Best kitchen upgrade		Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer with Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity		SEE IT	Let this Bluetooth monitor do a lot of the work while cooking at the grill.
For the aspiring drone enthusiast		DJI Mini 2 SE		SEE IT	Get sky pics without breaking FAA rules.
Best watch		Citizen Men's Star Wars Eco-Drive with Stainless Steel Bracelet		SEE IT	Encourage your dad’s nerdy tendencies (just the good ones) with this Star Wars-themed timepiece.

There are plenty of reasons to celebrate dads, or granddads, this Father’s Day: Where would the field of meteorology stand without dads looking out the window, putting their hands on their hips, and exclaiming, “Sure is coming down hard” whenever it rains or snows? Who else pours hours into creating a pristine, luxurious lawn or beefing with the neighbors over tree limbs and property lines? Without dads, society would not have an encyclopedias-worth of corny jokes and a reason to go to therapy. Truly tasteless jokes and trauma aside, here are our recommendations for gifts to make his life easier, light up his face with a smile, or both. 

• Best for the outdoorsy dad: Rux Waterproof Bag
• Best for the device dad: Austere Surge Protector
• Best for the dad that loves to cook: Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer
• Best for the coffee-loving dad: Bruvi Bundle
• Best for the stressed-out dad: Onyx + Rose Feelin’ Good Gummies
• Best for beardy dads: Bevel Beard Trimmer for Men
• Best for the WFH dad: Lillipad 42 Standing Desk
• Best for movie-loving dads: Dangbei Mars Pro 4K Projector
• Best for vinyl-loving dads: Victrola Stream Onyx Turntable
• Best for pizza-loving dads: Ooni Koda 12
• Best for dads with good taste: Terra Delyssa Organic Virgin Olive Oil Gift Set
• Best for stylish dads: Highland Duds Weekender Short
• Best for dads who want to clean up their act: Tineco Pure ONE S11
• Best for gamer dads: Nintendo Switch OLED Model
• Best for handy dads: DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Hammer Drill
• Best for dads who need an everyday carry: Gerber Gear Armbar Slim Drive
• Best for dads with a green thumb: Gardyn 2.0
• Best for dads who just want a new TV: Samsung QN77S95CAFXZA
• Best for dads who crave perfect sound: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best for dads who grill: Konnected Joe
• Best for dads who love breakfast: Cuisinart WAF-F40 Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker
• Best for dads who tailgate: RTIC 52 Quart Ultra-Light Wheeled Hard Cooler
• Best for dads who love the beach: Sunflow Beach Bundle
• Best for the dad who is tired of mowing the yard: Husqvarna Automower 415X Robotic Lawn Mower
• Best for dad relaxing in the backyard: Solo Stove Mesa
• Best for dad working from the backyard: Netgear Orbi 960 Black Edition
• Best for the aspiring drone enthusiast: DJI Mini 2 SE
• Best for the fanboy dad: Citizen Men’s Star Wars Eco-Drive with Stainless Steel Bracelet
• Best to help dad’s short game: Callaway Golf Chrome Soft Golf Balls

How to shop for the best Father’s Day gifts

Mark your calendars: Father’s Day 2023 is Sunday, June 18. And before the big day comes, you’ll want to ensure you’ve secured a great Father’s Day present. But never fear; there’s something for everyone. You can help fuel your dad’s current interests or get him a gift that sparks a new one. Here are our picks for some of the best Father’s Day gifts:

For the outdoorsy dad: Rux Waterproof Bag

Rux

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From hitting the waves to hitting the slopes, outdoorsy dads need something that will carry all of their (for lack of a better term) crap. Other bags and backpacks crumble when stuffed with hiking shoes, an insulated water bottle, and a few beers—not the Rux Waterproof Bag. This packable, durable bag is waterproof (as the name suggests) and built to last, and comes with a lifetime warranty if it falters before that. It’s seamless, radio frequency-welded (read: made with magnets), and has 360-degree lash points that make it attachable to almost everything. It also rocks as a grocery bag—score! 

For serious power: Austere Surge Protector

AUSTERE

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If your pops is a Device Dad (he has a tablet, a laptop, a cellphone, a smartwatch, and a charger, and that’s just the beginning), they’ll need a surge protector that can handle all those plugs and power. Enter the Austere Surge Protector, which has fire and power spike safety—you never know! The flexible cable helps the surge protector fit nicely into tight spaces. It also has two USB-A and three USB-C ports for even more flexibility. Plus, it has a lifetime guarantee and a five-year component guarantee: If the power strip is responsible for any damage to a plugged-in device, Austere will replace it regardless of value. 

Best kitchen upgrade: Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer

Yummly

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Regardless of whether your dad is getting into Keto or is a strict pescatarian, a meat thermometer is a must-have kitchen device. No one wants to develop a case of food nasties from an undercooked cut of meat in their own home! The Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer requires no wires, thanks to a Bluetooth connection. Dad won’t even need to stand like a hawk over the grill or oven—the thermometer, with a coordinating app for iPhone and Android, sends notifications when it’s time to flip the food, reduce the heat, when it’s done cooking, and how long to let it rest. There are even presets to completely take the guesswork out of getting the perfect medium rare doneness—no “Dirty Work” here. 

For the coffee lover: Bruvi Bundle

Bruvi

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So your dad got a “Don’t talk to me until I’ve had my coffee” mug in Father’s Day past? Give Pops a better coffee system this year with the Bruvi Bundle. The bundle comes with a Bruvi BV-01 coffee brewer, a variety pack of biodegradable 20 B-Pods, a water filter, and a reusable Japanese Knot Bag. The optional mobile app will let Daddio brew a cup of Joe remotely, schedule brews in advance, re-order B-Pods, and access a personal consumption dashboard if they’re super specific about their morning cuppa. It can even fit a 6.5-inch travel mug—we recommend the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Mug on that front. 

For the stressed-out dad: Onyx + Rose Feelin’ Good Gummies

Onyx + Rose

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Does your dad need something a bit stronger than CBD? Have you recently learned they were a grass enthusiast back in the day? The Onyx + Rose Feelin’ Good Gummies use HHC, an isomer (minor chemical variant) of Delta-9 THC (the illegal stuff). This provides a similar head and body high to the federally regulated stuff, all while following federal regulations. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, THCs (tetrahydrocannabinols) in hemp are legal provided they have a THC concentration less than .3%—these gummies meet those requirements. Pass if dad is subject to random drug screening. If they’re not, we’re partial to the peach flavor.  We also love CBD prerolls from aptly named company Dad Grass.

Best for beardy dads: Bevel Beard Trimmer for Men

Bevel

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An electric razor is a gift your dad will actually use every day, and this one from Bevel may actually help encourage him to dedicate a little more time to his morning routine. The razor offers pinpoint precision, so he can get the exact shave he wants, and a grippy handle that makes it easy to hold with wet hands. Its battery lasts up to eight hours, so he can use it for several weeks (or one if he’s very particular about his facial hair) without charging it. This is the type of gift your dad doesn’t know he needs, but will really appreciate.

For the WFH dad: Lillipad 42 Standing Desk

Jen McCaffrey

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Home offices can easily become a mess of monitors, coffee cups, keyboards, and tangled cords. But if the dad in your life would appreciate an organized workspace that also empowers them to get out of their office chair, the Lillipad Work Station fits the bill. This electric desk is available in two versions that rise from 6 inches to either a 42- or 48-inch standing height (recommended for people 5’9” and taller). At 67 pounds and 72 pounds each, and with metal legs, these desks are more substantial than many other options on the market but are designed with wheels for portability. 

Advanced functionality doesn’t equal advanced set-up in this case: The Lillipad comes fully assembled out of the box. Dad can plug it in, unlock the safety lock, and use the buttons on the right corner of the desk to raise and lower it to the ideal height for a chair or standing. The 46-inch-wide workspace provides plenty of room for desktops and keyboards, and you can purchase either a single monitor or dual-monitor stand separately. The workstation also features three outlets, three USB ports, and one USB-C port, so dad can plug everything in and charge their devices. And when he’s done for the day, they can easily lower it back down and use the wheels to slide it away for storage. Add a Grovemade Wool Felt Desk Pad to add some soft style to their workstation.

Best for movie-loving dads: Dangbei Mars Pro 4K Projector

Dangbei

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Movies and TV shows can look great on a TV, but nothing beats watching them on a projector, which offers a true movie theater-like experience. Dangbei’s Mars Pro 4K is among the best we’ve tested, offering exceptional visual clarity, color, and surprisingly good sound. It runs Android, which means dad can stream their favorite media without any additional accessories. That said, the Mars Pro 4K has multiple HDMI ports, making it easy to easily connect game consoles and other peripherals. It’s luxe, but Dangbei’s Mars Pro 4K will ensure they have the best home theater system on the block.

Best for dads who love vinyl: Victrola Stream Onyx Turntable

Victrola

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Does Dad go on and on about how much he wishes he could play his Steely Dan albums while explaining that Pretzel Logic is superior to Can’t Buy A Thrill? If so, let him relive his glory days with Victrola’s Stream Onyx Turntable. The sleek-looking, belt-driven deck has RCA outputs so that it can be connected to a traditional home audio system, but its luxe allure is support for wireless audio streaming to Sonos speakers. The record player even offers the option to play music through multiple sources at the same time. Best of all, the Stream Onyx is easy to assemble and operate, as we found out firsthand, and comes with an Audio Technica AT-VM95E cartridge so he can enjoy his collection immediately.

Best for dads who love pizza: Ooni Koda 12

Ooni

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If dad complains how pies and slices just aren’t how they used to be, Ooni’s Koda 12 will allow him to make them to his exact specifications. This portable pizza oven can get up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit and cook personal-sized pizzas in roughly 60 seconds. Ooni has a wide range of pizza ovens, but we like the Koda 12 because of its size and the fact that its fuel source is gas, which is easier to manage and more reliable than wood or pellets for first time pizzaiolos. Ooni’s oven can also be used to roast meat and vegetables on non-pizza nights. Just remember to get dad a pizza peel and Toque to complete the experience.

Best for dads with good taste: Terra Delyssa Organic Virgin Olive Oil Gift Set

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Has your dad continued to tell food stories from his trip around the Mediterranean right out of college? If so, Terra Delyssa’s flavor-infused olive oil can help take him back to those days. The olives are all harvested from Tunisian orchards rather than mixed with ones from different regions, which can impart a different taste. We like this gift set because each oil is infused with a different strong taste—rosemary, chili pepper, lemon, and garlic—which are all good for different applications. He’ll immediately be able to taste the difference, which means you may also be signing up for even more culinary stories from his past.

Best for stylish dads: Highland Duds Weekender Short

Highland Duds

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Add a little pop of color to your dad’s wardrobe with Highland Duds’ Weekender Shorts. The ultra-comfy summer-friendly short pants are mostly made of cotton and very comfortable to wear. Their slim pockets are surprisingly roomy, too. Highland Duds offers the shorts in khaki and grey if he’s less flashy. Help him complete an outfit with the Maverick Long Sleeve Shirt, made from the same materials.

Best for dads who want to clean up their act: Tineco Pure ONE S11

Tineco

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If dad wants to take a more active role in household chores—or has been using the same vacuum since the mid-’90s—Tineco’s Pure One S11 is the upgrade he needs. The cordless stick vacuum can run up to 40 minutes per charge, and comes with various attachments for different scenarios. At 12 pounds, it’ll be easy for your dad to pick up and move around, and all of its controls are conveniently located within reach of his thumb. If dad enjoys his gadgets, he’ll enjoy the fact that the Pure One S11 can be connected to your home’s Wi-Fi connection, allowing him to see how much battery is left on the vacuum and the state of its filter through an iOS or Android app.

Best for gamer dads: Nintendo Switch OLED Model

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The Nintendo Switch is the least-powerful current-generation console, but it’s still the one we recommend for Father’s Day because of its hybrid design. The Switch can be played portably, and the 7-inch OLED HD screen really makes games pop. When dad’s home, they can connect it to a TV or projector to play on a larger screen. The Switch’s extreme popularity is matched only by its deep catalog of games, which can satisfy players regardless of their preferred genre. Whether Pops is playing games as a distraction on a long work trip or taking time to clear his backlog at home, there’s no way this gift will go unappreciated.

Best for handy dads: DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Hammer Drill

Dewalt

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A drill is the type of gift a handy person will appreciate but never expect. This battery-powered model from DeWalt has a compact design but plenty of power for any indoor or outdoor housework. At only 2.5 pounds, a home improvement-minded dad can carry it around easily, and the drill’s LED will make it easy for them to see what he’s doing in dark environments. Despite its size, the drill can rotate up to 1,650 times per minute. A good drill will last a dad a lifetime, and if they’re still making do with a screwdriver—or a drill that needs to be plugged into an outlet for power—this upgrade will make him smile.

Best for dads who need an everyday carry: Gerber Gear Armbar Slim Drive

Gerber

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Power tools are great, but dad won’t be able to use them everywhere, which is why you should equip him with Gerber’s Armbar Slim. The pocket-friendly multi tool consists of a bottle opener, plain-edge blade, and a screwdriver. It even has a belt clip, so he can keep it securely fastened to the inside of his pants pocket like a boss. If your dad is the practical type, he’ll immediately see the utility of each of this tool’s functions, and keep it on him at all times. The screwdriver alone (with a reversible bit, we might add), will likely save him a couple of trips to the garage each month.

Best for dads with a green thumb: Gardyn 2.0

Gardyn

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Does dear old dad wait all year for the weather to be fair enough to grow a garden? With the Gardyn 2.0, they can enjoy growing fresh herbs and vegetables all year long. The indoor garden comes with an assortment of pods containing plant seeds. A water tank on the bottom keeps the plants hydrated, while LED strips provide them with enough light to flourish regardless of the weather conditions. The lights and water pump work automatically so that the plants will be cared for on a continuous basis without any need for much intervention. Dad will have to prune dead leaves and harvest their crops after they’re fully grown, but that’s part of the fun.

Best for dads who grill: Konnected Joe

Kamado Joe

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The Konnected Joe is the ultimate tool for grilling, an incredibly thoughtful gift for a dad who loves cooking meat and vegetables outdoors. The charcoal grill and smoker offer rich taste that a gas grill can’t replicate, with useful smart features. Its front display allows you to monitor the grill’s temperature and the temperature of up to three pieces of meat. An electric fire starter at the bottom of the grill will ignite charcoal briquettes at the push of a button, and they’ll be able to dial in the temperature between 250-700 degrees right from the grill. All of the information displayed on the Konnected Joe’s screen can also be monitored via an app (iOS and Android) on your dad’s phone, which is especially helpful if they’re smoking a large hunk of meat for several hours. The Konnected Joe manages to bring the best aspects of charcoal cooking with the conveniences of the digital world, and we guarantee they’ll be raving to friends and family about it at each cookout.

Best for dads who just want a new TV: Samsung QN77S95CAFXZA

Samsung

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Sometimes dad just wants a new TV to watch his favorite shows and movies—spoil him rotten with Samsung’s QN77S95CAFXZA, a 77-inch OLED set. This is a no-compromise cream-of-the-crop 4K TV with built-in Dolby Atmos speakers, native 120hz refresh rate, and a custom-designed Samsung processor that continually calibrates the TV to make it run as smoothly as possible. It’ll even upscale 1080P video to look crisp on a 4K TV, so his collection of Blu Rays and older TV shows will still look good. Because the QN77S95CAFXZA is an OLED TV, it offers incredible contrast and color reproduction, so videos and games will look as realistic as possible.

One quirk about this TV is that it’s actually so thin that it can basically sit flush on the wall. The set gets connected to a separate box (called the One Connect Box), which has an assortment of HDMI ports and other inputs. There’s no performance hit for this system, but something to keep in mind if you’re setting the TV up for him. Whether he wants to play video games, stream movies, or even listen to music in the background, the QN77S95CAFXZA is the best choice.

Best for dads who crave perfect sound: KEF LS50 Wireless II

KEF

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CDs promised perfect sound forever in the 1980s, but KEF made good on that lofty promise decades later with the LS50 Wireless II speakers. The pair of powered speakers sport a variety of connectors, including an AUX in, Ethernet port, coaxial input, optical audio input, and HDMI port. Those physical ports are complemented by Bluetooth and AirPlay 2 support for direct wireless streaming. KEF says that the LS50 Wireless IIs’ DAC can natively play 24-bit 384kHz audio files with no compression. Each speaker is driven by a 280 watt low frequency amplifier and 100 att high frequency amplifier. If those numbers don’t mean much to you, here’s the upshot: music can sound really, really good and very, very loud through these speakers. If your father loves music more than most people (family excluded, of course), these speakers will rock (or jazz, R&B, hip hop, classicial, reggae, and pop) his world.

Best for dads who love breakfast: Cuisinart WAF-F40 Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker

Cuisinart

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Breakfast is considered by many to be the most important meal of the day, and Cuisinart’s WAF-F40 will turn waffles from an occasional brunch food at restaurants into an at-home staple. This model can cook two-inch-thick Belgian waffles simultaneously at one of five pre-set doneness levels. If the cook gets distracted, a loud beep will get his attention, so waffles will never get overdone. Getting two waffles onto a plate at once will allow dad (and you!) to start eating more quickly.

Best robot mower: Husqvarna Automower 415X Robotic Lawn Mower

Husqvarna

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Robotic lawnmowers seem like a perfect gift for a lazy pop. But, there are more practical reasons you might want to consider an automower as a gift this Father’s Day. Husqvarna’s surprisingly powerful little mower is great for people who have issues with mobility and can’t get out there to mow on their own. It’s also great for tricky yards as it can cut up to 40 degrees on a slope. If you’ve ever mowed on a steep hill like that, you know it’s not fun. It requires the installation of a guide wire to keep it contained within its own yard, but following setup, mowing is simple. A trio of extremely sharp blades can cut grass as short as 0.8 inches or as long as two inches if you want something more lush. Plus, an onboard object avoidance system means your dad (or grandad) won’t run over a rock and cause collateral damage.

Best for dads who tailgate: RTIC 52 Quart Ultra-Light Wheeled Hard Cooler

RTIC

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A wheeled hard cooler will help your old man get beverages to and from the parking lot, backyard, or beach without straining his arms or back. We like this cooler from RTIC because of its large capacity, thick wheels, lite weight, and overall performance. RTIC says it can retain ice for up to six days if its latches remain closed, which means he can use it for a backyard cookout on Sunday and keep drinks cold for a concert he’s attending the following Saturday. Another benefit to getting a cooler is that it’ll likely last a lifetime, so get ready for many compliments. We like the classic look of RTIC’s white cooler, but it also offers a red, white, and blue variant if he wants to stand out.

For dads who love the beach: Sunflow Beach Bundle

Sunflow

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Whether your dad actually likes the beach or only goes because the rest of the family insists he’ll have a good time out of the house, this bundle from Sunflow will sort him out. It includes the company’s beach chair, which has a flip-over top to keep him in the shade, and a beverage cooler on the side to help keep his thirst quenched. The chair’s angle can be adjusted, so he can find the most comfortable spot, and a dry bag on the right side will keep his belongings from getting sandy. When heading back to the car or beach house, a pair of straps will allow dad to carry this beach chair like a backpack for easy transport.

Best outdoor accessory: Solo Stove Mesa

Solo Stove

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We’re huge fans of the full-sized Solo Stove fire pits, but this mini version fits nicely on a patio table or by the pool. Despite its tiny size, the Mesa relies on Solo Stove’s signature airflow system to create a clean fire with almost no smoke. It starts quickly and cleans up easily, so you can fire it up and make s’mores whenever you want without having to wait for a full-sized fire to die down at the end of the night. Solo even sells miniature firewood specifically meant for use in the Mesa. It’s adorable, but not too adorable. 

Work from the backyard: Netgear Orbi 960 Black Edition

NetGear

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Give your dad a chance to brag about their router. Netgear’s Orbi 960 Mesh Wi-Fi kit can cover up to 9,000 square feet with super-fast connectivity up to 10.8Gbps. That means anyone and everyone can take meetings or stream content in the backyard, front yard, basement, or just about anywhere else he can think of. Wi-Fi 6E technology and Netgear’s quad-band design allow for an absurd number of devices to connect to your local network without bogging everything down. The Black Edition is only available directly through Netgear’s own online shop, which also gets you a free year of the Netgear Armor security tech. It’s advanced enough to do anything a dad needs and reliable enough that you won’t have to play tech support whenever you go to their house.

For the aspiring drone enthusiasts: DJI Mini 2 SE

DJI

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Getting started with drones can be tricky. Not only are they hard to fly, but most drones require registering with the FAA before taking to the skies. The DJI Mini 2 SE is different. It weighs just 249 grams, which fits conveniently under the FAA’s 250-gram limit for registration. Despite its being lightweight and a small size, the Mini 2 SE captures 2.7K video and employs an object avoidance system to keep it away from power lines or other hazardous obstacles.

Best watch: Citizen Men’s Star Wars Eco-Drive with Stainless Steel Bracelet

Citizen

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Your dad’s a nerd, and that’s OK. In fact, we recommend you encourage their nerdy tendencies as much as possible. This Citizen watch is a full-on Eco-Drive model, so it doesn’t require winding. It draws enough energy from light in its environment to keep on ticking. The handsome stainless steel bracelet makes it totally appropriate for work or classy events. But, your pop can always look down and think about Star Wars while they’re wearing it. Find a more versatile piece of nerd merch than that. We dare you. 

To help your dad’s short game: Callaway Golf Chrome Soft Golf Balls

Callaway

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Golf balls make a great gift because it’s hard to splurge on something you might whack way into the woods or chunk straight into a water hazard. Callaway’s Chrome Soft golf balls are versions of the balls pros play on tour—they won’t have to be a pro to play them. These balls promise a high launch angle, low spin off the driver, and high ball speed off the club face. In case you’re not big on golf ball specifics, those are all very helpful things for improving overall scores. The Triple Track design sports three parallel lines on the ball to help Pops lineup shots just right. Dad will think of you and your great gift as they reach into their bag and grab another ball after slicing one across the highway next to the first fairway. 

Final thoughts on the best Father’s Day gifts

You don’t need to sweat over finding a cool gift for your dad this year. If you get him a Father’s Day gift that he’ll be able to use long-term—or, even better, something he can use with the whole family—it’ll be something he treasures. Consider it a success if you find fun presents that complement one of his hobbies or unique gifts that spark interest in a new pastime. And using this gift guide should help narrow down the best options for cool gifts for any and every dad.

The post The best Father’s Day gifts that say, “Thanks, Dad!” appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Celestron Inspire 100AZ		SEE IT	This lightweight telescope is also easy to assemble and comes with a carrying case.
Best for travel		Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope		SEE IT	This telescope lets kids take pictures with their phones and is great for camping.
Best budget		MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope		SEE IT	Comes with a moon filter and maps of the moon and stars—at a wallet-friendly price.

While trips to the Moon may not be commonplace yet, you can foster curiosity about the universe by letting kids see the lunar surface and the rings of Saturn up close with a telescope for kids. It’s one thing to learn about the Moon in school, and it’s another thing to see it up close. The best telescopes for kids are designed for amateur astronomers, and can provide night after night of out-of-this-world entertainment.

• Best overall: Celestron Inspire 100AZ
• Best for young kids: Celestron FirstScope 76 Tablestop Telescope 
• Best for older kids: Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope
• Best for travel: Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope
• Best for smartphone photography: POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope
• Best budget: MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope

How we chose the best telescopes for kids

Popular Science covers the latest developments in astronomy, from stunning images from the James Webb Space Telescope’s discovery of its first exoplanet to meteor showers you can see from your backyard. Telescopes are a great way to help kids explore the galaxy and see the planets up close. But they can also be complicated instruments with many moving parts for the uninitiated.

In compiling our list of recommendations for the best telescopes for kids, we considered models from trusted brands like Celestron, optical quality and magnification, ease of set up and use, supplemental educational tools that explain what to look for in the night sky, durability, and portability. We also weighed user reviews, what kids look for at different ages, and prices.

The best telescopes for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

Looking for a telescope for the first time can be a daunting experience. Many of the considerations are the same finding telescopes for adults. Figuring out what type of telescope is best for your needs, what aperture you should look for, and the relationship between focal length and magnification are all important factors to consider. The best telescopes for kids should also be durable and easy to use. We break down what you should look for and our picks so you can compare telescopes and find the best option for your family.

Best overall: Celestron Inspire 100AZ

Celestron

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Specs

• Weight: 12.4 pounds
• Eyepieces: 10mm and 20mm
• Aperture: 100mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• Good for both stargazing and birdwatching
• Wide aperture for better focus
• Comes with smartphone adapter
• Plenty of training resources

Cons

• Some users say the build quality is not great

Celestron has been making telescopes for nearly 60 years. Its Inspire AZ100 is a great tool for older kids (and adults) to start stargazing at night and observing objects on Earth during the day. 

This short refractor telescope is a good telescope for beginners as it’s easy to set up and doesn’t require any special tools. Its short optical tube of 436mm provides a wide field of view, while its higher 100mm aperture allows aspiring astronomers to focus on the planets, moons, and stars. At 12.4 pounds, this telescope is relatively lightweight, and it comes with a tripod that’s easy to adjust. The AZ1000’s alt-az mount allows users to move the telescope up and down and pan left and right. 

The 10mm and 20mm eyepieces increase magnification by 33 times and 66 times, respectively. A finderscope makes it easier for beginning astronomers to spot the surface of the Moon. And your purchase also gives you access to Celestron’s Starry Night software, which teaches kids about what they see in the night sky. This telescope is also equipped with a smartphone adapter that allows kids to capture images of both the planets and wildlife.

Best for young kids: Celestron FirstScope

Celestron

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Specs

• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Eyepieces: 4mm and 20mm
• Aperture: 76mm
• Type: Dobsonian/Newtonian

Pros

• Easy to use
• Portable
• Less expensive

Cons

• Small aperture

Designed for kids from ages 4 to 8, Celestron’s FirstScope is an ideal introductory telescope. Inspired by Galileo, this telescope features the names of he and other esteemed astronomers through the ages on its optical tube. This telescope comes with 20mm and 4mm eyepieces that result in magnification of 15 times and 75 times, respectively. The FirstScope is also light and easy to transport at 4.5 pounds. Its tabletop design makes it simple to set up on level surfaces outdoors. It’s a good telescope for a 5-year-old kid, and when the child is done stargazing, it looks great on a bookshelf.

Best for older kids: Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope

Celestron

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Specs

• Weight: 16.8 pounds
• Eyepieces: 25mm, 10mm
• Aperture: 125mm
• Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain

Pros

• Works with smartphones and iPads
• WiFi-enabled
• Lens cap doubles as a smartphone adapter

Cons

• Challenging to use if WiFi connection is spotty
• Some users report difficulty focusing

To get kids who are always on their devices interested in the Andromeda Galaxy, consider the Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope. Kids can control the WiFi-enabled telescope using an iPhone, iPad, or Android device and Celestron’s SkyPortal app, making this a good teen telescope. Instead of searching the night sky for planets, teens can use this telescope’s interactive sky map to tap the object they want to see on their screen. Then the telescope will move to find the object and focus upon it.

Set up is easy, and at 16 pounds with an adjustable tripod, this telescope is quite portable. Its two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) provide magnification of 50 times and 125 times, respectively. That power will help kids locate the rings of Saturn, the red spot on Jupiter, the craters on the Moon at night, and wildlife and birds during the day. And the lens cap doubles as a smartphone adapter so that kids can show off images of their cosmic and terrestrial explorations.

Best for travel: Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope

Gskyer

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Specs

• Weight: 5.73 pounds
• Magnification: 25mm, 10mm
• Aperture: 70mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• Lightweight
• Strong magnification
• Comes with smartphone adapter

Cons

• Some users say its poorly made
• May not locate celestial objects as well as other telescopes

This beginner’s telescope from Gskyer is designed for portability. This compact model weighs just under 6 pounds and comes with a travel case and an adjustable tripod so kids can take it on the go. The magnification power of the two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) increase magnification by 16 times and 40 times, respectively, which can then be tripled using the included 3x Barlow lens. The Gskyer also comes with a smartphone eyepiece adapter so your kids can take photos of their discoveries, making it a solid telescope for 10-year-olds and other kids around that age.

Best for smartphone photography: POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope

Celestron

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EDITOR’S NOTE: Popular Science has teamed up with Celestron on a line of products. The decision to include this model in our recommendations was made by our reviewer independently of that relationship, but we do earn a commission on its sales—all of which helps power Popular Science.

Specs

• Weight: 10 pounds 
• Magnification: 20mm and 10mm
• Aperture: 70mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• High-quality optics
• Can operate it remotely
• Comes with educational software

Cons

• Some users said components arrived broken

If your kid is a budding photographer who’s looking to capture images of the planets, the AstroMaster 80mm is a great option.  A collaboration between Celestron and Popular Science, this telescope combines high-quality optics, including an 80mm objective lens, with a smartphone adapter that allows users to take photos and videos of the Moon, planets, and birds through the eyepiece. This refractor model comes with two eyepieces (20mm and 10mm) and a Barlow lens that doubles its magnification power. It also features an erect image diagonal that allows you to use it to spot wildlife and other terrestrial objects during the day. 

This telescope allows you to connect via Bluetooth and control the shutter release remotely on both iOS and Android phones. It’s also easy to assemble and super portable at 10 pounds. And kids can get a primer on the night sky with Celestron’s Starry Night Astronomy software, which provides sky maps and details about thousands of celestial objects.

Best budget: MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope

MaxUSee

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Specs

• Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Eyepieces: 20mm, 12.5mm, 6mm
• Aperture: 40mm
• Type: Refractor

Pros

• Lightweight
• Inexpensive
• Comes with viewfinder scope

Cons

• Lenses not powerful 
• No connectivity

The maps of the moon and stars are a big hit with kids, and adults will love the price of these budget-friendly telescopes. With easy assembly and included moon filter, the MaxUSee telescope is a good tool to get your child stargazing. That said, its eyepieces are not very powerful and it doesn’t come with a lot of features, so if having a good quality telescope that you can use for years is important, this may not be the best option.

Things to consider before purchasing a telescope for kids

If you’ve purchased cameras before, some terminology around lenses and light will be familiar. While telescopes can be incredibly intricate, when it comes to finding the best telescopes for kids, look for options that are easy to set up and use, durability, and lightweight for easy portability.

Type of telescope

There are three main types of telescope: refracting, reflecting, and catadioptric.

Refractor: These telescopes use both an objective lens and an eyepiece to display an image. Light enters the telescope and is bent or refracted as it travels through the optical tube. The eyepiece then magnifies the light and straightens out the image for the viewer.

Reflector: Reflecting telescopes use mirrors to bring an image into focus. These telescopes typically have a primary mirror opposite the aperture, where light comes into the telescope, and a secondary mirror. The light is reflected from the second mirror toward the eyepiece for the viewer to see the image. 

Catadioptric: These telescopes are designed with both lenses and mirrors to show an image, combining refraction and reflection. One of the categories of this type of telescope is known as Schmidt-Cassegrain.

Focal length, magnification, and aperture

The focal length of a telescope is the distance between where the telescope’s main lens or mirror and where light enters the telescope. It can range between 300 and 4,000 millimeters. The shorter the focal length, the wider the field of view. Conversely, higher focal lengths provide greater magnification to focus on a specific object.

To find out the magnification of a telescope using a specific eyepiece, divide the focal length of the optical tube by the eyepiece.  

Aperture: A telescope’s aperture indicates the diameter of the objective lens or mirror in millimeters. The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can let in, making images brighter and easier to see.

Mounts

The three categories of mounts of telescopes are Altazimuth, Dobsonian, and Equatorial. Alt-az mounts, as they are also known, refer to the horizontal and vertical axes. They allow users to move the telescopes left and right and up and down on a tripod. Dobsonian mounts are a type of alt-az mount that are designed to support heavy telescopes with large apertures. 

Equatorial mounts are used with more sophisticated telescopes. One of their axes aligns with Earth’s rotation axis. These mounts are designed for long-term observation and astrophotography.

Ease of use

When considering what telescope to buy, look for options that will be easy for them to operate. Keep an eye out for models that are easy to set up and come with tripods. Many options are also lightweight and come with a carrying case or backpack for easy portability, such as the Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope.

Age of your child

Kids age 4 to 8 starting stargazing will do well with a tabletop model with simple controls, such as the Celestron FirstScope. Meanwhile, older kids with some experience will appreciate the flexibility of telescopes with smartphone adapters that let them take photos and images of their cosmic finds, or they can use to take photos with their smartphone and the Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope, which they can operate remotely using their smartphone or an iPad.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best telescopes for kids

• Best overall: Celestron Inspire 100AZ
• Best for young kids: Celestron FirstScope 76 Tablestop Telescope 
• Best for older kids: Celestron Astro Fi 102 WiFi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope
• Best for travel: Gskyer 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refractor Telescope
• Best for smartphone photography: POPULAR SCIENCE AstroMaster 80mm – Portable Refractor Telescope
• Best budget: MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope

If you’re looking to give your children an appreciation for the galaxy, these telescopes for kids can help them see the stars and the planets close up. These models are easy to assemble and are designed with features that kids will appreciate, such as the ability to take photos with their phones. You’ll be glad you have one of the best telescopes on hand for the next cosmic event.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best telescopes for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The unofficial kickoff to summer is a great time to get active, indoors or out. The warmer weather invites barbecues and relaxation. So whether you’re training for a race, looking to get out on the water for the first time, or improving your putt, these Memorial Day fitness deals will help you prepare, have fun, and save money while you’re doing it.

Aquaglide Deschutes Inflatable Kayak $543.89 (was $679.99)

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Inflatable kayaks are appealing because they’re generally much easier to transport than traditional models. But you shouldn’t have to sacrifice performance for portability. Aquaglide’s Deschutes Inflatable Kayak provides a solution: It’s both a cinch to toss into your car and includes features that paddlers are looking for. Plus, it’s currently available at its lowest price in months—just in time for the weather and waters to warm up.

This single-person kayak weighs just 18 pounds and fits into an included duffle bag. You’ll need a 12-volt air pump to inflate the three chambers of this open cockpit model, which is not included. Once inflated, this 11-foot kayak is designed with handles for carrying, a cushioned, quick-release seat, and adjustable footrests for a comfortable ride. The package also includes a quick-release fin, cockpit drain, and repair kit should you encounter rough waters. 

More outdoor fitness deals

• Strata Men’s Complete Golf Set $254.15 (was $299.99)
• Intex Challenger Kayak, Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air-Pump $121.44 (was $138.99)
• GT Men’s Aggressor Pro Mountain Bike $299.98 (was $799.98)
• GT Laguna Pro Mountain Bike $299.98  (was $799.98)
• GoSports Golf Putting Green for Indoor & Outdoor Putting Practice $301.68 (was $349.99)
• Airhead Super Mable, 1-3 Rider Towable Tube for Boating $256.99 (was $541.99)
• Skywalker Trampolines Epic Series 15′ Rectangle Trampoline $800 (was $899.99)
• BCAN 40/48″ Foldable Mini Trampoline $105.99 with coupon (was $139.99)
• Franklin Sports Fun 5 Combo Outdoor Game Set $23.75 (was $54.99)
• VSSAL Portable All-in-One Badminton, Pickleball and Kids’ Volleyball Net Set $159.99 with coupon (was $169.99) 
• Seray Basketball Hoop with 4.8-10 Foot Height Adjustable for Kids/Adults $155.99 with coupon (was $189.99)

Best home gym equipment deals

• Bowflex T22 Treadmill $2,499 (was $3,599)
• NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill + 30-Day iFit Membership $2,299 (was $2,499)
• Hydrow Wave Rower $1,695 (was $1,895)
• Sunny Health & Fitness Space Efficient Multi-Function Magnetic Rowing Machine $169.98 (was $329.99)
• RHYTHM FUN Treadmill Folding Treadmill Desk Treadmill $849.15 (was $999)
• UREVO URTM012 3 in 1 Under Desk Walking Treadmill with Removable Desk $399.99 with coupon (was $499.99)
• UREVO URTM013 Walking Pad, 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill with Remote Control, LED Display $299 with coupon (was $389.99)
• Inspire Fitness FT1 Functional Trainer – Compact At Home Workout Machine $2,159.20 (was $2,499)
• FLYBIRD Weight Bench $119.99 (was $239.99)
• Sunny Health & Fitness Evolution Pro Magnetic Belt Drive Indoor Exercise Cycling Bike $720 with coupon (was $849.99)
• Tempo Studio $1,695 (was $2,495)
• Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells $379 (was $549)
• ProsourceFit Slam Medicine Balls $25.19 (was $27.99)
• Bowflex SelectTech Curl Bar $449 (was $749)

Best smartwatch and wearable deals

• Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS + Cellular 45mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case $459 (was $529)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch Pro 5 45mm LTE Smartwatch $429.99 (was $499.99)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 40mm Bluetooth Smartwatch $229.99 (was $279.99)
• Garmin epix Gen 2 $699.99 (was $899.99)
• Garmin Vivoactive 4 $199.99 (was $329.99) 
• Garmin fenix 7 Sapphire Solar Adventure Smartwatch $699.99 (was $899.99)
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) $204.99 (was $299)
• Amazfit Band 5 Activity Fitness Tracker $29.95 (was $39.99)

Best fitness accessories

• iGPSPORT iGS630 Bike Computer $169.99 (was $199.99)
• Hypervolt Go 2 Handheld Percussion Massage Gun $125.99 (was $199)
• TOLOCO Massage Gun, Muscle Massage Gun Deep Tissue for Athletes $39.99 with coupon (was $99.99)
• Everest Mini Hiking Pack, Dark Gray/Black, One Size $13.02 (was $14.60)
• Retrospec Solana 1 inch Yoga Mat $33.79 (was $39.99)
• Etekcity Scale for Body Weight and Fat Percentage $23.99 (was $29.99) 
• TRAKK – Multi Speed & Mode Deep Tissue Massage Roller $39.99 (was $69.99)
• Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap $27 (was $34.95)

The post The best Memorial Day fitness deals let you jump into summer activities and save appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden Bed		SEE IT	This raw, premium cedar planter is built to last, expandable, and is easy to assemble.
Best metal		Galvanized Raised Garden Beds		SEE IT	Grow herbs, vegetables, flowers, and plants in this stable metal garden bed, outfitted with an anti-rust coating and an open bottom for drainage.
Best tiered		YAHEETECH Three-tier Raised Garden Bed		SEE IT	This stable and low-maintenance pick allows you to create three separate garden beds to suit different plants and herbs.

Whether or not you’ve already joined in on the grand tradition of gardening, there’s no time like the present to start—and a raised garden bed can help. Buying produce at the grocery store is all well and good, but if you’ve had the chance to grow your own, you know there’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, well-cared-for veggies. It doesn’t get much more farm-to-table than that. Now, with a little time, elbow grease, and some garden tools, here’s how to create the best raised garden beds for your own harvest.

• Best overall: Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden Bed
• Best wood: Boldly Growing Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit
• Best plastic: The Lakeside Collection Raised Garden Bed Set
• Best metal: Galvanized Raised Garden Beds
• Best small: Raised Metal Garden Planter Box
• Best large: Outdoor Living Today Raised 8 x 12 Foot Garden Bed
• Best tiered: YAHEETECH Three-tier Raised Garden Bed
• Best with self-watering system: Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed
• Best budget: Apipi Two-pack Raised Garden Planter Fabric Bed

How we chose the best raised garden beds

American food culture is very much devoted to its meat and dairy consumption, but for the past decade or so, the farm-to-table food movement, maybe even the rise of plant-based “meat,” has made major strides in putting vegetables back in the spotlight. While the majority of Americans don’t have the capacity or expertise to become fully self-sufficient, building raised garden beds is within reach for most. Thus, one of the most accessible and rewarding hobbies can enable people to grow their own food, nurture new life, and spend more time outside feeling productive and purposeful.

This is the true gift of gardening: Even if you only harvest a few carrots in your backyard garden, or your flowers don’t all bloom, you still get to witness and partake in the most literal—and rewarding—version of reaping what you sow. In making our recommendations for the best raised garden beds, we considered material quality, durability, customizability, variety of sizes, and price. So whether you’re a novice gardener or an old farm hand looking to learn some new tricks, we’ve compiled this elevated guide to raised planter boxes to help you grow your skillset—along with a tasty bounty. Get started with one of the best garden hoses.

The best raised garden beds: Reviews & Recommendations

It’s no secret that gardening has made a serious comeback. It presents the perfect, practical excuse to get outside—even if only to the backyard. You can grew veggies, nurture green thumbs, and experience the catharsis that comes with getting your hands dirty during planting season. So if you’re looking for raised bed garden ideas, here are our recommendations to get you growing.

Best overall: Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden Bed

Greenes

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Specs

• Material: Cedar wood
• Dimensions: 4 feet W x 8 feet L x 7 inches H or 10.5 inches H.
• Colors: Unfinished

Pros

• Made from long-lasting cedar
• Easy to set up
• Can stack or expand to customize size

Cons

• Some users were disappointed with the quality of the wood
• Doesn’t provide much protection from animals

Planting a garden is a way of getting back to nature, so it makes sense that you’d want one of the elevated garden beds free from chemicals and made from sustainable materials. Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden Bed fits the bill. Made from unsanded 11/16-inch boards of cedar, these raised beds are safe to grow vegetables and herbs in. You can stain them, or they will fade to gray over time.

The boards are also designed for easy, tool-free assembly, with joints that interlock—though you can top off the corners with decorative tops that do require a screwdriver to install. You can pick from options 4-feet wide by 8-feet long by either 7- or 10.5-inches high. And the interlocking design allows you to either stack or expand the open-bottomed frames to create a range of sizes and heights for your garden. You can get a head start on growing with one of the best seedling starter trays.

Best wood: Boldly Growing Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit

Boldly Growing

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Specs

• Material: Cedar wood, metal
• Dimensions: 4 feet L x 4 feet W x 1 foot H or 8 inches L x 4 inches W x 1 foot H
• Colors: Unfinished, will fade to gray

Pros

• Made from sustainable wood
• Available in two sizes: square and rectangular sizes
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Little protection against animals
• Not customizable

This cedar raised garden bed kit has everything you need to kick start your vegetable garden—no tools required. The raw, premium cedar comes in 1.5-inch thick boards that are rot-resistant. You can pick from two sizes: square (4 feet by 4 feet) or rectangular (8 feet by 4 feet). The corner joints make assembly easy, but if you’re not happy with your purchase, the kit comes with a one-year guarantee of satisfaction. Then water your new garden with one of the best garden hoses.

Best plastic: The Lakeside Collection Raised Garden Bed Set

The Lakeside Collection

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Specs

• Material: Polypropylene (plastic)
• Dimensions: 45.38 inches D x 45.38 inches W x 5.63 inches H
• Colors: Brown

Pros

• Durable
• Customizable into four shapes
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Not made from sustainable materials
• Doesn’t provide protection from animals

Convenience is king with this garden bed from the Lakeside Collection. The kit comes with eight polypropylene (plastic) panels that you can assemble into one of four shapes: square, rectangular, octagon, or double height. It’s easy to assemble, and the material is durable enough to last through the seasons. It will work well for growing veggies and as a flower bed. The set is also collapsible and easy to store should you decide to take it down during the winter.

Best metal: Galvanized Raised Garden Beds

FOYUEE

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Specs

• Material: Steel and metal 
• Dimensions: 8 feet (96 inches) L x 4 feet (48 inches) W x 1 foot (12 inches) H
• Colors: Gray

Pros

• Made of weather-resistant, durable material
• Comes in two sizes
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Only comes in rectangular shape
• Not customizable

When it comes to garden beds, use an eco-friendly material or risk damaging your plants. Galvanized raised beds provide a good solution, and this galvanized steel and metal garden bed fits the bill. Available in two rectangular sizes (8 feet by 4 feet or 6 feet by 3 feet), this rust-resistant, durable pick will protect your plants without poisoning your crop with chemicals.

Best small: Raised Metal Garden Planter Box

Progard

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Specs

• Material: Steel
• Dimensions: 24 inches (2 feet) L x18 inches H x11 inches W or 40 inches L x 32 inches H x 11 inches W
• Colors: Gray

Pros

• Made of sleek steel
• Ideal for small spaces
• Lightweight and easy to assemble

Cons

• Small capacity
• Can’t grow plants with deep roots

If you’re in the market for metal raised garden beds, this galvanized, rust-resistant steel puts this planter box on par with our previous choice of raised metal garden bed, but with a twist: it’s tiny enough to fit in a limited space. With a built-in drainage system and weather-resistant steel, this bed is one of the planter boxes that could easily become home to a thriving bunch of herbs, veggies, or flowers.

Best large: Outdoor Living Today Raised 8×12 Foot Garden Bed

Outdoor Living Today

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Specs

• Material: Cedar wood
• Dimensions: 141 inches L x 92 inches W x 67 inches H
• Colors: Brown

Pros

• Provides growing space for tall plants
• Self-contained unit
• Has fence to keep critters out

Cons

• Involved assembly process
• Expensive

If you’re looking to grow a bountiful harvest for a family, Outdoor Living Today’s Raised 8×12 Foot Garden Bed can help. At 141-inches long by 92-inches wide by 67-inches high, this wooden structure is a self-contained mini farm with large planter boxes, a walkway, and a door that latches. It’s made of rot-resistant cedar wood, and its height provides the space for you to grow large plants such as tomatoes and beans while also keeping dogs and other small animals out. This raised bed set also comes with a fence to keep critters out. That said, you should consider that assembly is estimated to take four to six hours.

Best tiered: YAHEETECH Three-tier Raised Garden Bed

YAHEETECH

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Specs

• Material: Fir
• Dimensions: 47.2 inches L x 47.2 inches W x 22 inches H
• Colors: Unfinished

Pros

• Provides three levels of growing space
• Saves space
• Unit can also be assembled into three separate beds

Cons

• Not weatherproof

Ready to launch your micro-farm? Connect each garden bed tier using the built-in plugs, and you’re ready. Added bonus: Each bed is made of 100-percent fir planks, ensuring its durability and quality. The tiered structure allows you to grow different types of plants that might not thrive next to each other. And while you can stack the beds for a tiered setup, you can also easily separate them and have three stand-alone beds instead. If you’re interested in hydroponics, you may want to also consider one of the best indoor herb gardens.

Best with self-watering system: Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed

Keter Urban Bloomer

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Specs

• Material: Resin
• Dimensions: 32 inches L x 14 inches W x 30 inches H
• Colors: Dark gray

Pros

• Provides self-watering system
• Sleek, display-worthy design
• Good capacity for a unit this size

Cons

• Not made of sustainable materials
• Not designed for large yield

If you’re in the market for a sleeker look for your garden that you can maintain even when you’re out of town, consider the Keter Urban Bloomer. This raised garden bed looks modern and works both indoors and out on a balcony. 

The main selling point of this unit is its self-watering system. The unit comes equipped with seedling trays to get your seeds started. The watering system is smart, ensuring plants don’t get drenched (which encourages root rot). There’s also an easy-to-read water gauge that displays in red or green whether you should water or not and a manual drainage cap that lets you release excess water. 

While the resin material isn’t sustainable, the unit is ergonomically designed for easy planting. With a capacity of 12 cubic feet of soil, this raised bed won’t necessarily provide you with a big harvest, but the depth will allow you to grow some taller plants. This unit is also easy to assemble and great for small apartment dwellers getting started with gardening.

Best budget: Apipi Two-pack Raised Garden Planter Fabric Bed

Apipi

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Specs

• Material: Polypropylene (plastic)
• Dimensions: 11.8 inches L x 11.8 inches W x 9.8 inches H
• Colors: Green

Pros

• Affordable
• Provides depth for taller plants
• Lightweight

Cons

• Doesn’t provide much shelter
• Wide open for animals to partake

On the hunt for cheap raised garden beds? The award for most lightweight and most affordable garden bed clearly goes to this two-pack of beds from Apipi. All you need to do with this two-pack is unfold each foursome, fill each square with dirt, and start planting. It’s also got impressive depth that will allow you to grow root vegetables like carrots. Easy as pie. That said, this option is also made of plastic and isn’t sustainable. It also doesn’t provide any shelter to protect your plants and won’t ward off animals intent on nibbling your lettuce. But it’s a very affordable way to get you (or your kids) growing.

Things to consider before purchasing a raised garden bed

People have been growing food for thousands of years, so it might seem easy. But in practice, ensuring you have the right setup—including good soil, healthy seedlings, and a protective structure that gives your plants room to grow—is essential to reaping a harvest of herbs or plum tomatoes. Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the best raised bed option for your space and gardening aspirations.

Materials

Wooden garden beds are probably the most classic style you can buy, and they’ve stood the test of time for good reason: They look great, blend in with the natural environment, and you can trust that they won’t poison or otherwise damage your crops. It’s important, however, to choose the right kind of wood when building a garden bed because wood is, obviously, vulnerable to rot. While pine is one of the cheapest options available, depending on where you live, it may not last you more than a handful of years before starting to crumble. A cedar raised garden bed, then, is the best, albeit most expensive, option for a wood garden bed.

If wood is the most permanent option for raised garden beds, plastic is the most temporary. For folks renting, moving soon, or just generally indecisive about where to plant their gardens, plastic wins: It’s lightweight, easy to move around, and super affordable, especially compared to wood.

Plastic has its downsides, of course. It won’t keep its shape as well as wood and might bend or snap under pressure. But it’s cheap to replace broken boxes, and if you have hesitations about where or when to move your garden beds, plastic may be the right material for your elevated garden bed.

Metal garden boxes are by far the most durable: Galvanized raised beds are nearly unbreakable, unlike plastic, and they won’t rot, unlike wood. It’s not a flawless material, though; metal can obviously rust, and it’s both heavy and fairly expensive. That said, if you live in a place that requires extra protection from the elements or prefer an extra-sturdy material, metal is a great option for your raised garden bed.

Fabric might not be the first thing that comes to mind when hunting for a durable, long-lasting garden box. But, contrary to popular belief, certain types of fabric are plenty sturdy to protect your plants and thus serve as adequate garden beds. Obviously, you’re not going to get the years-long guarantee that you might get from some other materials, but what this option lacks in longevity, it certainly makes up for in price.

Shape and size

If you don’t have much in the way of outdoor space, building a raised garden bed is a great alternative. Garden boxes come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s no harm in keeping things small. Maybe you don’t have a backyard, per se, but do you have a balcony, fire escape, front porch, windowsill, or rooftop? Take a look around and search for a creative substitute space. Then, simply find a garden bed that works with what you’ve got. A little ingenuity can go a long way.

Your space

This one’s for the folks who can’t resist doing things just a little bit differently. If you have the space—and a love of smart design—consider veering off course and opting for a tiered garden bed. Unlike the classic one-level beds, these babies can house two or three times the amount of vegetables without expanding their footprint. Also, they are often easy to separate in case you want individual beds. It should come as no surprise that they cost more, but it might be worth the investment if you’re an ambitious gardener with a long veggie wish list.

Assembly

While some raised garden beds can be unfolded and let you start planting within minutes, others may involve hours of assembly. Check what assembly will require, and if it’s not a task you or someone you know can take on, be prepared to figure in the extra cost of hiring a pro to help you put your raised beds together.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best raised garden beds

• Best overall: Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden Bed
• Best wood: Boldly Growing Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit
• Best plastic: The Lakeside Collection Raised Garden Bed Set
• Best metal: Galvanized Raised Garden Beds
• Best small: Raised Metal Garden Planter Box
• Best large: Outdoor Living Today Raised 8 x 12 Foot Garden Bed
• Best tiered: YAHEETECH Three-tier Raised Garden Bed
• Best with self-watering system: Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed
• Best budget: Apipi Two-pack Raised Garden Planter Fabric Bed

Nurturing new life in a vegetable garden or flower box is a true delight. Reconnect with the great outdoors, discover a newfound appreciation for food and flowers, and get your hands dirty with the best raised garden beds. You might surprise yourself—and your tastebuds, too.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best raised garden beds in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best NA beer sampler		Athletic Brewing Co. Craft Non-Alcoholic Beer		SEE IT	All the beer taste without the beer regret.
Best non-alcoholic aperitif		Ghia		SEE IT	Inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture, Ghia is herbaceous and perfectly bitter.
Best canned alternative cocktails		Flyers Cocktails		SEE IT	Cocktail mainstays are made with CBD to give you a relaxing buzz without any next-day remorse.

Between bottles at family dinner(s) or popping Champagne at New Year’s, it’s hard for someone looking for a little non-alcoholic fun to kick off a year of healthier habits. “Liquid courage” and social lubricant, alcohol tends to be everyone’s favorite coping mechanism during the holiday season and gatherings in general, whether when first introduced to the extended family, dealing with distant relatives you’d rather remain removed, or being surrounded by friends of friends. Hence, the growing popularity of Dry January and the opportunity to learn that there are better, healthier ways to cope. Moderation can improve your mental health, lower blood pressure, and, best of all, prevent a dreaded hangover and related hang-xiety … and maybe an argument or two with strangers. Instead of snagging another lazy, hazy IPA out of the fridge, consider an NA beer or alternative spirit. Even better, the best non-alcoholic drinks are proof of the deliciousness of zero-proof that can be enjoyed as new year’s recompense transitions into sober spring and beyond.

Note: If you have moderate to severe alcohol use disorder, please see a healthcare provider before withdrawing, as it can be quite dangerous to detox at home by yourself.

• Best NA beer sampler: Athletic Brewing Co. Craft Non-Alcoholic Beer
• Best NA stout: Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer
• Best NA import beer: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0
• Best aperitif: Ghia 
• Best tequila alternative: Optimist Botanicals Smokey
• Best gin alternative: Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus
• Best whiskey alternative: Ritual
• Best botanical spirit: Wilderton Botanical Spirit
• Best value: Dhōs
• Best celeb-made non-alcoholic botanical beverage: De Soi
• Best bundle: Seedslip
• Best mood lifter: Crisp & Crude
• Best canned alternative cocktails: Flyers Cocktails 
• Best bottled mocktails: DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve
• Best wine: Surely Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose
• Best wine alternative: Proxies

How we chose the best non-alcoholic drinks

I had my own Dry January journey in 2021, after years of problematic college drinking habits and at-home COVID-19 happy hours. I ended up extending it until the middle of February. Instead of a month of regrets and voicing my displeasure of imposing a personal Prohibition—like some other “low to no” participants—I realized, simply put, that alcohol can be bad and getting drunk is dumb. Now, I am a self-proclaimed “beverage girlie” and lead a damp lifestyle: I don’t keep alcohol in my home but will enjoy a beer after improv. I also won’t shut up about how moderation is great. My partner doesn’t drink at all, so we’re always on the hunt for a bubbly, crisp, cold NA bev to sip on during dinners or concerts.

I’ve also reported on beverages in the past for Gear Patrol and have a fridge stocked with Diet Coke, Limoncello La Croix (the best flavor, fight me), and my favorite NA beers. We also consulted Dry Atlas, a non-alc database, for picks.

The best non-alcoholic beverages: Reviews & Recommendations

Going for an NA beer or alternative spirit is just like a vegetarian or vegan going for a meatless chik’n patty or Impossible Burger: you’re simply enjoying a just-as-tasty substitute for something you don’t want to ingest for personal or health reasons. One of these will level up your seltzer or become your innocuous favorite to enjoy while eating takeout and watching Love Island.

Best NA beer sampler: Athletic Brewing NA beer 

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Why it made the cut: This NA beer tastes as nuanced as its boozy counterpart without post-six-pack regrets.

Specs

• Milliliters: 12 fluid ounces (or 355 ml) per can
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Beer
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Tasty
• Gluten-free
• Made of clean and natural ingredients

Cons

• Might not be able to be consumed if you’re pregnant

If a fresh, cold one is more your style, Athletic Brewing has your back with its NA brews. They don’t have a bready aftertaste like other NAs; in fact, they are some of the best-tasting NAs you can buy, with the company racking up plenty of awards over the years. This 24-pack can fill the fridge so everyone can crack open one outside without the mood threatening to be cracked when too many full-strength brews make tongues loose.

Best NA stout: Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer

Guinness

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Why it made the cut: An Irish classic gets a non-boozy touch without sacrificing quality.

Specs

• Milliliters: 14.9 millimeters per can
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Beer
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Guinness taste without the alcohol
• Pours like a real Guinness
• Tasty

Cons

• Heavy beer
• Might scare some who are sober because of the realistic taste

NA beer can sometimes taste like carbonated bread instead of a bodied, complete fizzy beverage. That is not the case with Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer, which tastes like its malty cousin. If you’re sober and in recovery, the realistic taste of NA Guinness might make you feel like you’ve seen an ex walk into a room—ignore this one if that would make you uncomfortable, which is what you would also do when seeing your ex walk into a room. This tasty, dark beverage is a reliable choice (unlike your ex!) if you’re looking for a stout without stout regrets.

Best NA import beer: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: Evoke the Amalfi Coast with a light Italian lager that’s refreshing and full-bodied.

Specs

• Milliliters: 330 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Beer
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Light and refreshing
• Full-bodied
• Tasty

Cons

• Potentially too-close to comfort beer taste

Sometimes you need a light international beer akin to a Stella or a Heineken. We’re personal fans of Peroni, a light Italian lager that screams “warm summer breeze and riding a Vespa.” However, maybe you’re the person driving the Vespa and can’t imbibe a lovely Peroni? Enter Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0, which, for an NA lager, is incredibly full-bodied (read: not watery). It tastes like its Peroni Nastro Azzurro boozy cousin, which might cause you to do a double-take at the label, but for those hoping to hop on a Vespa or behind the wheel of a Fiat, the Nastro Azzurro 0.0 is a solid choice.

Best non-alcoholic aperitif: Ghia 

Ghia

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Why it made the cut: This twist on a traditional aperitif is tasty and can be consumed on its own or mixed.

Specs

• Milliliters: 500 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Aperitif
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: Some adaptogens (lemon balm; rosemary)

Pros

• Tasty
• Versatile
• Makes you feel sophisticated and fancy

Cons

• Small bottle compared to others on this list

Inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture—think Campari and Amaro over finger food before 9 p.m. dinner in a bustling Milanese café—Ghia is light, dry, and the right amount of bitter. Drink it on its own or combine it with a mixer of your choosing for a spritz or cocktail. If a bottle seems like too much of a commitment, check out Ghia’s transportable cans that add lime, salt, and ginger to the OG Ghia aperitif.

If you’re already a Ghia fan and looking for something in the same vein, try Figlia—both have similar ingredients (white grape juice, rosemary extract, and elderflower, for example), but we love this NA aperitif’s earthiness thanks to clove and chamomile extract. Figlia, like Ghia, also sells spritz-in-a-can for on-the-go sips.

Best tequila alternative: Optimist Botanicals Smokey

Billy Cadden

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Why it made the cut: A mezcal-like sipper that is smokey and makes for a perfect mocktail margarita.

Specs

• Milliliters: 500 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Designed to use mixed like a premium spirit
• Lots of body
• Spicy

Cons

• Not that many fluid ounces compared to others on this list

This botanical spirit has woody, floral, and bitter notes, and is designed to be mixed like a premium spirit. This one specifically drinks like smooth tequila or mezcal. Mix it with your favorite ginger ale and garnish with a jalapeno slice or an orange peel for a scrumptious sipper sans alcohol. However, each bottle is only 16.9 fluid ounces, meaning you’ll have to be cognizant of how much you use before running out.

We also recommend Clean Co.’s CleanT—not only is it a lovely substitute in a margarita or paloma, it pairs lovely with Winderton Lustre (more on that later).

Best gin alternative: Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus

Jen McCaffery

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Why it made the cut: You’ll feel good the next day after drinking this gin alternative, thanks to its lack of alcohol and the company’s dedication to protecting the South African Cape Floral Kingdom.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Proceeds go to wildlife conservation
• No artificial flavors
• Feels sophisticated

Cons

• Those looking for an exact gin dupe will be disappointed

Skipping alcohol doesn’t mean you have to skip out on delicious flavor. Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus is inspired by South Africa’s Floral Kingdom, one of the world’s most diverse habitats. It’s infused with familiar citrus flavors, like orange, grapefruit, and grapefruit along with ginger, fennel, and pepper that give this concoction a subtle savory kick. Other notes, such as the mandarin naartjie and bucchu, are native to South Africa. And with no sugar and zero calories, you can swirl this botanical gin substitute into your seltzer as a pick-me-up any time.

Best whiskey alternative: Ritual

Ritual

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Why it made the cut: Have a better boulevardier with this whiskey alternative that’s highly rated by restaurant professionals.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Heat on the tail end—just like whiskey
• Rated highly by professionals
• Soft and round flavor profile

Cons

• Those looking for a straight whiskey dupe will be disappointed

This whiskey alternative is rated 85/100 Silver by the Beverage Testing Institute, a spirits research & review company. This makes it the highest-reviewed alcohol-free whiskey alternative. The numbers don’t lie! Vanilla and oak overtones mingle with notes of stone fruit and a little kick of heat at the end. Although it’s not meant to be sipped straight, you can use it to make an almost-NA Boulevardier or safer whiskey sour. We’re also fans of NKD LDY’s whiskey alternative, which is smoky and has the whiskey taste without the regret.

Best botanical spirit: Wilderton Botanical Spirit

Wilderton

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Why it made the cut: Each flavor is unique and delicious—probably the best we’ve tasted.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml.
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Bittersweet Aperitivo a Campari dupe
• Unique in their own way
• Versatile

Cons

• Expensive
• Not a straight dupe for gin or whiskey

Wilderton’s line of botanicals is a loving homage to spirits like Campari, whiskey, and gin. In fact, their Bittersweet Aperitivo is a spot-on dupe, taste-wise, to Campari or Aperol, making it a great choice if you’d like to make your spritz even lower in ABV. Earthen—with cardamom, white peppercorn, and pine-smoked tea—is rich and spicy and even leaves a bit of heat when you’ve put down your glass and returned to the conversation. Lustre is a dreamy, citrusy blend of bitter orange peel, tarragon, lavender, and coriander that pairs great with tonic or soda water for a crisp mocktail in the garden.

Best value: Dhōs

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Refresh your bar with spirits that contain organic ingredients.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml.
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Less than $80 for three bottles
• Made by a well-established distillery
• The cheapest bottle on this list

Cons

• Bundle subscription includes all three flavors—a bummer if you’re looking for multiples of the same flavor

Practicing moderation doesn’t mean sacrificing pleasure; distillers don’t have to forego flavor to achieve alcohol alternatives. These are the immediate takeaways after sampling the Dhōs non-alcoholic spirit/liqueur lineup—made in a three-step process using natural pesticide-free ingredients. Cooked up at an organic farm and distillery in Sheridan, Ore.—also home to Ransom Spirits, known for reviving Old Tom Gin and making whiskeys and vermouth—the mindful mixtures come in colorful stopper-topped bottles with small batch silhouettes and make for captivating (and keto-friendly) cocktail counterparts. Gin Free is savory, herbaceous, and refreshing—redolent of juniper and lime backed by a peppery note. It’s warm and spicy upon first sip, almost gingery, but turns cool thanks to a cilantro and peppermint component. Want to transition from gin & tonic to an NA Negroni? Mix Gin Free with Bittersweet, which carries over a hint of mint threaded through a sunset-colored elixir of rhubarb, pithy pink grapefruit, flamed citrus peel, and monk fruit. Or add it to soda water for a friendlier spritz. Orange, meanwhile, presents a melange of blood orange and vanilla with a dash of cayenne and coriander. It’s a great replacement for triple sec in off-dry “margaritas” but makes for a creamy, dreamy mocktail on its own with soda water, tonic, ginger ale, and more. Offered for $10 less than competitors on average, Dhōs is a premium product without a top-shelf price tag.

Best celeb-made non-alcoholic bubbly botanical: De Soi

De Soi

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Why it made the cut: Each flavor is fine, fresh, and fierce—this bubbly mocktail has it on lock.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Bubbly craft cocktail
• Alcohol or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: Adaptogens like reishi, ashwagandha, L-theanine

Pros

• Crisp and carbonated
• Darn tasty
• Adaptogenic for a little healthy buzz at the party

Cons

• Those who hate tart things may not enjoy these mocktails

Katy Perry is known for hits like “Teenage Dream” and “Hot N Cold,” but did you know she is also in the health and wellness biz? Not only is she an investor in apple cider vinegar giant Bragg Live Food Products, but she co-founded De Soi, an adaptogen aperitif company, in 2022. Golden Hour (shown here) is made with maca and L-theanine for relaxation and is great for making mocktail mules and a non-alcoholic spritz. Champignon Dreams is a bitter, earthy reishi and passion flower spirit for negroni or old-fashioned lovers. Purple Lune mixes ashwagandha, tart cherry, and botanicals to give the feel of a nightly glass of red. If bottles aren’t your style, De Soi also sells its three flavors in cans. All flavors have a tart bite—if that’s not your jam, stick to something sweeter.

Best bundle: Seedslip

Seedlip

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Why it made the cut: A delicious bundle means you can experiment and explore, all while saving some cash.

Specs

• Milliliters: 700 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Spirit
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Allergy-friendly
• High-quality ingredients
• Versatile

Cons

• Expensive

If you’re looking for a bundle package, look no further than this one from Seedlip. It includes Seedlip Grove 43 (a citrusy, ginger, and lemongrass spirit), Seedlip Spice 94 (a waltz between allspice, cardamom, and grapefruit), and Seedlip Garden 108 (an herby promenade of peas, rosemary, and thyme). They are best served with ginger ale and a citrus peel garnish—perfect for breaking out the fancy glasses sans next-day guilt.

Best mood lifter: Crisp & Crude

Crisp & Crude

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Why it made the cut: These keto-friendly, gluten-free mocktails are infused with terpenes and safe to drink while pregnant.

Specs

• Milliliters: 8.45 fluid ounces per can (250 milliliters)
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Canned cocktail
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: Botanical terpenes

Pros

• Tasty
• Dietary friendly
• Pre-mixed

Cons

• Expensive
• Only available in cans

These NA craft cocktails are made with botanical terpenes extracted from plants, fruits, and roots for calmness, creativity, and relaxation. You can purchase each flavor individually, but we’re fans of the variety pack that includes four cans of its three flavors: Paloma Daydream (a salty, woody grapefruit drink with Space Queen terpenes); Gold Fashioned (bitter orange, zesty dandelion, and Chocolate Thai terpenes); and Mellow Mule (ginger, citrus, and mint with Pineapple Express terpenes). Leave the joint at home and pass around a can of this instead.

Best canned alternative cocktails: Flyers Cocktails 

Flyers

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Why it made the cut: These canned mocktails are inspired by bar favorites and feel just as fancy to imbibe.

Specs

• Milliliters: 237 ml or 8 fluid ounces
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Canned cocktail
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: 20 milligrams of CBD

Pros

• Pre-mixed
• Cocktail-inspired
• Feels fancy

Cons

• Only available in cans, which are small

These sparkling, non-alcoholic drinks are made with 20 milligrams of CBD and are inspired by cocktail menu mainstays. BKLN Gold is reminiscent of an American Bourbon cocktail thanks to its oakiness, spice, and smooth vanilla. Tokyo Marg is a citrusy Yuzu sparkler with a touch of heat. Our favorite, however, is the Sydney Spritz Highball: a bold, herbaceous blend of citrus zest, mandarin orange, and bitters.

Best bottled mocktails: DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: A fizzy mocktail is a screwcap undoing away with DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml bottle
• Spirit, beer, or wine: N/A
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Tasty
• Zero-effort
• Good for those with dietary needs

Cons

• Could use some more carbonation

If you’re looking for a not-so-stiff drink after work but don’t have the brainpower to create something new, take the guesswork out of mixology with these pre-mixed mocktails from DRY. They come in three flavors: Lavender 75, a botanical boozeless take on a French 75; Rose Soleil, a Provence Rose-style beverage with touches of strawberry, rose, and oak; and Spiced Pear, which blends ripe pears with vanilla and cardamom. We also love the company’s line of sparkling water that makes for a great mixer. Although the Botanical Bubbly Reserve flavors could use some more carbonation, they taste like a craft concoction you would find at the bar without the craft concoction price.

Best NA wine: Surely Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose

Surely

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Why it made the cut: Get all the wine taste without the next-day regrets from drinking the entire bottle.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Wine
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Alcohol removed
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Delicate body
• Friendly to specialty diets
• Great dupe

Cons

• Pregnant people may not be able to drink it due to low alcohol content

Some NA wines include fruit juice, but if you’re looking for something that screams more wine glass and less Welch’s, Surely’s line of dealcoholized wines is for you. It’s aged in the barrel just like its boozy counterpart, but then the alcohol is removed. The final product is a dry, full-bodied sparkling rose that pairs well with seafood and dessert—just like what someone would find at a liquor store. Coupe glasses sadly not included.

In case you’re looking to expand your NA wine palate, we also are fans of Joyus. For those looking for something that’s on the floral side, look no further than Starla’s NA sparkling rose.

Best wine alternative: Proxies

Proxies

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Why it made the cut: As the name implies, Proxies is an homage to the wine experience while setting itself apart from its boozy cousin.

Specs

• Milliliters: 750 ml
• Spirit, beer, or wine: Wine
• Alcohol removed or zero alcohol: Zero alcohol
• Enhancements: N/A

Pros

• Tasty
• Has a similar look and mouthfeel to alcoholized wines
• Safe for pregnant people to drink

Cons

• Some flavors can come off as too juice-like

Wine alternatives tend to taste like fancy grape juice. Although that’s not a bad thing, sometimes it’s more enjoyable to drink something that tastes like it came from Napa Valley and not from a toddler’s sippy cup. Proxies—vinegar giant Acid League’s wine alternative brand—uses wine grapes, tea, vinegars, and other fruit for its enchanting wine-inspired blends. Blanc Slate is reminiscent of a Sauvignon Blanc, and Red Ember is all body without the bite. Red Clay is probably the most “wine-like,” with its velvety mouthfeel and lingering pucker. Although you can’t get single bottles, the company’s sets let you explore to find new favorites, then stock up on the ones you love.

What to consider when buying the best non-alcoholic beverages

Non-alcoholic beverages are a great way to get the ritual feel of making a cocktail or pouring a glass of wine sans alcohol. You can find them online or at your local liquor store—in my experience, NA beers have their small section in the beer aisle; NA wines are housed by the bartending accessory or mixer section. If you’re lucky, you might have an NA bottleshop in your neighborhood—like Spirited Away in NYC and The Open Road in Pittsburgh—that you can peruse IRL or that offers to ship and delivers right to your door. Here’s what you should know before making your pick.

NA vs. alternative spirit

NA is short for non-alcoholic. Most beverages with the NA moniker—like beer, wine, and liquor—are made like their alcoholic counterparts. However, they don’t ferment or go through a process that removes the alcohol from a finished, alcoholic product. The result is a beverage with less than .5% alcohol by volume (ABV), which can be labeled as “non-alcoholic” per the FDA. According to the FDA, those who are pregnant should go for a truly zero-alcohol beer or spirit to prevent birth defects, according to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG).

This is where alternative spirits come in. They are made of herbs, vinegars, juices, and more to give off the vibe of a standard alcoholic spirit. An alternative wine will not taste exactly like Cabernet Sauvignon, but it will offer a similar mouthfeel and body. A botanical gin-like spirit will include juniper or pine to replicate the notes of its alcohol-included cousin.

Adaptogens, nootropics, and CBD

If you’d like a little extra jazz in your drink, consider ones with adaptogens or CBD. Adaptogens like ashwagandha and L-theanine are used in herbal medicine to help the body return to homeostasis, or the body’s state of natural balance. The science is a bit nebulous, so don’t expect them to fix your problems. Nootropics have a similar effect as adaptogens: they claim to boost mood and improve cognition but are scientifically hazy.

Animal studies, self-reports, and research in people suggest that CBD, or cannabidiol, can help with anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain without the “high” from THC. If you’re looking for something to sip on to unwind after a long day, a CBD-infused beverage is perfect—just make sure it’s coming from a reputable source that posts third-party lab results on their site.

Storage

Unlike your typical bar cart, you’ll need to refrigerate most—if not all—non-alcoholic spirits since they don’t have the high-alcohol content to keep them shelf-stable. If you don’t have the refrigerator space for your bounty of friendly spirits, consider one of the best beverage coolers.

Mixers

You have your spirits and such to make a mocktail—but where do you start? Of course, you can always go for the classic tonic or soda water touch, but the world is your oyster when it comes to mixers. Try Tangerine La Croix with Abstinence Spirits’ Cape Citrus for a citrusy play on a gin soda; Blood Orange Carrot Ginger-flavored Health-Ade Kombucha mixes great with Wilderton’s Lustre; and doesn’t Waterloo’s blackberry lemonade seltzer sound heavenly with Ritual’s alternative whiskey? You can even opt for a pre-made drink mix—espresso martinis, anyone?

Safety

There are only two substances that you can die from unsafe withdrawal: barbituates and alcohol. Quitting cold turkey is OK if you or someone you know does not struggle with alcohol use disorder. Otherwise, supervised alcohol withdrawal is the safest since alcohol withdrawal can lead to seizures, delirium tremens, and death if untreated or improperly executed. Also, consult with a doctor before stopping use—they can help decide if you or someone you know should complete your withdrawal in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best non-alcoholic drinks

• Best NA beer sampler: Athletic Brewing Co. Craft Non-Alcoholic Beer
• Best NA stout: Guinness Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer
• Best NA import beer: Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0
• Best aperitif: Ghia 
• Best tequila alternative: Optimist Botanicals Smokey
• Best gin alternative: Abstinence Spirits Cape Citrus
• Best whiskey alternative: Ritual
• Best botanical spirit: Wilderton Botanical Spirit
• Best value: Dhōs
• Best celeb-made non-alcoholic bubbly botanical: De Soi
• Best bundle: Seedslip
• Best mood lifter: Crisp & Crude
• Best canned alternative cocktails: Flyers Cocktails 
• Best bottled mocktails: DRY Botanical Bubbly Reserve
• Best wine: Surely Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rose
• Best wine alternative: Proxies

Non-alcoholic beverages—including NA beer and wine, wine alternatives, botanical spirits, and more—are a great way to moderate your drinking during Dry January and beyond. Abstaining from drinking completely, cracking open a euphoric seltzer after drinking a Manhattan, or sticking to a mocktail during a pregame can help you re-evaluate your drinking habits. And let’s be real: the best non-alcoholic drinks are just plain tasty. Plus, your sober friends—weary from having soda, seltzers, and plain water as the only option at restaurants or functions—will appreciate that you have fun, craft non-alcoholic options available at your next backyard shindig.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best non-alcoholic drinks of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		AnBnCn Porcelain Serving Platter		SEE IT	This set of four platters are great for parties and everyday use.
Best for chicken wings		Stonarc Three-Tier Serving Tray		SEE IT	Keep your buffalo wings separate from your teriyaki wings with this three-tier serving tray.
Best budget		Saiki Traditional Japanese Rice Bowls		SEE IT	This beautiful set of five porcelain bowls from Japan come at a great price.

Hosting a party comes with many responsibilities—decor, music, entertainment, drinks, and, most importantly, serving good food. However, your carefully curated spread of chips, charcuterie, cookies, canapes, and Cheetos can’t be fully appreciated without being displayed in well-organized dishes. The best serving bowls will contain and complement your food, helping to keep things clean while brightening up a table.

• Best overall: AnBnCn Porcelain Serving Platter with Handles (set of 4)
• Best platter: Dowan Serving Platter Set
• Best dutch oven: Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven
• Best with dividers: Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dishes
• Best for appetizers: Le Creuset Stoneware Oval Serving Platter
• Best for chicken wings: Stonarc Three-Tier Serving Tray
• Best for olives: Corico Olive Boat & Pit Port
• Best plate: Crow Canyon Home Enamelware Dinner Plates (set of 4)
• Best large bowl: Lipper International Footed Serving Bowl
• Best small bowl: Now Designs Terracotta Pinch Bowls
• Best budget: Saikai Pottery Traditional Japanese Rice Bowls (set of 5)
• Best flatware: Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set

The best serving trays: Reviews & Recommendations

We recommend stocking your kitchen with serving bowls and dishes of various sizes, so you have a stock to pull from, whether you’re throwing a Super Bowl party or hosting Thanksgiving. You can go with a classic white look or be bold and add a few fun colors to match your other cookware or dining room decor. While you are at it, you might also want to grab a dish with a lid just in case you need to transfer your carefully cooked sliders to a friend’s house.

The best serving bowls and dishes will be versatile, functional, and suit your entertaining style. A lavish spread of snacks deserves a beautiful presentation, so keep your table in mind when thinking about new purchases. Whether you’re only inviting a small handful of folks or throwing a full-blown birthday rager, the following selections are serving bowls, dishes, and flatware we think will complete your kitchenware collection.

Best overall: AnBnCn Porcelain Serving Platter (set of 4)

AnBnCn

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When you’re just getting started entertaining, it’s smart to have a solid foundation. This set of four porcelain serving platters from AnBnCn can handle a brunch with friends, a Super Bowl party, or just a weeknight dinner. At 12 inches by 6.6 inches, they can hold plenty of vegetables, appetizers, or even desserts. The handles make for easy transport and should you need to reheat your pigs in a blanket, these platters are microwave-safe. They also cost a fraction of what other platters on the market do.

Best platter: Dowan Serving Platter Set

Dowan

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This set of elegant oval serving platters from Dowan are perfect for the times when you’ll be serving a range of dishes at the table. At 16 inches, 14 inches, and 12 inches, these porcelain platters can handle the turkey, the appetizers, and dessert. They’re also oven- and microwave-safe for when you need to reheat. You can toss them in the dishwasher after the meal for easy cleanup and they stack together easily in your cupboard.

Best dutch oven: Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven

Le Creuset

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Whether you’re serving up chili for a Super Bowl party or soup on a cold winter night, this round dutch oven from Le Creuset can handle the job. Made of enameled cast iron, this dutch oven can withstand up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit of heat and is designed to endure. It’s an investment, but you’ll find yourself reaching for it over and over again. And it comes in a range of hues that will provide a pop of color on your table.

Best with dividers: Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dishes

Sweese

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If you want a fantastic dip to be the focus of your platter, go for a divided serving platter. This porcelain dish from Sweese has four large bowls centered around a smaller bowl meant for a dip; all rest atop an 11.5-inch tray. The dividers are also great for people who have food preferences. Best of all, each piece is removable, which means quick and easy refills if one snack becomes particularly popular. This dish comes in a few color combinations, including a crisp, clean white, so you can match your kitchenware

Best for appetizers: Le Creuset Stoneware Oval Serving Platter

Le Creuset

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If you plan on putting out party appetizer classics like sliders, pigs in a blanket, or mini grilled cheeses, you’ll need a sturdy platter to get the job done. A Le Creuset serving platter is truly top of the line. It measures 16 by 11 inches and comes in many bold colors, though we prefer white. The flared sides and built-in handles are perfectly designed for easy transportation; plus, it’s oven- and dishwasher-safe for maximum convenience. The enamel finish is stain and chip-resistant, so your carefully cooked (or ordered) food will always be presented with a beautiful backing base.

Best for chicken wings: Stonarc Three-Tier Serving Tray

Stonarc

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A party just isn’t complete without chicken wings; we’re talking buffalo, dry-rub, barbecue, honey-garlic, teriyaki, the list goes on. This unique serving set from Stonarc is the perfect way to serve wings and other appetizers. It comes with three 11.25 by 6-inch plates and three 3-inch square bowls, all of which are dishwasher-safe. This set also comes with a wooden base and wire stand, which means you have many options when it comes to organizing your table. As for storage, the wire stands collapse, and the bowls and plates are stackable, so you can make things much more compact when it’s time to clean up a big spread.

Best for olives: Corico Olive Boat & Pit Port

Corico

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Olives are delicious, and they’re good for you. But they can be a little awkward at a party. You can use a toothpick to pick one up, but there’s not an easy way to get rid of the pit. But Corico’s Olive Boat & Pit Port provides an elegant solution. At 7 inches by 7 inches by 2.5 inches, the porcelain dish has plenty of room for green and black olives, plus some charcuterie. And when you’re done, just drop your pits in the port in the center for discreet disposal.

Best plate: Crow Canyon Home Enamelware Dinner Plates (set of 4)

Crow Canyon

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Bring some color to your table with this set of four dinner plates from Crow Canyon. Made of enamelware, these 10.25-inch, lightweight plates are perfect for more casual gatherings in the backyard. They’re available in seven different splattered colors, from black to turquoise. If you prefer a more classic look, you can also order a set of white plates with a blue, red, orange, gray, or turquoise rim.

Best large bowl: Lipper International Footed Serving Bowl

Lipper

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This elegant serving bowl from Lipper International is a great dish to have on hand for dinner parties and larger hangouts. The cherry finish and wood material will elevate your meal’s look, and at almost 14 inches wide, you won’t have to worry your food won’t fit. It can easily serve a fresh salad, hot sides, loads of chips, and other crunchy snacks. The foot at the base of the bowl will keep it from tipping over. When you’re not hosting a party, this bowl would be a beautiful centerpiece when filled with fruit.

Best small bowl: Now Designs Terracotta Pinch Bowls

Now Designs

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A set of small bowls, also called pinch bowls, can bring a little bit of continuity and class to your party without being too formal. They are great for holding nuts, olives, and candies. If you want to get a little fancier, fill them with cornichons, herbs, or finishing salts and place them on a charcuterie board. If you’re having a game-day party, a set of small bowls can hold a ton of different dipping sauces. Plus, pinch bowls are a great way to introduce a little color or some fun patterns to an otherwise solid-color kitchenware collection.

This set of six bowls from Now Designs can each hold around one ounce, the perfect amount for additional sweet treats or savory snacks. Each bowl gives off bohemian vibe with an unglazed terracotta exterior and a vibrant color inside. Just remember to take the time to wash these bowls by hand.

Best budget: Saikai Pottery Traditional Japanese Rice Bowls (set of 5)

SaiKai Pottery

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Elevate your table with these beautiful Japanese rice bowls from Saikai Touki, which has been making ceramics for 60 years. The bowls come in a set of five different geometric designs and in several colors: white, navy, and brown. Each bowl holds up to 300 milliliters (about ten ounces). And at about $23 for the set, they’re a great deal.

Best flatware: Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set

Lenox

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Lenox is a trusted name for silver and this timeless flatware is a valuable addition to any kitchen. The 65-piece set comes with a serving spoon, pierced serving spoon, sugar spoon, butter knife, and serving fork that will look beautiful on any table. Made with high-quality stainless steel, this set also includes matching service for 12 (dinner forks, salad forks, dinner knives, tablespoons, and teaspoons). At the end of the meal, just toss the silver into the dishwasher.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best serving bowls

• Best overall: AnBnCn Porcelain Serving Platter with Handles (set of 4)
• Best platter: Dowan Serving Platter Set
• Best dutch oven: Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven
• Best with dividers: Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dishes
• Best for appetizers: Le Creuset Stoneware Oval Serving Platter
• Best for chicken wings: Stonarc Three-Tier Serving Tray
• Best for olives: Corico Olive Boat & Pit Port
• Best plate: Crow Canyon Home Enamelware Dinner Plates (set of 4)
• Best large bowl: Lipper International Footed Serving Bowl
• Best small bowl: Now Designs Terracotta Pinch Bowls
• Best budget: Saikai Pottery Traditional Japanese Rice Bowls (set of 5)
• Best flatware: Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set

Having a party should be fun, not stressful. With the right serving bowls, platters, and plates by your side, you won’t need to stress about snacks and sides. Keeping a small collection of various shapes and sizes is the best way always to have what you need for a mouth-watering table.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best serving bowls in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill		SEE IT	The T 8.5 S comes with an interactive display, access to workouts from around the world, and extra cushioning to reduce the impact on the joints.
Best for small spaces		Echelon Stride		SEE IT	The Stride folds down flat, provides access to virtual classes, is Bluetooth-compatible and comes with a USB port for charging devices.
Best budget		XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill		SEE IT	The Fitness TR provides the basics in a treadmill at an affordable price.

If you’re looking to get more steps in or training for a race but don’t have much space to spare in your home, a folding treadmill could be the solution. These devices range from high-end models that stream thousands of classes to simpler options whose main feature is they can fold easily under a bed. Whatever your fitness goals are (and wherever you can store gear), one of the best folding treadmills can help you get there.

• Best overall: NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill
• Best for small spaces: Echelon Stride
• Best for runners: Pro Form Pro-9000 Treadmill 
• Best for beginners: Horizon Fitness T101
• Best budget: XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill

How we chose the best folding treadmills

As a recreational runner, I’ve tried a range of treadmills in gyms over the years. I’ve appreciated how feature-heavy models that let you tune into classes or watch movies to help break the monotony. I’ve also seen with the number of runners pounding away on these treadmills how often there is an “Out of Order” sign on these machines. 

If you prefer to work out at home, folding treadmills are ideal for people who live in smaller places or don’t want a big piece of exercise equipment in the middle of their living room. There are compact options available for runners putting in miles to train for races as well as choices for walking. Fold-up treadmills take up less floor space, while slimmer models can be tucked under a bed or couch. We vetted the options from top brands such as NordicTrack, ProForm, and XTerra to make our recommendations.

The best folding treadmills: Reviews & Recommendations

Selecting which folding treadmill is best for you depends on your fitness goals and space. Are you on a training plan that calls for running most days per week at increasing intensity? Or are you looking to walk in the morning and get feedback from a virtual trainer? And will you store the machine in the basement next to the washing machine and Ping Pong table, or do you want to stash it under your bed? Whatever your needs, there’s an option for you.

Best overall: NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill

NordicTrack

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Specs

• Max speed: 12 mph
• Dimensions: 78.9 inches D x 35.5 inches W x 59.4 inches H
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Max incline: 12 percent

Pros

• Full-size treadmill
• Interactive display
• Access to workouts from around the world with the iFit membership

Cons

• Expensive
• Large for a folding treadmill

Looking for a treadmill that folds but still comes with premium features? Consider the NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill. Its smart-response motor is designed to handle speed and endurance training. It can reach a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour and an incline of up to 12 percent. The tread belt of 20 inches by 60 inches is wider and longer than that of many foldable treadmills and it’s designed with extra cushioning to reduce impact on the joints.

Designed with an interactive LCD touchscreen, this treadmill lets you choose workouts from an on-demand library, making this one of the best folding treadmills for classes. You’ll also get to work with a virtual iFit coach who will customize your workouts every day and can adjust the incline. (The package comes with a 30-day membership). And when you’re done, the T 8.5 S’s deck folds up easily for a smaller footprint. 

Best for small spaces: Echelon Stride

Echelon

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Specs

• Max speed: 12 mph
• Dimensions: 69.3 inches H  x 31 inches D x 49.2 inches W
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Max incline: 10 percent

Pros

• Access to more than 3,000 classes
• Smaller footprint
• USB charging port

Cons

• Pricey

The Echelon Stride provides a comprehensive fitness experience in one machine. With the associated Echelon Fit app, users can access over 3,000 live and on-demand classes in rowing, running, HIIT, Pilates, yoga, and more. And the iFIt membership will support up to five users, making this machine an ideal pick for families.

The run belt is 20 inches by 55 inches and operates at a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour and up to a 10-percent incline. The Stride’s handlebars have sensors that track your heart rate and allow it to be displayed during classes. It’s Bluetooth-compatible and comes with a USB port for charging and a slot that can hold a tablet. The Stride is also designed with two water bottle holders, wheels for easy mobility, and an auto-folding feature. For more recommendations, check out our guide to health fitness apps.

Best for runners: ProForm Pro-9000 Treadmill

ProForm

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Specs

• Max speed: 12 mph
• Dimensions: 77.16 inches D x 39.15 inches W x 70 inches H
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Max incline: 15 percent 

Pros

• Powerful motor
• 10-inch full-color touchscreen.
• EKG monitoring

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

Treadmill users looking for an all-around experience from a fitness machine will appreciate the ProForm Pro-9000 Treadmill. Designed with a powerful 4.25 continuous horsepower motor, the Pro-9000 has a wide belt of 22 inches and can support up to 300 pounds. If you’re serious about a foldable treadmill with incline, the Pro-9000 fits the bill, allowing for a 15-percent incline (and -3 percent decline) and speeds up to 12 miles per hour. 

The Pro-9000 also comes with a 10-inch color touchscreen that lets you stream thousands of workouts on demand and get personalized training with an iFit membership that supports up to five users. What sets the Pro-9000 apart is that it comes with an EKG heart monitor and a wireless chest strap to keep tabs on your health metrics. And at the end of the workout, the treadmill’s easy-lift assistance lets you quickly fold the deck up. For more ideas, check out our roundup of the best gifts for runners.

Best for beginners: Horizon Fitness T101

Horizon Fitness

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Specs

• Max speed: 10 mph
• Dimensions: 34 inches D x 57 inches W x 71 inches H
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Max incline: ‎10

Pros

• Bluetooth connectivity to support streaming and speakers
• Less expensive than other models
• Easy setup

Cons

• Doesn’t stream classes

If you’re just getting started and aren’t looking to spend a lot, Horizon Fitness 101 is a good place to start. This compact treadmill is significantly less expensive than premium models while providing the fundamentals and some additional smart features to boot. Set up should take about 30 minutes, and the hydraulic system allows it to fold down in one step, making it an excellent small treadmill for home. 

The deck is designed with Horizon’s cushioning for extra support, though the maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds is lower than some other models. So, too, is the maximum of 10 miles per hour, but that speed is plenty fast for walkers and most runners. You can adjust the speed and incline up to 10 percent with a simple dial. 

While the Fitness 101 doesn’t have a touchscreen, it’s equipped with a USB port and a device holder that lets you stream the classes you want from a tablet. Music and podcast lovers will appreciate the audio jack and the Bluetooth speakers, and the water bottle holder and fan will help make the miles easier. To track your progress, check out our guide to the best fitness trackers.

Best budget: XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill

XTERRA

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Specs

• Max speed: 10 mph
• Dimensions: 63.4 inches D x 28.75 inches W x 51.4 inches H
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds 
• Max incline: 10

Pros

• Great price
• Covers the basics
• Easy to fold up and store

Cons

• Very few features
• Supports less weight than other models

Just looking for a small treadmill that’s not expensive? The XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill is a solid choice. At 97 pounds, it’s a lightweight treadmill, and the deck folds up flat with the help of a pull knob. The LCD screen doesn’t stream classes but tracks your speed and calories burned and comes with 12 preset workouts and three inclines. At 16 inches wide and 50 inches long, the track is smaller than others and supports less weight (up to 250 pounds). Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a device holder, but if the price is your primary concern, the XTERRA Fitness TR provides the basics at a more affordable price. If you prefer to walk while you work, check out our guide to the best treadmill desks.

Things to consider when selecting the best folding treadmills

Folding treadmills range significantly regarding features, speed, size, and price. These factors are important to remember when deciding on the best folding treadmill for you.

Speed

Foldable treadmills accommodate a range of maximum speeds. The higher-end models, such as the ProForm Pro-9000 Treadmill, allow for speeds up to 12 miles per hour, while other treadmills top out at 10 miles per hour. Twelve miles per hour translates to a five-minute mile, which is the province of elite runners and sprinters and an important consideration in a treadmill if you’re in that category. Recreational runners and walkers should find a treadmill with a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour (a pace of 6 minutes per mile) more than suits their needs.

Size

“Foldable” comes in many forms. A heavy treadmill that folds up may have a smaller footprint but may also not come with wheels for easy mobility and may be too large to stow under a bed or in a closet. A portable treadmill, such as the Echelon Stride, comes with wheels and folds down flat, making them ideal for small spaces. When considering models, look at the dimensions and weight of the model.

Weight capacity

The weight a treadmill can support typically depends on the size of the treadmill itself. Some higher-end models, such as the NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill, can accommodate up to 300 pounds, while the lighter XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill supports up to 250 pounds. If weight capacity is a concern, or you just want to go easier on your joints, you also may want to consider treadmills with a track that provides extra cushioning, such as the NordicTrack T 8.5 S and the Horizon Fitness T101.

Belt size

You’ll want to ensure that any treadmill you purchase can accommodate your stride length and be wide enough to allow you to run safely on the machine. A full-sized tread belt is at least 22 inches wide and 50 inches long. That said, folding treadmills are generally smaller than traditional models and, depending on what option you choose, may have a smaller belt size. Also, if you plan to have several family members use the treadmill, it’s wise to choose a model with a belt size that will accommodate the largest person.

Incline

Most of the treadmills on this list allow for an incline of up to 10 percent. Companies like NordicTrack also make treadmills that allow for inclines of up to 40 percent, which might appeal to runners preparing for an endurance race. Ramping up the incline increases endurance and calorie burning. If you do that type of training on a folding treadmill, the ProForm Pro-9000 Treadmill is designed with a maximum incline of 15 percent and decline of -3 percent. But if you’re just looking for a compact treadmill with an incline, the other options on this list will work well.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best folding treadmills

• Best overall: NordicTrack T 8.5 S Treadmill
• Best for small spaces: Echelon Stride
• Best for runners: Pro Form Pro-9000 Treadmill 
• Best for beginners: Horizon Fitness T101
• Best budget: XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill

Folding treadmills are a smart way to make sure you can get some exercise in at home when, say, there’s a major storm or you don’t have the time or inclination to go to a gym. They’re often less expensive than traditional models while giving you access to many of the same premium features—all with a smaller footprint.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best folding treadmills of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Spring is on the horizon, which means that it’s a great time to find some extra motivation to break a sweat indoors to tide yourself over until the warmer months. When it comes to sticking with a fitness routine, what separates some is their ability to do the same routine, over and over again, according to James Atlas, the author of Atomic Habits. “At some point it comes down to who can handle the boredom of training every day,” he writes.

Fortunately, there’s plenty of fitness equipment that’s designed to help you stay engaged, whether that’s through classes, the ability to stream, or curated setlists. And you can find steep discounts on some of this gear this Presidents Day weekend. Banish the boredom with some of our favorites:

Bowflex Treadmill 22 $2,499 (Was $2,699)

Bowflex

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If you’re eminently distractable, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 can go a long way in keeping you looking forward to getting your miles in. It’s designed with a 22-inch immersive console with an adjustable touchscreen that lets you tap into your favorite streaming shows, voice-coached workouts, custom playlists, and more than 200 virtual destinations throughout the world. All are available through the JRNY membership, which is free for the first year. 

This treadmill is also designed for serious training, allowing for an incline of 20 percent down to minus 5 percent. Runners can tally up to 12 miles per hour on the cushioned deck. An included armband works with Bluetooth to keep tabs on your heart rate, while hand grips let you make sure you’re training within the optimum zone. And when you’re done, the Treadmill 22 folds down to conserve space.

More Presidents Day fitness deals:

• Mirror Plus $995 (Was $1,695)
• Nautilus T618 Treadmill $899 (Was $1,499)
• NordicTrack Studio Smart Elliptical $397.99 (Was $597.99) 
• Bowflex Max Trainer M9 $1,699 (Was $1,999)
• Bowflex Revolution Home Gym $2,299 (Was $2,899)
• Bowflex C6 Bike $799 (Was $999)
• Bowflex VeloCore Bike $999.99, (Was $2,199.99)
• Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells $599 (Was $799)
• Anker eufy Smart Scale C1 $24.99 (Was $29.99)
• Garmin Instinct E-Sports Edition Smartwatch $79.99 (Was $299.99)
• Garmin Vivoactive 4 $182.83 (Was $329.99)
• Smith Optics Sunrise Hoodie $42 (Was $60)
• Smith Optics MTB Engage Bike Helmet $60 (Was $120)
• Clever Fox Fitness & Food Journal $23.99 (Was $25.99)
• Jakkofox Resistance Loop Exercise Bands $8.99 (Was $13.99)

More Presidents Day deals

Best Buy deals

Furniture deals

Computer deals

TV and home theater deals

The post Save more than $200 with these Presidents Day fitness deals appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The CES 2023 press-day activities gave us plenty of impressive new gadgets to gawk at Jan. 4. But now the show is officially underway, and the torrent of technological gizmos has reached its full potential. We have seen a few distinct trends pop up within the hordes of new products. Skinny TVs are still in as they have been forever. High-resolution monitors have taken a big jump in prominence this year. We’re also still seeing just about every gadget get the “smart” treatment, including Masonite’s $6,500 smart door that comes with Ring cameras built-in.

We’re going to spend the rest of the week scouring the CES announcements for the coolest (and weirdest) products but, for now, enjoy this list of the best new stuff we found today. As always, remember that products announced during CES may not come out for quite some time. Some of them may never even come out. So, while it’s OK to get excited about new gadgets, don’t let the promise of an ambitious but ill-fated product break your heart.

Lenovo Yoga Book 9i

Lenovo’s Yoga Book line of laptops has always been about flexibility, but the Yoga Book 9i takes that to an entirely new level. The notebook has two 13.3-inch 2.8K touch screens, which fold open like a traditional book. Each screen is distinct, unlike foldable phones, so using the 9i is equivalent to carrying an external computer display all the time. The computer is smart enough to know when it’s being used in portrait or landscape mode and will adjust its interface accordingly. Lenovo is shipping the laptop with a folio stand, and it’s designed with a detachable keyboard and stylus to work with it. An Intel Iris X processor, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and an assortment of USB-A, USB-C, and Thunderbolt 4 ports complement the Yoga Book i9’s dual screens. Many laptops have been announced at CES 2023, but this is the most interesting one we’ve seen.

OWC Thunderbolt Go Dock

OWC has been making multi-port hubs for several years, but the $399 Thunderbolt Go Dock will be the first one with a built-in power supply when it launches this April. This level of portability (hence the name Go) is impressive, given this dock’s specs. The OWC Thunderbolt Go Doc features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one HDMI port, a Gigabit Ethernet jack, three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, a headphone jack, and a MicroSD Card Reader. Anyone who splits their time between two workstations will find immediate value in the dock, as will anyone who travels with many necessary tech accessories. The Go Dock is one of those practical CES announcements that make us go “finally,” especially since OWC’s announcement comes with a price and release date.

Ring Car Cam

Ring has already conquered the at-home security world, so its move to the world of dashcams is welcome but not surprising. The Car Cam is available for preorder for $199.99 if you order before Jan. 31, and it ships Feb. 15. Car Cams ordered after Jan. 31 will cost $249.99. The camera can record video in 1080p, begins recording when its motion sensor is triggered, and comes with both front- and rear-facing lenses. If you pay for an optional Ring Protect Pro subscription ($6 per month or $60 per year), you can activate the Car Cam’s 5G antenna and monitor your vehicle from anywhere. One of the most clever aspects of Ring’s Car Cam is that it’s powered by your car’s OBD-II port rather than its cigarette lighter. Ring recommends using the Car Cam only with vehicles whose OBD-II ports are on the left side of its steering wheel for safety, and lets you check the make and model of your car to ensure compatibility. If you’re already a part of Ring’s home security ecosystem, the Car Cam seems well worth considering, though you’ll have to act fast to get its early bird price.

Rachio Smart Hose Timer

Rachio’s Smart Hose Timer offers the convenience of an underground sprinkler system without digging holes.

The Rachio Smart Hose Timer is an elegant solution to a common problem for many homeowners: watering the grass or a garden without having to do it yourself. The Smart Hose Timer attaches to your spigot and hose and automatically turns the water on and off at set times. The device will track how much water you use and allows you to manage its usage remotely using an app. If you know it’s going to rain, for instance, you can instruct the Smart Hose Timer not to activate. Setting up an underground irrigation system is time-consuming and expensive, which makes Rachio’s Smart Hose Timer an excellent addition to smart homes with a lawn.

BMW i Vision Dee

Move over dogs, man has a new best friend: cars, according to BMW. The company’s i Vision Dee concept car was joined by Herbie and KITT—sentient vehicle-besties of pop culture yore—to showcase the feature-packed hypothetical mid-sized sedan that wants to be your loyal companion. Dee—short for Digital Emotional Experience—includes software and hardware beyond voice control and driver assistance. Standouts include the BMW Head-Up Display, which turns the windscreen into just a screen, displaying information and facial expressions; iX Flow featuring E Ink—which the company unveiled at last year’s CES—now has full-color capabilities, with 32 colors to choose from. Although it’s not clear when you can buy Dee for yourself, the Heads-Up Display will be rolled out into BMW’s NEUE KLASSE EV line from 2025 on.

New vacuums from Roborock

Roborock announced its latest line of vacuums and robovacs, including the Dyad Pro—the company’s new wet-dry cordless vacuum, which allows you to vacuum and mop simultaneously. Its rollers are self-cleaned and dried when docked, meaning you can say goodbye to weird smells coming from your vacuum. Plus, it packs plenty of suction power thanks to 17,000Pa suction. You can buy it on Amazon and the Roborock store later this month for $449.

The company also announced its S8 line of robot vacuums. The S8 sucks up dirt, dust, and crumbs at 6,000Pa, while a dual rubber roll brush allows for fewer hair tangles. The S8 Pro Ultra—a combo vacuum-mop robot—includes a liftable brush that prevents cross-contamination and damage to the robot. The mop also automatically lifts when cleaning carpets. The S8 lineup goes on sale in April, but you can still snag the S7 models on Amazon—the S7+ is currently $200 off.

Panasonic nanoe X Portable Air Purifier

If you want to up your safety game while you travel, Panasonic unveiled a portable air purifier that fits in a car cupholder. Perfect for rideshare drivers or public transit riders, the nanoe X Portable Air Purifier uses hydroxyl radicals to reduce odors and in-air nasties. It can clean car cabins in two hours at a barely noticeable 36 decibels. Although it’s not HEPA-certified, it’s CARB-compliant and lessens the germy impact of that kid who just open-mouth cough six feet away from you on the subway.

Withings U-Scan

If you’ve ever peeked into your toilet after a workout on a hot day, you may have glimpsed one of the telltale signs of dehydration: dark urine. But pee, which contains 3,000 metabolites, can also tell us a lot more about the state of our metabolic and reproductive health. Withings, known for smart scales, has now made checking in on your ovulation cycle or ketones as easy as a trip to the bathroom. 

The company’s new U-Scan devices let users affix a cartridge inside their toilet that filters urine from other liquids. Test pods within the devices then provide a chemical analysis in minutes. The results then show up in the associated app. It even lets you separate urine tracking for different people with a feature called StreamID. Best of all, the system empties itself, and there’s no need for you to mess with test strips or mailing.

The company has developed two models: U-Scan Nutri Balance, which breaks down hydration and nutrition, and the U-Scan Cycle Sync, which tracks women’s monthly cycles. Depending on the option you choose, the device can determine a woman’s ovulation window, or make recommendations for workouts and diet tweaks and even provide recipes. A winner of the CES Innovation Award in the categories of Smart Home, Fitness & Sports, and Digital Health, U-Scans are currently only available in Europe. They will need FDA approval before you can get them in the United States.

Asus ROG Raikiri Pro gaming controller

Perhaps I’m particularly tuned into game controller news because my Xbox Elite 2 controller recently started rattling when I shake it. Or, it’s possible Asus just dropped one of the coolest gaming controllers I have seen in a while. The ROG Raiki Pro works on current-gen Xbox consoles, PCs, and even mobile devices. It can connect via Bluetooth, USB-C, or traditional 2.4GHz wireless. 

Like many other high-end controllers, it offers four programmable buttons on the back of the controller. Plus, it has a built-in ESS digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for high-fi audio when listening through the built-in headphone jack. 

While all the performance elements make it appealing, the real draw comes from the built-in, customizable OLED display at the top of the controller. It doesn’t seem all that practical, but it sure is cool.  

Unistellar eQuinox 2 smart telescope

Light pollution plays havoc with stargazing. Even powerful traditional telescopes have difficulty piercing through the view-ruining glow from populated areas and their artificial illumination. This smart telescope, however, relies on a digital sensor and computational photography (like you’ll find in your smartphone) to provide a clear, detailed image of more than 5,000 different space objects without the light pollution spoiling things. It’s also super simple to set up: Once you’ve put the telescope together and connected to the app, the scope can typically locate its own position in under two minutes. You can then simply use the app to select the part of the sky at which you want to gawk. It comes with a high price tag ($2,499), but it’s a great option for city dwellers or people who want the easiest possible astronomy experience.

Nakamichi DRAGON 11.4.6 Wireless Home Surround Sound System

Japanese consumer electronics brand Nakamichi already produces the Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 eARC SSE Max, the popular setup that tops our wireless surround sound systems list. So what do you do when you’ve got a highly successful $1,999 soundbar + surround speakers + subwoofer bundle that’s already massively overpowered for many rooms? Double down and produce a new flagship that’s even more expansive and expensive, that’s what! The Nakamichi Dragon, premiered at CES 2023 and currently slated to ship in Q2, is an 11.4.6 configuration pumping 21 channels of audio through 31 drivers. Supporting Dolby Atmos/Vision, and the first soundbar to feature the less-common DTS:X Pro spatial-audio protocols, the Nakamichi Dragon’s distinctive architecture delivers positional precision to home cinema through components including 6 upfiring height channels (with units angled at both 10 and 20 degrees), 7 Air Motion Transformers tweeters, and individually managed dual dual subwoofers (yes, a quad kicker setup in an isobaric configuration split between and two wireless cabinets). A total of 15 amplifiers (3000W of total power) are split between the 58-inch soundbar, subwoofers, and two 9-pound adjustable Omni-Motion Reference Surrounds, pushing an immersive soundstage with adaptive overhead effects. Plus there’s Qualcomm aptX HD Bluetooth 5.0 for streaming music from smartphones, tablets, etc. If you’ve got the space (think a 65-inch TV and a medium-sized viewing room at a minimum), as well as the budget, the Dragon will be available for $3,499.

The post The coolest new gadgets and tech from CES 2023 Day 2 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best TV		Samsung QN65QN800A 65 Inch Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2021)		SEE IT	Save while getting ahead of the crowd with the latest in audio and video TV technology.
Best drone		DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo Quadcopter		SEE IT	This popular drone is suited for beginners and established photographers alike.
Best earbuds		AirPods Pro		SEE IT	Get the AirPods Pro at a reduced price before they sell out … again!

The holidays can inevitably raise a conflict: We may want to find gifts that delight our family and friends but are aware of the environmental impact new products can have. A good compromise? Refurbished goods that have already been purchased, returned, and restored. They can help you cut down on the number of new products you’re buying and save you money. Since these are pre-owned items, you should look closely at the item’s condition and what’s part of the package and check the return policy before making any purchases. That said, you can save hundreds on tech that may not be the latest model but is still one of the best refurbished gifts that will last.

• Best TV: Samsung QN65QN800A 65 Inch Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2021)
• Best Windows laptop: 2022 Acer 15-inch HD IPS Chromebook 
• Best MacBook: 2020 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip
• Best VR headset: Meta Oculus Quest 2 Headset 
• Best smartwatch: Apple Watch Series 6
• Best iPad: Apple iPad (10.2-inch, 8th Gen)
• Best earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro
• Best speaker: Bose soundlink Mini II Limited Edition Bluetooth Speaker
• Best drone: DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo Quadcopter
• Best mini projector: Anker Nebula Capsule
• Best robot vacuum: iRobot Roomba i4
• Best handheld vacuum: Shark ION W1 Handheld Vacuum
• Best blender: Vitamix Explorian Blender, Professional Grade
• Best air fryer: NINJA Foodi LG450 5-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Grill

Best TV: Samsung QN65QN800A 65 Inch Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2021)

Samsung

SEE IT

There’s no getting around it: TVs, especially those equipped with the latest technology, are expensive. That’s why it’s a great time to take advantage of this refurbished smart TV from Samsung. Its 8K video and QLED display with its mini-LED backlights provide a stunning picture, and your recipient won’t need to upgrade for years to come.

Best Windows laptop: 2022 Acer HD IPS Chromebook

Acer

SEE IT

For the student in your life, this versatile 15-inch model from Acer comes equipped with an LED display, and an Intel dual-core Celeron processor that can work at impressive speeds of up to 2.55GHz. This Chromebook also features MicroSD card reader, 4GB of RAM, plus an HDMI port plus two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports for maximum connectivity. And they can return it for a replacement or refund within 90 days if they are unhappy with the purchase.

Best MacBook: 2020 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip

Apple

SEE IT

If you’re not looking to shell out the money for the latest MacBook, the 2020 version will still serve most users well. This 13-inch model is designed with Apple’s M1 chip for faster performance and processing power. It’s designed with Apple’s signature Retina display, and it comes with 8GB of RAM and up to 20 hours of battery life.

Best VR headset: Meta Oculus Quest 2 Headset

Meta

SEE IT

Give the gift of an alternate reality—without paying as much very real money. Meta’s latest iteration of the Oculus Quest comes with hi-res display and fast processing that allows users to g deep into the metaverse. Users can also game with new titles and older ones, plus get access to screenings, concerts, and more.

Best smartwatch: Apple Watch Series 6

Apple

SEE IT

This smartwatch may not have the crash detection of the new Apple Watch Series 8, but it still provides plenty of great features for a reduced price. Its always-on Retina display allows users to answer texts and keep tabs on their heart health with the ECG feature. Plus, it’s dialed into various workouts, and lets users listen to their favorite tunes from Apple Music. 

Best iPad: Apple iPad (10.2-inch, 8th Gen)

Apple

SEE IT

Looking for a gift for an artist? This 10.2-inch Apple iPad comes with a Retina display and is equipped with an 8-megapixel front and back camera. It also comes with stereo speakers and works with smart keyboards and the Apple Pencil (1st Gen). Plus, the battery lasts for up to 10 hours.

Best earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro

Apple

SEE IT

AirPods are ubiquitous, but if you haven’t yet bitten the bullet because of the price, here’s your opportunity to save on the original standard-bearer. They are both water- and sweat-resistant, with silicone eartips that come in three sizes to make sure they give all type of ears the best experience. Plus, they provide active noise cancellation so users can tune out the outside world in favor of your music of choice.

Best speaker: Bose soundlink Mini II Limited Edition Bluetooth Speaker

Bose

SEE IT

This mini speaker will let the music lover in your life bring the party wherever they go. Designed with Bose’s signature sound quality, this battery-powered speaker works with a Bluetooth range of up to 30 feet. And weighing in at a pound, the Mini II is easy to tuck into a backpack.

Best drone: DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo Quadcopter

DJI

SEE IT

Photographers, new and established, can appreciate this drone, made by one of the top names in the category. This quadcopter can capture 4K video in addition to 12-megapixel stills. This battery-powered drone is easy to transport at less than one pound, and this set comes with remote control, carrying case, and accessories. It can also be returned within one year if you’re not satisfied.

Best mini projector: Nebula Capsule by Anker

Anker

SEE IT

The cinephile in your life will thrill to this handy mini projector by Anker. Easily connected by USB, Micro USB, and HDMI, this projector provides vivid images of up to 100 inches and a 360-degree speaker for a cinematic experience. And it should last for up to 4 hours of viewing time.

Best robot vacuum: iRobot Roomba i4

iRobot

SEE IT

Make life a little easier for pet owners with the gift of a robot vacuum that won’t complain about chores. iRobot’s Roomba i4 is designed with sensors to best map homes and can be customized with the accompanying app. This powerful cleaner is designed for carpets and works especially well on cat and dog hair.

Best handheld vacuum: Shark ION W1 Handheld Vacuum

Shark

SEE IT

Help a small space dweller out with this handheld vacuum by Shark. The battery-powered device provides 22.2 volts of energy for a deep clean. It’s recommended for use on upholstery and comes with a nozzle and crevice tool to get down into the sofa. It can also be used in the car.

Best blender: Vitamix Explorian Blender

Vitamix

SEE IT

For a family member with many mouths to feed, this Vitamix Explorian Blender should be a welcome gift. A professional-grade blender is an all-purpose tool that can make quick work of soups, salsa, margaritas, and more. This 64-ounce device has 10 settings that allow it to double as a food processor. And it’s dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is also a cinch. 

Best air fryer: NINJA Foodi LG450 5-in-Air Fryer and Electric Grill

SEE IT

The home chef that hasn’t yet invested in an air fryer should appreciate this versatile model. Made by trusted brand Ninja, this 5-in-1 programmable device justifies the counter space by serving as an air fryer, baker, and indoor grill and in one, making getting meals on the table a lot easier. And if there’s one thing a great refurbished gift should do, it is save time, trouble, and money.

The post 14 refurbished gifts that will last, if they last appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best rugged		UAG iPhone 14 Pro Max Case		SEE IT	These military-inspired cases provide an impressive 16 feet of drop protection.
Best with wallet		Bellroy Mod Case + Wallet		SEE IT	Carry your essentials in one sleek package with this magnetized case-and-wallet combo.
Best leather		Mujjo Leather Case		SEE IT	Made from vegetable-tanned leather, this case also provides protection for everyday use.

So you got yourself a fancy new iPhone 14. While you’re busy tweaking all the settings or framing your first shots to test the 12-megapixel and ultrawide cameras, you might just drop it by mistake. Fortunately, you can protect your investment with a durable case that will keep your new phone in good working order. In compiling our list of the best iPhone 14 cases, we’ve rounded up options in different styles and at various price points so you can find the best option whether you have an iPhone 14, a Plus, a Pro, or a Pro Max.

• Best overall: Nimble Disc Case
• Best with wallet: Bellroy Mod Case + Wallet 
• Best leather: Mujjo Leather Case
• Best rugged: UAG iPhone 14 Pro Max Case 
• Best waterproof: OtterBox FRĒ Series Waterproof Case
• Best sustainable: Pela iPhone 14 ProMax Case
• Best budget: Spigen Ultra Hybrid iPhone 14 Case

How we picked the best iPhone 14 cases

We’ve got multiple iPhone users on staff; our phones are currently intact. One of the reasons for that is we believe in cases. If we could, we’d have a case for when we’re changing cases because we change cases a lot to help us help you find the best ones. We combine this first-hand experience with peer recommendations and other real-world impressions, then we scour critical reviews and specs sheets to narrow down our list.

The best iPhone 14 cases: Reviews & Recommendations

We considered several factors when recommending the best iPhone 14 cases. A good phone case protects your phone without being overly bulky. We looked for options made from durable materials and prioritized options designed with recyclable materials. No matter how careful you are with your device, carrying it around with you all the time will probably result in a drop at some point. We looked for cases that provided up to 10 feet or more drop protection to safeguard your device. With the iPhone 12, Apple introduced MagSafe—a magnet array inside the phone that works with compatible accessories (battery packs, car mounts, etc.) to secure the phone and align it with charging coils (among other convenience features). We highlighted cases that work with this wireless technology.

Best overall: Nimble Disc Case

Nimble

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Nimble’s Disc Clear case shows off your phone, is designed to absorb impacts, and is made from recycled CDs and DVDs.

Specs

• Materials: Recycled polycarbonate
• Drop protection: Up to 10 feet
• Magsafe? Yes

Pros

• Drop protection up to 10 feet
• Range of options for wireless charging
• Can be recycled

Cons

• Not rugged
• Not waterproof

Nimble’s Clear Case is a, well, clear winner for best overall iPhone 14 case. These cases stand out for their beautiful design and the company’s sustainable practices. Made in part from polycarbonate from recycled CDs and DVDs, this case lets you showcase your phone with a slim, clear case. Nimble’s cases come with the company’s impact-absorbing FlexBand technology, which provides drop protection of up to 10 feet. They’re also MagSafe-compatible and come in plastic-free packaging. And the company will take 15 percent off your purchase if you send them any of your previous plastic cases to recycle.

Best with wallet: Bellroy Mod Case + Wallet

Bellroy

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Bellroy Mod Case and Wallet allows you to combine the essentials in one sleek package with this case-and-wallet combo. 

Specs

• Materials: Flex polymer, tanned leather, polyester microfiber lining  
• Drop protection: Padded corners
• MagSafe charging? Yes

Pros

• Magnetic closure
• Fits up to three cards
• Comes in a range of colors and patterns

Cons

• Doesn’t have strong drop protection

Take care of two essentials with the sleek Bellroy Mod Case and Wallet. This hard-shelled case is designed with two magnetic strips that will lock your wallet in place. The wallet opens with a magnetic trap door and holds three cards. This case is also MagSafe compatible. That said, its sleek profile doesn’t provide much drop protection, though it comes with a 3-year warranty.

Best leather: Mujjo Leather Case

Mujjo

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This beautiful case is an accessory you’ll want to show off that will only improve with time. 

Specs

• Materials: Leather
• Drop protection: Not provided
• MagSafe? Yes

Pros

• Made from vegetable-tanned leather
• Available with a wallet
• Slim design

Cons

• Not waterproof
• Not necessarily protective against falls

If you’re looking for an elegant way to showcase your phone, Mujillo’s Leather Case is an excellent option. The vegetable-tanned leather is supple yet provides ample protection for everyday use with its raised bezel. Despite its rustic look, this case is also MagSafe-compatible. It comes in tan, Monaco Blue, and black, or you can also get a version with an included wallet.

Best rugged: UAG iPhone 14 Pro Max Case

UAG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Protect your extra-large phone from the elements with this rugged yet lightweight option from UAG.

Specs

• Materials: Polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethane
• Drop protection: 16 feet 
• MagSafe charging? No

Pros

• Impressive drop protection 
• Durability 
• Slim design

Cons

• Doesn’t work with MagSafe

Do you work outdoors or regularly adventure in the backcountry, but enjoy the extra screen real estate of the largest iPhone? If so, a rugged case from UAG is a good option to protect your phablet. Made of durable polycarbonate, this case comes with a raised screen and extra TPU on the corners to cushion your phone from drops. It provides extra traction and oversized buttons that are easy to find and use. With drop protection of up to 16 feet, this phone is military-grade. And it’s available in 10 colors (as well as options for other iPhone sizes/models).

Best waterproof: OtterBox FRĒ Series Waterproof Case

Otterbox

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This Otterbox case is made from recycled plastic and waterproof so that you can take your phone on aquatic adventures.

Specs

• Materials: Polycarbonate
• Drop protection: 130 drops from 4 feet
• MagSafe? Yes

Pros

• Waterproof
• Slim design 
• Works with MagSafe

Cons

• Expensive

You don’t have to leave your new phone on the dock when heading out onto the water. Otterbox’s FRĒ Series Waterproof Case provides plenty of protection against the elements as it can be submerged up to 2 meters for one hour. It’s also partially made from recycled plastic. And it works with MagSafe devices for all-around functionality.

Best sustainable: Pela iPhone 14 ProMax Case

Pela

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Pela’s cases come in many beautiful colors, provide drop protection, and are compostable when you finish using them.

Specs

• Materials: Compostable bioplastic elastomer and flaw straw
• Drop protection: Up to 20 feet
• MagSafe? Yes

Pros

• Compostable
• Works with MagSafe
• Comes in eight colors

Cons

• Expensive

The name Pela is synonymous with sustainability. The Canadian brand’s phone cases are handcrafted in their studio from a material called Flaxstic, which is made up of compostable bioplastic elastomer and flaw straw. That makes for a flexible case designed to wrap around your phone. That doesn’t mean this case is flimsy, though. It provides impressive drop protection of 20 feet, according to company testing. It’s also MagSafe-compatible and comes in eight colors. If you’re unhappy, the company also has a flexible return policy.

Best budget: Spigen Ultra Hybrid iPhone 14 Case

Spigen

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Spigen Ultra Hybrid shows off your phone while providing reliable protection at an affordable price.

Specs

• Materials: Polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethane
• Drop protection: Military grade (26 drops from 4 feet)
• MagSafe? No

Pros

• Clear case showcases phone
• Low cost
• Rugged

Cons

• Not recyclable

If you’re looking to economize after getting your new phone but still want reliable protection, the Spigen Ultra Hybrid is a good choice. The clear cases come in multiple trims, from Crystal Clear to Sierra Blue. That doesn’t mean this case is fragile, though. It comes with air-cushion drop protection that’s military-grade. And all for a budget-friendly price.

Also consider …

If you’re looking for another durable option, the Zagg Denali Snap is designed with the mountains in mind. This rugged option incorporates the company’s D3O material, which is flexible and protects from shocks. It provides up to 16 feet of drop protection and is made partly from recycled materials. It also comes with an antimicrobial layer to discourage the growth of bacteria. Plus, it’s MagSafe-compatible. 

On the other hand, if sustainability is a top priority, the Bellroy Bio Phone Case for the iPhone 14 Max is slim, compostable, and comes in three matte colors: black, bluestone, and biscuit. It’s also less expensive than other options. 

Things to consider when picking the best iPhone 14 case

Now that you’re playing around with the iPhone’s new features, you’ll want to protect your new camera with a case that suits your needs. Here are some things to think about:

Your phone model: Whether you bought an iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, or iPhone 14 Pro Max, some companies have cases for only certain models, while others cover the whole new iOS lineup. Ensure you have the right one for your phone’s dimensions, camera array, etc.

Durability: Will you regularly be subjecting your phone to the elements? If you’re outdoorsy, your phone will need to survive significant drops and potentially land on rocks and other hard surfaces. Some cases come with bumpers for extra protection at the corners. In addition, it might need to withstand exposure to water. Don’t just trust marketing slogans, however. When it comes to drops, you can look for designations like ML-STD 810G-516.6 to know if the case passed a rigorous test. And when it comes to water- and dust-resistance, check the IP rating, which stands for “Ingress Protection” and is displayed as IPXX. The higher the numbers in the X spots, the better the status. Look for a minimum 5, preferably 6 to 8. 

Charging: All of the cases on this list work with wireless charging. But if MagSafe technology is a priority, keep in mind that not all of the new iPhone 14 cases are compatible. 

Sustainability: If you’re looking to go easier on the Earth even with a new purchase, cases made with recycled plastic, or compostable options like Pela’s iPhone 14 ProMax Case or the Bellroy Bio Phone Case, are good options.

Final thoughts on the best iPhone 14 cases

Dropping extra money on a case as you’re shelling out for an iPhone 14 may seem like overkill, but it won’t feel that way after your first drop. Just remember, you’re protecting an investment. Whether you’re looking for a modern case or wallet combo for everyday use or a rugged case that will protect your phone from the elements, our recommendations can help you make the most of your new phone.

The post The best iPhone 14 cases of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Savings on computers and TVs generate lots of Cyber Monday excitement, but it’s also a great time to save on power tools. From circular saws to sanders, you can save up to 69 percent on products from trusted makers like Ace Hardware, Black+Decker, Craftsman, Dewalt, Milwaukee, and more that will delight the DIYer in your life. But act fast as these premium tools will be snapped up fast.

Save up to 50 percent on power tools at Home Depot, get up to 69 percent off items from Black+Decker, and enjoy deep discounts on Craftsman tools. And you can get 15 percent off at Ace Hardware with the code HOLIDAY2. Here are more power tool deals on Cyber Monday.

Home Depot Cyber Monday power tool deals

RIDGID 18V Cordless 10-Tool Combo Kit $389 (Was $699)

Give someone the gift of building with this comprehensive tool set from Ridgid. It comes with an 8-volt drill and driver that’s both powerful and lightweight for projects around the house.The kit also includes a circular saw, reciprocating saw, random orbit sander, and more. An included LED worklight provides 400 lumens of illumination and pivots to help you see your work. And the hand vacuum will help you clean up afterward. This kit also comes with a lifetime service agreement. The lithium battery and charger are sold separately, but you’re still saving plenty with this Cyber Monday deal.

• RIDGID 18V Brushless Cordless 9-Tool Combo Kit $589 (Was $999)
• DEWALT 20-Volt Max Cordless Combo Kit (10-Tool) $569 (Was $969)
• Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Rear Handle Circ Saw $399 (Was $757)
• Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw $199 (Was $418)
• Milwaukee M18 18-V Lithium-Ion XC Starter Kit $159 (Was $348)
• Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw $199 (Was $398)
• Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless 5 in. Random Orbit Sander $159 (Was $328)
• Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screw Gun $159 (Was $358)
• Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Battery Starter Kit  $199 (Was $398)

Amazon Cyber Monday power tool deals

• CRAFTSMAN Small Angle Grinder Tool 4-1/2-Inch, 6-Amp $27 (was $44)
• CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless Drill/Driver Kit $79 (was $153)
• CRAFTSMAN CMCF810C2 V20 20-Volt Max Variable Speed Brushless Cordless Impact Driver $79 (was $139)
• CRAFTSMAN V20 Craftsman Drill Combo, Cordless, 4-Tool $209 (was $299)
• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Combo Kit, 2-Tool (DCK240C2),Yellow/Black Drill Driver/Impact Combo Kit $139 (was $219)
• DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill / Driver Kit, Compact, 1/2-Inc $99 (was $169)
• DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Impact Driver Kit, Brushless, 1/4-inch $99 (was $159)
• DEWALT Drill Bit Set, Black and Gold, 14-Piece $9 (was $16)
• DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Oscillating Tool Kit, 3-Speed $129 (was $179)
• DEWALT Table Saw for Jobsite, Compact, 8-1/4-Inch $294 (was $379)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Battery Pack, 3.0-Ah, 2-Pack $99 (was $189)
• DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Cordless Impact Driver Kit, Brushless, 1/4-Inch, 3-Speed, 2 Batteries $189 (was $219) 
• DEWALT DCB210-2 20V MAX XR® 10.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery 2 Pack $256 (was $349)
• DEWALT 20V MAX* XR® Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit $189 (was $219)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Battery, Lithium Ion, 4-Ah & 2-Ah, 4-Pack $159 (was $176)
• DEWALT 20V MAX Combo Kit, Compact 6-Tool $499 (was $699)
• DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Single Bevel, Compound $319 (was $199)
• SKIL 65ft. 360° Red Self-Leveling Cross Line Laser Level $89 (was $119)
  SKIL 50ft. Red Self-Leveling Cross Line Laser Level $42 (was $57)

More of the best Cyber Monday deals and Black Friday discounts still available

• TV deals
• Computer deals
• 3D printer deals
• Headphone deals
• Speaker deals
• Apple deals
• Telescope deals
• Walmart deals
• Appliance deals
• Fitness deals
• Generator deals
• Coffee deals
• Deal: LG OLED TV
• Deal: Shark vacuum
• Deal: Anker Power Station
• Deal: Vitamix blender

The post Save up to $300 with these Cyber Monday power tool deals appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Whether the arrival of more than two feet of snow is a regular occurrence where you live, or snowflakes send you and your neighbors scurrying to the grocery store for bread and milk, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for a storm.

Fortunately, you can laugh in the face of icy precipitation with some solid deals on snow blowers and snow shovels this Cyber Monday. From heavy-duty snow blowers to easy-to-use kits for your car, these Cyber Monday deals are powerful enough to make snow removal almost fun and let you get back inside for some hot chocolate.

Greenworks Cordless Brushless Snow Blower $339.99 (Was $499.99)

If you contend with serious amounts of snow on the regular, you need a powerful device that you can depend upon. Greenworks’ Cordless Snow Blower is powered by an 80-volt lithium ion battery that’s easy to charge. It also comes with a rotating chute that allows users to toss snow up to 20 feet (though probably best to avoid the neighbors’ driveway). This snow blower also comes with dual LEDs that will help you see the sidewalk in the midst of a blizzard. And when spring finally arrives, you can easily fold it away until next year.

More Cyber Monday deals on snow blowers

• Snow Joe 24-Volt 11-Inch 5-Ah Cordless Snow Shovel Kit $119.98 (Was $198.98)
• Snow Joe SJ627E 22-Inch 15-Amp Electric Snow Thrower $194.71 (Was $249)
• Voltask Electric Snow Blower $143.98 (Was $199.99)
• Alphaworks Handheld Electric Shovel $135.99 (Was $169.99)
• SuperHandy Snow Thrower/Power Shovel $135.99 (Was $159.99)

Cyber Monday deals on snow shovels

• Snow Joe Shovelution 20-in Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel $23.90 (Was $33.99)
• Nareky Snow Shovel for Driveway $31.99 (Was $39.79)
• Kalawa 3-in-1 Shovel Kit $20.79 (Was $25.99)
• Orientools Heavy Duty Snow Shovel, Rolling Adjustable Snow Pusher $53.19 (Was $73.99)
• Go Plus Roof Rake $52.79 (Was $62.99)

More of the Cyber Monday deals and Black Friday savings still available

• TV deals
• Computer deals
• Portable generators
• 3D printer deals
• Headphone deals
• Speaker deals
• Apple deals
• Telescope deals
• Walmart deals
• Appliance deals
• Fitness deals
• Generator deals
• Coffee deals
• Deal: LG OLED TV
• Deal: Shark vacuum
• Deal: Anker Power Station
• Deal: Vitamix blender

The post Cyber Monday snow blower deals to help you get ready for winter appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Fitness gear can make working out more effective and a whole lot more fun. Want a watch that can meticulously track all that wonderful suffering you do at the gym? There’s a Black Friday deal for that. Or maybe you want some free weights or a treadmill for your home so it can feel more like the gym. Black Friday can help with that as well. We’ve combed through tons of fitness deals to find the ones worth buying and we didn’t even break a sweat. OK, we did sweat a little, but it has been a long Black Friday. Cut us some slack.

The best Black Friday smartwatch and wearables deals

Garmin fenix 6S Pro, Premium Multisport GPS Watch $339.47 (was $599.99)

If you’ve got a serious skier or a mountain climber on your list, the Garmin fenix 6S Pro is an excellent choice. This rugged smartwatch comes with maps for more than 2,000 ski resorts around the world, plus sophisticated GPS, global satellite tracking, a gyroscope, and barometric altimeter. The watch will also keep tabs on critical health metrics at high altitudes, such as heart rate and oxygen levels. The battery lasts anywhere from 9 to 34 days, and its display is always-on in the sun and comes in stainless steel, titanium, or with a carbon coating that’s as hard as a diamond.

• Garmin Vivoactive 4 GPS Smartwatch $179.99 (Was $329.99)
• Garmin Instinct Rugged Outdoor Watch $159.17 (Was $249.99)
• Apple Watch Ultra, $739 (Was $799)
• Google Pixel Watch Android Smartwatch $299.00 (Was $349.99)
• Fitbit Inspire 3 Health & Fitness Tracker $69.95 (Was $99.95)
• Fitbit Charge 5 Advanced Fitness & Health Tracker $99.95 (Was $149.95)
• Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch $149.95 (Was $229.95)
• Amazfit Bip, $49.99 (Was $69.99)
• Amafit Band 5, $27.99 (Was $39.99)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, $149.00 (Was $349.99)
• Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) $149.00 (Was $279.99)
• Fitbit Inspire 2 Fitness Tracker $49.00 (Was $99.95)

The best Black Friday fitness equipment & home gym deals

Bowflex Treadmill 22 $2,499.00 (was $3,599.00)

Putting in some serious miles on the treadmill is a lot more pleasant when you have something fun to watch. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 lets you stream Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more from its HD touchscreen. You can also virtually globetrot on 50 routes around the world. A Bluetooth wireless armband and speakers complete the experience. And you can crank up the resistance up to 20 percent or run up to 12 mph.

• NordicTrack Commercial Studio Cycle $899 (Was $1,499)
• Schwinn Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike $799.00 ($1,199.00)
• Hydrow Rowing Machine $1,994.99 (Was $2,494.99)
• NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical $1,599.99 (Was $1,799.99)
• Schwinn Recumbent Bike $549 (Was $599)
• Darchen Mini-Trampoline for Adults $87.99 (Was $117.99)
• Sunny Health and Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike $222.70 (Was $299.00)
• UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill, $309.97 (Was $359.97)
• Tempo Move, $395 (Was $495)
• The Mirror, $745 (Was $1,495)
• Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) $349.00 (Was $549.00)
• Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbell Stand with Media Rack $129.00 (Was $229.00)
• PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell, $122.55 (Was $169)
• Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell $119.00 (Was $199.99)
• Bowflex Xceed Home Gym $649.00 (Was $999.99)
• Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench $249.00 (Was $499.00)
• PROGEAR 1300 Adjustable and Foldable 12 Position Heavy-Duty Weight Bench $98.64 (Was $118.64)
• Gold’s Gym Classic Weightlifting Wrist Wrap Gloves, Medium/Large $7.99 (Was $12.73)
• Tru Grit Fitness 20 lb Rubber Hex Dumbbell $17.47 (Was $19.97)

The best Black Friday fitness accessory deals

Bose Sport Wireless Earbuds $129.00 (was $149.00)

Listening to music or a riveting podcast can help the miles pass by easier—unless you’re constantly fumbling with your headphones. Bose’s Sport Wireless Earbuds solve this problem with three sizes of earbuds for a custom fit. With an IXP4 rating, they’re also water- and sweat-resistant. These earbuds are designed with Bose’s signature high-quality audio and touch controls that make answering calls or adjusting volume a cinch. Plus, these earbuds have a long battery life of up to 5 hours if you’re up for the challenge. 

• Garmin Edge GPS Cycling/Bike Computer $149.99 (Was $199.99)
• Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap $34.09 (Was $49.95)
• Manduka Pro Yoga Mat $101.26 (Was $129.00)
• Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat, $18.60 (Was $21.98)
• Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager, $34.99 (Was $45.99)
• Theragun Elite Massage Gun $295 (Was $399)
• Hypervolt Go 2, $149 (Was $199)

More of the best Black Friday deals

• TV deals
• Computer deals
• 3D printer deals
• Headphone deals
• Speaker deals
• Apple deals
• Telescope deals
• Walmart deals
• Appliance deals
• Fitness deals
• Generator deals
• Coffee deals
• Deal: LG OLED TV
• Deal: Shark vacuum
• Deal: Anker Power Station
• Deal: Vitamix blender

The post Get sweaty with these 40+ Black Friday fitness deals appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Whether you’re traveling or you’re in the middle of a storm, you don’t want to lose power. Fortunately, Anker makes a range of devices, from portable power stations to multi-device chargers that will keep your electronics working in a range of situations. These durable power stations and chargers are designed to last. And you can take advantage of these Black Friday Anker deals so you can rest assured you have equipment that will last for years. You can also check out our list of the best generator Black Friday deals if you need even more power.

Anker 757 Portable Power Station $979.99 (Was $1,399.99)

If your camping trips involve coffee and grilling or you just want to make sure you have backup for your home during the next storm, you can rely on the Anker 757 Portable Power Station. With LiFePO4 batteries that last up to six times longer than the lithium ion batteries, its USB-C port provides 100 watts of power, The Anker 757 comes with six AC ports, four USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and a car outlet to keep a range of devices topped up. It also charges much faster than the competition, and should reach 80 percent of power within an hour. The Anker 757 also comes with three charging cables (AC, solar, car) and should last for up to 10 years. And at more than $400 off, these Black Friday Anker deals allow you to get a deep discount on a power station that you’ll rely on for years to come.

More Black Friday Anker deals

• Anker 535 Portable Power Station $419.99 (Was $549.99)
• Anker 625 Solar Panel with Adjustable Kickstand $239.99 (Was $329.99)
• Anker Power Bank Powerhouse $139.99 (Was $199.99)
• Anker 727 Compact Charging Station $64.99 (Was $94.99)
• Anker Multi-Device Detachable Wireless Charging Station $125.99 (Was $179.99)
• Anker 622 Magnetic Battery Portable Charger $39.99 (Was $69.99)
• Anker 45W Wall Charger $45.49 (Was $65.99)
• Anker New Nylon USB-C to Lightning Cable $21.99 (Was $31.99)

More of the best Black Friday deals

• TV deals
• Computer deals
• 3D printer deals
• Headphone deals
• Speaker deals
• Apple deals
• Telescope deals
• Walmart deals
• Appliance deals
• Fitness deals
• Generator deals
• Coffee deals
• Deal: LG OLED TV
• Deal: Shark vacuum
• Deal: Anker Power Station
• Deal: Vitamix blender

The post Save more than $400 on Anker Portable Power Stations for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, apple pie: you’re probably already getting hungry thinking about Thanksgiving. But the vegetable peels, egg shells, coffee grounds, and other food scraps that remain after the feast also generate a lot of waste that typically goes to the landfill. So take advantage of the Lomi Smart Composter Black Friday deal to give thanks, not leftovers, to the Earth and turn those scraps back into nutrient-rich dirt.

Lomi

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This device makes it easy. It’s designed to fit on your kitchen countertop and recycle food scraps with the touch of a button. Just toss in the remnants of fruits and vegetables, breads and grains, and even some animal products and the composter will turn it back into nutrient-rich material within four hours. You can even scrape your dinner plates directly into the device and it will neutralize those pungent odors, keeping insects at bay. Then you can repurpose the remains of your holiday meal to nourish your plants, save them in a container for next spring’s garden, or recycle if your community has a compost program. 

The Lomi Smart Composter Black Friday deal saves you more than $100 on a starter package that includes the Lomi; a starter kit of filters and pods; and a subscription for filters, which are delivered once a quarter. The package is on sale for $426.16, down from $528.95.

More of the best Black Friday deals:

• TV deals
• Computer deals
• Headphone deals
• Speaker deals
• Apple deals
• Telescope deals
• Walmart deals
• Appliance deals
• Fitness deals
• Generator deals
• Coffee deals
• Deal: LG OLED TV
• Deal: Shark vacuum
• Deal: Anker Power Station
• Deal: Vitamix blender

The post Save $100 with this Lomi Smart Composter Black Friday deal appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Black Friday is here and you can start saving on hundreds of items for your household and your loved ones with Walmart’s Black Friday deals. You can maximize your savings by getting a free 30-day trial to Walmart+ early access. That will get you free delivery from your local Walmart, free shipping, discounts on prescriptions and gas, access to stream more than 40,000 videos from Paramount, and more. We’ve highlighted some standout discounts, then listed dozens more, and we’ll keep updating this guide with new deals through Cyber Monday and beyond.

Black Friday laptop and computer deals

SAMSUNG 34″ Class Flat LED Ultra WQHD Monitor, $229.00 (was $399.99)

If you don’t want to shell out a lot for a monitor but still want an ultra-wide option with a high-quality picture, Samsung’s LED Ultra WQHD monitor is a great pick. At 34 inches across, the screen has a resolution of 3440×1440 pixels that delivers a sharp picture. A  respectable 75Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology cut down on tearing and stutter for better gaming. And the VESA-compatible mount works with both HDMI and Display Port.

• Open Box | Apple MacBook Pro $399 (Was $599)
• Lenovo Legion 5 15.6″, Ryzen 5 5600H Laptop $599.00
• Acer Nitro 5 15.6″ 144Hz FHD Gaming Laptop $649.00 (Was $798.00)
• MSI GF63 Thin 11SC-693 15.6″ Gaming Laptop $499.00 (Was $632.00)
• Lenovo Ideapad 1i, 14.0″ Laptop $179.00
• Gateway Notebook 11.6″ Touchscreen 2-in-1 Laptop $149.00 (Was $199.00)
• ASUS VivoBook 14″ FHD Laptop $199 (Was $299)

Black Friday sports & outdoors deals

Hyper E-Ride Electric Bike, $398.00 (was $698.00)

Electric bikes can be pricey, but this option features quality craftsmanship at an affordable price. This eye-catching blue bike comes with an aluminum frame and premium Shimano grip shifter and rear derailleur gear system. It’s got front and rear brakes for extra safety, plus a 36-volt battery that allows for a ride time of about 20 miles—great for commuting or short rides around town.

• GOTRAX Fluxx Black FX3 Hoverboard $48.00 
• Razor Miniature Dirt Rocket MX350 Electric-Powered Dirt Bike $199.00 (Was $328.00)
• Intex Sierra K2 Inflatable Kayak with Oars and Hand Pump $69.99 (Was $159.99)
• Ozark Trail Hazel Creek 12-Person Cabin Tent $250.00 (Was $349.99)
• Ozark Trail Camping Director Chair $35.00 (Was $77.69)
• Hyper Bicycles Electric Bicycle Pedal Assist Mountain $398.00 (Was $648.00)
• XDP Recreation Super Disc Metal Swing Set $99.00

Black Friday fitness deals

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, $149.00 (was $349.99)

Do you like the idea of smartwatches but still prefer a more classic-looking timepiece for everyday wear? The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic BT ticks both boxes. It’s got the traditional clock face with hands and stainless steel casing. Yet it will track your vital health metrics, from your oxygen levels to ECG monitoring to sleep tracking,  let you participate in group workouts, and get live coaching. Of course, you can also listen to music, take calls, and text. But hurry, at almost $200 off, this deal won’t last long.

• Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) $149.00 (Was $279.99)
• Fitbit Inspire 2 Fitness Tracker $49.00 (Was $99.95)
• PROGEAR 1300 Adjustable and Foldable 12 Position Heavy-Duty Weight Bench $98.64 (Was $118.64)
• Gold’s Gym Classic Weightlifting Wrist Wrap Gloves, Medium/Large $7.99 (Was $12.73)
• Tru Grit Fitness 20 lb Rubber Hex Dumbbell $17.47 (Was $19.97)

The best Walmart Black Friday deals in 2022

Black Friday TV deals

• TCL 65″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV $228.00
• TCL 32″ Class 720P HD LED Roku Smart TV 3 Series 32S331 $118.00 (Was $148.00) 
• TCL 65″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV $228.00
• VIZIO 70″ Class V-Series 4K UHD LED Smart TV $448.00 
• TCL 32″ Class 720P HD LED Roku Smart TV 3 Series 32S331 $118.00 (Was $148.00)

Black Friday home theater deals

• HP CC200 FHD LCD LED Projector with Roku Express Streaming Player and 84″ Mobile Projection Screen $137.00 (Was $199.99) 
• TCL Alto 5+ 2.1 Channel Home Theater Sound Bar $59.00 (Was $79.99)
• Roku Premiere 4K/HDR Streaming Media Player with Premium High Speed HDMI Cable and Simple Remote $19.00 
• onn. Full Motion TV Wall Mount for 50″ to 86″ TVs  $32.00 (Was $47.58)

Black Friday audio deals

• Apple AirPods with Charging Case (2nd Generation)  $79.00 (Was $99.99)
• Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Apple W1 Headphone Chip $79.00 (Was $131.39)
• JLab Go Air Pop Bluetooth Earbuds, True Wireless with Charging Case $9.88 (Was $24.88)
• Soundcore by Anker Flare 2 Portable Speaker $39.00 (Was $79.00)
• Sony Portable Bluetooth Speaker  $29.88 (Was $45.00)

Black Friday gaming deals

• Acer 32″ Curved HD LED Gaming Monitor $165.00
• Marvel’s Spider-Man: Game of the Year Edition – PlayStation 4 $15.00 (Was $39.99)
• Gotham Knights – PlayStation 5 $35.00 (Was $69.99)
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II: C.O.D.E. Edition – Xbox Series X $55.00
• Gotham Knights – Xbox Series X (No Steel Book)  $35.00 (Was $69.99)
• Grand Theft Auto V, Rockstar Games, PlayStation 5 $10.00 (Was $39.99)
• Grand Theft Auto V, Rockstar Games, Xbox Series X $10.00 (Was $39.99)

Black Friday home deals

• Shark AI VACMOP Wi-Fi Connected Robot Vacuum and Mop with LIDAR Navigation $188.00 (Was $479.99)
• iHome Bundle StickVac + AutoVac, Robot Vacuum $149.00 (Was $399.99)
• Hart 270pc Mechanics Tool Set $98.00 (Was $188.00)
• IonVac 3-in-1 Lightweight Corded Stick Vacuum $20.00 (Was $39.98)

Black Friday kitchen deals

• Henckels Silvercap 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Block Set $89.00
• Chefman Barista Pro Espresso Machine $99.00 (Was $139.00)
• Gourmia 14 Qt. All-in-One Air Fryer, Oven, Rotisserie, Dehydrator with 12 Cooking Functions $60.00
• Rubbermaid EasyFindLids 26 Piece Plastic Food Storage Container Set $8.00
• Ninja Professional Blender 72 oz. XL Total Crushing®Pitcher $50.00
• Thyme & Table 32-Piece Cookware & Bakeware Nonstick Set $89.00 
• Anchor Hocking 30-Piece Glass Food Storage and Bake Container Sets $20.00
• Gourmia 12-Cup Programmable Hot & Iced Coffee Maker $15.00

Black Friday deals on tools

• Hyper Tough 48-In Rubber Wood Top Workbench $99.00 (Was $199.00)
• EverStart Maxx LED 1000 Lumen Spotlight with Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery $9.97 (Was $19.93) 
• Hyper Tough Portable LED Work Light 2 Pack $10.00 (Was $20.07)
• TACKLIFE 4 In 1 Center Finding Electronic Scanning Stud Finder $14.00 (Was $28.83)
• 3-in-One Garage Door Lubricant, 2 Pack for $9.40 (Was $14.24)

More of the best Black Friday deals

• Computer deals
• 3D printer deals
• Headphone deals
• Speaker deals
• Apple deals
• Telescope deals
• Walmart deals
• Appliance deals
• Fitness deals
• Generator deals
• Coffee deals
• Deal: LG OLED TV
• Deal: Shark vacuum
• Deal: Anker Power Station
• Deal: Vitamix blender

The post The best 60 Walmart Black Friday deals appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best solar generator		Jackery Solar Generator 1000		SEE IT	Harness the power of the sun to keep your devices and appliances juiced with this portable generator.
Best for hydration		Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid		SEE IT	Keep water ice-cold all day long while reducing plastic waste.
Best composter		Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter		SEE IT	Turn the remnants of dinner into nourishing feed for plants.

It’s a great feeling when you give a gift that delights a loved one—and it probably means that you scoured through plenty of ideas before landing on a true winner. But while gift-giving can be fun, knowing the impact these new products can have on the environment can take some of the holiday spirit out of shopping. Though any new product will contribute to emissions due to its manufacturing and shipping processes, these environmentally friendly options can help cut down on waste and carbon footprint. From replacing single-use plastics like water bottles and coffee cups to going green by riding a bike to work, these picks in our sustainable gift guide are a must-have for anyone who wants to help the planet. 

• Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker
• Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug
• Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter
• Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle
• Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
• Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Towels
• Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers
• Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags
• Best for hydration: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best for seltzer drinkers: AWA Carbonator
• Best for music lovers: Grateful Dead X Pact Graphic Tank
• Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag
• Best sunglasses: Face Plant Graphene Black LTO
• Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can
• Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Trading Acaciaware 12-Inch Deep Bowl
• Best for home cooks: The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook: 500 Inspired, Flexible Recipes for Eating Well Without Meat
• Best compost bin: Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-Fill Compost Bin Food Waste Caddy
• Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush
• Best gift for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers
• Best reusable straws: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws
  

Sustainable gift guide: Our Picks

Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker

Bruvi

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Pod coffee makers aren’t typically known for being sustainable (or providing delicious brews), but the Bruvi Coffee Maker is aiming to change that. Its pods—which pack in 40% more grinds than typical competitors—are a curated selection from around the globe. You can select from coffee, tea, espresso, Americanos, espresso, and cold brew in 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12oz sizes. And when it comes to sustainability, the pods can also biodegrade 84 percent in an anaerobic environment in less than two years, according to the company’s testing, unlike plastic pods. Plus, you can use the Bruvi app to remotely make sure the Wi-Fi-ready IoT brewer has the coffee ready in the morning and automatically reorder favorite blends.

Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug

YETI

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We’re not immune to the appeal of a specialty latte or coffee while on the go, but those quick trips to your local cafe quickly add up. Globally, 16 billion paper cups hit the waste bins each year, which equates to roughly 6.5 million trees cut down and four billion gallons of water wasted. It’s also a common misconception that your coffee cup can be tossed in the recycling—paper cups are lined with a plastic moisture barrier called polyethylene, which actually contaminates the other recyclables in your bin.

The simple solution to limiting your own personal waste? A reusable travel mug. The YETI Rambler comes in 30 different colorways, is BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and has an insulated design to keep your beverage at the desired temperature for longer (take that, paper cups). Not to mention that many coffee shops give you a small discount for bringing your own mug as an incentive to help our planet.

Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter

Lomi

SEE IT

Composting is good for the Earth, but it can take months for food scraps to decompose into soil in the backyard. But with the Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter on the counter, users can turn the remnants of dinner into nourishing feed for plants in a matter of hours with the touch of a button. This unobtrusive appliance also serves as an odor-free compost bin and lets users cut down on what they send to the landfill and pay for fertilizer. This was a no brainer pick for our sustainable gift guide.

Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle

6KU

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Cars represent the greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, contributing almost 30 percent of the country’s total emissions. Riding a bicycle is one of the only modes of transportation that requires no fossil fuels or pollution.

This fixed-gear bicycle from 6KU is perfect for cruising through most towns and cities, as it maintains speed to make riding simpler. While this sustainable gift is more of an investment than some other options, a high-quality bicycle is a functional pick that can be used for years to come—and as far as commuter road bikes go, this one is on the affordable end.

Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000

Jackery

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Whether you’re on a long camping trip or setting up lights in your backyard, a solar generator is an eco-friendly way to power up devices without resorting to a gas-guzzling generator. Not only is the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 significantly more portable than its gas counterparts, but it also saves money in the long run as you won’t need to continue buying gas for refueling. 

With 1,000 watts, a topped-off power station can run even large appliances like refrigerators, TVs, and electric grills. While many people might turn to solar generators for journeys off the grid (i.e., camping, road trips), you can also use the Jackery Solar Generator to power your outdoor appliances, like Christmas lights, electric heaters, and electric lawnmowers. Simply set up the solar panels (some included here, more sold separately) facing the direction with the most sun and plug in your tech. And if you like this idea but want more options, we’ve got the best solar generators coverage, well, covered.

Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Temescal Organic Towels

Coyuchi

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Moving into a new home is exciting, but it’s also a big expense. Treat some new homeowners to a gift that will last: Coyuchi’s Temescal Organic Towels. Hand-woven from organic cotton in Turkey, these towels are both plush and lightweight, with ribbing for extra drying power. The six-piece set includes two bath towels, two washcloths, and two hand towels. It’s available in four rich colors (Alpine White, Deep Ocean, Terra, and Shadow), plus an undyed version that will go well in any bathroom. This set is also certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for extra peace of mind. 

Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers

KOIO

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For a person that just any footwear won’t do, consider KOIO Men’s Sneakers. Handmade in Tuscany, these kicks combine buttery Italian leather with recycled rubber soles that use up to 40 percent recycled materials. The hand-painted trim also provides a sleek look. Available in more than 30 colorways, these laced low tops are also water-resistant and come with a removable insole for extra comfort. The recycled foam and rubber insoles also make them perfect for all-day wear. We highly recommend checking out the number boot, sneaker, and slip-on options for both men and women.

Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags

Nordic by Nature

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Living sustainably can be challenging when you’ve got a family to feed 365 days a year. Nordic by Nature’s Reusable Sandwich Bags make it a little easier. The set comes with four bags: two large, one medium, and one small in a pretty floral pattern that zips closed. They’re free of toxic chemicals such as BPAs and lead and they come at an affordable price. Plus, cleanup is super easy: just toss them in the dishwasher.

Best reusable water bottle: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid

Hydro Flask

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Globally, 1 million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, 1.3 billion bottles every day, and 481 billion plastic bottles every year. With only 20 percent of plastic successfully recycled and reused, the best alternative to cutting down on your consumption and carbon footprint is investing in a reliable reusable water bottle.

And if you’re in search of a nearly indestructible, BPA-free, phthalate-free, stainless steel bottle that will keep H20 chilled all day long, the Hydro Flask is a reliable favorite. You can toss it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning without worrying about the powder coating getting damaged.

Best for seltzer drinkers: AWA Carbonator

AWA

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Those who like a little kick to their water have long had to contend with cans or bottles to get their seltzer kick. Carbonators provide a refreshing alternative to all the waste. With its Scandinavian design, the AWA Carbonator comes in matte black and looks sleek on the countertop without taking up much space. The included bottle is BPA-free and elegant enough to bring to the table. It works with standard 60-liter CO2 cartridges and can replace up to 10,000 plastic bottles a year.

Best for music lovers: Grateful Dead x Pact Graphic Tank

Pact

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The Grateful Dead supported environmental causes long before doing so became mainstream, and their new partnership with Pact helps keep their long, strange trip going. The music lovers in your life might appreciate some merch that features some of the band’s iconic imagery. The limited-edition Grateful Dead X Pact Graphic Tank is made from organic cotton in a fair trade factory and comes in two versions: Fillmore Charcoal Heather and Wharf Rat. The line also includes tees, leggings, and underwear.  

Best sunglasses: Face Plant Graphene Black LTO Sunglasses

Face Plant

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Know someone who’s always sitting or stepping on their sunglasses? The aptly named Face Plant sunglasses provide a solution. Made from recycled bottles, their frames are “freakishly indestructible”: the company claims they drove over them in a Land Rover and the frames survived to provide shade another day. The line features a range of party-inspired shades, but the company is also serious about sustainability. The lenses are biodegradable and can be replaced if you scratch them.

Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag

Troubadour

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We’ve all got a handful of essentials we need to take with us, but hauling a pocketbook or tote everywhere can be a hassle, while traditional fanny packs can scream tourist. Troubadour’s Sling Bag elegantly bridges the divide, with a sleek bag that can fit your phone, wallet, charger, water bottle, keys, sunglasses case, and more. Made from recycled plastic, it’s waterproof and comes with a cleanable anti-microbial lining. Plus, the shoulder strap comes with a magnetic buckle that you can easily adjust for maximum utility.  

Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can

Sporgard

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If your giftee has a green thumb, they will certainly appreciate the utility of a good watering can. This one-gallon steel container is both practical and decorative and can be used on indoor and outdoor plants alike. And not only is this can designed to endure, but the steel can also be recycled. The double handle makes it easy to manage, even when it’s totally full of liquid. We recommend using water and not energy drinks.

Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Trading Acaciaware 12-Inch Deep Bowl

Pacific Merchants Trading

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The USDA recommends three to five servings of vegetables each day, and that should include some leafy greens. This wonderful 12-inch bowl is made from natural acacia wood. Fill it up with some nice field greens, or just live the dream of making an all-crouton salad. Just don’t put it in the microwave or dishwasher because that will ruin it.

Best for home cooks: The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook: 500 Inspired, Flexible Recipes for Eating Well Without Meat

America’s Test Kitchen

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Speaking of vegetables, if someone you know could use some inspiration to get three to five servings a day, consider The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook. With 500 recipes developed by America’s Test Kitchen, they’ll be sure to find something they like. Everyone from vegans to people who are just looking to get more veggies on their plate will find plenty to like in these easy, budget-friendly recipes that draw on culinary traditions from around the globe.

Best compost bin: Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-Fill Compost Bin Food Waste Caddy

Joseph Joseph

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We’ve all had that bag of spinach rotting in the back of our fridge, or berries that sprout mold after just a few short days. While your instinct might be to toss them in the garbage, composting provides a more sustainable way to dispose of food. As food scraps and garden waste account for almost 30% of our garbage, starting your own compost bin reduces your overall waste stream and cuts down on methane emissions produced by organic decomposition in landfills. 

Our pick for the best compost bin to get you started? This pick reduces the peskiest part of composting—the smell. The ventilated design allows air to circulate through, which results in less moisture and odors. It also features a replaceable odor filter to trap any potential smells, a polypropylene body for easy-cleaning, and a flip-top lid with a wide opening, specially designed for scraping your dinner leftovers without any mess. 

Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush

Suri

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Oral health can provide a window into someone’s overall well-being; for example, periodontitis has been linked to the development of diabetes, according to the World Health Organization. Fortunately, good oral hygiene goes a long way. So why not help a loved one ditch the plastic toothbrush for some cutting-edge teeth technology? The SURI Electric Toothbrush uses 33,000 sonic vibrations a minute to deep clean teeth between dental checkups. The body of the device is made from aluminum and slim enough to fit into a travel pack. And it comes with replaceable heads that are plant-based, so there’s no need to get a new brush every time they visit the dentist.

Best gift for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers

Tiny Land

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There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a kid opening a brand-new toy. But as kids grow and change interests, over 80 percent of these new toys will ultimately end up in the trash. And as 90 percent of toys are made of plastic, these playthings will stay in our environment for over 450 years after they’re discarded. 

So—how can you give your kiddo a new gift that won’t further contribute to our climate crisis? The best option is toys made of biodegradable materials like wood, silicone, or recycled fabric. While these toys still produce emissions, once discarded they will have less dire impacts on the environment. This 39-piece polished beach wood train set allows your kid to create a variety of paths using the curved and flat tracks, and the bridge, people, engine, car, and hauler will keep them playing for hours. Ultimately, your little one will thank you for looking after their future planet. 

Best reusable straws: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws

StrawExpert

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From restaurant booths to drive-through coffee shops, single-use plastic straws are a ubiquitous part of daily life for many Americans—with an approximated 500 million straws used in the United States each year. And with a lifetime of 200 years, this relatively small piece of our daily waste adds up. While straws account for less than one percent of the plastic waste in our oceans, taking small measures to reduce your impact can add up. Though compostable straws are a step in the right direction, reusable straws are the best way to cut down on production and landfill waste. They are a staple in most sustainable gift guides.

This set of stainless steel straws from StrawExpert can last a lifetime—with enough sizes and shapes to suit any kind of tumbler or cup. The 10.5-inch straight and bent straws fit up to 34-ounce tumblers, while the regular 8.5-inch straws are great for 16- to 20-ounce water bottles or mugs. And if you hate the feeling of metal on your teeth, these straws also come with a small silicone mouthpiece for added comfort. 

Sustainable gifts guide: Here are our final thoughts

Our sustainable gift guide allows you to keep the holiday spirit of giving while staying environmentally conscious. Whether you’re trying to send a hint to the aunt who gets a to-go coffee every day or you’re in search of a plastic-free present for the kid in your life, these picks are a gift to your loved one and our planet. Looking for a few more eco-friendly options? Check out more of our favorite reusable, responsible items.

The post Sustainable gift guide: Gifts that keep on giving appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best sand toy		National Geographic Play Sand		SEE IT	Help kids learn about sea creatures and make sand castles even during the off-season with this kit.
Best introduction to numbers for toddlers		Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank		SEE IT	Teach kids how to count and save in a fun way with this adorable piggy bank.
Best STEM toy for tweens		Thames & Kosmos Chemistry Chem C500 Science Kit		SEE IT	Turn your home into a chemistry lab with these hands-on guided experiments for future scientists.

You know that glazed look in a child’s eyes when they’ve been zonked out on their electronic devices for too long? There is a time and place for a little zoning out, of course, and parents don’t complain too much about a few hours of quiet while the kids are placated with zombies or candy gems. But, of course, there are better and more productive ways to whittle away the hours, too. We’re talking about the best science gifts for kids.

Science gifts for kids can be fun and educational, and you will find loads of options are all that and then some. From build kits to robots to marble runs, there are some pretty amazing options. You can build on existing interests—if you heard that the child is interested in dinosaurs, a dinosaur fossil digging set would be a great choice. Or it’s a good bet that tactile science gifts that allow kids to mix and pour and get their hands dirty will be pretty fun. When in doubt, it’s a good idea to find a science gift that sticks to the basics for the appropriate age group. For example, building blocks have been a popular choice for decades, and with good reason, they allow for free-form creative play, elementary building, and engineering skills, all without tiresome rules and branded characters. Here are some picks for the best science gifts for kids that are the right level of challenging and fun so they’re ready to excite children, and possibly their parents and teachers too!

• Best STEM toy for kids 5 to 7 years old: Educational Insights Design & Drill Space Circuits
• Best STEM toy for kids 8 years and up: Ravensburger Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run
• Best STEM toy for tweens: Thames & Kosmos Chemistry Chem C500 Science Kit
• Best for future world travelers: PlayShifu Orboot Earth Globe
• Best DIY kit: Soap & Bath Bomb Making Kit for Kids
• Best for future astronauts: Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm Portable Refractor Telescope
• Best introduction to numbers for toddlers: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank
• Best for dinosaur lovers: TACTO DINO by PlayShifu
• Best wooden educational toy for toddlers: TOP BRIGHT Toddler Toys
• Best for budding engineers: ClicBot Coding Robot Kits
• Best for future directors: KLUTZ Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit
• Best magnetic building toy: Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Clear Colors Set
• Best sand toy: National Geographic Ultimate Ocean Sand
• Best splurge: Wonder Workshop Dash Coding Robot for Kids

Best STEM toy for kids 5 to 7 years old: Educational Insights Design & Drill Space Circuits

Amazon

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This is a fun choice for younger children because the parts and tools are easy to use, while the challenge and rewards keep the child interested. The STEM toy set includes challenge cards that help guide their natural problem-solving skills. It feels more like playtime than education which, after all, is the point.

Best STEM toy for kids 8 years and up: Ravensburger Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run & STEM Toy

Amazon

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A popular kid’s toy and fun game, The Gravitrax STEM toy inspires building creativity as well as teaches problem-solving. Although there are 24 problem-solving activity starter instructions included, the tracks can also be set up freeform as well. We appreciated the clear instructions and the set-ups are easy to follow. The set will also appeal to kids who are into video games as it shares a lot of the same “customize it and try it out” mentality as some popular games.

Best STEM toy for tweens: Thames & Kosmos Chemistry Chem C500 Science Kit

Amazon

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This chemistry gift set has won a Parent’s Choice award for its ability to make chemistry experiments fun, safe, and educational. Help kids understand basic chemistry with simple experiments designed to make them want to put on their lab coats. Some experiments require additional basic supplies (not included in the set), and it’s recommended that this set be used with adult supervision.

Best for future world travelers: PlayShifu Orboot Earth Globe

Amazon

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How about challenging your favorite little explorer to a scavenger hunt around the world? PlayShifu’s interactive globe allows kids ages four to 10 to learn about animals, cultures, inventions, and foods from around the world. You just need a compatible iOS or Android device for this AR experience. And the 10-inch globe comes with passports, stickers, flags, and more to boot.

Best DIY kit: Soap & Bath Bomb Making Kit for Kids – 3-in-1 Spa Science Kits For Kids

Amazon

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This DIY kit comes with all the supplies needed to create your own bath soap, salts, and bath bombs. All the ingredients have been tested and are safe for real use (but please note the dyes can cause temporary staining). Younger kids might need help with setup, but older kids should be able to handle the set on their own. Plus, it’s a gift they’ll use to (likely) make gifts for you!

Best for future astronauts: Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm Portable Refractor Telescope

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Encourage a lifelong love of the cosmos with the Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm Portable Refractor Telescope. Designed in partnership with noted telescope manufacturer Celestron, this device is tailored toward beginners. This portable telescope comes with two Barlow eyepieces (10mm and 20mm) and an 80mm objective lens for closeup views of the stars and the planets. The Bluetooth-enabled device works with smartphones and a tripod that let users take photos and video of what they observe. And the included software program will help them get started.

Best introduction to numbers for toddlers: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank

Amazon

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This is a cute and popular toy well-reviewed and rated by parents. The appeal of the happy, bright piggy bank toy for kids and the task of dropping in coins entertains small children, while also teaching them the basics of counting. Smart technology allows for more advanced songs and phrases as a child grows.

Best for dinosaur lovers: TACTO DINO by PlayShifu

Amazon

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Take kids back in time to the Mesozoic Era, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Tacto Dino is an interactive game that teaches them more than 500 facts about these magnificent creatures through story-based adventures. They’ll develop problem-solving skills along the way with this visual game, which works with a range of tablets.

Best wooden educational toy for toddlers: TOP BRIGHT Toddler Toys

Amazon

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This classic wooden toy lets kids experiment with the basics of momentum, inertia, and gravity as they roll cars off edges, drop them down to ramps below, and then let them continue on. Just enough of a challenge to make it fun, this simple toy is a great choice for toddlers. While the child is entertained, they also learn hand-eye coordination in addition to the basic fundamentals of motion.

Best for budding engineers: ClicBot Coding Robot Kits

Amazon

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How many kids would like to build their own robot? The ClicBot Coding Robot Kit allows them to combine learning to code with real-life applications. It comes with more than 1,000 configurations that let teens design robots that roll and even slither like a snake. They can also upload their own code to bring their visions to life.

Best for future directors: KLUTZ Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit

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If you know a kid who could become the next Steven Spielberg, you can get them started with the KLUTZ Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit. This kit comes with figurines and a guide that will help teach kids stop-motion animation using apps available on smartphones and tablets. Designed for kids ages eight and older, this kit allows them to make a mini-movie in less than an hour.

Best magnetic building toy: Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Clear Colors Set

Amazon

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Building sets are classic science toys that have been popular for many generations of children. The Magna-Tiles offer creative free-form building, but with the fun addition of magnets. Magnets help kids build 3D shapes, which in turn helps them develop STEM skills. This set can be combined with additional Magna-Tiles as desired or just used on their own.

Best sand toy: National Geographic Ultimate Ocean Sand

Amazon

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This kid’s toy is a great choice for kinetic learners who love hands-on play. The bright blue “magic” sand allows for perpetually wet sand that holds its shape, but also easily returns to loose form. Just be warned: Play sand can stain light carpets.

Best splurge: Wonder Workshop Dash Coding Robot for Kids

Amazon

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This cute and colorful robot for kids comes fully charged for up to five hours of open-ended coding play. Kids can create voice commands, loops, and coding sequences via the five free corresponding apps. Kids as young as six can use picture-based puzzles and games to learn the fundamentals of coding, and start to learn more advanced concepts to make the robot act out specific behaviors.

It can be tricky, but also kind of fun to find science toys for kids. The best science gifts for kids will be fun, challenging, and hands-on, and give kids the freedom to learn by doing.

The post The best science gifts for kids for all ages appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for grillers		Lekue Microwave Grill, Sandwich Maker, Panini Press		SEE IT	Give the fresh-from-the-grill taste all year round with this device they can pop in the microwave.
Best for cinephiles		Viewsonic M1 Mini Projector		SEE IT	Treat the movie lover in your life to this portable projects to set up screenings wherever they go.
Best for concertgoers		Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs		SEE IT	These ingenious earplugs allow them to get the full concert experience while helping protect their hearing.

Indulgent gifts are exciting, but there’s just something about a gift you didn’t know you needed that now makes your life easier every day. While they may not all have wow factor, these practical picks help solve problems for everyone on your list. And many of them are designed so that your gift recipient will be proud to show them off. Here are some of our favorites that are available right now:

• Best for travelers: Gravel Explorer PLUS & Explorer SLIM Combo Pack
• Best for outdoors enthusiasts: YETI Rambler 14-ounce Mug 
• Best for new photographers: Qubii Photo Storage Drive
• Best for new homeowners: Le Creuset Dutch Oven
• Best for fitness buffs: lululemon Studio Mirror
• Best for cleaning: Eufy Handheld Vac
• Best for foodies: Disco Hot Sauce
• Best for the absent-minded: Tile Mate Tracker
• Best for grillers: Lekue Microwave Grill, Sandwich Maker, Panini Press
• Best for concertgoers: Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs 
• Best for cinephiles: ViewSonic M1 Mini Projector
• Best for people who eat at their desks: MagicFiber Extra Large Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
• Best for sustainability: Lifx LED Light Bulb
• Best for business travelers: Polardo Travel Clothes Steamer
• Best for handy people: Yala Life GeeKey Pocket Tool
• Best for home office: Anker 10-Port USB Data Hub

Best for travelers: Gravel Explorer PLUS & Explorer SLIM Combo Pack

Gravel

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Whether the frequent traveler in your life is headed on a weeks-long adventure on the other side of the globe or just going away for the weekend, they’ll need a toothbrush and other toiletries. The Explorer PLUS & Explorer SLIM Combo Pack is a solution to any kind of trip—all in one package. With eight pockets and 3 liters of storage space, the Explorer PLUS keeps toiletries from an electric razor to beard oil organized. It also comes with a TSA-compliant zip-out bag for getting through the airport quickly. The Explorer Mini, meanwhile, lets people travel light, fitting two 3-ounce bottles in its 1.5-liter space. And both are waterproof for those inevitable spills.

Best for outdoors enthusiasts: YETI Rambler 14-ounce Mug

YETI

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When you’re out camping, the last thing you want is to get fussy about your dishware. That’s why the YETI Rambler Mug is a great gift for any outdoors enthusiast. The stainless-steel Rambler doubles as a bowl, so it’s great for both coffee and chili. The mug comes with a sliding lid for reliable access, an easy-grip handle, and is available in a range of fun colors and sizes (10-ounce, 14-ounce, and 24 ounces). You can also order versions for your company, school, or get one engraved for a more personalized touch.

Best for new photographers: Qubii Photo Storage Drive

Amazon

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That relative who never quite gets around to saving their family photos on an external drive or the cloud? Save them from oblivion by giving them the Qubii Photo Storage Drive. Compatible with Apple devices, the Qubii automatically backs up your photos, videos, and contacts while charging your phone. All they need is a USB port. It comes in versions with SanDisk microSD cards (128GB and 256GB) and solo (just add your own microSD).

Best for new homeowners: Le Creuset Dutch Oven

Amazon

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It may not be the most comforting thought when considering a gift, but the Le Creuset Dutch Oven will likely outlive your gift recipient. There’s a reason this classic line shows up on so many registries. Made of cast iron and enamel and available in a range of rich colors and sizes (3 quarts, 5.25 quarts, and 8 quarts) the Le Creuset Dutch Oven can serve up everything from seafood stew to short ribs. This durable piece can stand up to the heat of the stove and oven and still look beautiful on the table for decades to come.

Best for fitness buffs: lululemon Studio Mirror

lululemon

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A fitness mirror might not seem like a practical gift at first glance. But lululemon’s Studio Mirror is worth the splurge—and it’s almost half off if you use the code “LLSTUDIO700”. Unlike other home fitness equipment, this elegant brushed steel-and-glass mirror blends easily into any decor. The corresponding fitness platform (sold separately by subscription) provides a portal to more than 10,000 workouts from some of the top fitness instructors around without having to leave your home. And the 5-megapixel camera and high-fidelity surround-sound audio make workouts a truly immersive experience—no hiding in the back row. Adding to the practicality is that it’s also just a mirror for when you’re getting ready for work or a night out and want to admire the results of all that cardio, yoga, etc.

Best for cleaning: Eufy Handheld Vac

Amazon

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Little messes have a way of materializing: dust on a bookshelf, crumbs on a car seat, spilled sugar on a kitchen counter. They don’t all warrant breaking out a super-sized vacuum, though. The Eufy Handheld Vac makes cleanup easy. The handheld device weighs just 1.2 pounds, but it comes with an impressive 5500pa of suction power, a crevice attachment for those difficult-to-reach places, and a washable filter. All you need is a USB port to charge it and it will last for 20 minutes—plenty of time to make quick work of a little mess.

Best for foodies: Disco Hot Sauce

Amazon

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People have strong opinions about hot sauce, but a pick like this medium-hot offering by Disco can help bridge the divide. Made with all-natural ingredients—including jalapeno and habanero peppers; pineapple; cider vinegar; orange and lemon juice; brown sugar; garlic; and salt—this hot sauce is light and sweet. It pairs well with everything from eggs to wings to stir fry and cocktails. And at this price, you can stock up.

Best for the absent-minded: Tile Mate Tracker

Amazon

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That person who’s always scrambling for their keys, phone, purse? You will greatly cut down on the wasted time spent searching with the gift of the Tile Mate Tracker. Just have them attach the Bluetooth-enabled tracker to their keychain and set up the app. Then they can use the app to make the tile ring so they can locate their device. The giftee can also use voice commands, as the Mate is also compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. It reaches a radius of about 200 feet, but if you want more reach, you can opt for the Tile Pro for a few more dollars and up to 400 feet of range.

Best for grillers: Lekue Microwave Grill, Sandwich Maker, Panini Press

Amazon

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If you’ve got a dedicated griller in your life, you can help make the months when the Weber in the backyard is blanketed in snow a little easier to take. Place the Lekue Microwave Grill in the microwave, and its slats heats up just like a grill’s. Enjoy the taste of the grill with fish, chicken, meat, vegetables, and more. Plus, this ingenious device doubles as a panini maker. And when they’re done? The non-stick surface is easy to clean: Just toss it in the dishwasher.

Best for concertgoers: Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs

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Buying surprise concert tickets for someone can get dicey—even if you know they love the artist, it’s hard to make sure their calendar is and will remain open before they get the gift. Or that they won’t just buy tix themselves. But something you can do is improve every concert experience with reusable earplugs. Low-profile, with a carrying case and multiple sizes of eartips (just like your favorite wireless earbuds), the Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs use an attenuating filter in the central sound tube to reduce harmful sound levels by 22dB without muffling what is heard. This improves everything from performances to weird conversations in the bathroom line. These earplugs may only cost $30 (stash an extra pair in the car for yourself or a forgetful friend), but someone preserving their hearing is a priceless gift that keeps on giving.

Best for cinephiles: ViewSonic M1 Mini Projector

Amazon

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That friend who always knows the best new series to stream? They’re going to love you when you make it possible for them to create a truly cinematic experience from wherever they are. The ViewSonic M1 Mini Projector packs plenty into its .6 pounds. It’s designed with a USB port that lets the user just plug in and play with a dongle or other device. It provides vivid colors and its JBL speakers ensure a quality audio experience. The battery life of up to 1.5 hours won’t get viewers through an especially long binge, but you can’t beat the portability. (Know someone really into gaming? There’s a projector just for that.)

Best for people who eat at their desks: MagicFiber Extra Large Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Amazon

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Honest question: How much gunk is stuck to your computer or smartphone screen right now? It’s a lot, isn’t it? That’s OK. We’re not here to judge. We can help, though. These extra-large microfiber cloths are about the size of a hand towel and can clean the crud off just about anything with a screen or lens. It may seem like a lame gift until your recipient sees their screen in brilliant, soy-sauce-speckle-free clarity. — Stan Horaczek

Best for sustainability: Lifx LED Light Bulb

Amazon

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There are lots of smart light bulbs on the market, but the Lifx bulb simplifies the process of upgrading. They don’t require a hub like most of the other Wi-Fi bulbs, they throw out the equivalent light of a 75-watt bulb, and best of all, they work natively with all of the different smart assistants, like Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. — Stan Horaczek

Best for the business travelers: Polardo Travel Clothes Steamer

Amazon

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No matter how carefully you pack, clothes always look a little wrinkled when you take them out of the suitcase. But the Polardo Travel Clothes Steamer will keep the business traveler in your life from looking like a hot mess. Designed to work with tap water, it comes with an electronic pump system and steam channeling that let you steam at any angle without dripping water on your clothes. With 120 volts of power, the steamer heats up in less than 25 seconds and is safe on a range of fabrics, from wool and cotton to satin and embroidery and sequins. Plus, at 3.4-inches long by 7.7-inches high and weighing just over a pound, it won’t take up too much precious space in a carry-on.

Best for handy people: Yala Life GeeKey Pocket Tool

Amazon

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Is there a person you go to when you need something fixed stat? Or maybe you do it yourself. Either way, the GeeKey Pocket Tool incorporates the functionality a handy person needs in a durable, stainless steel unit that’s designed to be attached to a keychain. Multiple screwdriver and open and closed wrench capabilities can handle an array of quick projects, while the protractor makes sure you get them precisely right. And the can and bottle opener will always come in handy.

Best for home office: Anker 10-Port USB Data Hub

Amazon

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Computers are getting slimmer, but that means they’re also getting stingier with their USB ports. This 10-port dock has seven high-speed USB-3 data and charging ports, as well as three high-power 2.1 Amp charging-specific ports for faster top-offs. Not bad for a device the size of a candy bar. Note: Actual candy bars also make good gifts, but they’re not very practical. — Stan Horaczek

The post Practical gifts that people will love appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for recovery		ROLL Recovery R8 Plus Deep Tissue Massage Roller		SEE IT	Speed recovery quick and conveniently with this painstakingly engineered, adjustable FDA Registered device for myofascial release.
Best for endurance athletes		Apple Watch Ultra		SEE IT	Designed for outdoor adventurers of all kinds, this smartwatch is designed to get you home safely as well.
Best for the home gym		TRX All-in-One Body Suspension Trainer		SEE IT	No need to head to the gym for a killer workout—this set gives you a great burn from the comfort of your home.

Don’t know what to get your macro-counting, spandex-wearing, competition-winning fitness-obsessed friend? We’ve got some ideas for the best fitness gifts for the technically inclined:

• Best for endurance athletes: Apple Watch Ultra
• Best for recovery: ROLL Recovery R8 Plus Deep Tissue Massage Roller
• Best for maximized minimalism: lululemon Studio Mirror
• Best for weight lifters: SMRTFT Nüobell Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best for small apartment dwellers: Tempo Move
• Best for tennis players: Wilson Racket
• Best for music lovers: Jaybird Vista 2 True Wireless Sport Bluetooth Headphones
• Best for runners: Brooks Levitate 2
• Best for valuables: Sprigs Big Banjees Wrist Wallet
• Best for skaters: Whirly Board for Spinning Balance
• Best for pushups: Vita Vibe – Ultra Portable Mini Wood Parallettes Set
• Best for the home gym: TRX All-in-One Body Suspension Trainer
• Best for cardio: Everlast Evergrip Weighted Jump Rope
• Best for data geeks: Withings Body Cardio – Premium Wi-Fi Body Composition Smart Scale
• Best for hydration: Gatorade Smart Gx Bottle Kit

Best for endurance athletes: Apple Watch Ultra

Amazon

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Know someone who’s looking to scale mountains and dive to the depths of the sea? Consider the Apple Watch for the occasion. Designed for outdoor adventurers of all stripes, the Watch Ultra comes equipped with a titanium case that will resist corrosion, a new diving app, and water resistance up to 100 meters—plus an activity-oriented band of choice. With a battery life of up to 36 hours, the Ultra has a bigger, brighter display and tracks all the important health metrics. The watch also provides an updated compass app, enhanced GPS, and crash protection so they can make it home safe.

Best for recovery: ROLL Recovery R8 Plus Deep Tissue Massage Roller

ROLL Recovery

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I’ve rarely seen a college soccer team get excited about much after a match besides spending their per diem on junk food—that is, I’ve rarely seen that kind of response until I introduced them to the ROLL Recovery R8 Plus. The first reaction to this heavily engineered apparatus is an intense curiosity with a hint of fear. But once the appropriate amount of force is dialed in, clamping on this FDA Registered medical device (purchasable with FSA/HSA funds) transforms terror to satisfaction as it digs into and stretches out IT-bands, quads, hamstrings, calves, shins, etc. (it’s particularly great around the knees). And once one player tried it, they all had to; I still haven’t gotten it back. Whether you’re a trail runner, cyclist, into team sports, or just someone looking to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, the R8 Plus is easy to transport and simple to self-apply. You, or the person you gift this to, can also use it to activate and elongate muscles before activity or for myofascial release before a massage to allow the therapist to really get in deep. So get the R8 Plus before that next game and take a minute after the final whistle to speed recovery … then head to the drive-thru.

Best for maximized minimalism: lululemon Studio Mirror

lululemon

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A fitness mirror might not seem like a practical gift at first glance. But lululemon’s Studio Mirror is worth the splurge—and it’s almost half off if you use the code “LLSTUDIO700”. Unlike other home fitness equipment, this elegant brushed steel and glass mirror blends easily into any decor. The corresponding fitness platform (sold separately by subscription) provides a portal to more than 10,000 workouts from some of the top fitness instructors around without having to leave your home. And the 5-megapixel camera and high-fidelity surround-sound audio make workouts a truly immersive experience—no hiding in the back row. Adding to the practicality is that it’s also just a mirror for when you’re getting ready for work or a night out and want to admire the results of all that cardio, yoga, etc.

Best for weight lifters: SMRTFT Nüobell Adjustable Dumbbells

SMRTFT

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Complete your home gym setup with versatile—and essential—workout equipment. These SMRTFT Nüobell Adjustable Dumbbells can transform from a lightweight 5-pound set to a 50-pound set, with increments of five pounds to give you ultimate flexibility when it comes time to lift. Whether you’re a beginner just learning how to lift or a seasoned fitness enthusiast who wants a space-saving option with plenty of range, the SMRTFT Adjustable Dumbbells are a one-size-fits-all solution to just about any workout. Simply twist the handle to adjust the weight of the steel plates, which are engineered with durability in mind to last you years to come. There are three colors and two sizes—50- and 80-pound—available on the SMRTFT site.

Best for small apartment dwellers: Tempo Move

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When you’re working out at home, it’s all too easy to have poor form or get distracted and give up altogether. Not so with Tempo Move. This interactive program provides a virtual trainer who offers guidance in real-time. Tempo Move comes with a set of smart weights so they can track your reps and more than 2,000 live and on-demand classes. All you need is your smartphone and a TV or display, and it comes with a small black or white cabinet that’s perfect for tiny apartments. You have the option to rent Tempo Move for $59 a month or buy for $495 per year with a monthly subscription fee of $39. Installation is free and you also get to try it out for 30 days.

Best for tennis players: Wilson Racket

Wilson

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Every tennis player has a different combination of strengths, and a racket should hone and enhance their abilities. Wilson will let you choose from various weights, head sizes, and lengths. You can also customize the appearance of the Wilson Racket. Choose the color of the frame and bumpers, size of the grip, and even include a personal engraving.

Best for music lovers: Jaybird Vista 2 True Wireless Sport Bluetooth Headphones

Amazon

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Music makes working out better—except when the wires get caught on a barbell or your own arm or another person. The Jaybird Vista 2 True Wireless Sport Bluetooth Headphones are in-ear buds that are secure enough to run in. No strings attached.

Best for runners: Brooks Levitate 2

Amazon

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Runners are picky about their sneakers. But the Brooks Levitate 2 sneakers are meant to appeal to all runners, from beginners to experts. They also sport Brooks’ highest energy-return mids yet.

Best for valuables: Sprigs Big Banjees Wrist Wallet

Amazon

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It’s hard to go anywhere without your phone, but when you’re running it’s also hard to go anywhere with it. Running tech has come a long way, and yet most running apparel still doesn’t come with pockets large enough to fit the newest larger-than-your-hand smartphones. The Sprigs Big Banjees Wrist Wallet sits on your wrist and can fit all your important stuff.

Best for skaters: Whirly Board for Spinning Balance

Amazon

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Boards like the Whirly Board for Spinning Balance develop the smaller muscles and tendons that keep you balanced. This gift is especially great for skaters, but any athlete can use this device for improving equilibrium.

Best for pushups: Vita Vibe – Ultra Portable Mini Wood Parallettes Set

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Pushups are a simple and effective strength training workout. The Vita Vibe – Ultra Portable Mini Wood Parallettes Set gives you greater range of motion and keeps you off the ground, potentially alleviating wrist pain.

Best for the home gym: TRX All-in-One Body Suspension Trainer

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Here’s a gift for a friend who wants to do some serious strength training but doesn’t have the room in their tiny apartment for a set of dumbbells and weights. The TRX All-in-One Body Suspension Trainer lets them get a full workout from the equipment they can store in a handy bag.

Best for cardio: Everlast Evergrip Weighted Jump Rope

Amazon

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Your fitness-loving friend knows that jumping rope is a fantastic way to exercise their cardiovascular system and muscles. This 9-foot, weighted Everlast jump rope allows you to adjust the length.

Best for data geeks: Withings Body Cardio – Premium Wi-Fi Body Composition Smart Scale

Amazon

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Yes, it might be a little weird to buy someone a body scale for the holidays. Proceed with extreme caution. That being said, if your loved one is a true fitness fanatic, they will have transcended the morality of the scale and see it as an important tool to track progress and improve body composition. This smart scale from Withings can do it all. In addition to measuring your weight, it also calculates your heart rate and tracks previous weigh-ins so you can monitor your progress. From your body weight, it can also calculate your body fat and water percentage, as well as your muscle and bone mass. That being said, take these last measurements with a grain of salt. To get super accurate measurements, you should visit your doctor, or arrange for a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan.

Best for hydration: Gatorade Smart Gx Bottle Kit

Gatorade

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Are you properly hydrated? You’re probably not. If you or someone you know are an athlete, that’s even more of a problem. And I won’t always be there to remind y’all (I’m not even good at reminding myself and I’m usually near me). Gatorade’s new Smart Gx Bottle Kit wants to help, however. Combining an app with a connected bottle, the system lets you track your daily hydration—and color-customizable LED lights in the squeeze bottle cap provide a visual reminder of where someone is in reaching their goals. A sweat-reactive patch helps the app determine fluid intake needs to set a baseline for the bottle, and Gx pods let you, or someone you want to gift the bottle, infuse water with classic Gatorade formulas, if desired.

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We’re entering the season of eating—starting with Halloween candy, heading through the Thanksgiving feasts, and ending with the appetizers and champagne toast on New Year’s Eve. Why not take a counterintuitive approach and take advantage of the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale deals on fitness gear? We made sure to include plenty of options that make breaking a sweat fun (and don’t forget the recovery tools, like percussion massagers). Just remember: The discounts end at midnight, so be sure to take advantage while you can.

Sunny Health & Fitness Dual-Function Magnetic Rowing Machine $169.99 (Was $299.99)

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How about a rowing machine and a weight machine in one? Sunny Health & Fitness’s Dual-Function Magnetic Rowing Machine lets you combine an aerobic workout with a strength session. With eight levels of resistance, you can work up a good sweat. Then afterward build up your upper-body strength by using the handlebar for bicep curls and a shoulder workout. The seat is padded and comfortable and the grip on the handlebar is non-slip. And at $130 off, it’s a great deal.

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals on fitness gear:

• NordicTrack T Series Treadmill $551.65 (Was $649)
• Leaps & ReBounds Rebounder $175.96 (Was $219.95)
• Stamina Recumbent Exercise Bike with Upper Body Exerciser $237.15 (Was $258.99)
• WeLuvFit Pilates Bar Kit with Resistance Bands $23.99 (Was $29.99)
• SuperMax Adjustable Weight Bench for Incline Decline Workouts $135.99 (Was $149)
• Ohuhu Agility Ladder 17ft 12 Rung $11.99 (Was $15.99)
• HPYGN Weighted Jump Rope $15.98 (Was $19.97)

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals:

• Amazon’s Prime Early Access Razer deals: Laptops, mice, and more
• Get out & back essentials with Amazon Early Access outdoors deals
• Dig into these Amazon Early Access deals on kitchen gear before they’re gone
• Amazon Early Access headphones deals: Noise-canceling and more
• Focus on these Amazon Prime Day Early Access binocular deals
• These Amazon Prime Day Early Access telescope deals are stellar
• Logitech Amazon Prime Early Access deals: Mics, mice, and more
• Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access: iPads, AirPods, and more
• Save $100 on 23andMe during the Prime Early Access Sale
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on Kindles
• Save up to $1,000 on Sony OLED TVs during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Save $120 on DJI’s Mini 2 drone during Amazon’s Early Access sale
• Amazon Prime Early Access smart TV deals: OLEDs and more
• Save on generators during Amazon’s Prime Early Access sale
• Save on smartwatches during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale
• Get deep discounts on robot vacuums during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Soak in these Amazon Prime Early Access deals on inflatable hot tubs
• Save $210 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during Prime Early Access
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access earbud deals
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on 3D printers
• Amazon Prime Early Access Sale: modems and routers
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on wireless chargers

The post Get a jump on the new year with these Amazon Prime Early Access deals on fitness gear appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Ever wondered what your dog gets up to when you’re not around? Well, you can get a glimpse with the help of the Furbo 360 Dog Camera. The treat-dispensing smart camera is on sale along with lots of other pet gear during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale. But the discounts end tonight, so don’t wait to start your holiday shopping.

Furbo 360-Degree Dog Camera $147 (Was $210)

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Sometimes the evidence of a dog’s activities is easy to see: bite marks on shoes, a shredded toy dropped at your feet. Whether you’ve got a mischievous pup or an older pooch that doesn’t see so well, the Furbo 360 Dog Camera is a valuable tool for when you’re not there. With 360 views, you won’t miss a minute. Features like two-way talk and auto dog tracking help you keep tabs and share assuring words through the accompanying app and with Alexa. You’ll be alerted to any emergencies and get plenty of opportunities to dispense some well-deserved treats.

More Amazon Early Access deals on pet gear:

• PUPPBUDD Dog Beds for Medium Dogs $28.79 (Was $39.99)
• Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator $14.98 (Was $20.19)
• Rechargeable Motion Activated Cat Laser Toy, $19.99 (Was $25)
• PETKIT Automatic Feeder, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• AVOAR Dog Puzzle Toys $11.84 (Was $14.99)
• neabot P1 Pro Pet Grooming Kit & Vacuum, $139.99 (Was $179.99)
• PetDroid Motion Activated Ball Toy, $19.99 (Was $25)

More Amazon Early Access deals:

• Amazon’s Prime Early Access Razer deals: Laptops, mice, and more
• Get out & back essentials with Amazon Early Access outdoors deals
• Dig into these Amazon Early Access deals on kitchen gear before they’re gone
• Amazon Early Access headphones deals: Noise-canceling and more
• Logitech Amazon Prime Early Access deals: Mics, mice, and more
• Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access: iPads, AirPods, and more
• Save $100 on 23andMe during the Prime Early Access Sale
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on Kindles
• Save up to $1,000 on Sony OLED TVs during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Save $120 on DJI’s Mini 2 drone during Amazon’s Early Access sale
• Amazon Prime Early Access smart TV deals: OLEDs and more
• Save on generators during Amazon’s Prime Early Access sale
• Save on smartwatches during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale
• Get deep discounts on robot vacuums during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Soak in these Amazon Prime Early Access deals on inflatable hot tubs
• Save $220 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during Prime Early Access
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access earbud deals
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on 3D printers
• Amazon Prime Early Access Sale: modems and routers
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on wireless chargers
• Focus on these Amazon Prime Day Early Access binocular deals
• These Amazon Prime Day Early Access telescope deals are stellar

The post Save $63 on the Furbo 360 Dog Camera during Prime Early Access appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The leaves are falling and there’s a chill in the air—which means it’s the perfect time to get cooking. Whether you’re renowned for your chili, you’re a master of belly-warming soups, or you can barely microwave a Hot Pocket, the right kitchen gear is essential. That goes double if you’re not the chef of the house but you’re hoping to stay in the cook’s good graces with the perfect gift.

Some of the best-known brands in kitchenware have gadgets and appliances on sale as part of the Amazon Early Prime Early Access Sale. But the discounts end at midnight, so act fast to get these great deals from Tovala, Ninja, Instant Pot, Vitamix, Westinghouse, and more.

Tovala Smart Oven $199.99 (Was $299.99)

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Whether cooking to you is a multi-course affair or pulling a frozen pizza out of the freezer, the Tovala Smart Oven will help you dig into a perfectly cooked dish. The countertop steam oven is designed with five easy-to-use cooking modes: steam, bake, broil, reheat, and toast. You can get dinner started from your smartphone with the Toval app, which features a library of recipes you can create from scratch. When you’re looking for something convenient, Tovala also provides a subscription meal service for three to five meals and can scan popular brands like Kashi and Annie’s so the oven is ready to go when you need it.

Ninja Foodi SS201 Power Blender and Processor $119.99 (Was $139.99)

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Every kitchen needs a powerful blender and food processor. Whether you’re whipping up green smoothies, slicing onions, or making bread, the powerful Ninja Foodi Power Blender and Processor has you covered. The 1400-peak-watt motor and the brand’s smartTorque technology will make quick work of chopping and mixing. Six presets make it easy to accomplish your task with one button. The modular design makes cleaning simple and quick. 

More Ninja deals:

• Ninja CREAMI 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker $129.99 (Was $199.99)
• Ninja Foodi NeverDull Premium 14-Piece Knife Block Set $274.99 (Was $299.99)
• Ninja BL770AMZ Mega Kitchen System $119.99 (was $199.99)

Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Sous Vide, Yogurt Maker, Sterilizer, and Warmer $129.95 (Was $169.99)

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You probably know Instant Pot best for its pressure cookers, but the company makes high-quality kitchen gadgets for a ton of other uses. The brand has deep discounts on whatever you need for the kitchen, whether you prefer the precision of sous vide cooking or tossing all the veggies in the fridge into a hearty stew that will slow cook until the family gets home for dinner.

More Instant Pot deals:

• Instant Vortex Plus 10-QT Air Fryer Oven Combo $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Instant 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer $151.99 (Was $199.99)
• Instant Solo Single Serve Coffee Maker $55.97 (Was $102.97)

More deals on kitchen gear:

• Philips Pasta and Noodle Maker Plus $238.34 (was $299.99)
• KitchenAid Artisan Mini Plus 3.5-Qt. Tilt-Head Stand Mixer $259.99 (was $379.99)
• Silonn Ice Maker $89.99 (Was $99.99)
• Royal Craft Unique Bamboo Cheese Board, Charcuterie Platter and Serving Tray $13.97 (Was $29.97)
• KRUPS Precision Grinder Flat Burr Coffee for Drip/Espresso/PourOver/ColdBrew $43.18 (Was $65.99)
• Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender $399.95 (Was $629.95)
• Westinghouse Dual Zone Air Fryer $149.99 (Was $199.99)
• KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor $129.99 (Was $169.99)
• TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Calphalon 10-Piece Pots and Pans Set $99.99 (was $239.99)
• Mueller Juicer Ultra Power $69.97 (Was $89.99)

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals:

• Amazon’s Prime Early Access Razer deals: Laptops, mice, and more
• Get out & back essentials with Amazon Early Access outdoors deals
• Logitech Amazon Prime Early Access deals: Mics, mice, and more
• Amazon Early Access headphones deals: Noise-canceling and more
• Amazon Early Access microphone deals: Raise your voice not your budget
• Logitech Amazon Prime Early Access deals: Mics, mice, and more
• Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access: iPads, AirPods, and more
• Save $100 on 23andMe during the Prime Early Access Sale
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on Kindles
• Save up to $1,000 on Sony OLED TVs during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Save $120 on DJI’s Mini 2 drone during Amazon’s Early Access sale
• Amazon Prime Early Access smart TV deals: OLEDs and more
• Save on generators during Amazon’s Prime Early Access sale
• Save on smartwatches during the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale
• Get deep discounts on robot vacuums during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Soak in these Amazon Prime Early Access deals on inflatable hot tubs
• Save $210 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during Prime Early Access
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access earbud deals
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on 3D printers
• Amazon Prime Early Access Sale: modems and routers
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on wireless chargers
• Focus on these Amazon Prime Day Early Access binocular deals
• These Amazon Prime Day Early Access telescope deals are stellar

The post Dig into these Amazon Early Access deals on kitchen gear before they’re gone appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

If you have yet to invest in a smartwatch, they offer a range of tools—all from your wrist. They range from sophisticated satellite tracking systems to real-time information on the health of your heat and lungs, to the ability to answer calls, texts, and get the news and weather in real time.

Fortunately, you can save hundreds on smartwatches as part of Amazon’s Prime Early Access Sale. But today’s the last day of the shopping event, don’t wait on these deals. From the recently released Apple Watch Series 8 to tried-and-tried models, there are plenty of options for everyone in your family.

Apple Watch Series 8 $349 (was $399)

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If you have been eyeing the new Apple Watch Series 8, you can currently save $50 off the regular price for both the 41mm and 45mm versions in white or black. This is the first big discount we have seen on this new model and these typically sell out quickly so don’t hesitate if you’re looking to get one. The 41mm model will cost you $349 and the larger 45mm version checks in at $379.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic 42mm Smartwatch $269.99 (was $399.99)

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Smartwatches generally track health metrics like heart rate, but if you’re one of those people who can’t get enough of the data and want to drill down into your metabolic health in real time, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is for you. In addition to your body mass index, this watch can measure your basal metabolic rate, and skeletal muscle, track your sleep, and monitor your heart for irregularities. You can also participate in group challenges in a variety of sports and use Google Pay and Maps right from your wrist.

Fossil Women’s Gen 5E 42mm Stainless Steel Touchscreen Smartwatch $169 (was $249)

If you’d prefer a smartwatch that resembles a traditional timepiece and will still track your steps every day, the Fossil Women’s Gen 5E Smartwatch is a solid choice. Made of stainless steel, the watch is customizable with thousands of different faces. Answer texts and calls, ask Alexa about the news and weather, and track your heart rate and other important health metrics all in one device. On sale as part of Amazon Prime Early Access Sale Smartwatch deals, this watch also charges fairly quickly, reaching 80 percent within 50 minutes.

More Amazon Prime Early Access Sale smartwatch deals:

• Garmin Forerunner 735XT, Multisport GPS Running Watch $129.99 (was $349.99)
• Fossil Men’s Gen 5E 44mm Stainless Steel Touchscreen Smartwatch $170 (was $279)
• Garmin Vivoactive 4S $187 (was $329.99)
• Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch $149.99 (was $249.99)
• Michael Kors Women’s Gen 5E 43mm Stainless Steel Touchscreen Smartwatch. $235 (was $350)
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic 42mm Smartwatch $219.99 (was $349.99)
• Garmin Vivoactive 4S Smartwatch $187 (was $329.99)
• Polar Grit X Pro GPS Multisport Smartwatch $449.50 (was $499.95)
• Polar Ignite GPS Smartwatch $219 (was $229.95)
• Withings Steel HR Sport Hybrid Smartwatch (40mm) $159.95 (was $199.95)
• Polar Vantage V2 Premium Multisport Smartwatch $371.17 (was $549.95)
• TouchElex Smartwatch $47.99 (was $79.99)
• GRV Smartwatch for iOS and Android Phones $27.11 (was $39.99)
• SKG Smartwatch, Fitness Tracker $39.99 (was $49.99)
• VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch $28.49 ($62.99)
• Ralehong Smartwatch for Kids $26.39 ($29.99)

Fitness tracker deals:

• Withings Pulse HR Water Resistant Health & Fitness Tracker $79.95 (was $99.95)
• IOWODO X5 Fitness Tracker for Men Health and Fitness Smartwatch $39.99 (was $49.99)
• MorePro Fitness Tracker $40.79 (was $59.99)
• Amazfit Band 5 Activity Fitness Tracker $29.49 (was $39.99)
• Amazfit Band 7 Fitness & Health Tracker $39.99 (was $49.99)
• Amazfit Bip 3 Pro Smart Watch for Android iPhone $54.99 (was $69.99)
• Amazon Halo View Fitness Tracker $44.99 (was $79.99)

More Amazon Prime Early Access deals:

• Save $120 on DJI’s Mini 2 drone during Amazon’s Early Access sale
• Amazon Prime Early Access smart TV deals: OLEDs and more
• Save on generators during Amazon’s Prime Early Access sale
• Get deep discounts on robot vacuums during Amazon Prime Early Access
• Soak in these Amazon Prime Early Access deals on inflatable hot tubs
• Save $210 on the Garmin Forerunner 735XT during Prime Early Access
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access earbud deals
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on 3D printers
• Amazon Prime Early Access Sale: modems and routers
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on wireless chargers
• Focus on these Amazon Prime Day Early Access binocular deals
• These Amazon Prime Day Early Access telescope deals are stellar
• Amazon Early Access headphones deals: Noise-canceling and more
• Logitech Amazon Prime Early Access deals: Mics, mice, and more
• Apple deals for Amazon Prime Early Access: iPads, AirPods, and more
• Save $100 on 23andMe during the Prime Early Access Sale
• The best Amazon Prime Early Access deals on Kindles
• Save up to $1,000 on Sony OLED TVs during Amazon Prime Early Access

The post Ready, set, go get a great deal on Apple, Samsung, Fossil smartwatch during the Amazon Prime Early Access sale appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.