — Nicole Lee, Commerce Writer
$114 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$140 at Verishop$120 at Abt Electronics
Levoit Core 400S air purifier
When I tested air purifiers for our guide, I found the best way to clear the air was by opening windows — but if the mom in your life deals with allergies or lives where the air quality can get bad, an air purifier can be the next best thing. The Levoit Core 400S Smart Air Purifier was one of the quietest models I tested and performed on a level with models three times as expensive. It has a three-stage filter (including an activated carbon layer and particulate filter), and the internal particulate matter sensor can automatically adjust fan speed as air gets murkier. The companion app both shows historical air quality readouts and makes the unit itself easy to control and schedule. Plus, the replacement filters aren’t overly expensive like they are with other units. — Amy Skorheim, Reporter, Buying Advice
$220 at AmazonTrade Coffee
Trade Coffee subscription
If you think mom would enjoy upgrading her morning cup of java, a Trade Coffee subscription can help. It offers a curated selection of more than 450 coffees from across the US and smartly personalizes which ones it recommends to each subscriber. Upon redeeming her gift, she’ll be prompted to take a brief quiz that asks about her flavor and brew preferences, information Trade will use to suggest a specific bag catered to her taste. Mom can then give a thumbs-up or thumbs-down to any coffee she receives, which the company will use to hone its future recommendations. Managing her coffee queue online is easy enough, too. You can gift anywhere from two to 24 bags, and Trade says any gift subscriptions will not automatically renew so neither you nor mom will have any surprise charges to deal with down the line. — Jeff Dunn, Senior Reporter, Buying Advice
Mpix photo books
So many of us take hundreds of photos with our phones and then never do anything with them. They’re left to languish in our camera rolls, only to be uncovered when you have to scroll back months to find that one image you’re searching for. If you want to give mom a more polished way to look back at her favorite photos, an album from Mpix will do the trick. You can customize your photo book from the ground up, choosing the best images of her family and friends and laying them out on each page in a neat way. You can also pick from different types of cover options and paper weights, making the final product as premium as you want it to be. With options starting at $20 per book, it’s pretty easy to make mom a gift she’ll want to revisit long after Mother’s Day is over. – Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor, Buying Advice
$20 at Mpix
Instant Vortex Plus air fryer
Some moms cook multi-course dinners every night. Others, like me, are proud when the evening’s meal is more elaborate than a PB&J. The microwave is a perfectly fine way to get food on the table but I’ve found an air fryer makes low-effort dinners feel fancy. Instant’s Vortex Plus crisps the exterior of the veggie corn dogs my kid loves and gives chicken nuggets a golden patina that looks nice next to my signature (microwaved) broccoli and cheese. There’s even a viewing window to peek at food’s progress and the replaceable filter does a good job tamping down odors and smokiness. I got my Vortex Plus because it tops our guide to air fryers and couldn’t agree more with my team’s assessment. — A.S.
$130 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$152 at Walmart$100 at BelkWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Fitbit Inspire 3
After the past few years, your mom is likely excited to get out of the house more often – especially as the weather improves – and maybe she wants to take more regular walks and runs in her neighborhood. The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a low-cost and easy-to-use way to track her steps and sleep, along with other stats that indicate our overall fitness level. New users can also snag six months of Fitbit Premium to add even more fitness guides and meditation features to the already-great app. — Kris Naudus, Commerce Writer
$89 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$97 at Walmart$100 at AdoramaWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Echo Show 15
The Echo Show 15 is 2024’s answer to the tiny TV so many of us remember our parents having in the kitchen back in the day. It’s small enough to mount on the wall in even a tiny space, but the screen is big enough to do justice to a casual sitcom or silly reality show while you make pesto. In addition to smart TV duties, it can handle all the stuff Alexa can do: tell you the weather, set timers and remind you when it’s trash night. On top of that, it can control compatible smart home gadgets and check in on your connected cameras and video doorbells. When you’re not using it, the Photo Frame feature cycles through pics you upload to the Alexa Photo app. Since getting one as a gift from my own mother, washing dishes no longer feels like such a slog. — A.S.
$280 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$280 at Kohl’s$280 at TargetBreville
Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender
If your mom already knows her way around the kitchen, a new toy like the Breville Control Grip could inspire her to experiment and try out new recipes. Our favorite immersion blender has a powerful 280-watt motor and comes with a separate bowl for chopping and mincing, as well as a larger jug for preparing soups and smoothies. It supports 15 different speeds, making it versatile enough to craft all kinds of dishes, and the included whisk attachment turns it into a makeshift hand mixer, too. It’s one of those unicorn-like multipurpose kitchen gadgets — it does a lot of different things and does them well. And, unlike a high-powered blender or stand mixer, it won’t take up too much space in a cabinet. — V.P.
$130 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$130 at Sur La Table$130 at Bloomingdale’sOluKai
OluKai Ku’una Slippers
If your mom doesn’t like to walk around the house barefoot or literally gets cold feet with any regularity, a set of OluKai slippers should make her day-to-day more comfortable. The Ku’una pair slip over the whole foot easily and have a delightfully soft interior. The understated leather exterior is attractive, and the sturdy rubber outsole makes it so mom can walk the dog or mosey around the backyard with minimal discomfort. — Jeff Dunn, Senior Commerce Writer
$130 at NordstromExplore More Buying Options$176 at AmazonPhoto by Valentina Palladino / Engadget
iRobot Roomba 694
While a robot vacuum won’t eliminate all the cleaning your mom might already do around the house, it definitely makes one portion of it easier. The Roomba 694 is one of our favorite budget robot vacuums in part because it provides a ton of value for its $274 price. Most importantly, it does a great job cleaning both hard and carpeted floors and it runs long enough that it should get to most areas in your home before needing to recharge. It connects to WiFi so you can control it either with its companion mobile app, or using Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands. Your mom can even use the mobile app to set a cleaning schedule, so she doesn’t even have to think about the machine — it’ll scurry around the house, sucking up dirt and debris, all on its own time. — V.P.
$180 at WalmartExplore More Buying Options$180 at Wayfair$180 at Amazon
Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 will be the ultimate iPhone accessory for mom, and one that may actually reduce the number of times she has to pick up her phone during the day. It’ll deliver all of your texts right to her wrist, along with any other notifications that ping her handset throughout the day. She may also appreciate that it passively tracks her activity all day, every day, and she can use it to record almost any workout from yoga to HIIT. And then there are the features that are nice to have, but hope she’ll never have to use, like fall and crash detection. If you’re looking to gift your mom the best smartwatch on the market right now, the Series 9 is the way to go. — V.P.
$299 at WalmartExplore More Buying Options$299 at Amazon$399 at AdoramaWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro may be our favorite wireless earbuds for working out, but your mom doesn’t have to be a regular running or pilates enthusiast to get a lot of use out of them. These buds have a comfortable, secure fit thanks to their flexible wing tips, plus a great sound profile out of the box thanks in part to Adaptive EQ technology. Active noise cancellation is solid as well, which will come in handy when she wants to block out distractions at work or while running errands, and she’ll be able to quickly jump into any conversation she deems important by using Transparency Mode. If your mom has an iPhone, she’ll benefit from the H1 chip inside the Beats Fit Pro, which enables things like quick pairing and switching between Apple devices and hands-free Siri. But Android toting mothers won’t be left out either — the Fit Pros have their own Android app that supports many of the same features. — V.P.
$160 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$181 at Groupon$200 at Verizon
Anker Nano Power Bank (10,000mAh)
Nobody wants to be left with a dead smartphone, moms included, but having to carry a cable alongside a portable battery can be a hassle. This Anker Nano power bank fixes that with a built-in USB-C cord, giving your mom one less thing to take with her before leaving the house. She’ll need to own an iPhone 15 or Android handset to make use of that cable, and the battery itself isn’t the absolute fastest thing out there. But its 30W power output is enough to top up Apple’s latest phones at full speed, and its 10,000mAh capacity is enough to supply about two refills. There’s a little display that shows its current charging status as well, and at four inches tall and roughly half a pound, it’s easy to toss in a bag. A device like this isn’t the flashiest gift, but it should be practical. — J.D.
$40 at AmazonPhoto by Amy Skorheim / Engadget
Breville Juice Fountain Plus Juicer
What is it with moms telling everyone to eat their vegetables? In my experience, it’s an involuntary response to motherhood. The Breville Juice Fountain Plus is a way for moms to make drinks loaded with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that actually taste good too. The Juice Fountain Plus’ titanium and steel extraction disc works with an 850 watt motor to squeeze a lot of juice from even tough root veggies. The three-inch chute accepts big chunks of produce, which cuts down on prep time, but even more importantly, the machine disassembles easily and isn’t a pain to clean. – A.S.
$140 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$140 at Macy’s$150 at WayfairHeadspace
Headspace subscription
Nobody needs to pay for an app to practice better mindfulness and flush out bad vibes, but if your mom has expressed interest in guided meditation, Headspace is our favorite service of the bunch. It offers a buffet of exercises aimed at different life goals and situations, from boosting creativity to increasing relaxation to creating a soothing sleep environment. Most of the meditations let you choose between different instructors, and we’ve found the multi-step courses to gradually build on themselves well. All of it comes in an app that’s clean and easy to navigate. Headspace costs $70/year for an annual subscription, so it may not be something your mom wants to stick with forever. Still, it should be a welcome gift for those looking for a more structured way to get (and stay) in the mental self-care habit. — J.D.
JBL Flip 6
Laundry, dishes, garden maintenance and garage tinkering all take place in different locations. JBL’s Flip 6 is about the size of a crowler and easily relocates with me so I can listen to music as I take care of what needs doing. The portable Bluetooth speaker made the list in our buyer’s guide because it puts out a good amount of volume for its size and delivers balanced sound with crisp highs and solid lows. I like how it fills a room but you can still pick out the layers in a Grouper track and enjoy the lows on a Low album without muddiness. The cylindrical design stands on its end or lays flat (without rolling around), so the mom in your life can plonk it down wherever she needs to be. — A.S.
$100 at AdoramaExplore More Buying Options$94 at Walmart$100 at AmazonHatch
Hatch Restore 2
Assuming the mom in your life has moved beyond the mother-of-a-newborn phase, she might be looking for ways to get better rest each night. The Hatch Restore 2 covers three areas: wind down, sleep sounds and a gentle wake up. Each segment is programmable through the app and offers choices like chillout routines, meditations and stories to help her fall asleep; white noise and nature soundscapes help her stay asleep; and lights, tones and guided stretches to wake up to. The device itself is an attractive domed shape with a textured linen face and a few subtle, yet easy-to-find buttons. Accessing the full library of routines requires a $5 monthly subscription, but there’s enough free, included content to make the device effective without it. – A.S.
$200 at HatchUniversal Yums
Universal Yums subscription
A Universal Yums subscription is a way to make mom’s snack time a little more exciting. Each month, this service ships out a bundle of goodies from a different country (April’s was / is Belgium) alongside a tour guide-style booklet with little games and information about the highlighted nation. Not every treat will be a home run, but if your mom has a more adventurous palate, getting a literal taste of somewhere new can be fun. Gift packages are available in several different sizes and lengths of time. — J.D.
The post Gadgets that make great Mother's Day gifts appeared first on Best News.
]]>The post The best work-from-home and office essentials for graduates appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick Overview
Lume Cube Edge LED Desk Light
Logitech Brio 500
$90 at Amazon$130 at Staples$130 at Office DepotSee more options
Anker 525 Charging Station
$45 at Amazon$66 at NeweggSee more optionsMore options
Sony WH-1000XM5
$316 at Groupon$319 at Amazon$348 at AdoramaSee more options
Mooas Multi Cube Timer
Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless Keyboard
$110 at B&H Photo$130 at Adorama$130 at WalmartSee more options
Sonos Era 100
Mophie PowerStation Pro AC
$164 at Amazon$200 at Lenovo$200 at AdoramaSee more options
Keychron V3 Max
Bellroy Transit Workpack
Elevation Lab Go Stand
ErgoFoam Adjustable Desk Foot Rest
Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed Wireless Mouse
$59 at Amazon$59 at Walmart$65 at Macy’sSee more options
Roost laptop stand
Uplift standing desk
Anker Surge Protector Power Strip
$30 at Amazon$30 at NeweggSee more options
Creative Pebble Pro
$50 at Amazon$94 at NeweggSee more optionsMore options
Sorbus 3-Tier Bamboo Shelf Organizer
$37 at Groupon$40 at Amazon$45 at Kohl’sSee more options
Ergotron – LX Premium Monitor Arm, Single Monitor Desk Mount – fits Flat Curved Ultrawide Computer Monitors up to 34 Inches, 7 to 25 lbs, VESA 75x75mm or 100x100mm – Polished Aluminum
$191 at AmazonSee 14 moreLUME CUBE
Lume Cube Edge LED Desk Light
Even if your graduate already has an upgraded webcam, bad lighting can prevent them from putting their best face forward when speaking with colleagues on video calls. The LumeCube Edge Desk Light can fix that with its multiple brightness and warm-light settings, plus a bendable neck that makes it easy to adjust the light’s position. Since it’s quite flexible, they can use it for other things, too, including note-taking and live streaming. And we know they’ll appreciate its built-in USB-C and USB-A charging ports, which will let them conveniently power up their phone, earbuds and more while getting all of their work done. — Nicole Lee, Commerce Writer
$140 at AmazonLogitech
Logitech Brio 500
There’s a good chance your grad will have to take regular video conference calls at their new job, even if they go into the office from time to time. Sure, they could use their laptop’s built-in basic camera, but a webcam like the Logitech Brio 500 can help them put their best face forward on every call they take. The Brio 500 shoots 1080p video and they can customize aspects of their feed, including brightness, contrast and additive filters, by using the free Logi Tune software. But most of the time, the cam will do the hard work for them: it has remarkably good auto-light correction, which will help them look better in dark environments, noise-reducing dual microphones and auto-framing with RightSight. If the latter is enabled, your grad can shift in their chair and move around and the Brio 500 will adjust automatically to keep them in the center of the frame. And when they’re not on a call, there’s a handy shutter that covers the camera lens for extra privacy. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor, Buying Advice
$90 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$130 at Staples$130 at Office Depot
Anker 525 Charging Station
In a world that runs on batteries, you can never be too far from a charger. A reliable charging station like the Anker 525 is a real convenience for topping up a smartphone, tablet, wireless mouse or any other device that may need refilling. It puts four charging ports within arm’s reach — two USB-C and two USB-A — and it measures less than five inches wide, so it’s compact enough to fit on a crowded desk. Those USB-C ports can supply up to a 67W charge, so this isn’t the most powerful station out there, but it’s still enough to charge many mobile devices and slim laptops at full speed. — Jeff Dunn, Senior Reporter, Buying Advice
$45 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$66 at NeweggWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Sony WH-1000XM5
Blocking out the world in an attempt to focus isn’t something that only new graduates do — but they, too, can benefit from having a little help in that area. Whether they’re going to work on a loud train or trying to finish prepping a presentation at home, a pair of ANC headphones like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 is one of the best gifts to help them stay in the zone. The XM5 are Sony’s latest flagship model and the best wireless headphones you can get right now by our standards. Sony packs so much into these cans: improved noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, handy touch controls and a 30-hour battery life, just to name a few things. Their redesigned design makes them even more comfortable to wear for hours on end, and their ability to connect to two devices at once means your giftee can easily switch from taking a call on their phone to listening to music on their laptop. — V.P.
$316 at GrouponExplore More Buying Options$319 at Amazon$348 at Adoramamooas
Mooas Multi Cube Timer
One of the most difficult obstacles with working from home is all the distractions. Even seasoned WFH folks can get sidetracked by temptations like TV, the internet or just easy access to the kitchen — any grad new to remote-work life could feel the same way. A potential solution to that is to use one of these multi-cube timers from Mooas as a productivity tool. Each side corresponds to different lengths of time; to start the timer, they’ll flip the cube so the desired time faces upwards. Flipping the LCD display upwards again will pause it, while turning the display downwards will stop the timer.
There are a number of ways to use them, but I like using the Pomodoro Technique with these. I’ll enable the 30 minute timer, which then encourages me to focus just on my work for the allotted time period. Once time is up, I give myself a five minute rest, and then I start it over again. Your giftee can also use them as a reminder to stand up and stretch every so often. These timers come in a variety of colors, each with different time pre-sets, so be sure to pick the one with the time lengths you think your loved one will want. — N.L.
$19 at Amazon
Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless Keyboard
After a decade spent typing in front of a computer, I started looking for ways to make my body hate me less come Friday afternoon. You can get your grad working more ergonomically from the jump with Logitech’s ERGO K860 wireless ergonomic keyboard. It’s a full sized keyboard complete with a number pad and wrist rest, plus it has keys that gently shift outwards to create a more natural hand position for typing. That subtle change lets the elbows move away from the ribs and keeps a straighter line from forearm to middle knuckle, which generally feels much less straining. It also connects via Bluetooth quickly, pairs with Macs and PCs and can switch between three different devices with a press of a button. — Amy Skorheim, Reporter, Buying Advice
$110 at B&H PhotoExplore More Buying Options$130 at Adorama$130 at WalmartPhoto by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Sonos Era 100
Laptop speakers are fine for playing music while you work, but to do lofi chill hop beats justice, your grad may appreciate a quality speaker. We’re big fans of Sonos’ latest, the Era 100. Deputy editor Nate Ingraham gave it an 88 in his review, praising its loud, room-filling sound that combines heavy bass with a defined higher end. It looks great on a shelf thanks to its clean, compact design and it comes in white or black, so you can match it to your home’s aesthetic. It has a line-in port for turntable or other auxiliary connections, and is one of Sonos’ first plug-in models that includes Bluetooth connectivity. However, most people will likely use Wi-Fi connectivity and Sonos’ app to control their streaming services of choice. — A.S.
$249 at Sonos
Mophie PowerStation Pro AC
This is not so much a battery for casual use as it is portable fuel for an off-site workstation. The Mophie Powerstation Pro AC packs a 27,000mAh capacity, which translates to multiple charges for small devices and enough oomph to power up larger machines like laptops. At the same time, it still falls within TSA requirements for carry-on luggage. In our tests it not only juiced up a MacBook Pro, it powered a printer, LED lights and a speaker — very handy if your grad’s job takes them away from their desk and into the field. — A.S.
$164 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$200 at Lenovo$200 at AdoramaPhoto by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
Keychron V3 Max
A keyboard is one of the few things your grad (and you) might have to use for hours every day, so why not make it as pleasing as possible? If your giftee is willing to jump on the mechanical keyboard bandwagon, the Keychron V3 Max is a fantastic value for just under $100. It’s a wireless model that makes keystrokes feel soft and springy without sounding overly loud or harsh. Its keycaps are crisp and comfortable shaped, and it’s configurable with a few different switch types, all of which are easy to swap out if the (nerdy) mood strikes. While its casing is mostly made of plastic, it doesn’t flex under pressure or feel especially cheap. Note that the V3 Max has a tenkeyless layout; if you want a full-size model or something smaller, there are other V Max models that should work just as well. — J.D.
$94 at KeychronBellroy
Bellroy Transit Workpack
If your grad’s first gig is hybrid, freelance or in-office, there’s a good chance they’ll be on the move a lot. Daypacks and laptop bags specifically designed for work are easy to carry like a standard backpack, but include enough pockets and pouches to organize the necessities of a modern work day. We like Bellroy’s Transit Workpack because it has dedicated spaces for a laptop, headphones, wallet, tech organizers and even a change of clothes. If you go for the larger 28-liter size, a pair of shoes will fit too. We also appreciate that the sleek profile hides the water bottle pocket on the side so the bag looks like something meant for the office rather than a hike. – A.S.
$199 at BellroyElevation Lab
Elevation Lab Go Stand
Some advice if you end up buying the Go Stand for your grad: snag one for yourself, too. This clever folding stand holds a phone or tablet at an adjustable angle, so the screen is easy to read, sans an awkward balancing act. I use one daily to keep my phone visible on my desk and I find it works better than any stand built into a phone or tablet case. It folds to a tiny flat wedge that fits in a pocket when not in use, and it has a nice rubberized, non-skid texture. I ended up buying a second one when my family kept stealing mine. – A.S.
$20 at Elevation LabErgoFoam
ErgoFoam Adjustable Desk Foot Rest
A dedicated footrest can help your legs feel more comfortable during those long stretches of sitting in your desk chair. The ErgoFoam Adjustable Foot Rest is a good example: It strikes the right balance between cushy and firm, and its velvety, gently arched frame encourages your legs to rest at an angle that feels natural. This model has a removable, two-inch base that you can take off if you find the standard height uncomfortable. It can also be flipped over and used as a foot rocker if you want to move your feet around while working. None of this is a substitute for periodically getting up and moving over the course of the day, but when that’s not feasible, it can help. — J.D.
$40 at Amazon
Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed Wireless Mouse
An ergonomic mouse is one of those investments that can add at least a little bit of comfort to your grad’s work time. Clunky name aside, the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed is a great choice. While it’s marketed toward gamers, its contoured shape, ample thumb rest and easy-to-reach buttons should feel comfortable in anyone’s hands. (Provided they’re a righty, at least.) Its scroll wheel is quiet and precise, and all of its buttons — including a programmable pair on the left side — have a satisfying sense of travel. The mouse itself is made from a sturdy matte plastic with grippy rubberized sides. This is a wireless mouse that runs off a single AA battery, so it’s a little heavy for fast-paced games, but it can last hundreds of hours before needing a change. There’s a dash of RGB lighting on the scroll wheel, too, but that’s simple to turn off if that’s not their thing. — J.D.
$59 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$59 at Walmart$65 at Macy’sRoost
Roost laptop stand
Hunching to stare at a desk-level laptop is hard on anyone’s back and neck. You can help protect your grad’s posture, and possibly alleviate back pain, with a Roost laptop stand that raises nearly any laptop to eye level. I’ve used a previous generation Roost for about four years running and it still works like it did when it was brand new. It folds down to a skinny stick and fits in any pack that can hold a laptop. Once unfurled, it can accommodate nearly any notebook, including larger ones like a 16-inch MacBook Pro. One thing to note is that your grad won’t be able to use their computer’s trackpad or keys when the stand is in use, so they’ll need an external keyboard and mouse. – A.S.
$90 at RoostPhoto by Amy Skorheim / Engadget
Uplift standing desk
There are endless brands selling standing desks now, and Uplift makes some of the best ones. The V2 model I bought has made my workdays far more comfortable. After two and a half years, it still raises up and lowers down multiple times a day, all week long without complaint. If your grad will be working from home, a standing desk will make a difference since experts advise incorporating some movement throughout the day. That said, this is no small investment and the amount of customization Uplift offers verges on overwhelming. If you don’t know exactly what your grad might want, you may be better off skipping the surprise and ordering the unit with them. If that’s not possible, the company does offer gift certificates. – A.S.
$599 at Uplift
Anker Surge Protector Power Strip
Is a surge protector a sexy gift? No. But as someone who primarily works from home, it’s one of the mundane gadgets that I find myself needing regularly (and buying spares often). Any recent graduate who’s working partly or primarily from home will appreciate one of these from Anker. This model provides 12 additional outlets, plus two USB-A and one USB-C port to handle a few smaller gadgets without the need for an adapter. The attached five-foot cable is also convenient since it’ll let them place the bulk of the protector in the right spot, say next to their desk or behind a couch, without needing an extension cord to do so. And unlike other surge protectors, Anker built in a decent amount of space between each outlet — roughly 1.5 inches, which means they can still use most of those bulky adapters that came with their gear without overlapping another outlet. — V.P.
$30 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$30 at Newegg
Creative Pebble Pro
If your giftee is going to be stuck at their desk all day, you can make their music and podcasts more enjoyable with a good set of desktop speakers. The Creative Pebble Pro is a solid first upgrade for those on a tighter budget. It’s an obvious step up over the thin speakers built into most laptops and monitors, and it doesn’t hog up too much room on a desk. The globe-shaped speakers are still too small to provide the kind of wide soundstage or deep bass that larger options do, but they don’t distort at higher volumes and can play audio over Bluetooth, USB-C or a 3.5mm cable. They also have a modicum of customizable RGB lighting. If you can spend into triple figures, the higher-end Pebble X Plus offers similar convenience and includes a subwoofer for improved bass response. — J.D
$50 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$94 at NeweggSorbus
Sorbus 3-Tier Bamboo Shelf Organizer
As you accumulate more papers, accessories and random tchotchkes at your desk, it’s easy for your workspace to become cluttered. Stuffing some of that mess into a dedicated organizer is a simple way to save space and make your environment feel less chaotic. The Sorbus Bamboo Desk Organizer should help here: It’s about a foot wide and offers three drawers for tucking away smaller accessories like notepads, jewelry or charging cables, plus a top shelf space for more essential items you want to keep in view. The light wood finish shouldn’t look out of place on most desktops, either. — J.D.
$37 at GrouponExplore More Buying Options$40 at Amazon$45 at Kohl’sErgotron
Ergotron – LX Premium Monitor Arm, Single Monitor Desk Mount – fits Flat Curved Ultrawide Computer Monitors up to 34 Inches, 7 to 25 lbs, VESA 75x75mm or 100x100mm – Polished Aluminum
If you plan to work in front of a monitor for most of the work week, you should make sure it’s positioned around eye level to avoid excess strain on your neck and back. The stand that comes with your monitor might be flexible enough as it is, but if not, consider a monitor arm. It’ll give your display a wider range of motion, and it can save desk space to boot.
Ergotron’s LX Desk Monitor is a well-regarded take on this idea. Its aluminum frame lets you comfortably move a VESA-compatible monitor in any direction and supports panels up to 34 inches and 25 pounds. When it’s hooked up, the arm can lift your screen up to 17.3 inches above a desk surface, pull it forward about 25 inches, tilt it 75 degrees and rotate or pan it a full 360 degrees. It’s fairly simple to set up, too, plus it comes with a 10-year warranty. Just note that if you’re a little over six feet tall, you should get the “Tall Pole” model instead. — J.D.
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]]>The post The best smart home gadgets for your first apartment appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick Overview
Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, 2023 release)
$65 at Amazon$65 at Target$80 at Shop Premium OutletsSee more optionsMore options
Kasa Smart Light Bulbs
$27 at Amazon$43 at NeweggSee more optionsMore options
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
$39 at Amazon$40 at Kohl’s$40 at TargetSee more options
Blink Mini 2
$30 at Lowe’s$40 at Amazon$40 at Kohl’sSee more options
Levoit Core 300S
Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A
$36 at Amazon$55 at NeweggSee more options
Govee M1 RGBIC LED Strip Lights
iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum
$180 at Walmart$180 at Wayfair$180 at AmazonSee more options
Sonos Roam
TP-Link AC1200 WiFi Extender
$23 at Amazon$40 at B&H Photo$38 at NeweggSee more optionsMore options
Instant Pot Duo (3-quart)
$80 at Amazon$80 at Newegg$80 at InstacartSee more optionsSee 6 more
Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen, 2023 release)
You can think of the Echo Show 5 as the command center for your automated home. Amazon tweaked their smallest display in 2023 to be a little faster and a little bassier than its predecessor, and it’s still a good smart display for a compact space. It shows footage from your connected cameras and grants voice control over your smart plugs and other devices. Plus, it’ll play your music or podcasts, tell you the weather and even stream your favorite show (just note that the Netflix app isn’t supported).
$65 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$65 at Target$80 at Shop Premium OutletsTP-Link / Kasa
Kasa Smart Light Bulbs
Connected bulbs might be the easiest way to turn your analog home into a “smart” one. A single smart light can ensure you never walk into a dark apartment again. You can set schedules for your daily routines or make it look like you’re home when you’re not. Being able to turn things off with just your voice or via an app can save you from getting out of bed when you’re ready to crash. Our senior commerce editor, Valentina Palladino tested a number of bulbs for our guide and thinks TP-Link’s Kasa Smart Bulbs give you the best value. Installation will be easy, even for those new to smart devices, thanks to Kasa’s clean and simple app. It’s worth noting that voice control is only available with Alexa or the Google Assistant; Siri is unfortunately incompatible.
$27 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$43 at NeweggRoku
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Roku’s Streaming Stick 4K turns any screen with an HDMI port into a smart TV for under $50. Our commerce writer, Nicole Lee, likes Roku’s straightforward interface and the fact that it supports universal search so you can find out which service a given show is playing on. Unlike some streaming sticks, Roku works with all the major voice assistants: Siri, Google Assistant and Alexa. You can even control your TV by saying “hey Roku” to the included remote or through the Roku app. The same app turns your phone into a second remote and enables private listening through your headphones as well. The 4K dongle is made for high-resolution screens, but if you don’t have a 4K TV and want to save more money, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick Lite is our favorite budget option.
$39 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$40 at Kohl’s$40 at Target
Blink Mini 2
An indoor security camera can give you eyes on your pets when you’re out, or just some peace of mind when you’re away for the weekend. The updated Blink Mini 2 camera now packs a spotlight, offers better night vision and is rated for both indoor and outdoor use. The price went up $10 as a result, but it still ranks as one of the more affordable smart security cameras out there. Blink is an Amazon brand, so the camera should sync easily with Echo Show displays, but will also send video feed to your phone or Fire TV. A built-in mic and speaker let you hear and talk to anyone in the room, nice for confusing the cat or freaking out your guests.
$30 at Lowe’sExplore More Buying Options$40 at Amazon$40 at Kohl’s
Levoit Core 300S
Whether it’s traffic exhaust in the city, pollen in the suburbs or wildfire smoke everywhere, it’s not always ideal to throw open your apartment’s windows to get some fresh air. An air purifier can help keep your indoor air healthier when you’re shut inside, and we like this small-space unit from Levoit. The Core 300S smart air purifier is an app-compatible gadget that can automatically adjust its fan speed depending on how much particulate matter it detects in the air. We found it to be nearly silent running on low and not too distracting when on high. Plus it’s relatively affordable and the replacement filters only cost around $35.
$150 at Amazon
Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A
I found the tackiest, most amazing lamp in the lobby of one of my first apartment buildings and I still cherish it to this day — but its rotary switch is extremely hard to turn. I’ve since plugged it into one of Kasa’s EP25 Smart Plugs and now it automatically comes on just before sunset and goes off when I say goodnight to Alexa (or ask it to turn off the “ugly lamp”). Many smart plugs out there will do this, but the EP25 is the top performer from our guide because we found it connects easily, works reliably and is compatible with all four major smart home platforms.
$36 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$55 at NeweggGovee
Govee M1 RGBIC LED Strip Lights
Nobody’s knocking Christmas lights as decor, but strip lights are a slightly classier way to add flair to your space. You can use them to light up bookcases, create ambiance for your streaming setup or turn your bedroom into a color-coordinated haven. Govee makes many different smart LED strips, but the one senior commerce editor Valentina recommends in our guide is the M1 RGBIC. She was impressed by the light’s brightness and wide spectrum of available hues. You can control different segments independently and the app has an “effects lab” that offers pre-programed lighting presets like sunsets, starry nights and movie-themed color palettes.
$70 at AmazonPhoto by Valentina Palladino / Engadget
iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum
Engadget’s Valentina Palladino has tested more than a dozen robot vacuums and recommends iRobot’s Roomba 694 to anyone looking to keep their floors clean without spending too much money (or time). The company’s companion app is simple and probably the 694’s biggest selling point, guiding you through installation and programming. The vacuum can handle hard floors and carpet, and it runs for about 45 minutes on a charge, which should be enough for most smaller apartments. You’ll have to help it out when it gets snagged on a cable and empty the bin when it’s full, but other than that, it’s a fairly hands-off way to get cleaner floors.
$180 at WalmartExplore More Buying Options$180 at Wayfair$180 at AmazonPhoto by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Sonos Roam
The Sonos Roam is both a smart and portable speaker, packing a decent amount of utility into a $180 package. While not the cheapest around, it’s relatively low-cost for Sonos, a brand known for quality audio. The Roam will play whichever music service you prefer, delivering clear highs and impressive bass for its size. Alexa is built in and you can access the Google Assistant too, which means you can use the speaker to order around your compatible smart home devices. And when it’s time to relax, you can ask Roam to play just about any song you can think of.
$179 at SonosTP-Link
TP-Link AC1200 WiFi Extender
Thick walls, weird layouts and other factors can make home WiFi reception spotty. If you’re experiencing dead zones in your apartment, a WiFi extender might help. TP-Link’s AC1200 RE315 is our favorite budget pick: it covers 1,500 square feet and delivers speeds of up to 1,200Mbps – plenty fast for streaming and working from home. It also has a built-in Ethernet port, which should provide an even more reliable connection to essential tech like your TV or game console.
$23 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$40 at B&H Photo$38 at NeweggInstant Pot
Instant Pot Duo (3-quart)
Cooking for yourself is one of the bigger adjustments of adulting – it certainly was for me. Luckily a big batch of beans and rice can keep most humans alive for much longer than you’d think. The Instant Pot Duo cooks beans without soaking and makes fluffy rice; add a jar of salsa and you have a fairly well-rounded meal. Of course, it can cook more elaborate stuff too: search for Instant Pot recipes and you’ll get a lifetime’s worth of ideas. We recommend a larger version in our guide to kitchen gadgets, but this three-quart model is both more affordable and a better size for just one or two people.
$80 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$80 at Newegg$80 at Instacart
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]]>The post The best noise-canceling earbuds for 2024 appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick OverviewMore options
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Best noise-canceling earbuds overall
$249 at Adorama$249 at Walmart$249 at AmazonSee more optionsMore options
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best noise-canceling earbuds – runner-up
$298 at Adorama$246 at Walmart$298 at AmazonSee more optionsMore options
Anker Soundcore Space A40
Best budget noise-canceling earbuds
$59 at Amazon$100 at NeweggSee more options
Master & Dynamic MW09
Best battery life
$349 at Master & DynamicMore options
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Most impressive noise-canceling features
$180 at Amazon$249 at AdoramaSee more options
Looking for new ANC headphones but don't like the feeling or style of earbuds? Check out our picks for best noise-canceling headphones, which focuses on full-size models.
How to choose the best noise-canceling earbuds for you
Design
Most true wireless earbuds these days have a “traditional” design that’s a round bud that fits in your ear. However, there are some variations on the formula in terms of shape, size and additional fitting elements. Some companies include fins or fit wings to help hold their earbuds in place while others opt for an over-the-ear hook on more sporty models. You’ll want to pay attention to these things to make sure they align with how you plan to use them. Also consider overall size and weight since those two factors can impact the fit. A less-than-ideal seal due to a weird fit will affect the performance of active noise cancellation.
Type of noise cancellation
Next, you’ll want to look at the type of ANC a set of earbuds offer. You’ll see terms like “hybrid active noise cancellation” or “hybrid adaptive active noise cancellation,” and there are key differences between the two. A hybrid ANC setup uses microphones on the inside and the outside of the device to detect ambient noise. By analyzing input from both mics, a hybrid system can combat more sounds than “regular” ANC, but it’s at a constant level that doesn’t change.
Adaptive ANC takes the hybrid configuration a step further by continuously adjusting the noise cancellation for changes in your environment and any leakage around the padding of the ear cups. Adaptive ANC is also better at combating wind noise, which can really kill your vibe while using earbuds outdoors. For this best wireless earbuds list, I’m only considering products with hybrid ANC or adaptive ANC setups because those are the most effective at blocking noise.
Customization
You’ll also want to check to see if the ANC system on a prospective set of earbuds offers presets or adjustable levels of noise cancellation. These can help you dial in the amount of ANC you need for various environments, but it can also help save battery life. Master & Dynamic, for example, has ANC presets that either provide maximum noise-blocking or prioritize energy efficiency. Other companies may include a slider in their companion apps that let you adjust the ANC level.
How we test noise-canceling earbuds
The primary way we test earbuds is to wear them as much as possible. I prefer to do this over a one-to-two-week period, but sometimes deadlines don’t allow it. During this time, I listen to a mix of music and podcasts, while also using the earbuds to take both voice and video calls.
Since battery life for ANC earbuds is typically 6-10 hours, I drain the battery with looping music and the volume set at a comfortable level (usually around 75 percent). When necessary, I’ll power the headphones off during a review without putting them back in the case. This simulates real-world use and keeps me from having to wear them for an entire day.
To test ANC performance specifically, I use the earbuds in a variety of environments, from noisy coffee shops to quiet home offices. When my schedule allows, I also use them during air travel, since plane noise is a massive distraction to both work and relaxation. Even if I’m not slated to hop on a flight, I simulate a constant roar with white noise machines, bathroom fans, vacuums and more. I also make note of how well earbuds block human voices, which are a key stumbling block for a lot of ANC setups.
I also do a thorough review of companion apps, testing each feature as I work through the software. Any holdovers from previous models are double-checked for improvements or regression. If the earbuds I’m testing are an updated version of a previous model, I’ll spend time getting reacquainted with the older set, and revisit the closest competition as well.
Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Best noise-canceling earbuds overall
ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 6 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Bose’s Immersive Audio feature may be the headline grabber on its QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, but these also come with the company’s stellar noise-canceling abilities. This model is especially adept at battling airplane noise during a flight, a task I typically rely on over-ear headphones for. The QC Ultra Earbuds are slightly less effective on human voices, but that’s true of many noise-canceling earbuds. But with any kind of constant hum, and many irregular sounds, these earbuds will serve you well. Plus, Bose’s CustomTune tool analyzes the shape of your ears and personalizes both sound and ANC.
While the QC Ultra Earbuds offer the best pure noise-blocking performance on this list, the extra audio features mean they have less battery life than the rest of our picks. It lasts six hours with ANC on and Immersive Audio off, but turn on the latter and that number dips to four hours. And although Bose’s take on spatial audio yields mixed results at times, the stock tuning is an improvement over the company’s last model.
ProsStellar ANCSpatial audio doesn’t require special contentUpgrades with no price increaseConsEarbuds are still bigImmersive Audio significantly impacts battery lifeWireless charging costs extra$249 at AdoramaExplore More Buying Options$249 at Walmart$249 at AmazonSony
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best noise-canceling earbuds – runner-up
ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 8 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Sony WF-1000XM5
If I could pick two best options, Sony’s WF-1000XM5 would be the co-champion. Since its introduction, the company has improved the 1000X line of earbuds from model to model – especially in ANC performance. The gap between Sony and Bose in this respect is so slim, you’ll be happy with either set if noise-cancellation is your top priority. You’ll also get Sony’s DSEE Extreme upscaling to recover sound detail lost to compression and handy features like onboard volume controls and automatic pausing when you speak.
Like it does on its 1000X over-ear headphones, Sony uses two separate chips for audio and ANC processing on the M5 earbuds, which leads to more robust noise-blocking than on previous models. Six dual-feedback mics are better than the M4 at combating the low-frequency roar of airplanes, vehicles and transit scenarios and the ANC is adjustable in Sony’s app. What’s more, the company’s Adaptive Sound Control allows you to configure presets that can automatically change based on your activity or location. Even if you don’t want to give the software permission to track your whereabouts, there are plenty of options, including the ability to dial-in transparency mode when you need to hear more (or less) of your environment.
ProsExcellent sound qualityImproved designMore comfortable fitLoads of handy featuresConsMore expensiveNo battery life improvementHead tracking is Android onlySome features still need fine-tuning$298 at AdoramaExplore More Buying Options$246 at Walmart$298 at AmazonPhoto by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
Anker Soundcore Space A40
Best budget noise-canceling earbuds
ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 8 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
For years, Anker’s Soundcore line has consistently offered some of the best true wireless models at a more affordable price than a lot of the competition. The company typically doesn’t cut too many corners to achieve this, either. The best current Soundcore model in terms of pure ANC performance is the Space A40. During my tests, these earbuds were particularly adept at fighting low-to-mid-range noise during flights and other transit scenarios. There’s an adaptive ANC system at work here to automatically adjust based on your environmental sound, but you can also set it to strong, moderate or weak levels of intensity.
While Anker rates the Space A40 at 10 hours on a charge, I got closer to eight during my tests with ANC on. Sound quality is also above average for this price, with a warm tone and noticeable bump to the bass. A solid but less-than-stellar transparency mode lends a hand and the companion app will let you assign up to six different gestures for various playback and call controls.
ProsExcellent ANC for the moneyPleasant, warm soundMulti-device connectivity and wireless charging supportComfortableGood battery lifeConsNo automatic wear detectionCall quality isn’t greatAudio performance isn’t as detailed as higher-end options (as expected)$59 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$100 at NeweggPhoto by Billy Steele / Engadget
Master & Dynamic MW09
Best battery life
ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 12 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Master & Dynamic MW09
We’re well aware there are ANC earbuds that last much longer than 12 hours. But out of all of the models we’ve tested in the last two years, the MW09 offers the longest play time while still offering solid active noise cancellation. The ANC performance here isn’t as robust as the QC Ultra Earbuds’ or the WF-1000XM5’s, but Master & Dynamic offers three presets to help you adjust the noise blocking to your situation and to make your battery consumption more efficient.
The MW09 does, however, give both Bose and Sony a run for their money in the audio department. M&D’s trademark sound profile is on display, matching balanced, natural tuning with great clarity and detail. For example, you can hear every bit of texture in Chris Stapleton’s bluesy rock riffs, as well as things like the subtle decay in the snare drum rattle on Higher that are easily lost on other earbuds. ANC modes and volume will impact battery life, but even at their worst, the MW09 still consistently lasted 10 hours during my tests. That’s longer than both Bose and Sony manage with their flagship ANC buds.
ProsGreat clarity and detailLots of fit optionsSolid ambient sound modeIn-app customizationConsPriceyAverage ANC performanceOverstated battery life$349 at Master & DynamicApple
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Most impressive noise-canceling features
ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 6 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd-gen)
The latest AirPods Pro aren’t higher on this list primarily because you need an iPhone to unlock their maximum potential. However, the combo of hardware and software tricks that they offer for ANC performance makes them a worthy consideration. Out of the box, the H2 chip powers noise-canceling processing that wasn’t previously possible on such a small device. When used with the drivers, vents and microphones, the AirPods Pro can block twice as much noise as the previous model.
Apple also includes a handy tool that automates noise-canceling and transparency mode so you’re not making adjustments on your phone throughout the day. Adaptive Audio blends ANC and ambient sound, using cues changes in environmental noise to gradually change device volume as background noise increases or decreases. The setup takes into account whether you’re stationary or in motion as well as if you’re listening to music or on a call when making the tweaks. Plus, the AirPods Pro offer the best, most natural-sounding transparency mode of any wireless earbuds – a feat that shouldn’t be overlooked during your decision-making process.
ProsImproved soundStellar transparency modeSolid ANCSeamless switching between Apple devicesConsSame designNew touch gesture takes practiceAverage battery lifePersonalized Spatial Audio results vary$180 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$249 at Adorama
The post The best noise-canceling earbuds for 2024 appeared first on Best News.
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]]> Quick Overview
Dell XPS 13 Plus
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
Apple MacBook Air with M3 chip
Apple MacBook Pro (M3 Pro chip)
Acer Chromebook Spin 714
Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony WF-1000XM5
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
LG 32UN650-W Monitor
ASUS ROG Strix 25” 1080P HDR Gaming Monitor
Waterfield Executive Leather Messenger
Waterfield Essential Messenger
Peak Design Everyday Messenger
$230 at Peak DesignSee 12 more
Laptops
A good laptop remains the standard, go-to tool for getting things done. But it’s also a personal purchase, with people having strong opinions about which operating system, screen size and specs they need. So there are a few things you’ll want to know going into this purchase, but all of these laptops we recommend are some of the best and most well-rounded options on the market. Unless the person you’re shopping for has some specific needs, one of these machines should hit the mark.
Dell’s XPS 13 Plus is easy to recommend for anyone who uses Windows. At this point, Dell has almost perfected its industrial design: it’s thin and light, but not at the expense of power or battery life. The keyboard and display are excellent, and you can get impressive specs without breaking the bank. One downside is that Dell seems to have moved fully to a design that only has two USB-C ports and no headphone jack, which can be a bit limiting. But those quibbles aside, the XPS 13 Plus remains an excellent choice.
Right now, the XPS 13 Plus includes Intel’s 13th-generation Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. That also includes a 13.4-inch, 1,920 x 1,200 display, and the whole package costs a very reasonable $999 direct from Dell right now. Dell has also offered the same configuration with a 4K display for $200 more, but as of this writing it’s unavailable. Either way, that’s a lot of power for the price.
Dell XPS 13 Plus
For someone who’s a gamer, though, we recommend going in a different direction. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 has been our favorite gaming laptop for a few years now, one that combines relative portability (3.5 pounds and a 14-inch screen) with serious power. In our review we said that the laptop was incredibly compelling, even if it’s more expensive than it used to be. It has a powerful AMD processor and graphics card coupled with a great display, comfortable keyboard, spacious trackpad and solid design. It’s not a champ on battery life, but we got seven hours of non-gaming use out of it – pretty decent considering the specs.
You can get the Zephyrus G14 in a wide variety of configurations, but one we’d recommend includes an AMD Ryzen 9 8000 series processor, NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD and a 2,560 x 1,600 OLED display with a 120 hz refresh rate.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
For people who prefer a Mac, Apple’s lineup can be surprisingly complicated. Fortunately, the company just updated all of its laptops with its latest series of M3 processors, so now is a great time to purchase one.The MacBook Air is still the company’s best laptop for most people, and it now comes in both 13- and 15-inch configurations. In both cases, it’s an extremely light and portable computer that has better battery life than almost anything you can buy. The best option if you’re looking for longevity is the $1,499 13-inch model that includes 512GB of storage, 16GB of RAM and the M3 chip with a 10-core GPU. You can grab that same configuration with a 15-inch display for $1,699. And while we think that the Air is enough computer for most people, if you’re buying for someone who has a heavier workload like photo or video editing, the $1,999 MacBook Pro is worth considering. It gives you a significantly more powerful M3 Pro chip with a 14-core GPU along with other niceties like a gorgeous 14-inch mini-LED display.
Apple MacBook Air with M3 chip
Apple MacBook Pro (M3 Pro chip)
Given how dominant a force Chromebooks are in education, it’s entirely possible that someone just finishing school might want to continue using Chrome OS. Fortunately, there are lots of premium Chromebooks that are well-designed and capable enough to last for years. One of our favorites is Acer’s Chromebook Spin 714. It includes a 13th-gen Intel Core i5 processor alongside a 14-inch, 1,920 x 1,200 display that offers a little more vertical space than your average 1080p screen. Add in a solid keyboard and trackpad, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage and you have a Chromebook that doesn’t require many compromises. The one downside is that its 7ish-hour battery life isn’t spectacular — but given the laptop’s price, it’s probably good enough.
Acer Chromebook Spin 714
Tablets
No, tablets have not replaced laptops as some predicted when the category started blowing up last decade. But they also still do a ton of things well. They can be a great option for getting work done, engaging your creative side with art and music-making apps or just enjoying movies and games. For the vast majority of people, Apple’s iPad is the only tablet worth considering, even if they don’t otherwise use Apple products. That’s thanks to time-tested, reliable hardware and a massive software library with hundreds of thousands of apps optimized for the iPad’s larger screen.
As for which is the best iPad, the iPad Air remains the right choice for most at the moment – especially if you’re looking for a good graduation gift. While the basic iPad is a great value, you get a lot when you step up to the Air. Perhaps most importantly, the Air has Apple’s M1 chip, a very powerful chip for a tablet that was in many Macs for years. This means the Air is extremely fast, even though the M1 is a few years old at this point.
Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)
The rest of the iPad Air’s hardware is also impressive for the price. It has a large 10.9-inch screen with thin bezels and an anti-reflective coating; the display is also laminated directly to the glass, so there’s no distracting gap beneath the surface. The Air includes 64GB or 256GB of storage, 10 hours of battery life, support for the second-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard and an improved 12-megapixel front-facing camera. For $599, you’re getting almost everything that the iPad Pro offers for a lot less cash. The only caveat here is that Apple is expected to release new iPads this spring. As of this writing, the M1 iPad Air is our favorite, but just know that there may be a new Air on the way in the coming weeks.
Android tablets have never had the same level of success as the iPad, largely because of the well-documented software issues on larger-screen Android devices. But if you’re shopping for an Android diehard, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 (or S9+) are solid choices. The S9 features a high-resolution 11-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, and has an S-Pen stylus included in the box. For someone looking for a bigger canvas, the S9+ steps things up to 12.4 inches. And while Android historically hasn’t been the best option for large-screen devices, Samsung’s Dex feature switches things up into a more desktop-like multi-window mode, which can be great for productivity. Samsung’s built-in apps that take advantage of the S-Pen are solid as well. You might have a hard time finding apps that are designed for the Tab S9’s larger screen, but if you’re buying this for someone familiar with Android, they’ll likely be aware of the trade-offs.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Smartphones
The most important computer people own, or at least the one they probably rely on the most, is their smartphone. And if you know someone who is still rocking the same device they brought to campus with them four years ago, they’ll definitely appreciate an upgrade. The good news is that it’s pretty easy to pick out a phone that’ll satisfy just about anyone, regardless of whether they prefer Android or iOS.
This year, we’re recommending the iPhone 15 Pro Max for new graduates. The standard iPhone 15, 15 Plus and 15 Pro are all excellent phones, but the Pro Max is undeniably the best option out there. The 15 Pro Max has the best iPhone camera you can buy, with a 5x telephoto lens that gives it a big advantage over the 3x option on the standard iPhone 15. Other significant features include the massive and gorgeous 6.7-inch always-on display with a 120Hz refresh rate and the A17 Pro chip.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is expensive at $1,199, and some people may not be happy with such a large device. As such, the $999 iPhone 15 Pro is easy to recommend as an alternative, but camera nerds will really enjoy the 15 Pro Max. And the extremely fast processor and Apple’s track record of delivering software support for years means this investment should last a long time.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Unsurprisingly, Samsung continues to make the best Android devices you can buy – as such, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is our pick this year. At $1,299, it’s another pricey device, but it delivers everything you could ask for: an incredibly bright and high-quality 6.8-inch OLED screen, a high-resolution 5X telephoto camera (along with other excellent lenses and sensors), nearly two full days of battery life and strong performance. The latter comes thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and 12GB of RAM. It also comes with Samsung’s handy S Pen, for anyone who wants to use a stylus on the S24 Ultra’s giant screen. Given how thoroughly Samsung dominates the Android space, this isn’t a surprising recommendation, but it will make most Android fans happy.
While Samsung’s devices are hard to compete with, Google has routinely made excellent Android phones for a bit less cash. The $999 Pixel 8 Pro is worth a look if you’re a fan of Google’s clean take on Android, and their phones always have some nifty software tricks baked in. Battery life has been upgraded over the Pixel 7 Pro, the latest Tensor 3 chip keeps things speedy and its camera performance is as good as ever. And the fact that this phone is built by Google means it’ll get software updates before any other Android phone on the market; Google is also promising seven years of software updates.
Both of these phones are big (the Pixel 7 Pro’s screen is 6.7 inches while the S23 Ultra has a 6.8-inch display), but the good news is that both Google and Samsung offer smaller-screened devices that keep most of the same features and specs as their larger siblings. You’ll save some cash with a smaller device, too.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Headphones
Almost anyone would benefit from a good pair of noise canceling headphones, and once again Sony has made our top pick. While Sony’s WH-1000XM5 is almost two years old at this point, it’s still the best over-ear option on the market. At $400, they’re more expensive than the XM4, but they offer a combination of incredible sound, a time-tested, refined design and excellent noise-canceling that is hard to beat. They also fit better and more comfortably than ever, and have 30 hours of battery life. The 1000XM5 looks better, sounds better and wears better than the previous model – it’s hard to ask for much more.
Sony WH-1000XM5
While the WH-1000XM5 is getting a little old, Sony refreshed its wireless earbuds last year, making them our new favorite pick. As with its over-ear headphones, the $298 WF-1000XM5 earbuds feature incredible sound quality, long battery life, excellent noise cancellation and a comfortable design. Sony completely redesigned the WF-1000XM5 inside and out, with a new design and drivers as well as updated chips that power their noise-canceling features. Battery life hasn’t improved, but it’s still impressive. The earbuds can get about eight hours of playback with ANC active – that jumps up to 12 hours if you turn it off. Sony also included a host of smart software features like Speak-to-Chat automatic pausing, Adaptive Sound Control adjustments based on movement or location, 360 Reality Audio and a customizable EQ.
Sony WF-1000XM5
If you’re buying earbuds for an Apple user, though, consider the second-generation AirPods Pro. They don’t quite beat Sony’s WF-1000XM5 in sound quality or battery life, but there are a host of features that make them the best earbuds to use with an iPhone, iPad or Mac. The fast pairing tech Apple introduced with the first AirPods still makes it extremely easy to start using these earbuds, or to switch them seamlessly between different Apple devices. Both the case and buds are sweat and water resistant, making them a better option for workouts.
These second-gen AirPods Pro also have big improvements in noise cancellation and sound quality, and the “transparency” mode that lets in outside sound lets you have a conversation or hear the world around you in a totally natural way. Apple improved on that last summer with a new “Adaptive Audio” feature that blends noise cancellation and transparency depending on your environment. And, Apple finally added USB-C to the charging case!
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Monitors
There are a dizzying number of computer monitors on the market, at basically any price you can think of, which makes recommending a single monitor a very difficult task. Fortunately, we’ve looked at a host of options and have a few good ones that don’t break the bank and offer a great viewing experience. LG’s 32-inch 32UN650-W is an excellent choice for a large, high-resolution panel that includes niceties like built-in speakers, HDR, support for AMD Freesync and a stand that offers tilt and height adjustments. It sticks with a standard 60Hz refresh rate rather than anything faster, but it’s an excellent choice for most people, especially given its $450 price.
LG 32UN650-W Monitor
As usual, gamers require something a little different. For that set, check out the 25-inch ASUS ROG Strix 380Hz monitor. The resolution maxes out at 1080p, and it’s a much smaller display compared to the LG — but a 380Hz refresh rate is wildly quick, and the 1m GtG response time will go a long way towards eliminating motion blurs. It also has HDR, but with a higher maximum brightness than the LG. It’s a rather specialized piece of equipment, but one that’ll undoubtedly be appreciated by gamers.
ASUS ROG Strix 25” 1080P HDR Gaming Monitor
Bags
As important as the right gear is, your grad also deserves something classy and stylish to carry all that stuff around. The Executive Leather Messenger from Waterfield Designs is an expensive choice, but it’s worth the cost. Waterfield makes everything by hand in its San Francisco shop, and the materials it uses are top notch. I’ve owned a lot of their products over the years, and I can safely say this bag will last a decade or more, and the leather will only look more attractive as time goes on.
On the inside are two padded slots, one for a tablet and one for a laptop. There are also two pockets, one zippered, as well as a pen slot and a metal key fob. Finally, there are two easily-accessible hand pockets under the flap, both with an extremely soft plush lining. The Executive Leather Messenger comes in three different leather colors and costs either $399 or $419, depending on which size you choose. It’s an investment, for sure, but it will last a long time.
Waterfield Executive Leather Messenger
Waterfield’s bags are typically quite pricey, but the company recently released a new line of “essential” options that offer the company’s excellent construction and smart features at a lower price point. The $179 Essential Messenger is a lightweight option that does away with the leather and uses tough textiles instead. But its magnetic closures are fast and easy to undo, the strap is easily removable for wearing over whichever shoulder you choose, and it has foam inserts to help it keep its structure. There’s a built-in sleeve for a laptop up to 14 inches, and I can confirm you can shove a surprising amount of gear in it considering its smaller size.
Waterfield Essential Messenger
There’s also something to be said for a good backpack. For that, check out Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack. As the name suggests, it’s a fairly minimalist design that works in a lot of contexts, and it comes with the company’s typically smart organization features. It has a number of configurable dividers inside to keep everything from pooling at the bottom, and it combines the large internal space with a host of internal and external pockets and access points. Finally, it also has a number of external straps that can be easily hidden if you don’t need them — but they provide versatile expansion of the bag’s carrying capacity. If you want to attach things like a tripod or tie a jacket or blanket on, go right ahead. There are a ton of different ways to use this bag, which means it should last years as it can just be customized to fit commutes, vacations or any other excursion.
Peak Design Everyday Messenger
The post The best gifts to upgrade your grad’s tech setup appeared first on Best News.
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]]> Quick OverviewMore options
Sony WH-1000XM5
$319 at Amazon$398 at Adorama$400 at Macy’sSee more options
Chipolo ONE
Marshall Emberton II
$160 at Amazon$170 at Nordstrom$182 at Macy’sSee more options
Cartman 39 Piece Tool Set
Levoit Core 300s air purifier
Apple Watch Series 9
$299 at Amazon$299 at Walmart$399 at AdoramaSee more options
Spotify 6-month gift card
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
$47 at Amazon$50 at Kohl’s$50 at TargetSee more options
Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Anker MagGo Power Bank, Qi2 Certified 15W
Anker PowerConf C200
$48 at Amazon$60 at NeweggSee more options
1Password
iRobot Roomba 694
$180 at Walmart$180 at Wayfair$180 at AmazonSee more options
Kobo Clara 2E | eReader | Glare-Free 6? HD Touchscreen | ComfortLight PRO Blue Light Reduction | Adjustable Brightness | WiFi | 16GB of Storage | Carta E Ink Technology | Waterproof
Headspace
Nuphy Air75 V2
Otterbox Otterspot wireless charger
Anker Prime Power Bank 200W
$185 at AmazonSee 14 moreWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Sony WH-1000XM5
There’s a good chance that your graduate will be working from a few different locations when they start their first job. Maybe they’ll spend half of their time in an office and the other half in their new apartment, but you can help them stay focused anywhere by gifting them the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones. These are our current favorite high-end cans thanks to their excellent sound quality and equally stellar active noise cancellation. Their Adaptive Sound Control feature automatically changes the level of noise cancellation depending on your location and what you’re doing, blocking out as much of the world as necessary without the user needing to do much work. There’s also multi-device connectivity, so your graduate can seamlessly go from listening to music on their laptop to taking a call from their smartphone. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor, Buying Advice
$319 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$398 at Adorama$400 at Macy’sChipolo
Chipolo ONE
Losing stuff is a bummer for anyone, grads included. I tried out Apple’s AirTags, Tile trackers and Chipolos for our Bluetooth tracker guide and ended up picking the Chipolo One as the best option for most people. That’s because it simply does what it’s supposed to do without hassle: help people locate their keys and let them know when they’ve been left behind. Chipolo One doesn’t have the massive, community-enabled (and potentially creepy) location tracking of Apple’s FindMy, but it rings loud with a tap from your phone and sends alerts about forgotten items faster than any other tracker we tried. – Amy Skorheim, Reporter, Buying Advice
$25 at AmazonPhoto by Jon Turi / Engadget
Marshall Emberton II
The Marshall Emberton II is a stylish Bluetooth speaker that offers impressively smooth and balanced sound for its compact size. It’s not the loudest or most bass-heavy device of its kind, but it’s a pleasant listen for smaller get-togethers and personal use. The six-inch frame has an IP67 rating, so your grad can safely use it to listen to podcasts in the shower, and Marshall says it can last up to 30 hours on a charge. Most appealingly, the guitar amp-style design looks classy in both its cream or black finishes. All of this was enough to earn the Emberton II a spot in our guide to the best Bluetooth speakers. — Jeff Dunn, Senior Reporter, Buying Advice
$160 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$170 at Nordstrom$182 at Macy’s
Cartman 39 Piece Tool Set
I received this Cartman 39-piece tool set right after college when I moved into my first apartment, and now, over 10 years later, it’s still with me in my home’s garage. I put this thing and all its contents through the ringer hanging pictures, putting together Ikea furniture, changing light fixtures and even repairing a broken door lock late on a Saturday night after coming home from a party (ah, youth). It includes all of the essentials one would need to do what I listed above, and much more, without much hassle: a measuring tape, hammer, screwdriver with 20 different bits, pairs of pliers and scissors and more. The plastic case that comes with all of the pieces has spaces designed to fit each tool and, while it’s a little flimsy, mine lasted a number of years before I accidentally broke the handle (totally my fault, too). The fact that it comes in a few different accent colors is icing on the cake; my “pink toolset” was a running joke in my family for a long time, but we were always laughing with the tools rather than at them because I used them so much. This is one of those gifts for graduates that isn’t flashy, but it’s necessary — and they will thank you for it. – V.P.
$23 at Amazon
Levoit Core 300s air purifier
That first domicile after college isn’t always ideal — mine was above a heavily-trafficked LA boulevard, which didn’t result in the cleanest indoor air. We tested out the Levoit Core 300s air purifier and found it cleared out both VOCs and particulate matter (PM) quite efficiently, particularly for its size. It runs quietly and can automatically increase the fan speed when it detects the air is getting murky. Plus the replacement filters are much more affordable than other models, something any recent grad will appreciate. — A.S.
$150 at Amazon
Apple Watch Series 9
If you really want to treat the iPhone-toting graduate in your life, get them the Apple Watch Series 9. It’s the best Apple Watch for most people right now, and it’s the best smartwatch, period. In addition to delivering all of their phone’s alerts to their wrist, the Series 9 is a solid workout companion, tracking most exercises and even connecting to some gym equipment. The new S9 SiP makes the Watch run a tad faster and makes Siri speedier at responding to requests, adding reminders to their lists and more. The new Double Tap feature is handy as well, as it lets the wearer use gestures to navigate the Watch’s interface if they’re unable to tap the screen at any time. If you have a new grad who’s constantly on the go, or who wants to whip out their phone less during the day, the Series 9 will be a welcomed gift. – V.P.
$299 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$299 at Walmart$399 at AdoramaEngadget
Spotify 6-month gift card
If the graduate in your life constantly has Spotify playing in the background, switching from lo-fi beats while working to today’s top hits when they want to unwind, a gift subscription will be much appreciated. A six-month gift card will set you back $60, but it will give them peace of mind knowing that something they already use regularly is paid for the next few months. Spotify is one of the best music streaming services available right now, and it’s particularly adept at suggesting new music that listeners might like based on their current habits. There are also a bunch of podcasts and audiobooks available to Spotify subscribers as well; in fact, Premium subscribers can listen to 15 hours of audiobooks per month for no extra cost. Ultimately, the best part of this gift is taking care of a recurring monthly cost for your graduate, just for a little while, so they can use those funds for other things. — V.P.
$60 at WalmartWill Lipman Photography for Engadget
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Google’s Chromecast dongle topped our list of streaming devices, but our runner up is probably better for new grads. Roku’s Streaming Stick 4K not only converts just about any screen into a smart TV, it also opens up access to an endless flow of free content and live programming (most of which is also free). Even if they don’t pay for every streaming service under the sun (or any), they’ll still find loads of stuff to watch. We like Roku’s uncluttered interface and playful illustrated robot motif. Plus the dongle hides neatly behind the screen, supports 4K content with Dolby Vision and has a long Wi-Fi range. – A.S.
$47 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$50 at Kohl’s$50 at TargetInstant Pot
Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer
The Instant Vortex Mini is a powerful little air fryer that any new college grad should be able to fit into even the most cramped of kitchen setups. It has an easy to use touchscreen with a few different cooking modes, but we expect most graduates will use it to cook snacks like mozzarella sticks and reheat leftovers to crispy perfection. We recommend checking out our air fryer guide if you want to give them something a little bigger that can cook more food at once — but if you’re only looking out for your grad and maybe their partner or favorite roommate, the Instant Vortex Mini will feed them well. — V.P.
$50 at AmazonEngadget
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass remains a great value for any grad who owns an Xbox or gaming PC and likes to play games in their downtime. The subscription’s library includes big-name series like Halo and Minecraft alongside more experimental gems like Hi-Fi Rushand Pentiment, and it still gets you access to first-party Xbox games on day one. Each title is available to download on-demand. The Ultimate tier includes perks like cloud gaming and online play, but there are cheaper options for just Xbox consoles or PCs as well.
If your graduate plays more on PlayStation or the Nintendo Switch, there are similar services you can gift: PlayStation Plus for the former, Switch Online for the latter. These will almost certainly be appreciated if you’re buying for someone who games frequently, though they’re not quite as strong a value as Game Pass in terms of cost or included games. — J.D.
$45 at Amazon
Anker MagGo Power Bank, Qi2 Certified 15W
Whether they’re hitting the streets for interviews or heading out for the weekend with friends, either way, your grad will likely appreciate having a way to recharge their phone on the go. The Anker MagGo Power Bank 10K is our current favorite MagSafe charger in our guide. It has a sturdy but unobtrusive stand to prop up an iPhone, holding it in either landscape or portrait orientation so your grad can still make use of the handset as it charges. There’s a readout on the side that tells you how much juice remains and it can even charge the phone while it’s plugged into the wall. Plus, thanks to the new Qi2 charging standard, the wireless charging speeds are impressive — it got our tester iPhone 15 from near-dead to half-full in about 45 minutes. — A.S.
$90 at Amazon
Anker PowerConf C200
If your grad plans on working remotely, a webcam that keeps them looking sharp and in focus during video calls is a wise investment. The Anker PowerConf C200, a recommendation from our webcam buying guide, is a great choice: It shoots crisp 2K resolution video, autofocuses quickly and does well to keep its subjects visible in darker settings. It can’t swivel from side to side, but it’s a cinch to set up and has a built-in lens cover for extra peace of mind. At $60, it’s relatively affordable to boot. — J.D.
$48 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$60 at Newegg1Password
1Password
If your giftee thought they had a lot of logins to keep track of in school, just wait until they get into the workplace. A password manager will be a must-have, and you can easily give them a 1Password digital gift card so they have no excuse not to use one. Our favorite password manager is easy to use, even for those who have never had a password manager before, and it provides top-notch security. It uses industry standard encryption, a “secret key” that only your giftee knows along with their one password to keep all of their other information safe. In addition to login credentials, new graduates can keep other information like credit card numbers, banking information and sensitive notes in their 1Password vaults for safekeeping — and they can easily access it all on their phone or laptop whenever they need. At minimum, it’s much more secure than a tattered sticky note for keep tracking of their most important passwords. At best, it could be a crucial service that your grad decides to keep paying for long after they’ve used up their gift card. – V.P.
$25+ at 1PasswordiRobot
iRobot Roomba 694
There are a lot of things you need to learn (and remember) when you first move out of your dorm room and into your own space — keeping your home clean is one of them. And even if your grad isn’t “moving out” as much as they are moving into a dedicated portion of their parents’ home, they still need to make sure they’re tidying up on a regular basis. iRobot’s Roomba 694 is one gadget that can help them partially automate their cleaning routine. Our favorite budget robot vacuum, the Roomba 694 is dead simple to use — it can be a one-button process if they want it to be — and it does a good job sucking up dirt and debris across carpet and hard flooring. We also like iRobot’s mobile app, which is just as easy to use as the machine alone, and it gives them the ability to set cleaning schedules. If they go that route, it’s a one-and-done situation and they can sit back and watch the robo-vac do the work for them. — V.P.
$180 at WalmartExplore More Buying Options$180 at Wayfair$180 at AmazonKobo
Kobo Clara 2E | eReader | Glare-Free 6? HD Touchscreen | ComfortLight PRO Blue Light Reduction | Adjustable Brightness | WiFi | 16GB of Storage | Carta E Ink Technology | Waterproof
Now that they’re done with syllabi, recent grads can read whatever they want (and maybe enjoy it). Topping our list of the best ereaders is the Clara 2E from Kobo, which has a six-inch, 300 ppi E-Ink display that’s far easier on the eyes than a tablet. The Clara 2E is waterproof, comfortable to hold and has a quick, responsive interface. It can access titles from the Kobo store, the local public library via built-in Overdrive integration or any other e-book source (except the Kindle store). On top of that, the warm light is great for reading late into the night – something that’s far more fun when you’re not doing so to cram for a test. – A.S.
$120 at WalmartHeadspace
Headspace
Those early days in the working world can be an especially stressful time in anyone’s life. If your grad has expressed interest in using meditation to help manage their mental health, a Headspace subscription could be useful. It has a large and well-organized selection of guided meditations and mindful exercises to help reduce anxiety and build self control, including several sessions for beginners. There are one-off exercises designed to help with specific, real world crises (nerves before a job interview, for example) as well as courses that seek to address more complex states (grief, self-doubt, lack of focus, etc.) over multiple sessions. A “sleepcasts” feature, meanwhile, combines guided relaxation exercises with soothing narration to create a more healthy sleep environment. Apps like this aren’t cure-alls for mental distress, nor are they the only ways to meditate. Still, they can provide a more organized way for your grad to work toward better peace of mind. — J.D.
$6 at Headspace
Nuphy Air75 V2
Mechanical keyboards can be pretty noisy, so they may not be the best gift if your grad has to work in an office all the time. But if they won’t have any coworkers or roommates around during the workday, a good keyboard like the NuPhy Air75 V2 should be a welcomed upgrade. This wireless, low-profile model puts the more gratifying feel of mechanical switches in a design that’s flatter and thinner than most enthusiast keyboards. For something so compact, it’s a joy to type on, with crisp keycaps, a wealth of different switch options and no annoying rattling on the larger keys. It works across Windows and macOS, and its playful design is just plain cute. Plus, if your grad ever wants to go wild and customize it with new switches and keycaps down the road, doing so is straightforward. — J.D.
$140 at AmazonOtterbox
Otterbox Otterspot wireless charger
A recent graduate might be simultaneously looking for jobs, apartments and new places to hang out, so they’ll be out and relying on their phone a lot. If they have a model that accommodates wireless charging, they could probably use the OtterSpot wireless charging system from Otterbox. It earned the top spot in our guide to wireless chargers because it pulls double duty as a desk-based charger and a portable battery. The disc-shaped accessory accommodates up to three, coaster-like 5,000mAh batteries that can charge devices on the go. The batteries stack on the charger and the phone goes on top, allowing everything to power up at once. The batteries can even deliver a charge via USB-C, too. – A.S.
$100 at Otterbox
Anker Prime Power Bank 200W
A good power bank will be an accessory your graduate won’t want to leave home without. The Anker Prime Power Bank is one of our favorites, and it’s pretty luxe for a portable battery. It has an attractive yet compact, rectangular design with a built-in screen that shows you how many watts are being pumped out into each device you’re charging, plus the remaining juice in the battery itself. The included base makes it easy to recharge the power bank, too, and it has a few extra built-in ports so they could treat the whole thing like a power station. The portable charger’s 20,000mAh capacity will be more than enough to juice up a smartphone a couple of times, and it can power larger devices like a tablet or laptop easily, too. – V.P.
The post The best college graduation gifts appeared first on Best News.
]]>The post The best travel gear for graduates appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick OverviewMore options
Twelve South AirFly Duo
$45 at HSN$45 at Kohl’s$45 at AmazonSee more optionsMore options
Sony WH-1000XM5
$319 at Amazon$398 at Adorama$400 at Macy’sSee more options
Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station
Beshon European Travel Plug Adapter (2-pack)
Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes (6-set)
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Amazon Kindle
$100 at Kohl’s$100 at Amazon$100 at TargetSee more options
Sony ZV-1 II
$898 at Amazon$898 at Abt ElectronicsSee more options
Manta Sleep Mask
Peak Design Tech Pouch
$60 at Peak DesignMore options
Otterbox Fast Charge 15,000mAh
$35 at Otterbox$45 at TargetSee more options
ExpressVPN
$8.32/month at ExpressVPNSee 7 moreRed Heart
Twelve South AirFly Duo
If your grad already owns a decent set of Bluetooth earbuds, you can instead gift them the AirFly Duo. It’s a device that will allow them to use their wireless headphones with a plane’s inflight entertainment system. All they need to do is pair the AirFly Duo with their Bluetooth headphones and plug it into their seat’s headphone jack. If they’re flying with a friend or partner, they can even use the AirFly Duo to stream movie audio to two pairs of headphones. — Igor Bonifacic, Contributing Reporter
$45 at HSNExplore More Buying Options$45 at Kohl’s$45 at AmazonPhoto by Billy Steele / Engadget
Sony WH-1000XM5
Crying babies, turbulence and rowdy passengers — there are a lot of sounds that can make an already trying travel experience even more tiresome. Speaking from experience, comfortable and capable noise-canceling headphones can go a long way toward making a flight more peaceful. Thankfully, you don’t have to look far to find the best option in the field: Sony’s flagship WH-1000XM5.
Outside of masterful noise canceling that you can customize, the XM5 has one feature that makes it especially suited for traveling: You can get up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge, and another three hours after just three minutes of charging. In other words, they’ll easily get your grad through a marathon of flights, layovers, and international travel excursions. If the $398 cans are outside of your budget, you can still find stock of their excellent predecessor, the WH-1000XM4, at some retailers. — I.B.
$319 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$398 at Adorama$400 at Macy’s
Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station
If you have a giftee who lives in the Apple ecosystem and constantly travels, pick them up this 3-in-1 MagGo Charging Station from Anker. Its looks are deceiving: it’s roughly the size of a deck of cards, but it unfolds into a base station that can power up three devices at once: an iPhone, an Apple Watch and a pair of AirPods. It delivers up to 15W of power and can fast-charge both an iPhone and the Watch, plus it supports Standby Mode on iOS when you recharge the iPhone in landscape orientation. Much like other Anker MagSafe accessories, the magnets are strong on this one and the built-in, flip-up Apple Watch charger is super handy (many other multi-device chargers require you to connect your own Apple Watch pad). On top of all that, this power bank comes with the charging cable and 40W adapter they need to recharge it. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor, Buying Advice
$110 at Amazon
Beshon European Travel Plug Adapter (2-pack)
If there’s one thing that everyone needs when they travel internationally, it’s a plug adapter. Your grad can forget recharging their phone, laptop or anything else unless they have one of these on hand. Beshon’s two-pack is a good value not only for its affordable price, but also because each plug includes three outlets, two USB-C ports and one USB-A connector. That means they’ll have extra space to plug in regular items plus three USB options for tech like their smartwatch, game console and more. Although the prongs don’t flip down, each adapter is pretty compact and Beshon offers them in various country options — Europe, China, South America and Australia are all covered. — V.P.
$16 at Amazon
Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes (6-set)
You don’t need us to tell you that packing cubes are an essential for any trip, so gifting a set to your new graduate will help them in the long run on all of their business trips, vacations and weekend getaways. Bagsmart makes some of our favorite travel accessories and their set of six compression packing cubes is a great value. While standard packing cubes are great for organization, compression cubes go the extra mile by letting you make those bags as small as possible, giving you a bit more space to work with in your suitcase. They’ll get one large, two medium and two small cubes, along with a dedicated shoe bag as well. After they stuff their clothes and belongings inside, a dedicated zipper on the exterior of each cube will let them squish all of their things down as much as possible before packing it all away in their bags. If they’re really Type-A, they’ll also appreciate the label slot on each bag, which will let them designate which cube has their shirts, jeans, pajamas and more. — V.P.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
If your grad has a relatively recent phone like the iPhone 14 or the Samsung Galaxy S23, they don’t need a dedicated camera to take great-looking video during their trip. But what can elevate their footage is a smartphone gimbal like the Osmo Mobile 6 from DJI. The company makes some of the best drones you can buy, so it knows a thing or two about camera stabilization. The Osmo Mobile 6 will help your grad film smooth and cinematic videos while they’re on their trip. The company’s latest gimbal features a built-in extension rod that makes it easier to snap the perfect selfie. Plus, it only weighs 309 grams, so it’s a lightweight addition to almost any travel kit. — I.B.
$149 at AmazonPhoto by James Trew / Engadget
Amazon Kindle
Every trip involves some amount of downtime. Between long flights and train rides, as well as lengthy layovers, there are plenty of opportunities to catch up on some reading. For that reason, an e-reader like the Amazon Kindle makes for the perfect travel companion.
A previous version of this gift guide recommended the Paperwhite but with all the enhancements Amazon added to the 2022 Kindle, there’s little reason to stretch your budget for the more expensive model. Our favorite budget e-reader, the standard Kindle, features a 300ppi display, 16GB of storage and USB-C charging. Best of all, with a battery that can go up to six weeks on a single charge, there’s one less cable and charger for your grad to carry on their next trip. — I.B.
$100 at Kohl’sExplore More Buying Options$100 at Amazon$100 at Target
Sony ZV-1 II
If your graduate has dreams of being a social media star, or they prefer to capture travel memories on something a bit better than their smartphone, the Sony ZV-1 II will be a big step up for them. This upgraded model is one of our favorite vlogging cameras, and it comes with a wider f/1.8-4 lens that will make it much easier to vlog at arm’s length. Additive to that is the camera’s lightweight body, built-in microphone and flip-out display. It also has excellent autofocus and image quality, plus vlogging-specific features like background blur and “product showcase.” Combine all of that into one compact camera and you get a solid value that will be a noticeable upgrade for them from their smartphone. — V.P.
$898 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$898 at Abt ElectronicsManta Sleep
Manta Sleep Mask
Between long-haul flights and the eventual jet lag that sets in after hopping countries and continents, getting a full night’s rest can be a challenge. That’s where a sleep mask can help and the best one I’ve found is made by a company called Manta, which also makes neck pillows, ear plugs, and other travel items. At this point, it makes a lot of different eye mask models, so take a look at their website to find the one that will best suit your kid. That said, the original Sleep model is a good all-purpose option for frequent travelers. What makes it stand out is that the memory foam eyecups aren’t sewn into the mask. Instead, they’re attached using velcro, allowing you to reposition them to make the mask as comfortable as possible. The company says they’re also 100 percent effective at blocking out any light, a claim I’ve found to be accurate. — I.B.
$35 at AmazonPeak Design
Peak Design Tech Pouch
Peak Design is known for making some of the most practical camera bags and accessories you can buy. But over the last few years, it has also made a name for itself in the travel bag space. If you want to help your grad organize all their cables and gadgets before they leave for their next trip, look no further than the company’s Tech Pouch. Exterior handles make it easy to open and hold the pouch, even on a plane flying through turbulence. Inside, you’ll find loops and Peak’s signature origami dividers that make it easy to organize things like pens, SD cards and batteries. Another handy detail is a cable passthrough that allows you to keep a power bank in its interior and connect it to your phone in the front pocket. Plus, the nylon exterior is water-resistant, so your grad can relax knowing all their electronics are secure from most accidental water damage. — I.B.
$60 at Peak DesignOtterbox
Otterbox Fast Charge 15,000mAh
At some point during their trip, the battery on your grad’s phone is likely to run low or even die at a critical moment. It could happen when they’re trying to navigate a complex subway system, which will make an already stressful situation more dire (especially if they don’t speak the country’s language). Help them avoid situations like that with a power bank. There are a lot of capable portable chargers out there, but we like the ones from Otterbox. For an affordable option, consider the 10,000mAh model that’s on Engadget’s best power banks list. It offers 18W multi-device fast charging, enough capacity to fully charge a smartphone more than once and a set of both USB-A and USB-C ports. Best of all, it costs less than $50. — I.B.
$35 at OtterboxExplore More Buying Options$45 at TargetExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
Regardless of if they’re traveling for work or pleasure, your grad should get into the habit of using a VPN to keep their browsing private and secure. ExpressVPN is our top pick for frequent travelers because it has thousands of servers in 105 countries, solid upload and download speeds according to our testing and allows for up to eight simultaneous device connections. Plus, it works across all major platforms including iOS, Windows, Android, Linux and more, so each and every device they use should be covered. A subscription also includes access to the company’s password manager, which will help them login to their accounts more quickly whilst on the road. — V.P.
The post The best travel gear for graduates appeared first on Best News.
]]>The post The best noise-canceling headphones for 2024 appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick OverviewMore options
Sony WH-1000XM5
Best noise-canceling headphones overall
$349 at Groupon$398 at Amazon$350 at Sony ElectronicsSee more optionsMore options
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Best noise-canceling headphones – runner up
$379 at Adorama$379 at Amazon$429 at VerizonSee more options
Sony WH-CH720N
Best budget noise-canceling headphones
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Best battery life
$299 at Amazon$300 at Macy’s$380 at AdoramaSee more options
How to choose the best noise-canceling headphones for you
Design
When you’re shopping for a pair of wireless headphones, the first thing you’ll need to decide on is wear style. Do you prefer on-ear or over-ear? For the purposes of this guide, I focus on the over-ear style as that’s what most noise-canceling headphones are nowadays. Sure, you can find on-ear models with ANC, but over-ear, noise-canceling headphones are much more effective at blocking sound since your ears are completely covered.
Type of noise cancellation
Next, you’ll want to look at the type of ANC a set of headphones offers. You’ll come across terms like “hybrid active noise cancellation” or “hybrid adaptive active noise cancellation,” and there are key differences between the two. A hybrid ANC setup uses microphones on the inside and on the outside of the device to detect ambient noise and cancel it out. By analyzing input from both mics, a hybrid system can combat more sounds than “regular” ANC, but it does so at a constant level that doesn’t change.
Adaptive ANC takes the hybrid configuration a step further by continuously adjusting the noise cancellation for changes in your environment and any leakage around the padding of the ear cups. Adaptive ANC also does a better job with wind noise, which can really kill your vibe while using headphones outdoors. For the purposes of this best headphones list, I’m only considering products with hybrid ANC or adaptive ANC setups because those are the most effective at blocking noise.
Customization
You’ll also want to check to see if the ANC system on a prospective set of headphones offers adjustable levels of noise cancellation or presets. These can help you dial in the amount of ANC you need for various environments, but it can also help you save battery life. Master & Dynamic, for example, has ANC presets that provide both maximum noise blocking and more efficient cancellation that is more energy efficient. Other companies may include a slider in their companion apps that let you adjust the ANC level to your liking.
How we test noise-canceling headphones
The primary way we test headphones is to wear them as much as possible. I prefer to do this over a one-to-two-week period, but sometimes deadlines don’t allow it. During this time, I listen to a mix of music and podcasts, while also using the headphones to take both voice and video calls.
Since battery life for headphones can be 30 hours or more, I drain the battery with looping music and the volume set at a comfortable level (usually around 75 percent). Due to the longer battery estimates, I’ll typically power the headphones off several times and leave them that way during a review. This simulates real-world use and keeps me from having to constantly monitor the process for over 24 straight hours.
To test ANC performance specifically, I use headphones in a variety of environments, from noisy coffee shops to quiet home offices. When my schedule allows, I use them during air travel since plane noise is a massive distraction to both work and relaxation. Even if I can’t hop on a flight, I’ll simulate a constant roar with white noise machines, bathroom fans, vacuums and more. I also make note of how well each device blocks human voices, which are a key stumbling block for a lot of ANC headphones.
ANC-related features are something else to consider. Here, I do a thorough review of companion apps, testing each feature as I work through the software. Any holdovers from previous models are double checked for improvements or regression. If the headphones I’m testing are an updated version of a previous model, I’ll spend time getting reacquainted with the older set. Ditto for the closest competition for each new set of headphones that I review.
Photo by Billy Steele / Engadget
Sony WH-1000XM5
Best noise-canceling headphones overall
Connectivity: Bluetooth | ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 30 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony opted for two audio chips on its 1000XM5 headphones, adding a V1 Integrated Processor alongside its QN1 HD Noise Canceling Processor chip to bolster distraction blocking. The company outfitted the M5 with eight total mics, doubling the number of microphones that detect distractions. On top of that, there’s an automatic ANC optimizer that adjusts in real time to ensure you always get the best performance even with changes in how the headphones fit and the level of clamor in your environment. The result is the best noise-canceling setup available in terms of pure sound blocking — and, thanks to Sony’s tweaks, the M5 is better in the frequency range that includes human voices.
Sony has been cramming its flagship headphones with features for years, so you get a lot of conveniences on the 1000XM5 that other companies don’t offer. Things like automatic pausing with Speak-to-Chat, Quick Attention mode, 360 Reality Audio support and compression-fighting DSEE Extreme audio upscaling. There are tools here that are available on other Sony headphones as well, like Adaptive Sound Control that automatically changes settings based on your activity or location, which you can finetune to your preferences.
Somehow, Sony also found a way to enhance the already stellar sound profile of the M4, though the improvement is mostly only noticeable in the finer details of songs. There’s more depth, so everything sounds more immersive, but the overall audio has better clarity too. This brings the texture of an acoustic guitar or the intricacies of Jake White’s trademark guitar sounds to your ears in a novel manner. The headphones also offer plenty of bass, but provide only the oomph when needed and not a drop more.
ProsSupreme comfortGreat soundPowerful ANC30-hour battery lifeConsMore expensive than the M4Occasional audio issues on macOS$349 at GrouponExplore More Buying Options$398 at Amazon$350 at Sony ElectronicsPhoto by Billy Steele / Engadget
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Best noise-canceling headphones – runner up
Connectivity: Bluetooth | ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 24 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Bose’s unique take on spatial audio may be the headline feature on its QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, but the company didn’t overlook ANC on this model. Described as “the quietest quiet” available on any of its headphones yet, the ANC here is noticeably better than the Bose 700 and iconic QuietComfort Headphones. This is due in part to microphone enhancements that also improve call quality. The changes are especially apparent when dealing with the hard-to-combat frequency range of people talking. The company also offers presets that mix ANC, transparency mode and its spatial Immersive Audio, allowing you to quickly switch the sound to match your surroundings.
While the spatial sound feature is a bit of a mixed bag, the stock tuning on the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is still good – even before you switch on Immersive Audio. Bose has generally lagged the competition in terms of sonic prowess, but these headphones show that gap is narrowing. There’s a dash more bass to enhance a default sound profile that’s warmer, clearer and more inviting than previous Bose models. When Immersive Audio hits, it’s amazing. But, the company is relying on signal processing rather than specially crafted content so the results vary.
ProsExcellent ANCImproved audioClearer transparency modeComfyConsExpensiveImmersive Audio is inconsistentNo USB-C audio$379 at AdoramaExplore More Buying Options$379 at Amazon$429 at VerizonPhoto by Billy Steele / Engadget
Sony WH-CH720N
Best budget noise-canceling headphones
Connectivity: Bluetooth | ANC type: Hybrid | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 35 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Sony WH-CH720N
The WH-CH720N won’t win any design awards, but what you get for the price is well worth some aesthetic sacrifices. Due to their all-plastic construction, the CH720N are super lightweight and comfy, allowing you to wear them for hours at a time. The ANC isn’t as robust as that on more expensive headphones, but it’s above average for products in this price range. Toss in customizability and a handy transparency mode, and you’ve got a solid device that costs only $150 — and regularly goes for around $100.
In addition to decent noise blocking for a small investment, the CH720N has 35-hour battery life, physical controls, DSEE upscaling and Sony’s 360 Reality Audio. You can also adjust both the EQ and the level of ambient sound. Plus, the company’s ever-present Adaptive Sound Control can automatically switch the sound settings based on your activity or location. Last but not least, the overall sound quality is really impressive for headphones at this price. There’s plenty of detail and subtlety in the audio; you can really hear the gritty texture of distorted guitars and near-pristine acoustic instruments.
ProsAffordably pricedLightweight and comfyGreat sound qualitySome handy featuresConsANC struggles in certain environmentsLots of plasticNo automatic pausingAdvanced features reserved for pricier models$150 at AmazonPhoto by Billy Steele / Engadget
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Best battery life
Connectivity: Bluetooth | ANC type: Hybrid Adaptive | Customizable ANC: Yes | Max battery life with ANC: 60 hours | Transparency mode: Yes
Read our full review of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Sure, there are headphones that will last longer than Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 Wireless, but they don’t offer the combo of battery life, ANC and sound quality you’ll find here. On this model, the company made big improvements to its active noise cancellation, catching up to rivals like Bose and Sony. Specifically, the ANC on the Momentum 4 handles constant distractions more effectively than previous models in the series.
I don’t care for the design Sennheiser introduced on the Momentum 4 as the company ditched what was a quite novel look for something much more generic and plastic. However, the change comes with the bonus of increased comfort. You’ll also get excellent sound quality, in fact, it’s some of the best you’ll find in wireless headphones. There’s noticeable depth to the audio profile with a wide soundstage that complements all genres. You might even discover finer details you previously missed. And, of course, the 60-hour battery life with ANC on is double what a lot of flagship headphones offer these days.
ProsImpressive 60-hour battery lifeBetter ANC performanceGreat sound qualityImproved comfortConsPinch gesture feels unnecessaryStandout design is goneAuto on/off needs work$299 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$300 at Macy’s$380 at Adorama
The post The best noise-canceling headphones for 2024 appeared first on Best News.
]]>The post The best gifts for grads under $50 appeared first on Best News.
]]> Quick Overview
Anker 30W Power Bank USB-C Charger Block
8BitDo Pro 2
$50 at Amazon$80 at NeweggSee more options
Chipolo ONE
Cosori Stainless Steel Electric Kettle
Cartman 39 Piece Tool Set
Quicken Simplifi subscription
$48/year at Quicken
Peak Design Packable Tote
$20 at Adorama$20 at Amazon$20 at Best BuySee more options
Yeti Rambler 35 oz Tumbler
$42 at Amazon$42 at DICK’S Sporting Goods$42 at L.L.BeanSee more options
1Password subscription
Anker 511 30W GaN Nano 3 Charger
$20 at Amazon$23 at NeweggSee more options
Paramount+ eGift Card
$25 at Walmart$25 at NeweggSee more options
Blink Mini 2
$30 at Kohl’s$30 at Amazon$40 at Lowe’sSee more options
Lyft gift card
Repel Travel Umbrella
Lodge 15-Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet
$50 at Walmart$50 at Wayfair$50 at AmazonSee more options
Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer
Anker 30W Power Bank USB-C Charger Block
One of Anker’s latest 5,000mAh portable chargers builds upon others we’ve recommended in the past with a digital screen and a built-in USB-C cable. New grads will not only love its compact size and flip-up AC prongs, but also its digital screen that shows them how much juice is left in the power bank while it’s reviving their dead smartphone. The built-in charging cable means they don’t have to remember to bring their own when they’re rushing out the door at the start of a long day, and the ability to use the power bank as a plugged-in, 30W charger means that they could even use it to power up their tablet or laptop, too. This is a practical gift that will likely live in your giftee’s backpack or handbag, and it won’t break the bank for you.
$40 at Amazon8Bitdo
8BitDo Pro 2
We’ve been fans of 8Bitdo’s affordable, multi-platform controllers for quite some time, and the $50 Pro 2 is no exception. You can use it with the Nintendo Switch and on Windows, macOS, Android and Raspberry Pi, and you’re able to map functions to buttons using its companion smartphone app. The Pro 2 also adds new bumper buttons under each arm, something the previous version did not have. In general, 8Bitdo’s controllers are more ergonomic than, say, relying on a keyboard and mouse when playing PC games. They’re also a dramatic improvement over the Switch’s Joy-Cons which, if we’re honest, aren’t the most comfortable controllers to use for long stretches of time. The Pro 2 charges up via USB-C, but you can also remove the battery pack and replace it with AA batteries if you know you won’t be able to charge up frequently.
$50 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$80 at NeweggChipolo
Chipolo ONE
Help your grad keep track of their things by getting them a gadget like the Chipolo One. This Bluetooth tracker is one of our favorites because its separation alerts are top-notch. What that means in practice is if your grad leaves their keys or wallet with the One attached to it somewhere, say at a coffee shop, they’ll get a notification to their phone quickly after they leave, telling them they left something behind. Chipolo’s tech will even give you directions via your maps app to the precise location of your lost stuff, in the event that you miss the original notification. The Chipolo One is also a good pick for anyone, really, since it works on iPhones and Android devices.
$25 at AmazonCOSORI
Cosori Stainless Steel Electric Kettle
Multitaskers are crucial in the kitchen, especially when you’re fighting with your countertops for space. One of the best kitchen gadgets with many uses is an electric kettle, and you don’t have to spend a ton to get a decent one. Cosori makes a few good models, including this stainless steel one that comes in at only $40. It has a six-cup capacity and claims it can boil water in less than three minutes, which means new graduates won’t have to wait long to make a cup of coffee or tea, cook some ramen noodles or get broth ready for soup. We also like that it has an automatic shutoff safety feature that powers down the machine 30 seconds after water comes to rolling boil.
$40 at Amazon
Cartman 39 Piece Tool Set
I received this Cartman 39-piece tool set right after college when I moved into my first apartment, and now, over 10 years later, it’s still with me in my home’s garage. I put this thing and all its contents through the ringer hanging pictures, putting together Ikea furniture, changing light fixtures and even repairing a broken door lock late on a Saturday night. It includes all of the essentials one would need to do what I listed above, and much more, without much hassle: a measuring tape, hammer, screwdriver with 20 different bits, pairs of pliers and scissors and more. The plastic case that comes with all of the pieces has spaces designed to fit each tool and, while it’s a little flimsy, mine lasted a number of years before I accidentally broke the handle (totally my fault, too). The fact that it comes in a few different accent colors is icing on the cake; my “pink toolset” was a running joke in my family for a long time, but we were always laughing with the tools rather than at them because I used them so much. This is one of those gifts for graduates that isn’t flashy, but it’s necessary — and they will thank you for it.
$23 at AmazonQuicken
Quicken Simplifi subscription
Money management will be more important than ever before for recent graduates, and Quicken’s Simplifi budgeting app can help them get a handle on their finances. It’s our current favorite budgeting app and the one we recommended most Mint users switch to once that service was shut down earlier this year. We like Simplifi’s clean interface and general ease of use: it’s a relatively painless process to connect all of your accounts, including ones with Fidelity, and the app then shows you things like recent spending, upcoming recurring payments, top spending categories, a snapshot of your current spending plan and more. The app does a fine job of categorizing transactions as well, and your grad can do things like label certain transactions like their monthly phone bill as recurring. And you may gift them a subscription to start, but the standard $48-per-year pricing will hopefully be affordable enough for your giftee to continue paying for it in the future, if they find it useful.
$48/year at Quicken
Peak Design Packable Tote
Regardless of whether your grad rides public transit to work, drives a car everywhere or lives within walking distance of all the essentials, a reusable bag will be a necessity for them. This one from Peak Design is especially handy because it has a zip closure, something many other reusable totes don’t have, an interior pocket that fits most smartphones and a single-strap design that’s easy to carry by hand or over the shoulder. It’s made of ripstop nylon as well, so it will hold up to even their heaviest of grocery runs. And when they don’t need it, it packs down into itself in a shape that’s only slightly larger than a deck of cards. That means they can toss it in their bag or trunk and never leave home without it.
$20 at AdoramaExplore More Buying Options$20 at Amazon$20 at Best Buy
Yeti Rambler 35 oz Tumbler
Nothing against Stanley cups, but there are other options out there. We’re partial to Yetis for their classic, dishwasher-safe design, vacuum insulation and bold colors. If you know your grad has trouble staying hydrated during busy days, consider gifting them a 35-ounce Yeti Rambler straw mug. It has a handle for easy carrying across their office or downstairs to the living room if they work from home, and its lid-and-straw combo feels pretty sturdy and secure, despite not being leakproof. The straw also has a handy stopper at one end so it won’t entirely fall out of the cup if it takes a fall. You’ll likely find your giftee’s favorite color amongst the choices, which range from pastels like pink and purple to classics like red and white. And if you order directly from Yeti, you can customize the Rambler with their name, monogram, zodiac sign and more.
$42 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$42 at DICK’S Sporting Goods$42 at L.L.Bean1Password
1Password subscription
If your giftee thought they had a lot of logins to keep track of in school, just wait until they get into the workplace. A password manager will be a must-have, and you can easily give them a 1Password digital gift card so they have no excuse not to use one. Our favorite password manager is easy to use, even for those who have never had a password manager before, and it provides top-notch security. It uses industry standard encryption, a “secret key” that only your giftee knows along with their one password to keep all of their other information safe. In addition to login credentials, new graduates can keep other information like credit card numbers, banking information and sensitive notes in their 1Password vaults for safekeeping — and they can easily access it all on their phone or laptop whenever they need. At minimum, it’s much more secure than a tattered sticky note for keep tracking of their most important passwords. At best, it could be a crucial service that your grad decides to keep paying for long after they’ve used up their gift card.
$25+ at 1Password
Anker 511 30W GaN Nano 3 Charger
Charging gear makes for great stocking stuffers, even during this time of the year sans-stockings. Tech like Anker’s 30W GaN USB-C charger will be welcomed gifts for anybody, but the graduate in your life will particularly appreciate them. This adapter provides a maximum power output of 30W, which will be more than enough to fast-charge the latest smartphones and provide enough power to juice up a tablet and some laptops. While multi-port chargers are handy, sometimes the simplicity of a single USB-C accessory like this one is preferred. Not only is it smaller and lighter than other 30W chargers, but its dual prongs flip down to reduce its overall size even further. Complete the package by pairing the adapter with a USB-C cable and your grad will never have to worry about running out of battery again.
$20 at AmazonExplore More Buying Options$23 at Newegg
Paramount+ eGift Card
One of the best gifts you can give a new graduate, or anyone really, is covering something they pay for regularly like a streaming service. Paramount+ is a great option in general because you can readily find gift cards for the service online, and an ad-supported subscription only costs $6 per month. Gifting them a $25 gift card will allow them full access for four months, which is more time than you’d get with other streaming services for the same amount of money. Paramount+ has a ton of content for them to watch too, including movies like the Mean Girls remake and Good Burger 2, plus dozens of TV shows including Star Trek: Discovery, The Twilight Zone and the Halo adaptation. There’s also a generous selection of live sports, including Serie A, UEFA Champions League and Europa League soccer.
$25 at WalmartExplore More Buying Options$25 at Newegg
Blink Mini 2
New graduates moving out into a new apartment will feel a certain peace of mind knowing they can keep an eye on their abode while they’re out all day. That’s especially true for any that have pets patiently waiting for them at home. A Blink Mini security camera has all of the features they’d need to check in every once in a while, and it’s footprint is so small that they’ll easily be able to find a place for it. The camera will record 1080p video when it senses motion, and it’ll send an alert to your grad’s phone so they can view the footage. It also supports two-way audio, so they can comfort their furry friends with their voices as needed. And while Blink does have a subscription plan that lets you store video clips to the cloud, it’s not necessary if you’re just using the camera as a second pair of eyes. Plus, you can download any video clips you want to save to your phone for safe keeping.
$30 at Kohl’sExplore More Buying Options$30 at Amazon$40 at Lowe’sLyft
Lyft gift card
You may not want to think about all the nights your grad has been out until 4am, but it’s likely they’ve clocked a few of those by now. Giving them an easy way to get home in the form of a gift card will not only be a welcomed convenience, but also a safety measure. Hopping in a Lyft or an Uber as soon as they’ve made the decision to bounce will make it so they don’t have to wait for public transit that may not arrive on time (or at all), or beg a friend of a friend for a ride. Not to mention, they’ll feel a huge sense of relief knowing that, the next time they go out, their ride home is already taken care of.
$25+ at WalmartRepel Umbrella
Repel Travel Umbrella
Hear us out — a good umbrella is an unexpected yet invaluable gift. Few things are worse than getting stuck in a downpour on your way to work, especially if you use public transit to get there. Repel’s windproof travel umbrella is just the right size — not too big or too small at 11.5 inches in length — and its nine reinforced fiberglass ribs prevent it from being blown inside-out easily. We also like its single-button design, allowing you to open or close it with one hand. Repel’s umbrella is one of those practical gifts that your grad will be glad to have at the most crucial times, and they’ll save money in the long run by not needing to buy a new, cheap umbrella every time the skies open up.
$27 at Amazon
Lodge 15-Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet
A good cast iron skillet like this one from Lodge will be a versatile addition to any new graduate’s kitchen. We’re sure there are more ramen-fueled busy days ahead for your giftee, but they can and should start to learn to cook for themselves if they haven’t already. With its ability to sear, sauté and braise, and go from the stovetop to the oven to the grill, a cast iron skillet could be the main pan they use to cook a meal from start to finish. Whether they’re trying out a new salmon fillet recipe or making a side dish of cornbread to bring to a potluck, this Lodge skillet will serve them well. It’s pre-seasoned and will get even better over time as they cook with it, and cast iron cookware in general is great at holding onto heat so it will keep their food warmer for longer once it’s done. Just make sure they know that cast iron and dishwashers don’t mix; this one will require hand washing.
$50 at WalmartExplore More Buying Options$50 at Wayfair$50 at AmazonInstant Pot
Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer
While technically priced at more than $50, we wanted to include the Instant Vortex Mini with the other gift ideas here in part because it’s often on sale for around $45. Also, it’s a powerful little air fryer that any new graduate should be able to fit into even the most cramped of kitchen setups. It has an easy to use touchscreen with a few different cooking modes, but we expect most graduates will use it to cook snacks like mozzarella sticks and reheat leftovers to crispy perfection. We recommend checking out our air fryer guide if you want to give them something a little bigger that can cook more food at once — but if you’re only looking out for your grad and maybe their partner or favorite roommate, the Instant Vortex Mini will feed them well.
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